You've watched all eight seasons of Game of Thrones. You've read George RR Martin's A Song of Fire and Ice series, too, or at least bought it and have a shiny box set of novels sat on your bookshelf. You've sat on the Iron Throne, or made a date to. You've made plans to visit the Winterfell tour, drunk Game of Thrones beers and seen a Game of Thrones concert experience. Yes, the list goes on. You get the point — if you're reading this, you aren't just a casual fan of the hugely successful HBO franchise that's been spun from Martin's words. You're a devotee, and you've been waiting for years for what's certain to be a hefty lineip of Game of Thrones prequels, sequels and spinoffs to start. That time is now, with the arrival of House of the Dragon from Monday, August 22 Down Under. Obviously, you're celebrating with the best wine in your own personal version of King's Landing. Don't just sip your chalice or tankard of choice whenever you like while watching House of the Dragon, though. As you dive into this series about House Targaryen, which starts 172 years before the birth of Daenerys, we recommend turning the experience into a drinking game. There's plenty to say cheers to — and we've put together a part-rundown, part-silly speculation, part-wishlist of things to look out for (while consuming alcohol responsibly, of course). A SMALL SIP: DRINK LIKE SOMEONE SAID "WINTER IS COMING" FOR THE BILLIONTH TIME Someone points out that winter is coming, even if those words aren't specifically said. Someone says "dracarys". Someone says succession, successor or heir. A dragon is seen or spoken about. The Iron Throne is seen or spoken about. Someone gets a limb or appendage lopped off. Matt Smith looks shifty. A familiar piece of music plays. A familiar family name gets a mention. Nudity. Someone says "a girl?", "a woman?" or a similar sentiment. You spot House of the Dragon's obvious equivalent of a Game of Thrones character. You think you see Daenerys because of all the long blonde hair swishing about. Someone makes a promise everyone knows will be broken. A dragon saves the day. The show heads to a recognisable setting. A BIG GULP: DRINK LIKE YOU'RE TYRION LANNISTER ON AN ORDINARY MONDAY MORNING There's a messy marriage proposal or chaotic wedding. A George RR Martin title is mentioned. Someone is literally stabbed in the back. Someone pimps out a family member. There's yet another creepy relationship, whether due to gross age gaps, family ties or both. Someone turns out to be a bastard. You think you've figured out how the Game of Thrones credits came about. You spot a well-known Australian actor. A FEW MOUTHFULS: DRINK LIKE YOU JUST FOUND OUT YOUR BOYFRIEND IS YOUR NEPHEW Orgies! Zombies! Someone makes Joffrey look like a saint. You start predicting what the inevitable prequel to this prequel will cover. AS MUCH AS YOU LIKE: DRINK LIKE YOU'VE JUST REALISED YOU'RE AT THE RED WEDDING Someone says "you know nothing" — or is told they know nothing. It all turns out to be a dream. A Game of Thrones character appears in a vision, flashback or through time travel. Ed Sheeran pops up again. House of the Dragon airs and streams from Monday, August 22 Down Under via Foxtel and Binge in Australia and SoHo, Sky Go and Neon in New Zealand. Keen to get a sneak peek at what's in store, too? Check out our House of the Dragon review as well. Images: Ollie Upton/HBO.
It's one of the most iconic movie musicals ever made — and one of the best rom-coms to grace a screen, plus one of the greatest films ever made in general — and it's also a key reason that singing and dancing when the weather is wet seems like a glorious idea. And, like plenty of song- and dance-filled big-screen hits, the now 70-year-old cinema gem has been adapted beyond cinemas, including as a stage show that last hit Brisbane back in 2016. We're talking about Singin' in the Rain, of course — and, this spring, there's another way to soak in this stone-cold classic's wonders. The Gene Kelly-starring 1952 flick has now scored an onstage concert version, which'll see theatre production company Prospero Arts play through all of the movie's hit tunes. Set to echo through QPAC's Concert Hall: all of the tracks that helped make the movie such a winner, including 'Good Morning', 'Make 'em Laugh', 'Gotta Dance' and, of course, the titular 'Singin' in the Rain'. They'll be accompanied by dance choreography, because trying not to tap your toes to this film and everything inspired by it — which also spans La La Land, in fact — is impossible. For those who've somehow missed the 1920s-set big screen classic so far, Singin' in the Rain charts a story of romance and stardom, as silent film star Don Lockwood (Kelly) tries to adjust to the age of talking pictures, and aspiring actress Kathy Selden (the great Debbie Reynolds) tries to make her big break. It was actually crafted around a heap of existing songs, such the eponymous track, 'Make 'Em Laugh' and 'Good Morning'. And yes, the recent Downton Abbey: A New Era definitely took inspiration from it as well. Running from Friday, November 11–Sunday, November 13, Singin' in the Rain – In Concert will feature including Bobby Fox (Jersey Boys, Hot Shoe Shuffle) as Don, Angelique Cassimatis (A Chorus Line, Strictly Ballroom) as Kathy Selden and Mark Hill (West Side Story, Muriel's Wedding the Musical) as Cosmo Brown, Don's best friend. Just four shows will splash into QPAC for this brief season — and, while there's no trailer for the concert, you can check out the trailer for the film that sparked it all below: Singin' in the Rain – In Concert will hit QPAC's Concert Hall from Friday, November 11–Sunday, November 13, with tickets on sale from 9am on Thursday, August 25.
Watching Fantasmas means beaming with joy and wonder, whether 2024's standout new comedy so far — and series overall — is embracing the idiosyncratic and fantastical, painting navigating life as a dystopian experience, or dreaming up anything and everything in-between. Wanting a world where normal colours aren't the only hues shining and palettes don't play by the rules of the rainbow is mentioned early in the six-episode HBO show, as uttered by creator, writer, director and star Julio Torres in-character as the on-screen Julio. At least as long as audiences are viewing the former Saturday Night Live scribe's latest project, they don't need to pine for the same dream: we thankfully live in a world where Fantasmas exists. With a series that uses a pitch to Crayola for clear crayons to initially weave in its championing of accepting and adoring difference, Torres welcomes viewers into a realm that couldn't have been conjured up by anyone else. Those familiar with 2017's famous 'Papyrus' sketch with Ryan Gosling (The Fall Guy) and the previous year's 'Wells for Boys' skit will know that Torres has a distinctive comedic vision, as kept dazzling when he became the co-guiding force behind Los Espookys, then the filmmaker responsible for Problemista. In Fantasmas, his way of seeing reality — and satirising it — beams bright like he's colouring in with highlighters. Streaming in Australia via Binge since June 2024, this is a show that celebrates eccentricity and confronts life's absurdities, doing so with a pencil case stuffed with crayons that no one else has ever considered picking up. It's true again here, as it was with Los Espookys: Torres leaves his viewers grateful that they inhabit the same plane where he's making TV. HBO has once more given him the means and support to craft a comedy series so singular, so clearly the work of a visionary and so gloriously surreal that it has almost no peers beyond his work — and it does indeed look and feel crafted. There's little that's the same in its narrative or aesthetics, but Fantasmas brings to mind the patron saint of spilling the contents of your head and heart onto the screen with zero willingness to compromise or hold back: David Lynch. While that's the utmost of praise, even such a comparison can't prepare audiences for a show where Steve Buscemi (Curb Your Enthusiasm) plays the letter Q as an avant-garde outsider musician and Santa Claus is taken to court by elves (SNL's Bowen Yang among them) for trying to pay them in Christmas spirit. Then there's series-within-a-series MELF — just one of Fantasmas' pop-culture parodies — which riffs on 80s and 90s hit sitcom ALF, is led by Paul Dano (Spaceman), features quite the twist on its alien-adopting premise and screens in rideshares. Fantasmas also delivers a commercial for toilet dresses fronted by an entrepreneur (Aidy Bryant, another SNL alum) with more passion than you'd expect possible for slinging clothing to deck out commodes. It's easy to keep noting the show's sketches, but the selection mentioned so far already demonstrates another few crucial layers to Torres' comedy. Pursuing nostalgia but realising that nothing is ever as you remembered, constantly and ceaselessly hustling and selling, never being able to escape content anywhere, succumbing to meaningless distractions because it's better than facing life unfiltered: add them to Fantasmas' musings. As the sets appear exactly like sets but with a DIY spin, and also as vignettes pop in and out to expand Julio's mindscape as much as the futuristic domain imagined by the IRL Torres, there is an overarching narrative at the core of Fantasmas. The series' take on Julio trades in concepts, plus in being unflinchingly himself, but doing anything is impossible without a Proof of Existence ID card. He's on a quest to secure one, which isn't straightforward. In the process, he's also searching for a tiny gold oyster earring, under the threat of becoming homeless, and pondering whether to upload his consciousness and jettison his body. As star-studded cameos stack up as well, by Julio's side are robot companion Bibo (Joe Rumrill, The Calling) and agent Vanesja (Martine Gutierrez, returning from Los Espookys and Problemista). The first yearns to become an actor, because seeking fame and fortune isn't just for people. The second is really a performance artist playing an agent, but has been immersed in the act for so long that she's long stopped merely doing the gig as a show. While marvelling at the ingenuity of Fantasmas also just comes with watching it, statements abound again and again in every element. Be it from a narrative arc, plot point, side quest, design detail or seeming throwaway joke, there's a message or several to draw from each and every second of the series — and no matter how phantasmagorical that everything it flings at the screen can get, which is very. Torres excavates and plays with a world that trusts companies and bureaucracies over humans. He sees the cold, hard truth that prizing possessions and consumerism is a form of solace and catharsis, especially when securing existence's necessities — housing being one — is a battle. Fantasmas also contemplates the sensation that being flesh and blood can feel like a disadvantage. Amid the array of relatable issues in its sights, it equally tears into perceptions of societal status, as well as class clashes, more of capitalism's many woes and inequities, health care, the treatment of immigrants and the inescapable online realm. Although purposefully eager to splash around its handmade-esque creativity, too, it does so to stress that it's the product of people chasing a dream, alongside coping with everything that dwells starkly beyond their wildest fantasies, rather than soullessly hailing from corporations bowing to an algorithm. As an actor, adding to a resume that also spans The Other Two, Shrill and Search Party, Torres is just as an inimitable as a presence as the shows that he creates, and so the Lynch parallels continue. His on-screen company in Fantasmas includes Emma Stone (Poor Things) in a Real Housewives spoof, Dylan O'Brien (Maximum Truth) wearing lingerie, Tilda Swinton (The Killer) as water, and Kim Petras and Princess Nokia as mermaid telemarketers — plus familiar Los Espookys faces and a whole heap more — with everyone from A-listers to bit-parters delightfully adopting his wavelength. Stone executive produces, too, with the two-time Oscar-winner backing up the same role on one of 2023's best and boldest new TV shows (The Curse, which she led) with one of 2024's. Perhaps, as Torres and viewers are, she's also dealing with the fact that getting through each day never stops being bizarre by leaning in. Check out the trailer for Fantasmas below: Fantasmas streams via Binge.
Maybe you always leave your Mother's Day shopping till the last minute. Perhaps you're known for being immensely organised, but you can't pass up an opportunity to nab your mum one more gift. Or, you could simply be in the mood to treat yourself — or you just really love markets, taking in the riverside air, and having an excuse to stop for a bite and a drink. Whichever applies, Portside Local Markets has you covered from 12–4pm on Saturday, May 7. Shop, stroll, sip: yes, that sounds like a mighty fine weekend itinerary. More than 40 stalls will offer up plenty for you to browse and buy, including art, plants, ceramics, accessories and more. If you've been to markets at the Gasworks, or in Fish Lane, Coorparoo and Gabba South City, you'll have a firm idea of what you're in for — because The Market Folk is behind all of the above, and is running this new Portside pop-up as well. To give your shopping a soundtrack, live tunes will echo through the Hamilton precinct, too. And, if those hunger pangs strike — or you're just keen on having a drink — everywhere from Sono, Bamboo Basket, Burrito Bar and Ginga Sushi to Mr & Mrs Jones, Belvedere Bar 'n' Grill, Byblos Bar and Restaurant and Gusto da Gianni will be open.
Herbs are the accessories of the culinary world. Sure, you can make something perfectly fine without them, but they add that extra something. If your thumbs are more green than brown — or you're sick of buying supermarket bunches when you only need a few sprigs — South Bank has the answer. Nestled amidst the riverside parkland's many drawcards is the Epicurious Garden, complete with a thriving stock of growing edible greenery. If you drop by between 7am and 2pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, you can grab whatever you need from the on-site harvest cart — and for free. Getting in early is recommended, with each day's supply offered on a first-in, first-served basis. Everything planted and cultivated is organic, with produce rotated seasonally throughout the year. Volunteer gardeners are also on hand until 11.30am to answer any questions.
While it seemed like just yesterday that images of Australians panic buying toilet paper were flooding our newsfeeds, Coles has today confirmed that the bog roll crisis of 2020 is officially over, with the announcement that it has lifted limits on the once-coveted toiletry item. In a statement released today, Tuesday, April 28, a spokesperson for the supermarket chain said "we are pleased to be able to remove purchase limits at Coles on key household staples like toilet paper and paper towel". Previously, it had a strict one-packet per-person limit on the item. This means, next time you head to your local supermarket you should hopefully find shelves stocked plentifully with bog roll. What a sight to behold: https://twitter.com/2017Ferret/status/1253204438371586049 Limits on some other essential items, such as UHT, fresh milk, meat, tissues and nappies, have also been lifted at Coles, but two-item per-person limits still remain on pasta, flour, rice, eggs, tinned tomatoes, frozen vegetables, anti-bacterial wipes and liquid soap. You can check out the full updated list over here. Coles has said that it "expect[s] to remove further limits as customer demand continues to stabilise and more categories see supply levels return to normal", but, in the meantime, additional limits may still be placed on other items on a store-by-store basis, so it's best to pay attention to the signage while you're shopping. Aldi and Woolworths both still have one-packet limits on toilet paper, but both supermarkets have been removing limits on other essential items over the past week. For more details on Australian supermarket item limits, keep an eye on Coles, Woolworths and Aldi websites. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website.
If you're after a cure for your Christmas meat-and-beer hangover, don't be put off by the hordes of children swarming the Moana showings. This Boxing Day, if you can block out their shrieks, you'll be rewarded with one of Disney's best animated films to date. Although to be honest, when you look at the team behind the film, that's not really that surprising. At the helm are The Little Mermaid directors John Musker and Ron Clements, kickin' it old school and revisiting a narrative structure as old as time. Moana (Auli'i Cravalho), the title character and daughter of a Polynesian prince, is launched on a quest to save her people after a curse threatens their island. After she's chosen by the ocean (who turns out to be a major source of comedic relief), she defies her sea-fearing father and seeks out Maui (Dwayne Johnson). Maui, a shape-shifting demigod, is the one who originally put the curse on the islands by stealing the heart of the goddess Te Fiti. Once Moana finds and wrangles Maui into submission, the pair travel together to recover his magical fish hook and restore the heart. Along the way, Moana discovers something about her people – they weren't always bound to their islands. Her quest isn't about seeking family honour, love, or personal development – she's an island chief with bigger concerns. The complete lack of any romantic notions is also refreshing. Moana is a cocktail of all of the best elements of the Disney princess tropes – a desperate quest, charismatic supporting cast, catchy tunes and an animal sidekick – but with one subtle but important difference. Unlike most Disney princesses, Moana doesn't need a training montage to become a boss bitch, because she's strong to begin with. Not only is she a dutiful and diligent chief-in-training, she respects her parents, listens to her grandmother, champions the underdog and walks to the beat of her own drum. She's superficially goofy, but not in a way that undermines her capability or authority. She's a beautiful role model, and maybe the best Disney princess so far. Moreover, the movie's score, written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Mark Mancina, and Opetaia Foa'i, is the music its heroine deserves. Prepare your ears to hear the main refrain 'How Far I'll Go' more than that damn 'Let It Go' song from Frozen. We ain't mad, though, because it's the perfect summer jam. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LKFuXETZUsI
For music lovers, there's only one thing better than a festival filled with bands and artists taking to the stage to pump out tunes. That'd be a free music fest, of course. In 2021, SPRINGTIME announced that it'd be giving the Gold Coast exactly that; however, due to the pandemic, the festival's debut event didn't occur till 2022. That big premiere included a skate park, live art and performance installations, too — and, because it was unsurprisingly a hit, it's coming back in 2023. SPRINGTIME boasts another huge drawcard: those free tunes, skate displays and performances all happen by the beach over three breezy spring days. This time, mark Friday, September 1–Sunday, September 3 in your diary for a trip to Surfers Paradise, where you can enjoy the waves, bars and listening to a live soundtrack on the shore (and hopefully replace your Schoolies memories). On the just-dropped lineup: BENEE, Matt Corby and Bag Raiders, each headlining a different night, plus more than 25 other acts. While the focus is on Australian talent, New Zealand's BENEE marks the fest's first-ever international name, and will add another big gig to her year after playing Coachella. As it did in 2022, SPRINGTIME's live music will take over both beachside and streetside spaces around Surfers. There'll be two stages, also hosting Babe Rainbow, Boo Seeka, Eliza & The Delusionals, grentperez, Sunshine & Faith Disco Choir, Sycco and more. An array of talents will get painting live in front of SPRINGTIME's punters, and the Vans skate team will be back to get rolling. Also, after Shock Therapy Arts brought performance art piece The Cleaners to the fest last year, they'll return in 2023. Exactly what they'll be doing is yet to be revealed, but flinging paint-filled balloons with a giant slingshot will be hard to top. As for who you'll be seeing when, Bag Raiders will be doing a DJ set to headline the Friday, BENEE has the honours on Saturday, then Matt Corby on Sunday. The Gold Coast Music Awards lead into the fest as well, taking place on Thursday, August 31 — and celebrating spring's arrival just by soaking in the location obviously comes with the territory. "We are pumped to be bringing SPRINGTIME back in 2023 for more good times and an unmissable lineup of incredible homegrown artists, " said Festival Director Mark Duckworth. "We created this festival to showcase the very best of Australia's contemporary artists as well as to celebrate and support the musical talent right here in our own backyard on the Gold Coast. I am proud to say we were able to achieve that, and more, in 2022 and saw some impressive crowds come along to enjoy our free festival on the beach. We can't wait to welcome them all back this spring." SPRINGTIME MUSIC FESTIVAL 2023 LINEUP: Bag Raiders BENEE Matt Corby Babe Rainbow Boo Seeka Eliza & The Delusionals grentperez Sunshine & Faith Disco Choir Sycco Austin Mackay Bella Amor Betty Taylor Big Fuzz Bill Durry Chutney Dizzy Days Daste. Girl & Girl Greatest Hits Jason Van Miert Lemaire Matonii Sabio Mitch Santiago N'Jaane Pure Milk Radolescent The Vultures Taleena Tomorrow's Forecast YB. SPRINGTIME Music Festival will take place across the weekend of Friday, September 1–Sunday, September 3. For further information, head to the festival website. SPRINGTIME images: Bianca Holderness. 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.
Wubba lubba dub dub, Rick and Morty fans — the beloved animated series returns for its sixth season in early September, and is bound to serve up another schwifty dose of chaotic intergalactic mayhem. Been wondering what happened since season five's big ending? Can't wait for new episodes, which arrive Down Under via Netflix on Monday, September 5? The Back to the Future-inspired hit has also made the leap into real life, with #wormageddon scenes popping up around the world. What's #wormageddon? It's what Adult Swim, the US network behind Rick and Morty, is calling "an immersive adventure" — and it's setting up IRL Rick and Morty moments in places as varied as Mexico City, Malibu, The Netherlands, Brazil, Toronto, Cape Town and Sydney. Yes, Australia is getting in on the action, with a #wormageddon scene arriving on the Bennelong Lawn in The Royal Botanic Gardens in the Harbour City from today, Tuesday, August 30. In Sydney's pop-up, Birdperson faces #wormageddon — aka a mysterious alien worm that wants to take over earth. That's what happens in the show's narrative after the destruction of the Citadel of Ricks at the end of season five, and where season six will pick up. Australia is no stranger to pop culture-themed installations, especially lately. Everything from House of the Dragon, The Gray Man and Everything Everywhere All At Once through to Squid Game, Stranger Things and Borat has done the same, resulting in everything from dragon eggs and the Iron Throne to multidimensional laundromats and otherworldly rifts appearing on Aussie shores. Usually, they only last a day or a weekend, though, but #wormageddon is hanging around Sydney until Thursday, September 8 — on display from 7.30am–5.30pm daily. In total, 14 custom #wormageddon scenes are setting up shop on six continents, all bridging the gap between the end of the last season and the start of season six, and sending fans on a global treasure hunt to find each scene. Sydney's Birdperson-versus-worm installation marks the ninth so far, with exactly where the remaining five will surface yet to be revealed. That's the way the news goes — and if you're keen to find out more about the #wormageddon storyline, Adult Swim has dropped a few online shorts, too. You can check them out below, along with the trailer for Rick and Morty's sixth season. Rick and Morty's sixth season will premiere globally on Monday, September 5 Down Under. The series streams via Netflix in Australia and New Zealand. Top image: Adult Swim.
It took almost two years, 10,000 nautical miles, a run in with Egyptian pirates and a stint in liquor licence limbo, but in October 2016, Sydney's permanent floating venue, Seadeck, finally opened to the public. After cruising around Sydney Harbour since then, it's sailed all the way up Australia's east coast for an 11-week Brisbane stint, sailing around the Brisbane River for the first time ever starting Saturday, July 1. It's a 42-metre, 410-passenger, handcrafted vessel — from the handmade tiles and custom-designed brass bar to the bespoke furniture from every corner of the glove, everything you see was tailored for floating. Even the palm trees, standing four metres tall, took a dozen specialists to make to the right specifications. Each of the three decks is connected by sweeping staircases and cast iron lace railings, an homage to Hollywood's golden age of the '20s, '30s and '40s. Yes, it's the epitome of swank. Last year, we sat down with the team behind this massive venture — that's managing partner Scott Robertson (Future Music Festival, DIVISION Agency), executive chef Drew Bolton (Vine Double Bay) and design director Alex Zabotto-Bentley (AZBcreative). "It isn't a nightclub, it's all about impeccable service, beautiful food and nice drinks," says Robertson. Bolton is happy to help with that, bringing the Vine ethos to Seadeck. "At Vine, we reinvent modern European flavours with great respect for regional produce," says Bolton. "At Seadeck, our food will also be very produce drive but more casual and playful," he adds. Seadeck focuses on bar friendly snacks, like fresh ceviche, oysters and lobster rolls, but patrons should still expect the refined food experience that Vine exudes. Design-wise, this lap of luxury is the handiwork of Zabotto-Bentley, who radiates passion about the vessel. "Imagine it's the 1930s and you're cruising the Nile or the Dalmatia Coast," he says. "The people on board were seen to be on a floating oasis in the middle of the sea, and that's what we want to recreate here." Seadeck will be cruising around Brisbane River for 11 weeks from Saturday, July 1 starting with an afternoon cruise at 2pm. Tickets, available from the Seadeck website, start from $25 general admission on Friday nights and $40 general admission on Saturdays and Sundays. If you're feeling the need to blow some serious dosh, VIP packages and hosted bottle service is also available. By Marissa Ciampi and Lauren Vadnjal.
Celebrity chef Marco Pierre White needs little introduction – his epic career has seen him work with the likes of Gordon Ramsay and Heston Blumenthal at renowned restaurants across the world. But the latest project from the Michelin-starred chef isn't in the kitchen, but in the form of an app that allows customers to score meals at some of the city's best restaurants at discounted prices. After launching in Melbourne last year, EatClub has made its way to Brisbane. It's a new platform that allows restaurants to offer real-time discounts to customers at specifically slow or off-peak periods. So if a restaurant doesn't have many covers for dinner, they can put up four tables and offer, say, 30 percent off to EatClub users that book those tables before 7.30pm. When you open the app, you're shown a selection of nearby restaurants with live deals on a map or in a list. You can then browse the restaurant's interior, peruse the different deals on offer and even check out the menu before you redeem the deal. It's a first in, best dressed system, so if you see something you want to jump on, best be quick – once a deal has been redeemed, it disappears from the app. The technology was co-founded by Matt Cantelo, Ben Tyler and Pan Koutlaki (ex-CEO of Foodora) who worked alongside Pierre White. The idea is that it'll encourage people to eat out more on a whim, an activity that has declined noticeably since delivery apps like UberEATS and Deliveroo have risen in popularity. A heap of Brissie restaurants have already signed up, too, including e'cco Bistro, Salt Meats Cheese, Harajuku Gyoza, Lucky Egg and Fritzenberger. The latter is helping celebrate the app's Brisbane launch, too, by giving away 300 free burgers this Friday, October 5, from 3pm. To claim your free burg, you just need to download the app, be one of the first 300 people to redeem the offer, then go grab it at the Fritzenberger store — at 52 Petrie Terrace, Brisbane. To download EatClub, visit the Apple App Store or head to Google Play.
If you like chocolate and hazelnuts, odds are that you like Nutella. Actually, it's incredibly likely that you love it, are obsessed with it, and have eaten it slathered on bread, oozing out of doughnuts and combined with every other food you can think of. The popular spread brings out that kind of obsession in people, so it's hardly surprising that the brand is creating a whole place dedicated to the chocolate and hazelnut-flavoured concoction — albeit just for one weekend. Between January 10–12, 2020, Hotella Nutella will be a real place that'll actually exist, rather than somewhere that Nutella fans have just dreamed about since they can remember. It's coming to Calistoga in Napa Valley in California, and it'll make sure that visitors know exactly what it's about. Think "larger-than-life jars of Nutella and breakfast decor, and hazelnut and cocoa spread-inspired hotel items", according to the company's press release. Also on the agenda: two Nutella-filled meals, with one all about breakfast for dinner and the other focusing on brunch. No prizes for guessing what the star ingredient will be in all dishes whipped up, of course. There'll also be a pancake art session, which'll no doubt test just how creative people can be when it comes to drizzling Nutella over the sweet favourite. Yep, everyone's had plenty of practice at that. Alas, don't go getting too excited. These kinds of branded pop-ups always come with caveats, as Taco Bell's hotel did earlier in the year. At Hotella Nutella, only three Nutella lovers and their guests will be able to stay, they'll have to win a competition in order to do so, and entries are only open to US citizens. Given the cult-like following that the brand has inspired around the world, it's worth crossing your Nutella-loving fingers that it decides to do something similar for fans elsewhere. For more information about Hotella Nutella, visit the competition website. Images: Nutella USA.
It has been five years since Deliveroo started speeding through Australia's streets to bring takeaway meals to our doors. And, as we all like to when a birthday rolls around, it's celebrating. This is the kind of party that rewards everyone, too, with the company delivering $1 meals from more than 26 eateries across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide. Each day this week, between Tuesday, November 10–Friday, November 13, Deliveroo is picking a city and gifting its residents meals at $1 a pop. A different number of eateries will be taking part in each location, and they'll each be offering up 100 meals at the gold-coin price. So yes, that means getting in quickly is recommended. First up, from 1–5pm on Tuesday, November 10, is Adelaide. On the menu: dishes from Burgertec, Goodlife Modern Organic Pizza, Cheeky Chook, Blue & White Cafe and Lukoumades. Then, from 12–6pm on Wednesday, November 11, it's Melbourne's turn — with Chicken Episode Plus, Bistro Morgan (including in Collingwood), Tadka Hut, Gelato Messina in Richmond and Royal Stacks Brunswick among the eateries involved. [caption id="attachment_783738" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Royal Stacks[/caption] When Thursday, November 12 rolls around, Sydneysiders can get their cheap food fix between 1–4.30pm — from Little L, Fishmongers, BL Burgers, Manoosh Pizzeria, Johnny Bird, The Italian Bowl and Burger Patch. Finally, to close out the week of super-affordable eats, Brisbane's Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers in Paddington, Ginga Sushi Japanese at Emporium, Brooklyn Depot in South Brisbane and The Yiros Shop will get in on the action between 2–5pm on Friday, November 13. There are a few tricks to the $1 special, however. It will really only cost $1 — there's no delivery cost on top of that — but exactly what each restaurant will be offering for that price won't be revealed until the day. And, a new restaurant will appear on Deliveroo's Instagram every hour, which is where you'll find out what's on the menu. From there, you'll just need to search for '$1 deals' when you're ordering online or via the Deliveroo app. And yes, that's an easy way to decide what to eat on the relevant day in your city this week. For further details about Deliveroo's $1 fifth birthday specials — which are on offer in Adelaide from 1–5pm on Tuesday, November 10; Melbourne from 12–6pm on Wednesday, November 11; Sydney from 1–4.30pm on Thursday, November 12; and Brisbane from 2–5pm on Friday, November 13 — keep an eye on the company's Instagram feed. Top images: Johnny Bird, Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers.
If you're looking to level-up your vino game, who better to have on your side than Australia's oldest family-owned winery. Barossa Valley's Yalumba has been crafting fine wine since 1849 — a stint that's spanned six whole generations. And in addition to its stable of top-notch drops for all occasions, the independent label is helping Aussies elevate their wine-sipping experience with its own Yalumba Wine Club. With a little something for seasoned wine aficionados and novices alike, the Wine Club lets you to tap into expert wine knowledge, exclusive offers and product specials, as well as to access a range of special events and tastings. And despite the swag of goodies that comes with it, membership won't cost you a cent. Sign up and you'll nab ten percent off select purchases in the online wine store and at the beautiful Angaston Wine Room, including plenty of those premium red wines that have become synonymous with South Australia's Barossa Valley. You'll also score exclusive access to a series of seasonal wine packs, chosen by Yalumba's winemakers. Order one of these bad boys delivered to your door, whip out the selection for your next dinner party and prepare to impress your guests with your newfound vinous smarts. Yalumba Wine Club members can also look forward to free shipping on online orders over $200, exclusive dibs on a bunch of limited releases and special wines, and invites to Yalumba events, including premium tastings and masterclasses held all over the country. You can sign up to the Yalumba Wine Club for free over at the website. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
Among the many topics and ideas sung about in Hamilton, the fact that life is about seizing chances is up there with the most pivotal and resonant. In 2024 in Australia, it's time to take that notion to heart. So, you haven't seen Hamilton onstage yet? You have but you're eager to catch it again? Don't throw away your shot — the smash-hit musical is returning Down Under in July, but only to Sydney. After that, it'll finish its Aussie run. Lin-Manuel Miranda's masterpiece initially made its way to the Harbour City in 2021, then went to Melbourne in 2022 and Brisbane in 2023. The Australian production also travelled to New Zealand, Manila and Abu Dhabi, and will hit up Singapore next. Following that is its Sydney comeback, where the biggest thing in musical theatre in the 21st century — and a game-changing, award-winning, rightly raved-about sensation — will make Sydney Lyric Theatre the room where it happens from Tuesday, July 30, 2024. Hamilton's Australian return was announced in 2023, but now it has been confirmed that Sydney is its only stop. Also new news: locking in the cast that'll take to the stage, including some familiar faces and a few newcomers. Jason Arrow is reprising the role of Alexander Hamilton, Akina Edmonds returns as Angelica Schuyler, Elandrah Eramiha is back as both Peggy Schuyler and Maria Reynolds, and Brent Hill again slips on King George III's crown. This time, however, Vidya Makan will play Eliza Hamilton, Gerard-Luke Malgas does double duty as the Marquis de Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson, Etuate Lutui is Hercules Mulligan and James Madison, and Googoorewon Knox plays George Washington. Also, Tainga Savage steps up from the original Australian company — plus the international tour — to taking on the parts of John Laurens and Philip Hamilton. Still new to this song-and-dance take on 18th-century American politics? Not quite sure why it has been the most-talked about theatre show of the past decade? The critically acclaimed hip hop musical, for which Miranda wrote the music, lyrics and the book, is about the life of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, as well as inclusion and politics in current-day America. In addition to its swag of Tony Awards — 11 in fact, which includes Best Musical — it has nabbed a Grammy Award and even a Pulitzer Prize. Until 2021, Australians eager to see the show had to be content watching the filmed version of its Broadway production, which started streaming via Disney+ in 2020 (and yes, it's as phenomenal as you've heard). If you're not feeling financial enough to nab a seat, cross your fingers that the $10 ticket lottery, which offers Hamilton tickets for less than the cost of lunch, will return as well. In March 2023, Miranda came to Australia to see the local production, calling the cast "so fantastic". "I remember seeing Jason Arrow's audition — it had to have been April or May of 2020, and it was around the time that we were watching and editing Hamilton for [the Disney+] release. So they were really stacking up against the originals in a very tangible way, and so we were really proud of the incredible company that we were able to put together from there locally," he said at a press conference in Brisbane "Every original cast is like a four-minute mile," Miranda continued. "They said scientists proved you couldn't run the mile in under four minutes, and then someone did it, and then suddenly everybody's running it — and I feel like original casts are like that. It's impossible to find that first cast, and then it attracts the people who know they can do it." Hamilton's 2024 Sydney season will play Sydney Lyric Theatre from Tuesday, July 30, 2024. Head to the musical's website for further details and tickets — with seats currently on sale for shows until Tuesday, October 31. Production images: Daniel Boud.
Aussie icons like the Big Banana, the Big Crab and the Big Pineapple will forever loom large in your childhood memories. But they might be soon overshadowed by the country's next giant side-of-the-highway landmark: the Big Milo Tin. After a social media callout last month saw 80,000 Milo fans scramble to throw their support behind the idea, the proposition has snowballed, and Australia is actually going to get its own super-sized homage to the homegrown choccy malt powder. If you're thinking, 'we don't need that' — well, of course we don't. The whole thing is a big publicity stunt to celebrate Milo's upcoming 85th birthday. The structure is set to be erected by Nestlé itself somewhere in and around Smithtown on the mid-north NSW coast, where Nestlé's factory is located. Milo has the go-ahead from the local area, and is currently taking suggestions for the structure's location. The town is just off the Pacific Highway between Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour — it's no doubt hoping to become a prime road trip pit-stop on the way up the coast. Although both Milo and Big Things are both integral to understanding Australian culture, we're not too sure about how we feel about having a big commercial product taking up space on the side of the highway. At least the Big Banana has a water park. If you really, really care about the Big Milo Tin's future, you can jump on Milo's Facebook page to throw your own suggestions into the ring. It's slated for completion in 2019, to coincide with the brand's 85th birthday.
It has been 21 years since The Offspring topped Triple J's Hottest 100 with 'Pretty Fly (For a White Guy)', a win that still ranks as the annual countdown's most controversial result to date. It has also been nearly four decades since the band first formed in the early 80s, and almost 30 years since it came to mainstream attention with hits like 'Come Out and Play' and 'Self Esteem' — but the Californian outfit isn't done belting out its catchy brand of punk just yet. Offering music fans their latest huge blast from the past, The Offspring is heading to Australia and New Zealand for a massive tour in 2020. No, it won't be doing that brand new thing, but rather playing all of its famous tracks — including 'Gotta Get Away', 'Why Don't You Get a Job?', 'The Kids Aren't Alright' and the song that's forever cemented in Australian radio history, obviously. Still led by frontman and guitarist Bryan "Dexter" Holland — the band's only remaining member from its initial 1984 lineup, so you can definitely call him the original prankster — The Offspring will hit up Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Auckland in April. And, because one old-school band isn't enough, it'll have company in the form of Canada's Sum 41. Basically, this big tour is your excuse to pretend its the late 90s and early 00s, bust out the appropriate attire — retro sneakers are a must — and get the words "gunter glieben glauchen globen" stuck in your head for another couple of decades. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AltMeuPkWRs THE OFFSPRING 2020 AUSTRALIAN TOUR DATES Perth — Sunday, April 19, HBF Stadium Adelaide — Tuesday, April 21, Entertainment Centre Theatre Melbourne — Thursday, April 23, Margaret Court Arena Sydney — Friday, April 24, Horden Pavilion Brisbane — Saturday, April 25, Riverstage Auckland — Tuesday, April 28, Spark Arena Early bird tickets for The Offspring and Sum 41's Australian and New Zealand shows go on sale from 9am local time on Friday, January 31, with general tickets on sale at 9am local time on Monday, February 3. Visit the tour mailing list to sign up for further details. Top image: Sum 41 via Selbymay for Wiki Commons.
Villeneuve, Denis Villeneuve: that's who is next helming cinema's biggest spy franchise, with the filmmaker locked in to direct the 26th Bond movie. The film doesn't yet have a title. If you're wondering who'll be drinking shaken — not stirred — martinis as 007, that hasn't been announced yet, either. But putting Villeneuve in the director's chair is an impressive development, especially given his recent track record. Since 2017, taking on big-name sagas has been Villeneuve's remit. It has worked spectacularly well so far. Accordingly, after Blade Runner 2049, then Dune and Dune: Part Two — plus the upcoming Dune: Messiah — he'll move into Bond's espionage realm. [caption id="attachment_763765" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nicola Dove © 2019 DANJAQ, LLC AND MGM. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.[/caption] "Some of my earliest movie-going memories are connected to 007. I grew up watching James Bond films with my father, ever since Dr No with Sean Connery. I'm a die-hard Bond fan.To me, he's sacred territory. I intend to honour the tradition and open the path for many new missions to come. This is a massive responsibility, but also incredibly exciting for me and a huge honour," said Villeneuve in a statement "Denis Villeneuve has been in love with James Bond movies since he was a little boy. It was always his dream to make this movie, and now it's ours, too. We are lucky to be in the hands of this extraordinary filmmaker," added producers Amy Pascal (Challengers) and David Heyman (Wonka). Amazon MGM Studios is behind the new take on the British agent. Villeneuve is also one of the film's executive producers, as is Tanya Lapointe — with the latter also working with the former on his Dune flicks. Everything from there, including the movie's plot and cast, is still to be revealed. If you want to start wondering whether the Sicario and Arrival filmmaker might enlist his Dune lead Timothée Chalamet (A Complete Unknown) as 007, that's up to you. Speculation about who'll next portray the character has been swirling since Daniel Craig (Queer) left the part following No Time to Die. There's no shortage of names being floated for the role by the internet, including Aaron Taylor-Johnson (28 Years Later), Aaron Pierre (Rebel Ridge), Theo James (The Monkey), Henry Cavill (Argylle), James Norton (Playing Nice) and Jack Lowden (Slow Horses) — and anyone else you can think of. Whoever gets the part, they'll be in excellent past company. Sean Connery smouldering his way through everything from Dr No to Diamonds Are Forever, Roger Moore stepping into 007's shoes between Live and Let Die and A View to A Kill, Timothy Dalton's two-film run in The Living Daylights and Licence To Kill, Pierce Brosnan's stint as the secret agent between GoldenEye and Die Another Day, Daniel Craig's contributions from Casino Royale onwards, Aussie actor George Lazenby's one-movie appearance as James in On Her Majesty's Secret Service: that's the Bond lineup since 1962. There's no sneak peek yet at the 26th Bond film, obviously, but check out the trailer for No Time to Die below: There's no word yet when the 26th Bond film will release, or its title — we'll update you when more details are revealed. Denis Villeneuve images: Raph_PH via Flickr.
If you live and breathe games, head to the State Library for an evening of gaming-related Pechakucha. The idea behind the evening is pretty straightforward. Each speaker has the opportunity to show 20 images for 20 seconds each as a means of displaying their latest projects and inspiration. This fast-paced format is perfect for sharing all of the latest innovations and new ideas in games designs. Originally devised in Tokyo 2003, the concise approach that Pechakucha takes to presentations has spread to Brisbane and around the world. It was developed for young designers to share their ideas in an interesting and exciting manner. If only university took the same approach to lectures. Surround yourself with like-minded people and gain fresh industry knowledge about the wide world of gaming this Wednesday night.
Some music festivals fill your calendar for a day or two, or perhaps a week or so at once. Popping up midyear each year for multiple months, Open Season has much longer in its sights. The Brisbane event that's all about getting everyone out and about enjoying the River City's live music scene first launched in 2020, and now celebrates its fifth birthday in 2025 in its favourite way: with a hefty lineup that's not only heading to The Tivoli and The Princess Theatre, the venues behind the series from the outset — or to Winn Lane, where it expanded to in 2024 — but also making the Queensland Performing Arts Centre one of its homes. Six venues, 30-plus live gigs, three months: that's 2025's Open Season setup, no matter what kind of tunes that you're into. Bringing QPAC onboard means adding Sigur Rós' already-announced stint at the South Bank location's Concert Hall with the Brisbane Philharmonic Orchestra to the program, for starters. The partnership also sees First Nations fest-within-the-fest Blak Day Out team up with QPAC's Clancestry, even though the former is taking place at The Princess Theatre. On its bill: Christine Anu is joining the party, alongside Thelma Plum, Miss Kaninna and more acts still to be announced. [caption id="attachment_974235" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Alive87 via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] Indeed, this isn't the full Open Season lineup, either, with the talents revealed so far set to score more company. The names already hitting Brisbane would make any other festival jealous, though, including more from Iceland courtesy of Kiasmos, the Afro Cuban sounds of Ezra Collective, Grammy-nominee Kamasi Washington, Soccer Mommy, Killing Heidi playing their debut album Reflector to celebrate its 25th anniversary, DIIV touring on the back of their latest record Frog in Boiling Water, Cloud Control reuniting for the first time in over ten years and Moktar spinning beats. Pale Jay, Jessica Pratt, Mount Kimbie, Ravyn Lenae, Surprise Chef, MonoNeon: they're all on the lineup as well. You'll also find The Preatures, Skegss, Maxwell Byrne (aka Golden Vessel), Sahara Beck, Pruient, SHOUSE and The Gin Club taking to the stage, plus Handsome and Emma Volard at Quivr's Quiet on Set program. This years' Open Season boasts its own brew, Green Beacon's Open Season Lager, which you'll find quenching your thirst at participating venues during the festival. For bites to eat, King Street in Bowen Hills is serving up deals among its eateries, too. "This program is designed to inspire, to awaken our adventurous spirit, step out of the house and get amongst some seriously excellent live music," said The Tivoli Group Creative Director Dave Sleswick. "Every year, Open Season expands and evolves. This time, with QPAC on board, we're taking over the whole damn city. International icons, national treasures and incredible local talent will take over a variety of intimate and grand venues throughout Brisbane. It's an open invitation for everyone to experience the magic of live performance and the power of community through music." "This is the first time we've partnered with Dave and the team at The Tivoli Group to present performances at QPAC as part of Open Season; it's proving to be a brilliant collaboration, and we love that we're increasing the footprint and audience of this awesome festival," added QPAC Chief Executive Rachel Healy. "Both QPAC and The Tivoli Group are all about ensuring as many people as possible experience live performance together. We're passionate about presenting both new and emerging artists as well as those established and already loved, and shouting from the rooftops that Brisbane is well and truly a live music capital." "It's thrilling to see Open Season grow every year and the program this year is better than ever. It really is fast becoming a destination music festival for Brisbane and we're very proud to be on board." Open Season 2025 Lineup 1tbsp Accomplice Collective Christine Anu Cloud Control DIIV Emma Volard Ezra Collective Handsome Jessica Pratt Kamasi Washington Kiasmos Killing Heidi Miss Kaninna Moktar MonoNeon Mount Kimbie Pale Jay Purient Ravyn Lenae Sahara Beck Shouse Sigur Rós with the Brisbane Philharmonic Orchestra Skegss Soccer Mommy Surprise Chef The Gin Club The Preatures Thelma Plum [caption id="attachment_995853" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Maximilian Konig[/caption] Open Season 2025 runs from May–July, with pre-sale tickets available from 8am AEST on Wednesday, March 26 and general sales from 9am AEST on Thursday, March 27. For further details, head to the event's website. Open Season images: Chris Love, Darcy Goss, Kelsey Doyle and Lachlan Douglas.
Before donning a face covering became a regular part of life for everyone during the pandemic, one of the most famous mask-wearing figures in popular culture was doing it first. And, the fictional character will be doing so again in Australia — but, although The Phantom of the Opera was set to head to Sydney from September this year, and then to Melbourne from November, the famed musical's upcoming dates have been postponed. Accordingly, the music of the night will still be crooning its way into both cities via to a new season of the acclaimed Tony-winner; however, it'll now happen sometime in 2022 instead. New dates haven't been announced as yet, but Opera Australia, who is staging the production, advised that it had decided to push its shows to next year due to "the uncertainty created by the ongoing restrictions imposed by both the New South Wales and Victorian Governments because of the indefinite COVID-19 lockdowns." "This has been a really difficult decision for OA and our partners to make and has certainly not been made lightly when so many people will be affected," said Artistic Director Lyndon Terracini. "After making box office history at the Opera House, it was clear that Australians were very excited about this new production of the world's most successful musical, and we'd brought together a fantastic cast of Australian performers, it's heartbreaking to have to postpone." When it does eventually hit the stage, the current production of The Phantom of the Opera will arrive in Down Under after breaking records in the UK and touring the US for seven years. Australia will become just the third country to witness this take on the tale, in fact. Obviously, all of the familiar songs are part of it, such as 'All I Ask of You', 'Masquerade' and the titular number. You'll also be lapping up Maria Björnson's original costumes, too. But, if you've seen the show before, expect the chandelier to look a little different. Australian musical theatre performer Josh Piterman is set to play the Phantom, after first wearing the character's mask in London pre-pandemic. He'll be joined by a cast and orchestra of 65 people, which'll make The Phantom of the Opera one of the largest musical productions in Australia. If you need a refresher on the musical's story, it follows soprano Christine Daaé and the masked musical genius who lives beneath the Paris Opera House — and the latter's obsession with the former. Although first turned into a stage musical in the 80s, it's based on Gaston Leroux's 1910 novel. And yes, you might've seen the 2004 movie, which starred Gerard Butler as the Phantom. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-jpaw9dft2Y The Phantom of the Opera will tour Australia in 2022. Tickets for current shows will remain valid for the production's new dates, when they're announced. For further information, head to the musical's website. Top image: Michael Le Poer Trench.
Good things happen when the minds behind Peters Ice Cream and Gelato Messina come together. In the summer of 2019 — centuries ago — the dessert experts unveiled a limited-edition line of gourmet Drumsticks. Fast forward to spring 2020 and the country is prepping for a summer of social-distancing on beaches and eating plenty of Messina X Peters gelato bars. The new creation, which has just landed in the freezer aisle of your local supermarket, comes in three chocolate-coated, gooey-centred flavours — flavours you'll familiar with if you're already a Messina fiend. You can choose from the choc hazelnut number, which comes with layers of chocolate biscuit, cocoa gelato, a hazelnut sauce and a chocolate coating; the espresso dulche de leche bar, with espresso gelato and dulce de leche enrobed in milk chocolate; or the strawberry cheesecake gelato. The latter sees biscuit, lemon-infused gelato and strawberry sauce covered in light pink chocolate. All three flavours are available at Coles, Woolworths and independent groceries across Australia. Each comes in pop art-style boxes of four, priced at $10 per box of four. If you can't — or don't want to — leave the house, the gelato bars are also available to order Australia-wide via Couchfood. Gelato Messina X Peters Drumstick collaboration gelato bars are available at supermarkets, petrol stations and convenience stores.
Back in 2021, Brisbane scored a new riverside market — and it wasn't a once-off. Yes, Portside's markets are returning, because everyone likes shopping and hanging out by the water. And the theme of 2022's first event: Valentine's Day, of course. If you and your other half really like browsing and buying, taking in the riverside air, and having a reason to stop for a bite and a drink, you'll want to head to Hamilton on Sunday, February 6. From 12–3pm, you can shop, stroll, sip and purchase gifts — a key point, given the theme — which sounds like a mighty fine weekend itinerary. A heap of stalls will be offering up everything from art and plants to ceramics and accessories — and more, if you're stuck for present ideas. And, if those hunger pangs strike — or you're just keen on having a drink — the precinct's usual restaurants and bars are right there, including everywhere from Pineapple Express Cafe, Bamboo Basket, Burrito Bar and Ginga Sushi to Mr & Mrs Jones, Belvedere Bar 'n' Grill, Byblos Bar and Restaurant, Gusto da Gianni and Sono. Images: Claudia Baxter.
Brisbane is a river city, and there are plenty of things that you can do while you're on, near or around the Brown Snake that winds through the centre of town. But Brisbane's Art Boat, which returns for a second year in 2022 as part of Brisbane Festival, just might be the brightest option — because it'll have you moseying along the waterway while checking out dazzling installations. Unsurprisingly, this cruising art party proved a hit in 2021, which is why it is back again this year. Once more, it'll set sail from Northshore Brisbane, doing a 105-minute loop — although some sessions will hit the water from South Bank instead, and run for 90 minutes, while 135-minute Northshore-to-South Bank routes are also available on some dates. Whichever one you pick, Australian visual artist Lindy Lee will be doing the honours in supplying the art part of Brisbane's Art Boat, decking out the floating venue as part of a festival-first collaboration. Get ready to be surrounded by celestial floating art thanks to installation The Spheres, which takes inspiration from Ancient Greek philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras. While it'll be cruising along all across the fest, Brisbane's Art Boat will host a midnight voyage on Saturday, September 10 so that patrons can peer up at that evening's full moon — perhaps after you've hit up the Museum of the Moon at West End's West Village? Also on the bill: dawn cruises, a mindfulness program and open docked sessions on Tuesday evenings (where you can hop onboard and see The Spheres without sailing away). Plus, Northshore's Brisbane Festival hub will host performances, a pop-up riverside bar and plenty to eat, so you can extend the fun before and after your boat jaunt.
With Australia banning non-essential events with more than 100 people due to COVID-19 — and mandating that everyone arriving from overseas self-isolate for 14 days, too — Melbourne's arts and cultural scene has started to go into shutdown mode. The city's major institutions have already announced temporary closures, and now the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra is joining them. While MSO has announced that it's suspending all concerts with audiences in attendance from Monday, March 16–Monday, April 13, it's planning to host an online concert series — because, even if audiences can only watch and listen online from their couches, the music must go on. The series kicked off with a live-stream of Russian composer Rimsky-Korsakov's Scheherazade at Hamer Hall on Monday, March 16, followed by MSO's Beethoven & Mendelssohn gig on Thursday, March 19. Then, the series will show recordings of past performances that have never been seen online before every Thursday night and Sunday afternoon. Music lovers can check out the performances via MSO's YouTube channel. https://youtu.be/MCBYvd5LKa4 Updated: Monday, March 30, 2020
There's a right way and a wrong way to give someone a living gift. Puppies and kittens might be the cutest things ever, but they're the kind of responsibility you shouldn't sign someone else up for. Opting for something flowery or leafy is the much safer option — which makes The Botanist a must-visit destination. At the Bakery Lane florist, you'll find succulents and cacti galore, aka plants even someone lacking a green thumb can look after. Beautiful blooms and designer homewares also line the store's shelves for those who'd prefer a bright but fleeting burst of colour, or something to put them in.
Every birthday is worth celebrating — but when one of Brisbane's cultural icons hits 120 years old, it's truly a special occasion. That venue: the State Library of Queensland. And, as you'd expect of a place that's been all about books, knowledge, creativity, smart thinking and expanding your horizons for so long, it's marking its big birthday in the most appropriate fashion possible. On the agenda: an Extra-ordinary Day at State Library, as the South Brisbane spot has dubbed Saturday, June 18. Tours, talks, workshops and exhibitions are all on the agenda, spanning everything from First Nations art, a peek into SLQ's conservation labs and 4.5-metre-high cardboard sculptures through to screen-printing sessions, banana leaf weaving and a treasure hunt-style mystery experience based on houses whose histories the venue has helped uncover. It all kicks off at 9.45am, with some events only running at set times and others sprawling across the day. Whatever you choose to attend, you'll be commemorating a key part of the city. Images: Kgbo via Wikimedia Commons.
Whether focused on steak joints, restaurants in general, bars, hotels, beaches or places to travel to, there's no shortage of rankings proclaiming the standout spots to spend your time, or just to live overall. Another one seems to pop up almost daily. In fact, one more has just joined the ever-growing array, and it's a hefty addition, with the first-ever Oxford Economics Global Cities Index naming the top 1000 cities worldwide. Use it as a must-visit list, a guide if you're thinking about a big move or to add fuel to one of Australia's enduring pastimes: arguing over which Aussie city tops the rest. According to the index, Melbourne earns the honours this time, coming in ninth globally. But just as the Melbourne-versus-Sydney debate starts firing up again, the latter didn't do badly at all, sitting in 16th. Australia has six cities in the top 51, with Perth ranking 23rd, Brisbane in 27th place, Canberra taking out 44th and Adelaide just missing the top 50. The nation scored seven cities in the top 100 and also in the full 1000, thanks to the Gold Coast placing 81st. To make its selections among the planet's largest 1000 largest cities — which you'll find in 163 different countries — Oxford Economics looked at five broad factors: economics, human capital, quality of life, environment and governance. It also outlined a top ten for each category, with Down Under spots earning some more love there. While no Aussie cities placed in the top ten for economics, environment or governance, Sydney came eighth in human capital, which considers educational attainment, universities, population growth, age profiles, the diversity of the population and corporate headquarters among its indicators. The second-best place in the world for quality of life, which takes into consideration life expectancy, income per person, income equality, housing expenditure, recreation and cultural sites, and internet speed? Canberra, the only Australian city in the top ten there. The Gold Coast placed 95th, Perth 135th, Brisbane 146th, Adelaide 152nd, Melbourne 185th and Sydney 230th. Over in New Zealand, Auckland placed highest at 59th on the complete list of 1000, followed by Wellington at 69th and Christchurch at 87th. All three ranked NZ cities also earned a position in the environment top ten (which covers air quality, emissions intensity, natural disasters, and temperature and rainfall anomalies) and took out the three top spots in the governance top ten (where institutions, political stability, business environment and civil liberties are assessed). Back to the overall rundown, New York emerged victorious over the other 999 cities in the index, followed by London in second. Returning to the US, San Jose came in third. After Tokyo in fourth and Paris in fifth, the next three places were again American cities, with Seattle, Los Angeles and San Francisco receiving the nod. And rounding out the top ten after Melbourne is Zurich. For more information about the Oxford Economics Global Cities Index for 2024, head to the organisation's website.
Well-loved Sydney Chinese restaurant New Shanghai has opened its first Queensland restaurant in the Brisbane CBD at Queens Plaza. Famous for delicious dumplings, xiao long bao and pan-fried pork buns made from a secret family recipe, New Shanghai is a must-visit spot for CBD-dwellers and workers. The striking interior aims to take diners back in time to the 1930s Shanghai streets. With a focus on authenticity and fantastic taste, New Shanghai is sure to be a hit amongst those looking for a change from the CBD food courts or fine dining restaurants. And as is custom with every New Shanghai restaurant, there is a live dumpling making theatre where diners can watch the chefs in action. Queens Plaza, 226 Queen Street, Brisbane; http://www.newshanghai.com.au
I only have a couple of regrets from uni. Not reading Shaun Tan's The Arrival is one of them. It was a set reading for one of my writing subjects and I couldn't get my paws on a copy. But not to worry, I have recently acquainted myself with Shaun's work and have fallen in love with his amazing visual landscapes. Shaun Tan? Who be that, I hear you non-educated (joking) folk say? He is not a recurring character in Nelly/Snoop songs (Sean John), like I heard yelled out in a lecture. No, no, he is an Oscar-winning illustrator and author known for his meticulous attention to detail and ability to tell stories with his astonishing drawings. The Art of Story is a chance for you to see Shaun's illustrations for free, and unlike my library dilemmas, you'll be able to see these uninterrupted for 2 weeks. There'll be limited edition prints from many of his well-known books: The Rabbits, The Red Tree and The Arrival to name a few. Also featured will be The Lost Thing, which put a hot little golden statue in Mr Tan's hands. Power on down to the 'House from June 28 and be truly amazed. You won't regret it!
Before Deborah Mailman became one of Australia’s most-loved performers, and before Wesley Enoch took on the role of artistic director at Queensland Theatre Company, they wrote The 7 Stages of Grieving. That was in 1995, the one-woman play helping shape their careers that followed. Twenty years later, it remains among their best works. The 7 Stages of Grieving shares personal stories and public grief, all stemming from the state of Indigenous Australians and the impact of Aboriginal history. Decades may have passed; however, this narrative of hope stemming from hurt, and of reaching for reconciliation beyond tragedy and simply surviving, is as timely and topical today as it was then. Here, Chenoa Deemal takes the lead in the latest staging of a performance that doesn’t just tell a wealth of tales but opens up a conversation about issues that continue around the country. Theatre is rarely as funny, devastatingly sad, politically relevant and culturally profound as this.
Durex is about to launch its Naked Box project, a design competition that will let your work be seen by naked people everywhere. Specifically calling for young designers, the Naked Box competition offers a rare opportunity for emerging artists to work with a global brand and have their work showcased around the world. If you're quite keen on drawing, design, or otherwise have an arty bone in your body (pun gleefully intended), Durex wants you to help them out by designing their new condom pack, to be sold globally. This means your designs could be the first thing people turn to during critical moments in bedrooms from Brisbane to Bratislava. While you're not allowed to be too rude and have to mind your language, the Naked Box competition website offers tools like Vibrating Pencils and Ribbed Rollers to help you out in the design process. There's also a design gallery where weekly winners are announced so that you can see what you're up against. Aside from the grand prize, there's also a bunch of other assorted cool stuff you can get your hands on, including iPads, underwear, t-shirts and other non-specific Durex paraphernalia. To enter, all you need to do is submit your design through Facebook. Entries open on March 7 and close on April 17 at midnight GMT, so there's plenty of time to get designing. Punters can also vote on Facebook for their favourite designs and evaluate each entrant's hard work for themselves.
The Athlete's Foot pride themselves on helping you find your fit, and if you haven't found a fun run that suits your exercise style yet, you're in luck — we're coming up to the major running event season for 2013. While nothing like an actual marathon, fun runs range from the absolute crazy to the absolute gruelling. Whether you're in costume, taking a stroll, or crawling through mud, some things remain the same: it's a great way to get fit, socialise, and have some fun. If you're planning to do one or more of these, make sure you've got the right shoes to tackle all the obstacles. The folks at The Athlete's Foot pride themselves on excellent service and really know what shoes you need. Drop into one of their 130 stores nationwide or shop online. They have footwear solutions for muddy runs and colour runs, and they know all about the shoe technologies to keep you ahead of zombies, Spartans, and more. 1. The Zombie Escape Survival Challenge One of the most inventive fun runs around, and in keeping with the current zombie fad, the Zombie Run pits runners against zombies. Runners must brave various obstacles while pursued by 'zombies', who have professional make-up applied before being let loose to go after the runners' brains. The organisers' recommendation for preparation is "Run. Watch zombie movies. Run some more." Spectator tickets are available for those who wish to purely watch the action. When and where: 13 April (Brisbane, Gold Coast), 13 May (Sydney), 13 June (Melbourne, Perth)Length: 5kmCost: TBC, pre-register here. 2. Cupid's Undie Run Purported as putting "the hilarity back into charity", the Cupid's Undie Run tells hopefuls to leave their Sunday best at home and don nothing but their underwear. Participants raise money for the Children's Tumour Foundation of Australia, an organisation dedicated to fighting neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder which can cause deafness, blindness, cancer, and chronic pain. Runners are rewarded for their good deeds with prizes, post-race entertainment, drinks, and awards. Get in the spirit with some cool red, pink, or purple Nike Frees — flexible footwear in great colours for the run. When and where: The weekend before Valentine’s Day at Bungalow 8 and the Barangaroo Foreshore Walk, SydneyLength: 1.5kmCost: $30 3. The Color Run The Color Run certainly puts the fun into the run. Decked out in white shirts, runners are blasted by volunteers, staff, and sponsors with a new colour each kilometre: pink, orange, yellow, blue, then a mishmash of colours for the final stretch. Stick around at the finish line for more colour, food, and activities. Participants are encouraged to raise money for charity; the Color Run has a different charity partner for each city. The run in Sydney supports HeartKids Australia, which provides support to children with heart disease and their families. When and where: 10 February (Sydney) at Sydney Olympic Park, with other capital cities throughout the yearLength: 5kmCost: $55 (solo) or $50 (4+ group) 4. Tough Mudder The Tough Mudder run means taking a cup of tough with a spoonful of humour. Designed by British Special Forces, the run is an obstacle course which tests strength, endurance, and solidarity but is more enjoyable than a marathon. 'Mudders' work in teams, with the option of wearing outrageous team costumes, and are greeted at the end with live music, beer, and good cheer. A season pass is available for entry to all Australian events, including those already sold out. When and where: 13 & 14 April (Sydney), 17 & 18 August (Sunshine Coast), 14 & 15 September (Melbourne), 12 & 13 October (Sydney) or 26 & 27 October (Perth)Length: 18–20kmCost: $80-$180 5. Spartan Race The Spartan Race is no joke. In a bid to transport participants back to ancient times, the race, a little sibling of the Spartan Death Race, is set on harsh terrain with obstacles of fire, water, mud, and barbed wire. The first races in the season are 'Sprints' of 7km, which progress to 'Super' of 14km and 'Beast' of 21km. People can fly solo or register as a team, and the Spartan Kids race allows children to experience some of the challenges. The race is followed by food, drink, and stalls. When and where: 2 March (Melbourne), 16 March (Sydney) and 22 June (Brisbane)Length: 7km (Sydney, Melbourne) or 14km (Brisbane)Cost: $85-$95 6. Mother's Day Classic - Sponsored by The Athlete's Foot Kill two birds with one stone by getting fit and raising money for breast cancer research. People can choose to run or walk the easy Mother's Day Classic course, which has a 4km or an 8km version. If you are one of the fastest, or have the largest school team, corporate team, or friends and family team, you could score a trophy. It's a perfect day out for the family, with entertainment, food vendors, and kids’ activities, such as face painting and jumping castles, on site. Participants can be sponsored for their run or walk by setting up an online fundraising page. The Athlete's Foot is one of the major sponsors of this event, and you should look out for their stand after you complete the race to score awesomely rewarding treats (like their 'I did it!' medals last year). Make sure you get fitted properly for your training in your nearest store, and join them on Facebook — we hear rumours they are giving away lots of tickets for free, plus training tips, training nights, and more very soon. When and where: Mother's Day, 12 May, at The Domain, Sydney (other capital cities and regional areas also hold events)Length: 4km or 8kmCost: $20-$50, with special prices for families 7. True Grit If you’re looking for minefields, 4 metre high cargo nets, rivers of fire, and crisscrossing routes, True Grit is for you. The term 'fun run' is used loosely for True Grit; with over 30 obstacles in each military-style event specially designed by Australian Special Forces, it is not for the faint-hearted. Two training programs assist participants in their preparation, as well as improving fitness and body strength. Their promotional videos will either entice you or scare you away from the challenge. When and where: 11 & 12 May (Adelaide), with other capital cities to be announced soon. Pre-register here.Length: 10–12kmCost: $70-$120 8. Greatest Athlete The Greatest Athlete Challenge is much more than a fun run: participants compete for the chance to appear on the Greatest Athlete TV Series which will appear on the Nine Network from September 2013. The challenge is an obstacle course with 16 obstacle stations, ranging from easy to advanced. The top 50 men and women win a place on the TV series, where they will battle against each other and well-known sporting legends for $200,000 in cash and prizes. TV-shy athletes can take the 'Adventure Challenge', a modified, non-TV version of the course. When and where: 18 May (Gold Coast, Brisbane), 25 May (Sydney), 1 June (Canberra), 8 June (Melbourne), 15 June (Adelaide), 29 June (Perth)Length: 5kmCost: $110 (Adventure), $145 (TV Series) or $350-$500 for a season pass 9. The Warrior Challenge This is an obstacle course for people who don't mind getting dirty. Stretching over forest, bitumen, mountain terrain, mud, and snow, the Warrior Challenge organises tough challenges throughout the year, regardless of the seasons. The Samurai Challenge is coming up in March, with large mud pits, huge walls, cable climbs, commando crawls, a snow pit, and prizes for the winners. Accommodation and food packages are on offer, and there's no need to worry about the kids, who can be left to amuse themselves in a jumping castle. When and where: 2 March at Lake Mountain Alpine Resort, VictoriaLength: 15kmCost: $55 (early early bird), $69 (early bird) or $79 (regular admission) 10. The Great Tribal Chase Working in tribes of two to six, people scour Sydney's streets for 'checkpoints' by solving riddles on their clue sheet. At each checkpoint, there are two activities to be completed, which might be a history question or a puzzle. Tribes raise money for Good Beginnings Australia, a charity that provides support to disadvantaged children and their parents. There are great prizes for those who solve the most puzzles and raise the most money. When and where: 5 May at Sydney CBD and foreshoreLength: 4 hoursCost: $24 (individual), $49 (family) If you need some inspiration to start training, make sure you visit The Athlete’s Foot. We're also loving their latest Brooks Float or Feel range, in stores and online now.
Caviar isn't the type of food you eat every day. Nine courses of caviar — well, that's a meal that probably hasn't ever crossed your mind. That's what's on offer at Bacchus' decadent caviar degustation dinner. If you thought their five-course truffle degustation was indulgent, this takes treating yo'self to a whole other level yet again. From October 3 to 21, the South Bank restaurant will be whipping up a showcase of the best caviar from around the world, including Australia's own. On the menu is sashimi and yoghurt with Russian sturgeon caviar, wild scampi caviar from Western Australia, a caviar and ravioli combo, caviar and cheese, and a finale dish that'll apparently leave a lasting impression. To be honest, the whole dinner should — surprising no one, this caviar-tastic experience doesn't come cheap. In fact, it's a bust-open-the-piggy-bank kind of meal, costing $249 per person. If you've found a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, opt for the version with continuous Ruinart R de Ruinart Champagne for $399, and ponder the fact that you'll likely never have a dinner this fancy again.
Two years after the Hard Rock Cafe on the Gold Coast shut its doors, the site that the bar and eatery called home — and its giant neon guitar, too — has reopened as The Sporting Globe x 4 Pines. A trip to the corner of Cavill Ave and Surfers Paradise Boulevard previously entailed soaking up music history, but now it involves sports, sports and more sports over a brew. For more than a quarter century, no stint in Surfers Paradise was complete without a sighting of the Hard Rock Cafe's luminous musical instrument. You might not have been heading to the bar and eatery. You mightn't have ever set foot inside it, in fact. But if you were in the vicinity, you still saw the guitar. It also acted as handy meeting point, because everyone — tourists, locals and Brisbanites on weekenders down the coast — could instantly spot it. In 2022, Hard Rock Cafe said goodbye to its perch in the Paradise Centre. Then, in 2023, it was announced that a brewpub offshoot of sports bar brand The Sporting Globe would take its place, in what marks its second-ever site with 4 Pines Brewing Company. Initially due to launch during summer 2024, it threw open its doors on Friday, June 14 following a $6.5-million makeover. The prime location has now gained a microbrewery, plus the Gold Coast's largest island bar. 4 Pines is taking care of the former, with 14 of its beers pumping through some of the venue's 80 taps. As well as familiar sips, patrons can enjoy special releases whipped up with Queensland in mind. Hard Rock Cafe wasn't small — it needed room to fit in all that music memorabilia — and The Sporting Globe x 4 Pines isn't either, accommodating 1000 patrons. The brewpub also features a restaurant slinging pub-style fare such as wings, pulled pork sliders, mac 'n' cheese bites, salt and pepper calamari, steak fries, wedges, loaded nachos and six types of burgers. The range from the grill includes angus rumps, baby back pork ribs by the full and half rack, and a one-kilogram meat board. Opt for a parmigiana instead and you have nine choices — and yes, a cheeseburger version does sound mighty tempting. Swapping tunes for sports, patrons can now check out their favourite codes on 60-plus high-definition TVs. If you're particularly keen for a big-screen experience, there's a few five-square-metre screens among them. Although this is just the second The Sporting Globe x 4 Pines brewpub, with the first already operating at King Street Wharf in Sydney, The Sporting Globe brand spans 21 bars around the country. In Queensland, it boasts sites at Robina on the Gold Coast, plus Logan and Chermside in Brisbane, with all The Sporting Globe venues falling under Signature Hospitality Group. "The growth of The Sporting Globe has been enormous; this was a natural next play. We're offering a unique experience that creates a major win for continued efforts to revitalise and re-establish Surfers as the original and true heart of the Gold Coast," said The Sporting Globe's founder and CEO James Sinclair. "What's better than catching up with friends over a beer with a front row seat to the best live sports?" added 4 Pines CEO Todd Atkinson. "We can't wait to bring 4 Pines' freshest brews to our new mates in Surfers Paradise." Find The Sporting Globe x 4 Pines on the corner of Cavill Ave and Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise — operating 10am–late seven days a week. Head to The Sporting Globe's website for further details.
Just when you thought the celebrations were over, the Festivus pole keeps on giving with this beauty: a George Costanza-themed bar. Yep, the Seinfeld character and undisputed Lord of the Idiots himself has provided the inspiration for a whole damn bar, which officially opened in Melbourne last night. George's Bar reads exactly like those mates who have watched every episode of the NBC comedy six times, quote it constantly and emulate a Jerry Seinfeld-esque vibe. Unsurprisingly, co-owner Dave Barrett is one of those people, and told The Age that the idea to theme the bar arose because they just "really like Seinfeld". The bar, which is located in the city's inner north, is filled with signed Seinfeld memorabilia, paste-ups, and will serve well-named toasties and cocktails such as The Hand Model and The Art Vandalay. Expect many a Costanza quote. As far as themed bars go, this is definitely one of the most interesting — and pop culturally significant — to open for a while. Novelty factor is at an all-time high. Book a trip to Melbourne and let the Summer of George commence. George's Bar is located in Melbourne at 120 Johnston Street, Fitzroy and is open 6pm - late daily. For more info, visit their Facebook page. Via The Age.
Brisbane's midweek public holiday is upon us. You'd prefer sitting in a cinema to walking around the Ekka. But, your wallet doesn't want to play ball. Call Dendy Cinemas' latest special a case of great timing, then, with the chain offering up discount tickets that'll solve your problem. All day on Wednesday, August 16, regardless of whether you purchase online or in person, you'll only pay $8 for your movie of choice at Portside and Coorparoo. Or movies. With everything from Asteroid City and Talk to Me to Barbie and Oppenheimer currently screening — plus Sisu, Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One, Chevalier and Meg 2: The Trench, too — there's plenty to watch if you're keen to spend as much time in a darkened room as possible. The special isn't available for special events, Dendy Arts sessions or premium sessions, but you're certain to find something to watch regardless. Also included: sing-along sessions of Disney favourites Moana, Encanto and Frozen, if you'd prefer some Mouse House sweetness on your day off. A PSA: book online and there will be a fee; however, your basic ticket will still just be $8.
Superheroes aren't subtle. Some endeavour to blend in as ordinary people — sporting glasses that somehow trick the world into not spotting their real identities, for instance — but wearing brightly hued spandex suits isn't a low-key move. And, neither is busting out super strength or speed, or invisibility or being able to shrink, or any other preternatural abilities that caped crusaders have at their disposal. Superheroes are also everywhere, or that's how it feels when you're watching a screen big or small. So if you're going to satirise this super-powered genre, throwing nuance out the window is as essential as retaining a super-sized dose of self-awareness. For three seasons now, The Boys has understood this. Prime Video's page-to-screen parody first arrived in 2019, making the leap from Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson's comic book series of the same name. It returned in 2020 with more, and now follows that up with a third spin (dropping three episodes on Friday, June 3, then releasing the remaining five week by week). Across every instalment in all three seasons, The Boys has also gleaned something else crucial: that superhero fatigue is real and in non-stop supply. It knows that it dwells in an IRL world where every second blockbuster movie and every third TV show is about lycra-clad folks, and where anything else is becoming an outlier at the box office and in streaming queues alike. So, from day one, it has savvily set itself up as a much-needed antidote. A show about supes that's a tonic to all those flicks and other series about supes? Yes, That's The Boys. It's also gleefully OTT, unflinchingly violent, immensely funny, and so eager to push boundaries that you could be forgiven for wondering if its powers-that-be are just whipping up with the most outlandish things they think they can get away with. But The Boys isn't a respite from all that other never-ending superhero fare merely due to its tone, but thanks to its smarts. Indeed, in season three, it goes all in on one of its most pressing topics: the ideas and ideals about life that get passed down when worshipping the super-powered (and the wealthy, and just the powerful, and generally the white and male as well) is the unthinking cultural status quo. For the uninitiated, The Boys lurks in a version of reality that has supes in the flesh, not just in flickering frames. And while the marketing-driven, profit-chasing narrative pumped out around them by supe-peddling corporation Vought International hails these heroes as being better than everyone else, this show is well aware that buying that line about any celebrities is foolish. Names are changed and some details, too, but spying parallels off-screen is easy by design. Accordingly, that Vought has layered its famous figures across every platform it can, including theme parks, isn't surprising. That the supposed best of the best are packaged together as the ultimate hero team, The Seven, isn't either. Nor is the avid fandom they receive, or the film franchises sprawling around them, or the notion that spouting fawning adoration should be automatic. It's been evident since episode one that The Seven leader Homelander (Antony Starr, Banshee) uses his public persona as a shield for his twisted ego, soul-devouring insecurities, arrogance and selfishness — and, instalment by instalment, his sinister true nature keeps burning. In The Boys' third season, he may as well be America's most recent ex-President, complete with unhinged rants and an at-any-cost desperation to retain control. The comics were actually published from 2006–12, but the show they've spawned is firmly steeped in the polarised US of the past six or so years. That's another reason that subtlety hardly comes with the territory, and yet it doesn't make The Boys any less potent. The in-show alternative to Homelander's psychopathic, egotistical, world-threatening existence: the ragtag gang of vigilantes that shares the series' name. Led by cynical-as-fuck Brit Billy Butcher (Karl Urban, Thor: Ragnarok), they remain intent on bringing down Vought and The Seven, as always. About year has passed, however, and Hughie (Jack Quaid, Scream) now works with congresswoman Victoria Neuman (Claudia Doumit, Where'd You Go, Bernadette) at the Federal Bureau of Superhuman Affairs, countering misbehaving superheroes the legal way. That involves overseeing Butcher and fellow pals Frenchie (Tomer Capone, One on One) and Kimiko (Karen Fukuhara, Suicide Squad), but this wouldn't be The Boys if their battle was that straightforward. So much that happens in season three stems from that one underlying concept: that the penchant for passing on automatic superhero fandom is a symptom of a society — and of people, too — happier to rot mindlessly than do what's right. It's there in the reality TV show that The Seven's Starlight (Erin Moriarty, Captain Fantastic), also Hughie's girlfriend, hosts to find new members for the supe team. It's also in Mother's Milk's (Laz Alonso, Wrath of Man) multilayered subplot, which sees him in and out of The Boys, avenging his traumatic past and worrying about who's influencing his pre-teen daughter. Butcher's relentless quest to vanquish Homelander, also at any cost, fits as well. And, it's an inescapable part of the tale around long-missing hero Soldier Boy (Jensen Ackles, Supernatural) and everything that being a supe stood for in his heyday between the 40s and 80s. The Boys isn't saying much that's new in its third season, but it continues to bite deeper — and sharper. Finding more ways to spell out how insidious caped-crusader mania keeps getting must be as entertaining a task as conjuring up bloodier, gorier, more audacious setpieces; this season ups the ante on both, and it's equally entertaining to watch. Taking Honey I Shrunk the Kids to a brazen extreme, bringing one of its source material's most jaw-dropping storylines to the screen, tearing into toxic masculinity in a plethora of ways, getting just as savage about corporate domination: that's all on the menu, too. So is riffing on pandemic-era pop-culture moments, serving up impressive cameos, spewing guts and other bodily substances, and throwing in Britney Spears and Fast and Furious winks, plus song-and-dance numbers. Much of the above happens within season three's first episode, in fact, but The Boys definitely starts its latest go-around as it continues. And yes, that includes doubling down on the two performances that couldn't sum up this darker-than-dark, unshakeably bleak, constantly perceptive show better, with New Zealanders Starr and Urban each as hypnotic as ever as two sides of the same coin. Just don't go thinking that either of them play heroes. Check out the trailer for The Boys season three below: The third season of The Boys streams via Prime Video from Friday, June 3.
While NSW's restrictions are easing somewhat, with restaurants, cafes and other food-first venues reopening with restrictions from May 15, we're still a little way off being able to head underground for just a shot of cognac, a shit tinnie and shooting the shit at a bar. This exact scenario is what we're missing at Ramblin' Rascal Tavern, Sydney's cognac- and corn nut-doused dive bar. So, we've asked Bar Manager Dylan Ruba how we can attempt to recreate a small slice of that experience at home: the drinks. If you've frequented Ramblin', you've more than likely had your cognac, short, neat and consumed in one shot, but when you're at home on the couch watching Mad Men reruns (as Ruba has during lockdown), you might want to try something a little… longer. Ruba's run us through three of his favourite drinks to make at home, which are riffs on a few of Rascal's signature cocktails. They're "tried and tested with a bit of at-home flair" according to Ruba — and they're drinks you can make without fancy cocktail shakers, stirrers or julep strainers, too. Also, because Stanley Tucci is now synonymous with quarantine cocktails, we couldn't not ask Ruba his opinions on the now-infamous shaken double shot gin negroni. "Look, I'm never one to judge someone on how they like their drinks," said Ruba. "I can't say that's how I'd do it, but props to Stanley for standing by his own ways and preferences." How would Ruba make his ideal negroni? "Equal parts gin, sweet vermouth and Campari, and stir it down over ice with a slice of orange." Easy. [caption id="attachment_515137" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Ramblin' Rascal Tavern[/caption] SEASON 6 Tart, but sweet. Orange peel is an ingredient often used in the crafting of gin, and stewed fruits help bring out those forgotten flavours. 45ml gin 30ml lemon juice 10ml sugar Teaspoon marmalade Prosecco Lemon twist You can make the Season 6 one of two ways: shaken or blended. For shaken: pour all ingredients into a jar (or a cocktail shaker if you have it) over ice, put a lid on it, shake. Strain into a coupe or flute (or, frankly, a mug if it's what you've got) and garnish with a dash of prosecco and a lemon twist. For blended: chuck all ingredients into a blender with ice. Blend. Pour slushie into glass of your choice and top with a dash of prosecco and a lemon twist. GERI HALLIWELL Really, really easy one, it's a bit like a dark and stormy or moscow mule, but a bitter, spicier version 30ml Martell Blue Swift 20ml lime juice Cracked pepper Ginger beer Lime wedge Build in a tall glass with ice, add 'one spin of the pepper cracker' worth of pepper, top with ginger beer and garnish with a lime wedge. BLUE STEEL This is a heavier drink, bit like at an old fashioned but instead of using bitters — which not many people have at home — it has nutmeg and vanilla, which we've all got lying around from baking. Nutmeg also helps brings out the flavours of Martell Blue Swift, which has been finished in bourbon barrels. 45ml Martell Blue Swift 10ml sugar syrup A few drops of vanilla essence Small pinch of nutmeg Lemon twist Pour all ingredients into a short glass, stir down over ice. If you don't have a stirrer, you can just use a teaspoon. Garnish with a lemon twist. Make it and serve it all that one glass.
Instagram favourites The Inspired Unemployed are pretty used to bringing Aussies joy via their side-splitting satirical videos. From lockdown habits and fitness instructors to tradies and bouncers — Jack Steele and Matt Ford will take aspects of stereotypical Aussie culture, then flip the script to poke a bit of fun. Now, the self-dubbed battlers are looking to bring Australians a new kind of happiness ahead of summer — with a beer launched in collaboration with Victorian favourite, Torquay Beverage Company. Better Beer is a zero-carb, zero-sugar lager that clocks in at 87 calories per can, which Ford quips is "healthier than broccoli". Explaining the decision to make Better Beer zero-carb, Steele says: "As loose as we can be at times, we're actually pretty healthy people. So we decided, let's make a beer that's healthier and still tastes great, one that doesn't make you feel heavy in the morning and rough around the edges." "We've had a lot of opportunities to do bigger stuff and beer was on our mind for a while," Steele explains to Concrete Playground. "But the thing is — when we start something, we don't want to start it and go half-hearted. We either make it the best thing ever or don't do it at all." On social media, the pair of mates are all about hyperboles. But, that's far from the case in this instance — Better Beer is the product of 12 months of work, which included an (unintended) four-month stint in New Zealand and COVID-friendly collaboration sessions with their business partner in crime, Torquay Beverage Company founder Nick Cogger. "I couldn't tell you how many hours we've spent on Zoom," Steele says. Cogger is a long-time partner of The Inspired Unemployed, commissioning them back in late 2019 when the pair had just 12,000 followers. "Nick was actually one of the first people to ever give us a job in this industry," Ford says. "He was one of the first people to reach out, he gave us a job to go to a music festival and..." "...get drunk!" Steele jokes. The pair initially called Cogger for advice on the beer brand, before deciding to create Better Beer together. "And then next thing you know, here we are talking to you." As for the taste, the boys have reportedly heard it described as "smooth like Michael Jackson" and "the breakfast of champions". "All our mates have tasted it and they love it. Obviously, they're our mates, so you'd think they'd have to say that — but it was a genuine reaction!" Ford says. If you're after a cold one, Better Beer will be available at your local Dan Murphy's, BWS and independent bottleshops from Friday, November 12. You can keep up to date with Better Beer, including limited-edition merch drops, via the website. New Better Beer products are also expected to drop in March 2022.
Travelling to the Sunshine Coast in less than a hour is the kind of thing that beach-loving Brisbanites dream of, but if a new proposal receives the go-ahead, it could soon become a reality. Put forward by 26 Federal Coalition MPs in Queensland, the North Coast Connect project would see high-speed rail introduced between Brissie and Nambour. Say goodbye two-hour train trips and road journeys, and hello a CBD-to-beach jaunt in 45 minutes. If successful, the plan would involve improving and upgrading the existing Brisbane to Beerburrum line, laying new lines from Beerburrum to Nambour, and building a 40-kilometre line from Beerwah to Maroochydore. To be delivered by development companies Stockland, Smec, Urbis and KPMG, it'd mark the first time the Sunshine Coast's actual coast was connecting to Brisbane. As for the super-fast part, trains would be trains required to travel between 150 to 200 kilometres per hour. At present, the proposal has been submitted for government funding, reaching a shortlist of 11 projects vying to share in $20 million to develop a business case. The three recipients will be announced in February, and if the North Coast Connect makes it through, the next step will involve assessment by Infrastructure Australia in the hopes of accessing $10 billion in federal cash. Via Brisbane Times. Image: Andy Hay via Flickr.
The Australian Open is coming in hot for its 2023 edition, with thousands of punters set to descend on Melbourne Park for two weeks of Grand Slam tennis action from Monday, January 16–Sunday, January 29. But as usual, the tennis won't be the only thing pulling crowds and whetting appetites. Serving a few aces of its own is the AO's 2023 food and drink offering — a star-studded lineup of restaurant pop-ups and experiences to tempt tennis-goers and foodies alike. Throughout the tournament, a slew of big-name chefs and dining institutions will be headed courtside to dish up a blockbuster menu of culinary gold. Among these familiar favourites you'll catch Andrew McConnell's modern Asian diner Supernormal, hosting both a set-menu restaurant and a walk-in-friendly al fresco dining terrace. And yes, there'll be plenty of that famed lobster roll to go around. Meanwhile, award-winning Sydney chef and seafood maestro Josh Niland (Saint Peter) will treat locals to a taste of his sustainable fish and chipper Charcoal Fish, which is heading south for the first time. Hit the pop-up eatery for cult-fave dishes like a rotisserie Murray cod roll with gravy and crispy skin, and the double yellowfin tuna cheeseburger. You can also nab tickets to his one-off talk. [caption id="attachment_884148" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Charcoal Fish[/caption] Fellow Sydneysider Jacqui Challinor will be recreating the magic of her own Nomad stable courtside, serving bites like mushroom and bone marrow empanadas, standout house-made charcuterie and a Middle Eastern-inspired olive oil cream sandwich. There'll be restaurants by Penfolds and Rockpool Bar & Grill if you fancy dialling up the sophistication factor, as well as a pop-up fine-diner by the Stokehouse crew serving a sumptuous set-menu affair — including an adorable tennis ball dessert. And a collective of chefs including Victor Liong (Lee Ho Fook), Adam D'Sylva (Tonka, Coda) and Scott Pickett (Longrain, Estelle) are assembling to cook up the fusion feast of your dreams. Elsewhere, you can tuck into plates from the likes of Victoria by Farmer's Daughters, Shane Delia's Maha, Oasis, Ca Com (by Anchovy's Thi Lee and Jia-Yen Lee) and The B.East. Josh Fry will be whipping up a menu of two-handed delights a la Rocco's Bologna, while Mischa Tropp showcases his acclaimed Keralan fare — that legendary butter chicken included. No one's going thirsty, either. The palm-fringed AO Spritz Bar will be your go-to for all things fizzy, with the menu ranging from a booze-free guava marg to a signature hibiscus-infused spritz. It'll be rocking a breezy resort-inspired aesthetic, complete with bookable cabanas and a prime location adjacent to Charcoal Fish. Meanwhile, over at the Canadian Club Racquet Club, you'll find another tidy lineup of sips, alongside free gigs, street food by Beatbox Burgers and Taco Truck, and the tennis action playing live and loud on the big screens. Further booze pop-ups come courtesy of labels like Piper Heidsieck, Balter, Sommersby, Peroni and Gordon's. [caption id="attachment_884140" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Maha[/caption] [caption id="attachment_884143" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Penfolds Restaurant[/caption] [caption id="attachment_884145" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Supernormal[/caption] The 2023 Australian Open and its food offering will take over Melbourne Park from Monday, January 16–Sunday, January 29. For details on the full lineup or to book a table, see the website. Top images: Stokehouse, Nomad.
Whatever type of food you love, there's a day for it. You can celebrate your favourite dishes whenever you like, of course, but pretty much everything you can think of has a specific date on the calendar dedicated to that purpose. That includes tacos, with International Taco Day hitting on Monday, October 4 this year. And, to mark the occasion, Tex-Mex giant Taco Bell is giving away freebies. The chain has been steadily opening stores around the country since 2017, with a new Sydney store in Green Square launching earlier this year, and Perth just nabbing its own venue as well. So, if you're a big fan of Mexican-inspired food, you've probably already become acquainted with the brand's wares. No one can ever pass up free tacos, though — although you will need to break out your best emoji game to get one. Here's how it works: on Monday, October 4, you need to first visit ta.co/au to auto populate a WhatsApp message. Then, you'll need to hit 'send', which'll see instructions on how to redeem a free Taco Supreme sent to you. And, while you will need to go through that process on that specific day, you'll then have until Sunday, October 10 to collect your free taco. If you're wondering where to head, Taco Bell has 23 stores across the country. So, you can hit up Albion Park, Ballina, Blacktown, Jesmond, Green Square and Tamworth in New South Wales; Altona North, Hawthorn, Roxburgh Park and South Yarra in Victoria; Annerley, Beenleigh, Cairns, Cleveland, Currajong, East Ipswich, Keperra, Logan Central, Morayfield, North Lakes, Robina and Southport in Queensland; and Midland in Western Australia. Taco Bell is offering free tacos for International Taco Day to every customer who follows the prompts via WhatsApp on Monday, October 4. To find your nearest store, head to the chain's website.
Around Australia Day, most of us are probably thinking about prawns — and so is Jordan Azcune. The Brisbane artist and art student has even named his latest show after the delicious crustacean, but his isn't a shrimp-on-the-barbie kind of exhibition. Instead, it's a collection of sculptural and installation works that highlights Azcune's playful artistic process. Drawing from everything from German romanticism to expressionist theory to Russian ballet, he creates surprising combinations and lopsided landmarks, explores the use of symbols and stories, and reveals his fondness for the strange and the colourful. If the one-night-only affair at Cut Thumb ARI sounds a little absurd, that's because it is meant to. Indeed, those up on their Aussie slang are probably thinking about the saying "come the raw prawn", which typically relates to deception and misrepresentation. When an artist names their showcase after that, it's safe to say that you should expect the unexpected.
Thanks to all manner of markets around town, it's rather easy to stock your wardrobe with pre-loved threads. Brisbane's op shops help considerably as well, naturally. Still, if that's how you boost your outfit choices, you can never have too many options — which is where the Upcycle Pre-Loved Fashion Market on Sunday, August 15 comes in. From 11am–3pm, the Food Connect Shed in Salisbury is hosting a thrifting session. If you're fond of all things sartorial, this is the way you'll want to spend your day — and there'll be bargains to be found. In fact, nothing will cost more than $20, so your bank balance will thank you. So will the planet, given that donning secondhand threads is far more eco-friendly than buying brand new items. And, if you have some ace clothes to send off to a new home, you can host your own stall as well. If that's you — and you want to make some room in your cupboard so that you can fill it with other people's unwanted fashion treasures afterwards — you'll need to apply first by contacting Food Connect.
Judd Apatow’s latest comedy laugh-a-thon expands upon the story of the stubbornly married Pete and Debbie from the smash-hit blockbuster, Knocked Up, as we watch them deal with the trials and tribulations of life at forty. Set a few years on from the events of Knocked Up, the film begins with Debbie (Leslie Mann), celebrating the arrival of her fortieth birthday by having awkward, Viagra-aided sex with her long suffering husband, Pete (Paul Rudd). Debbie begins to realize that life does in fact, not begin at forty. Debbie now owns a boutique with employees Desi (Mega Fox) and Jodi (Charlyne Yi). Pete runs a record label with friends Ronnie (Chris O’Dowd) and Cat (Lena Dunham), representing prospect-free artists like Graham Parker. Both are struggling. With friends like Jason (Jason Segel) and Barb (Annie Mumolo) aiding them, or at least trying to, the couple decide to make a last attempt to keep their family together, with the usual disasters and general mayhem plaguing them along the way.
Saturday November 24th two of Brisbane’s first grassroots rock bands, Nikko and Quiet Steps, come to The Zoo to celebrate the launch of their respective albums. Formed in 2005, Quiet Steps saw the majority of the band relocate south recently, but to celebrate their latest record, Dying Livers, they’ll be returning for one night only, performing a selection of dark, unrelenting melodic indie rock and material from early 2012’s Secular. A band unlike no other in Brisbane that sit in a box of their own, Nikko (pictured) hover between melancholic balladry and thunderous post-rock, a force to be reckoned with that lays on atmospherics thick, fast and unrelenting. Nikko will come upon The Zoo following a national tour and the release of their latest album, Gold & Red, one that’s been praised by critics as yet another iconic gem for the band.
James Hopes’ Brisbane Heat meet Tim Paine’s Hobart Hurricanes in their first home game of this year’s KFC T20 Big Bash League at The Gabba. Sore from a poor start and failure to reach the semi-finals last year, Brisbane hope to burn bright this year against last season semi-finalists, The Hobart Hurricanes. Last time the two teams met Brisbane trumped Hobart by three runs at two-hundred-and-one for four against their one-hundred-and-ninety-eight for four in a real nail biter to the very last ball. Brisbane’s poor track record last year puts Hobart in a favourable position for the match, but a talented team of hard hitters and an excellent squad of bowlers mean they might just scrape a win against the Hurricanes, a team known to create a win out of seemingly impossible odds. But, of course, in Twenty-Twenty anything can happen, and there’s everything to play for. Tickets for this game will be available soon, keep an eye on Ticketmaster for details. Game on.
Traditionally, autumn is a season filled with orange, red, brown and yellowing leaves, as spring and summer's greenery makes way for winter. Come mid-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 returning, much-loved and obviously stunning-to-look-at Kalbar Sunflower Festival. Expect to spot sunflowers as far as the eye can see at the Jenner family farm in Kalbar. In past years, there have been more than 200,000 of the vibrant blooms reaching up to the sky, which is a hefty number. For 2023, however, over a million sunflowers have been planted across 24 acres. And, all those golden petals will help the fest play host to a highlight to get lost in, literally: a four-acre sunflower maze. The 2023 festival will take place across Friday, March 10–Sunday, March 12, and will also feature a painting class — yes, you'll be channelling your inner Vincent van Gogh and painting sunflowers — plus helicopter rides over the field, sunflower crafting, cooking demonstrations and classes, photography classes and photo sessions. The fest's popular sunset gala dinner with a golden backdrop won't be taking place this year, but there will be a sunset soirée instead, with Laura Frank performing. And, chef Richard Ousby will be serving up a lunch over champagne. Food trucks will help line your stomach, too, and provide bites for picnics among the blooms, serving up pizza, ice cream, coffee and more. Also, for sunflower goodies to take home, there'll be a sunflower shop onsite. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kalbar Sunflowers (@kalbarsunflowers) Tickets to this event always get snapped up fast, even in just the two short years since it launched back in 2021, so note the on-sale date of Sunday, February 19 — at 12pm — in your diary now. The Kalbar Sunflower Festival came about after Russell and Jenny Jenner changed 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 then looking rather striking, the couple was keen to let everyone else enjoy their golden petals. The Kalbar Sunflower Festival 2023 takes place from Friday, March 10–Sunday, March 12 at Kalbar in Queensland's Scenic Rim. For further information, and to book tickets from 12pm on Sunday, February 19, head to the event's website.
South Bank has a huge revamp on the cards, and Northshore Hamilton as well. Portside is enjoying a makeover right now, while Howard Smith Wharves joined Brisbane's riverside so recently that it still feels brand new. But they aren't the only food-, drink- and entertainment-filled precincts by the water inviting Brisbanites in, with another popping up in the city's east. That'd be Rivermakers Heritage Quarter, which has turned a patch of Colmslie Road in Morningside into a new must-visit destination. If you haven't had the chance to stop by the 30-hectare heritage-listed spot yet, it keeps hosting occasions to entice folks in, including an open day, Christmas party and Hottest 100 shindig in the past. The site's latest such celebrations come courtesy of new inaugural event Makers on the River, a hefty waterside festival with live music, a heap of markets, plenty of drinking opportunities and sky-brightening fireworks. Makers on the River will debut from 12–8pm on Saturday, April 22, showcasing Rivermakers' sights — and everything you can eat, drink and do, from sipping brews and taking brewery tours at Revel Brewing Co's second site through to dancing to tunes and checking out roving performers. On the music bill: Alex Lloyd, Lecia Louise and Belle Hendricks Band. Selling their wares: over 50 stalls from artisan vendors, with a focus on all things bespoke, handmade and local. An array of food trucks will also take care of the culinary side of things, and sampling gin and rum at Bavay Distillery is on the agenda — as are Revel's beer masterclasses, plus multiple pop-up bars serving brews. For kids, there'll be rides as well. And those fireworks will liven up the heavens at 7.30pm. The full Rivermakers precinct sprawls across a patch of land at the end of Junction Road that first housed a lime factory back in 1917. Since then, it's been used for alcohol distillation, radio broadcasting, naval barracks and a migrant hostel, and as the base for Hans Continental Smallgoods. Now, Low & Slow Meat Co and ceramics workshop Mas & Miek are among Rivermakers' tenants. Makers on the River takes place from 12–8pm on Saturday, April 22. Head to Rivermakers website and the event's Facebook page for further details.
