Sit down for a drink at Amsterdam's Vesper, and your cocktail just might contain more than just alcohol, garnish, ice and mixers. As part of a waste-reducing initiative called Trash the Place!, the Dutch bar is recycling all food-related items that it can, finding imaginative ways to use them, and throwing it all in their beverages. "One man's trash is another man's treasure" is the fitting line of thinking behind it, which sees Vesper's bartenders recovering and re-using food offcuts that were otherwise destined for the garbage pile, particularly where fruit is involved. As the bar's Julian Bayuni told MUNCHIES, "for example, we use strawberries to make our own strawberry Campari.. [then] we filter the fruit out of the Campari and mix it with some mango, fresh tomato, cilantro, and onion to make a fermented salsa, which we serve with our tortilla chips." While operating in a more sustainable fashion is an ongoing focus, Vesper are specifically showcasing their creative, environmentally conscious concoctions until the end of September, with not only their staff getting in on the task, but guest bartenders from other Amsterdam establishments as well. In an industry that creates as much waste as hospitality, it's an inventive and inspiring step — and joins the likes of fellow Dutch venue De Fruithaven, who run on power generated by food waste, plus New Zealand-based vodka company 42BELOW, who've been turning leftover bar garnishes into hand soap. Via MUNCHIES. Image: Vesper.
Two months ago, Australia and New Zealand finally introduced the trans-Tasman bubble, which allows folks from either country to travel across the ditch without needing to go into quarantine upon arrival. During that time, the arrangement has been suspended on several occasions on a state-by-state basis — including during Victoria's recent lockdown, and in response to New South Wales' current outbreak — and now, with COVID-19 cases growing across Australia, NZ has put a pause on the bubble nationwide. Announced on Saturday, June 26 and in effect until at least 11.59pm NZ time (9.59pm AEST) on Tuesday, June 29, the suspension applies to quarantine-free travel from all Aussie states and territories. The initial timeframe will span 72 hours, which is NZ's usual first step. Whether it extends that period or not will obviously depend on coronavirus case numbers. "There are now multiple cases and outbreaks in Australia in differing stages of containment and the health risk for New Zealand in response to these cases is increasing," said NZ COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins in a statement. "As a result, the Government has taken the precautionary step of temporarily widening the current pause with New South Wales to include all of Australia." https://twitter.com/covid19nz/status/1408712957630902282 When NZ Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced the two-way bubble between Australia and New Zealand back in April, she noted that it could and would be paused if and when outbreaks occur — so none of the suspensions so far, including this one, are surprising. The NZ Government advised that this current pause will not only give it "time to get a better understanding of the developing situation," but will also enable it "to consider the potential implementation of a range of measures to make the bubble safer, such as the introduction of pre-departure testing for all flights from Australia to New Zealand." At the moment, Sydney's Bondi cluster keeps growing, with 112 locally acquired cases reported as at 8pm on Saturday, June 26. The Greater Sydney area is currently in a two-week lockdown, while positive cases — some linked, some not — have also been reported in Queensland, Victoria, the Northern Territory and Western Australia. Whether you're an Australian on holiday in NZ or a New Zealander who has recently returned from across the ditch, anyone now in NZ who has been in Australia since Friday, June 21 is asked to monitor their health, and keep an eye on the exposure sites lists in various Australian states — such as NSW, Victoria, Queensland, the NT and WA. You're also requested to contact NZ's Healthline if you experience any symptoms. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website. To find out more about the virus and travel restrictions in New Zealand, head over to the NZ Government's COVID-19 hub.
If your state was just weeks away from legalising marijuana for recreational use, what plans would you be hatching? Well, one Californian winery has gone and created the world's first commercially available marijuana-infused sauvignon blanc. The winemakers at Rebel Coast Winery — who produce Californian blends and Sonoma chardonnay — have invented a wine that's infused with THC, the psychoactive element of cannabis. It's all ready to start shipping within California on January 1, 2018, which is when recreational marijuana becomes legal across the state. Infusing wine with cannabis is no new thing, but this is the first time is will be sold by official means. There is a difference though: THC and alcohol can't legally be mixed, so the winemakers have switched out the wine's booze content for 16 milligrams of THC per bottle. Apparently it "smells like weed, tastes like wine" and won't haunt you with a hangover the next day. And the high? As Rebel Coast explains on its website, "after one glass you won't be thinking your couch is a hippo with short legs or anything. Our goal is not to kill you after you've had a few glasses. The goal is to get giggly and naked with someone." Obviously recreational use of cannabis is not legal in Australia or New Zealand, so this sav blanc isn't either. However, both countries have recently legalised the consumption and sale of low-THC hemp food products.
Well I am of course. That is the assertion of each of the performers appearing in this quirky, funny new production. Created by Sydney performance trio post, Who’s the Best is the troupe at play, but with the very serious issue of determining who is in fact the best amongst them in any way they can. The determinants of best-ness are varied, they include Dolly quizzes, anagram tests, underwear comparisons, hand-eye coordination assessments, voting, debates and pie charts. Each of the performers vie for the most audience attention, and the title of ‘The Best’. They'll steal lines from one another, and generally demand they be the centre of attention. With references to classic comedy, reality TV, corporate presentation and contemporary performance, the production attempts to define what makes you the best, and settle any possible impending debate. post are back to their piss-taking ways with this production, using their mix of satirical comedy and biting truth to explore the self-obsession of the culture we live in – the need to win at all costs, and the desire, no matter the consequences to prove who is the best.
The shock of unkempt hair, the Irish brogue, the misanthropic attitude: there's no mistaking Dylan Moran for anyone else. It was true in beloved British sitcom Black Books, when his on-screen alter ego abhorred mornings, ate coasters and claimed that his oven could cook anything (even belts). And it's definitely true of the comedian's acerbically hilarious live shows. Moran is no stranger to Australia and New Zealand, but if you haven't guffawed at his bleak wit live, he's coming back in 2023 to give you another chance. As always, expect the kind of deadpan gags, wine-soaked insights and blisteringly sharp one-liners that've kept him in the spotlight since 1996, when he became the youngest-ever winner of the Edinburgh Fringe's Perrier Award. [caption id="attachment_729089" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Andy Hollingworth[/caption] From mid-April to late May, Moran will tour Down Under with his latest show We Got This, bringing his grumpily lyrical musings on love, politics, misery and the everyday absurdities of life to 11 Aussie cities and four spots in NZ. Kicking off in Hobart and ending up in Auckland, this marks his first full standup show since 2019's Dr Cosmos, which also came our way — and was available to stream earlier in the pandemic, too. Given this tour's title, it's hardly surprising that Moran will be reflecting upon these chaotic times. That might sound like a standard comedy gig these days, but nothing about Moran's comedy is ever standard. "We are bruised. We are fucked up. We are all sore," he said, announcing the tour. "It's not just the pandemic. It's the times and how we've got through it." As well as his stint as the world's worst bookshop owner in Black Books, Moran has popped up in films such as Notting Hill and Shaun of the Dead, should you been keen to get watching (or rewatching) before his new gigs. Nabbing tickets early is recommended — his shows usually sell out quickly. DYLAN MORAN 'WE GOT THIS' 2023 DATES Wednesday, April 19 — Wrest Point Entertainment Centre, Hobart Thursday, April 20 — Princess Theatre, Launceston Friday, April 21 — Hamer Hall, Melbourne Tuesday, April 25 — Thebarton Theatre, Adelaide Thursday, April 27–Friday, April 28 — Canberra Theatre, Canberra Saturday, April 29 — Civic Theatre, Newcastle Tuesday, May 2 — HOTA, Home of the Arts, Gold Coast Thursday, May 4–Friday, May 5 — QPAC Concert Hall, Brisbane Monday, May 8 — Perth Concert Hall, Perth Thursday, May 11 + Monday, May 15 — State Theatre, Sydney Saturday, May 13 — Town Hall, Wollongong Saturday, May 20 — Isaac Theatre Royal, Christchurch Monday, May 22 — Regent Theatre, Dunedin Tuesday, May 23 — St James Theatre, Wellington Thursday, May 25 — Auckland Town Hall, Auckland Dylan Moran's 'We Got This' tour will head around Australia and New Zealand in April and May 2023. Ticket pre-sales start at 11am on Thursday, October 13, with general sales from 9am on Tuesday, October 18. For more information, head to the tour website. Updated November 25.
With Australia's COVID-19 curve flattening, exactly how and when restrictions will be relaxed has dominated conversation of late. Last week, Prime Minister Scott Morrison revealed that some social distancing and public gathering rules could be loosened in mid-May. Today, Thursday, April 23, Australia's Chief Medical Officer Brendan Murphy shed some light on when international travel could restart. But don't go packing your suitcase just yet. At a senate inquiry meeting into Australia's response to COVID-19, Murphy said that opening borders would be one of the last stages of easing restrictions. "At the moment, any relaxation of border measures would be very risky," Murphy said. "I wouldn't be envisaging any material changes [to border measures] in that three to four months." One exception to that, Murphy hinted to, could be allowing travel between Australia and New Zealand. The Prime Minister echoed this sentiment in a press conference in the middle of the senate inquiry meeting (yes, a busy day), saying that he'd already been in discussions with New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern about potentially reopening borders. "If there is any country in the world with whom we can reconnect with first," Morrison said. "Undoubtedly that's New Zealand." [caption id="attachment_596427" align="alignnone" width="1280"] A PurePod in New Zealand[/caption] Some of the restrictions that could be eased before then, and possibly as soon as in three weeks, are those in small groups. In NSW, Victoria and Queensland at present, public gatherings are restricted to a maximum of two people or the members of your household. While Murphy said they "would not be contemplating large-scale gatherings" just yet, "some relaxation of the size of small groups is possible". Other restrictions Murphy says the government is currently looking into loosening include "things like community sport and some retail measures". But, as has been the message repeated in the past week, "we have to weigh up the public health risk versus the benefit to society and the economy". If you're wondering why we're hearing a lot from Murphy during COVID-19, and why his opinions hold weight, Murphy is not only the principal medical adviser to the Federal Health Minister, but also he's the chair of the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC), which makes big decisions in health emergencies — such as global pandemics. There's no exact date on when we'll be able to travel just yet — locally or internationally — but if you want to start dreaming, here are some of our favourite spots to visit in New Zealand. Top image: Mueller Hut Track in New Zealand by Corey Parsons.
It only takes one perfect record to make a musician a legend. For Ms Lauryn Hill, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill was that album. The American singer and rapper fronted The Fugees before dropping her only solo release. She starred in Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit as well. But come 1998, when the record that bears her name hit, it ensured that she'd always be an icon. 2023 marks 25 years since The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill first arrived — and to celebrate, Hill is touring. Down Under, she has locked in three stops: a headlining gig at Promiseland Festival on the Gold Coast, plus stadium shows in Melbourne and Sydney. Home to singles 'Doo Wop (That Thing)', 'Ex-Factor', 'Everything Is Everything', 'Lost Ones' and 'Can't Take My Eyes Off You', The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill was a smash on the charts, with critics and at the Grammys. It peaked at number two in Australia; has been named in oh-so-many lists of 90s, hip hop and rap records, as well as albums of all time and releases by women; and earned five Grammys from ten nominations. During her tour, Hill will play tracks from her time with The Fugees, too — killing audiences softly with the iconic cover that the band is best known for, plus 'Ready or Not', 'Fu-Gee-La' and more. On the Gold Coast, she's part of a two-day lineup that also includes Six60, L.A.B., Davido, Tems, Fiji, House of Shem, Koffee and Fireboy DML, all playing Doug Jennings Park across Saturday, September 30–Sunday, October 1. On her solo shows in New South Wales and Victoria, Koffee will be in support. "The Miseducation album has been a consistently special artwork that has allowed me to tour for 25 years, sharing the message and energy with its loyal appreciators. I'm not even sure if it feels like 25 years have gone by to me," said Hill, announcing the tour. "I'm excited to celebrate this landmark anniversary with the fans in Australia, and I look forward to this time capsule experience. The music itself was born to be anachronistic, at the same time reclaiming precious jewels from the past, and infusing them with the potency and energy of the present, in order to enrich it and the future. Revisiting the album live has renewed my love and appreciation for the music and the period in which it was born, when hip hop was ripe with potential and uncomplicated enthusiasm." MS LAURYN HILL'S THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE MISEDUCATION OF LAURYN HILL TOUR: Sunday, October 1 — Promiseland Festival, Gold Coast Tuesday, October 3 — Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Thursday, October 5 — Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney Ms Lauryn Hill will play three shows in Australia in October 2023, with tickets on-sale now — head to the Promiseland website and tour website for further details: Top image: Città di Parma via Wikimedia Commons.
Everything that humans can eat, dogs think that they can eat too. But, as every responsible pet owner knows, your adorable canine can't share your every meal — no matter how much it might wish otherwise. On Sunday, March 28, your four-legged friend can eat pies, though. So can two-legged attendees. Pie Town's pooch-friendly event is called Pups and Pies, but naturally people are catered for as well. Head along from 11am–2pm, and enjoy a dog-friendly party where treats for both humans and puppers are on the menu. Bring your own barking bestie along, and watch the cutie's eyes light up when it gets to munch on something special. There'll also be brews, and the festivities will raise money for Safe Haven Animal Rescue Inc, including via a raffle. Plus, the folks from Safe Haven will be around if you have any questions about fostering doggos — and they'll be bringing a few four-legged friends with them, should you be keen to adopt a new member into your family.
The future is coming and Jason Silva is excited. Very excited. Silva is an American filmaker and self-proclaimed "wonder junkie, ideas DJ, performance philosopher", and he's coming to an Opera House near you this weekend for the Festival of Dangerous Ideas. Concrete Playground spoke with him about his provocatively titled festival lecture 'We Are the Gods Now'. We are the Gods is quite the title for a talk. What can we expect to hear from you at the Opera House? In his book about the exponential growth curve of technology, Raymond Kurzweil says, "There are decades when nothing happens and there are weeks when decades happen." In 40 years we've seen computers contract in size from half a building to something 1000 times more powerful that fits in your pocket: the smartphone. If we continue along this exponential trajectory, we can expect computing power to enhance while the physical unit shrinks from pocket-size to the size of a blood cell. Speaking of blood cells, the thing I'm really excited about is the way that biology [the field of study] is fast becoming information technology. If you think growth in computing power is impressive, the rate that we are sequencing genomes is outpacing Moore's Law. Freeman Dyson, the physicist, says we are going to compose genomes the way we compose verse. I know, I know, it sounds like we're tripping, but history tells us this is what we should expect! Artistry is going to spill off the canvas and into the biology lab, and I think we should be excited — and not fearful — of what we're going to create in there. What it means to be human is to transcend our limits, to rebel, to be "cosmic revolutionaries", in Aaron Harrington's words. So, yeah, that's the crux of what I'll be talking about. Really, you think we're fearful of new technology? Apple has people frothing at the mouth about the launch of the iPhone 5 this week. I think the success of the iPhone attests to our love of these tools — we are living in a techno-utopian society — and yet the alarmist media bang on about the demise of interpersonal connections because people are supposedly texting more than they're talking, so on and so forth. I like to remind people that around the advent of the telegraph there was a moral panic that it would hurt our brains, that it wasn't natural. In fact, even Socrates railed against writing! He claimed that the act of transcribing something would atrophy our brains. But there is some truth to what Socrates said, at least in sentiment. I read Nicholas Carr's piece for the Atlantic Is Google Making Us Stupid?, wherein he discusses the netizen's diminishing capacity to "deep read", which he claims is a direct consequence of the way we engage with screen texts, constantly drifting and never really focusing. I totally agree with the concept of bandwidth anxiety — I personally experience it! But you have to think of bandwidth anxiety as analogous to downloading an HD film via a 56k modem connection rather than a fibre-optic cable. In our case, the human biological brain is fixed, but our technology is infinitely upgradeable. We're like a drooling dog looking at a lineup of 50 dogs on heat and we can't possibly mate them all! We have so many options to connect with the world around us, but we have to be disciplined and disconnect. I mean, I turn off my cell phone when I go see a movie or when I read a book. I think Carr's case is that the damage is done, that our brains are capable of rewiring to optimise our experience of digital culture. The damage isn't beyond repair; the brain is plastic, but I can say from personal experience that I now struggle to engage with longer novels where I used to devour them, and I think it's because I'm increasingly feasting on the easy-to-digest, pretty, shiny things — things like your short videos, the so-called "shots of philosophical espresso". Fair enough. I started producing short videos because I felt there was a gap in the market for them. There's no end of intelligent, philosophical discourse in the blogosphere, but there's a real paucity of engaging, short-format video content on the web. I wanted to capture that feeling of two in the morning, in your college dorm with a beautiful girl, discussing the meaning of life — and amplify it to the scale of a cinematic experience. Sure, these short-form bursts of inspiration trigger the release of dopamine and that's an addictive chemical so we have to self-monitor how much we take in. So when you talk about losing the capacity to "deep read" or appreciate silence, I think it's just a matter of growing pains, because we aren't yet equipped physiologically to handle the kind of content we're creating. Once we upgrade our own brains using biotechnology and genetic engineering, we'll be like a computer you can add RAM to — this issue of not being able to multitask will be a thing of the past! This is the Singularity! I can see how these videos might inspire organisations to foster creative culture or even spark cross-industry collaboration, but how to you hope these videos will affect people's day-to-day lives? Art and media are mediums for preparing us for the future. I'm trying to present intelligent content in a cool and sexy format — which, in turn, means the act of engaging with it is cool and sexy. I want there to be an alternative to the overwhelming share of media space given to the likes of Jersey Shore, something that has pop culture cred but doesn't insult the viewer's intelligence. At the end of the day, if you want someone to really care about your product, you need to make them feel something; you need to induce a feeling of wonder, of awe. Once you achieve this, you've set in motion a lust for learning. At a consumer level we have access to an incredible array of tools [high-speed internet, mobile devices, etc.] for engaging with the world of ideas, but most people don't know or don't care for what's out there. What's lacking is a viral outbreak of wonder. The phenomenon of trolling is on the rise and just recently a local TV personality who came under a torrent of online abuse was admitted to a psych ward. And last weekend here in Sydney there was a protest that turned into a riot sparked by the indie film released on YouTube, The Innocence of Muslims. I just wonder how culpable social media is in this sequence of events, given that it's so easy to be offensive when speaking from a disembodied perspective. Dude! The right to offend is a hallmark of a free society! I mean, I don't want to say that riot was an act of cultural or religious immaturity, but violence, no, violence is never justified because someone offended you. Okay, but I'm quoting you from earlier this year when I say, "As we increasingly become sophisticated, cosmopolitan people, the religious impulse is less relevant." Well, look, I sort of abide by the opinions of Ernest Becker, who wrote the book The Denial of Death. He says that the 'religious impulse' is one solution to the problem we face when we contemplate our own mortality. The second, alternative, way we deal with death is the 'romantic impulse', where we turn our lovers into our gods, and the third, and this one I think is the healthiest, is the 'creative impulse', which is to create great work. I think religion had a time and place and was effective at teaching people to be kind to each other as part of a moral system, but time and again we see it corrupted. So you see yourself as your own god? [laughs] Let's just say I think there will come a day when it will be possible with the aid of technology to transcend our biological limitations and manifest a Being that is extraordinarily smart, ultra-powerful, and immortal. But if there comes a day when saying "you only live once" has no motivational power because we've engineered eternal existence, I wonder if we'll just be crippled by chronic procrastination? Ha! You know, man, that's very possible. But if the universe is infinite, with creative possibilities, then so should we be. Sure, some people will just play Grand Theft Auto for all of eternity if that's what they want to do with their existence, but others will amass a phenomenal bank of knowledge and break new frontiers in science. You know, I hate the way we ennoble death. It's a brute biological horror that kills everyone we care about, and yet we say things like 'death gives life meaning'. I say, you know what gives meaning to life? Life! Death was necessary for the evolutionary process, but now that we're switching from genes to memes, death has become obsolete. We don't need to keep dying in order to create new things. But the creation of most new things only comes about because there's a viable commercial application for it, and if technology is replacing itself at an ever-increasing rate, perhaps the threat of rapid supersedence in the marketplace will slow the generation of new technologies? Hmm. I guess I'd have to agree that, yeah, that's very possible. I mean, already we're seeing college graduates emerge into the workforce only to find that their skillset is already obsolete. Interesting. Thanks so much for chatting with me today. Absolutely, man! It's been a mind-meld! Catch Jason Silva at the Festival of Dangerous Ideas on Sunday, September 30, at 3pm.
It seems that, even though it falls on the same day every year, Christmas creeps up on us. To be fair, it's a pretty hectic time — we're organising holiday plans, tying up loose ends at work and figuring out some resolutions for a brand new year. Even if you have a bunch of post-it note reminders of 'Choose a good gift for Mum' and 'Buy pressies before Christmas Eve', it's easy for those good intentions to fall by the wayside. Plus, it gets pretty expensive when you're buying under time pressure. In partnership with Square, we've searched through Queensland's independent shops to bring you a gift guide that won't break the bank — and you'll be buying from local legends who, after a pretty tough year, need your support. If you are a small business owner, Square has the tools you need to take payments and maximise your sales, including an ebook with tips to help you get started this holiday season. STAINLESS STEEL FLASK, WILDFLOWER ($29) For the gin lover, a sleek flask that they can take along to picnics, house parties and camping trips over summer is a gift that they can keep for life. Wildflower Gin, based out of Burleigh Heads, has a 200-millilitre, leather-wrapped stainless steel flask for a steal at $29. Shipping is free for orders over $100, so add a few bottles of gin to your cart while you're at it. JASMINE ROBE BLACK, HOMEBODII ($49.95) If you're buying for someone who exudes elegance wherever they go, Homebodii's chic black robe could be just what you're after. This silky number has kimono-inspired sleeves, a non-crush satin finish and is the perfect thing to throw on when lounging around at home, which, let's face it, we're all doing a fair bit more of these days. Shipping is $10 or free for orders over $100. CROWD PLEASER CHEESE PACK, THE CHEESEBOARD ($40) You can't go wrong with next-level cheese when picking up gifts for your foodie friends. If you'd rather skip the shops and get it delivered directly to them, jump online at The Cheeseboard and pick from one of its many cheesy delights, with everything from stinky fromage to a box filled with bubbles and brie. When in doubt, the approachable Crowd Pleaser pack comes with artisanal Aussie cheese — think cheddar, camembert and gruyere — and a jar of locally made fruit paste. IVY & WOOD ORCHID AND GINGER CANDLE, SHANNON HAWKES ($39.95) Boutique florist Shannon Hawkes is a one-stop-shop for beautiful blooms. On top of its gorgeous bouquets, it peddles fragrant candles from Ivy & Wood, too, so you can have the smell of fresh flowers, without the upkeep. Ivy & Wood's candles are hand poured and come in a range of stunning scents, we particularly like this orchid and ginger one. LIFE IS TOUGH PRINT, OAK & AVE ($30) This year has dealt many of us a dud hand, so why not give a gift that'll give your pal a little boost? Rather than buying them a Tony Robbins book, get them a fun art print that does the motivational talking instead. This one from Oak & Ave is sure to add some positive vibes to any WFH office. You can either pick it up in person or get it delivered straight to your mate's doorstep. KIM WALLACE CERAMICS TAKEAWAY CUP, NOOK ($39–44) It should come as no surprise that Nook makes the list. Known for showcasing ethical and fair Australian designers, ceramicists and artists, it's a go-to shop for Brisbanites when Christmas comes around. If you have a caffeine fiend in your life, you can't go wrong with one of these handmade, reusable takeaway cups by ceramic queen Kim Wallace. Made in Wallace's studio in Noosa, these cups are available in two sizes, six and eight ounces, and are ideal for your friend who cannot function before they have their first cup of joe. FIDDLE LEAF FIG SMALL, LITTLE LEAF DECOR ($28) Plants are a go-to gift for good reason. Rather than buying blooms, though, why not give something that will last for years to come? The Little Leaf Decor offers a range of plants, including a fiddle leaf fig tree for a reasonable $28. Whether you're buying it for your mum with a green thumb or your mate who just moved house, it's a winner. You'll just have to pick it up from the Little Leaf Decor's Coorparoo store. STAUNCH ORIGINAL BEARD WASH, THE BEARDED CHAP ($45) If your partner, dad, brother or cousin is choosing to keep their funky facial hair after Movember, then this is the gift for them. Made with all natural ingredients and produced in very small batches to ensure the highest of quality, The Bearded Chap's beard wash will clean even the dirtiest of beards and leave your hairy faced friend looking well-kempt. Shipping is free for orders over $20, too. THE CLASSIC WHITE TEE, NEWSTEAD BREWING CO ($25) We all know someone who loves a good craft brew. Rather than buying them booze which, let's be honest, will get consumed fairly quickly over the silly season, get them some cool merch instead. Independent Brisbane brewery Newstead Brewing Co has three mighty fine cotton tees available to purchase online, including this simple white one. You can either get it shipped, or swing by to pick up in person — and have a brew while you're at it. OYSTER KEY RING, SEASHELLS & CO ($18) It's true that you don't have to spend a wad of cash on presents to show someone how much you care. But, if you don't want to turn up empty handed on Christmas Day, these oyster key rings from Seashells & Co make for an excellent pressie. They're handmade in sunny Port Douglas and come individually gift wrapped, so you don't have to worry about picking up wrapping paper either. Find out how Square is supporting small businesses with the tools they need to grow, here. If you are a small business owner, Square has guidance on how best to maximise sales in the run up to the Christmas holiday period in its ebook, found here. Top image: The Bearded Chap
Dreaming of cooler pastures? Swap your ice skates for a snorkel and kick back because the only ice you'll find here is in your frozen margarita. For the ultimate Aussie getaway, we head north to Port Douglas, the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. There's so much to do, see and eat — not to mention the promise of pristine beaches that stretch for years. Sitting on the picturesque Four Mile Beach, it's only a hop, skip and a jump to the Daintree Rainforest. They're bucket list places to visit, so why not tick them off this summer? Do To get the most out of the Daintree, make your first stop the Daintree Discovery Centre (Corner Baileys Creek & Tulip Oak Road, Cow Bay; open daily 8.30am-5pm). Grab an audio tour as you meander about the forest on the aerial walkway. Climb a few short flights of stairs to get to the top of the tower and gaze out, high above the treetops. It will be one of the best things you'll do all year. The Discovery Centre is a world-class facility and has won a bunch of awards. They're ecotourism masters, and every possible precaution is taken to protect the delicate rainforest. A trip to the Discovery Centre will set you back $32/adult, $16/child. Family passes are $78. Prices include audio tour. It's worth every dollar. If you heard the words 'an hour-long discussion about fruit', you'd be forgiven for hesitating. But the Cape Tribulation Exotic Fruit Farm (Lot 5 Nicole Drive, Cape Tribulation; open Nov - June, Sun, Tue, Thu, 2pm-4pm and every day Jun - Oct) is a seriously good time. You taste ten kinds of fruit, and we don't mean your standard Coles fare. We're talking incredibly rare, tropical fruit from the Amazon, South-East Asia and the Caribbean. Dark, pudding-like fruit that tastes like chocolate. Giant weird fruits that taste like bubble gum. Tiny magic seeds that make everything you eat for the next few hours taste super sweet. Tastings are followed by a tour of the beautiful farm.The groups are reasonably small (depending on what time of year you go) and it will give you an experience unlike anything you've ever had before. Who knew fruit could be so exciting? Bookings must be made in advance. The tasting costs $23/adult, $10.50/child or $62 for a family. Your kids will love it and so will you. See The Great Barrier Reef sells itself. It's easily one of the most beautiful places in the world and you're only a few hours away from it. Grab your flippers and snorkel, hop in, and prepare to be amazed. Fish in every conceivable colour, reef sharks, stingrays, gloriously coloured coral and all manner of delights lie under the ocean's surface. The guys at Ocean Safari are the best tour guides in the area. They're acutely aware of the peril currently facing the reef and take every precaution to preserve the delicate environment. Eco tourism at its best. Prices vary depending on the tour you select but a morning tour will set you back $123/adult, $79/child or $366 for a family pass. Sleep The recently renovated Ferntree Rainforest Lodge (36 Camelot Close, Cape Tribulation) is an environmentally friendly resort set in the heart of the Daintree Rainforest and a short walk from Cape Tribulation's Myall Beach. They have a wide variety of affordable rooms and accommodation options so you'll be able to arrange a wonderful tropical getaway without it costing you the earth. You're looking at $28/night for a budget dorm, $140/night for a private cabin and $200/night for the Pool Room Suite. The lodge is designed to fit in with the surrounding rainforest and its spectacular gardens are specially designed to attract native animals. Take our advice and book a Pool Room Suite. These private rooms each have a balcony that backs onto the lodge's second swimming pool. The pool is surrounded by a lush tropical oasis and is a few steps away from the Ferntree Rainforest Lodge's restaurant. All this at a reasonable price? Yes, please. If you fancy yourself a bit of a luxury bunny then Ultra Port Douglas is the place for you. It offers five-star, highly personalised, VIP holiday house rentals, and you can count on a first-class experience. Limousine transfers, private chefs and butler services are part of some of the packages and pretty much anything you could possibly dream of can be arranged. Now, luxury doesn't come cheap — Ultra Port Douglas is a holiday letting service that operates out of some of the most seriously grown-up real estate in the country. However, if you're cashed up and want to be treated like a celebrity, world leader or member of the European royalty, then Ultra Port Douglas is most definitely the place to be. Pass us the Dom Perignon. Thala Beach Lodge (Oak Beach, Port Douglas) is the only deluxe resort in Port Douglas set on a private headland. What does this mean? The most spectacularly mind-blowing views you could possibly imagine. The panoramic vista encompasses the far north Queensland coast from Double Island to Cape Tribulation and overlooks the Great Barrier Reef and World Heritage forests. It's considered to be one of the best eco-tourism resorts in the world. The Lodge sits on 145 acres of gorgeous rainforest and backs onto its own private beach overlooking the Great Barrier Reef. All individual bungalows have views to either the beachfront or the rainforest. Accommodation ranges from around $219 to $1030/night. There's a lot to do at Thala Beach Lodge: star-gazing, nature walks, turtle spotting, sea kayaking, yoga and swimming. Ospreys Restaurant, located within the complex, offers a delicious modern Australian cuisine. You can't go wrong here. Drink The Court House Hotel (Wharf and Macrossan Streets, Port Douglas) is Port Douglas's oldest and most famous hotel. They've been in business for over a century, serving up food and drinks for locals and tourists alike. The hotel is located in the town centre and offers gorgeous views of Anzac Park and the coast. Boasting three bars, two gaming rooms and a restaurant, the 'Courty' (as it's known to locals) is definitely the place to go after a long day's sightseeing. If you're feeling peckish, head to the hotel's restaurant, the Wharf St. Bistro. They're well-known for their great steaks. If you're in the mood to drink, then the hotel offers heaps of outdoor seating and reasonably priced drinks. It's the perfect place for a holiday sundowner. Eat 2 Fish (56 Macrossan Street, Port Douglas) is one of Port Douglas's most awarded restaurants. Specialising in seafood, only the freshest produce is used in the wide range of dishes on offer. The staff know their fish, so it's a good idea to ask for their recommendations. If you're a fan of oysters, start with the mixed dozen, a selection of variously seasoned oysters including Kilpatrick, lime and gin ($34), Bloody Mary, Vietnamese and crispy shallots, Tabasco and lemon and natural oysters. The dishes on the tasting plate menu can be ordered individually as entrees or combined to make a more substantial meal. Order a few, but make sure you don't miss out on the Malaysian butter prawns ($12) or the Atlantic salmon gravlax ($10). The star of the show is the market catch (prices vary). Ask the waiter what the catch of the day is and then choose your garnishes accordingly. A word to the wise: make a booking well in advance. They're seriously popular.
If you had a birthday sometime during the last few months, it probably didn't quite live up to expectations. Because of COVID-19, we've had (very necessary) restrictions on gatherings, which means that birthday shindig was most likely a little smaller than you'd hoped. To help ease the pain every so slightly, Krispy Kreme has announced it's giving away an extremely excessive number of doughnuts. How many? 350,000, to be exact. On Monday, July 13, Krispy Kreme is giving away a dozen Original Glazed doughnuts to Aussies who celebrated a birthday between March 13 and July 13. To snag yourself 12 signature glazed freebies, head to your closest store in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or Perth. Sydneysiders have ten stores — stretching from Penrith to the CBD — to choose from, while Queenslanders can pick from five different doughnut shops, with the most central in the CBD Myer Centre, and Perthians can head to one of three Krispy Kreme stores. The free doughnuts are not available at BPs, Jesters or 7-Elevens. Because of stay-at-home restrictions in Victoria, the deal is only valid at one of three drive-thru stores: Fawkner, Fountain Gate and Bulleen. You can find out more about those restrictions over here. The 350,000 doughnuts will be spread across all Aussies stores. So, you'll want to get in relatively early if you want to kick off your Monday with a free sweet and doughy treat – and don't forget to bring your ID. If you do miss out, however, Krispy Kreme will be offering buy one dozen, get a dozen free from Wednesday, July 15 till Sunday, July 19. Krispy Kreme's free doughnut giveaway is happening nationwide on Monday, July 13 for those born between March 13 and July 13. To find your closest store and check its opening hours, head to the Krispy Kreme website.
It is safe to say that if you know anything about modern music, you will have heard of Ringo Starr. Well, maybe not, but you’ve surely heard of The Beatles – one of the most legendary and revolutionary rock bands of the past century. Ringo Starr was a part of the band for most of its storied career and is a widely recognised name in music. After the dissolution of The Beatles, Ringo wasn’t satisfied with living idly off the royalties of their back catalogue. He has busied himself with numerous solo projects (17 albums worth!) throughout the years and, after a long time away from Australian shores, comes down under to perform for legions of life-long fans. Ringo will be performing with his All Star Band, consisting of members of similarly iconic bands like Toto, Mr. Mister, Santana and Journey. This is a rare chance to see some of rock music’s greatest musicians perform some of rock music’s greatest songs. Get in quick or miss out.
"Your little cinematic universe is about to change forever." That's how Wade Wilson (Ryan Reynolds, Ghosted) describes being asked to enter the Marvel realm in the first trailer for Deadpool & Wolverine. After that, he calls himself "Marvel Jesus". How true the Merc with a Mouth's words will prove won't be known until July 2024, when the full film hits cinemas — but the trailer itself has already made history. Disney premiered the debut sneak peek at the 34th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and the only one arriving this year, during the 2024 Super Bowl — so, on Monday, February 12 Down Under. Within 24 hours, it had become the most-watched movie trailer of all time, notching up a whopping 365-million views. The game itself also became the most-watched Super Bowl ever, attracting 123.7-million viewers in America alone to see the Kansas City Chiefs beat the San Francisco 49ers to win back-to-back titles. (And, yes, to also see Taylor Swift watching along before she brings her Eras tour to Australia.) But on top of the folks who caught the Deadpool & Wolverine trailer during the game, another 240-million-plus people sought it out online. Announced in 2022, Deadpool & Wolverine gives the sprawling Marvel Cinematic Universe something that fans have been waiting for for years. Deadpool will officially become a part of the MCU. So will X-Men hero Wolverine. So, they're about to become the franchise's favourite big-screen odd couple. Reynolds has been playing Deadpool since 2009's X-Men Origins: Wolverine, so this isn't the first time that him and Hugh Jackman (Faraway Downs) are teaming up as their famous characters — but, again, it is the first time in the MCU. Before now, Jackman has already busted out the adamantium claws in nine movies, starting with 2000's X-Men and running through to 2017's Logan, which was poised as his swansong in the role. But when you've been playing a part for that long, in that many flicks, what's one more go-around? After a non-Wolverine gap spent starring in The Greatest Showman, The Front Runner, Bad Education, Reminiscence and The Son, Jackman is clearly ready to get hairy again. That Deadpool & Wolverine is part of the MCU, the comic-to-screen realm that's been going since the first Iron Man flick and will likely never ever end, isn't a minor detail. The two characters have always been Marvel characters, but because of rights issues behind the scenes, they've stayed in their own on-screen sagas. But when Disney (which owns Marvel) bought 20th Century Fox (which brought the X-Men and Deadpool movies to cinemas so far), those business issues disappeared. Deadpool & Wolverine arrives six years after 2018's Deadpool 2. It also marks a reunion in another way. Behind the lens: director Shawn Levy, reteaming with Reynolds after Free Guy and The Adam Project. Also starring: Emma Corrin (A Murder at the End of the World), Morena Baccarin (The Endgame), Rob Delaney (Argylle) and Matthew Macfadyen (Succession), as well as Leslie Uggams (American Fiction) and Karan Soni (Miracle Workers). Check out the first Deadpool & Wolverine trailer below — if you haven't already or you're keen to again: Deadpool & Wolverine will release in cinemas Down Under on July 25, 2024. Images: courtesy of Marvel Studios. © 2024 20th Century Studios / © and ™ 2024 MARVEL.
Quick, fashion capital? If you said Brisbane, you'd only be half right. Ol' Brisdawg isn't exactly known for it's...let's say, fashion ability. Footwear is optional to some, and ponchos are an acceptable form of winter attire. Fret not, fashion fiends, there are many people behind the scenes working hard to change this. Identity is one such event that is aiming to take Brisbane to bigger places, and put our name on the fashion world map. This annual celebration of Brisbane’s fashion culture is showcasing pieces from Tiffany & Co, Mitchell Ogilvie, The Frock Shop, Samantha Ogilvie, Nancy King and Richards and Richards, as well as some amazing international labels. For the first time, Identity will be held in chic Queens Park next to the Treasury Casino, making it an event like no other. Brisbane songstress Katie Noonan will also be the main entertainment, taking to the stage for an exclusive performance. So really, in one event you’ve got an amazing singer, amazing clothes and an amazing opportunity to watch the fabulous and drink Moet. And if you get a bit tipsy, you might mistake the city for Milan. Fingers crossed. Don’t wait to buy tickets though; being ‘fashionably late’ won’t get you anywhere here.
The Swiss are renowed for their time-keeping abilities and reliable public transport systems, but they do not exactly have a reputation for unmitigated creativity and artistic pursuits. Ironically, Ursus Wehrli's work may encourage us to rethink our perceptions of Swiss creativity whilst doing little to challenge the stereotype that the Swiss are all a bunch of neat freaks. Artist and comedian Ursus Wehrli first came to attention with his book Tidying Up Art, a collection of his work where he cleverly reinterpreted classics by Van Gogh, Chagall and Seurat by, well, tidying them up. He is back again and up to his old ordering tricks, except this time he's stopped tidying up the art, and has started tidying up everything else. In his latest book, The Art of Clean Up, Wehril reassembles the chaos of everyday life — children's beach toys are lined up into categories in a sand pit, cars are lined up according to their colours in a parking lot and the stars are lined up in the sky. These images are also accompanied by a series of short films that document the painstaking organisation that took place in order for Wehrli's images to be created, providing clever examples of the asethetic appeal of order (and also a reminder of how lovely a little bit of choas is as well). https://youtube.com/watch?v=l200LN39dv4 [Via PSFK]
Calling all nomads and avid campers: a Japanese company called DCW has designed a mobile pod home that will fit in a mini van and can be assembled on any terrain. The pod allows you to choose your own style of living while still being at one with nature, and can be placed on flat ground, steep hills or even turned into a kit houseboat if you feel like taking to the sea. The manufacturer has said it can be easily built "by two women" in half a day but may take a little longer to pull it down, possibly a whole day. Don't let its size fool you; this mobile house may look extremely tiny but it can sleep up to 3 people when you manoeuvre the sofa bed in the right way. The Mobile House Kit has yet to be given a price tag, but surely if you love the outdoors and want to experience nature in style then it will be worth breaking the budget for.
MONA's summer festival Mona Foma is returning to Launceston this summer — and so is its airline, Air Mofo. After its debut last year, the 'private airline' will once again be on standby to usher guests from the mainland to Tasmania for the 2020 event in serious style — for free. The catch? You don't just get a seat on the purple and yellow Boeing 737 — you get the whole plane. So you'll have 149 seats to fill with your nearest and dearest, and basically anyone else who's free on the main festival weekend of January 17–19. The plane will leave from either Melbourne or Sydney, and everyone on board will be get free return airfares and a three-day festival pass. It goes without saying, you can expect more than just your average in-flight entertainment on-board. Your flight down south will be filled with all sorts of performances and is promising to be 'suitably lit'. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HmcAp570GRs&feature=youtu.be To enter, you'll have to do some detective work and pinpoint the Air Mofo plane on this map of Tassie. While clues will start going up on the Mona Foma website from today, you'll have to wait until next Thursday, October 10 to enter. First person to find it wins the trip. Then, they'll have just a month to organise their 149 guests. Air Mofo is once again a collaboration between Mona Foma and Tourism Tasmania, and the prize is valued at a whopping $99,000. The summer arts and music fest will take over Launceston from January 11–19. At the moment, the lineup has DJ and producer Flying Lotus coming in to Launnie from LA and a performance from classical musician Ludovico Einaudi — but the full thing will be announced on Friday, October 18. Three-day festival passes are also on sale now — this year priced at $129 for the weekend. And, if you're looking for other ways to enjoy the festival's new surrounds, check out our weekender's guide to Launceston during Mona Foma. Mona Foma 2020 will take over Launceston, Tasmania from January 11–19. Enter the competition over here.
Brisbane loves a bottomless offering. Some of the River City's go-tos include free-flowing cocktails over lunch at Cloudland, brunch with endless gin at Covent Garden and the promise of infinite yum cha at HUA at Queen's Wharf. Now, Bisou Bisou, Fortitude Valley's all-day French restaurant, is getting on the wagon with Oui Oui High Tea. This initiative gives you one-and-a-half hours of St-Germain spritzes alongside a high-tea tower for $69 per person. To stay on theme, start with the St-Germain Hugo Spritz, a signature cocktail served in a teapot. After that, you might be tempted by the High Tea Fizz, the Lady Grey Mar-tea-ni, or the Elderflower and Peach Bellini (or all three). Also included among the free-flowing drinks are select wines, beers, mocktails, tea and coffee. Meanwhile, on the tower, you'll find brioche rolls packed with chicken and lathered in tarragon-mustard-mayo, alongside vol au vents filled with brie and fig jam. For the sweet tooths, there are house-baked scones with whipped Chantilly and strawberry jam, plus chocolate profiteroles with vanilla pastry cream. Arrive early and you'll even be given a St-Germain tote bag and water bottle. Oui Oui High Tea is happening on Saturdays and Sundays from 11.30am–3.30pm. It's $69 per person with alcohol, or $49 without.
Vivid Ideas festival director Jess Scully knows how to get psyched about winter (it ain't all wet feet and friendless Call of Duty marathons). From pickling workshops to no-holds-barred pampering sessions, DIY crafternoons to steamy hot chocolate-Robert Pattinson combos, Scully knows how to embrace winter with a big ol' hug. So throw on your favourite chunky knits and welcome the chilly season with Jess's tried and tested gear-ups. To take advantage of these and even more great Sydney winter experiences, go to lastminute.com.au and line up your fun-filled days and even cooler nights. Get pickled That used to mean something different in my twenties... how times have changed. This year my friends and I are taking a winter pickling workshop at Cornersmith in Marrickville; we're going to learn to do it ourselves, in the hopes of constructing the perfect Ploughman's Lunch down the line. Get pampered I tend to take better care of my skin and hair in winter; in summer I let the sun and sea take over, and I feel healthier just by virtue of being outdoors. But in winter, I go to the experts. My go-to place is Brad Ngata at The Ivy, where I will get a pro-keratin treatment to hydrate my hair (winter actually dries it out) and a gloss to cheat a little and get some all-over shine. Get cosy At the end of Vivid there is nothing I like better than getting a big hot chocolate, getting cosy in a cinema chair and soaking up beautiful images at Sydney Film Festival. This year I'm particularly excited about seeing The Rover — not least because I'll also be able to sit in on a chat with director David Michod and actors Guy Pearce and Robert Pattinson, on Sunday June 8... Get hearty For breakfast I'll be trying out every one of the Top Five Porridges in Sydney (as selected by Concrete Playground: expect my rankings shortly!) and then I'll be hunting down the best pub roasts for lunch and dinner. I've also been dreaming of a giant schnitzel and beer from the amazing Concordia Club in Tempe; 'tis the season for mash and gravy! Get crafty After a few months of exhausting mental work, crafting and presenting the Vivid Ideas program, I always feel like doing something with my hands. So I love the workshops at Koskela, giving me a chance to get messy and tactile and hands-on. I took Gemma Patford's rope basket workshop last year, and this year I've got my eyes on a Shibori indigo dyeing workshop. Vivid Ideas runs until June 9. Check out the events still to come over here.
Dramatising the events at Chernobyl in 1986, where a power plant accident caused the worst nuclear disaster in human history, was never going to make for cheery viewing. But the Chernobyl miniseries drips with so much dread and dismay that it oozes from the screen, infecting everyone watching and burrowing deep into viewers' souls. That's by design, and also 100-percent necessary. There's no way to revisit this chapter of history without being horrified. And that reaction applies not just to the intricacies of Saturday, April 26 in that fateful year, but to everything that lead up to the disaster, as well as the bureaucratic and government response that followed. Writer/creator Craig Mazin and director Johan Renck bring all of the above to the screen in devastating, meticulously researched detail, with exceptional help from stars Jared Harris, Stellan Skarsgård, Emily Watson and Paul Ritter. The end result may only span five episodes, but it represents some of the best TV made in the 21st century.
Natalie Portly has dysmorphia, a mental illness that creates and unhealthy fixation on body image and a preoccupation with perceived unwanted physical defects. This is a pretty hard condition for an aspiring ballet dancer to have, right? Fat Swan is a production starring Trevor Ashley, a Helpmann Award nominated performer. The show follows Trevor’s character, Natalie, as she struggles with her overbearing mother, her psychotic choreographer and her rival. Playing for a short time at The Powerhouse, Fat Swan is a reportedly hilarious and touching story about a ballerina’s attempts to become a star. It features a cast of well-known Australian performers, ‘fleshing’-out the Phil Scott written script. This is an 18+ performance due to the mature themes within the story.
If you see an unusual number of fictional characters roaming the streets this May 4, you're not crazy, but you are missing out: it's Free Comic Book Day. Every year on the first Saturday in May (this year it coincides with Star Wars Day, so expect a lot of Jedi robes and Princess Leia buns), comic book stores around the world give away free comics to anyone who walks in. Free Comic Book Day started in America, but it's been picked up by stores in Australia as well. Aiming to "reach out to those individuals unfamiliar with the comic book specialty market", Free Comic Book Day sees many publishers ship specially printed comic books, often previews of upcoming titles, to participating stores around the world. It's not just about the free stuff, though — most stores will have special events going on like artist signings, dress-up competitions and giveaways. The website also has a handy store locator, so you can see what stores are participating near you.
Update Wednesday, 9 February: More Splendour sideshows have been announce from Parquet Courts, Dayglow, Starcrawler, Surfaces & Tai Verdes. You can find all the details on how to purchase tickets to these shows via the Mistletone and Frontier Touring websites. Splendour in the Grass 2022 is a festival that has been three years in the making. After two years of cancellations and postponements, the festival is set to finally grace the fields of North Byron Parklands in July this year, with a lineup that closely resembles the set of acts it originally announced for its 20th anniversary edition back in 2020. If you couldn't score tickets to the three-day festival or haven't been able to get time off work to venture up to Byron Bay in the middle of the year, you're in luck: a heap of the international acts from the lineup have announced sideshows. Heading up the huge announcement is Oasis's Liam Gallagher who will be performing in Auckland, Sydney, Melbourne and Perth; New York indie legends Yeah Yeah Yeahs popping up in Sydney and Melbourne; and rap sensation Jack Harlow who will be making appearances in Auckland, Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. Joining these superstars on the list of sideshows: Duke Dumont, Yungblood, Jungle, Mura Masa, Aitch, Tom Misch, Oliver Tree, Orville Peck, Dillon Francis, Tierra Whack, Jpegamafia, Sofi Tucker, Still Woozy, Holly Humberstone, Biig Piig, Joy Crookes, Hinds and Renforshort, as well as UK viral sensation Wet Leg who will be supporting Yeah Yeah Yeahs on their run of shows. [caption id="attachment_748423" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Orville Peck[/caption] Headliners Tyler the Creator, The Strokes and Gorillaz will also be setting out on their own previously announced sideshows, however tickets to these have already been snatched up, so if you don't have them already you may be out of luck. Sydney and Melbourne have predictably scored shows from all the acts on the roster of sideshows, Auckland and Perth will have the chance to catch a good chunk of the artists, while Brisbane and Adelaide have received one show each — Yungblood in Brisbane and Sofi Tukker in Adelaide. Brisbane is often hard done by when it comes to Splendour's touring gigs, presumably due to its proximity to Byron Bay. As for Adelaide, it's receiving its own Spin Off festival on Friday, July 22 featuring Glass Animals, Jack Harlow, Sapcey Jane, Ball Park Music and Oliver Tree. You can find all the details and the full roster of sideshows at Secret Sounds website. [caption id="attachment_842129" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Joy Crookes[/caption] Splendour in the Grass will take place at North Byron Parklands Friday, July 22–Sunday, July 24. The festival's sideshows are popping up across Australia and New Zealand in July. Tickets go on sale from 9am Monday, February 14.
There's money to be made in the business of curing hangovers. At the moment, the bakery around the corner bears the brunt of my need for three-cheese toasties on sorry-for-myself mornings, but others have had a good crack at trying to strategically break into the market. This Nashi pear juice claimed to help prevent hangovers, and late last year Sydney got its first hangover clinic (although it was soon closed after it landed a patient in hospital). The idea of hooking yourself up to a drip not all that appealing? Luckily for you, my poor, fragile hungover friend, a South Korean convenience store chain has created a much more appealing hangover cure — and it comes in ice cream form. Reuters reports that convenience store chain Withme FS has just launched the Gyeondyo-bar, which roughly translates to "hang in there". As well as providing a much appreciated motivational message, the grapefruit-flavoured ice cream bar is meant to soothe the effects of a hard night on the booze. The magic ingredient is raisin tree fruit juice, which is apparently a traditional 17th century Korean hangover remedy. If you need reassurance from more recent medical research, a 2012 article in the Journal of Neuroscience found that it reduced symptoms of intoxication in rats. This isn't South Korea's first foray into the world of miracle hangover cures. Their vast array of hangover drinks, tablets and even soups amounts to about $175 million in sales each year. This is obviously linked to the city's big drinking culture. According to a 2014 report from the World Health Organization, South Koreans drink 12.3 litres of alcohol per capita each year — that's more than any other country in the Asia-Pacific region, including Australia. So if you're a fan of the morning-after Icy Pole, then this hangover cure would be a (literal) treat. Can someone get Messina onto this? Via Reuters. Image: Alex Jones.
After the apocalypse arrived from above in the form of extra-terrestrials that leap upon any and every sound, audiences have already seen what happened on day 89 and day 471–7. We've also caught a glimpse of the day that started it all. But A Quiet Place and A Quiet Place Part II prequel A Quiet Place: Day One is going right back to the beginning properly, and not just via flashbacks. The third effort in the now-franchise is also headed to New York. On the way since 2021, and just dropping its first trailer ahead of its June 2024 release, the latest A Quiet Place film steps into the alien invasion's initial impact in the Big Apple with 12 Years a Slave Oscar-winner Lupita Nyong'o (Black Panther: Wakanda Forever) at its centre. As the initial sneak peek shows, she's walking happily with a cat in her arms when the sky starts falling — and she soon realises that noise is what sets off earth's unwanted new visitors. When A Quiet Place hit cinemas in 2018, did stellar things with its mostly dialogue-free premise and gave films about otherworldly attackers a creative spin, it quickly proved a big box office hit. That's hardly surprising; Emily Blunt (Oppenheimer) added another formidable role to her resume, John Krasinski (Jack Ryan) did great work both in front of and behind the camera, both Millicent Simmonds (Wonderstruck) and Noah Jupe (The Undoing) turned in excellent performances, and the entire movie made the absolute most of its silence-heavy approach and its niche in the horror genre. So, not only was a sequel always likely, but more in the saga after that, with Day One giving viewers more time in the franchise's eerie dystopian world. The trailer for the new film shows snippets of the first two movies' Abbott family for context, but it's Djimon Hounsou (Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story) who returns from A Quiet Place Part II among the cast. In the sneak peek, he pops up late to help stress why surviving requires keeping your lips zipped as tightly as possible. A Quiet Place: Day One also features Stranger Things star Joseph Quinn, who leaves Vecna behind for different monsters. Behind the lens, instead of Krasinski sitting in the director's chair, fellow filmmaker Michael Sarnoski helms — swapping Nicolas Cage on a vengeance mission over his beloved pet in Pig for tackling invading aliens. He wrote the screenplay, too, after coming up with the story with Krasinski. Originally Take Shelter, Mud, Midnight Special and Loving's Jeff Nichols was set to direct, but left due to creative differences. Check out the trailer for A Quiet Place: Day One below: A Quiet Place: Day One releases in cinemas Down Under on Thursday, June 27, 2024. Read our reviews of A Quiet Place and A Quiet Place Part II.
If one man's trash is another man's treasure, then a trunk full of junk may as well be a treasure chest. Suitcase Rummage gets that when it comes to shopping, secondhand reaps the best bang for your buck. For years, it has been hosting regular events around town — and, after a chaotic 2020, now it's still going strong in 2021. Next unpacking its bags on Sunday, September 5 and Sunday, September 18 at Brisbane Square, Suitcase Rummage will feature a crowd of open suitcases filled with the type of clothes, knick-knacks and craft you probably don't need but definitely deserve. If you can't make it now, try again on the first and third Sundays of each month. And, if you've got a pile of unwanted bits and pieces that someone else could love, you could always take your own suitcase along. Those who wanting to sell their wares must register — and it'll cost $25 for a 'stall'. You can bring up to three suitcases, so you can lug in all those shoes you've been promising to wear but certainly will not. [caption id="attachment_760661" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Suitcase Rummage[/caption] Top image: Yan Chen via Suitcase Rummage. Updated August 27.
It is near impossible to describe Crystal Castles. They really are in a category all of their own when it comes to musical style and sound – categorised as experimental electronic music, in reality though, this hardly encompasses everything you can hear. You might know them from their heavy rotation on Triple J, particularly Baptism, which has been flogged to the high heavens. From their roots in Toronto, Ethan Kath and Alice Glass have since stormed the music scene, with their 2008 debut (self titled) listed in NME’s top 100 albums of the decade at number #39. Their second album built upon this success, reaching number one on electronic music charts and sending them off touring the globe, including Australia. This week they're in town and will perform their widely talked about stage show. Recently Glass broke her ankle, but kept up the stage antics ala our own Patience Hodgson (despite the leg in a cast). Oh yes, this will be more than a gig, it will be an experience.
Kraken Rum is giving UK bartenders the chance to mix drinks at the mother of all pop-up bars. The Black Ink Society will be hosting a bar at the Red Sand Sea Forts, a lonely 14km off the coast of Kent, for one day only on October 14. Hopeful bartenders will compete in the Think Ink competition for the chance to strut their stuff in the creepy abandoned pillboxes. The Red Sand Sea Forts were built during World War II as anti-aircraft defences and fell into disuse after the war. They were occupied by various pirate radio stations during the 1960s, but have since been abandoned and fallen into the depths of dilapidation. But Kraken Rum wants to change that. They want to restore the forts to their former glory — then throw a huge party in them. The competition itself carries only one proviso — in order to be considered a cocktail "as dark as the Kraken’s ink", bartenders must use at least 35ml of Kraken Black Spiced Rum. Otherwise, competitors are free to go for broke by mixing their own concoction in order to secure their place at this "unique, if terrifying" shindig. The finals are to be held on October 8. Via www.psfk.com. Picture by Russ Garrett.
It's one of Australia's iconic novels. It has won a swag of awards, sold a heap of copies and been turned into a play. It's a Brisbane-set story that trod those boards in Brissie, and now it's a Netflix series that was shot in the River City, too. Boy Swallows Universe has been on its way to the small screen for some time, complete with behind-the-scenes glimpses of the production to prove it — and you can check out the TV adaptation's just-dropped first teaser trailer. Harper Collins sold the television rights to the novel back in 2019, with Aussie actor and filmmaker Joel Edgerton (The Stranger) set to produce the resulting series since then. Netflix announced its involvement in 2022. After originally stating that the show would arrive in 2023, the streaming platform hasn't attached a date to its debut sneak peek at Boy Swallows Universe — but it's firmly on its way. Written by Trent Dalton, the novel won the Book of the Year, Literary Book of the Year and Audio Book of the Year at the 2019 Australian Book Industry Awards — and was longlisted for Australia's most prestigious literature prize, the Miles Franklin Award when it hit the page — for spinning a story about a young boy, his prophetic brother and his jailbreaking best friend as they navigate the heroin-filled underworld of 80s Queensland. Also included: Eli Bell's (Felix Cameron, Penguin Bloom) attempt to understand how to be a good person, with his plight spanning a lost father, a criminal for a babysitter, a mum recovering from addiction, a mute brother and a stepfather who deals. Netflix's adaptation span eight episodes, running as a self-contained limited series, as it tells a coming-of-age tale caught between childhood's magic and adulthood's reality. Travis Fimmel (Black Snow) also stars as Lyle Orlik, while the cast includes Simon Baker (Limbo) as Robert Bell and Phoebe Tonkin (Babylon) as Frances Bell — plus Lee Tiger Halley (The Heights) as Gus Bell. Also featuring: Bryan Brown (Hungry Ghosts) as Slim Halliday, Anthony LaPaglia (Nitram) as Tytus Broz, and Sophie Wilde (Talk to Me) as Caitlyn Spies, plus Christopher James Baker (Ozark) as Ivan Kroll, HaiHa Le (Spooky Files) as Bich Dang and Deborah Mailman (The New Boy) as Poppy Birkbeck. And, you'll see Ben O'Toole (Barons) as Teddy, Zachary Wan (Never Too Late) as Darren Dang, and Millie Donaldson (Jack Irish) and Eloise Rothfield as Shelley Huffman (aged 17 and 13, respectively). Boy Swallows Universe is directed by Bharat Nalluri (The Man Who Invented Christmas), Jocelyn Moorhouse (The Dressmaker) and Kim Mordaunt (The Rocket), and scripted by screenwriter John Collee (Master and Commander, Happy Feet, Hotel Mumbai). The impressive names involved extend to the show's executive producers, too, which include Troy Lum (The Water Diviner, Saving Mr Banks, Mao's Last Dancer), Andrew Mason (The Matrix, The Water Diviner), Sophie Gardiner (Howard's End, Chimerica), Kerry Roberts (Foe, Boy Erased), and Edgerton. Check out the trailer for Boy Swallows Universe below: Boy Swallows Universe will stream via Netflix, but doesn't yet have a release date — we'll update you when it's announced.
Feel like you've spent a little too much time on the couch in the past year? The Bicton Hill circuit track is the perfect way to ease back into hiking. The four-kilometre track is an approachable distance for most fitness levels and is located within the Clump Mountain National Park in Mission Beach — approximately a two-hour drive south of Cairns. As the trail winds to the summit you'll encounter lush rainforest vegetation and native wildlife including kingfisher birds, lace monitors and, sometimes, a cassowary. At the top, you'll be rewarded with sweeping views across the emerald-coloured bay where you can enjoy the incredible sights of the Family Islands National Park. Once you've looped back to the carpark, cool off with a dip in the Coral Sea at Bingil Bay situated just opposite the track. Or, head to the much-loved Bingil Bay Cafe for a freshly squeezed juice and some lunch. Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
If Brisbane sounds a little quieter than normal between Thursday, June 1–Friday, June 30, you can thank (or blame) Dine BNE City. The noise you won't be hearing? The roar and grumble of hungry stomachs, with this food program returning for 2023 after successful runs in 2021 and 2022, and serving up everything from cheap lunches and bar specials to winter roasts and cocktails in igloos. When it first arrived two years ago, Dine BNE City sprang from an understandable idea: to get everyone out and about, and eating and drinking in particular, in this fair city of ours after a tough pandemic period. As a result, it's a choose-your-own-adventure kind of affair. You can treat yo'self to a special midday meal (and more than once), or decide that you'd rather hop between watering holes. It's all up to you, and there are plenty of options to choose from. From the Let's Do Lunch program within the broader program, options start at $19, which will get you pizza or pasta at Albert Lane's Vapiano. From there, highlights include three bao and a beer for $25 at Mr Bao, steak and chips at The Walnut Restaurant for $35, and a five-course seafood banquet at Tillerman for $65. Or, there's Luke Nguyen's Vietnamese chicken salad paired with two spring rolls for $25 at Fat Noodle; Patina's Moreton Bay bug, prawn risotto and wine combo for $39; a two-course Cantonese roasted lunch at Brisbane Phoenix Chinese Restaurant for $40; and an Amalfi-style four-dish spread at Guy Grossi's Settimo for $50. Fancy adding drinks and bites to your after-work routine? Dine BNE City's quittin'-time selection, aka Bar Safari, spans oysters and champagne at Rothwell's, buns and beers at Red Hook, skewers over a schooner (and a view from the rooftop) at Sixteen Antlers, and whiskey flights with wagyu at Bar 1603. Boom Boom Room has a bar sets for snacking, and everywhere from The Hibiscus Room to Frog's Hollow Saloon and Birrunga Gallery and Dining have a special on offer. For dinner, there's also a Supper Club lineup. That's where you'll find a three-martini dinner at The Inchcolm, a six-dish banquet at Donna Chang, and tacos and tequila at Comuna Cantina — and a Middle Eastern spread with wine at Babylon, Longtime doing yum cha for two and a range of Japanese set menus at Tena as well. In addition to all of the above excuses to drop into just about every bar and restaurant in Brisbane's inner city on any day you like, Dine BNE City also serves up special events. So, get ready to sip prestigious sparkling drops at Lennons Restaurant and Bar's Champagne Icons Series, stroll the streets for Urban Wine Walk's latest outing, and learn a thing or two at rosé-blending workshops at City Winery's Edward Street Cellar Door. Or, you can hit up a fireside food and wine party at the Cathedral of St Stephen, enjoy live Italian opera as you eat at Massimo, and taste the results when Walter's Steakhouse and E'cco team up for a collaborative dinner. Dine BNE City runs from Thursday, June 1–Friday, June 30, 2023. Head to the festival's website for further details.
Last last year beach expert (actual title) Brad Farmer released the first edition of his book 101 Best Beaches, in which he and coastal geomorphologist Professor Andy Short visited all 11,761 of Australia's beaches. Together they named Cossies Beach as their top spot of coastline in the country. However, given the fact that it's located on a secluded island in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands and is about a four-hour flight from Perth, it's not exactly an easy (or affordable) trip for the average traveller. But in more accessible beach travel news, TripAdvisor has just released their best Australian beaches to travel to in 2017. At the top of the list is Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island — its seven-kilometres of pure white sand and clear blue waters giving it ten palm trees out of ten on the paradise scale. Others on the list include tourist-heavy spots Surfers Paradise, Noosa and Sydney's Manly Beach. Turquoise Bay in Western Australia also gets a look-in, as does Broome's Cable Beach and Emily Bay on Norfolk Island. The list has been pulled together from traveller reviews and ratings on TripAdvisor over the last year, and takes into consideration the quantity and quality of feedback. Obviously the list is determined by the users of TripAdvisor — but even if you don't use it, millions of people do, so it definitely has some sway. The travel site also ranked the world's best beaches, where Whitehaven was the only Australian beach to get a place at number 17. The number one spot went to Brazil's Baia do Sancho. See the full list of beaches below. TRIPADVISOR'S TRAVELLERS' CHOICE BEST BEACHES IN AUSTRALIA 1. Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Island, QLD 2. Surfers Paradise Beach, Gold Coast, QLD 3. Noosa Main Beach, Sunshine Coast QLD 4. Manly Beach, Sydney, NSW 5. Turquoise Bay, Exmouth, WA 6. Burleigh Heads, Gold Coast, QLD 7. Cable Beach, Broome, WA 8. Mooloolaba Beach, Sunshine Coast, QLD 9. The Strand, Townsville, QLD 10. Emily Bay, Norfolk Island
Master of surreal everything (movies, TV shows, music, coffee), David Lynch has released a new track titled 'Crazy Clown Time' through his Facebook page. The experimental track is as weird as you would expect (see Twin Peaks soundtrack and Lynch's 'Good Day Today') and is part of Lynch's debut album of the same name, due to be released in November. It sounds like anything he'd include in his cooky cinematic or television work - a touch of weird appearing in the non-descript auto-tune vocals provided by Lynch himself. Of the album the song is on, Lynch thinks it's full of accidents and "should be in hospital." Is there anything the man can't do? https://youtube.com/watch?v=2GXGc4EobS8 [via Stereogum]
There is an idea in many young directors minds that to make a production amazing, they have to do something different: mix up styles, buck trends, go against convention – do anything to attract audiences, rave reviews and notoriety. But there is such a thing as ‘biting off more than you can chew’ and sometimes it can pay off big, and other times can lead to complete ruin. That is the premise of Cosi, a production focusing on an up and coming theatre director, tasked with putting on a production of Mozart’s Cosi fan tutte with psychiatric patients. Sound complicated? You have no idea. Starring two of Australia’s best young acting talents, Jessica Marais and James Stewart, and directed by David Berthold, Cosi is one of the first major productions of 2014 to take centre stage at the Roundhouse theatre. With a dynamic cast, incredible production values and a remarkable story, Cosi is a great way to kick off La Boite’s stellar theatre year.
Don't say that you don't have anything to watch between Friday, March 1–Monday, March 11, or that you've only got the usual couch-viewing options. Queer Screen's Mardi Gras Film Festival is back for 2024, which isn't just wonderful news for Sydney's cinephiles. Thanks to the event's returning online component, it's also ace for folks located outside of the Harbour City. A feast of queer cinema coming to your chosen small screen. As always, the lineup of movies that Sydneysiders can catch at MGFF's in-person sessions is far larger than its online program — but you can still join in from home no matter where in Australia you're located. For cinephiles watching on from the couch, choices include All the Colours of the World Are Between Black and White, the Berlinale Teddy Award-winning love story about two men dealing with Nigeria's anti-gay laws; Mexico's All the Silence, centring on a CODA (child of deaf adults) and her girlfriend who is deaf; F.L.Y., which sees two exes living under the same roof during the pandemic; and Mutt, which won Lio Mehiel a Special Jury Award-winner at Sundance for their performance. Or, opt for drama Old Narcissus about getting older in Japan, with a 74-year-old children's author finding connection with a sex worker. You'll also be able to stream several shorts packages online, including sessions dedicated to Asia Pacific, comedy, gay, non-binary and gender diverse, queer horror, queer documentaries, transgender and sapphic films. The My Queer Career short film fest will hop online as well, featuring seven films competing for $16,000-plus in prizes.
Each year, Smithsonian invites photographers from around the world, professional and otherwise, to submit images that capture great beauty and evoke wonder across five specific categories — The Natural World, People, Travel, Americana and Altered Images. Of the 37,600 submissions, the 50 final images memorialise moments that are both astounding and mundane, but consistently beautiful. A shot of policemen running through the national congress in Brasilia competes with the everyday, yet equally poignant, image of a Texan snow cone stand at dusk. For sharing the best of their photo trail, contestants get the chance to secure some substantial coin, as well as the satisfaction of knowing they've captured a truly Kodak moment. Although the winning submissions are ultimately decided by the Smithsonian’s editor, in an appeal to democratic sensibilities, a Reader's Choice Award will be announced after tallying up online votes, which are open until late March. Naturally, only Concrete Playground has the authority to decide who the real winners are, as selected largely based on their ability to momentarily transport us to a parallel universe in which it is not a Monday morning in front of a humming computer. Scroll down to visually kiss the sky. The Natural World A pair of menacing bald eagles share a meal, as captured by Don Holland of Tennessee, bringing Hitchcock-inspired nightmares to mind. The Natural World David Morrow's Milky Way, as shot in a Washington national park, is even better than the chocolate variety. People Ilain Fain's portrait of three young girls inside a Greek Orthodox church in Nazareth suggests that childhood boredom is a universal phenomenon. People A young baby sleeps protected by the gaze of his watchful mother on a Congolese night in Paolo Patruno's photograph. Americana Ron Henderson's unaltered photograph of the mascot for underwear brand Fruit of the Loom captured on location in the Californian desert proves that sometimes truth really is stranger than fiction. Americana Times Square gets patriotic in Doug Van de Zande's image of technicolour shadows. Travel Afraid of losing the moment, Raul Amaru Linares yielded his camera instinctively when he spotted these musicians arriving pre-performance at a bull ring in Ecuador. Travel Playing with finger paints takes on a new meaning for this little boy in Indranil Sengupta's depiction of India's "tiger dance" festival. Altered Image The wrath of mother nature humbles in Tim Wright's image depicting the aftermath of a tornado in Iowa. Altered Image Pramod Shakya captures a building as it comes to life in Xi'an Jiaotong University. Images and story via Smithsonian.
Thanks to Guy Sebastian, Dami Im, Isaiah, Jessica Mauboy, Montaigne, Sheldon Riley, Voyager and Electric Fields, Australia is no stranger to heading to Eurovision. In November 2024, the iconic song contest is coming to us instead. For the first time ever since beginning in 1956, Eurovision is touring, with an Aussie show now locked in for Brisbane before spring is out. London, Paris, Stockholm, Madrid, Warsaw and Amsterdam are also on the itinerary before and after Eurovision on Tour's Down Under gigs, but its visit to Australia is different. This is the only country receiving multiple concerts, spreading Europop across the nation's east coast — in Sydney and Melbourne as well. The concept dates back to 2019, but the pandemic initially got in the way. After that, it took two years of negotiating to lock in the setup. Now that Eurovision on Tour is officially happening, it'll play The Tivoli in Brisbane on Wednesday, November 13 with 18 performers. On the lineup: Australia's own Im and Silia Kapsis, with the latter competing for Cyprus this year. Attendees can also look forward to 1991 winner Carola from Sweden, 2013 winner Emmelie de Forest from Denmark, and everyone from the UK's Nicki French, Portugal's Suzy and Malta's Destiny to Efendi from Azerbaijan, Ovi & Ilinca Bacila from Romania, and both Rosa López and Soraya from Spain — plus Italian African pop star Senhit. Eurovision on Tour Australian Lineup 2024 Senhit (San Marino) Dami Im (Australia) Carola (Sweden) Destiny (Malta) Efendi (Azerbaijan) Emmelie de Forest (Denmark) Esther Hart (Netherlands) Jalisse (Italy) Linda Martin (Ireland) Nicki French (United Kingdom) Ovi & Ilinca Bacila (Romania) Rosa López (Spain) Silia Kapsis (Cyprus) Soraya (Spain) Sunstroke Project (Moldova) Suzy (Portugal) The Roop (Lithuania) Theo Evan (Cyprus)
Yeerongpilly's Plant Empire sells greenery every day of the week, helping folks with green thumbs — and those who wish they had them, too — fill their homes with leafy babies. But on Sunday, December 3, just before the merriest day of the year, it's doing something more than that. You can still peruse the store's shelves for plants, of course; however you can also head round back to check out the pop-up Christmas market. As well as plants, you'll be able to scope out a range of pots. If you're going to buy one of your loved ones some greenery, you'll want something to put it in, obviously. Also on offer: ceramics, jewellery and other handmade crafts. And if you happen to arrive hungry — Sunday mornings can do that to even the most satisfied stomach — there'll be food and coffee available as well. Folk 'n' Broken Hearted will be providing a soundtrack, too, adding some tunes to your browsing and buying. Just drop by the Station Road spot between 9am–1pm, when the morning-long market and its 60-plus stalls will be in full swing. The usual advice applies here, as it does to all plant markets: yes, more greenery is always a good thing. Images: Plant Empire.
With plenty of IKEA furniture ending up deep in the Gumtree 'For Sale' ads or left on the side of the road, the Swedish retailer came up with a pretty clever plan to give those unwanted flat-pack ensembles a second lease on life: a buy-back service. In good news for those moving house or faced with an accumulative collection of Malm blond wood pieces, the chain allows Australians to return their retired IKEA pieces to their nearest store, ready to be sold on to a new home — and score a voucher for their efforts. For ten days between Tuesday, November 24–Thursday, December 3, IKEA is going a step further — because Black Friday falls within that period, and because it's keen to make the annual buying frenzy more sustainable. Return an unwanted IKEA piece between those two dates, and the retailer will double your refund. So yes, you'll receive twice as much as you would if you brought in a few bookshelves either now or once the special is over. And, you'll be able to use that refund for a year after its issued. So how does it work? If you've got some furniture you want to get out of your life, you'll need to get an estimated quote online. Between the aforementioned dates, that web calculator will automatically double the value of your returned item, compared to normal. Then, you'll need to take the quote and your furniture — still fully assembled, mind you — to your closest IKEA location. Once there, your furniture will be assessed by an IKEA staff member, and they'll confirm the a value and give you a buy-back refund card to use in-store. The one big caveat: to score double the refund, you'll need to be an IKEA Family member (otherwise, you'll just receive the normal amount). It's free to join, though, and you can sign up online. Even with twice as much credit on offer, the buy-back scheme still works in the same general way. So, it's only for IKEA furniture, and not for other products like lighting, mattresses, textiles, kitchen components or appliances. That's because the bought-back pieces need to be in good enough condition to be sold on to other customers in the As-Is store. It does, however, have separate recycling schemes for mattresses, batteries and light bulbs. The by-back program was rolled out nationally in 2019 after a year-long trial at Sydney's Tempe store, which saw 1600 pieces bought back from customers. Initially, the initiative was spurred by findings from the company's latest People & Planet Positive Report, which suggested Aussies threw away up to 13.5 million pieces of furniture that could have been recycled, reused or repaired. If your Malm bed frame or chest of drawers isn't in quite good enough condition for the As-Is store, you might need to consider donating it to charity or finding another way to recycle it. And if you are buying new furniture, consider buying something secondhand from the As-Is store, or at least investing in something that you plan to keep long-term. As part of the Black Friday promotion, items returned and sold at the As-Is store will be renamed after their previous owners. If your name is already Billy and you're bringing back bookcases of the same name, though, obviously nothing will change. For more information about IKEA's buy-back scheme — and its Black Friday deal — head to the retailer's website. Between Tuesday, November 24–Thursday, December 3, IKEA Family members will get double the refund amount on returned IKEA furniture, as calculated via an online quote, and then confirmed when you take your goods to the brand's stores to collect and redeem the voucher.
Bundaberg Rum might be best known for its polar bear logo and accompanying ad campaign (as well as its combo with coke), but they're no longer the Queensland distillery's only claims to fame. In fact, the Aussie brand can now add the title of World's Best Rum to its credentials, after emerging victorious at the World Drinks Awards in London. Not only was their MDC Blenders Edition 2015 crowned the globe's number one dark rum, but it was named the world's best rum overall too. Given the number of varieties that line bottle shop shelves, that's quite the triumph. It's also the first time ever that an Australian spirit has achieved the feat. Best served neat or over ice — i.e. without mixers, and definitely not as part of a rum and coke combo — it was the Blenders Edition's delicate hints of raisins, spice and tobacco coupled with a long and exceptionally smooth finish that won the judges over. It wasn't the only Bundy beverage to get a gong, with Bundaberg Small Batch anointed the world's top golden rum as well. Yes, it seems Australians aren't just great at knocking back a few drinks — we're great at making them, too. Anyone after a taste of the finest rum on the planet had best get in quick though. The award-winning tipple is so limited that it comes in numbered bottles, and is certain to fly off the shelves now that it has such a prestigious stamp of approval. Via Executive Style. Image: Dollar Photo Club.
It's possible that as much has happened in the last few weeks for The Rubens as it has in their entire musical career, but that's not a bad thing — they've only been a band for two years after all. As well as heading inland for a slot at Groovin' the Moo and being whisked off to a mystery regional location for the triple J One Night Stand festival (at which they'll headline along with Flume), April will see The Rubens head off on their biggest Australian tour to date. The shows come off the back of their debut self-titled album released in September last year, containing the catchy Black Keysish rambler 'My Gun'. New singles 'Never Be The Same' and 'Lay It Down' effortlessly layer that same backcountry clang over slower, more soulful foundations. If this is where they are after only 24 months, we can't wait to see where they're headed next. https://youtube.com/watch?v=eKrVHMTcEuc
Dreaming about a different life is a staple of coming-of-age films, with many a movie focusing on uncertain children or unhappy teenagers wishing for an existence far removed from their own. It's also a part of Australian documentary In My Blood It Runs; however, ten-year-old Arrernte/Garrwa boy Dujuan Hoosan and his friends aren't yearning to step into someone else's shoes. Instead, even at their tender age, they can simply see how they're being treated by Australian society at large. In one early scene, Dujuan and a group of other kids stand on a hill outside the Hidden Valley Aboriginal Town Camp, in Alice Springs. "That's where all the rich men come from," one comments, peering down at the city. "How come this mob get clean houses and not us?" asks Dujuan. "I wish I was living on that side," voices another kid. The chatter goes on, especially about the golf course in clear view. As Dujuan and his friends talk, they all note how much nicer the area looks compared to their own. A healer who's skilled in administering bush medicine, hunts proficiently and speaks three languages, Dujuan is deeply tied to his heritage and culture. "I was born a little Aboriginal kid. That means I had a memory, a memory about Aboriginals. I just felt something, a memory, history — in my blood it runs," he explains. He doesn't want to leave that behind, but rather for all Indigenous Australians to be treated fairly and equally. Whether he's sitting through school lessons about the First Fleet or speaking about his great-grandmother's upbringing as part of the stolen generation, he's acutely aware of Australia's historical attitudes towards the country's Indigenous population, as well the enduring effects on First Nations peoples today. With insight, wisdom and determination beyond his years, Dujuan is just as cognisant of what all of the above can mean for himself and other Indigenous children, too. The fact that this bright, charming, passionate, socially engaged kid is considered a poor student, and earns the attention of both welfare services and the police, speaks volumes. In late 2019, after the film initially started screening at festivals both in Australia and worldwide, Dujuan spoke to the United Nations about Australia's approach to youth incarceration, particularly in the Northern Territory — but, before he can get to that point, In My Blood It Runs chronicles his everyday struggles, including balancing western and traditional education, and meeting white society's expectations of a young Indigenous boy. At one point, he's told by his aunt that being sent to juvenile prison means "you're only going to end up in two places: a jail cell or a coffin". As shot over nearly four years — and interwoven with reflections from Dujuan, his mother Megan, grandmothers Carol and Margaret, and father James, as well as informative archival materials — the result is a compellingly candid and expressive window into Dujuan's mindset, desires and experiences, as told by a skilled filmmaker committed to doing his story justice. It has been five years since Maya Newell gave Australia one of its most engaging and diverse slices of childhood life in the form of the applauded Gayby Baby, and this follow-up continues to ponder the country's next generation, their hopes, dreams and everyday existence, as well as the way that today's attitudes and policies may impact their future. Now available to watch via ABC iView, In My Blood It Runs is also an observational documentary not only featuring Dujuan as its subject, but made in collaboration with him, his family and his community. It doesn't just feel empathetic as a result, but intimate and authentic, too. Dujuan himself shoots some of its footage, Newell made films alongside Arrernte Elders and families for a decade before starting this project, and the Arrernte and Garrwa families depicted were all consulted during every stage of production. The end product is a must-see movie dedicated not only to painting an accurate portrait of Dujuan's experiences, but to showing how it epitomises Indigenous childhood in Australia. Check out the trailer below: https://vimeo.com/358942768#at=1 In My Blood It Runs is available to stream via ABC iView until August 4. Top image: Maya Newell.
Half-priced airfares have been quite the topic of conversation over the past 24 hours, with the Australian Government announcing a scheme that'll see the country's airlines sell 800,000 flights at the discount rate. That starts in April — but if you're keen on getting away before then, Virgin is doing a flash sale that'll also slash fares by half. Hang on, Virgin? Yes. The same airline that, less than 12 months ago, entered voluntary administration. It has since been sold to US private investment firm Bain Capital, launched a comeback sale in early July and its voluntary administration officially ended on Tuesday, November 17. With so many folks talking about the government's half-price fares, Virgin is capitalising upon the chatter; however, it's only putting this current set of cheap tickets on sale for two hours — from 5–7pm AEDT today, Friday, March 12. These fares don't form part of 800,000, and you'll need to be keen to travel in the next fortnight, with the flights covering trips between Monday, March 15–Sunday, March 28. The discounted economy flights include seat selection and checked baggage. All Virgin-operated routes nationally form part of the sale, with some of the specials on offer including Sydney to Byron Bay for $55, Sydney to the Gold Coast for the same price, Melbourne to Launceston from $64, Brisbane to the Whitsunday Coast from $78 and Melbourne to the Gold Coast from $88 (and vice versa in all cases, naturally). As we are still in the middle of a pandemic, flying is little different to normal. Virgin has introduced a range of safety measures, including hand sanitisation stations, contactless check-in and face masks provided to all passengers. Wearing masks on flights also became mandatory in Australia in January. Virgin's half-price flash sale runs from 5–7pm AEDT today, Friday, March 12 — or until sold out. Find out more about current interstate border restrictions over here.
'Madchester' pioneers the Happy Mondays have just announced an Australian tour — the first time that the original lineup of one of the most influential bands of their generation have made it all the way Down Under. Alongside bands like New Order and the Stone Roses, Happy Mondays were key to the development of the Madchester sound that defined the early '90s and revitalised English music, rescuing it from the ignominy of Spandau Ballet and Duran Duran. Fusing traditional pop elements with funk, northern soul and acid house, Happy Mondays were the poster band for the explosion of rave culture in the UK and released two iconic albums — Bummed and Pills 'n' Thrills and Bellyaches — that remain essential listening today. Supporting them will be fellow Madchester icons 808 State for a special DJ set. Formed in Manchester in 1988 by Graham Massey, Martin Price and Gerald Simpson, 808 State's first album, Newbuild, is now regarded as a milestone in UK electronica. As the NME observed, "808 State revolutionised a whole genre of music in the late-'80s, inspiring Underworld, Orbital and the Chemical Brothers in the process." Happy Mondays Australian 2013 Tour Dates Wed 5 June – Metropolis, Fremantle - tickets via www.oztix.com.au, www.heatseeker.com.au Thu 6 June – The Palace, Melbourne - tickets via www.ticketek.com.au, www.oztix.com.au Fri 7 June – The Tivoli, Brisbane - tickets via www.ticketek.com.au Mon 10 June - UNSW Roundhouse, Sydney - tickets via www.ticketek.com.au
Sample master and festival veteran Harley Streten, better known by the stage name Flume, has never staged a headline show in his home country. But that will change in April when the 21-year-old embarks on his first ever headline tour. Kicking things off in Sydney at the Hordern Pavilion, a venue that has previously played host to a slew of little-known acts such including Kraftwerk, Coldplay and Queen, Streten will move on to dominate Melbourne’s Festival Hall and Brisbane’s Riverstage before heading west. Soultronica crooner Chet Faker, a sizeable force on the local scene himself who sold out three Melbourne shows and one Oxford Art Factory last year, will be in support for what Streten has dubbed the Infinity Prism Tour. His woozy textures, soaring vocal samples and catchy washes of RnB have won the kid many fans both overseas and on home turf, so have your clicking finger waiting when tickets go on sale Friday, 1 March. And as you're counting down the seconds until 10am, there are enough crazy wall posts on his Facebook page to keep you well entertained.
Every Brisbanite has caught a CityCat at some point. Since picnic boats started motoring up and down the river, you might've eaten lunch while sailing through the city with your mates, too. And, you could've also pedalled a floating bike along the waterway — because, when it comes to making the most of this River City, there's no shortage of options. The next way to cruise down the Brown Snake comes courtesy of Museum of Brisbane, with the CBD venue launching its own boat tours in late 2021. Those two-hour trips are back for a 2022–23 season, sending you floating past historic landmarks on select Wednesdays and Sundays from Wednesday, November 2 through to Wednesday, May 24 — for $85 per person. Obviously, you won't be hopping onboard at the Museum of Brisbane usual address. Instead, you'll mosey down to the City Botanic Gardens. From there, the Tides of Brisbane boat tours will deep into Brissie history — verbally, not literally, of course. So, you'll hear about important sites, convict-built structures and more, all while soaking in quite the view. The latter is one of the reasons that new ways to hop on the river keep popping up, after all. When it initially launched, this trip because is Museum of Brisbane's first-ever boat tour, following its popular walking options — such as a new public art tour that also started back in 2021.
Every three years, Brisbane plays host to the best art from the Asia Pacific region. If it's innovative, creative and highlights the exceptional endeavours made locally, nationally and in our neighbouring nations, you'll find it at the Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art. In 2015, the Queensland Art Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art's flagship free event is bigger and better than ever, with the role of performance in recent art — as seen in live action, video, kinetic art, figurative painting and sculpture — its focus. Pieces by over 80 artists from more than 30 countries explore the use of the human form and the role of practitioners in crafting work that conveys cultural, social and political ideas specific to their countries. Featuring efforts from Mongolia, Nepal, the Kyrgyz Republic, Iraq and Georgia will be included for the first time, it's no wonder APT8 has become the world’s largest exhibition focused on art from Australia, Asia and the Pacific. In fact, this year's lineup is so vast that it spans both galleries. It also boasts a bustling program of talks, discussion panels, tours and performances, particularly over the opening weekend of November 21 and 22. Image: Anida Yoeu Ali, Cambodia/USA b.1974 / The Buddhist Bug, Into the Night (still) 2015 / 2-channel HD video projection, 7:00 minutes (looped), colour, sound, ed. of 5 / A project of Studio Revolt. Concept and performance: AnidaYoeu Ali; Video: Masahiro Sugano / Commissioned for APT8. The Kenneth and Yasuko Myer Collection of Contemporary Asian Art. Purchased 2015 with funds from Michael Sidney Myer through the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art Foundation / Collection: Queensland Art Gallery / © The artist.
Looking for a top-notch tipple to sip? Plenty of prizes, nods and gongs have you covered. Looking for a great wine bar to drink them in, when and where it is safe to do so? That's the domain of the Wineslinger Awards, which has just announced its top 50 venues for 2020. As voted on by more than 100 industry experts — think sommeliers, winemakers, hospitality tastemakers and journalists — the Wineslinger Awards were created in 2018 by Rory Kent, who also founded the Young Gun of Wine Awards. Where the latter prize aims to recognise stellar up-and-comers, the former is all about excellent and innovative places where vino lovers can enjoy an ace drop. In this year's list, Wineslinger has shared the love around the country. Fifteen bars are located in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, 12 in Victoria, eight in Western Australia, and five each in South Australia, Tasmania and Queensland. Even better — almost half of the 2020 top 50 have been named for the first time, with 20 venues earning that honour. For folks looking for your next drinking spot, that means you have plenty of places to add to your must-visit list. Some are located in wine regions, others have been plying their trades for decades, and others still have only just opened — yes, during the pandemic. From the top 50, Wineslinger will single out a number of venues for trophies, which'll be awarded at a virtual presentation on Monday, October 19. The top gong is simply called 'Wineslinger', naturally, while other prizes span the self-explanatory 'Best New Haunt', as well as the 'Maverick' award for a venue that pushes the limits. And, for vino aficionados at home, there's also the 'People's Choice' prize — which is open for online votes right now, closing at midday on the day of the ceremony. As part of the public vote, Wineslinger is also supporting hospitality relief fund Tip Jar, via a $1 donation for every vote received. You can win prizes for having your say, too — including a heap of wine, obviously — but knowing that simply nominating your pick will help raise money for the industry is pretty great motivation. [caption id="attachment_781186" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Love, Tilly Devine, Darlinghurst via Nikki To[/caption] WINESLINGER AWARDS 2020 TOP 50 NSW/ACT 10 William Street, Paddington Alberto's Lounge, Sydney Bar Rochford, Canberra Bentley Restaurant & Bar, Sydney Bibo Wine Bar, Double Bay Dear Sainte Eloise, Potts Point Ester, Chippendale Fix Wine, Sydney Fleet, Brunswick Heads Love, Tilly Devine, Darlinghurst Ode Bar, Bondi Poly, Surry Hills Ragazzi, Sydney Where's Nick, Marrickville WyNo x Bodega, Surry Hills QLD Cru Bar + Cellar, Fortitude Valley La Lune Wine Co, South Brisbane La Lupa, West End Maeve Wine Bar, South Brisbane Snack Man, Fortitude Valley SA Hellbound, Adelaide Leigh Street Wine Room, Adelaide Mother Vine, Adelaide The Salopian Inn, McLaren Vale The Summertown Aristologist, Summertown TAS Havilah, Launceston Lucinda, Hobart Sonny, Hobart Stillwater, Launceston Tom McHugo's Hobart Hotel, Hobart VIC Bar Liberty, Fitzroy Carlton Wine Room, Carlton City Wine Shop, Melbourne Embla, Melbourne Etta, Brunswick East France-Soir, South Yarra Geralds Bar, Carlton North Marion, Fitzroy Napier Quarter, Fitzroy Old Palm Liquor, Brunswick East Union Street Wine, Geelong Winespeake, Daylesford WA Lalla Rookh, Perth Le Rebelle, Mount Lawley Liberté, Albany Lulu La Delizia, Subiaco Madalena's Bar, South Fremantle Petition Wine Merchant, Perth Settlers Tavern, Margaret River Wines of While, Perth To vote in Wineslinger's People's Choice Award before midday on Monday, October 19, visit the awards' website. Top images: Snack Man, Fortitude Valley; Ode Bar, Bondi; Marion, Fitzroy; Le Rebelle, Mount Lawley; Hellbound, Adelaide.
