It's almost time for River City cinephiles to spend 11 days viewing the latest and greatest movies, aka watching their way through 2024's Brisbane International Film Festival. The cinema celebration is returning to end October and kick off November, and it's already dropping lineup details to get movie lovers excited. After advising that backstage comedy Saturday Night will open the fest and documentary Unbreakable: The Jelena Dokic Story will close it, organisers have now revealed the next five flicks on the event's program. One newly announced film will hit BIFF between Thursday, October 24–Sunday, November 3 with one of the best ticks of approval there is: Anora, the latest feature from Tangerine, The Florida Project and Red Rocket filmmaker Sean Baker, which won the Palme d'Or at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. It tells of a sex worker from Brooklyn who marries the son of a Russian oligarch, a move that doesn't go down well with his family — and it gives Better Things and Lady in the Lake's Mikey Madison a silver-screen lead breakout role. Also boasting big names: Nightbitch and Sasquatch Sunset. The first premiered at this year's Toronto International Film Festival; hails from The Diary of a Teenage Girl, Can You Ever Forgive Me? and A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood filmmaker Marielle Heller; and stars Amy Adams (Dear Evan Hansen) as a stay-at-home mum who turns canine. The second is directed by the Zellner brothers (Damsel), and gets Riley Keough (Daisy Jones & the Six) and Jesse Eisenberg (Fleishman Is in Trouble) playing a sasquatch family. Adding a dose of Aussie horror to the lineup, The Red will have its world premiere at BIFF, setting a giant zombie kangaroo loose on the big screen — on Dendy Powerhouse's outdoor big screen, in fact. In the flick, the task of battling the creature named Rippy falls to The Terminator and Aliens alum Michael Biehn, Mystery Road and High Country's Aaron Pedersen and Last King of the Cross' Tess Haubrich. Rounding out the new additions is Tatami, following a female Iranian judo athlete played by Arienne Mandi (The L Word: Generation Q), with Guy Nattiv (Golda) and Zar Amir Ebrahimi (last seen on-screen in Shayda, and also co-starring here) co-directing. The full 2024 BIFF program will drop on Thursday, September 26, unveiling the complete lineup of titles that'll play at Palace Barracks, Dendy Coorparoo, Reading Newmarket, Five Star Cinemas New Farm and Angelika Film Centre, as well as the aforementioned Dendy Powerhouse. The 2o24 Brisbane International Film Festival runs between Thursday, October 24–Sunday, November 3 at Palace Barracks, Dendy Coorparoo, Dendy Powerhouse, Reading Newmarket, Five Star Cinemas New Farm and Angelika Film Centre. For further information, or to buy tickets, head to the festival website — and check back here on Thursday, September 26 for the full program.
If you're looking for more things to do while you're stuck at home that's not online puzzles and another cooking lesson, you're in luck. The Australian Ballet is one of the latest cultural institutions around Australia and the world to launch an online platform. The company's 2020 digital season features high-quality footage of full-length performances for you to watch at home — and it's free. Each performance is available to watch for a two-week run. The program kicked off with David McAllister's The Sleeping Beauty, set to Tchaikovsky's famed score, then Cinderella, followed by Romeo & Juliet. On offer from now until Thursday, August 6, you can watch Spartacus, inspired by the 1951 novel by Howard Fast. In all, you can expect dazzling footwork and an overall vivid spectacle on your screens until August 3. To watch, head here. On the digital platform, you'll also find behind-the-curtain content, talks and panel discussions, and a video about the company's collaboration with Nursewatch: a series of ballet workshops for seniors. For those wanting to put on their dancing shoes, there are mini-dance lessons where you can learn how to plié, jump and do a graceful port de bras, plus free at-home sample sessions for beginner, intermediate and pro dancers. The At Home With Studio classes are about 30–40 minutes long and all designed to be done in your home with a makeshift ballet barre (a kitchen bench or table should do the job). Top image: Spartacus and Sleeping Beauty Updated August 3, 2020.
When Queensland's COVID-19 numbers were announced on Wednesday, August 4, covering up until 6am that morning, the state hit the 100 active cases mark — with 63 locally acquired cases all tied to the current outbreak in and around Indooroopilly. All of those latter infections have spread in just the past week, following a first case in a student from Indooroopilly State High School. And, as the figures have ramped up, so has Brisbane's list of venues that've been visited by people who've tested positive. As always, you know what happens from here. Yes, naming locations and venues that positive coronavirus cases have been to is a core element of Queensland's containment strategy, and has been since early 2020. The list has been growing quickly over the last week, and keeps adding new and well-known locations. The latest high-profile trio: the Gallery of Modern Art, South Bank and Toowong Village. A positive case visited GOMA on Tuesday, July 27 between 9.45–10.45am. If you were there at the same time, you've been at a close contact spot. That means that you need to get tested ASAP and then self-isolate, regardless of whether you receive a negative result — and you'll need to remain in isolation for 14 days, too. South Bank also joins the list on the same day, from 10.45–11.20am, specifically covering the walkway from the Cultural Centre to the Wheel of Brisbane. It's a low-risk spot, however, which requires getting tested ASAP, then monitoring for symptoms. And, given that a large number of cases and venues are currently concentrated in Brisbane's west, it isn't surprising that Toowong Village has been named — this time, across multiple categories. The Coles inside the centre is a close contact spot, covering 12–12.20pm on Friday, July 30, and so is Kmart on the same day from 4.05–5.05pm. If you were at either store at those times, you need to get tested and then self-quarantine for a fortnight. Also at Toowong Village: Boost Juice from 11.35–11.45am and Merlo Coffee between 3.50–4.12pm, also on Friday, July 30. They're casual contact spots, which requires getting tested ASAP and then quarantining until you get a negative result. The entire centre is also listed as a low-risk venue — which calls for getting tested ASAP, then monitoring for symptoms — from 11.15am–12.30pm and 3.45–5.15 on the same day. https://twitter.com/qldhealthnews/status/1422839118648598531 Other places of note recently named as exposure sites include electronic darts bar Oche in Fortitude Valley; Ashgrove Fresh Fruit Market and the nearby Pet Cafe, Woolworths and 7-Eleven; the food court at Stafford City Shopping Centre; Logan Hyperdome; and Guzman y Gomez Indooroopilly. For the full list, head to the Queensland Health website. As always, the usual advice regarding COVID-19 applies anyway. So, requests regarding social distancing, hygiene and getting tested if you're feeling even the slightest possible COVID-19 symptoms in general are still in effect, as they have since March 2020. Residents of 11 Local Government Areas in southeast Queensland are currently under lockdown until at least 4pm on Sunday, August 8, and are only permitted to leave their homes for four permitted reasons; however, getting tested for COVID-19 is one of them. For more information about the status of COVID-19 in Queensland, head to the Queensland COVID-19 hub and the Queensland Health website. Top image: Gallery of Modern Art, exterior, south and east face, James Turrell artwork.
Victoria cleaned up at the 2021 Australian International Beer Awards (AIBA), with the state's breweries taking out an impressive 12 trophies at the annual awards ceremony. The beer competition saw a swag of southern labels emerge victorious, competing with a 400-strong line-up of brewers from across the globe. Ballarat-based Dollar Bill Brewing took out the top slot of Champion Australian Beer for its Gold Teeth peach wild ale, with the tipple also named as the AIBA's Best Fruit Beer. Meanwhile, Footscray's Hop Nation snapped up the title of Champion Medium Australian Brewery, as well as claiming awards for Champion Victorian Brewery, Best Pilsner (for its recently released Rattenhund) and Best Amber/Dark Ale. Valhalla Brewing, Two Birds Brewing Co. and Fixation were also among the Victorian breweries to win big on the night. Sydney's 4 Pines was named Champion Large Australian Brewery, with Western Australia's Cheeky Monkey taking out the small brewery division. Other Aussie favourites in the awardee mix included Foghorn, Sunday Road, Six String, the ACT's Bentspoke Brewing Co, Western Australian brewery King Road, and Queensland's Burleigh Brewing Company. Of the more than 2500 beer entries, plenty came from overseas, with South Korea's Goose Island Brewhouse, China's Nbeer Craft Brewing Co and Taiwanese label Zhang Men among the international names that scooped awards. Across the ditch, Auckland's Deep Creek Brewing Company was named Champion International Beer for its Sauvage farmhouse ale, also collecting the title of Champion Large International Brewery. Each year, the AIBA recognises excellence in brewing, beer packaging design and beer media. This year's victors were picked earlier this month by a team of 67 expert judges, including Ben Kraus (Bridge Road Brewers), Jayne Lewis (Two Birds), Justin Fox (Hawke's Brewing Co), Tina Panoutsos (Carlton & United Breweries) and Warren Pawsey (Little Creatures). For the full lineup of this year's AIBA awardees, jump over to the website.
Here is something that everyone can get involved in! The Schoolbag, a youth education project, is dedicated to providing the proper tools and materials to the world's underprivileged and undereducated children. The organisation provides essential supplies around the world so young children can persue a proper education. To raise awareness and funds, The Schoolbag is organising a world record attempt for the largeset chalk drawing ever created, and the best part is they want help from everyone. Bringing together established artists and members of the community, The Schoolbag Record Attempt will aim to cover the pavement surrounding GOMA, The State Library and The Edge in chalk art. Registration stalls will be located in this area as well as locations opportunities for people donate directly to the cause by purchasing a schoolbag for a child in need, each bag containing a years supply of basic school supplies. There will also be live performances from local bands such as Lita and the Bird with additional proceeds from the event being put towards The Schoolbag’s upcoming trip to Timor-Leste to deliver the much-needed schoolbags.
It swept cities across the nation into a sugar-dusted frenzy when its pop-up 'dessert museum' travelled the country, now, the team behind the nostalgic Sugar Republic and festive Christmasland is taking its sweet-toothed fantasies to a whole new level, opening Australia's first-ever sweets-inspired accommodation. Opening its doors in Daylesford, Victoria — 90 minutes northwest of Melbourne — Sweet Retreat is a true candy-coated affair, complete with sugar-themed suites you can stay in, play in and take some rather dashing snaps in. Located in an old miner's cottage, the retreat has Milk Bar-inspired art by Callum Preston, a giant Paddle Pop in the living room, oversized Tim Tams in the bedroom, a pink ball pit, a disco ensuite and neon artworks throughout the house. Oh, and it has scratch 'n' sniff cherry wallpaper, too, plus an appliance-filled kitchen for whipping up any sweet treats of your own and some actual lollies to eat. In short, it's exactly what you'd expect from any of Sugar Republic's previous pop-ups, but you can sleep, cook and play games in it. And you can bring along your mates, too, with the retreat housing up to eight people across four themed bedrooms. You can cosy up in the Sweet Love suite filled with Mills & Boon books, the Tea & Biscuits room with teapot lights and biscuit walls, or the rainbow or peaches bedrooms. All rooms have access to the balcony, deck and pergola. There are retro boardgames and Sonos speakers to keep you entertained when you're not sniffing the wallpaper or swimming in the ball pit and, outside of the house, there's a sprawling garden with roses and fruit trees. Of course, there's plenty you can do in the surrounding area, too. You can check out some of Daylesford's more unexpected activities — including llama rides and visits to a treehouse spa — take a look over here. Sweet Retreat by Sugar Republic is now open for bookings, starting from $450 a night. 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.
Not that long ago, the narrow spaces around Fortitude Valley were just that — spaces, not vibrant laneways. These days, the area boasts not one, not two, but multiple jam-packed alleys. Yes, that's a development that's worth celebrating. In fact, it's a change worthy of a day-long festival, which is exactly what the Hidden Lanes Festival is all about. For the 2022 Valley Fiesta, it's returning as a pop-up event, taking over Bakery Lane, Winn Lane and California Lane on Saturday, November 26. From 9am–10pm, the three spots will turn into a flourishing — and free — party, complete with markets, beverages, art, food, fashion, roving entertainers and pop-up musical performances. And, in great news for your wallet, entry is free. Here, you'll eat, drink, listen, shop, chat, marvel at art and restock your wardrobe, all across one huge day and a quartet of busy spaces. Naturally, the event will definitely involve the long list of businesses who call these laneways home — and, music-wise, the Quivr DJs will be spinning disco and funk tunes. [caption id="attachment_742156" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Alvaro Mayorga[/caption]
There are a lot of gadgets, bits and bobs you can purchase to pretty-up your bicycle. From detachable bike speakers to personalised frames and toilet seats, there are a plethora of things you can attach to your bike to give it character. But the Feats Per Minute prototype bike, created by a team of Dutch designers, is in a league of its own. Unveiled at the Dezeen Space Platform exhibition in London, this bike's designers have reconstructed an old German Alpina Bike they bought for $80 to create a cycling/music machine that plays vinyl records as you ride at a consistent speed. According to its creators, the biggest challenge in creating the vinyl-playing bike was to "make sure that the needles would stick to the record and follow the grooves, without skipping too much." No kidding. It's still a work in progress and only at prototype stage, but as their video report of the Dezeen Space Platform exhibition suggests, once perfected, it is sure to make many people's filmic fantasies come true. https://youtube.com/watch?v=TCxyIKYJ-xo
Were you the kind of kid that couldn't wait to be a grown up? Now that you're an adult, do you wish otherwise. In the words of a certain TV theme tune that's been stuck in everyone's heads for a quarter-century, no one told us life was going to be this way — and so Tash York is tackling the subject in her latest cabaret, Adulting. All those parts of being an adult that get on your nerves? That's what the After Hours Cabaret Club MC will be singing and chatting about. All those silly mistakes you've made, chores you can't stand and the fact that you actually have to cook each night? They're on York's agenda, too. Adulting comes to Brisbane Powerhouse during this year's Wonderland festival, playing from Thursday, November 28–Sunday, December 1. Image: Wade Ranson Photography.
Another comedy festival, another Sam Simmons show, another recommendation to check out his unique brand of silliness. Yes, it's a predicable pattern. No, that's not indicative of his performances, jokes or onstage antics. Actually, the only predictable thing here is Simmons' continuing unpredictability. And, after more than a decade in the business, he just keeps on getting better. Don't just take our word for it — take a look at his growing list of accolades, which includes two new additions from 2015: the Barry Award for Best Show at the Melbourne Comedy Festival, and the Foster's Edinburgh Comedy Award. Sam Simmons is one of our top ten picks to see at the Brisbane Comedy Festival.
Start hunting around for your dusty gumboots and stash your tinnies, the Meredith Music Festival ballot is officially open. The 24th annual Meredith Music Festival will be held from December 12-14 and as per usual, Aunty let slip the act she’s most excited about this year: War On Drugs. The Philadelphian foursome released their third studio album, Lost In The Dream in March this year to great critical acclaim — a whopping 8.8 from the Pitchfork crew is pretty solid by anyone's ranty standards. The Secretly Canadian-signed Pennsylvanians have snagged the prime time slot of Friday night; perfectly dreamy to suit your one-two step festival needs. The ballot is open from now until 9:47pm Monday, August 11. As always, there'll be two rounds of the ballot so if you’re even remotely interested in having a cracking weekend make sure you sign up. The physical size of the festival will remain the same as last year, but the team are making things a little roomier — with 500 less capacity than previous years. Tickets are $318.80 + $10 booking fee, which covers three days and two nights of music in the Supernatural Amphitheatre. Enter the Meredith ballot over here and keep those fingers and toes crossed.
If nothing says Christmas to you like catching a festive film under the stars, ideally while kicking back on bean beds and eating a picnic, then Moonlight Cinema's November and December 2022 program has you firmly in its sights. The beloved Australian outdoor movie-viewing setup is back for another summer, and it's kicking off with a heap of recent big-name flicks — plus a couple of weeks of the merriest pictures that it can find. Fresh from revealing its dates for the summer 2022–23, Moonlight Cinema has now locked in its first titles, with the openair picture palace heading to Sydney's Centennial Park, Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens, Brisbane's Roma Street Parkland, Adelaide's Botanic Park, and Perth's Kings Park and Botanic Garden in a matter of mere weeks. The lineup varies per city as usual, but most spots get the same movies eventually. And yes, everywhere is getting festive. Firstly, the non-Christmas lineup — which starts with Baz Luhrmann's Elvis in Brisbane on Thursday, November 24, 50s-coveting thriller Don't Worry Darling in Sydney on the same date, page-to-screen adaptation Where the Crawdads Sing in Perth on Friday, November 25, and Billy Eichner's gay rom-com Bros in Adelaide and Melbourne on Thursday, December 1. Also on the bill across all five locations: Top Gun: Maverick, Smile and Ticket to Paradise, while the likes of Bullet Train, Thor: Love and Thunder, Minions: The Rise of Gru and Black Adam screening in some cities. Everywhere is hosting a throwback session of Grease – because retro flicks are always a big part of this program — and then the festive fun begins. Yes, Elf, Home Alone, The Holiday and How the Grinch Stole Christmas are on the lineup. So is Die Hard twice and Love Actually a whopping three times. To wrap up December, there's also a preview session of Steven Spielberg's new release The Fabelmans, culinary thrills with The Menu and a preview of Australian drama Blueback — plus the family-friendly Lyle, Lyle Crocodile and Whitney Houston biopic I Wanna Dance with Somebody. The rest of the Moonlight lineup will drop month by month. Nosh-wise, Moonlight Cinema will again let you BYO movie snacks and drinks (no alcohol in Brisbane, though), but the unorganised can also enjoy a plethora of bites to eat from food trucks — perfect, messy treats made for reclining on bean beds. There'll be a VIP section for an extra-luxe openair movie experience, a beauty cart handing out samples, and dogs are welcome at all sites except Perth — and there's even special doggo bean beds, and a snack menu for pooches. MOONLIGHT CINEMA 2022–23 DATES Brisbane: Thursday, November 24–Sunday, February 19 in Roma Street Parkland Sydney: Thursday, November 24–Sunday, March 26 in Centennial Park Perth: Friday, November 25–Sunday, March 26 in Kings Park and Botanic Garden Adelaide: Thursday, December 1–Sunday, February 19 in Botanic Park Melbourne: Thursday, December 1–Sunday, March 26 in Royal Botanic Gardens Moonlight Cinema kicks off in November 2022, running through until March 2023. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the cinema's website — and we'll update you with further program details when they're announced.
When Sushi Room opens its doors in The Calile Hotel on Tuesday, June 14, there's no prizes for guessing what's on its menu, with its focus right there in its name. But this new addition to James Street promises to level up your sushi experience — as the hotel's fellow tenants Hellenika and SK Steak & Oyster have with Greek feeds, cuts of beef and bivalve molluscs. Sushi Room hails from the same crew as Hellenika and SK Steak & Oyster, aka STK Group, which is branching out into Japanese fine dining. Its focus is on simple ingredients, sophisticated dishes and traditional preparation, all while still turning the act of making its meals into an experience, and also giving the whole process its own spin along the way. You'll certainly soak in the luxe vibe, retro-inspired decor and theatrical presentation, with the central 9.3-metre solid Japanese hinoki timber counter — which sits upon black limestone — drawing the eye. Architects Richards & Spence have taken cues from 1960s neo-futurist designs, and hero texture in a big way. Here, a shallow dome also hovers above the main 60-seater dining room, and natural stone, timber, paper and Japanese Kuriēto ceramics all feature, as does a combination of booth, bar and table seating. That impressive look and atmosphere is matched by a menu that spans seafood aplenty under Japanese-trained Head Chef Shimpei Raikuni. Yes, sushi and sashimi are obviously the stars of the show, and Sushi Room will serve up caviar Toro Toro sushi rolls, moriawase and lobster tempura, and oysters sourced daily. Grilled yakimono dishes will also be on offer, plus omakase and enkai options if you'd prefer the chef to choose or just like the ease of a set menu. "Simplicity, purity of flavour and intelligence will form the basis of this menu. It will be elegant and beautiful while at the same time simple, adhering to Japanese sensibilities and form," explains Raikuni. Patrons will sip sake pairings that span from light to rich flavours, plus cocktails made with shiso, yuzu and wasabi — and whisky and international wines. And if you're keen on gathering seven of your nearest and dearest for a particularly special meal, the private dining room on the mezzanine level seats eight, is surrounded by red curtains, and comes with its own bar as well. Find Sushi Room inside The Calile Hotel, 48 James Street, Fortitude Valley, from Tuesday, June 14 — open nightly for dinner, and for lunch from Wednesday–Sunday.
Prefer to consume your art in moving image form? Keen on taking a cinematic trip through the Asia Pacific? If so, you're in luck. The Gallery of Modern Art's Australian Cinémathèque can assist with both via its latest, almost five-month-long lineup. The movie offshoot of the 8th Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art, APT8 Cinema ventures into three strands of filmmaking relevant to the region. The Filipino industry earns not one but two programs, showcasing the works of slow cinema master Lav Diaz and surveying independent and experimental digital works. Peering around the rest of the area, a further batch of features considers the topic of Pop Islam, aka representations of Islamic culture in contemporary film, documentary and video art. Accordingly, you'll find everything from Cannes Film Festival best director winner Kinatay to Oscar winner A Separation among the selections, plus the unmoving frame of gangster effort Still Lives and the autobiographical animation of Persepolis too. And if you like sitting in one place for extended periods of time, Diaz's 13 films represent almost 70 hours of screen time. Now that's the ultimate movie marathon. Image: Production still from From What Is Before 2014 / Director: Lav Diaz / Image courtesy: the artist and Sine Olivia Filipinas, Manila.
In this day and age where Apple reigns supreme, there are a few major companies testing the water against the Cupertino company's monopoly over hand held devices. With the release of Amazon's Kindle Fire though, there may just be another serious player in the growing tablet market. The manner in which Jeff Bezos (CEO of Amazon) introduced Kindle Fire to the world led many to draw comparisons between him and Steve Jobs. At a flashy presentation in New York, he appeared composed and ready to take on the challenges that the hand-held tablet market could throw at him. As Amazon's CEO from day one, he's been through it all, transforming Amazon from a digital retail bookstore into a multi-faceted enterprise focusing on online sales as its priority revenue stream. This isn't just a bratty little upstart crashing Apple's party. Due to Apple's domination in this arena many believe that the Kindle Fire won't even come close. But with its relatively low price (retailing from US$199) garnering attention, the Kindle Fire is looking like quite a viable alternative. It does make some sacrifices though, possessing neither a camera nor microphone, but this makes the tablet look more streamlined and all those bells and whistles feel almost childish in comparison. Running on the Android operating system, it has the added benefits of being able to access the multitude of apps available on that market, allowing for greater flexibility and choice versus the Apple app store. https://youtube.com/watch?v=jUtmOApIslE
They say sex sells, but according to Sony Pictures, death is where the real money's at. Sony has just forked out a hefty sum rumoured in the multimillions for the feature rights to the unpublished biography, Steve Jobs. The release date of the biography, penned by Time Magazine editor Walter Isaacson, has been bumped forward following Job's death, and is now set to hit stands on October 24. The biography's flirtation with Amazon's bestseller list before Isaacson had even finished writing offers an unwarranted indication of the hype that is guaranteed to surround the film adaptation. Steve Job's story is about as inspirational as it gets; the quest of one man with a dream, who transformed his garage start-up into a billion dollar company that revolutionised modern life, all the while battling his own personal demons. And as if the story wasn't sufficiently romantic, then comes Job's tragic untimely death. Sony's expenditure in acquiring the rights will easily be accounted for in the money it saves on marketing. With the hugely successful The Social Network under its belt, another business book-turned-feature by Sony Pictures, Steve Job's story is in good hands. Isaacson wrote the bestselling biographies of Albert Einstein, Henry Kissinger and Benjamin Franklin, and was given complete access to Jobs. Mark Gordon, the man behind Saving Private Ryan and Source Code, will produce the film version for Sony. Let's just hope they stick with the book's revised title; the original 'iSteve' sounds more like a cheesy comedy than an epic tale of a modern day visionary. https://youtube.com/watch?v=Hd_ptbiPoXM
UPDATE, July 22, 2021: The postponed 2021 Brisbane Night Noodle Markets will now take place between Wednesday, September 22–Sunday, October 3. UPDATE, July 13, 2021: Due to travel and quarantine requirements stemming from Greater Sydney's current lockdown, the 2021 2021 Brisbane Night Noodle Markets have been postponed. With many of the event's vendors based in New South Wales, the markets can't go ahead as planned on from Wednesday, July 21–Sunday, August 1. New dates haven't yet been announced, but we'll update you when they are. Usually when July rolls around, Brisbane's culinary scene gets thrust into the spotlight, all thanks to Good Food Month. In 2020, things were a little different, with the jam-packed celebration of all things food and drink taking place in November instead. This year, though, Brisbanites will be hopping between eateries to warm up their winter once more. It's the eighth year that Good Food Month has hit the city, and 2021's program takes its cues from one of the big culinary trends of the past decade. Yes, it's skewing local and heroing homegrown talent — including by welcoming back acclaimed chef Alanna Sapwell (ex-Arc Dining and Bar), with her pop-up Esmay returning for a day of dishes at Spring Hill's Alliance Hotel. Among the other Brisbane stars making an imprint, Louis Tikaram will lend his skills to this year's Young Chefs Lunch, which will serve up a four-course meal prepared by the Stanley chef with the city's culinary up-and-comers — and Ben Williamson will open Agnes up to celebrated Melbourne restaurant Embla, teaming up with the latter's Dave Verheul on a one-night-only meal. Over at Gerard's Bistro, Adam Wolfers will join forces with Shane Delia (Maha Bar, Layla) for a night of Middle Eastern cooking. And Za Za Ta Bar and Kitchen will play host to Shannon Martinez (Lona Misa), with a plant-based, Tel Aviv-inspired feast clearly on the menu. Also on the lineup: a five-course truffle degustation at Otto, a murder mystery dinner at Alchemy, a shawarma party at Gerard's Bar and Libertine's Bastille Day French-Vietnamese menu. Montrachet will host a decadent five-course dinner, E'cco Bistro is dedicating an afternoon to cheese and wine at and The Gresham will roll out Whisky Appreciation Month sessions. Plus, over at the Living Room Bar at W Brisbane, a three-course cocktail degustation will let you sample its new menu created by the team behind London's Oriole Bar. And, while details are scarce so far, the Night Noodle Markets will indeed be returning as part of this year's Good Food Month. Exactly when, where and what you'll be eating is yet to be revealed, but we'll keep you updated as soon as more information comes to hand. Brisbane Good Food Month 2021 runs throughout July. For more information, or to buy tickets from 9am on Thursday, May 27, head to the event's website. Top image: Night Noodle Markets by Bec Taylor.
If you're partial to roast pork topped with plenty of crackling, then you're probably a fan of the Brisbane German Club's pork knuckles. If you're fond sipping German brews in giant steins — after you've managed to pick one (or several) from a very hefty menu, that is — then you're likely a fan of the Woolloongabba venue in general. There's never a bad time to stop by, whether you're heading to or from the Gabba, you're just in the neighbourhood or any other reason you can think of. But heading along across four massive October weekends means celebrating Oktoberfest for 2023. Across 12 big days — from Friday, October 6–Sunday, October 8; Friday, October 13–Sunday, October 15; Friday, October 20–Sunday, October 22; and Friday, October 27–Sunday, October 29 — the beloved spot is doing everything it can to mark the occasion. Yes, that means German food, German music, German brews and more. How's that different to a usual stop a the Brisbane German Club? This time it's officially calling it a party. When it comes to that aforementioned pork, it's a cult-favourite dish — and it comes slow -cooked, weighing in at one kilogram, and served with fried potatoes, sauerkraut and smoked beer gravy. No matter when you make a visit, it's always popular. And, as well as drinking your way through the bar's enormous range of German beers, you can opt for schnapps as well. Thanks to its four weekends, this is the Brisbane German Club's biggest Oktoberfest ever, with entry costing $15. Top image: Anwyn Howarth.
Always wanted to soar though the air, but never felt the need to jump out of a plane? That's where iFLY comes in. Open on the Gold Coast since 2016, the indoor skydiving chain caters to daredevils who like their thrills a little closer to home. For Brisbanites, that can now be taken two ways, with its first local spot launching at Westfield Chermside. If your blood isn't pumping fast enough after the high-octane activity that is trying to find a car park at the huge shopping centre, now you can step inside, hop into a vertical wind tunnel and pretend you're free falling above the earth. (You can also pretend you're reliving whichever skydiving-based movie scene takes your fancy — finding your inner Keanu, Point Break–style, is our pick.) Here's how it works: the vertical wind tunnel whips up wind from above, which is then pushed down the sides of the structure. Next, the air is channelled up out of the floor, into the enclosed glass chamber. Eager adrenaline junkies then float on the kind of cushion that no one can see — while supervised by a certified skydiving instructor, because safety still matters. All first-timer flyers will actually have help from two instructors, with one assisting you with getting into the tunnel and the other controlling the air. You'll be fully briefed on what to do beforehand — and you'll end up riding the wind for around a minute, which is approximately one-and-a-half times the usual tandem skydive length according to iFLY. Or, you can opt for a double jump, spanning twice the length. Now open seven days a week, iFLY is an all-ages activity, so expect to have plenty of company if you're keen for some gravity-defying fun. You can also put that idea into action in the tube, floating with your mates at the same time. Thanks to the wind tunnel's clear walls, you'll watch everyone else while they're being adventurous, too. And, if you're super keen on another type of skydiving — still without braving the real thing — iFLY boasts a 360-degree virtual reality flight experience as well. iFLY's packages start from $69, which gets you two flights. Find iFLY Brisbane at Westfield Chermside, 295 Hamilton Road, Chermside, open from 9am–10pm daily.
Flying interstate can be frustrating at the best of times — especially during peak periods — but there could be major cancellations and delays ahead as some Jetstar employees prepare for a strike. Both the Australian Federation of Air Pilots (AFAP) and the Transport Workers' Union (TWU) have voted to proceed with industrial action — with 94 percent of members of the latter in favour of the strike — in response to ongoing failed negotiations with the airline. If you've got flights booked over Christmas, you may face a delay or two. If it goes ahead, the strike could see pilots, as well as 250 Jetstar baggage handlers and ground crew, taking industrial action. There's no word yet on what exactly this action would be or when this would happen, though the TWU has said that it'd likely take place over "the coming weeks and months" — i.e., the busy festive season. It's likely to cause delays to multiple air services across Sydney, Melbourne, Avalon, Brisbane, Cairns and Adelaide airports. https://twitter.com/TWUAus/status/1202747636492582913 The TWU is at loggerheads with Jetstar after failed negotiations with the airline that sought to secure a number of demands for employees – like more rest breaks, annual wage increases of four percent and a guaranteed 30 hours of work a week. TWU National Secretary Michael Kaine said that "disappointingly, Jetstar have rejected the vast majority of the workers' demands outright". Jetstar, however, says the impact of the TWU action is likely to be "minimal" as it would involve "less than half" of its regular ground staff. In a statement released today, Jetstar's Group CEO Gareth Evans said that the company has offered a three percent annual wage increase to the union. Perhaps more disruptive will be the AFAP strike, which could leave planes without anyone to actually fly them. Evans has said that Jetstar will "do everything [it] can" to minimise disruptions to passengers — but noting that "customers may face delays and cancelled flights if the union choose to take industrial action". Of course, this news doesn't mean that the strikes will necessarily happen — if the unions are able to reach an agreement with Jetstar in the meantime, it could be called off. No dates have been set yet, be'll let you know as soon as there is.
There's never been a better time to head out on a road trip and explore everything Australia has to offer. Lockdowns are ending, borders are reopening, live music is taking over regional NSW, and country towns need visitors more than ever after a year void of tourism and the fallout from the devastating 2019/20 bushfires. If you are heading out on the road you may want to bring your pet, after all, what good is a holiday if your four-legged best friend can't come with you. It's also completely fair to have some nervousness about travelling with your pets. Nobody wants to deal with a car-sick pup, or get to their lavish coastal accommodation to find it's not pet-friendly. We talked to veterinarian and Snooza Pet Products ambassador Dr Katrina Warren to ask all the questions you may have before you're joined by your favourite furry buddy on a week away to a pet-friendly stay. To help, we've also rounded up some of our favourite dog-friendly hotels around Australia. What's the best way to find pet-friendly accommodation? "These days, most booking websites have an option to search for pet-friendly accommodation, but just because a property says it accepts pets doesn't mean that it's well set up for pets. It is important to check individual house rules, such as whether the property is fenced and if pets are allowed inside." How often do dogs get car sick and what should I do if my dog does get car sick? "It is quite common for puppies and young dogs to get car sick, but they usually grow out of this. This is because the ear structures that are used for balance are not fully developed yet. Make sure you don't feed them before you start driving and stop frequently for breaks. Like us humans, it can help to have a window open to circulate fresh air and keep the car cool. Some adult dogs can still get car sick, which is when it's best to consult your vet about an effective plan, as there are some medications that can help." How often should we stop for water and toilet breaks for my pet? "I recommend stopping every couple of hours. Always make sure you have your dog on a leash when you bring them out of the car as dogs can panic in new environments and may run. Pack a portable dog bowl and clean water so you always have easy access to cool water." Is there a way I can test if my pet is well suited to travelling before we leave? "Most people have an idea of their pet's personality. A pet that does not enjoy car travel or gets anxious when they go to a new environment would probably be happier to stay home with someone caring for them. Crate training your puppy or adult dog can be extremely helpful, ensuring they are more comfortable when confined to their crate no matter where they are." Are pets likely to be stressed about sleeping in a new environment? How can I help comfort them if they are? "It really depends on the individual pet, but some pets may be anxious when away from their home base. I recommend packing your pet's own bedding so they have something familiar to sleep on. Some beds are easier to travel with than others — I love the Snooza Futon because it's warm in winter and cool in summer. The cover is removable and easy to wash and it doesn't take up a lot of space in the car. Anxious dogs may enjoy snuggling into the Snooza Calming Cuddler Bed." Should I get any specific vaccinations or tick/flea treatments before we leave? "You should make sure your pet's vaccination, worming and flea treatments are all up to date before you travel. If you are travelling to coastal areas of Victoria, NSW or Queensland you should also use a paralysis tick preventative. If you're unsure if there are paralysis ticks in the area you are visiting, I suggest calling ahead to the local vet in the area to ask." Any tips on how to keep pets happy and calm in the car? "While it may be tempting to cuddle your dog on your lap during a car trip, dogs should be restrained when travelling in the car. Keeping them secured behind a grill, in a crate, wearing a harness or dog seat belt are great ways to keep your pets safe, all of which are easiest to teach from when they are a puppy. Using a crate for small dogs and puppies helps keep them safe and comfortable. The Snooza Road Tripper is a handy way to keep your pets secured if they're travelling in the backseat, looking after your dog and your car interior in case they get dirty during walks throughout your trip."
When winter 2022 rolls around, it will have been three years since Brisbanites last feasted their way through the Night Noodle Markets. Dishing up hawker-style food and plenty of edible items on sticks, the event is an always-popular addition to the city's culinary calendar — but, due to the pandemic, it hasn't been able to set up its stalls since 2019. That's changing from Wednesday, June 15–Sunday, June 26. Yes, finally — after 2021 saw the markets announce dates and a new venue, then postpone, reschedule and ultimately cancel. With border closures and other everyday restrictions now seemingly behind us, here's hoping that this year's Night Noodle Markets can focus on what they do best: serving up delicious dishes to fill hungry stomachs. As was meant to be the case last year, the event will make its debut at the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens, moving over from South Bank — so you'll be enjoying a feed in quite the leafy surroundings. That's where it'll be based for the entire 12-night 2022 run, transforming the gardens into an openair Asian street food festival. Also on the bill: live entertainment and lion dances to go with all those stalls and pop-ups serving bites to eat and beverages to sip. And, you'll be able to bring your pets along as well. The full food lineup won't be revealed until a bit closer to the markets; however, Hoy Pinoy, Flying Noodles, May's Malaysian Hawker, Wonderbao, Gelato Messina and Twistto will all be in attendance. So, that means you'll be tucking into everything from noodles and dumplings to bao and desserts, spanning options from local, interstate and nationwide eateries — and also including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and Halal options. On the drinks list, there'll be a Gage Roads Beer Garden, an Aperol Spritz Kombi Bar and the Dan Murphy's Zero% Bar — with the latter following on from the bottle-o chain's alcohol-free Melbourne venue and only serving up non-boozy beverages — plus Heaps Normal's alcohol-free beers and Rekorderlig's boozy ciders. Also, if you're keen to spend more time eating and less lining up, Mr Yum will also be on hand to allow you to order via your phone — skipping all the queues, selecting food from different vendors and paying in one transaction. The markets will be open from 5–9pm Sunday–Wednesday, 5–10pm Thursday–Friday and 4–10pm on Saturdays, giving you ample chances to head by. That said, although entry is free, you'll need to register for a ticket via the Night Noodle Markets website. The 2022 Brisbane Night Noodle Markets will take place from Wednesday, June 15–Sunday, June 26 at the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens, 147 Alice Street, Brisbane City. For further details and to register for a free ticket, head to the event's website. Top image: Bec Taylor.
There's an unshakable sense of menace throughout the low-key mob movie The Drop that lifts it above the outward cliches of its story. Then again, that's hardly surprising, given it was written by Dennis Lehane. The American crime novelist responsible for Mystic River, Shutter Island and Gone Baby Gone — books whose subsequent film adaptations rank amongst the best big-screen potboilers of the past 20 years — Lehane's mastery of the blue-collar crime genre is second to none. And, while his screenplay for The Drop doesn't quite reach the same impressive heights, it's a thoroughly compelling drama all the same. The story takes place, as Lehane's stories tend to do, in a working class microcosm in the north-east US. In this case it's Cousin Marv's bar, a grimy Brooklyn watering hole run by a bitter old barkeep whose name sits on the sign above the door. In reality, however, the bar hasn't belonged to Marv (the late great James Gandolfini) since he was muscled out by the Chechen mafia, who now use it as one of several collection points — or "drop bars" — for all of their ill-gotten cash. When the bar is robbed by a pair of desperate stickup men, Marv and his unflappable bartender Bob (Tom Hardy) are tasked with recovering the money. At the same time, Bob find himself caught up in the life of local waitress Nadia (Noomi Rapace) after rescuing a wounded dog left abandoned in her front yard. What Bob doesn't count on is the attention of Nadia's unhinged ex-boyfriend Eric (Matthias Schoenaerts), a local crim who, if rumours can be trusted, has a habit of making people disappear. How the storylines intertwine... well, that would be telling. Belgian director Michael R. Roskam is a skilled hand behind the camera, but it's easier to identify the influence of Lehane: the decaying urban setting, the unspoken threats of violence, the characters all speaking in thick, working class drawls. So too can you locate the DNA of earlier crime pics. Bob's frequent trips to a local Catholic church call to mind Scorsese's prototypical gangster movie Mean Streets; the theft of mob money, meanwhile, was the catalyst in the recent Andrew Dominik joint Killing Them Softly. As such, The Drop can at times feel a little familiar. But the strength of Lehane's screenplay lies in the information he keeps obscured. His characters' pasts remain shrouded in mystery, leaving you constantly unsure of how far they're willing to go. The star of Roskam's previous film Bullhead, Schoenaerts radiates danger in every scene. Likewise Gandolfini, whose portrayal of a washed-up tough guy reminds us just how big a talent the actor was. It's Hardy, however, who really steals the show. At first, his character strikes us as a gentle giant; a nice guy caught up in a situation he can't control. But as the movie goes on, we're forced to look again. There's something deeply unsettling about the way Bob never seems phased, even as his situation spirals further out of control. As always, that's the appeal of Lehane's writing. Things are never quite what they appear. https://youtube.com/watch?v=9xAKTGPbhQk
Brisbane is home to multiple mini-golf bars, arcade bars and axe-throwing bars, plus a digital ping pong bar — and it boasts a huge two-storey darts hangout, too. Usually the domain of old-school pubs, the projectile-flinging sport is the main attraction at Oche Brisbane, though it's had a thoroughly 21st-century update. Originally launching in Oslo in Norway, Oche (pronounced ockey) opened its first Australian digs in Fortitude Valley in 2019. Lining the walls are dart boards that look exactly how you remember — but they all have an electronic component. Each board comes with dozens of games built in, so you can pick between the knockout-style Killer, high-scoring High Striker and points-accumulating 201, among other options. The boards also keep score, so there's no need for a pencil and paper (and no room for arguments). And, for unknown reasons, some of them chat to you as well. Fancy having a throw, drinking brews, eating German-themed foods, and celebrating this time of year? That's what the returning Ochetoberfest is all about. And, in 2022, it's even bigger — running from Friday, October 7–Sunday, October 9, and then again from Wednesday, October 12–Sunday, October 16. The eight-day event features German beers on tap, German food and usually German tunes, too, combining boozy October shenanigans with an updated version of a favourite pub activity.
Ikea have posted an interactive app on YouTube which takes all your personal information from Facebook, should you allow it to, to create a personalised 3D mock-up of your new bedroom kitted out entirely in durable and inexpensive Swedish design. Starting off like an everyday advertisement for Ikea, the video gets taken over by the app which accesses information about your life and tailors it to the smallest details, including photos from your Facebook albums hanging in the picture frames. As a nice touch they build the walls out of your wall posts, before they paint them over in solid colour and a solemn British voice accounces that the products are the definitive ones which will help you go 'happy to bed.' The app is part of Ikea's UK campaign, but it's open to anybody with a Facebook account, and is designed specifically to reflect the person's personality, lifestyle and interests. Now, having recently invested in a new bed, bedside table and bookshelf from Ikea, I was particularly intrigued to find out whether it would all match up with the predictive magic of the internet. But, sadly no. They chucked in the bed I decided against, rather than the one I bought, a narrow desk which doesn't account for the amount of junk I frequently have lying around, and they framed pictures which are nearly all of me pulling my 'I am unhappy about being photographed face.' And they forgot a bookshelf, which comprises a full wall of my room at the moment. But my complaining aside, if you always wanted confirmation that your chest of drawers were perfectly aligned to your personality, you now have an easy way to find out. https://youtube.com/watch?v=hQYe7OMoJNA [Via PSFK]
In 2011's Le Havre, Aki Kaurismäki explored Europe's refugee crisis in his trademark way: with empathy, a droll sense of humour and a bittersweet outlook. He tackles the same subject with the same approach in The Other Side of Hope, although you could never accuse the Finnish filmmaker of simply retracing his own footsteps. Rather, the writer-director steps from a tale of transition to one of acceptance. It's a shift that not only reflects global events over the past seven years, but also comes with a much-needed message. What the world needs now is compassion, Kaurismäki posits — an idea that applies when asylum seekers arrive in prosperous nations searching for better lives. The Other Side of Hope begins when Syrian refugee Khaled (Sherwan Haji) hops off a boat in Helsinki. Looking for a new home far from Aleppo, he just wants the chance to start afresh, however Finland proves far from welcoming. Meanwhile, leaving his wife and his old salesman life behind to enter the restaurant trade, Waldemar Wikström (Sakari Kuosmanen) requires help getting his new business going. Both men are fleeing their respective pasts, but Wikström's plight can't compare to Khaled's, and the film doesn't claim otherwise. Instead, after Wikström spies Khaled hiding behind his eatery, the movie shows how an act of kindness shapes their intertwined fortunes. In other hands, a parade of cheesy cliches would ensue, but Kaurismäki isn't any other filmmaker. There's a reason that he's considered Finland's best living auteur, and why his movies receive widespread international attention. While they're the kind of plaudits that every director dreams of, no one views the world quite like Kaurismäki. He fills his frames with characters that wear their eccentricities on their sleeves, yet couldn't be more relatable. He shows people struggling with all types of problems, both commonplace and more extreme, while still banding together because it's the right thing to do. Further, he charts life's ups and downs without avoiding its sorrows, but never removing optimism from the equation either. Indeed, there's a word that sums up his work perfectly: humane. Another word springs to mind: absurd. It's evident when a fight quickly turns into a job offer and when salted herring is served up as sushi, two of the movie's wry, hilarious developments. From its deadpan humour to its rockabilly soundtrack, The Other Side of Hope is often offbeat, albeit in a very specific way. Kaurismäki isn't trying to make an over-the-top comedy — instead, his film recognises how odd everyday existence really can be. It's why his cast turn in portrayals that seem naturalistic as well as a little detached, whether the world-weary Kuosmanen is grimacing through a poker game or the scene-stealing Haji is relaying Khaled's background with a calm demeanour. Lensed by Kaurismäki's regular cinematographer Timo Salminenn, the movie's visuals operate in the same manner as the performances. Every shot overflows with lifelike detail, with smoke hanging in the air and pain oozing from a stranger's glare, yet every image feels like it has been meticulously arranged. It's the same sensation that great still-life paintings evoke: of not only capturing reality, but capturing the artist's unique perspective along with it. Of course, The Other Side of Hope isn't a static image frozen in time. Observed with the same compassion it champions, and proving as earnest as it is amusing, the film is an intricately composed portrait brimming with melancholy, sincerity and worldwide relevance. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=asR1B7NrhQQ
Underground, garage-rock royalty don't come much royaler than King Tuff. With a CV that includes psych-folk pioneers Feathers, Sub Pop's Happy Birthday and the melodic metal of Witch, the man born Kyle Thomas has made a career out of crafting awesomely dirty and scuzzy guitar licks. Having decided to go it alone, King Tuff's debut solo album Was Dead showcases a performer who knows a thing or two about the blues. Sitting somewhere between a lo-fi version of The Black Keys and Wolfmother on an acid trip, the album is a filthy cocktail of straight-up guitar rock, stoner vocals and shout-along choruses. And then there's the man himself. With his matt of unkept hair and his fuck-the-system attitude, King Tuff is a beguiling and charismatic stage presence, with the ability to rouse a crowd into rabble and mayhem with little more than one of his Zeppelin-esque solos. Check him out when he plays at the Primitive Room alongside local acts, Cannon, Thigh Master and Screaming Match.
Sometimes, even the most adventurous among us need a little push, a dash of motivation or some extra incentive to take a particular leap. And, sometimes, that encouragement arrives in the form of a must-attend event. So you've always wanted to wander around southeast Queensland's Scenic Rim region, but have never found the time? Well, consider the area's returning annual Eat Local Week all the reason you need. If exploring, eating and drinking can't get you in the car and down the highway, then nothing can. Unsurprisingly, that's just the big-picture view of this nine-day festival. Promoting Scenic Rim produce and the people behind it, the event marks its 11th year in 2022 — and it has just unveiled a hefty lineup that'll unfurl between Saturday, June 25–Sunday, July 3. On the bill: more than 125 events at 42 locations, all in a region that's been named one of the best places to visit in 2022. So, you won't definitely be bored during this fest. A number of festivals are taking place within the broader event, for starters, so you can head to the fest for a winter harvest festival, street food festival and a carrot festival as well. Among the highlights: a big lunch on the lawn at the Scenic Rim Farm Shop and Cafe pre-fest; an entire day dedicated to carrots (complete with carrot cake, carrot ice cream and carrot beer); picnics with alpacas among the vines; cocktails with camels (only humans will be doing the drinking, obviously); and an Italian feast at the Overflow Estate 1895. Or, there's boozy brewery brunches, jam sessions amid lambs, a pinot-fuelled picnic at Binna Burra, and tours of Tamborine Mountain Distillery and Macadamia Farm. Workshops span bush tucker, making vegetable bouquets, whipping up cheese and more — and other standouts include markets, several long lunches, tastings, dinners under the stars and barbecues. The event also has 11 ambassador chefs attached, spanning a list of impressive names — including Spicers Hidden Vale's Ash Martin, Wild Canary's Glen Barratt, Moda's Javier Codina, Monstera Group's Josh Lopez, Picnic Real Food Bar's Brenda Fawdon, and Sixes & Sevens and Cru Bar's Richard Ousby. 2022 also marks a big year for Scenic Rim Eat Local Week for another reason: in 2021, the second half of the fest was cancelled due to COVID-19. Accordingly, heading along helps support growers, farmers, wineries, breweries and distilleries in the area, and the regional economy, after a tough pandemic-affected couple of years. Scenic Rim Eat Local Week runs from Saturday, June 25–Sunday, July 3 at various locations in the Scenic Rim. For more information or to book tickets, head to the event's website.
Uber, you sly geniuses. In a bold marketing move, Uber have launched UberKITTENS, a service with actually brings kittens to your office for 15 minutes of cuddles. Launching today around Australia in six locations (Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane included), you'll be able to front up $40 and Uber will drive a rescue kitten to your home or office as part of an Australia-wide fundraiser. GET GOING. NOW. Uber posted on their blog today: "Following the huge success of UberKITTENS in the US, we were inundated with requests from riders and some amazing local shelters to bring it to our shores so we could share the kitten love and spread the word about the importance of finding much needed homes for our furry friends." How can has kitten? 1. Download the Uber app. 2. Request the 'KITTENS' option in the app TODAY between 12pm and 4pm within the Sydney/Melbourne/Brisbane CBD and surrounding suburbs. 3. If kittens are available, you will get to enjoy 15 minutes of furry cuteness delivered to your office, your sweetheart, or even your favourite cat lady. 4. Pro Tip: Demand for #UberKITTENS will be off the charts so please be patient in your quest for kitten playtime. All the funds go to the participating shelter and you can even adopt the little guy. Looks like cat lovers have a lot to celebrate after yesterday's announcement for Sydney's very first cat cafe. Via Mumbrella.
If all you wanted for an early Christmas gift this year was for the Matildas to put on a spectacular show at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, Australia's national women's soccer team didn't disappoint. If all you're now hoping for this actual festive season is to hear three of the squad's stars chat about their experiences — and their careers in general, as well as what's brought them to this point — then the first-ever Open Air Live event is going to deliver there, too. Taking place at 5pm on Thursday, December 21 at Sydney's Commbank Stadium, Open Air Live will feature Matildas goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold, forward Mary Fowler and defender Alanna Kennedy, who'll be back in Australia to get talking. All three impressed on the pitch in July and August, and cemented their place as Aussie sporting heroes, even if the semi-final loss to England meant that the Matildas didn't end up with the ultimate prize. On offer as well: a live masterclass where Arnold, Fowler and Kennedy will show off their skills; and a match-day vibe thanks to four stages and ample use of the stadium screens. "I'm excited to be part of the Open Air Live event in Sydney this December. Mackenzie, Alanna and I will be taking the field at CommBank stadium for a huge night of entertainment; you won't want to miss this!" said Fowler. "I can't wait to join Mackenzie and Mary on the pitch for an incredible night of entertainment. Everyone is welcome, and we look forward to putting on a great show," added Kennedy. "Bring your families along and join Alanna, Mary and I in sharing our stories. It will be a great night of entertainment. We can't wait to see you there," advised Arnold. There's obviously plenty for the three Matildas players to discuss. Their Women's World Cup efforts enraptured the entire nation, including breaking viewing records to become the most-watched program on Aussie TV since 2001 when current records began, and likely ever. They had Nikki Webster sing to them in Brisbane afterwards, and are getting a team statue in the Queensland capital. And, of course, the campaign was the result of years of hard work both as a squad and on the individual level to get the Tillies to this point. Arnold, Fowler and Kennedy will be back in Australia for the event from the UK, where all the trio play in the Women's Super League. Arnold is West Ham United's captain, while Fowler and Kennedy remain on the same team at Manchester City. The full Matildas squad will also return to home turf for three games at the end of October and beginning of November, for Olympic qualifying matches in Perth. They play Iran on Thursday, October 26; The Philippines on Sunday, October 29; and Chinese Taipei on Wednesday, November 1. Open Air Live with Mackenzie Arnold, Mary Fowler and Alanna Kennedy will take place at 5pm on Thursday, December 21 at Sydney's Commbank Stadium, 11–13 O'Connell St, Parramatta — head to the ticketing website for more details and tickets.
It was a year of gun-toting racoons, talking Lego and trying desperately to catch a glimpse of Ben Affleck’s junk in the shower. Yes, the last 12 months saw the release of some truly terrific movies, from Hollywood hits that dominated the box-office to startling foreign and indie films that only a handful of people bothered to see. But enough about the past. January is already well underway, and a whole crop of new releases are on the horizon. This promises to be another huge year for cinema, with the latest instalments in blockbuster franchises including The Fast and the Furious 7, Mission: Impossible 5 and The Hunger Games Part 3B, not to mention perhaps the most hotly anticipated sequel of them all: Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2. Of course the above titles only scratch the surface. Presented in the order they’re due to be released, here’s our list of the 12 motion pictures we’re most looking forward to in 2015. You’ll be pleased to note that there isn’t a single Hobbit movie to be found. FOXCATCHER The latest film from Moneyball director Bennett Miller tells the unsettling true story of reclusive millionaire John DuPont, whose sponsorship of the US Olympic wrestling team coincided with a spiral into madness. A cast that includes Channing Tatum and Mark Ruffalo is enough to pique our interest, but it’s comedian Steve Carell who has been kicking up Oscar buzz for his against-type dramatic performance as DuPont. Out January 29 ROSEWATER Comedian Jon Stewart took time out from hosting The Daily Show in order to shoot this film about Maziar Bahari, a Canadian-Iranian journalist imprisoned by the Iranian regime. Not exactly the barrel of laughs you might expect from Stewart’s directorial debut. Then again, it’s only fitting that he be the one to tell the story, given that the “evidence” the Iranians used to justify Bahari’s detention included an interview he gave on Stewart’s show. Out February 19 TOP FIVE Speaking of comedians in the director’s chair, Chris Rock’s Top Five sees the funny-man working three jobs as writer, director and star. In a foul-mouthed takedown of the media and entertainment industries, Rock plays Andre Allen, a popular movie comedian who wants to be taken seriously. The film looks hilarious, and has a seriously stacked cast — including Rosario Dawson, Tracey Morgan and Kevin Hart — as well as cameos from Whoopi Goldberg, Adam Sandler and Jerry Seinfeld. Out March 5 INHERENT VICE Joaquin Phoenix heads a host of enviable Hollywood talent in Paul Thomas Anderson’s strange adaptation of Thomas Pynchon’s novel. A stoner crime thriller, Inherent Vice looks like the spiritual cousin to The Big Lebowski, and not at all like Anderson’s previous films, which include The Master and There Will Be Blood. Reviews out of the States have been divided, which really only makes us want to see it more. Out March 12 MOMMY The best film of last year’s festival circuit, this masterpiece of melodrama from Quebecois wunderkind Xavier Dolan is a movie you can’t afford to miss. An emotional roller coaster presented in 1:1 aspect ratio, the story follows a brassy single mother whose teenage son suffers from violent mood swings as well as ADHD. Seriously, if this film doesn’t make you cry buckets, you flat out haven’t got a heart. Out March 26 AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON Avengers assemble! The red-hot sequel to Marvel’s superhero phenomenon reunites all your favourite costumed heroes, including Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk and Thor. The most important returnee, however, is writer-director Joss Whedon, whose witty dialogue and knack for ensemble character dynamics was a huge part of why the first film was so great. Out April 23 MAD MAX: FURY ROAD Australia’s most iconic action hero is back for round four. Tom Hardy replaces Mel Gibson as Road Warrior Max Rockatansky in this sequel-cum-reboot 30-odd years in the making. From the insane visuals in the trailer, it would appear that original director George Miller hasn’t lost his touch. Hard to believe this is the same guy who made Happy Feet. Out May 14 INSIDE OUT The latest film from the geniuses at Disney Pixar looks like one of their most original yet. Directed by Pete Docter of Up and Monsters Inc. fame, Inside Out takes place inside the mind of young girl, as Joy, Anger, Disgust, Fear and Sadness steer her through life as best they can. Out June 18 SPECTRE Daniel Craig returns as Britain’s most deadly secret agent, with a supporting cast that includes Monica Belluci, Dave Bautista and Christoph Waltz. If the title is anything to go by, the latest Bond film will see 007 go up against his most notorious enemy, the international crime syndicate SPECTRE. We’re calling it now: Waltz is playing Blofeld. Out November 19 STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS Yes, we’ve been burnt with new Star Wars films before. But come on, how can you not be excited, or at least curious, by the prospect of returning to a galaxy far, far away? And without the influence of George Lucas, we’re hopeful that The Force Awakens might actually be good, or at least not bogged down by the politics of trade negations. Now excuse us while we re-watch the trailer for the 5000th time. Out December 18 THE HATEFUL EIGHT Two words: Quentin Tarantino. The script for his latest Western leaked online last year, leading to fears that he’d scrap the project altogether. Thankfully QT got over his little temper tantrum and is moving ahead with production. The Hateful Eight is being shot on glorious 70mm film with a cast that includes Samuel L. Jackson, Kurt Russell, Michael Madsen and Bruce Dern. Release Date TBA MACBETH Australian director Justin Kurzel made serious waves with his debut film Snowtown. For his follow-up, he’s put together a lavish adaptation of Shakespeare’s iconic play, with Michael Fassbender starring as the ambitious Scottish soldier and Marion Cotillard as his conniving lady wife. Release Date TBA
Fall in love with movies Italian style, at the latest glamorous edition of the Lavazza Italian Film Festival. Hosted once again in Palace Cinemas around the country, this year's festival features more than 30 features and docos, plus a breathtaking restoration of one of Italy's all-time classics. The 2014 festival opens with Marina, a light biopic about singer, songwriter and world-famous accordion player Rocco Granata, produced by Luc and Jean-Pierre Dardenne. Other exciting titles include impressionistic Cannes Jury Prize winner The Wonders and Asia Argento's semi-autobiographical new film Incompresa. But the best of the fest will be saved until last. This year's closing night film is none other Marriage Italian Style, beautifully restored in time for its 50th anniversary. Sophia Loren is dazzling as the mistress of a wealthy Italian businessman determined to lock down a marriage proposal. A quintessential comedy about the battle of the sexes, it puts most modern-day rom-coms to shame. The Lavazza Italian Film Festival is on in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane in September and October, and thanks to the festival, we have ten double passes to give away (valid at any festival session of your choice) in each city. 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.auMelbourne: win.melbourne@concreteplayground.com.au Brisbane: win.brisbane@concreteplayground.com.au https://youtube.com/watch?v=IeD7rBVAQQo
Move over Hamilton, Moulin Rouge! The Musical, Come From Away, Jagged Little Pill the Musical, The Phantom of the Opera and Girl From the North Country — another huge hit musical has just announced an Australian run. This time, it's Broadway and West End smash An American in Paris that's heading our way, with the four-time Tony-winner kicking off its Aussie shows in Brisbane in January 2022. From there, An American in Paris will sing and dance its way to Adelaide, Perth, Melbourne and Sydney, bringing its vibrant adaptation of the 1951 film of the same name to Australian stages. Yes, if you're a fan of classic movies — and classic big-screen musicals starring none other than the inimitable Gene Kelly at that — then that's why the show's name sounds familiar. Story-wise, the musical follows an American soldier in Paris — because its moniker is that straightforward. Set at the end of the Second World War, it charts US GI's Jerry Mulligan's exploits as he falls for a French woman. Well, he is celebrating the end of the combat in the notably romantic city, after all. Bringing the Oscar-winning 70-year-old film to the stage, this version of An American in Paris is directed by acclaimed contemporary ballet choreographer Christopher Wheeldon — and adapted for theatre and choreographed by him, too. The Aussie run is also being staged in collaboration with the Australian Ballet, so expect to see some of their dancers helping to bring the musical to life. George and Ira Gershwin's songs make the leap to the theatre as well, including 'I Got Rhythm', 'S Wonderful', 'But Not For Me' and 'They Can't Take That Away From Me'. Initially, An American in Paris debuted in Paris — where else? — in 2014, before hitting Broadway, Boston and West End. [caption id="attachment_828888" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Johan Persson[/caption] 'AN AMERICAN IN PARIS' AUSTRALIAN TOUR 2022: January 8–30 — QPAC Lyric Theatre, Brisbane From February, dates TBC — Her Majesty's Theatre, Adelaide From February, dates TBC — Crown Theatre, Perth From March, dates TBC — State Theatre, Arts Centre Melbourne, Melbourne From April, dates TBC — Theatre Royal, Sydney An American in Paris will tour Australia from January 8, 2022. For more information or to register for the ticket waitlist, head to the musical's website. Top images: Tristram Kenton.
The only two things I love in this world more than my iPhone are Post-it Notes and nice watches. Doriane Favre has taken these two separately awesome things and created the Post-It Watch. The Post-It Watch is shaped like a watch and can quickly be written on at the drop of a hat, thought or idea, then strapped around your wrist for easy reminding later on. It is a wonderful solution and much more adult alternative to writing notes on your hand - something not everyone can fully grow out of. The Post-It Watch comes in pads of 100 sheets and can be purchased online from the Parisien boutique, PA Design. [via PSFK]
Over the past decade, Sydney Film Festival's opening-night movies have included Goldstone, The New Boy and We Don't Need a Map, all Australian titles from Indigenous directors. It's too early to say what 2024's fest will launch with to mark the cinema celebration's 71st year; however, First Nations filmmaking will firmly be in the spotlight via a brand-new cash prize that joins the event's slate of awards. SFF will now be home to the world's largest cash accolade for Indigenous cinema: the $35,000 First Nations Award. Set to debut at the 2024 festival, which runs from Wednesday, June 5–Sunday, June 16, the prize will be handed out in Sydney but is open to films from around the world — shorts as well — as long as it is featured in Sydney Film Festival's annual First Nations program strand. "The First Nations Award is more than a celebration of unique storytelling; it's a crucial investment in the future of Indigenous cinema. By offering this level of support, we hope to encourage more First Nations filmmakers to share their stories, enriching the film industry with diverse perspectives and voices," said SFF's long-running Festival Director Nashen Moodley. "This award aligns seamlessly with Sydney Film Festival's long-standing commitment to fostering cultural diversity and amplifying Indigenous narratives." "It is entirely fitting that the Sydney Film Festival, which for so long has been a champion of First Nations stories and storytellers from around the world, now offers the largest single cash prize for First Nations film globally," added SFF Chair Darren Dale. "This prize will inspire, motivate and reward established and emerging First Nations filmmakers with the promise that their art is important, is valued and will be seen." The First Nations Award is supported by Australian production company Truant Pictures, and joins SFF's annual gongs alongside the annual $60,000 Sydney Film Prize, the $40,000 Sustainable Future Award, the $20,000 Documentary Australia Award and the range of Dendy Awards for Australian Short Films. If you're a First Nations filmmaker with a movie that you'd love to be considered to screen at this year's SFF, and to go in the running for the new award, you have until Friday, March 1 to submit. Sydney Film Festival 2024 takes place from Wednesday, June 5–Sunday, June 16 at various cinemas and venues around Sydney. For more information, head to the festival's website. Images: Tim Levy / Luke Latty.
Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou, Romeo? Oh, right here, it seems. While this is no Leonardo DiCaprio or Baz Luhrmann helmed reworking of the classic Shakespearean tale Romeo and Juliet going on here, there is a exuberant and exciting production at the La Boite Theatre that might just match the epic tale of love and loss. Let’s set the scene: ten young adults meet in a room to put a new spin on Romeo and Juliet, with youthful abandon they adapt the work to something a bit more contemporary, but also something a lot darker. While transforming classical tales into something akin to film noir is something of a trend du jour, >< R&J might be something quite enthralling, and something that might ignite a passion for Shakespeare in younger audiences. Featuring Helpmann Award nominee Lucas Stibbard and a whole bunch of other Brisbane artists, >< R&J sounds like a love story unlike one ever told, even by old Billy Shakespeare himself.
A Handmade Christmas Market is the dedicated festive offshoot of the Brisbane Twilight Markets, because it's that time of year. But rather than decking King George Square with plenty of presents, it's taking the gift-buying over to the State Library of Queensland. There'll be a hefty array of stalls staffed by some pretty nifty and talented artists, with more than 100 artisans selling their wares. Expect an eclectic selection of goods on offer, all of the 100-percent locally handmade variety. Plus, this market is all about sound, smell and sales — live music will provide the soundtrack to the evening, a food precinct will take care of your hunger, and expect to be hit with that spring flowerbed smell that always lingers when there's a soap stall around. The markets run on Saturday, December 8 from 10am–4pm. Take along some cash and stock up on all things crafty. Plus, there'll be an on-site artist demonstrations if all that shopping leaves you inspired.
Let the bridges continue: in 2024, Brisbane will welcome not one but two new ways to cross the river, continuing the city's love of building new ways to get over the water. Both are green bridges, catering to pedestrians and cyclists. And while you might already be excited about Kangaroo Point's next addition, which will boast its own dining spots, Breakfast Creek's new expanse will connect to Kingsford Smith Drive's Riverwalk. The Brekkie Creek structure isn't new news, given that it was announced years back, but it is now targeting an early 2024 opening. Not open to cars — that's the green bridge setup — and sans an overwater restaurant and bar, this northside stretch across the water will be far simpler than its CBD counterpart. Here, it'll be all about moseying and soaking in the view. Set to span 80 metres, the Breakfast Creek green bridge will feature dedicated pathways for pedestrians and cyclists — at a minimum width of six metres — all while extending the existing Lores Bonney Riverwalk and reaching over to Newstead Park. Appearance-wise, arches feature prominently — and the design will be decked out in hues that match the Moreton Bay Fig trees in the area. At its landing point at Newstead Park, it'll be designed to integrate easily with the park's heritage look as well. And, the bridge will also help connect the CBD with Olympics Athletes Village that's planned for Northshore Hamilton during the 2032 Olympics. While it was initially hoped that the bridge would open in 2023, that isn't happening, hence the 2024 date. The structure's key 300-tonne steel arch has just arrived onsite, which means that construction will be 90-percent complete when it is put into place by specialist machinery. After this, the last steps to get the bridge ready to open include concrete pours for the deck; installing the balustrade, lights and electrics; and marking out lines and adding signage. "Around 300 tonnes of steel, the equivalent to seven double-decker CityCats, was used to construct the bridge, which will sit 14 metres high and is six metres wide," said Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner. "This project delivers around 700 metres of new and improved walking and riding paths, including an extension to the Lores Bonney Riverwalk and a new two-way on-road cycle path from Newstead Park to Newstead Terrace," added Brisbane Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Ryan Murphy. The Breakfast Creek green bridge is expected in early 2024. For further details, head to the Brisbane City Council website. Images: Brisbane City Council.
"Will there be kangaroos?" That's Liv's (Jessica Henwick, Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery) main question when she's offered a job in the Australian outback with her best friend Hanna (Julia Garner, Ozark). They're Americans backpacking Down Under, they've run out of cash and, yes, they make the stereotypical query about heading to a mining town for a live-in gig at a pub. After the pair make their temporary move, parched landscape as far as the eye can see awaits, plus drinking goon and serving copious amounts of brews to the locale's mostly male population. That's the tale that The Royal Hotel tells — and, if you've seen documentary Hotel Coolgardie, which inspired this thriller, you'll know that Liv and Hanna aren't in for a blissful time. In the just-dropped trailer for The Royal Hotel, weathering the blazing heat is nothing compared to dealing with the bar's men. Among their new acquaintances is a host of of familiar Aussie faces, including Hugo Weaving (Love Me) as the watering hole's owner, plus Ursula Yovich (Irreverent), Toby Wallace (Babyteeth), Daniel Henshall (Mystery Road: Origin) and James Frecheville (The Dry). The storyline, the real-life basis, the cast, the fact that this is the latest film from Australian director Kitty Green: thanks to all of the above, The Royal Hotel should already be high on your must-see list. The trailer only amplifies that anticipation, with the filmmaker in tense and unsettling mode as she explores gender dynamics and Australia's drinking culture. This is the Casting JonBenet helmer's second movie in a row with Garner, her current go-to star. Both turned in a stunner in with The Assistant — another picture about power imbalances, the everyday threats that loom over women and problematic workplaces. Green's second fictional feature and fourth full-length effort overall, The Royal Hotel premiered at the 2023 Telluride Film Festival on the way to making its Aussie debut at SXSW Sydney in October. How do you open the first-ever SXSW Screen Festival Down Under (and outside of Austin)? With this homegrown effort. Next stop after that: launching the 2023 Adelaide Film Festival just days later. The Royal Hotel doesn't yet have a general release date, but expect it in cinemas afterwards. Check out the trailer for The Royal Hotel below: The Royal Hotel will open 2023's SXSW Sydney on Sunday, October 15 and Adelaide Film Festival on Wednesday October 18, but doesn't yet have a release date Down Under otherwise. Images: Neon / See-Saw Films. If you're keen to make the most of Australia's first SXSW, take advantage of our special reader offer. Purchase your SXSW Sydney 2023 Official Badge via Concrete Playground Trips and you'll score a $150 credit to use on your choice of Sydney accommodation. Book now via the website.
Nearly one-third of the artists scheduled to exhibit in the 19th Biennale of Sydney have written an open letter to the board of directors, urging them to "act in the interests of asylum seekers" by withdrawing from "the current sponsorship arrangement with Transfield". Transwho? Detainees who've been dodging bullets and knives on Manus Island know the name all too well. It's an "operations, maintenance and construction services business" that, in the 2013-14 financial year, made millions out its involvement with the Nauru Regional Processing Centre. Since early February, Transfield has taken over welfare responsibilities on both Nauru and Manus from the Salvation Army (because a construction company is just so well-equipped to provide education, recreational facilities and emotional support to traumatised individuals). Though the 28 artists acknowledge that the increasing dependence of public institutions on private funding is complex, they are clear, that "in this particular case", their involvement risks "adding value" and "cultural capital" to the Transfield brand. The letter states, "We appeal you to work alongside us to send a message to Transfield, and in turn the Australian Government and the public: that we will not accept the mandatory detention of asylum seekers, because it is ethically indefensible and in breach of human rights; and that, as a network of artists, arts workers and a leading cultural organisation, we do not want to be associated with these practices." The problem is that Transfield isn't just another name on the sponsorship list. Transfield Holdings actually established the event in 1973, and Transfield Foundation board member Luca Belgiorno Netti is the Biennale's current chairman. While the open letter does not overtly threaten boycott, a separate statement hints at the possibility. "We are taking this very seriously," spokesperson Gabrielle de Vietri said. “Some artists are reconsidering their participation, and others organising different forms of protest from within ... Still other artists have proposed to join with the Biennale team in an effort to develop alternative modes of fundraising." A Boycott the 19th Sydney Biennale Facebook page is gathering support. With the Biennale due to open on March 21, the board members, the 90 participating artists and Sydney's art-loving public have some quick decision-making to do. Here's the full text of their open letter: An open letter to the Board of Directors, Biennale of Sydney 19 February 2014 To the Board of Directors of the Biennale of Sydney, We are a group of artists Gabrielle de Vietri, Bianca Hester, Charlie Sofo, Nathan Gray, Deborah Kelly, Matt Hinkley, Benjamin Armstrong, Libia Castro, Ólafur Ólafsson, Sasha Huber, Sonia Leber, David Chesworth, Daniel McKewen, Angelica Mesiti, Ahmet Ö?üt, Meriç Algün Ringborg, Joseph Griffiths, Sol Archer, Tamas Kaszas, Krisztina Erdei, Nathan Coley, Corin Sworn, Ross Manning, Martin Boyce, Callum Morton, Emily Roysdon, Søren Thilo Funder, Mikhail Karikis all participants in the 19th Biennale of Sydney. We are writing to you about our concerns with the Biennale’s sponsorship arrangement with Transfield.1 We would like to begin with an affirmation and recognition of the Biennale staff, other sponsors and donors, and our fellow artists. We maintain the utmost respect for Juliana Engberg’s artistic vision and acknowledge the support and energy that the Biennale staff have put into the creation of our projects and this exhibition. We acknowledge that this issue places the Biennale team in a difficult situation. However, we want to emphasise that this issue has presented us with an opportunity to become aware of, and to acknowledge, responsibility for our own participation in a chain of connections that links to human suffering; in this case, that is caused by Australia’s policy of mandatory detention. We trust that you understand the implications of Transfield’s recent move to secure new contracts to take over garrison and welfare services in Australia’s offshore immigration detention centres on Manus Island and in Nauru. We have attached for your information, a document that outlines our understanding of the links between the Biennale, Transfield and Australia’s asylum seeker policy. We appeal to you to work alongside us to send a message to Transfield, and in turn the Australian Government and the public: that we will not accept the mandatory detention of asylum seekers, because it is ethically indefensible and in breach of human rights; and that, as a network of artists, arts workers and a leading cultural organisation, we do not want to be associated with these practices. Our current circumstances are complex: public institutions are increasingly reliant on private finance, and less on public funding, and this can create ongoing difficulties. We are aware of these complexities and do not believe that there is one easy answer to the larger situation. However, in this particular case, we regard our role in the Biennale, under the current sponsorship arrangements, as adding value to the Transfield brand. Participation is an active endorsement, providing cultural capital for Transfield. In light of all this, we ask the Board: what will you do? We urge you to act in the interests of asylum seekers. As part of this we request the Biennale withdraw from the current sponsorship arrangements with Transfield and seek to develop new ones. This will set an important precedent for Australian and international arts institutions, compelling them to exercise a greater degree of ethical awareness and transparency regarding their funding sources. We are asking you, respectfully, to respond with urgency. Our interests as artists don’t merely concern our individual moral positions. We are concerned too with the ways cultural institutions deal with urgent social responsibilities. We expect the Biennale to acknowledge the voice of its audience and the artist community that is calling on the institution to act powerfully and immediately for justice by cutting its ties with Transfield. We believe that artists and artworkers can—and should—create an environment that empowers individuals and groups to act on conscience, opening up other pathways to develop more sustainable, and in turn sustaining, forms of cultural production. We want to extend this discussion to a range of people and organisations, in order to bring to light the various forces shaping our current situation, and to work towards imagining other possibilities into being. In our current political circumstances we believe this to be one of the most crucial challenges that we are compelled to engage with, and we invite you into this process of engagement. We look forward to hearing your response and given the urgency of this issue, hope that we can receive it by the end of this week. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Gabrielle de Vietri, Bianca Hester, Charlie Sofo, Nathan Gray, Deborah Kelly, Matt Hinkley, Benjamin Armstrong, Libia Castro, Ólafur Ólafsson, Sasha Huber, Sonia Leber, David Chesworth, Daniel McKewen, Angelica Mesiti, Ahmet Ö?üt, Meriç Algün Ringborg, Joseph Griffiths, Sol Archer, Tamas Kaszas, Krisztina Erdei, Nathan Coley, Corin Sworn, Ross Manning, Martin Boyce, Callum Morton, Emily Roysdon, Søren Thilo Funder, Mikhail Karikis NOTES 1. Please note that in this document we use the name Transfield to refer to three branches of the Transfield brand: Transfield Holdings, Services and Foundation. Please refer to our information sheet for our understanding of how these are linked. Image: Henna-Riikka Halonen, Moderate Manipulations, 2012 (video still).
Having enough clean drinking water may not be an issue that plagues you day-to-day. But it is an issue that plagues billions of people around the world and has been at the forefront of news with Cape Town, South Africa, reaching its final 90 days of water. In a scientific breakthrough, Australian scientists have just discovered a way to easily purify water using an ingredient found in vegetable oil — and they tested it using the iconic Sydney Harbour. CSIRO scientists created a small filtration device, a tiny membrane dubbed Graphair, that can quickly purify water in a single step. As it's made from soybean oil, it's also cheap to make. To test the effectiveness of the device, the group of scientists purified water from the Sydney Harbour (which, while known for its beauty, certainly isn't known for its cleanliness). And it worked so well, the resulting water was safe to drink. The scientists published their results overnight in Nature Communications, an open-access journal, and plan to take the product overseas to developing countries next year. Source and image: CSIRO
Burlesque Balls always sound like the best fun: dressing up, being a little naughty and going to a themed, glamorous party. Unfortunately, I never seem to hear about them happening in Brisbane until they’ve already happened. Not this year, as I got my act together and investigated the annual Burlesque Ball, before it was over. It sounds like The Tivoli has done an amazing job in organizing this year’s event - 'The Exotic Garden' theme is certainly conjuring up some amazing décor and scenarios in my mind. On top of the surroundings, there are headliners flying in from American and Canada, as well as from all over Australia, to entertain those who dare attend. Easily the most recognizable of the headliners is Catherine D’Lish, the self-proclaimed ‘striptease virtuoso’ who performs in the vein of Dita Von Teese. She is flown around the world to partake in events at casinos, nightclubs and gentleman’s clubs, not to mention was asked to headline in the 50th Anniversary Tour of Playboy. If you're looking for an evening that’s just a little bit naughty and out of the ordinary, then this is the event for you.
Ian Fleming's James Bond feasted on more than vodka martinis. Photographer Henry Hargreaves, the brains behind the No Seconds photography series (in which he recreated and photographed the last meals of famous death row criminals like Ted Bundy), is back with another series of snapped meals — this time from the literary adventures of 007, dubbed Dying to Eat. While the James Bond films like to focus more on cocktails, explosions, car chases and Daniel Craig walking slowly and triumphantly out of the surf, author Ian Fleming spent a great deal of time articulating the dinners, breakfasts and midnight snacks of Bond. But he didn't do this just to create some form of James Bond cookbook. It was a form of escapism for a postwar audience. "Ian Fleming wrote for the 1950s Englishman, whose everyday experience of the world was coloured by the devastating consequences of war," says Hargreaves. "The ‘50s post-war man could read Fleming’s Bond books and dream not only of adventure and villains in far-off lands, but of an exciting lifestyle of fast cars, beautiful women, finely tailored clothes, and exotic gourmet meals from around the world. Sadly these meals were missing from the cinematic adaptations." Dying to Eat is a collaboration between art director/food stylist Charlotte Omnes and Hargreaves, alongside graphic designer Will Vink, in which one scene from every Fleming title has been recreated detail for detail. Hargreaves' grandfather actually served with Fleming during the war and consulted on some of the tailoring details of the Bond books, so it's a project surprisingly close to home. From the eggs benedict of The Man with the Golden Gun to the spaghetti bolognaise of Thunderball and silver dishes of crab claws in Goldfinger, it's a visual essay into the 'exotic' meals only available at the time to a worldly, travelling human — one who stayed everywhere from a Swiss hotel room to a Miami beach club. But you'll notice there's a few Bond-like elements in the frame; a cufflink, a woman's purse, a ----. Hargreaves describes each meal as "more than just a detail contained within a sentence. It’s a story unto itself." “The trouble always is,” [Bond] explained to Vesper, "not how to get enough caviar, but how to get enough toast with it." Images: Henry Hargreaves.
Has anyone had a better year so far than Taika Waititi? Likely not. 2022 hasn't even officially hit its halfway point yet and he's already been everywhere, doing everything, and has more to come. He was the subject of the Archibald's Packing Room Prize-winner, with his likeness now an award-worthy piece of art. He has that little Marvel movie called Thor: Love and Thunder in the works, set to hit cinemas in early July. Oh, and he went and co-starred in one of the best new TV shows of the year so far — and that series, Our Flag Means Death, has just been renewed for a second run. No, Taika's time playing a pirate isn't over yet, in supremely welcome news for everyone who sailed through Our Flag Means Death's glorious first season. His latest team-up with fellow New Zealand comedian Rhys Darby (after also working together on Flight of the Conchords, What We Do in the Shadows, Wellington Paranormal and Hunt for the Wilderpeople), it's a swashbuckling comedy that satirises the buccaneering times of the 18th century. As its first season unfurled, Our Flag Means Death also proved to be a sweet and warmhearted romance, as well as essential viewing. HBO clearly agrees, greenlighting the show's second season for its streaming service HBO Max. Exactly when it'll return has yet to be revealed, but fingers crossed that it'll cruise back into your queue — via Binge and in New Zealand via Neon — sometime in 2023. "We felt the show was special while we were making it, but fans' open-armed embrace of the inhabitants of the Revenge makes heading into a second season all the more sweet," said writer, showrunner and executive producer David Jenkins (People of Earth), who conjured up Our Flag Means Death. Based on its concept and cast alone, his series was always going to cement its spot on streaming must-see lists — and speed into comedy-lovers' hearts — and now it'll make a return voyage. If you haven't hopped aboard already, Our Flag Means Death stars Darby stars as Stede Bonnet, a self-styled 'gentleman pirate', a great approximation of Flight of the Conchords' Murray if he'd existed centuries earlier, and a man determined to bring a bit of kindness and elegancy to the whole swashbuckling game. He's based on an IRL figure, who abandoned his cosy life for a seafaring existence. The show is a loose adaptation of Bonnet's tale, though. As for Waititi, he dons leather, dark hues aplenty, an air of bloodthirsty melancholy and a glorious head of greying hair as Edward Teach — the marauder better known to the world as Blackbeard. Also featuring among the show's impressive lineup of supporting characters: Lucius (Nathan Foad, Bloods), Bonnet's righthand man and official scribe; Buttons (Ewen Bremner, First Cow), a seasoned seafarer and source of advice; Black Pete (Matthew Maher, Marriage Story), who constantly claims to have worked with Blackbeard; the fire-obsessed Wee John Feeny (Kristian Nairn, aka Game of Thrones' Hodor); and the initially secretive Oluwande (Samson Kayo, Truth Seekers) and Jim (Vico Ortiz, The Sex Lives of College Girls). Check out the full trailer for Our Flag Means Death below: Our Flag Means Death will return for a second season, with a release date yet to be announced. Our Flag Means Death's first season is available to in Australia via Binge and in New Zealand via Neon. Read our full review. Images: Aaron Epstein/HBO Max.
Le1f, Bec Sandridge and Alex the Astronaut will headline the lineup of artists at this year's Gaytimes music festival. Set to take place over three days and two nights at the Lake Mountain Alpine Resort an hour and a half outside of Melbourne (where Paradise is held), the LGBTIQ-friendly event will feature more than 30 local and international music acts, as well as art shows, film screenings, speed dating and more. As the organisers put it: it's the camping festival "of your big gay dreams". The 18+ festival runs from February 16 to 18. Other standout acts who'll take the stage include Chicago DJ Chrissy, Paul Mac and Johnny Seymour's Stereogamous and Triple J Unearthed's Miss Blanks. In addition to the tunes, the festival will feature an array of additional action, from performance art and life drawing workshops to yoga and a drag race. Perhaps the most exciting thing will be a pop-up wedding chapel where same-sex couples will be able to get hitched (for real — it's legal now!) on the mountain. Shoot hello@gaytimes.com.au an email for more info on that one. The site will boast a cocktail bar, a coffee cart and food trucks, and you can even shell out for glamping if you're feeling extra. In keeping with their inclusive approach, Gaytimes will, as always, enforce a no tolerance policy for anti-social, homophobic, transphobic or racist behaviour. So don't be a jerk, and you should be A-okay.
We know it breaks both the first and second cardinal rules, but we need to talk about Fight Club right now. It’s been confirmed that director David Fincher, his long-term musical consort Trent Reznor and OG author Chuck Palahniuk are collaborating on Fight Club the rock opera, for reals. It’s literally going to be the all-singing, all-dancing crap of the world (in a good way). Culture journalist Jeff Goldsmith tweeted that Palahniuk confirmed the rumours in an interview, and Palahniuk tweeted a second confirmation the next day that has since been deleted. However Palahniuk did retweet Goldsmith’s tweet (isn’t Twitter such a murky swamp of Chinese whispers) so that’s all the confirmation we need. In April, Palahniuk told MTV that the Fight Club rock opera would take its place alongside previous musical legends Tommy and The Wall, and become the defining rock opera for the current generation. Although anti-materialism, anti-authority anarchist Tyler Durden probably wouldn’t approve of a glitzy, glamorous Broadway show, we sure do. And with Nine Inch Nails legend Reznor involved, it’s sure to be pretty spectacular. Reznor has scored a fair few of Fincher's films — Gone Girl, Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and The Social Network — and invariably his involvement turns whatever it touches to gold. No concrete dates have been mentioned by anyone involved in the project, but if you want more Fight Club while you wait, Palahniuk has released a Fight Club 2 comic book that delves into the backstory of Sebastian and Marla, and examines what Tyler Durden represents to us all. In the same MTV interview, Palahniuk says, "Tyler Durden is kind of an internal meme, a parasitical meme that has found a host or created a host in every generation going back for all of human history ... Tyler really brought Marla and Sebastian together, so they would have a child, in a way kind of bred them together, and that this child would ultimately be Tyler’s next vehicle." Unff. We are Jack’s crazy excitement. Via Spin.
To get 2023 started in style, Adelaide scored a brand-new music festival back in January, with the team at Secret Sounds unveiling Heaps Good. The one-day event featured Arctic Monkeys as headliners, and gave the South Australian capital a taste of the summer fest circuit. It clearly went well, because the fest is now tripling its footprint to see out this year and begin 2024. Adelaide Showground will still host the SA stop, this time on Saturday, January 6, 2024 — but Heaps Good will first hit up Sidney Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne, then Sandstone Point in Brisbane. That's ace news if you live in either city, or plan to be in Victoria or Queensland over the summer. Sydneysiders, it's an excuse for a trip either north or south, too. The Melbourne leg will kick off Heaps Good's three-city, three-state tour in the fest's second year. Need something to do for New Year's Eve? That's now sorted, because that's when the event is coming to town. Sandstone Point in Brisbane gets the nod to usher in 2024, taking place on Tuesday, January 2. Yes, that's all the reason you need to extend your Christmas and New Year break. "The inaugural Heaps Good was such a great day, and we're thrilled to take it on the road to more music lovers around the country over the coming New Year. Heaps Good is all about keeping it simple... single-day shows in convenient locations with great artists and your best mates," said Heaps Good producer Paul Piticco, announcing the fest's new cities. And the lineup? That hasn't been revealed as yet, so watch this space. As well as Arctic Monkeys, Heaps Good's debut fest also featured Peggy Gou, CHVRCHES, Jamie xx, Ocean Alley, Spacey Jane, PinkPantheress, Young Franco, King Stingray, Peach PRC and Ebony Boadu. HEAPS GOOD 2023–24 DATES: Sunday, December 31, 2023 — Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne Tuesday, January 2, 2024 — Sandstone Point, Brisbane Saturday, January 6, 2024 — Adelaide Showground, Adelaide Heaps Good will hit Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide across December 2023–January 2024, with lineup details and ticket sales to come. We'll update you when more details are announced — head to the festival's website for further information in the interim. Images: Dylan Minchenberg.
It just got real dark in Brisbane. And in Brisbane during the warmer months, that only means one thing: a storm is coming. So if you're currently reading this from somewhere dry, warm and cosy, we suggest that you keep it that way for the rest of your Friday night. And not just any old wet weather, either. The Bureau of Meteorology has reported that damaging winds, heavy rainfall and large hail is on its way, which is looking to affect the CBD and surrounding regions. This could lead to flash flooding in the city. Kobble Creek, just 45 minutes northwest of Brisbane, copped 85mm in just an hour earlier this afternoon. Taking a peek at its nifty colour-coded map, below, it looks like Brisbane is going to hit head-on. https://twitter.com/BOM_Qld/status/1106439185471340544 With storms come falling trees (and sometimes falling powerlines) and Queensland Fire and Emergency Services has advised Brisbanites to secure loose outdoor items, stay inside and "catch up on all the social media you missed yesterday". Their number is 132 500 if you need SES assistance. The wild weather looks like it will continue into the evening and possibly into tomorrow, too. Stay dry out there. And remember to check Live Traffic, Translink and BOM for warnings and updates. Image: Live Traffic NSW.
Macquarie Park will be the site of a huge $2.2 billion residential development — but it's not the high-price high-rise apartment complex that you might have come to expect from Sydney. This new development, which will be partially government funded, will provide a 3000 new homes to Sydneysiders — about 950 of which will provide social housing. A further 128 will be classed as affordable. As part of its Communities Plus project, the NSW Government this week announced the successful tenderers for the Ivanhoe Estate development as the Aspire consortium, which is made up of Mission Australia and developers Frasers Property Australia and Citta Property Group. The consortium will work with the government to develop housing that is affordable and sustainable for those who need it most. "The redevelopment will provide $120 million towards social and community infrastructure and $21 million towards social housing programs within the Ivanhoe estate," said Premier Gladys Berejiklian. "This will see services including tailored and personal plans to connect social housing tenants with education, training and employment." On top of the housing will be a stack of community facilities, including a high school, two childcare centres, an aged care centre, playgrounds, green spaces, gardens and a basketball court. Some commercial interests will be getting a look-in too, with retail shops, a supermarket and cafes all in the plans. Social housing residents will be able to access on-site Mission Australia offices, which will offer social services, including personalised support for tenants and community programs. "Everyone deserves a safe place to call home and everyone who lives in the Ivanhoe community will have the opportunity to fulfil their potential and connect with people in the neighbourhood, as well as having easy access to education, transport, jobs and services in the area," said Mission Australia CEO, Catherine Yeomans. Apart from bringing together people of varied social-economic backgrounds, the development has some pretty weighty sustainability goals. The aim is a six-star Green Star Communities Rating and overall carbon neutrality. To that end, water will be caught and reused, recycled materials will form part of construction, roofs will be green and a photovoltaic system will power a whopping 1.5 megawatts. Ivanhoe Estate — which is located close to Macquarie University and the train station — is part of the government's $22 billion Communities Plus project. Construction is set to start later this year, with the project to be delivered in stages of the next ten to 12 years. It's the first site to be developed; developments in Waterloo, Arncliffe, Telopea and Riverwood are set to follow.
