Prepare to stare at the moon in all of its glory — up close, without a telescope and without zooming into space. Measuring seven metres in diameter and featuring renderings of the celestial body's surface based on NASA imagery, the Museum of the Moon is a detailed installation by UK-based artist Luke Jerram. The giant sculpture has been touring the world since 2016, displaying in New York, Hong Kong, Mumbai, plenty of spots around Europe, and also around Australia. Between Friday, September 2–Sunday, September 11, it'll add West Village in West End to its orbit. Inspired by Jerram's time living in Bristol and "noticing the huge tidal variation as he cycled over the Avon Cut each day" according to the Museum of the Moon's website, the artwork recreates the moon at a scale of approximately 1:500,000, with each centimetre equating to five kilometres of the lunar surface. If you're wondering just how intricate the 120dpi imagery is, the high-resolution NASA photograph that it uses is 21 metres wide, and was taken by by a satellite carrying the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera. The spherical sculpture is lit from within, so it'll add a glow when it comes to Brisbane during its ten-day stopover. [caption id="attachment_855886" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Museum of the Moon by Luke Jerram, Greenwich & Docklands Festival, UK, 2017. Photo by @edsimmons / @visitgreenwich.[/caption] Museum of the Moon also combines its imagery and light with a surround sound piece created by composer and sound designer Dan Jones, and just how each spot displays it is up to them. Basically, it's never the exact same installation twice — so if you've seen it before, you still need to see it again. It hits Brisbane in 2022 as part of this year's full Brisbane Festival program — opening from 4–10pm on launch day; 11am–10pm on Saturdays the installation's second Friday; and 11am–8pm on Sundays, as well as Tuesday–Thursday. On Tuesday, September 6, there'll be free live performances from 6.30pm, too — and when Museum of the Moon's stay is up, Jerram's earth-focused Gaia will take over the floating globe, followed by Mars. [caption id="attachment_699961" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Museum of The Moon[/caption] Top image: Satya Nayak.
Get excited, festivalgoers: Pitch Music & Arts is returning to Grampian Plains in 2025, complete with a jam-packed roster of talent. Joy Orbison, Honey Dijon, Funk Tribu, 2manydjs: they're all on the bill. So are Daria Kolosova, SPFDJ, 999999999, Shanti Celeste, FJAAK, Lady Shaka and Job Jobse, with the list going on from there. Everyone should make the trip to the Grampians at least once, and here's as ace an excuse to do so as any: the return of the much-loved camping festival, which will host its eighth edition, taking over Moyston again. Next years' festivities are happening from Friday, March 7–Tuesday, March 11. Not only will its three stages play host to a sparkling lineup of local and international musical talent, as always, but the tunes will be backed by a hefty program of interactive art and installations. Basically, no matter who makes it onto the bill, attendees are in for a very big, very busy four days. Joy Orbison's 'flight fm' and 'better' were used in teaser videos for 2025's fest, which was indeed a huge advance lineup hint. You can also look forward to catching Gabber Eleganza, BASHKKA, Funk Assault, Baraka, ISAbella, Ogazón, southstar, Midland, Dax J, Anetha and plenty more, including Osmosis Jones, Moopie, DJ PGZ, Stev Zar, Jennifer Loveless and Mabel. On the Pitch Music & Arts arts lineup: Adnate, Anatolik Belikov, Ash Keating, Builders Club, Clayton Blake, EJ Son, ENOKi, Georgia Treloar, Henry Howson & Ambrose Zacharakis, Jaqui Munoz, Joan Sandoval, Lukas Rafik Mayer, ØFFËRÎNGŠ (aka Melissa Gilbert), Petra Péterffy, Rachel Lyn & Cameron Trafford, Raquel Villa, Reelize Studio, Sam Hayes, TERRAIN, Tetrik and UnitePlayPerform. In between all of the dance-floor sessions and arty things, festivalgoers will again be able to make themselves at home in the Pitch Pavilion, which is where yoga classes, meditation and sound baths usually help patrons unwind. The local-focused Club Serra will be new in 2025, championing homegrown talent. Pitch Music & Arts 2025 Lineup 2 LUBLY 2manydjs (DJ set) 6 SENSE 999999999 Anetha Audrey Danza BADSISTA Baraka (LIVE) BASHKKA D. Tiffany Daria Kolosova b2b SPFDJ Dax J Diffrent DJ Fuckoff DJ Gigola DJ Paulette DJ PGZ b2b Moopie Ed Kent Ela Minus Elli Acula Fadi Mohem FJAAK (LIVE) Funk Assault Funk Tribu Gabber Eleganza presents the Hakke Show GiGi FM Guy Contact Honey Dijon ISAbella Jennifer Loveless Job Jobse Joy Orbison Kasper Marott Kia Kuzco (LIVE) Lacchesi Lady Shaka Leo Pol Maara Mabel Maruwa Mia Koden Midland Mikalah Watego Miley Serious Naycab Ned Bennett Objekt Ogazón Ollie Lishman Osmosis Jones Pablo Bozzi Pegassi Shanti Celeste southstar Stev Zar Sugar Free Surf 2 Glory Taylah Elaine The Illustrious Blacks Trym VOLVOX Y U QT Images: Duncographic, William Hamilton Coates, Max Roux and Ashlea Caygill.
When Tropical Cyclone Alfred comes around, Green Day doesn't. With the storm approaching southeast Queensland, and the weather set to turn wet and windy as a result, the California-born band have cancelled their Gold Coast show on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, which was set to be the last stop on their 2025 Australian tour. "Hey Australia, unfortunately due to circumstances out of our control, tomorrow's Gold Coast show has been canceled," the band posted on social media on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. "With Cyclone Alfred bringing some seriously nasty weather, it's just not possible to go ahead safely. We know this is a huge disappointment, and we're just as bummed as you are. Stay safe out there!" [caption id="attachment_972777" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Raph_PH via Flickr.[/caption] On the Live Nation website, the tour promoter advised that "this decision was made in close consultation with local authorities and with Green Day, prioritising the safety of all involved." The gig is cancelled, not postponed, as "due to Green Day's international touring schedule it will not be possible to reschedule the Gold Coast show to a later date". [caption id="attachment_972774" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Alice Baxley, Apple Music[/caption] Already hitting Melbourne and Sydney, Billie Joe Armstrong, Mike Dirnt and Tré Cool have been in Australia on group's global The Saviors Tour, which is named for their 14th studio album Saviors. Two other records have been in the spotlight, however: the band's iconic 1994 album Dookie and their American Idiot album from 2004. Playing both in full has been a feature of the tour, covering everything from 'Basket Case', 'When I Come Around', 'Longview' and 'She' to 'Boulevard of Broken Dreams', 'Wake Me Up When September Ends', 'Holiday' and, yes, 'American Idiot'. On the Gold Coast, Green Day were set to take to the stage at CBUS Super Stadium with fellow California-born group AFI in support. Ticketholders will now automatically receive a full refund from Ticketmaster via their original method of payment between 14–21 days. It won't be the same as seeing Green Day live, but they are headlining Coachella, so you'll be able to livestream their set in April. [caption id="attachment_972776" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Raph_PH via Flickr.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_972775" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Alice Baxley[/caption] Green Day are no longer playing at CBUS Super Stadium, Gold Coast on Wednesday, March 5, 2025. Head to the tour website for more details. Top image: Raph_PH via Flickr.
One of the world's top chefs is opening a new restaurant in Sydney later this year. But unlike the many (many) upscale restaurants coming and going in our city, this latest project by Massimo Bottura — the culinary powerhouse and chef behind the world's best restaurant, Osteria Francescana — is not for those with big budgets, but rather for the less affluent. The restaurant, which will be run in collaboration with Australian food rescue charity OzHarvest, was announced at an on-stage conversation Bottura held at the State Theatre last night. The event was largely a platform to promote the chef's charitable Food for Soul project which, akin to Sydney-based not-for-profit OzHarvest, seeks to promote awareness about food wastage and hunger. And it won't be the first time Bottura has worked with OzHarvest and its Founder Ronni Kahn, either. The pair partnered up for a one-off charitable dinner back in 2017, raising money for both OzHarvest and Food for Soul. Kahn says the restaurant — or refettorio, a communal kitchens for socially vulnerable groups — came as a natural progression of this. "I first met Massimo in 2016 — it was like meeting a kindred spirit that I had known all my life," said Kahn in a statement. "We share the same passion, values and vision to create a better world…I'm excited and privileged to be able to bring his refettorio to life in Australia." [caption id="attachment_715651" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Massimo Bottura, Ronni Kahn and the team behind 2017's Cooking with a Conscience dinner. Image: Nikki To[/caption] The restaurant will be Bottura's fifth refettorio with the other venues located in Milan, Rio de Janeiro, London and Paris. At all of his kitchens, Bottura uses rescued food to create the meals — and often teams up with the city's best chefs to do so — for homeless communities and those living in poverty. Currently scoping out potential locations, Kahn and Bottura are hopeful the restaurant will open sometime this year. It will be run by both chefs and volunteers — expect to see some of the faces above in the kitchen — and might expand beyond the current refettorio model of serving vulnerable people to offer meals for the whole community. So, by the end of the year, you might be eating Bottura's food right here in Sydney. The Sydney refettorio is slated to open by the end of the year. We'll update you as soon as we know more.
Start clicking your fingers: come August 2025, Tim Burton's (Beetlejuice Beetlejuice) TV dive into the world of the Addams Family will be back, with Netflix dropping the first half of Wednesday's second season. The streaming platform has been teasing what's next in this creepy, kooky, mysterious and spooky realm for over a year, including via new cast announcements and an initial sneak peek. For more of what's in store, the show's full season two trailer has just dropped — along with news of an upcoming Wednesday experience Down Under. In the latest glimpse at the series' second season, its namesake (Jenna Ortega, Death of a Unicorn) is back at Nevermore Academy and being heralded as a hero thanks to her efforts in season one. Wednesday is characteristically unimpressed by the attention. Soon, her focus is elsewhere, however, thanks to a premonition of her roommate Enid (Emma Myers, A Minecraft Movie) coming to a grave end, with Wednesday determined to do whatever she can to stop that from happening. The show is releasing season two in two batches. Part one arrives on Wednesday, August 6, then part two on Wednesday, September 3. Another date for the diary: Saturday, August 16, which is when Wednesday Island will temporarily become a part of Sydney's landscape. More details are to come, and soon — the timer on the pop-up's website is counting down to 12am on Friday, July 11, 2025. For now, Netflix has revealed that the Wednesday cast are heading to Australia as part of a worldwide promotional tour, and that Cockatoo Island / Wareamah in Sydney Harbour will be transformed into a Wednesday haven. Think: experiences that'll make you feel like you're at Nevermore, other activations, performances and more. Back to the new season: Joanna Lumley (Amandaland), Steve Buscemi (The Studio), Billie Piper (Kaos) and Thandiwe Newton (Mufasa: The Lion King) are among the series' new cast additions, some of whom can be seen in its full trailer. Season two also features more of Catherine Zeta-Jones (National Treasure: Edge of History) as Morticia, Luis Guzmán (Justified: City Primeval) as Gomez, Isaac Ordonez (Color Box) as Pugsley and Luyanda Unati Lewis-Nyawo (Dreamers) as Deputy Ritchie Santiago, all getting meatier parts than in season one. Among its new cast members, Evie Templeton (Criminal Record), Owen Painter (Tiny Beautiful Things), Noah B Taylor (Law & Order: Organised Crime), Frances O'Connor (The Twelve), Haley Joel Osment (Blink Twice), Heather Matarazzo (Paint) and Joonas Suotamo (The Acolyte) are also onboard — plus Christopher Lloyd (Hacks), following Christina Ricci (Yellowjackets) among the stars of the 90s Addams Family films popping up in Wednesday. Fred Armisen (Fallout) remains Wednesday's take on Uncle Fester, though — one that Netflix is so keen on that there's been talk of a spinoff about the character. Check out the full trailer for Wednesday season two below: Wednesday season two arrives in two parts, with part one dropping on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 and part two on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, both via Netflix. Read our full review of Wednesday season one. For more information about Wednesday Island, which is taking over Cockatoo Island in Sydney on Saturday, August 16, keep an eye on the pop-up's website — and we'll provide more details when they're announced. Images: Helen Sloan and Jonathan Hession/Netflix © 2025.
A few months ago, back when our feeds were cluttered with banana bread and sourdough starter, it seemed like everyone we knew was unveiling their previously hidden baking skills. But nobody seemed to be making doughnuts. You know why? Because they are surprisingly tricky to perfect. Which is why we respect the team at Brooklyn Donut & Coffee Co so much. They work hard daily to churn out the most perfect, New York-style doughnuts you'll find on this side of the equator. The White Biscoff is our clear pick of the bunch, filled with cookie butter, and topped with white chocolate. We also love the fact that doughnuts travel really well, so, if you order them for delivery, they will arrive looking picture perfect (until you inhale them, that is). Images: Adam Pinzone
Fancy seeing one of Brisbane's most popular spaces in a completely new light? Or, to be more accurate, with more than 22,000 square metres of lights flickering in, around and over the top of its lush greenery? As every home renovation-focused TV show has told us time and time again, a splash of colour can make a world of difference — and, at Roma Street Parkland's returning Enchanted Garden, it can turn an already picturesque space into a glorious festive wonderland. This local favourite pops up year after year, delighting Brisbanites of all ages — and 2022 is no different. This year, you'll be heading along from Friday, November 25–Wednesday, December 21, with the event sticking around for an extended season due to past demand. We all sure do love glowing lights, clearly. Designed to take half an hour to wander through and stretching along a one-kilometre walk, The Enchanted Garden combines custom-made LEDs — plus special effects, light sculptures, lasers, projections and holograms — with an immersive audio soundscape. The aim: getting merry and celebrating nature, with the 2022 installation featuring five sections. One will pay tribute to the parklands' water sections, another focuses on its rock formations, while a third showcases the locale's fig tree avenue. There's also a section that's all about floral art, and one filled with moving shadow sculptures. Unsurprisingly, it's a family-friendly affair — and, like in 2021, there is a fee. You'll pay $7 to head along and stare up at all that dazzling brightness. Once you're in, you can soak up the luminousness for as long as you like. Attendees shouldn't go expecting the kind of setup that you've been ignoring on every street corner in Brissie's suburbs. Lights will twinkle and decorations will sparkle; however, this isn't a tacky DIY display. Nope, not at all. That said, a word of warning: people love all things glittery, so prepare to a heap company. Also, tickets usually get snapped up quickly, with this year's going on sale at 9am on Monday, November 7. Sessions run from 6–9.30pm and, if you're organised enough, you can always pack a picnic, arrive early and enjoy dinner beforehand. Plus, you can BYO drinks to one of the few public places that allows them in our fair town — although Roma Street Parklands' licensed areas are only licensed until 8pm. Food trucks will also be onsite at the Celebration Lawn from 4–9.30pm daily if you don't get around to taking care of your own nosh. The Enchanted Garden returns to Roma Street Parkland from Friday, November 25–Wednesday, December 21. Tickets go on sale at 9am on Monday, November 7 — head to the event's website for further details.
Come Friday, May 5, 2023's Archibald Prize winner will be unveiled. Whoever emerges victorious, the award's just-announced finalists have already made history. This is Australia's most prestigious portrait prize, is now in its 102nd year and hands out $100,000 to its annual winner. And, it took until this year for more women than men to be make the final list of contenders. In total, 949 entries were received, with 57 artists named as finalists. They include 30 by women and 27 by men. One such piece: Packing Room Prize recipient Clown Jewels, a portrait of New Zealand-born comedian Cal Wilson painted by Perth-born, Cairns-based artist Andrea Huelin — who picked up the gong with her first Archibald Prize entry. [caption id="attachment_898390" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Packing Room Prize 2023 winner, Andrea Huelin 'Clown jewels', oil on board, 120.2 x 120.1 cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter. Sitter: Cal Wilson.[/caption] The Packing Room Prize is picked by three members of the Art Gallery of New South Wales' packing room team, hence the name: Timothy Dale, Monica Rudhar and Alexis Wildman in 2023. "Andrea's work jumped out at us as soon as it arrived. The bright colours really popped, and we immediately recognised Cal as a familiar face," said Wildman. "Cal's been such a mainstay on Australian television for two decades. We love the interesting pose and unique headwear and, in the tradition of the Packing Room Prize, Andrea's painting looks like Cal! This is a great, joyful portrait of someone who has brought so much laughter to Australia." [caption id="attachment_898395" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Packing Room Prize 2023 winner Andrea Huelin 'Clown jewels', featured with prize judges (left to right) Tim Dale, Monica Rudhar and Alexis Wildman, at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, photo © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Diana Panuccio.[/caption] "Being a finalist is everything I could have hoped for. Winning the Packing Room Prize is simply gobsmacking," advised Huelin. "I was inspired to paint Cal because her Instagram posts modelling her brilliant homemade headpieces on her makeshift stage made me laugh out loud. Her poses reminded me of my sister and me making ourselves laugh by pulling funny faces in the mirror as kids and I could tell we share a similar sense of humour. I posted a congratulatory comment and Cal wrote back and admired my paintings, so I asked if she'd sit for a portrait." "Cal brought her creativity and imagination to the sitting, as well as a suitcase full of headpieces and outfits. Because I'm a still life painter, I thought the headpieces were a great way for me to incorporate a still life element into the portrait. The formal portrait mocks the 19th-century style in which women were once painted, while capturing her cheeky expression and sparkly headpiece, which is actually just arts and crafts," Huelin continued. [caption id="attachment_898394" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Archibald Prize 2023 finalist, Matt Adnate 'Echoes of a teenage superstar', spray paint and acrylic on linen, 198 x 198 cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter. Sitter: Daniel Johns.[/caption] Alongside Clown Jewels, 2023's finalists include portraits of plenty of famous faces, Claudia Karvan, Sam Neill, Archie Roach, Noni Hazlehurst and Daniel Johns included. The latter comes courtesy of muralist Matt Adnate, and also marks his first Archibald entry. If you'd like to see all of the above, and the rest of 2023's finalists, they'll all be on display at the Art Gallery of NSW in Sydney from Saturday, May 6–Sunday, September 3. And, they'll have company from works shortlisted for the venue's similarly coveted Wynne and Sulman prizes. The Wynne received 726 entries, with 41 named as finalists, while the Sulman received 673 entries, naming 45 as final contenders. [caption id="attachment_898396" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Archibald Prize 2023 finalist, Anh Do 'Seeing Ruby', oil on linen, 240.4 x 200.3 cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter. Sitter: Archie Roach.[/caption] In total, 2348 works tried their luck across the Archibald, Wynne and Sulman prizes, making this year's pool the second largest ever, beaten only by 2020's. And, 2023 notched up another history-making stat: the highest-ever total number of entries by Aboriginal artists across the three prizes. Speculation about who will be awarded the coveted Archibald Prize — and, more often than not, the Archibald winner itself — usually causes much-heated debate. From 2018's five-time Archibald finalist Yvette Coppersmith's first win to Tony Costa's 2019 victory with his painting of fellow artist Lindy Lee — the first portrait of an Asian Australian to pick up the prize — it's hard a prize to pick. All that's really assured is that it'll be a portrait of a person by an Australian-based artist. [caption id="attachment_898397" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Archibald Prize 2023 finalist, Laura Jones 'Claudia (the GOAT)', oil and acrylic on canvas, 198.2 x 152.6 cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter. Sitter: Claudia Karvan.[/caption] In 2020, Vincent Namatjira's portrait of Adam Goodes did the honours, and also marked the first time the award has gone to an Indigenous artist. In 2021, Peter Wegner's portrait of fellow artist Guy Warren nabbed the gong. And in 2022, it was Blak Douglas' portrait of artist Karla Dickens in the Lismore floods that came out on top. Whoever earns the nod for 2023's Archibald, there's still another award up for grabs afterwards. If you don't agree with the judges, you can cast your own vote for People's Choice, which will be announced on Wednesday, August 9. [caption id="attachment_898398" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Archibald Prize 2023 finalist, James Powditch 'Sam I Am', acrylic on paper and board, 200 x 240 cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter. Sitter: Sam Neill.[/caption] ARCHIBALD PRIZE 2023 DATES: Art Gallery of NSW, Sydney, NSW — May 6–September 3, 2023 Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery, Victoria — September 15–November 5, 2023 South East Centre for Contemporary Art, Bega, NSW — November 18, 2023—January 7, 2024 Goulburn Regional Art Gallery, NSW — January 19–March 10, 2024 Hawkesbury Regional Gallery, NSW — March 15–April 28, 2024 Tamworth Regional Gallery, NSW — May 11–June 23, 2024 Glasshouse Port Macquarie, NSW — July 5–August 18, 2024 If you can't make it to any of the above dates, you can check out the award winners and finalists of the Archibald, Wynne and Sulman prizes on the Art Gallery of NSW website. Top image: Excerpt of Packing Room Prize 2023 winner, Andrea Huelin 'Clown jewels', oil on board, 120.2 x 120.1 cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter. Sitter: Cal Wilson.
Tucked away in Bowen Hills, Twelfth Night Theatre is a charming suburban gem that has graced the streets of Brisbane since the 60s. The 522-seat, privately owned venue has long held the hearts of locals as a place for theatre buffs and newbies alike to enjoy themselves. Over the years, the stage has seen everything from small-scale community plays to performances from big names in Australia and overseas theatre. Catch any number of fun, musical, comedic or Shakespearean shows here. Shows usually run for just a few nights at a time and we're pretty sure you won't want to miss out on something like The Puppetry of the Penis, which is playing in November, 2021. It's located across the road from the Bowen Hills train station and within walking distance of King Street and Gasworks Plaza, so dinner and a show is calling your name.
In Stay of the Week, we explore some of the world's best and most unique accommodations, giving you inspiration for your next trip. In this instalment, we set the compass to regional Victoria and take a trip to Sorrento for a special stay at the newly renovated Hotel Sorrento. [caption id="attachment_899023" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Rising High Media[/caption] WHAT'S SO SPECIAL? Here, in a buzzy pocket of the Mornington Peninsula, Hotel Sorrento has sat for nearly 150 years boasting enviable bay vistas. Now, the historic sandstone building is welcoming a massive expansion including a soon-to-come 30-metre pool and rooftop yoga studio. At the moment, Hotel Sorrento boasts five separate bars, two restaurants, newly refurbished accommodation rooms as well as private dining areas. It's an all-in-one destination escape just over an hour from Melbourne's CBD. THE ROOMS There are plenty of rooms to choose from at Hotel Sorrento, starting from $325 a night. Contemporary and light-filled, rooms are accented with a variety of deep European oak, natural limestone and marble. Heritage Balcony Rooms are the crowning jewel of this hotel, boasting private balconies with exclusive vistas overlooking the bay. [caption id="attachment_899027" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Threefold Social[/caption] FOOD AND DRINK Hotel Sorrento has recently overhauled its food and drink offering, helmed by George Calombaris. "The goal is to create dishes that not only satisfy the palate but tell a story of the region and the community's rich history," George Calombaris says. Shihuishi is the newest addition to the Hotel Sorrento family, nestled in the original, grand Hotel Sorrento ballroom. Head chef Junlin (Jerry) Yi (ex-Red Spice Road) is unafraid to stray from tradition, from prawn crackers paired with crème fraîche; to spanakopita dumplings that marry whipped feta and dill. Deeper into the menu, patrons will discover Australian-Canto cuisine that nods to the Chinese restaurant that stood onsite back in the 1980s. A prawn, lap cheong and onion stir-fry is a crowd-pleaser, along with duck pancakes and black pepper beef, served on a sizzling plate. Other classics run to the likes of steamed barra with soy, ginger and spring onion, or the ever-popular pork and prawn shumai. Otherwise, if you fancy a short but sweet wander, head across the road to the Conti for a slew of venues including a public bar, beer garden, speakeasy and fine diner. Luxe speakeasy Barlow is our pick for a pre-evening tipple. Sorrento institution Stringers has also recently been revamped by The Darling Group (Higher Ground, Kettle Black, Top Paddock), turning the corner store and cafe into an all-day restaurant, pizzeria, bar and providore. THE LOCAL AREA Sorrento is a much-loved spot for both Mornington Peninsula locals and regular holiday blow-ins, due to its accessibility from Melbourne. In warmer months, swimming, snorkeling and water activities at Sorrento Beach is a must-do. If you're looking to sidestep the crowds, Diamond Bay is a popular spot for both families and couples. A range of short, all-weather walking tracks are stunning year-around, including Coppins Track which finishes at the clifftop of Diamond Bay. The cliffside Millionaires Walk is named as a nod to the lavish private residences that line this path, or try the 7km Sorrento Circuit Walk, which hits all of this town's main attractions. THE EXTRAS Hotel Sorrento is looking to install a new 30-metre pool alongside a pool-friendly bar, rooftop yoga studio and gym by the end of 2023. If you're looking for a staycation special, Hotel Sorrento's winter escape package includes overnight accommodation for two, dinner for two at Shuihuishi and a bottle of local Pinot Noir for your room. 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. Images: supplied.
The weather is glorious. Your basket is packed with homemade salads, a big stack of cheese or the finest sandwiches your local deli can make. The lawn games are at the ready. A relaxing picnic is just moments away, but you're still missing two crucial ingredients. Firstly, you need something to drink, because a refreshing beverage can turn a good feast on the grass into a great one. And secondly, you need somewhere with a glistening view. When in Rome (or rather, a river city) and all that. With a bit of help from Gage Roads Brewing Co and in celebration of its Single Fin summer ale, that's where we come in. These purveyors of quality brews can assist with the beer side of things, while we've found the best spots with a watery vantage for your outdoor meal. Whether you're keen to recline by the snaking Brisbane River or eager to sit seaside, we've got the perfect place. NEW FARM PARK One of Brisbane's big four inner-city parks, New Farm's patch of greenery boasts something that South Bank, Roma Street and Alice Street's equivalents can't quite match. Iconic Aussie flick The Castle knows what we're talking about — it's all about the vibe. Even on a busy summer afternoon when picnic blankets litter the lawn as far as the eye can see, New Farm Park always feels peaceful. Nab a berth near Brisbane Powerhouse for the best views and access to a few barbecues if you'd like to add something else to your feast. And if you're a last-minute kind of picnicker, you can always grab the requisite supplies from the nearby supermarket. HOWARD SMITH WHARVES Brisbane's newest precinct is bustling with bars, restaurants and eateries, and it's only going to add more. The area also offers up views from underneath the Story Bridge where you can bring along some snacks for the full picnic effect. Public green space is a huge part of this freshly redeveloped area, giving Brisbanites access to a vantage that we haven't been able to enjoy in many a year. Eventually, Howard Smith Wharves will also feature a heap of multi-use outdoor spaces and stages, too. So, if you time it right, you might get a show with your picnic. [caption id="attachment_703975" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr.[/caption] WYNNUM-MANLY FORESHORE Kilometres of coastline, a lengthy jetty and a pool by the ocean aren't the only attractions located along the Wynnum-Manly foreshore. There's also an abundance of grass, seats and tables perfect for enjoying the view over a meal, as well as a small beach for those eager to sit on the sand. If the weather is nice, expect to have more than a little company; however, this spot to the city's east has plenty of room for plenty of picnickers. You're also in the ideal place for a leisurely post-meal stroll — pick a direction, start walking and instantly soak in the delightful and calming scenery. [caption id="attachment_703974" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr.[/caption] SHERWOOD ARBORETUM This heritage-listed gem to the CBD's west has been welcoming the public and its picnics for nearly a century. Here, you'll sit under leafy trees — more than a thousand, in fact — while looking out over your choice of man-made freshwater wetlands or the Brisbane River. Whichever you choose, you're in for both a green and glistening sight — although the plant life is as much of a drawcard as the proximity to water. As the name makes plain, Sherwood Arboretum is all about amassing different species of trees (or collecting them, in a sense), so make time during your picnic to go for a wander. [caption id="attachment_703973" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr.[/caption] SHORNCLIFFE PIER Brisbane isn't a beach city. We're not really considered a coastal city either. Still, all you need to do is mosey in the right direction and you'll hit the sea in almost no time at all. For northsiders, or anyone keen on heading that way for their sunny summer outing, the Shorncliffe-Sandgate region has more than its fair share of picnic spots right next to the ocean — plus the largest timber pier in the city to casually stroll along. The super green Sandgate Foreshores Park is one such place and has exactly what everyone here is after: a killer vista. Make your next summertime fling a Single Fin. The light-bodied ale is packed with plenty of hoppy flavour to keep you smiling all season. Top image: Brisbane City Council via Flickr.
Call it Red Light, Green Light. Call it Statues. Call it Grandmother's Footsteps. Whichever name you prefer, how good are you at playing the game that gets folks a-sneaking, ideally without being caught? Now, how would you fare trying to creep forward while avoiding being spotted when Young-hee is lurking? Squid Game fans, if you visit Luna Park Sydney, you'll be able to find out. Opening timed to Squid Game season two's arrival on Netflix on Boxing Day 2025, Squid Game: The Experience will get everyone playing Red Light, Green Light with Young-hee in Luna Park's big top — and also busting out their marbles skills, then walking over the glass bridge. Get your green tracksuit ready. Front Man is there to dare you to take the Squid Game challenges IRL, which obviously doesn't involve notching up a body count like in the series — and isn't televised like reality competition show Squid Game: The Challenge. Some games are inspired by the Netflix program. Others are brand new. Players can take part individually, or in groups of up to 25. As you work through the challenges, which get harder as you go along, you'll earn points. Another difference from the series: if you get eliminated from a game, you'll still be able to take part in the challenges that follow. And yes, Young-hee has popped up Down Under before, with a 4.5-metre, three-tonne recreation of Squid Game's eerie animatronic figure with laser eyes making its presence known also in Sydney back in 2021. [caption id="attachment_975032" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Joe Scarnici/Getty Images for Netflix[/caption] Updated Friday, May 23, 2025.
Since day one in 1941, bad times at the Merthyr Bowls Club have never existed. You'll have a crackerjack of a day no matter what — whether you're taking to the green overlooking the river, sitting on the front deck admiring the view, or enjoying a meaty (or vego) barbecue. Good times are guaranteed. Brisbane might have plenty of places for a leisurely bowl, but Merthyr has remained a favourite for over 75 years. Here, it's all location, location, location with that view, that breeze and those post-game wanders through New Farm Park. Plus, even if you don't feel like getting barefoot and bowling up a storm, the chill vibes and tasty barbecue make Merthyr a perfect hangout. On Fridays, expect to keep the good times rolling until midnight.
Port Macquarie is best known for its idyllic climate and its many pristine beaches. But, over the past few years, this town on the mid-north coast of NSW has developed quite the foodie scene. That's partly thanks to the Hastings River, which runs along Port's northern border, creating fertile land for growing crops and raising cattle, sheep and chooks. It's also thanks to the numerous chefs and baristas who've travelled the world, working in top-notch restaurants and cafes, before settling down in Port Macquarie. Whether you're on the hunt for a good coffee, a tasty burger, some local seafood, a hatted feast or an epic wine list, you'll get it. And if you're contemplating a springtime visit, try to time it with October's Tastings on Hastings festival to experience the full spectrum of regional foods. [caption id="attachment_678289" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Stunned Mullet[/caption] EAT The food at The Stunned Mullet is worth the drive alone. The pale-timber accents, sea-green booths and concertina windows make the most of the breezy beachside location and sweeping ocean views. Among the hatted dishes are creamy oysters ($27 for six, $54 for 12) and Glacier 51 Toothfish ($49): a rarely served species that lives 2000 metres below sea level off Heard Island in the sub-Antarctic. Here, it comes with a shiitake-infused clear soup and black rice wafer. Let sommelier and co-owner Lou Perri choose you a wine from his extremely quaffable list. Another restaurant that puts you right on the water is the Whalebone Wharf. Perched on the Hastings River, this airy space has been serving up premium seafood since 1971. Every fish on the menu is described according to its source, so you know if you're getting mulloway from Yamba (300 kilometres north); dusky flathead from Wallace Lake (750 kilometres south); or mud crab from Forster (100 kilometres south). There's also a light all-day menu; for anyone short on time, a plate of oysters ($4 each) straight out of the Hastings should do the trick. [caption id="attachment_678288" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Whalebone Wharf[/caption] Whalebone WharfGo rural at Cassegrain Wines, where the Seasons Restaurant overlooks the rose garden and vineyard. The menu combines French cuisine with local produce. Think terrine made of Macleay Valley rabbit or bouillabaisse crowded with black mussels and local fish. Match your picks with a Cassegrain drop – the French family first made wine in 1643 and, in 1980, descendant John and his wife, Eva, planted Port Macquarie's first vineyards. If you're looking for a more casual feed, then head to the Burger Rebellion for classic burgers or Zebu for pizza made with 72-hour dough. There are also plenty of excellent cafes in Port Macquarie. Drury Lane, located in a shady courtyard outside Glasshouse Theatre, utilises the local produce to create contemporary dishes, such as Wauchope zucchini with feta and olive-strawberry tapenade. Another champion of local produce is Milkbar, which is the spot for an early brekkie. Grab a seat on the outdoor patio and watch the surf roll in, while digging into house-made beans and baked eggs. Right near the river mouth is LV's on Clarence, it takes the whole locavore thing so seriously it's even established its own mini-farm. Every egg on every plate comes from one of 500 pet chickens, while all ham and pork started out as a free-range pig. The produce is turned into all kinds of tasty treats, such as char sui sandwiches and pork belly sliders ($17). [caption id="attachment_668369" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Black Duck[/caption] DRINK First things first, coffee. One of the best brews in town is at Social Grounds. Since July 2014, this graffiti-covered hideaway has been bringing some seriously good beans to Port Macquarie. The house blend, known as The Story, is a complex journey across several continents, containing beans from Ethiopia, Sumatra, Colombia and Rwanda. Another good option is Blackfish: a welcoming espresso bar, laden with natural timber forms, that looks as though it's been transplanted from the streets of Melbourne. The fruity and caramelly house blend, Cheeky Monkey, comes from Flying West: a roastery based on the Sunshine Coast. About four kilometres southwest of downtown is Peak Coffee, which is not just a cafe but a retail space and roaster, too. To see the process in motion, jump on a tour. Otherwise, go straight to surfer-barista Kenichiro Seno, to choose from two or three single origins. Peak buys most of its beans directly from a man called Uncle Ravi — who inherited his father's coffee plantation in Southern India, where he now oversees a community of farmers. To add a baked treat, try Murray Street Bakery which peddles artisanal goodies from Coffs Harbour's K'pane, or Urban Grain Bakery for goodies made by ex-Zumbo chefs — such as lemon myrtle, caramel and chocolate cronuts. For a bagel fix, head to Blackmarket, where bagels are made according to a well-tested 17th century recipe. [caption id="attachment_668362" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Botanic Wine Garden[/caption] Cocktail hour should begin at Bar Florian. This 1960s Italian-inspired bar offers an impressive drinks list, from a luxury dry gin martini to wines sourced from all over Australia and Europe. Let your boozy adventures continue at Botanic Wine Garden: a friendly bar with bright murals and creative cocktails. Also worth sampling are the efforts of local brewers. A name that you're likely to notice frequently on taps around the North Coast is Black Duck — its headquarters are in Port Macquarie. Work your way through a tasting paddle or take a tour with head brewer Al Owen and meet Murphy, an extremely lovable Great Dane. Another local brewer with wide reach is Little Brewing — it's responsible for Wicked Elf beers and winner of more than 150 awards. [caption id="attachment_668360" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Macquarie Waters Hotel[/caption] SLEEP In between all your eating and drinking, you'll need a cosy place to sleep. For that, check into Macquarie Waters. It's in town, so there are cafes, restaurants and plenty of bars nearby. And, when you're hiding out in your room — or self-contained apartment — you'll be treated to a comfy bed, oodles of space and free wifi and, if you so choose, a spa and/or ocean views. Communal facilities include a heated outdoor pool and jacuzzi, a drive-in movie theatre and, on the rooftop, a hot tub overlooking the sea. For brekkie, The Corner Restaurant on ground level does a mean pulled beef benedict ($19) and Campos coffee. If you're looking for other things to do in Port Macquarie, then check out our weekender's guide.
Normally, no one plans to go to sleep at the movies. If an uninspiring film, being in a cavernous darkened room, the comfort of recliners and daybeds, simple tiredness or any combination of the above can cause your eyes to get heavy, however, there's now a session where dozing is encouraged. More than that, having a nap is exactly what patrons are meant to do at southeast Queensland's Limelight Cinemas when its new Snooze Sessions kick off. Is this the first trip to the flicks that's all about drifting off? This chain thinks so. Its Ipswich venue initially floated the idea as an April Fool's gag, but it's now officially on the lineup, kicking off on Monday, July 14, 2025. If you hear snoring during it, well, don't be surprised. Those chaotic A Minecraft Movie screenings with "chicken jockey" screams and other mayhem that were packing cinemas earlier in 2025? Consider Snooze Sessions the exact opposite. The projectors will still get whirring, but there'll be no shouts and thrown popcorn. Also, you won't be slumbering through a big franchise hit, side-splitting comedy, affectionate rom-com or any other type of movie. Instead, relaxing visuals are on the agenda. At its first edition, Snooze Sessions is going with a rainforest theme, not just in what graces the screen but in the dialogue-free soundscape as well. "Snooze Sessions isn't about catching the next blockbuster — it's about catching your breath. It's a unique experience that proves you don't have to watch a movie to feel transported. It's an invitation to take a break, enjoy the quiet, and reset in a darkened cinema," said CEO Ross Entwistle. Tickets cost $10 for a recliner and $20 for a double daybed — and places are limited to ensure that it truly is a restful experience Maybe this is your moviegoing dream, because picture palaces always make you sleepy. Perhaps you already know that dropping off will be impossible. Or, if you're spending cash at a cinema, you could want to actually see a film. Whatever fits, Limelight Cinemas is giving Snooze Sessions a try for a short time — and it's not joking about it. Snooze Sessions are taking place at Limelight Cinemas Ipswich, Riverlink Shopping Centre, The Terrace, North Ipswich, for a limited time from Monday, July 14, 2025. Head to the venue's website for tickets and more details.
Movie World might've badged itself as Hollywood on the Gold Coast, but it's no longer the only big tourist attraction giving visitors to southeast Queensland — and locals as well — a chance to explore their on-screen favourites IRL. Come November 2024, Brisbane will welcome Bluey's World. Get ready to hear "wackadoo!" constantly, and "for real life", too, at this immersive installation that lets you step inside one of the River City's and Australia's biggest hits of the past six years. Yes, that'd be the award-winning animated favourite that is Bluey. Missed out on staying in a replica of the Bluey house when it was temporarily up for rent in the Queensland capital in 2022? The home of the family-friendly animated phenomenon is now getting a Bluey attraction so that you have another chance to experience the global sensation beyond the TV. Announced in 2023, originally to open this August, but now launching on Thursday, November 7, 2024, Bluey's World will get you walking around life-sized sets that recreate the beloved series. The Heeler house and yard are part of the setup — and as seen in just-released images of the new attraction, they look the part perfectly. Maybe you'll be taking your little ones along, or your nieces and nephews. Perhaps you know that appreciating the adorable Aussie show about a family of blue heelers isn't just for kids. Either way, this is big — including literally. Opening at Northshore Pavilion in Northshore Brisbane, the space itself is sizeable, spanning across 4000 square metres. When Airbnb listed its Bluey abode in 2022, the response was massive. Expect the reaction to Bluey's World to be the same. Already, it has extended its season, sticking around until September 2025. Once you take the stairs up to the family's porch and enter through the front door, the Heeler home awaits, including the living room. So do recreations of recognisable scenes, characters and even games from the show. And yes, as seen in the series, you can arrive via CityCat. Visitors can expect to spend 70 minutes bounding through the experience — and will also find a playground and a cafe onsite, with interactive play a focus, taking cues from Bluey episodes in the process. There's a soundscape to match, plus a gift shop, all in a purpose-built venue. And, for big Bluey birthday celebrations, the site is hosting parties as well. Bluey's World is exclusive to Brisbane, making it a tourist attraction to fans not only locally and nationally but worldwide. Unsurprisingly, that's a big part of the push from both the Queensland Government and Brisbane City Council, who are supporting the BBC Studios- and HVK Productions-produced experience. Bluey's World opens at Northshore Pavilion, 281 MacArthur Avenue, Northshore Brisbane on Thursday, November 7, 2024 — head to the attraction's website for more information and tickets.
When winter begins to thaw, with leaves growing back on trees and flowers coming into full bloom, we want to celebrate the warmer weather and the world's annual rebirth. And, come September, Australia's biggest festival of spring will roll around. Now in its 34th year, Floriade will once again fill Canberra's Commonwealth Park with more than one million blooms. But this month-long flower festival is more than just smelling the tulips. After a successful introduction last year which saw more than 80 community groups plant a stunning tulip trail through Canberra's suburbs, the Floriade Community initiative will return with an additional 300,000 bulbs and annuals available. While you're in town, you may as well take the time to check out Canberra's best microbreweries, cafes and cultural hotspots, too. Start looking at accomodation ASAP. [caption id="attachment_736041" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Martin Ollman Photography[/caption] Top image: VisitCanberra
Say goodbye to your childhood. Then, say hello to a beloved favourite slicing and dicing on the big screen. As announced back in 2022, the usually adorable literary critter that is Winnie-the-Pooh has been given the horror-movie treatment, in what's instantly one of the most intriguing flicks of the past few years. And, in great/cursed news for Australians, Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey is hitting cinemas Down Under in 2023. This isn't the AA Milne creation that you grew up with. Instead, it's a slasher film about the Hundred Acre Woods' famous inhabitant and his pals. And, if cuddling up with your significant other while watching a horror movie is your idea of a prime Valentine's Day date, Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey will bow locally on Tuesday, February 14, hosting sneak-peek sessions before a four-day season between Thursday, February 16–Sunday, February 19. Take every horror movie staple, every expected line and all the usual eerie settings, then throw in a favourite figure that's stopped being friendly and turned savage instead: yes, that's what's in Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey's pot. And yes, based on the trailer, it looks as creepy as the whole concept sounds. "Oh bother!" is definitely the mood, after Christopher Robin returns to the Hundred Acre Wood as an adult, years after leaving his pals Winnie, Piglet, Eeyore, Tigger, Kanga and Roo behind. All that time alone hasn't turned out well for those animals, and there's about to be a body count to prove it. No, the idea that Pooh might turn murderous hasn't ever crossed anyone's minds before this film. Gracing pages for almost a century — plus screens big and small for decades — Winnie-the-Pooh has done many things in his time, but getting grisly hasn't been one of them. Ever since Milne first conjured up the honey-loving, walking-and-talking teddy bear back in the 1920s, Pooh has enjoyed plenty of adventures involving his human and animal friends, and tried to eat as much of his favourite foodstuff as possible. We've all seen the cartoons and toys, and also watched films such as Goodbye Christopher Robin and Christopher Robin in recent years. To director Rhys Waterfield, however, Pooh is no longer cute and cuddly, even if he's a honey-fiending teddy bear who normally doesn't wear pants (although he appears to here). And if you're wondering about the tone of Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey, other than horror, the filmmaker's other upcoming titles include Firenado, Sky Monster and Rise of the Loch Ness. Clearly, Pooh breaking bad all falls into B-movie territory, which the premise makes plain as well. The setup: after seeing their food supplies dwindle as Christopher grew up, Pooh and Piglet have spent years feeling hungry. They've turned feral, in fact, even eating Eeyore to survive. So when Christopher returns, it sets the pair on a rampage, which leads to them a rural cabin where a group of university students are holidaying. From that summary, it's obvious what'll happen from there. The trailer cements that fact, and throws in more horror tropes than you could fit in a pot of honey in the process. Now all that's left is to see the end result in Aussie cinemas, with Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey also hitting screens overseas around the same time. Wondering why something that's usually so sweet and innocent is being given the creepy, bloody, eerie horror treatment — turning Winnie-the-Pooh into a killer, no less? It's because the character has just entered the public domain in America. Disney no longer holds the copyright, and no one can now hold the exclusive intellectual property rights over the character, opening the door for wild interpretations like this slasher flick. Check out the Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey trailer below: Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey will screen in Australian cinemas on Tuesday, February 14, then from Thursday, February 16–Sunday, February 19. Images: Jagged Edge Productions.
Every March, Adelaide — the only UNESCO City of Music in Australia — gears up for festival season. Its centrepiece is the Adelaide Festival, a 17-day extravaganza of music, theatre, art, talks and unusual happenings, which encompasses world music festival WOMADelaide as well as Adelaide Writers' Week. In 2019, more than 70 events will take place, including 17 Australian premieres and ten worldwide premieres, all put together by artistic directors Rachel Healy and Neil Armfield. Taking place between March 1–17 at a variety of venues around Adelaide, here are some of the most epic, creative and left-of-field. THEATRE Travelling from South Africa is theatre company Isango Ensemble, to perform the Australian premiere of A Man Of Good Hope. This musical tells the true story of Asad Abdullah, who, at eight, witnessed his mother's murder in Somalia, then travelled across six African nations alone. Also exploring the experiences of refugees is Manus by the all-Iranian Verbatim Theatre Group, which tells stories from Manus Island and Nauru. For a more experimental adventure, immerse yourself in Anton Chekhov's Uncle Vanya. Melbourne's La Mama Theatre will perform the play in real time — over two days — at The Cedars, Sir Hans Heysen's former 60-acre property in Hahndorf, Adelaide Hills. Alternatively, let Portuguese theatre-maker Tiago Rodrigues teach you to memorise a poem, all while he recounts the life of his grandmother, in By Heart. MUSIC Join 90,000 other people at WOMADadelaide, a four-day world music festival that takes over Adelaide's beautiful Botanic Park every year. On 2019's program you'll find Angelique Kidjo, the Central Australian Aboriginal Women's Choir, Julia Jacklin and the John Butler Trio, among scores of other local and international acts. Making its Australian premiere is Grand Finale by Israeli-born, London-based choreographer Hofesh Shechter, a momentous work that combines dance, live music and theatre in its exploration of demagoguery, groupthink and ecological disaster. Meanwhile, Aboriginal soul singer Emma Donovan will be teaming up with The Putbacks to perform a tribute to the late Ruby Hunter, the first indigenous Australian woman to record an album — and Tim Minchin will also be delivering the world premiere of his solo show Back. ART Headlining the art program are two major surveys. One is of Australian artist Ben Quilty, known for his work as an official war artist in Afghanistan, as well as his campaign to save Bali Nine members Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran. The other is of New York-born photographer Roger Ballen, who now lives in South Africa, where he shoots squatter camps and mine dumps, and, most famously, collaborated on Die Antwoord's 'I Fink U Freeky' video. Also capturing little-told stories will be the Thessaloniki Museum of Photography's group exhibition Another Life: Human Flows / Unknown Odysseys, which depicts various moments in refugees' journeys — from portraits of personal anguish to heartbreaking images of piles of life jackets. TALKS The core of the talks program is Adelaide Writers' Week. Inspired by the theme 'telling truths', this year's event features an international collection of wordsmiths, from Sohaila Abdulali, the Mumbai-born US author of What We Talk About When We Talk About Rape, to Kassem Eid, Syrian refugee, activist and author of My Country. Nigerian author and Man Booker Prize Winner Ben Okri will deliver the opening address, 'Imagination Redeems'. Start each festival day with brekkie and papers at The Palais, settle into a long lunch with a writer — be it Annabel Crabb or Maggie Beer — and finish up with a Twilight Talk in the Pioneer Women's Memorial Garden. PLUS On any great festival program, there are always events that defy categorisation. Take Dutch artist Julian Hetzel's Schuldfabrik, for example — it's an installation that immerses you in a mini-factory and retail outlet where human fat is turned into soap and sold, with all proceeds going to aid programs in the developing world. Then there's Legs On The Walls' Man With The Iron Neck, which combines aerial circus, video and text to explore suicide in a small, tightly-knit, AFL-loving community. And, finally, Dutch company Schweigman&'s Blaas invites you step inside a gigantic white blob and expect the unexpected. Adelaide Festival takes place between March 1–17, 2019 at a variety of venues around Adelaide. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the festival website. Top image: Ben and Martin Photography.
UPDATE, March 3, 2021: Jojo Rabbit is available to stream via Disney+, Foxtel Now, Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Amazon Video. It's an idea so sharply amusing, so devilishly designed to make a statement and so likely to enrage its target if he were still alive, it's easy to see why Taika Waititi embraced it. In Jojo Rabbit, the New Zealand writer/director/actor — the son of a Maori father, with Russian-Jewish and Irish heritage also in his family — plays an imaginary, egotistical, endlessly preening, thoroughly over-the-top version of Hitler. That's a loaded concept from the get-go. Obviously, Waititi has fun with the task. He serves up a campy caricature of the Third Reich leader, which is exactly what his chosen scenario calls for. But while his self-described "anti-hate satire" has the best of intentions, parodying hatred-driven extremism and championing kindness using Nazi Germany as a backdrop, the purposefully offbeat movie doesn't always find the right tonal balance. It makes fun broadly and proudly to make an important point, and it's firmly a black comedy, but it's not as precise as it needs to be given its subject matter. Waititi's gleefully exaggerated Führer appears to ten-year-old Jojo Betzler (Roman Griffin Davis) quite often, which the boy is rather pleased about. Not that he had much choice in the matter, but Jojo is a devoted member of the Hitler Youth who is eager to serve his country — and rid it of those he's been indoctrinated to fear and loathe — in the dying days of the Second World War. Alas, at mandatory, feverish training camps, he is just teased by bigger kids. That's where his 'rabbit' nickname springs from, after he refuses to slaughter a bunny to prove his allegiance to the Fatherland. Still, he's devout about his beliefs, despite his kindly mother Rosie's (Scarlett Johansson) gentle push towards more tolerant attitudes. Rosie practises what she preaches, empathising with those resisting the Nazis and hiding Jewish teenager Elsa (Thomasin McKenzie) in the family's attic. Based on Christine Leunens' book Caging Skies, Jojo Rabbit pinballs its eponymous character between various influences as he comes to terms with Elsa's presence. It's a standard coming-of-age scenario, opening a youth's eyes to the reality of the world as he matures, and bearing witness as he grapples with conflicting notions to forge his own identity — something that Waititi has previously tackled in both Boy and Hunt for the Wilderpeople. Here, of course, Jojo is a child Nazi suddenly nudged to look past his engrained prejudices as a forbidden friendship blooms, although he still interrogates Elsa about grossly inaccurate supposed Jewish traits and tricks first. Around him, Hitler's views on the subject, and on Jojo's new housemate, are as disapproving as you'd expect. The Hitler Youth bullies show Jojo what it's like to be on the receiving end of cruelty, though, even if the group's adult leaders — Sam Rockwell, Rebel Wilson and Game of Thrones' Alfie Allen — aren't exactly strict, stern and seething with hostility. Splashed across the screen in a bright, breezy manner — and stylistically aping Wes Anderson, particularly Moonrise Kingdom, at times — much of Jojo Rabbit's comedy works in the moment. That's true of Waititi's performance, and also applies to the film's opening juxtaposition: in its first frames, the feature cycles through archival footage of slavish crowds cheering Hitler as The Beatles' 'I Want to Hold Your Hand' plays in German. And yet, though dripping with equal parts sincerity and silliness, Jojo Rabbit doesn't completely add up to the resounding combination of laughs, heart and barbs that Waititi clearly hopes. It boasts all of the above, but there's also a sense of not just cheekiness but clumsiness. While enthusiastically aiming for overstatement, some of the movie's scenes play like thin sketches, too. It also awkwardly and accidentally straddles the line between showing a goofy brand of empathy to everyone in a grim situation and humanising the regime behind some of the 20th century's worst atrocities. Waititi's irreverent, irrepressible sense of humour is usually a delight (see: his aforementioned films, plus What We Do in the Shadows and Thor Ragnarok), but Jojo Rabbit is at its best when it actually dials back the gags, mockery and pointed current-day parallels, and instead hones in on its central trio in less overt moments. Within such circumstances, first-timer Davis, rising star McKenzie (Leave No Trace, True History of the Kelly Gang) and a tender Johansson all impress. In varying combinations — never all together — they share a parade of thoughtful scenes that leave an imprint, especially when veering into more serious, considered, and even melancholy and dark territory. In an ambitious picture from start to finish, the three actors find the right groove, even if the movie itself doesn't always successfully do the same. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tL4McUzXfFI
Talented pooches have been barking their way to big-screen stardom since the birth of the medium, and Cannes Film Festival even gives out awards for ace pupper performances. In Australia for a few years now, we also celebrate the intersection of canines and cinema — via our very own dog-themed movie showcase. At the Top Dog Film Festival, doggos and puppers cement their status as humanity's favourite film stars in a touring program of pooch-centric shorts. For a couple of hours, dogs will leap across screens in a curated selection of heartwarming flicks about humanity's best friend. Over the last few years, the lineup has included films about dog-powered sports, dogs in space, dogs hiking through the desert, senior dogs and more — with this year's bill highlighting dolphin-spotting dogs, animal actors and mountain pups. The festival hits Brisbane Powerhouse on Saturday, August 5 as part of its 2023 run, and rushing after tickets the way your best four-legged friend rushes after a frisbee is recommended. Given how much we all love watching dog videos online, not to mention attending pupper-centric shindigs in general, this event is certain to be popular. You'd be barking mad to miss it, obviously.
Everyone knows that music is best when it is live and loud, and Brisbane has the event to prove it. That’d be the aptly named Brisbane Live Music Week, a seven-day showcase of the city’s sonic shenanigans presented by community radio station 4ZZZ. Any and all gigs taking place in Brisbane from March 20 to 26 technically fit the bill, but there’s much more to the third celebration of the city’s thriving music scene than that. There’s also one-off shows, the Queensland Music Awards and an Autumn sound smorgasbord, championing a variety of acts, styles and venues. City and Colour, Melissa Etheridge, Bixby Canyon and Steve Earle and the Dukes all feature on a lineup that any event would dream of having, spanning local legends, home-grown up-and-comers and international stars. Keep checking the BLMW website for the latest additions, and for those who can’t make it in person, there’ll be special live-to-air performances across 4ZZZ and their online outlets.
On the long list of things that were bound to happen after the success of Stranger Things, seeing Dungeons & Dragons roll back into cinemas has always been right at the top. The role-playing game has already sparked three movies, with the first dating back to 2000 — but none of them starred Chris Pine, Rege-Jean Page, Michelle Rodriguez and Hugh Grant (or were well-received, whether they hit the silver screen or went straight to home entertainment). Another D&D film has been in the works in some shape or form since before the world saw a bunch of kids in Hawkins, Indiana play the game, unsurprisingly. Thanks to the success of Game of Thrones, fantasy epics have become a huge Hollywood cash cow (see also: the return of The Lord of the Rings as a streaming series later this year). Whether the new D&D will become one of the genres hits or misses is clearly yet to be seen — Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves doesn't reach cinemas until March 2023 — but the just-dropped first trailer certainly looks like it's aiming to start a franchise. Released to coincide with San Diego Comic-Con, which is currently on now, the initial glimpse at Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves introduces its motley crew of characters. "Here's the thing, we're a team of thieves," Pine (All the Old Knives) explains, if the title wasn't already obvious enough. This crew, which spans Page (The Gray Man), Rodriguez (Fast & Furious 9), Justice Smith (Jurassic World Dominion) and Sophie Lillis (IT and IT: Chapter Two), too, "helped the wrong person steal the wrong thing". Cue the greatest evil the world has ever known, unleashed unwittingly, which this band of thieves now endeavours to stop. Dragons pop up, of course. So do dungeons, to the astonishment of no one. Other fantastical animals, fights, flaming swords, fireballs: they're all included as well, as are Grant (The Undoing), fellow cast members Chloe Coleman (Marry Me) and Daisy Head (Wrong Turn), and Led Zeppelin's 'Whole Lotta Love'. Behind the camera, Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley (Game Night) are in the directors' chairs, and co-wrote the screenplay with Michael Gilio. And yes, films based on Hasbro properties don't have the best record — the Transformers series, the GI Joe flicks, Battleship, Power Rangers — but if you're a D&D devotee, you'll be hoping this one changes that. Check out the trailer below: Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves opens in cinemas Down Under on March 2, 2023.
Since 5pm on Monday, March 29, residents of Greater Brisbane — which spans the Brisbane, Logan, Ipswich, Moreton and Redlands local government areas — have been under the region's second three-day lockdown of 2021. The reason: a new COVID-19 cluster that has arisen over the past week, and also spread to Byron Bay. Thankfully, only a small number of new local cases have been identified in the past two days. Yes, that's excellent news. Accordingly, Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced that the stay-at-home conditions will end today, Thursday, April 1, as planned — and they'll actually lift five hours earlier than initially slated, with the lockdown now ending at 12pm. So, Brisbanites will be able to leave their homes again once midday hits today — for any reason. The time has been shifted forward to avoid chaos on the roads this afternoon as the Easter long weekend begins. "I understand a lot of families in the Greater Brisbane have made plans, and the last thing we want to see are accidents on our roads at 5pm this afternoon into the evening," said the Premier. "So, if you have plans, the lockdown is lifted from 12 noon today and I encourage people to take care on the roads." https://twitter.com/AnnastaciaMP/status/1377400015308562435 But, as happened after January's lockdown, new restrictions will come into effect. They'll limit what you can do, where and with how many people. And yes, banning dancing again is one of them. When Greater Brisbane went into lockdown on Monday, a number of rules were put in place across the rest of Queensland — and, as predicted at the time, they're now coming into effect in Brisbane, Logan, Ipswich, Moreton and Redlands from 12pm today. They'll now apply across the entire state for the next 14 days, finishing at 12pm on Thursday, April 15. There 30-person limit on at-home gatherings is back, and that cap includes folks who live with you. And, as well as banning dancing, standing up at cafes, restaurants, bars and nightclubs has been scrapped again. So, to eat, drink and hang out, you'll need to be seated. Businesses will also have to operate under the one person per two-square-metres rule. Outdoor events, including those planned for the Easter long weekend, can go ahead — but only if they have a COVID-19-safe plan in place. That said, wearing masks is required where social distancing isn't possible. Masks are sticking around in many situations, in fact. You'll always have to carry one with you, for starters. Plus, they must be worn in all indoor spaces other than your home, all indoor workplaces unless it is unsafe to do so, on public transport, in taxis and ride share vehicles, and outdoors when social distancing isn't possible. The usual requests regarding social distancing, hygiene and getting tested if you're feeling even the slightest possible COVID-19 symptoms all apply, too, as they have since March last year. Queensland Health is maintaining an active register of locations that have been visited by positive COVID-19 cases, which you can check out on its website. You can also check out this nifty map that uses Queensland Health's data. Extra testing clinics have been set up around the states — and you can find a rundown of clinic locations online as well. The Greater Brisbane area will come out of lockdown from 12pm on Thursday, April 1. For more information about the status of COVID-19 in Queensland, head to the QLD COVID-19 hub and the Queensland Health website. More details about the lockdown and associated restrictions can also be found on the Queensland Health website.
Freshly minted Modern Australian bistro Marlowe is stepping up its offering, inviting guests to see out the weekend with an unhurried weekly ritual: Sunday Service. Part indulgence, part theatre, guests build their own Bloody Marys from a roaming bar cart, featuring house-made tomato juice, blue cheese liqueur, fresh lemon and a choice of Absolut Vodka or Beefeater Gin. Each drink dovetails with a special bite — in this case, a refined take on the bistro's Ploughman's Gilda. Think a skewer with grilled pickled cocktail onion, a smoked slice of LP's sausage, an olive and a cube of cheddar finished with pickled mustard seeds. Yet there's plenty to come after this tasty morsel. Launching alongside the tableside Bloody Marys is Marlowe's new lunch and bar snack menu, while the full à la carte offering is available if you're feeling extra peckish. Highlights include the Marlowe wagyu cheeseburger, headlined by a 200-gram smoked brisket and aged wagyu patty, or a fancy take on fish and chips, including herb-crumbed sand whiting. Once you're finished dining, guests are invited to continue their long lunch upstairs on the rooftop patio. The ideal spot for a refreshing cocktail, dig into Marlowe's new bar snack lineup, featuring too-tempting-to-resist options like a spiced gingerbread waffle with chicken pâté, and a potato hash with smoked trout.
It wouldn't be a September in Sydney without the Sydney Underground Film Festival, the city's annual roundup of strange, surreal and subversive cinema. This year, though, it's doing things differently. Yes, it's a familiar story, because SFF and MIFF have already taken this course of action — but SUFF 2020 will be held completely online, and will also be available to stream nationally. This isn't just a case of SUFF transplanting its usual program to the virtual realm, though. In its digital guise, the fest will run more than twice as long as usual, screening online from Thursday, September 10–Sunday, September 20. And, it's purely comprised of shorts. In other words, get ready for some mighty out-there flicks in small doses. Highlights include the latest work from The Killing of a Sacred Deer and The Favourite director Yorgos Lanthimos, and from acclaimed Canadian The Forbidden Room and The Green Fog filmmaker Guy Maddin and his regular collaborators Evan Johnson and Galen Johnson as well. From the former, you can check out Nimic, which stars Matt Dillon as a cellist who experiences a life-changing confrontation on the subway. From the latter, there's Stump the Guesser, which is an absurdist silent flick about a carnival psychic. With more than 100 films from over 20 countries on offer, SUFF's lineup is screening in specific packages — so you can decide whether you want to binge on Aussie shorts, go for films that'll mess with your mind or opt for the absolute trippiest of cinema offerings. Short documentaries are have their own category, there's an entire program dedicated to horror shorts and another is all about OTT animation for adults. Sydney Underground Film Festival screens online from Thursday, September 10–Sunday, September 20, with tickets available now — for $10 per session, or $55 for a full festival pass. Top image: Nimic.
With Supanova in town this weekend, pop culture enthusiasts can be forgiven for being all a-flutter. That's your daylight hours taken care of, but what's an avid fan to do after a day spent strolling around a convention? The Motor Room has the answer. Yes, the West End hangout is throwing a video game music party — aka the perfect way to keep the geek-fuelled vibes going. Of course the evening is called Press Start to Continue. And of course it features game music maestros Boss Fight, plus Sydney's jazzy gamer outfit The Consouls in their first-ever Queensland show. Both bands will pump out a soundtrack of all the tunes that have kept your favourite game titles jumping, whether you're a dedicated arcade aficionado or prefer to keep your frenetic button-pressing to the confines of your lounge room. Expect classics and anthems from across all platforms, as well as a few dips into the more obscure. And, expect the most amount of fun you can have when you're not playing your favourite console.
It's not easy to keep up your productivity after 3pm, whether you're at home or in the office. But, while we love the reduced commute time and flexible seating arrangements in our WFH lives, it's sometimes harder to peel away from your screen to find ways of boosting your energy levels. This is why we've teamed up with Oporto to bring you five ways to avoid the afternoon lull, and to help keep you motivated in the final hours of the working day. [caption id="attachment_770748" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr[/caption] MONDAY: SPEND TIME IN THE SUN When you're WFH, it's far too easy to spend the whole day moving between your bed, desk and couch and never breathing fresh air. But, a couple of minutes in the sun is important for your circadian rhythm, helping to keep you awake in the day and sleeping well at night. You already know the rules — sunscreen is vital — so make sure you're protected. If you have more than a couple of minutes to spare, may we suggest exploring the city with these walks in and around Brisbane. TUESDAY: GET YOUR SWEAT ON Caught yourself dozing off during that 3pm Zoom call? We all need an endorphin and serotonin boost by mid-afternoon, but there's often little time to fit in a long, sweaty cardio session. Working up a sweat (and enjoying the after glow of energy) can be as easy as doing a quick plank, a couple of burpees, ten squats, or 60 seconds of jumping jacks to give you enough lift to power you through those last emails. If you can sneak away for a bit longer, perhaps you could swap out your loungewear for leisurewear and hit up the best cycling routes. WEDNESDAY: EAT OR DRINK SOMETHING NOURISHING Listen to your body. Are you dehydrated? How are your blood-sugar levels? You're probably craving a quick edible pick-me-up by now, so grab a sugary treat, a hot drink or something more substantial. Oporto's Pulled Chicken Rappa includes hand-pulled chicken cooked in a lemon and herb sauce, with crunchy slaw, spicy rice and your choice of sauce, all wrapped in warm pita bread. If you live close by, why not take your late lunch or arvo snack to one of these eight waterside picnic spots? THURSDAY: CONNECT WITH A FRIEND We all need quality human company (yep, even introverts), and unfortunately your beloved pet doesn't always cut it. Tell your team that you're taking a quick break, close your laptop and pick up the phone. There's always someone that would love to get an impromptu call from you (especially older family members), and we guarantee it will brighten both of your days. Want to take it a step further? Send a friend a small gift — it can be something as easy as a cup of coffee, a sweet pastry or a posy of flowers. It doesn't have to break the bank, and you'll be riding high on those good vibes for the rest of the day. [embed]http://open.spotify.com/playlist/28Ab6Lp3S5c4dSGmy8ZTmW?si=3dmQkFsMQdSKNAWiyM8EKA[/embed] FRIDAY: PUMP UP THE VOLUME The best thing about working from home? Your colleagues can't groan about the music blaring from your laptop. So let's make the most of this precious opportunity. Beauty guru Zoë Foster Blake has some of Spotify's best playlists: The Moodlifter is particularly cracking, and we also love Italian Party if you want to (figuratively) transport yourself to Positano. If you're under a time crunch, throw on some scientifically-proven binaural beats to help put yourself in the ultimate flow state. Feeling nostalgic? We love lining up some of our favourite movie playlists — Pulp Fiction is a good vibe and The Greatest Showman is particularly fun for a singalong. Check out Oporto's full Rappa Range here, then make tracks to your closest store — or order online. Top image: Brisbane City Botanic Gardens via Flickr
Brisbane already boasts a 'beach' right next to the riverbank, but when it comes to getting wet and wild in the city's main body of water, it seems that we can do better. Move over South Bank, because everyone might soon be heading to Teneriffe — and to Brissie's new floating pool in the middle of the river. As reported by Quest Newspapers and ABC News, a group of developers revamping the land at 17 Skyring Terrace plan to transform an existing wharf into a public riverside park, complete with a marina, public aquatic area and a 25-metre pool. And, as part of an idea presented to the Brisbane City Council, the latter would actually be located on a barge in the river. Don't worry — if the local and state levels of government agree to help move some powerlines underground, meaning that the plan can go ahead, you won't actually be swimming in the city's questionable river water (phew). Basically, it's the best of both worlds: everyone would get to splash around in the river without actually getting into the river itself. When it comes to man-made swimming spots within natural waterways, it seems that everybody's doing it, with a similar concept floated in Melbourne earlier this year. And we get it. Why wouldn't every city be jumping on the mid-river pool bandwagon, really? We're all for this idea, and we'll keep you posted on any updates. Via Quest / ABC News. Image: Emily Davies.
Ever wanted to see your favourite bands kick a few goals, and help support a good cause at the same time? For more than a quarter-century, the Reclink Community Cup has been turning musos into footy players for an annual charity Aussie rules match. Before the pandemic, the Melbourne game would draw more than 10,000 people and raise over $100,000 each year. Sydney's match had been going strong for years too — and the cup finally came to Brisbane in 2016. Now, for Brisbanites, the Reclink Community Cup is back again for another round. Come Sunday, July 25, the city's music community will descend upon Enoggera Memorial Park to put their sporting prowess to the test. Two teams will take to the field: The Rocking Horses, featuring players from an array of Brissie acts; and the Brisbane Lines, filled with a crew of journos, industry staff general music-related folks. The complete list of exactly who'll take to the field for both groups hasn't yet been revealed, but members of The Church, WAAX, Dead Letter Circus, Birds of Tokyo, Babaganouj, Sweater Curse and Velociraptor will fall into the first camp. Usually, staff from 4ZZZ, the ABC, Double J, street press, Oztix and QMusic make up the opposition team. The Community Cup isn't just about getting another dose of the live AFL action, though (as ace as the prospect of more footy always is). Given that rock stars are involved, live music is part of the proceedings as well, with Beddy Rays, Melaleuca and The Double Happiness on the bill this year. And, food-wise, expect food trucks ready to fill your ravenous stomachs. Watching bands play both music and footy is hungry work, after all. Every dollar raised from ticketing goes towards Reclink's efforts to improve the lives of Queenslanders suffering from disability, homelessness, substance abuse and economic hardship through participation in sport and the arts. Yep, whoever emerges victorious from the game, a heap of deserving folks will be the real winners. Images: Allan Allport.
It can get pretty lonely working as a freelancer in a creative field. Sometimes it'd be nice to have a lunch date with someone; inspire and bounce a few ideas off one another; have the ability to recount 'bitch and moan' stories with fellow freelancers; maybe share a few 'in' jokes about the highs and lows of your shared field. Collaborate and all that jazz. Well, creative networking group Sprinkl has heard the cries of creatives all around Brisbane and are aiming to solve their woes with some short and sweet meet ups. Aimed at creatives and freelancers, Sprinkl is ideal for helping industry insiders build their creative networks, aiding creative collaboration and bringing fellow creatives together. Designers, Photographers, Writers, Musicians, Animators, Artists - seasoned, breakthrough, industry and students are all welcome. Afraid of being judged by your business card or getting cornered into a pyramid scheme? Don't be. Sprinkl is more about embracing and showcasing local creative talent. At past meet ups they have held The Sprinkl LIVE Design-Off, where two designers are given one brief and an impossible one hour deadline to duel it out for creative supremacy. You can see some of the fun and talented results here. See? Looks like fun.
Brisbane is scoring a new $3.6-billion precinct right in the heart of the city, complete with a towering deck filled with restaurants and bars that will sit 100 metres above the CBD. That's the Queen's Wharf promise, and has been for over nine years now. But you'll still have to wait a bit longer to check it out, with the impending addition to the River City pushing back its opening date from April 2024 to August. Queen's Wharf is no stranger to changing its launch timing. 2022 was also floated in the past. The latest push comes after a heap of specific details about what's in store at the precinct — including some of the specific watering holes and eateries that patrons will be able to hit up — were revealed in 2023. So, here's hoping that enjoying the end results is truly getting closer to becoming a reality. There's no exact opening date in August yet, so you can't go circling anything in your calendar for the time being. Also, Queen's Wharf and its Sky Deck will launch in stages. Accordingly, which aspects will welcome in Brisbanites and tourists first hasn't been confirmed — but there's plenty in store. On the precinct's highest perch, bar Cicada Blu will give the Queensland capital a new place for a cocktail with a killer view, operating both day and night with a particular focus on drinks with botanical infusions. Sky Deck will also boast signature restaurant Aloria, complete with a dedicated martini menu and a 'cellar in the sky', plus European and Australian bites on offer. And, at Babblers, there'll be a more-relaxed dining experience. All three venues will form part of Sky Deck's 250-metre rooftop runway with a glass-floor viewing platform. And the vistas? Expect a 360-degree vantage out over the Brisbane CBD, Brisbane River, Mt Coot-tha and Moreton Bay. The riverside precinct's lofty tourist attraction will fall under The Star's remit, just as the reimagined Fat Noodle, cocktail bar Cherry and Italian eatery Cucina Regina also will. When it does launch between Alice, George, Queen and William streets, Queen's Wharf's crowning glory will be located above other dining options, hotels, shops, apartments and a heap of public space. While part of one of Queen's Wharf's resident resorts — it's set to feature four hotels, including the five-star The Star Grand, 4.5-star Dorsett and Australia's only Rosewood hotel — Sky Deck will be open to the public. Also, it isn't small, with a capacity of 1500 visitors at a time. Expect it to be popular, then, with the Queensland Government anticipating that an estimated 1.4 million international, interstate and local visitors to the city each year might stop by. As for the rest of the Queen's Wharf Brisbane redevelopment area, it spans across 12 hectares in the CBD, and will include around 50 new bars, cafes and restaurants; a casino; those four aforementioned hotels; approximately 1500 apartments; and a swathe of retailers in a huge new shopping precinct. The full precinct also covers repurposed heritage buildings, plus the Neville Bonner Bridge and Brissie's first riverside bikeway cafe. Queen's Wharf is slated to start opening in the Brisbane CBD from August 2024. We'll update you when a specific date is announced — and you can find out further details in the interim via the development's website.
In the Bram Stoker vampire novel that's inspired almost all other vampire novels, Dracula is undead. In popular culture since and forever, the fictional Transylvanian bloodsucker will never die. Regardless of his fate on the page back in 1897, the most-portrayed character in horror movies ever keeps baring his fangs on-screen, rising again and again like the sun that this creature of the night can never bask in. 2023 brings two new Dracula films, which isn't overly notable, but this crop of Stoker-influenced flicks doesn't simply retell the usual 126-year-old tale. Leaning into comedy and action, Renfield sunk its teeth in by giving the vampire's long-suffering familiar some love. Now the dread-dripping Dracula: Voyage of the Demeter hones in on one chapter of the book that started it all, detailing the captain's log from the neck-munching fiend's journey to London via ship. In print, this stint of seafaring isn't Dracula's main focus. In adaptations upon adaptations over the past century, sometimes it isn't even included — or, if it does pop up, it's often a montage or a passing mention. The watery trip glistens with horror-movie potential, however, boasting a specific setting, a captive group, and an ominous force stalking and slaying. Slasher films, haunted-house fare, Jaws, Alien: they've all fed on such scenarios. Dracula: Voyage of the Demeter has spent decades in various stages of development, cycling through a feast of various talents, but bringing this Dracula chapter to the screen was always a sound idea. While the end result doesn't star Noomi Rappace (You Won't Be Alone), Ben Kingsley (Daliland), Jude Law (Peter Pan & Wendy) or Viggo Mortensen (Thirteen Lives) as previously floated, and isn't directed by Robert Schwentke (The Captain, Allegiant), Marcus Nispel (Conan the Barbarian, Friday the 13th) or Neil Marshall (The Lair, Hellboy), a solid concept with eerie, moody and gory potential remains at its core. Leading instead: Corey Hawkins (In the Heights) as physician Clemens, Aisling Franciosi (The Nightingale) as stowaway Anna and Liam Cunningham (Game of Thrones) as Captain Eliot. The former hops onto the latter's ship in Eastern Europe, where a promised job falls through due to his race, forcing a pivot onto the Demeter's crew to return to England. Clemens isn't the only new boarding, with the vessel also welcoming 50 unmarked crates from the Carpathian Mountains. Given that the film is named Dracula: Voyage of the Demeter Down Under — elsewhere, it's known as just The Last Voyage of the Demeter — there's no surprises about what's among the cargo. So, as initially told in Dracula's seventh chapter, in the epistolary format of letters, journals and clippings that Stoker's tome deployed across the entire novel, the key contents of those mysterious wooden chests soon begins offing fellow seafarers. As it relishes gothic-horror chills and, later, gruesome blood spills, there's a full-circle air to the latest film by Trollhunter, The Autopsy of Jane Doe and Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark director André Øvredal. Of course Dracula: Voyage of the Demeter feels like Alien but Dracula, or Halloween with the nape-chomping Count — all visions of slaughter at sea owe his acclaimed text's 'The Dailygraph' segment a debt, and all slasher flicks owe Stoker's book as a whole. Bragi F Schut (Escape Room) and Zak Olkewicz's (Bullet Train) screenplay isn't quaking about those similarities. It isn't afraid of unfurling a narrative with zero tension about its outcome, either, because Dracula's time in London is already that well-covered. Indeed, after commencing with the end that's so deeply established, the bulk of the movie arrives as flashbacks, as lifted from Eliot's log, of the infernal odyssey that eventuates whenever "a man, tall and thin, and ghastly pale" — aka a Nosferatu-esque Dracula (Javier Botet, His House) — awakes from coffin. Dracula: Voyage of the Demeter's script is an invitation to its filmmaker, then: take this setup, with its familiar situation, famous monster and foregone conclusion, and make it an old-school frightfest through atmosphere, execution and investment in characters. Øvredal largely obliges. Exactly what the audience knows will happen does — regardless of how intimate you are with the source material, or past Drac outings, or not — but this isn't a mere water-treading viewing experience in the Norwegian director's hands. How creepily and compellingly this story is splashed across the screen is as crucial as the plot details. So is the film's willingness to let its antagonist terrify, plus its eagerness to flesh out its pivotal humans. Enlisting Botet, who was also a menacing presence in Mama, Crimson Peak, IT, Insidious: The Last Key and Slender Man, helps. In avoiding relegating Clemens, Anna, Eliot, his grandson Toby (Woody Norman, C'mon C'mon) and first mate Wojchek (David Dastmalchian, Oppenheimer) to just prey and pawns, the rest of the cast also assists. The ins and outs of Schut and Olkewicz's script see the science-minded Clemens set sail, clash with the Demeter's crew over their faith in myth and superstition — they're also not fussed about his attire or smooth hands — then try to hunt down the creature that's leaving a red-streaked body count. The film's narrative also chronicles Anna's shock appearance mid-voyage, as well as a cat-and-mouse game as the living endeavour to stop the undead. Øvredal's committed direction, plus discerning cinematography (by Mortal's Roman Osin and The Ice Road's Tom Stern), production design (Edward Thomas, Escape Room: Tournament of Champions) and composing (Bear McCreary, Foundation), showers that doomed journey with unease. As the helmer's filmography already attests, he knows the horror genre's basics inside out. And, he's equally aware that textured performances leave a mark, whether Hawkins is conveying why believing in the rational is so important to Clemens, or Franciosi is expressing pain and perseverance, or Cunningham embodying down-with-the-ship dutifulness. As it charts its carnage-filled cruise, Dracula: Voyage of the Demeter isn't an origin story but an in-between story. "In-between" sums up the picture overall, too. It lingers in the middle of Hammer flicks and Francis Ford Coppola's Bram Stoker's Dracula. It is gleefully keen on bloodshed, but also frequently refined in look and feel. Øvredal's feature is enthusiastic about staking its own claim; however, as too much does lately, it goes to great efforts to spark a follow-up — and attempt to resurrect Universal's monster movies after 2014's Dracula Untold and 2017's The Mummy failed. (Consider Renfield and Dracula: Voyage of the Demeter's swift-in-succession releases the studio giving itself two new tastes.) This trip with ol' Drac never sinks, yet it also doesn't truly soar. For the bloodsucker himself over this particular journey, that's a welcome outcome. For viewers witnessing a literary masterpiece given a different big-screen spin after its packed history, it's enough to bite into.
If you've ever wanted to take a deep dive into some of the most iconic moments of the late 1960s, here's your chance. Kicking off this April, a major exhibition devoted to the huge international impact of these five momentous years is coming to the Melbourne Museum. Dubbed Revolutions: Records and Rebels, the exhibition originated at London's Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), and it pulls together over 500 objects sourced from the famed art and design museum, as well as international loans and Melbourne Museum's own impressive collection. It's a captivating exploration of 1960s youth culture and how collective action at the time spurred revolutionary shifts all across the Western world, from the tunes to the fashion to the political protests and defining moments and events like Woodstock. You'll revisit these game-changing elements in the context of their lingering impact today, five decades on. To that end, expect to catch a rare glimpse of items like Mick Jagger's signature stage costume, John Lennon's legendary glasses, handwritten lyrics for 'Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds' and even a guitar that was smashed on stage by Pete Townsend of The Who. Closer to home, historic items will reference pivotal Australian moments of the time, such as the anti-Vietnam War protests and the recognition of Australia's First Peoples in the 1967 referendum. State-of-the-art audio guide technology will feature a carefully curated musical soundtrack played through Sennheiser headsets, changing according to your position in the gallery. Think, Jimi Hendrix's live Woodstock set, Bob Dylan's 'The Times They Are A-Changin' and a whole lot of The Beatles, interspersed with interviews, videos, film screenings and light shows.
For many of us, an average quiet morning means eating cereal in pyjamas while making sarcastic jokes about morning TV, but for Tim and Jean, it can mean creating and recording a hit song. This was the case for their track 'Come Around,' recorded in an early morning session at their home which later lead to them being 'unearthed' by triple j. Thanks to that one track the Perth boys have since been answering the calls of major record labels and touring the country with much love, hype and praise. More recently the young-gun duo toured with this year's Laneway Festival, Falls Festival and Good Vibrations and released another track 'Like What' which is also the title of their debut album. To celebrate the official debut Tim and Jean are now set for a tour of their own, bringing their upbeat, synth saturated dance music to Adelaide, Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Sydney, before jetting off to the UK and North America. Catch them while you can.
Yarra Valley winery Helen & Joey Estate has just leapt into the world of dining and accommodation by setting up Re'em within its vast 200-acre property. The new Victorian site has been designed to take full advantage of the estate's rolling vineyard and ornamental lake, with the dining rooms and each of the 16 boutique rooms boasting views across the winery and surrounding region. In the 80-seat restaurant, guests can cosy up in booths by floor-to-ceiling windows or head to the shaded terrace to sample an impressive selection of contemporary Chinese dishes, each of which have been designed to match well with the estate's new-world wines. The menu honours owners Helen and Joey's Chinese heritage, but they've given culinary consultant Mark Ebbels (ex-The Fat Duck, Bacchanalia, TarraWarra Estate) and Head Chef Abe Yang (ex-TarraWarra Estate and Levantine Hill) plenty of room to leave their own mark on Re'em. This collaboration has resulted in plenty of raw dishes like the Sichuan beef tartare, plus dry-aged Buxton trout covered in a vibrant ginger, soy and star anise sauce. Hot dishes from the kitchen's woodfired grill also make an appearance alongside fried veggie dumplings, Hainanese chicken and crispy eggplant slathered in a capsicum doubanjiang (fermented bean paste and chilli sauce). The food offerings champion both traditional and contemporary Chinese cooking techniques while heroing seasonal Aussie produce. The team has also relocated its cellar door to the new site, where guests can sip their way through Helen & Joey Estate's new and aged drops — yet again boasting views across the winery. They've even set up a private wine-tasting room downstairs, so patrons can have a more intimate drinking experience surrounded by oak barrels and custom-made artworks. Stay at these two drinking and dining spots to catch the sunset over the vineyard, or sneak away to one of the boutique hotel rooms to stick around till sunrise the next day. Each of the 16 rooms has been designed to take advantage of the natural landscape — either through the floor-to-ceiling windows or balconies and patios. King beds, deep standalone baths, sleek kitchenettes and olive oil bath products add some luxury touches to the experience as well. Find Re'em Yarra Valley at Helen & Joey Estate, 12-14 Spring Lane, Gruyere, open every day of the week. For more information, head to the venue's website.
Paris — city of light, culture, shoebox apartments and, now, Post-it note art wars. Earlier this year, inspired by either a bout of spring fever or possibly an excess of office supplies, French video gaming company Ubisoft created an image of a space invader — made out of Post-it notes — in their office window. Shortly after, their neighbour, BNP Paribas, responded by creating their own Post-it note art in their office window. Not to be upstaged, Ubisoft responded with a new, slightly bigger and better, Post-it note creation. And that is how the 'la guerre des Post-it' began. Since then, office windows in the west of Paris and around the business district, La Defense, have been covered with colourful Post-it note artwork as new companies enter into the battle attempting to outdo each other's artwork, either in size or ingeniousness. A website has been created to showcase the Post-it creations and to keep score of each companies' contributions. To date, Ubisoft appear to be the victors in the Post-it wars; their latest creation consists of over 3,000 Post-it notes and extends over three floors. While shareholders may not be overly impressed with the level of productivity taking place, it's nice to see that French corporate types unleashing their creative sides.
If you're a fan of Pedro Pascal (Gladiator II), 2025 is a busy year. The Last of Us is back for its long-awaited second season. Thanks to Materialists, he's in a rom-com from Past Lives' Celine Song. With Eddington, he's battling Joaquin Phoenix for Beau Is Afraid director Ari Aster. Then there's Pascal's leap into the Marvel Cinematic Universe in The Fantastic Four: First Steps. The latter film arrives Down Under on Thursday, July 24, 2025, and sees the MCU finally get fantastic as it speeds towards notching up two decades of superhero movies and TV shows. As both the initial teaser trailer and just-dropped full sneak peek show, First Steps explores Mister Fantastic, The Invisible Woman, The Thing and The Human Torch's beginnings in the 1960s — family dinners, big life changes, the worries that come with that, facing stresses together and world-threatening foes all included. Slipping into Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Ben Grimm and Johnny Storm's shoes in First Steps: Pascal as stretchy group leader Richards; Vanessa Kirby (Napoleon), who is bending light as one of the Storm siblings; Joseph Quinn (Gladiator II) proving fiery as the other; and Ebon Moss-Bachrach (The Bear), who is no one's cousin here, instead getting huge, rocky and super strong. Directed by WandaVision, Monarch: Legacy of Monsters and Succession's Matt Shakman, The Fantastic Four: First Steps pits Pascal, Kirby, Quinn and Moss-Bachrach against Ralph Ineson (Nosferatu) as space god Galactus and Julia Garner (Wolf Man) as the Silver Surfer — both of which pop up in the latest trailer. Also co-starring in the film: Paul Walter Hauser (Cobra Kai), John Malkovich (Ripley), Natasha Lyonne (Fantasmas) and Sarah Niles (Fallen). Pascal, Kirby, Quinn and Moss-Bachrach's characters aren't new to cinemas. Before there was a MCU, there were Fantastic Four movies. The first two to earn a big-screen release arrived in 2005 and 2007, with the latter hitting the year before Iron Man kicked off the Marvel Cinematic Universe. As Deadpool and Wolverine did 2024's Deadpool and Wolverine, the Stan Lee- and Jack Kirby-created superhero quartet now join the list of characters who are being brought into the MCU fold, as has been on the cards ever since Disney bought 20th Century Fox. Pascal and company are taking over from two batches of past film takes on the superhero team. In the 2005 and 2007 flicks, Ioan Gruffudd (Bad Boys: Ride or Die), Jessica Alba (Trigger Warning), a pre-Captain America Chris Evans (Red One) and Michael Chiklis (Accused) starred. Then, in 2015, Chronicle filmmaker Josh Trank gave the group a spin — still outside of the MCU — with Miles Teller (Top Gun: Maverick), Kate Mara (Friendship), a pre-Black Panther Michael B Jordan (Sinners) and Jamie Bell (All of Us Strangers). Check out the full trailer for The Fantastic Four: First Steps below: The Fantastic Four: First Steps releases in cinemas Down Under on Thursday, July 24, 2025. Images: courtesy of 20th Century Studios/Marvel Studios. © 2025 20th Century Studios / © and 2025 MARVEL.
Before there was a Marvel Cinematic Universe, there were Fantastic Four movies. The first two to earn a big-screen release arrived in 2005 and 2007, with the latter hitting the year before Iron Man kicked off the MCU. Now, add the Stan Lee- and Jack Kirby-created superhero quartet to the list of characters who are being brought into the Marvel fold. The next Fantastic Four is set to reach cinemas in 2025 as part of the franchise's sixth phase. That Disney has been planning to bring Fantastic Four into the MCU isn't new news. In fact, it's been on the cards for a few years, enabled by the Mouse House buying 20th Century Fox. But since it was announced, it's sparked a whole heap of speculation about casting Reed Richards, Susan Storm, Ben Grimm and Johnny Storm — aka Mister Fantastic, The Invisible Woman, The Thing and The Human Torch. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Disney (@disney) Exactly who'll be getting fantastic this time around has just been revealed, with Disney dropping the news for Valentine's Day 2024 in the US. It's a starry list, starting with Pedro Pascal — who adds the MCU to his resume alongside the Star Wars realm (thanks to The Mandalorian) and game-to-TV smash The Last of Us — as stretchy group leader Richards. He's joined by Vanessa Kirby (Napoleon), who'll bend light as one of the Storm siblings; Joseph Quinn (Stranger Things), who'll get fiery as the other; and Ebon Moss-Bachrach (The Bear), who is no one's cousin here, but will instead get huge, rocky and super strong. Directed by WandaVision, Monarch: Legacy of Monsters and Succession's Matt Shakman, the new Fantastic Four is now set for a Thursday, July 24, 2025 release Down Under. [caption id="attachment_885020" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Last of Us via HBO[/caption] Pascal and company are taking over from two past big-screen takes on the superhero team. In the 2005 and 2007 movies, Ioan Gruffudd (Harrow), Jessica Alba (LA's Finest), a pre-Captain America Chris Evans (Pain Hustlers) and Michael Chiklis (Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty) starred. Then, in 2015, Chronicle filmmaker Josh Trank gave the group a spin — still outside of the MCU — with Miles Teller (Top Gun: Maverick), Kate Mara (Black Mirror), a pre-Black Panther Michael B Jordan (Creed III) and Jamie Bell (All of Us Strangers). As everyone who caught this year's Super Bowl trailers knows — so, everyone — Deadpool (Ryan Reynolds, Ghosted) and Wolverine (Hugh Jackman, Faraway Downs) are also joining the MCU in Deadpool & Wolverine, and also thanks to Disney purchasing Fox. Since dropping on Monday, February 12, the debut trailer for the film has become the most-watched trailer ever. There's no trailer for the new Fantastic Four yet, obviously, but you can check out the sneak peeks for the past three Fantastic Four movies below: Fantastic Four is set to release in cinemas Down Under on Thursday, July 24, 2025. Top images via HBO, Apple TV+, Netflix and FX.
Here's one for the money: a huge Elvis Presley showcase, filled with around 300 artifacts owned by the King of Rock 'n' Roll himself, all on display in Australia. Between Saturday, March 19–Sunday, July 17, you'll want to step into your blue suede shoes and take a trip to the Bendigo Art Gallery, which'll fill its walls and halls with Elvis' clothes, vehicles and other personal items. All those jumpsuits he was so famous for wearing? A selection will be on display. The only car from his movies that was actually his? That red convertible 1960 MG, from the film Blue Hawaii, is visiting Australia for the first time. The Bendigo Art Gallery will also showing some tender love to Elvis' military uniforms, first job application and wedding tuxedo — plus Priscilla Presley's wedding dress. Plenty of the items heading to regional Victoria rarely travel beyond Graceland — so yes, calling the exhibition is Elvis: Direct from Graceland is apt. It'll serve up this hunk of burning Elvis love in an Australian exclusive, as curated in collaboration with the Graceland archives. Other featured objects include Elvis' 1976 Red Bicentennial Custom Harley Davidson, his first grade crayon box from school and other garments from his personal wardrobe — if you're wondering what else will get the exhibition shaking, rattling and rolling. Costumes from his film career, movie scripts, jewellery worn by him and even vintage Elvis-branded merchandise will all be on display as well. Elvis: Direct from Graceland will step through all the key periods in the rock 'n' roll icon's life, from his early Mississippi days through to his Vegas years — and also peer beyond the pompadour and sequins, exploring his interest in books, karate and horses, and all things Graceland. It's Bendigo Art Gallery's latest huge exhibition to focus on style icons, after previously showcasing Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly, Balenciaga and Mary Quant. When it comes to celebrating high-profile figures, it seems the venue can't help falling in love. [caption id="attachment_829957" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Elvis Presley strolls the grounds of his Graceland estate, 1957. Photo by Michael Ochs. © EPE. Graceland and its marks are trademarks of EPE. All Rights Reserved. Elvis Presley™ © 2021 ABG EPE IP LLC.[/caption] Top image: Elvis Presley in the 1968 NBC television special, Singer Presents... Elvis, later known as the 'Comeback Special'. Photograph: Fathom Events/CinEvents. © EPE. Graceland and its marks are trademarks of EPE. All Rights Reserved. Elvis Presley™ © 2021 ABG EPE IP LLC.
Thanks to Keith Courtney, Brisbanites have already been able to walk through a huge house of mirrors in the past few years. And, with his help, moseying through an eerie and endless labyrinth of doors became a reality, too. The Melbourne installation artist isn't done setting up massive mazes just yet, however — and his latest is designed to resemble a huge, human-sized kaleidoscope. Called Kaleidoscope, fittingly, this installation isn't small. It's a 700-square-metre expanse of glass, steel, mirrors and moving prisms that features a labyrinth of corridors decked out in a revolving showcase of lights and colours. Originally debuting in Melbourne for the city's Rising Festival, it'll start shimmering and luring Brisbanites on Brisbane Powerhouse's Performance Lawn for two months between Friday, August 12–Monday, October 3. Like both House of Mirrors and 1000 Doors, Kaleidoscope has been crafted to be immersive as possible. Expect to have your senses disoriented while you're strolling through, including both motion and gravity. Expect to see plenty of shifting illusions among the ever-changing array of light and colour as well, and to be drawn in by the installation's soundscape in the process. "No one will have the same experience in Kaleidoscope – this is a multi-sensory and at times physical experience where the visitor is completely submerged in sound and light – a vortex of serenity to somewhere or nowhere," explains Courtney. In bringing the massive piece to life, the artist has teamed up with visual artist Ash Keating, composer Tamil Rogeon and artist Samantha Slicer, plus a team of highly skilled technicians. Tickets to Kaleidoscope will cost $16.50, and will go on sale on Tuesday, June 28. It'll head to Brisbane in association with Brisbane Festival.
It seems like every group has one person who knows how to host. With what can sometimes seem like zero effort, some people just know how to make nights in come together perfectly. But if you want to be the host with the most and don't know where to start, we've got you covered. We've teamed up with American Honey to ask Concrete Playground staff for easy tips for turning your pad into the designated group hangout spot. [caption id="attachment_862460" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Taryn Elliott (Pexels)[/caption] LIGHTING The importance of good lighting cannot be underestimated — it is, perhaps, the biggest mood-setter in any room. Which is also probably why so many of our staff nominated it as the most important thing to keep in mind when hosting. While it might take a bit of tweaking to get the balance between too bright and too dark exactly right, your efforts will be well worth it should you get it just right. Rule of thumb, according to Branded Content Manager Courtney Ammenhauser, is to "keep it low and warm". Our NZ Editor, Sarah Templeton, agrees: "Lamps and candles only. There's nothing worse than walking into a 1000W halogen-lit situ." Making sure your room is illuminated by lamps and candles is a surefire way to keep the vibe is cosy and intimate. And, let's be real, this is far more flattering than bright ceiling lights. Nobody wants to feel like they're in the office while hanging out with mates. Small table lamps like this Setago piece and this Hay number are easy to move around if you need to, while also making for interesting focal points. [caption id="attachment_862458" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Svitlana (Unsplash)[/caption] SCENTED CANDLES If you want your place to be the Monica and Rachel's for your crew, you'll want to create a full sensory experience. Sure, you could whip up a batch of cookies to have a toasty, heartwarming scent floating through your home, but scented candles are a far less labour-intensive way to up the olfactory factor. And for some of us, like Client Services Director Sami Zoratto, there are practical reasons for keeping things lit. "Because my house can smell of dog so I need to drown that out with candles. I am known for a nice-smelling house." As an added bonus, you'll also be hitting the low-and-warm lighting brief at the same time. We love the range by Sydney brand Hunter. GLASSWARE AND DRINKS Going for that mi casa es su casa energy? That's where a bit of prep — or at the very least, keeping on top of your housework — can go a long way. "Always have a good lineup of glassware ready to go, out of the cupboard," recommends Editorial Director Suz Tucker. "Set your glasses up at a table or bench or a bar so people naturally feel like they can make themselves a drink. It stops you having to be the bartender and really adds to the vibe being more casual." Whether it's a selection of tumblers for short drinks — like these from Sydney brand No.22 — or highball glasses ready and polished, a considered selection of drinking vessels shows that you're taking your hosting duties seriously. Having a good variety of drinks on hand can also do a lot of the work for you when it comes to creating the perfect entertaining-at-home moment — and if you want to go the extra mile, think about a simple signature serve that guests can make themselves, too. Our go-to: a deliciously smooth American Honey, soda and fresh lime — the perfect drink to enjoy over an intimate catch-up with close friends. [caption id="attachment_862459" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Libby Penner (Unsplash)[/caption] TABLE DECORATIONS A thoughtful table decoration or centrepiece is one of those things that really makes it look like you've got your shit together, even if the opposite is true. It doesn't take too much to add some colour and texture to your coffee or dining table — Partnerships Coordinator Lexi Wright recommends colourful tablecloths, placemats and napkins as subtle ways to establish a theme or colour palette, while Partnerships Manager Cinzia Giacchi makes sure her hang-out spaces feature candle stands and holders to add height and elegance. And an easy centrepiece of a fruit bowl, filled with fresh citrus fruits, adds a fresh pop of colour and shape. [caption id="attachment_862494" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sarah Brown (Unsplash)[/caption] SEATING It goes without saying that when you're sitting down, you're generally more relaxed than when you're standing up. So, rather than having some people standing and others sitting like it's your Year 10 social, you need to make sure there are enough seats to go around. Tucker is a big advocate of considered seating arrangements. "Have a selection of seating at different heights and configurations. A stool anyone can pull up anywhere. A couch for three. Dining chairs that can easily be moved. An ottoman. The best parties involve changing seats, swapping your conversation partners and literally and figuratively taking in different perspectives. It creates a lack of symmetry in a good way — it helps people loosen up." [caption id="attachment_862495" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Simon Godfrey (Unsplash)[/caption] FLOWERS AND PLANTS If it's freshness you're after in your hangout space, it doesn't get much fresher than flowers and indoor plants. Not only do they add colour, natural scents and liveliness to any space, but greenery has also been shown to boost mood, energy and creativity while purifying the air. And because they come in all shapes and sizes, flowers can also complement the design elements of a room, or create all new talking points. There are plenty of incredible florists in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, but these aren't your only options. A tip from Branded Content Producer Grace Mackenzie: "If you're looking to be thrifty, go for a walk with secateurs and sneakily snip foliage to pop in vases." [caption id="attachment_862472" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Luisa Brimble (Unsplash)[/caption] SOFT FURNISHINGS Sure, a comfortable couch or armchair is great, but soft furnishings can take the comfort to the next level thanks to their ability to bring relaxation, warmth and volume to a space through different fabrics, colours and patterns. We're talking cushions, blankets, throws and the like — basically anything that can help you and your mates get as cosy as can be. Branded Content Manager Nik Addams reckons it's not just about the comfort factor, though: "Rugs can also be a great way to demarcate different zones, especially in a smaller space" he says. [caption id="attachment_862479" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Noman Shahid (Unsplash)[/caption] INSTANT CAMERAS Those of us of a certain age would remember that a digital camera was a must-bring item on any night out — and still have the cringy Facebook albums to prove it. And while we still love a little photo moment, you don't need to dust off the old Canon PowerShot to help your crew create a keepsake of a great night in. Instant cameras by the likes of Polaroid or Fujifilm are an easy way to add an element of interaction and keep the vibes high. Or, as Tucker says: "It's like a silly alternative to a photo booth at an event, except it's a bunch of your favourite people making faces in front of the fridge." [caption id="attachment_864739" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cottonbro (Pexels)[/caption] GAMES Whether you're hosting mates who've known one another for years or people who don't know each other too well, games are "natural conversation starters in any home social setting", according to our National Branded Content Editor Melanie Colwell. And even if the whole night doesn't revolve around the wheelings and dealings of Monopoly or deciphering the scribbles on a Pictionary board, breaking up an evening with a round of cards is a great way to keep things flowing, while also providing an opportunity to create new memories with your people. Need some ideas? Opus has a heap of games that are guaranteed crowd-pleasers. For more inspo on how to create your own golden moments with mates, head to the American Honey website. Top image: Cottonbro (Pexels)
Traditionally, a food outing with kids in tow has involved a jumbo pack of wipes, stale nuggets and worn-out parents who wished more than anything that they had booked an expensive babysitter while they indulged their passion for food. Well, times have changed. Now more than ever, restaurants have parents in mind. So we've teamed up with Holden Equinox, the SUV for parents with nothing to prove, to find Brisbane's top ten kid-friendly cafe and restaurants. These places offer some of the best, most exciting food offerings in the city — with a little extra somethin' somethin' to make family outings a delight. Now you can save the babysitter for when you actually need the alone time, not just a great feed someone else has cooked. RISTORANTE LA FAMIGLIA It doesn't get any more family friendly that this Italian joint, with the word family literally there in the name. Ristorante La Famiglia specialises in regional Pugliese food such as orecchiette (little ear-shaped pasta), with a fresh and tasty kids menu to match. Desserts are designed to be shared, spreading the post-feast sugar high evenly among family members. 3/855 Stanley Street, Woolloongabba PLUM TUCKER Come to Plum Tucker to feast on delicious and healthy brunch dishes. Table service and a kiddies' corner complete with books, toys and colouring-in activities makes it perfect for parents who actually want to have a conversation over their eggs Benny. You might even get some food envy from the kids' menu. With options like a mini bacon and egg burger on Turkish, the little rascals have plenty to choose from. 1/5 Enoggera Terrace, Red Hill THE PRIORY KITCHEN Let's be honest, there are only so many ways you can get creative with eggs and avocado. Brunch spots that offer fresh and exciting menu options are very hard to come by — which is why The Priory is a rare gem in the inner south. Ample seating options, high chairs and a full kids' menu that will have you pretending to be under 12. There'll be no objection to finishing off Three-Year-Old's fruit salad sundae complete with summer fruits, passionfruit jelly, lemon sorbet and brioche cinnamon toast. Shop 4/855 Stanley Street, Woolloongabba MECCA BAH A now not-so-well-kept secret, this hot spot in the valley not only offers incredible Middle Eastern and Mediterranean grub, it welcomes kids — to the extent that it hosts children's pizza-making classes and parties. For just $35 per child, kids learn the art of dough acrobatics, followed by a pizza buffet, soft drink and fairy floss. A wise investment for weekly at-home pizza nights; there's no need to buy frozen bases when your child's learned the trade straight from a the pizza maestro. Win. 21/1000 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley THE COFFEE NOOK A popular spot on the south side for busy parents, The Coffee Nook offers quick and friendly service, consistently excellent coffee, plus one of the best beef burgers in town. With ample parking and jumbo babycinos on offer, this hole-in-the-wall is a great spot at which to refuel after a sleepless night (or 20). 2/5 Secam Street, Mansfield SEPTEMBER 18 This is one restaurant where the whole family is sure to eat their vegetables. September 18 (no, not the last time you went to the bathroom without an audience), the all-vegan eatery at North Lakes, is a family-friendly destination for plant-based meals. The cosy spot provides high chairs, and its Malaysian-inspired dishes are bound to please palettes young and old, timid or bold. Think dumplings, noodles and stay mock chicken. 1650 Anzac Avenue, North Lakes PAWPAW Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this buzzing Woolloongabba eatery covers all bases and is especially creative when it comes to catering for little ones with allergies. Vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free options are all available in the form of breakfast bowls, French toast and steamed bao. Bonus: they serve all their kid-sized drinks with lids so as to avoid spills and frantic table wipe-downs. 898 Stanley Street East, Woolloongabba SAIKO TEPPANYAKI Nothing says family fun like having an egg thrown at your face. Saiko is a Japanese teppanyaki restaurant, which means the food is cooked right in front of you, flamboyantly, on huge grills. This is for parents who are looking for more than just your ordinary dinner. The magic of interactive dining never gets old — much like the teppanyaki masters themselves. Book early to avoid missing out on all the theatrical fun, and bring some extra wipes for the grown-ups in case the sake interferes with your ability to catch rice in your mouth. 17/1000 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley PIZZALUNGA DA CARLO Woodfired one-metre-long pizzas are the specialty at Pizzalunga. And there is no need to keep the kids occupied with an iPad when they can watch the pizza chefs in action in this open-plan kitchen. All pizzas are hand rolled, and there's a simple but delicious kids' menu on offer as well — for the minority of the population who like their pizzas on a smaller scale. For those with a second dessert stomach, the woodfired Nutella pizza topped with fresh strawberries is a must. 3 Aspinall Street, Nundah MRS BROWN'S BAR & KITCHEN Remember when you used to socialise at bars and drink alcohol out of a lovely glass? It feels like so long ago. Thankfully, Mrs Brown is here to help. Home to an impressive selection of wine and spirits, as well as Asian-inspired bar food, Mrs Brown's aims to bring locals together, including the reason why we took up daytime drinking in the first place — our offspring. It's rare to find a bar that will accommodate the kids; even rarer to find one with such a welcoming vibe and plenty of high chairs on offer. 32 Commercial Road, Newstead Drive your family on adventures in and outside of town in the Holden Equinox, the SUV for parents with nothing to prove. Find out more on the Holden website.
For most of us, Pizza Hut visits have been happily locked away — or banished, if you ever ate one of those Four'n Twenty meat pie-stuffed crust pizzas — in the childhood memory bank for good. Since then, we've swapped our ten-year-old desires for more grown-up gourmet pies, preferring real pizzas with high-quality ingredients that are made lovingly by an Italian family, served with nice wine and maybe even come with the option of vegan cheese. But if you want to renege on all that pizza progress and go back to where it all began with a chewy, cheesy large Hawaiian, Pizza Hut will welcome you back with open arms. The restaurant chain this week opens its doors to a new dine-in 'concept store' in Sydney. If you haven't already, forget what a 90s-style Pizza Hut looks like. In the vein of McDonald's — which opened a concept cafe called The Corner in Sydney in 2014 — Pizza Hut's latest venture is giving a red-hot crack at being cool by distancing itself from its usual branding. The fit-out sits awkwardly between clean white-tiled minimal cafe (with neon signage!) and a small suburban pizza place circa 1992. As well as its pizzas, the restaurant menu has adapted modern food trends for a selection of 'tapas-style' entrees and a dedicated dessert bar, featuring free-flowing 'real' ice cream and frozen custard. The chain is also bringing back the vice of greedy 90s kids that is the all-you-can-eat model, in the form of unlimited pizza by the slice on Tuesday nights and Saturday afternoons. You'll be able to get a medium pizza and a soft drink for the bargain basement price of $8 and the kitchen will be open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. The Waterloo restaurant will also become the brand's new 'innovation lab', where it will create and trial new (no doubt, questionable) creations. It launches today — and while there are so many other places we'd recommend you eat pizza in Sydney, if you're looking for an excuse to check it out, the store is giving out free pizza all day today from 11am. Find Pizza Hut's new Waterloo store at 7 Archibald Avenue, Waterloo. For more info, visit pizzahut.com.au.
Any great trip to New Zealand's South Island should include at least one stay in accommodation with a fantastic view. Luckily, in this stunning part of the world, that's not hard to do. To help you plan, we've put together some of our favourite South Island offerings with views of the island's stunning mountains, valleys and coastlines — and even the night sky. From rugged secluded cottages to luxurious retreats, here's where to soak up incredible views of the South Island's world-famous natural beauty. Recommended reads: The Best Places to Go Glamping in New Zealand The Best Places to Go Glamping in Australia The Most Unique Stays You Can Book Around New Zealand The Most Unique Stays with Breathtaking Views of New Zealand's South Island Remarkable Views, Queenstown After a day of hiking, skiing, or exploring Queenstown, return to this gem you'll find less than a ten-minute walk from town. The combination of the stunning mountain views from the deck alongside a convenient location makes this truly a one-of-a-kind find. From $360 AUD per night, sleeps four. Woodpecker Bay Bach, West Coast This rustic bach is located only steps from the water but half an hour away from the nearest shops, making it the very definition of a secluded getaway. There are lots of gorgeous outdoor attractions near the cabin to explore — that is, if you ever want to leave the beautiful bathtub with stunning water views. From $226 SUD per night, sleeps two. Tawhitnui House, Elaine Bay This remote rental features unobstructed ocean views — and a solar-heated infinity pool from which to enjoy them. Because of its remote location, guests can enjoy a true immersion into local flora and fauna and see the stars in a pollution-free night sky. From $294 AUD per night, sleeps six. Kiwi Bach, Canterbury Located in the small beach community of Te Onepoto/Taylor's Mistake, this 1920s bach is the perfect surfer's vacation rental. Watch the waves roll in beneath rolling green hills from the cabin's windows or outdoor areas, or walk directly down to the beach to see them up close. From $117 AUD per night, sleeps two. Rocky Point Hut, Nelson The 90-minute trek to this hut is worth it for the panoramic views alone. Situated on its own portion of Pepin Island, this rental has complete privacy. Explore, relax, and gaze out to the Abel Tasman sea from this cabin's solar-heated outdoor bathtub. From $290 AUD per night, sleeps two. Romantic Remote Chalet, Collingwood Nestled into the beautiful rocky shoreline of a coastal farm, this cosy chalet and nearby sleep-out is a ten-minute walk from the sea. Both buildings, which are about 30 metres apart, can be included in the booking, bringing the total capacity to six people. From $217 AUD per night, sleeps four. Stargazer's Luxury Retreat, Lake Tekapo This aptly named cabin is, indeed, luxurious. With a king-sized bed and wood-fired hot tub, this Airbnb is intended to be cosy. If stargazing up at the Milky Way from this hot tub is not on your trip agenda, you're doing it wrong. From $524 AUD per night, sleeps two. Skylark Cabin, Twizel This luxurious cabin is located in a stunning, sun-soaked valley in backcountry Ben Ohau. The star of the house is a circular window in the roof, which allows guests to stargaze from the warmth and comfort of their king-sized bed. From $723 AUD per night, sleeps two. High Country Cabin, Canterbury Whether you're seeking adventure on the nearest hiking trail or curling up by the fire in this rustic cabin, the Southern Alps will make the seclusion-seeking traveller feel at peace. You'll just have to put up with the "neighbours": grazing sheep and other local wildlife. From $406 AUD per night, sleeps five. Takahopa Bay Retreat, Otago This secluded home in the Catlins offers sweeping views of the surrounding forest and ocean. Although it's fully off the grid, this home is powered by an emission-free hydro system that gives it all the conveniences of city life — with significantly fewer neighbours. If you're lucky, you may even see Aurora Australis from your back porch. From $357 AUD per night, sleeps four. Lake Ohau Escape, Lake Ohau This three-bedroom home boasts waterfront views and a toasty indoor fireplace — the perfect getaway for any time of year. If you're looking for outdoor activities, there are many close by — including an A2O cycle trail or a ski field that's 15 minutes away — or you can choose to stay in for the stunning mountain-range views, best enjoyed from the outdoor spa. From $563 AUD per night, sleeps seven. Luxury Wilderness Cabin, Waiau Nestled in the absolute wilderness, this off-grid eco-cabin on the edge of a small lake is just a three-minute drive from Waiau Glacier village. The lake is fed by a pristine mountain stream and offers views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and Unser Fritz Falls that you can experience from an outdoor stone bath. Within the cabin, enjoy a king bed and cedar barrel sauna. From $496 AUD per night, sleeps two. Wanaka Couples Escape, Luggate This converted shipping container is a private oasis equipped with modern luxuries and natural beauty. Relax in this an outdoor bath or the deck under the stars with an unending view of the night sky. What's there not to love about this cosy hideaway in the country. From $248 AUD per night, sleeps two. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy. Images: courtesy of Airbnb.
Are you feeling a bit left out at work when people are discussing their weekend whisky sour at Shady Pines because you are at a loss as to what is in that drink or where that bar is? Or do you miss the camaraderie that comes with a university pub crawl but feel your palette has matured beyond fire engines and snake bites? Do not fret if so, Sydney Bar Tours has arrived. Headed up by two of Sydney's most illustrious foodies, Alex Adams from EatDrinkPlay.com and Simon McGoram, drinks editor of Australian Bartender magazine, the tours are aiming to illuminate the ever changing Sydney nightlife landscape. The experience is simple but unique, a small group of ten (friends or strangers) introduced to Sydney's best new bars. You'll meet the owners, managers and bartenders, sample the bars menu and even have cocktails and drinks designed just for you. McGoram points out: "In short, you'll get the rock star treatment." Currently offering two tours focusing on the small bars in Darlinghurst and the CBD, the operation looks to expand to the locales of Surry Hills, Bondi Beach and Kings Cross. The tours run for a little over three hours, include food and drinks, and tickets are limited. Check out Eat Drink Play for more details.
Finding somewhere to eat and/or drink along James Street is as easy as looking in any direction you like, but only one spot brings a fashion brand's aesthetic out of its clothing range and into a bar and restaurant. That venue: The Lodge Bar & Dining, the just-launched bricks-and-mortar outpost of New Zealand's Rodd & Gunn, which has thrown open its doors in a heritage Queenslander on the popular Fortitude Valley roadway. Expanding from helping stock wardrobes to tempting tastebuds isn't new for Rodd & Gunn, which originally opened its first Lodge Bar & Dining in Queenstown in 2016, then expanded to Auckland in 2020, and also made the leap to Melbourne in 2021. Brisbane's addition to the list was announced earlier in 2022, and sports the brand's rustic-meets-sophisticated vibe in venue form — plus an impressive food and drink menu. Book in for a meal here, and you'll be tucking into a menu conjured up by The Lodge Bar Group's Executive Chef Matt Lambert, which goes heavy on seasonal produce and local ingredients. Seafood features prominently, including in entrees such as sea trout tartare; via oysters from Batemans Bay, Tasmania and Moreton Bay; and from a spread that also spans eucalyptus grilled tiger prawns, open fire grilled rock lobster and mud crab royale. Blue crab spaghetti, buttered bug rolls and grilled rock lobster are big highlights, too. And, if you feel like forking out $250 for a 100-gram serving of caviar, you'll get whatever's the best at the time. Also standouts: pork terrine, muscovy duck breast, coal-roasted sun choke gnocchi and the wagyu of the moment. The Lodge Bar Group's Master Sommelier and Group Beverage Manager Cameron Douglas has come up with a wide-ranging drinks list to match — think oh-so-many wines from Italy, France, Spain, Argentina and Australia, with 36 percent of the vino offering hailing from New Zealand; and a range of creative libations that includes a rose gold negroni. There's even a dedicated cocktail room, should they be your tipples of choice. The 749-square-metre, 150-seat space also features oak wood flooring, wool rugs, and plenty of leather and brass decor, channelling an alpine mood. But the two-storey spot also makes the most of its classic Queenslander-style wraparound balcony, giving patrons a taste of NZ and the Sunshine State at once. Peering out over both James and Robertson streets come with the territory as well, naturally. While dropping in for a bite to eat and a beverage or several is the main attraction, the ground floor has been designed to let you mosey easily from its corner bar with banquette seating through to the retail space; as a Rodd & Gunn venue, being able to shop the brand's clothing was always going to be on the cards. Upstairs, there's another bar, a private dining area and that aforementioned balcony. And although this is The Lodge Bar & Dining's fourth outing, it holds pride of place for Rodd & Gunn, which has dubbed it its global flagship venue. Find Rodd & Gunn x The Lodge Bar & Dining at 49 James Street, Fortitude Valley.
