With performances from Velociraptor and Teleprompter Animal Farm 2 comes to Alhambra Lounge. A massive gang band with twelve members Brisbane’s Velociraptor are a mass of sound, a coherent chaos of screaming and shimmying sounds, garage pop gems brought to life by an orchestra of guitars and an orgy of vocals. Velociraptor, influenced by The Kinks and The Monkees, are the Hollies meets The Hives, beauty meets beast. Described by Faster Louder as “a danceable and charismatic treat” Teleprompter from Brisbane have an ever growing sound, one engorged by The Cure, Foals and Bloc Party, that has seen them share stages with legends at massive festivals across Australia. Support is provided by Little Casino, Teen Girls and The Lambda DJs.
Australian farmers are currently doing it rough. Really rough. Some areas of the country have been struggling with a years-long drought, and, this morning, the NSW Government announced that 100 percent of the state is currently in drought. While the government has pledged more than $1 billion in drought relief, there's still a lot to be done. And you can help. Early this week a 'Parma for a Farmer' campaign launched, encouraging pubs across the country to donate dollars from every parmigianas sold to charities helping drought-affected communities. Spearheaded by Amanda Kinross, the campaign — and the Parma for a Farmer Facebook group — quickly garnered the support of pubs and hotel groups, including the Australian Hotels Association. Whether or not you agree it should be parma (or, really, parmi), it's a great and tasty campaign to get behind. A slew of pubs have already committed to the cause, including hospitality group Australian Venue Co. For all of August, many of the group's pubs are donating $1 from every parma bought to the Buy A Bale initiative. The initiative, part of the charity Rural Aid, provides essentials — such as, yes, hay, as well as water, diesel and hampers — to farmers doing it rough. Australian Venue Co. has pubs located across the country, including Surry Hills' The Forresters and Petersham's The Oxford Tavern in NSW; Prahran's College Law and Richmond's Prince Alfred Hotel in Vic; and Brisbane's Fridays. You can see the group's full list of participating venues here. For the full list of venues participating in NSW, Vic and Qld, head to the Parma for a Farmer Facebook page. Image: Giulia Morlando
For five nights only, a seemingly ordinary Yeerongpilly warehouse will become a pop-up theatre — and the location for one of Brisbane Festival's big productions for 2019. From Tuesday, September 24 to Saturday, September 28, Invisible Cities will take over the cavernous site on Fairfield Road. As well as setting up a 1050-seat site that'll only operate for the show's run, the project will unleash a blend of theatre, choreography, music, water, sand, projection mapping and other dazzling technical elements, all to transport audiences to three fantastical cities. Here, you'll experience the joyful city of Zenobia, the golden confines of Beersheba and the seductive allure of Isadora. And, you'll feel the exploring spirit, too. Loosely based on the 1972 novel by Italian writer Italo Calvino, Invisible Cities follows the relationship between 13th-century Mongol conqueror and emperor Kublai Khan (Danny Sapani), and Venetian explorer Marco Polo (Matthew Leonhart). The production makes its Australian premiere at Brisbane Festival, direct from its debut at the Manchester International Festival.
After an extra day under stay-at-home conditions due to Queensland's latest COVID-19 cases, the Brisbane and Moreton Bay Local Government Areas will emerge from lockdown at 6pm today, Saturday, July 3. Since the same time on Tuesday, June 29, residents in the two LGAs have only been permitted to their homes for the four reasons that were identified at the beginning of the pandemic — a lockdown that also covered the Logan, Redlands, Ipswich, Noosa, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, the Scenic Rim, the Lockyer Valley and Somerset LGAs in southeast Queensland, plus Townsville, Palm Island and Magnetic Island. Yesterday, Friday, July 2, the stay-at-home period was extended for an additional 24 hours for Brisbane and Moreton Bay only. "For our Brisbane and Moreton Bay regions, can I thank everyone for doing that extra day that we asked people to do," said Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk at her daily press conference today. "That gave our contact tracers that extra time that was desperately needed," she advised. While ending the lockdown for these two LGAs is obviously welcome news, restrictions will obviously still apply — as also happened after Brisbane's January and March lockdowns — until Friday, July 16. https://twitter.com/AnnastaciaMP/status/1411144704092106761 So, Brisbanites will be able to leave their homes again once 6pm hits today — and for any reason. That said, new rules will limit what you can do, where and with how many people, as we've all become used to during the pandemic. And yes, dancing is still banned, so Footloose might make for good weekend viewing. Before lockdown started on Tuesday, a number of rules were actually put in place across Queensland — and they're all back on the cards, after coming back into effect everywhere other than Brisbane and Moreton Bay at 6pm on Friday, July 2. These restrictions will now apply across the entire state for the next fortnight, finishing at 6pm on Friday, July 16. The 30-person limit on at-home gatherings is back, and that cap includes folks who live with you. And, as well as banning dancing, standing up at cafes, restaurants, bars and nightclubs has been scrapped again. So, to eat, drink and hang out, you'll need to be seated. Hospitality businesses will also have to operate under the one person per four-square-metres indoors and one person per two-square-metres outdoors rules — although venues smaller than 200 square metres will be permitted to welcome in one person per two-square-metres with a cap of 50 people. Outdoor events can go ahead, but only if they have a COVID-19-safe plan in place. Indoor events can too — and both can have 100-percent capacity if they're seated, or one person per four-square-metres indoors and one person per two-square-metres outdoors rules otherwise. Wearing masks is still required whenever you're not at home — and you'll always have to have one with you as a result. So, they must be worn in all indoor spaces other than your own house, all indoor workplaces unless it is unsafe to do so, on public transport, in taxis and ride share vehicles, and outdoors, unless you're doing vigorous exercise. The usual requests regarding social distancing, hygiene and getting tested if you're feeling even the slightest possible COVID-19 symptoms all apply, too, as they have since March last year. https://twitter.com/AnnastaciaMP/status/1411143269161992192 In the past 24 hours, Queensland reported five new locally acquired cases, with 47 cases currently active in the Sunshine State at the time of writing. Queensland Health is maintaining an active register of locations that have been visited by positive COVID-19 cases, which you can check out on its website. You can also check out this nifty map that uses Queensland Health's data. The Brisbane and Moreton Bay Local Government Areas will come out of lockdown from 6pm on Saturday, July 3. For more information about the status of COVID-19 in Queensland, head to the QLD COVID-19 hub and the Queensland Health website. More details about the lockdown and associated restrictions can also be found on the Queensland Health website. Top image: Kgbo via Wikimedia Commons.
You know what's better than seeing Cloud Control perform an acoustic set at your local pub? Seeing Cloud Control perform an acoustic set at your local pub for free. It's a crazy dream, but it's one that the band and beer barons Corona have dared to make come true. The Blue Mountains alt-rock jammers' sophomore 2013 album, Dream Cave, was an experimental shift from their first offering, and the acoustic sound should be a cool twist again. As part of the March and April tour through bars, pubs and hotels all along the east coast, the guys are also releasing Dream Cave Unplugged, featuring stripped back versions of the whole album. Although they've won awards, and been nominated for a whole heap of others, Cloud Control stick to the Aussie music penchant for bringing as much music to as many people as possible. Thanks to Corona, we all get the chance. Here are the Brisbane dates: Saturday 12 April - Story Bridge Hotel Sunday 13 April - Paddington Tavern Sunday 13 April - Komune Saturday 19 April - Jubilee Hotel, Fortitude Valley Saturday 19 April - Boardwalk Tavern, Marina Village Shopping Centre, Hope Island Sunday 20 April - Coolangatta Hotel https://youtube.com/watch?v=G2VX2PAD0gU
The super-adorable Finders Keepers Markets have been home to Brisbane's most creative and quirky designers for more than six years. The independent hip-fest is returning to their home at The Old Museum in July for two days. The biannual, designer-centric, come-one-come-all mini-festival has managed to bridge the gap between local market and exclusive exhibition, creating a space for independent designers to engage with the wider community. You'll be able to nab some marvellous treats difficult to find anywhere else. From bespoke leather goods to bespoke stationary, upcycled journals to upcycled bicycle reflectors, every stall will be a unique shopping experience that combines innovative design with grassroots feel-goodery. As usual, there will be live music, a cafe, a bar and thousands of other Brisbanites celebrating independent art and design. Finder Keepers is open 10am-4pm on both days.
When Toto unleashed their single 'Africa' upon the world back in 1982, the drums echoed. Given the song's enduring success, it seems that everyone heard them. Now one particular patch of the Namib desert will hear the percussive reverberation for eternity, with a new art and sound installation playing the track on a never-ending loop. Toto Forever isn't just something screamed by die-hard fans of the American band. It's not merely the thinking behind one-night events that play the beloved tune over and over, such as an annual party in Brisbane. It's now the title of Max Siedentopf's new project, which the artist has set up as a "tribute to probably the most popular song of the last four decades". As seen on Siedentopf's site for the artwork, Toto Forever consists of seven plinths, arranged in a circle with one sat in the middle. Speakers sit atop the six boxes on the outside, with an MP3 player on the seventh. There's only one song loaded onto the device, so that's all that it can play. And if you're wondering about power, it's all attached to solar batteries. While Siedentopf has revealed the installation's general location — in the desert that stretches for 2000 kilometres along the Namib coastline — he's keeping the exact spot to himself. Whether he succeeds in gifting future generation some old forgotten words and ancient melodies will likely depend on the weather and environment, given that, as sure as Kilimanjaro rises like Olympus above the Serengeti, electronic equipment isn't designed to be left in a sandy expanse until the end of time — whether or not they're blessed by the rains. Image: Toto Forever by Max Siedentopf.
Men, Women and Children is no glossy Hollywood rom-com. There are no vacuous high school dramas, nor are there any cheesy family clichés. It's a film that looks at the paradox of connecting in the digital age: the persistent preoccupation with being active online, contrasted with difficulty remaining present in person. Directed by Jason Reitman (Up in the Air, Juno and Labor Day), the film features a pretty impressive cast including Ansel Elgort, Jennifer Garner, Adam Sandler and Rosmarie DeWitt. Throughout the interweaving story lines of the eleven main characters, the film dissects the impact that technology has on our relationships — dealing with pertinent issues such as video game culture, anorexia and infidelity. Men, Women and Children is in cinemas November 27. Thanks to Paramount Pictures, we have ten double passes to give away. To be in the running, subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter (if you haven't already), then email us with your name and address. Sydney: win.sydney@concreteplayground.com.au Melbourne: win.melbourne@concreteplayground.com.au Brisbane: win.brisbane@concreteplayground.com.au
Queenslanders, it's vacation time again. For Brisbanites, it's staycation time, too. Back in March, the State Government gave residents an excuse to enjoy a getaway via its Holiday Dollars scheme. Now, it's bringing the initiative back for another round, with both $100 and $200 vouchers up for grabs across two regions. Last time, the vouchers were available for travel to Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef. This time, you have two options: hang around Greater Brisbane or once again head north. Under the Brisbane Holiday Dollars offering, 30,000 $100 vouchers will be available tourism experiences and accommodation in the Greater Brisbane region (which includes Brisbane, Scenic Rim, Moreton Bay, Redlands Coast, Somerset, Logan and Ipswich). As part of the Whitsunday Holiday Dollars package, 6000 vouchers are available — but only for folks who are already staying in the region during a set period. The idea has two obvious aims: enticing Queensland residents to go venturing both locally and further afield throughout the state, and helping support tourism businesses in the highlighted areas. The move was announced today, Thursday, April 22, by Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, including the details of what you can spend the money on, when you can spend it and exactly how you can get your hands on the vouchers. From Tuesday, April 27–Friday, April 30, the draw for the Brisbane vouchers will be open to Queensland residents over the age of 18 — and you'll need to head to queensland.com to nab one. You'll register for a voucher code and, if you're successful, you'll be notified from Thursday, May 6. As happened last time, there's likely to be more interested folks than there are available vouchers, so they'll be handed out at random. Those who successfully receive a voucher for Brisbane will then be able to use it to book between Thursday, May 6–Friday, June 4, for use up until Sunday, August 15. The vouchers can only be spent on tourism experiences and accommodation, and they'll enable you to get up to 50 percent off your booking, maxing out at $100. https://twitter.com/AnnastaciaMP/status/1384957613188820998 The Whitsundays vouchers, which will be on offer in conjunction with Tourism Whitsundays, will work quite differently. Value-wise, they'll cover 50 percent off your booking for tours and attractions up to $200, but Queensland residents over the age of 18 will need to already be in the region between Tuesday, May 4–Wednesday, June 30 to get their hands on one. Once you're up north, you'll claim your voucher through participating hotels, Visitor Information Centres and the campaign website. They're activated once you make a booking, and will operate on a first in, best dressed basis — and will be available until the quota of vouchers is exhausted. When the Cairns scheme was announced back in March, Premier Palaszczuk said that it could be rolled out across the rest of the state if the vouchers are successful. That's what's happening now, but there's no word as yet whether other parts of Queensland might be covered in the future. You can apply for one of the 30,000 $100 Brisbane Holiday Dollars travel vouchers between Tuesday, April 27–Friday, April 30 at queensland.com. The Whitsunday Holiday Dollars vouchers will be available to folks in the region between Tuesday, May 4–Wednesday, June 30, with further details available via Tourism Whitsundays. Top image: Tourism and Events Queensland.
Like beer? Like monsters? Like your brews named after creepy critters, with bottle, can and label artwork to match? Horror-loving drinkers, there's never been a better time to pair your beverages with your fondness for all things scary — but from 12pm on Saturday, October 14 will be even better than usual thanks to Netherworld's Monster Menagerie Beer Festival. The returning event, this year named Monster Menagerie VI: Beers of Blüdsbane, will bring together nine yeasty tipples, strange creatures and stellar collaborations, all for a day of boozing fun. And if you're wondering why it takes place in October, just think about it for a second. 'Tis the month of Halloween, after all. The big focus in 2023: brews with a vampiric spin, and of the red and black variety. Taking part: 3 Ravens Brewing, Range Brewing, Sea Legs Brewing, Common Ground Brewing and Helios Brewing, plus Revel Brewing, Seven Mile Brewing, Working Title Brew Co and the delightfully named Hohly Water. Tickets cost $35, which include a tasting paddle featuring 150 millilitres of each and every one of these beers, as well as a limited edition enamel pin and five game tokens. Top image: Cole Bennetts.
From Monday, February 21, Australia will say goodbye to its remaining international border ban on double-vaccinated travellers and hello to plenty of overseas tourists. Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced that the country will allow all visa holders to head our way — including folks simply coming out for holidays, and business travellers — as long as they've had two COVID-19 vaccine jabs. When the border fully reopens to all double-vaxxed visitors in two weeks, it'll do so just a month shy of the two-year anniversary of Australia's indefinite international border closure back in March 2020. Plenty has changed since then, and the nation — and the world — has seen various lockdowns and other restrictions come and go, and faced multiple new variants. Since November 2021, Australia has been slowly reopening its borders, too, but this new change will allow back anyone that's double-vaccinated, including tourists and business travellers, from all countries. Announcing the news, the Prime Minister said that "the condition is: you must be double-vaccinated to come to Australia. That's the rule. Everyone is expected to abide by it. And it's very important that people understand that requirement if they're seeking to come to Australia." He continued: "but if you're double vaccinated, we look forward to welcoming you back to Australia — and I know the tourism industry will be looking forward to that. And over the next two weeks they'll get the opportunity both for visitors to be coming and for them to be gearing up to welcome international visitors back to Australia." Exactly how many tourists and business travellers will be able to fly into Australia will still depend upon state-based caps — and on state-specific rules as well. Western Australia's border is still set to remain closed to not just international travellers but the rest of the country and, after delaying its last plan to reopen this past weekend, it hasn't yet set its new reopening date. Unjabbed travellers — which includes anyone who has only had one dose of a COVID-19 vaccination — will still need to apply for permission to enter Australia, unless they can "provide proof that there is a medical reason that they cannot be vaccinated", said Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews. They'll also need to go into hotel quarantine if they are permitted to enter. If you have pals or colleagues eager to make the trip Down Under, this'll be fantastic news. Whether airlines will increase their flights to Australia as a result hasn't yet been revealed, but it wouldn't come as a surprise. Australia will reopen its international borders to all double-vaccinated travellers from Monday, February 21. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website.
With all this time indoors, we're sure you've had your fair share of at-home raves by now. You've got to let your hair down after a week of WFH, after all. And, now that you can have five friends around with sensible social distancing in place, you can make it a real party, too. Luckily, if you're looking for your next excuse to cut some serious shapes, look no further because there's a new one-off party with pumping tunes and bad fashion is hitting screens across the country on Saturday, May 23. Canadian Club's annual Bad Sweater Party is going virtual. So, cancel whatever non-event plans you had, push your furniture aside and start a makeshift dance floor with five of your nearest and dearest. Bringing the dance-inducing tunes in spades will be Hot Dub Time Machine. For about a decade, he's been ripping up stages the world over with his rolling crossfades of pop music from the last six decades. And during lockdown he's been bringing the good times to your living room. Expect everything from 50s rock 'n' roll tunes to disco hits like ABBA's 'Gimme Gimme Gimme' and Earth, Wind & Fire's 'September'. Once you hit the more recent decades, there's often glam rock, a bit of 90s grunge, Darude's epic 'Sandstorm' and 'Toxic' by Britney. You get the idea — it's nonstop bangers all night long. Hang on, a Bad Sweater Party? The major point of difference for this party is that you've got a dress code. Don an ugly jumper — it's OK, you're partying at home. And, yes, you'll get pretty sweaty with all those killer moves you'll be busting. Kicking off at 7pm, the event will be live streamed via Hot Dub's Twitch account, with a live chat going so you can socialise with other partygoers. You may want to dust off that disco ball and find that old lava lamp, too. As you'll working up a sweat as you dance your way through the decades (in a sweater, remember), you'll want some cold ones on hand. To really get in the spirit of things, mix up some CC 'n' drys. Or save yourself the trouble and grab a case of the stuff. Canadian Club's Bad Sweater Party is going down on Saturday, May 23, from 7–9pm. You can tune in here — just don't forget your ugly jumper.
To some she was a caregiver. To others, a recluse. Now, the world knows her as an artist. Vivian Maier had a lot of faces, all of which are revealed in a problematic new documentary releasing in cinemas this week. Directed by John Maloof and Charlie Siskel, the film pulls back the curtain on the life of its titular subject, a woman who, in the years since her death, has gone from a total unknown to one of the most acclaimed street photographers in history. That's the premise of Finding Vivian Maier. The problem is that it appears she never wanted to be found. The documentary begins in 2007, when Maloof, an author and amateur historian, was doing research for a book about Chicago. On a whim, he purchased a box of old, undeveloped photographs at an auction — photographs that just so happened to have been taken by Vivian Maier. Blown away by her talent, Maloof stuck her name into Google, only for his search to turn up a blank. So over the next few years, he continued to look, slowly uncovering more about the artist while shining an ever brighter spotlight on her work. As it turns out, Maier spent most of her life working as a nanny. Interviews with the children she cared for, now adults, paint an eccentric portrait of a bold, opinionated woman with combat boots and a phoney French accent, who would take them on outings to the rough side of town just so she could get an interesting picture. She was also a prolific hoarder, collecting not just photographs, but letters, receipts and stacks and stacks of newspapers. She never married, never had kids and, despite her remarkable body of work, appears to have died penniless and alone. It's certainly an intriguing story, one that Maloof and Siskel milk for everything it's worth. But, as the documentary goes on, it also becomes increasingly clear that Maier herself would have been uncomfortable with the attention she's being given. She never made any significant attempts to showcase her work while she was alive, and appears to have gone to great lengths to keep her private life hidden. Throughout the film, various people speculate, often rather tastelessly, about her feelings and state of mind. Ultimately, without the participation of Maier herself, it's simply impossible to know. Maloof, meanwhile, comes across as extremely unlikable; a self-congratulatory little hipster poking his nose where it doesn't belong. There are obviously a whole stack of moral issues at play here, but whether or not you can justify viewing Maier's work without her consent, it's pretty clearly not okay to rummage through her personal life just to satisfy a tawdry curiosity. Finding Vivian Maier smacks of gossip and exploitation. Let the poor woman rest in peace. https://youtube.com/watch?v=2o2nBhQ67Zc
You would think that having access to all of humanity's collective knowledge — from our darkest failures to our wildest successes — would make us, generally, smarter. Instead, we've just become overwhelmed — collectively. We've essentially somehow failed upwards, in that uniquely human way we have of doing things. But, who can blame us? Nearly half of us feel stressed all or most of the time (nice to know it's not just me), and we've all felt the deep financial, physical and emotional impact of living in a pandemic for more than 18 months. Most days, that uncertainty makes a lot of things scary. Slightly nerdy fun fact (stay with me here): A common term for the press and journalism is the Fourth Estate. It harks back to days in early modern France, just before the French Revolution, when there were three broad social hierarchies. The three estates were known as the First Estate (the clergy), the Second Estate (the nobility) and the Third Estate (commoners and bourgeoisie). The Fourth Estate is a term that recognises the not-insignificant power the media holds in influencing conversation, opinion and action in society. That power has even more weight in today's world. That's why Concrete Playground has committed to bringing you news and information about COVID-19 and vaccinations that is relevant, accurate, useful and actionable. And, without the doomsday spin. We've even teamed up with a group of other publishers on this — BuzzFeed, Junkee, The Latch, Man of Many, Urban List and Zee Feed. Together, we've committed to keeping harmful headlines and messages off our pages and to only publish COVID-related stories and information that will help inform Aussies and open up Australia. The industries, businesses and individuals that are essential to Australia's culture and lifestyle and all the things you like reading about on this website — the arts, events, live music and hospitality — are among those most impacted by the ongoing effects of the pandemic. We want those industries to get back to thriving and for the rest of us to be able to enjoy them again. Our part is to help young Australians feel informed in a way that makes them comfortable and confident in taking the steps to get vaccinated — but also alleviate some of the anxiety caused by alarmist headlines. So, expect everything from the latest information on mask-wearing rules to expert commentary on vaccines; couch potato recommendations and being a cheerleader for the little guys. This is your spot for feel-good stories, COVID-safe recommendations and informative news. We're thrilled to have you here. Concrete Playground is part of an Australian Publishers Partnership in a joint COVID mission and coverage pledge which includes: putting science first, standing for healthy headlines, considering image choices, avoiding triggering imagery and not partaking in alarmist headlines. The joint mission will be in effect until Australia gets 50% of the under 40s population vaccinated.
Ellen took a temporary break from her hosting duties to take and tweet a (slightly blurred) selfie Hollywood would be proud of, roping in a big bunch of willing A-listers including JLaw, Bradley Cooper, Brad and Angie, Julia Roberts and Meryl Streep. After a bit of contention about who was going to actually take the photo (Meryl was the first choice but she seemed a little uncertain and admitted that she'd never tweeted before) and a sneaky late entry to the group (Jared Leto jumped in out of nowhere, apparently still riding a high from his best supporting actor win), it was Bradley Cooper who took the matter in hand and snapped the shot. The result was slightly surreal, with the Guardian's live Oscar coverage commenting on the spookiness of seeing "the most photographed people photographing themselves, live on camera, watched by millions". The pic was retweeted over 500,000 times in less than 30 minutes. Then temporarily crashed Twitter. Woah. After what was arguably an expectedly tame opening monologue, Ellen also wins big points for stirring things up a bit by ordering pizza and then distributing slices to the first few rows of smartly dressed stars, who she assumed must be pretty hungry after weeks of dieting to fit into their gowns and suits. Brad Pitt, Jonah Hill and Martin Scorsese were among those getting in on the action, with a bemused Leonardo DiCaprio firmly declining. Perhaps the best part was when, pizza devoured, Ellen announced she had no money for a tip and suggested that Sandra Bullock cover the costs. Keep up the good work, Ellen.
Youth Music Industries is a fantastic organisation dedicated to helping high-school aged musicians develop and hone their craft. It is run by kids of the same age, so it is truly impressive that they have managed to become one of the best music development teams in Brisbane. The 4 Walls festival is an all-ages festival that is put on by the youth, for the youth. An astounding line-up has been organised for the day, including The Paper Kites, The Medics (pictured), Millions, Cub Scouts, The Belligerents and Fairchild Republic plus many more. Spread over 3 stages and lasting most of the day, 4 Walls Festival is a great event for music lovers of all ages and is sure to be a fantastic experience for all who attend.
It's the best new hangout Brisbane currently has to offer, it'll have a view of the fireworks and it's ending its first month of operation — and 2017, obviously — in house party style. South Bank's Little Big House wants to become the city's new boozy hangout and hotspot, so they're making sure it happens with their two-level New Year's Eve celebration. Given the history of the site — which has been many things, including a police station — LBH are looking to keep things open on the night everyone is out and about. How? Well their NYE shenanigans won't just be a house party; they'll be an open house party. Everyone is welcome for brews and dance-worthy tunes, with attendees even able to control the music downstairs. Even better — unlike most other places around town, registration is required but entry is free.
Bingo is definitely one of those games that everyone knows how to play. If you want to get really deep, in some ways it’s almost a metaphor for existence. Each day you’re dealt a hand of cards that influence everything you get up to. You get your playing card (life) pre-filled with numbers or similar, some higher being reads out a select list of the above, and you get to fight others to tick them off one by one – university degree, career, partner, house. Whoever fills up their sheet first wins! Yay! As a group of individuals working in advertising, media, marketing and communications, QLD Youngbloods love hosting networking events to help you get the job you want. This time they’ve gone retro with a re-worked Bloody Bingo idea. Attendees are given a bingo card and must network around the room to fill up each square. Once completed, you go in the draw to win two fabulous prizes courtesy of AdSchool. So if you’re a person who is less inclined to wait for life to deal them bingo numbers and would much rather make the bingo card yourself, this is the networking event for you.
Three years ago, Perth rockers Little Birdy decided to take a break. They'd been in the business since 2002 and, emphasising that their collaborative journey was on hiatus rather than at an end, explained that some solo exploration was nigh. While the boys embarked on various songwriting and production projects, Katy Steele jumped on a plane bound for New York City, drawn to "the largeness, the intensity, the struggle". 2010 saw two returns home — firstly for a massive, sold-out solo tour and secondly to support Richard Ashcroft of The Verve. Since then, Katy's been busy with a new album, and we're hoping to have it in our hands by the end of the year. March 13 marked the dropping of the single 'Fire Me Up', which you can download gratis via Bandcamp or hear on Triple J's Home and Hosed. Mind you, there's no substitute for the indie rock goddess doing her thing live. She'll be touring nationally in April, making her Brisbane appearance at Alhambra Lounge.
If you like beer and you live in Brisbane, then you've probably noticed a trend in recent years. In fact, you've probably been making the most of it. That's to be expected when a certain patch of turf starts welcoming new drinking spots with frequency. Thanks to Ballistic Beer Co in Salisbury, as well as Helios Brewing Company and Slipstream Brewing Company in Yeerongpilly, there's no shortage of breweries to have a beer at on the southside. And, while you've likely been hopping between them all anyway, Beermuda Triangle gives the area's boozy crawl an official spin. Head to any of the trio between 1–7pm on Saturday, April 30, get sipping, then catch a courtesy bus to the other two — and drink more frothy ales at each, obviously. Entry is free, more than 50 brews will be on offer, and there'll also be food trucks and live music at each brewery. Plus, you'll be able to just generally soak in the boozy Salisbury and Yeerongpilly vibes. Also, taking some cues from the place behind its name and its dark depths — that'd be the Bermuda Triangle, of course — Beermuda Triangle is putting the focus on dark brews for the day. There'll be a range of tipples on offer, but each brewery will whip up something dark that you'll only be able to drink at the event.
In January 2023, the Elton John farewell tour to apparently end all Elton John farewell tours will return to Australia and New Zealand, playing its last round of shows Down Under before the singer says farewell to live concerts. Haven't nabbed a ticket? Can't go? Went last time he came our way, in what was then meant to be John's goodbye gigs? Whichever fits — or if you are heading along to see the music star next year — you can always stream his final-ever North American performance live on Monday, November 21. Make plans to knock off early: Disney+ is livestreaming the concert at 2pm AEST / 3pm AEST / 5pm New Zealand time. The show has been badged Elton John Live: Farewell From Dodger Stadium, and will run for a hefty three hours, complete with Dua Lipa, Kiki Dee and Brandi Carlile as guests. Yes, that means that John and Lipa's hit single 'Cold Heart' is guaranteed to get a spin, as is 'Simple Things' by John and Carlile — both of which featured on John's 2021 album The Lockdown Sessions. And, yes, you can expect to hear John and Dee's 'Don't Go Breaking My Heart' from 1976, with the concert's lineup of guests showcasing John's enormous longevity and range. Elton John Live: Farewell From Dodger Stadium forms part of the musician's global Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour, which has been taking him around the world since September 2018, and spans more than 300 concerts across five continents. In Australasia, his first stops here during the tour saw over 705,000 tickets sold to gigs across a three-month period that spanned 34 Australian and six New Zealand dates from November 2019. During the livestreamed performance, fans can expect to feel the love through all of his hits, including 'Rocket Man', 'Tiny Dancer' 'Bennie and the Jets', 'Crocodile Rock', 'I'm Still Standing' and 'Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting' — even though it's happening on a Monday Down Under. John's tour also features never-before-seen images and videos show from his 50-year career — well, never seen before the tour — which are displayed throughout each gig. And, on Disney+, the Dodger Stadium concert will be paired with Countdown to Elton Live, a special featuring John's famous friends wishing him well, and also including interviews with John and David Furnish. When the Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour does indeed come to an end, John will retire from touring after five decades on the road. If that all sounds rather massive, that's the star's career in a nutshell. He's played more than 4000 shows across in his time, sold more than 300 million records worldwide and holds the record for the biggest-selling single of all time thanks to the 1997 version of 'Candle in the Wind'. The singer has clearly enjoyed a huge past few years, too, with his life story hitting the big screen in biopic Rocketman. Check out the trailer for Elton John Live: Farewell From Dodger Stadium below: Elton John Live: Farewell From Dodger Stadium will stream via Disney+ at 2pm AEST / 3pm AEST / 5pm New Zealand time on Monday, November 21. Images: Ben Gibson.
The Growlers are a rowdy bunch. What else would you expect from a bunch of skater-surf-punks from California? They are in your face and love to party, and they put on a great live show, so what's not to like? Get this, though; it's their first time to Australia, so, naturally, we'll have to show them a good time and let them know that we like to party hard as well. The band recently released a new EP, Gilded Pleasures, which was a quick follow up to their last full-length, Hung at Heart. This means they have a bunch of new tunes to show off to Australian audiences. I'd say it is going to be a treat. The Growlers will be playing shows along the east coast of Australia before jetting off to New Zealand. We had a quick chat with singer Brooks Nielsen about the upcoming tour, their music and what they are looking forward to experiencing in Australia. You guys released a new full-length, quickly followed up by the EP; has the past year been crazy for the band? It's always crazy for us, but we love it. The EP is full and fat of very Growler-ish stuff. The songs are quite simple and a lot like Growlers from the start. So fans get something new and something old at the same time and they are super fun songs to play live. How did the process for Gilded Pleasures start? Did you always want such a quick turnaround between releases? It's not intentional, when we have something new we want to get it out as soon as possible. Writing songs comes easy; our love for creating is never-ending. It's the guidelines that create difficulties. Well, now you're touring Australia for the first time. What took you so long?! In Costa Mesa, we call it the 'Aussie Invasion' because there's always Aussies everywhere. We have had so many Aussie friends, and Aussie's sleeping on our couch so we love 'em but we just haven't had a chance to come over yet. Every time we planned to, things happened. Finally it worked out, and we won't make much money but we'll have a good time. You'll be playing some shows in rapid succession. Any chance you are going to stop and see the sights? We have a few days in 'Brisvegas' as it's been called to me, and a day in Melbourne or something, and then we go to NZ so we won't have time to see a lot ... We'll find time for surf. What are you hoping Australian audiences get out of listening to your new stuff and what do you reckon we Aussies will dig about your live shows? I know Aussies; they are a lot like we are in Costa Mesa. Partying and having a good time will be unavoidable. Does anyone in the band follow Australian music? What do you guys like about us? We hear some things here and there; we really dig the bands we picked for supports. We've listened to The Babe Rainbow track a lot. They have a super chilled vibe The American music scene is massive. What makes a band stand out these days? What would you say to a small Australian band to motivate them to success? Always remember you're making music to make yourself happy, and hopefully other people. Nothing in the world makes people happier than music. Not religion or anything; art in any other form you can't play and immediately change someone's mood. I don't think there's anything more important than that. If everyone was happy we wouldn't have as many problems. The Gowlers will be playing shows all this week. The locations and dates are as follows: Wednesday 5th March - Black Bear Lodge, Brisbane Thursday 6th March - Coolangatta Hotel, Gold Coast Friday 7th March - Oxford Art Factory, Sydney Saturday 8th March - The Tote, Melbourne
At some point or another, it's likely you've found yourself sitting in front of a screen as it resolutely remains frozen — perhaps there was even a spinning wheel of death thrown in there for good measure. Life can feel a little same, same sometimes; everything gets a bit beige and starts to feel like your, well, frozen, stuck in your same old same routine. You might be — just like your computer — in need of a refresh. That's where we come in. To help you out, we've teamed up with our friends at Coopers to bring you a list of 'easy wins' — small things that'll make your day better and leave you feeling revitalised. MONDAY: DANCE IT OUT While it's tempting to become a bit of a vegetable after you drag yourself home on a Monday night, getting out and being active can be just what you need to take the edge off your 9-to-5 routine. Don an old leotard, do a couple of stretches and head along to a dance class that'll have you energised, sweaty and raring for your dinner. Try The Space in Melbourne, Dance Central in Sydney or Groove Therapy in Brisbane. TUESDAY: COOK DINNER FOR YOUR LOVED ONES It might have been a while since your mum fed you on the reg — care packages sent home with you after a visit don't count — but don't underestimate how difficult cooking for a family every single night can be. Props to all the mums, dads and others, who manage it week by week — it's certainly not easy, so it might be time to thank yours. Make your loved one sit down, pop on their favourite Joni Mitchell/Pink Floyd album and cook up a storm. Aim for the stars and go for a three-course feast, but even a one-course fish fingers effort might go a little way to saying "thanks for feeding me even when you were tired, sick and/or sick and tired of my teenage angst". It's a good way of getting you back in touch with what's really important in life, parents (and also fish fingers). WEDNESDAY: BUY YOURSELF A BUNCH OF FLOWERS There's a reason that your mood lifts as soon as spring rears its fragrant head — yes, the vitamin D and warmer temperatures have something to do with it, but it's the beautiful blooms that really get you smiling. And, being gifted flowers is one of the greatest things ever — it makes you feel like a spoiled, whimsical nymph — but why wait around for someone to do it for you? Buy yourself a bunch to brighten up your home or freshen up your stale office environment, the air and the feng shui will thank you for it. Plus, your co-workers will assume you've got a super romantic partner and will be extremely jealous. THURSDAY: CREATE A HOME CINEMA Going to the movies can be an expensive outing — once you factor in parking, tickets and, of course, the popcorn and Malteasers combo. Also, you have to contend with crowds, queues and people who ask stupid questions all the way through Iron Man 3. An alternative? Invest in purchasing a home projector (or hire one) and invite a couple of friends around for a private Marvel marathon where you can ogle Mr Hemsworth in the privacy of your own home. If that's a bit too pricey, get the sick set up going, cook some popcorn in the microwave and charge your mates a $5 cover fee — it's still cheaper than what they'd pay at the cinema. Plus, you can all don your favourite comfy trackies and BYO blankets, winning. [caption id="attachment_628248" align="alignnone" width="1800"] Kimberley Low.[/caption] FRIDAY: BUY A COFFEE FOR A STRANGER It's likely nobody has ever done this for you, but how good would it be if the legend standing in front of you comped you your first soy flatty of the day? Pretty good. And for it to happen on a Friday? What a way to kick off the weekend. Start a circle of caffeine giving by sparing $4 to buy whoever is behind you in line their drink of choice. It's more than likely that it'll make their day. Caffeine is the lifeblood of a productive person (them) and being generous for no reason is the lifeblood of someone feeling good about themselves and their lives (you). SATURDAY: BETTER STILL, SHOUT A STRANGER A BEER Yes, this one requires more than a $5 note, but stretch yourself and buy someone a pint. It might end up being closer to the $10 mark, but chances are if you're out buying yourself beers at a pub you can afford to shout one beer. Reclaim the old "buy ya a drink?" trope — prove it's not just the terrain of flush men trying to pick up women at the bar — and make someone's night. SUNDAY: SOAK IN A BUBBLE BATH Baths are your greatest weapon when it comes to making aches and pains disappear. They're also a pretty good way of making your body and brain feel calm and nourished. You can even add to the experience more by picking up one of those bath bombs from Lush, too. The company produces handmade vegetarian products, doesn't test on animals and stays away from plastic packaging, so you can rest assured that you're doing a bit of good while you soak. Hot tip: get one with sparkles to really indulge your over the top inklings and feel like a shiny mermaid or -man. You'll feel on top of the world and ready to conquer the week ahead. Kick off your 'easy wins' by enjoying a Coopers Dry, or two, with your mates. Top image: Katje Ford.
You might want to tone down some of the long and critical rants contained on your blog, as a case in Oregon has just see a woman fined $2.5 million for defamatory comments. Crystal Cox runs several blogs, and posted comments in one such blog which criticised the Obsidian Finance Group. The Group responded by commencing litigation against Cox for defamation. Cox represented herself in these proceedings. Cox said she had information from an inside source, whom she refused to name. As a result, it was impossible for her to prove that her comments were true. As she was a blogger and not affliated with any official media outlet, she was not provided the same protection as journalists in Oregon. Therefore, Judge Marco A. Hernandez slapped Cox with a $2.5 million fine. Heavy. Aside from the obvious legal questions in such a case, is this really an appropriate punishment for not being part of a media establishment? Blogs are now becoming pivotal points for topical discussion. News programs are using images and videos captured by ordinary citizens on iPhones as exclusive content to be broadcast on television. Television shows are increasingly conversing with audiences through social media websites. It seems nowadays that these lines between contemporary and traditional media are undergoing a rapid integration. Furthermore, you get the feeling that Cox probably should have hired a lawyer. [via Mashable]
Everyone loves Jamie's Italian. Or at least that's what we discovered when, back in 2016, we reported that the Jamie Oliver had officially bought back his Australian restaurant chain after its parent company, the Keystone Group, went into receivership. People were ecstatic. Now, after the man, the myth, the legend himself relaunched his six Jamie's Italian restaurants back in March last year, he's throwing us another bone: ten buck pastas. Jamie's Italian Brisbane will offer three signature pasta dishes for only $10, starting January 15 through to the end of the month. In the week of January 15–21 you can choose from Jamie's crab spaghetti, vegetarian tagliatelle bolognese and a next-level ricotta and black pepper ravioli that comes in a lemon sauce. Then, the menu switches, and from January 22–31, a garlicky prawn linguine, octopus ravioli and truffle tagliatelle will be available for a tenner. Pretty lovely jubbly considering some of these dishes are usually priced at up to $32. The $10 pasta will be available at both lunch and dinner.
Italian food is useful for a variety of reasons. One is to comfort – there is nothing like tucking into a big bowl of pasta to make all of your cares disappear; the next is to share – antipasti platters and pizza are perfect for a communal dining experience; and finally, for romance – the richly flavoured sauces, the beautiful wine, and the possibility of a Lady and the Tramp moment makes Italian food one of the most sensual meals (never mind the garlic breath). Thanks to our culturally diverse city, Brisbane has many wonderful Italian restaurants to choose from. Here are Concrete Playground’s top picks. Mario Sarti Located in Toowong, Mario Sarti is a Brisbane institution. Around since 1995, this restaurant has been providing Brisbane's western suburb residents with the hearty and delicious Italian food that they deserve. With an extensive menu including Italian specialties such as a mouth-watering carpaccio, and a smoky mozzarella salad, it is their pasta dishes that will truly soothe your soul. Try the Gnocchi Al Forno - house baked ricotta gnocchi, grilled with truffle & fennel sausage, smoked mozzarella, chilli, garlic & Napoli sauce - mama mia, we have a winner! 41 Sherwood Rd, Toowong; 07 3870 4933; www.mariosarti.com.au Bucci Fresh to James Street in 2012, Bucci Restaurant provides a diverse menu with some light yet impressive salads, a large range of pastas on offer, and some exciting mains. The staff are enthusiasts who are keen to help you pick out the perfect matching wine to your dish. For those after a light dish, the salads are unique and full of delicious flavours - try the Il Polpo Arristito - chargrilled octopus with fennel, avocado and tomato. For the meat lovers you must try the Bistecca Di Manzo - rib fillet on the bone with rosemary and anchovy butter sauce - perfectly complementary to a juicy piece of beef. 15 James Street, Fortitude Valley; 07 3852 3323; www.buccirestaurant.com.au Popolo Popolo in South Bank is the ideal Italian sharing restaurant. With entrees and mains designed to be shared, this is the perfect place for a great get together with family and friends to connect over delicious food. Using locally sourced produce, Popolo have created a menu full of mouth-watering options, the only arguments you will have at dinner is over what to choose. White bait, sardines or anchovies? Beef or pork? In this instance we recommend the Lattonzolo E Pesche - suckling pig with peaches and anchovy sauce. To die for. 3 Sidon Street, Southbank; 07 3846 7746; www.popolodining.com Beccofino If your mind is set on pizza perfection, then Beccofino in Teneriffe is the place for you. Their pizza menu is so extensive that it is split into 'rosse' and 'bianche' - pizzas with or without a tomato sauce base. Cooked in their wood-fired oven the smell and flavour of these pizzas have the power to teleport you to a small Italian city of your choice, with their authenticity. We highly recommend the Pizzaiolo - tomato, pancetta, ricotta, zucchini and chilli. 10 Vernon Tce, Teneriffe; 07 3666 0207; www.beccofino.com.au Tartufo Located at the Emporium in Fortitude Valley, Tartufo offers a dining experience of the finest quality. For a romantic night out of eating until you practically burst, you must try one of the two degustation options at Tartufo. But really, the degustation is a wonderful option for foodies or for those wanting to have an Italian food awakening. The seven or nine course degustations offer incredible samples of Italian food from carpaccio to risotto to incredible desserts. They also have a regular menu for those who like to steer their own course. 1000 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley; 07 3852 1500; www.tartufo.com.au View all Brisbane Restaurants.
Advanced Style is a fashion documentary with a twist. Based on a blog by the same name, it is a movement away from thin models on catwalks and glossy magazine trends. The documentary focuses on the lives of older New York women who dress with flair and refuse to succumb to expectations of how older women should present themselves. The camera follows these women as they go about their daily lives, explaining how individual style and dressing up makes them feel. These characters were captured by street photographer Ari Seth Cohen, who wanted to gain an insight into the lives of women who he perceived as the caretakers of style. All the women spiritedly challenge established ideas about beauty and ageing in Western culture — one says dressing up is an "an exercise in creativity". Advanced Style is in cinemas on October 2. Thanks to Madman Entertainment we have ten double in-season passes to give away. One major prize winner will also get copies of The September Issue on DVD and the CR Fashion Book Issue 1. To be in the running, subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter (if you haven't already), then email us with your name and address. Sydney: win.sydney@concreteplayground.com.au Melbourne: win.melbourne@concreteplayground.com.au Brisbane: win.brisbane@concreteplayground.com.au https://youtube.com/watch?v=ccai-E36BfI
When was the last time you sat down, got cosy and listened to a story — and gave it your full, undivided attention? We're not talking about watching TV, streaming Netflix on your phone or plugging into a podcast during your commute. Instead, Bedtime Stories wants to recreate a sensation that you probably haven't experienced for years. A live radio play, this Brisbane Festival production is the creation of Dutch performance collective Urland, with Thomas Dudkiewicz talking you through the kinds of fantastical tales you used to hear when you were a kid. The show's particular story focuses on strange and menacing creatures that are brought to life on a dark and creepy night — and, to ramp up the atmosphere, it'll take place across September 17, 18 and 19 at a secret location on King Street in Bowen Hills.
Today's workplace isn't what it used to be. While there are plenty of reasons for this, technology is a big factor as is a shift in what most people consider important in regard to job satisfaction. In order to keep pace with such societal changes, workplaces are constantly adapting the type of skills they look for in new hires. Don't be too concerned though. Open Universities Australia (OUA) and its university partners are well aware of what it takes to succeed. That's why we've teamed up with OUA to outline five of the core skills you need to thrive in every work situation. The best part? There's a fantastic range of relevant courses through university partners across Australia. Regardless of your previous education, you can enrol instantly in a number of uni subjects that will help you upskill quickly and excel in the workforce. LEARN TO NAVIGATE THE CHANGING DIGITAL LANDSCAPE We live in a time of rapid change, particularly when it comes to technology. In the modern workplace, you don't necessarily need to be the one pumping out code or building expertly designed websites, but it is important to have an understanding of how technology intersects with your work. Studying subjects like Digital Culture and Everyday Life with Curtin University through OUA allows you to get acquainted with the basics. You'll learn how the internet became a part of everyday life and its general impact on society and culture. If you're keen to get more in-depth, you can also take a look at more focused subjects such as Writing for Digital Media or Cyber Crime, which both offer very specific skillsets. LEARN TO SET BOUNDARIES AND MANAGE YOUR TIME Knowing how to set boundaries is a crucial skill in every aspect of your life. However, striking the right balance between work and play isn't always a simple task. When the lines blur (as they often can), it's common for anxiety and stress to arise, so knowing how to separate the two is a valuable skill to have. And when your student life is full-time online, meaning your university exists wherever your computer does, you'll quickly learn that those essential clear and concise limits are the only way to properly manage your time. While it may not be fun at the time, it'll definitely stand you in good stead later down the line. LEARN HOW TO LEAD AND MANAGE PEOPLE Leadership skills. We all know we're supposed to have them but how do you actually hone them? The answer is simpler than you think. Just by taking online university courses you'll learn how to keep up with deadlines and work autonomously — skills which many places look for in leaders. Or, if you want to take it a step further, you can study the 14-week Project Leadership and Teams course with the University of South Australia via OUA. You'll learn all about managing teams effectively, critical problem solving and understanding and harnessing different people's strengths and weaknesses. Plus, you'll gain some great interpersonal skills. LEARN TO MAKE AND KEEP A SAFE WORKPLACE ENVIRONMENT It should come as no surprise that workplace safety is critical. After all, everyone wants and deserves to work in a secure and protected environment. But what may come as a shock is that plenty of people don't even know their own workplace rights, let alone what to do if they suspect those rights are being violated. Enrolling in Griffith University's Work Health and Safety through OUA will have you up to speed with the 2011 Work Health and Safety Act in no time. Plus, you'll get a clear understanding of the main types of hazards at work — be it in the office or out in the field. LEARN HOW TO BE APPROPRIATELY CULTURALLY AWARE People from all sorts of cultural backgrounds are represented in the workplace. Aside from the fact that cultural respect and an understanding of one's own privilege should be an inherent part of life anyway, having that sort of awareness and the ability to lead by example can be extremely beneficial in a work setting. From working in teams and avoiding miscommunication to scheduling mishaps during religious holidays, studying something like Curtin University's Human Rights History Across Cultures and Religions via OUA is a great first step to building your knowledge of a diverse range of cultures beyond the western viewpoint. Because everyone deserves to be treated equally both in and outside of the workplace. Start looking at all the subjects on offer online from leading Australian unis through Open Universities Australia and you could have a new skill by the end of the year. Hop to it.
If you've had one high tea, then you know what you're in for — right? That's not the case at W Brisbane's new Sunshine State High Tea. It comes with a distinctively local flavour, which the venue's Living Room Bar has done before; however, this one is all about Queensland. As great as scones and sandwiches are (and then more scones and more sandwiches), this thrice-weekly feast uses native ingredients to dish up bites inspired by the state it's being served in. That means strawberry gum, macadamia, rosella, wattleseed and more, all heroed in a spread that tells a Sunshine State story. Sweet options include the beach-themed salted caramel mousse with chocolate and macadamia sand jewel; the exotic sunset marshmallow tart, which nods to Brisbane's golden sunsets; and a native spice-infused earl grey mousse, a dessert that takes its cues from Queensland thunderstorms. On the savoury list: lobster brioche buns featuring seafood from Townsville, Yeppoon spanner crab on rye and Toowoomba free-range egg sandwiches. There's also a speciality cocktail called The Ray to My Heart that's made with Milton silver rum, Malibu, clarified coconut and pineapple — and meant to evoke tropical North Queensland's climate. Running every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11am–3pm, the high tea costs $70, or $90 with a cocktail and $99 with champagne upon arrival.
Take a seat. Please, I insist, just so that you can jump out of it and celebrate in true headbanging style at the news that Nine Inch Nails and Queens of the Stone Age are heading Down Under in 2014 for a co-headline tour. Okay, now take a seat again and continue to read on. Two of the biggest acts in alternative rock are set to arrive on our shores in March next year. This is glorious news to Oceania fans who haven't seen Nine Inch Nails since 2009 and Queens of the Stone Age since 2011. Both bands have teased since May about heading this way, when Queens of the Stone Age frontman Josh Homme told triple j's Tom and Alex, "Everybody who knows me knows that Australia is my home away from home. I also think it's time that we come and tell our own stories, so we're gonna skip the round of festivals and see you in your fall." Nine Inch Nails lead Trent Reznor then revealed his band's intentions to head down under when they turned down Soundwave in favour of a "better scenario" for fans. Well, there is no better scenario than seeing them combine with QOTSA for a tour that is sure to go down in legend. Australia: we love you and we're coming. Didn't feel Soundwave was the right vibe for us or our fans - working on a better scenario.— Trent Reznor (@trent_reznor) August 23, 2013 The tour comes on the back of Nine Inch Nails' and QOTSA's recent respective releases, the much-heralded Hesitation Marks and ...Like Clockwork, and they will be joined on stage by Australian-born Brody Dalle, Mrs Josh Homme, of The Distillers and Spinnerette fame. Which one of the two bands will play first each night? That will be left to a flip of the coin. Seriously. The full list of tour dates and venues are below. Tickets start from $105 and will be available through a Frontier Members pre-sale from noon on Tuesday, October 22, and available to the general public from 9am on Thursday, November 24. Nine Inch Nails Queens Of The Stone Age Co-Headline Tour Dates Thursday March 6, 2014 Sydney Entertainment Centre, Sydney – All Ages Saturday March 8, 2014 Newcastle Entertainment Centre, Newcastle – All Ages Tuesday March 11, 2014 Perth Arena, Perth – All Ages Thursday March 13, 2014 Adelaide Entertainment Centre Arena, Adelaide – All Ages Friday March 14, 2014 Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne – All Ages Monday March 17, 2014 Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane – All Ages Wednesday March 19, 2014 Vector Arena, Auckland - All Ages Saturday March 22, 2014 CBS Canterbury Arena, Christchurch - All Ages
Different people are scared by different things. Different folks can handle different levels of heat in their food, too. Do you get spooked by spice — but in a good way? If so, the Halloween Briz Chilli Fest is clearly for you. Obviously, things will be getting hot in Rocklea at this returning fest — which is taking place around the most frightening day of the year in 2022. From 12–8pm on Saturday, October 29, everything will be tongue-tinglingly hot. Face-meltingly hot. Homer Simpson running, screaming and waving his hands around hot. That's what happens when you spice up your weekend with a chilli festival, after all. Adding some zest to the Rocklea Showgrounds, there'll be plenty of stalls offering plenty of chilli — and not just in food form. Of course, there'll be enough edible hot hot heat to help you turn several different shades, but that's just part of the chilli fun. Chilli beer and chilli cocktails will all be on offer, and there's usually a chilli fancy dress competition. Basically, you'll be saying the word chilli so much that it no longer means anything. Tickets are on sale now for $12, and the full lineup of activities also includes chilli-eating contests for those with cast-iron stomachs. This year, there'll be chilli pod, chilli-covered wings, chilli meatballs and ice cream laced with chilli, all ready for you to devour as much of as possible. Also on the bill: a cooking demonstration by chef Matt Golinski, plus live music and other performances — with the event boasting spice on multiple fronts. Our tip, and one we think you'll need: remember that milk is a chilli-lover's best friend.
Sweet or savoury? For Lune Croissanterie customers, that's a regular question. In August, when the world-famous pastry haven serves up its last round of monthly specials, it remains a pressing query. Do you want to tuck into a lolly bag-inspired cruffin or a béchamel-filled lasagne pastry, for instance? Yes, you can go for both — and also coconut pandan croissants, hazelnut puddings and 'turtle' twice-baked pains au chocolat. That's how Lune is seeing out winter 2024, and you've got 31 days to tuck in. If the croissant-muffin hybrids are tempting your tastebuds, they're party pop cruffins, featuring fruit gel, whipped white chocolate custard and apple raspberry pâte de fruits inside — and a raspberry glaze and feuilletine on top, then popping candy. As for the lasagne escargots, this returning Frankenstein's monster of a bakery creation comes stuffed with bolognese and béchamel. There's also shredded mozzarella cheese, because of course there is. And, that pastry is then topped with parmesan before it goes in the oven. The twice-baked coconut pandan croissants feature coconut frangipane and pandan ganache inside, then more coconut frangipane on top with icing sugar and toasted coconut. Grab a hazelnut pudding and you'll taste frangelico caramel, crushed hazelnuts and hazelnut financier, then caramel, praline cream and hazelnuts to garnish. And the pains au chocolat also go nutty, courtesy of roasted pecans within and candied pecans on top — to pair with the pastry's chocolate frangipane, salted caramel, chocolate powder, fudge sauce and salted caramel sauce. Different options are available at different stores — with the lasagne escargot and the pains au chocolat on offer at all Lune spots in Melbourne (Fitzroy, the CBD and Armadale) and Brisbane (South Brisbane and Burnett Lane). You can't get the party pop cruffins, coconut pandan croissants or hazelnut puddings at the Melbourne CBD store, however, and you can't preorder online from there, either. Lune's August specials are available from Thursday, August 1–Saturday, August 31, 2024. Different items available from different stores, with Lune operating at Fitzroy, the CBD and Armadale in Melbourne, and South Brisbane and Burnett Lane in Brisbane — and from everywhere except the Melbourne CBD, you can also order them online. Images: Peter Dillon.
A fixture in the historic mining town for over a century, the Broken Hill Musicians Club will play host to Adelaide's finest tribute act for one night only. The Flaming Sambucas have been playing around Australia — and the world — since 1991 and have a range of setlists up their sleeves, from Elton John to Lady Gaga. For this show, they'll be busting out the hits you know and love from everybody's favourite Swedish supergroup. There'll be 'Dancing Queen', there'll be wigs, there'll be costumes and — consider yourself forewarned — there will certainly be audience participation. Expect this slice of NSW outback to transform into a riot of sing-alongs and glittering disco balls. Best of all, the gig's free — you've just go to get there. For the latest info on NSW border restrictions, head here. If travelling from Queensland or Victoria, check out Queensland Health and DHHS websites, respectively.
When Barry said farewell, it brought one of the best supporting performances in recent years to an end with it. Star, creator, writer and director Bill Hader wasn't the only talent scoring awards for the hitman dramedy, with Henry Winkler also earning plenty of love — and nabbing his first Primetime Emmy win more than four decades after he was first nominated in the 70s for Happy Days. That's quite the story from a career full of them, given that Winkler will always be known as Arthur 'The Fonz' Fonzarelli, for scene-stealing parts in Arrested Development and Parks and Recreation, and for popping up everywhere from the Scream franchise and The French Dispatch to multiple Adam Sandler movies as well. And, Winkler will tell those tales when he heads to Australia in 2024 on a speaking tour to reflect upon his time in Hollywood. [caption id="attachment_918614" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Andrew Eccles[/caption] Jumping sharks might not be on the agenda, but chatting about doing so more than once — and changing TV history when he made the leap the first time — likely will be. Acting classes also won't be on the itinerary, but hearing about half a century spent performing definitely is. Winkler's tour will follow the release of book Being Henry: The Fonz... and Beyond in October, which will also step through playing Fonzie, Barry Zuckercorn, Dr Saperstein, Gene Cousineau and more. On a six-stop visit, Winkler will head to QPAC Concert Hall in Brisbane on Monday, February 19. Hopefully also getting a mention: his role in helping develop the original MacGyver back in the 80s. Top image: HBO.
Brisbane's beer-drinking calendar just received a new entry, with The Great Australasian Beer SpecTAPular announcing its first-ever Brisbane festival. Better known as GABS, and considered by most as the best craft beer and cider festival in the Asia-Pacific region, the fest began in Melbourne nine years ago. It has now expanded to cover four cities and two countries to date — including Brissie when it joins the fold in 2019. GABS Brisbane will hit the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre on Saturday, April 27, with fest creators Steve Jeffares and Guy Greenstone (The Local Taphouse, Stomping Ground Brewing Co.) wrangling up the best breweries from the region. Previous events have offered up over 500 brews in total, including up to 170 festival beers and ciders, with 100 of these often wacky specialty brews — created just for the event and are generally the festival's main draw — set to come to Brisbane. GABS' exclusive beers give attendees the rare chance to try brand-spanking new beers, while also meeting the brewers behind them. This year's Brisbane tipples will include ingredients such as Vietnamese pho, donuts, wine, hemp, popcorn and green ants. There'll also be collaborations with coffee roasters, tea houses, gin and whisky distillers, biscuit makers and an American barbecue smokehouse, in case you're wondering what might be in store. Apart from beer, the fest will also play host to mini golf, a giant beer can piñata, a roller racing derby, a silent disco and a competitive scavenger hunt, plus wandering performances and local food stalls. The single day event is categorised in two sessions, with session one taking place in the afternoon and session two an evening affair. If you're a super keen craft drinker, you can now purchase tickets to both sessions — and we wish those ticket holders the best of luck. Updated March 16.
When it comes to winter nights out, cosying up with a warming beverage is pretty ideal. Luckily, the riverside Regatta Hotel is transforming its openair courtyard into a wintry lit-up floral wonderland this chilly season. The hotel's Winter Woodlands pop-up is open every lunch and evening, Sunday through Thursday. For $49 per person, you can settle into a garden booth (furry blankets included) among fragrant masses of lamb ear, spray fern, eucalyptus, wisteria, fox gloves and magnolia. Surrounded by all that greenery, you'll be tucking into share platters packed with hearty snacks — think fried haloumi, smoked chorizo, salt and pepper squid and rich lamb curry. You'll also get a drink of choice, either a mulled wine or the Spiked Apple Pie cocktail with vanilla liqueur and spiced cider. But if you're more of an early bird than a night owl, you can head in for a Sunday bottomless brunch from 11am–1pm. Take your pick between two share platters — one meaty and one vegan — and enjoy bubbles, wine, mulled wine and beer for just $55 each. So round up your mates for a night — or morning — of magic. Regatta's Winter Woodlands is open Thursday through Sunday, from 11.30am til 8.30pm. Bottomless brunch sessions will run from 11am–1pm every Sunday. To book, head here.
The gin-making superstars at Four Pillars are at it again, unveiling their latest range of tipples — including the return of a couple of old favourites, and the fresh arrival of a newcomer. While the brand has been barrel-aging gins for some time, the release of its yearly batch is always eagerly anticipated. 2021's lineup is its first in two years, too, with the much-lauded Yarra Valley distillery's barrel-aged tipples taking a year off in 2020. Making a return is Four Pillars' Sherry Cask Gin, which — as the name suggests — is made in former sherry barrels to lend a rich, intense character to the final drop. It's rounded out with notes of pine needles, dried fruits and nuts, and infused with a small amount of Amontillado sherry to give some length and sweetness. According to the experts who made it, this one works well neat with just a single ice cube. And, price-wise, it'll set you back $80 for a bottle. Also launching is the 2021 edition of Four Pillars' Chardonnay Barrel Gin, which is now up to its ninth release. This time around, the spirit's enjoyed a full 12 months in chardonnay barrels, giving characters of ginger, lemon, vanilla and cinnamon. You'll also taste an oak-driven sweetness, and this one also costs $80 a bottle. And, the latest addition to the barrel-aged program is the Single Barrel Release, which marks the first tipple in Four Pillars' new Single Barrel series. It's particularly limited, so much so that the $150-per-bottle drop has already sold out online. If you were lucky enough to nab some, the gin in question has been aged for three and a half years in a 30-year-old sherry and apera cask, and boasts a concentrated juniper flavour, plus notes of dried fruits, cashew, chocolate and spice. The Sherry Cask Gin and Chardonnay Barrel Gin are still available online, and at Four Pillars' gin shops in Surry Hills and Healesville. For more information about Four Pillars' 2021 barrel-aged range, head to the distillery's website.
The Mystery Jets have landed in Australia for a string of shows supporting their new album. Hailing from the home of English Rugby, The Mystery Jets released their fifth studio album at the end of April this year, the title being a reference to Terrence Malick’s 1973 film “Badlands” and Rolling Stone Keith Richard’s Sussex home, Redlands. With vocalist and bassist Kai Fish out the band, replaced by touring member Peter Cochrane, The Mystery Jets will play new tracks from “Radlands”, including “Sister Everett” and “Greatest Hits”, along with fan favourites like “Young Love”, “Diamonds In The Dark” and “Two Doors Down”. Support for The Mystery Jets’s show at Brisbane’s The Hi-Fi will be provided by our city’s own Young Men Dead, an act with charisma, cheek and raw talent that have previously supported Kate Nash, The Holidays and Yuksek.
A weekend getaway is always sweeter when it's a prize. This one should particularly appeal to lovers of both bourbon and honeybees. We've teamed up with the champions over at Maker's Mark and Beechworth Honey to create an exclusive Beechworth getaway. It's all in celebration of Maker's Mark's new Gold Rush cocktail: a symphony of Australian honey, fresh citrus and the bold flavours of bourbon. At first glance, one might think that there's not much in common between an American bourbon brand and an Australian beekeeping family. Scratch under the surface and you'll find they aren't so different. Two multi-generational family-run businesses with links to gold on both sides of the planet, both work with a natural product, champion craftsmanship and have a shared commitment to sustainable practices. Lucky winners of the competition will receive a two-night stay at the historic Hive Apartment located in the heart of Beechworth — the ideal hub for discovering the town's unique dining, retail and historical streetscape. The building that houses the apartment was originally built in 1865, making it one of the oldest bank buildings in Victoria. It once operated as the 'Gold Office' and stored bars of gold for the bank. Now it is a homage to a liquid gold: honey. Not only will winners stay at the Hive, but they will also take part in a unique one-on-one honey-tasting experience at the Beechworth Honey Shop where they will learn all about honey and the importance of honeybees from the staff. Plus, they will be greeted with a bespoke Gold Rush gift basket with all the ingredients they need to make the cocktail yourself: a bottle of Maker's Mark bourbon, a jar of Beechworth Honey, and a cocktail shaker. You don't even need to worry about travel costs — the prize includes travel (either flights or car hire) up to the value of $1000). [competition]898062[/competition]
Since 1999, the Flamenco Fire concerts have amazed Brisbane audiences each year, taking them on journeys into the ancient culture and contemporary developments in the world of flamenco. This year’s Flamenco Fire event explores some of the lesser-known origins of this beautiful music and culture: it examines the history of gypsy migration into Spain and the diverse influences that created flamenco. This is the story of the Romani people, and the plethora of cultures and experiences they encountered and integrated with their own. This story includes the experience of the kathak traditions from India, travels through Persia and North Africa, all of which influenced, changed and developed into the flamenco tradition. Gypsy Pathways features international guests including Indian kathak dancer and singer Sulagna Basu, flamenco dancer Francesca ‘La Chica’ and flamenco percussionist Andrej Vujicic. Also performing are some of Queensland and Australia’s consummate flamenco artists. A story that spans eight centuries, and continues to evolve today - this is a voyage into the heart of flamenco, and to history of the Romani people.
First, one piece of good news: Christmas is almost upon us. Now, another: because the season is getting into full swing, it's time to hit up every festive market you can find. One way to indulge your yuletide yearnings: the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets Christmas Twilight Market. And, while more than a few similar events will be jingling bells and popping up wreaths between now and December 25, this one also happens to be by the beach. Head on down to The Esplanade from 4–9pm on Saturday, December 10 to shop, soak in the scenic setting, listen to festive tunes and be jolly — all underneath twinkling lights. There'll be a heap of stalls selling everything from handmade goods and fashion items to pet accessories and sweet treats, as well as roving entertainment to help spread the Xmas mood as far along the beachside as possible.
Find us an occasion that isn't improved by pie, and we'll find you a plate full of reasons why the dish should always be on the menu. Pie suits every day, date, theme and celebration, because there's just so many different types of it — and that includes Halloween. Pie Town agrees, clearly, and it's doing more than just pumping out the food it's known for. The West End eatery is cooking up edible delights, of course — and it's also hosting pumpkin-carving sessions. On sessions across Friday, October 28–Sunday, October 31, you'll be given everything you need to make your own jack-o'-lantern, covering a pumpkin, tools and a drink. Tickets cost $30 and you have three options: from 5.30–7.30pm on the Friday, for after-work ghoulishness; from 2–4pm on Saturday; and a morning session from 9.30–11.30am on Sunday. If you're keen on pie as well, that'll cost you extra — but you'll be in the right place to grab some. Go on, learn a new trick, then take home a treat.
There's a certain NSW coastal town that's caught the attention of travel-deprived Aussies this spring. Maybe it's the primo surf beaches and plethora of restaurants and bars. Maybe it's the fact that both NSW and Queensland residents can currently visit without quarantining. Or maybe it's the Zac Efron sightings. Whatever the reason, Byron Bay is, more than even, the place to be. You can join the fun and visit the celebrated beachside spot for zero dollars. Yep, fashion retailer Surf Stitch and Aussie seltzer brand Delvi are giving away a luxury holiday to Byron Bay. And to enter, you just need to sling 'em your deets over here. No 25-words-or-less-answers, just your name and contact info. Pretty darn easy. If you're chosen, you'll get two return flights from anywhere in Australia, two nights of luxury accommodation, a fridge full of Delvi seltzer — because, it's set to be the summer of seltzers, after all — two $1000 Surf Stitch vouchers and an ultimate beach pack for two. A runner up prize of a 'summer worth of seltzers' will also be given out. Nothing to sniff at. Don't win and still want to visit? We've rounded up 20 of our favourite Byron Bay getaways for couples and groups. Enter the Surf Stitch x Delvi competition to win a free trip to Byron Bay here. 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.
You'll be walking in an artistic wonderland at Brisbane Powerhouse this November, when the venue's Wonderland festival returns for its fifth run. A bit of an end-of-year frenzy, the annual fest is all about stepping into a carnival. Think circus, cabaret and comedy, plus music and magic. Need more? Try burlesque, dance, theatre, art and a bunch of general parties as well. Running from Thursday, November 22 through until Sunday, December 2, the 2018 program serves up 25 shows across 11 nights, all with a fringe-type vibe. Some take acrobatic feats to new extremes, and others sing odes to Brissie suburbs. They're all best described with three simple words: weird and wonderful.
Brisbane Festival's theatre lineup has been shining especially bright in recent years, after the world-premiere adaptation of Boy Swallow Universe played at the River City arts and culture festival in 2021, then fellow page-to-stage hit Fourteen did the same in 2022. Following them in 2023 are two new impressive homegrown shows — one a musical comedy from the songwriting team behind Muriel's Wedding The Musical, the other inspired by a true story. The first: Bananaland, which has been created by Kate Miller-Heidke and Keir Nuttall after their success treading the boards with everyone's favourite Porpoise Spit resident. This time, they're focusing on 21-year-old Ruby, who has her own protest band called Kitty Litter, which accidentally becomes a hit with preschoolers. Penned by Nuttall and featuring a score composed by Miller-Heidke, with the pair joining forces on the show's musical numbers, Bananaland promises a warmhearted but incisive exploration of chasing dreams — and an ode to performing live. It'll make its debut in QPAC's Playhouse from Saturday, September 16–Sunday October 1, charting Kitty Litter's path to following in The Wiggles' footsteps. "It has been exhilarating creating a completely new Australian musical from the ground up. With renowned director Simon Phillips at the helm, we have assembled a dream team of the most talented actors, musicians and designers. To able to achieve this in our hometown of Brisbane has been particularly thrilling," said Miller-Heidke. [caption id="attachment_884251" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jo Duck[/caption] Brisbane Festival's second big 2023 stage premiere comes courtesy of Tae Tae in the Land of Yaaas!, which draws upon Estee Lee's true tale and will kick off before the fest itself, taking over QPAC's Cremorne Theatre from Friday, August 25–Sunday, September 17. Her sister Nelle Lee co-directs and also wrote the story, which focuses on the eponymous character who was paralysed in a car accident when she was six, struggles afterwards and later receives a much-needed boost from a fairy godmother (who'll be played by Maxi Shield from RuPaul's Drag Race Down Under). "This project has been one of my most demanding undertakings to date, as it hits so close to home. My sister, Tae, has always been fabulous, and her uncanny ability to discover happiness in the unlikeliest of places has always left me in awe," said Nelle Lee. "We are thrilled to share this story with the world, and to have it brought to life by an incredible cast. It's going to be honest and heartbreaking, but also camp, positive and uplifting." Brisbane Festival won't unveil its complete lineup until July, but it's been busy drip-feeding early details recently. Back in March, the event announced that it would kick off with Riverfire for the second year in a row. And, also in May, it revealed plans to break the world record for a kazoo orchestra with mass-participation piece 10,000 Kazoos, then named Paul Kelly, Gretta Ray, Groove Terminator with the Soweto Gospel Choir and a tribute to rock's Laurel Canyon era on its music lineup. Brisbane Festival 2023 runs from Friday, September 1–Saturday, September 23 at venues all around Brisbane, with Bananaland playing the QPAC Playhouse from Saturday, September 16–Sunday October 1, and Tae Tae in the Land of Yaaas! playing QPAC's Cremorne Theatre from Friday, August 25–Sunday, September 17. Tickets for both shows go on sale at 9am on Friday, June 2. Brisbane Festival's full program will be released in early July — for more information in the interim, head to the fest's website. Top image: Jo Duck.
Czech designer Kristyna Pojerova's latest creation ticks all the boxes - it's convenient, portable, aesthetically appealing, and it's green, too. Harmoniously combining simplicity with beauty, practicality with ethicality, her portable glasshouse is the dream of any inner-city or spatially-challenged dweller with a green thumb, finely tuned tastebuds and no backyard. It is a glass structure with four small holes for air as well as a large hole in the middle for easy access that is mounted onto a lightbulb and uses the excess heat to create a fertile and natural microclimate within it for growing herbs. Not only is it practical and eco-friendly, but it lends a homely atmosphere to your kitchen - a modern version of flowers-in-a-jam-jar-on-the-window-sill, if you will. Going to a dinner party and panicking about what to take? Why not take your portable herb garden. It's a culinary novelty and a segue into discussions regarding Eastern European design and innovation all in one. Do you often worry that your kitchen does not exude an ethos? These hanging herbs will add an element of environmental consciousness in a creative and thoughtful manner. Enraged about the recent passing of the Carbon Tax? Ensure that your electricity bills at least contribute towards your garden as well as your cravings for coriander. Utility aside, the glasshouse reminds me of designs such as these Icelandic moss rings and similar micro gardening products, which are quite beautiful, albeit ironic, in the way they try to bring us back to nature by bringing an instrumentalised microcosm of nature to us. This glasshouse has the same aroma of sweetness and nostalgia as does making your own strawberry jam from scratch, or knitting a scarf for winter. And while Pojerova states "all this is basically about making use of the otherwise useless waste heat of the (light) bulb", for all its practically and ecological benefits, this grandma element seems to me to be its true allure.
January 2014 will see Sarah Blasko embark on a short but surely sweet Heavenly Sounds tour, with the singer-songwriter choosing a restrained program of just four shows in four churches across Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Adelaide. The tour will be the final round of performances celebrating her ARIA-nominated fourth studio album, I Awake. Loyal fans might have already witnessed the ideal pairing of the singer's ethereal tones and cathedral acoustics back in 2011, when her collaborative side project Seeker Lover Keeper (with Sally Seltmann and Holly Throsby) launched Heavenly Sounds. Now’s your chance to settle back amongst the stained glass and enjoy a night of pure Blasko. "These will be my last shows for I Awake, and really, what better place is there to sing (apart from the shower of course) than a beautiful church?" says Blasko. "I'll be playing songs from all four albums and it's likely to be the most intimate show of mine you'll see for some time." Tour dates: SYDNEY: Wednesday 15 January, St Stephen’s Uniting Church, 197 Macquarie Street BRISBANE: Thursday 16 January, St John’s Cathedral, 373 Ann Street MELBOURNE: Wednesday 22 January, St Michael’s Uniting Church, 120 Collins Street ADELAIDE: Friday 24 January, Flinders St Baptist Church, 65 Flinders Street Tickets are $62.50 plus transaction fees and go on sale at www.ticketek.com.au at noon on Monday, 25 November. Or you can sign up for the Wednesday, 20 November, pre-sale by joining the mailing list at www.heavenlysounds.com
When you're a fan of a particular band, there are plenty of ways to show your love. Listening to their tunes, seeing them live, buying and wearing their merchandise: they're all old favourites. If you're keen on Dune Rats, you can also add drinking Dunies Lager to your list. The Brisbane musos are fond of a collaboration — already this year, they teamed up with Volley on their own line of kicks — and now they're bringing back their boozy team-up with Young Henrys. It all started back in 2017, when the brewery and the band initially joined forces on a range of cold ones. The beer in question actually arose from a pub bet about whether the group's second album, The Kids Will Know It's Bullshit, could top the ARIA charts. "We hung out with our mates Young Henrys one arvo, and it came up that we were gunning for number one when our new album dropped," the band said at the time. "The fellas said 'if you get the top spot, we'll brew you your own beer'." Now, Dune Rats are about to release their fourth album, Real Rare Whale, on Friday, July 29 — and make the rounds of the country's stages, taking their new tracks on tour. That's clearly as good a time as any to bring back Dunies Lager, with Young Henrys now selling the brew via its website, and also pouring it at the band's upcoming gigs. That means that you'll be able to knock back a few in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide between Friday, July 29–Thursday, August 4 — or whenever you like if you nab a case online. For the brew's return outing, it's still a limited-edition tipple. It's around for a good time, not a long time, basically. Dunies Lager still sports a Dune Rats-yellow design by artist Lee McConnell, of course. And as for the brew itself, it's described as a "slightly hazy, year-round smasher" that "gives a feisty first impression" but mellows "into an easy going friend that drinks for days". "After the first batch of Dunies Lager finished, there was a gaping hole left in our stomachs. We weren't sure what happened but something was missing... until now. We are so fucking stoked to announce the return of Dunies Lager," the band said. DUNE RATS 2022 AUSTRALIAN TOUR: Friday, July 29 — Soundmerch, Melbourne Saturday, July 30 — White Horse Hotel, Sydney Sunday, July 31 — Coorparoo Bowls, Brisbane Thursday, August 4 — Lions Art Factory, Adelaide Dunies Lager is available to buy at Dune Rats' 2022 gigs, and via the Young Henrys website.
