A boy scampers through the woods, happy in his natural surroundings. He runs, jumps, climbs and scurries, far away from the human world, with a very unusual creature for a companion. Such tales keep popping up in cinemas this year, particularly as far as modern-day, CGI-enhanced remakes of decades-old family fare are concerned. If The Jungle Book wowed you with not only its impressive visuals, but also its tender heart, then prepare for Pete's Dragon to do the same. Just don't expect a scary presence in this gentle effort – regardless of what the title seems to promise. Instead, the eponymous critter, named Elliott by the orphaned Pete (Oakes Fegley), is more like friendly, flying family. For five years after a car accident that leaves the boy stranded in the forest, the pair are inseparable. But when loggers venture into their turf, Pete is spotted by local girl Natalie (Oona Laurence), and taken in by park ranger Grace (Bryce Dallas Howard). Neither Pete nor Elliott cope well with their separation, especially when the townsfolk, led by sawmill owner Gavin (Karl Urban), start trying to track the dragon down. Be it a dragon, a giant robot or an extraterrestrial hoping to phone home, there's a reason that movies about kids connecting with unlikely buddies keep capturing hearts and minds. As demonstrated here by bookend narration offered by Grace's father (Robert Redford), the childlike need to find a kindred spirit doesn't fade with age. With that idea firmly in writer-director David Lowery's mind, his take on Pete's Dragon has more in common, tone-wise, with E.T. and The Iron Giant than it does the 1977 musical film it's based on. His movie is big on sentiment, belief and awe — though it's purposefully small and straightforward in its story. With his regular producer turned co-scribe Toby Halbrooks, the filmmaker best known for the lyrical western Ain't Them Bodies Saints once again opts to evoke emotion and wonder above all else. Accordingly, as much as the earnest feature explores yearning desires, it's also simply about letting audiences experience a world in which a boy can pal around with a dragon that looks like a giant, green, winged puppy. That's an inherently magical concept, made all the more so by Elliott's ability to turn invisible. So it is that for 103 patient, precisely paced minutes, the film invites viewers to not only dare to see the dragon, but to believe that he's actually real. The charming Fegley certainly goes along for the ride, as do his adult costars. But the most crucial figure is the digitally rendered Elliott, who Lowery, his team of Weta animators, and cinematographer Bojan Bazelli bring to the screen with a glow that matches the movie's warm heart. Just be warned: if you're prone to being moved by such sweet stories, you'd best bring a whole heap of tissues.
Maybe you're still planning your winter getaway. Perhaps you're already thinking about spring holidays. Or, you could just be keen to grasp any excuse to take a vacation. Whichever fits, as long as you're eager to spend your next break somewhere in Australia — which still gives you a heap of options — then Jetstar has the sale for you. On offer: domestic fares from $35, which spans trips from Sydney to Byron Bay. The rest of the prices are still cheap, however, and the list of destinations is sizeable. The Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, the Whitsunday Coast, Hamilton Island, Hobart, Launceston and Uluru are all covered, and all the usual capitals as well, with prices and routes varying depending on the departure point. Dubbed Jetstar's mates' rates sale, this batch of discounted fares includes $62 flights from Sydney to Melbourne, and $110 fares from the Harbour City to Cairns. From Victoria, prices kick off at $39 to Tasmania, and also cover $141 legs to Margaret River. Brisbanites can go to Mackay for $65 and Darwin for $106, too. From Adelaide, deals include $49 to Melbourne and $101 to the Sunshine Coast, while Perth's options start at $149 to Brisbane — and that's just the beginning of the sale's fares. You will need to be happy to head away from July 23–September 20 or October 11–December 12, though. Dates for sale flights also vary depending on the departure and arrival points. There are a few rules, as is always the case. All sale fares are one-way, and they don't include checked baggage — so you'll need to travel super light or pay extra to take a suitcase. Jetstar's mate's rates sale runs until 11.59pm AEST on Tuesday, June 20 — or until sold out, if snapped up 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.
It's hard to ignore the glistening sails of the Sydney Opera House or the star-studded sands of Bondi Beach when compiling a bucket list of must-visit sites in New South Wales. But these beloved icons are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to jaw-dropping landmarks in the state. Whether carved by hand or etched out by the elements over millennia, there is a bounty of awe-inspiring sites across NSW. A trip to these destinations could see you trekking through the desert or meditating in secluded gardens, so match your adventure to your mood and map out a mission to these ten glorious landmarks.
UPDATE, August 12, 2020: Toy Story 4 is available to stream via Disney+, Google Play, YouTube and iTunes. With Toy Story 4, Pixar returns to the franchise that brought it to fame. Nine years after their last cinematic adventure, the animation studio takes beloved cowboy Woody (voiced by Tom Hanks) back out of the toy box, alongside his nemesis-turned-friend Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) and their other fun-sized pals. On paper, it's a familiar, frequently used and hardly surprising move. While the Disney-owned company was once famous for championing new stories, its slate has been filled with follow-ups of late — this is a time when sequels, spin-offs, remakes and revivals monopolise our viewing, and when successful sagas seem like they could stretch on forever, after all. But in the process of giving the world its fourth Toy Story movie, Pixar does something that few others are even willing to contemplate: it offers up a farewell. Since it burst onto screens in 1995, the Toy Story series hasn't been afraid of goodbyes. It hasn't been frightened by the fact that everything evolves and comes to an end, either. The saga's first film contemplated the idea that Woody's time at the top of the pile might be over, with his owner Andy seemingly choosing a new favourite in Buzz. How Woody coped with his potential ousting drove the entire narrative, while similar themes of displacement, loss and moving on also featured in both 1999's Toy Story 2 and 2010's Toy Story 3. Wrapping up the franchise, Toy Story 4 continues the trend — contemplating what it means to realise that a part of your life is finishing, to embrace an unknown future, and to do so on your own terms. With Woody and company now the property of kindergarten-aged tyke Bonnie (Madeleine McGraw), much has changed in the Toy Story realm. All-too-often, the cowboy is stripped of his sheriff's badge and left in the cupboard during playtime — and his status slips further when, after sneaking into her backpack on her first day of pre-school orientation, Woody unwittingly helps Bonnie make another friend out of a plastic spork. Forky (Tony Hale), as she names the new critter, is now the number one plaything. Alas, to Woody's dismay, the Frankenstein's monster-esque piece of cutlery would rather be trash. When Forky attempts to escape to freedom during a family road trip, Woody puts Bonnie's best interests at heart and jumps out of the RV after him, embarking on an adventure to bring the spork back. Every child has screamed with sadness and anger when they've misplaced their favourite toy, and anyone who says they didn't when they were a kid is lying. Today, plenty of adults do the same thing — it's just called social media. Toy Story 4 director Josh Cooley shows how Bonnie reacts when she realises that Forky is missing, however with a smart story credited to seven other writers (including initial Toy Story director John Lasseter, Wall-E's Andrew Stanton and Parks and Recreation actor Rashida Jones), the film also delves further into loss, change and their impact. Via Woody's own journey, it examines what this process genuinely feels like when you're facing these experiences head-on and with purpose, rather than simply throwing a tantrum. You could say that the movie grapples with its own place in the pop culture domain, too, and you'd be correct. Given that its original viewers have literally grown from toddlers to adults over the franchise's run, encouraging them to break out of their entertainment comfort zones is a particularly savvy touch. Reflective, sweet, sensitive and virtually guaranteed to wring a response out of even the most cynical of viewers, Toy Story 4 is a classic Pixar piece as a result — the type of film that lets humans work through the complicated feelings they usually bury deep, all by watching animated toys express sentiments we rarely have the courage to utter, and tussle with topics we'd much rather ignore. It's a layered piece of storytelling also, with subplots involving Bo Peep's (Annie Potts) blossoming independence and 50s-era newcomer Gabby Gabby's (Christina Hendricks) quest to be loved each delicately and astutely handled. Both narrative threads tie into the movie's overarching message as well: that continuing on as usual, just because that's easy and safe, is rarely the best option. You can't take the 'toy' out of Toy Story, of course, not that Pixar would want to. At its best, this saga is as imaginative, amusing and fun as it is thoughtful, with bright, bouncy animation to match — and, returning to the heights of the first film, the franchise is at its best again here. With anarchic stuffed toys voiced by Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele, plus the one-and-only Keanu Reeves lending his slow-spoken swagger to charismatic daredevil figurine Duke Caboom, the series doesn't lack in spark or laughs. Visually, it doesn't forget to pair its story with vivid images, plenty of detail and a plethora of top cinematic nods either. And while melancholy may reign supreme, it's earned. That's the reality of sifting through nostalgia, remembering what's come and gone, and knowing that the future will always be different. More Toy Story fare may eventually hit screens, because money, however this fourth toy box tale well and truly provides a perfect ending. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pl9JS8-gnWQ
Following Australia's wettest summer in four years, the Bureau of Meteorology predicted an equally rainy autumn was on the cards for the east coast, with above-average amounts of rainfall touted to fall across the region. If you live in the area, you're probably quite aware that the climate is well and truly living up to that prediction, with a dark and wet start to March that's only expected to worsen — especially in Sydney over the next three days. According to BOM's forecast, the New South Wales capital is expected to be hit with anywhere up to 220 millimetres of rain between Thursday, March 18–Saturday, March 20. A high-pressure system in the Tasman Sea will create a coastal trough, bringing heavy rain to Sydney, as well as to the Hunter Valley and northern NSW from Friday and into Saturday. Heavy rainfall, strong and gusty winds, large waves and a chance of thunderstorms are all forecast for the NSW coast across the weekend. https://twitter.com/BOM_au/status/1372066510399709185 Further north, a heavy rainfall warning with possible flash flooding has been issued for the mid north NSW coast, including areas like Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie. In Queensland, the central highlands has already experienced heavy rainfall, with 200-plus millimetres of rainfall being recorded in some parts of central Queensland, leading to evacuations and rescues. These wet conditions have been pushing into the Brisbane metropolitan area, where it has already been rainy for a couple of days. Showers are expected to continue right into next week — at least — with up to 25 millimetres of rain on Saturday, March 20 and possible thunderstorms impacting the area over the weekend. Weatherzone meteorologist Ben Domensino has predicted wet weather across the country over the next eight days, with rainfall predicted to impact every state, and warnings of possible flooding. https://twitter.com/Ben_Domensino/status/1372030326596276224 If you need to head out, don't forget to pack your umbrellas and raincoats — and keep an eye on the warnings. As the weather conditions continue to develop, stay up to date with the latest forecast and weather warnings via the Bureau of Meteorology.
Nothing ruins a lovely holiday like having to wear dirty socks for the last two days. If you forgot some essentials at home, or made an attempt at 'light packing', let's just hope you didn't forget your Scrubba. Weighing about as much as your favorite jeans, the Scrubba Wash Bag is essentially a mobile laundromat designed for the scrupulous packer. The concept was brought about by hiker Ashley Newman, who devised the design while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Scrubba is best described as a waterproof bag containing a flexible washboard. All you need to do for clean laundry is to pop in a few dirty garments, add 2 litres of water and some soap (or shampoo, if you're in a fix), and scrub. When placed against a hard surface, Scrubba's inner washboard will create enough friction to clean your clothes after 30 seconds of scrubbing. Et voila! Garments will come out clean, and can be hung to dry. The Scrubba is available for pre-order at Indiegogo. [via Gizmodo]
Have you seen a perfect stranger perform a random act of kindness? A school kid give up their seat for a little old lady on the bus? Had some mystery Sydneysider, without expecting a word of thanks, paid for your flat white? Then the Kaldor Public Arts Projects wants to hear from you. For the last forty odd years, John Kaldor has been inviting international artists to bring their innovative ideas and public arts projects to our shores. Their most recent project was John Baldessari's Your Name In Lights, which gave Sydneysiders their chance to have their 15 seconds of fame, and quickly became the talking point of the 2011 Sydney Festival. Now, they have brought UK artist Michael Landy to Sydney to create his installation piece, Acts of Kindness. Landy's idea for the project is to collect everyday (and seemingly unnoticed) stories of random acts of kindness, then turn them into an artwork which will - both artistically and literally - return the stories to the busy Sydney streets from which they came. It may even inspire a few more. The work will be shown in the city centre for one month from September 23, 2011.
It's been 17 years since Shannon Noll was robbed of the inaugural Australian Idol title – what else is there to say about the man? He's had ten consecutive top ten singles, his work has received 17 separate platinum certifications and his track 'Lift' was the most performed Australian song of 2007. Everybody knows Nollsy has a huge following wherever he goes. Whether shown by his popularity on I'm a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!, or the fact he's seemingly spending the entire month of November touring every regional venue in the state he possibly can, from country NSW to the coast. A bunch of his gigs already sold out, so if you want to see the Aussie legend — ironically or not — head over here for details. For the latest info on NSW border restrictions, head here. If travelling from Queensland or Victoria, check out Queensland Health and DHHS websites, respectively.
Cinephiles have many reasons to love France. After its early filmmaking pioneers played an enormous part in establishing the medium, the country's New Wave of fresh talents helped revitalise it more than half a century later — and in the decades since, the nation has continued to make a considerable impact. Among its many achievements, it's also home to the most famous film festival on the planet, as well as the highest density of cinemas per capita. In short: the world loves the combination of France and film, and the country itself does as well. For the next month around Australia, it's time to say oui s'il vous plaît to all of the above. And, with apologies to anyone who'd love to be jetting off to Paris, it's time to do so by visiting a cinema screen near you. As it has for the past 30 years, the Alliance Francaise French Film Festival is currently treating much of the country to the best, brightest, latest and greatest movies that the European nation has to offer. If there's ever been a reason to escape into a darkened room with a glass of wine and a cheese platter, this is it. Touring Melbourne, Canberra, Perth, Brisbane, Hobart, Adelaide, Avoca Beach, Parramatta and Byron Bay until April 14, this year's AFFFF brings a feast of 54 films to Aussie audiences — big name stars, touching dramas, weird and wonderful delights, and veteran filmmakers trying their hand at English-language flicks all included. If you're feeling spoiled for choice, we've watched and picked the 12 titles you should seek out. Joyeaux viewing. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=osqw349H9zE NON-FICTION In one of her three appearances on the 2019 AFFFF lineup, Juliette Binoche explores the complexities of living a creative life in Non-Fiction. Despite its title, Olivier Assayas' latest film isn't based on fact — and while Binoche once again plays a famous actor, she's not aping her own existence or revisiting her character from the director's Clouds of Sils Maria. And yet, this witty affair still steps into the dramas of combining the actual and the imagined, as writer Léonard (Vincent Macaigne) earns acclaim and fame for infusing his personal love affairs into his latest book. He's also romantically entwined with Binoche's TV star Selena, while her husband Alain (Guillaume Canet) is Léonard's publisher, setting the scene for a smart, amusing and perceptive dissection of life and love in today's always-online, always-sharing times. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AtOwfo1ypOw HIGH LIFE Already one of the best films of 2019, and of any other year for that matter, High Life is as audacious and alluring as it sounds. As should be expected from inimitable writer/director Claire Denis, this sci-fi flick is as intelligent and profound as the rest of her filmography, too, and as craftily determined not to be pinned down. Worlds away from the romance of Let the Sunshine In, Denis re-teams with Juliette Binoche for an existential — and sometimes sexual — nightmare that unravels in the clinical surroundings of a prison spaceship that's hurtling towards the edges of the solar system. But, among a high-profile cast that also includes Mia Goth and Outkast's Andre Benjamin, it's Robert Pattinson who's the star of the show. Playing a man and father haunted in a plethora of ways, the continually impressive actor furthers his hot streak of exceptional, challenging roles under the direction of similarly exceptional, challenging filmmakers. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2L2USPgiMI A FAITHFUL MAN As he did with 2015's Two Friends, Louis Garrel writes, directs and stars in this ruminative romantic comedy, which marks the actor-turned-filmmaker's second stint behind the camera. He plays Abel, who's quickly discarded by his pregnant girlfriend Marianne (Laetitia Casta) in favour of his best friend — and, years afterwards, becomes an object of affection for his former pal's now-grown sister Eve (Lily-Rose Depp). Told from multiple perspectives and shot with a probing eye for beautiful sights, A Faithful Man is the epitome of bittersweet, with Garrel proving a keen observer of human intricacies as both a performer and a helmer. Indeed, while this infidelity-driven affair is light from start to finish, it's also steeped in genuine feeling and drawn from a deep vein of thoughtfulness. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H9d310frjNk THE SISTERS BROTHERS For his debut English-language feature, Jacques Audiard pans for gold with The Sisters Brothers — and finds it. The French filmmaker's first flick since winning the 2015 Palme d'Or for Dheepan, this slice of old west life delivers a rich, rewarding, contemplative and comedic western, combining the genre's recognisable grit and verve with its own melancholic spirit. For Charlie Sisters (Joaquin Phoenix), the gun-slinging, bounty-hunting assassin trade is a dream. For the elder Eli (John C. Reilly, taking part in another great double act after Stan & Ollie), it's losing its shimmer. Then their latest job goes awry, with their advance man (Jake Gyllenhaal) teaming up with their prospector target (Riz Ahmed) in a quest for riches, sparking shoot-outs and soul-searching in equal measure against a magnificent backdrop. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXSojVVG4Z8 THE WILD BOYS The Wild Boys might bake its influences into every lurid frame — think Guy Maddin, Jean Cocteau, John Carpenter, Rainer Werner Fassbinder, David Lynch and more — but this wild ride could never be described as the simple sum of its parts. Story-wise, Bertrand Mandico's feature debut follows five unruly teens who commit a crime at the turn of the 20th century and, in an act of both punishment and rehabilitation, are subsequently taken on a sea voyage to a mysterious island. Just like the libidinous quartet, audiences are gifted a sensual swirl of stimuli and subversion; however to say much more about the narrative or the cast is to spoil the movie's many surprises. Whether flitting from flickering black-and-white to bursts of luminous colour, emphasising his exaggerated sets or experimenting with framing, Mandico ensures that every second of The Wild Boys is a vibrant and textured delight. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cyGC0W8PfoI AMANDA Collecting awards and nominations around the globe — Cesar and Lumiere nods in France, a prize in Venice and the top spot at last year's Tokyo Film Festival — Amanda is an involving drama that never takes the obvious route. Its title refers to the seven-year-old niece (Isaure Multrier) of 24-year-old Parisian David (Vincent Lacoste), who comes into his sole care after a devastating tragedy. Subtle rather than overt, and never blatantly tugging at the heartstrings, this is a tender yet clear-eyed account of coping with life's unexpected developments. While director Mikhaël Hers (This Summertime Feeling) approaches the material with a bittersweet tone, he also displays a a delicate and even effervescent touch. His leading man helps considerably, with The French Kissers, Eden and Sorry Angel's Lacoste fast becoming on of France's most compelling young talents. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eIU_IHfp3cU REVENGE A striking debut from writer/director Coralie Fargeat, Revenge stalks across the screen with all of the rape-revenge genre's violence and horror — and with visceral style and a firm feminist punch as well. During a desert getaway gone wrong, the attractive Jen (Matilda Lutz) segues from mistress to the arrogant Richard (Kevin Janssens), to victim of his brutish pals (Vincent Colombe and Vincent Colombe), to avenger of the myriad of savage wrongs committed against her. The storyline is standard; however Fargeat approaches the film's visuals, mood and energy with the same do-or-die determination as her persistent protagonist. Lutz, too, puts in an all-consuming performance, aptly conveying the feature's specific blood-soaked tale while embodying the fury of every woman who has ever had to fight back against overwhelmingly cruel and vicious forces. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zfeEhb4xnps THE NIGHT EATS THE WORLD Zombie movies are as common as ravenous, human-eating crowds after a horrific on-screen outbreak; however The Night Eats the World gives a distinctive taste to the genre's familiar flesh. The first feature from writer/director Dominique Rocher, the sparse horror flick plays out like a cross between I Am Legend and 28 Days Later… with a dose of expected survivalist antics and a few borrowings from single-settling thrillers; however this atmospheric, evocative film boasts a tone that's never less than intriguing. When the world turns from normal to undead in the space of an evening, Sam (Anders Danielsen Lie) is left to fend for himself. His only company is a zombified neighbour (Denis Lavant), and his own ingenuity is all that's keeping him safe from the attacking hordes outside. There's a rich flow of existential dread coursing through this addition to the genre, not only about mortality but also isolation and loneliness. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRF290gedLs SORRY ANGEL At last year's AFFFF, BPM (Beats Per Minute) broke hearts and burrowed into souls with its depiction of 1990s Paris — a time when queer men loved passionately and fought proudly for their place in the world, but always found their existence lingering under a cloud. Consider Christophe Honoré's Sorry Angel not quite its successor, but its dance partner, with the two films sashaying through similar space while unleashing their own moves. Here, writer Jacques (Pierre Deladonchamps) meets student Arthur (Vincent Lacoste) and, as a bond grows between them, the former's illness and the latter's idealism shape their relationship. Sublimely blue in its melancholy mood and its exacting colour scheme, the end result is a layered, almost novel-like, always tender and touching study of life and love. — SW https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JywE77VYpWc BY THE GRACE OF GOD Exploring sexual abuse in the Catholic Church, By the Grace of God was always going to prove both topical and sorrowful, regardless of its timing. Based on a real-life French case, the film's ripped-from-the-headlines storyline has recently seen two figures portrayed within its frames take legal action, in an ultimately unsuccessful attempt to block its release. In Australia, the movie arrives hot on the heels of high-profile local legal proceedings; however, the anger, dismay and empathy the Silver Bear recipient inspires is all its own. Focusing on three men (Melvil Poupaud, Denis Ménochet and Swann Arlaud) who were inappropriately taken advantage of by the same priest (Bernard Verley) as children, this is a measured, moving, sensitive and sobering picture from filmmaker François Ozon, who ventures worlds away from previous efforts such as Swimming Pool and Young & Beautiful. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gZnjwuicCq0 KNIFE + HEART It's 1979. Someone is savagely murdering gay porn stars, all of whom work for successful, ruthless producer Anne (Vanessa Paradis). And, as she tries to keep making movies while her actors keep dropping like flies, she's coping with the end of her relationship with her editor. Kudos to writer/director Yann Gonzalez for Knife + Heart's exceptional premise, which also features films within films, creepy legends, spooky woods and rather inventive weapons. Still, it's his eye-popping execution that makes this a weird and wonderful delight. In his hands, nothing is too much — and we mean nothing. The end result is an assault on the senses that's as brutal as its slasher set-up and as theatrical as its campy tone. — SW https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRFwJS7pu80 THE WORLD IS YOURS There are heist films, and there are heist films. The World Is Yours has earned comparisons to Guy Ritchie and Quentin Tarantino's work; however it's no mere derivative take on a well-worn genre. Instead, it's a splashy, stylish, skilfully executed and supremely entertaining effort in its own right, and a mighty fun time at the cinema. Perhaps best known for making music videos for M.I.A., Simian Mobile Disco, Kanye West and Jay-Z, and Jamie xx, French filmmaker Romain Gavras turns this account of small-time gangsters dreaming big into a cool, comic and confidently engaging caper that drips with energy and charm from start to finish. Veterans Isabelle Adjani and Vincent Cassel take to their roles with glee, but it's A Prophet's Karim Leklou who stands out among the movie's stars — playing the son of a seasoned grifter who just wants to pull one last job so he can sell icy poles in North Africa. — SW The Alliance Française French Film Festival tours Australia from March 5, screening at Sydney's Chauvel Cinema, Palace Norton Street, Palace Verona, Palace Central and Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace from March 5 to April 10; Melbourne's Palace Balwyn, Palace Brighton Bay, Palace Cinema Como, Palace Westgarth, Kino Cinemas and The Astor Theatre from March 6 to April 10; Perth's Palace Raine Square, Cinema Paradiso, Luna on SX, Windsor Cinema and Camelot Outdoor Cinema from March 13 to April 10; and Brisbane's Palace Barracks and Palace James Street from March 14 to April 14. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the AFFFF website.
When an event's first and second runs have proven a hit, so much so that it's coming back for another year, you can't quite say that the third time will be the charm. Still, Festa Italiana has big things in store for 2025. Howard Smith Wharves' annual taste of la dolce vita is returning for two four-day weekends with a feast of Italian dishes, pop-up bars, a special dessert from Gelato Messina and plenty more. Naples-born and -raised, Sydney-based chef Orazio D'Elia of Bondi Beach's Da Orazio is again making the trip to Brisbane, too, leading the festivities. When Festa Italiana launched in 2023, the aim was to give its waterfront CBD home its first-ever Italian food market, and to celebrate cuisine and beverages from the country in focus. That's on the agenda again in 2025. This year's dates: Thursday, May 29–Sunday, June 1 and Thursday, June 5–Sunday, June 8. Joining in alongside D'Elia: fellow chefs Carmine Guarino (another Naples-born culinary figure) and Dean Anning (Ciao Papi's Executive Chef). Again, D'Elia will be serving up a range of dishes that he's known for. His vodka rigatoni (made with tomato, chilli, cream and vodka) is back on Festa Italiana's menu. This year, attendees can tuck into his strozzapreti ai gamberi, aka twisted pasta with prawns, zucchini and cherry tomatoes as well. Thanks to a grill station on HSW's main lawn, there'll also be porchetta-stuffed focaccia and chicken rolls, all to enjoy by the river. Guarino's contribution: traditional Italian street food, specifically Roman-style pizzas served by the slice. You'll be able to pair them with natural Italian wines, all while Italo disco tunes play. For more sips, the festival is hosting a spritz bar (think: Lambrusco spritzes and frozen white peach Aperol slushies, for something beyond your usual drinks) and Felons Brewing Co is whipping up a Festa Italiania-exclusive Italian lager. At Ciao Papi, Anning's menu includes stracciatella with grilled leeks, hazelnut and truffle — plus rigatoni alla amatriciana with sugo, garlic, chilli and pancetta. Here, beverages will also be a highlight, with eatery's garden becoming an Aperol garden with orange hues to match and a dedicated Aperol spritz bar. Then there's the Italian salumeria, your go-to for artisanal charcuterie, fresh mozzarella — complete with demonstrations showing how it is made — plus other deli-style fare, fried calamari and the like. Timed to wrap up autumn and say hello to winter over its two weekends, as it has been in previous years, Festa Italiana is also soundtracking its bites and sips with live tunes, and ramping up the entertainment with roaming performers. Entry is free, with everything that you're keen to eat and drink purchased as you go. Festa Italiana takes place at Howard Smith Wharves in the Brisbane CBD from Thursday, May 29–Sunday, June 1 and Thursday, June 5–Sunday, June 8, 2025. Head to the precinct's website for further details.
Wu-Tang Clan are hip hop royalty. Their debut album Enter the Wu-Tang defined the sound of an entire generation and still holds high rotation at dirty house parties and the playlists of every independent vinyl store with a tough music snob behind the counter. Any self-respecting music fan knows the quality and skill of this iconic group, and now, RZA, GZA and Ghostface Killah are collaborating with Cher — the diamante clad diva who believes in life after love and has spent the past few years rambling nonsensically on Twitter. Luckily for Wu-Tang fans (and their much-cherished street cred), the collaboration with Cher only extends as far as contributing vocals on two tracks of the group's upcoming album. But this is no ordinary LP. Once Upon a Time in Shaolin is a 31-track double LP that Wu Tang has been developing in secret over the past six years. Just one copy of the album will be produced, and it will only be available to the public via private listening sessions at museums, galleries and festivals. After this tour, for which dates have not yet been released, the singular copy will go up for sale. It will be encased in a "hand-carved nickel-silver box designed by the British Moroccan artist Yahya," and is expected to reach an auction price "in the millions". Suffice to say, this is an important album. One which RZA has produced in an effort to break down the boundaries between music and art; redefining the nature of our contemporary listening practices. And what's Cher's contribution? "Wu-Tang, baby. They rock the world." In an exclusive preview this week, a journalist from Forbes picked up on this small cameo from the iconic singer. Cher belts out these few words in signature diva style at the end of a song featuring Ghostface Killah. Though the collaboration has been confirmed, apparently Cher didn't have much involvement with the famed hip hop group. "She recorded her parts separately, so I don't believe there was direct interaction," said her representatives. Though unsurprising, it's a little disappointing. Imagine a post-recording afterparty with RZA and GZA blasting 'Protect Ya Neck' while Cher tries to harmonise and pin velvet tassels on everyone. The world isn't ready for it. Via Rolling Stone.
Wake up Newstead, a soon-to-launch new supper club has something to say to you. Sharing its name with a Rod Stewart single from five decades back, and fittingly sporting a 70s vibe to match, Maggie May is set to join Longland Street in October. On the menu here: share plates, spanning both small and large bites; wine and cocktails, with a particularly hefty vino list; and a casual vibe that's playful and retro. That's the plan when the venue joins Hallmark Hospitality's growing list of southeast Queensland sites, and settles into The Defiant Duck's old stomping ground adjacent to the Newstead Gasometer. [caption id="attachment_868156" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kgbo via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] Exactly what dishes and drinks Maggie May will serve up hasn't been revealed — and neither has any 70s culinary gems that might be on offer, if indeed any will be — but, even though it's badged as a supper club, it'll be an all-day affair. So, you you'll be able to stop by for a coffee and breakfast, and also head back come cocktail hour. The venue's chosen era will definitely come through in its decor. Think: mustard, golden brown and deep teal hues, as well as paisley patterns aplenty, all in a location that opens up onto a leafy park. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Maggie May (@maggiemaybne) When it starts welcoming in patrons, Maggie May will sit alongside Retro's Cocktail Lounge and Finn McCool's Irish Bar in both Fortitude Valley and Surfers Paradise, plus Asylum Nightclub, Lefty's Music Hall, Lost Kingdom Nightclub, The Cavill Hotel, The Spotted Cow, The Lord Alfred Hotel and Hey Chica! in Hallmark Hospitality's portfolio. "Maggie May has been purposefully fashioned for the Gasworks precinct," Hallmark Hospitality Director Joe Heanen, announcing the supper club. "The venue boats seventies nostalgia with a modern twist. Maggie May is a place where patrons can feel at home and ultimately know they're in for a good time — a place that brings friends, colleagues and loved ones together to enjoy great company, good food and even better wine." Find Maggie May at 3/84 Longland Street, Newstead, launching in October 2022 — we'll update you with an exact opening date when one is announced. Top image: Google Maps.
Celebrate the rebirth of Brisbane art-hub Boxcopy, as they launch their Petrie Terrace gallery space with fitting exhibition, New Dawn. The pop-culture driven art scene has long found heart in the energetic pursuit of working from the extraterrestrial and new age. No artist though, has pursued it in more divergent a medium than Chris Howlett in his latest exhibit, New Dawn. As exemplary multi-tasker, skilled in everything from installation, performance, sound art and digital modding, Howlett has a express willingness to engage with big themes and issues other artists would find to daunting – New Dawn shows he is indeed a man with no fear. This stage of New Daw will consist of a three channel machinima projection which conflates popular myths surrounding near death experiences, extraterrestrial encounters, UFO sightings and new age spirituality, all entwined with the conspiracy theories, then neatly mapped onto the medieval, magical video game Skyrim. The exhibit will be showcased from the 24th of August to the 14th of September – don’t miss the opportunity to witness, question and be mildly confronted by the daring work of Chris Howell.
Think there's just one Hottest 100 in January? Think again. The second important countdown of the month actually goes rather well with the music poll that just proclaimed Kendrick Lamar's 'HUMBLE' the nation's best track of 2017. In the GABS Hottest 100 Aussie Craft Beers list, great brews are in the spotlight. And, just like its music counterpart, a new victor has come out on top. That'd be Balter Brewing Company, the Gold Coast-based outfit part-owned by surfers Mick Fanning, Joel Parkinson, Josh Kerr and Bede Durbidge. It beat Stone & Wood — the winner of both the 2015 and 2016 polls — to the number one spot, jumping up from fourth last time around in only the brewery's second year of operation. They also had five beers in total in the 2017 list. Now that's something to toast to, ideally with their winning 'XPA' American Pale Ale in your glass. Clearly, plenty of folks did just that throughout 2017. Run by GABS — or the annual brew fest also known as the 'Great Australian Beer SpecTAPular' — the countdown is a 'people's choice' poll is decided by booze-lovers around the country. Elsewhere on the list, 24 brews that first wet lips in the past year were included in the GABS Hottest 100, and 71 from indie brewers as well. If you're particularly keen on either, GABS have also released rundowns of the Hottest 100 New Craft Beers and the Hottest 100 Indie Craft Beers, plus the next 100 from the main countdown. If you're thinking "less background, more beer", here's what you've been waiting for: the rundown of the best beverages from the past year that just keep tempting tastebuds. Working your way through them isn't just a great way to show your appreciation for locally made brews — consider it research for the 2018 countdown. GABS HOTTEST 100 AUSSIE CRAFT BEERS OF 2017 'XPA' American Pale Ale (Balter, QLD)* 'Pacific Ale' Australian Pale Ale (Stone & Wood, NSW)* 'Crankshaft' American IPA (BentSpoke, ACT)* 'Newtowner' Australian Pale Ale (Young Henrys, NSW)* 'Single Fin' International Pale Ale (Gage Roads, WA)* 'Mosaic' American IPA (Pirate Life, SA) NEW 'IPA' American IPA (Balter, QLD)* NEW 'Jedi Juice' New England IPA (Hop Nation, VIC)* NEW GABS 'Beechworth Pale Ale' American Pale Ale (Bridge Road, VIC)* 'KRUSH!' American Pale Ale (KAIJU!, VIC)* 'Little Dove' International Pale Ale (Gage Roads, WA)* 'Former Tenant' Red IPA (Modus Operandi, NSW)* 'IIPA' Double IPA (Pirate Life, SA) 'Hop Hog' American Pale Ale (Feral, WA) 'IPA' American IPA (Pirate Life, SA) 'Pale Ale' American Pale Ale (4 Pines, NSW) 'Juicy' New England IPA (3 Ravens, VIC)* NEW 'Future Factory' Double IPA (Modus Operandi, NSW)* NEW 'Back To The Brewer' New England IPA (Mountain Goat, VIC) NEW 'Pale Ale' Australian Pale Ale (Black Hops, QLD)* NEW 'Sonic Prayer' American IPA (Modus Operandi, NSW)* 'One Fifty Lashes' Australian Pale Ale (James Squire, NSW) 'Pale Ale' American Pale Ale (Pirate Life, SA) 'Sprocket' American IPA (BentSpoke, ACT)* NEW 'Coast Ale' California Common (Capital, ACT)* 'Pale Ale' American Pale Ale (Little Creatures, WA/VIC) 'Barley Griffin' Australian Pale Ale (BentSpoke, ACT)* 'Trail Pale Ale' American Pale Ale (Capital, ACT)* 'Wild Yak' Australian Pale Ale (Yak Ales, VIC) 'IPA' American IPA (Fixation, NSW)* 'VPA' American Pale Ale (Nail, WA)* 'War Hog' American IPA (Feral, WA) 'XPA' International Pale Ale (Philter, NSW)* NEW 'Vanilla Milk Stout' Sweet Stout (Thirsty Crow, NSW)* 'Atomic' American Pale Ale (Gage Roads, WA)* 'Windjammer' American IPA (Green Beacon, QLD)* 'Kolsch' Kölsch (4 Pines, NSW) 'Furphy Refreshing Ale' Kölsch (Furphy, VIC) 'India Red Ale' Specialty IPA (Prancing Pony, SA)* 'The Matriarch' New England IPA (CoConspirators, VIC)* NEW 'Indian Summer Ale' Australian Pale Ale (4 Pines, NSW) 'Throwback' American IPA (Pirate Life, SA) 'Pilsner' German Pilsner (Balter, QLD)* NEW 'Korben D.' Double IPA (Akasha, NSW)* 'Golden Stout Time' Sweet Stout (Big Shed, SA)* GABS 'Cloud Catcher' Australian Pale Ale (Stone & Wood, NSW)* 'Twisted Palm' American Pale Ale (Burleigh, QLD)* 'Bling' American IPA (Bridge Road, VIC)* 'Three Sheets' Australian Pale Ale (Lord Nelson, NSW)* 'Mount Tennent' American Pale Ale (Pact, ACT)* 'The Mountie' Specialty Beer (Stockade, NSW)* NEW GABS 'Squish' Specialty IPA (Fixation, NSW)* NEW 'Wayfarer' American Wheat (Green Beacon, QLD)* 'Hopsmith' American IPA (Akasha, NSW)* 'Hornet' American IPA (Black Hops, QLD)* NEW '3 Bolt' American Pale Ale (Green Beacon, QLD)* 'Summer Hop Ale' American IPA (Young Henrys, NSW)* 'Small Ale' American Pale Ale (Colonial, WA/VIC)* 'Pale Ale' American Pale Ale (Colonial, WA/VIC)* 'Steam Ale' California Common (Mountain Goat, VIC) 'Natural Lager' Pale Kellerbier (Young Henrys, NSW)* 'Dark Ale' Porter (White Rabbit, VIC) 'Spearhead' Australian Pale Ale (Cricketers Arms, VIC) 'Fat Yak' Australian Pale Ale (Yak Ales, VIC) 'IPA' Specialty IPA (Colonial, WA/VIC)* 'Pale' American Pale Ale (Modus Operandi, NSW)* 'Dog Days' Australian Pale Ale (Little Creatures, WA/VIC) 'Evil Eye' Red IPA (Capital, ACT)* 'Pale Ale' Australian Pale Ale (Kosciuszko, NSW) 'Taco' Specialty Beer (Two Birds, VIC)* GABS 'Old Mate' American Pale Ale (Moon Dog, VIC)* 'Summer Ale' Blonde Ale (Mountain Goat, VIC) 'Garden Ale' Australian Pale Ale (Stone & Wood, NSW)* 'Hazelnut Brown Ale' English Brown Ale (Bad Shepherd, VIC)* 'Tusk' Double IPA (Feral, WA) 'Hazy Craze' New England IPA (White Lies, QLD)* NEW 'Session IPA' Specialty IPA (Modus Operandi, NSW)* 'Aftermath' Double IPA (KAIJU!, VIC)* 'TPP Strong Pale Ale' American Pale Ale (Pirate Life [SA] / Ballast Point [USA]) NEW 'Vanilla Malt Thickshake' Winter Seasonal Beer (Pirate Life, SA) NEW GABS 'The Punch' Gose (Hop Nation, VIC)* 'Juicy Banger' Dry Hopped Lager (Blackman's, VIC)* NEW 'Biggie Juice' New England IPA (Feral, WA) NEW '7 Bells' Gose (Green Beacon, QLD)* NEW 'Blood Orange New England Rye IPA' New England IPA (Dainton, VIC)* NEW 'The Swindler' Australian Pale Ale (James Squire, NSW) NEW '28' American Pale Ale (Burleigh, QLD)* 'India Pale Lager' Pale Lager (Beerfarm, WA)* 'Bighead' Pale Lager (Burleigh, QLD)* 'Black Metal Disco' Sweet Stout (Balter, QLD)* NEW 'Passion Victim' Australian Pale Ale (Two Birds, VIC)* NEW 'Robust Porter' Porter (Bridge Road, VIC)* 'Session Ale' Australian Pale Ale (Mismatch, SA)* 'Pale' American Pale Ale (Mornington Peninsula, VIC)* '8bit' American IPA (Stockade, NSW)* 'Alt Brown' American Brown Ale (Balter, QLD)* 'Sparkling Ale' Australian Sparkling Ale (Coopers, SA)* 'Bright Ale' Australian Pale Ale (Little Creatures, WA/VIC) 'Little Bling' Specialty IPA (Bridge Road, VIC)* 'Rogers' American Amber Ale (Little Creatures, WA/VIC) * — Brewed by an independent brewery. NEW — First brewed in 2017. GABS — Brewed especially for GABS Beer, Cider & Food Fest. Image: Balter Brewing Company.
What do you think of when I say Daphne Mayo? Chances are you think you don’t know much– if anything at all – about her. Let me help you out: Daphne Mayo is one of Australia’s foremost sculptors, and is particularly significant to Brisbane’s sculptural heritage. Still drawing a blank? Trust me, if you are a native to Brisbane, or have spent any time here at all, I guarantee you will have seen at least one, if not more, of her works. Walking through the centre of the city, Mayo’s work is all around you: from the tympanum (carved bit) over the entrance to City Hall, to the Queensland Women’s War Memorial in Anzac Square and the statue of Major General Sir William Glasgow in Post Office Square. But listen, don’t feel bad about it; instead, get yourself to the Queensland Art Gallery to catch up on everything that you’ve missed! The exhibition comprises over 50 works from public and private collections around Australia, ranging from portrait busts to architecture monuments; official commissions to creative, modernist experiments; and include ceramics, paintings and drawings as well as sculptures. And, best of all, it’s free!
Bacon is many things. It is a bona fide food of the gods, a saviour of all hungover mornings, and an eternal clogger of arteries, but now it can add one more title to its already stellar (if not a little oily) resume — bacon can now power vehicles. Or, more specifically, bacon grease can. To prove this fascinating tidbit of potentially environment-saving trivia, one man in the US endeavoured to ride his motorcycle from Minnesota to San Diego fuelled only by bacon-y goodness. The results are in, and they're pretty spectacular. Collaborating with Bio-Blend Fuels and the meat-l0ving legends at Hormel Foods, Eric Pierson took to the road last month on his tricked-out diesel motorcycle. The end-point of the trip was of course the San Diego Bacon Festival — yep, that exists — and the whole journey was captured for a documentary that is currently in post-production. Now, though we consider ourselves experts on the cooking and eating of bacon, we can't attest to much of the science behind the project. Supposedly bacon grease is a viable fuel source that also has the added benefit of being carbon-neutral. Pouring the oil from fast food fryers into your car is allegedly also a thing that could work somehow. If you don't believe us, feast your eyes on this incredibly technical flowchart: This could be a revolution in environmental science! In a few years, petrol stations could be replaced by bacon-frying stations. No longer would you have to spend half your paycheck on filling up your tank. Just buy a few kilos of extra-streaky bacon, fry it up, mop up the grease and eat the spoils. You'd already be craving it; everyone's exhaust fumes would smell like a Sunday morning fry-up. For the full story — and more scientifically accurate information — on the impending bacon revolution, keep an eye out for the documentary's release date. This is bound to be good news for everyone... except pigs. It's very bad news for pigs. Via PSFK.
If those lockdown booze stocks are getting low, here's a very fine lineup of libations to add to that collection and ensure you at least spend step two of the government's roadmap sipping in style. The Everleigh Bottling Co has just dropped a second edition of its collaboration cocktail pack, dubbed The Melbourne Mixtape Vol. 2. And just like the August debut — which quickly proved a sell-out success — this one showcases a mix of bottled (and bagged) cocktails from some of the city's most-lauded bars. This time around, the lineup has been expanded to feature specialty sips from eight venues, with Bar Margaux joining the OG lineup. Expect a brand-new crop of creations, including the Mediterranean-inspired Antica Fashionista from Bar Americano, Capitano's sherry cobbler, a classic Everleigh martini, and a coconut and vermouth number Above Board has coined the Mouton Noir. Black Pearl is there with its Tortuga — blending gin, curacao and yuzu vermouth — Bar Margaux is whipping up an Americano Perfecto to be topped with beer, Mjølner pays homage to its Viking sensibilities with the rum-infused Reginleif, and you'll find a wax flower and white chocolate G&T from the masters at Byrdi. Each of the single-serve cocktails comes with specific serving instructions, ready to chill, pour and devour. What's more, you can have the pack sent directly to your home, with shipping available across Australia, except for the Northern Territory and South Australia. Once again, The Melbourne Mixtape is serving as a tasty reminder that just because you can't get out and experience Melbourne's world-class bar scene the way it was intended, doesn't mean you can't still enjoy crafty cocktails from some of its finest operators. You'll also be helping out these venues directly, with every bit of profit from the cocktail packs sold heading back to the bars themselves. The Melbourne Mixtape Vol. 2 is available to buy for $150 from The Everleigh Bottling Co website. Images: Tash Sorensen
The arrival of summer means afternoons spent in beer gardens and nights that run late on cocktail bar rooftops. But, what if you could have an equally stimulating experience while avoiding that tinge of regret that comes when checking your bank balance the next day? The wonders of BYO make this dream scenario possible! With BYO-friendly destinations in Brisbane increasingly harder to come by, this list will ensure you're well placed to celebrate every kind of occasion with your closest pals and a carefully curated drinks selection from your own fridge or local bottle shop. Together with Mosey Fruity Beer, the hottest newcomer to the beer aisle, we've rounded up a collection of cracking BYO-friendly spots to hit up this summer. Ranging from much-loved restaurants to weekend escapes, all six picks are confirmed hot spots for taking a Mosey along. By stashing a can (or a four-pack) of the new brew in your bag, you're bringing a fruity take on the classic frothy — and an added level of freshness and 'crushability'. Our prediction? You'll be stinging for a sip by the time you're finished reading. [caption id="attachment_754733" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr[/caption] CATCH THE SUNSET Brisbane's golden hour provides a rousing end to most summer evenings. Although the city only has five parks that permit BYO alcohol, they're all top-notch spots to enjoy the show after you knock off work. South Bank Parklands is one such spot, with its 17 acres of riverfront greenery and licensed picnic areas always delivering a great experience. Another striking sunset vantage point is Celebration Lawn. Enveloped by Roma Street Parkland, this colourful spot is an ideal place to crack open a cold tinnie and catch the day's last rays before the sun dips below the horizon. [caption id="attachment_750971" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Emily Davies[/caption] PICNIC IN THE PARK When you're in the mood for a BYO date with your best pals, load up the picnic basket and cruise along to one of Brisbane's sprawling licensed parklands. New Farm Park is an obvious choice — this lush green space is renowned for its fragrant rose gardens and open fields perfect for lobbing a frisbee. Situated within South Bank Parklands, Picnic Island is a slightly more secluded area where you can soak up the waterfront vibes with a drink in hand. Just as the name suggests, this spot is ideal for enjoying a couple of tins beneath the shady treetops or around the covered barbecue facilities. [caption id="attachment_869922" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Yutacar, Unsplash[/caption] AVOID THE RELOS BY HOSTING A FRIENDS-MAS PARTY PSA: you don't have to spend the holiday season with family. Hosting a top-notch friends-mas party delivers the opportunity to relish in the good times with your closest pals instead. Whether your loved ones live in another city or you just want to avoid any painful conversations, planning a friends-only festive shindig is a winner. So, what's needed to put together an unforgettable end-of-year celebration? Loading the fridge with tasty beers to go with your veritable feast, of course. Alongside lawn games and board games, a carefully curated playlist that turns your living room into Brisbane's best dance floor won't go amiss either. [caption id="attachment_871107" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Thang Tran[/caption] HIT A LOCAL BYO RESTAURANT Let someone else take care of the cooking by booking your next BYO session in a sumptuous Brissie restaurant. Lemak is a go-to choice in East Brisbane (especially if you're into golden, crispy chicken). Plus, this Malaysian street food restaurant is more than happy for you to bring along your own brews. Order the signature fried chicken with nasi goreng or suss out the flavourful range of laksas. Alternatively, take your tastebuds on a trip to the Med at Little Greek Taverna. Enjoy fresh, affordable Greek cuisine cooked by the family owners as you take in a 180-degree view of bustling West End — sipping on a BYO beer of your choice, of course (maybe a fresh and fruity brew?). SKIP TOWN FOR THE WEEKEND Make the most of your wider locale by skipping town for the weekend with a few friends. Just a short drive out of Brisbane you'll find more than a few lush stays. Set amid the Glass House Mountains, The Brick Barn has enough space for eight guests to enjoy its soaring six-metre vaulted ceilings and central courtyard — you can even get toasty next to the fire pit and pizza oven. Or, maybe take your brews along to a pastoral stay on the doorstep of Tamborine Mountain. This rejuvenated Queenslander features incredible views of the Great Dividing Range from its (multiple) decks, while a swimming pool overlooks the surrounding working farm. [caption id="attachment_794956" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Tatters via Flickr[/caption] CRUISE OUT FOR A CAMPING TRIP Brisbane and its surrounding regions are blessed with world-class camping, perfect for reconnecting with nature while enjoying a chilled beverage. While you'll have to hike in to reach any of Mount Barney National Park's serene campgrounds, finding your place amongst the jagged mountain tops and subtropical rainforest repays your effort and then some. Cylinder Beach Camping Ground on Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) is just as beautiful. Set along a beloved surf beach on the isle's northeastern corner, the grounds boast pretty impressive facilities considering you're some distance from the mainland. With barbecue areas, bountiful shade and patrolled beaches, a BYO sesh here will go down in history. Armed with a ripper BYO spot and a four-pack of Mosey Fruity Beers, you'll be ready to make summer yours. To find out more about the juicy brews, head to the website. Top image: Chester Newling
Brisbanites, heading to Tokyo just got cheaper, whether it's your first trip or you're planning a return visit to the Japanese capital. Jetstar is rolling out its latest route from Tuesday, October 31, launching a Brisbane–Narita service — its first direct to Tokyo from the River City. The budget airline first announced the news midyear, and now launch day has arrived. On Boeing 787 Dreamliners, the carrier will run five return flights a week from Brissie to the home of Tokyo Tower, the Studio Ghibli theme park, TeamLab's digital gallery and more. From December, that'll increase to daily services. The move makes Jetstar the first low-cost airline to connect the two cities, and sees Jetstar stop flying from the Gold Coast to Narita — with its last service making the trip on Sunday, October 29 — to focus on the Brisbane route instead. Start making holiday plans, then — and not just to Tokyo. Also soon to launch: new international routes direct from Brisbane to Osaka and Seoul, with the trio of legs expected to see Jetstar will cater for more than 480,000 new seats each year out of the Queensland capital. For folks keen on cherry blossoms in Osaka, the carrier will boast four return legs a week from Brisbane from Friday, February 2, 2024. The new Seoul flights will take off the day prior, on Thursday, February 1, 2024, with three return services weekly. Jetstar is still flying to Japan from Cairns as well. Its extra services out of Brissie stem from a partnership with Brisbane Airport, with support from Queensland's Attracting Aviation Investment Fund (AAIF), which is joint Government and airport initiative to help kick the state's visitor economy back into gear. Cost-wise, one-way fares currently start at $425 to Tokyo, $363 to Osaka and $329 to Seoul. Jetstar's new international routes to Tokyo from Brisbane start flying from Tuesday, October 31, 2023 — with Osaka and Seoul routes beginning in February 2024. Head to the airline's website for tickets and further details. 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.
Yabun — which means "music to a beat" in the Gadigal language — is an annual festival bringing a wide range of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander talent to Sydney's Victoria Park. Held each year on January 26 on Gadigal Land, the festival consists of Corroboree, performances from First Nations musicians, a marketplace, discussions, speeches and children's activities. After a few COVID-impacted years, the festival returned in full last year — and for 2024, it's serving up a huge program of beloved musicians. The lineup features a mix of up-and-coming and longstanding songwriters and performers. Emily Wurramara and Tasman Keith lead the way, alongside Velvet Trip, Fred Leone, Chasing Ghosts, Tjaka, Mi-Kaisha, Frank Yamma, GLVES, Cindy Drummond and Green Hand Band. [caption id="attachment_937421" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Joseph Mayers[/caption] A heap of dance groups will also be performing on the day, including Yangkay, Jannawi Dance Clan and Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam. Plus, you can attend panel discussions and community forums at the Speak Out tent, and shop for goods from First Nations businesses at the market. If it's a hot day, Victoria Park Pool is also right there for anyone who wants to cool off, so pack your swimmers just in case. If you can't make it down to Yabun Festival 2024 — or you want to join in from interstate — you can watch via a live stream via the festival's website.
Doughnut Time, Damien Griffiths' cult-like doughnut franchise, has conquered he final frontier of the culinary world: the vegan market. As of right now, they're offering a vegan doughnut named Vegan Las Vegas for $6 dollarydoos a pop — so no one with dietary restrictions may go without doughnuts, not even for even a second. That's the kind of world we want for our children. Their vegan doughnut creation has a coconut and raspberry glaze and is topped by a pistachio crumb. It’s also gluten-free (the second gluten free doughnut on the menu at this point), which begs the question: what is this thing made of? Well, we have no idea. Don't ask, just devour. This vegan news is a double edged sword, though; it's delightful for those who’ve taken up veganism in 2k16 and don’t want to miss out on delicious doughnuts, and terrible for pre-existing vegans who, like the rest of us, struggle to resist the onslaught of gourmet doughnuts coming at you all day long via social media (not really though, we're leaning in to the craze and bleeding the country dry of Nutella). Doughnut Time has been so successful in its home state of Queensland that it now has multiple stores in Sydney and one in Melbourne, with another on the way soon. So prepare your phone cameras and insulin shots — it's about to get sweet up in hurr. For locations and opening hours across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and the Gold Coast, visit doughnuttime.com.au.
Since opening in 2018, teamLab Borderless has been one of Tokyo's top tourist destinations, and with good reason. Dazzling, stunning, breathtaking, kaleidoscopic, worth a trip to Japan all by itself: all of those descriptions apply to the digital-only art gallery, which became the most-visited single-artist museum in the world during its first year of operation. But if it has been sitting at the top of your must-experience list for when Japanese vacations start getting easier, you'll still need to wait — because Borderless' Tokyo base is on the move. Japan's border restrictions ease again on Wednesday, September 7, allowing tourists to enter the country for holidays even if they're not on guided tours — as long as they still book their travel package through a travel agent. A stop at teamLab Borderless won't be on the itinerary until 2023, however, with the original Tokyo site in Odaiba shutting its doors at the end of August. That's the bad news. The excellent news: at some point in 2023, teamLab Borderless will relaunch at a brand-new site. Instead of crossing over Tokyo's gorgeous Rainbow Bridge to get to it, you'll be heading to central Tokyo, where it'll form part of the new Toranomon-Azabudai project. Those digs are only slated to be completed next year, so there's no exact opening date set for teamLab's new Tokyo Borderless museum — but the art collective has advised that the Toranomon-Azabudai location will let visitors "wander, explore, discover in one borderless world". If you were lucky enough to mosey around the OG spot before the pandemic, you'll know that that's an apt description of the Borderless experience, where vibrant, constantly moving, always-changing interactive digital art keeps glowing and flowing before your eyes. [caption id="attachment_701269" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Sarah Ward[/caption] There's no word yet whether the same artworks will make the move over to the teamLab Borderless' new home, if old favourites will evolve in different surroundings, or whether fresh pieces will grace the walls, floors and every other surface imaginable — in Odaiba, that even included cups of tea. A second teamLab Borderless has already been open in Shanghai since 2019, and others are slated for Jeddah in Saudi Arabia and Hamburg in Germany — both with a 2024 opening date. teamLab also has operates a different museum in Macao, and has its first teamLab Phenomena in the works for the Saadiyat Cultural District in Abu Dhabi, again targeting a 2024 launch. [caption id="attachment_868129" align="alignnone" width="1920"] ⒸDBox for Mori Building Co.[/caption] As for the new Tokyo site, it'll still be a must on any Japanese holiday itinerary. Add it alongside the Super Nintendo theme park, Shibuya's famous scramble crossing, singing karaoke in a ferris wheel and wandering around the Studio Ghibli museum — and making a date with the animation house's theme park, which opens in November 2022. teamLab Borderless Tokyo: MORI Building Digital Art Museum is relocating to the Toranomon-Azabudai Project, Tokyo, from sometime in 2023 — for more information, visit the museum's website. Top image: teamLab, Exhibition view of teamLab Borderless: MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUM, 2023, Tokyo © teamLab, courtesy Pace Gallery.
In spots dotted across the globe, including in New York, Tokyo, Berlin, Paris and Sydney, the best way for tourists to get a full glimpse of bustling cities is to head up. We've all seen the photos. If you've ever been to one such destination, you've likely taken more than a few. Now, you can enjoy a killer view — and an excellent place to take sky-high snaps — in Brisbane as well. Over the past decade or so, rooftop hangouts have joined the River City by the dozens. But only Cicada Blu and Babblers since late August 2024 — plus Aloria from October — are part of Brisbane's new Sky Deck. The towering attraction on level 23 at the Queensland capital's just-launched $3.6-billion Queen's Wharf precinct, the viewing platform sits 100 metres above the Brisbane CBD. Cicada Blu is its resident openair bar and Babblers is its all-day dining haven, while Aloria will give Sky Deck its signature restaurant. Unsurprisingly, Cicada Blu takes centre stage on the lofty deck, in prime position for cocktails with a stunning vista from 3pm Wednesday–Thursday and midday Friday–Sunday. The menu here focuses on drinks with botanical infusions, which can be paired with an array of bar snacks. As the sun sets, live tunes also help set the mood. While gazing outwards is the drawcard across Sky Deck, Cicada Blu wants patrons to notice more than the vantage. It sports a lighting installation to give the bar even more of a glow than its sun- and star-lit perch is already does, with the luminous setup taking its cues from cloud formations and summer storms.
It's not an overstatement to say that our environment and the delicate ecosystems within it are extremely important to us all, and especially right now, so any effort to preserve our world is an effort worth making. In partnership with certified compostable coffee pod company, Tripod Coffee, we've come up with a list of five easy adaptations centred around your daily coffee routine — so you can go easy on the environment while still enjoying your morning brew. SWITCH TO COMPOSTABLE COFFEE PODS If you have a Nespresso machine at home, you may have noticed a by-product of all that convenience: a lot of pods ending up in the bin. Instead of ditching the machine and further adding to landfill, you could make the switch to coffee pods that are more sustainable. Tripod Coffee is an Australian company that creates compostable coffee pods. This means, you still get an excellent, cost-effective coffee each day, but without the waste. And, as the pods are made from fairly sourced beans, roasted by local coffee maestros, you've got a sustainable sip available in your kitchen every morning. How do you know if a coffee capsule is compostable? You can check the Australian Bioplastics Association list here, or look for the Australian Certified Compostable symbol on the packaging. Tripod Coffee pods are made of a bio-polymer and are sealed with a paper lid. You can place the entire capsule in your green bin, if your council accepts organic waste. If not, you can return the packing using Tripod's Pod-to-Plant returns program. [caption id="attachment_766152" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lisa Fotios[/caption] COMPOST YOUR COFFEE GROUNDS Australians generate 67 million tonnes of waste each year, and we chuck 5 million tonnes of food into landfill — which can be easily avoided. Not only can we buy food more responsibly, but we can also learn how to make the most of our organic waste. Composting works twofold to help the environment, first by keeping waste out of landfill, and second by creating a garden-nourishing by-product (aka compost tea). Coffee grounds are packed with potassium and are great to add to compost bins. If you don't know where to start with creating your own compost, check out these tips from Planet Ark, which includes using a Bokashi bucket to ferment food scraps if you live in an apartment. If you don't have outdoor space for a composting bin, or consume lots of coffee and want to make sure your organic waste goes to good use, check out ShareWaste, which connects people who are recycling their kitchen scraps with local people who are already composting, worm-farming or keep chickens. Alternatively, connect with your favourite cafe and ask if you can add your used coffee grounds to its Closed Loop bins, or other organic recycling scheme organised by your council. [caption id="attachment_766122" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Chevanon Photography[/caption] EXPLORE DIFFERENT MILK OPTIONS There are approximately 270 million dairy cows producing milk for human consumption around the globe. Milk production impacts the environment in various ways, according to World Wildlife Fund, including production of greenhouse gas emissions contributing to climate change. It also has impacts on water supply, deforestation, loss of wetlands and issues of animal welfare. So there are many people around the world who are looking at plant-based milks or mylks. A glass of dairy milk produces almost three times more greenhouse gas than any plant-based milk according to a study by Oxford University in 2018, and earlier this year The Guardian investigated the varying impacts of soy, almond, macadamia or oat — with oat milk coming out, generally speaking, on top. Oat milk is super creamy and froths well for a cappuccino, while almond milk goes down well with a tiny bit of maple syrup, some ice cubes and a shot of coffee for an iced latte. The most important takeaway from those reports is that whatever alternative you choose, it has a lesser environmental impact than dairy. However, it's worth noting that Australia's dairy industry accounts for around 7 percent of the gross value of agricultural production and around 7 percent of agricultural export income. So a cultural shift away from dairy milk is not without its casualties. [caption id="attachment_766125" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nathan Dumlao[/caption] KNOW WHERE YOUR BEANS ARE SOURCED By getting to know where your coffee beans come from, you can make a choice that values ethics and sustainability (with the bonus of tasting great, too). Fair trade coffee means the land the beans are sourced from is treated with care, as are the farmers who work on it. It's a win-win — and a step you can take to make a difference. If you want to ensure your coffee is fairly produced, look for the Fairtrade Australia markings; Tripod Coffee's Great Gatsby coffee uses 100-percent certified fair trade organic coffee from Central America. [caption id="attachment_766149" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Andrea Piacquadio[/caption] BUY FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES DOING GOOD Knowing your daily habits are having a positive impact elsewhere in the world is not only good karma, but also a way of ensuring the money you spend is going directly to people who are actively creating positive change. Tripod Coffee has created the world's only pod-to-plant program, which means that the pods you've used end up as nutrient-rich fertiliser. It also commits one percent of its profits to restoring the Daintree Rainforest through Rainforest Rescue. There are also coffee roasters promoting coffee bag recycling programs and ones that donate to global research to protect coffee plants from extinction — something that nobody wants. Research the companies that are giving back on a global scale, and spend your money locally to keep supporting the little businesses that do good in big ways. Tripod Coffee produces Australian certified-compostable coffee pods. Find out more about the range and delivery options, here.
The country's most stylish hospitality venues have taken out top honours at the annual Eat Drink Design Awards, confirming that our award-winning food and drink scene is about much more than just Insta-worthy eats and cracking cocktails. The awards, which celebrate the best-designed cafés, bars, restaurants, nightclubs, retail spaces and pop-ups from across Australia and New Zealand, saw New South Wales win especially big in 2017. Among the state's haul, Foolscap Studio's work on Noma Australia was awarded Best Installation Design, George Livissianis' The Dolphin Hotel scooped the title of Best Bar Design and Potts Point's long-standing Fratelli Paradiso scored itself a spot in the Eat Drink Design Awards' Hall Of Fame. Suburban and regional gems were the big winners in Victoria, with Hoppers Crossing café Morris & Heath beating out its inner-city counterparts for the title of Best Cafe Design, and the Mornington Peninsula's Jackalope Hotel awarded Best Identity Design. South Australia's Viet Next Door, designed by Genesin Studio, took out the award for Best Restaurant Design. Each year, the awards celebrate the best hospitality design across venues that have opened in the past 18 months, as judged by a team of hospitality and design industry leaders. For the full list of winners, jump over to the Eat Drink Design Awards website.
If you're the type of movie buff who likes watching new release films on the big screen, popcorn in one hand and choc top in the other, then your viewing habits have undergone some drastic changes in recent weeks. First, upcoming blockbuster flicks started postponing their release dates due to COVID-19. Then, cinemas across Australia began closing — initially by choice, and then by government decree. As a result, no one is gathering in a darkened room to soak in some movie magic from the silver screen any time soon. In the US, a number of studios have been making the leap to online releases, as a way of still letting audiences access and watch their latest films while everyone is staying home. Australian distributors have been slower to take the same jump, but now Roadshow Films has announced that it's fast-tracking a heap of its recent flicks to digital — so you can catch Margot Robbie's chaotic antics in Birds of Prey (And the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn), check out the Michael B. Jordan-starring legal drama Just Mercy or get a dose of Guy Ritchie's latest British crime caper The Gentlemen all from your couch. In total, 12 recent big-screen releases have been earmarked for digital rental, although some — Joker, Hustlers and The Good Liar — were already available via home entertainment formats anyway. Other titles include entertaining Karate Kid-style Aussie go-karting flick Go!, which stars Richard Roxburgh as an ex-champ reluctantly mentoring an eager teen; Clint Eastwood-directed true crime drama Richard Jewell, about the bombing at the 1996 summer Olympics in Atlanta; and Miss Fisher and the Crypt of Tears, the partially crowdfunded big-screen spin-off from the beloved Australian mystery TV series. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbHkNiIyl3I Most of these movies were still in theatres when cinemas started closing in Australia. Some, such as Ben Affleck vehicle The Way Back — where he plays an alcoholic former basketball star who starts coaching his old high school's team — had actually only started screening at the beginning of March. Either way, being made available to watch at home so quickly marks a big change for the local film industry, with films usually only jumping to DVD and streaming 90 days after they first hit cinemas — although Netflix movies such as Roma, The Irishman and Marriage Story, plus Amazon titles like Brittany Runs a Marathon and The Report, have all been challenging that fixed window in recent years. For Roadshow, it'll be dropping different films online from different dates, with rentals via GooglePlay and iTunes. Check out the full list of titles and dates below: Joker: available now Hustlers: available now The Good Liar: available now Go!: available now Midway: available now Birds of Prey (And the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn): available Saturday, March 28 Just Mercy: available Saturday, March 28 Miss Fisher and the Crypt of Tears: available Monday, March 30 The Gentlemen: available Tuesday, March 31 Richard Jewell: available Wednesday, April 1 Motherless Brooklyn: available Wednesday, April 1 The Way Back: available Wednesday, April 15 Roadshow's fast-tracked films are available to rent via GooglePlay and iTunes. To find out further details, visit the distributor's website. Top image: Birds of Prey (And the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn). © 2020 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website.
If we can glean any positive takeaways from 2020, one of them has been our renewed appreciation for a casual get-together with friends. While nothing replaces the joy of hitting up your local for a few cold ones with your mates, the benefits of staying home include having the time to play games, the freedom to listen to your own music and the chance to show off the cooking skills you perfected during lockdown. To help you make the most of barbecue season, we've partnered with Jim Beam to bring you a guide to flexing your hosting skills around the grill this summer. [caption id="attachment_786631" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Erik Mclean[/caption] SWAP SAUSAGE SIZZLE FOR GOURMET SANGAS Snags are easy, which is precisely why you're going to give them a miss this time around. When you want to level up your grilled feast, swap out the sausages for a platter of steak sandwiches topped with caramelised onions and gruyere (for when you're really flexing). Pick up a ciabatta loaf, flank steak or bavette, and a few large onions, red wine vinegar and brown sugar to make the caramelised onions. You can caramelise the onions ahead of time, and warm up the ciabatta just before serving time. For those who'd like a little helping hand, Jamie Oliver has a good steak sandwich recipe, as does Gourmet Traveller. It's your turn to play MasterChef contestant, so get creative, and if you've got fussy eaters, present each ingredient individually at a serving station so that everyone feels part of the process. [caption id="attachment_786453" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cassandra Hannagan[/caption] SWAP CHIPS AND DIP FOR PIMPED-UP POTATOES Leave the corn chips on the supermarket shelf. Instead, pick up some chats, corn on the cob and prosciutto and create bowls of potato salad fancy enough to match your gourmet steak sandwiches. First, bring a pot of potatoes to the boil and cook until they're soft but still retain their shape. Leave to cool and slice into halves or quarters. Bring a pan to high heat and crisp up chunks of prosciutto until crispy. Now, make up some spiked sour cream (silken tofu, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, chilli powder and cayenne pepper) and add it to the cooled potatoes along with strips of prosciutto and a pinch of smoked paprika. To add to the feast, grill corn on the cob and leave part of the husks intact for hands-on snacking. [caption id="attachment_786622" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] SWAP FRIDGE BEERS FOR PREMIXERS OR COCKTAILS Your mates aren't going to turn up at your house empty handed, and we bet they'll bring a couple of beers along as usual. So, as you're the host, make sure you have a slab of something else to change up the booze options. We suggest picking up cans of Jim Beam and Cola, a premixed drink of Jim Beam's famed American bourbon and cola that pairs well with barbecued meat flavours. Keep the cans on ice, chilled and ready for your guests to drink from the can or to serve themselves over ice in a glass. If you like to add a little something extra, prep some wedges of lime for a citrusy addition to the premixed drinks. Or, if you have a bottle of Jim Beam in your drinks cabinet, make up a quick cocktail with 15ml of lemon cordial and 30ml of bourbon in a highball glass. Fill the glass with ice and top up with soda and a wedge of lemon. [caption id="attachment_762521" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Eric Nopanen[/caption] SWAP ARVO FOR SUNSET It can be hard to pin people down for a date if your event runs all through the day and into the night. So, make things easier for everyone by hosting yours after the peak sunshine hours when everyone can relax into their evenings and enjoy dinner together. If you have epic views from your abode, make the most of golden hour and take lots of photos just before the sun sets (trust us, you'll look amazing). And, when the sun has gone down, have lots of atmospheric lighting ready to go — think vintage festoon lighting, or a lit fire pit if you have one. Need inspiration? The Party People has clear, colourful, disco ball-shaped and festive lights for sale with delivery available across Australia. [caption id="attachment_787327" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cottonbro[/caption] SWAP TABLES AND CHAIRS FOR PICNIC RUGS Use the best of what you already have to your advantage. Got a picnic rug? Camping chairs? Cushions? You can make a cosy and super casual chill out area in your backyard, no matter how much space you have. Your mates will love your creativity, and it'll create an environment where everyone feels relaxed and able to kick off their shoes without feeling trapped at a dining table. Go one better and gather all your pot plants from around the house and bring your green friends to the party, too. It'll create a mini oasis where you might otherwise have had a lifeless concrete patio. Looking to add to your indoor jungle? The Plant People delivers low-maintenance plants across Australia. Or see our lists of the best places to buy new plants in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane. Top image: Cassandra Hannagan
When mid-February rolls around each year, a specific feeling starts to sink in no matter how you feel about romance. That sensation? With autumn almost upon us and the cooler weather with it, it's the yearning for sunny, summery days to keep on stretching on. Here's one way to continue catching that vibe: chasing an endless summer by spending time anywhere from the Gold Coast up to Cairns while it gets frosty down south. For those eager to make an autumn date with plenty of sun, surf and sand — or even to book in a winter or spring getaway, too — Virgin Australia has just dropped a huge Queensland flight sale. Running until midnight AEST on Monday, February 20 or sold out, whichever arrives first, this sale is solely about trips to and from the Sunshine State — with more than 250,000 fares on offer. It might be focused on one part of the country, but you still have options in terms of departure points and destinations. Within Queensland, you can leave or arrive in Brisbane, Cairns, Townsville, Rockhampton, Hamilton Island, the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, Emerald, Gladstone, Mackay, Mt Isa and Proserpine. And, around the rest of the country, flights to and from Adelaide, Alice Springs, Canberra, Darwin, Hobart, Launceston, Melbourne, Newcastle, Perth and Sydney are all covered. One-way fares start at $69 — which'll get you from Sydney to the Sunshine Coast and vice versa. Other sale flights include Sydney–Gold Coast from $89, Melbourne–Cairns from $139, Adelaide–Gold Coast from $119 and Brisbane–Hamilton Island from $109. If you're wondering when you'll need to travel, the travel periods depend on the leg — but some span up till December 14, when summer is back again. Only select fares cover seat choice and checked baggage, however, with the airline announcing back in 2021 that it now splits its economy flights into three types. Economy Lite doesn't include checking any baggage or picking your seat, but Economy Choice does — and Economy Flex gives you extra flexibility (hence the name) if you have to change your plans later. Virgin's Queensland Is Calling sale runs from Tuesday, February 14–midnight AEST on Monday, February 20 — or until sold out. 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.
Something wicked this way comes, as Opera Queensland is beginning it's 2012 Season this weekend with it's debut performance of Giuseppe Verdi's classic opera Macbeth. After sell out performances from last year's classical productions, Opera Queensland Chorus and Queensland Symphony Orchestra have join together to begin the year on an awe inspiring and sinister note. Verdi's opera, based on William Shakespeare's literary masterpiece of the same name, is the re-creation of one of the most well known and beloved tragedy tales of the Western world. Macbeth, army general and hero of 11th Century Scotland, begins his ambitious journey of moving up the ranks to become ruler and King of Scotland. Aided by his wilful and haunted wife Lady Macbeth, the death toll begins to heighten, and Macbeth's tyranny starts to take a dangerous turn. Macbeth's bloodlust soon transports him into a world of regret, suspicion and madness from which he cannot return. The story itself seems to have been crafted with the intent of transitioning into the realm of operatic theatre. It's bloody battles, ambitious heroines, and eerie returns from the dead will make for an entertaining and moving piece of theatre. Maestro Nicholas Braithwaite will be directing Michael Lewis and Elizabeth Whitehouse in the leading roles, and Kaludi Kaludow will be returning to the Brisbane stage to play the righteous Macduff Do not miss what is sure to be a riveting evening of murder, madness and mayhem!
Brisbanites, get ready to sit in the room where it happens — because Lin-Manuel Miranda's game-changing, award-winning, rightly raved-about Hamilton is finally coming to town. After opening its Australian run in Sydney in 2021 and currently playing Melbourne, the hit musical has booked a 2023 date with the Sunshine State. So, mark Friday, January 27 in your diary, and don't throw away your shot to see the biggest thing in musical theatre this century. The Broadway blockbuster finally made its way to Australia in 2021, launching in Sydney with a cast that includes Jason Arrow as Alexander Hamilton, Chloé Zuel as Eliza Hamilton, Lyndon Watts as Aaron Burr, Akina Edmonds as Angelica Schuyler, Matu Ngaropo as George Washington, and Victory Ndukwe as Marquis de Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson. Thankfully, as The Book of Mormon did as well, it's touring its way along the east coast. Next stop: QPAC's Lyric Theatre. Accordingly, before next January ends, Arrow, Zuel and company — including Shaka Cook as Hercules Mulligan and James Madison, Marty Alix as John Laurens and Philip Hamilton, Elandrah Eramiha as Peggy Schuyler and Maria Reynolds, and Brent Hill as King George III — will all be exploring 18th-century American politics through song in Brisbane. Haven't become a Hamilton obsessive yet? Not quite sure why it has been the most-talked about theatre show of the past six years? The critically acclaimed hip hop musical, for which Miranda wrote the music, lyrics and the book, is about the life of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, as well as inclusion and politics in current-day America. In addition to its swag of Tony Awards — 11 in fact, which includes Best Musical — it has nabbed a Grammy Award and even a Pulitzer Prize. Until now, Brisbanites eager to see the show had to be content with trips south or watching the filmed version of its Broadway production, which started streaming via Disney+ in 2020 (and yes, it's as phenomenal as you've heard). Here's hoping that the $10 ticket lottery also comes our way, offering Hamilton tickets for less than the cost of lunch. Hamilton's Brisbane season will kick off on Friday, January 27, 2023 at QPAC's Lyric Theatre, South Bank. Head to the musical's website for further details, to join the waitlist, or to buy tickets from Monday, September 12, 2022 — with presales available from 10am on Monday, September 5. Images: Daniel Boud.
Among the many topics and ideas sung about in Hamilton, the fact that life is about seizing chances is up there with the most pivotal and resonant. In 2024 in Australia, it's time to take that notion to heart. So, you haven't seen Hamilton onstage yet? You have but you're eager to catch it again? Don't throw away your shot — the smash-hit musical is returning Down Under in July, but only to Sydney. After that, it'll finish its Aussie run. Lin-Manuel Miranda's masterpiece initially made its way to the Harbour City in 2021, then went to Melbourne in 2022 and Brisbane in 2023. The Australian production also travelled to New Zealand, Manila and Abu Dhabi, and will hit up Singapore next. Following that is its Sydney comeback, where the biggest thing in musical theatre in the 21st century — and a game-changing, award-winning, rightly raved-about sensation — will make Sydney Lyric Theatre the room where it happens from Tuesday, July 30, 2024. Hamilton's Australian return was announced in 2023, but now it has been confirmed that Sydney is its only stop. Also new news: locking in the cast that'll take to the stage, including some familiar faces and a few newcomers. Jason Arrow is reprising the role of Alexander Hamilton, Akina Edmonds returns as Angelica Schuyler, Elandrah Eramiha is back as both Peggy Schuyler and Maria Reynolds, and Brent Hill again slips on King George III's crown. This time, however, Vidya Makan will play Eliza Hamilton, Gerard-Luke Malgas does double duty as the Marquis de Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson, Etuate Lutui is Hercules Mulligan and James Madison, and Googoorewon Knox plays George Washington. Also, Tainga Savage steps up from the original Australian company — plus the international tour — to taking on the parts of John Laurens and Philip Hamilton. Still new to this song-and-dance take on 18th-century American politics? Not quite sure why it has been the most-talked about theatre show of the past decade? The critically acclaimed hip hop musical, for which Miranda wrote the music, lyrics and the book, is about the life of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, as well as inclusion and politics in current-day America. In addition to its swag of Tony Awards — 11 in fact, which includes Best Musical — it has nabbed a Grammy Award and even a Pulitzer Prize. Until 2021, Australians eager to see the show had to be content watching the filmed version of its Broadway production, which started streaming via Disney+ in 2020 (and yes, it's as phenomenal as you've heard). If you're not feeling financial enough to nab a seat, cross your fingers that the $10 ticket lottery, which offers Hamilton tickets for less than the cost of lunch, will return as well. In March 2023, Miranda came to Australia to see the local production, calling the cast "so fantastic". "I remember seeing Jason Arrow's audition — it had to have been April or May of 2020, and it was around the time that we were watching and editing Hamilton for [the Disney+] release. So they were really stacking up against the originals in a very tangible way, and so we were really proud of the incredible company that we were able to put together from there locally," he said at a press conference in Brisbane "Every original cast is like a four-minute mile," Miranda continued. "They said scientists proved you couldn't run the mile in under four minutes, and then someone did it, and then suddenly everybody's running it — and I feel like original casts are like that. It's impossible to find that first cast, and then it attracts the people who know they can do it." Hamilton's 2024 Sydney season will play Sydney Lyric Theatre from Tuesday, July 30, 2024. Head to the musical's website for further details and tickets — with seats currently on sale for shows until Tuesday, October 31. Production images: Daniel Boud.
Your latest excuse to book a holiday is here, and your next reason to enjoy a getaway in Australia's Red Centre as well. As it does regularly throughout each year, Webjet has launched a new sale on flights to the Northern Territory — and they're going cheap. How cheap? From $18 one-way. Until 11.59pm AEDT on Saturday, June 24, the travel site has fares to Uluru on offer for $18 from Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide, and for $21 from Sydney. It's also doing Adelaide to Alice Springs routes for $80, with each sale fare being discounted by a huge $175. [caption id="attachment_905927" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism NT and The Salty Travellers[/caption] Of course, those $18 and $21 prices are just the starting point, so you mightn't score such a cheap flight depending on which day you're planning to travel, and also where you're jetting off from — but there are still some mighty affordable prices available. The sale covers trips to Uluru and Alice Springs, for travel from now — yes, right now — through to Thursday, November 30 this year. Fancy a winter jaunt to the middle of the country? Making spring plans already? Always had the NT on your bucket list? Whichever fits, you can tick them off now. [caption id="attachment_905930" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism NT and Sean Scott[/caption] One key caveat: the discounted prices are available for inbound flights only, so you won't receive the same discount to come home. Wondering what to do once you get there? Uluru's incredible Field of Light installation by Bruce Munro remains a permanent recommendation, while Munro's just-opened Light-Towers at Kings Canyon and nightly drone show Wintjiri Wiru are must-see newcomers. You can also check out our guide to visiting the Red Centre, and our deep dives into Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa. [caption id="attachment_905929" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism NT and Tourism Australia[/caption] [caption id="attachment_905931" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism NT and Sean Scott[/caption] [caption id="attachment_905932" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Getty Images for Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia[/caption] Webjet's Red Centre sale runs until 11.59pm AEDT on Saturday, June 24. Top image: Tourism NT, Salty Travellers. Correction: An earlier version of this story stated that flights started at $15, Sydney flights from $20 and Adelaide-to-Alice Springs fights from $70; however, Webjet has changed these prices to $18, $21 and $80. This story has been amended to reflect that change. 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.
Back in May, when you were still desperately waiting for the almost three-year gap between Stranger Things season three and four to end, Kate Bush mightn't have been a big part of your life. She should've. You should've already had a date to dance to 'Wuthering Heights' dressed up as the iconic British singer, too. But when Netflix dropped the first seven episodes of Stranger Things' fourth season, Bush mania exploded. While you've been listening to 'Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)' on repeat for the past month or so — especially during the gap between the season's initial batch of episodes and the supersized final two — you might've been obsessing over something else in the process. Been wondering what song might save you from Vecna? Haven't we all. And, so has Spotify. Timed to coincide with those last couple of season four instalments — all four hours of them — the music streaming service is now creating personalised Stranger Things playlists that'll pick the tunes it thinks will keep you from falling prey to villainous forces. Each listener will get a different range of tracks, which'll include your recent and past favourites, as well as selections from the team behind the show. The theme: high-energy music that'll empower you to vanquish nefarious foes. Obviously, unlike Max Mayfield (Sadie Sink, Fear Street), you won't be pumping soul-saving tunes into your ears from a cassette. Also, you don't really have a big bad like Vecna to deal with. But you get the idea — and the excuse to keep indulging your Stranger Things love until the fifth and sadly final season of the hit sci-fi series arrives. Your own personalised Upside Down playlist will update every day, if you need another excuse to keep your headphones on you. Spotify is also streaming official Stranger Things soundtrack albums, plus a playlist filled with songs either from the show or picks inspired by it. Naturally, on the latter, tunes from the 80s are well represented. (And yes, Metallica's 'Master of Puppets' — aka the song you're likely to be obsessed with throughout July — is on there. Of course it is.) Check out the trailer for the second half of Stranger Things season four below: To access your personal Upside Down playlist, head to Spotify. Stranger Things is available to stream via Netflix. Read our full review of Stranger Things season four volume one. Images: courtesy of Netflix.
If you're visiting the Gold Coast's new HOTA Gallery and your stomach starts rumbling, you have two options. Head up to the fifth floor, and rooftop bar The Exhibitionist awaits — with tapas and plenty of drinks. Get comfy on the ground level instead, and you'll find yourself at Palette. Head chef Dayan Hartill-Law oversees both. At Palette, you'll tuck into Fraser Island spanner crab ($28) and Brisbane Valley quail ($26) among its a la carte lunch options, with the daytime lineup spanning six dishes, two types of sides and three different desserts. The big attraction here, though, is the degustation menu. It not only heroes local ingredients wherever possible, but is inspired by the artworks in the gallery. The dishes will change as evolve as exhibitions come and go, too. "The first menu relates to HOTA's Solid Gold exhibit, so that guests can see their favourite pieces of art come to life on the plate," explains Hartill-Law. "The Darling Downs vegetables in variations emulates the artist Mimi Dennett to have the same flowers and plants growing as what is featured in her piece Bloom," he notes. Palette's diners can choose between two degustation menus at present — including one with meat and a vegetarian option (both $90). And, you have a choice when it comes to drinks as well, with matching wines ($125) also available.
One of the ideas at the heart of Squid Game — and fellow battle-to-the-death fare like The Hunger Games and The Running Man, too — is that people like to watch others risk their lives, and sometimes give them, while striving to survive deadly contests. While the competitions at the heart of shows and movies with these storylines are purely fictional, folks IRL do indeed love viewing them. Indeed, with its final season, Squid Game notched up a few big firsts for Netflix. If you couldn't wait to discover Seong Gi-hun's (Lee Jung-jae, The Acolyte) fate when the South Korean hit dropped its third and last batch of episodes on Friday, June 27, 2025, you had company. Netflix reports that the six-instalment season notched up 60.1-million views in just three days, breaking the record for such a short period. [caption id="attachment_1011923" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Squid Game S3 Cr. No Ju-han/Netflix © 2025[/caption] Squid Game season three also became the first Netflix show to reach number one in all countries that the streaming platform ranks in the week it premiered, and the only series to hit the service's most-popular list in its debut week. Less than seven days out from releasing, season three is placed ninth among Netflix's most-watched shows ever in languages other than English as well. While the series' final run served up surprises on-screen, its success among audiences isn't one of them. The exploits of Player 456 in a secret tournament that turns childhood games fatal with 45.6-billion won up for grabs has been a must-see, and embraced as such, since its beginnings. Season one proved such a smash that more episodes were locked in, as was IRL competition series Squid Game: The Challenge (without the death, of course). The latter has been picked up for a second season. The next question: will there be more on the fictional side of the franchise? It has been rumoured that David Fincher (The Killer) is keen on an English-language remake — although he is working on directing a different return, stepping into Once Upon a Time in Hollywood's realm to helm the Brad Pitt (F1)-starring follow-up to Quentin Tarantino's Oscar-winning picture, at present. Also, the season-three finale swiftly sparked thoughts of Squid Game finding a way to continue. With Entertainment Weekly, series creator Hwang Dong-hyuk recently mentioned a spinoff idea set between seasons one and two — and has floated similar concepts before — but nothing beyond a new round of Squid Game: The Challenge has been confirmed in in the Squid Game universe so far. Watch the trailer for Squid Game season three below: Squid Game streams via Netflix. Images: Netflix.
When South by Southwest revealed two key pieces of news back in 2022 — that it would be held outside of the US for the first time ever, and that it was heading to Sydney to make that happen — the end result was always going to be big. SXSW Sydney is still more than two months away, taking place from Sunday, October 15–Sunday, October 22, but it just keeps adding to its hefty lineup. The latest? Queer Eye star Tan France and Coachella CEO Paul Tollett as headline speakers. France joins the bill as part of SXSW Sydney's focus on screens. The Yorkshire-raised, fashion-loving star has plenty to talk about, including Queer Eye, his New York Times best-selling memoir, YouTube's Dressing Funny, fellow Netflix series Next In Fashion and his own gender-neutral clothing line. The screen fest within the fest is yet to announce what it'll be showing, but it also named filmmakers Leah Purcell (The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson), Kodie Bedford (Mystery Road: Origin) and Jub Clerc (Sweet As) among its speakers earlier in July. Tollett clearly connects to SXSW Sydney's music festival, given that he has experience with one of the biggest such events in the world. As CEO of Goldenvoice, the promoter behind Coachella, he's also spearheaded the Stagecoach country fest — and he started his career in the 80s working in rock. Also joining the speaker lineup as a headliner Cal Henderson, who your workplace might owe a debt to. He's Slack's co-founder and Chief Technology Officer, and ties into SXSW's Sydney's technology strand. And, as already announced back in February, American futurist, The Genesis Machine author, and Future Today Institute founder and CEO Amy Webb is both a keynote speaker and headliner. France, Tollett, Henderson and Webb will feature among 700-plus speakers, and more than 300 panels and events, at the Austin-born festival's Down Under debut. So far, the fest has also unveiled a batch of music highlights and must-attend parties, plus details of its gaming strand, with more program details still to come. On the music front, over 400 artist performances will take over Sydney's venues, with the entire event happening within a walkable precinct in the Sydney CBD, Haymarket, Darling Harbour, Ultimo, Chippendale and more — aka a huge hub. [caption id="attachment_910712" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brittany Hallberg[/caption] SXSW's setup includes packing festivals within the bigger fest, plus exhibitions, talks, networking opportunities and streetside activations popping up everywhere. So far, venues named include Powerhouse Museum, ICC Sydney, UTS, Central Park Mall, the Goods Line Walk, The Abercrombie and Lansdowne Hotel. Attendees can hit up the SXSW Sydney Conference, which is where those keynotes, presentations, panels, workshops and mentor sessions come in. And, there's the SXSW Sydney Technology & Innovation Exhibitions, which is all about innovative and emerging tech and entertainment companies from across the Asia-Pacific region. Plus, at the Startup Village, up-and-comers from all industries and sectors will have space to meet, present and chat. [caption id="attachment_910713" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brittany Hallberg[/caption] SXSW's arts fests will span the SXSW Sydney 2023 Music Festival, which will be focused on live music venues in central Sydney — and the SXSW Sydney Gaming Festival, complete with more than 100 local and international independent games to play at venues (alongside demonstrations, launches performances, exhibitions and social gatherings). Movie and TV lovers, get excited — because the SXSW Sydney Screen Festival isn't just a film fest. There'll be flicks to see, including at red-carpet premieres; episodic content; and digital, XR and social content. Expect Q&As and panel discussions with the folks behind them as well. [caption id="attachment_910714" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jordan Kirk[/caption] SXSW Sydney will run from Sunday, October 15–Sunday, October 22 at various Sydney venues — head to the festival's website for further details. Top image: Netflix. If you're keen to make the most of Australia's first SXSW, take advantage of our special reader offer. Purchase your SXSW Sydney 2023 Official Badge via Concrete Playground Trips and you'll score a $150 credit to use on your choice of Sydney accommodation. Book now via the website.
Staycation-loving Brisbanites, you've just scored a new spot to spend a relaxing night away from home. Joining the city's ever-growing accommodation lineup is Hotel Indigo, with the brand making its first move into Queensland, setting up shop on North Quay by the Brisbane River. Nodding to its location is a big part of this hotel — and dialling up the art and design focus as well. Accordingly, Queensland artists such as Blends, Leans and Fuzeillear have decked out the place with art that reflects upon the city's history, icons, hidden gems and laneways. One such piece: a towering 16-storey mural of a blue wren on the outside of the building, courtesy of Blends, that pays tribute to author Trent Dalton and his hit novel (and soon-to-be TV series) Boy Swallows Universe. Inside, guests will find 212 design-led rooms that hero bold splashes of colour. The fact that you enter via two giant six-metre-high red doors — inspired by Burnett Lane's red fairy doors — gives that away, too. Mixing and matching textures and art is a key focus as well, both where you'll be sleeping and in communal spaces. When you're not kicking back in your room, you can grab a cuppa, danish, muffin or sandwich from a graffiti-covered coffee cart in the lobby, or hit up Hotel Indigo's signature restaurant Izakaya Publico. The latter serves up Japanese dishes cooked using a warayaki grill, such as seared bonito and beef skewers. And, there's also speakeasy-inspired bar 1603, which goes heavy on sake-fuelled cocktails, plus local wine and beers. A brand from the IHG Hotels chain, Hotel Indigo also has a location in Adelaide, as well as international sites everywhere from Brooklyn, Hong Kong and Bali to Shanghai, Paris, Berlin and London. In Brisbane, the new North Quay spot joins the inner-city area's other recent addition, voco. And yes, it's a busy time for new hotels Australia-wide, including the first Down Under outpost for Ace Hotels in Sydney, the design-driven AC Hotels in Melbourne, Newcastle's own QT with a rooftop bar and a suite in a clock tower and The Langham on the Gold Coast. Find Hotel Indigo at 27–35 Turbot Street, Brisbane.
It's said that good things come in threes, and this couldn't be truer right now for Sydney theatre lovers, with the announcement that the city has exclusively secured a trifecta of musical blockbusters. The NSW Government has locked down the world-class productions of Chicago, Saturday Night Fever and Waitress. It's that last one we're most excited about — it first hit Broadway in 2016 and has gone on to gain stellar reviews, numerous Tony nominations and sold-out shows night after night. Based on the 2007 movie of the same name, Waitress tells the story of Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker who dreams of a way out of her small town and loveless marriage. While Waitress won't be here until 2020, the other two productions are set to be performed in 2019. The story of Chicago needs no introduction being one of the most successful theatre productions ever, while Saturday Night Fever is a favourite amongst Australian audiences, although its current iteration has never been performed here. Together, the three shows are expected to bring in more than 60,000 visitors to Sydney, while also generating millions in tourism revenue. Perhaps in an effort to rival Melbourne's theatre scene — which nabbed the Australian 2019 premiere of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child — Sydney has upped its commitment to theatre this year. As well as these international shows, the NSW Government announced plans to turn the Powerhouse site into a new theatre. Chicago will open at the Sydney Lyric Theatre in mid-2019, while Saturday Night Fever will be performed at the Capitol Theatre from August 2019. The Australian premiere of Waitress is set to hit Sydney Lyric Theatre in 2020. Image: Joan Marcus.
If one man's trash is another man's treasure, then a trunk full of junk may as well be a treasure chest. Suitcase Rummage gets that when it comes to shopping, second-hand reaps the best bang for your buck. For years, it has been hosting regular events at Brisbane Square and Brisbane Powerhouse, and now it's back for 2019. Kicking off at midday on Sunday, January 20 at Brisbane Square, the event will feature a crowd of open suitcases filled with the type of clothes, knick-knacks and craft you probably don't need but definitely deserve. If you can't make it this time around, try again on February 3 and 17 — and, if you've got a pile of unwanted bits and pieces that someone else could love, you could always sign up to be a stallholder and take your own suitcase along. Image: Yan Chen via Suitcase Rummage.
In what may be the ultimate fusion of practicality and style, Brookstone are now selling cufflinks that offer both Wi-Fi when plugged into devices and two gigabites of storage. These magical miniatures will be perfect for frequent overseas travellers who need quick internet access, and nine-to-fivers will decrease their danger of leaving their most important work at home. Furthermore, if you ever need to undergo an investigative spy mission, these will be a perfect place for you to store all the secret documents and images you can collect. After all, nobody ever suspects your cufflinks of housing information. There are other products which offer just the USB storage, which hold up to four gigabytes. You can also engrave these for that personal touch. Sitting at around $250, these cufflinks will undoubtedly please fashionable tech geeks and businessman ballers. [via Mashable]
Trade the crowded trains and constant hum of Tokyo's city streets for otherworldly views of volcanic terrain, subtropical jungles and subterranean lakes on your next trip to Japan. From deep-blue waters dotted with islands to towering snow-covered mountains and mangrove forests, Japan boasts a truly diverse mix of natural landscapes, which are home to not only thousands of years of culture and tradition but also impressive wildlife such as brown bears, orcas and red-crowned cranes. Together with the Japan National Tourism Organization, we've put together a guide to some of the most spectacular natural sights across the country — so you have yet another excuse to visit Japan. [caption id="attachment_965458" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Jodogahama Beach via Shutterstock[/caption] Pacific Coast, Iwate Prefecture Experience sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean from Iwate's coastline, which features a striking stretch of cliffs, distinctive rock formations, underground lakes and tranquil beaches in Japan's north. Part of Sanriku Fukko National Park, the Iwate Coast can be explored by land or water. Take in the 200-metre-high Unosu Cliffs at Kitayamazaki on a boat tour; venture into the Ryusendo Cave to see subterranean lakes with stalactites and bats overhead; and cool off with a post-hike dip at peaceful Jodogahama Beach. [caption id="attachment_965460" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Mount Aso, Masafarnorth via iStock[/caption] Kuju Mountains, Oita Prefecture Down south, get your steps in at the Kuju mountain range in Aso-Kuju National Park, home to the highest peaks in Kyushu. Whether you choose to make the ascent on one of the hiking trails or opt for a more leisurely stroll on ground level, you'll be treated to remarkable views across the volcanic landscape, especially when the foliage changes in autumn. There's also natural hot springs nearby at Kurokawa Onsen, for you to relax your tired muscles with a long soak at the end of the day. [caption id="attachment_965463" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Seto Inland sea, SAND555 via iStock[/caption] Seto Inland Sea, Hiroshima, Okayama, Kagawa and Ehime Prefectures There's no shortage of things to discover around the Seto Inland Sea. The 400-kilometre stretch of water connects Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu, with 700-plus islands in between. Reconnect with nature on a sustainable sailboat tour, or take in the sights from a cycling track – such as the 46-kilometre Tobishima Kaido (which crosses seven bridges) or the 70-kilometre Shimanami Kaido (which spans six islands). For a cultural fix, see world-class artworks scattered against the breathtaking backdrop of the Seto Island Sea at Naoshima, explore the charming canals of Kurashiki, and take in the view of the floating torii gate at Miyajima Island. [caption id="attachment_965462" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Kurobe Alpine Route, courtesy of JNTO[/caption] Chubu-Sangaku National Park, Toyama Prefecture Immense in size, Chubu-Sangaku National Park has plenty of activities for every season, from trekking the 3000-metre-tall Japan Alps to snow sports and chasing waterfalls at Sanbondaki. In summer, popular pastimes include hiking, wildlife-spotting, biking, fishing and camping, while winter sees the area blanketed with snow. Not to be missed is the famed Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, which transforms into a stunning snow corridor from April to June, with stacks of snow reaching heights of up to 20 metres. [caption id="attachment_965457" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Iriomote Island via Shutterstock[/caption] Iriomote Island, Okinawa Prefecture If you'd prefer to be in warmer weather year-round, head south to the lush Iriomote Island. You'll find more than pristine beaches here, with subtropical jungles, mangrove forests and cascading waterfalls throughout the island. When you're not kayaking through mangroves or cruising through the jungle, make your way across to Yubu Island on an unconventional (and unforgettable) mode of transport — hop on a cart and a buffalo will pull you across the strait while a local guide sings traditional Okinawan songs. [caption id="attachment_965456" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Ago Bay via Shutterstock[/caption] Ago Bay, Mie Prefecture Culture and scenery collide at Ago Bay, which is dotted with approximately 60 small islands and famed for its pearl farming and Ama divers. These female free-divers have been collecting pearls and seafood in Mie Prefecture for over 2000 years, and still utilise many of their traditional methods to this day. Visit Ama Hut Satoumian to chat with Ama divers while feasting on fresh seafood at the restaurant. Don't leave without getting a bird's-eye-view of the bay from the Yokoyama Observation Deck, which offers impressive views of the peninsula and across the water from 200 metres above sea level. [caption id="attachment_965461" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Shiretoko Mountains, Saturo S via iStock[/caption] Shiretoko National Park, Hokkaido Prefecture Get close to some of the locals at Shiretoko National Park, where you'll come across wildlife such as brown bears, owls, sea eagles, seals and orcas. With a range of landscapes — from mountains to forests and rivers — the UNESCO World Natural Heritage site is home to almost 60 land and marine animal species. Come during winter to walk across drift ice, snowshoe through the icy forest and witness the snow-covered landscapes. In spring and summer, visitors can spot brown bears and waterfalls on a boat tour, cycle through the Shiretoko Pass, explore the Shiretoko Five Lakes, or hike along the Kamuiwakka Hot Falls (which are fed by natural onsen waters). [caption id="attachment_965459" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Kushiro Shitsugen National Park via Shutterstock[/caption] Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, Hokkaido Prefecture For even more wildlife spotting, head nearby to Kushiro Shitsugen National Park to catch a glimpse of deer and numerous bird species, including the iconic and endangered red-crowned crane. Kayak, canoe, or hike through Japan's largest wetlands for views of towering waterfalls, the port city of Kushiro, the Kushiro River and the Pacific coastline. If you'd rather take it slow and steady, head to one of the many observation decks by car or with a leisurely stroll, or you can even hop aboard a steam train that meanders along the river. Discover more and start planning your trip to Japan at the Japan National Tourism Organization website.
A night of opulent fun beneath bright lights and icy chandeliers awaits at Fortitude Valley's decadent Cloudland. In the newly renovated Rose Room, audiences will be treated to a night of indulgence. Brisbane's Lulu LeMans, the self-proclaimed People's Princess, will use her trademark wit and effervescence to captivate and then seamlessly guide attention from risqué burlesque to centre-stage performances. Expect good-times-guaranteed tunes delivered straight to your ears, courtesy of Cloudland's big band in residence. Over three dazzling nights (April 8, May 13 and June 17) the infinite possibilities of the Gatsby era will be brought to life — think sequins, glamour, outrageous fun and lavish excess. For $119 per person, guests will enjoy a three-hour show alongside a three-course meal and bottomless beer, wine and bubbly. It's time to strap in, old sport, for a show-stopping night you'll be sure to remember. Cloudland's Big Band Cabaret is an 18-plus event and proof of double vaccination is required to attend. To purchase your tickets, visit the website.
Not content with decking out its outdoor spaces with murals and more, Berlin is boosting its street art game. The German city now boasts its own street art museum — and, in keeping with its status as Europe's graffiti capital, the Urban Nation Museum for Urban Contemporary Art earns the honour of the world's largest street art gallery. Opening its doors on September 16 in Schöneberg in the city's inner south, the five-storey facility features original pieces from more than 100 well-known street artists, such as Shepard Fairey, Evol, 1010, and Icy and Sot. Curated by an international team of experts, and designed to grow and evolve, the site not only displays its art works in the traditional way, but turns its Wilhelminian-era building into a canvas. That means decking out its architectural features and exterior surfaces, including its facade, which will be covered in 8,000-square-foot murals that can be transported, rotated and stored. The nearby train tracks will also be fitted out with installations by more than 30 artists, expanding the museum's influence beyond its walls. Inside, visitors will find a bricks-and-mortar addition in the form of a catwalk stretched across the two-storeys of the building's interior — ensuring that displayed pieces can be properly seen both from a distance and close up. Free to enter and view, in keeping with street art's usual creed, the latest project from Urban Nation continues their efforts to turn Berlin into one huge street art gallery. Well, it continues them and adds a huge street art gallery. That said, the Museum for Urban Contemporary Art mightn't keep its title for too long, with a massive, warehouse-based street art museum currently coming together in Amsterdam for a 2018 launch. Paris also has its own, featuring 150 works; however, Urban Nation director and curator Yasha Young told Conde Nast Traveler that the Berlin gallery, "will be the world's first museum that covers all genres of urban contemporary art, including graffiti, paste-ups, sculptures, acrylic designs, and other forms typically found in cityscapes." For more information, visit the museum website. Via Conde Nast Traveler. Image: Urban Nation.
It's safe to say Aussies love Nutella. There are days, high teas and food trucks dedicated to the chocolate-hazelnut spread — and no shortage of frankencreations inspired by it. While a gelateria in Melbourne is serving up Nutella ravioli, a Brisbane chain has decided to launch Nutella spring rolls. Available at P'Nut Street Noodles stores across the city, the spring rolls are filled with lots of the sweet spread and covered in a golden, crisp exterior. And they're going for just $3.95 a pop. As they are just pastry and Nutella, you could argue that they are fried Nutella-filled pancakes or Nutella cigars, but spring rolls certainly fits with the Thai flavours of P'Nut. The noodle chain has three stores across the city — including in South Bank, Bulimba and Windsor — and is serving the dessert spring rolls as part of its new Nuts About Taste menu, which also features popcorn chicken and roti bread with peanut sauce. To find your closest store, head over to the website.
For the past 13 years, Qantas cabin crew have been dressed in Martin Grant's creations — French navy wool suits with a ruby-red vent, bold striped dresses and statement trilby hats — at airports worldwide. Now, Ballarat-born designer Rebecca Vallance is preparing to give Australia's flagship carrier a fresh look. Best known for her luxury cocktail pieces, Vallance started her namesake label in 2011 and debuted at New York Fashion Week in 2014. Since then, her collections have expanded to include categories like workwear and denim. This isn't Vallance's first collaboration with Qantas either — she's designed the business-class pyjamas for Qantas' recently-launched Project Sunrise direct flights to New York, a jersey-style navy set incorporating the airline's iconic kangaroo logo, a geometric heart motif and flight numbers QF3 and QF4. As the eponymous label grows globally — it's set to launch a modest clothing capsule in December with the Middle East market in mind — outfitting Qantas' 17,500-plus employees is just the lift-off it needs. The airline's employees are part of the design process, too. In January, it conducted a company-wide survey on the wearability of the current uniform, and the feedback will inform the redesign's fabric choices, fit and more. The project will also mark Vallance's first foray into menswear, and she's approaching it with practicality in mind. "I've been deep-diving into the staff — how they move, what they need. It's not like designing a normal collection. These garments have to withstand bending, lifting bags, and long flights," Vallance says in an interview with Vogue Australia. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Qantas (@qantas) Line up all ten of Qantas' past uniforms and you'd have a museum-worthy exhibition, with designs from fashion luminaries including Yves Saint Laurent and Emilio Pucci. Vallance hopes to carry on that legacy, this time with an emphasis on sustainability. She's exploring low-impact materials and ways to repurpose the uniforms when they reach their end of life. "Martin Grant did such a fantastic job with the current uniform, and I want to build on that. There have been incredible designers before me, who made iconic uniforms for their time period, so I hope to do the same thing, and that my uniform will last just as long when it's done, for the next 10 to 15 years, at least," she tells Vogue Australia. The new Qantas uniforms will be rolled out in 2027. Images: Qantas
It’s goodbye BIFF, hello BAPFF for the cinephiles of Brisbane — Lord Mayor Graham Quirk has told a press conference "BIFF is dead". His statement accompanied the announcement of the new Brisbane Asia Pacific Film Festival, which will screen around 60 films from the region from Saturday 29 November to Sunday 14 December 2014. BAPFF will revolve around the Asia Pacific Film Awards, which will become the festival's cornerstone event. Brisbane Marketing, the city’s economic development board, will run both events — with the festival focusing on strengthening APSA’s public profile and showcasing films eligible for the awards. APSA executive chairman Michael Hawkins said it is expected the inaugural BAPFF will be based in Brisbane’s cultural precinct, potentially screening at the Gallery of Modern Art, the State Library of Queensland, the South Bank Piazza and along the banks of the Brisbane River. Holding events and screenings at Brisbane’s City Hall was also highlighted as a priority. Audiences can expect a retrospective of the works of Iranian filmmaker Asghar Farhadi, director of the Academy Award-winning A Separation and recently announced as the head of the 2014 APSA jury. Also mooted are a program of screenings delving into Indonesian cinema, a digital restoration of Korean hit The Housemaid and a celebration of the 60th anniversary of the original Japanese Godzilla. The distinctive change for the city’s only major film festival comes after persistent rumours of BIFF’s demise — which were denied by Screen Queensland, its previous organiser, before the festival was handed over to Brisbane Marketing.
Back in 2021, news arrived that Round the Twist was joining The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, Muriel's Wedding, Strictly Ballroom, Starstruck and Moulin Rouge! in making the leap from Australia's screens to its theatres as a stage musical. If you've ever, ever felt like you needed to see the classic 90s and early 00s Aussie children's TV series with singing and dancing, the end result is debuting in Brisbane, with Round the Twist The Musical making its world premiere as part of Queensland Theatre's 2024 season. The homegrown gem has gone the screen-to-stage route with a show that already has the entire country well-acquainted with its characters. Taking over QPAC's Playhouse from Tuesday, November 12–Sunday, December 8, it closes out Queensland Theatre's 2024 run. We bet you're now more excited right now than a Twist family member in a lighthouse. Airing for two seasons between 1990–93, then another two from 2000–01, Round the Twist adapted Paul Jennings' popular books into an offbeat fantasy series. If you were the right age, it was must-see TV — and now it's your next must-see musical. Here's hoping that the new stage production not only does justice to the show that absolutely every Aussie kid watched in the 90s and 00s, and more than once, but that it taps into its balance of humour, strangeness and scares. There's definitely a big lighthouse involved, because of course there is. Obviously, we all know which song absolutely has to be included — and multiple times, ideally. Yes, it's the theme tune by Andrew Duffield that you've now got stuck in your head and will keep singing to yourself for the rest of the week. (And no, we're not sorry for putting it there.) Writer/composer Paul Hodge and director Simon Phillips (Muriel's Wedding: The Musical, Ladies in Black) are guiding the show, which will focus on single father Tony Twist; his children Pete, Linda and Bronson; and their efforts to save their home from the Gribble family while also attempting to solve a 200-year-old mystery. Expect haunted spaces, ghosts, smelly feet and a crystal ball as well, and songs. Images: Lyndon Mechielsen. Updated: Friday, November 22, 2024.
Craving the kind of cake your mum definitely doesn't make, but find yourself in the CBD rather than Newstead or South Bank? Sweet treat fans, rejoice — Chester Street Bakery has set up a third store in the centre of the city. Since late July, Brissie's favourite bakers have been slinging their creative creations from their new digs inside the entrance to the King George Square bus station. Just like its express setup over the river, expect another small in size, big in taste location from the same dessert-focused empire as Doughnut Time and Mister Fitz. Delicious from start to finish, CSB's menu features their signature cakes, hot chocolates and other edible items; if you're already fan, you know the drill. Their big cakes have garnered a huge reputation over the years, whether rainbow layers, death by chocolate, cookie dough or doughnut offerings take your fancy. Or, opt for frozen goodness courtesy of cookie monster, red velvet and banana split ice cream cakes. With Oreo-crusted unicorn cream pie Nutella pavlova, Kit Kat cheesecakes, M&M Brownies, Ferrero choc tops, and peanut butter whip shakes also served up, the list well and truly goes on.
When a trend spreads its wings everywhere from Coles to KFC — and above Australian beaches, too — you mightn't expect it to zip into theatres as well. But humanity's love of drones just can't be stopped, whether they're helping shoot sky-high aerial footage for cinema and television, taking to the heavens to put on a dazzling light show or, at Australasian Dance Collective's new world-premiering production Lucie in the Sky, providing almost half the cast for a new choreographed stage show. Performing at Brisbane's Queensland Performing Arts Centre, in the South Bank venue's Playhouse, this production pairs six dancers with five drones, with the latter mimicking the former's movements. The robotic part of the piece definitely isn't just about hovering around. The drones are named, given personalities and — in a big change to the usual drone shows — treated like individual players rather than a swarm. From Friday, May 5–Saturday, May 13, audiences will meet the friendly Lucie, the show's namesake with the Beatles-inspired moniker; M, the leader of the group; jester Skip; Rue, the wise drone; and the rebellious Red. As well as their own vibe, which could be anything from joyful to melancholic, each has their own light colour to match. The flesh-and-blood component of the show sees the five drones create relationships with ADC's dancers, all in a performance that's about exactly what you think it is: how people interact with technology, what that says about both us and the gadgets that we use in our lives, and also what it means to be human. "Contemporary dance and technology push boundaries and connect people. I wanted to explore this through not only melding drones and dancers but, ultimately, humanising the drones," explains ADC Artistic Director Amy Hollingsworth, who conjured up Lucie in the Sky. "I am deeply interested in how the relationship between humans and autonomous machines can transform when the drones are imbued with human-like behaviours." The production's drone work capitalises upon technical advice from World of Drones and Robotics Congress founder Dr Catherine Ball, and the overall project also includes am education and research program with World of Drones Education and The Australian National University's School of Cybernetics. "Creative experiments intertwining arts and technology enhance our ability to imagine our place in our future. AI already permeates our lives but how humans and AI agents interact in the arts can be inspired and guided by projects like this," says Hollingsworth. You probably won't see a ChatGPT dance piece hitting QPAC next — but never say never. Check out the trailer for Lucie in the Sky below: Lucie in the Sky plays QPAC's Playhouse from Friday, May 5–Saturday, May 13. Head to the venue's website for tickets and further details. Images: David Kelly.
