Any plans for Bali escapes, treks across Mexico or food-filled Japanese getaways have been put on ice for 2020, but that doesn't mean you can't indulge in a bit of escapism. And, no, we're not just talking about daydreaming and spending hours scrolling through Pinterest. Australian Venue Co is helping to ease the wanderlust a touch by transforming more than 20 of its pubs and restaurants into some of the world's most popular holiday destinations for summer. So, you'll be able to sip frozen margaritas surrounded by cacti, eat dumplings under cherry blossom trees and wear flower crowns (if that's your thing) on Coachella-inspired rooftops. Called Summer Staycations, the transformations will be taking place from November to February at the likes of the The Provincial Hotel and The Smith in Melbourne, Manly Wine and Bungalow 8 in Sydney, and Kingsleys and Riverland in Brisbane. Of course, the visual makeovers — which will include giant teepees, citrus trees and flowers aplenty — will be paired with appropriate food and drink menus. On the Amalfi Coast, you'll find bottomless pizza and sorbet spritzes; in Mexico, there are unlimited tacos and many margaritas; and in Bali, you'll find brunch and many frozen cocktails. For a taster of what to expect, look to The Rook. The Sydney rooftop has been filled with cherry blossoms and bottomless dumplings since March — but, come November, it'll become an Italian summer haven. More information about the staycations is set to drop on Monday, October 19, with pop-ups set to go live on Friday, November 2 in all states but Victoria. Melbourne's will kick off — restrictions allowing — in December. [caption id="attachment_785121" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jasper Avenue[/caption] SUMMER STAYCATION LINEUP Amalfi Coast Prince Alfred, Vic Provincial, Vic The Rook, NSW Kingsleys, Qld Payneham Tavern, SA Spring in Tokyo The Smith, Vic The Duke, Vic Manly Wine, NSW Fridays, Qld Sweetwater Rooftop, WA Mexico Fiesta College Lawn, Vic Perseverance, Vic Riverland, Qld Cleveland Sands, Qld Waterloo Station, SA Coachella, Palm Springs Fargo and Co, Vic Cargo Bar, NSW The Aviary, WA Hope Inn, SA Beach Club, Bali Bungalow 8, NSW The Globe, WA For more information about Australian Venue Co Summer Staycations, head to the website. Top image: The Rook by Jasper Avenue
Between the inaugural So Pop festival, drawing names like Vengaboys, Aqua and Lou Bega, and RNB Vine Days, headlined by the likes of Nelly and Craig David, the list of international music heroes hitting Aussie stages this summer is already huge. But it's about to get even heftier, with news that the world's biggest hip hop festival Rolling Loud is set to make its southern hemisphere debut next January. The independently owned one-day event hits Sydney Showgrounds on Sunday, January 27, and while the lineup won't be released until later this week, it's set to be seriously buzz-worthy, if previous years' offerings are anything to go by. Since its first outing in Miami back in 2015, Rolling Loud has expanded to Los Angeles and San Francisco, pulling crowds of up to 135,000 earlier this year. Past sell-out events have seen names like Kendrick Lamar, Cardi B, A$AP Rocky, Future, Lil Wayne, Young Thug, Post Malone, Migos and Lil Uzi Vert all grace the festival's stage. For Rolling Loud's first Australian foray, young founders Matt Zingler and Tariq Cherif are teaming up with local production and events company HSU Events, who has previously brought us big international headliners for the likes of Midnight Mafia and Knockout Circuz. If you're keen to catch Rolling Loud's Aussie debut, you can sign up now for exclusive pre-sale access. The festival will take over Sydney Showgrounds, Olympic Park, on January 27. We'll fill you in on who's headlining as soon as they're announced later this week. Images: Beth Saravo and Sebastian Rodriguez
The great drive-thru trend of 2020 and 2021, when everything from lasagne and wine to mac 'n' cheese, dagwood dogs, Ekka showbags and strawberry sundae-inspired beers were available without getting out of your car, is behind us. But not having to leave your vehicle to nab whatever your tastebuds are hankering for was never just an early-pandemic trend. So, cue a handy way to pick up ramen in a hurry right now: Ramen Danbo's Pimpama drive-thru. Sitting halfway between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, the chain's sixth southeast Queensland location is only convenient if you'll be in the vicinity; however, if that applies, it's mighty practical. Ramen to go doesn't get much easier than this, with the brand calling its new store Australia's first drive-thru ramen joint. The Pimpama location on Pimpama Jacobs Well Road does dine-in, takeaway and pick-up orders as normal, should you not be in such a rush or be keen on stepping inside. On the menu either way: eight types of ramen, from Ramen Danbo's classic to its miso tonkotsu (and shoyu and vegetarian as well), all of which can be customised with spice, extra pork slices and other toppings. The brand began in Japan in 2000, before making the leap to Australia. Next time that you're in North America, you'll also find offshoots in Vancouver, Seattle and New York. Images: Andrew HZ.
If you've ever picked up a loved one at the airport, sometimes you might get caught up in the sheer beauty of the moment and simply not know what to say. Those in Amsterdam don't have to worry about becoming a stuttering emotional wreck anymore, as the Schiphol Airport Bannerxpress now allows people to print welcome home signs from a vending machine at the airport. The machine has been under development for the past three years, and recently made its debut at Schiphol Airport. Vending machines now house much more than your standard soft drink, as you can customise these signs with different sizes, fonts, artwork and themes. Depending on how fancy you banner is, this will set you back between 4 and 15 Euros. Depending on the popularity of the machine, Bannerxpress co-founder Thibaud Bruna says that there are plans to place the machines at sporting events and concerts. [via Trendhunter]
Throw a stone in Brisbane's inner city, and it'll likely hit a bar. But try to find somewhere that doesn't just pour wine, but makes it, and it's a completely different story. Come early 2019, that'll change with the opening of the Brissie's first urban micro-winery: City Winery Brisbane. Making its home in the old Campos Coffee in Fortitude Valley, City Winery Brisbane clearly won't boast its own sprawling vineyard on-site. But, after sourcing grapes from around the country, it will be stomping, barrelling, bottling and serving vino in Wandoo Street. Brisbanites will even be able to help with all of the steps in the process (and drink it too, obviously). As well as a barrel room and winery that'll double as a function space when each year's vintage is complete, and a cellar that will also be used as a 20-person private dining room, the site will feature a 70-seat restaurant highlighting modern Australian cuisine. Chef Travis Crane is heading up the kitchen, whipping up a menu that revolves around an open fire. While the exact dishes won't be revealed until closer to City Winery Brisbane's opening, Crane will be sourcing fresh produce from the establishment's own market garden in Rosewood. A collaboration between winemaker Dave Cush and City Winery Brisbane's managing director Adam Penberthy, the venture has been more than 18 months in the making — largely due to the difficulties of finding the right warehouse-style location. When the venue opens its doors, it'll actually nod to the city's winemaking history. "In the 1800s, there were over 350 acres of grape vines planted throughout the city," Cush explains. "The Lamberts had a vineyard along Lambert Road in Indooroopilly, there was substantial vineyards throughout Mitchelton, and of course Carl Gerler who had a 14 acre vineyard along the Brisbane River where Kingsford Smith Drive is today." In honour of the latter, City Winery Brisbane's own wine label will be named Gerler. Find City Winery Brisbane at 11 Wandoo Street, Fortitude Valley from early 2019. To keep an eye out for further details, visit the winery's website.
Never believe someone who tells you that salted caramel is overrated. They probably just haven't tried the right one. And if any version of the sweet-but-salty treat is going to convert the salted caramel agnostic, it's Pepe Saya's — because Australia's famous cultured butter maker has branched out into desserts. Pepe Saya already does pancake packs, brown butter chocolate-chip cookie dough, scone packs and more, of course, but now it has added buttery salted caramel bon bons to its range. The added bonus with these: you can can pop them in your pocket or bag, then get snacking whenever the urge strikes. If you're wondering why Pepe Saya decided to move into caramels — and yes, the easy answer is 'why not? — it's calling its version an Australian homage to the caramel au beurre salé. It has company, too, with the mouth-watering squares made by hand by Adora Handmade Chocolates in Marrickville, and not only using Pepe Saya's cultured butter but also Olsson's sea salt. Even better: the bon bons come in two varieties. Stick with the OG buttery salted caramel version and you'll obviously taste all the requisite flavours (that'd be butter, salt and caramel), or opt for the chocolate buttery salted caramels for something even more decadent. That said, if your tastebuds are now well and truly tempted, you'll want to get in quickly. While the caramels have been added to Pepe Saya's lineup on an ongoing basis, they're being made in limited-edition batches — and only 250 boxes are available each week. You can nab them online from Pepe Saya's website and Olsson's website, with ten in a box. The original version costs $19.95, while the chocolate variety costs $24.95. Announcing the bon bons, Pepe Saya co-founder and buttermaker Pierre Issa said that "any butter or salt company worth their weight should have a salted caramel. Caramelising our butter brings out the true flavour of cultured butter, perfectly rounded with sea salt. It quite literally melts in your mouth with more and more flavour appearing as it dissolves." "I've always dreamt of being able to carry a little taste of Pepe Saya butter around in my pocket to share with people, and now I can, with a pocket full of these bon bons," Issa continued. The caramels also come in quite the eye-catching packaging, as designed by Aussie artist Michael Whooley. Inspired by the butteries that Issa and fellow co-founder Melissa Altman have been to overseas, it features a cat to pay tribute to felines who call butteries home around the globe. Pepe Saya's new range of caramels are available online from Pepe Saya's website and Olsson's website, with ten in a box. The original version costs $19.95, while the chocolate variety costs $24.95 Images: Rob Locke.
It's been three years since Brisbane welcomed Wildlands to the city's music festival scene, with the teams behind Melbourne's Beyond The Valley and Perth's Origin Fields fests giving the Sunshine State a big new summer party. Fast-forward to 2022 and the event is returning to see out another hectic 12-month period and welcome in a new one — bringing its 2022–23 tour to Brisbane Showgrounds on Saturday, January 7, 2023. And, with a focus on dance music, electronic beats and hip hop, Wildlands has quite the lineup onboard to spread its sounds around the inner-city venue, starting with Diplo, Denzel Curry and Dom Dolla. Clearly, alliteration has its fans among the fest's organisers. The Grammy-nominated DJ, American rapper and Australian house music producer will hit all three cities, joined by Yeat, Aitch, Kaytranada, Tkay Maidza, Honey Dijon and BENE. Plus, the bill also includes Yung Lean, Shygirl, Remi Wolf, Kanine and SG Lewis. Wildlands does like going big — its first-ever event back in 2019 featured Tyler, The Creator and Rüfüs Du Sol, after all. In 2021, The Veronicas, Spacey Jane, Cosmo's Midnight and more did the honours. The fest will run over a day per city, hitting up Brisbane after stops in Perth and Adelaide first. And vibe-wise, Wildlands goes with a "vibrant oasis" theme. WILDLANDS 2022–23 LINEUP Aitch BENEE Bicep (live) Charlotte De Witte Cloonee Denzel Curry Diplo Dom Dolla Holy Goof Honey Dijon Jay1 Jesswar JK-47 Jnr Choi JOY Kanine Kaytranada Kee'ahn Kota Banks Mia Rodriguez Memphis LK Ninajirachi Patrick Topping Remi Wolf SG Lewis Shygirl Sofia Kourtesis Tkay Maidza Willo Yeat Yung Lean
If you grew up in Brisbane between 1988 and 2000, then the Myer Centre was likely one of your favourite places to visit. In the space that's now taken up by the venue's top-level cinemas, the CBD shopping complex was home to an indoor theme park — and, amid the arcade games, it also boasted the dragon coaster. For those unfamiliar with the concept, and with the precinct that was called Tops all those years back, it's incredibly self-explanatory. And while it has been more than two decades since the dragon coaster has gone whizzing around the complex, or at all — despite talks of bringing it back in a new spot a few years ago after the the long-discarded rollercoaster was located — an all-ages venue in Tingalpa has just unveiled a new attraction inspired by that beloved ride. Meet The Hawk — which isn't a rollercoaster, has nothing to do with dragons and isn't in the Myer Centre, but wouldn't exist if The Jungle Adventure Play owner Lachlan Walker wasn't a dragon coaster fan. "When I was a kid living on the Sunshine Coast, I loved coming down to Brisbane and going to the Queen Street Mall with my mum just so I could go for a ride on the dragon coaster," Walker advised. "I have such fond memories of those times and wanted to create a ride unique not only to southeast Queensland, but to Australia." The Hawk is an electric flying fox, and it isn't for the faint-hearted. According to The Jungle Adventure Play team, it's the longest electric flying fox in the Southern Hemisphere. Also, as well as zooming along a 140-metre track that zips both inside and outside, it gets moving at 22 kilometres per hour. So, you'll be whirling along at speed, indoors and out, all while strapped into a harness eight metres above the ground. And yes, whether it's sunny or rainy outdoors, you'll be flying through that as well. Given that The Jungle Adventure Play is a family-friendly space, Brissie adults looking to indulge their inner kidult — for nostalgia purposes, or just because whizzing around in a flying fox never gets old — can expect to have plenty of company. That said, it's open for children and adults alike. Bookings have just opened for The Hawk, but you won't be able to get zooming until Tuesday, March 29 — and yes, it sounds far more fun than the other Zooming you've been doing from your laptop during the pandemic. The Jungle Adventure Play also features a giant inflatable bag that you can jump onto, climbing walls, high ropes and an indoor ninja course if you're keen for the whole experience between flying-fox rides. Find The Jungle Adventure Play at 31 Proprietary Street, Tingalpa — open 9am–5pm Sunday–Thursday and 9am–7pm Friday–Saturday.
Is there a tidbit, truth or story that you've always kept hush-hush, revealing it to no one? Would you like to get it off your chest anonymously — and as part of an exhibition? Queensland Museum wants you to disclose all, whether it's about that clandestine crush that you had years back or the fact that you don't really see the fuss about chocolate but would never publicly admit it. The South Bank venue might also put whatever you share on display at Secrets: Objects of Intrigue. Opening on Saturday, December 14, 2024, the site's latest free exhibition explores details kept under wraps, as well as the human need for secrets, to get visitors thinking about what we leave untold and why, what that says about us and how it makes us feel. Unsurprisingly, espionage will also feature. Spy gadgets, items with hidden compartments, covert weapons: they'll all be included. So will a digital display with secrets from Brisbanites, based on submissions via Queensland Museum's website. Secrets in everyday life, secrets in pop culture, secrets in history: expect them all to be touched upon as well. Also, the exhibition will reveal some secrets of its own, too. Queensland Museum advises that visitors should peer deeply at the displays — and that more will be unveiled if you take a closer look. "Secrets: Objects of Intrigue offers visitors a chance to share their secrets and view a range of objects that reveal the myriad of ways secrets have shaped human experience," explains Dr Jim Thompson, Queensland Museum's CEO. "The exhibition encourages visitors to explore how hidden aspects of our lives can influence our identities, relationships and societal structures while showcasing some of the more unique objects from Queensland Museum's collection." Secrets: Objects of Intrigue joins Discovering Ancient Egypt, which hails from the Dutch National Museum of Antiquities and boasts more than 200 objects, as a reason to delve into the past at South Bank across the summer of 2024–25. If you're keen to submit a secret, be aware that they will be moderated and not everything will make it into the exhibition. Secrets: Objects of Intrigue opens at Queensland Museum, corner of Grey and Melbourne streets, South Bank, South Brisbane, on Saturday, December 14, 2024. Head to the museum's website for more details — and to share your own secrets.
Thirteen years after Stephen Chbosky wrote his endearing best-seller The Perks of Being a Wallflower, the writer-turned-director has adapted his modern coming-of-age classic for the silver screen, starring Emma Watson, Logan Lerman and Ezra Miller. Set in Chbosky's hometown of Pittsburgh in the early '90s, the story follows 15 year-old Charlie (Lerman) as he navigates the social minefield of a new high school. The introvert freshman is used to living life as a wallflower. Taken in by two seniors, the beautiful and enchanting Sam (Watson) and her step brother Patrick (Miller), Charlie finds out what it really means to live, love and to enjoy being a misfit. Concrete Playground has ten double passes to giveaway to see The Perks of Being a Wallflower. To be in for a chance to win a double pass, make sure you're subscribed to Concrete Playground's weekly newsletter, then email your name and postal address to hello@concreteplayground.com.au
What's better than regular ol' mini golf? Putt putt with booze, as Holey Moley embraced back in 2016 when it opened its first-ever venue right here in Brisbane. What's better than one such OTT spot dedicated to tap, tap, tapping and sip, sip, sipping, too? Two, obviously, which the brand also acknowledged when it launched a second Brissie spot in the Wintergarden in 2019. Now, what's even better than just a couple of places to pick up a club and try to hit a ball around pop culture-themed holes, while pausing to drink bathtub cocktails? Yes, the answer is three, because that's how maths work. So Brisbanites, you've now got a date with Holey Moley Chermside. Given that Holey Moley has also spread across the Sunshine State and interstate, the underlying concept is already familiar, just at Chermside shopping centre. If you're known to pick up your Christmas presents at the huge Gympie Road spot, consider this an extra-festive piece of news — this year's browsing and buying can now include a mini-golf break. Holey Moley Chermside isn't be small, catering to 350 people. Patrons can play their way around 18 holes, channelling their inner Happy Gilmore before hitting the Caddyshack bar. The general setup, vibe and menu carries over from other locations, just in a different spot. Those greens include four new designs that've been exclusively tailored for the Chermside venue: Surfs Up, Dart Board, Moonshot and the Sonic the Hedgehog-inspired Mini Sonic Loophole. They're joined by a heap of the brand's well-known decor from other venues, such as The Simpsons' Evergreen Terrace and The Flintstones' Bedrock n Roll. And, some holes take their cues from Brisbane and its weather; 'tis the place for it, after all. At the bar, expect an 80s and 90s theme, as well as creative concoctions and stomach-lining bites to eat. Again, well-known faves like the Sugar Caddy and Rub a Dub Tub cocktails are on offer — the latter served in a tiny bathtub that even has rubber ducks floating in it — while the snacks lineup features ingredients sourced from local Australian producers. The bar's decor goes big on hanging plants, in a savvy touch: sure, you're not out in the openair, strolling around the grass and taking a swing, but you can still get a dose of nature all around you.
When you feel like hitting the water, you don't need to head straight for the sea. Instead, hook up the boat and take a cruise to one of Australia's many serene inland lakes or rivers that offer everything you need for an incredible boating trip with your closest mates. Keep yourself entertained on the water by loading up some fishing rods and snorkelling gear. You can also throw in the new ultra-portable Sonos Roam — it features a drop-resistant design and waterproofing technology — to make sure your on-water getaway comes with your very own soundtrack. [caption id="attachment_813546" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Pittwater, Destination NSW[/caption] PITTWATER, NEW SOUTH WALES Pittwater is ideal for those looking for a quick escape from Sydney. Situated about an hour's drive from the CBD, this 18.4-square-kilometre estuary boasts a remarkably diverse landscape and incredible scenery. You can spot everything from mangrove wetlands and salt marshes to sand flats and seagrass meadows. While the waterway features plenty of nooks and crannies that are well worth dropping anchor to explore, the expansive, grassy lands of The Basin offer opportunities for fishing, swimming and beachfront barbecues. It's also home to one of the area's only campgrounds. [caption id="attachment_813653" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jack van Tricht, Unsplash[/caption] LAKE SOMERSET, QUEENSLAND Situated about a 1.5-hour drive from Brisbane, Lake Somerset is a prime destination for Queensland boating enthusiasts. This picturesque spot is one of the state's top places for water sports, so don't be surprised to find dozens of people ripping up the freshwater lake with jet skis and speedboats. There are a number of private campgrounds, holiday houses and retreats dotted around the 42.1-square-kilometre lake, too, if you're looking to make a trip out of it. Prefer to indulge in some peaceful fishing away from the crowds? Nearby Lakes Wivenhoe and Atkinson are worth a visit. [caption id="attachment_813549" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nelson Bay, Destination NSW[/caption] PORT STEPHENS, NEW SOUTH WALES As far as marine playgrounds go, Port Stephens is undoubtedly one of Australia's most impressive. The Great Lakes Marine Park consists of an estimated 980 square kilometres of waterways that provide virtually limitless offshore adventures. If you're coming from the city (or Newcastle, from which Port Stephens is about a 40-minute drive north) you don't have to worry about bringing up your own boat, with a number of boat hire shops dotted around the estuary that makes exploring every corner of the region easy. Popular pitstops include the Karuah and Myall Rivers, which are perfect for a relaxing cruise through beautiful national parks. [caption id="attachment_813554" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mildura, Visit Victoria[/caption] MURRAY RIVER, VICTORIA/NEW SOUTH WALES You won't find many inland boating trips quite as special as cruising down the mighty Murray River. Stretching over 2500 kilometres, this winding waterway is the third-longest navigable river in the world and stretches from the alpine Snowy Mountains, along the Victorian border and into the Great Southern Ocean via South Australia's Lake Alexandrina. You're welcome to climb aboard a throwback paddle steamer or even rent a houseboat if you want to complete the journey in style with riverfront towns like Mildura, Swan Hill and Renmark making for outstanding stops along the way. [caption id="attachment_813720" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Patrick Ryan, Unsplash[/caption] GOLD COAST WATERWAYS, QUEENSLAND Weaving in and around the Gold Coast is a labyrinth of waterways that ensures boaties can see every side of the city from the water. With so much space to cover, knowing which direction to point your vessel is no mean feat. Runaway Bay is a fine place to start, as you can calmly sail along the wide waterways and tie up at one of the restaurants or cafes lining the local rivers and canals. Further along, the Coomera River is another great pick, with Sanctuary Cove's Marine Village offering a selection of high-end eateries and boutiques well worth the stop. [caption id="attachment_813563" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] LAKE MACQUARIE, NEW SOUTH WALES As Australia's largest coastal saltwater lake, Lake Macquarie has everything you need for a top-notch boating adventure. Locals here love the water, so you'll find lavishly appointed marinas, yacht clubs and jetties in the towns around the lake to make your trip a smooth one. Keen anglers won't be disappointed in Lake Macquarie — the region was zoned as a Recreational Fishing Haven in 2002, so you can while away the hours at your leisure. Plus, there's a high chance of spotting a much-loved dolphin that has made Marmong Point its home for the last few years. [caption id="attachment_813552" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Josie Withers, Visit Victoria[/caption] GIPPSLAND LAKES, VICTORIA The largest network of inland waterways in Australia, the Gippsland Lakes are bursting with things to see and do. There's no shortage of remarkable places to dock, but Barrier Landing's jetty and lagoon are especially rewarding for those who love fishing and wildlife spotting. If you're on the lookout for something a bit more heart-pumping, the waters surrounding Raymond Island are the go-to spot for water skiing. The island itself is also one of the best places in Victoria to get up close with koalas in their natural habitat. Further south, consider mooring at Ninety Mile Beach for a delightful picnic on the sand and a chance to spot humpback whales migrating along the coast. Connecting Ninety Mile Beach with Gippsland Lakes is the relaxed town of Lakes Entrance. Probably the region's headline destination, the popular beachfront town is perfect for experiencing the glistening waters in relative peace. [caption id="attachment_813734" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ezykron, Wikimedia Commons[/caption] LAKE BOONDOOMA, QUEENSLAND Drive through the flourishing wine region of South Burnett and you'll arrive at Lake Boondooma. Since being dammed in 1983, the area has transformed into a popular water sport and fishing destination, attracting visitors from across the state eager to spend a tranquil day on the water. Situated deep within the Queensland backcountry, Lake Boondooma offers a great chance to switch off and enjoy the serenity for a couple of days. Once you've finished carving up the lakefront, pitch a tent at one of the nearby campgrounds or book a cabin for the night. Find out more about the new Sonos Roam at the official website. Top image: Unsplash
At a time when most IKEA furniture ends up deep in the Gumtree 'For Sale' ads or left on the side of the road, the Swedish retailer has come up with a pretty clever plan to give those unwanted flat-pack ensembles a second lease on life. In good news for those moving house and face with an accumulative collection of Malm blond wood pieces, IKEA has launched its furniture buy-back service at all of its Australian stores. From today, Australians will be able to bring in their retired IKEA pieces to be sold on to a new home — and score a voucher for their efforts. The program is being rolled out nationally after a year-long trial at Sydney's Tempe store which saw 1600 pieces bought back from customers. Now, you'll be able to do the same at the other two Sydney stores — in Rhodes and Marsden Park — as well as stores in Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, Adelaide and Perth. The initiative was initially spurred by findings from the company's latest People & Planet Positive Report, which suggested Aussies threw away up to 13.5 million pieces of furniture that could have been recycled, reused or repaired. So how does it work? If you've got some furniture you want to get out of your life, you'll need to get an estimated quote online. Then, you'll need to take it and your furniture — still fully assembled, mind you — to the nearest IKEA store. Once there, your furniture will be assessed by an IKEA staff member, and they'll decide on a value and give you a buy-back refund card to use in-store. The buy-back scheme is only for IKEA furniture, and not for other products like lighting, mattresses, textiles, kitchen components or appliances. That's because the bought-back pieces need to be in good enough condition to be sold on to other customers in the As-Is store. It does, however, have separate recycling schemes for mattresses, batteries and light bulbs. If your Malm bed frame or chest of drawers isn't in quite good enough condition for the As-Is store, you might need to consider donating it to charity or finding another way to recycle it. And if you are buying new furniture, consider buying something secondhand from the As-Is store, or at least investing in something that you plan to keep long-term. You can get a quote on your IKEA furniture here, and then you'll be able to take it to the Tempe, Marsden Park, Rhodes, Richmond, Springvale, Logan, North Lakes, Adelaide, Canberra or Perth stores to redeem a refund voucher.
Gelato Messina is about to become a place both wonderful and strange. With Twin Peaks finally happening again in the form of an eagerly anticipated third season, the gelato kings are getting in on the action by turning two of their stores — one in Sydney and one in Melbourne — into the show's iconic Double R Diner for one day. Naturally, there'll be themed frozen goodness aplenty, as well as free scoops. It's going to be damn fine indeed. In what will be Messina's first ever store transformations, the Double R Diner is set to take over the Newtown store on May 22 and Richmond on May 25. There mightn't be staff called Norma and Shelly on-hand, but there will be custom-made cherry gelato 'pie'. If that's your idea of dessert heaven, then here, the ice cream is what it seems. This must be where pies go when they die. In addition to the limited edition pie — there will only be 50 slices available per store — Messina has created three custom Twin Peaks flavours. They'll be served up for free (yes, free) between the hours of 12pm and 4pm, and then again from 5pm to 10pm. Just what those varieties will be, if they'll be wrapped in plastic, and whether there'll be a jukebox on-site playing tunes you just want to click your fingers to — well, you'll have to head along to find out. You can probably expect good, hot, black coffee too. Let's just hope there isn't a fish in the percolator. Unless you've been trapped in the Black Lodge for the past 25 years, you'll know that the whole thing is timed to coincide with the start of new Twin Peaks season, which will drop on Stan in Australia at 2pm on Monday, May 22. All 18 episodes have been directed by David Lynch, so we're in for quite the treat. Celebrating with pie and gelato is something Special Agent Dale Cooper would approve of — remember his wise words of advice: "every day, once a day, give yourself a present". The Double R Diner will pop up at Gelato Messina Newtown on Monday, May 22 and at the Richmond store on Thursday, May 25 from 12–4pm and 5–10pm. For more information, visit the Sydney and Melbourne Facebook event pages.
If you've ever walked down Edward Street from the Queen Street Mall to the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens, or vice versa, then you've walked past the site of modern-Asian restaurant Longwang from Tassis Group. But, no matter how many times you've passed by, we're guessing that you wouldn't have ever picked that you'd be able to get feasting there — let alone hit up a rooftop bar or cocktail lounge. What was once a gap beside 144 Edward Street is now an eatery. While it only measures three metres wide, the two-and-a-half-storey spot stretches back 30 metres and can welcome in up to 175 guests for functions. How does a restaurant, even one as slender as this, take over a former alleyway? Courtesy of custom-built digs. Although there's a formal dining room, as well as the sky-high bar and venue for cocktails, being flexible is key — including in its function spaces. The idea is that patrons have a different experience onsite each time that they stop by. One constant is the culinary guidance of Executive Chef and partner Jason Margaritis (ex- sAme sAme and Donna Chang in Brisbane, and Spice Temple Melbourne and Sydney). His contemporary take on Asian cuisine, inspired by more than 15 years working with the style, heroes seafood, plus a mix of traditional flavours with modern techniques. Think: a live seafood tank with local mud crabs and Tasmanian rock lobsters, whole fried baby barramundi paired with dry red curry snake beans and bug tail kung pao. From the range of starters, oysters come with spiced coconut vinegar, the prawn and chive pancake is doused in XO sauce, and the fried calamari features tom yum flavours. Smoked river trout and green papaya are the stars of one of the salads, while a hiramasa kingfish curry is also among the mains. Dishes that don't involve the ocean's finest include pan-fried wagyu beef dumplings, braised lamb shoulder massaman curry, tea- smoked and fried half duck, and chicken bao — plus pork belly wok-tossed with sichuan pepper, black bean and chilli. Or, opt for a half chicken from the charcoal grill, as coated in tamarind-heavy satay sauce. For lunch, Longwang does lamb rib sandwiches and dan dan noodles. For dessert, mango pudding, pandan kaya toast and deep-fried ice cream are your choices. If you're hankering for a banquet experience, a seven-course option is only served before 5.30pm and is available for one person for $58 — or, if you're dining with a date, mate or more, there's $89 and $119 feasts. Taking care of the wine list to match is Tassis Group Beverage Director and sommelier Ron Almera, who has curated a mix of old- and new-world wines — all specifically to go perfectly with Asian flavours. And as for the cocktails, you can ask for them to be mixed up to suit your tastebuds whether you're hitting the rooftop or the lounge. While the "long" part of the restaurant's moniker might sound apt given the site's narrow dimensions, the name actually hails from Chinese mythology. Also known as the Dragon King or Dragon God, Longwang commands the seas, so the title reflects the menu's focus. Images: Markus Ravik.
There are plenty of benefit shows and events on throughout the year and it is so hard to be able to go to all of them, especially when they're invite-only. That is what makes the Spare Parts – London Calling benefit show stand out – it's not only supporting a worthy cause, but it’s also ticketed, which means every lovely person out there wanting to lend a hand can. A bit of background on the intriguing name - Spare Parts was the name of a very different and awe-inspiring exhibition in Brisbane in 2010. It was a collaborative effort that saw a diverse blend of local artists to use prosthetic limbs as the canvas. If it all sounds a bit doom and gloom, it’s okay, because the curator, Priscilla Sutton is actually an amputee herself, who clearly has an excellent sense of humour and humility. Since then, Priscilla has been working incredibly hard to get her exhibit to London this year, and has managed to secure a residency in the city from 25 August to 9 September. She has bundled up an amazing bunch of artists from all over the world, as well as a new lot of prosthetics kindly donated by amputees and their families. She has all this but she still needs your help to see the exhibition come to life. The benefit show will be held at The Zoo and is a night that will bring old and new friends together to raise some much needed funds for this collection of work that is sure to start a positive and open conversation about the seemingly dark subject of amputation. Guests on the night will be The Good Ship, Danny Widdicombe, Tylea, and the very fun Patience Hodgson from The Grates as MC. There’ll also be the comedic stylings of Jenny Wynter as well. There’ll be a raffle drawn as well on the night and you can enter here. If there’s one charity event or worthy cause you donate to this year, make sure it’s this one.
It’s time to crawl out from under your winter clutter and embrace the sunshine with bare limbs and sparse shelves; spring has arrived and we couldn’t be more relieved. More sunlight and (slightly) warmer weather makes now a great time to ditch any excess your home/wardrobe/office space may have accumulated and add some fresh pieces. We’ve got a few tips on cleaning out your home or office space as well as expert advice from Joshua Speechley, one half of the couple behind HIM&I online store, on how to make your place pop. HIM&I focus on simple, minimal, top-quality pieces. “Everything we sell on HIM&I we personally love, so our home is really a reflection of the store,” says Speechley. Garage Sale, Yard Sale, Bake Sale Step one is to declutter, and a great way to get rid of your goods is through a garage sale. It’s extremely tempting to go out and buy heaps of sparkly new things to spruce up your place, but without this essential first step you run the risk of being a contestant on an Australian version of Hoarders. Any clothes that are still in good nick that you don’t wear anymore, wash them, give them an iron (or boots a polish), and price them kindly. Bring out old books, magazines, knick-knacks, anything you’re not using; you’d be surprised what people will take off your hands for a reasonable price. Anything left over at the end of the day can go to The Salvos, Brotherhood of St Laurence, or hard rubbish. Sorted. Here how to bring all the boys (and girls) to the yard, no milkshakes required. A kickass flyer: Pop culture references and puns go down a treat. Baked goods/lemonade stand: It’s cute, the smell will lure passers-by in, and you know you need a cupcake at 10am on a Saturday. Dress the part: Look fabulous, and others will want your steez. We recommend a splashy bum bag. No really — it’s a great conversation starter, and so handy when keeping track of the cash being exchanged. Image: Mark Nye, ClubofHumanBeings.com via photopin cc. Do Your Homework, in a Fun Way A little bit of research can go a long way, and it’s a great way to justify poking around on social media. “We do find a lot of inspiration on Instagram," says Speechley. "It’s a great platform for finding other people's amazing creativity, there are so many creative DIY people out there! Magazines are always great too, [like] Inside Out, Frankie and Smith." Research doesn’t have to be restricted to the page, you’re just as likely to be inspired by getting out and about. As Speechley advises, “Markets and, of course, friend's houses are always great too, seeing what our friends are coming up with or finding here and there is always a big inspiration.” Get Crafty If you’re looking to deck out your digs with some new pieces, why not flex those craft skills that have been idling since primary school and make something yourself? Record boxes, planter walls, bookshelves, beds, you name it, Speechley and partner Kara Allen have attempted to make it. “Not all to great success,” Speechley points out, “but that ones that have worked out we’re completely stoked with ... Head down to your local hardware store and give it a crack.” Another bonus to having something you actually made decorating your place? You can guarantee no one else will have the same item adorning their walls or shelves. If you’re a bit of a novice, there's no need to fret, as many places offering affordable, fun, one-off classes for those looking to get their hands dirty. Our favourite places running classes include Work-Shop (Sydney and Melbourne), Laneway Learning (Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane), Colourbox Studio (Melbourne) and Koskela (Sydney). Avoid IKEA Rule number one: think outside the box. “It’s a trap!" says Speechley. "Sure, you can find some great items at IKEA, you get them home and you love them. Until you see them at eight of your friends houses ... We’ve found spending the little bit extra, to get something a bit more unique, or with more of a personal touch, means you’ll love the item more, and for longer!” Flower Bomb It’s spring. Everything is in bloom. They smell amazing. They’re colourful. They cheer you up. Why the heck wouldn’t you fill your house with floral goodness? If flowers aren’t your thing, succulents never die, or any other indoor plant/fern is actually good for your health. Lauren from Fowlers Flowers in Melbourne recommends blushing bride, hellebores, geraldton wax, tulips, magnolia buds, and king proteas for this season, but just about everything is in bloom at the moment, so pick whatever takes your fancy. Image by Lucy Djevdet.
Until October 2023, the world's largest-ever known land animal has taken up residence in Brisbane. It's a dinosaur, of course. It's the Patagotitan, and it reached 37 metres in length when it was living and breathing. Thanks to the Dinosaurs of Patagonia exhibition, it's on display at Queensland Museum; however, that isn't he South Bank site's only dance with ancient creatures. Opening on Friday, June 16 and sticking around permanently, Dinosaurs Unearthed: Explore Prehistoric Queensland gives dino fans something else to roar about: a free showcase focused on the critters that once roamed the Sunshine State. On offer are fossils discovered locally, meteorites, life-sized 3D prints of dinosaurs and megafauna, and dino projections, as paired with an immersive soundscape. Among more than 50 full-scale reconstructions — which might just make you feel like you've stepped into David Attenborough's Prehistoric Planet — replicas of the Australovenator and Megalania are certain highlights. The former is Queensland's velociraptor equivalent, while the latter is the seven-metre-long creature that was the world's largest land lizard. Also hefty: the 100-plus fossils and meteorites that are part of Dinosaurs Unearthed, including some of Queensland Museum's most prized and precious specimens. And, the gallery is filled with Traditional Owner stories and artefacts, too, celebrating thousands of generations of cultural connections. Drawing upon new research by the venue's palaeontologists, and also using intricate illustrations and interactive touchscreens, the new dinosaur showcase covers 250 million years of history — starting in the Triassic period, which dates back 252 million years; welcoming attendees to the Jurassic period (201–145 million years ago); and also covering the Cretaceous (145–66 million years ago), Paleogene (66–23 million years ago), Neogene (23–2.38 million years ago) and Quarternary periods (from 2.3 million years ago to now). "Visitors will discover fascinating insights into Australia's iconic dinosaurs and megafauna, including our very own Muttaburrasaurus, the state fossil emblem," said Queensland Museum Network CEO Dr Jim Thompson, launching Dinosaurs Unearthed. "What I love about Dinosaurs Unearthed is that the gallery is divided into many different levels and the idea is that whoever you are, whatever age you are or whatever interest level you have – you will get something out of the gallery – which is quite unique," added Queensland Museum Network Acting Principal Scientist and Curator of Geosciences Dr Scott Hocknull. "We've created an experience that has changed the way people interact with a gallery. Our fossils and artworks are not just static dioramas but tell stories about our past. What's better is that you can take some of these creatures' home with you in augmented reality and bring them to life again in your living room," Dr Hocknull continued. "Within every aspect of Dinosaurs Unearthed, we are creating an opportunity to not only see our most valuable fossil and meteorite treasures, but also understand what I call paleo tech — the application of new technologies in palaeontology and how we use this here at Queensland Museum Network." "Our research is ongoing, and there are opportunities for the gallery to grow and evolve as our research continues. There are species within the gallery that are still yet to have a formal scientific species description, so watch this space." Dinosaurs Unearthed: Explore Prehistoric Queensland opens on Friday, June 16 at Queensland Museum, Corner of Grey and Melbourne Streets, South Bank, South Brisbane.
It begins with an ad in the classifieds: "Wanted: Somebody to go back in time with me. This is not a joke. You'll get paid after we get back. Must bring your own weapons. I have only done this once before. Safety not guaranteed." Anyone who's ever seen Craigslist knows that's pretty much par for the course, but for sleazy magazine writer Jeff (Jake M. Johnson), it throws up two irresistible opportunities: an amusing puff piece during an otherwise slow news week, and a chance to hook up with an old flame living in the same town from where it was placed. He selects two interns, the dour Darius (Aubrey Plaza) and studious Arnau (Karan Soni), and together they head off to the beachside community of Ocean View to track down the advert's mysterious author. That man turns out to be Kenneth Calloway (Mark Duplass): an awkward loner and paranoid grocery story clerk who's convinced he's cracked the secret of quantum-mechanical travel. When Jeff's cynicism sees him immediately rejected as a possible partner, it falls to Darius to befriend the man based on her boss's logic that since they're both weird, perhaps they'll get along. And as it turns out, eccentric outsiders do attract just as powerfully as opposites. Darius quickly warms to Kenneth's tender idiosyncrasies, even as questions over his mental stability linger, and by the time the film builds to its inevitable climax in which Kenneth's time machine has its moment of truth, you come to realise you no longer even care if it works. Like 2012's other sci-fi hit Looper, this is a time-travel movie where the time travel is entirely incidental to the storyline and characters. Just as Looper explored the 'what' of the concept (what consequences might time travel bring, intended or otherwise?), Safety Not Guaranteed asks 'why?'. Why would you go back, assuming you could, and why yearn for second chances when new and possibly better opportunities keep showing up right in front of you? Regret, of course, is the answer, and it's what drives each of the film's four principals, from Kenneth's literal time travel to Jeff's symbolic one — seeking out his high school sweetheart in the hope of recapturing faded former glories. It's a film of excellent performances all round, but Plaza offers the standout. Her disillusioned 20-something shtick initially plays like a cut-and-paste job from Parks and Recreation; however, she imbues Darius with an unexpected depth and warmth that utterly enchants. Duplass is also fantastic, making Kenneth feel somehow terribly familiar for a person we've almost certainly never met. Soni and Johnson provide fine supporting performances, and all four characters develop wonderfully over the 85 minutes in a testament to the actors and screenwriter alike. Safety Not Guaranteed is an inspired and heartwarming tale that's almost certainly the surprise indie hit of the year. https://youtube.com/watch?v=73jSnAs7mq8
When Hercule Poirot returned to cinema screens in Murder on the Orient Express, the infamous Agatha Christie-penned sleuth was always going to hang around. Hollywood loves a franchise, and, on the page, the fictional Belgian detective has featured in more than 80 tales. Accordingly, a sequel to the Kenneth Branagh-starring and directed movie was always inevitable. A recreation on a train? Well, that wasn't quite as expected. Finnish Railways aren't just ushering eager puzzle-solvers into a carriage for a few hours of escape room fun, however. They're getting them onboard for a 13-hour, 800-kilometre-plus trip from Helsinki to Rovaniemi, complete with a 14-room setup built by Finland's InsideOut Escape Games. As the passengers journey towards the capital of Lapland, they'll navigate mysteries, scour the train for clues and put themselves in Poirot's shoes — all while the game is live-streamed, with the viewing audience also able to influence the action as it's happening. Before you go searching for your monocle and pipe, clearing your calendar for December 13 and setting off for Scandinavia, seats on the Escape Train will be filled via a competition that's only open to Finnish residents. If you don't fall into that category and you'd rather solve puzzles somewhere warmer, start crossing your fingers that something similar happens for the next Poirot flick, Death on the Nile. Via Lonely Planet.
It’s all in the name: shows in Anywhere Theatre Festival can take place wherever strikes their creators' fancy throughout Brisbane, be it a suburban hairdressing salon, an inner city street corner or an ordinary home. In the festival’s fourth year of encouraging sustainable modes of delivering performances to audiences and eschewing the usual restrictions facing theatre professionals, it stays true to its stated purpose with a fresh program of 67 productions at 47 locations. Here are our picks of the top ten things you should see and the strange spots to see them. Red Cordial Love One of the standouts of the 2013 2high Festival, Red Cordial Love returns to Brisbane for another season of retro music fun. Embracing all the trimmings of a 1990s dance party, the interactive performance transforms nostalgia into a time-warped night of old pop songs and bad fashion. Inspired by their own teen diaries, creators Emmaly Langridge and Brodie Peace tap into fond memories of years gone by. How much you interact is up to you — play along, or just watch and enjoy the show. The cost of the ticket includes '90s makeup and lolly tuckshop bag. May 7-11, 7.30pm at Fish Lane Studio, The Fox Hotel. Tickets $25/$22 Up Late with Scott Wings (and Friends) To the crowded comedic landscape of late-night variety entertainment comes Brisbane’s very own contender: Up Late with Scott Wings (and Friends). In what's billed as the city’s newest — and only — late-night show, poet-comedian Scott Sneddon (aka Scott Wings) harnesses his inner TV host after the success of his 2013 show MaXimal. Local performers and artists tag along for a performance described as “kind of like Rove but not as wholesome, and kind of like Jimmy Fallon except the host can’t dance.” May 9 and 16, 10pm at SBH Pop-Up, Story Bridge Hotel. Tickets $22/$18. Pre-drinks When is a performance not just a performance? When it rolls the refreshing beverage you enjoy before the action, the cathartic cocktail you consume as a nightcap, and the main show all into one. Rocket Boy Ensemble creates an event to be watched as well as experienced, stepping through the milestones — and the confessions and drinking games — essential to any big night out. May 8-17, 8pm at Artslink Queensland. Tickets $18. HolePunch A hit at the Adelaide Fringe Festival, HolePunch sees twenty-something creatives Violet & Veruca delve into the inner workings of the modern workplace — one item of stationery at a time. Part circus, part cabaret,and ideally all comedy, HolePunch promises to serve up pun-filled reflections on office life, including the cubicle and lunchroom antics all nine-to-fivers know and don’t quite love. May 8-17, 6pm at SYC Studios. Tickets $20. Sweet Meniscus Ballet moves from the stage to a pool — and we’re not talking about synchronised swimming. Endeavouring to make a stylish splash, three dancers from the Queensland Ballet dip their toes into the water at the Spring Hill Baths in a work from choreographer Joseph Stewart. The mystery of the concept and the history of the venue make this show a very intriguing prospect. May 16-18, 6pm and 8pm at Spring Hill Baths. Tickets $28/$17. Little Boxes These little boxes aren’t on the hillside, and they’re not all just the same — instead, sets made from industrial cast-offs create a large-scale, 360-degree outdoor theatre at Northshore Hamilton. The show’s construction mimics an apartment building, relating tales of disparate lives and communal isolation inherent in densely populated urban areas. A different way of presenting a show might just trigger a different way of thinking about city living. May 8-17, 8pm, at Beside-the-Shed, Northshore Hamilton. Tickets $24/19. Plays Well With Others Who says you need to leave the house to see a live performance? Not theatre maker Robbie O'Brien. In Plays Well With Others, O'Brien brings the show to you in a playdate for adults. Gather a group of eight, pick your theme and the right room in your home, and the rest is taken care of, turning a night out into a unique night in. May 7-17, 7.30pm at your house. Tickets $20 (minimum bookings of eight). Monster If the idea of a cabaret horror show doesn’t immediately pique your interest, then maybe the structure of this performance will: the host, known only as ‘Madam’, shares stories designed to delight and disturb. In a show informed by the opinions and life experiences of the public, the combination of blood and glitter is in the service of exploring transgender perceptions. In its presentation, a love of scary movies seems a must; in its ideas, Monster asks for a willingness to peer beyond the ordinary. May 7-11, 8pm at Blackwall. Tickets $18. Turning Tricks If you’ve ever fancied your skills with a rabbit and a hat, wondered how television psychics entice audiences, or questioned how all manner of supernatural entertainers make money, mentalist Sean Mergard and comedy magician Pete Booth might just have the answers. In an expanded version of their sellout show from the 2013 Brisbane Fringe Festival, Turning Tricks navigates the patter and promises of a profession more associated with scams than skills. May 8-11, 7.30pm at the Warehouse. Tickets $20. A library for the end of the world Amidst all the pondering of catastrophic and dystopian futures in the arts, how would the narratives and memories of ordinary lives be saved? In a solo performance that sees participants guided to a secret location and then left to add and explore a database of recollections, a library for the end of the world creates a communal catalogue meant to stand the test of time — all on cassette tapes, of course. May 7-17, 30-minute slots from 5pm to 9.30pm at a secret location. Meet under the sculpture at the intersection of Boundary, Melbourne and Mollison Streets, West End. Tickets $15. The Anywhere Theatre Festival is on from May 7-18 all around town. For the full program, visit the festival website.
Just how many finished cigarettes have been stamped out on the footpath, or casually flicked into the gutter? According to Greenbutts, no less than 4.5 trillion annually. And while these trillions of cigarette butts (typically made from cellulose acetate) are technically biodegradable, they take between 10 and 15 years to decompose. In 2006, cigarette butts amassed to 24.7% of the rubbish collected during the International Coastal Cleanup. Greenbutts has introduced a 100% natural alternative to traditional, chemical-laden cigarettes. Greenbutts' cigarette filters are composed of plant seeds, natural flax, cotton and de-gummed hemp, all bound together by natural starch and water. When covered by a thin layer of soil, discarded Greenbutts will sprout into flowers: a much lovelier and eco-friendly sight than a squashed butt. [Via Lost At E Minor]
Back at the start of 2022, Kevin Docherty and Sebastiaan de Kort gave Brisbane a 90-seat venue for meals and drinks that heroes seasonal Australian produce by revamping Paddington's Nota — turning the whole setup into a neighbourhood go-to. But why just have one such joint to your name when you can have two? That mightn't have been the motivation behind Allonda in Newstead, but it's the result all the same with this Brisbane restaurant that also opened in 2022. Tucked down a laneway space off Longland Street, Allonda also seats 90. Its menu favours modern European-style, designed-to-share dishes as well. It's firmly a sibling venue to Nota, and the pair of restaurants will celebrate each other (there's even a Nota sour made with Frangelico and hazelnut on Allonda's cocktail menu). But as well as sitting on the other side of the CBD, this relative newcomer is carving out its own look and feel. Think: modern and casual compared to Nota's rustic heritage decor. Think: neutral colours, stone, polished concrete aplenty and textured finishes, also. That's what patrons will find when tucking into a bite in the main dining room or knocking back beverages at the bar — or, you can go al fresco in the laneway. A big point of difference stems from Allonda's mezzanine level that can be used for private functions, and its raw seafood and burrata bar. For those keen on the ocean's finest, the raw options are sourced locally, while cheese fiends will find different flavour pairings tempting tastebuds. If you only try one dish, make it the signature risotto all'onda, aka the eatery's namesake option. It's a Venetian risotto that chases the perfect combination — not too dry or too brothy — with Docherty and de Kort taking inspiration from that pursuit of balance, which all risottos need in their blend of butter, parmesan, stock and temperature, for the restaurant's overall philosophy. Other standout menu items include the chargrilled octopus that sits atop a tangy onion and pickled walnut puree and the 500-gram sirloin steak from Riverine served with a black garlic puree, celeriac remoulade and decadent cognac mustsrd. Or, there's chicken liver parfait with onion jam, tempura fish sandos, and Eton mess and caramelised white chocolate mousse among the desserts. The group's sommelier Yanika Sittisuntorn is overseeing an evolving 90-bottle wine list, including focusing on lesser-known and experimental varieties — just as at Nota. There's also a special cocktail menu designed by bar manager Ben Horswell, featuring espresso martinis with toasted marshmallows, a yuzu, gin and wasabi number named The Serpent and a mango margarita for those feeling a little fruity.
Come summertime, the celebratory spirit is taking over the entire state, thanks to massive events like ALWAYS LIVE. For the third year running, this festival celebrates the diversity of music in Victoria, with a mix of international headliners and local musicians taking to stages statewide from Friday, November 22, to Sunday, December 8. Some of the unmissable (and exclusive) events in ALWAYS LIVE are taking place on the final weekend. One of those is Yerambooee, a unique celebration of First Nations culture and community. This free event on Saturday, December 7 at 7pm, is hosted by elders and performers from Wurundjeri, Woi-Wurrung and Yolgnu peoples. The stage will be a nine-metre sand circle laid down in Fed Square — representative of a meeting ground filled with river sand — for a gathering unlike anything else on the festival program. Beginning with a welcome from Aunty Joy Murphy, performers will take to the stage with song, dance and music for a celebration that encourages the audience to join in — with music inspired by Djarimirri (Child of the Rainbow) — the final work of the late Yolgnu musician Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu. Yeramboee will take place in Federation Square on Saturday, December 7. For more information, visit the Always Live website.
Flicked through all of your various streaming queues, watched everything that takes your fancy and wondering what to feast your eyes on next? On Friday, March 27, let the folks at Static Vision and Prototype do the choosing for you. One usually specialises in weird, wonderful and cult cinema screenings around Sydney, while the other is an e-newsletter dedicated to new experimental art and short films — and they're joining forces to put on Lockdown: An Interactive Livestream. Beamed to viewers online from 6pm AEDT (5pm AEST), Lockdown will screen six hours of movies — including three features and three shorts programs, plus e-chats, Q&As and interviews. As for exactly what you'll be watching, the program is top secret until the night, with being surprised by the lineup choices all part of the fun. Lockdown will be setting up an online screen room for the event; however you can decide just how interactive you'd like your experience to be. Natter along with other viewers in the live-text chat, or hit full-screen mode simply sit back and watch — it's up to you. To register your participation — and to receive updates — head to the event's Eventbrite page.
No matter where you live, everyone knows that downtown is where the action happens. For the next few weeks you can score a Calvin Klein Downtown Prize Pack, including a delightful deluge of the new fragrance Downtown, simply by showing off your own creativity. In the competition, running from 22 September to 19 October (that means we're in the thick of it, so get cracking), five winners will be selected each week via Instagram. All you have to do? Post a photo of what you consider to be your 'Downtown' moment with the name of the city where it was taken (select the 'Add to Photo Map' setting and 'Name This Location' before sharing) and hashtag #CKdowntownau. You can enter as many times as you like. We think it's a pretty cool and refreshingly personal competition. Cue Petula Clark's insanely catchy hit — or better yet, scope out the hauntingly beautiful black-and-white campaign for the Downtown fragrance, starring Rooney Mara and directed by David Fincher. You can experience it here. I'm finding that my finger is awfully trigger-happy on the replay button. Prize Packs Include: 2x CK Downtown 90ml 2x CK Downtown 50ml 2x CK Downtown 30ml 1c CK Downtown Rollerball 10ml 2x CK Body Lotion 200ml 2x CK Shower Gel 200ml
Japanese photographer Shinichi Maruyama has captured nude dancers from an unsual viewpoint, representing their motion in a series of complex whirls and swirls. The result is an elaborate yet beautiful depiction illustrating some of the amazing movements the human body is capable of. Maruyama has gracefully encapsulated the swaying of legs, swinging of hips and twirling of arms and combined the movements to create a single, intertwined image of motion patterns that enthralls and amazes. Take a look at these shots from Maruyama's remarkable series of blurred nude dancers.
You can take away Brisbane's annual show, and the midweek public holiday that usually goes with it. You can do so two years in a row, in fact. But, you can't erase the city's love for the Ekka, or for some of its staples — dagwood dogs, Bertie Beetle showbags and those iconic strawberry sundaes, naturally — so the event's organisers are giving the people what we want. Already, a delivery service that's been dubbed the Strawberry Sundae Taskforce has been announced. It's delivering 20-packs of strawberry sundaes in DIY kits for you to make at home, and it's a great excuse to stock up on the cult dessert for the days, weeks and/or months ahead. But, like in 2020, the Ekka is also hosting a couple of physical takeaway-only events: a drive-thru at Brisbane Showgrounds and a pop-up on King Street in Bowen Hills. These two events are being called Ekka Tastes, and they'll run from 10am–7pm between Saturday, August 14–Sunday, August 22. So, Brisbanites will have nine days to get their Ekka fix at both locations — and yes, this means that your August plans can still involve battered sausages on sticks, glossy plastic bags filled with beetle-shaped chocolates and Brisbane's most beloved form of ice cream. This year, there won't be any other fun around the food. Obviously, you won't be able to crash dodgems and throw a ball in a clown's mouth for a prize, and there won't be any fireworks either. Still, dagwood dogs, Bertie Beetle showbags and strawberry sundaes are always a winning combination. Ekka Tastes is popping up as a drive-thru at Brisbane Showgrounds (enter via Gate 4A on O'Connell Terrace, Bowen Hills) and as a pop-up on King Street (at 5/45 King Street, Bowen Hills) from 10am–7pm between Saturday, August 14–Sunday, August 22.
For firm believers that all good things come to those who wait, or even casual ones, that patience is set to be rewarded at Portside Wharf's soon-to-open new seafood restaurant. Fosh was first announced in 2022, and originally targeted a March 2023 launch date. Now, the waterside spot will start welcoming in patrons from August, and boast plenty of reasons for Brisbanites to stop by. Fosh hails from Michael Tassis, the restaurateur behind Opa Bar + Mezze, Massimo Restaurant, Yamas Greek + Drink and George's Paragon — as well as Eagle Street's now-closed Fatcow Steak & Lobster and Rico Bar + Dining — and has an enticing concept. Fancy staring at the river while tucking into fish, oysters, prawns, scallops and bugs? Peering at the water while enjoying lobster with bottomless fries for lunch and doing caviar bumps with your fellow diners? That's what's on the menu at this Portside seafood venue. The full culinary lineup hasn't yet been revealed, but there'll be a focus on sustainable, high-quality local line-caught catches that are served to guests within 24 hours. In the kitchen, a team boasting an impressive restaurant pedigree will be doing the cooking. Head Chef Vikash Gurung comes to Fosh from Greca, as well as Fatcow Steak & Lobster, Rico Bar and Dining, and Jellyfish — and sous chef Daniel Hernandez boasts Agnes, Restaurant Dan Arnold and La Cache à Vin on his resume. Rounding out the restaurant's core crew are Daniel Burton and Erik Di Luca, Manager and Operations Director, respectively, with the former spending five years at Matt Moran's Aria and the latter working for Tassis Group since 2012. Fosh will operate both as a dine-in eatery and an upscale takeaway fish 'n' chippery. "This will be next-level takeout," advises Tassis. The restaurant won't be small, either, settling into a 700-square-metre space at Portside as part of the precinct's current revamp, which is set to be complete this December. The makeover has already seen the Gold Coast's Rosé Gelateria launch its debut Brisbane ice creamery in Hamilton. Rise Bakery, which also originated on the coast, is slated to set up shop as well. Whether you're eating in or dropping by to grab some takeaways, you'll notice the luxe yet naturalistic and relaxed decor, which is inspired by The Hamptons. As part of a $3-million fitout, Fosh will boast both indoor and outdoor dining areas, too — with boosting the latter year-round one of the big aims of Portside's facelift. "Our indoor space includes a glamorous island bar which will flow to the al fresco area, where guests can enjoy uninterrupted river views," says Tassis. Launching a dedicated seafood restaurant at Portside, and one run by Tassis, seems like an obvious step for a number of reasons. The location screams for it, and Tassis' father George founded George's Paragon Seafood Restaurant in Sanctuary Cove more than three decades ago. "It's very much in my roots," Tassis notes. Tassis Group also has two other high-profile dining spots on the way, also heroing their water-adjacent locations, but over in Kangaroo Point: overwater restaurant and bar Bombora, plus landing cafe Mulga Bill's, which are set to open in the new green bridge in 2024. Find Fosh at Portside Wharf, 39 Hercules Street, Hamilton, from August 2023 — we'll update you with an exact opening date when one is announced. Images: Markus Ravik.
Unsuspectingly tucked away in the industrial hub of East Brisbane, Pennisi Cuisine is a cheese lovers paradise – from fresh buffalo mozzarella to big wheels of Parmiggiano Reggiano. The family business offers huge selections of delicacies and traditional foods from South America, Italy, Spain, Greece, Lebanon and Morocco and more. You will also find a range of Kosha products. With so much choice, bring a basket and fill up before heading out to a nearby picnic spot. There's no doubt your loot will turn heads and bring all the boys to the yard.
Hail, Caesar! takes place on a Hollywood lot during the early nineteen fifties. As such, viewer are given a glimpse at a number of films in production, including a folksy Western, a toe-tapping musical, a lavish costume drama and a sweeping biblical epic. It's fitting that these pictures cover such an array of genres, since the film in which they're found is itself a bit of a jumble. Hail, Caesar! is a mystery, a farce, a treatise on religion and a sly interrogation of cinemas so-called golden age masquerading as the ultimate Hollywood love letter. In lesser hands, such a mishmash of ideas and influences could have been a disaster. In the hands of writer-directors Joel and Ethan Coen, it's one of the funniest, most thought-provoking films to hit cinemas in quite some time. It's also got Channing Tatum tap-dancing in a sailor suit, which quite frankly is worth the price of admission alone. The film follows a day in the life of Eddie Mannix, played by Josh Brolin on top of his game. Head of Physical Production at the fictional Capitol Pictures, Mannix is charged with ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes, from keeping movie shoots on schedule to diffusing potential scandals before they hit the press. But our protagonist is thrown a curveball when the studio's biggest star, Baird Whitlock, is kidnapped by a communist syndicate known only as 'The Future' who want $100,000 for the actor's safe return. Whitlock is played by George Clooney, who brings to the role the same boneheaded swagger he did to O Brother, Where Art Thou? and Burn After Reading. Hail, Caesar! is not the first time the Coens have turned their lens on Hollywood, although compared to the anxious existential drama of 1991's Barton Fink, their latest feels much more playful. Whether it's a director (Ralph Fiennes at his urbane best) growing increasingly frustrated with his ill-suited leading man (the absolutely adorable Alden Ehrenreich), or Mannix dodging the inquiries of rival gossip columnists Thora and Thessaly Thacker (Tilda Swinton in dual roles and increasingly ridiculous hats), the film's absurdist sense of humour fits right in with the Coen canon. At the same time, the mean streak of movies like Fargo or A Serious Man is nowhere to be found. Perhaps it's for this reason that some critics have described the film as lightweight or inconsequential. Respectfully, we think they're missing the point. Hail, Caesar! may seem like one of the Coen's more frivolous efforts, but there's still plenty of subversive stuff going on beneath its glossy surface. For all the affection with which the pair recreate and pay tribute to the films of the era, these moments are undercut by repeated reminders that everything Capitol creates is fundamentally fake. Gossamer fantasies both on screen and off belie a far less glamorous reality, one in which starlets carry on affairs with married directors and underpaid screenwriters fill their scripts with communist propaganda. And while these thinly-veiled references to actual LA scandals are mostly played for laughs, they also suggest that the Coen's see Hollywood as deeply, spiritually hollow. The film's wicked masterstroke is the way it equates the film biz with religion, presented here as the glossiest fantasy of them all. Whitlock's communist captors decry the studio as part of a capitalist machine designed to exploit "the little guy", a description that brings to mind the famous quote by Karl Marx about religion being the opiate of the masses. Mannix himself is depicted as deeply Catholic, visiting the confessional with comical regularity. Yet his true place of worship is Capitol Pictures, where God is conspicuously absent. Half-completed footage from Whitlock's forthcoming biblical epic features not a chorus of angels, but instead a placeholder card with the words "divine presence to be shot." Later, while shooting the film's climactic finale, Whitlock delivers a rousing speech about the power of Christ, only to flub his final line. The word he forgets? Faith. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMqeoW3XRa0
For almost two decades, 2005 film Mr & Mrs Smith has been best remembered as the movie that started Brad Pitt (Babylon) and Angelina Jolie's (Eternals) time as a couple. The action-comedy cast the pair as a bored married duo who didn't know that they were actually both assassins, let alone that they'd each been tasked with killing the other. The flick wasn't particularly memorable, but Brangelina clearly was. In 2024, Mr & Mrs Smith will also become a TV series, because the path from the big to the small screens just keeps proving popular (see also: Dead Ringers, Irma Vep, A League of Their Own and Interview with the Vampire, to name a mere few recent examples). This time, Donald Glover (Atlanta) and Maya Erskine (PEN15) are strangers who have to pretend to be married as part of their job. So, that's how Glover becomes John Smith and Erskine becomes Jane Smith — and how the two embark upon a high-risk espionage life together. The tradeoff for faking a romance: the lucrative gig, money, travelling the world, a dream Manhattan brownstone and, in this take on the premise, these strangers actually falling for each other. Pretending to be a couple but seeing sparks fly is one of Hollywood's current obsessions, with rom-com Anyone But You taking the idea to the big screen — without spies or anything to do with Mr & Mrs Smith, however. Adding another TV show to his resume, Glover co-created the new Mr & Mrs Smith with Francesca Sloane (also Atlanta), with the end result set to drop all eight episodes at once on Prime Video on Friday, February 2, 2024. And if you have vague memories of Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny) being involved, she was initially slated to play Jane until Erskine took over her role. There's no trailer yet for the Mr & Mrs Smith TV series, but here's the trailer for the film instead: Mr & Mrs Smith will stream via Prime Video from Friday, February 2, 2024.
Spring in southeast Queensland means hanging out in Toowoomba, where the annual Carnival of Flowers takes place. In autumn, folks eager to be surrounded by petals have a date with the Scenic Rim instead. On the agenda: the Kalbar Sunflower Festival, which celebrates golden-hued blooms over a big April weekend, with 2024's event happening from Friday, April 19–Sunday, April 21. Sat just over an hour outside of Brisbane, the Kalbar Sunflowers farm couldn't be more vibrant at this time of year. It's no wonder that its festival has become a much-loved and hugely popular autumn event, with more than 12,000 people attending annually. Keen to head along? Tickets have just gone on sale, but they never last long. If you're lucky enough to score entry, expect to spot sunflowers as far as the eye can see at the Jenner family farm. In its early years, more than 200,000 blooms reached up to the sky, which is a hefty number. In 2023, over one million sunflowers were planted across 24 acres — and the same number will bloom in 2024. All those golden petals also help the fest play host to a highlight to get lost in, literally: a four-acre sunflower maze. Also on the program, other than picking sunflowers at $3 per stem: yoga sessions among the sea of gold, art classes amid the blooms and helicopter rides over the fields, all of which have been drawcards in past years. Photo sessions will be back, of course, taking Kalbar's eye-catching sight to social media feeds. As always as well, the farm makes one helluva picnic spot. In a first, the 2024 fest sees sound-healing meditation classes among the petals make their debut. For eating and drinking against a stunning backdrop, Kalbar Sunflower Festival opens with a lunch, is hosting a fundraiser luncheon as well, has a sunset soirée on the itinerary, and will pair jazz with a midday meal. Or, enjoy a stint of Devonshire tea, shop market stalls, then make flower crowns. As announced in 2023, this year's Kalbar Sunflower Festival won't just be gorgeous to look at and frolic through. It'll also support a supremely worthy cause. To pay tribute to her husband Russell, who battled oesophageal cancer for 18 months and passed away in July 2023, the event's organiser Jenny Jenner is aiming to raise $100,000 for cancer research and care at the Mater. With picking sunflowers a huge part of the event, every sunflower sold during the festival will also see $1.50 go to the hospital and its Cancer Care Centres in South Brisbane and Springfield. The Kalbar Sunflower Festival came about after Russell and Jenny changed direction during Queensland's ongoing drought conditions. Previously, they farmed lucerne but, with water levels low, they opted to switch to a crop that doesn't require as much H2O. And, with all those sunflowers then looking rather striking, the couple wanted to let everyone else enjoy their golden petals. The Kalbar Sunflower Festival 2024 takes place from Friday, April 19–Sunday, April 21 at Kalbar in Queensland's Scenic Rim. For further information and tickets, head to the event's website.
Since 2020, the Museum of Brisbane has been throwing the city some major love as part of exhibition The Storytellers. Alas, even sprawling showcases that turn Brissie history into a storybook must come to an end — but this huge celebration is evolving rather than wrapping up. Meet The Storytellers: Next Chapter, which is taking over MoB from Thursday, December 9–Sunday, January 23. Targeted at the school-holiday crowd but open to everyone — kids and kidults alike — it's morphing into a community installation and giving the whole storytelling concept an interactive spin. That ripped-from-the-pages look mentioned above? You'll be able to colour it in, with drawing on the walls 100-percent allowed here. You'll be stepping inside the black and white interior of a dilapidated Queenslander, in fact, which you can add hues and patterns to however you see fit. (Think of it as an obliteration room, which every Brisbanite should be familiar with thanks to GOMA, but with pencils instead.) Other highlights include sharing your memories of last decade's floods, creating paper poinciana blossoms, making lanterns, crafting an ibis — yes, this is still all about Brisbane, so bin chickens obviously feature — and fashioning handmade fabric sunflowers to add to a wall blooming with them. While entry is free and some events won't cost you a thing, there is a $3 fee on a range of the crafting activities.
Generally well-regarded, Australian owned and operated Coopers Brewery has come under fire this week for their involvement in this painfully uncomfortable Bible Society video. The video depicts two Liberal Party MPs, Andrew Hastie and Tim Wilson, discussing marriage equality in a 'lighthearted way', washing it down with a few ice-cold bottles of Coopers Light. Yeesh. If you're confused how Coopers got roped up in such a casually offensive and poorly executed pun, the sad news is that they pretty much tied the noose themselves. As a congratulatory gift to the Bible Society's bicentenary this year, Coopers released a collaboration limited edition light beer which features the Christian non-profit's logo and Bible verses on each case — 10,000 of them, to be exact. The brewery — which is family-run and openly Christian — and their association with the Bible Society flew under the radar until the society's 'Keeping it Light' campaign went live over the weekend, which is meant to showcase "light discussion on the heaviest topics". The Bible Society's somewhat haphazard video (which, it must be noted, Coopers has claimed they had no involvement in) acts as the first in a planned series using the Coopers Light beer as a gateway for their 'light' discussion. Shortly after the video was released, The Sydney Morning Herald published these statements by the two MPs, who seemed to find nothing wrong with the video's content. With 64 percent of Australian's in support of marriage equality, the video came across as patronising and flippant to a large chunk of the public who feel same-sex marriage shouldn't be a debate at all. Coopers' involvement with the video is questionable. Their first response was a sort-of apologetic statement essentially defending the video's content, saying it was "a lighthearted but balanced debate about an important topic". When this did not quell the backlash and boycotts, they then released a second statement claiming that they "did not give permission for [their] Premium Light beer to feature in, or 'sponsor' the Bible Society's 'Keeping it Light' video". The Bible Society has since released their own statement backing up this claim, stating that they were "entirely responsible" for the video and that no money changed hands in regards to the campaign. Twitter, not surprisingly, exploded. The hashtag #BoycottCoopers has taken over social media over the last few days, with consumers and venues alike speaking out. Venues across the country are pulling Coopers stock from their bars, including Sydney's Hollywood Hotel and Newtown Hotel and Melbourne's Old Bar and Sircuit/Mollies Bar & Diner — the latter of which posted this video of their GM throwing all their Coopers stock into the bin. Whatever their involvement with the production of the video, it doesn't look like Coopers is getting out of this one anytime soon. It certainly muddies the waters in relation to how religious groups and brands can influence consumers and secular institutions — particularly as Coopers has been a donor to the Liberal Party in the past, which not one, but both MPs in the video belong to.
"Accio April 2022" isn't something any character has uttered in either the Harry Potter or Fantastic Beasts films, but it's what you might be chanting to yourself right now if you're a fan of both. Four years after the last big-screen entry in the Wizarding World — the franchise that's sprung up around The Boy Who Lived — Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore has just dropped its first trailer. When Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows — Part 2 reached cinemas a decade back, it was never going to be the end of the on-screen story. Cue the Fantastic Beasts series, which took an illustrated guide book about magical creatures, spun a story about its magizoologist author Newt Scamander, and started a Harry Potter prequel saga. Conjuring up more enchantment hasn't been quite so straightforward this time around, however — and how you feel about 2016's Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them and 2018's Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald might just depend on how spellbound you are with everything HP. But this franchise-within-a-franchise was always going to go on, and The Secrets of Dumbledore is the third entry in the planned five-film series. When it hits the silver screen next year, The Secrets of Dumbledore will once again give Jude Law another 'young' role; he played The Young Pope, so seeing him step into young Albus Dumbledore's shoes in The Crimes of Grindelwald felt like the most natural thing in the world. And, just like in that last Fantastic Beasts flick, Law's version of the future Hogwarts headmaster is pivotal to Scamander (Eddie Redmayne, The Trial of the Chicago 7) and his pals' efforts to face off against the evil Gellert Grindelwald. That said, Grindelwald, the dark wizard who just keeps trying to control all things magical — and wreak havoc on everything in general — isn't quite the same this time around. Both Colin Farrell (Voyagers) and Johnny Depp (Minamata) have previously played the role, but Mads Mikkelsen (Riders of Justice) has now replaced the latter. As the trailer for The Secrets of Dumbledore shows, Grindelwald is still solemnly up to no good — and his devoted following is only growing — so it's up to Scamander, Dumbledore, Tina Goldstein (Katherine Waterston, The Third Day), Queenie Goldstein (Alison Sudol, Between Us) and Jacob Kowalski (Dan Fogler, The Walking Dead) to try to save the day. That requires a dangerous mission led by Scamander, who obviously crosses paths with plenty of beasts (it's right there in the franchise's title). Ezra Miller (Zack Snyder's Justice League) also returns as Credence/Aurelius Dumbledore, while Jessica Williams (Love Life) follows up her brief appearance in The Crimes of Grindelwald by return as Ilvermorny professor Eulalie 'Lally' Hicks. And making the magic happen behind the lens is David Yates, who has directed every Wizarding World film — Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts alike since 2007's Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. Break out the butterbeer and check out the trailer below: Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore opens in cinemas Down Under on April 7, 2022.
The fact that Australia is hosting the 2023 Women's World Cup is mighty sweet news. That matches are happening right here in Brisbane? That's even sweeter. The Matildas winning the whole thing would be the sweetest outcome of all — but, whatever happens on the turf, Emporium Hotel South Bank has a few sweet tricks of its own. The towering hotel and its bars and eateries love celebrating an occasion, so of course the whole lot is going all-in for this football extravaganza. You've got two places to head to until Sunday, August 20: up to the The Terrace 21 storeys up for drinks, and to French patisserie Belle Epoque downstairs for dessert. First, the tipples. There, two options are on offer, too — one inspired by the Matildas, the other by their initial adversaries in Ireland, with both costing $26. Grab a limited-edition Matilda cocktail and you'll be sipping Aussie rum, passionfruit, vanilla and saffron in a coconut-dipped glass. Or, with the Cold Irish Coffee, you'll enjoy Jameson whisky with Mr Black coffee liqueur, plus honey, muscovado sugar, filtered coffee and cream. Now, dessert time. Belle Epoque's Executive Pastry Chef Charith Arachchige has created a macadamia chocolate caramel tart that looks like a soccer ball. The $12 treat features a chocolate ball shell, grass made out of green fondant, and salted caramel and milk chocolate cremeux as a filling. Whoever ends up winning the Women's World Cup, your tastebuds will clearly emerge victorious as well.
If you've never hallucinated a coyote, or simply really really like hot chilli, then get to Kettle and Tin for their annual Chilli Cook Off. If Kettle and Tin's last five cook-offs proved anything, it's that this festival isn't one for the timid of stomachs. Things will really heat up on March 18, when some of Brisbane's best chefs compete to win the event's coveted trophy. The competitors don't mess around, the chilli proves off-the-scale delish and everything from the food to the drinks bites hard. Admission is $20, and includes live music, one free beer and all the chilli you can eat. Our tip: if you're not a fan of spice, BYO milk. The Chilli Cook Off begins at 10am and is expected to run long into the evening, with a zombie dress-up comp, plenty of craft brews and a Bloody Mary bar all part of the fun. If you think you can handle the heat, pack your chilli spoon and head along.
Now is the time to start planning and booking a holiday to Outback Australia. Typically, the best time to visit places like the Red Centre, the Kimberleys and Flinders Ranges is between May and October. It's the Goldilocks period — you avoid both the summer heat and the wet season. It's not too hot or too cold. It's just right. But you can't just book a flight and figure it out once you get there. You'll usually need a guide, a 4WD and a super detailed plan. You can organise all of this yourself, but it's a lot of work. That's why we suggest booking a specially curated tour. It takes all the fuss out of your holiday, allowing you to simply enjoy the ridiculously beautiful natural wonders found throughout the Australian outback. So, read on to find a series of unforgettable trips and tours that can each be booked through Concrete Playground Trips. [caption id="attachment_896631" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brian Mcmahon (Unsplash)[/caption] LUXURY CAMPING TOUR AROUND KIMBERLEY Western Australia's Kimberley region is a proper bucket list travel destination. You get to see some of Outback Australia's finest sites — think deep gorges, vast white sand beaches and remote waterfalls that are made for swimming under. What better way to experience this iconic natural landscape than by camping around it for 12 days? This unique trip won't just guide you to the best spots, it'll take you there in total style. It includes a helicopter ride over Mitchell Falls, a Geikie Gorge boat cruise and all your camping equipment — big comfy mattress and all. If you've always wanted to explore Kimberley, this is the ultimate way to do it. BOOK IT NOW. [caption id="attachment_891479" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tobias Keller (Unsplash)[/caption] SIX-DAY CORAL COASTER FROM PERTH TO EXMOUTH (VIA NINGALOO REEF) Go on a proper Western Australia adventure during this week-long trip. From unspoilt beaches to deep red deserts to explore — plus an abundance of wildlife to spot — this will be an unforgettable Australian holiday. You'll also tick a bunch of spectacular destinations off your bucket list — including the Pinnacles, Hutt Lagoon Pink Lake, Murchison Gorge, Kalbarri National Park, The Stromatolites at Shark Bay and Ningaloo Reef. BOOK IT NOW. [caption id="attachment_826027" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism NT[/caption] AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK TOUR FROM DARWIN TO CAIRNS This is an 11-day adventure-filled trip through the most remote parts of Savannah Way. Get ready to explore natural landscapes unlike anything else in the world. You'll travel east through Kakadu, Mataranka, Lorella Springs and Lawn Hill before finishing up in the tropical rainforest on the outskirts of Cairns. Along the way, you'll spot native wildlife in their natural habitat, hike through gorges, discover ancient Aboriginal rock art and swim in pristine natural waterholes (free of crocs, of course). BOOK IT NOW. [caption id="attachment_883581" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Michael Skopal (Unsplash)[/caption] THREE-DAY ADVENTURE IN THE FLINDERS RANGES This small group eco-tour of the famous Flinders Ranges gives guests the opportunity to see the incredible rock formation of Wilpena Pound and the Ranges while learning about local Aboriginal culture. You'll search for the rare yellow-footed rock wallaby, spot kangaroos, emus and wedge-tailed eagles, spy ancient Aboriginal cave paintings, meet the locals and enjoy campfires and camp cooking. BOOK IT NOW. KING'S CANYON HIKING TOUR King's Canyon, famously where the queens from The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert hiked in feather-clad bird outfits, is a big bucket list destination — not just for fans of the film. Located between Alice Springs and Yulara, this has to be one of the very best places to go hiking in Australia. Walk along red rock cliffs, through maze-like gorges and around beautiful bushland. The views across the surrounding desert are also just next level, and this big day trip takes you to all the best bits. BOOK IT NOW. DAY TRIP TO LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK WATERFALLS If you've ever seen images of people jumping into spectacular natural waterholes and pools in a tourism ad for the Northern Territory, there's a very good chance the footage was shot at Litchfield National Park. Making a visit here is an experience we should all have at some point in our lives. And booking this package will get you right there. You'll be picked up from Darwin and transported to the famous Florence Falls for a day of exploring and swimming in extraordinary (croc-free) waters. BOOK IT NOW. CHAMBER PILLAR AND RAINBOW VALLEY 4WD TRIP Go off-road during this full-day tour around the Rainbow Valley — a remote region in Australia's Red Centre. The small group 4WD experience takes you deep into the Red Centre's beautiful and remote sand hill country in comfort and style. You will discover the history of the early explorers, local First Nations culture and stories, the iconic Simpson Desert and stunning landscapes and rock formations. In between short hikes, you'll be driven around in an air-conditioned 4WD to catch your breath and cool down. BOOK IT NOW. [caption id="attachment_896632" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tim Davies (Unsplash)[/caption] FOUR-DAY 4WD OUTBACK TOUR OF KAKADU NATIONAL PARK This exclusive 4WD safari adventure takes travellers off-road, discovering some of the most remote parts of Kakadu National Park. Visit spectacular waterfalls, cool off in some of the most beautiful natural plunge pools imaginable and spend each night in comfortable accommodation. Everything is organised for you throughout this Outback Australia tour, including a billabong wetlands cruise that'll take you up and close to some freshwater crocs. BOOK IT NOW. Feeling inspired to book a truly unique getaway? Head to Concrete Playground Trips to explore a range of holidays curated by our editorial team. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips in destinations all over the world. Top image: Simon Maisch (Unsplash)
Two of Australia's best modern yarn spinners are heading around the country together this spring. Sydney blues crooner CW Stoneking is embarking on an Australian tour, with Perth singer songriter Peter Bibby in support. Having just wrapped up a huge, 36-show run through the UK and Europe, Stoneking is finally heading back home for a home turf tour. He'll be taking ditties from his most recent album Gon Boogaloo as well as long-loved favourites. It's the last time Aussie fans will get to see Stoneking on a home stage for a while — he's moving to the US to work on some new music. Bibby's been a busy lad too, having released his debut album Butcher/Hairstylist/Beautician last year and made quite the splash at the likes of Laneway Festival around the country. Stoneking and Bibby will hit Sydney's Manning Bar on Friday, October 30, Brisbane's Triffid on Saturday, October 31 and Saturday, November 7 at Melbourne's Corner Hotel.
The Judith Wright Centre will be celebrating the 100th birthday of their namesake on Saturday, May 30. Judith Wright was an Australian poet and writer who was known for translating the Australian experience into rich lyricism and directness. She spoke openly of the Depression, Aboriginal rights, and everything from mundane Australian living to hard-hitting issues of her time. She began writing poetry at age six to please her ever ailing mother and eventually had numerous books published and wrote essays of poetry in Australia. She died in 2000 aged 85. Now, 100 years since her birth, the Judith Wright Centre will be showcasing dancers from the Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts as well as local artists Pascalle Burton, Betsy Turcott and Eleanor Jackson, Ross Clark, Dawn, Bronwyn Lea, Chloe Callistemon, Brett Dionysus and Julie Beveridge. The event is free, though it's best to register online here to secure seats.
It isn't often that Americans seek inspiration from Australia; our humble shores are prone to mimicking rather than leading by example. And yet, just last week, Melbourne boys Chris McPherson and Chris Rendell launched Flinders Lane, a New York eatery inspired by their home city. "Most of the Australian restaurants in the city are like Outback Steakhouse or the Crocodile Dundee sort of vision," McPherson told the Village Voice. "We wanted to bring back what's actually there." Their venue, which opened on February 3, is full of the cross-section of cultures and cuisines that is so unique to Australia. McPherson and Rendell met a few years back, quickly agreeing on the need to plot a restaurant that would pay homage to modern Australian food. Predominately driven by a serious case of homesickness, the Aussie expats quickly set to work, establishing a spot for contemporary Australian cooking, a long way from home. The result? A delicious array of fresh seafood and Australian fruit and veg, from chef Rendell. Many dishes also sport an identifiable Asian influence — highlights include tandoori rabbit, steamed snapper in sesame broth and a chicken san choy bau. Drinks-wise, the boys aim to offer a boutique selection of domestic and international wines, as well as a seasonal cocktail list, steering away from the heavy Shirazes that characterise many stereotypical perceptions of an Australian drop. Three tap beers, including the classic Coopers Green, are also available to accompany your grub. The 40-seat eatery isn't covered with Melbournalia; its sleek, pared-back look is a more subtle nod to the city. There is, however, a stunning collection of Melbourne photography, including a massive print of namesake Flinders Lane on the back wall. Flinders Lane New York is located in the East Village: 162 Ave A, 212-228-6900. Via Fork in the Road.
When it comes to street art, names don't get any bigger than Banksy. And when it comes to street art exhibitions, a new showcase of the artist's work that's making its way to Brisbane is going huge. The first major display of the enigmatic talent's pieces in the River City will feature more than 150 artworks — including infinity rooms and simulations that play with some of Banksy's most famous creations. Mark Thursday, May 4 in your diary, because that's when The Art of Banksy: Without Limits is hitting the lower ground floor at Queens Plaza in the CBD. If you're already excited, you can also mark 10am on Wednesday, March 15 in your calendar as well, as that's when tickets will go on sale. A massive collection of pieces by the art world's chief enigma — including the darkly satirical, overtly political work that has turned the stencil-loving artist into such an infamous icon — The Art of Banksy: Without Limits' 150 artworks will include Banksy's certified art, prints on a heap of different materials, plus photos and sculptures as well. For an immersive experience, there'll be installations — physical and digital — as well as murals and mapping shows. One such installation: a simulation of Dismaland Bemusement Park. Another: that mirrored infinity room. Banksy's recent murals in Ukraine will also get a nod, and one space is devoted to the MV Louise Michel, the 30-metre-long high-speed lifeboat funded by Banksy that patrols the Mediterranean to rescue refugees. There will be reproductions of Banksy's works, too, made exclusively for this exhibition. They'll recreate some of the artist's pieces as made with — of course — stencils. The full list of exactly which works will feature hasn't yet been officially revealed, if you're looking forward to potentially seeing the well-known likes of Flower Thrower, Rude Copper and Girl with Balloon (a version of which was shredded after sale in a highly publicised prank in 2018) — but images of the show's recent stop in Bangkok provide plenty of clues. When it sets up shop in Brisbane, The Art of Banksy: Without Limits will run daily and take between 45–60 minutes to wander through. And yes, you can snap away for the 'gram while you're there. You can probably exit through the gift shop, or a simulation of one, as well. The Art of Banksy: Without Limits will hit the lower ground floor at Queens Plaza, 226 Queen Street, Brisbane from Thursday, May 4. You can also join the waitlist now, with tickets on sale from 10am on Wednesday, March 15.
Do you ever bemoan the lack of serious theatre tackling hard-hitting topics of geopolitical import? This is not the play you're looking for. Psycho Beach Party is a tongue-in-cheek homage that lovingly mashes up surf and horror films and was originally called Gidget Goes Psychotic. The 1987 off-Broadway play starred playwright Charles Busch as the 16-year-old female lead, though the role was recast for the 2000 film. This version, playing at the Brisbane Festival, is directed by Stephen Nicolazzo (sex.violence.blood.gore) and stars Ash Flanders (who is half of Melburnian queer theatre heroes Sisters Grimm) in the role of Chicklet. Uproarious fun. Psycho Beach Party is on 17-28 September at the Loft, QUT Theatre Republic, and thanks to the Brisbane Festival, we have a double pass to giveaway to the performance on Thursday, 26 September. To be in the running, subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter (if you haven't already), then email hello@concreteplayground.com.au with your name and address.
Spending your Friday night in a laundromat isn't most people's idea of a good time. Understandably so, but let The Ironing Maidens convince you otherwise. You won't be doing any washing or drying from 8pm on August 31 — rather, you'll be catching an electronic music performance that's based around housework, complete with on-theme advertising samples, actual laundry sounds and lyrics that probe gender roles. The Ironing Maidens have won awards, toured local and international festivals, and generally wowed crowds by using ironing boards as instruments — and now they're hitting up the Central Valley Laundromat on Wickham Street. It's part of the Valley Fiesta, and it's in line with their latest tour (which, as you might've guessed, only involves places where you'd normally wait for your clothes to finish their spin cycle). As for their story, The Ironing Maidens main duo Patty Preece and Melania Jack have taken inspiration from British composer and electronic music pioneer Daphne Oram, the first woman to direct an electronic music studio back in the 1950s. Accordingly, you'll not only witness an inventive and unique live performance, but you'll be paying homage to a part of history you probably didn't know about.
There are some people in this world who are freaks of nature, e.g. people who can do any job, read any book, or pick up any instrument and play it. Omar Rodriguez-Lopez is one of these people and he is here in Brisbane this week with his group to tour their 38-track monster Telestrion – a double disc CD collection of Omar's numerous releases. Akin to Prince, Omar Rodriguez-Lopez is a - wait for it - composer, artist, writer, director, songwriter, actor and producer, and can play over ten instruments. If his name sounds familiar, that's because he is the guitarist (as well as producer and composer) for the Mars Volta. Omar has also collaborated with John Frusciante (of Red Hot Chili Peppers fame) and although he may be in a prog-rock band, he also digs reggae and has been known to be quite experimental in his solo work. It's of no surprise that someone of this immense talent and skill would feel claustrophobic in a band setting and would be dying to break free, which is why Omar has decided to spawn his own avant-garde style of music and do it on his own. His musical style is so complex that there is no way of describing the perplexing composition this incredible musician uses, so you pretty much need to see him to comprehend it all. Even then, I'm not sure if any of it would make sense to us common folk. I'd go just to see Mr Rodriguez play the guitar left handed, all the other stuff's a bonus!
On years ending in four in even-numbered decades, we watch new Mean Girls films. So goes the 21st century so far, as the hit 2004 teen comedy about high-school hierarchies returns to the big screen in 2024 as a musical, after breaking out the singing and dancing onstage first. Just like donning pink every Wednesday because Regina George (Reneé Rapp, The Sex Lives of College Girls) demands it, there's a dutifulness about the repeat Mean Girls. Tina Fey, writing the script for the third time — basing her first on Rosalind Wiseman's 2002 non-fiction book Queen Bees and Wannabes — seems to fear the consequences for breaking the rules, too. Cue a Mean Girls movie musical that truly plays out as those four words lead viewers to expect: largely the same down to most lines and jokes, just with songs. Anyone looking at the longer running time in advance and chalking up the jump from 97 to 112 minutes to the tunes is 100-percent spot on. The latest Mean Girls also resembles protagonist Cady Heron (Angourie Rice, The Last Thing He Told Me): eager to fit into its new surroundings after being perfectly happy and comfortable elsewhere. That causes some awkwardness, sometimes trying to break the mould, but largely assimilating. Penning her first film script since the OG Mean Girls was her very first, 30 Rock, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt and Mr Mayor creator Fey revises details and gags that were always going to need revising. Social media, the internet and mobile phones are all worked in, necessarily so, as is sex positivity. Mean Girls 2024 is primarily dedicated to making Mean Girls 2024 happen, though; here as well, it's exactly as those three words have audiences anticipating. Scrap the songs and choreography (other than the Winter Talent Show performances, of course), and directors Samantha Jayne and Arturo Perez (Quarter Life Poetry: Poems for the Young, Broke & Hangry) would've just remade the first film two decades later. There's a message in the Means Girls cycle, as the initial movie closed with. No matter how many obnoxious and angsty young women learn to cope with their ire and embrace kindness, more will follow the same journey, then more again. Accordingly, Mean Girls could easily be restaged every generation with nothing but era-appropriate changes and the tale would still ring true, as proves the case with its second cinema telling — plus the musical angle. That's a testament to the strength of and insights in Fey's foundational screenplay. It's also a sad truth about human nature. But like Gretchen Wieners (Bebe Wood, Love, Victor) yearning for a life and acceptance that doesn't involve everything that Regina decrees, viewers can be forgiven for wanting more from each Mean Girls iteration. While this is a winking, nudging, self-referential take that's forcefully trying to get playful with its devotion to its source material, Regina herself might call it an obsession. Once more, Cady swaps the savannahs of Africa for Evanston, Illinois, then homeschooling for North Shore High School, entering a savage teenage jungle in the process. With talented artist Janis (Auli'i Cravalho, the voice of Moana) and the "almost too gay to function" Damian (Jaquel Spivey, a 2022 Tony-nominee for A Strange Loop) to steer her, she joins the world of cliquery, where the Plastics — Regina, plus Gretchen and fellow entourage member Karen Shetty (Avantika, also The Sex Lives of College Girls) — rule the school. Befriending the in-crowd is meant to be a social experiment. Cady's mum (Jenna Fischer, Splitting Up Together) is a zoologist, after all. But after Cady gets a maths class-sparked crush on Regina's ex Aaron Samuels (Christopher Briney, The Summer I Turned Pretty), the newcomer's stint at the popular lunch table morphs into a vengeance mission. Opening with the Cravalho- and Spivey-sung 'A Cautionary Tale' — Janis and Damien are viewers' guides, too — the Mean Girls movie musical uses songs in place of the original's voiceover, and to plumb the characters' emotional and psychological depths. Composer Jeff Richmond (Girls5eva) and lyricist Nell Benjamin (The Sea Beast, and another Tony-nominee) rework their tunes from the stage production that debuted in 2018, then was locked in for a film adaptation in 2020, with additions and exclusions; rarely are they the most memorable parts of the movie. Collaborating with YouTube-famous choreographer Kyle Hanagami (Red, White & Royal Blue), Jayne and Perez opt for a more-is-more vibe; however, the musical numbers ape the overall feature in miniature. Some aspects shine, such as the pure energy of the plan-setting 'Revenge Party' and the sincerity in Gretchen's 'What's Wrong with Me?'. Others are catchy but perfunctory, like the Rice-crooned 'Stupid with Love', plus Cravalho and Spivey again with 'Apex Predator'. Karen's ditty 'Sexy' is an entertaining social-media riff. And whenever Rapp sings, she's electric, but better than the material. Rapp was always destined to be one of the new Mean Girls' highlights. She's been here before, stepping into Regina's shoes again after wearing them on Broadway (Only Murders in the Building's Ashley Park also returns from the theatre after originating the role of Gretchen, but as a teacher). In a film so infrequently willing to switch up anything substantial, Rapp's interpretation of Regina is one of its biggest alterations: where Rachel McAdams (Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret) was icily piercing, the IRL pop singer is fiendishly ferocious. That fits today's times where the entire online realm is a burn book, making nastiness virtually the status quo, and it's never one-note. Among her co-stars, Rice, Cravalho, Spivey, Wood and Avantika all ensure that no one is desperately pining for Lindsay Lohan (Falling for Christmas), Lizzy Caplan (Fatal Attraction), Daniel Franzese (Not So Straight in Silver Lake), Lacey Chabert (A Merry Scottish Christmas) and Amanda Seyfried (The Crowded Room) as their characters instead — with Cravalho making the second-biggest impression, and screaming for more non-voicework parts. Fey returning as Ms Norbury, Tim Meadows (I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson) similarly back as Principal Duvall, Busy Phillips (also Girls5eva) taking over from Amy Poehler (Moxie) as Regina's mother: they're all grool touches. It almost wouldn't be a Fey comedy without Jon Hamm (Fargo) popping up, although he's given little to do — but scrapping Coach Carr's sex scandals was among the essential updatings. Mean Girls has always known that striving to conform is a clunky task, though it didn't need to live it. While this isn't the first movie to become a stage musical and then return to film also as a musical (see: Little Shop of Horrors, The Producers, Hairspray and Everybody's Talking About Jamie) and won't be the last (the new The Color Purple will follow it into cinemas Down Under, for example), it's firmly an example of being too committed to doing what's expected to have enough of its own fun.
If you're in Sydney's CBD and can hear helicopters overhead, that's because Barack Obama is in town. According to 7 News, the former president of the United States touched down at Sydney Airport around 1pm and has since made his way — as part of a motorcade — up Oxford Street and into the CBD. .@barackobama at @SydneyAirport. The former U.S. President will be speaking at the @ArtGalleryofNSW tonight. https://t.co/0rfycPrrqA #7News pic.twitter.com/FJgJVxgpi3 — 7 News Sydney (@7NewsSydney) March 23, 2018 Obama is in Sydney for an exclusive private event hosted by the New Zealand United States Council at the Art Gallery of NSW tonight, Friday, March 23. He comes via Auckland, where he spoke last night. At the moment, it doesn't look like there will be any road closures or changes to traffic. Unfortunately the talk is not open to the public, but if you head to the AGNSW, you might be able to get an IRL sighting of the former president. Although you may not be able to get very close — security will be understandably tight.
