Hanging out by the river in Brisbane isn't the same as hitting up Italy's coastline, but it'll still give you a tase of la dolce vita at Howard Smith Wharves' Festa Italiana. The waterfront CBD precinct debuted its first-ever Italian food market in 2023, and now it's bringing it back in 2024 for two big four-day weekends celebrating cuisine and beverages from the other side of the world. When it pops up from Thursday, May 23–Sunday, May 26 and Thursday, May 30–Sunday, June 2, the event will again boast a guest of honour: Naples-born and -raised, Sydney-based D'Elia chef Orazio D'Elia of Bondi Beach's Da Orazio. He isn't just making a second trip to Brisbane. The culinary figure with experience as Head Chef at Sydney's iconic Icebergs Dining Room and Bar alongside Maurice Terzini, who has then been keeping that collaboration going by opening Da Orazio Pizza + Porchetta, is once more behind Festa Italiana alongside HSW. "The energy, people and sunshine in Brisbane reminded me of my hometown, evoking a sense of nostalgia. Brisbane's love for food only deepens the connection, adding to the familiar warmth I feel when I'm there," said Orazio about last year's fest and market, and 2024's return. This year, he'll be bringing back two dishes he's known for — vodka rigatoni (made with tomato and vodka sauce) and focaccia con porchetta (with the meat fresh from the rotisserie, and paired with chilli-marinated grilled eggplant, cos lettuce and mayonnaise on schiacciatina bread) — alongside a few new menu additions, some of which he's keeping a surprise until the event. "The other dishes I'll be cooking are inspired by my latest trip to Napoli," he advised. "Napoli is a city with a lot of energy and every Neapolitan loves food. The food in Napoli is tasty and has punchy flavours. Once you've tried them, you'll never forget." "At this year's Festa Italiana, expect to see dishes like caserecce alla genovese (Neapolitan-style veal ragù) and fusilli alla luciana (tomato-braised baby octopus, black olives and capers). I think the hero dish will be the caserecce alla genovese, famous for its simplicity — it's a 'must-try'." Timed to wrap up autumn and say hello to winter over its two weekends, as it was last year, Festa Italiana will take over HSW's main lawn with its Italian bites and sips — which will also span a live pasta station making fresh pasta onsite, a pop-up spritz bar, buffalo mozzarella, woodfired bread and fritto misto, all to live tunes providing a soundtrack. Entry is free, with everything you're keen to eat and drink purchased as you go. The event will run from 4pm–late Thursday–Friday and from 12pm–late Saturday–Sunday. Festa Italiana takes place at Howard Smith Wharves in the Brisbane CBD from Thursday, May 23–Sunday, May 26 and Thursday, May 30–Sunday, June 2. Head to the precinct's website for further details.
First, the bad news. If you're a yoga lover and you'd like to bend and stretch in a former prison, a Halloween session offering just that has sold out already for this year. But, if you're feeling less flexible — physically, at least — you can still hear creepy stories and wander through Boggo Road Gaol's unsettling history as part of a Ghosts & Gallows tour. They take place regularly, although if you're looking for some real-life bumps and jumps, now is the perfect time to take a mosey. Spots are still available for Wednesday, October 28, Thursday, October 29 and Sunday, November 1, when you can spend two hours in a place that's supposedly haunted — and test out whether you're just brave when you're watching horror movies, or in real life. Tickets cost $45 each, and you'll receive a book about Boggo Road's ghostly history as part of the price. You will need to come prepared, however — with every attendee required to bring their own torch. Top image: Kgbo via Wikimedia Commons.
In Stay of the Week, we explore some of the world's best and most unique accommodations — giving you a little inspiration for your next trip. In this instalment, we take you aboard the new luxury superyacht Scenic Eclipse II as it travels all over the world. We've also teamed up with Scenic Eclipse to offer a totally exclusive travel deal that takes guests from Darwin to Broome in 11 days. It includes a free room upgrade, unlimited alcohol, meals at any of the ten dining areas and a heap of unique excursions — plus, we got 20% off the whole experience. WHAT'S SO SPECIAL? This ultra-luxurious superyacht only finished construction this year, meaning it has stacks of the latest lavish features. Every guest will enjoy relaxing on their own verandah, on-shore excursions, unlimited food and drinks at any of the ten restaurants and bars, use of the spa and pools and a special butler service. Of course, this doesn't come cheap — but if you can afford it, boy is it worth it. THE ROOMS There are 114 suites on this massive yacht, each with separate bedrooms and lounge areas as well as a large private deck. And the bathrooms are next-level luxe. Expect white marble counters and showers with mist settings and colour light therapy. Because why not? Every guest also has access to the on-board butlers. Order a bottle of champagne and a dozen oysters to your deck and get ready for an epic journey. FOOD AND DRINK We know that when joining a trip like this — with all your excursions included — you shouldn't spend every moment of your time on the boat. But, we'll admit, with ten unique dining experiences on board, we could easily spend the entire holiday eating and drinking atop the yacht. Try out a few of the main restaurants or book one of the really special dining experiences. Our favourites? Night Market at Kokos is an eight-person teppanyaki grill inspired by the food markets of Asia, India and the Middle East. And the indulgent chef's table offers guests an alway-changing 11-course degustation. Drinks are also included in the price of your trip — even the top-shelf tipples. Get around aged whiskies, champagne (not simply sparkling wine), award-winning vinos from the regions you are visiting and all the cocktails your boozy heart desires. Every suite even comes with a coffee machine, specialty teas and a fully stocked minibar (that will be quickly refilled should you call the butler). It is all so over the top, and we love it. THE LOCAL AREA There is no single local area for Scenic Eclipse II. It sails all over the world — with tours to Australia's Top End, Antarctica, the Pacific Islands, Scandinavia, The Med and Buenos Aires as a start. But, our exclusive deal takes travellers from Darwin to Broome, stopping off at sites that include King George River, Ashmore Reef, Collier Bay and the Kimberley region. It has got to be the most luxurious way to explore this pristine part of Western Australia. THE EXTRAS You have every extra under the sun when travelling aboard Scenic Eclipse II. After seamless transfers to the vessel, you can head to the lounge and bar for live entertainment or hit up the theatre for its dedicated musical nights. Head to the spa for separate men's and women's spaces — each with steam rooms and saunas. Take a class at the yoga or pilates studio or simply swim in one of the pools located on the deck. Then, jump on the superyacht's own helicopter to discover the area you're in — or go on one of the complimentary tours that are just as luxurious as the boat you're sailing on. Feeling inspired to book a truly unique getaway? Head to Concrete Playground Trips to explore a range of holidays curated by our editorial team. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips in destinations all over the world.
We've all been there, and more than once: a pal returns from a holiday, assaults you with an endless parade of their happy pics, and doesn't quite realise when they've tested the limits of your friendly enthusiasm. You won't feel like that while you're viewing Chris Hoopmann's journal of his 2014-15 trip to Japan. Trust us The name of his exhibition — ii kanji, roughly translating to 'good vibes' — offers the first indication that this isn't your usual snapshot slideshow. Plastering his pieces over the walls of Hoo Ha Bar is another promising sign. And then there's Hoopmann's own aim, with the Brisbane-based shutterbug seeking to create a fusion of documentary, fine art and travel log. Across his first photo series shot exclusively overseas, he achieves just that. Attempting to merge the roles of tourist and photographer, his images offer insights into Japanese culture that should fascinate seasoned travellers and newcomers alike.
Finally you can pay for your daily soy latte with a picture of David Bowie's face. If you're in the London suburb of Brixton and have a couple of Brixton Pounds on you, that is. To mark the anniversary of the UK's first urban local currency, Brixton has issued a new edition of notes featuring some famous ex-Brixton residents, including the infamous face of glam-rock. A Ziggy-era picture of Bowie now graces the £10 note, while former Chicago Bulls basketball player Luol Deng and WWII lady-spy Violette Szabo appear on the £5 and £20 note respectively. The Brixton pounds were launched in 2009 as a way to support independent business and encourage local trade and production. The Brixton pounds don't replace regular British pounds, rather they work alongside them, much in the same way Scottish pounds do. Brixton is a notoriously volatile area of South London - one night I walked in the wrong direction and ended up there, only realising once all the street lights had been blacked out and a gentleman enquired as to how much I was charging for my 'time'. The Brixton pounds are an effort to improve perceptions of the area (perpetuated by people such as myself) and ensure that local businesses can keep afloat in the face of recession and competition from big chain stores, while working to reduce the area's carbon footprint. It's actually a fantastic strategy, and one that's worked well in several towns around the UK. Now that they've put David Bowie on a valid form of currency, you can bet that Brixton's going to be doing a whole lot more business, because at the end of the day it's just not as exciting buying groceries with a picture of the Queen than it is with Ziggy Stardust. [Via PSFK]
When Miley Cyrus came in like a wrecking ball, she didn’t just try to erase all memories of childhood sweetheart and her previous claim to fame Hannah Montana from public consciousness. Her identity revamp earned excessive media attention, yes, but it also inspired Adam Brunes and Naomi Price of the award-winning the little red company to turn her transformation into a banging cabaret show. The title may be obvious; however, the treatment of the tale certainly isn’t — nor is the talent on display. Playing Miley at her most gleefully misunderstood, the excellent Price lends her voice to and twerks her mojo in a twist on what became obvious tabloid fodder. Her former teen idol has come to party. Expect all the hits and all the heart in both a celebration of the show’s inspiration, and of being yourself and following your dreams. Expect hilarity, as well, as Wrecking Ball blasts judgments and breaks walls.
If the arrival of August has you thinking about carnival rides, sideshow games, fairy floss, Bertie Beetles and strawberry sundaes, congrats — you clearly live in Brisbane. We've been well-conditioned that way, because this time of year heralds the Ekka's arrival, as well as the crucial annual return of its famed ice creams. 2022 is no different – in fact, it's a return to normal, with the Ekka making an in-person comeback after not one but two years of pandemic-related cancellations. And if you'd like to combine the Royal Queensland Show's beloved strawberry desserts with a brew or several, Stone and Wood has something extra special on offer. For the third year running, the brewery is bringing back its Ekka-inspired Strawberry Sundae Kisses beer. Yes, it's a boozy version of iconic dessert, and it tastes like strawberries and cream. Stone and Wood whip it up in the traditional Berliner Weisse style, using 60 kilograms of strawberries, with the brew also featuring lactose and vanilla — and it'll be available in two places around town. Your obvious port of call: the Ekka itself. For the first time given the events of the past two years, Strawberry Sundae Kisses will be served at the Royal Queensland Show, pouring through the event's taps between Saturday, August 6–Sunday, August 14. (Yes, that means that you can definitely eat a strawberry sundae immediately before or after sipping the beer the dish has inspired.) Your second destination: Stone and Wood's Brisbane brewery in Fortitude Valley, which is getting the drinks started early from Thursday, August 4. Originally, the brew came about as a way to help support charity The Common Good, which uses the sundaes as a fundraising effort for The Prince Charles Hospital Foundation. And, that's exactly where Stone and Wood is directing proceeds from the beer, too — so getting sipping will mean helping a great cause. One note: 2022's batch of Strawberry Sundae Kisses is around for a good time, not a long time, and will only be available at the brewery until sold out. In past years, it has lasted just three weeks, so getting in quickly is recommended. Stone and Wood's Strawberry Sundae Kisses beer will be available from its Brisbane brewery at 99 Bridge St, Fortitude Valley, from Thursday, August 4 — and from the Ekka at Brisbane Showgrounds, Bowen Hills, between Saturday, August 6–Sunday, August 14.
If your creative juices are fuelled by hitting the juice, then you've probably taken a class at Brisbane's BYO art studio, Cork & Chroma. You bring the plonk, it'll provide the painting supplies — and give you a theme, as well as some expert instruction. Now, the creative venture will do just that at a second location, just a stone's throw away from its original South Brisbane digs. Making Little Stanley Street its new home away from home, Cork & Chroma has set up a pop-up shop in South Bank, hosting not only its regular classes, but new Drinky Drawy meet-ups, too. Yes, the new addition involves drinking and drawing — wielding a pencil rather than a paintbrush — but the underlying principle remains the same. Both the new sessions and the new semi-permanent spot mark the latest expansion for the business, which was started by Hillary and BJ Wall in 2013, and now includes sites in both Sydney and Melbourne After being asked by the South Bank Corporation to step into the Little Stanley Street location, Hillary said Cork & Chroma was excited to "have the opportunity to transform such a fantastic space offering the people of Brisbane more sessions to paint, sip and enjoy a creative experience". Bookings are currently open for events running until late October — including sessions where families can paint monsters, penguins and robots together, or parents can hit the easel with their teens. Obviously, anyone under 18 won't be partaking in alcoholic beverages. Find Cork & Chroma at 15A Little Stanley Street, South Brisbane — or in its regular permanent digs at 44 Montague Road, South Brisbane.
Next time you feel like escaping from it all, soaking in greenery-filled views and spending time next to a national park, you don't have to forgo trips to the bar to sip cocktails, too. Opening on Wednesday, September 1 in Beechmont in the Gold Coast hinterland, and neighbouring Lamington National Park, Hazelwood Estate is the new Scenic Rim spot that combines cosy comforts — think: cabins with fireplaces and private verandahs — with an onsite lounge, restaurant and bar. If it's countryside bliss that you're after, the retreat is located on a 75-acre wagyu and polo farm. Hills stretch out in the background through Beechmont and Binna Burra, providing picturesque surroundings — and to even get into the estate, you need to enter a passcode at the gate. Sleep-wise, guests can choose between 17 king farm cabins or three luxury pavilions, with the former including rain showers and the latter decked out with freestanding baths. Whichever you pick, you won't have much company around the place, with only 44 guests accommodated in total. When it comes to grabbing a bite and a beverage, Hazelwood Estate is home to The Paddock restaurant, which boasts Cameron Matthews (ex-Spicers Group) as chef-in-residence. Showcasing local products, including from the venue's own market garden and beehives, is the big focus here. The food menu spans dishes such as beef tartare, camel milk gnocchi with brown butter and coal-grilled beef with salt baked potato — and for breakfast, there's a farmer's platter that comes with black pudding pancakes, red onion jam and lardo. The Paddock also features the estate's cocktail bar, which spills out onto a terrace with views out over the valley — and serves up drinks that hero seasonal ingredients. Or, you can choose from sommelier Luis Buchan's wine list, with Australian and European drops getting pride of place. Aussie beers are also on offer, including an exclusive New England-style lager from Victorian craft brewery Edge Brewing Project that's only available onsite. Also part of the Hazelwood Estate spread: The Club House, as decked out in lounges for lazing around by the fireplace; Spa by Hazelwood, should you be hankering for a facial, massage, scrub or wrap; and a range of activities such as wagyu tastings, market garden tours, horse rides and guided bushwalks. Unsurprisingly, you'll be treating yo'self if this sounds like your idea of a scenic and relaxing vacation, with cabins starting at $699 per night for two people. Find Hazelwood Estate at 422 Binna Burra Road, Beechmont. For bookings and further information, head to the resort's website.
Back by popular demand, The Naked Magicians are bringing the cheek back to Brisbane’s Powerhouse to bare all as part of their internationally-renowned performance. Christopher Wayne and Mike Tyler leave nothing to the imagination with their act of style, raunch, wit and pure talent that will leave you in stitches as much as in a state of constant blushing. They promise the, ahem… full package; no need for hats, capes or misdirection, just a lot of R-rated full-frontal illusions. They’ve been selling out shows to millions of audience members all keen to discover just where they’ll be pulling the bunny out from. Be quick to secure your tickets, as this is sure to be the hottest show in town, unashamedly good fun and unlike anything you’ve seen before. Check out the discounts available for group bookings, or treat yourself to the VIP package. It’s safe to say these lads will have lots up their sleeves… well, sort of.
2021 gave the world many great things to watch, whether you like movies or TV shows — or direct-to-streaming flicks and specials, too. But only one summed up exactly how the last few years have felt as life as we all knew it changed due to the pandemic, spending all of our time at home became the norm, and everything was more than a little uncanny. That'd be Bo Burnham's sublime Inside. Watching along, a stunning fact became evident — a life-changing realisation, really. During a period when most people tried to make sourdough, pieced together jigsaws and spent too much time on Zoom, Burnham created a comedy masterpiece. And, he managed to capture the entire planet's feelings in some of the smartest and catchiest songs that'll ever echo from a screen. If you've seen it, even just thinking about it while reading this at the moment will mean that you currently have 'White Woman's Instagram', 'Welcome to the Internet' or 'That Funny Feeling' stuck in your head (or any of the special's other earworm tunes). Well, well, look who's inside again now — because Burnham isn't done with Inside yet. To mark exactly a year since the special was originally released on Netflix, the comedian has gifted the world with more. This time, he's dropped 63 minutes of outtakes that didn't initially make the cut. Yep, that's your viewing plans for this evening sorted. a year ago today, i released a special called inside. i've spent the last two months editing together material that i shot for the special but didn't end up using. it will be on my youtube channel in one hour. i hope you enjoy it. — Bo Burnham (@boburnham) May 31, 2022 To head back into Inside again — tiny pumpkins and avocados optional, and odes to Jeffrey Bezos as well — you'll need to hit up Burnham's YouTube channel, which is where the extra footage is now available. And yes, while wondering how the comedian — or anyone — could ever top a special this raw, insightful, funny, clever and of the moment has been a big part of the past year, more of anything to do with Inside and its 90-minute musical-comedy whirlwind is always going to be a good thing. The Promising Young Woman star and Eighth Grade filmmaker won Emmys for Outstanding Directing for a Variety Special, Outstanding Writing for a Variety Special, and Outstanding Music Direction for his efforts — plus a Grammy Award for Best Song Written for Visual Media for 'All Eyes On Me'. Check out the trailer for Bo Burnham: Inside below: To watch The Inside Outtakes, head to Bo Burnham's YouTube channel. Bo Burnham: Inside is available to stream via Netflix. Images: courtesy of Netflix.
Ever wanted to try your hand at making cheese? How about making your own jewellery or channelling your inner-psychic? Enter Work-Shop, the community-focused creative haven providing classes for those keen to flex their innovative muscles. After gaining popularity in Sydney and Melbourne, Work-Shop set up Brisbane's own space for getting crafty, arty and inspired in 2015. Originally opening in South Brisbane, the studio has since moved to Newstead, where you can learn how to do anything from native beekeeping to crafting handmade ceramics. Each of the different short courses are taught by local creatives and specialists in the field and come in a range of different prices and lengths. If you're not really sure whether you want to try your hand at watercolours or metalwork, check out the website for all of the classes available right now
Mark your calendars because the Aperol Kombi van is back on tour in Queensland. The van is rolling into Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill outside Airlie Beach for four weekends from Friday, June 16 to Tuesday, July 11. Head down on Aperol Arvo (Sunday, July 9) to sip on a classic Aperol spritz or to sample the bar team's exclusive cocktail creations like the rosemary-infused Rosy Cheeks spritz (at special prices on the day), while enjoying some chill tunes from the Kombi's DJ served with unbeatable views of the waves lapping at the shore of the beach. Throughout its residency at Northerlies, the Aperol Kombi will be offering a two-for-one special on spritzes. And if you buy two spritzes you can get an Aperol visor to keep the sun out of your eyes and promote your love of the iconic beverage. You'll need some nosh to enjoy with the spritzes and for that the Northerlies Beach Kitchen has you covered with Tex-Mex favourites like nachos, chicken and jalapeño taquitos and jalapeño poppers, the seafood platter — a perfect choice for a beachside arvo sojourn, and pizzas every weekend — Friday dinner and both lunch and dinner on Saturdays and Sundays. The Aperol Kombi van will be on site from June 16–July 11 at the Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill, Airlie Beach. More information here.
As demonstrated by various creative ventures around the world — like Chicago's recent Saved by the Bell-themed pop-up diner and New York's summer museum dedicated to ice cream — people love niche. The internet loves niche. We all die over niche. The latest art show to pop up in London was also pretty niche — so niche that it couldn't even physically be enjoyed by humans. It's an interactive exhibition for dogs. Running for two days last week in London, Play More was the world's first interactive exhibition purely for canines — and, needless to say, the ultimate puppy porn situation. Designed by British artist and inventor Dominic Wilcox, the show was a collection of contemporary paintings, multimedia pieces and installations with which the dogs could interact. There was a massive dog bowl-shaped ball pit (filled with brown balls that resemble dog bikkies), a digital frisbee game and — our favourite — an open car window simulator that recreates the feeling of riding with the window down while a fan wafts happy dog smells like raw meat and old shoes into their adorable windswept faces. Some of Wilcox's own work was on display, along with other artists' creations. Was this made purely for the internet? Well, yes. The exhibition is actually an activation for UK insurance company More Than, who commissioned Wilcox to create a collection of works that would encourage their owner to spend more time with their pups. Either way, we're sad to have missed this glorious doggo day out. Via Dezeen.
SXSW Sydney's 2024 program continues to roll out, in excellent news for fans of the tech, innovation, screen, music, games and culture festival in general — and also of hearing interesting discussions echo through the event. In the third batch of lineup details for this year, following a first batch in May and a second round in June, the initial two keynote speakers have been announced. Human rights lawyer Jennifer Robinson and author Johann Hari will each take to the stage, one fresh from defending Julian Assange and the other with book Magic Pill: The Extraordinary Benefits and Disturbing Risks of the New Weight Loss Drugs newly on shelves. "Our first two keynote speakers reflect our commitment to fostering challenging conversations. Discussing human rights and our wellbeing intersecting with the rapidly evolving landscape of technology is more critical than ever," said SXSW Sydney Managing Director Colin Daniels, announcing Robinson and Hari's spots on the 2024 program. "Our keynote speakers will ignite discussions that are not only timely but necessary, as we navigate the complexities of our modern world." Alongside being a London barrister with international law and media law also among her specialities — and already named on SXSW Sydney's 2024 lineup earlier in the year — Robinson published How Many More Women? in 2023, digging into the response to the #MeToo movement from a legal sense. Hari's 2022 text Stolen Focus: Why You Can't Pay Attention earned acclaim around the world, and his TED Talks Everything You Think You Know About Addiction Is Wrong and This Could Be Why You Are Depressed or Anxious have notched up 93-million-plus views. Also now on the bill are fellow speakers Min-Liang Tan, the CEO of Razer; Getting Along: How to Work with Anyone (Even Difficult People) author Amy Gallo; Rolling Stone India Senior Editor Peony Hirwani; and Australian race car driver Molly Taylor. Pianist, podcaster and Chad Lawson will also get chatting, as will entertainment and music rights expert Priyanka Khimani, Beatdapp Founder Andrew Batey and The Attention Economy, How Media Works author Karen Nelson-Field. The festival will welcome Luke Hemsworth, too, with the Westworld and Bosch & Rockit star hosting the session Better Than a Hollywood Movie: The Highs, Lows, Epic Moments and Colossal Steps Forward in Bringing Back the Tasmanian Tiger, with Colossal Biosciences CEO Ben Lamm and University of Melbourne's Head of the Thylacine Integrated Genomic Restoration Research (TIGRR) Laboratory Dr Andrew Pask diving into the topic. Talks on How to Seize Control of Your Workday and Redefining Success: Beyond the 1% will also expanded the roster of sessions, and demonstrate that variety is firmly at the heart of the festival. SXSW Sydney's new additions for 2024, the event's second year Down Under, join the likes of Australian astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg, TikTok marketing head Sofia Hernandez, Heartbreak High star Ayesha Madon, cricketer David Warner, Mortal Kombat director Simon McQuoid and documentary Slice of Life: The American Dream. In Former Pizza Huts, about the new uses of former Pizza Hut buildings across America — and that's barely scratching the surface of the lineup specifics announced so far. If you missed it, 2023's inaugural SXSW Sydney welcomed everyone from Black Mirror's Charlie Brooker and Chance The Rapper to Future Today Institute founder and CEO Amy Webb and Nicole Kidman to its stages. In the process, and via not just its talks but also its concerts, films, TV shows and games as, it notched up 287,014 attendances from 97,462 unique attendees. Those figures came from 34,975 total tickets, with folks from 41 countries heading along to 1178 sessions. SXSW Sydney 2024 will run from Monday, October 14–Sunday, October 20 at various Sydney venues. Head to the SXSW Sydney website for further details. Images: Jami Joy, Ian Laidlaw, Jess Gleeson, Katje Ford and Paul McMillan.
When The Kid LAROI was named as SXSW Sydney 2024's music keynote speaker, simply chatting about his career was never going to be his only contribution to the festival. Upon dropping that news, it was also revealed that the globally famous star would develop professional development workshops and performance opportunities for Waterloo and Redfern's First Nations communities as part of this year's event. Here's something related on the list: presenting and introducing a showcase of First Nations talent in Tumbalong Park's free program. With SXSW Sydney's 2024 dates fast approaching — this year's fest runs from Monday, October 14–Sunday, October 20 — the event's team is still expanding the music lineup. The First Nations show will take place on Saturday, October 19 after The Kid LAROI's conference chat. Triple J Unearthed and Blak Out are behind the gig as well. Music lovers can also now look forward to catching the UK's ENNY, O. and The Lottery Winners; South Africa's Moonchild Sanelly; Buffalo Hunt and Walker Lukens from the US; homegrown talents Ngaiire, Anieszka, Devaura, Dyan Tai, Ella Ion, Jude York, Keelan Mak, Sex Mask and Wet Kiss. They've all been added to a roster of acts that'll take over 25 stages over seven days, and that's been announcing names for months now. Similarly new to the bill: that KRSNA, KAVYA, Yung Raja and Mali from India, plus Manara from the UK, will get behind the mic at +91 Calling, also in Tumbalong Park. The gig focuses on tunes from talents out of India and from the Indian diaspora. [caption id="attachment_974070" align="alignnone" width="1920"] ChantelleKP[/caption] If you're keen to attend the opening party for the SXSW Sydney Music Festival, it's locked in for Tuesday, October 15 with Voice of Baceprot and 2Touch at The Underground. And if you're eager for parties and showcases presented by Laneway Presents, Astral People, fbi.radio and more, they're now on the lineup, too. SXSW Sydney 2024 started revealing its program details back in May, and has kept growing it since. A further announcement arrived in June, then not one, not two, but three more in July — and also another, focusing on the free hub at Tumbalong Park, at the beginning of August. Since then, more music acts, more speakers, The Kid LAROI's involvement, and two rounds of Screen Festival titles have also been added. Accordingly, no one can say that they don't have anything to see when SXSW Sydney makes its eagerly awaited comeback. SXSW Sydney 2024 will run from Monday, October 14–Sunday, October 20 at various Sydney venues. Head to the SXSW Sydney website for further details. SXSW Sydney images: Peter McMillan, Jordan Kirk, Jess Gleeson and Ian Laidlaw.
For more than six decades, fans of Disney have been able to step into the Mouse House's wonders IRL, thanks to a theme park empire that started in the 1950s with Disneyland. For even longer, touring your way through Universal Studios' wares — first during lot visits, then theme parks as well — has also been a reality. While Japan's beloved Studio Ghibli joined in back in 2001 via its Ghibli Museum, now it has launched its very own theme park. Get ready to get spirited away, and to skip around a sprawling place that's both gorgeous and magical. The venue at Aichi Prefecture Expo Park has been in the works since back in 2017, and has also been through a few delays over that five-year period — but as of Tuesday, November 1, it's finally and officially open to animation lovers. If that's you, Ghibli Park is welcoming in fans to wander its 200-hectare expanse in Nagoya's Aichi Prefecture, around a three-hour train trip from Tokyo, with the space's first three stages launching on opening day. Ghibli has been dropping early glimpses at the park over the past few months — even if its recent Hayao Miyazaki-directed cat train trailer was solely animated (but still wonderful) — and there's plenty of store for visitors. Part of the first phase is a space that's been dubbed Ghibli's Great Warehouse, aka the park's main area. Think of it like a fair within the overall attraction, featuring a video exhibition room, three special exhibition rooms, plus shops and cafes all in one space. Many movie lovers' first stop should be Orionza, a cinema that sets 170 patrons and screens ten Ghibli shorts — all of which have only previously been seen at the studio's existing museum in Mitaka, a city on the western outskirts Tokyo. The easy highlight: the 13-minute-long sequel to My Neighbour Totoro, which is an absolute delight, unsurprisingly. Fancy entering one of Ghibli's films? The park also includes recreations of 13 famous scenes from the company's cinematic catalogue that you can step into, including becoming Spirited Away's Chihiro by sitting next to Kaonashi on a mysterious train by the sea. Or, another exhibition focuses on Ghibli's knack for drawing delicious-looking food, and is certain to make you hungry. And, if you're curious how Ghibli's works — such as posters, videos, music and books — appear overseas, there's an exhibition about that as well. Because you'll want souvenirs, the Ghibli's warehouse store sells Ghibli goodies galore, including items specific to the park. Expect two things: to want to purchase everything, so much so that you'll contemplate whether it's worth getting another suitcase to take home with you; and plenty of company while you're browsing and buying. For a bite or a drink, the Great Warehouse's cafe and milk stand both take their cues The Wind Rises. One slings sandwiches and pizzas, while the other focuses on sips to drink — and a sweet made of red bean paste between two pieces of castella, as seen in the movie. Yes, it all truly does resemble the Japanese animation house's glorious frames in real life — as that aforementioned Studio Ghibli museum already does as well. Also open in the first stage: gardens, including the antique shop and verandah from Whisper of the Heart, plus Satsuki and Mei's house from My Neighbour Totoro. The latter was already a part of Aichi Prefecture Expo Park, but that doesn't make it any less stunning. Indeed, there's a reason that Ghibli Park was initially described as having a My Neighbour Totoro focus. Also slated to feature across the whole park: a life-sized version of Howl's Moving Castle, Kiki's home from Kiki's Delivery Service, a village area that pays tribute to Princess Mononoke, nods to the cat from Whisper of the Heart and The Cat Returns, buildings with design elements that take their cues from Laputa: Castle in the Sky, and a super-sized garden that'll make you feel like you're one of the tiny characters in Arrietty. If you're now planning a Ghibli-centric holiday, Japan reopened its borders to individual international tourists, and ditched its visa and package tour requirements, back in October — which, yes, is handy timing. A note re ticketing: like Ghibli's museum, Ghibli Park opens for bookings one day per month, working months ahead. On Monday, November 14, for instance, you'll be able to buy tickets for January visits. Ghibli Park is now open at Aichi Expo Memorial Park, 1533–1 Ibaragamama Otsu, Nagakute City, Aichi Prefecture. For more information, head to the venue's website. Images: © Studio Ghibli.
Humans have made a pastime of staring up at the night sky for as long as history can tell us. Unfortunately, the amount of excess light that our big cities leak into the sky makes for pretty poor stargazing conditions on an average night in the inner city. With that in mind, we've scoped out the spots all around Australia where it's still possible to use one's telescope for its intended purpose. Stargazing, that is — not trying to peek at what your neighbours keep behind their curtains. So, find the closest stargazing spot (or book a flight ASAP) and take part in this time-honoured tradition. Sydney Observatory, NSW In terms of physical proximity to the night sky, Sydney Observatory is a pretty good starting point. One of the highest accessible points overlooking Sydney Harbour, its building houses three telescopes — including the oldest working telescope in Australia, which was acquired for the 1874 transit of Venus. The other two are a 42-centimetre computer-controlled lens and, for those of you who prefer gazing at the star closest to us, a telescope that lets you look at the sun. You can get a glimpse through the onsite telescopes on a ticketed guided tour. Otherwise, the Observatory is free to visit and open Wednesday–Saturday from 12–6pm. This is definitely the first step for every would-be Galileo. [caption id="attachment_730726" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Marc Aragnou via ASNSW[/caption] Wiruna, Blue Mountains, NSW Wiruna is the Astronomical Society of NSW's best-kept secret — if you go to its website, you'll see what we mean. Located on the outskirts of Wollemi National Park in the Blue Mountains, Wiruna is basically 107 acres of astronomy Christmas. Starry season's greetings, sky-lovers. The ASNSW holds a number of stargazing sessions on weekends throughout the year, and encourages amateurs and old hands alike to come and use the incredible array of equipment they've got stashed up there. The easiest way to get involved is to become a member of the ASNSW — it's a process that requires payments and applications — but allows you to visit this site and others with the group or on your own once you're accredited. [caption id="attachment_730730" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] Warrumbungle National Park, Coonabarabran, NSW Warrumbungle National Park is a proper hike (read: a five or six hour drive from Sydney), but it's also a proper dark sky site. The National Parks and Wildlife Service has dedicated funds to limiting light pollution in and around the park and, with these measures in place, Warrumbungle joins the likes of Death Valley National Park in the US and Galloway Forest Park in Scotland as an official dark sky park — that is, one of the top places on the planet to revel in galactic goings-on. Warrumbungle does have its own observatory, but scientists and astronomers have the run of the place after sundown. Amateur astronomy in Warrumbungle is best performed the old-fashioned way, with the humble eyeball (and optional pince-nez). [caption id="attachment_730745" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Graham Hosking via the City of Greater Bendigo[/caption] Leon Mow Dark Sky Site, Heathcote, VIC Located just 1.5 hours drive north of Melbourne, the town of Heathcote boasts some incredibly beautiful skies — and heaps of bush walks, reserves and national parks from which to see it at night. If you take your astronomy very seriously, you can head to Heathcote's Leon Mow Dark Sky Site. The country estate is available for use by Astronomical Society of Victoria members at any time, and they're even welcomed to camp out overnight. Membership will set you back $80 a year or, for non-members, the site is open to the public for free during annual events and meet-ups (just check the website for details). You can BYO telescope or binoculars, or just gaze up — there's plenty of beauty to be seen by the naked eye. [caption id="attachment_730556" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Victoria[/caption] Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road, VIC The breathtaking views to be had on any trip along the Great Ocean Road are hard to beat. But we bet you haven't considered taking this trip after dark. Turns out that the routes along these many rock formations offer a stunning view at night, too. This is especially true at the road's all-star site, the Twelve Apostles. On a clear night, the stargazing is truly awe-inspiring. It won't be the view of these golden cliffs and crumbling pillars that you're used to seeing in photos, but it offers something else altogether — and that a lot of people haven't seen. Look up, listen to the lapping waves and enjoy the rare peace and quiet here. Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium, Mt Coot-Tha, QLD Named after the soldier and astronomer who gave Brisbane its name, the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium has been a favourite school tour spot since 1978. If you're a Queenslander, you've definitely been — and it's definitely worth another visit, even if you're well out of class. But unlike school, staring into space here is not only acceptable, it's mandatory. The Cosmic Skydome is the main attraction, under which you'll lean back and send your eyes skywards as informative films tell of black holes, the dark universe, moons and cosmic collisions. Once you've toured the stars, return to earth with a walk through the surrounding Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens. [caption id="attachment_730557" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] The Jump-Up Dark Sky Sanctuary, Winton, Queensland The sleepy town of Winton in northwest Queensland is perhaps the number-one stargazing destination in all of Australia — as of April 2019, the town received Australia's first of seven international certifications for a Dark Sky Sanctuary. There are only 22 certified sites worldwide, so it's a particularly impressive win for Aussie shores. The sanctuary is set within the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum at its Jump-Up facility, which is free and open all year round. Here, you can view the spirals of the Milky Way and Orion Arm, as well as the collapse of nebulae and the birth of new stars. Bring along a telescope, binoculars and a picnic — you'll want to stick around for a while. [caption id="attachment_730555" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] Charleville Cosmos Centre, Charleville, QLD The tiny town of Charleville — situated a two-and-a-half-hour flight from Brisbane — is home to one of the few observatories where you can stargaze both day and night. When the sun is up, you can attend a range of astronomy tours at the Cosmos Centre, including the sun viewing, which uses a special telescope to let you gaze directly at the surface of our planet's closest star. At night, experiences range from $45 for an Aboriginal night sky story session, up to $130 for personal astronomy tours. Check out clusters, planets, nebulae and, on a good night, the Milky Way. Inside the centre, there are heaps of tours and events going on each day, plus some seriously impressive equipment to boot.
As far as the team at WOHA is concerned, green cities are the future. Their latest project, Singapore's Park Royal Hotel, is evidence of how it's done. As a result of the building's construction, the site's capacity for natural growth has doubled. Comprised of twelve storeys that overlook Singapore's CBD, the Park Royal is not just a hotel, it's an oasis - not merely another building, but a kind of extension of the adjacent park. Elevated gardens, filled with palm trees, frangipanis and rambling tropical flora, extend from every fourth level. Inside, the green theme continues, with plants and water features forming an inherent part of the interior design. On the top floor, the Hotel's club lounge offers panoramic views, and on the fifth, the spa area features an expansive pool and a 300-metre long botanic 'strip'. All rooms are northward facing, looking over the elevated gardens and/or the park. Energy efficiency is prioritised throughout, with maximised natural lighting, self-shading, harvesting of rainwater, thorough recycling systems and motion-stimulated sensors. Where much of Singapore's architecture tends towards the insipid, faceless and generic, WOHA's bold, environmentally aware design represents a mighty gesture. In the view of architectural photographer and writer, Patrick Bingham-Hall, '...finally the city has a uniquely expressive landmark that reinterprets and reinvigorates its location...The Park Royal on Pickering is a purely commercial development...But as with many of WOHA's projects built throughout Asia over the last decade, the hotel performs unambiguously as a public building...proposing that commercial architecture must respond to the city as its civic duty.' Previously, WOHA has won three Green Good Design Awards from the Chicago Athenaeum and the European Centre for Architecture, Art, Design and Urban Studies - for the Sanya Intercontinental Hotel, China; the Hansar Rajdamri, Bangkok, Thailand; and the Wilkie Edge, Singapore. [Via Inhabitat]
What do Picnic at Hanging Rock, Romper Stomper, Wake in Fright, Puberty Blues, The Devil's Playground and Mystery Road all have in common? As well as being exceptional Australian movies, they've all made the jump to the small screen, too. Television shows based on all of these great flicks have reached TVs over the past decade, in fact — and now a series inspired by 1999 classic Two Hands looks set to join them. Screen Australia, the country's screen development, production and promotion support agency, has just announced that it's providing funding for the new TV version of Two Hands. At the moment, the series has the same working title as the Heath Ledger- and Rose Byrne-starring hit flick, and also boasts the same creative driving force, with writer/director Gregor Jordan (Dirt Music) working on developing his stellar crime film into a television show. Like the movie, the series will be an action-charged comic revenge thriller. Obviously, it can't star Ledger, who catapulted to fame thanks to his iconic role. Whether any other original cast members might pop up, if the show will link in with the feature or be set in the same world, or if it'll act as a small-screen remake — these are all questions that it's too early to answer. The same goes for whether Powderfinger's 'These Days' will feature on the soundtrack, and then get stuck in everyone's heads for years again afterwards. Jordan is developing the series with help from writers Melissa Bubnic (Shameless), Gretel Vella (The Great), Sarah Bassiuoni (The Heights), Greg Haddrick (Pine Gap) and Meyne Wyatt (play City of Gold), as well as producers Justin Davies (Psychoville) and Marian Macgowan (The Great), plus executive producers Tim White (The Luminaries) and Chris Oliver-Taylor (Glitch). Need a refresher on the original movie? Haven't seen it yet, somehow? As well as starring a fresh-faced Ledger and Byrne, it's one the best Australian films of the 90s, and one of the best Aussie movies in general, too. It follows Jimmy (the one and only Ledger), an ex-street kid and strip-club bouncer who is charged with delivering some cash for his boss (Bryan Brown, Hungry Ghosts). That doesn't turn out as planned, so soon he's on the run — alongside Alex (Byrne, worlds away from her recent role in Physical), the girl of his dreams. If you're suddenly and understandably now keen to watch Two Hands, the movie, it's currently streaming via Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Binge, Google Play, YouTube Movies and iTunes. Check out the trailer for the film below: The Two Hands TV series has just received development funding from Screen Australia, so it doesn't yet have an airdate — but we'll update you with further details as they come to hand.
Backing up a new album with a tour worked well for G Flip in 2023. In fact, they won an ARIA Award for Best Australian Live Act for their efforts. For 2025's new record Dream Ride, the drummer, singer and songwriter is doing the same in 2026 — kicking off their next run of homegrown dates eight years to the month since Georgia Flipo first uploaded 'About You' to Triple J Unearthed and sparked a helluva career so far. In Brisbane, G Flip is playing Riverstage on Friday, February 27. The last time that the ARIA Award-winning drummer, singer and songwriter took a solo tour around the country, it was to sellout crowds. [caption id="attachment_1013156" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Matt Jelonek/Getty Images[/caption] For company in 2026, G Flip will have Toronto's The Beaches and Heartbreak High star Ayesha Madon in support at all gigs. Dream Ride, the album, features singles 'Disco Cowgirl', 'Big Ol' Hammer' and 'In Another Life' — and an 80s-inspired sound, as well as G Flip playing almost every instrument on the record. [caption id="attachment_1013154" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anne Sophie Bine[/caption] Top image: Amy Martin Photography via Wikimedia Commons.
UPDATE: APRIL 14, 2020 — This Coorparoo bar is now delivering its chipotle chicken empanadas, jalapeño poppers and fish tacos to your door from Tuesday–Sunday from 5pm. Check out the full menu here and call 0438 685 650 to order. If you're looking for a slice of America's west coast on Australia's east coast, one Coorparoo bar has you covered. That'd be California Native, a surf shack-style establishment made for the beach, brew and beef lover inside all of us. It's a hangout that will make you want to go on holiday — or you can just pretend once you walk through their doors. Spying a surfboard hanging from the ceiling and sauntering past a Californian maple tree will definitely help. Devouring US and Mexican-influenced meals will as well. Starting your visit with a plate of house-made corn chips is a must, and not just because they're delivered to every table. From there, whether sizeable salads, just as hefty steaks or the kind of authentic tacos you won't find at your average chain joint are your thing, you won't be leaving hungry. As far as a signature dish goes, the mouthwatering Monterey Bay Toasty Fish Sandwich is preceded by its glowing reputation. Wash it all down with a beer or wine from the region, some tequila, or a Baja Sands Margarita; when in a Cali-Mex restaurant, and all that.
Only a few decades ago, Queenslanders loved a spot of croquet. In fact, if you were a sports-playing adult living around the state up until the 1970s, the only thing you were more likely to swing than a mallet was a cricket bat. That explains why more than a few croquet clubs still exist around Brisbane, even if the pastime isn't quite as popular at the moment. Of course, old trends come back into favour all the time — and if any occasion could inspire a revival of the game featured in everything from Alice in Wonderland to Heathers, it's the aptly named World Croquet Day. Yeronga's Stephens Croquet Club is celebrating with Cuppa, Cake and Croquet, which is exactly what it sounds like. Try the sport you've always wanted to test out, then enjoy afternoon tea afterwards. Wearing '80s attire and pretending that you're Winona Ryder or Christian Slater is completely optional.
If you live in Brisbane, love live music and don't have a crazy story about a wild night spent at The Zoo, then you're doing it wrong. Over the years, every local band has played there at least once — and plenty of national and international acts as well. Over the past 25 years, actually. Yes, the Ann Street mainstay is having a birthday, and it's quite the milestone occasion. They're celebrating the only way they know how, of course. Expect bands playing full sets and plenty of high-profile special guests, as more than 25 Brissie musos come together to take part in one heck of a party. Dubbed "The Zoo 25", the lineup includes Resin Dogs, Isis, Sabrina Lawrie and Sissybones leading the bill, plus The Go-Betweens' Adele Pickvance Powderfinger's Ian Haug, Regurgitator's Ben Ely, and Screamfeeder's Tim Steward and Kellie Lloyd all popping up. Tickets cost $28.60, with the event also supporting music charities Support Act and Feed Music.
Time flies when you're flipping silver balls whizz around a pinball table, pumping tokens into Pac Man and mashing buttons on retro consoles — and enjoying a boardgame over a brew as well. And so, it has been an entire year since Netherworld first opened its doors. Yes, they're celebrating. Of course they are. Expect all the good stuff they've been serving up for the past 12 months, plus some extra fun to mark the occasion. On the party agenda at Netherworld's First Birthday: drinks, games, Boss Fight cranking out some classic gaming themes, free limited-edition pins for the first 250 arrivals and the chance to win a 1997-era X-Files pinball machine of your very own. The revelry kicks off at midday, with tunes filtering through the air from 4pm.
Forget decking the halls with boughs of holly — this November and December, Fortitude Valley's Bakery and Winn lanes are decking out their stretches of pavement with other kinds of festive cheer. At A Very Laneway Christmas, free live music, plenty of shops to browse through, markets and pop-ups are all on the bill. Located on different sides of Ann Street, there's no shortage of spots luring people into both locales each and every day, whether you're keen for a bite at Ben's Burgers, The Apo or I Heart Brownies, a gig at The Zoo, or rifling through the shelves at Tym's Guitars or Phase 4. 'Tis the season to amp things up, however. And that's just what'll be happening between November 15 and December 23 Free tunes will be wafting through each roadway from midday each Saturday, but keep an eye out for a few special additions. Micro-markets will rotate through young and emerging designers, some retailers will be offering up Yuletide specials, and bringing your pet is always welcome.
Australia's clash-free, one-day summer festival is back for a fifth year at Brisbane Showgrounds. This year, it's bring out flute-playing babe Lizzo ('Truth Hurts' and 'Juice') plus Texas-via-California rap collective Brockhampton. If you missed out on tickets to US rapper Lizzo's Sydney Opera House gig (which sold out in minutes) you can still catch her singing tracks from her album Cuz I Love You at the January festival. Modern-day boyband Brockhampton headline the bill, bringing their troupe of rappers, directors, photographers, engineers, producers, graphic designers and DJs to Brisbane once again with their catchy pop-led tracks 'Sugar', 'No Halo' and 'Bleach'. Joining Brockhampton and Lizzo is Canadian producer Kaytranada, who's set to drop a new album any day now. Other big names on the lineup include French singer Madeon, UK rapper Octavian and, from the local contingent, hip-hop artist Chillinit and Sydney producer Ninajirachi. Image: Jordan Munns.
Ever looked at a patch of dirt and found yourself thinking about art? It's okay if your answer is no. In fact, it's not the kind of connection most of us make all that often — including artists. To change that, a number of creatives spent six months working with soil scientists to develop pieces inspired by the ground below. Let's Get Dirty is the very appropriate name of the artists-in-residence program, which saw 5 Mile Radius, Lawrence English, Ara Dolatian, Robert Andrew, Paul Stumkat, Kate Woodcroft and Caitlin Franzmann all branch out into something earthy and new. You'll see the results of their experience at Art in Soil — which mightn't be quite as cheeky a name, but it absolutely describes just what's on offer. The exhibition runs from December 14 to 23 at POP Gallery in Woolloongabba, with special events all part of the lineup. Head along for the official opening at 6pm on the 14th, then catch artist talks at 2pm on the 16th, followed by art-science discussions at 3pm. Or, drop by from 10am to 4pm on the 17th, when guided meditation will take the showcase to another level. Last but not least, you can get interactive on the 20th — and leave thinking about soil in a completely different manner.
If your summer plans don't involve a trip to Japan, we feel your pain. Thankfully, thanks to Brisbane's fondness for Japanese eateries and hangouts, you can always pretend. Or, you can combine the best of both worlds at Saké Eagle Street Pier each Sunday. Think river views, that weekend Brissie vibe, plus Japanese beverages and snacks. Drinks-wise, between 3–6pm every week, Saké is serving up $10 Japanese spritzers and $10 Sapporo beers. It's also doing $18 glasses of Veuve Clicquot — and $99 bottles as well — if you're feeling particularly bubbly. And, to get you in the cruisy Sunday session mood, a DJ will be on hand spinning tunes. The best part? Saké is also slinging a selection of bar bites between 5–6pm, and they're all free. That leaves you with more cash for another spritzer — or to start saving for that dream 2019 Tokyo holiday.
Hollywood's night of nights is fresh in your memory, your to-watch list has grown considerably, but your wallet doesn't want to play ball. Call Dendy Cinemas' latest special a case of great timing, then, with the chain offering up discount tickets that'll solve your problem. Until March 15, as long as you purchase online, you'll only pay $8 for your movie of choice at Portside and Coorparoo. Or movies. With everything from Black Panther to Phantom Thread to Lady Bird currently screening, there's plenty to watch if you're keen to spend as much time in a darkened room as possible. The special isn't available for special events, Dendy Arts sessions, pre-book tickets or preview screenings, but you're certain to find something to watch regardless. Plus, if you haven't had a chance to drop by the chain's new digs in Coorparoo, here's your excuse.
Warm weather, climbing up high and drinking all go hand-in-hand. That's true in general, and true at Brisbane's new sky-high seasonal shindigs: The Society Summer Series. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday between November 24 and December 17, Eagle Farm Racecourse's rooftop bar is throwing open their doors and throwing quite the celebration. Think end-of-week (and year) revelry, weekend afternoon hangouts and enjoying a couple of hours worth of beverages with a view. Plus, it wouldn't be a party without DJs spinning tunes to set the mood. Tickets cost $65, with drinks and food included. Attendees will sip their way through sparkling, beer, wine and soft drink for two hours, and snack at charcuterie stations as well, while eating cured meats, roasted vegetables, dolmades, dips, olives, breads, grissini and cheese. Arrive hankering for a bev, and hungry.
No one feels like stepping into the kitchen on a Sunday, but we all feel like eating. Hangovers, end-of-weekend malaise or just wanting to relax over a good meal that you haven't cooked yourself — whatever the reason, you know it's true. So, with that in mind, there's no better Sunday meal than a barbecue someone else has made for you. Once a month from 2pm on December 17, that someone is Death Valley. As part of a new regular event, they're heating up the smoker for a meaty barbie feast. There's two options available: decide on whatever combination of dishes you'd like, or opt for their all-in-one $29 offering. If you choose the latter, you'll get hickory brisket, pulled pork, smoked chicken, burnt end barbecued black beans, pecan slaw, maple tater salad, mac 'n' cheese, blackened corn, Texas toast, dill pickle and house BBQ sauce. It's safe to say that you won't go hungry — but booking in advance is recommended, because you know this feast is going to be popular.
Disney is getting into the streaming game, and it's unleashing its new platform upon Australian and New Zealand audiences this year. Called Disney+, the service was first revealed in 2018, but just when it'd hit local screens had remained a mystery. Now, anyone eager to watch new Star Wars and Marvel TV shows — plus all of Disney's animated movies — should mark November 19 in their diaries. It's great news for folks Down Under. The Mouse House announced the service's US launch date a few months back, but had left things vague otherwise, explaining that it "plans to be in nearly all major regions of the world within the next two years". While Disney+ was expected to be operational in Australia and New Zealand sometime in 2020, locals will only be left waiting a week after the service's American debut. With Disney recently merging with competitor Fox, Disney+'s range is hefty, spanning Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar and National Geographic. During its first year of operation, it's due to release more than 25 original series and ten original films, documentaries and specials — including five Marvel series (Loki, WandaVision, The Falcon and The Winter Soldier, Hawkeye and Marvel's What If), and two Star Wars shows (The Mandalorian from The Lion King director Jon Favreau, plus a spinoff from Rogue One about Diego Luna's Rebel spy Cassian Andor). Two new Toy Story projects, as well as science series The World According to Jeff Goldblum, are also on Disney+'s lineup. Going big when it comes to bringing the company's well-known properties to the new streaming platform, a High School Musical TV series, another show based on Monsters, Inc. and a live-action Lady and the Tramp movie will be on the bill, too. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrXNtj84owc Price-wise, subscriptions will cost AU$8.99 and NZ$9.99 per month (or AU$89.99 and NZ$99.99 per year). Disney has also unveiled the devices that'll feature Disney+, which will be available both HD and 4K. Viewers will be able to access the service via Apple products (iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Apple TV), Google devices (Android phones, Android TV devices, Google Chromecast and Chromecast built-in devices), Roku, Xbox One, PlayStation 4 and all Android-based Sony TVs. Disney+ will launch in Australia New Zealand on November 19. To sign up for further updates, visit the streaming platform's website. Top image: The Mandalorian.
Whether your university days are long behind you or you're still living the studying life, it's time to hit campus and stack up your reading list. From Friday, April 28–Monday, May 1, the UQ Alumni Book Fair returns to the University of Queensland with bargains for everyone — more than 110,000 pre-loved books, magazines, records, CDs, DVDs, sheet music and more are up for sale, in fact, plus other pre-loved items. That pile is so hefty that everything is sorted into 400-plus categories. If you're looking for a reason to head to UQ Centre in St Lucia to browse and buy, that massive range is one mighty big drawcard. Here's another: prices start from the bargain amount of $1. Indeed, you'll pay more for a cuppa while you peruse. There'll be food trucks and a coffee cart on-site to keep your energy up. On Saturday, April 29, the fair is also hosting a family day with activities for young readers. Looking for something rare? Have a bit of cash to splash? On Friday, April 28, the Rare Book Auction will take place, with over 150 books to bid on. And, in the lead up, running from Wednesday, April 26–Friday, April 28, Patina at Alumni Court is cooking up dishes from two such cookbooks on the auction list. The UQ Alumni Book Fair runs from 9am–9pm on Friday, 9am–5pm Saturday–Sunday and 9am–3pm on Monday. Whenever you head along and whatever you purchase, you'll be doing someone a solid, with the fair raising money for scholarships to support UQ students.
If one particular Bee Gees song was ever the answer on Heardle, the music intro spinoff from Wordle, every Australian would guess it instantly. That tune: 'Spicks and Specks', which has been gracing the ABC's music quiz show of the same name since 2005 — whenever the show has been on the air, that is. It'll start echoing from your television again from Sunday, August 7, too, which is when the national broadcaster is bringing back the beloved series. Back in June, the network announced that the show would return this year for ten episodes, but now it has revealed the actual date. Adam Hills, Myf Warhurst and Alan Brough will be back as well, hosting and taking on team captain roles respectively, while this new season also boasts an impressive list of guests. Hamish Blake, Denise Scott, Dave O'Neil, Luke McGregor, Rhys Nicholson, Nath Valvo and Zoe Coombs Marr will all return, while Casey Donovan, Montaigne, Emma Watkins, Dylan Alcott and Mama Alto will make their Spicks and Specks debut. And, that doesn't include the lineup of bands performing. If you're somehow new to the ABC hit, it answers an easy question. What's better than watching a heap of top Australian talent sit around and talk about music? Watching them do all of the above while flinging around trivia, competing for points and just generally being funny, too. From there, taking a few cues from the UK's Never Mind the Buzzcocks, Spicks and Specks throws plenty of queries at its star-studded teams — pitting Aussie musos and comedians against each other. Yes, it's no wonder that the show has proven a hit several times over, and that it keeps coming back. It was a first weekly favourite when it initially aired between 2005–2011. Then, it was revived back in 2014, but with a new host and team captains. Finally, it started gathering its original lineup of Hills, Warhurst and Brough back together, first via a one-off reunion special, then with four new Spicks and Specks specials across 2019–20, and then in its regular format since 2021. Obviously, Spicks and Specks has been enjoying more comebacks than John Farnham of late. For its 2022 run, it's also dropping clues to a new game in each episode. To play The Secret Song, you'll need to watch out to cryptic clues uttered by Hills during the regular questions and games, which Warhurst and Brough also need to pick up on — and doing just that could mean the difference between winning and losing. Until August 7 arrives, check out a sneak peek at Spicks and Specks' new season below: Spicks and Specks will return to ABC TV and ABC iView from 7.40pm on Sunday, August 7.
Art comes in all shapes and sizes — and that includes small and wearable. What motivates an artist to think little or express their creativity through manipulating metal? How does someone channel their thinking into something tiny, or through jewellery? Ten contemporary Brisbane jewellery and small objects practitioners attempt to answer that question at an 11-day exhibition at The Hold Artspace. Beau Allen, Pippin Blackwell, Renata Fojtikova, Alicia Lane, Andy Lowrie, Bianca Mavrick, Shanna Muston, Clare Poppi, Alison Stone, and Katie Stormonth combine for Extended Jewellery, showcasing the fruits of their extensive periods of postgraduate study in the field. Yes, you can marvel at their small wonders, but you can also hear the artists talk about their work, and take part as well. Head along on January 29 or February 5 for the object swap, bringing something of your own – an item that can be either worn or carried on your person, and that you’re willing to exchange as part of a social experiment.
Brisbane Festival is back for 2024 throughout September — kicking off on Friday, August 30 this year, in fact — and it's returning with a big bang. After moving the sky celebration to the beginning of its annual run in 2022, the citywide arts event is again brightening up the heavens to start things off. Get ready to look up on Saturday, August 31. The fireworks display has now settled into its new slot after a chaotic few years, which saw it scaled back in 2019, then replaced with a light and laser show in 2020 due to the pandemic, and finally returning in 2021. Initially, Riverfire moved dates to shift out of school holidays. No matter when it's held, more than 500,000 people usually attend. If you've been to South Brisbane when it's on — even hours earlier — you will have seen the masses of people to prove how popular it is. Head anywhere with a decent vantage over the river and crowds await. This Brisbane tradition will start its entertainment at 4pm this year, with the fireworks blasting from 7pm. Need a few recommendations? River Terrace at Kangaroo Point is the number-one spot to hit up for the best panoramic view. There's also South Bank, of course, as well as the Kangaroo Point Cliffs, Captain Burke Park and Wilson's Lookout — plus the Riverside Centre and the City Botanic Gardens, too. Even if fireworks aren't usually your thing, you might still be interested in the Riverfire shindigs that always pop up on the night, with bars around town usually throwing plenty of parties with quite the lit-up backdrop.
This article is sponsored by our partners, lastminute.com.au. The Barossa Valley may produce a wide selection of mighty fine drops, but it's also one of the world's friendliest wine regions in the world. Wine makers will happily stop for a chat to let you in on a few of their techniques; cellar door staff don't mind helping you to distinguish your chocolate tones from your blackberry ones; and there's every chance your bed and breakfast hosts will feel like a homely aunt and uncle. What's more, the area is really accessible. Though it seems a world away, it's less than an hour's drive from Adelaide. And, to make it even easier, many of its 80 cellar doors and 150 wineries are grouped in clusters. So, in the absence of a designated driver, you can walk or cycle from one to the other without too much effort. The wine, of course, is the main attraction of the area. But the Barossa also has a range of other events and festivals. Here are five that are well worth the road trip. Barossa Film Festival For three days each spring, the Valley's wine cellars, brewery lawns and bars are transformed into mini cinemas. But don't expect your everyday blockbusters and rom coms. The Barossa Film Festival focuses on unconventional flicks: the too-often ignored yet totally brilliant creations of independent, underground and emerging filmmakers. And they're all screened free of charge. If you haven't booked your flight/train/camel yet, you'd better do so quick smart. November 28-30, Various venues in the Barossa Valley, FREE. Barossa Gourmet Weekend Held smack-bang in the middle of winter, the Barossa Gourmet Weekend is one sure-fire way to get through the colder months. Every third weekend in August, the valley is overtaken with all manner of food and wine adventures: from cooking lessons and wine masterclasses to long lunches and even longer dinners. As the weather's still nice and sunny, you'll have a while to wait for the program. Details are to be announced in mid-June. August 14-16, Various locations in the Barossa Valley, TBA. Barossa Vintage Festival Of all the wine festivals in Australia, Barossa Vintage is the biggest and longest-running. The event was first held in 1947 to celebrate the end of the grape harvest as well as the end of WWII. Since then it's become tradition; it's been around for nearly six decades. The next incarnation is promising all kinds of surprises, following the appointment of new festival manager Andrew Dundon. Adelaide Fringe-goers should know him well: he's been taking care of artists and venues there since 2011. Look out for the program announcement on December 9. April 15-19, Tanunda, FREE. Shakespeare in the Vines Quirky Melbourne theatre company Essential Theatre takes the bard on the road every year. Their tour of Australia's most beautiful gardens and wineries includes the Barossa Valley's Seppeltsfield Road, where Shakespeare in the Vines occurs on the Saturday of the Australia Day long weekend. Macbeth will be the next work to get the outdoor treatment in 2015, on January 24, 2015. Tickets are always limited to 400, so it's a good idea to book well in advance. January 24, Seppeltsfield Road, TBA. SALA Festival Even though SALA (South Australian Living Artists) Festival is a state-wide event, it takes on an especially vibrant presence in the Barossa. Sculptures, paintings, mosaics and installations are scattered around the area's rolling hills and vineyards; and there's plenty of opportunities to kick back at a gig with a nice drop of wine. SALA runs throughout August every year, so if you make it along to Barossa Gourmet Weekend, be sure to leave yourself a day or two to take in the culture. August 1-24, Various locations across South Australia, TBA. Now you've got your itinerary, book your getaway to the Barossa Valley now with lastminute.com.au.
When Emi Kamada and Marie Yokoyama headed to Japan to study with traditional chefs — and, specifically, to learn everything they needed to know about yakitori — they weren't the first to visit the country and feel inspired. But the pair did make the most of that sensation, creating Brisbane's expanding Bird's Nest Yakitori chain. The brand started in 2013 in West End, with its OG site now boasting three sibling venues — including the Portside Wharf outpost. The Hamilton spot joins Bird's Nest Yakitori's outposts in Fortitude Valley and Toowong, too, the latter just for takeaways. All four share a key focus, of course: grilled Japanese skewers. The latest Bird's Nest Yakitori has made its home in a 100-square-metre space, with getting cosy aptly on the menu. Diners can choose between indoor and al fresco dining — and if you go with the former, you'll eat while peering into the open kitchen, with the bottle-lined bar also in sight, plus under atmospheric lighting. The mood: casual but authentic and also intimate, in a place that takes its design cues from the nation that clearly holds significant influence over all things Bird's Nest Yakitori. In other words, it's an enticing place for a drink over a bite, including picking from cocktails, sake and Japanese brews. If you've been to one of the brand's other locations, you'll know what to expect food-wise. The skewers range from chicken thigh, chicken skin, chicken meatball and pork belly to zucchini, oyster mushrooms and grape tomatoes; however, that's just the start of the culinary lineup. Rice bowls are also a feature, including charcoal chicken, both katsu and karaage chicken, slow-cooked wagyu, yakiniku, teriyaki salmon and eel — while Japanese burgers, wings and gyoza are also on offer.
Tasmania might get a little dark and stormy throughout winter, but the occasional blustery conditions mean that there's an even greater focus on spending quality time with your favourite people. That good-natured spirit is particularly apparent in the state's selection of breweries — places that'll keep you and your loved ones warm and cosy, and immediately charm your souls. From waterfront industrial-chic breweries to farms that roll over the hillsides, Tasmania's brewhouses make the most of their wealth of ingredients by creating elegant drinks that travellers will want to keep sipping. So we've tracked down five perfect spots that will not only have you revelling in the winter climes but also enjoying some fantastic beers along the way. Embrace the wild weather and start planning your midwinter Tassie escape. [caption id="attachment_718803" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Chris Crerar.[/caption] SAINT JOHN CRAFT BEER Craft beer bars might seem a dime a dozen these days, but Saint John Craft Beer would enhance any city's beer drinking scene. And when it comes to finding a toasty spot to escape Launceston's wintery streets and enjoy a lively evening with friends, there's no better spot than here. The cooler months are the perfect time to pay Saint John a visit, with a number of stouts usually featuring among the bar's tap list — offering beer-lovers a chance to sample some devilishly dark brews from local, mainland and international producers. Plus, you'll find great burgers and snacks to match, all thanks to a permanent food van serving in the spacious rear outdoor section. [caption id="attachment_718802" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hobart Brewing Co.[/caption] HOBART BREWING CO Inspired by Hobart's lengthy history of brewing, the Hobart Brewing Co set out to create a venue that welcomes beer obsessives with open arms while pouring a selection of spectacular drinks made on-site. And it's safe to say that it has achieved this goal, with the brewery ranking among Hobart's premier bars — and drawing visitors in from the cold in the droves. Set across the harbour from Salamanca Place, this industrial waterfront warehouse is an ace place to delve into a great selection of drinks, including a few nifty partnerships with other local brewers. Also on offer? Regular food trucks and live music, plus a fire pit to warm yourself by as you settle in for a few quality brews. [caption id="attachment_718485" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Two Metre Tall.[/caption] TWO METRE TALL Take a 45-minute drive from Hobart and you'll arrive at the sprawling fields of the Two Metre Tall brewery. Tucked away in the Derwent Valley, this 580-hectare property produces some of the finest farmhouse ales and ciders anywhere in Tasmania, using a production process that combines mixed and wild fermentation — which gives its brews some truly spectacular flavours. Spread out across plenty of lawn, the brewery encourages you to bring your friends, your blankets (for both sitting and rugging up) and a well-stocked picnic basket. Park yourself by one of the many onsite barbecues (there are even woodfired options) and start cooking — it's an excellent way to keep warm and toasty, too. All you've gotta do next is grab a hand-pumped tipple to perfect your luncheon. [caption id="attachment_718801" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bruny Island Cheese and Beer Co.[/caption] BRUNY ISLAND CHEESE AND BEER CO The Bruny Island Cheese Co has been around for years, specialising in artisan and small-batch cheeses. But when owner Nick Haddow met brewer Evan Hunter, they decided to combine their renowned talents. We're certainly glad that they did because the Bruny Island Cheese and Beer Co now provides visitors with quite the range of culinary pleasures — of the edible and drinkable kind. Made with Tasmanian-grown hops and grains from neighbouring farms on the island, the beers on offer here set a very high standard. Plus, each brew is created with a sustainable mindset. All wastage is recycled and put back into the farm, whether that be wastewater being treated then used as irrigation water or beer and cheese byproducts becoming feed for the pigs at a nearby farm. For a drop that'll warm you from the inside out, opt for the hearty whey stout, made with lactose from organic cow's milk whey leftover from cheesemaking. It's a sweet, textured beverage and pairs very well with a wedge of Saint: a ooey, gooey surface-ripened soft cheese. [caption id="attachment_717038" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Shambles Brewery.[/caption] SHAMBLES BREWERY Since opening in 2016, Shambles Brewery has become one of the best spots to get a beer on the North Hobart strip. This large-scale chic warehouse space has been transformed into a beer drinker's utopia, featuring everything you could want — from a huge open beer hall to a roaring fire pit to concrete table tennis tables that even withstand the chilliest of winter days. Serving Tasmanian wine, cider and spirits, the Shambles Brewery's line-up of beer packs quite the punch with an offering that includes experimental pale ales, American IPA and even a robust porter that has hints of chocolate and coffee. And as for the food, it's perfectly suited for winter; think 12-hour lamb ribs, six types of burger, brisket tacos and crispy fried chicken. Top image: Saint John Craft Beer by Chris Crerar.
There's a reason conversation is referred to as an art. It's not an exact science, for starters, but when done properly it's something that can organically take on a life of its own — it can be colourful, inspiring, thought-provoking and radical. Whether you're a veritable Caravaggio of conversation or you've not quite nailed your chat game just yet, interesting — and, yes, provocative — conversation prompts can go a long way to you uncovering more about people you think you already might know so well. Inspired by our upcoming event The Slow Lounge in partnership with American Honey, we put out a call to you, our readers, to reveal your favourite conversation starters — and we're delighted to report that you did not disappoint. Sure, not all of these will be appropriate for every situation (who's your favourite Muppet? might not be a solid opener for your future mother-in-law), but here are some of your go-to catalysts for good chat. What makes you happy? Would you rather be a metre taller or a metre shorter? What's the weirdest thing you've ever eaten? What's been the best part of your day so far? What is a language you love to listen to, even if you don't speak or understand it? Instead of "What's been happening?", ask "What's the most important thing happening in your life right now?" If you could go back and change one decision you've made in your life, what would it be and why? Who's your favourite Muppet? What's the most outrageous thing you've done in your life? What food best describes your personality? What song describes your life to now? Who would you least like to get stuck with in an elevator? What's your favourite cocktail? What has been the best thing about emerging out of COVID-19 hibernation? What are your three favourite vegetables? If you could be a fruit, what fruit would you be and why? What's something about you that people are surprised about when they first hear it? What is something about yourself that you love? What is your fondest live music memory? What is your favourite Arnott's biscuit? What do you want to achieve this year? What's been the best moment of your week? When was the last time you built a Lego set? What was it and what have you done with it since? If you were sent to Antarctica and could only take one person and two objects, who and what would you take? If a squirrel could talk do you think it would have a really high voice or a really low voice? Who would play you in a movie about you? For more inspo on how to create your own golden moments with mates, head to the American Honey website. Top image: Cottonbro (Pexels)
In the past few years we have seen the reputation of rum go from a rugby spectator's drink of choice to a sophisticated, essential ingredient in many an innovative cocktail. Be it white, golden, spiced or aged, rum is back in the best possible way. Here are the best places in Brisbane to give the new generation of rum drinks a try. COBBLER While this bar is crafting its reputation as a go-to for a fine single malt whisky, Cobbler's also where you'll find one of the classiest rum cocktails in town. Meet the Richard Nixon — a mix of Appleton 8yo, Oloroso Sherry, grape honey and Peychaud's Bitters, served on a sophisticated single rock of ice and dressed with an orange peel. Consider this a gateway to Don Draper-esque sophistication and you'll be discussing social politics in no time. 7 Browning Street, West End LONGTIME Rum, Frangelico, orange-strawberry juice, sesame soy honey reduction, Hellfire bitters and Thai basil. Are you with us? Good. They'll shake this bad boy up, serve it with dehydrated orange triangles, sesame meringue tea drops and more Thai basil. The only remaining question after finding out about this marvellous creation is: what are you still doing here? Run, don't walk, to Longtime on Ann Street, pronto. 610 Ann Street, Brisbane THE WALRUS CLUB At the end of the day, sometimes all you want is to sink into a fine leather couch in a dimly lit bunker and sip away on a quality drop of rum. This is the winning charms of The Walrus Club; while their cocktail list is seemingly endless and rotating, their 300 choices of rum will take you back to Prohibition-era drinking den. Why not sample the Old Fashioned with your cigar? Under the Regatta, Coronation Drive, Toowong DUTCH COURAGE OFFICERS' MESS Though garnering a name as Brisbane's go-to for gin lovers, Dutch Courage in fact offers a smattering of rum-based drinks to satisfy the thirst of the more adventurous or for those looking for something a little different. Why not try the pear and almond martini, wherein "the Empire has reached Barbados", or opt for rum muddled with orchard fruits and aromatic spices in the Sailors' Plantation? All hail the Fall Maple Sangria, where Caribbean goodness comes by the jugful. 51 Alfred Street, Fortitude Valley SUBSTATION NO. 41 RUM BAR For the true rum aficionado, where better to go than Australia's largest rum bar, housed nicely in Brisbane? Substation no. 41 — an arm of the Breakfast Creek Hotel — is where it is about quality and quantity. They boast more than 500 varieties from around the globe, including one of the six bottles of Havana Club Maximo found in Australia, alongside the world's oldest, the Appleton Estate 50-year aged Jamaican Rum. Here you will decipher the the fruity from the spiced, and learn the difference between the French and British Caribbean. Breakfast Creek Hotel, Kingsford Smith Drive JUNGLE Rum can be a fitting drink for any time of the year, but the choices at Jungle in West End will have you dreaming of summer with their fresh palates. The fittingly-named Beachcombers Gold is a sweet and sultry choice with lime juice, house-crafted white grapefruit and cinnamon orgeat to give greater body to the double dash of rum. Here is where you will find a number of rum drink reinventions, with watermelon coolers, punch and daiquiris aplenty to get you in the spirit. 76 Vulture Street, Brisbane
Summer might be over for another year, but chasing endless sunny days, sandy spots and crashing waves is a rather easy pastime in Australia. The country is girt by sea, after all, and boasts thousands of beaches — including Western Australia's Cable Beach, which has just been named one of the best coastal spots in the world for 2023, plus the absolute top beach in the South Pacific for this year as well. The scenic Broome locale nabbed those honours thanks to Tripadvisor, which unveils a lineup of top beaches each year. Among the international plaudits, Cable Beach came in third behind Baia do Sancho in Fernando de Noronha in Brazil and Eagle Beach in Aruba in The Caribbean. It also ranked higher than spots in Iceland, Turks and Caicos, Portugal, India, Sicily, Cuba and Hawaii. Yes, that's mighty fine company to keep. [caption id="attachment_891596" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cable Beach[/caption] In the South Pacific rundown, Cable Beach beat six other Aussie locations and one from New Zealand. Also getting some love locally: Sydney's Manly Beach in second place, Emily Bay on Norfolk Island in third and Mooloolaba Beach in fourth spot. Four Mile Beach in Port Douglas and Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island adding two more Queensland locations to the list at sixth and seventh place, while Turquoise Bay in Exmouth in WA came in ninth after topping the South Pacific spots in 2022. Across the ditch, Tahunanui Beach in Nelson sits at eighth place, too. The two beaches deemed the best in the South Pacific that aren't from Down Under? Matira Beach on Society Island in Bora Bora, French Polynesia, which sits fifth and Natadola Beach in Sigatoka, Fiji, at tenth. If it's an overseas beach holiday you're after this year, you now know where to head. [caption id="attachment_891589" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Manly Beach[/caption] Back to the worldwide list, it spans 25 places, with Manly coming in 13th there ahead of locations in Grand Cayman, San Sebastian, Bali, Costa Rica, Rio de Janeiro and more. Across both the worldwide and South Pacific rankings, winners were chosen as part of Tripadvisor's Traveller's Choice awards, which is based on millions of reviews and ratings left on the online platform across 2022. [caption id="attachment_891592" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Whitehaven Beach[/caption] TOP TEN BEACHES IN THE WORLD FOR 2023: Baia do Sancho, Fernando de Noronha, Brazil Eagle Beach, Aruba, The Caribbean Cable Beach, Broome, Australia Reynisfjara Beach, Vik, Iceland Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos, The Caribbean Praia da Falésia, Algarve, Portugal Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island, India Spiaggia dei Conigli, Sicily, Italy Varadero Beach, Cuba, The Caribbean Ka'anapali Beach, Maui, Hawaii TOP TEN BEACHES IN THE SOUTH PACIFIC FOR 2023: Cable Beach, Broome, Western Australia, Australia Manly Beach, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia Emily Bay, Norfolk Island, Australia Mooloolaba Beach, Mooloolaba, Queensland, Australia Matira Beach, Society Island, Bora Bora, French Polynesia Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas, Queensland, Australia Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Island, Queensland, Australia Tahunanui Beach, Nelson, New Zealand Turquoise Bay, Exmouth, Western Australia, Australia Natadola Beach, Sigatoka, Fiji [caption id="attachment_891590" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Matira Beach[/caption] To check out the full list of top beaches for 2023, head to Tripadvisor. Images: Getty Images / Tripadvisor. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
Byron Bay's Bluesfest has lost another name from its 2023 lineup, with acclaimed rapper Sampa the Great pulling out of this year's festival. Just over six weeks out from the Easter long-weekend fest, Bluesfest today announced its playing times for the five-day music program and a revised lineup, both of which were missing Sampa. A member from Sampa's team confirmed to Concrete Playground that Zambian hip hop trailblazer will not be performing at the festival. US supergroup The Soul Rebels & Friends with special guests Talib Kweli, GZA and Big Freedia also appears missing from the set times and revised lineup, however, there's been no confirmation of the group's removal from the lineup. Bluesfest was reached out to for comment on both Sampa and The Soul Rebels, but did not respond before publication. [caption id="attachment_811633" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sampa the Great, Lucian Coman[/caption] The lineup change follows Monday's announcement that King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard had also removed themselves from the program. The band's decision to withdraw from the festival was kept reasonably vague but, in a statement, the Melbourne psych-rock group cited the festival's decision to book content that conflicts with their values as the reason they won't be appearing. "As a band and as human beings, we stand against misogyny, racism, transphobia and violence," King Giz's statement reads. "Surprised and saddened to see Bluesfest commit to presenting content that is in complete opposition to these values." "Given this decision by the festival, we have decided to cancel our appearance at Bluesfest," continues the statement. "We are deeply disappointed to be in this position but sometimes you need to be willing to make sacrifices to stand up for your values. This is, unfortunately, one of those moments." Controversy began brewing around this year's Bluesfest after the unveiling of its sixth artist announcement which featured the band Sticky Fingers. The booking of Sticky Fingers received online backlash from others in the music industry including Jaguar Jonze and Camp Cope's Sarah Thompson. Dylan Frost, Sticky Fingers' frontman, has been the subject of serious allegations which include physically threatening First Nations singer Thelma Plum and harassing a transgender woman at a Sydney pub. Frost and bassist Paddy Cornwall were also caught in an alleged brawl with each other in 2019 which saw Cornwall charged with affray. Bluesfest previously faced controversy after festival director Peter Noble compared a Jewish woman to a Nazi for commenting on the gender imbalance present on the first announcement of the festival's 2018 lineup. The festival will continue without King Giz and Sampa the Great from Thursday, April 6 until Monday, April 10 with headliners including Gang of Youths, Paolo Nutini, Tash Sultana, Bonnie Raitt, The Doobie Brothers and Beck. [caption id="attachment_876098" align="alignnone" width="1920"] King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, Jason Galea[/caption] Bluesfest 2023 will run from Thursday, April 6–Monday, April 10 at Byron Events Farm, Tyagarah. For the most up-to-date lineup, head to the Bluesfest website. Top image: Jordan Munns.
You are cordially invited to Relief on the Runway, where fashion meets charity. In celebration of Glory Box’s first birthday, they will be hosting a fashion parade with all proceeds going to the Australian Red Cross Disaster Relief and Recovery. Hitting the runway will be some of Glory Box’s finest garments, artwork from local artists up for sale, burlesque performances and live music. Glory Box is an independent seller of new and vintage fashions, so you can do your part for charity while also planning your next fashion fix. Tickets include entry into a prize draw and a night filled with entertainment, a licensed bar and dumplings. However, if you cannot attend but would still like to contribute, you can do so via the charity website. Remember: all ticket purchases and donations are tax deductible.
Finding greatness in Bong Joon-ho's Parasite isn't difficult. The perceptive class-clash and eat-the-rich story, the array of pitch-perfect performances, the acclaimed director's stunning mastery of tone, the insightful and revealing production design: they're all examples in this Oscar- and Cannes-winning South Korean masterpiece. Another instance comes courtesy of composer Jung Jae-il's score, which soundtracks the film with tunes both disquieting and baroque. It's no wonder that accolades came Jung's way, too, including from his homeland's Grand Bell Awards. Hearing Jung's contribution echoing as Parasite screens is the best way to appreciate it, of course — and watching him perform it live in Australia with Orchestra Victoria will dial what's already a spectacular experience up a few notches. For the first time, the composer is heading Down Under, all thanks to 2025's Melbourne International Film Festival. The event's commitment to honouring the art of screen composition via screenings that pair live tunes and movies is continuing, and two Parasite in Concert sessions are set to be among this year's fest highlights. At 2pm and 8pm on Saturday, August 23 at Hamer Hall in the Victorian capital, Jung will take to the keys. He'll also be conducting Orchestra Victoria as he plays. Seeing Parasite on a big screen is already a treat, no matter how many times you've watched it before; however, giving the picture the concert treatment is something extra special. It's only happening in Melbourne, if you're located elsewhere in Australia and needed more motivation — beyond the 26 films the fest has already announced for 2025 — to attend this year's MIFF. Jung isn't just known for Parasite. If you've felt the tension emanating from Squid Game's score across its two seasons so far — with the third arriving before June 2025 is out — then you've also appreciated the composer's efforts. Prior to Parasite, Jung collaborated with Bong on Okja, then did so again afterwards on this year's Mickey 17. The tunes in Hirokazu Kore-eda's Broker hail from him as well, as does the score for MIFF 2025 title Twinless. "Composing the score of Parasite for director Bong Joon Ho was a life-changing experience for me, and it's a work I'm incredibly proud of. I'm so excited to conduct and perform this original score live in concert for the first time in Australia with the talented Orchestra Victoria as part of Melbourne International Film Festival," said Jung about MIFF's Parasite in Concert events. "This isn't just a film with live music, it's something far more rare. To see Jung Jae-il perform and conduct his own score, live, brings an intimacy and immediacy you can't replicate," added Melbourne International Film Festival Artistic Director Al Cossar. "It's exactly the kind of experience that belongs on a festival stage. In collaboration with Orchestra Victoria, we're proud to present something that speaks directly to MIFF's mission to bring audiences the story of the world through unforgettable screen experiences," Cossar continued. Parasite in Concert joins two sessions of almost-100-year-old masterpiece The Passion of Joan of Arc with a new score by Julia Holter on the music-and-movies side of Melbourne International Film Festival's 2025 program so far. As for what else they'll have for company beyond the already-revealed titles, the fest's full lineup is unveiled on Thursday, July 10. Check out the trailer for Parasite below: Parasite Live in Concert takes place on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne, 100 St Kilda Road, Southbank — with tickets on sale from 11am on Thursday, June 12, 2025 via the venue website. The 2025 Melbourne International Film Festival runs from Thursday, August 7–Sunday, August 24 at a variety of venues around Melbourne; from Friday, August 15–Sunday, August 17 and Friday, August 22–Sunday, August 24 in regional Victoria; and online nationwide from Friday, August 15–Sunday, August 31. For further details, including the full program from Thursday, July 10, visit the MIFF website.
Perhaps you're fond of crusty sourdough with your breakfast or brunch. Maybe you have a sweet tooth for cakes, muffins and brownies. Either way, with everyone presently spending more time at home — and zero time eating out at bakeries and cafes — we're betting that you've probably cranked up your oven and put your baking skills to the test in recent weeks. Next time you get creative in the kitchen, however, you don't just have to stick to a packet mix or try out the recipe on the back of your packet of flour. And if you've been craving treats from one of Brisbane's favourite spots for tasty baked goods, you don't have to miss out. Adapting to the current situation, Jocelyn's Provisions is now selling 'take & bake' kits, which'll let you whip up some of its wares yourself. For folks who can't resist the smell of baking cookies wafting through the house, the choc chip cookie dough kit ($18.50) features 500 grams of ready-to-bake cookie dough — which is enough to make 24 cookies. And for those who are fine with leaving the baking to the experts, but would love to get crafty with icing, the cupcake decorating kit ($22.50) comes with six vanilla cupcakes, piping bags filled with raspberry and vanilla icing, and edible pink and gold decorations. Both kits are available for pick up only — with orders taken online, and collection available from Jocelyn's Provisions' stores on Sandgate Road in Albion, James Street in New Farm and Samuel Street in Camp Hill. Jocelyn's is also selling its regular range for takeaway and delivery, as well as a weekly selection of take home meals — with the current menu, at the time of writing, featuring cacio e pepe spaghetti and tomato and bacon pasta for two ($16.90 each); minestrone soup with a mini garlic bread, which also serves two ($23.50); garlic, fresh herb and parmesan sourdough that'll cater for between four and six ($18.50); and a four-person classic beef lasagne ($48.50). For more information about Jocelyn's Provisions' 'take & bake' kits — or to order one — visit the store's website. If you're choosing to go out and support local businesses, have a look at the latest COVID-19 advice and social-distancing guidelines from the Department of Health.
Sydney WorldPride is bringing the party to town. Not only will it see our country's best gay clubs, bars and party spaces come to life but the celebrations will flow throughout galleries and art spaces, museums (hello Pride Shark!), boutiques, public parks, rainbow roads, and the sails of the Opera House. Our editors have picked their favourite Sydney WorldPride events but we've also enlisted a few locals to share some of the less obvious spots to celebrate. Enter Alex Greenwich. The Independent MP is a proud gay man and has used his public platform to push for equality and LGBTQIA+ rights throughout his career. For WorldPride, he's swapped his signature casual suit and shirt for a tuxedo exploding with green tulle in an installation hosted in the hallowed halls of the QVB. Alex is among a lineup of queer Australian legends currently being honoured for their contributions to the LGBTQIA+ community. The retail centre is temporarily changing up its name from the Queen Victoria Building to reflect each of these contemporary queens with a set of fabulous portraits befitting of any royalty on display shot by photographer Dream Syndicator. The queens in focus are trans icon and cabaret star Carlotta, queer activist Ken Davis (a member of the original Mardi Gras 78ers), Indigenous drag queen Felicia Foxx, and Alex along with Janine Middleton who, together, co-chaired Australian Equality and successfully fought for and helped achieve marriage equality in Australia. Who better than MP Greenwich — whose office is literally in the middle of Oxford Street — to give a few tips on where to go during Sydney WorldPride? And if you bump into him in a bar, he'll take a tequila and soda, thanks darl. What do you think about Sydney hosting WorldPride this year? "Sydney hosting WorldPride is such a great opportunity to showcase our city and diverse community to the whole world. During covid Sydney missed the world and the world missed Sydney and Sydney WorldPride is a nice way to welcome back the rest of the world. Sydney has the most beautiful and diverse welcoming LGBTQIA+ community and I'm grateful to be part of that community. I'm also grateful to have the opportunity to represent that community in parliament." If someone spies Alex Greenwich at a club or bar (and WorldPride is bringing to life some of the best), what drink should they buy you? (And what topic should they NEVER bring up?) "If I'm in a club, tequila and soda will probably be the drink of choice. I don't know about a topic that I wouldn't want some to bring up... I'll talk about any topic." What are the best queer venues in Sydney in your opinion? "I think there's such a great variety of queer venues in Sydney. I love Stonewall. The re-opening of ARQ is awesome. POOF DOOF at Kinsella's and smaller venues like Dulcies in the Cross." [caption id="attachment_679716" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The iconic Stonewall on Oxford Street[/caption] What are some of the best spots where an international visitor should go on a first-date during Pride? "There's so many great spots in Sydney to choose from. What I would say is to go to a swimming hole like the new cove in Barangaroo, grab food from a mini deli like Darlinghurst Deli and stop by a bottle shop, and go for a picnic and a swim." Where do you like having a late-night dinner or snack? "Chinatown is always a great destination for a late night dinner." Which local LGBTQIA+ owned businesses do you like to support? The great thing with Sydney is there are so many LGBTQIA+ owned businesses to support. I try to support them all but Claire's Kitchen on Oxford Street is an iconic dinner destination. What events are you most excited about for Mardi Gras and WorldPride? And what are the events you would say are not-to-be-missed? "I'm most excited for the Pride March Harbour Bridge Crossing . It will be historic and an opportunity to send a strong message about supporting LGBTQIA+ rights. I'm also looking forward to the Mardi Gras parade and marching in it again, the First Nations Gala at the Opera House, and the Opening Ceremony." [caption id="attachment_892180" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Miss First Nations perform at the First Nations Gala[/caption] Finally, Alex: how important is Kylie Minogue? "Kylie is obviously an icon of Australia and a strong supporter of the community and it's so wonderful that she is joining us for the celebration." For more inspiration for how to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime celebration head to our events guide on the best of Sydney WorldPride.
They're taking the hobbits to Isengard at Dendy Coorparoo this summer, with one movie marathon to rule them all. Round up the Fellowship, stock up on lembas bread for sustenance and hide your finest pipe-weed from the Southfarthing for two sittings of all three of Peter Jackson's beloved OG Tolkien film adaptations — on Saturday, December 14 and Sunday, December 15. Kicking off with The Fellowship of the Ring and ending with The Return of the King, this cave troll of a marathon clocks in at 558 minutes, and will run in full on both days. Pick which date to block out, then start the journey at midday, with five-minute breaks between each movie (for breakfast and second breakfast, if you will). If you make it to the final handful of endings, you can pat yourself on the back and smash a ringwraith screech at the nearest Coorparoo resident on your way home (note: do not actually screech at the residents). Without a ticket, expect at least one overenthusiastic cinema staff member to make an example of you, thundering "you shall not pass!" to raucous applause. So buy a ticket, precious, for $42 — with this all-day marathon taking place in Dendy's Premium Lounge. And, to help ramp up your excitement, watch the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_WZxJpHzEE
