Congratulations. Not only have you made it through an entire year, and an entire month of Christmas carols, but you've also reached a neat yearly milestone. Today is the longest day of the year — and not just because you're staring out the window before your office goes on holidays tomorrow. Today — that is Wednesday, December 21 — is the 2017 summer solstice. What does that mean? Well, it means that today has the most daylight hours of any other day this year. That's because the earth's axis at this point in time puts the sun is at the highest point in the southern hemisphere's sky, creating a longer period of sunlight. This happens once a year in each hemisphere. How long the day is exactly will depend on where you live — the further south you are (i.e. closer to the South Pole), the longer the day. According to ABC News, Sydney will get 14 hours, 24 minutes and 43 seconds of sunlight today, while up north Brisbane will get about half an hour less. Hobart gets the longest one of all, with the day stretching for 15 hours and 21 minutes. Interestingly, the summer solstice doesn't coincide with the earliest sunrise or latest sunset, which take place on separate summer days. It might not have the hype of the last month's supermoon, but it's still a great excuse to get do something outdoorsy after work tonight. Via ABC News.
There may or may not be a new mixtape from the Avalanches. This past weekend, the Australian band tweeted this mysterious message to fans, with a link to a mix titled 'A Sleepy Bedtime Mix for Young Ones'. The link is hosted by new mixtape site, Pinchy & Friends, created by Tom Kuntz, who directed the video for the Avalanches' 'Frontier Psychiatrist'. Reps from Modular, the Avalanches' label, claim to have no knowledge of a mixtape. The Avalanches have gonna a little MIA as of late; a "taking a break" message appears on their site, and the band has thanked fans for their patience via Facebook. The mysterious mixtape is posted under the name of Charles Bukowski's character Henry Chinaski, and is currently available for free download here. https://youtube.com/watch?v=eS3AZ12xf6s
Goodbye Henry Cavill, hello Liam Hemsworth: when The Witcher returns for season four, that's the first big talking point. The change is old news, given that it was announced back in 2022, but seeing it in action isn't. And while Netflix hasn't yet revealed when it is bringing its hit fantasy series back, it has just dropped the first teaser for the new episodes — including the first look at Hemsworth (Land of Bad) as Geralt of Rivia. The icy long locks and the firm gaze are all accounted for in the brief debut glimpse at The Witcher season four, in what'll be the first season without Argylle's Cavill. Hemsworth takes over the part for not just season four but also season five, after the show was renewed for a fifth and final season in April 2024 before its fourth even airs. They're both currently being filmed back to back. So, get ready to toss a coin to your new witcher, and then one more time — but that'll be it. "As a Witcher fan I'm over the moon about the opportunity to play Geralt of Rivia," Hemsworth said when the casting change was initially announced. "Henry Cavill has been an incredible Geralt, and I'm honoured that he's handing me the reins and allowing me to take up the White Wolf's blades for the next chapter of his adventure. Henry, I've been a fan of yours for years and was inspired by what you brought to this beloved character. I may have some big boots to fill, but I'm truly excited to be stepping into The Witcher world," he continued. [caption id="attachment_748890" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Henry Cavill in The Witcher[/caption] If you haven't watched the first three seasons yet but the name sounds familiar from elsewhere, that's because The Witcher is based on the short stories and novels of writer Andrzej Sapkowski — and, as well as being turned into comics, it was adapted the video game series of the same name. A Polish film and TV show also reached screens in the early 2000s, although they were poorly received. Sapkowski's last three Witcher books, aka Baptism of Fire, The Tower of the Swallow and Lady of the Lake, will form the basis of the Netflix series' final two seasons. In the Netflix effort, Cavill and now Hemsworth play the witcher of the title. Geralt of Rivia prefers to work — aka slay beasts — alone in a realm called The Continent. But life has other plans for the lone wolf, forcing him to cross paths with powerful sorceress Yennefer of Vengerberg (Anya Chalotra, The Cypher) and young princess Ciri (Freya Allan, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes). Alongside Hemsworth, season four will also welcome Laurence Fishburne (John Wick: Chapter 4), Sharlto Copley (Boy Kills World), James Purefoy (The Veil) and Danny Woodburn (Bookie) to the cast. Check out the first teaser for The Witcher season four below: The Witcher's fourth season doesn't yet have a release date — we'll update you when one is announced. The show's first three seasons are currently available to stream via Netflix.
Your chance of being stuck behind the bar at a ritzy do may be slim, but it doesn’t hurt to know a few cocktail basics just in case. Eagle Street Pier’s Riverbar & Kitchen have taken the initiative to save you a lot of possible shame with their exciting cocktail masterclass led by barman Jeremy Shipley. Shipley may not know how many packs of Skittles make the perfect Skittle Bomb, but he’s got the classy end of the cocktail trade down pat, and the tricks to prove it. He’s been mixing cocktails longer than you’ve been drinking them and was awarded Australian Gourmet Traveller Magazine’s Best of the Best Bars in 2006. He also co-authored top-selling cocktail book Shaken. The masterclass kicks off at 6pm on August 28 and involves a hands on approach to cocktail making, with all aprons, glasses and gadgets provided. You’ll begin by making the Hotel Georgia, a classic twist based on the ‘50s era and model of how old-school gin drinks have become all the rage again. Dinner party favourite the Mojito will have you sky-rocketing to top of the class (extra grades for more rum) and the Plum Shino, a wonderful variation on the Whiskey Sour, will conclude the evening with a sweet bang. Tickets are $45, which works out to be three Eagle Street Pier-priced cocktails anyway, and a life-long lesson in mixology on the side makes this real value for money. After all, give a man a drink, he’ll be drunk for the day, but teach a man to mix…
With its first season, Yellowjackets instantly became one of 2021's best new series. Its second season is due in March, which already makes it one of the most-anticipated shows of 2023. Expect that excitement to continue in 2024 or beyond as well, with the hit thriller about the fallout from plane crash just locked in for a third season. While it couldn't be a more perfect theme tune to play over the show's opening credits, Craig Wedren and Anna Waronker's 90s-esque track 'No Return' doesn't apply to Yellowjackets' fate on our screens, clearly. US cable network Showtime has already renewed the series ahead of its season-two premiere — three months ahead, in fact, with the show's second batch of episodes due late March (streaming from Friday, March 24, 2023 via Paramount+ in Australia and Neon in New Zealand). The woods have a way of calling you back. #Yellowjackets is renewed for Season 3. pic.twitter.com/7e3LPzlBle — Yellowjackets on SHOWTIME (@yellowjackets96) December 15, 2022 If you're new to Yellowjackets, it's filled with eeriness, chills, 90s threads and survival skills, as a series about a New Jersey high school's girls soccer team after they crash in the forest and possibly turn to cannibalism should be. The show deepens its mysteries across two timelines: that tragedy and its immediate aftermath, and the ripples still being felt 25 years later. Not everyone seen in the former makes it to the latter, as the first season made plain. In their high-school prime, Shauna (Don't Look Up's Melanie Lynskey as an adult, and also The Kid Detective's Sophie Nélisse as a teenager), Natalie (Welcome to Chippendales' Juliette Lewis, plus The Book of Boba Fett's Sophie Thatcher) and Taissa (Billions' Tawny Cypress, and also Scream's Jasmin Savoy Brown) were key players on the titular high-achieving squad, while Misty (Wednesday's Christina Ricci, as well as Shameless' Samantha Hanratty) was the squad's frequently bullied student manager. Then, en route to a big match in Seattle on a private plane in 1996, they entered Lost territory. That accident saw everyone who walked away from the accident stranded in the wilderness — and those who then made it through that ordeal stuck out there for 19 months, living their worst Alive-meets-Lord of the Flies lives. Season two will pick up after plenty of chaos in both timeframes, and with new faces among the cast. Introducing more of the team in their adult guise is very much on the agenda, including Simone Kessell (Muru) playing the older Lottie and Lauren Ambrose (Servant) as the older Van. In their younger years, both characters are played by Australian actors, with Courtney Eaton (Mad Max: Fury Road) as Lottie and and Liv Hewson (Santa Clarita Diet) as Van. Also joining the show: Elijah Wood, who is no stranger to leafy surroundings thanks to his time in the Lord of the Rings franchise. He'll play Walter, a citizen detective who is set to challenge Misty — the adult version, presumably. It's obviously too early for a sneak peek at season three, but you can check out Yellowjackets' first teaser for season two below: Season three of Yellowjackets doesn't yet have a release date. Season two will start streaming from Friday, March 24, 2023 via Paramount+ in Australia and Neon in New Zealand. Read our review of season one.
If you avoid glass observation decks atop high structures like the plague, then you might want to look away. Those cash-grabbing, genius high rise developers have taken our apparent insatiable desire to stand on a floor of reinforced glass at great heights to the next level and turned the standing attraction into a sliding one. Yep, a see-through glass slide has just opened on top of Los Angeles' highest skyscraper. Terrifying. The slide — aptly named Skyslide — is part of the iconic U.S. Bank Tower's new Skyspace development, which opened on Saturday, June 25. Skyspace has turned the tower's 70th floor into an impressive open-air observation deck (the highest of its kind in California), and the slide is just an extra addition for people who feel that merely looking at a view of Downtown LA from 1000 feet is not enough. That said, the slide is relatively short at about 14 metres — it only travels the length of one floor, from the 70th to the 69th. So it's a bit of a short-lived ride. But if you're scared of heights, you can at least take comfort in the fact that it'll be over before you know it. Well, we assume there's nothing quite like moving at high speed in a glass tube on the side of a building to truly appreciate the view. Even if it is only for 3.5 seconds.
Back in 1981, when Raiders of the Lost Ark made archaeologist Indiana Jones one of the biggest big-screen characters there is, it did so with fantastic casting. Harrison Ford added a new George Lucas-created franchise to his name after Star Wars and a hit was born — one that's still going a whopping 42 years later, including 39 years since Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom gave it a sequel, 34 years since Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade initially seemed to wrap things up and 15 years after Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull got things going again. The latest Indy entry: Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, which arrives in cinemas this June. As well as bringing back its legendary star fresh from proving a cantankerous delight in streaming comedy Shrinking — yes, he dons the famous hat once more, in what's been dubbed his final appearance in the role — the new flick also makes a few fresh stellar casting moves. Getting Fleabag favourite Phoebe Waller-Bridge onboard is clearly one of them. Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny heads back to the 60s, and uses the Space Race between the US and the Soviet Union as a backdrop. And, as both the movie's initial teaser back in 2022, its sneak peek during the Super Bowl and now its just-dropped full trailer all show, Indiana Jones has his goddaughter in tow — with Waller-Bridge's Helena enjoying plenty of bantering, naturally, with the saga's namesake. Wondering what else is in store? In addition to Ford, Dr Henry Walton 'Indiana' Jones Jr's famous headwear and that whip — two different looks at Ford, actually, including Indy in the film's present day and Indy in the past, with the movie using digital de-ageing technology — there are Nazis to battle and the famous John Williams-composed theme soundtracking the action as well. Story-wise, the also supremely well-cast Mads Mikkelsen (Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore) leads a group of Nazis trying to use The Dial of Destiny's titular trinket to change the past and claim power — a gadget that Helena has her own plans for in the name of capitalism. The archaeologist's latest outing brings in a few changes to the series, with Steven Spielberg (The Fabelmans) out of the director's chair for the first time ever, handing over the reins to Logan and Ford v Ferrari's James Mangold. And, Lucas doesn't have a part in the script, either, with Mangold co-scripting with Ford v Ferrari's Jez Butterworth and John-Henry Butterworth. On-screen, John Rhys-Davies returns as as Sallah, too, while Antonio Banderas (Official Competition), Thomas Kretschmann (Das Boot), Toby Jones (The English) and Boyd Holbrook (The Sandman) join the on-screen talent alongside Shaunette Renee Wilson (Black Panther), Oliver Richters (The King's Man) and Ethann Isidore (Mortel). And yes, if it's a big blockbuster franchise, it stars Harrison Ford, and it debuted in the 70s or 80s, then it's always coming back to the screen — as Star Wars: Episode VII — The Force Awakens and its sequels have, as well as Blade Runner 2049. Check out the full trailer for Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny below: Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny releases in cinemas Down Under on June 29, 2023. ©2022 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
With Soohun Jung’s new invention, cyclists can communicate with drivers in ways that were never possible before. The Korean designer has come up with an ‘i Backpack’, which functions as a rear view mirror, as well as providing break signals, turn signals and a message board. A tablet is placed in the backpack, and connected with a smartphone, which rests on the handlebars. The two are integrated through a Bluetooth-enabling app. The smartphone works as a rearview mirror, and at the same time, sends messages to the tablet, which displays them for the benefit of drivers and pedestrians. So, a bright yellow arrow on a blue screen communicates the intention to turn, while block letters reading ‘SLOW DOWN’ indicate the cyclist is hitting the brakes. The app responds to the bicycle’s movements through sensors. Riders can also opt to send friendly messages, such as ‘Have a nice day’, ‘Ride with me’, ‘Thank you’ and ‘Sorry’. It’ll be interesting to explore the i Backpack’s potential to improve motorist-cyclist relations, particularly in cities that aren't especially well-designed for the incorporation of two-wheelers. Soohun Jung is currently studying product design at the Samsung Art and Design Institute. He has received a number of awards, including two Red Dot Design Winners in 2012 and a Bronze at the D2B Design Fair 2012. The i Backpack was shortlisted in IF 2013. [via PSFK]
For so many of us, France is the dream. The cheese is so good it's practically an out of body experience, it's acceptable to drink wine at any time of the day, local employers only want you to work 35 hours a week (with no sneaky emails thereafter), and now they're paying people to ride their bikes to work. For realsies. This isn't like when people say an internship is paid, but its actual currency of choice is good vibes and stale lamingtons from the break room. This plan is fuelled by real cash money. This governmental effort to boost bike usage comes as an incentive to improve people's health, reduce air pollution and cut fossil fuel consumption. Though currently in a six-month trial period, the initiative is backed by similar efforts in neighbouring European countries too. The Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and Britain also have bike-to-work schemes, but this will be the first of its kind to actually offer direct payment to riders. The system as it stands offers 25 euro cents for every kilometre ridden to work. Live 4km away? You just earned half your morning coffee. Twenty companies employing a total of 10,000 people had reportedly signed up to the program as of Monday, and the government believe the initiative will raise the cyclist population by 50 percent. At the moment just 2.4 percent of French people ride to work, as compared to 8 percent in Belgium and a whopping 25 percent in the Netherlands. Our figures in Australia sit just below France, around 1.5 percent. You can't help but imagine what a world of good such policies would do for us too. Despite traffic being at its worst, and the increasing presence of new bike lanes or bike-share programs, the desire to stay plonked sedentary in your car is stronger than ever. We're not saying we need the government to pay us money to get off our butts, but at this point, it sure couldn't hurt. Via Reuters. Photo credits: Simona K and infomatique via photopin cc.
With SPECTRE marking the now twenty-fourth film in the iconic James Bond franchise, it’s remarkable to think that not a single scene has ever been filmed in Australia. Now’s your chance, however, to show Bond’s producers what they’re missing out on by spending an amazing day living out the exhilarating, adventurous and exclusive lifestyle of its hero right here in your own home town. Bond’s long-term partner Heineken has teamed up with the boutique experience cultivators over at MrAristotle for a brand new project, The Catch. Throughout November and December, Heineken will be hosting exclusive SPECTRE 007 events that are so mysterious participants won’t know what’s in store until they’re suddenly whisked away and thrown right into the middle of the action right as it happens — like this one, where you and three friends will go into the running for a day that will earn you eternal bragging rights, give you a taste of the ultra-high life and make after-work drinks never quite feel the same again. Firstly, you’ll be picked up by your own private luxury helicopter and taken for an aerial tour of some of the city’s most famous landmarks. Next, your pilot will shuttle you and your team north along the coastline and over some of our most magnificent beaches until you arrive in a secret destination deep within the gorgeous countryside. Once down, a car will be waiting to ferry you to one of the region’s oldest pubs where you’ll enjoy a gourmet light lunch and a sampling of the local beers (and of course, ol' expat Heineken) while taking in the stunning surroundings. Then, your personal helicopter will be right there to take you and your friends back to town via the Olympic Village and over the glistening Harbour. To be in the running, sign up via the Heineken's The Catch website and have your mates locked, loaded and ready to move at a moment’s notice, because as any spy will tell you — you’ll never know when they’re coming for you, so you just have to be ready.
What happens when a sandwich diner levels up in a big way, becoming a fine-diner that's angling for a spot among Chicago's very best restaurants? Fans of The Bear will soon find out. The show's third season is about to be served, arriving at the end of June — and in the latest trailer, culinary chaos remains on the menu. "This is a dysfunctional kitchen," says Sydney (Ayo Edebiri, Bottoms) in the new sneak peek. "Show me a functional one," pipes back Carmy (Jeremy Allen White, The Iron Claw) and Richie (Ebon Moss-Bachrach, No Hard Feelings) in unison. The rest of the trailer is teeming with the hustle and bustle of the trio, and their colleagues, friends and family, working through the reality of having made their hospitality dreams come true. [caption id="attachment_954671" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Chuck Hodes/FX[/caption] As the first glimpse at season three also showed, The Bear's namesake restaurant is now open, after Carmy, Sydney, Richie and the team transformed their beef-slinging eatery (where season one's action took place) into an upscale restaurant (with that process fuelling season two). But staying operational is still a struggle, with the new batch of episodes set to chart Carmy's quest for culinary perfection, plus the stresses that both it and being in the restaurant trade in general bring. How that pans out will be revealed on Thursday, June 27 both in the US and Down Under. In the past, there's always been a wait for Aussie and NZ viewers — season one hit in June in America, then in August in Australia; with season two, US viewers still had a June date, while Aussies and New Zealanders had to wait till July — but thankfully that isn't the case this time. Comfort food and winter do go hand in hand, after all — and since 2022, so have chaotic culinary dramedies and the frostiest time of the year Down Under. It was two years back that The Bear debuted to become one of the best new shows on television. In 2023, it then became one of the best returning shows on TV that year. The Bear was renewed for season three in November 2023 to the surprise of no one, but to the joyous shouts of "yes chef!" from everyone. Also, even though that third season hasn't yet dropped, it looks as if the show has been renewed for its fourth season already as well. If you've missed The Bear so far, its first season jumped into the mayhem when Carmy took over the diner after his brother's (Jon Bernthal, Origin) death. Before returning home, the chef's resume featured Noma and The French Laundry, as well as awards and acclaim. Then, in season two, Carmy worked towards turning the space into an upscale addition to his hometown's dining scene, with help from the restaurant's trusty team — including a roster of talent also spans Abby Elliott (Indebted) as Carmy's sister Natalie, aka Sugar, plus Lionel Boyce (Hap and Leonard), Liza Colón-Zayas (In Treatment), Edwin Lee Gibson (Fargo) and IRL chef Matty Matheson among the other staff. Check out the latest trailer for The Bear season three below: The Bear streams via Disney+ in Australia and New Zealand, with season three arriving on Thursday, June 27. Read our review of season one and review of season two.
Talk about stating the obvious: "this is a multi-year journey you're about to embark on," Bruce Banner (Mark Ruffalo, Dark Waters) tells Jennifer Walters (Tatiana Maslany, Orphan Black) in the new She-Hulk: Attorney at Law trailer. He's teaching her the ways of being green and huge, and possessing super strength — and, in the kind of winking, nudging tone that the new Disney+ series looks set to revel in, he's clearly not only talking about the on-screen journey, but the experience of keeping up with the Marvel Cinematic Universe for those watching along. This far in — 14 years since the first Iron Man reached screens, with 28 other movies releasing since, and the slate of streaming series only growing — being a fan of the MCU is a big commitment. After a few gaps during the first year of the pandemic, there's always something new Marvel-related to watch on screens big and small, or so it seems. In 2022 so far, Moon Knight, Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness, Ms Marvel and Thor: Love and Thunder have all already arrived, for instance. Hitting Disney+ from Wednesday, August 17, She-Hulk: Attorney at Law is the next title on the way — and, yes, the idea is all there in its name. Walters is a lawyer newly specialising in superhuman law. After an experiment by Banner, she's soon turning green when she's scared and angry. And as both the initial and the new trailers for the about-to-release MCU show point out, with the latest dropping during this year's San Diego Comic-Con, things get chaotic from there. If your memory of TV extends back to the late 90s and early 00s, She-Hulk: Attorney at Law should give you big Ally McBeal vibes — but with superheroes instead of Calista Flockhart and dancing babies. Walters' work life, her efforts to balance being an attorney and being She-Hulk, her dating experiences: they're all covered, as is sitting around chatting about everything with her best pal (Ginger Gonzaga, Kidding) over drinks. The latest trailer also takes a few cues from The Boys, diving headfirst into the fallout when "more and more eccentric superhumans are coming out of the woodwork", as Walters is told. That's why she's enlisted to head up the legal division — her boss wants the She-Hulk to be the face of it, he explains. As it explores what it's like to be a single thirtysomething attorney who is also a green six-foot-seven-inch hulk — you know, that old chestnut — the show's nine-episode first season will also feature familiar MCU faces in the form of Benedict Wong (Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness) as Wong and Tim Roth (Sundown) as Emil Blonsky/the Abomination. Rounding out the cast is a heap of recent sitcom standouts: Josh Segarra (The Other Two), Jameela Jamil (The Good Place), Jon Bass (Miracle Workers) and Renée Elise Goldsberry (Girls5eva). And, behind the lens, Kat Coiro (Marry Me) and Anu Valia (And Just Like That...) share directing duties across the season, with Jessica Gao (Rick and Morty) as head writer. Check out the latest She-Hulk: Attorney at Law trailer below: She-Hulk: Attorney at Law will start streaming via Disney+ from Wednesday, August 17. Images: courtesy of Marvel Studios. ©Marvel Studios 2022. All Rights Reserved.
In June 2024, The Boys will return for its fourth season. For a sneak peek, the chaotic caped-crusader series has already dropped not one but two trailers. But fans don't just have those eight new episodes to look forward to — you can also start getting excited about season five, too, because Prime Video has already renewed the show. "The Boys could be the best job I'll ever have. What other show allows me to write about politics, capitalism, family and exploding genitalia, though not in that order," said Eric Kripke, the series' showrunner. "My only problem is that since this year promises to be free of any conflict or misinformation, we're not sure what to write about." Since first making the jump from the page to the screen in 2019, The Boys has never been afraid to splash OTT violence — gory carnage, too — across its frames, or to parody reality within its superhero tale. The same proved true in 2020's second season and 2022's third, and also in college-set spinoff Gen V, which arrived in 2023 and has been renewed for a second season as well. Season four will start streaming Down Under from Thursday, June 13, while season five doesn't yet have a release date. But both will keep telling a tale of a version of earth where caped crusaders are real, as are superpowers, and a group called The Seven are placed above all superheroes — but, digging into the dark side of the scenario, not everyone thinks that should be the status quo. The Boys has always stood out as an antidote to narratives about powerful folks who are supposedly better than most, by both satirising and questioning that very idea. Here, superheroes work for Vought. They're still the main form of entertainment, but they're real, the most famous celebrities there are and inescapable in daily life. While The Seven are the absolute top talent, most are hardly role models when the public isn't looking. That has made quite the change from the usual cinematic universes as the Prime Video show has kept notching up the seasons, all coming to the small screen from Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson's comics series of the same name. In the cast: Karl Urban (Thor: Ragnarok), Jack Quaid (Oppenheimer), Antony Starr (Guy Ritchie's The Covenant), Erin Moriarty (Captain Fantastic), Claudia Doumit (Where'd You Go, Bernadette), Chace Crawford (Gossip Girl), Jessie T Usher (Smile), Laz Alonso (Wrath of Man), Tomer Capone (One on One), Karen Fukuhara (Bullet Train), Colby Minifie (I'm Thinking of Ending Things) and Cameron Crovetti (Boy Kills World) — with Jeffrey Dean Morgan (The Walking Dead), Susan Heyward (Hello Tomorrow!) and Valorie Curry (The Lost Symbol) joining for season four. There's obviously no trailer for season five yet, but check out the full trailer for The Boys season four below: The fourth season of The Boys will start streaming via Prime Video from Thursday, June 13, 2024. Read our reviews of The Boys season three and Gen V. Season five doesn't yet have a release date — we'll update you when one is announced.
In the kind of punishment Cersei Lannister might dream up, the eighth and final season of Game of Thrones isn't due until mid-2018 at the earliest — and sometime in 2019 at the latest. However, one London cinema is offering fans an immersive way to pass at least some of that period. Taking the movie marathon idea to the extreme, they're showing the entire series' seven-season run to date in one massive sitting. Fans of Westerosi dramas, resilient Stark siblings, formidable dragons and more can expect to get comfy in The Prince Charles Cinema for four days, as they screen all 67 episodes between November 27 and 30. It all kicks off at 7pm on Monday and runs until just after 6pm on Thursday. And while that might seem like quite the commitment — in hours, in the willingness to sit in cinema seats for that long, and in sacrificing your normal life for your favourite show — if there's one thing that GoT fans love more than shipping Jon Snow and Daenerys, it's spending as much time in the Seven Kingdoms as possible. The event is designed to promote the DVD release of the seventh season, which just finished airing in August. For anyone who happens to have a spare week, it's free to attend. There'll also be a pop-up pizza bar onsite for sustenance. If you're in London, the Game of Thrones Marathon Screening runs from November 27 to 30. Visit the event Facebook page for further details, or to register for tickets.
Travelling around the world might be easier than ever, but struggling to jump online can still turn a dream holiday into a technological nightmare. Unless you're visiting, Italy, that is. The country's Ministries for Economic Development and Culture have done travellers and its population a solid, and launched nationwide free wifi. Called Wifi Italia, now available via iTunes and Google Play, and released in both English and Italian, the app allows both tourists and residents to connect to a network of hotspots across the country, with the rollout beginning in favoured visitor haunts such as Rome, Bari, Milan, Trento, Tuscany and Emilia Romagna. Over the coming months, more cities and towns will be added — and users only need sign in once, with the system remembering their authentication details. So far, The Local reports that the app has been getting mixed reviews — as anyone who has tried to connect to free wifi knows, not all connections are made equal. Still, it's a step in the right direction given how essential internet access has become to our daily lives, and one less thing for visitors to Italy to worry about. Via The Local / Travel + Leisure. Image: Dennis Jarvis.
Aussie summers are practically made for adventures. We soak up rays at the beach, chase waterfalls in national parks and road trip with mates in search of new experiences. We get outdoors to make the most of the warm weather and eschew any work woes from the year with a big ol' dose of nature. But if you've ever been camping, hiking or even picnicking, you'll know that your fun in the sun can depend on the gear you've got. No one wants to roast themselves in the harsh sun, or forego a cold one due to a forgotten bottle opener. To help get you ready for all the summer adventures you've got planned, we've teamed up with Kathmandu in celebration of its new collaboration with Aussie artist Mulga (AKA Joel Moore) to give away one epic prize pack. Yep, you could be living your best outdoorsy life this summer — without having to fork out for the gear. The much-loved Sydney-based illustrator is known for his intricate line work and colourful, quirky characters — think koalas holding surfboards, sunglasses-clad chickens and cockatoos eating ice cream — that radiate Aussie summer vibes. So, it's only fitting that the Kathmandu x Mulga prize combines bright, quirky prints and patterns with functional designs. Should you win this prize, you'll score seven items to add to your summer essentials. The prize consists of two t-shirts for when you're not in your togs; a water bottle to keep you hydrated; a sand-proof towel; a sun shelter and a beach umbrella so you can stay cool and sun safe; and a handy chair for all the hanging out you'll be doing. It's got everything you need to help you get out there this summer. Keen to get a jump on summer with this epic prize? Enter your details below to go in the running. [competition]829441[/competition]
In previous years yelling and gesticulating at your television meant that you probably just had a really short attention span rather than a really awesome television. That's about to change with the revolutionary Smart TV from Samsung. Don't mention the term 'idiot box' around these sleek machines, which let you command your entertainment from the comfort of your couch with Smart Interaction including Voice and Motion control. Not only does this save you from having to dig around for the right remote control before even switching the thing on, but it also enriches your viewing experience through Smart Content. Apps cater to every taste, from movies-on-demand and sports channels to Skype, social networking and fitness workouts, putting all your favourite entertainment content at your fingertips — figuratively, of course, since you can do it all without actually touching anything. If you own an iPad or other other compatible device, the Smart TV can also stream content between that and your television by taking advantage of your home broadband network. Experience your iPhone snaps and home movies on a full HD 1080p screen without the hassle of connecting cables, and see the magic in reverse when you're outside of the home. Speaking of HD, it's also a pretty cool way to experience social media — as is logging in smoothly (and safely, if you've ever been a victim of Frape) using the facial recognition feature. Check out the Smart TV's advert below. https://youtube.com/watch?v=Dt3SWp9IjkA
If your ideal holiday involves hitting the sea, sailing to a heap of countries and exploring some of the most famous sites in popular culture over the past decade, then come September 2021, you'll be in luck. With Game of Thrones turning Iceland, Northern Ireland, Spain, Malta and Croatia into must-visit tourist destinations, a new cruise is launching to take fans to all of the above places. Naturally, it's called Cruise of Thrones. While it isn't officially affiliated with Game of Thrones, HBO, author George RR Martin or any of the enormous page-to-screen hit's powers-that-be, Cruise of Thrones will let fans live out their love for their series on a prolonged boat trip through Europe. Two eight-day options will be available, so you can pick one or the other — or sail them back to back. If you choose the northern cruise, you'll head to Iceland and Northern Ireland, where the Fist of the First Men, the Bloody Gate, Jon and Ygritte's cave, The Wall, Castle Black, Hardhome, Winterfell, Pyke and the King's Road all await. Folks on the southern cruise will journey through Spain, Malta, and Croatia, visiting Sunspear and the Water Gardens, the Tower of Joy, the Citadel, the Long Bridge of Volantis, King's Landing and the Red Keep. https://www.facebook.com/CruiseofThrones/posts/2368376046808980?__xts__[0]=68.ARDKtajQ6dIZzuH_8UMZveijqPbNWJ88xfHW_GQ6UnaQKDIySSo9wuynxBaGqzaE5RMgt1kvfbiPP72SkIxqYTDdqXHeRnGBbDFK-S1ZNx11lNElAkoMAz5BV-jxuAQP9mHcE0XZZDPoam__mGLvNX6HDpDg8q9Yfl7Gcry4wRIkfhAie_ASB0hdAcp2jqDh_Cjst8zO-V4-mLh6B1crmVCQWS2-ersCur9OLezRpRJhekaONPIVxPti0say29XxAi5MN150hD4GC29nvksfKnoO8gDgkoO9qS6q_YzRnKTmZhRjx1etMSh__oC9OKhEc04moCBZYECoat6Q2twFitPl4s3w&__tn__=-R Apparently the luxury ship will be fitted out to suit the theme, too; think dining rooms that resemble Winterfell's feasting halls, other decorative touches that recall various places from the show, and plenty of encouragement to dress up and play along. Everything from panels, discussions and lectures to wine tasting, storytelling, a scavenger hunt and game shows is also listed on the cruise's website, should you be in need of some onboard entertainment. A reference to celebrity guests is also made — presumably meaning GoT stars — but no specifics have been provided. If you're keen, you'll need to have a hefty Iron Bank account, with prices starting at US$5130 per person for eight nights. Of course, if you're not overly fond of organised cruises, plenty of fans have been making similar treks themselves — and, from sometime in 2020, you'll also be able to visit a huge new (and official) GoT tour through sets, costumes and props in Northern Ireland. For more information about Cruise of Thrones, which is due to set sail in September 2021, visit its website.
Next time Queenslanders are grabbing their towels, sunnies and surfboards to head to the beach, they might want to bring a taste for cocktails as well. The folks at the Gold Coast City Council are contemplating opening up their sunshine-strewn stretches of shoreline to commercial enterprises — meaning bars and eateries. Yes, European-style beachside relaxing is on the agenda at South-East Queensland's coastal hotspot. Sticking your feet in the sand, staring out at the lapping waves and sipping on whatever icy, alcoholic concoction takes your fancy — as delivered to your reclining deckchair, we hope — just might soon become a reality if this Council proposal goes through. There's a few ideas being bandied about for the commercial offerings allowed to take up beachside residencies. Offering umbrellas for hire and allowing food to be delivered to sunbakers are among the ideas being floated, as well as using the oceanfront expanse for a wide range of organised events. Whether the likes of live entertainment, DJs and dance parties, and inevitably celebrity-filled shindigs will follow is yet to be seen. This being the so-called Glitter Strip, however, they're certainly a possibility. The Council is expected to consider the plan in October, with tourism at the top of their minds. When it comes to enticing more visitors, the move might give Brisbanites the motivation to head down the highway for a Gold Coast getaway a bit more often, as well as enticing more interstate travellers up north to Queensland's sunny climate. Via The Courier-Mail.
How does it feel to watch Timothée Chalamet play Bob Dylan belting out 'Like a Rolling Stone'? The second trailer for A Complete Unknown — a title that also stems from the same song featured in the new sneak peek — is here to help you find out. Set to hit cinemas Down Under in January 2025, the new biopic steps through the early days of the music icon's career, focusing on how Dylan became a sensation. A Complete Unknown's subject has been no stranger to the screen for decades. Martin Scorsese has made not one but two documentaries about him. I'm Not There had six actors, including Cate Blanchett (The New Boy), play him. The Coen brothers' Inside Llewyn Davis couldn't take a fictional tour of the 60s folk scene without getting its protagonist watching him onstage. And docos about him date back to 1967's Don't Look Back and Festival. Only A Complete Unknown has Chalamet (Dune: Part Two) picking up a guitar, however, now that Dylan is getting the music biopic treatment again. With the curls and the gaze — and the early 60s-era wardrobe, too — the film's star looks the part in both the initial trailer (which dropped 59 years to the day that the 1965 Newport Folk Festival took place, where Dylan performed acoustic songs one day and went electric the next) and the just-released latest sneak peek. Chalamet also sings the part as the Wonka and Bones and All star transforms into the music icon at the start of his career, another reason for the movie's title. In a picture directed by Walk the Line helmer James Mangold — swapping Johnny Cash for another legend, clearly — A Complete Unknown charts Dylan's rise to stardom. The folk singer's early gigs, filling concert halls, going electric at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival: they're all set to be covered, including his famous performance at the latter. "They just want me to be singing 'Blowin' in the Wind' for the rest of my goddamn life," notes Chalamet in the new look at the flick, as it digs into the impact of his fame and the expectations that it brings. As well as Chalamet as Dylan, Mangold (Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny) has enlisted Edward Norton (Asteroid City) as Pete Seegar, Monica Barbaro (Fubar) as Joan Baez and Scoot McNairy (Speak No Evil) as Woody Guthrie — and, because he isn't done with Cash yet, Boyd Holbrook (The Bikeriders) to step into Johnny's shoes. Elle Fanning (The Great), Dan Fogler (Eric) and Norbert Leo Butz (The Exorcist: Believer) also feature. Check out the full trailer for A Complete Unknown below: A Complete Unknown releases in cinemas Down Under on Thursday, January 23, 2025. Images: courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2024 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.
Check out the full photo gallery It’s one-seventh the travel time to Woodford, one-fifth the number of Southern Cross tats at Field Day, as picturesque as Falls, and the local line up is without parallel. Yep, if you were among those who chose to bring in the New Year at Peats Ridge, I don’t have to tell you that you made a wise decision. For those of you who didn’t, here’s why you shouldn’t make the same mistake twice. Day One With open-air yoga classes, healing sessions and kids running amok, Peats Ridge feels more like a gypsy community than a music festival. The sheer number of workshops and craft stalls means you could spend a whole day without your children (win) and without seeing any music. Having said that, come mid-afternoon you would have been hard-pressed to go past Canadian rockers Yukon Blonde, who played like they were aiming to blow a speaker. For other reasons, it was difficult to overlook the Dum Dum Girls, whose indie-pop tunes came second fiddle to their strategic dress sense and homogenous hairdos. In the Chai temple, barefooted folk sprawled over colourful carpet and couches were treated to an electrifying Steve Smyth, who mesmerised his audience with a spine-tingling rendition of Harry Belafonte’s ‘Sylvie.’ If you missed him, you missed one of the best acts of the festival. Later back at main stage, golden boy Xavier Rudd and his hypnotic five-piece, one-man band sung songs about Mother Earth and the evils of mankind to an adoring crowd. A fitting reception for a man who plays the didge like nobody’s business. Day Two The morning after saw more than a few dusty revellers slumped over chai lattés and gözleme. However Friday’s bill didn’t pander to anyone’s hangover. Compounding a throbbing headache were Melbourne’s Graveyard Train, who proved that all you need is a few swashbuckling dudes, a guitar, and some basic hardware tools to rock out. San Fransisco’s Hanni El Khatib took a less humble approach, describing his music as being ‘for anyone who’s ever been shot or hit by a train.’ Right. Well that may have explained the small turn out. Nevertheless, Khatib’s punchy guitar riffs soon had the space packed. A solid blues rock act like that is hard to follow, particularly when you’re armed with a bunch of classical string instruments, but the Crooked Fiddle Band dished out their special brand of high-energy ‘chainsaw folk’ to a wildly appreciative crowd. As the night drew on, dorky-cool Japanese instrumental jazz group Mountain Mocha Kilimanjaro had frenzied revellers chanting ‘baggy pants’ as if they were hip-hop heavy weights at an Up in Smoke Tour. Local boys Hermitude did a better job than the much-hyped Canyons at carrying the party vibe with their electronic hip-hop set and slow hip-swinging cover of MJ’s ‘Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough.’ Day Three Dress up day. Luckily the music line-up today was a real slow-burner, which allowed campers ample time to adorn themselves in body paint or to join the queue at Fancy Schmancy costume hire. The Paper Scissors got into the masquerade theme early (on ‘em) and delivered a strong live performance largely thanks to Ivan Lisyak’s incredible drumming. At main stage, the Gold Coast’s Tijuana Cartel mixed breakbeat with some mean Afro-Cuban percussion and flamenco guitar solos. By the time they dropped ‘Letting it go’ the crowd was putty in their hands. In fact Tijuana would have been a far better way to end 2011 than the much-anticipated Gotye. The festival’s main event was a total fizzler. In the absence of any crowd banter and special guests, it boiled down to a lacklustre performer churning out his better-known hits. At the very least he could have done the whole thing painted in the nuddy. Thankfully the en masse midnight merry-making and after-party that carried on at the psychedelic Pirates’ Lair were more than enough to make up for it. At a time when Aussie music festivals are increasingly overshadowed by drug and alcohol-fuelled idiots, it’s great to see that Peats Ridge has managed to maintain a feel good eco- and family-friendly vibe. With a dome dedicated to artistic performances, a plethora of stalls selling local organic produce and crafts, art installations and a staggering variety of fresh food and high-quality drinks (fresh lime and ice with your vodka? Shut. Up.), it’s clear that a lot of love and attention has been put into the running of this event. And the results speak for themselves.
As the old proverb goes, "One can't be fully cool unless one's beers are cool, too." This never applies more than in summer, on a scorcher in the Australian sun (hey pool party season, nice to see you again). Now that it's the southern hemisphere's turn to hang out with old mate humidity, it's imperative you seize the hot season well-prepared. Nothing is more important in summer than protecting your health and comfort (tube of SPF 50+, blow-up paddling pool with built-in drink holders) and we believe the right esky is part and parcel to enjoying your holidays. We've compiled a couple of our favourites to make sure your hallowed bevvies stay cooler than being cool (ice cold). [caption id="attachment_650565" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Kmart[/caption] BASIC In our experience, a basic model esky can come from a scour of your local hard rubbish or your parents' garage. But if your street community fails you, you don't have to shell out a lot to make sure your drinks get to be treated real nice. KMART COOLER For a no-frills model with a chill price, head over to everyone's fave bargain hoedown showdown: Kmart. For quick beach trips, try this little eight-litre gem — it's tough, and if you're wanting a bigger buddy, it comes in a variety of sizes (up to 45-litres). This is as basic as it gets, can hold up to 12 cans and is factory-made — let's not pretend. Pros: Cheap! And its size won't take an arm and a leg to haul across the sand. Cons: Considering their base model electric fans sell out on the first hot day of the year, be prepared to fight with other bargain-hungry beery folks. Price: $19 for the eight-litre. WILLOW 35-LITRE WHEELIE COOLER Or, there's Willow's 35-litre Wheelie Cooler. Made by a company Australian-owned since 1887, you can buy local as well as landing an aesthetically pleasing esky (just check out the blue-green gradient on this baby). There are cup holders on the lid and a handle to pull it so you'll be cruising over most terrain with ease. Pros: Australian-made in sweet beachy colours. Cons: A little light on features. Price: $75 TECHNI ICE CLASSIC ICE BOX Techni Ice also has a good basic option, though the price point is higher — at $238, their swish, all-white Classic Ice Box will match any colour of beverage you might like to insert in its pristine interior. Pros: Dual seal so no leakage so colder drinks. Its drain plug can be made into a water dispenser. Cons: No wheels — at 80 litres it might be a tough slog to haul around. Price: $238 [caption id="attachment_607797" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Williams-Sonoma.[/caption] DESIGNER If you just want a pretty-lookin' box of coldness and aren't too worried about the ins and outs (or the ability to carry an esky long distances with ease), pick one of these aesthetically pleasing, highly impractical options. WILLIAMS-SONOMA RED VINTAGE COOLER Williams-Sonoma has a lovely option with their red vintage cooler. It's a super bright cherry red so you can't lose track of where your drinks are, and it'll feel like you're in a Coke ad from the '60s. Pros: It looks reeeeaaal nice, and it has a built in bottle opener. Cons: A lack of tech aspect might mean it's less effective in doing its job. Also heavy when full. Price: $75 KINCROME RETRO DRINKS COOLER Or, head over to Kincrome: their smallish, pink, retro-themed esky will become the envy of everyone at Golden Plains. Kind of resembling one of those fancy Smeg fridges, this guy pulls an A+ in the looks category. Pros: Bumpers on the corners for when you inevitably hit your shin on them on your beer run. Pink and cute and novelty like a Katy Perry song (prime pool party equipment). Cons: Only has a 17-litre capacity and a fairly thin handle for carrying which may be uncomfortable. Price: $120 [caption id="attachment_607800" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Super Esky, Kelly's.[/caption] DELUXE Well, you're in this for the long game — you don't mess around with keeping your drinks cold and your party guests happy. Check out some deluxe options for those taking this seriously. How about Tropical Ice Boxes 62-litre blitzer? TROPICAL ICE BOX This big guy is legit — he'll hold your ice in its original form for four to ten days before the slush starts to kick in. Also, there are rubber grips on the bottom to prevent slippage. Pros: Perfect for multiple-day festivals or camping trips, and they mostly come in very tropical orange. Cons: It is really very orange. Price: Around the $230 mark. COLEMAN 58-LITRE XTREME COOLER The Coleman 58-litre Xtreme Cooler does, hopefully, what it says on the label and cools your drinks extremely well. It can keep ice for up to 5 days at 32 degrees and has pretty comfortable handles (just as well, as it's a big one). Pros: Huge mountain bike-like wheels for all terrain. Cons: The colours aren't too exciting — esky confusion in a crowd may occur. Price: $210 SUPER ESKY If you're willing to spend the big bucks and want something that won't blend into all the other eskies at the barbecue, splash out on the Super Esky 52-litre. It's suave, white, and has built-in storage and cutting board facilities, as well as dual drains. Pros: It has all the trimmings and is super high-tech. Cons: Pretty pricey. Price: $450 [caption id="attachment_607776" align="alignnone" width="1280"] The Cricket Cooler.[/caption] NOVELTY To wind up our list, we present to you the category of, "Good lord, would you just look at what these people with lots of time on their hands have created." Creativity! Resourcefulness! Probable sub-par working value! Worth a gander anyway. THE 'CRICKET COOLER' Bunnings stock this marvel of Australian design, made in our cricket team colours and sporting a bottle opener, utility holder... and, built-in wicket. Pros: It's an Australian-made, hilariously great idea. Cons: Its cooling powers as an esky are perhaps not as effective when used as cricket stumps; it's not terribly well insulated. Price: $100 Need a hang to go with that esky? Check out our Summer Guide.
So, that 'New Year, New You' resolve has started to fade and the end of summer's left you a little lacking in the motivation department. Well, online fashion retailer The Iconic reckons it has exactly what it takes to inspire us all to jump back into the fitness game — a sweet $135,000 worth of vouchers. The vouchers are up for grabs as part of The Iconic's 2019 Sport Challenge, which kicks off today, Tuesday, February 26. Now in its third year, the eight-week digital fitness competition sees Aussie and New Zealand participants of all skill levels winning vouchers for workout threads, shoes and accessories, by simply exercising and completing fitness challenges. It's free to enter, though you'll need to connect your go-to fitness tracking app or device (there are 13 different compatible apps, including Nike Run Club and Polar Flow) to access the 17 different challenges, divided into easy, medium and hard. Expect things like the beginner-friendly Champion Challenge — where you'll need to tick off three 20-minute workouts for the chance to score a $50 Champion voucher — through to the slightly sweatier Skins Challenge, offering a shot at claiming $50 worth of Skins gear, whenever you clock a non-stop 15km run. Rack up 2km of activity in one go and there could be a $100 Fitbit voucher with your name on it. The vouchers are redeemable online at The Iconic for a bunch of big-name sportswear brands, including Mizuno, Reebok, Nike, Adidas and Running Bare. Participants have eight weeks to smash as many challenges as they can, before the competition wraps up at midnight on Tuesday, April 23. The more times you conquer one, the more chances you'll have to score a prize. Sign up over at The Iconic Sport Challenge website and start moving.
Now before you say anything, this isn’t another fold-up bike. Let’s be honest, fold-up bikes can often be kind of awkward — even if they're as small as your umbrella. Indian company Lucid Design have created a conceptual 'Bike in a Bag' that would quickly disassemble into separate parts so you could fit it into your bag. The Kit Bike would be made up of 21 parts and assembled by twisting joints together using a rotating mechanism and secured with an Allen key. The diamond-shaped frame would be made up of hollow aluminium tubes and powder-coated white for a minimal, classic look. The bike would even come with its own circular leather bag designed specifically to carry the parts — wheels go on the sides and the extras in the middle compartment. "Conventional bikes are awkward in every way except when you ride them," says creative director of Lucid Design, Amit Mirchandani. "The Kit Bike was designed to make problems of shipping, traveling with and commuting with a bike, a thing of the past." Yes, there would be some challenges if you left home without your Allen key, and we have to admit we’d be a little worried about a detachable bike coming undone on our way to work, but there’s also great benefits to consider if you're travelling and you want to take in the sights on your own two wheels. Think about it. Just to clarify, this bike is not yet in production. It did receive a Red Dot 2014 Design Award earlier this year for the concept, but the comments left on the original Dezeen post show not everyone's as impressed: "Nice looking but I don't see it being sturdy enough." "It's awful, any design student can make a CAD model of a bike. No thought has gone into this design at all. Look how flimsy it is — does the designer even know what a bike is? Do they understand stress and material properties?" "Just look at that ridiculous gear ratio. Good luck pedalling over 10 mph on this thing... although I probably wouldn't feel safe riding it much faster." "People complain if they have to assemble an Ikea chair made of six pieces. Have fun assembling and disassembling your 20 piece bike every day, when commuting to work." "Never seen such bullsh*t." Watch this space, maybe Lucid Design can prove the haters wrong. Via Dezeen.
Stuck indoors and feeling blue? We don't blame you. So let us remind you of one of the best shortcuts to lifting your mood: music. Sure, it's not a particularly groundbreaking cure, but in these strange times, we've gotta grasp onto whatever small things will bring us joy (if only temporarily). We could launch into a lofty explanation as to why music is so important to us, relationships and culture, but that's probably not what you're here for. You're here because you're stuck at home and missing live music — the excitement when you find out a new artist you just discovered is playing at a local bar or the giddy anticipation as you walk into a huge concert arena or festival. Those times will come again. In the meantime, we're making do with gigs that are a bit more casual — so low-key in fact that you don't even need to wear shoes. Or even pants (just remember to shut the blinds). This year, we've teamed up with Miller Design Lab to showcase visionary musicians, designers and artists and celebrate our nightlife and its impact on culture to provide a safe space for creativity and self-expression. Grab a beer or make yourself a quarantini and get ready to boogie to some quarantunes (sorry). ARTISTS SUPPORTING ARTISTS Musician Milan Ring is one of the innovative artists to collaborate with Miller Design Lab this year. She's been making waves in the Aussie music industry for some time, having performed alongside names like Sampa the Great, Hermitude and The Rubens, and is currently working on her debut album. As a rapper, lyricist, guitarist and mastering engineer, her dynamic sound is best described as multifaceted — think elements of R&B, soul, electro and even reggae. So, it's safe to say that Milan's influences are pretty varied — and she certainly has her finger on the pulse when it comes to fresh sounds. Giving us a taste of what she's into right now, Milan recently created an extensive playlist that is jam-packed with the musical talent you should be listening to (if you don't already). Simply titled Friends, the playlist swings from the soulful sounds of Ngaiire and Silentjay to Arnhem Land rapper (and former Young Australian of the Year) Baker Boy, and is ideal for one of those lazy afternoons that ramp up to full-blown house party mode. CHALLENGE YOUR MATES TO A DANCE-OFF ON HOUSEPARTY Just because nights out are off the cards for a while doesn't mean your social life needs to go on hold, too. Hopefully, by now, you and your mates have video conference hangouts down pat and you've probably had some surprisingly fun nights indoors shooting the breeze and playing trivia. Next time, kick that competitive spirit up a notch with a good ol' fashioned dance-off. Turn your respective living rooms into your very own dance floors, stream the same playlist and show off your best moves — you'll think you're all at your favourite inner city bar together in no time. When it comes to picking the beats, everyone knows the best dance battle beats are those from your youth. This playlist, curated by British author, journalist and co-host of the pop culture podcast The High Low Dolly Alderton, delivers the goods. Aptly dubbed Pandemic at the Disco, it features a bunch of mostly 90s and 00s bangers, including 'Jump Around', 'No Diggity' and 'Work It'. Alternatively, check out Miller Genuine Draft's playlist, It's Miller Time, which features tunes from Mark Ronson, Lizzo and Bastille. LISTEN TO WHAT WE'RE LOVING Our mission at Concrete Playground is to guide you through the best cultural happenings across Australia. Usually, that includes outdoor adventures, electrifying gigs, epic art exhibitions and the latest restaurant and bar openings. Right now, we're focused on finding ways to bring those experiences to you, so your nights (and days) spent at home are anything but dull. And that includes new music. We can't point you in the direction of a local gig to check out, so we've created a playlist of what we're listening to during lockdown instead. This carefully curated list features some of our favourite Aussie musicians and it includes plenty of up-and-coming artists to fall in lyrical love with. Support them now by giving them a listen and perhaps donating to Spotify's COVID-19 Music Relief Project. Then, when lockdown's over you can get out and support them in person. PRETEND YOU'RE IN A EUROPEAN NIGHTCLUB Whether you've had to cancel a big trip to Europe this year or you're reminiscing a past vacation, a night spent imagining that you're tearing up a dance floor in a dark and sweaty European club will help you momentarily forget that it may be a while till you're actually able to travel again. To help create the vibes, crack out your disco ball or strobe machine, pop on the boating hat from that time you sailed around Croatia and head over to Boiler Room's Youtube channel. The platform has launched the Streaming From Isolation series, featuring sets from the likes of Berlin-based house and techno DJ Dixon and English electronic duo Disclosure. Most of the sets go for around an hour, but if you're in it for the long haul, check out DJ EZ's epic set that went for a whopping 24 hours. This is the second time the UK garage legend has done a marathon set (the first was back in 2016 for Cancer Research UK). He also recently pledged his fees for the festival gigs he did in Sydney, Melbourne and Auckland earlier this year to bushfire relief — what a guy. IMAGINE YOU'RE AT A REAL-LIFE GIG We get it. Going to a gig is about much more than just the very good music. The lights, the graphics, the on-stage dancers and the crowds of people singing and dancing alongside you are all part of what makes a concert such an amazing (and addictive) experience. And, by the sounds of things, large-scale concerts are likely to be one of the last things to return as we transition out of lockdown life. While you wait, you can stream some epic productions online — and they don't get much more epic than the shows at the Sydney Opera House. While the institution is closed to the public, it's continuing to deliver its stable of quality cultural content via a free digital program, which includes full-length performances, talks, podcasts and behind-the-scenes content. You can witness (or relive) the magic of The Flaming Lips' technicolour Concert Hall performance for the 20th anniversary of The Soft Bulletin, Solange's 2018 Vivid Live gig, Bon Iver's 2016 Vivid Live gig or Missy Higgin's full 2019 Live from the Forecourt concert. For something a little different, there is also Sydney Symphony Orchestra's performance of Mahler's Das klagende Lied and the Sydney International Orchestra's stellar collaboration concert with singer Sarah Blasko. For more ways to celebrate your city's nightlife and recreate its energy in your own space, head this way.
How much better will you feel after spending a few days — or weeks, if you can — somewhere far away from your normal routine? How much happier will you be with a getaway to look forward to? Flight sales tick both boxes, sending you on a vacation and letting you revel in anticipation first. So if you were contemplating a holiday sometime between now and the middle of 2025, you might want to make the most of Virgin Australia's latest batch of discounted flights. Get your suitcases ready and book that annual leave: the Aussie carrier has dropped a week-long sale on international and domestic fares with prices starting at $49. There's over one million cheap flights on offer, covering trips to and from Tokyo, Bali, Fiji, Vanuatu, Samoa and Queenstown among the overseas destinations — and also The Whitsundays, Hamilton Island, Byron Bay, Cairns, Hobart, Darwin, the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast and more locally. As always, the Sydney–Byron Bay route has the lowest cost, which is $49 one-way this time around. From there, other discounts include Melbourne–Launceston from $59, Sydney to the Sunshine Coast from $69, Brisbane–Proserpine (aka The Whitsundays) from $79, Melbourne–Gold Coast from $89, Sydney–Hamilton Island from $119, Adelaide–Alice Springs from $165 and Sydney–Perth from $219. For those excited about travelling further afield, cheap international flights span a heap of return legs, such as Melbourne–Queenstown from $405, Gold Coast–Bali from $499, Brisbane–Port Vila from $499, Sydney–Nadi from $529 and Cairns–Haneda from $609. This sale kicks off on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, running until midnight AEST on Monday, October 28 unless sold out earlier. And the cheap fares, which cover both directions between each point in the discounted route, start with Virgin's Economy Lite option. If you're wondering when you'll need to travel, these deals cover periods between Monday, November 25, 2024–Monday, June 30, 2025, with all dates varying per route. Inclusions also differ depending on your ticket and, as usual when it comes to flight sales, you'll need to get in quick. Virgin's 'let's get the plans out of our group chat' sale runs until midnight AEST on Monday, October 28, 2024 — unless sold out earlier. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
We're toes deep in cotton socks and this can only mean one thing — Brisbane has been plunged into the depths of July. Yes, winter is here. At night there is a frost to the air, and humidity is becoming but a distant cousin. You've been spending a concerning amount of time in bed, your social life is in peril and your doona has become your closest relationship. The time is now to leave your other half behind, crawl out from under the covers, grab that one jacket you own and get out. The mission to find the best warm cocktails started out as a mere novelty bar crawl, but at the other end we've learnt three lessons: One, there is more to cocktails than crushed ice; two, many come with a free fire show; and most importantly, three, there is a true craft to getting warm drinks right (it's not all steam, gas and flames). Canvas: Soul Lover No.1 What gets you up when you’re down? The Soul Lover No.1 from Canvas. With a blend of horny goat weed, damiana and passion flower included, it will be more than the alcohol affecting your decisions tonight. Tsingleton scotch, Illegal Mezcal, dark cocoa, black walnut and yellow chartreuse also go in the mix to make what tastes like an alcoholic hot chocolate. It’s served in a teacup topped with smoked whipped cream and mini marshmallows. If it doesn’t sound like your cup of tea (heh) Canvas does three other warm ones – try Professor Geraldo. 16 Logan Road, Woolloongabba Emporium: Provencal Hot Toddy The folks behind Emporium Bar always produce a stellar cocktail menu, and Winter 2014 is no exception. We could go on about the caramel popcorn martini or Morning Tea gin one, but we’re here about warmth today. Emporium offers the Provencal Hot Toddy. In what essentially is warm apple juice that makes you a bit giggly, Martell VS cognac, Le Birlou apple and chestnut liqueur, lemon, apple juice and oregeat combine in a teacup topped with flaked almonds and fresh nutmeg. 1000 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley Hoo Ha Bar: The Lenny We once said “What Hoo Ha do, Hoo Ha do well” and the story is still the same when we’re not talking about milkshakes. Hoo Ha Bar has added ‘The Lenny’ to its winter offering, describing it as ‘a warm milk punch that hugs you in all the right places’. A mix of vodka, salted caramel (our favourite), honey and milk is steamed and sprinkled with chinese five spice and homemade orgeat chocolate. Winter isn’t so bad. 41 Tribune Street, South Brisbane The End: Mulled Wine Pocket-sized The End packs a punch. The small bar is always busy with locals, and they’ve found a surefire way to get you out on the frostiest of nights. The End’s new winter cocktail menu has a whole page dedicated to ‘winter warmers’ – that’s right, four cocktails plus mulled wine make the list. Served in a vintage teacup with a slice of orange, the mulled wine is made in house with Three Brothers shiraz, triple sec, brandy, its own spiced syrup and fresh fruit – better than a cup of earl grey any day. 73 Vulture Street, West End Twig & Berry: Aceso’s Ichor Newbie on the Newstead block, Twig & Berry has thrown up a great first cocktail menu. We went in for ‘Aceso’s Ichor’ (don’t ask us how to say it) – a mix of Martell VS, Luxardo Maraschino, water, lemongrass, cloves, star anise, black pepper, ginger and allspsice brewed with a lemongrass and ginger tea. Served in an espresso teacup, this hot cocktail sure packs a mighty kick and, as the ingredients may have given it away, tastes a lot like chai tea. Delicious alcoholic chai tea. Free fire show included in the making. 9/92 Commercial Road, Newstead Escobar: Hot Toddy New kid on the block, Escobar is doing it’s neighbourhood duty with a sweet winter offering that’ll make you want to claim it as your local. The venue is serving up a hot toddy – bourbon, apple, lemon, sugar and bitters – for a sweet $10 that’ll have you warm from the inside out. Sit down, sip it up and indulge in some old-school boardgames. 4/154 Merthyr Road, New Farm Papa Jack’s: Hot Pumpkin'd Rum Dessert and cocktails – two great loves. What if we told you Papa Jack’s had combined them with its Hot Pumpkin’d Rum? Pumpkin pie fans out there will appreciate the smooth, warm liquid of spiced rum, pumpkin puree, cream, whiskey barrel bitters, cayenne pepper and nutmeg dust. It is served in a small silver goblet – but be warned, this creamy drink packs a peppery kick at the end. Corner Connor & McLachlan Streets, Fortitude Valley Fourth Wall: The Aduous Road We originally said Fourth Wall was ‘our little secret’, but times have changed since we’ve been harping on about it ever since. Fourth Wall is known for its what-do-you-feel-like-tonight cocktail menu, but dive in, ask for The Arduous Road and be rewarded with a hot gin punch. Manager Alex Boon has made it into the top 11 Australian finalists with his Hendrick’s hot gin cocktail and will be jetting off to Vanuatu for the comp in August. We suggest you jet into Fourth Wall now and try this delicious gin, sherry, lemon, peach bitters, and lavender and cucumber shrub concoction. 743 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley The Gresham: Spiced Stoneface Step into The Gresham and back in time. This charming whiskey saloon plays on the days of yesteryear with its cedar tables, dark wooden bar and 20-bulb chandelier hanging three storeys above. The Gresham’s hot offering is the Spiced Stoneface – house-made spiced bourbon, cider, apple, ginger, spices and bitters. There’s a chesterfield couch here with your name on it, waiting to be sunk into with the aforementioned cocktail in hand and imaginary cigar in the other. 308-322 Queen Street, Brisbane Jungle: Kope Lani Sometimes you have to branch away from the espresso martini and Jungle Bar has the perfect answer. Havana Club, Kahlua, cold-press coffee and sugar is heated, layered with coconut cream and dusted with nutmeg. Chuck on the lei, but leave the grass skirt at home – tiki has never been so soul-warming, 76 Vulture Street, West End
You're in a rush trying to make it to work on time when you see them — that one acquaintance that just does not know when to stop talking. You try to duck into the nearest alleyway, but they've already spotted you. Cloak, a new app for the iPhone that calls itself "the antisocial network", can now help you avoid these situations. Cloak gathers location information from Instagram and Foursquare and uses this knowledge to create a map of where the user's 'friends' are currently based on places they have recently tagged as their location. It then creates a map that displays the distance between a user and their friends built around where the user is situated. Cloak allows users to flag particular people they are not especially keen to run into on the street, so when that person comes within a pre-determined radius, a notification is sent directly to the user's phone. Living in self-obsessed time, where friends are constantly sharing their latest haircut on Instagram, mundane thoughts on Twitter and relationship status on Facebook, more and more people are becoming fed up with the barrage of useless updates from friends, co-workers and acquaintances. This feeling of fatigue is met with the rise of the antisocial network. Instead of creating the next Facebook, app developers are more concerned with creating the complete antithesis to Facebook. Nextt is designed to help users plan in-person meet-ups with their friends, and Rando is a picture sharing site similar to Instagram, but users have no followers and no ability to like photos; instead, they randomly view photos from users all over the world. No stranger to antisocial networking, former creative director of BuzzFeed Chris Baker is one of the creators of Cloak. He has also developed apps like unbaby.me that replaced pictures of babies in your Facebook newsfeed with pictures of cats, which expanded into Rather, a Google Chrome extension that blocks unwanted Twitter and Facebook content. Hate with Friends, another app Baker created, allows the user to select Facebook friends they hate and will notify the user if the feeling is mutual between any of these "friends". Currently, the only apps Cloak collects location information from are Foursquare and Instagram, but the creators hope to eventually incorporate Facebook as well. Via Mashable.
Not content with doing big business in cinemas over the past decade, Marvel is bringing its superhero tales to the small screen, as part of Disney's already-announced plans to broaden out the Marvel Cinematic Universe. That was always going to be the case once the Mouse House moved into the streaming realm. In fact, producing a slew of high-profile titles for Disney+ was on its agenda right from the beginning. But, while Star Wars fans have already been able to enjoy The Mandalorian — which aired one season in 2019, and launched its second season this year — Marvel aficionados have had to hold out a little longer to get their episodic caped crusader fix. With 2021 almost upon us, that wait is almost over. Come Friday, January 15, the six-episode series WandaVision will become Disney+'s first MCU show — focusing on Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen) and Vision (Paul Bettany), as the title suggests. But it'll have company within months, with The Falcon and the Winter Soldier due to hit on Friday, March 19 and Loki dropping sometime in May. And, if you've been feeling the lack of Marvel action this year due to worldwide cinema shutdowns, the latter two shows now have their first trailers. Clearly, no one at Marvel and Disney+ has been taxing themselves while naming these series. So, you instantly know who they're about. In The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan reprise the eponymous characters and head off on a global adventure. Their exploits will span six episodes, too, and will co-star Daniel Brühl as Baron Zemo, Emily VanCamp as Sharon Carter,and Wyatt Russell as John Walker. In Loki, Tom Hiddleston is obviously back as the God of Mischief — and enjoying stepping into the trickster's shoes again, if the trailer is anything to go by. Viewers will watch his antics post-Avengers: Endgame, with Owen Wilson, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Sophia Di Martino, Wunmi Mosaku and Richard E. Grant rounding out the cast. Yes, there are more shows in the works, too, with Ms. Marvel and Hawkeye due to hit sometime later in 2021, and She-Hulk, Moon Knight, Secret Invasion (about Samuel L Jackson's Nick Fury), Iron Heart, Armour Wars, I Am Groot and a Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special all slated as well. But, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier and Loki are the only ones to drop their first sneak peek as part of Disney's big 2020 Investor Day on Friday, December 11 Australian/New Zealand time — while a new trailer for WandaVision also hit. Check out the first trailers for The Falcon and the Winter Soldier and Loki, and the new WandaVision trailer, all below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkBfGvb7NzM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G4JuopziR3Q https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBhlqe2OTt4 WandaVision will hit Disney+ on Friday, January 15, 2021. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier will hit the service on Friday, March 19, while Loki is due on a yet-to-be-announced date in May.
Nine months after the original controversy, the Chaser team will watch the ABC apologise to conservative commentator Chris Kenny, after the political satirists suggested he had sex with a dog. We realise that's a ridiculous sentence for a number of reasons, nonetheless today it's where we find ourselves. As part of the settlement proceedings for Kenny's defamation suit, an apology will be aired on ABC1 at 9pm tonight. However, the Chaser team will not apologise to Kenny whatsoever, instead sticking to their guns. This is understandably a bitter pill to swallow for the much-loved comedians who have railed against both the lawsuit and the resulting decision. After refusing to apologise and instead launching an internal review into the skit, the members of the Chaser were actually cleared of fault according to ABC editorial policies. Of course, this did little to resolve the issue. In an act of appeasement, ABC managing director Mark Scott issued a personal apology earlier this year. But the Chaser team were quick to offer their opinion. Re ABC statement today: http://t.co/uKfKMggo76 pic.twitter.com/L5mAFEtlbP — Jules Morrow (@julesmorrow) April 14, 2014 As part of the settlement proceedings for Kenny's defamation suit, the ABC's apology tonight is to be free of outside commentary and the Chaser team are explicitly prohibited from making public statements that detract from its sentiment, or republishing the sketch. The settlement also comes with substantial compensation for Kenny. The ABC are paying all of his resultant legal costs as well as an undisclosed amount in damages. As the Chaser crew continue to claim the original skit meets the editorial standards for satire, I wouldn't expect to see any remorse from the controversial comedians. Via The Daily Telegraph. UPDATE: In our first version of this article, we incorrectly stated the Chaser would be forced to apologise to Chris Kenny. It is the ABC, in fact, who will be apologising to Kenny and paying the settlement — The Chaser team have no intention of doing any such thing. We sincerely make apologies of our own to The Chaser, we should have know you wouldn't cave.
Fret no more about a frigid office or a sweltering apartment building. CrowdComfort, a new Boston-based startup, has come up with a web-based application that lets users input how they feel about the temperature of the area they are located, working out the hopefully happy medium. CrowdComfort bills itself as the first crowd-sourced thermostat. The app is installed on users' smartphones, where they can choose from five options (very hot, hot, just right, cold, freezing) about the temperature level in the particular space they are occupying. The responses are culled together and analysed, and a temperature recommended for each floor. The app's purpose is not solely to make building occupants more comfortable, though. The developers' larger goal is to reduce energy wastefulness through user feedback. Building maintenance can reduce costs and wastefulness while also providing more comfort to those in the building. CrowdComfort follows in the trend of recent cleanweb applications. Cleanweb refers to web applications and technology startups with the goal of improving productivity and efficiency while reducing energy consumption and waste. "Think of it as a gateway drug used to hook people on energy consumption awareness," said project leader Galen Nelson in a pitch meeting at VERGE Boston. https://youtube.com/watch?v=bk7QafAg7HM Story via Fast Company. Image via garrettc via photopin cc.
Time doesn't quite fly when you're setting up Australia's newest airline, with low-cost carrier Bonza first announced in 2021 but only securing regulatory approval to hit the skies at the beginning of 2023. Still, just weeks after receiving its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), aka the official go-ahead, Bonza has just put its first-ever fares on sale — and will take to the sky from Tuesday, January 31. Yes, your 2023 getaways just got cheaper — and you now have a new way to fly off on holidays, too. The soon-to-launch carrier's aim: opening up routes to more of the country's regional destinations, flying 27 routes to 17 locations, and offering low-cost fares in the process. In its first batch of flights, one-way fares start at $49, with tickets available to 12 destinations on 15 routes. In this initial batch of fares, most routes leave from the airline's Sunshine Coast base, with the $49 options getting passengers to Coff's Harbour, Port Macquarie and Rockhampton. Legs to the Whitsunday Coast, Mackay and Newcastle come in at $59 from the Sunny Coast, while the $69 fares include trips to Albury and Townsville. The most expensive? $79 to get to Victoria's Avalon airport, Mildura and Cairns. Departures from Cairns to Mackay cost $49, and to Rockhampton costs $59. Bonza's just-dropped first fares also include Rockhampton to Townsville for $49 and Newcastle to the Whitsunday Coast for $79. The number of flights per route varies, ranging from two to five — with the Sunshine Coast to Cairns getting the most each week. When its full range of flights hits the air, the airline will also service locations such as Bundaberg, Gladstone and Toowoomba, in Queensland — plus Tamworth in New South Wales — as part of its big focus on regional destinations. Bonza's second batch of fares is expected to drop in a few weeks, covering flights from its second base in Melbourne To book, you'll need to download the airline's app. For travellers who have already done so, the carrier advises that you will need to delete it and then reinstall the latest version to get access to reserve flights. App-only reservations are one of Bonza's points of difference, unless you're booking via a registered local travel agent. Another: a previously announced all-Australian in-flight menu, spanning both food and craft beer. Passengers will get soaring in planes given names as Aussie as the carrier's itself: Bazza, Shazza and Sheila. The trio will take passengers to places they mightn't otherwise been able to fly to, too, with Bonza noting that 93 percent of its routes aren't currently served by any other airline — and 96 percent of them don't presently have a low-cost carrier. The airline is launching with the backing of US private investment firm 777 Partners, which also has a hand in Canada's Flair Airlines and the Southeast Asian-based Value Alliance. Bonza's fares don't include baggage and seat selection, which you need to pay extra for — and it is cheapest to do so when you make your booking, rather than afterwards. Bonza is set to start flying from Tuesday, January 31 , with flights on sale now. For more information, and to buy fares, head to the airline's website, or download its app for Android and iOS.
Yes, it was Agatha All Along — the title for Marvel and Disney+'s WandaVision spinoff about Agatha Harkness, that is. Since the show was announced back in 2021, it has been given plenty of names, but House of Harkness, Coven of Chaos and Darkhold Diaries aren't sticking around as the miniseries' moniker. Instead, it's going with the tune that everyone who saw the character's first on-screen appearance now has stuck in their heads. Also new: a release date for the show. Agatha All Along will hit streaming queues from Wednesday, September 18, 2024. If nothing else joins the Marvel slate between now and then, that'll make it just the second Marvel Cinematic Universe TV series of the year, after Echo (by design, with the Mouse House noting several times that it wants to better space out its releases). View this post on Instagram A post shared by Marvel Studios (@marvelstudios) When the MCU made the leap to Disney+ back in 2021, WandaVision was the first program to arrive. It also finally made everyone take notice of the always-great Kathryn Hahn (Tiny Beautiful Things), who stole every scene she was in each and every time that she popped up — hence Agatha All Along getting the green light. Obviously, WandaVision was about Wanda and Vision, with Avengers: Endgame's Elizabeth Olsen (Love & Death) and Paul Bettany (A Very British Scandal) reprising their roles. But Hahn played a significant part as neighbour-slash-witch Agatha, even nabbing an Emmy nomination for her efforts. So, because she was such a fan favourite, Disney magicked her up her own show. Hahn returns, of course, to play a character that has a considerable history — only some of which WandaVision dived into. In comic books, she's been around since the 70s. Story-wise, her tale dates back to the Salem witch trials. Agatha All Along also stars Joe Locke (Heartstopper), Patti LuPone (Beau Is Afraid), Aubrey Plaza (Scott Pilgrim Takes Off), Sasheer Zamata (Unfrosted), Emma Caulfield Ford (a Buffy the Vampire Slayer alum) and Debra Jo Rupp (That '90s Show). There's no trailer for Agatha All Along yet, but you can get the Emmy-winning tune of the same name stuck in your head below: Agatha All Along will be available to stream via Disney+ from Wednesday, September 18, 2024. Read our review of WandaVision. Images: Marvel Studios, Disney.
If you've ever dreamed of whiling away your days in an ultra-luxurious pad, then prepare to come down with a huge case of house envy. The winners of the 2018 Houses Awards have been announced and they're seriously impressive, as they are every year. Taking out the prize for House of the Year is the Cabbage Tree House in Sydney's Bayview. A win for the team at Peter Stutchbury Architecture, it's set into the hillside in the city's northern beaches, and was described by the jury as "authentically and poetically embracing its landscape setting." The dwelling also picked up a second award, for best new house over 200m². Spreading the architectural love around, abodes in Brisbane and Melbourne picked up various gongs as well, alongside other Sydney spots. Brunswick's Nightingale, by Breathe Architecture, emerged victorious in the sustainability category; Highgate Hill's Terrarium House by John Ellway was a joint winner in the house alteration and addition under 200m² field, with Bronte's Hole in the Roof House by Rachel Neeson and Stephen Neille; and Bolt Hole by Panov Scott Architects was anointed the best house in a heritage context. Check out the full list of House Award winners, below.AUSTRALIAN HOUSE OF THE YEAR – Cabbage Tree House by Peter Stutchbury Architecture (Bayview, NSW) NEW HOUSE UNDER 200m² – Springhill House by Lovell Burton Architecture (Springhill, VIC) NEW HOUSE OVER 200m² – Cabbage Tree House by Peter Stutchbury Architecture (Bayview, NSW) HOUSE ALTERATION AND ADDITION UNDER 200m² – Hole in the Roof House by Rachel Neeson and Stephen Neille (Bronte, NSW) and Terrarium House by John Ellway (Highgate Hill, QLD) HOUSE ALTERATION AND ADDITION OVER 200m² – Morningside Residence by Kieron Gait Architects (Morningside, QLD) APARTMENT OR UNIT – Boneca Apartment by Brad Swartz Architects (Rushcutters Bay, NSW) GARDEN OR LANDSCAPE – Coastal Garden House by Neeson Murcut Architects with 360 Degrees (Bronte, NSW) SUSTAINABILITY – Nightingale 1 by Breathe Architecture (Brunswick, VIC) HOUSE IN A HERITAGE CONTEXT – Bolt Hole by Panov Scott Architects (Woollahra, NSW) EMERGING ARCHITECTURE PRACTICE – Brad Swartz Architects and Zuzana & Nicholas
Fans of huge pop-culture behemoths, we hope you have a comfortable couch, because you're going to be spending a lot of time sitting on it over the next month or so. Not one, not two, but four massive franchises are dropping new streaming series between now and mid-September — and with everyone's queues set to be so busy, one is now arriving a little later than initially planned. That show: Andor, the second Star Wars Disney+ spinoff for 2022, following Obi-Wan Kenobi. Originally set to debut at the end of August, it has just pushed its premiere date out to Wednesday, September 21, arriving after Marvel's She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, Game of Thrones prequel House of the Dragon and the Middle-earth-set The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power — so you'll be waiting a bit longer to dive into its tale of espionage and rebellion. The rest of the series' details remain the same, though — including providing a prequel to 2016's Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, and bringing some spy thrills to a galaxy far, far away. And yes, like Obi-Wan Kenobi, Andor takes a favourite big-screen character and steps back into their story before the events that viewers have already seen. As its title makes plain, Andor focuses on its namesake — Cassian Andor, again played by Diego Luna (If Beale Street Could Talk). Star Wars fans have already seen him as a Rebel captain and intelligence agent, and also watched how his story ends, hence the show's need to jump backwards. The focus: following Andor as he discovers how he can play a part in fighting the Empire. Indeed, charting the rebellion, and how people and planets joined in, is the series' whole remit. Alongside Luna, Andor sees filmmaker Tony Gilroy (The Bourne Legacy) — who co-wrote the screenplay for Rogue One — return to the Star Wars franchise as the series' creator and showrunner. And, on-screen, Luna is joined by the Genevieve O'Reilly (The Dry) — who is also back as Mon Mothma — as well as Stellan Skarsgård (Dune), Adria Arjona (Morbius), Denise Gough (Monday) and Kyle Soller (Poldark). Oh, and a cute-looking new robot that was first scurrying around in the show's initial trailer, although how big a part it'll play is yet to be revealed. Andor also just dropped its full trailer, which teases the titular figure's quest to make a difference against the Empire — with a big push at first, and with help where he can get it afterwards. Unsurprisingly, the mood is grim and weighty. "The Empire is choking us all slowly. We're starting not to notice," Andor is told by Luthen Rael (Skarsgård). "What I'm asking is this: wouldn't you give it all to something real?" Andor is set to span two seasons, both running for 12 episodes each and adding to Disney+'s ever-expanding array of Star Wars programming. Also on its way: the third season of The Mandalorian, which'll arrive in February 2023; and the recently announced Skeleton Crew, which'll star Jude Law and hit streaming queues sometime next year as well. Check out the full trailer for Andor below: Andor will now start streaming via Disney+ from Wednesday, September 21. Images: ©2022 Lucasfilm Ltd & TM. All Rights Reserved.
Once a year, Gelato Messina gives Australia's dessert fiends the chance to fill their freezers with its coveted frosty wares. While anyone can walk into the chain's stores on any day and leave with a stockpile of gelato thanks to its take-home packs, being able to choose from Messina's greatest hits is a special treat. Can't live without tubs of Robert Blondie Jnr (white chocolate gelato, blondie and white chocolate fudge sauce) at hand? Adore You Cannoli Live Twice (chocolate crème patisserie gelato with chocolate hazelnut fudge, candied hazelnuts, and crushed cannoli shells) so much that it's all you'd eat if you could? This is your annual time to shine. In the two decades that Messina has been in dessert business, more than 4000 special flavours have made their way through the chain's gelato cabinets around the country. Each year, it releases 260 specials, in fact. Yes, that's a lot of scoops. To celebrate some of these oldies but goodies, the chain brings a selection of these flavours back every now and then — and also occasionally busts out its entire top 40 greatest hits. That's happening again this winter, based on the past year's top flavours. Lucky folks in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, Perth and Adelaide will be able to treat themselves to a treasure trove of limited-edition gelato varieties. Originally, the greatest hits specials were a buy-in-shop-only deal, but the chain went with preordered tubs in 2020, so no one had to worry about long queues and empty cabinets. In 2024, Messina is splitting the difference, meaning that year's run will be a little different. Only 20 of the 40 flavours will be available for preorder, then 20 more will be spread across its weekly specials for a month. So, gelato fiends can initially preorder 473-millilitre tubs of 20 flavours from Monday, July 22. You'll then need to pick them up from Sydney's Marrickville, Tramsheds, Bondi, Darlinghurst, Norwest, Brighton Le Sands and Rosebery stores; Fitzroy and East Brunswick in Melbourne; South Brisbane in Brisbane; Braddon in Canberra; Highgate in Perth; and Kent Town in Adelaide — all between Friday, August 2–Sunday, August 4. Individual tubs are filled with just one flavour and will set you back $19, or you can get three for $54, six for $100, nine for $135 or — if you have the freezer space — 20 for $280. After that, head by your local Messina weekly from Tuesday, July 23 to see which other 20 adored varieties temporarily rejoin the menu. For the first batch, Messina has unveiled the list of faves making a comeback. As always, it's stacked with deliciousness, just like your freezer will be. Get Baked (with baked caramel cheesecake gelato with dulce de leche and smashed baked cheesecake), Have a Gay Old Time (caramel and milk chocolate gelato with chocolate-covered biscuit crumbs) and Cinnamon Cone Crunch (cinnamon cereal milk gelato with waffle cone crunch) are all among the choices. Good luck trying to pick just one, or even a mere few. The first 20 of Gelato Messina's 2024 Greatest Hits will be available to preorder on Monday, July 22 with pick up between Friday, August 2–Sunday, August 4 from Perth's Highgate store (orders from 11am AWST); Fitzroy and East Brunswick in Melbourne, South Brisbane in Brisbane and Braddon in Canberra (orders from 12pm AEST); Sydney's Bondi, Norwest and Rosebery outposts (orders from 12.15pm AEST); Sydney's Marrickville, Tramsheds, Darlinghurst and, Brighton Le Sands venues (orders from 12.30pm AEST); and Kent Town in Adelaide (orders from 12.30pm ACST). The remaining 20 will drop in-store from Tuesday, July 23 across a month.
Spring isn't the only time of year to see flowers in Brisbane, especially if you make a date with the Museum of Brisbane over the next nine months. Until August 2024, the King George Square venue is letting its walls and halls blossom, showcasing works that feature, celebrate and take their cues from florals. At Rearranged: Art of the Flower, expect blooming great pieces from more than 20 artists. Running from Saturday, November 25, 2023–Sunday, August 11, 2024 and free to enter, this exhibition is filled with variety in three different ways: in the types of stems and bouquets that the talents with works on display have included in their art, the kinds of items that are in the spotlight and the rainbow of colours shining from all of the above. So, expect walls filled with pink roses, intricate still-life portraits of potted plants, stained-glass pieces, lavish fabrics and more. One commonality: exploring Brisbane's landscape and greenery across the collection. Attendees can see paintings, textiles, sculptures, ceramics and new media works that sport plenty of petals. One big highlight: six paper arabesques measuring four metres by two metres, with Karen Stone making the flowers out of recycled garments. Another must-see involves stepping inside a room that's been decked out like a Queenslander, then filled with works by Margaret Olley, Vida Lahey, William Bustard, Michael Zavros, Bronwyn Searle, Judith Sinnamon and others. Surveying local names, spanning both up-and-coming and established artists alike, Rearranged: Art of the Flower visitors will spy pieces from Tony Johnson, Frank Waldo Potts, William Grant, Tony Johnson and Dorothy Thornhill as well, and also by Keith Burt, John Honeywill. Among the ceramics, Jaishree Srinivasan, Clairy Laurence and Sarah Rayner. The full artist list spans Boneta-Marie Mabo, Man&Wah, Norton Fredericks, Pamela See (Xue Mei-Ling) and Lyndall Phelps, plus Christopher Bassi, Ashlee Becks, Elisa Jane Carmichael, Julian Podmore, Milomirka Radovic, Edith Rewa, Monica Rohan and Anna Varendorff. As it brings Brisbane's backyards inside, the part that flowers play in Aboriginal and Torres Strait communities, linking to Country, is among the topics pondered by Rearranged: Art of the Flower. Highlighting First Nations, multicultural and queer talents is another focus. The exhibition expands the venue's collection, too, adding 15 new acquisitions by 12 local artists to the City of Brisbane-run museum. "We are excited to bring together an incredible array of the city's finest creatives whose work spans decades and mediums," said Museum of Brisbane CEO and Director Zoe Graham. "Rearranged: Art of the Flower promises to not only be visually stunning but intensely evocative, connecting us deeply to memory and place." Rearranged: Art of the Flower runs from Saturday, November 25, 2023–Sunday, August 11, 2024 at the Museum of Brisbane, Level 3, City Hall, King George Square, Brisbane — head to the venue's website for more details. Images: Katie Bennett.
Heading on holiday and finding somewhere to stay isn't just about camping, glamping or checking into a fancy hotel. Sometimes it's about completely escaping into your passions. Love Marvel? You'll soon be able to stay in a superhero-themed establishment. Obsessed with Star Wars? Yep, you'll be able to sleep like you're in a galaxy far, far away as well. Have a soft spot for Toy Story? You guessed it — you can also slumber in spaces inspired by Andy's bedroom. Continuing Disney's love of immersing fans in their favourite movies, you'll soon be able to indulge your affection for Toy Story in Japan. In 2021, Tokyo Disney Resort is set to open a Toy Story-themed hotel. When you're done exploring the broader park, around 600 rooms will await, all nodding to Pixar's first and most beloved franchise. And it won't just be the hotel's interior that brings Toy Story out of the screen and into your waking — and sleeping — life. The building's exterior and its gardens will also look like they're made of toys. Inside, expect brightly coloured furniture and plenty of appearances by Woody, Buzz Lightyear and company. There'll also be themed dining options, as well as that theme park staple: a gift shop. If this is the news you need to lock in that 2021 Tokyo trip — to Japan and beyond! — that's understandable. If you can't wait, this isn't the first Toy Story hotel at a Disney theme park. In 2016, Shanghai Disney Resort took those honours — and, yes, everything from the sheets to the wallpaper to the complimentary slippers references the animated films. The Shanghai park also boasts a dedicated Toy Story Land as well. Via Disney Parks Blog.
Brisbane-based artist Michael Zavros has been selected as the next artist responsible for curating QAGOMA's Artist's Choice exhibition. Zavros, hailed as a prominent mid-career Queensland artist, has selected an eclectic range of works ranging from painting, photography and ceramics to furniture and taxidermy. The series is being labelled as 'densely opulent' thanks to the wide array of reimagined media. In 2012 Michael Zavros was awarded the inaugural Bulgari Art Award and in 2010 he was awarded the Doug Moran National Portrait Prize, the world's richest prize for portraiture and held the celebrated project exhibition. This series runs until June 23 and features works from artists such as Eric Wilson, A.M.E. Bale, Arthur Murch, Schulim Krimper, LJ Harvey, Willem de Kooning and Bridget Riley.
No one is ever going to mistake a visit to Brisbane's Queen's Wharf with a trip to France — with its perch right beside the Brisbane River and views across to South Bank, there's no confusing where it's located — but Pompette wants your tastebuds to make the journey abroad anyway. Joining the precinct's smorgasbord of restaurants serving up international cuisines, this newcomer from Tassis Group goes all in on Gallic dishes. It's not only an eatery, in fact, but also a champagne bar. First announced in mid-2024 and open since December, Pompette adds French eats to the Vietnamese, Thai, Japanese, Italian, noodle, steak and seafood meals already on offer at Queen's Wharf. Under Head Chef Jean-Luc Morcellet, think: escargot, steak frites, raw beef tartlettes, chicken parfait, gruyere soufflé, baguettes with blue cheese butter, Parisian-style gnocchi, duck à l'orange, steak au poivre, côte de boeuf, crème brûlée, crêpes suzette flambée and more. At the 140-seater spot on The Terrace, there's also caviar bumps that come with a shot of frozen vodka, plus a dedicated oyster bar. Here, seven days a week from 11am onwards, classic French fare clearly features across the menu, but with two guiding principles in mind. Firstly, Pompette's dishes give traditional meals a modern spin. Secondly, if sending your tastebuds to Paris normally gets you thinking about extravagant fine-dining, this spot is aiming to be more accessible. "I've always been captivated by French cuisine — the artistry, the technique, and the craft behind it. Yet for many Australians, it can sometimes feel a little intimidating," explains Michael Tassis, Tassis Group's owner. "With Pompette, the vision is to honour the authenticity and quality of French cuisine, while ensuring it's approachable, shareable and inviting to everyone at the table." For patrons eager to say cheers to a glass of champers, more than 40 types of the French tipple are on the drinks list. Wine lovers can choose from 150-plus different bottles, while cocktails, spritzes, beer, seltzers and non-boozy sips are also among the options. Regular Tassis collaborators Clui Design and Allo Creative are responsible for the venue's look and feel, taking their cues from Paris, of course. Expect to be surrounded by pink and navy hues, plus brash touches and eye-catching artworks. Champagne and oysters are served from the site's 16-metre-long marble bar, while the outdoor terrace boasts bursts of greenery. And for special occasions, Pompette also features three private dining rooms. Find Pompette at The Star Brisbane, Queen's Wharf Road, Brisbane — open from 7am–late seven days a week. Head to the restaurant's website for more details. Images: Markus Ravik.
This is not a Star Trek convention. This is not an episode of Boston Legal. This is the one and only William Shatner live in the flesh people! The Shat is back after almost 60 years of providing hilariously witty television and entertainment. He’s an actor, a director, a producer, a musician and a big shot celebrity icon. He’s the captain of the geekiest ship known to mankind and the greatest, most infamous attorney Boston, and possibly the world has ever seen. What can’t this man do? Well, that’s an easy question to answer. There is nothing The Shat can’t do. The man may even be the greatest entertainer of all time. At 80 years of age, this tour is truly a cause for celebration! Be ready to experience the madness that is William Shatner and venture into the life of some of televisions most comical characters with the Kirk, Crane and Beyond Tour at QPAC this April. For one night only Shatner offers Brisbane the remarkable, full story of his life and times. This is an unmissable event. Why? Two words… Denny Crane. VIP tickets have already sold out so hurry on over to Ticketek and get in before you miss out!
Summer music festivals are all about embracing the best things in life — good vibes, great friends, and epic tunes. But Secret Garden Festival is about to turn the happiness factor up to out of control joy, announcing it'll host an actual wedding ceremony when it returns to Brownlow Hill Farm next February. Held from February 24-26, the annual festival is a 48-hour celebration of music, creativity, and disco-infused fun, held against a lush forest backdrop, just one-and-a-half hours outside of Sydney. It's renowned for its stellar lineup, with Gang of Youths, Montaigne, and Parquet Courts just some of the acts to have graced its stages in the past. But at 4pm on Saturday, February 25, the main stage will host a very different kind of celebration — the nuptials between Sydneysiders Alexis and Jimmy. Festival director Clare Downes says her crew is pretty stoked to be taking on wedding planner duties, promising one hell of a party for the lucky lovebirds, their friends and family, and all other festivalgoers who'll be getting in on the loved-up fun. "Alexis and Jimmy sent us an email a couple of months ago and I had to rewrite my response about nine times because I was way too overexcited," she told Concrete Playground. "They had already locked in the February 25 for their wedding, but they were just really struggling to find a venue and a celebrant etc — so it was a no brainer. I'm just so stoked they are letting us organise their wedding." While past years have seen Secret Garden host kissing booths, faux weddings, and plenty of dance floor pashes, Alexis and Jimmy's February knot-tying will mark its first official wedding ceremony. We just hope you've got your invite — tickets to the festival is already sold out. ❤️ Secret Garden's first ever REAL wedding... and they have asked us to plan it 😏💥🎉 A video posted by Secret Garden (@secretgardenfestival) on Dec 12, 2016 at 1:25pm PST Secret Garden Festival will take place on February 24-26, 2017 with Alexis and Jimmy's wedding taking place at 4pm on the Saturday on main stage. For more info on the festival, visit secretgarden.com.au.
Two venues. Seven months. More than 30 shows. That's the maths behind Open Season 2023. This series of gigs and performances debuted in 2020 at The Tivoli, just as Brisbane started to find its normality after the pandemic's first lockdown. Since then, it's kept coming back — adding Woolloongabba's Princess Theatre to its footprint in 2021, and now announcing a return lineup for both sites for 2023. Think of it as a big multi-gig festival — one that runs from late May through till December, too. That means that Brisbanites have multiple places to head to, multiple dates to do so, and multiple bands and shows to see, all from the first lineup announcement. (More acts will be added later in April.) Leading the bill so far: UK punk legends The Damned, New Zealand's Kimbra, US producer Thundercat, Weyes Blood and Aussie favourites King Stingray. Molchat Doma are also bringing their post-punk synth-pop sounds to the River City from Belarus, while The Pharcyde will team up with Masta Ace and Marco Polo, and Ngaiire will do the same with Queensland Symphony Orchestra. And, Bernie Dieter's Club Kabarett is finally making its way to Brisbane — sword swallowing, hair hanging, Cirque Du Soleil aerialists and all. German kabarett superstar Bernie Dieter leads the charge, and she's been described as "an electrifying cross between Lady Gaga, Marlene Dietrich and Frank-N-Furter in sequins", if you're wondering what you're in for. [caption id="attachment_841676" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Craig Sugden[/caption] Open Season's roster goes on, complete with Tourist, Winston Surfshirt, Lastlings, Middle Kids, Gordi and more. Also on the bill: the return of First Nations festival Blak Day Out, which was postponed from January to July. And, similarly adding a fest within the fest is Set Roulette, a new event that will decide who plays when exactly as its name suggests — by spinning a roulette wheel on the day. The Glam Awards also makes its debut, giving Brisbane both a new set of queer performing arts awards and a club night, with a heap of the country's best drag and queer performers set to feature. "Brisbane tends to hibernate over winter and we wanted to create a contemporary, curated music-led program that gives audiences something awesome and new over what is traditionally a quiet time of year," said The Tivoli and The Princess Theatre co-owner Dave Sleswick, announcing Open Season's 2023 lineup. "Even as Open Season grows and takes its place alongside Australia's big winter festivals and cultural events in the southern states, it will always retain that grungy, grassroots and artist-led philosophy upon which it was founded" "Brisbane is very much at the heart of Open Season, both for audiences and artists, and we demonstrate our commitment to this philosophy by programming great local talent and bringing huge international artists to the city so Brisbane has everything it needs right on its doorstep." [caption id="attachment_817947" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Somefx[/caption] OPEN SEASON 2023 — THE PRINCESS THEATRE: Saturday, May 27 — Northeast Party House Wednesday, May 31 — Kimbra Friday, June 2 — Winston Surfshirt Saturday, June 3 — Weyes Blood Wednesday, June 7 — The Damned Saturday, June 10 — Coterie Thursday, June 15 — Molchat Doma Friday, June 16 — Middle Kids Saturday, July 1 — Lastlings Wednesday, July 19–Saturday, July 22 — Bernie Dieter's Club Kabarett Friday, July 28 — Tourist Friday, August 4 — Ngaiire and Queensland Symphony Orchestra Saturday, August 5 — Set Roulette Friday, August 11 — Full Flower Moon Band Saturday, August 19 — First Beige and special guests Thursday, August 24 — Gordi OPEN SEASON 2023 — THE TIVOLI: Wednesday, June 7 — Thundercat Friday, June 9 — King Stingray Sunday, July 16 — Blak Day Out Saturday, August 19 — The Glam Awards Open Season will run from late May–December 2023, with pre-sale tickets available from 10am on Tuesday, April 4 and general sales from 11am on Wednesday, April 5. For further details, head to the event's website. Top image: Mitch Lowe.
Jumping in the shower has always been a reliable jet lag fix for long-haul travellers, but there's only so long cold water can prevent you from awkwardly slumping onto random people's shoulders before waking up with a start and thinking you’re late for something that happened yesterday. That might be a thing of the past if Delta's 'Photon Shower' comes into fruition. This Star Trek-like chamber showers light instead of H2O, so while it won't get that weird cabin odour out of your hair, it will give you a lasting boost of energy. The shower was exhibited at TED Long Beach Conference on Wednesday by Professor Russell Foster of Oxford University. Foster talked guests through his research on how the body responds to light, explaining that our responses can help reset the body clock during periods of exhaustion. This makes the photon shower a saving grace for travellers but also suggests it could provide refreshment to insomniacs, nurses on night shifts and people who have run out of coffee and can't be bothered going to the store. Using the photon shower starts off like using a self check-in counter and finishes with a sensation we imagine to be similar to stepping into warm sunlight after coming out of a movie theatre. Simply input your travel information, get inside and experience a sequence of (hopefully warm and tingly) light patterns designed to meet your individual needs. Just think of all the recent release in-flight movies you'll be able to watch without worrying about catching z's. Via Ad Age.
Online retail giant Amazon has finally hit Aussie shores, just in time for the mass shopping frenzy that is the month of December. Funny that. And if you're the kind of Christmas shopper that rates online stores over jam-packed shopping centres, well, amazon.com.au will most likely become your best mate during the festive season. The just-launched local website features a huge range of products across a number of categories and it's promising quick and convenient delivery on all purchases. So how will it work? Will it be heaps cheaper? Here's how Amazon's Australian presence will change the way you do your Christmas shopping. YOU'LL BE ABLE TO ORDER (PRETTY MUCH) EVERYTHING IN ONE SPOT While Amazon's Australian offering doesn't quite have the full gamut of services that it does elsewhere, the website boasts 'millions of products' across 20 categories — so it's still one seriously well-stocked online store. The lineup features well-known local brands, alongside smaller Aussie businesses and it's mind-blowingly broad. Find sports and outdoor equipment, video games, electronics, books, home improvement items, beauty products, tools, music, fashion, toys and Amazon's own devices, like the Kindle E-Reader and the Fire TV media streaming stick. You can shop with the Amazon Shopping app or online at amazon.com.au. And, you can trawl the growing Amazon collection, track your orders and read customer product reviews all in the one place, rather than switching between windows and suppliers. YOU'LL SAVE MONEY — BUT ONLY ON SOME THINGS There's been plenty of talk about how Amazon's price points will be way lower than elsewhere on the interwebs. While there are pretty low prices across the site, you're not going to be scooping up the savings with every last item you click on. In fact, some may even be more expensive. Still, you might save a few dollars buying things like kitchen appliances, clothing and beauty products here, rather than from competitors or even direct from the brand's own online store. But the really big wins are the ones you'll find in the technology department, where you can save yourself up to a couple of hundred dollars buying products like laptops, speakers and camera gear. We found a HP Laser Jet Pro printer for $666.95 on Amazon, which HP itself sells online for $899, while the Sonos Playbase speaker is going for $80 less than it is elsewhere. An online tools retailer is even selling a hydraulic rivet nut tool for a tidy $600 less as an Amazon seller than it is on its own website. ORDERS WILL BE SHIPPED FROM MELBOURNE In some metro areas of the US, Amazon offers free same-day delivery to its Prime members, made possible thanks to the huge collection of warehouses it has located throughout the country. Australia's currently got just the one Victorian fulfilment centre, but with Amazon's local expansion, we'll probably see delivery times shorten here as well. Although, it's hard to say how Amazon will be able to service Australia's vast spread. Right now, shoppers will score free delivery on eligible orders over $49 that are sold by Amazon, which ain't too shabby at all. Orders will be packed and shipped from the company's new Melbourne fulfilment centre in Dandenong South, so they'll be in your hands pretty soon after purchase. One-day priority delivery — for a $9.99 to $19.99 fee, regardless of how much your order comes to — is even available in some parts of the country.
For most of us, a bus stop is a means to an end, a necessary layover during our daily travels, and the place that helps you get from point A to point B. In Singapore, however, the transport hub on Jurong Gateway Road is the kind of place people might actually want to spend time at. When a bus stop has a rooftop garden and free books, you won't want to leave in a hurry. The structure has the bland-sounding name of Project Bus Stop, but it's anything but ordinary, as Australian commuters will instantly recognise. The rampant foliage certainly doesn't escape attention, with the six-metre-by-three-metre green roof boasting trees and drought-resistant shrubs, as well as planter boxes and even a swing underneath. If feasting your eyes on soothing natural sights isn't enough, you can bury your head in a book courtesy of a rack of novels available for everyone's reading pleasure — and if you can't find something that you like, e-books, magazines and newspapers are available to download for free. In fact, the entire bus stop is a tech-savvy delight, thanks to free wifi, phone charging stations, and interactive smartboards that display route and arrival information, Conceived by a group of designers from DP Architects, Project Bus Stop aims to turn the commuting space into a place of social interaction and make waiting for buses an enriching experience. Imagine that — actually enjoying waiting for a bus. Aussie cities, take note. Via Travel and Leisure. Image: Infocomm Media Development Authority / Our Favourite Place.
Following the success of last year's Pokémon Go craze, the latest smartphone foray into augmented reality sees the launch of Snapchat's art lens, which will again see people wandering around using their smartphone to locate 'virtual objects' all across the globe. This time though you can claim a cultural pull, because instead of hunting collectable monsters, you'll be scouting out three-storey-high digital sculptures by acclaimed American artist Jeff Koons. Having dabbled plenty in AR with its face-morphing selfie filters and World Lens feature, Snapchat's now dropped a series of Lenses that will let users view a selection of Koons's colourful installations in specific locations worldwide. Right now, the series includes a shiny gold balloon dog in New York's Central Park, a rainbow playdough sculpture on Brazil's Copacabana Beach and a monumental likeness of Popeye at Sydney Opera House. Each sculpture will remain virtually in one place for a few weeks, before moving to a new location. If you're hooked up with the latest version of Snapchat, the app will give you the option of using the art lens when you're within 300 metres of one of the sculptures. The sculptures will appear on your screen once you're nearby — you can't miss them. Snapchat's also put the call out for other artists to jump aboard their virtual global art exhibition — here's hoping some local works are added to the mix.
Watching The White Lotus isn't a passive pastime. Whether it's unleashing ultra-luxe hell in Hawaii or getting scathing in Sicily, HBO's Emmy- and Golden Globe-winning hit drama about the one percent, their lavish getaways, their deep-seated problems, and the gross inequality between the haves and have nots demands active engagement. And, even when it isn't airing, it still gets fans sleuthing — wondering where the show's next season will head, as we all have been since season two wrapped up. Before that last batch of episodes ended — just three episodes into season two, in fact — HBO announced that it was bringing the series back for a third go-around. Originally, The White Lotus was meant to be a one-and-done miniseries, but it was that excellent (and that popular) that it's now running with an anthology setup. Next stop: Thailand, probably. The best new show on TV in 2021, and one of the best returning shows of 2022 as well, The White Lotus will still keep with its new year, new vacation season, new gorgeous destination, new cast approach. After months of speculation, Variety is now reporting that it'll be set in Asia. HBO hasn't yet confirmed the news, however, but it's likely that's where you'll be lusting after holidays at next. As part of its prediction, which Variety has sourced from multiple folks close to the publication, it's expecting that The White Lotus season three might stick with filming at Four Seasons resorts — which've doubled for the titular fictional hotel chain for two seasons so far. That puts four spots in Thailand on the list: in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui and the Golden Triangle. Of course, wherever The White Lotus heads — and whoever it sends to its next scenic locale to have the supposedly best but actually worst time of their life, because the cast hasn't yet been announced — viewers will watch. Creator/writer/director Mike White (Brad's Status) has hinted at focusing on "death and Eastern religion and spirituality" already, too. "It feels like it could be a rich tapestry to do another round at White Lotus," he said in a clip at the end of season two's finale. When the show was renewed for season two, HBO hailed White's success with the series. "Reflecting on The White Lotus' humble, run-and-gun origin as a contained pandemic production, it's impossible not to be awestruck by how Mike [White, the series' creator] orchestrated one of the buzziest and most critically acclaimed shows," said Francesca Orsi, Executive Vice President, HBO Programming, Head of HBO Drama Series and Films. "And yet, he's only continued to reach new heights in season two, which is the ultimate testament to Mike's raw, unparalleled vision," Orsi continued. "His courage to explore the uncharted waters of the human psyche, paired with his signature irreverent humour and buoyant directing style, have us all dreaming of more vacation days at the resort we've come to adore. We couldn't be more thrilled to get the chance to collaborate on a third season together." There's obviously no trailer yet for The White Lotus season three, but you can check out the trailers for seasons one and two below: The White Lotus' third season doesn't yet have a release date — we'll update you when one is announced. The first and second seasons of The White Lotus are available to stream via Binge in Australia and Neon in New Zealand. Read our full reviews of season one and two. Via Variety. The White Lotus images: Fabio Lovino / HBO.
As well as offering up alternative places to stay and opening up the holiday accommodation market, Airbnb has proven a gift to anyone interested in architecture and interior design. While you're sleeping in someone else's house, you're getting a glimpse of different styles and trends. Sure, you can also flick through house and garden-focused magazines, but looking at pics isn't the same as actually seeing design in action. At PlansMatter, bunking down in a space that demonstrates ace architecture isn't just an added bonus — it's the entire point of the Airbnb-like house-sharing service. Started in 2016 by architects Connie Lindor and Scott Muellner, it only offers up "places that have architectural intention and a story to tell," according to their statement on the service's website. Each listing provides a thorough description, runs through the usual features and also includes a rundown of why it's included on the site. In fact, as well as simply browsing through a sizeable list of eye-catching architectural beauties — which not only include spaces in the US, where PlansMatter is based, but in Canada, Austria, the UK, Portugal, Sri Lanka, Denmark, Japan, Germany and Australia as well — users can also search for somewhere to stay based on the amazing designers behind the houses. If you've ever dreamed of kipping in a home designed by famous American architect Frank Lloyd Wright, or in artist James Turrell's Japanese House of Light, here's your chance. Of course, getting to live out your architecture nerd dreams doesn't come cheap, but if you're going to fork out a hefty stack of cash for a few nights away, there are much, much worse ways to spend it. For those keen on checking out the service close to home, a night in Magney House on the New South Wales south coast — and in a structure that was once featured on an Aussie stamp — will set you back $250 per night. Fairhaven Beach's landmark Pole House, which really is a house on a pole, starts at $434 per evening. Via Fast Co Design. Image: PlansMatter/Tsutomu Yamada.
Get ready to immerse yourself in a slew of new VR content thanks to a brand new initiative from Screen NSW. The screen body has just launched 360 Vision, a new virtual reality app developed by Triggar VR in partnership with the Australian Film, Television and Radio School (AFTRS). Available now on Apple and Android devices, the free app will host original VR material from leading local producers, including The Pulse and Jumpgate VR. The app will also be compatible with Oculus in the coming weeks, with new content being added regularly. "VR offers incredible opportunities for our industry and we're only just beginning to understand the possibilities that can evolve from merging VR technology with narrative storytelling," said AFTRS CEO Neil Peplow. "AFTRS is very pleased to be joining with the 360 Vision partners on this important development initiative." In addition to the app, AFTRS and Screen NSW will collaborate with a number of partners, including Screen Australia, Event Cinemas and the ABC, on the 360 Vision development initiative that will create opportunities for Australian filmmakers in the emerging field. The program is set to launch on June 7 with a day-long lab at Carriageworks in Sydney. "We need our most creative and forward-thinking film and television producers, writers and directors to be involved in this space and we need audiences to start seeking our local VR content," said Screen NSW CEO Courtney Gibson. "360 Vision is about bringing both of these ideas together." 360 Vision can be downloaded now via the Apple and Android app stores. For more information visit Screen NSW on Facebook.
