Oi oi oi! If there's one nation who knows how to party, it's Brazil. Now we Aussies can take a leaf from their notebook at our very own Brisbane Brazilian Day Street Festival. Think wild colours, energetic music, fierce dancing and more churros than you can poke a stick at. The festival begins at 12pm in the Fortitude Valley's Alden Street, just behind the Wickham Hotel. From then till late in the evening there will be live music by a lineup of authentic South American bands, as well as possibly the biggest carnival parade Brisbane has ever seen. The food and drink on offer is worth going alone. Various vendors and food trucks will be dishing up famous Brazilian barbecue, feijoda stew, savoury pastries, cakes and sweets. There will also be Caprioskas, Caipinha and Batida cocktail tents in case you need a little kick before attempting the samba. Tickets for the Brisbane Brazilian Day Festival are $20 and can be purchased through Moshtix. We're also going to leave this samba tutorial right here. Just incase.
Tucked behind Harveys Bar and Bistro on the bright lights of James Street, Tinderbox Kitchen is staking a claim as one of the city's pizza frontrunners. Using free-range pork, Moree stoneground-wheat and seasonal produce, Tinderbox ticks many boxes when it comes to tasty ethical pizza. Crowd favourites, including mushroom arancini and pork and veal meatballs, kick off proceedings. Mains include a small selection of Italian classics, such as duck pappardelle and veal scallopini, but we know you're really here for the pizza. Expect authenticity here — bases are crisp and smoky courtesy of the custom-made woodfired oven. The toppings are simple yet inspired, including 'nduja, roasted corn and handmade ricotta. The Tinderbox signature sports Mooloolaba prawns, chilli and zucchini. Adjacent to the Palace Centro cinemas, Tinderbox Kitchen is an ideal pre-movie stop-off.
History is written by the victors, or at least that's what the oft-used quote contends. In the same vein, tales about cancer are frequently focused on those fortunate enough not to experience their own malignant diagnosis. These are stories of grief-stricken folks struggling with watching a loved one face the disease, and potentially losing them, rather than accounts of what it's like to hear the words that no one ever wants to have said about their health. Spoiler Alert is one such narrative, first on the page and now on-screen starring The Big Bang Theory's Jim Parsons as real-life TV journalist Michael Ausiello and Knock at the Cabin's Ben Aldridge as his photographer husband Kit Cowan. Ausiello penned the printed memoir, which is honest, poignant and never blissfully rose-hued — but the fact that director Michael Showalter's latest big-screen illness drama, following the authentic and sincere The Big Sick, shortens the autobiography's full outcome-revealing title says plenty about this sweet but formulaic tear-jerker. No matter how you've been touched by cancer, or haven't, it's impossible not to spot the template beneath weepies about sickness. Trading in tragedy but also hope, these flicks weather heartbreak while dreaming of a happy ending even when they know one won't come — and it's to Spoiler Alert's detriment that the film teases in that direction to tug at heartstrings. Scripted not by ex-TV Guide and Entertainment Weekly writer-turned-TVLine founder Ausiello himself, but A Million Little Things' David Marshall Grant and Savage Love columnist Dan Savage, this is a picture that keeps things largely routine and simplistic rather than deep as a result. Indeed, when it gets welcomely thorny — when it feels specific to Ausiello and Cowan's 13-year-relationship, laying bare its early awkwardness and many imperfections rather than squeezing the pair's lives into the usual cancer-tainted romantic-drama pattern — it's a richer movie. More comfortable interacting with the world by watching the small screen than physically dancing through it — or dancing at all — Michael only meets Kit because a colleague tells him to ditch the Fear Factor listicle he's been assigned to hit up jock night at a gay bar instead. And, he needs more encouraging to even contemplate flirting; busting out Knight Rider references aren't the kind of banter that love at first sight is made of. One issue here, and throughout: Parsons' casting. His presence acts as a nicely winking joke given that he's a big TV star playing a TV-obsessed writer, but the movie also feels far too reluctant to tinker with or stretch its lead's established sitcom persona. Although Parsons isn't playing Sheldon Cooper playing Michael Ausiello, the actor's most famous character to-date casts a shadow over a film it shouldn't, especially since this is Michael and Kit's true story. Spoiler Alert begins before that initial encounter, with Michael first imagining his upbringing as a laugh track-accompanied 80s comedy called The Ausiellos. These scenes recur, designed to ground Michael's personality and coping mechanisms in his childhood, when he lost his mother to cancer and escaped into soap operas — but despite Showalter's comedy pedigree, including as a co-writer and star of Wet Hot American Summer and Wet Hot American Summer: First Day of Camp, they're clumsy. What the sitcom segments show, too, is that Spoiler Alert is beholden to a formula for most of its running time and yet also better when it hones in on its characters over cute quirks even while staying oh-so-standard. Being detailed will always triumph over going broad, something that Showalter demonstrated with The Big Sick; of course, his latest also plays too easily and familiarly as a companion piece to that hit. Here's a tidbit that can only be real, and is: Michael's apartment filled with more vintage Smurfs memorabilia than you're ever likely to see elsewhere, aka why he's apprehensive about bringing Kit home when things start clicking. (Ausiello's IRL collection was used.) The toys don't scare off his date like they might most, but Spoiler Alert sees the ups as well as the downs as weeks turn into months and years, Kit is dismissive of Michael's career, their differing levels of self-confidence causes distance, their varying wants cause rifts, each has their own takes on monogamy and therapy sessions become the norm. While Showalter and company don't dive particularly far into any of the above, they're still among Spoiler Alert's most resonant moments. Those, and whenever Sally Field (who led Showalter's Hello, My Name Is Doris in 2015) and Bill Irwin (The Dropout) appear as Kit's parents Marilyn and Bob, who he needs to come out to. That said, when Spoiler Alert kicks into illness mode, actively endeavouring to get the waterworks flowing, it still sparks the emotional response it's so forcefully seeking. It's also impossible not to be moved by the couple's plight, straightforward and eager to tick the predictable weepie boxes as the film clearly is. Unsurprisingly, there's greater emphasis placed on Michael's experiences by Kit's side than Kit's. Audiences are asked to empathise more with caring for and confronting a possible future without the one they love, because that's Ausiello's tale, over being the person whose existence faces its end. Even in a movie that's careful about not airbrushing away anyone's flaws — Michael's included — that's where Aldridge's charm, warmth and soul does crucial heavy lifting to make Kit more than a bystander in his own life-or-death ordeal. In addition to being a romance about a fated love, plus a drama about sickness, Spoiler Alert is a Christmas movie. When it's making star-led mainstream LGBTQIA+ films, Hollywood is currently head over heels for queer features that tie into the holidays, as Happiest Season and Bros also do. All three take a clearcut setup and attempt to make it their own, just with added Yuletide touches; spoiler alert: this life-to-page-to-screen effort is the least of the trio. The festive trimmings say plenty about Spoiler Alert as well, actually. Under the tree or stuffed in stockings, everything looks similar when packaged in jolly paper, after all. More often than not — and spanning its tinsel-decked scenes and its cancer narrative alike — Ausiello and Cowan's very real story becomes the glossily shot movie equivalent of a cookie-cutter wrapped-up gift.
If you’ve ever bought music on a physical format in Brisbane, you’ve likely been to Rocking Horse Records. For forty years, the CBD establishment has showered the latest and greatest independent and imported releases upon the city, be it on vinyl, cassette, CD or vinyl again. To pay tribute to a store that been a mainstay of both Adelaide and Albert streets (the former for its first 25 years, and the latter for the last 15), as well as offered employment to seemingly every local artist and aspiring musician, The Triffid is throwing just the kind of concert and party the retailer deserves. Yes, there’ll be live gigs by local legends. Yes, there’ll also be a whole lotta love. The free part of the proceedings kicks off at 2pm, with Kristy Apps and The Shotgun Shirleys and The Floyd Family Breakdown serving up acoustic beer garden sets. After 5.30pm, you’ll need a ticket to see Last Dinosaurs, The Cairos, ’90s queer folksters ISIS and more, but if any celebratory show is worth flocking to this year, it’s this one.
March isn't the only time to celebrate Ireland in Australia. If you're a movie lover who adores the country's talents, landscapes and cinema output, the Irish Film Festival is just as exciting. In 2023 in Brisbane, the fest returns for three days across Friday, October 13–Sunday, October 15 with its reliably impressive program — this time taking over Dendy Coorparoo. Every film festival is made better when Olivia Colman is involved — and at IFF, the Empire of Light and Heartstopper star is popping up in Joyride, which is penned by Bad Sisters' scribe Ailbhe Keogan. The movie tells of a 12-year-old who flees a difficult home situation in a stolen taxi, only to find a woman passed out in the backseat with a baby. Another massive highlight from the 16-title national program: the Oscar- and BAFTA-winning short An Irish Goodbye, which follows a a young man with Down's Syndrome and his brother when they discover their recently deceased mother's bucket list. Also among the fest's must-sees is opening film Lakelands, which dives into rural sport, masculinity and isolation. Or, there's It Is in Us All, which earned Special Jury Recognition for Extraordinary Cinematic Vision at SXSW; Róise & Frank, about a widow who believes that her late husband's spirit has returned via a stray dog; and North Circular, a music documentary that celebrates Dublin's North Circular Road. Documentary Lyra pays tribute journalist Lyra McKee, who was shot during rioting in Derry, with the film arriving four years since her death and 25 years since of Northern Ireland's Good Friday peace agreement. IFF will also include an online component to this year's fest, as it has been doing since the pandemic hit. If you're keen to watch Lakelands, It Is in Us All and Róise & Frank from home — and more — get streaming from Thursday, October 5–Sunday, November 5.
Spend your New Year's Eve gazing out over the CBD from one of Brisbane's original rooftop bars — and eating, drinking and enjoying a night by the pool as well. In a way, it's just business as usual at Next Hotel's Pool Terrace & Bar. The level four spot will be throwing a party, but it won't be charging entry fees or selling tickets. In other words, it's a great option for anyone who hasn't nabbed a spot at an expensive soiree, hasn't cemented their plans as yet or doesn't wish to end the year by forking out for a huge cover charge. Just spend your pennies on whatever you choose to eat and drink from the bar menu, because nothing else will cost you a cent. If you're choosing to make a night of it, a DJ will be spinning tunes so you can dance poolside while the last moments of 2019 tick down. For those bringing a crowd — 20 people or more — you are able to book by contacting the venue.
It seems to be a Brisbane condition to close down any establishment that actually has any value in the community – the Elizabeth Street Printery, The Monastery (kidding), The Troubadour, to name a few. Luckily enough, from the ashes of The Troub rises an establishment to breathe a little life back into ‘the scene’ – Black Bear Lodge. Their opening date was pushed back a couple of times, but now it’s for real – the Bears are open for business. To prove it, they’re holding a three-day celebration from Friday to Sunday. Feast your ears on Ben Salter (The Gin Club) and Kellie Lloyd & Tim Steward (Screamfeeder) on Friday, Dominic Miller (Rocketsmiths) and Andrew Morris (Wilson Pickers) on Saturday, and Timothy Carroll on Sunday. What’s the cost of a musical buffet like this? Absolutely nothing – Black Bear Lodge is a free entry establishment. Celebrate new beginnings in the Brisbane entertainment scene for cheaps – make sure you buy a drink to say thanks!
It's a day-trip getaway, a waterside pub, a sun-soaked beer garden, and now it's a four-hole putt-putt course. This is indeed the Bribie Island Hotel — a venue that holds itself in the childhood memories of many Brisbanites and is looking to keep making new memories with this latest addition. This is, however, a limited-time offering; the free putt-putt course is only open from now until September. You can book a putt-putt party package with your table if you fancy offloading the little ones, or you can give the course a go while you're waiting on your mains (we won't tell). Either way, be sure to grab a plate of loaded fries to share, a wood-fired pizza or any number of pub classics off the menu to enjoy before (or after) your game. Putt Putt in Paradise is available at the Bribie Island Hotel until September. For more information or to book your spot, visit the Bribie Island Hotel website.
In the trailer for Midsommar, a group of people trek through a forest, all saddled up with backpacks and sleeping bags. They're outside a Swedish town, with the locals putting on a mid-summer event. "It's like a crazy nine-day festival; it only happens every 90 years," visitor Dani (Florence Pugh) is told. As anyone who has ever seen a movie should know, this situation usually goes one of two ways: raucous festivities ensue, with friendships tested and lessons learned, or unnerving antics do instead. With Hereditary writer/director Ari Aster behind Midsommar, anyone who saw the 2018 horror hit will know that this flick is destined to fall into the latter category. The details are being kept scarce, even in the movie's just-released first trailer, with the film set to hit cinemas worldwide from early August this year. But if you're expecting another visibly dark and sinister flick from Aster, think again. Instead, Midsommar looks light, bright and filled with bohemian-looking folks — even as it seems to step firmly into creepy cult territory Story-wise, Dani is accompanied by her boyfriend Christian (Jack Reynor), a whole heap of people wearing white await their arrival and things aren't quite what they seem when the duo gets to their destination. The Good Place's William Jackson Harper and Black Mirror: Bandersnatch's Will Poulter also feature among the cast, and what this first sneak peek offers in the way of idyllic natural surroundings and flower crowns, it counters with glimpses of chilling rituals. Check out the nightmarish first trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I0UWIya-O0s Midsommar opens in Australian cinemas on August 8.
You'll find big things in small packages at the St Kilda Film Festival this year. You'll also find some changes, too. Australia's oldest short film festival, this massive event won't physically descend on St Kilda for the 34th year in 2020 — with the lineup jumping online and screening to movie buffs nationally. Even better: it's screening for free. Showcasing some of the best up-and-coming filmmakers in the country, the festival runs from Friday, June 12–Saturday, June 20, with audiences at home getting the chance to see a selection of exciting films. It all kicks off with a virtual opening night, then features curated sessions, live online Q&As and webinars. As always, the backbone of the festival is Australia's Top 100, featuring filmmakers from every corner of the country competing for prizes. Other selections include the Australian Animation Explosion, highlighting Aussie animation; Shifting the Gaze: Focus on Women Filmmakers, presenting new films from female filmmakers; Dark Matter, showcasing on horror, thriller and dystopian tales; and Out of Range, Gods of Tiny Things and Home, which focus on being and becoming an Indigenous Australian. For the full St Kilda Film Festival program, or to watch online between Friday, June 12–Saturday, June 20, visit the festival website. Image: Jim Lee
Almost a year after settling into South Bank, Brisbane's new Emporium Hotel has finally launched its culinary centrepiece — the aptly named Signature restaurant. With the kitchen overseen by the husband and wife duo of executive chef Chris Norman and executive sous chef Alex Liddle, the 60-seater venue joins the hotel's other luxe eating and drinking options, including rooftop spot The Terrace, just-opened lobby bar Piano Bar and relocated French patisserie Belle Epoque. Three features stand out at Signature: its eye-catching decor, its hefty wine collection and, of course, its food. Design-wise, it's impossible to miss the restaurant's bespoke lighting fixture, which includes 1000 hand-blown glass baubles. Elsewhere, pale pink and burnt orange tones, coloured marble surfaces, a backlit white onyx bar and a 150-year-old Parisian stained-glass window all stand out — the window is part of a 12-person private dining room. Signature's sizeable vino list also has its own space, called The Library. More than 6000 bottles are housed inside on floating racks, as are 200 magnums — with the range spanning drops from Australia and around the world, including limited editions and rare vintages. Order a particularly special tipple and it'll come in one of the bar's bespoke decanters. To eat, Signature has a menu championing modern Australian cuisine across a variety of options. Start with oysters and caviar at the bar, order your meal a la carte — including from a separate vegan menu — or go for a five- or seven-course tasting menu. Meaty highlights include kangaroo tartare, blueberry-cured ocean trout, Brisbane Valley quail paired with corn, hazelnut and wattle seed granola, plus Flinders Island lamb with artichokes and shallots, while the animal-free lineup includes tomato and saffron consommé, chargrilled cauliflower with gnocchi, and black fig and guava cheesecake. Signature also shakes and stirs its own range of cocktails (yes, they're Signature's signature cocktails), including a martini with kahlua and creme de cacao, as well as a spicy blend of pepper bourbon, mint and jalapeños. Find Signature on Level 1, Emporium Hotel, 267 Grey Street, South Bank, open from 5.30pm Tuesday–Saturday.
Western Australia's Beerfarm brewery is a go-to for locals. Now, for the first time, you can get cases of its brews delivered straight from the farm to your door — even if you live on the other side of the country. And while there are things we shouldn't be stockpiling right now, if you're spending more time at home than usual, you may as well have some cold ones in the fridge. The environmentally focused, independently owned brewery is located on an old dairy farm in the Margaret River region and strives to do things a little differently. There are a few cows roaming around the property and it's almost entirely run on solar power. So, if you're a fan of funky, fermented tipples and the environment, this one's for you. And you'll be supporting a small homegrown business which, in these times, is more important than ever. It's got a tasty range of brews suited to any occasion and palate, from sessionable lagers to complex IPAs, sours, cider and saisons. Its Asam Boi Gose, which is a salted plum sour, took home a GABS award last year — so, if you've yet to try it, we recommend getting a case of it stat. Luckily, now you can. To celebrate its new farm-to-door delivery service, we've teamed up with Beerfarm to offer you $10 off your first carton. Just head here to make your purchase and enter the one-off code CPBFF20 at check out. Delivery is available nationwide, with varying shipping costs. This story includes affiliate links, which means Concrete Playground may receive a small commission if a reader clicks through and makes a purchase. This does not influence our editorial recommendations or content. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
The director of Seven, Fight Club and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, David Fincher has made a career out of stylish, devilishly entertaining pulp. His latest film, Gone Girl, is absolutely no exception. Adapted from Gillian Flynn's bestselling novel of the same name, it's a dark and twisting tale that presents itself as both a biting commentary on relationships and media frenzy, and a subversion of procedural film conventions. And at the same time, it fully embraces the sleaze and exploitation of that which it critiques. Despite his superhero physique, Ben Affleck looks decidedly schlubby as Nick Dunne, an out-of-work writer from a small town in Missouri whose wife, Amy (Rosamund Pike), goes missing on their five-year anniversary. Signs of a struggle indicate she might have been abducted, and before long the entire country is following the case. But as more and more evidence comes to light, including a six-figure life insurance policy and a string of expensive credit card purchases, suspicion is soon cast upon her husband. And as a series of flashbacks told from Amy's perspective expose a marriage that had begun to turn sour, we're forced to confront to possibility that Nick may be a killer. Of course, it's nowhere near as simple as all of that. Gone Girl is the sort of movie that is very difficult to review, because so much of what makes it interesting lies in its second and third act revelations — each more deliciously silly than the last. Viewers unwilling to suspend their disbelief may struggle with the film, which really pushes the boundaries of plausibility. Then again, lurid, outlandish plot twists go part in parcel with the genre, as Fincher fans would well know. Although the movie plays fairly straight, there is definitely an element of subversion here, along with a jet-black sense of humour that manifests itself in unexpected ways. For example, it's hard not to snort when Nick complains, with a completely straight-face, that he's tired of "being picked on by women." The film's representation of gender and marriage could be the subject of an essay in and of itself. Suffice it to say, any movie that can be read as both a bloody tale of female empowerment and a twisted fantasy that implicitly exonerates domestic abusers is worthy of critical attention. Affleck, to his credit, gives what is probably the best performance of his career. One suspects that the casting choice was a self-aware one, given how much of the actor's life has been scrutinised in the tabloids. In a film full of unlikeable characters, the most repugnant are the likes of talk-show host Ellen Abbott (Missi Pyle), quick to condemn Nick's awkward, emotionless television appearances as evidence of his guilt. The film is very much a double-edged sword though. It condemns us for our obsession with violence while funnelling it down our throats. Once again, Fincher is dressing up trash as serious art, wanting to have his cake and eat it too. And frankly, we wouldn't take it any other way. https://youtube.com/watch?v=2-_-1nJf8Vg
The Korean Film Festival In Australia (KOFFIA) is back for its fourth year in 2013, promising unmissable films and the brightest stars in their latest offerings for the screen. This is your opportunity to experience an alternative movie-going experience in the comfort of your local cinema. You have the choice of 17 feature and various short films, with 50 screenings in total gracing Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne cinemas. It has been dubbed "a must for fans of Korean culture" although just about anyone is sure to enjoy the films, all of which are subtitled in English. On the bill are 9 Muses of Star Empire, which documents the K-Pop phenomenon from the inside, and Architecture 101, a romance-themed session, ideal for couples. Be sure to visit the Myer Centre cinema during the festival to meet the many faces of Korean cinema. There are also a host of other cultural activities, be sure to check them out when planning your KOFFIA experience. https://youtube.com/watch?v=s3dZhCnV7ik
Already in 2021, fans of the DC Extended Universe — the interconnected franchise that started with Man of Steel, and also includes Wonder Woman and its sequel, Aquaman and Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn) — have sat down to watch an extended new version of Justice League like it's still 2017. Next on the series' viewing list: The Suicide Squad, the confusingly named sequel to 2016's Suicide Squad (because no one has challenged themselves thinking of the upcoming flick's title). Margot Robbie (Dreamland) returns as Harley Quinn, Joel Kinnaman (The Secrets We Keep) does the same as Rick Flag and Australian actor Jai Courtney (Honest Thief) also makes a comeback as Captain Boomerang. As the government agent overseeing this band of world-saving supervillains, recent Oscar-nominee Viola Davis (Ma Rainey's Black Bottom) is back as well. But don't expect to see the rest of their original costars this time around. As seen in the film's initial trailer, and now expanded upon in its just-dropped new sneak peek, The Suicide Squad sees a new group of nefarious folks joins Harley and the gang — including Idris Elba (Cats) as Bloodsport, John Cena (Playing with Fire) as Peacemaker, Peter Capaldi (The Personal History of David Copperfield) as Thinker, Pete Davidson (The King of Staten Island) as Blackguard and Sylvester Stallone (Rambo: Last Blood) as the voice of King Shark. Taika Waititi (Jojo Rabbit) has a yet-to-be revealed role, and Guardians of the Galaxy alums Michael Rooker and Sean Gunn show up, too — which makes complete sense given that GotG filmmaker James Gunn is behind the lens and has also penned the screenplay. By hiring Gunn, DC is clearly looking for his sense of humour, as well as his lively and OTT style. In both clips so far, all of the above is on display. So yes, if The Suicide Squad feels more in line with goofier Marvel Cinematic Universe flicks than most of DC Comics' big-screen output, there's an obvious reason for that. When the film hits cinemas Down Under on August 5, it'll initially head to Belle Reve prison, where supervillains are kept. Asked by Task Force X to participate in a secret mission in exchange for time out of incarceration, Bloodsport, Peacemaker, Captain Boomerang, King Shark, Blackguard and their pals are more than willing to help. Their job: travelling to the island of Corto Maltese on a deadly quest. It's dubbed a suicide mission in the trailer, because of course it is. Check out latest The Suicide Squad trailer below: The Suicide Squad releases in cinemas Down Under on August 5.
"The people who come here, they come to heal," says Nicole Kidman in the latest trailer for Nine Perfect Strangers. There's a disconcerting tone to her words, however. She plays Masha Dmitrichenko, the wellness guru in charge of a high-priced retreat in a super-scenic spot, and she definitely isn't making anyone feel relaxed with her presence. Whether you're checking into a nearby spa for the day or heading further afield for a lengthier stint of bliss, visiting these kinds of venues is supposed to be calming. But that really doesn't seem to be the case in this upcoming miniseries. The star-studded Nine Perfect Strangers was shot in Byron Bay, which is why it looks the striking part — but the nine guests who turn up in search of a new lease on life all appear set to get much more than they've bargained for. That's how the show's trailers have been unfolding, at least, with the latest sneak peek offering the biggest glimpse at the series yet. Given the cast involved — including not just Kidman (The Undoing), but also Melissa McCarthy (Thunder Force), Michael Shannon (Knives Out), Luke Evans (Crisis) and Asher Keddie (Rams) — Nine Perfect Strangers is easily one of the big streaming releases of the year, and that long list of famous faces will be navigating quite the eerie and creepy situation. Also part of the show: Bobby Cannavale (Superintelligence), Regina Hall (Little), Samara Weaving (Bill & Ted Face the Music), Melvin Gregg (The United States vs Billie Holiday), Asher Keddie (Rams), Grace Van Patten (Under the Silver Lake), Tiffany Boone (The Midnight Sky) and Manny Jacinto (The Good Place), who'll all navigate a ten-day retreat overseen by Kidman's Masha throughout the drama's eight episodes. The latter oversees the resort that promises to transform nine stressed city-dwellers — but, clearly, things aren't going to turn out as planned for the show's titular figures. As with Kidman's last two miniseries — Big Little Lies, which like Nine Perfect Strangers, was also based on a book by Liane Moriarty; and The Undoing — David E Kelley (LA Law, Ally McBeal, Mr Mercedes) is leading the charge behind the scenes. He's the show's co-writer and co-showrunner, with Long Shot's Jonathan Levine directing every episode. And if you're wondering where and when you'll be able to see the results, Nine Perfect Strangers will stream Down Under via Amazon Prime Video, with the series set to debut on Friday, August 20. Check out the full trailer below: Nine Perfect Strangers will start streaming in Australia and New Zealand on Friday, August 20 via Amazon Prime Video — starting with its first three episodes, with new episodes then dropping weekly afterwards. Top image: Vince Valitutti/Hulu.
Cheese dreams are made of this: a cake, but made out of everyone's favourite dairy product, then topped with deli meats, fruit and edible flowers. It might sound like something that your brie-loving slumbering brain thought up after pairing wine and cheddar and then hitting the hay but, even if it is, Salt Meats Cheese are the ones now making it a reality. The Italian chain has just added one-kilogram brie cakes to its menu, so that's the kind of cheese you'll be eating by the chunky dessert-sized slice on your next big occasion. As for those toppings, prosciutto, mortadella and sopressa from SMC's deli sit atop this whopping white wheel of the good stuff. To keep tempting your tastebuds, so do pickles, fresh and dried fruits, plus those blooms that you can munch on. One whole kilogram of brie is a lot for one person to devour, so these cakes are designed to feed between ten and 15 people — but we'll leave it up to you how strictly you take that guide. If your stomach is now understandably rumbling, the brie cakes are available at SMC's Drummoyne store in Sydney, Newstead eatery in Brisbane and Surfers Paradise outpost on the Gold Coast. Each one will set you back $99, and you can place your order by contacting the store at least 36 hours in advance of when you're eager to pick your cake up. Obviously, there's only one word for this news: yum. Salt Meats Cheese's one-kilogram brie cakes are available from its Drummoyne store in Sydney, Newstead eatery in Brisbane and Surfers Paradise outpost on the Gold Coast for $99 each, with orders placed by contacting the store.
If you love cheese, but are sick of spending the bulk of your pay cheque on it, here's a solution: take a cheese-making class. Sure, it'll cost you pretty penny, but then you'll have the knowledge to make endless cheese at home, whenever you want. Also, thanks to Omnom Cheese Shop's new virtual burrata, bocconcini and ricotta workshop, you can learn along at home as well. The Sydney-based cheese outfit is adding a series of online classes to its repertoire, taking place at 6pm on Wednesday, September 23 and Wednesday, October 21. During the 80-minute class, you'll learn to how to make three types of cheese — in real-time, via Zoom, with plenty of live tips as you go. You'll also receive a DIY cheese-making kit delivered to your door as part of your $59 ticket. You will need to have some kitchen equipment on hand, and to pick up some milk and cream — with full details sent out a week before the class. Hot tip: in-person, Omnom's cheese-making sessions regularly sell out, so its online classes are certain to be popular. Another suggestion: if you want to pair your cheese-making with wine, well, that definitely isn't frowned upon. Omnom Cheese Shop's virtual burrata, bocconcini and ricotta workshop takes place at 6pm on Wednesday, September 23 and Wednesday, October 21.
Bluesfest has been a firm fixture of Australia's Easter weekend music calendar since its inception in 1990. Well, give or take a couple of years of COVID cancellations, of course. But now, for the first time, Melburnians will be able to get their Bluesfest fix without the pilgrimage north, when the inaugural Bluesfest Melbourne delivers the goods from Saturday, April 8–Sunday, April 9 next year. Yep, the iconic blues and roots celebration is getting its very own southern spinoff, running the same weekend that the OG fest descends on its usual home in the Byron Bay region. The new instalment will take over the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre for two days of live music, dancing, eating and drinking, headlined by renowned names like Lucinda Williams, C.W Stoneking and Buddy Guy. [caption id="attachment_877649" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kasey Chambers, by Sam Meuleman[/caption] The indoor setting is set to be a distinct change-up from the fest's not-so-weatherproof Byron base, with multiple indoor stages and theatre spaces ensuring not even Melbourne's erratic weather can throw a spanner in the works. The precinct will fire up with sounds from Aussie festival favourites like Xavier Rudd, Kasey Chambers, Henry Wagons and Ash Grunwald, along with the likes of The Doobie Brothers, Eric Gales, Paolo Nutini, Steve Earle, Melbourne Ska Orchestra and Eugene "Hideaway" Bridges. All up, you'll be able to catch more than 30 performances across the weekend. [caption id="attachment_877647" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ash Grunwald[/caption] There are a range of ticketing options on offer, from single-day passes to full weekend tickets. Buzz has also been building for the OG Bluesfest's next edition, with names like Beck, Elvis Costello, Mavis Staples and Gang of Youths set to make their way to Byron Events Farm at Tyagarah for a huge Easter weekend. [caption id="attachment_877646" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Doobie Brothers[/caption] Bluesfest Melbourne will run from April 8–9, 2023, at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Grab tickets online from 9am on Monday, November 14. Top Images: Buddy Guy. Lucinda Williams, by Danny Clinch.
When Arelhe Urrperle walks the earth, people will take notice. Spying a six-metre-tall puppet that weighs 600 kilograms wandering around is bound to draw attention. Seeing it mosey through Alice Springs Desert Park, sharing Arrernte stories and language, will be a main attraction at 2024's Parrtjima — A Festival in Light, in fact — and just one of the reasons that this Indigenous arts festival should be on your itinerary this autumn as well. Erth, which has also brought dinosaurs and sharks to life around the country in the past — and held prehistoric picnics featuring puppets — is behind Arelhe Urrperle. In New South Wales, Marri Dyin, which also reaches six metres in height, has taken a stroll at Vivid Sydney 2018 and 2019, plus at the Nights on Crown Festival in Wollongong in 2019. Arelhe Urrperle will be specific to the Red Centre, however, and see Erth's puppeteers train local Indigenous performers to operate the roving puppet for Parrtjima's 2024 run. The dates to head along: Friday, April 12–Sunday, April 21. Representing Arelhe matriarchs, Arelhe Urrperle is one of this year's signature installations — and a new addition to Parrtjima for 2024. Fancy feasting your eyes on illuminated cars that form a collage of work celebrating Eastern, Western and Central language groups? Walking through an immersive passageway that pays tribute to late Arrernte leader Dr MK Turner? Thanks to fellow installations Arrernte and Honouring, they're also on the festival's just-announced program. One of the Northern Territory's annual highlights — and one of its dazzling sights, alongside natural features Uluru, the Tjoritja gorges and Kings Canyon, plus nightly light show Wintjiri Wiru, as well as Bruce Munro's Field of Light and Light Towers — this First Nations arts, culture and storytelling festival takes place against the 300-million-year-old MacDonnell Ranges. Comine that setting with art, music, talks, workshops and more, and a unique festival awaits. 2024 marks the ninth Parrtjima, with its ten-night lineup focusing on the importance of interconnectedness across First Nations culture for this year. That'll partly happen through two things that are always on the bill: two of the festival's regular annual attractions, aka a huge artwork that transforms a 2.5-kilometre stretch of the majestic ranges, showering it with light each night of the festival; and Grounded, the installation projected over the red dirt at tourism and conservation facility Alice Springs Desert Park. The Ranges Light Show will take over additional projection space in 2024, while Grounded will become more interactive. From there, the program includes a three-night marketplace for the first time in the fest's history. The Northern Territory Indigenous Business Network (NTIBN) Buy Blak Market will feature both food and other products from local Aboriginal businesses. On the music roster, Troy Cassar-Daley, Shellie Morris, Miiesha and Mulga Bore Hard Rock will take to the stage. Cassar-Daley and Morris are also on the talks lineup, alongside Floyd Doyle and Dr Josie Douglas. Parrtjima – A Festival in Light will return from Friday, April 12–Sunday, April 21, 2024, at venues around Alice Springs in the Northern Territory. For more information, visit the festival website. Images: Parrtjima – A Festival in Light / Arelhe Urrperle images by Steven Woodburn. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
Salt House is a popular waterfront watering hole for locals seeking delicious cocktails by the sea. Marrying inspiration from a custom-built Argentinian wood-fired grill with fresh seafood and local fare, Salt House's menu aims to champion local produce and the exciting flavours of Tropical North Queensland. Sip on a refreshing rainforest sour packed with davidson plum jam before ordering the daily ceviche with pico de gallo and lime dressing, followed by mains like an aubergine coconut curry with malai kofta, dates and spiced yoghurt. If a seaside seafood feast is what you're craving, try the generous seafood sharing platter or the yellow curry loaded with mussels, local tiger prawns and wild barramundi.
The team at CBD favourite Lennons Restaurant & Bar is getting ready to host two lavish nights of spectacular food and wine this August. The occasion? A celebration of the eatery's focus on local, seasonal produce and the delicious drops from City Winery. Diners joining the meal at the much-loved hotel restaurant within the five-star Hyatt Regency (which has just revamped its menu) will be treated to three courses of executive chef Krisztian Herczig's signature dishes. The menu features marinated king prawns, watermelon and crisped-up fennel to open the meal, and an elevated classic — filet mignon — as main. As you eat, you'll be sipping stand-out glasses from the nearby City Winery, the urban micro-winery that creates its vinos amongst the buzz of Fortitude Valley. Sourcing grapes from the vines of a number of Australia's renowned growing regions, the metropolis-made drops range from a crisp South Australian vermentino to a sunny riesling from Tasmania's stunning Freycinet coast. We hear Gerler's recent release — its much anticipated 2020 Reserve Shiraz — is on pour, too. The exclusive mid-week event kicks off at 6.30pm, and with limited spots available, you'd be best to secure your date and grab your tickets ASAP. The Lennons Wine Dinners will take place on Wednesday, August 24 and Thursday, August 25. Head to the website to nab your seat.
It can be difficult to unearth quality gifts for our paternal figures — especially when it's at a distance. No matter how many times your pops insists on "not wanting any presents" this year, you know that deep down he does. To take the guesswork out of gift giving on Dad's big day, we've compiled a list of six interesting presents you can send the father figure in your life. Whether you're near or far from the human you'd like to celebrate this September, these gifts will ensure you attain favourite child status from the comfort of your couch. THE BEER-LOVING DAD When Father's Day rolls around, the Beer-Loving Dad will want to spend it with a cold one in hand. But, being a special occasion, it's likely he'll want to go beyond his usual brew. To mix things up for your dad this Father's Day, consider sending him a BoozeBud Hops and Socks for Pops Gift Pack. Inside, he'll find 16 delicious types of beer to try, including pale ales, IPAs, lagers, sours and a comfy pair of socks to match. The pack includes independent brewery mainstays like Stone & Wood and Coopers, plus newer kids on the block such as Capital Brewing Co and Atomic Beer Project. THE ACTIVE DAD Know a dad that really loves being active? Like, a lot. You know the type — they're up at the crack of dawn for a lycra-clad, early morning cycle or a surf before they head to work. If you've got one of these in your life, then there's a good chance he could do with a new pair of running shoes because the Active Dad is known to keep a close watch of their step count. So, why not help them hit their daily 10000 strides in style with a pair of new Nike kicks. They're practical, versatile and, if you choose wisely, could elevate your dad's street cred tenfold. THE MASTERCHEF DAD Some dad's are famous for whipping up one-pot wonders. If you've never heard of this culinary creation before, lucky you. Typically, this dish consists of an assortment of limp vegetables tossed into a singular pot with stock and whatever herbs and/or spices happen to be in the pantry. Then, after being boiled within an inch of its life, dinner is served. Other dads, however, take their cooking much more seriously. Whether the father figure in your life is merely an expert in tinned things on toast or could be a serious contender on the next season of MasterChef Australia, sending a quality cookbook his way this Father's Day is top-tier gift idea. Not sure which one to buy? Try Cooking with Koori by Nathan Lyons or The Chin Chin Book bursting with recipes and intel from Benjamin Cooper. THE OUTDOORSY DAD Have a dad who's obsessed with the great outdoors? He's a loveable character who's a huge fan of getting out of town, off the grid and into good ol' fashioned nature. Perhaps this human is still reeling over the cancellation of the TV show of the same name back in 2009. If that's your guy, consider slinging him a lil something that'll level up his outdoor adventure set up and help fill the Ernie Dingo-shaped hole in his heart. We suggest sending a lightweight camping hammock or the latest cooking gear so he can test it out at home — even if the backyard is the furthest he can travel this Father's Day. THE DAD JOKE DAD A lot of dad's consider themselves comedic masterminds. Maybe there's an anonymous course they attend right before the birth of their children that instils a wacky sense of humour in them. Or, perhaps simply becoming a dad unlocks something that was within them all along. Either way, the Dad Joke Dad is a sucker for top-notch merch to help to show off his kooky personality. Thankfully, the BoozeBud Hops and Socks for Pops Gift Pack contains a pair of sidesplitting socks that dad will never want to take off. THE MUSO DAD The Muso Dad often considers himself as a rebellious type. But, despite his desire to be counter-cultural, he is somewhat easy to spot in the wild and typically exhibit one or more of the following behaviours: a history of taking you to live gigs; owning Rage merchandise; and unironically throwing around the phrase "back when music was good". Sorting out a few tickets to your muso dad's favourite band is a lil trickier this year, so we suggest taking his advice and digging into the music archives. Do your darndest to find that vinyl he's been chasing for years; sort him out with a Spotify membership complete with personalised playlists of his faves; or, if you've got a bit of extra cash to splash, send him a record player so he can dust off the record collection and put it to good use. We recommend checking out Sydney's Repressed Records, Melbourne's Discrepancy Records or Rocking Horse Records in Brisbane. Learn more about BoozeBud by visiting the website here. Top image: Discrepancy Records, Tracey Ah-kee
They're both buttery and flaky, they're made via a technique called laminating, and they're shaped like a crescent. They're a bakery and cafe staple, too, and also something that everyone has eaten their fair share of. We're talking about croissants, obviously — but there's a difference between an average example and "the finest you will find anywhere in the world". According to The New York Times, Lune Croissanterie serves up the latter. And, in great news for Brisbane's pastry fans, it's now doing so in South Brisbane. After first announcing plans to head to Queensland back in late 2020, the famed Melbourne croissanterie has opened a new flagship shop on Manning Street. It's the first Brisbane outpost for the brand, as well as its first outside of its hometown. The Lune team also has plans in the works to open a Sydney store, but they've been pushed back due to COVID-19 restrictions. On the menu: croissants, obviously. The new Brisbane venue serves up a menu of Lune favourites seven days a week, as well as a range of specials that'll rotate monthly. Highlights include twice-baked croissant aux amandes (stuffed with almond frangipane and generously topped with flaked almonds), lemon curd cruffins (a muffin-croissant hybrid made with lemon curd, citrus sugar and candied lemon zest), coconut kouign amanns (a traditional pastry from the Bretagne part of France, as filled with coconut caramel and desiccated coconut) and morning buns (a croissant pastry with a cinnamon and orange zest filling) — and traditional French croissants, which take three days to prepare, too. Getting in early is recommended, because Lune slings pastries each day until sold out — and coffee is on offer as well. Wondering what makes Lune's croissants so special? Founder Kate Reid is an ex-Formula 1 aerodynamicist, and brings scientific precision to her craft. That includes the climate-controlled glass cube that Lune croissants are made and baked in, and the time-consuming process used to perfect each flaky pastry. It has been a big nine years for the brand, which Reid co-owns Lune with her brother Cameron and restaurateur Nathan Toleman (Dessous, Hazel, Common Ground Project). The company's journey started back in 2012 with a tiny store in the Melbourne suburb of Elwood. Since then, Lune has grown into a converted warehouse space in Fitzroy (with perpetual lines out the front), opened a second store in the Melbourne CBD, earned praise aplenty — including that aforementioned rave from The New York Times — and now branched out to Brissie. Find Lune Croissanterie's flagship South Brisbane at Shop 1, 13–17 Manning Street, South Brisbane — open from 7.30am–3pm (or sold out) Monday–Friday and 8am–3pm (or sold out) on weekends. Images: Marcie Raw.
Traditionally, autumn is a season filled with orange, red, brown and yellowing leaves, as spring and summer's greenery makes way for winter. Come March, just over an hour outside of Brisbane, it'll also be a time for golden stems — all as part of the Scenic Rim's new Sunshine & Sunflower Day. Expect to spot sunflowers as far as the eye can see at the Jenner family farm in Kalbar. There'll be more than 200,000 of the vibrant blooms reaching up to the sky, in fact, and you'll be able to wander through them all. You'll also be able to do yoga at sunrise in the field, learn how to cook with sunflowers, fly over the top of the property, and have both dinner and breakfast there. And, obviously, taking plenty of photos with a yellow backdrop is on the program, too. The new event is the result of Russell and Jenny Jenner's change of direction during Queensland's ongoing drought conditions. Usually, they farm 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 now looking rather striking, the couple is keen to let everyone else enjoy their golden petals. Events across the day are ticketed separately, so you can pick and choose exactly which ones you'd like to attend — and what suits your budget. For those who'll simply be happy with seeing all of those rows and rows of sunflowers, the $15 entry-level tickets will get you access to the field between 9am–3pm, plus three flowers to take home with you. There'll also be food stalls and vans onsite, plus coffee. And if you'd like to take a picnic while you're there, you can order a hamper as well. Sunshine & Sunflower Day takes place on Saturday, March 27 at Kalbar in Queensland's Scenic Rim. For further information, and to book tickets, head to the event's website.
Sometimes, the best ideas are the simplest. Indeed, when the Mountain Goat Valley Crawl kicked off in 2016, it did so in straightforward but great style. Recognising that the key to many a good night out is a multi-venue itinerary, it made hopping between Fortitude Valley's finest hangouts a streamlined, well-organised yet still laidback experience — with brews aplenty and an ace live soundtrack. Come 2023, the sprawling music and beer festival will still be going strong, and it has another packed day of tunes and brews in store. That date: Saturday, February 11, when attendees can jump between eight Valley spots to see a huge heap of bands take over nine different stages. Also pivotal: entry is free yet again, meaning that you'll only need your wallet for brews. [caption id="attachment_878320" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Darcy Goss[/caption] On the bill: The Terrys, The Buoys and VOIID, headlining a roster of top-notch Aussie acts, plus Aaron Gocs as the festival's host. Among the other artists hitting the stage, Moon Saloon will serve up melodies aplenty, A.D.K.O.B is bringing its indie-rock sounds to town, Horror My Friend will deliver a dose of shoegaze and LOUNGE is all about power pop. The simultaneous sonic fun takes place at Black Bear Lodge, The Brightside indoors, The Brightside outdoors, Greaser (where there'll be two stages), O'Skulligans, Ric's Backyard, The Zoo and Suzie Wongs Good Time Bar. As always, the agenda includes running between each to sip frosty beverages and catch crackin' sets, with the entertainment once again sponsored by a brewery. The whole shindig kicks off at 6pm, so the only thing left for you to do is clear your calendar for an ace evening of tunes, brews and hopping around the Valley. Well, that and check out the full impressive 41-act lineup below: [caption id="attachment_833903" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jared Hinz Photography[/caption] MOUNTAIN GOAT VALLEY CRAWL 2023 LINEUP: ACTS: The Terrys The Buoys VOIID Bakers Eddy Bella Amor Dopamine Big Wett Carla Wehbe Horror My Friend Kitschen Boy Secret Act Sputnik Sweetheart Suzi ZHR 90IVY A.D.K.O.B Dizzy Days Dog God Doggie Heaven Dust Dusty Enclave Jem Cassar-Daley Joe Mungovan LOUNGE Miranda vs Arizona Moon Saloon Mozza Oil! Placement Rutherford Jazz Trio S.A.B Safety Club Stage Presence Supathick The Dandys The Love Inn The Pb's Twine Walta Wissalea & the Walnuts Hosted by Aaron Gocs [caption id="attachment_789891" align="alignnone" width="1920"] katexjean[/caption] VENUES: Black Bear Lodge The Brightside The Brightside — Outdoors Greaser (two stages) O'Skulligans Ric's Backyard Suzie Wongs The Zoo The 2023 Mountain Goat Valley Crawl takes place from 6pm on Saturday, February 11. Entry is free, but you'll need to RSVP for free tickets online. Top image: Nick Mick
There are two things at the forefront James Cousins' paintings – interference and disruption. In most of his pieces, few marry together in terms of colours, texture and shadow, but their clashes create something comfortably wholesome. Everything seems a little disheveled, with the only focus is on the irregularities. Cousins employs images, which he submerges, redefines, overlays, and manipulates with vinyl stencils and paint, letting each lurch away from his own artistic intentions, taking direction on their own. And this type of work has long been appreciated and admired on Australian, New Zealand and international circuits. Cousins has exhibited as part of the The Wallace Art Awards (2005), Waikato National Art Awards (2002) and the Visa Gold Awards (1996, 1998) and featured at the 2005 Rotterdam Art fair. You can see the work of this New Zealand artist at Ryan Renshaw Gallery till the 23rd of August. Some of his pieces are a little confronting, other’s are just sporadic, but all say a little something about the uselessness of focus.
With gathering and venue restrictions in place following Victoria's recent almost two-week lockdown, and Greater Sydney and southeast Queensland both currently in lockdown, it's currently a tricky time to host Australia's biggest film festival. The Melbourne International Film Festival kicks off on Thursday, August 5, and announced its full 2021 program back in mid-July; however, responding to the reality both in the city and nationwide at present, it's making some considerable changes to its format. In 2020, the event was forced to go digital due to the pandemic — a development that's part of this year's lineup, too, but in conjunction with physical screenings in Melbourne and Victorian cinemas. Initially, in-person sessions were set to span the festival's first week or so, before the event closed up online. Now, MIFF has announced that it's flipping that order and expanding its virtual component. Accordingly, for the full duration of the festival, MIFF will screen more than 90 features and a range of short films via its online platform MIFF Play. They'll be available to not only to Melbourne viewers, but to cinephiles Australia-wide, which'll make for handy viewing for those under stay-at-home conditions. Last year's jump to digital resulted in MIFF's biggest festival yet, audience-wise, in fact — and this year's online selection will now start the fest with 2021 Sundance hit CODA, a coming-of-age story about the daughter of adults who are deaf, which is also an English-language remake of French feature The Bélier Family. Which other movies will be added to the online lineup haven't yet been revealed, but MIFF has announced a number of new titles that'll screen in cinemas between Thursday, August 12–Sunday, August 22. That's when Melburnians will be able to see this year's Cannes Film Festival Palme d'Or -winner Titane, which saw French filmmaker Julia Ducournau (Raw) become only the second female filmmaker to win the coveted prize. Also headed to MIFF straight from the prestigious fest: romantic-comedy The Worst Person in the World from director Joachim Trier (Thelma, Oslo, August 31st); JFK Revisited: Through the Looking Glass, a Donald Sutherland- and Whoopi Goldberg-narrated documentary from Oliver Stone; and Abdullah Mohammad Saad's Rehana Maryam Noor, the first film from Bangladesh to officially screen at Cannes. During the physical portion of the program, Leah Purcell's exceptional The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson will still take the opening night slot, just on Thursday, August 12. Due to gathering limits, MIFF will also screen the feature at a range of other venues, including The Astor Theatre, The Sun Theatre, Pentridge Cinema, Lido Cinema and CBD venues. The fest's already-announced lineup still remains in place, which means that Melburnians can also look forward to seeing Adam Driver-starring musical Annette; Memoria, which features Tilda Swinton in Cemetery of Splendour filmmaker Apichatpong Weerasethakul's English-language debut; and Bergman Island, the Tim Roth and Mia Wasikowska-starring latest title from Mia Hansen-Løve (Things to Come). Other highlights include No Sudden Move, Steven Soderbergh's crime flick with Don Cheadle, Benicio Del Toro and Jon Hamm, and Pig, which sees Nicolas Cage play a truffle hunter (yes, really). The 2021 Melbourne International Film Festival runs from Thursday, August 5–Sunday, August 22 — screening online for the festival's entire duration, and playing at a variety of venues around Melbourne from Thursday, August 12–Sunday, August 22. For further details, visit the MIFF website.
The trend of 'cancelling' someone is a contentious one. If you're in support of a person's cancellation, it'll likely have something to do with how you feel about their cancel-causing behaviour. But what if you support the behaviour? What if you'd do it yourself? The water gets murky. Considering that a successful cancellation can determine how the rest of a person's life plays out, should it be up to a wildly unregulated population of netizens to carry out? Or, is it a case of power to the people when careers end and lives change as a result of previously unchecked problematic behaviour? There's much to say about a case for and against cancel culture, which you can hear for yourself on Thursday, July 13 at The Parley. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hiaHlHg8op0 The debate will see two teams attempt to persuade an adjudicator (and audience) at the Powerhouse's Underground Theatre. Although debates typically culminate with a winner being crowned, The Parley is committed to 'empathetic debate' — an initiative driven by mental health charity spur:org's anti-hate project Sticks & Stones, which is dedicated to creating safe spaces for challenging discussions. Why? So society can move to a space of listening and sharing different perspectives with the intention of finding common ground — not division — and to tackle the issue of hate in online settings. Whether you think some cancellations are deserved or you believe people should have the chance to defend themselves or change, The Parley will deliver an illuminating conversation — perhaps solidifying your stance or changing it. Grab your pals, nab your tickets and get ready to hear some compelling conversationalists make their case. The Parley: Should Cancel Culture Be Cancelled? debate hits the stage at the Brisbane Powerhouse's Underground Theatre on Thursday, July 13 at 6.30pm. For more information and to nab your tickets, head to the website.
A great trailer does two things: makes you want to run to the cinemas to see the film in question, and makes you hit replay on the preview itself the moment it's finished. Or, thanks to the rise of TV trailers, it inspires your next date with your couch. You'll want to get as comfy as possible to binge-watch the next season of your favourite show, after all. 2019 is almost over, but more trailers keep popping up for both big- and small-screen highlights due this year and next. And this fortnight is no different, with everything from True Detective to The Secret Life of Pets to How to Train Your Dragon dropping trailers for their next instalments — and the new Jungle Book-inspired film, the Andy Serkis-directed Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle, too. That said, it's a great time for previews of films that aren't based on existing series or properties, although Norwegian disaster flick The Quake — the sequel to 2015 epic The Wave — still falls into that category. Elsewhere, however, High Life sends Robert Pattinson into space, Cam finds the horror in webcams, Blue My Mind steps into a dramatic teenage transformation and dystopian sci-fi effort Captive State battles with aliens. Animated efforts Missing Link and Spies in Disguise explore humanity's past and our penchant for espionage, respectively, while festival hit Capernaum follows a boy's tough fight for freedom — and his tough life on the streets that inspires it. On the small screen, Dogs, Dogs of Berlin (yes, they're diferent shows) and Kingdom are all headed to Netflix. The first is a docuseries about gorgeous canines from around the world, the second is a gritty cop show set in the German city that gives the show its name, and the third unleashes zombies in medieval Korea. Check out this week's full slate below — and prepare some busy viewing ahead. TRUE DETECTIVE SEASON 3 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btoZfxs0pE0 Coming to Foxtel in January. MOWGLI: LEGEND OF THE JUNGLE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVBjPpUlQrE On Netflix December 7. HIGH LIFE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WI49OA3BjU Australian release date TBC. DOGS https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pLCmLgjiJ8 On Netflix November 16. CAM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pN8xZ5WDonk On Netflix November 16. THE QUAKE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=094n7ami6N0 Australian release date TBC. MISSING LINK https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vM5VC7nCv_Y In Australian cinemas April 11, 2019. DOGS OF BERLIN https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzcDBHjHePk On Netflix December 7. CAPERNAUM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULUo0048xZE Australian release date TBC. BLUE MY MIND https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4yyf26VkZP0 Australian release date TBC. KINGDOM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wdDKLeKiFaU On Netflix January 25, 2019. CAPTIVE STATE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ESxrJtJfIFU Australian release date TBC. THE SECRET LIFE OF PETS 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S_Dy6cIyOJg In Australian cinemas June 20, 2019. HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON: THE HIDDEN WORLD https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBcIzV_eIJE In Australian cinemas January 3, 2019. SPIES IN DISGUISE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LSSGHvzMY60 In Australian cinemas September 19, 2019. Image: Warrick Page/HBO.
The phrase "Hollywood on the Gold Coast" might've been coined to describe Movie World, but the film-loving theme park isn't the only way that this patch of Queensland celebrates cinema. Plenty of flicks are made at Village Roadshow Studios. Each year, watching pictures also gets its own festival. You can see films on the Goldie every day, of course, but the Gold Coast Film Festival brings together titles that you mightn't otherwise find at the region's multiplexes — or lets you catch them first. In 2024, 23 features grace the just-announced GCFF lineup, which will run for 12 days from Wednesday, April 17–Sunday, April 28 at HOTA, Home of the Arts and other GC venues. Bill Bennett's The Way, My Way will kickstart the fest, with the Kiss or Kill and The Nugget filmmaker turning his own memoir about walking the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route — all 800 kilometres of it — into a film. Then, at the other end of the event, Ewan McGregor (Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio) stars opposite his IRL daughter Clara McGregor (American Horror Story) in Bleeding Love, about a father-daughter road trip. There's a fitting feel to Gold Coast Film Festival's 2024 iteration bookending its cinema showcase with titles about travel. The Goldie is that kind of destination, including luring Brisbane movie lovers down the highway to watch along. That unofficial theme comes through in other ways, too, such as in documentary Diamond of the Sea, about ironwoman Bonnie Hancock attempting to circumnavigate Australia by paddle; The Monk and the Gun, featuring an American travelling to Bhutan; and a retro screening of Cliffhanger (yes, the action-packed 90s flick), which will take place at Burleigh Brewing. That beer-slinging spot will also host a session of music documentary The Ending Goes Forever: The Screamfeeder Story, focusing on of Brisbane's 90s indie-music favourites. Elsewhere, Steven Soderbergh (Full Circle)-produced thriller Divinity gets another Down Under run after playing SXSW Sydney 2023 — and fans of Gareth Evans' (Gangs of London) epic Indonesian action effort The Raid will be able to scope out the shiny restoration. Another overall highlight: doco Growing Happiness, which is about Scenic Rim farmers Jenny and Russ Jenner, their move to turn their fields into a sunflower farm, plus the popular festival that now takes over their land once a year (including this April during GCFF). Or, for something completely different, Sting, which is helmed by Australian director Kiah Roache-Turner (Wyrmwood: Apocalypse), sees Ryan Corr (In Limbo) joined by Alyla Browne (The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart), Noni Hazelhurst (One Night), Penelope Mitchell (What You Wish For) and Silvia Colloca (Wellmania) — and some eight-legged creatures. With 2024 marking two decades since one of the best blends of romance, comedy, drama and sci-fi of the 21st century reached screens in the form of Michel Gondry's Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, the timing is excellent for checking out the French filmmaker's latest feature. In his first movie since 2015, the director draws from his own experience in semi-autobiographical comedy The Book of Solutions. On a lineup that's aiming to offer a movie (or several) for everyone, musical Greatest Days features Take That's songs, My Fair Lady gets a flashback screening and The Lie: The Murder of Grace Millane dives into the true-crime case. Or, there's also a trip to a Polish village in the 19th century with The Peasants, boxing drama Heart of the Man, psychological thriller Birdeater and Samuel Beckett biopic Dance First. Plus, short film competition SIPFEST is on the GCFF program again, returning to the HOTA Outdoor Stage with 15 bite-sized flicks — and also the annual Women in Film lunch is back. Who said hanging out on the Gold Coast just meant going to the beach? The 2024 Gold Coast Film Festival runs from Wednesday, April 17–Sunday, April 28 at HOTA, Home of the Arts and other venues on the Gold Coast. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the festival website.
Despite popular demand, The European Bird Census Council has yet to put on a ravin’ music festival for all the kids out there who want a bit of dove with their Dvorák. Don’t stress though, as the East Brisbane Community Centre has picked up the loose reigns, and put on a showcase that promises a flock of Brisbane talent. The EBCC Music and Arts Festivals holds a line up of artists, whose specialties range from contemporary classical to a sound a little jazzier. With seven acts on the bulletin, this cosy collection of artists will tuck themselves into the Judith Wright Centre shopfront for an evening of entertainment. Jack Saunders’ Killfloor Project, Macarthur Clough, Hannah Reardon-Smith, Magee, Fowler-Roy and Green Trio, Luke Carbon Quartet and Graeme Jennings and Ben Marks Due, will be just a few names leading the show – it may be a mouthful of a line up, but it sure is a tasty one of new up and comers from our very own city. Don’t miss seeing some of Brisbane’s musically brightest this Saturday.
Do your usual trips to Minjerribah, also known as North Stradbroke, involve hitting the beach? Of course they do. That's one of the island's biggest drawcards — but soaking up the destination's arts scene deserves to be on your list as well. And if you don't quite know where to start, there's a four-day arts trail dedicated to that very topic. Thanks to the returning Straddie Arts Trail, there are plenty of places to begin between Friday, August 11–Monday, August 14. The event will showcase more than 60 artists over 38 stops across Straddie's scenic expanse, covering folks in Dunwich, Amity and Point Lookout. Visitors will head to community and museum galleries, wander into open studios and scope out pop-up galleries. Also, plenty of Straddie's retailers, restaurants and cafes get into the spirit of the trail, too, featuring pieces by the island's artists and makers, and hosting events as well. If you're keen to learn a few skills while you're there, you can book into workshops on everything from sand art and crochet to native flora embroidery and beekeeping. Some sessions are free, but others vary in price.
Since opening in late 2018, Brisbane's Howard Smith Wharves precinct has continued to grow. The spot already boasts a riverfront brewery, an overwater bar and a sprawling Greek taverna, just welcomed an Art Series hotel with a rooftop pool, and is about to become home to a waterside Betty's Burgers. Don't expect the area to stop expanding just yet, either, with a Japanese izakaya next on the CBD spot's list. Although the new hangout doesn't yet have a name, it does boast an impressive pedigree, marking the second HSW venue by restaurateur Jonathan Barthelmess. Come October, the new eatery and watering hole will sit next door to his existing Greca restaurant — and it'll take inspiration from his time spent in Tokyo, where he also owns a fine diner. While specific details are scarce — including just who'll be in the kitchen — the newcomer will take over two levels, featuring a restaurant downstairs and a bar upstairs. Expect a raw section that highlights sustainable seafood and wagyu beef, plus a hefty range of sake and wine. On the second storey, there'll be Barthelmess' version of a vinyl bar, complete with a huge whiskey lineup. [caption id="attachment_640610" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cho Cho San by Nikki To.[/caption] Barthelmess already runs a Japanese izakaya-inspired joint in Sydney, called Cho Cho San, so he's well and truly in familiar territory. And if you're wondering why the restaurateur is doubling down on HSW (other than the killer location), you have all of the Brisbanites who've flocked to Greca to thank. "We love being part of Howard Smith Wharves where the huge success of Greca has taken us all by surprise," Barthelmess said in a statement. "By taking the restaurant space next door we can grow and strengthen our team and invest more into the Brisbane dining scene." Find Jonathan Barthelmess' new Japanese izakaya and bar at Howard Smith Wharves, 5 Boundary Street, Brisbane from October. We'll keep you posted with more details as they come to hand.
Sometimes, the stomach wants what the stomach wants. Sometimes, your stomach feels like it's being spoiled for choice. Whether you're fond of themed burgers, inventive french toast or the kind of spring rolls you don't get to eat every day, Bowen Hills' thriving and lively King Street precinct inspires the latter reaction. When there's everything from cheap and tasty chicken to creamy desserts on offer, where do you start? When you're eager for a bite to eat but you're surrounded by so many amazing options, it's easy to gain a case of epicurean anxiety. To help, we've teamed up with the King Street precinct crew to highlight eight must-try dishes you should munch your way through during your next trip (or trips) to the inner-city area. Your hungry stomach and salivating tastebuds can thank us later. WHOLE SLOW-BAKED LAMB SHOULDER AT THE LAMB SHOP Thanks to its name, it's easy to guess what's on The Lamb Shop's menu. The Greek-inspired joint loves its lamb, and it especially loves putting pieces fresh off the spit into a jam-packed souvlaki. And yes, they come stuffed with hand-cut chips as well. If you're gathering the gang for a casual meal, though, you'll want something to share and savour — and the eatery's whole slow-baked lamb shoulder may just replace your nan's roast as your favourite lamb dish. Succulent, juicy and perfectly complemented by chargrilled pitas and The Lamb Shop's three different salads, there's a reason that this dish flies out the door each night. Arrive as close to 5pm as possible for this one, otherwise you might miss out. 50-CENT CHICKEN WINGS AT WELCOME TO BOWEN HILLS It's a truth that may as well be tattooed across every budget-conscious food lover's stomach: when a dish manages to be both delicious and a bargain, it just tastes better. That's the case at Harry's, Welcome to Bowen Hills' permanent pizza and chicken joint, which serves up 50-cent chicken wings all day, every day (well, five days a week but that doesn't have the same ring to it). All those dodecagonal coins burning a hole in your pocket? They'll go to great use here. Plus, as well as being cheap, these chook pieces are tender and juicy — as all great chicken wings should be. SONIC BOOM BURGER AT SUPER COMBO If you're a fan of 80s and 90s video games, then perusing Super Combo's menu should bring a smile to your face. As Brisbane's resident Street Fighter-inspired burger joint, its burgs all come with appropriate names — such as Hadoken, Spinning Piledriver and Sonic Boom. We recommend the latter, especially if you're fond of stacked burgers that experiment with flavour. Sure, you've had a crispy fried chicken burg before; however this one is just as much about the maple candied bacon, pineapple chutney and a combination of cheddar cheese sauce and smoky mushroom sauce. MODERN KAISEKI MENU AT SUSHI & NORI If you've ever sat down to a Japanese dinner that serves up multiple courses, artfully arranges its individual dishes, and carefully balances its ingredients in terms of taste, texture, appearance and colour, then you've experienced the art of kaiseki. At Sushi & Nori, that idea shines through in a separate menu devoted to modern, creative options — the kind that you'll want to choose several of and create your own multi-course meal. Highlights include the salmon sashimi, truffle tuna tartare and zucchini noodle with spicy prawn, as well scallop ceviche. Yes, seafood features in a big way — and everything looks as good as it tastes. GELATO SHAKE AT LA MACELLERIA Feeling like a creamy scoop of handcrafted Italian gelato, but feeling thirsty as well? To solve this very problem, La Macelleria launched its gelato shakes. Prepare to make a difficult decision, though. Do you feel like sipping a blend of milk and stracciatella (aka chocolate chip gelato), or should your milkshake taste like raspberry cheesecake? The choices go on, but one is especially simple — if you're keen, you'll want to head to King Street. It's one of only two places in Brisbane that you'll find La Macelleria's shakes on the menu, and it makes a satisfying liquid dessert after you've eaten your way through the precinct's other restaurants. SAIGON STEAMED RICE PANCAKE AT BANOI Picking a standout dish at Banoi, King Street's resident homestyle Vietnamese eatery, isn't an easy feat. When a place serves up crab and prawn spring rolls, pork belly bao and salt and pepper chicken ribs, you really can't expect your tastebuds to play favourites. Still, the steamed rice pancake might just jump to the top of the pile. Indeed, it's one of Banoi's specialties. It comes in meat and vegetarian varieties and delivers a spot-on balance of texture and flavour. CRISPY PORK KNUCKLE AT BEERHAÜS Walk into any pub, brewery or beer-loving joint in Germany and, as well as finding plenty of ales to quench your thirst, you'll find pork knuckle on the menu. It's also an essential dish at Beerhaüs — which is part of Rockpool Dining Group's Bavarian chain — and the King Street joint definitely takes this classic seriously. Cooked until it's sporting a crispy crackling on the outside, yet still remaining succulent on the inside, this is traditional German fare done oh-so-well. It's also a top option if you're feeling extra hungry. Naturally, it's served with sauerkraut, plus mashed potato, bier jus and apple compote. PEACH SPRING ROLLS AT FAT DUMPLING For your next meal at Fat Dumpling, we're going to make a controversial choice. There's one dish you can't pass up, and it isn't dumplings — although, with poached, steamed and pan-fried options available, including the old favourite that is pork xiao long bao, you'll want to try several varieties and then several more. Whatever you opt for during the savoury portion of your lunch or dinner, finish up by tucking into a serving of peach spring rolls. It comes with vanilla bean ice cream, and it's the only dessert on the menu because nothing else is needed. Take your senses on an adventure to Bowen Hills and find more great places to eat at King Street here.
Crispy, sweet, stuffed with a creamy filling and made in a variety of flavours, there's only one thing wrong with cannoli. No matter how many that you happen to devour in a single sitting (admit it — no one just eats one), it never feels like you've ever had enough. If you know that sensation all too well, then you might want to tempt your tastebuds down to Locale on Saturday, July 15. For just one day, the Newstead cafe is bringing back its cannoli pop-up. Even better — there'll be seven kinds of the Sicilian pastries on the menu. Vanilla creme, traditional chocolate, Biscoff and apple crumble favours will all be waiting, plus Sicilian ricotta, sweet truffle, and pistachio and chocolate chip as well. They're only available to pre-order, with prices starting at $5. And this only happens once a year, with different flavours every year, so it's your annual excuse to eat all the cannoli you can. Top image: Locale.
Byron Bay is known for many things, including beaches, Hemsworths, a stunning lighthouse and, sadly, a terrible reality TV show. From October, the crews behind existing favourite Luna Wine Store and natural wine importers Lo-Fi Wines are hoping that the coastal town draws folks in for another reason: Bar Heather, their new Paris-inspired natural wine go-to. A restaurant as well as a watering hole, the soon-to-open venue sees owners James Audas and Tom Sheer (ex-Noma, Oscillate Wildly and LP's Quality Meats) team up an impressive staff list: chef Ollie Wong-Hee (ex-Ester, Sixpenny and Franklin), sommelier Ollie Smith (formerly at 10 William St) and restaurant manager Amalia Oxley (previously Agrarian Kitchen). They'll oversee a 68-seater on Johnson Street, located just across from Luna, that'll pair some of the best vinos from around the world with a locally focused food menu. "Over the years we've collected some very special bottles and always thought that if we ever opened a drink-in venue this is where they would go," says Sheer. "We only plan to do this once, so we figured we better do it right." Those drops will include from wine names such as Matassa, Alessandro Viola and Gut Oggaua — with vino by the glass starting at $14 and bottles from $50. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bar Heather (@heather.bar) Both the wine list and the culinary lineup will rotate frequently; however, diners can look forward to a range of snacks, small dishes and larger share plates among Wong-Hee's offerings. Think: a potato chip, comté and shiitake combo; duck confit with betel leaf and kohlrabi; and grilled king green prawns in a sauce made from the seafood's shells. And, price-wise, snacks will start at $8, mains at $32 and desserts from $16. Seaside vibes might breeze through Byron by default, but Audas and Sheer are nodding to their French inspiration in Bar Heather's decor, which'll include an attention-grabbing, mortadella-coloured, marble horseshoe bar. Patrons will also spy French wooden flooring, green leather banquettes with an aged appearance and hanging art aplenty. And, as a soundtrack, afro beats, funk and late disco will set the mood. Bar Heather will open evenings from Wednesday–Sunday, and keep part of its seating — 60 of which will be found indoors, and eight outside undercover — open for walk-ins each night. Find Bar Heather at G9 Jonson Lane, 139 Jonson Street, Byron Bay from early October — with reservations currently open from Wednesday, October 19. It'll operate from 5pm–12am Wednesday–Sunday. Images: Jess Kearney.
It's been two years since New Zealand's huge One Love Festival made its Australian debut, bringing a day-long reggae festival not only across the ditch, but to the Gold Coast's scenic waterside surroundings. Rebadged Good Love for its second Australian event in 2022, it keeps proving a hit, selling out both shows so far. Based on the just-announced 2023 headliners, expect the same to happen next year as well. Given the fest's origins, it's fitting that New Zealand's history-making chart-toppers Six60 lead the lineup — fresh from breaking the record held by Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon on the NZ album charts last year. Joining them is another huge name, especially given Good Love's chosen genre. Where can you see Bob Marley's son play Australia's biggest reggae festival? Here, with Julian Marley and the Uprising also topping the bill. So far, Coterie, DMP and Bradamon are also on the roster, with more acts to be announced for the Saturday, February 4 event. Exactly where on the Gold Coast the fest will take place also hasn't been revealed, so there's plenty more information to come. The day of Jamaican-influenced tunes popped up at Southport's Broadwater Parklands in 2020, and Doug Jennings Park at The Spit in 2022. Wherever Good Love is headed in 2023, clearing your diary, grabbing your sneakers and preparing to spend some time dancing to reggae by the water should definitely be on your summer agenda. Its counterpart is quite the big deal across the ditch, attracting more than 20,000 festival-goers each year for a decade before the pandemic. Planning to attend next year's Gold Coast fest? Expect to have more than 14,000 fellow music fans for company. GOOD LOVE FESTIVAL 2023 LINEUP — FIRST ANNOUNCEMENT: Six60 Julian Marley and the Uprising Coterie DMP Bradamon Good Love Festival will hit the Gold Coast, at a yet-to-be-revealed venue, on Saturday, February 4. To sign up for the ticket waitlist, head to the festival's website.
2022 was a big year for Brisbane-based hospitality crew Potentia Solutions Leisure, with Lina Rooftop and Soko Rooftop both opening their sky-high doors, and Mina Italian first welcoming in diners as well. How does a restaurant and bar-running (and -loving) crew top that? By kicking off 2023 with another new venue, obviously: Rumba, a Cuban and Latin American-centric joint. While this cocktail- and platter-slinging spot is a fresh arrival, officially launching on Thursday, February 2, it'll draw Brisbanites to familiar digs. Potentia has farewelled Argentinian eatery Evita on St Paul's Terrace, with Rumba taking over its site. New year, new focus, clearly. [caption id="attachment_863797" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Evita[/caption] While the full menu details haven't yet been revealed, patrons can start looking forward to share-style meat and fish bites, a big focus on roof vegetables, plus homemade cheese bread served in Cuban cigar boxes. Drinks-wise, expect creative concoctions that nod to the venue's regions of inspiration — and plenty of them. The vibe: relaxed yet boisterous, colourful but raw, and stripped back while soundtracked by Latin jazz. Azulejo prints and bright hues will cover the place, and there'll even be the remnants of a car in a hole in the wall. A roster of DJs and bands will set help set the mood, too, in the kind of space that'll be worlds away from Lina and Soko's luxe rooftops — but promises to be lively and enticing in its own way. Unsurprisingly given Rumba's name, wearing a comfortable pair of dancing shoes is also recommended. Find Rumba at 365 St Paul's Terrace, Fortitude Valley, officially launching on Thursday, February 2 — then operating 4pm–12am Tuesday–Saturday.
"Luke, I am your father" might just be one of the most famous line ever uttered in a movie — except, of course, that's not actually what Darth Vader said. If you're pedantic about the exact phrasing of iconic Star Wars dialogue, or just brimming with Jedi-focused tidbits, then here's your chance to put those skills to the test. Come Monday, May 4 (when else?), Isolation Trivia is hosting an evening of fun that no one can have a bad feeling about. The live-streamed quiz night is delving into the series that has not only spanned 11 films to date — including last year's The Rise of Skywalker — but also inspired a host of new instalments yet to come. If you have a Chewbacca costume in your wardrobe, you're destined to hop online and play along. Sure, your house isn't quite the Mos Eisley Cantina, but you can pretend — may the force be with you, and all that. The night gets underway from 6.25pm, which is when you can start arguing over whether Han shot first. And playing along won't cost you a cent.
Whether you're already heading out of town for the weekend or you're in need of an excuse to do just that, Nightquarter has you covered — in a brand new spot. Southeast Queenslanders are used to heading south, down to the Gold Coast, to hit up the weekend venue's market stalls, gigs and rides. But it is now making the move north, opening on the Sunshine Coast on Friday, November 6. From that point onward, it'll be a permanent part of Kawana — so Brisbanites will need venture between Caloundra and Mooloolaba. Every Friday and Saturday from 4–10pm and every Sunday from 12–6pm, Nightquarter will keep doing what it has always done best, including serving up plenty to eat from its shipping containers. Sunday sessions are a new feature inspired by the move, making the most of the Sunny Coast weather — and, in the same spirit, patrons will also be able to while away the afternoon at the Eumundi Backyard space, where Eumundi Brewery's craft beers are on offer. The space is operating under COVID-19-safe requirements, and you can choose from one-off entry passes ($5) to six-month unlimited passes ($69). Tickets to some gigs cost extra, if you're keen on Fleetwood Mac or Queen tribute shows — or seeing San Cisco or Butterfingers. [caption id="attachment_788865" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Peter Wheeler Photography[/caption]
Ever found yourself eating your way through a high tea — spreading cream on scones, biting into a mini quiche and sipping a cocktail, probably — and realised that you could really use more cheese? Even if you haven't experienced that train of thought, you'll be pleased to know that La Valle Wine Bar and Bottle Shop has the answer. At its High Cheese events, the name is obviously self-explanatory. On the menu: dairy, and plenty of it. You'll be tucking into a tiered cheese tower, in fact — and, each Saturday in July and August, you'll be making the most of the venue's new truffle series. That means that your tastebuds can expect truffle manchego, truffle whipped mascarpone with focaccia, truffle brie slices, four-cheese croquettes with cheese aioli, arancini with truffle and truffle dipping sauce. For your $55 ticket, you'll also get two hours of bottomless wine — something to say cheers, not cheese, to. July's High Cheese sessions are slated for July 9, 16, 23 and 30, and August's on August 6, 13, 20 and 27 — you can make a cheese date for 11am, 12pm or 1pm. And, seating-wise, you can choose to sit in La Valle's laneway or get cosy inside. Update: August 1.
The 90s were great. That shouldn't be a controversial opinion. Whether you lived through them or have spent the last couple of decades wishing you did — aka binging on 90s pop culture — The Foundry's New Year's Eve shindig will indulge both your retro and your festive urges. Drinks, tunes, fashion: expect all of the above at the No Scrubs: 90s and Early 00s party from 9pm on NYE. Of course, it's up to you to make sure the clothing side of thing is covered, and to get into the spirit of the season. If you want to use Mariah Carey as a style icon, it'd be fitting. Expect to unleash your inner Spice Girl and Backstreet Boy too. TLC, Destiny's Child, Savage Garden, Usher, Blink-182, No Doubt — we'd keep listing artists, but you all know what you're getting yourselves into. Tickets are $12.25, with the fun running through until 3am.
Are you a cat person or a dog person? Alongside whether or not you're a fan of pineapple on pizza, pet preference is one of humanity's great dividing factors. Some folks love the unconditional affection that a barking bestie brings. Others thrive on the contented purrs of a meowing mouser sitting on their lap. Whichever camp you fall into, here's something that even the most-avid pup proponents and feline fanciers can agree on: that an exhibition dedicated to both cats and dogs, charting their place in art, design and human history, is a delightful must-see. Cats & Dogs is that showcase, giving NGV Australia in Melbourne's Federation Square one of its big summer highlights. It's a great time to be an art lover in the Victorian capital, or visiting the city, with all things Yayoi Kusama taking over NGV International and beyond — and also this thoughtful and adorable exhibition bringing joy via more than 250 cat- and dog-focused works at the Ian Potter Centre until Sunday, July 20, 2025. If your camera roll demonstrates your firm belief that there's no such thing as too many pet pictures, consider this the wide-ranging display that understands, then illustrates that idea — literally — via art. Pieces by Rembrandt van Rijn, Francisco de Goya, Pierre Bonnard, David Hockney, Jeff Koons, Hulda Guzmán, Atong Atem, Charles Blackman, Grace Cossington Smith and Nora Heysen are among the works featured, spanning both international and Australian artists. And yes, because cats and dogs don't always get along, the exhibition places dog pieces on one side and cats on the other. For plenty of pet lovers, you could hang all the pictures in the world of cats and dogs in a gallery and it'd instantly become a cherished art experience, but NGV International has arranged its showcase thematically to dig into what these two types of cute creatures mean to us. Using works from the NGV Collection, it explores subjects such as working dogs and cats, how the two pets feature in mythology and the occult, and their significance in religion and spirituality. So, expect cattle dogs, superstition-inspiring black cats and everything in-between, Also included in a display that ranges from ancient history to today: a survey of cats in popular culture. And if thinking about moggies and art gets you thinking about Théophile-Alexandre Steinlen's 1896 Chat Noir art nouveau poster, the recent acquisition by the NGV is part of the exhibition. Paintings of cats and dogs, prints of cats and dogs, drawings of cats and dogs, photos of cats and dogs, sculptures of cats and dogs, fashion featuring cats and dogs: they're all covered, as are textiles and decorative arts heroing the two critters. Other specific highlights include Atomicus, the surrealist photography by Philippe Halsman with Salvador Dalí pictured next to flying cats; Thomas Gainsborough's two-metre-high oil painting Richard St George Mansergh-St George, focusing on a soldier and his hound; Atong Atem's 2022 self-portrait Maria of Mars, complete with a lapdog earning atttention; pieces by First Nations artists, such as wooden carvings of camp dogs by Far North Queensland's Aurukun artists; and fashion by Alexander McQueen, Romance Was Born and others. Do you know in your bones that your own cat or dog belongs in the same company? There's a pet portrait gallery, too, where attendees can share images of their own pets. Images: Installation view of Cats & Dogs at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia from 1 November 2024 to 20 July 2025. Photos: Eugene Hyland and Tom Ross.
Listening to live tunes is one of the Queensland Performing Art Centre's main drawcards, obviously. Sitting outside on QPAC's Melbourne Street Green and enjoying free live sets is part of its regular Green Jam sessions, too. But maybe you like your tunes a bit more experimental and improvised — or, you could have an instrument gathering dust at home that you'd like to play at the venue. Musos of Brisbane and music fans alike, meet The Jam Club. It happens on the second Wednesday of every month, and it's a big acoustic jam session. No matter whether you're a professional or you're just learning, you can bust out your skills and add to the soundtrack — all by heading along from 6–8pm. Yes, all skill levels are welcome. And, if you'd rather just listen to the sounds of fellow Brisbanites jamming away, that's definitely allowed as well. So, that's how you can spice up your midweek on Wednesday, September 8 — and again on October 13, November 10 and December 8 as well.
