The year was 1997. For the first time, Fortitude Valley's music scene came together to celebrate. Around the inner-city suburb, Valley Fiesta was born. A quarter century later and the event is still going strong, albeit after running in plenty of different formats over the years — and it's back in 2022 to celebrate its 25th birthday with 45-plus acts hitting stages across 13 venues. 2022's Valley Fiesta will run from Friday, November 25–Sunday, November 27, showering Fortitude Valley with live tunes, and giving Brisbanites a helluva way to spend the last weekend of spring. On the lineup: a whole heap of musicians to see, events dedicated to jazz and art, a carpark party, a laneway fest within the fest and even a food fiesta. Leading the music bill: Holy Holy, Gordi, Kian, WIIGZ and Alter Boy, all as part of an entirely free program. They're joined by Jess Day, Safety Club, Scraps, Radium Dolls, Dulcie and more, in venues spanning The Sound Garden, Fortitude Music Hall, outdoors at The Brightside, Woolly Mammoth, Ric's Backyard, Kickons and 4ZZZ. The jazz afternoon will showcase both existing and up-and-coming talent, while the arts session will be filled with creative workshops. Bringing the fun to the Winn, Bakery and California laneways is the returning Hidden Lanes Festival, running as a pop-up event, while King Street will host the King Street Food Fiesta on the Friday night to get this year's Valley Fiesta started. The program also includes a night of voice, circus, burlesque and drag artists; Quivr DJs doing their thing multiple times; a cultural celebration of People of Colour; and the return of 4ZZZ's legendary carpark party. VALLEY FIESTA 2022 LINEUP Holy Holy Gordi WIIGZ Jess Day Safety Club Scraps Radium Dolls KIAN Dulcie Cloe Terare Dean Brady Ash Lune Dulcie DANCINGWATER Andy Martin Moss I Was Eros Arig Guppy Doggie Heaven Images: Dave Kan.
"It's actually a western" is a fairly common call these days, directed towards everything from superhero films to horror flicks. In the case of Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, the comparison really sticks. In the latest biting black comedy from writer-director Martin McDonagh (In Bruges, Seven Psychopaths), a horrific tragedy inspires a determined crusade, as a lone hero commits to doing whatever it takes to see justice done and a small town gets caught up in the chaos. Shots are fired, in the form of controversial signs, scuffles with dentists, cursing at priests, and hurling both people and Molotov cocktails through windows. Clad in faded boilersuit rather than cowboy hat and holster, Mildred Hayes (Frances McDormand) leads the charge. After spotting a trio of weathered billboards on the rarely used Drinkwater Road outside of the titular locale, she hires them out with the purpose of sending one hell of a message. Still mourning the death of her teenage daughter seven months earlier, and equally furious and frustrated about the lack of progress in the local police investigation, Mildred arranges for the signs to bear three statements. "Raped while dying," reads the first. "And still no arrests?", asks the second. "How come, Chief Willoughby?", pleads the third. The origins of the film's fantastic title might be immediately apparent, but the directions that Three Billboards heads in from there are far from predictable. The movie wears its rage as prominently as Mildred wears her wilt-inducing glare, while at the same time chronicling her grief with empathy and understanding. It's a delicate balance, never downplaying either her ire or her pain, and it's one that McDonagh gets just right. It also proves essential as Mildred crosses paths with other townsfolk, such as the well-respected Chief (Woody Harrelson) named on her signs, and the easily angered Officer Jason Dixon (Sam Rockwell), who's known for his brutal racism more than his law-enforcement prowess. Packed with dark, hilarious, nigh-unprintable dialogue, McDonagh's script mightn't be subtle, but it is teeming with complexity — much more than some of its seemingly simplistic takes on race and gender might initially indicate. Taking his cues from gunslinging revenge tales gone by, the filmmaker crafts a complicated rumination on humanity's contradictions, including the way that the right intentions can still lead to murky outcomes, and vice versa. His storytelling approach demonstrates a similarly stark contrast in action, convincingly flitting from scathing to thoughtful to loud, foul-mouthed and attention-seeking, and back again, in an instant. From the second that McDormand's Mildred locks eyes on the billboards, there's no doubting the movie's other big standout. It's hardly surprising given the actress' track record, but it bears highlighting all the same. While Harrelson and Rockwell are in terrific form, they've got nothing on McDormand, who seems certain to pick up another Academy Award nomination more than 20 years after scoring her first playing the polar opposite type of role in Fargo. She's in total command of the movie from beginning to end, though in true western style it's the small gestures, more than the witty speeches, that really leave a lasting impression. The range that she shows — whether in a momentarily faltering gaze, an unthinking act of kindness in a confrontational situation, or a look of troubled realisation — many actors can only dream of. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3aZ3r-84EQc
The Valley Fiesta is one of the biggest weekends in Brisbane. Overshadowed by only New Years Eve and BIGSOUND, Fortitude Valley doesn’t get more packed. This is a massive feat seeing as our entertainment precinct is rather large. Streets are closed off and live music fans are herded to stages set up in Brunswick and China Town malls, and most venues like to get in on the action. The main attractions are the official Valley Fiesta Stages which are playing host to some serious musical talent. Local acts are playing alongside national favourites, with a wide range of musical styles on display. Also on the cards are special presentations and performances as well as Rooftop Roller Disco. No matter the weather, this weekend is going to be a riot, and best of all, it’s free! No excuses, put on your dancing shows and go have some fun, you deserve it. Here is the list of some (not all!) acts performing this weekend: Architecture In Helsinki Andy Bull Gold Fields Dune Rats Hayden James (Australian Exclusive Premier) Alison Wonderland (DJ Set) The Swiss Wave Racer Jackie Onassis World's End Press Art of Sleeping Tyler Touché The Cairos Charles Murdoch Suburban Dark ft. Jeswon Citizen Kay Palms KLP Mosman Alder Major Leagues
Like karaoke? Fond of singing along to well-known songs, especially with a drink in your hand? Happy to belt out a tune in a crowd? If you answered yes to all of the above questions, then it's time to up your crooning game during Pub Choir's new Australian tour — aka the boozy sing-along that's all about giving your lungs a workout between sips. Since early 2017 in Brisbane, Pub Choir has been amassing brew-loving music fans in venues around the Queensland city. The regular event asks its attendees to learn a particular song in three-part harmonies, with talented professionals on hand each time to show everyone the ropes and lead the way. Every evening then culminates in a big boozy singing session, with the event making its way to bigger Brissie locations over the years, as well venturing around the country. Now, it's hitting up every Aussie capital across January and February 2022 — including The Tivoli in Brisbane on Tuesday, February 1 and Wednesday, February 2. The vibe: a far more organised version of exactly what happens whenever someone puts 'Wonderwall' or 'Weather With You' on the pub jukebox. And, now that communal singing in public is back after all the various pandemic-related restrictions that've come our way over the past two years, you can expect this tour to feel particularly celebratory, too. Pub Choir was a big hit during lockdowns, and as life started to return to normal as well; you might've taken part in Couch Choir in 2020, or watched the Australia's Biggest Singalong special on SBS earlier in 2021. Run by Astrid Jorgensen and Waveney Yasso, its IRL events are mighty popular, too — unsurprisingly — with tickets getting snapped up very quickly each time. So if you're keen to sing and drink with a theatre full of people, you'll want to book asap.
It has proven to be a massive year for Big Scary, who have released their highly anticipated follow-up record to 2011's debut, Vacation, and now have a freshly announced national tour that will see the Melbourne duo popping into every corner of Australia. Not Art, the band's second record, saw Tom Iansek and Jo Syme shift into a new direction in terms of sound and production. Though they're primarily known for their alt-rock aesthetic, Iansek has this time sought out new influences from the likes of Kanye West and has thus produced a record that dips into hip hop whilst still maintaining elements of their signature pop sensibilities. On tour, the duo will expand into a four-piece live band — something they've never tried before — in order to fulfil the complex and lush textures heard throughout their record, most prominent in lead singles 'Luck Now' and 'Phil Collins'. Kicking off the proceedings will be Melbourne singer/songwriter Courtney Barnett, whose latest musical adventure and stellar songwriting can be heard in the form of her new single, 'Avant Gardener'. https://youtube.com/watch?v=K_EjSuYWzxA
Feel like you've experienced every date option that Brisbane has to offer? Run out of new ways to spend an ace night with your mates? If glitz, glamour, drinks, dinner and feeling like you're in a speakeasy several decades ago amount to your idea of a good — and novel — time, then make a beeline to Cloudland's Big Band Cabaret. Taking place in the Valley venue's Rainbow Room, the decadent shindig will have you and your loved one dancing to the Swing Central Big Band and lapping up performances by Jacqueline Furey's Burlesque Ensemble, all while eating your way through a three-course meal and enjoying a three-hour package of beer, wine and sparkling. It was such a hit over the last couple of years, it's no wonder that Cloudland have brought it back — this time, on Friday, July 5. Tickets aren't cheap at $110 per person, but it's certain to liven up your Friday night with something more than a little different.
When you think of the Big Apple, you can't help the image of a yellow taxi springing to mind. That's even if, like me, you've never been there. It's the brightest of American icons and it's about to get a Japanese makeover. Automaker Nissan has won the exclusive 10-year, US$1 billion contract to produce the city's fleet of 13,200 yellow taxis. Nissan's North American take on the NV200, a model already in use in Europe and Asia, won over finalist manufacturers Ford and Karsan, from Turkey. Previously, the taxis of New York City have been produced by Ford: Crown Victorias and hybrid Ford Escapes. These models will be phased out over a 3 to 5 year period to make way for Nissan's new model. [Via Jalopnik]
Brisbane's day-long celebration of seafood is coming back — again. If everything the ocean has to offer your tastebuds gets your stomach a-rumbling, you'll be in culinary heaven. And, you won't even need to leave the CBD. Love oysters and Moreton Bay bugs? Can't pass up prawns? Adore fish, no matter how it's cooked? Returning for Dine BNE City 2022, Sea to the City is the event for you. There's a big focus on oysters and bugs, though, and a heap riverside eateries will serve up their best takes on both — from 11am–6pm on Sunday, May 29 at the Brisbane river precinct from Eagle Street Pier to Customs House. On the menu: Moreton Bay bug sliders at Blackbird; cured ocean trout at City Winery; crudo, oysters with fro'secco granita and bug arancini at Coppa Spuntino; and lobster rolls at Fatcow Steak and Lobster. Or, there's blue swimmer crab mac 'n' cheese croquettes at Friday's, oysters with yuzu buttermilk at Madame Wu, prawn and bug rolls at Mr & Mrs G's, and Moreton Bay bug croissants at Patina — and handmade crab spring rolls at Navala Churrascaria, and spiced coconut prawns at Naga Thai. Yes, the list goes on, with George's Seafood Paragon, Pig N Whistle and Rico's Bar and Restaurant all taking part as well. If you need any other excuses to head along, Eagle Street Pier is set to be torn down to make way for a new riverside precinct — and will close up shop mid-year. You'll also find live music, pop-up bars and, of course, gorgeous river views at Sea to the City. And, entry is free — although you'll need your wallet for whatever you'd like to eat and drink. Updated May 24.
It's the German culinary classic that's become a true blue Aussie pub favourite — and now the humble schnitzel is getting its very own ten-week celebration courtesy of The Bavarian. Folks, get set for Schnitty Fest. Running from Wednesday, March 31–Wednesday, June 9, the event sees the German beer hall chain's many outposts (Brisbane's include Eagle Street Pier, Chermside and The Barracks) paying homage to this beloved dish with an exclusive menu of ten different schnitzel creations. On offer right through the festival, it's a truly diverse lineup, featuring everything from a Mexican-inspired schnitty topped with corn chips, salsa and spicy beef ($26), to a crumbed mushroom parma served with cabbage slaw and fries ($24). The Nashville variation takes a trip through southern USA by way of some southern fried chook, potato gems and a chipotle aioli ($26), while the aptly named Oktoberfest ($26) comes teamed with sautéed potatoes, mustard and wurstsalat (sausage salad). And the pork-based Schweineschnitzel ($26) will send all the traditionalists to bread-crumbed heaven. What's more, as a special hump day treat, diners will find the full range of schnitzels dropped to just $10 all day long every Wednesday. And as always, The Bavarian is pouring a slew of both Aussie and German beers to wash down your schnitty feast in style. [caption id="attachment_805249" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Oktoberfest schnitty[/caption]
Brisbanites, get ready to sit in the room where it happens — because Lin-Manuel Miranda's game-changing, award-winning, rightly raved-about Hamilton is finally coming to town. After stints in Sydney and Melbourne, the hit musical has booked a 2023 date with the Sunshine State. So, mark Friday, January 27 in your diary, and don't throw away your shot to see the biggest thing in musical theatre this century. The Broadway blockbuster finally made its way to Australia in 2021, launching in Sydney with a cast that includes Jason Arrow as Alexander Hamilton, Chloé Zuel as Eliza Hamilton, Lyndon Watts as Aaron Burr, Akina Edmonds as Angelica Schuyler, Matu Ngaropo as George Washington, and Victory Ndukwe as Marquis de Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson. Thankfully, as The Book of Mormon did as well, it's touring its way along the east coast. Next stop: QPAC's Lyric Theatre. Accordingly, before next January ends, Arrow, Zuel and company — including Shaka Cook as Hercules Mulligan and James Madison, Marty Alix as John Laurens and Philip Hamilton, Elandrah Eramiha as Peggy Schuyler and Maria Reynolds, and Brent Hill as King George III — will all be exploring 18th-century American politics through song in Brisbane. Haven't become a Hamilton obsessive yet? Not quite sure why it has been the most-talked about theatre show of the past six years? The critically acclaimed hip hop musical, for which Miranda wrote the music, lyrics and the book, is about the life of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, as well as inclusion and politics in current-day America. In addition to its swag of Tony Awards — 11 in fact, which includes Best Musical — it has nabbed a Grammy Award and even a Pulitzer Prize. Until now, Brisbanites eager to see the show had to be content with trips south or watching the filmed version of its Broadway production, which started streaming via Disney+ in 2020 (and yes, it's as phenomenal as you've heard).
It's not often you get a group of designers competing to have their work set alight. But then again, being chosen as the creator of that iconic Temple — or, The Man — at Nevada's legendary Burning Man festival is a very unique sort of honour. This year, bragging rights go to Arthur Mamou-Mani from London's Mamou-Mani Architects, whose spiralled structure Galaxia beat out a swag of other entries to become the next edition of the festival's most famed installation. It was selected this week by the Burning Man Arts organisation. The Temple has been a Burning Man tradition since 2000, picking a different large-scale art work each year. Towering over the festival's centre in the temporary locale of Black Rock City, it's inscribed with personal messages from festival-goers and then ritually burned to the ground on the final day. Mamou-Mani's take on the project is an enormous, swirling design, made from twenty triangular timber trusses that form paths into the structure's centre, where there'll lie a huge 3D mandela. Word is, it's inspired by the fictional planet Gaia, from Isaac Asimov's Foundation's Edge series of sci-fi novels, with the architect saying it "celebrates hope in the unknown, stars, planets, black holes, the movement uniting us in swirling galaxies of dreams."
An escape to New Zealand's Waiheke Island feels miles away from the bustle of central Auckland, though it's only a quick ferry ride from downtown. It's an island of varying landscape, with the turquoise-blue waters of the coast giving way to rolling green hills inland. This gives visitors endless options, too — from bushwalks and beaches to art galleries and, most notably, the plentiful wineries on offer. The whole island is easily explored by bus or bike, and trips from the vines of one winery to the next take only a traipse through the vineyard. You could spend a week here and still not hit all of the artisanal producers dotting the island. Join an art walking tour, try your hand at archery or distil your own bespoke gin, just to name a few things waiting for you on this wine island. Here's how to spend your days on Waiheke — what to taste, what to do and where to stay on the island. [caption id="attachment_663060" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Julian Apse.[/caption] DRINK Thanks to the microclimate on Waiheke, there are close to 30 wineries and cellar doors dotted around the island. Wine excursions are one of the most popular attractions, and cellar doors can be enjoyed both with a guide or by simply following your own nose on public transport. Perched on a hill and a 30-minute walk from the ferry terminal is Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant. With its stunning panoramic views, the spot has always been a popular location for proposals, weddings or special weekend visits via helicopter. Wine tastings are available from the cellar door seven days a week, where you'll be guided through four of the winery's varietals across 30 minutes. [caption id="attachment_642965" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mudbrick.[/caption] Go deeper into the island, all the way to the far side, and you'll reach Man O' War. This picture-perfect winery is an excellent spot to while away an afternoon sampling flagship and single vineyard drops. When you've settled on your varietal of choice, find a spot on the grass and enjoy a casual game of lawn cricket with views across to the Coromandel Peninsula. If you're after something away from the tourist trail wineries of the island, head to Te Motu. Continue past big brother winery Stonyridge, and you'll be presented with a shed that has been transformed into a five-star restaurant where you can sample five aged red wines in the tasting room — drops that are not typically available by the glass. Other cellar doors worth checking out while you're roaming the island include Obsidian, Passage Rock, Tantalus Estate, Goldie Estate, Peacock Sky and Cable Bay. And for something entirely different, head to Rangihoua Estate for a lesson in olive oil tasting. [caption id="attachment_663061" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Matthew Crawford.[/caption] EAT While the Island of Wine is its official moniker, Waiheke has an equal measure of exceptional restaurants. Casita Miro is a glasshouse-like structure located on a rolling, Spanish-influenced vineyard. Here, order one of their Spanish wines alongside the tapas and raciones sharing menu featuring fine Iberian meats and cheeses. You can also top off the meal with a good range of Spanish sherry. The outdoor area keeps the Spanish theme going, featuring an evolving mosaic inspired by Gaudi's infamous Parc Guell. [caption id="attachment_663048" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Poderi Crisci.[/caption] Off the beaten track and on to another European country, you'll find award-winning Italian eatery Poderi Crisci. With a setting that welcomes comparisons to the Tuscan countryside, the restaurant-vineyard is owned by Antonio Crisci, the founding father of Auckland's famed metre-long pizzeria Toto's and Parnell institution Non Solo Pizza — a regular contender for the best Italian in Auckland. As well as a rustic a la carte menu, the restaurant is known for its Sunday long lunch. Set aside a good five hours for this one. [caption id="attachment_629210" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Oyster Inn.[/caption] Just up from the ferry and with a large sun-soaked balcony, The Oyster Inn has a roadside allure that draws you upstairs even if you're not in the business of having lunch. A table outside is the quintessential dining position to take in views over Oneroa village and make the most of the seafood-led menu. Not feeling seafood? Down the road, Dragonfired serves up wood-fired street food from its small black trailer. Spending most of its time sitting in the car park by Little Oneroa Beach, the food truck keeps a bustling trade through summer and is widely thought of as the best takeaway spot on the island. The pizzas, calzones and pocket breads are best enjoyed right on the beach and with a bottle of island red, of course. Other eateries to add to the list include the ever-popular Island Gelato, Ringawera artisan bakery for fresh baked goods and the Te Mataku Bay Shop for freshly shucked local oysters. [caption id="attachment_663072" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Christian Nicolson: Barebottomland; photographed by Russell Street.[/caption] DO Adventurers, art lovers and foodies can equally feel at home on Waiheke. For a bit of everything, Wild on Waiheke offers an unusual combination of archery and clay bird shooting mixed with a vineyard and craft brewery — plus, a beanbag dotted-lawn, beer garden and regular live music to boot. On the artsy side of things, the ideal way to see it all is with the Waiheke Island Art Walk. The four-hour walk begins at the Waiheke Community Art Gallery in Oneroa and proceeds through artist collectives, galleries and studios, with the tour including an artisan glassmaker, shoemaker and goldsmith. For lunch, the tour makes a stop at the home and studio of artist Gabriella Lewenz, Church Bay Studio, which boasts stunning views over the bay. Finish off among nature with the walk back along the Atawhai-Whenua Forest and Bird Reserve — just one of several walking tracks on offer throughout the island. After your epic culture walk, unwind back in town at the Waiheke Community Cinema. The 16-seat cinema consists of comfy couches rather than theatre seats and shows a mix of new and cult classic films. For a boozier way to relax, book into one of The Botanical Distillery's events that allows visitors to create their own botanical gin and handcrafted tonic, which will be distilled for you during the experience. [caption id="attachment_647794" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Flamingo Pier.[/caption] If you're looking for an extra reason to visit, there are several events throughout the year worthy of a trip over. In February, nab a doubleheader by checking out Sculpture on the Gulf coastal art exhibition and attending the Flamingo Pier annual music festival — which only takes place in London and on Waiheke each year. Over Easter long weekend, there's the Waiheke Jazz Festival; in November you can participate in the Waiheke Walking Festival; and in December, Sculpt Oneroa kicks off its ten-week art display. [caption id="attachment_605870" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Fossil Bay Lodge.[/caption] STAY From boutique hotels to cottages, vineyard stays to glamping tents, there is an overwhelming number of accommodation options to choose from on Waiheke — and a lot of them exist at many of the places you'll be venturing to already. If you're after boutique vibes, The Oyster Inn also holds three hotel rooms along with its breezy restaurant. Plus, they offer complimentary pickup from the Matiatia ferry. For wine lovers, Mudbrick's cottages offer a luxurious stay within their rolling vineyard and cellar door. The charming, two-bedroom cottages include a kitchenette and washer-dryer, plus a private barbecue and even a private spa pool. An easy walk to Oneroa, it's an ideal stay for someone who wants access to both. Getting there may be the best part of all — you can take a helicopter that lands directly on the Mudbrick estate, with three 'heli-partners' to choose from. More rustic types should opt for Fossil Bay Lodge, which offers simple cottages along with a range of glamping tents for $100–$120 per night. You won't quite be roughing it, however — each tent includes a private ensuite with hot shower, queen-sized beds, wooden floors and even a phone battery pack, as well as share facilities like a fully-equipped kitchen, lounge area and free wifi. LET'S DO THIS, HOW DO I GET THERE? Flights to Auckland from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane are super short — around three-and-a-half hours on average — and Air New Zealand flies direct from all three cities and offers accessible fares. Once you arrive in Auckland, Waiheke Island is only a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown. Fullers ferries provide the most regular option, leaving about every 30 minutes, with a return adult ticket costing $38. Or, if you're looking for something a bit swankier and have the cash to spare, you can hop on an Auckland Seaplane and make the trip by sky instead of water, catching all of that breathtaking coast along the way ($400 return). Head over here to check out all of the options to reach the island. https://youtu.be/9hTMc9qm_1g Book your flights to Auckland with Air New Zealand and start planning your next long weekend away.
You've been putting in the hard yards at the office all week. It's been early starts and late nights, and you can't remember the last time you hit the gym. The days just never feel long enough. Winter is traditionally a season of hibernation, a time to say yes to staying in and hiding from the cold with a bowl of carbonara in hand. But one too many nights like this feels good for neither the body nor the mind. To get you moving and recover some of that energy, we've teamed up with M.J. Bale to put some boredom-busting activities at the top of your winter to-do list — and provided some suggestions of what to wear while you're out and about. Read on to stay active this winter and look great doing so. [caption id="attachment_721066" align="alignnone" width="2048"] Visit Melbourne.[/caption] GO FOR A BUSH WALK When the temperature dips below 18 degrees, the couch might feel like the only place to be. But trust us on this one. Hitting the trails for a day of fresh air and lush surrounds is an unbeatable way to get the blood pumping. Plus, the cooler months mean you can throw on tons of layers and still finish your hike with minimal sweat. Genius. Head to your nearest national park or scout out a lush coastal walk and enjoy some well-earned tech-free time in the great outdoors. Where: Strap on your walking shoes and try Sydney's Aboriginal Heritage Walk in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Melbourne's Great Ocean Walk, Brisbane's Buhot Creek Circuit in Daisy Hill Conservation Park and Perth's Bells Rapids Walk Trail in Swan Valley. Wear: The water-resistant and breathable Flannery Gilet ($199.00) layered over natural fibres to crush the cold. [caption id="attachment_721067" align="alignnone" width="1000"] Pasta Emilia.[/caption] TAKE A COOKING CLASS Has the new season of MasterChef sparked your inner gastronomic fire? Then wave goodbye to microwave dinners and say hello to gourmet home-cooked feasts that'll blow your mates' socks off. By joining a cooking class, you can have an expert teach you elusive techniques, like how to fold the perfect ravioli or whip up a bowl of authentic baba ganoush. Plus, on top of learning the tricks of the trade, you'll meet some new faces and enjoy the fruits of your labour over a celebratory glass of vino. Now that's how all school days should end. Where: Get cooking at Pasta Emilia's hands-on pasta making workshop in Sydney, craft heart-warming Middle Eastern dishes at Free to Feed in Melbourne, master Vietnamese soups and noodles at Golden Pig in Brisbane and learn how to make Japanese bar snacks at Salt & Company in Perth. Wear: The Depp Stain Repellent Tee ($59.95), because you don't want to carry your culinary masterpieces home on your clothing. [caption id="attachment_721068" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Handsome & Co.[/caption] GET YOUR HANDS DIRTY AT A SHORT COURSE There's no better detox from sitting at a desk all day than making something with your hands. Combine that with the task of learning a new skill, and you're guaranteed to give your brain a healthy gear-shift. Maybe this is the year you finally give pottery a crack, learn how to make your own jewellery or nail the basics of welding. And you never know where your new skills could take you. Here's your chance to explore a passion project or side hustle that could one day see you ditch your nine-to-five job. Where: Let your creative juices flow at The Pottery Shed's Basic Throwing Class in Sydney, try Handsome & Co's Introduction to Furniture Making in Melbourne, learn to throw clay like a pro at The Ceramic House in Brisbane and make your own gourmet cheeses at The Cheese Maker in Perth. Wear: The Tortuga Denim Shirt ($129.95) puts you in something durable while you hone a new craft. [caption id="attachment_721114" align="alignnone" width="2048"] B. Lucky & Sons.[/caption] PLAN SOME FRIENDLY COMPETITION AMONG FRIENDS A night of booze, banter and tasty nosh is how most of us choose to catch up with our mates. But, who doesn't love some healthy competition? Shake up your social routine and test your skills with an evening of group-friendly novelty games. Plenty of venues across the country host mini golf, arcade games and everything in between. All you need to do is gather your mates, pick your arena and get playing. Where: Bring the crew together at Maniax Axe Throwing in Sydney, try your hand at mini golf and karaoke at Holey Moley in Melbourne, revisit classic arcade games at B. Lucky & Sons in Brisbane and race a mate in your own go-kart Grand Prix at Kart World in Perth. Wear: Keep things casual and warm in the Buchanan Merino V-Neck Knit ($149.95). [caption id="attachment_721113" align="alignnone" width="2016"] SportUp.[/caption] JOIN A SPORTS TEAM No, this won't be anything like your memories of high school gym classes. Signing up to a sports club as an adult means social matches and light-hearted fitness with celebratory drinks at the pub afterwards. Grab a few mates or co-workers, and join as a team or go it solo for a chance to expand your network. The best bit? Regular matches mean you'll be held accountable for turning up to that 6am training session (yes, even when it's dark and pouring outside). But at least you'll have the rest of your team suffering alongside in solidarity. Where: Find your fitness tribe with dodgeball at Urban Rec Sydney, shoot hoops at Social Sport in Melbourne, give indoor netball a crack at Sport Up in Brisbane and go for a spot of social badminton with Badminton Buddies in Perth. Wear: The Sports Bag ($99.95) gives you both handle and shoulder strap options. Discover more action-ready wear for winter on the M.J. Bale website.
Why Solar Whisper? This solar electric vessel — the only zero-emissions boat on the Daintree River (Julaymba) — is whisper-quiet, letting you encounter tropical wildlife with minimal disturbance. The family-run Daintree River wildlife and croc-spotting cruises are led by experienced guides. And, while the company can't absolutely guarantee you see crocs, there's a good chance you will spot these remarkable creatures either above water or via the croc cam below as you cruise along. Crocs aside, there's a spectacular ecosystem of unique wildlife to be explored through the expert guidance. Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
Everyone stares at screens these days instead of talking. No one remembers trivia because they can just look it up online. Handwriting looks like chicken scratch because we're so accustomed to typing. Future generations will never own a standalone calculator or alarm clock. They're some of the common criticisms levelled at our technology heavy world these days; however, one thing is definitely changing: our memories. Pics or it didn't happen is also a way for us to record and catalogue our lives, rather than burn them into our brains. At the Queensland College of Art from December 8 until March 11 (excluding a seasonal break between December 11 and February 1), The Mnemonic Mirror will contemplate this subject, as well as other ways in which we try to remember. 12 artists offer their take on the topic, exploring the past, communicating the issues of the future and questioning both the good and bad repercussions.
Do your hump day plans usually include Netflix, toast and quickly fading memories of a weekend long gone? We get it — everyone knows what that rut feels like. That makes Holey Moley Mini Golf Bar the ultimate mid-week stress buster. And at $16.50 per player for nine holes of golf, it's wallet-friendly too. Play your way around a pop-culture infused course, with everything from The Simpsons to Game of Thrones represented at different points.
With photographer Nan Goldin at its centre, the latest documentary by Citizenfour Oscar-winner Laura Poitras is a film about many things, to deeply stunning and moving effect. In this movie's compilation of Goldin's acclaimed snaps, archival footage, current interviews, and past and present activism, a world of stories flicker — all linked to Goldin, but all also linking universally. The artist's bold work, especially chronicling LGBTQIA+ subcultures and the 80s HIV/AIDS crisis, frequently and naturally gets the spotlight. Her complicated family history, which spans heartbreaking loss, haunts the doco as it haunts its subject. The rollercoaster ride that Goldin's life has taken, including in forging her career, supporting her photos, understanding who she is and navigating an array of personal relationships, cascades through, too. And, so do her efforts to counter the opioid epidemic by bringing one of the forces behind it to public justice. Revealing state secrets doesn't sit at the core of the tale here, unlike Citizenfour and Poitras' 2016 film Risk — one about Edward Snowden, the other Julian Assange — but everything leads to the documentary's titular six words: All the Beauty and the Bloodshed. They gain meaning in a report spied late about the mental health of Goldin's older sister Barbara, who committed suicide at the age of 18 when Goldin was 11, and who Goldin contends was just an "angry and sexual" young woman in the 60s with repressed parents. A psychiatrist uses the eponymous phrase to describe what Barbara sees and, tellingly, it could be used to do the same with anyone. All the Beauty and the Bloodshed is, in part, a rebuke of the idea that a teenager with desires and emotions is a problem, and also a statement that that's who we all are, just to varying levels of societal acceptance. The film is also a testament that, for better and for worse, all the beauty and the bloodshed we all witness and endure is what shapes us. Life is all the beauty and the bloodshed, inescapably — and in the film's most recent footage, Goldin fights against the latter. In an essay penned in 2017, published in 2018 in Artforum and given voice now, she reveals her addiction. "I survived the opioid crisis. I narrowly escaped," she says of her time taking OxyContin, which was originally prescribed to her as it is for many: for surgery. "Though I took it as directed, I got addicted overnight. It was the cleanest drug I'd ever met," Goldin continues. The damage that this prescription substance has caused is well-documented, in docos and dramas such as The Crime of the Century and Dopesick alike. All the Beauty and the Bloodshed isn't just another popped from the packet, but a feature that inserts Goldin's battle against the wealthy Sackler family, founders and owners of OxyContin-making pharmaceutical company Purdue Pharma, into a bigger slideshow. This is a personal fray, again for many reasons; All the Beauty and the Bloodshed's nesting layers exceed any set of matryoshka dolls. The conflict between autonomy and dependence has long been one of Goldin's sources of fascination — given how her sister was treated, how could it not? — and her seminal work The Ballad of Sexual Dependency filters through the film, as well as acts as inspiration. Goldin crusades against the reliance that so-called "miracle drug" OxyContin has sparked, and the rising death toll the opioid epidemic keeps notching up. Co-founding advocacy group PAIN (Prescription Addiction Intervention Now), she literally rallies against the Sacklers, whose fortune is enormous off the back of the OxyContin's carnage. She directs particular focus to the Sacklers' artwashing, thanks to their hefty donations to galleries and museums, which is where PAIN stages its protests. Many of the cultural institutions accepting the Sacklers' money — many of them bearing the family's name on their buildings, in fact, because that's how much funds such spaces have received— are also intertwined with Goldin's career. An artist's work has to display somewhere, and hers has garnered berths in prestigious spots. PAIN targets them all and more, at considerable risk to Goldin's professional standing, and in a case of an artist firmly putting her principles first. All the Beauty and the Bloodshed begins with action at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and with a "die-in" in its largest gallery space, which is named for the Sacklers. It's a powerful sight, not just filled with prone protestors on the ground but with orange prescription pill bottles scattered around, and bobbing in the room's moat. More such scenes appear throughout the movie, travelling to the Guggenheim Museum and the Louvre — their famous spiral ramp and pyramid, respectively, taken over to make a statement. Poitras could've simply filled a documentary with Goldin's photography or her efforts with PAIN; either way, a gripping film would've eventuated. If she'd just gone with the second option, it could've been another like fellow 2023 Oscar-nominee Navalny that ripples with the tension of a spy thriller, as such scenes do within All the Beauty and the Bloodshed anyway — complete with actual espionage. PAIN's protests are potent to visually behold, Goldin ensuring that they stand out aesthetically and, as the doco sees, photograph well. The passion and piercing emotion of All the Beauty and the Bloodshed wouldn't be what it is without everything around its OxyContin-combating quest, however, because no one action, decision, movement or person is just one thing. This chronicle of the political must also be personal, detailing how Goldin's childhood brought her to life on the fringes, then to photographing it to preserve it, and then to fighting for it. It has to examine how her work is a response to society's marginalisation of women and the queer community, and also crucially a portrait of her own ups and downs, too, showing where her empathy and activism bloomed and why. All the Beauty and the Bloodshed isn't dutifully connecting dots, though, but observing all that makes someone who they are — and makes their deeds, such as Goldin's crusade against the Sacklers, what they are at the same time. It flits backwards and forwards in an act of structural mastery, recreating the feeling of slipping and sliding through memories. Along the way, it gives its marvellous cavalcade of its subject's imagery room to resonate, as it does with her commentary on it, her recollections of her fallen friends like Pink Flamingos star Cookie Mueller and artist/activist David Wojnarowicz, and her constant unpacking of her childhood. It lets court-ordered victim statements to the Sacklers in Purdue's bankruptcy deal echo and linger. Winning the Golden Lion at the 2022 Venice International Film Festival as well, this is a remarkable doco about an individual, and the others who've cast their shadows upon her, as well as a stirring account of the clash between individuals and power — Poitras' frequent topic of interest, after all.
When Brisbane's Howard Smith Wharves initially unveiled its first tenants back in 2017, four restaurants were revealed: a Greek taverna, an octagonal overwater bar, a Japanese joint and a Chinese eatery. Slowly but surely, the precinct is delivering on those promises. Greca and Mr Percival's are both already up and running, Yoko Dining is due to launch soon, and Hong Kong-inspired Cantonese venue Stanley is now welcoming patrons through its doors. Stanley has undergone a few behind-the-scenes changes since it was first announced — instead of being the latest venue from restaurateur Andrew Baturo (Walter's Steakhouse, Libertine, Popolo, Heya and The Gresham), the space and lease is in the hands of private investors — but it's still designed to impress. Revamping the two-storey, heritage-listed, 1930s-era former water police building in the riverside precinct, it features three bars, can cater for 220 guests and includes seating on a deck by the river. And, if you're a fan of peking duck and dim sum, it boasts separate kitchens dedicated to both. That means that, food-wise, authentic Cantonese dishes are well and truly in the spotlight — as is plenty of fresh, local seafood. Head chef Louis Tikaram's (ex-EP/LP Restaurant in West Hollywood) menu includes peking duck pancakes, honey-glazed char siu, steamed Hervey Bay scallops and wok-fried Moreton Bay bugs, as well as crispy-skin spatchcock, stir-fried wagyu, and salt and pepper Queensland banana prawns. You can also pick crabs and bugs live from the tank, and feast your way through two banquet options. Or, tuck into desserts such as deep-fried ice cream, as well as Stanley's version of a 'Splice', which is made with fresh pineapple, vanilla gelato, and lime and pineapple granita. To wash it all down, head sommelier Thibaud Cregut (ex-Nel. in Sydney) has curated a 400-strong wine list that spans both local and international tipples. [caption id="attachment_720544" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Howard Smith Wharves[/caption] And, as well as making the most of its waterside location, Stanley pays tribute to traditional Chinese design with a handcrafted rattan ceiling and bamboo fretwork lining its walls. It also features antique pieces sourced from Europe and Hong Kong, parquetry inlay floors and a centrepiece circular bar on the upper level. Find Stanley at Howard Smith Wharves, 5 Boundary Street, Brisbane — open Monday–Thursday from 12–3pm and 5.30–10pm, and Friday–Sunday from 12–10pm.
Movember is un/fortunately coming to an end and men across the country have never felt more masculine or virile. On the other hand, women across the country are counting down the days until December when that upper lip of scuzzy peach fuzz is mercifully removed. As Nick Offerman from Parks and Recreation teaches us "Growing a moustache isn't easy. Nothing incredibly awesome ever is." And while we all know that there are thousands of grieving gentlemen out there whose poor excuses for a handlebar or Magnum PI knock-off leave much to be desired, there are certain men throughout history who give new meaning to the idea of a "lady tickler". So in the spirit of Movember and as a little inspiration for those poor fellas whose final week of furry, nose-warming bliss has fallen well-short of its glorious potential, here are thirteen of history's most magnificent mos that prove that often with great power comes a great moustache. Kaiser Wilhelm I Teddy Roosevelt Pancho Villa Genghis Khan Civil War hero Joshua Chamberlain Walter Cronkite Wyatt Earp Friedrich Nietzsche US President William Taft Salvador Dali Mark Twain US Baseballer Rollie Fingers General Ambrose Burnside
So, that 'New Year, New You' resolve has started to fade and the end of summer's left you a little lacking in the motivation department. Well, online fashion retailer The Iconic reckons it has exactly what it takes to inspire us all to jump back into the fitness game — a sweet $135,000 worth of vouchers. The vouchers are up for grabs as part of The Iconic's 2019 Sport Challenge, which kicks off today, Tuesday, February 26. Now in its third year, the eight-week digital fitness competition sees Aussie and New Zealand participants of all skill levels winning vouchers for workout threads, shoes and accessories, by simply exercising and completing fitness challenges. It's free to enter, though you'll need to connect your go-to fitness tracking app or device (there are 13 different compatible apps, including Nike Run Club and Polar Flow) to access the 17 different challenges, divided into easy, medium and hard. Expect things like the beginner-friendly Champion Challenge — where you'll need to tick off three 20-minute workouts for the chance to score a $50 Champion voucher — through to the slightly sweatier Skins Challenge, offering a shot at claiming $50 worth of Skins gear, whenever you clock a non-stop 15km run. Rack up 2km of activity in one go and there could be a $100 Fitbit voucher with your name on it. The vouchers are redeemable online at The Iconic for a bunch of big-name sportswear brands, including Mizuno, Reebok, Nike, Adidas and Running Bare. Participants have eight weeks to smash as many challenges as they can, before the competition wraps up at midnight on Tuesday, April 23. The more times you conquer one, the more chances you'll have to score a prize. Sign up over at The Iconic Sport Challenge website and start moving.
Mark your calendars because the Aperol Kombi van is back on tour in Queensland. The van is rolling into Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill outside Airlie Beach for four weekends from Friday, June 16 to Tuesday, July 11. Head down on Aperol Arvo (Sunday, July 9) to sip on a classic Aperol spritz or to sample the bar team's exclusive cocktail creations like the rosemary-infused Rosy Cheeks spritz (at special prices on the day), while enjoying some chill tunes from the Kombi's DJ served with unbeatable views of the waves lapping at the shore of the beach. Throughout its residency at Northerlies, the Aperol Kombi will be offering a two-for-one special on spritzes. And if you buy two spritzes you can get an Aperol visor to keep the sun out of your eyes and promote your love of the iconic beverage. You'll need some nosh to enjoy with the spritzes and for that the Northerlies Beach Kitchen has you covered with Tex-Mex favourites like nachos, chicken and jalapeño taquitos and jalapeño poppers, the seafood platter — a perfect choice for a beachside arvo sojourn, and pizzas every weekend — Friday dinner and both lunch and dinner on Saturdays and Sundays. The Aperol Kombi van will be on site from June 16–July 11 at the Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill, Airlie Beach. More information here.
When Australian sporting history is being made, Brisbane turns out. It happened during the 2022 Men's World Cup. For a glorious winter month this year, it kept occurring during the Women's World Cup. And, with the Brisbane Lions into their first men's AFL Grand Final since 2004, it's happening again — with the River City splashing around plenty of maroon, blue and gold to celebrate. When the Lions beat Carlton in the preliminary final on Saturday, September 23, the Lachie Neale- and Harris Andrews-led team earned a spot in the AFL decider at the MCG on Saturday, September 30 — but, unsurprisingly, tickets to the Melbourne game aren't easy to get. So, for everyone staying in Brisbane, South Bank is hosting a free live viewing site, just as it did when soccer fever was sweeping the city. Thanks to AFL Queensland and the Brisbane Lions, the Grand Final festivities will feature a finals hub at South Bank's Riverside Green from Thursday, September 28–Saturday, September 30, complete with AFL clinics and other all-ages-friendly activities. Fancy seeing if you can hit an inflatable target with a handball? That's on the agenda as well, plus face painting for kids, merchandise stalls — slinging Lions gear, of course — and signups for both children and adults who are keen to play Aussie Rules footy themselves. Then, on Saturday, September 30, the big screens at South Bank Piazza and Streets Beach will show the big dance, with the Lions taking on Collingwood in the AFL Grand Final from 2.30pm. If you're an AFL fan, there's no better way to spend the last Saturday in September. And if it all sounds familiar, that's because the team's famous three-peat of premierships back in 2001–03 included wins over Collingwood in 2002 and 2003. 2023 is clearly proving a great time to be a football fan in Brisbane — of multiple codes. For rugby league aficionados, the Brisbane Broncos will also play in the NRL Grand Final on Sunday, battling Penrith on Sunday, October 1. The Brisbane Lions AFL Grand Final hub at South Bank will run from Thursday, September 28–Saturday, September 30 — head to the Lions website and AFL Queensland's website for more information Top image: Flickerd via Wikimedia Commons.
Add a touch of glamour to your outdoors or music festival experience with a designer tent. Designed by a diverse group of artists, photographers and illustrators, FieldCandy tents feature quirky designs ranging from a wedge of cheese to a drawing of a little old granny. There is a jelly bean tent for the sweet tooth, a galactic-themed tent for the nerd, and many more. Adorable, yes, but these tents aren't just for show--they are all rough-and-tumble ready. Appropriate for those hardcore hikers and campers, and for those of us traveling no farther than our back yard, FieldCandy tents are sure to brighten up your camping experience. Looking for a place to getaway to? Check out Concrete Playground's favourite camping destinations.
For more than a decade, a movie version of Monopoly has been mooted, but hasn't yet reached screens. There's no need to hope for a Jumanji-style big-screen take on the game, however. Instead, from Wednesday, November 15 in Melbourne, you can just head to Monopoly Dreams and enjoy playing your way through Australia's first theme park-esque Monopoly experience. Here, the property-buying family favourite is no longer just a game: it's an immersive 1700-square-metre attraction. Monopoly Dreams is already open in Hong Kong, making the Aussie venue only the second in the world. Initially slated to launch in October, it's now officially ready to welcome in Monopoly lovers. If you're wondering what happens when the game that's caused many a childhood dispute — and plenty more between adults as well — makes the bricks-and-mortar leap on Melbourne Central's lower ground level, that's as understandable as being annoyed about being sent directly to jail. The answer isn't just a life-sized version of the game that everyone has played more than once. Rather, the venue is taking a chance on bringing Monopoly elements beyond the board, building a Monopoly city that includes water works, the electric company, the bank and Mr Monopoly's mansion. Yes, there is indeed a jail. Presumably you don't go directly there upon entering, but you can get your mugshot taken within its walls. When you walk through the doors, you'll also find carnival games. It wouldn't be an attraction based on a board game if playing games wasn't a big part of the setup, of course. Expect challenges as well — and, in the mansion, there'll also be a vault and gallery, alongside a 4D cinema screening a movie about Mr Monopoly and his dog Scottie touring Melbourne locations — plus the opportunity to create your own customised Monopoly title deed. For bites to eat, patrons can hit up the Monopoly cafe. And if all this Monopoly talk has you wanting to play Monopoly or buy Monopoly merchandise, Monopoly Dreams will also feature Australia's first and only dedicated Monopoly store. Catering for audiences of all ages — so, you'll have kids for company, but it's open for adults without children in tow — Monopoly Dreams will take visitors around 60–90 minutes to enjoy the full experience. "The opening of Monopoly Dreams has been highly anticipated by Monopoly fans since the news broke that we'd be making Melbourne our home," said Monopoly Dreams General Manager Mark Connolly. "We are absolutely thrilled to now be opening the doors and welcoming guests into the incredible world of Mr Monopoly." Monopoly Dreams will open on Wednesday, November 15 at Melbourne Central, Lonsdale Street, Melbourne. Head to the venue's website for tickets and further details.
When it comes to job opportunities in the hospitality industry, options aren't limited solely to being behind the bar, on the floor or in the kitchen. There is an entire world of positions within hospitality that many don't realise exists. For example, food festivals don't just come together on their own; and if you've ever been at one of these massive events wondering what goes into the planning — or even picking up on things you would do better — you may just be thinking like an event manager without even realising it. That person behind the curtain is the one looking after every tiny detail to bring all that good food and booze together. In partnership with William Blue at Torrens University, we're asking hospitality graduates who run our favourite events in Sydney to talk about how they got started in the industry. Event management student Rebecca Wheatley is four weeks from graduating with a Bachelor of Business (Event Management), and has already earned a successful position as operations event executive at IMG Culinary. Part of her job includes helping run several of IMG's much-loved culinary events, including Taste of Sydney, Taste of Melbourne and Margret River Gourmet Escape. Just before graduation day, we asked her how she got here and for a few tips on how to be successful in the event management space. And might we add, whether events and the hospitality industry are for you or not, Rebecca gives some pretty steadfast advice no matter what field you're starting in. [caption id="attachment_632242" align="alignnone" width="1620"] Katje Ford.[/caption] GET AN INTERNSHIP "When I first finished school, I wasn't really sure what I wanted to do. I was working a million jobs, travelling a lot, and then I just started doing a few internships. They all happened to be in the event management industry, and at one of my internships, I met a few students from William Blue who highly recommended the program, so I signed up for the next trimester. It's so important to do internships and to get into the work environment. This is the way to start learning what you enjoy and what you're good at. Networking and learning how businesses work is key, and I wouldn't have my job if I didn't do that." RECOGNISE YOUR STRENGTHS "My very first uni subject was to work with a team to make an event. My team ended up doing a charity cocktail party for 130 people. And since it was for charity we had no budget; so figuring out how long to make it all work was very challenging, especially for beginners. I remember looking into ticketing platforms — which often take a percentage — and realising I had to be more creative and find other options. This first project really made me realise how detail oriented I was when looking at events. It's what really led me to the operations side of event management. This showed me the side of the business that I love and am skilled at." [caption id="attachment_632243" align="alignnone" width="1620"] Katje Ford.[/caption] JUMP AT OPPORTUNITIES "During uni, a former student came to one of my professors looking for an operations assistant for Brand Events (now IMG Culinary). My teacher recommended me, and I started off there with a three-month contract role. I kept contracting for IMG Culinary after that and now, at the start of this year, they put me on full-time as operations event executive. It's been such a great experience and a great opportunity to now graduate with a full-time role." EXPECT LONG HOURS AND HARD WORK "It's obviously a big challenge to juggle both uni and work; one that so many students struggle through. But finishing school without any job experience is even tougher, so working during uni was key to my success. Right now, I'm working [with] IMG four days per week and fitting uni in where I can. It's really hectic to do both at once, especially when there are events on. For Taste of Sydney, I had to go bump in at 7am, then run back for classes for a few hours and then head back to the event until midnight or 1am. And right now, I'm working on the program for Margaret River Gourmet Escape and managing all 150 exhibitors, as well as the contractors, schedule, council and all of the logistics. In this industry, you really devote your life to getting the event over the line. It's all you do and all you think about. You're constantly trying to come up with new ideas and ways to make it all work. Then, when the event opens and you see it all come to life, its such a rush and a moment to be really proud of yourself. You need to have that passion to keep going." [caption id="attachment_632241" align="alignnone" width="1620"] Katje Ford.[/caption] STAY DEDICATED "When you're just starting out, it's either long hours, low pay or both, but don't be afraid to work for it and get through it. If you're lucky enough to be in an industry that you love, then it all pays off. Especially when juggling school and work, it's really hard, but remember it's only temporary. Don't be afraid to stick it out. Sometimes it feels impossible to do both, but you'll get through it and be so glad that you did when you have a career at the end of it." William Blue at Torrens University offers courses in Event Management, Hospitality, Culinary Management and Tourism. Find out more about the diverse career options in hospitality, and kick-start your career at the William Blue Open Day on Saturday, August 12 in Sydney or via their website.
Like all of the eateries in the PappaRich empire, this Coorparoo outpost of the Malaysian restaurant chain serves consistently satisfying buttery rotis, fragrant laksa, filling nasi goreng and fiery sambal. What started out as a vision to create a modern version of the traditional coffee shops in Malaysia, has turned into an Australia-wide name, and rightly so. Each store has its own menu, but you'll always find roti canai, nasi lemak and pan mee — plus its range of teas, like teh tarik, lemon tea with honey and the Milo Dinosaur, a cup of iced Milo with a scoop of Milo powder on top.
What's the perfect dessert to follow a feast of gyoza or bao? Harajuku Gyoza might be the home of raindrop cakes and Japanese air cheesecakes, but it has another answer to that question: sweet versions of its go-to savoury dishes. Lemon meringue gyoza, marshmallow gyoza and Ferrero Rocher dumplings have been on the chain's menu before. Nutella gyoza sits there permanently. Now, it's time for gingerbread, pavlova and rum ball bao. 'Tis the season, after all. The food mashup fiends are celebrating the jolliest time of year with a new round of inventive limited-edition sweet treats — and new examples to prove the fact that there's no such thing as bad gyoza or bao. Harajuku Gyoza likes experimenting with its savoury range, too (mac 'n' cheese and pepperoni dumplings, anyone?), but turning bao into dessert and a festive treat is multiple presents in one. Available at Harajuku Gyoza's four Australian stores — at Darling Harbour in Sydney; at South Bank and the CBD in Brisbane; and in Broadbeach on the Gold Coast — the Christmas-inspired bao are exactly what they sound like. So, they're bao topped with whichever other dessert they're forming a Frankenstein's monster-style hybrid with, with each deep-fried and dusted in sugar first. Because these are a merry treat, they're only available until Christmas. That gives you just a few weeks to head on in and discover what gingerbread, pavlova and rum ball bao taste like. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Harajuku Gyoza (@harajukugyoza) If you're keen on gathering the gang, Harajuku Gyoza will give you a free round of Christmas bao if you have your Christmas party with eight people or more at one of its outposts. And if you fancy tucking into the new dumplings after devouring two old favourites — cheeseburger gyoza, which is stuffed with burger pieces, aged cheddar, onion, pickles, mustard and tomato sauce; and mozzarella gyoza, which is filled with the obvious, then deep-fried and sprinkled with Twisties salt — that's up to you. Harajuku Gyoza's Christmas dessert bao are available at all Australian stores — at Darling Harbour in Sydney; at South Bank and the CBD in Brisbane; and in Broadbeach on the Gold Coast — until Monday, December 25, 2023.
Valentine's Day is just around the corner and we at Concrete Playground can think of no better way to celebrate the painful plethora of schmaltz to come than with a hilarious collection of love declarations gone awry, thanks to the miracle of autocorrect. Damn You Autocorrect, the collector of texting fails, have compiled ten of their favourite Valentine's Day autocorrect blunders, proving that despite the efficiency it provides the modern lover, texting away your affection is not necessarily the best way to keep your relationship afloat. Via Mashable Image byCalypsoCrystal.
A film about abstaining from alcohol probably shouldn't make its audience want a drink, but that's exactly what Ruben Guthrie does. On one hand, perhaps the desire to knock back the hard stuff after watching the film speaks to its intended commentary about Australia's booze-friendly culture. On the other, maybe it's just the natural reaction to a movie that is both slickly packaged and self-pitying. Either way, Ruben Guthrie doesn't let the topic of drinking wander far from anyone's minds, whether its titular advertising wunderkind (Patrick Brammall) is guzzling champagne then jumping off the roof of his waterside mansion — and breaking his arm when he almost misses the pool below — or talking about past benders at the Alcoholics Anonymous meeting his mother (Robyn Nevin) swiftly drags him to. Often, he's just arguing about his consumption, first with his disapproving model fiancée Zoya (Abbey Lee), who gives him an ultimatum to stop, and then with his enabling father (Jack Thompson), boss (Jeremy Sims) and best mate (Alex Dimitriades), who can't accept his hiatus from partying. Transitioning from yelling "let's get smashed!" to looking longingly at half-filled bottles, it's the kind of scenario that feels like art imitating life — or a movie adapting a theatre production that was inspired by real experiences more accurately, because that's what it is. Brendan Cowell turned his own attempt to get sober after a big binge into a play, and now fashions it into his first big-screen full-length directorial effort. As a character, Guthrie's aim — and Cowell's before him — is to get through a year without beer, wine, spirits and other tipples. That's clearly a difficult feat for the ad man in the film, made more so by the brash manner in which both the situation and everyone involved in it is depicted. Guthrie feels sorry for himself and seeks redemption, but his behaviour warrants little understanding in return. He lives large, then mopes and yells, with Brammall doing his best to simultaneously channel Cowell and bring nuance to the role. The supporting players, meanwhile, become little more than one-note reminders of Guthrie's conflicting urges. Of course, the constant Aussie fondness for a pint, glass or shot that Ruben Guthrie highlights proves an interesting subject; here, it's just treated a little too superficially, and further suffers when the movie tries to conjure up too much sympathy. Stagey dialogue and travelogue-like shots of Sydney don't add any depth, nor do routine scenes of debauchery contrasted with outdoor activities. Also missing is comedy that does anything more than try to wring laughs out of stating the obvious — as well as the more satirical tone of the play, which might've made the feature and its protagonist feel like a statement. Instead, this cinema cocktail is shaken in its ingredients and, in its final blend of hedonistic excess, garnished with sober navel-gazing. You'll need a stiff drink will wash away the aftertaste.
Wandering around a market while the sun shines is all well and good, but there's something extra appealing about the nighttime variety. Happening every Friday and Saturday night in Brisbane's north — and back for 2021, too — BITE Markets fits the bill. And, it serves up plenty of food, because that's what every night market attendee really wants. Created by caterer Tom Burke, the twice-weekly setup boasts more than 30 'flavour makers' on its lineup, all trying to keep your hunger in check. Fancy a big heap of pasta? Sweet treats in the form of cakes, doughnuts, churros and poffertjes? Dumplings, bao, banh mi, wings, calamari, German sausages and Japanese eats? They're all on the menu, with the likes of Bamboo Street Asian Kitchen, Calamari Canteen, Hong Kong Dumplings, It's a Wing Thing, Oyster Shack and Moreton Bay Mocktails coming to North Harbour to sling their wares. A shipping container setup like Hamilton's Eat Street — complete with landscaping and a dining precinct — BITE Markets showcases local talents, so prepare to feast on meals whipped up by the best producers, food creators and artisans in the area. Running from 4–10pm each Friday and Saturday, the huge foodie gathering calls a patch of Nolan Drive in Morayfield home. Entry costs $3 for adults — and for those driving north, there's more than 600 car parks onsite.
UPDATE, December 23, 2020: The Midnight Sky is screening in select cinemas in Brisbane, and will also be available to stream via Netflix from Wednesday, December 23. It has been four years since George Clooney last appeared in a movie, dating back to 2016's Hail, Caesar! and Money Monster. Accordingly, while The Midnight Sky definitely isn't a documentary, the fact that it features the actor at his most bearded and reclusive instantly feels fitting. Also noteworthy: that this sci-fi drama joins the small but significant list of films that combine the star and space, following Solaris and Gravity. Clooney has everything from TV medical dramas and sitcoms to heist flicks, action fare, rom-coms and a stint as Batman on his resume, of course. He's a versatile actor, and an Oscar-winning one, too (for 2005's Syriana). But there's something particularly alluring and absorbing about seeing Clooney get existential, as all movies that reach beyond earth's surface tend to. He clearly agrees, because he not only leads The Midnight Sky but also directs it as well. Clooney plays workaholic research scientist Dr Augustine Lofthouse and, although The Midnight Sky rockets into space, it doesn't send its protagonist there. Instead, in 2049, after an environmental disaster has made the planet uninhabitable, he chooses to remain in the Arctic as his colleagues evacuate. He's dying anyway, and frequently hooks himself up to machines for treatment — in between downing whiskey, watching old movies, eating cereal and talking to himself. Then, interrupting his lonely decline, two things change his status quo. Firstly, a young girl (debutant Caoilinn Springall) mysteriously pops up out of nowhere, refusing to speak but obviously needing an adult's care. Secondly, Augustine realises that he'll have to trek across the oppressively icy terrain outside to connect via radio to a crew on the spaceship Aether, who've been on a two-year mission to ascertain whether newly discovered Jupiter moon K-23 can support life, and are now making their return unaware of what's been happening at home The space movie genre is as busy as the sky above is vast. Consequently, films about folks marooned in the great black expanse, dealing with the fallout of a pioneering journey and/or trying to make contact — whether those in space's depths are attempting to chat to earth, trying to find others lost in the same situation, or being sought by the people left on terra firma — reach screens every year. The Midnight Sky proves familiar as a result; if you've watched Clooney's other space-set features, or Interstellar, The Martian, Ad Astra, Contact or 2001: A Space Odyssey, you'll spy elements you've seen before. Although adapted from Lily Brooks-Dalton's 2016 novel Good Morning, Midnight, that screenwriter Mark L Smith is on scripting duties also adds a number of recognisable components. He penned the screenplay for The Revenant, another tale of survival against an unwelcoming terrain. Here, he has graduated from the wilds of 19th-century America to one of the globe's frostiest and most isolated spots, as well as all that lingers outside of the planet's atmosphere. The Midnight Sky isn't merely an exercise in flinging derivative parts out into the beyond and seeing what comes back, however. The key, both on-and off-screen, is Clooney. When the film spends time with the Aether's astronauts, including the pregnant Sully (Felicity Jones, On the Basis of Sex), ship commander Adewole (David Oyelowo, Gringo), veteran pilot Mitchell (Kyle Chandler, Godzilla: King of the Monsters), and other crew members Sanchez (Demián Bichir, The Grudge) and Maya (Tiffany Boone, Hunters), it's at its most generic. Indeed, when it ventures to space, The Midnight Sky almost screams for either Augustine to head there as well, or for the feature to plummet back down to earth to join him once more. As the movie's focal point, Clooney is as soulful and grizzled as he's ever been. As a filmmaker, he certainly gifts himself the feature's best moments. But in the latter guise, he's also aware that films about space are films about connection, including to routines and everyday moments — so the fact that Sully and company's exploits feel well-worn, including a climactic sequence involving an action-packed space walk, cleverly reinforces that idea. Unmistakably, this is a big-thinking and big-feeling feature. Its characters grapple with life, love and loss — aka what it means to be human, and to have lived — while also confronting the reality that the world they know is changing forever. It's purely coincidental, but The Midnight Sky overflows with 2020-esque inclusions, too. Having your sense of normality ripped away, spending time alone trying to reach out to others, and endeavouring to find a route back to the existence we once knew but may never again in quite the same way couldn't be more relatable (and that's just from the pandemic; parallels with climate change are also unsurprisingly rife). Amidst the obligatory outer space sing-alongs, as well as the smattering of life-and-death incidents, these concepts land as thoughtfully as intended. It helps that, spanning not only himself but also Jones, Oyelowo, Chandler, Bichir and Boone, Clooney has amassed an impressive cast. His co-stars mightn't be playing the most fleshed-out figures, script-wise, and may not match the actor/director in terms of screen presence, but the same uncertainty and yearning lingers in their portrayals. The script's use of flashbacks to Augustine's past are less convincing, as is their importance to The Midnight Sky's third act via a plot development that's easy to predict. Alexandre Desplat's (Little Women) score also falls on the heavy-handed side, stressing the mood and tone in an unnecessarily forceful way — especially given that Martin Ruhe's (Catch-22) cinematography is aptly pensive and probing, particularly in its earth-bound visuals. Still, Clooney is a skilled filmmaker. He has demonstrated that again and again since he first jumped behind the lens with 2002's excellent Confessions of a Dangerous Mind and 2005's masterful Good Night, and Good Luck, and it's clear here as well. The Midnight Sky isn't his greatest achievement as a director in general or as an actor in a space flick, but it's an involving, engaging and poignant addition to his resume on both counts. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gb8ZbP6qAzE&feature=youtu.be The Midnight Sky is screening in select cinemas in Brisbane, and will also be available to stream via Netflix from Wednesday, December 23.
There’s not much going on (music-wise) in Brisbane, our sunny, but sleepy city. Or is there? We have good bands here, and we have good venues for them to play in, right? But for some reason the stigma that Brisbane just don’t got it goin’ on still hangs around like a bad smell. And then Unconvention came around. The inaugural conference first started in 2010 and is a not-for-profit, grassroots-led music conference which focuses around creating sustainable careers within the local independent music industry. In short: Melbourne Schmelbourne! Sydney Schmydmey! We can do it all, and right here in Bristown. There’ll be forum discussions, workshops and networking events over the two days of Unconvention, and it’s open to pretty much anyone: independent musicians, promoters, labels, entrepreneurs, writers, technologists, innovators and artists. It’s time to shut down that sleepy city stigma – Unconvention’s a good place to start the revolution. Buy tickets here. Image credit: Unconvention
Brisbane's Judith Wright Centre will be alive with spirit and colour to celebrate the 2013 Chinese New Year. The Centre will host the HSBC Chinese New Year Historical and Cultural Display as part of the Fortitude Valley's two week long celebration. This exhibition features the “Sojourners and Settlers” display, curated by the Chinese-Australian Historical Association, which celebrates 150 years of Chinese in Queensland. From the 11th to the 15th of February, at 11am and 1pm everyday, the gallery will be hosting traditional knot-tying lessons, tea-ceremonies and calligraphy workshops – all of which are free. The Chinese New Year festivities will be flooding the Fortitude Valley for almost two weeks, so check out some of the nearby activities here and make it a fortnight of celebration. Be sure to visit and divulge yourself in Chinese culture at the Judith Wright Centre's Chinese New Year Historical Display - bring in the Year of the Snake with a bang.
You don't have to battle the crowds to experience Ekka's famed strawberry goodness. Instead, Belle Époque at Emporium Hotel South Bank have loaded their dessert cabinet with dine-in and takeaway treats that build upon this showground staple. This way, you can experience the fair's immersive nostalgia with an elevated charm. Available until Sunday, August 17, the Parisian-inspired patisserie has a selection of suitably enchanting desserts spangled with strawberry notes. La Fraise features white chocolate mousse, red velvet sponge and strawberry compote, while the Strawberry Field is a yogurt and lime mousse topped with red berry compote and cocoa soil. Yet there are plenty more treats to taste on this limited-edition lineup. Take your Ekka experience up a notch with Belle Époque's strawberry eclair, featuring elderflower and vanilla cream, or sample the refined strawberry, pistachio and vanilla tart. Rounding out this offering is a classic strawberry cheesecake enriched with sweet jelly and fresh fruit. And if you're craving a treat with a little more kick, head up to The Terrace. The hotel's rooftop bar is levelling up Ekka with the Sideshow Sundae, a curated cocktail featuring vanilla liquor ice cream, strawberry liquor syrup, macerated strawberries and toasted nuts. Finished with a Bertie Beetle — this concoction is a thoughtful tribute to Brisbane's much-loved pastime.
What happens when some of Brisbane's most beloved burger bosses go head to head? Well, you're about to find out. Come June 16 and 17, the likes of Mr Burger, Ben's Burgers, Salt Meats Cheese, Notorious E.A.T, Bearded Brothers and more will all descend on the Welcome to Bowen Hills lot for Brisbane's first Burger Invitational. If there's one thing that Brissie loves, it's burgers, after all — and to celebrate, the event will offer a weekend's worth of meat and other goodie between two pieces of bread. Expect some fierce foodie competition as each vendor vies for burger glory. Plus, if you gather up five mates, you can sit in a booth and pair your burg-eating experience with bottomless booze for three hours. General entry is free, and — as always — you can bring your four-legged BFF along. As for the burgs, everything on the menu will be available at regular prices on the day.
Romance. Kidnapping. A farm girl called Buttercup. A scheming prince. A swashbuckling saviour. A giant. When William Goldman threw them all together, The Princess Bride was the end result — first in his 1973 novel, and then in the 1987 film that the late, great writer also penned. For more than three and a half decades, viewers have watched Fred Savage (The Afterparty) hear the world's best bedtime story, Robin Wright (Land) and Cary Elwes (Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One) frolic in fields, and Andre the Giant tower over everyone around, with The Princess Bride one of those beloved 80s flicks that never gets old. That said, if you've ever found yourself enjoying all of the above and dreaming that its soundtrack could fill the room around you while being played live by an orchestra, then you're about to be in luck. Despite what outlaw boss Vizzini (Wallace Shawn, Evil) might exclaim, The Princess Bride in Concert definitely isn't inconceivable. Instead, this tour is channelling another famous The Princess Bride line: as you wish. This delightful movie-and-music combo will hit both Perth and Brisbane in 2024, playing one show in each city — in Perth on Saturday, February 24 and Brisbane on Saturday, April 13. If you need a refresher on all things The Princess Bride, the comedy-romance-adventure flick follows farmhand Westley (Elwes) on a rescue mission to save his true love Princess Buttercup (Wright) — and also features Mandy Patinkin (Wonder), Billy Crystal (Monsters at Work) and Christopher Guest (Mascots). Being performed live: the entire score, as written by Dire Straits' Mark Knopfler — and with Slava Grigoryan and the Perth Symphony Orchestra doing the honours in Western Australia, then Grigoryan and the Queensland Pops Orchestra in the Sunshine State. And if you're wondering how many times someone will say "anybody want a peanut?" in the audience before and after the movie, the answer is: plenty. Check out the trailer for The Princess Bride below: THE PRINCESS BRIDE IN CONCERT AUSTRALIAN TOUR: Saturday, February 24, 2024 — Riverside Theatre, Perth Saturday, April 13, 2024 — Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, Brisbane The Princess Bride in Concert is touring Australia in 2024 — head to the event's website for further details and tickets.
In Contagion, the most prophetic film of the 21st century so far, filmmaker Steven Soderbergh didn't just chart the outbreak of a deadly pandemic or introduce everyone to the term 'social distancing'. His eerily accurate thriller also delved into the quest to find a vaccine, too, so that life could go back to normal. And, that's the reality the world has faced since COVID-19 first emerged — with pharmaceutical companies and medical researchers around the globe working furiously to come up with a solution. Several vaccines have not only been created over the past year — much faster than the usual timeline — but have started being used in countries around the world. The latter is happening in places such as the UK and the US, where coronavirus case numbers have remained at enormous levels. In Australia, where the situation thankfully hasn't reached the same scale, the federal government has decided on a different approach. And today, Wednesday, January 6, Minister for Health Greg Hunt, revealed that doses should start being rolled out locally in early March. The Minister discussed the current plan in an interview with radio station 2GB, including revealing the change to the schedule — noting that originally the government was going to start administering the vaccine in the second quarter of 2021, then moved that up to late March 2021, and has now jumped forward to the beginning of that month. In recent weeks, as case numbers have been rising in Sydney and Melbourne, the original timeline received criticism. Vaccines need to be evaluated and approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration before they can be rolled out, with that process currently underway for multiple different vaccines — including from Pfizer-BioNTech and University of Oxford-AstraZeneca. Hunt also confirmed that the first round of vaccinations will cover frontline workers — particularly those working at hotel quarantine sites and international border checkpoints — as well as health workers and residential aged care facility residents. "That's the first round, and then we'll work through it in terms of age and other priorities — which are currently being finalised by the medical expert panel, but progressively working down in age and where there are other vulnerabilities in terms of disability or certain Indigenous age groups and others, then they'll all be identified," he said. As Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced in mid-2020, vaccines will be provided to every Aussie for free when they are rolled out. Australia currently has agreements to receive ten million doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, which will be manufactured overseas, and 53.8 million doses of the University of Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, with production of the latter already starting locally. Both require two doses per person to be effective. Obviously, it's expected that the government will provide further details about how everyone will get vaccinated — and specific dates for the start of vaccinations — before the beginning of March. For more information about the status of COVID-19 in Australia, visit the Australian Government Department of Health website.
Falls Festival might be gearing up to celebrate a quarter-century, but it feels a bit like we're the ones getting the birthday presents instead. Helping to ring in the art and music festival's 25th year is a pretty buzzworthy gang of musical mates, headlined by Australia's own wunderkind Flume, as he returns to the Falls stage for the first time since wooing the Lorne crowds in 2012. He's joined on the bill by international names like Seattle-based Grammy nominees Fleet Foxes (who were here earlier in the year for Sydney Festival), Oxford four-piece Glass Animals (who were also just here for Laneway), Californian indie-pop darlings Foster The People and The Kooks, who'll be celebrating a milestone of their own, having clocked up ten years since their debut album. If you've had your ear to the ground, you'll already know the part about Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher dropping in for his first-ever Aussie headline shows. True to form, the Falls 2017 local lineup is equally exciting, and every bit as broad. Homegrown acts hitting the stage include the party-ready Peking Duk, Brisbane rockers Dune Rats, Melbourne natives The Smith Street Band and Total Giovanni, and indie duo Angus & Julia Stone, off the back of their soon-to-launch album Snow. And it looks like you can start limbering up those vocal chords for a gutsy rendition of 'The Horses', with the legendary Daryl Braithwaite also slated for an appearance. As always, the tunes are backed by a colourful curation of art events, performances, pop-ups, markets, wellness sessions and gourmet eats. You can, however, say goodbye to the usual drink ticket situation, which has been ditched in favour of paywave and cash-enabled bars. It's all happening over New Years at the usual spots in Tassie's Marion Bay, Lorne in Victoria, and the North Byron Parklands, with WA's 2017 Falls Festival landing itself a new home within the Fremantle Oval precinct. But here's the full lineup. FALLS FESTIVAL 2017 LINEUP Flume (no sideshows) Fleet Foxes Run The Jewels The Kooks Glass Animals (no sideshows) Peking Duk Angus & Julia Stone Foster The People Liam Gallagher Vince Staples Jungle Dune Rats The Smith Street Band D.R.A.M Daryl Braithwaite Everything Everything Allday The Jungle Giants Thundamentals Methyl Ethel Slumberjack D.d Dumbo Anna Lunoe Dz Deathrays Confidence Man Julia Jacklin Bad//dreems Cosmo's Midnight Winston Surfshirt Luca Brasi Alex Lahey Camp Cope Flint Eastwood Ecca Vandal Dave Total Giovanni + More to be announced
Grab eight of your closest mates and jump aboard Aroona for a totally luxurious reef experience. Whether you're exploring the reef on a day trip, or escaping the mainland for a seven-day soiree, Aroona Luxury Boat Charters is the choose-your-own-adventure experience of your dreams. Want a jam-packed escape featuring fishing and kite-surfing, or a calmer pace with snorkelling and sipping cocktails on the top deck? Thankfully, Aroona boasts a flexibility and abundance of options that is synonymous with the area. And there's no better way to watch summer rainfall over the rainforest than from the deck as you cruise towards Fitzroy Island.
Thirty-four-metres long, more than twice as big as a regular hot air balloon and ripped straight from Patricia Piccinini's inimitable mind, Skywhale 2013 might just be one of Australia's most recognisable recent pieces of art. And, this morning at sunrise (Monday, March 9), Skywhale took flight once again as part of the Canberra Balloon Spectacular. She'll make her second (and final) solo flight this evening at 8pm from the North Lawns — so, if you happen to be in Canberra, keep an eye on the skies. Then, as of May, Skywhale will be joined by her new companion, Skywhalepapa. The new floating sculpture is designed to form a family with Skywhale, with the second bulbous sculpture commissioned as part of the gallery's Balnaves Contemporary Series. In total, the pair will take flight six times during the nearly three-month Skywhales: Every Heart Sings exhibition — with launch locations at Parliamentary Triangle and yet-to-be-confirmed sites in Woden and Tuggeranong. [caption id="attachment_751759" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Skywhalepapa, 2019/20 (artist's sketch), Patricia Piccinini. Courtesy of the artist.[/caption] The structures' first co-flight is set to take place on Saturday, May 2 from Parliamentary Triangle. As reported by The Guardian Australia, the new balloon will be around 30 metres tall, 37 metres wide and weigh a whopping 400 kilograms. While the two were meant to take to the sky together today, Piccinini told The Guardian that it was better to have a "staggered approach" and allow Skywhale to be reintroduced to Canberra before Skywhalepapa (and the duo's attached children) take to the skies together. If you can't make it to Canberra to see the growing Skywhale clan, they will also tour the country later in the year, with locations and dates still to be confirmed. https://www.instagram.com/p/B9fIa3xHmDu/ Apart from the Skywhales: Every Heart Sings installation, the NGA is offering up a whole heap of top-notch exhibitions in 2020. It'll welcome Botticelli to Van Gogh: Masterpieces from the National Gallery, London in November, boasting over 60 works from European masters — most of which have never before travelled to Australia. Art lovers can also look forward to Know My Name: Australian Women Artists 1900 to Now, which'll shine a spotlight on the nation's female creatives; Belonging: Stories of Australian Art, a major collection of 19th-century Aussie pieces; a six-month focus on Chinese artist and activist Xu Zhen; and The Body Electric, a showcase of works by female-identifying creatives that are all about sex, pleasure and desire. Skywhales: Every Heart Sings launched today, March 9 at the National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes, ACT. Additional flight dates are planned for May 2 through July 25. For further information about the NGA's 2020 lineup, visit the gallery's website. Top image: Skywhale, 2013, Patricia Piccinini. National Gallery of Australia, Canberra. Gift of anonymous donor 2019, Australian Government's Cultural Gifts Program.
Been feeling like you're seeing a ramen place on every corner? No, you're not mistaken. It seems that Brisbane is in the middle of a slurping frenzy. Of course, if the city's latest food trend sees more spots serving up more of this simple yet delicious meal, you won't hear us complaining. Hai-Hai Ramen on Latrobe Terrace in Paddington is the newest spot serving up noodles in broth, as topped with your your choice of charsiu pork belly, shio koji marinated chicken or vegetables, and available in salt and soy varieties. And, like all good ramen joints, what they lack in a lengthy list of options they make up for in taste. You won't just find the titular dish on their menu though, with sides also a feature inside their cute wooden cottage. Sure, a bowl of ramen is a feast all on its own — but it also goes down well with steamed buns, sweetcorn with miso butter and furikake, coleslaw or karaage. In fact, as far as an inexpensive but oh-so-appetising Tuesday to Sunday dinner goes, you really can't beat it.
Fancy enjoying a taste of Paris without paying for the plane fare? Brisbanites, the CBD's newest cafe has you covered. Freshly arrived on Edward Street, Lait Noir is here to help break up the nine-to-five grind with French-inspired surroundings, a menu packed with pastries and toasties, and plenty of coffee. First announced at the beginning of March and now trading Monday–Friday, Lait Noir aims to give the River City the Parisian vibes it's missing — it's "Brisbane's first Parisian-style dining with guests able to watch the hustle and bustle go by from their seat," explains Charlotte Bourguignon, the cafe's Operations Manager. "I have lived in Brisbane for ten years, and there has never been a go-to destination for takeaway or dine-in on the finer side in the CBD," Bourguignon continues. "We are so proud to be opening our doors for workers, visitors and locals to experience a little bit of Paris, right here in the CBD. We pride ourselves on quality and service, with all of our pastries and desserts made with true French ingredients from some of the best French suppliers in Brisbane." On the menu: a hefty range of baked goods pumped out of Queensland's first Unox Speed-X oven. Lemon muffins, raspberry almond coconut tarts, apple tarts and mini French doughnuts sit among the sweet bites, while croissants, quiches, frittatas and beef bourguignon pie are highlights from the savoury range. And, from a dessert-focused lineup, lemon meringue tarts, passionfruit tarts, choc-fudge caramel brownies and carrot cake are sure to tempt tastebuds. Lait Noir also does salads, including a roasted vegetable option, plus sandwiches, toasties and wraps. And yes, the cheesy egg and bacon croque toastie instantly sounds like a must-try. Lait Noir now sits in the space that was previously home to Roll'd Vietnamese, and takes its cues from French cafes design-wise — complete with luxe $450,000 fitout overseen by Outkast. That means getting a caffeinated brew beneath seven-metre-high ceilings and over A-grade marble bench tops. If you happen to work in the building, it's also planning to do a concierge service for tenants. And, anyone who heads along to the cafe's official opening party between Wednesday, March 29–Friday, March 31 will find live tunes setting the mood, samples to help you try out the menu, and the chance to win free coffee for a year. Find Lait Noir at 144 Edward Street, Brisbane — open from 6.30am–5.30pm Monday–Friday.
Pups and pints: it's a winning combination. And, it never goes out of style. Brisbanites keep going barking mad for downing beers with their doggos, so The Brightside's Barks & Brews sessions just keep coming back. Folks of the two- and four-legged variety, make another date with a few beverages. With its appropriate name, the canine-centric afternoon doesn't really need to offer up anythi12ng more than just that — but, it wouldn't be a Brighty shindig without some extra fun. Those heading to Warner Street from 12pm on Sunday, May 30 can also expect professional doggie portraits for maximum cuteness, plus cocktail specials. So grab your fluffy companion, flock to the beer garden and prepare to sink a few cold ones while enjoying Brissie's finest sunny weather (a statement that's accurate for most of the year). And, expect to spend time in the company of plenty of other dog lovers and their pooches too. BYO frisbee.
Banging is the certainly word for it; when Bad Luck Banging or Loony Porn begins, it's with high school teacher Emi (Katia Pascariu, Beyond the Hills) and her camera-wielding husband Eugen (first-timer Stefan Steel) having loud, enthusiastic, pink wig-wearing sex — and filming it. Romanian writer/ director Radu Jude (I Do Not Care If We Go Down in History as Barbarians) shows the explicit three-minute snippet of footage as others will see it, because others will indeed see it: the students at Emi's school, their parents and her fellow teachers among them. All genitalia and thrusting and lustful talk (and shouted queries through the door from whoever is looking after the couple's child), this graphic opening also makes a bold and firm statement. So many people within the film's frames will take issue with it as vocally as Emi and her partner are enjoying themselves — and they're unmistakably enjoying themselves — but Jude definitely isn't one of them. 2021's Berlinale Golden Bear-winner, Bad Luck Banging or Loony Porn also starts with a gleeful provocation — not just to those seeing Emi and Eugen's home video within the movie, but to Jude's viewers. It's a jolting opening that's exactingly orchestrated to make audiences react, then unpack their own instant reflexes in tandem with the rude on-screen posse that may as well be waving pitchforks. The underlying question: to those who object, what makes this raunchy romp between two consenting adults so shocking? Worse exists on the internet en masse all the time, so is it its unexpected arrival? Within the picture, is it the fact that Emi is a teacher, a woman or that she's unapologetic, too? Both queries speak to ideas long internalised about what we see where, who we allow to do what, and the power that comes from enforcing arbitrary and hypocritical judgements about supposed immorality and obscenity. Indeed, loving, animated, costumed and sex toy-aided intercourse between a married couple in the privacy of their own home is the nicest thing that graces Bad Luck Banging or Loony Porn — until the feature's glorious climax, that is. What follows the intimate clip is a razor-sharp satire of a world that's so indifferent to so much ghastliness and so often, yet remains so unaccepting of carnality and so quick to use it as a reason to unbridle our worst sniping impulses. The film wields that notion as a weapon, all as Emi and Bucharest's other residents also navigate the pandemic. Jude could've set his scorching feature at any time, but overtly drawing attention to the daily behaviour that's been accepted while the globe battles a decimating virus — and the fact that some here would rather fixate on a different and trivial kind of viral spread — makes a blunt but perceptive point. Accordingly, in the cinema verite-style first section, Emi rushes around the city on foot, going about an ordinary day that morphs into anything but. Actually, given that she learns of the sex tape backlash while surrounded by everyday hostilities and vulgarities, this chapter reinforces an ugly truth: that the performatively horrified responses from the parents of Emi's students are all too routine. As she traverses the streets, Bucharesters yell and argue bitterly — swearing at each other in the grocery store, purposely hitting pedestrians with cars and otherwise uttering language that'd be at home in porn. Emi is one of them as she tries to get sedatives from the chemist and drops by her school headmistress' (Claudia Ieremia, I Do Not Care If We Go Down in History as Barbarians) home, but the mood and intent is to lay bare a city heaving and brawling in its natural state. In this portion of the film, Jude and his regular cinematographer Marius Panduru observe intently and patiently, while also spying ample evidence of Romania's transition from communism to capitalism peppered around town. That helps anchor Bad Luck Banging or Loony Porn's second act, which unleashes scathing and playful cine-essay snippets about the country's past, the planet's present, human behaviour — often at its most atrocious — and how porn is used as both a scapegoat and an anaesthetic. Again, subtlety isn't in the feature's wheelhouse here, nor need it be. Compiled from factual sources, such as news and social media, Jude badges this section 'A Short Dictionary of Anecdotes, Signs and Wonders' — and, in both providing context for so many of the movie's musings and exemplifying its experimental approach, it is certainly a wonder. Lastly, a mask-wearing Emi is interrogated and publicly humiliated by parents and teachers, their punitive savagery and blatant sanctimoniousness on full display. It's the picture's first brilliant, biting and bleakly hilarious climax — what would a film about a sex tape be without more than one peak? — and it initially plays out as anticipated. Yes, "Fox News" is shouted, because Jude's commentary isn't only limited to his homeland. Still, while the kangaroo court-style inquisition Emi faces overflows with foreseeable revelations, they're still shrewd and sizzling, and the movie also saves some of its final knee-weakening thrusts for its last few twists. It also uses this segment to showcase the filmmaker's skilled handling of farce, his adaptability through the course of this free-wheeling feat, and Pascariu's exceptional performance. Trying to glean deeper expressions and emotions from above a strip of face-covering fabric is a pandemic reality; however, Pascariu turns it into tour de force. Among the sights that Jude peers at in Bad Luck Banging or Loony Porn's walk-and-witness section is a closed cinema, a 'for rent' sign on its window, which punctuates a chapter filled with incident after incident of antagonism — abuse and selfishness so common that it's clearly an engrained mindset. Losing even a single space to see art, connect with something bigger than oneself, and become immersed in different stories and perspectives alters any society, and it's easy to draw a line from there to Emi's arrogant and entitled tribunal of accusers. In a film designed to galvanise when watched communally thanks to its explicit opening, it's also easy to ponder how those censorious and bumptious parents would react if they were viewing this very movie. They'd likely be the type to desecrate the darkened theatre by loading the porn video on their phone mid-flick, only to then attack and insult anyone who asked them to pay attention to the feature in front of them and stop ruining the big-screen experience for everyone else. Jude could easily make a searing and stinging film about the state of Romania and the world out of that, too.
If Jerry Seinfeld were to weigh in on Brisbane's current food obsessions, he'd likely ask: "what's the deal with all the burgers and doughnuts?" It’s a good question, given that every week seems to bring a new creation of one or the other — or a fresh mashup of the two. This week, Bella BBQ and The Doughnut Bar have joined the fold. Brisbanites with a healthy appetite should know the former as one of the city's best meaty food trucks, and the latter as the dough-focused spinoff of the Chocolate Komberry Co. They've teamed up to unleash their very own cronut burger, complete with low-and-slow smoked brisket, cheesy maple bacon-infused mac and cheese and maple hickory barbecue sauce (which is injectable, should you want more), all sprinkled with bacon dust. If you can calm your stomach for the moment, we'll keep telling you the good news: this wondrous creation is going to make its debut at the Brisbane Bandits Baseball game at Holloway Field on January 21. If sports isn't your thing, you’ll also be able to grab one from Bella BBQ as it traverses the town. We predict a whole lot of checking — that is, stalking — Bella BBQ's Facebook page in your future. In the spirit of true collaboration, that's not the end of the story. In the coming weeks, The Doughnut Bar will be serving them too. Yep, this cronut burger won't just be available at once place — because if there's one thing Brisbane needs, its more burger-doughnut hybrids available more often. Actually, that's exactly what seems to be happening of late. Ze Pickle and Doughnut Time unleashed their 'Doughnutfukwitdis' earlier this month, with the latter also releasing an Elvis Burger with Chur Burger last year. Add Doughnut Time's vegan offering to the list, and the city really has reached the peak of all things experimental (and downright ridiculous) when it comes to our two favourite foods. Not that we're complaining — instead, we're eagerly awaiting what might possibly come next. The Bella BBQ/Doughnut Bar cronut burger will be available from Thursday, January 21. For more information, keep an eye on Bella BBQ's Facebook page — and The Doughnut Bar's, too.
Since 2015, gin lovers around the country have tripped over themselves to get their spirit-loving fingers on a bottle of Four Pillars' Bloody Shiraz Gin — and that's before they've even had a sip of alcohol. The limited edition shiraz-infused concoction really is that good, so we thought you'd like to know that the next batch goes on sale on Tuesday, June 1. If you haven't come across the gin before, it's basically what it says on the label: gin infused with shiraz grapes. This gives the spirit a brilliant deep cerise colour and some sweet undertones (without a higher sugar content). That, along with its higher alcoholic content — 37.8 percent, compared to an average 25 percent in regular sloe gin — makes the Bloody Shiraz Gin a near-perfect specimen. It can be used in cocktails where you'd usually use your regular gin — or you can keep things simple with a G&T. Four Pillars initially created the game-changing gin when it came into a 250-kilogram load of shiraz grapes from the Yarra Valley. Experimenting, the Victorian distillers then steeped the grapes in their high-proof dry gin for eight weeks before pressing the fruit and blending it with the gin, and hoping like hell it would turn out well. It did. This year, Four Pillars is doing more than just selling the cult-favourite drop. Of course, you can still buy a bottle at selected bottle shops, in the Four Pillars online store, at its Yarra Valley distillery and at the Four Pillars Laboratory in Sydney — and you can even buy a limited-edition label version that comes in different packaging, too. But if you fancy something to nibble while you drink, the distillery is also releasing a new 'Made from Gin' range so you have something to snack on. Your choices: bloody shiraz grape and quince paste ($10), and bloody shiraz gin caviar ($25). The 2021 Four Pillars Bloody Shiraz Gin will go on sale around the country on Tuesday, June 1. Head to the Four Pillars website to buy a bottle.
20,000 Days on Earth is a documentary that's fiction. Though it's by no means the only documentary to question the form and take things meta, it is one of the most boldly experimental ones out there. It's a work that's highly constructed from start to finish — and since it's constructed with and about Nick Cave, there's plenty of fun to be had. The film imagines the 20,000th day on earth of the Australian-born, UK-based singer and raconteur. It's a day that includes him talking to his shrink, recording an album, helping archivists make sense of his historical record, lunching with his pals, driving Kylie Minogue around Brighton, and playing at the Sydney Opera House. A pretty great day, really, particularly for its impossibilities. Running throughout is, naturally, Cave's own music, rumbling out of the studio and guiding his path through the world. Instead of clarity and chronology, what you get in 20,000 Days on Earth is a fragmented sense of biography that is sometimes deeply insightful, sometimes electrifying and sometimes frustrating. Major characters in the life of Nick Cave, such as collaborator Warren Ellis and The Proposition star Ray Winstone, appear without context or label, meaning that to really follow this winding ride, you have to be au fait with the life of Cave. If you're not, just let it go; there are plenty of moments here that are plain entertaining regardless, while a live performance montage set to a frenzied, ever building version of 'Jubilee Street' is near rapturous to witness. The conversation between Cave and Minogue feels painfully intimate and revealing, despite all the scripting that frames it. Artists-turned-directors Iain Forsyth and Jane Pollard have basically conjured a new format here, one that's wondrously poetic and imaginative. There's a sense that it could be applied to tell nearly anybody's fragmented, personal tale, though having the flair and flamboyance of Cave certainly helps. Eavesdropping on a conversation with Cave is right up there with the high points of cultural consumption. 20,000 Days on Earth gets points for pure brio. It's not like anyone would want every documentary to be made this way, but it sure is an interesting divergence. https://youtube.com/watch?v=Ap0_y5EGttk
