In a sultry city such as Brisbane, a place where winter weather lasts for approximately a week each year, letting everyone cool down in public pools for less than the cost of a coffee — less than the cost of almost everything — was always going to be a hit. Accordingly, after its first-ever run from December 2023–February 2024, Brisbane City Council's $2 Summer Dips scheme might return at the end of 2024. Announced in June 2023, and running for the entire three months of summer, $2 Summer Dips slashed entry fee at all 22 of Brisbane City Council's public pools around the River City. During its debut season, more than 660,000 Brisbanites took advantage of it, with over 88,000 of those folks heading to Newmarket's pool alone — increasing its summer attendance by 85 percent from 2022–23. [caption id="attachment_904760" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr[/caption] Love swimming laps? Prefer a leisurely soak as your favourite way to cool down? Does nothing could say summer to you quite like hanging out poolside? Whichever category fits, you may be able to live the pool life for cheap at Brisbane City Council's public venues — again — between Sunday, December 1, 2024–Friday, February 28, 2025. And yes, having a splash will only cost you $2, with that discounted price applying to everyone, adults and kids alike. The saving drops the adult entry price from $6.40 to $2. The reduced rate covers every single day across the period, too, which includes all of the Christmas and New Year public holidays. [caption id="attachment_741063" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cieran Murphy[/caption] The return of the scheme has been promised by Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner as part of Brisbane's local government elections. So, it may depend on who wins — or it could be the kind of initiative that returns no matter who emerges victorious. There's no other catches — including no limit on how many times you can take advantage of the deal. Fancy going for a swim at your local every day during summer? Working your way around Brisbane's public pools, diving into a different one daily? Both are options. Across the summer of 2023–24, Jindalee, Carole Park and the Emily Seebohm Aquatic Centre also saw a doubling of attendance rates — and entry numbers across the full 22 overall doubled in the month of December alone. [caption id="attachment_904761" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr[/caption] Brisbane City Council's public pools include Centenary Pool, Spring Hill Baths and the Valley Pool, plus Musgrave Park Swimming Centre, the Colmslie Aquatic Centre in Morningside, Ithaca Pool in Paddington, Dunlop Park Memorial Swimming Pool in Corinda and Hibiscus Sports Complex Pool in Upper Mount Gravatt. Chermside Pool, Bellbowrie Pool and Manly Pool are all covered as well, as are Yeronga Park Memorial Swimming Pool, Mt Gravatt East Swimming Pool and Sandgate Aquatic Centre — and more. [caption id="attachment_621822" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council[/caption] [caption id="attachment_777650" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr[/caption] [caption id="attachment_777649" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kgbo via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] [caption id="attachment_777652" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr[/caption] If Brisbane City Council's $2 Summer Dips program returns, it will run from Sunday, December 1, 2024–Friday, February 28, 2025. To find your closest public pool, head to the council website. Check out our list of the best outdoor swimming pools in Brisbane for 2024. Top image: Cieran Murphy.
Whether it's turned into a rave, accompanied by plenty of booze or features music instead of numbers, bingo isn't just a game for your nan. But, even if you've been making the rounds of Brisbane's various new versions of this old-school pastime, you probably haven't given loteria a whirl. It's the traditional Mexican take on the same kind of fun, but it uses pictures. Come Thursday, June 27 — and monthly afterwards — Bowen Hills' El Camino Cantina is the place to play, so get ready to get matching. And drinking, because margaritas are on the menu too. While the game starts at 6pm, if you arrive early (between 4–6pm), your frosty drink will only cost $7.50. Thursdays are also half-price fajita day, should you be feeling peckish. Loteria itself is free to play, although bookings are required. If you're wondering exactly how you play, you'll be asked to mark off four pictures in a row on your card, with each corresponding to an image from a quirky Mexican deck. Once you've stamped your sheet, you need to yell "loteria", of course. As for prizes, you could nab restaurant voucher, bottle of Jose Cuervo or a t-shirt.
Being a Barbie girl in a Barbie world wasn't just a 2023 trend, back when Greta Gerwig's (Little Women) Margot Robbie (Asteroid City)-starring — and Oscar-nominated — film became one of the biggest and pinkest movies to ever hit cinemas. The 2025 way to get your Barbiecore fix Down Under from late June through till summer 2026: by enjoying ice cream floats served in a pink Barbie convertible car at the Malibu Barbie Cafe, plus sipping fairy floss-topped cocktails at the Ken Kabana bar, all at The Social Quarter at Chadstone Shopping Centre in Melbourne. The Malibu Barbie Cafe has been popping up across the US, with New York, Chicago, Minneapolis, Miami, Austin and Houston all welcoming the venue. From Friday, June 27, 2025, it'll next make its first-ever appearance in Australia. This is also the cafe's debut stop beyond America — as well as Melbourne's second temporary big-name pop culture-themed addition in the same month, after Melbourne Museum's Star Wars Galactic Cafe opened its doors in early June. Pink hues? Beachy decor? Kicking it back to the 1970s, when Malibu Barbie initially debuted, at the onsite watering hole? A rollerskating rink lined by artwork of palm trees? A life-sized Barbie box? An installation that celebrates how Barbie as a brand has changed over the years? That's all on offer at the Malibu Barbie Cafe. So is merchandise that you won't find anywhere else, if you need a memento from your visit — although, with that in mind, we're sure that you'll fill your phone with plenty of photos. Ken's job isn't just beach here, given that his name adorns the cocktail-slinging upstairs bar in the two-storey site. On the drinks menu: that gin and lemonade concoction with spun sugar on top; themed takes on mojitos, margaritas, cosmopolitans, espresso martinis and old fashioneds; and more. If you're keen on a booze-free version, some of the tipples are available as mocktails. There's also a snack range, including fries with pink mayo, prawn cocktails, sushi and baked brie. Does putting your skates on appeal? You'll find that on the second level, too. Downstairs, Malibu Barbie Cafe's menu is an all-ages-friendly affair, with that ice cream float just one option. Sticking with sweets means choosing from doughnuts, pink cookies, cupcakes, ice cream sundaes, fruit and marshmallows. If you can't decide, the dessert sampler dishes up a mix of picks on a Barbie boat for between four and eight people. Savoury dishes span the same small bites as at the Ken Kabana, plus burgers, poke, garlic prawn linguine, beer-battered fish tacos, club sandwiches, grilled cheese, mac 'n' cheese and salads. Or, tuck into avocado toast, açai bowls, bacon and eggs, parfait or pancakes from the all-day brunch selection. Then, to drink, milkshakes, pink lemonade and pink lattes are among the options. If you're thinking "come on Barbie, let's go party", party packages are indeed a feature — including three-hour adults-only private-dining experiences from 6.30pm Thursday–Sunday. "We're delighted to partner with Bucket Listers and Chadstone, in collaboration with Mattel, to bring the Malibu Barbie Cafe to Melbourne," said Matt Gudinski, Chief Executive of The Mushroom Group, which is helping to share the Barbie fun with Australia. "At The Mushroom Group, we're always exploring new immersive live experiences and working with the world's biggest brands — few are as iconic as Barbie." Find Mattel's Malibu Barbie Cafe at The Social Quarter at Chadstone Shopping Centre, 1341 Dandenong Road, Malvern East, Melbourne, from Friday, June 27, 2025–summer 2026. Head to the cafe's website for more details.
As part of the flurry of streaming services always competing for our eyeballs, FanForce TV joined the online viewing fold during the COVID-19 pandemic as a pay-per-view platform. The service runs all year round, of course, but it goes the extra mile for National Reconciliation Week, which is when it hosts the First Nations Film Festival (previously known as the Virtual Indigenous Film Festival). In 2023, that event will take place between Tuesday, May 30–Saturday, June 3, all solely online. The returning fest will focus on something different on each of the five days, starting with the Richard Bell-focused documentary You Can Go Now, then moving onto documentaries Alick and Albert and The Lake of Scars. There's also shorts by up-and-coming First Nations talent, plus anthology feature We Are Still Here as the fest's big finale. At this at-home screen celebration, you'll enjoy watching your way through an array of Aussie content focused on Indigenous stories, spanning both dramas and documentaries — and exploring race relations in the process. Viewers can tune in on a film-by-film basis, or buy an all-access pass to tune into everything. Movies screen at set times, running twice each day: at 1pm and 7pm AEST.
UPDATE, October 19, 2022: The Stranger released in Australian cinemas on October 6, then streams via Netflix from October 19. No emotion or sensation ripples through two or more people in the exact same way, and never will. The Stranger has much to convey, but it expresses that truth with piercing precision. The crime-thriller is the sophomore feature from actor-turned-filmmaker Thomas M Wright — following 2018's stunning Adam Cullen biopic Acute Misfortune, another movie that shook everyone who watched it and proved hard to shake — and it's as deep, disquieting and resonant a dance with intensity as its genre can deliver. To look into Joel Edgerton's (Thirteen Lives) eyes as Mark, an undercover cop with a traumatic but pivotal assignment, is to spy torment and duty colliding. To peer at Sean Harris (Spencer) as the slippery Henry Teague is to see a cold, chilling and complex brand of shiftiness. Sitting behind these two performances in screentime but not impact is Jada Alberts' (Mystery Road) efforts as dedicated, determined and drained detective Kate Rylett — and it may be the portrayal that sums up The Stranger best. Writing as well as directing, Wright has made a film that is indeed dedicated, determined and draining. At every moment, including in sweeping yet shadowy imagery and an on-edge score, those feelings radiate from the screen as they do from Alberts. Sharing the latter's emotional exhaustion comes with the territory; sharing their sense of purpose does as well. In the quest to capture a man who abducted and murdered a child, Rylett can't escape the case's horrors — and, although the specific details aren't used, there's been no evading the reality driving this feature. The Stranger doesn't depict the crime that sparked Kate Kyriacou's non-fiction book The Sting: The Undercover Operation That Caught Daniel Morcombe's Killer, or any violence. It doesn't use the Queensland schoolboy's name, or have actors portray him or his family. This was always going to be an inherently discomforting and distressing movie, though, but it's also an unwaveringly intelligent and impressive examination of trauma. There's no other word to describe what Mark and Rylett experience — and, especially as it delves into Mark's psychological state as he juggles his job with being a single father, The Stranger is a film about tolls. What echoes do investigating and seeking justice for an atrocious act leave? Here, the portrait is understandably bleak and anguished. What imprint do such incidences have upon society more broadly? That also falls into the movie's examination. Mark, along with a sizeable group of fellow officers, is trying to get a confession and make an arrest. Back east, Rylett is one of the police who won't and can't let the situation go. Doling out its narrative in a structurally ambitious way, The Stranger doesn't directly address the human need for resolution, or to restore a semblance of order and security after something so heinously shocking, but that's always baked into its frames anyway. Travelling across the country, Henry first meets a stranger on a bus, getting chatting to Paul (Steve Mouzakis, Clickbait) en route. It's the possibility of work that hooks the ex-con and drifter — perhaps more so knowing that his potential new gig will be highly illicit, and that evading the authorities is implicit. Soon he meets Mark, then seizes the opportunity to reinvent himself in a criminal organisation, not knowing that he's actually palling around with the cops. It's an immense sting, fictionalised but drawn from actuality, with The Stranger also playing as a procedural. The connecting the dots-style moves remain with Rylett, but Wright's decision to hone in on the police operation still means detailing how to catch a killer, astutely laying out the minutiae via action rather than chatting through the bulk of the ins and outs. When Wright made his initial leap behind the camera after almost two decades on-screen — an acting resume that spans a range of weighty fare, such as Van Diemen's Land, Balibo, Top of the Lake, The Bridge and Sweet Country — he spun a tale of two men connecting, entangling and grappling with hard truths. Acute Misfortune and The Stranger are immensely different movies in a plethora of ways, even if both do find their basis in IRL situations, but there's no missing their common central dynamic. While The Stranger wouldn't be the film it is without its time with Rylett, and with the phenomenal Alberts in that key role, the interplay between Mark and Henry retains its core focus. To be accurate, Mark sits squarest in its spotlight — including surveying the anxiety he feels as a single father tasked with such a case, which plays out in striking domestic and dream sequences — but it isn't a coincidence that Edgerton and Harris are styled to visibly resemble each other. Also never an accident: that The Stranger's male leads turn in transfixing performances, whether guiding the film's viewers through Mark's waking ordeal and literal nightmares, or showing their cause. This is Edgerton and Harris' third project together in mere years, after The King and The Green Knight — but if it wasn't, it'd be clear why both Wright and Edgerton (who produces and optioned the rights to The Sting to begin with) opted for the pairing. The Stranger sears not just with intensity but tension, so much of which jitters whenever the two men share the frame. A blazing car fire aside, the largely muted colours lensed by cinematographer Sam Chiplin (Penguin Bloom) add to the brooding, primal, dread-filled mood. The nervy soundscape by composer and cellist Oliver Coates (Aftersun, and also a Radiohead collaborator) does the same. But The Stranger's faces and bodies, as haunted and unbalanced as they always are, say — and silently scream — everything. Wright wants his audience to observe carefully, and to listen. The feature's sound design toys with this very idea; when a drive with Mark and Henry switches its dialogue to surveillance audio, it's such a straightforward choice, and yet its execution is layered, smart and immensely powerful. There's no such thing as passively and easily viewing The Stranger, it tells us, as does describing calming breathing techniques in its opening moments. Engaging with this movie has to be an active and complicated feat because engaging with the darkness it explores always is. Who retells grim chapters of history, and why and how, aren't questions isolated to Australian cinema, especially with true crime a perennially popular genre on screens large and small — and pages and podcasts, and wherever and however else such tales are told — and with The Stranger, they've surfaced again just a year after bubbling up around Justin Kurzel's Nitram. Like that, this equally exceptional and unsettling film makes plain that interrogating events like these is crucial. Here, it's also transformative for those doing the probing, the world they inhabit and those watching.
There are few areas on earth that Google Street View can't venture — and now one place in space as well. In the latest addition to their popular Google Maps feature, the technology giant has added the International Space Station to its list of destinations. Clearly charting the planet humanity walks on just wasn't enough. Launched on the 48th anniversary of the first manned moon landing, the virtual leap for mankind lets users explore all 15 of the ISS's interconnected modules, which orbit the planet more than 400 kilometres above the surface. From peering through the observational node to entering the airlock, pretending that you're living out your science-fiction dreams — and experiencing what it's like to literally look down on the rest of us, too — is now as easy as moving your cursor and clicking your mouse. Obviously, you can't send Google's Street View car fleet into space, so the company worked with NASA bases and ISS astronauts to capture imagery from the inside the structure. DSLR cameras and equipment already on board were used to collect pictures in gravity-free conditions. The resulting snaps of the habitable artificial satellite were then sent back down to earth, stitched together and turned into panoramic shots. If that sounds a little tricky, that's because it was. As European Space Agency astronaut Thomas Pesquet explains in a blog post for Google, "there are a lot of obstacles up there, and we had limited time to capture the imagery, so we had to be confident that our approach would work." Still, for anyone who has ever wanted to take a trip into space — but found costs, logistics, training and a whole long list of other factors getting in their way — it was worth it. Explore the International Space Station on Google Maps. Via The Verge. Image: Google Maps.
Direct flights from Australia's east coast to New York — and London, too — are on their way, with Qantas committing to make the massive trips from 2025. But first, the Aussie airline is heading non-stop from Auckland to the Big Apple. The carrier has announced two pieces of exciting news for travellers Down Under, both of which might change your holiday plans from 2023 onwards. Firstly, it's starting those direct Auckland–New York routes, kicking off on June 14. Secondly, it's recommencing flying to NY in general, including a new Sydney–Auckland–New York flight. Initially, the new service will run three days a week, starting in Sydney before soaring non-stop from NZ to NY. The latter part will take a whopping 16 hours, which is slightly shorter than the 17-hour direct Perth–London route that first hit the air back in 2018, but will still be a mammoth undertaking. Yes, time feels like it means nothing when you're on one plane for that long. Yes, if you're keen on as few stopovers as possible whenever you're jetting around the world, that hefty non-stop leg is worth it. When Qantas returns to NY for the first time in three years due to the pandemic, travellers will be flying on Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with the airline taking delivery of three new aircraft in 2023. If you now know what you're doing next winter — enjoying a hot NY summer, obviously — the Sydney–Auckland–New York flights have just gone on sale today, Thursday, August 25. The airline will also increase its daily services from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne to Auckland from six to 11 when the new route commences, to help Aussies can take advantage of it. In flying direct from NZ to NYC, Qantas follows in the footsteps of Air New Zealand, which announced its plans back in 2019 and will start the route in September 2022. Qantas will restart flying to New York via its new Sydney–Auckland–New York route from June 14, 2023. For more information or to make a booking, head to the airline's website.
Let there be rock indeed: when AC/DC announced their first Australian tour in a decade, it was always going to be popular. It should come as no surprise, then, that extra gigs have been added now that tickets have gone on sale. Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne have all scored additional shows, with the band now playing two concerts in each of the New South Wales, Queensland and Victorian capitals. Since 2015, it's been a long wait for Aussie fans if you want to rock 'n' roll with AC/DC live, but the group's Power Up tour will see Brian Johnson, Angus Young and company performing at local stadiums in November and December 2025. With the just-announced extra gigs, Melbourne is getting thunderstruck at the MCG on Wednesday, November 12 and Sunday, November 16; Sydney at Accor Stadium on Friday, November 21 and Tuesday, November 25; Adelaide at the bp Adelaide Grand Final on Sunday, November 30; Perth at Optus Stadium on Thursday, December 4; and Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday, December 14 and Thursday, December 18. For this run of dates, Amyl and The Sniffers are onboard in support to make these massive Aussie concerts even more so, and to give attendees a taste of two different generations of Aussie rockstars. Playing Sydney isn't just part of a fitting homecoming for AC/DC, but comes more than half a century since the band played their first-ever show in the Harbour City. Their 2025 gig will be just over a month and a half short of 52 years since that 1973 debut. Power Up is also the name of the group's 2020 album, their most-recent record — which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, made multiple best-of lists for that year and scored Grammy nominations. For those about to rock, AC/DC's high-voltage current set list spans their entire career, however, including everything from 'If You Want Blood (You've Got It)', 'Back in Black' and 'Hells Bells' to 'Highway to Hell', 'Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap' and 'You Shook Me All Night Long'. So far, the Power Up tour has played Europe and North America, selling more than two-million tickets across 24 shows in the former and notching up ten soldout gigs in the latter. AC/DC will be back in Europe, hitting the Czech Republic, Germany, Poland, Spain, Italy, Estonia, Sweden, Norway, France and Scotland, before their Aussie dates. AC/DC Power Up 2025 Australian Tour Wednesday, November 12 + Sunday, November 16 — Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne Friday, November 21 + Tuesday, November 25 — Accor Stadium, Sydney Sunday, November 30 — bp Adelaide Grand Final, Adelaide Thursday, December 4 — Optus Stadium, Perth Sunday, December 14 + Thursday, December 18 — Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane AC/DC are touring Australia in November and December 2025, with tickets on sale from Thursday, June 26, 2025. Head to the tour website for further details. Images: Christie Goodwin.
Quiet and understated, Adelaide isn't always easy to navigate if you're a tourist. So much of the good (and there is a lot of good) is hidden in plain sight. That's where it helps to have some insider advice. We've teamed up with Pullman Hotels and Resorts to bring you a guide to Adelaide's less obvious but obviously fabulous experiences. Putting our heads together with Pullman Adelaide's chief concierge Enrico Angelletti, we've curated a list of must-dos that will leave you wanting more of Adelaide — from new art spaces to old smelly cheese shops, and from pizzeria nightclubs to tranquil gardens. Enrico (aka Ric) has been in the hotel business for nearly 38 years, and is looked up to by junior staff for his passion and expertise for helping guests find extraordinary experiences in Adelaide. His food knowledge is particularly strong — it comes at least in part from his Italian background. Check out the rest of our Explore More content series to hone your itinerary for some of Australia's best holiday destinations. ART & DESIGN ACE OPEN Born in response to dramatic cuts in arts funding, ACE Open is a new and innovative gallery space dedicated to creating challenging conversations with its audience. It showcases a diverse range of Australian and international artists who present experimental, unconventional work. Only launching in early 2017, ACE Open has quickly made a name for itself as being one of the most exciting art spaces in Adelaide, uncompromising in its dedication to quality and enthusiasm for creative risk-taking. Don't miss: Next Matriarch — an exhibition showcasing art from Indigenous women. SISTER GALLERY Created by artists Mia Van den Bos and Ashleigh D'Antonio, Sister burst onto the Adelaide art scene with its incredible stream of contemporary and experimental art from all over Australia. The gallery celebrates young, upcoming and underground artists with a bold point of view and a non-traditional approach. Located just outside of the city in Bowden (near some fabulous cafes and markets), Sister is easily accessible via the tram from the city. It's actually the perfect way to experience something totally different while exploring one of Adelaide's burgeoning cultural centres. Don't miss: Sister's October Openings, which will run in the gallery for two months. JAMFACTORY An Adelaide institution, JamFactory is a haven for all things ceramic and sculptural. Doubling as an education institute, it has purpose-built studios for the design and manufacture of jewellery, ceramics, furniture and glass. Because of its educational bent, visitors are not only able to buy direct from the artists but are able to get a sneak peek into cutting-edge processes and the next wave of influential Australian designers and makers. There's also the opportunity to participate in workshops and classes from industry leaders. Don't miss: Confluence. Presented in association with Tarnanthi Festival, it's an exploration of the work of Indigenous artists from all around Australia. ENSEMBLE ADELAIDE A concept store by and for locals, Ensemble is a new independent retail experience that puts good, sustainable design above all else. The recent home of the Slow Fashion Festival, Ensemble houses the work of local designers and artists, including BB Shoemaker and Goods Studios, and allows shoppers to buy direct from makers and artists. Beautifully curated and wonderfully relaxed, Ensemble is a space of beauty and collaboration that also highlights the innovation and spirit of the Adelaide creative scene. Don't miss: Seeing the makers work and chatting to them about their process. FOOD & DRINK NOLA Travel to New Orleans in the heart of Adelaide. Located in the city's relaxed East End, Nola is all about good beer, even better whiskey and delicious creole cuisine. Transforming Adelaide's stables building into the quintessential New Orleans speakeasy, the bar is a completely singular experience in the city's somewhat overcrowded small bar scene. Pouring at least 26 different craft beers at any given time, and having an ever-changing lineup of artisan whiskies, a menu designed for sharing (which features classics like cornbread, beignet and gumbo) and outdoor dining all summer, it's southern hospitality done right. Don't miss: The fried chicken is the most celebrated dish on Nola's menu for very good reason: it's light, crispy and just spicy enough to cut through all those beers. SUNNY'S This isn't your nonna's pizza. She'd probably like it, though. Serving Naples-style woodfired pizza with the best in South Australian beer and wine (and some very good cocktails), Sunny's is part restaurant and part club, with tables being cleared for live DJ sets every weekend. Located in the newly revitalised Solomon Street in the city's West End, Sunny's regularly involves collaborators representing the best of Adelaide's food scene. Delicious from start to finish. Don't miss: For all of its experimentation, Sunny's is still all about the classics. Their margherita is second to none. Pair that with their zesty Campari watermelon cocktail and you're set for summer. EAST END CELLARS Part bottle shop, part bar and 100 percent gourmet, East End Cellars is the perfect place to get your wine education. The shop has been pouring local wines (as well as a large variety of international labels), running educational tastings and preparing some of the most delicious food and decadent cheeseboards in the city for two decades. Everything is dedicated to getting the most out of your drink. Wines are expertly paired to your meal, and every week there is a guided tasting of their featured winery, where you can learn more about South Australian product from the best in the business. Don't miss: The huge selection of South Australian spirits, beers and wines exclusive to East End Cellars. THE SMELLY CHEESE SHOP An Adelaide Institution, The Smelly Cheese Shop has all your cheese needs covered. Located in the Central Markets, the shop stocks high-end and artisanal cheeses from all over South Australia and the world. With everything from imported French brie to Kangaroo Island feta, The Smelly Cheese Shop places quality above all else, offering customers the opportunity to have a real and in-depth experience with a true cheesemonger at the counter. In a state known for its passion for quality food, this shop is the pinnacle of excellence. Don't miss: The Smelly Cheese Shop runs classes all year round for the budding cheese connoisseur in all of us. They sell out notoriously quickly, so it pays to do your research and book in advance. WELLBEING & LIFESTYLE [caption id="attachment_643375" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] National Parks SA[/caption] MORIALTA CONSERVATION PARK While Adelaide is often derided as Australia's biggest small town, walking through Adelaide, you can see that size or space doesn't matter — it's all about how you use it. Located just 10 kilometres from the CBD, Morialta Conservation Park feels like another world, filled with rugged ridges, waterfalls and native woodlands. Visitors can challenge themselves with a variety of different hiking trails and, as they walk, be treated to expansive panoramic city views of the city and coast. And while you're walking, keep your eye out for native animals (koalas 24x7). Don't miss: A park. Adelaidians love Morialta, so it's best to head there early to save an inevitable car argument. BOTANIC GARDEN AND HIMEJI GARDEN If you can't leave the city but still want to get back to nature, the Botanic Garden and Himeji Garden should be at the top of your list. Designed by Japanese landscape artist Yoshitaka Kumada, the Himeji garden is a slice of beauty and tranquillity in the middle of Adelaide's bustling southern quarter. Featuring beautiful Japanese plant life, including black pine trees and gorgeous blossoms, the gardens are a favourite for Adelaidians who want to switch off and take some time out for reflection. Don't miss: Spring/summer sees the gardens truly come to life. Explore more with Pullman. Book your next hotel stay with Pullman and enjoy a great breakfast for just $1.
Always wanted to brush up on The Bard, but never progressed past watching Romeo + Juliet and 10 Things I Hate About You? You’re not alone. Fear not, your years of thinking you’ll get around to it can come to an easy end. Well, kind of. See one theatre performance, and enjoy a comedic crash course in England’s most famous poet and playwright. The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) condenses all 37 of his stage scribblings into one show, from the ghostly tragedy of Hamlet and the regal bloodbath of Macbeth, to the fairies and follies of A Midsummer Night’s Dream and the mischievous matchmaking of Much Ado About Nothing. If it all sounds a bit silly and Python-esque, that’s the point, and you’re encouraged to be part of the fun. Audience participation ensures that no two performances are the same. Head along, join in, and you’ll be a Shakespeare pro in no time.
Artist, illustrator and muralist George Rose is a big believer in looking within to ignite that creative spark, rather than banking on anything external. "That way, I'm a lot more independent, and I don't have to wait for inspiration or wait to see something for it to trigger another thought," she explains. "It's a much more calculated way of doing things, but it means that my creative output is not reliant on anything else. I can just create my own stuff." For the artist, there's a creative freedom that comes with that assurance, knowing that inspiration is something that can always be tapped, regardless of time, place or outside muses. It's a creative process born of a lifestyle that sees the artist constantly moving between Sydney, Brisbane and her current hometown of Melbourne. We sit down with Rose to discuss her inspirations, artistic process and the denim she wears to get her creative juices flowing. "There are lots of different aspects to my work; it depends on where I am because I've got such a transient existence," she explains. "I'm travelling around quite a bit, so I'm not reliant on a lot of stable or external structures. Quite often, I've got to create my own inspiration and my own work environment. I've never been super great with structure, anyway." When the inspiration's been tapped, and it comes down to creating a piece, Rose champions a sort of back-to-front approach. "Often I'll be asking a lot of questions of my work, even before I've started anything," she explains. "In a way, it's working backwards, like asking, 'Ok, what's the output of this? Who's it for? Where is it situated? Is there anything that client wants to say or that I want to say? What feeling do I want to create for someone who's looking at the mural?' If I can answer all of them, that gives me direction for what I do next." See some of Rose's bold artworks, and it'll come as no surprise that that creative flair also extends to her wardrobe — though she'll tell you functionality is key when getting down and dirty with some paint and a wall. "I have a pair of denim overalls that I wear because they wear really well and they've got pockets everywhere and I don't have to wear belts and they don't fall down," says the artist. "And it just so happens that denim overalls are in right now so I'm pretty happy with that!" Off the tools, she likes to have a little more fun with her wardrobe. "I really enjoy Melbourne style," says Rose. "It's a lot more relaxed. You can push it in different directions and pair different things with one another; I really enjoy that aspect of it. I can mix and match things from my mum's wardrobe, things from a $2 shop and things from, say, The Iconic. There aren't many rules. "I like wearing dresses and skirts, but I'm a jeans girl," she admits. "I always feel comfortable when I'm in my jeans, and I've always got a staple selection in my wardrobe." As for her favourite piece right now, it's a black denim number she stumbled upon when collecting jackets for a potential art project. "It's oversized, it's super baggy, it looks like I'm wearing my dad's jacket — but I kind of like that aesthetic," she laughs. "Dad clothes!" Check out George Rose's work here, and find the denim that brings out the creative, innovator and gamechanger in you at The Iconic. Images: Kate Shanasy.
Taylor Swift's Eras tour is the gift that keeps on giving, whether or not you're actually heading along in person when it finally hits Australia in February. Since October 2023, concert film Taylor Swift: The 'Eras' Tour has let Swifties enjoy the show on the screen, first in cinemas and then via digital. Its next stop, if you're ready for it: Disney+ from mid-March. When the blockbuster movie hits the Mouse House's streaming platform on Friday, March 15, it will feature five extra tunes, including 'cardigan' and four acoustic tracks. So, Disney is calling it "the concert film in its entirety for the first time". You might be dubbing it reason enough to don your friendship bracelets in your lounge room. If your wildest dreams have been about getting in on Taylor Swift's Eras tour since it was first announced, then this is gorgeous and enchanted news, clearly. And if you missed out on tickets to the live shows, consider this the next best thing. Look what the world made Swift do: turn her current massive tour into a movie that's also proven a smash, taking in over $260 million at the worldwide box office. The film offers a money-can't-buy view of the 'Shake It Off', 'We Are Never Getting Back Together' and 'Bad Blood' musician's gig, working through her entire career so far by playing tracks from each of her studio albums in a three-hour, ten-act spectacular. The IRL Eras Tour kicked off in March 2023 in the US, then headed to Mexico and Brazil. Japan — around the Super Bowl — then Singapore, France, Sweden, Portugal, Spain, the UK, Ireland, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Poland, Italy, Germany, Austria, Canada, a return to the US and, of course, Australia, are all on the itinerary in 2024. "The Eras Tour has been a true phenomenon that has and continues to thrill fans around the world, and we are very excited to bring this electrifying concert to audiences wherever they are, exclusively through Disney+," said Disney CEO Bob Iger, announcing the film's impending arrival on the service. If you fancy picking yourself up some Eras tour merchandise to wear at home while you dance along, and you'll be in Sydney or Melbourne in February, that's on the agenda as well — via merch presales and a one-day-only Melbourne pop-up. Check out the trailer for Taylor Swift: The 'Eras' Tour Concert Film below: Taylor Swift: The 'Eras' Tour will stream via Disney+ from Friday, March 15, 2024. Read our review. Top image: Ronald Woan via Wikimedia Commons.
2025 has been waiting for this: by the time that March is out, Brisbane will be home to a new restaurant from Melbourne-based chef and restaurateur Shane Delia. News arrived in 2024 that the high-profile culinary figure was heading north, opening his first Brissie — and Queensland — eatery. Now, that soon-to-launch dining spot has a name: Layla. Delia joins the list of well-known hospitality folks setting up shop in Queensland, after Adrian Richardson launched BŌS, and Andrew McConnell opened both Supernormal and Bar Miette. While that trio of venues all made a beeline to Brisbane's CBD, Layla is settling into West End as part of the Thomas Dixon Centre, Queensland Ballet's base. [caption id="attachment_979995" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Angharad Gladding[/caption] The opening date: Friday, March 28. When Delia's newcomer joins Delia Group's roster of venues alongside the Victorian capital's Maha, Maha North, Maha East and Jayda, diners can expect Delia's focus on Middle Eastern flavours and rich, bold, spice-fuelled dishes — plus an evolving menu. The venture is a partnership with Queensland Ballet, with Delia Group teaming up with the former's hospitality partner VenuesLive. Delia has appointed Simon Palmer (ex-Black Hide by Gambaro, -Urbane, -Gerard's Bistro, -E'cco Bistro) as Layla's Head Chef, with the pair working together on the menu, which will be on offer for both lunch and dinner. For seating options, whether you're heading in before a show, for a date or to celebrate an occasion, patrons will be able to choose from the main dining room and an outdoor courtyard. "It has always been a dream of mine to open a restaurant in Brisbane. I'm super excited by the opportunity to contribute to the dining landscape here, taking guests through an unrestricted spice journey with Layla," said Delia. "All of my venues have a Middle Eastern overlay, which will still be a part of Layla. Opening a restaurant in an entirely different climate, I'm excited to do something different and draw inspiration from other parts of the world, working with incredible fresh Queensland produce," adds Shane. The eatery will anchor the Thomas Dixon Centre's dining options, not only adding to the performing arts precinct but helping it become a new arts and hospitality hub. [caption id="attachment_972449" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Maha East[/caption] [caption id="attachment_893063" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Maha North, Pete Dillon[/caption] Layla will open at the Thomas Dixon Centre, 406 Montague Road, West End on Friday, March 28, 2025. Head to the venue's website for more details and reservations.Top image: Angharad Gladding.
When Japan reopened its borders to international tourists late in 2022, it was the news that plenty of travellers had been waiting for, helping us all live out our Tokyo-touring dreams once more. The list of sights to see in both the country and its capital is hefty, especially with a Super Nintendo theme park launching during the pandemic, plus Studio Ghibli's long-awaited park also debuting last November. But the latest must-visit Tokyo spot won't even have you leaving the airport. That airport: Haneda, one of two servicing Tokyo, and the more central of the pair. On Tuesday, January 31, it's officially opening the new Haneda Airport Garden complex, which features with a few sizeable drawcards — 24-hour hot springs with views of Mount Fuji (on a clear day) chief among them. Located 12 floors up and spanning over 2000 square metres, rooftop facility Spa Izumi at Haneda is your new go-to for soaking before or after a flight. The onsen overlooks the Tamagawa River, as the entire Haneda Airport Garden does, and operates 24 hours a day. Using privately sourced water, it comes complete with four areas that span openair and indoor baths — a carbonated water bath, ice plunge pool and jet bath included — plus dry, steam and hot-stone saunas, as well as shower, powder and dressing-room facilities. Even better: while Haneda Airport Garden's official opening date arrives at the end of January, Spa Izumi and the hub's two hotels started welcoming in guests back in December 2022. Looking for a place to stay before or after your travels, too? Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand features a whopping 1557 rooms, while the smaller Hotel Villa Fontaine Premier boasts 160. The former offers guests 12 different types of spaces, while the latter has six varieties. Crucially, visitors looking to take advantage of the hot springs won't need to be hotel guests. So, if you're only at the airport to head home or on a layover between flights, you can still make time for a dip before hopping on the plane — no overnight stay at one of the Villa Fontaine hotels needed. You will need to pay an admission fee, however. The full new complex also includes around 60 shops and 30 restaurants — those usual airport staples — and a bus terminal for easy access to Osaka, Yamagata and more. And, there's an event hall and conference rooms. Plus, handily, Haneda Airport Garden connects through to terminal 3, which is where Qantas flies into and out of. Unsurprisingly, this is now Japan's largest airport hotel — so expect to have ample company while you're there. Haneda Airport Garden will officially open at Tokyo's Haneda Airport from Tuesday, January 31, with Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand, Hotel Villa Fontaine Premier and Spa Izumi already operating. For more information, head to the Haneda Airport Garden website. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
Do you wanna know the latest big Australian tour news? Yes, if you're an Arctic Monkeys fan, you do. Already slated to head Down Under for Falls Festival and Lost Paradise, the Sheffield rockers have just gone and added three huge standalone — and outdoor — gigs to their tour itinerary. We bet you'll look good on the dance floor when January 2023 rolls around, obviously. 2022 marks two decades since the band first formed in their Yorkshire home town, and they'll see out the year in Australia, then start next year here as well. For their solo shows, Alex Turner, Jamie Cook, Nick O'Malley and Matt Helders will hit Melbourne's Sidney Myer Music Bowl and Brisbane's Riverstage, both with Mildlife in support, before heading to The Domain in Sydney with DMA's & The Buoys. Arctic Monkeys' last tour to come our way, 2019's Tranquility Base Hotel + Casino World Tour, was massive. Actually, every tour they've brought Down Under has been. Given their career to-date — including scoring the fastest-selling debut album in UK chart history when Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not released in 2006 — that's hardly surprising. (Nor are the Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday shirts always spotted in the crowd whenever the band makes the trip Down Under, with Aussie supporters of the group's two hometown soccer teams routinely coming out in force.) It's been four years since the Monkeys' last album, the aforementioned Tranquility Base Hotel + Casino — but they won't be short of hits to play. Expect plenty of fun when the sun goes down, and not just a number-one party anthem on the set list. And if you're somehow not already excited, snap out of it. ARCTIC MONKEYS 2023 AUSTRALIAN TOUR DATES — STANDALONE SHOWS: Wednesday, January 4 — Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne, with Mildlife Wednesday, January 11 — Riverstage, Brisbane, with Mildlife Saturday, January 14 — The Domain, Sydney, with DMA's & The Buoys Arctic Monkeys are touring Australia in January 2023. Tickets go on sale online at 12pm local time on Friday, June 17, with pre-sales via the band from 10am AEST on Wednesday, June 15 and through Frontier from 10am AEST on Thursday, June 16. For more information, head to the tour website. Top image: Raph_PH via Flickr.
After boasting Australia's only run of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, then playing host to a natural history exhibition based on the Fantastic Beasts films, Victoria is set to enchant wannabe wizards and witches again — and muggles, too — with a new Harry Potter-themed experience in 2024. This time, you'll be walking around an illuminated woodland filled with nods to the Wizarding World, with Harry Potter — A Forbidden Forest Experience finally heading Down Under. Accio joy, clearly. Think: Lightscape, which is returning to Melbourne in 2024, but all about the world that's sprung up around the Boy Who Lived on the page, screen and stage. So, with Harry Potter — A Forbidden Forest Experience taking over The Briars, Mount Martha from Saturday, April 6, 2024, attendees will enjoy a nighttime stroll around a 230-hectare property an hour out of Melbourne. Entering the Forbidden Forest is clearly the big attraction, as lit up with dazzling lights, all while also spying creatures from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts movies. A hippogriff will feature, as will nifflers and unicorns, plus the chance to pose for a photo mid-wand duel — and to summon up a patronus spell as well. Accordingly, you won't just be surrounded by all things Wizarding World after dark in a forest; you'll be joining in like every aspiring Hogwarts student has always wanted to. Sounds and special effects will also help bring the experience to life, as aided by award-winning behind-the-scenes folks. Expect to spend around 90 minutes being immersed in the all-ages event — plus however long you need at the onsite shop afterwards buying merchandise. That's part of the village at the end of the trail, where you'll also be able to grab a bite and something to drink. Wands crossed for butterbeer, obviously. Harry Potter — A Forbidden Forest Experience comes to Australia after seasons in the UK, Europe and the US, and a current stint in Singapore, with Warner Bros behind it just like the films and upcoming Harry Potter TV series. Also helping conjure up the fun is events platform Fever, adding to a recent Australian slate spanning Banksy and NBA exhibitions, plus the Unko Museum: The Kawaii Poop Experience. Harry Potter — A Forbidden Forest Experience will take over The Briars, Mount Martha, from Saturday, April 6, 2024, with tickets on sale from 9am AEDT on Wednesday, December 202, 2023 and the waitlist open now. Head to the event's website for further details.
Once a year, for one night only, a New Farm street transforms into a fashion party. That'd be James Street — and, given that the stretch of road boasts plenty of boutique selling designer threads, you know that they know how to put on a sartorial celebration. That's what James St Up Late is all about: exploring the precinct's many outlets, stocking up your wardrobe, getting tempted by specials and browsing the latest collections. In 2022, it's marking ten years of doing just that, in fact, so expect it to be on helluva shindig. From 5–8pm on Thursday, March 31, the after-hours event will feature all of the roadway's boutiques getting in on the action — Gail Sorronda is even hosting a shop-in-shop with labels Romance was Born and Gary Bigeni — plus all of the local bars and restaurants, too. As soundtracked to DJs, there'll be bargains to buy, one-off menus to eat your way through and cocktails to sip. Also a part of the fun: party bags, with 1000 up for grabs featuring goodies from James Street's Silk Laundry, Jardan, St. Agni, Camilla, Lee Mathews, Gelato Messina, The Green, FINEPRINTCO and Priceline, as well as bits and pieces by pals like Assembly by Aiko, Collective Hub, Clif Bar, Yes You Can, Eye of Horus, Proper Crisps, Mirror Merch, Pinot and Picasso, Seed & Sprout and The Daily Edited. And, to help raise funds for flood relief, there'll also be a Fashion Flood charity pop-up thanks to fashion re-seller Label Pig. Images: Andrew Cois.
It's been more than two decades since the Peninsula Hot Springs became one of Victoria's must-visit spots, especially if you enjoy getaways of the pampering, wellness-oriented and relaxing kind. Since then, the Fingal venue and its geothermal pools have become synonymous with blissful jaunts beyond the city. But in the coming years, it might become just one stop on a whole trail filled bathing spots — all thanks to the proposed Great Victorian Bathing Trail. First floated back in 2019, and set to gain its next new location mid-2022 when Metung Hot Springs opens its doors in East Gippsland — also stemming from the team behind Peninsula Hot Springs — the Great Victorian Bathing Trail is exactly what it sounds like. It'll span more than 900 kilometres along the Victorian coast, and have one big aim: linking the state's hot springs and other bathing spots into one must-trek route for folks fond of soaking away their woes. Also slated to join the trail: Phillip Island Hot Springs and Saltwater Hot Springs on Phillip Island, Nunduk Spa Retreat in the Lake Wellington part of Gippsland, 12 Apostles Hot Springs on the Great Ocean Road, Geelong Mineral Spa and the Eden project in Anglesea. The soon-to-launch Alba Hot Springs on the Mornington Peninsula is joining the lineup, too. Gippsland Regional Aquatic Centre in Traralgon will also feature, for fans of splashing around in a regular community pool, and so will Warrnambool's existing Deep Blue Hot Springs. [caption id="attachment_845455" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Peninsula Hot Springs, Visit Victoria[/caption] In other words, if you're keen to escape the big smoke and kick back in a body of water — steamy or cool alike — the Great Victorian Bathing Trail will help you connect the dots. The plan will see the route stretch from Portland in the state's southwest over to East Gippsland, and also include beaches along the way. The idea: to give Victoria a calming tourist attraction to rival hot springs and spa hotspots such as Beppu and Kurokawa in Japan, Guangdong in China, and the Nordic region's many go-tos — including in Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Denmark's Copenhagen harbour bath trail. [caption id="attachment_845443" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Peninsula Hot Springs[/caption] The numbers for Peninsula Hot Springs certainly give the concept plenty of hope, given that about 500,000 annual visitors make the visit to the spot. 2030 has been outlined as the ideal launch date — but, given that was the plan pre-pandemic, that timing could easily change. The good news is the Mornington Peninsula's new Alba Thermal Springs and Spa, which forms part of the trail, will launch in September and is already taking bookings. And while an exact date for Metung's midyear opening hasn't yet been revealed, hot springs fans can look forward to a multi-faceted attraction and wellness precinct with steamy thermal pools and sauna options. It'll encompass various hot springs bathing facilities at the main King Cove site, and also a spa relaxation centre and further hot springs constructed at the nearby King Cove Golf Club, all-around 3.5 hours out of Melbourne. And, there's set to be a glamping site as well. For more information about the Great Victorian Bathing Trail, head to the project's Facebook page. Top image: Peninsula Hot Springs, Visit Victoria.
With international travel set to be off the cards until mid 2021, many Aussies are looking to explore their own backyards a bit more. One of the ways we're doing that is by hitting the trails and mountain paths. While your regular trainers and favourite leggings are probably all good for a one-day hike (depending on terrain), if you're looking to do something a bit longer — like a multi-day adventure across NSW, Victoria of Queensland — you might want to invest in some slightly more serious hiking gear. This can usually cost a pretty penny, but, thankfully, good ol' Aldi is about to drop a heap of adventure gear that won't empty your bank account. Available at stores across the country from Saturday, July 4, the gear includes everything from down jackets to hiking shoes and backpacks. You can snag headlamps for just $4.99, wool hiking socks for $11.99, $12.99 gloves , shoes for $29.99, a $34.99 30-litre backpack, merino thermals from $26.99 and a waterproof jacket starting at $39.99. There's also an Ultralight down jacket, which is water repellent, insulated and can be packed into a easy-to-carry pocket, is on offer for just $49.99 — still less than a pineapple — as well as some outdoor-appropriate technology such as binoculars ($39.99), handheld radios ($49.99) and GPS watches ($79.99). Once you're all kitted out, it's time to start planning your adventure. We suggest you aim high (literally) and tick off these ten epic mountain walks across Australia. The Aldi Adventure Range is available from Aldi stores nationally from Saturday, July 4. From 11.59pm on Wednesday, July 1, until at least Wednesday, July 29, stay-at-home orders have been reintroduced in ten Melbourne postcodes, which means their residents can only leave for one of four reasons: work or school, care or care giving, daily exercise or food and other essentials. For more information, head to the DHHS website.
It's bands like Bloods that make you proud of the Australian music scene. Their crazy addictive fusion of pop and garage punk are just the kind of tunes for letting loose on the dance floor, with their catchy guitar riffs and gritty vocals calling back to an era of Joan Jett bad-assery. After previously supporting bands like the Dum Dum Girls and DZ Deathrays, it's great seeing Bloods embarking on a nationwide headline tour of their own to promote their debut album. While they've released a steady stream of singles and EPs since first coming onto the scene in 2011 – Golden Fang, We Are Bloods, among others — it was only this year that the trio have finally put together their first full-length, Work It Out. It has everything you'd expect from a Bloods record: hook-filled headbangers spliced with a couple of mellow slow burners (just to catch your breath a little). Bloods are one of the most loved local live acts around right now, and for good reason. Catch 'em in these cosy venues before they get snapped up by the big ones. https://youtube.com/watch?v=9QNxOsDeot8
What's better than one sprawling music festival taking over Fortitude Valley's streets? Two in the space of a month, obviously. Valley Fiesta will arrive at the end of October, delivering live tunes aplenty for three days — and then, come Saturday, November 28, it's Big Summer Block Party time. A new event from music industry development association Q Music, as well as the folks behind BIGSOUND — which was cancelled this year due to the pandemic — Big Summer Block Party is exactly what it sounds like. Sure, it's actually taking place a few days before summer officially starts; however, it'll see 21 different acts take over seven Valley venues, and shut down Warner Street for the occasion. BIGSOUND alumni such as Eves Karydas, First Beige, Jesswar, Sampology, Golden Vessel, Clea, Eliza & The Delusionals and LÂLKA lead the bill, and will take to the stage at Black Bear Lodge, Kickons, O'Skulligans, The Brightside, The Brightside — Outdoors, The Outpost and The Zoo. As for Warner Street, it'll shut down for the evening — with the party running from 4–9pm — to host tunes, food trucks and outdoor bars, as well as local DJs on the decks. And, in news that everyone's wallet will love, entry is free. [caption id="attachment_711489" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Brightside[/caption] BIG SUMMER BLOCK PARTY LINEUP: Eves Karydas LISI Jesswar Eliza & The Delusionals First Beige Sampology Golden Vessel Clea dameeeela Asha Jefferies Karl S Williams THE RIOT Hayley Marsten Moss LÂLKA Being Jane Lane Jelly Oshen Wildheart Beckah Amani Sachém Colie Big Summer Block Party will take over Warner Street, Fortitude Valley — and Black Bear Lodge, Kickons, O'Skulligans, The Brightside, The Brightside — Outdoors, The Outpost and The Zoo — from 4–9pm on Sunday, November 28. For further information, head to the event' website.
The Brisbane Ethinic and Multicultural Arts Centre invites you to bask in the warm glow of the Christmas tree, for a concert of our city’s best world music. The free yearly event at King George Square showcases the most exciting artists new and old that exist within Brisbane’s world music scene, giving anyone the chance to come along and shake it to the rhythm of the pounding African drum or Bollywood Sitar. With a crowd of five thousand people from across all diverse cultural backgrounds and ages dancing beneath the stars, World By Night is bound to be one Christmas event you won’t soon forget.
Forget watching your way through the Step Up franchise — if you want to see top-notch street dancing, you just need to make your way to the Mad Dance Festival. For three days between Thursday, May 6–Saturday, May 8, it's bringing a feast of fancy footwork to Metro Arts in West End, complete with performances, talks and classes. If you're keen on checking out a heap of talented performers and their smooth moves, you have options. M.I.N.D.E.D. combines break and freestyle dancing in a boundary-pushing fashion — and pairs its hip hop choreography with an original score by Regurgitator's Ben Ely. Also a highlight: Anti Fischer's Love Letters in (e)Motion, which pushes back against the narrow ways in which women in love are depicted in movies. It's playing as part of a double bill with Cool Asian Mum's Guide to Life, with Amy Zhang taking her cues from life lessons and old Chinese wives' tales passed down by her mother. For those eager to learn a few tips and tricks, an artist talk session will let you hear from the folks doing the dancing. Or, you can join dancer Sheru Bharadwaja for a community dance class on the West Village green. [caption id="attachment_810999" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Kate Pardey[/caption] Top image: Chris Cielo
UPDATE: September 23 2020: A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood is available to stream via Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, YouTube and iTunes. Fred Rogers never made a splash in Australia. But watching A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood, it's easy to see why the ordained Presbyterian minister turned children's television host is so beloved in the US, even 17 years after his death — and why adults who grew up watching Mister Rogers' Neighbourhood still hold him in such high regard. This thoughtful, full-hearted film doesn't merely tell viewers that Rogers was universally adored, or show the widespread devotion among his fans. As she proved in both The Diary of a Teenage Girl and Can You Ever Forgive Me?, Marielle Heller is far too soulful and observant a filmmaker for such a blunt approach. Rather, in a sensitive and astute manner reminiscent of Rogers himself, this delightful movie explores his appeal by examining his impact on one reluctant and cynical man. If you're a newcomer to Rogers, or you're jaded or skeptical by nature, consider Lloyd Vogel (Matthew Rhys) your on-screen surrogate. A writer for Esquire in 1998, he's the fictional stand-in for journalist Tom Junod, whose article 'Can You Say ... Hero?' inspired the film. Known for hard-hitting reporting, Vogel is taken aback when he's assigned to profile Rogers. He's also nowhere near as enamoured with his subject as everyone else, including his starstruck wife Andrea (Susan Kelechi Watson). Indeed, he's still hesitant when Rogers (Tom Hanks) engages in a generous chat on the phone and appears genuinely interested in getting to know him. Taking its cues from Rogers' puppet-filled TV show in inventive ways, A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood begins by recreating Mister Rogers' Neighbourhood's opening. To the sounds of a gentle theme sung by Rogers, a model town fills the screen, before cutting to the show's star arriving home, popping on his famous red cardigan, swapping his dress shoes for sneakers and addressing the camera. Purposefully affable and inviting when watched by kids on weekdays for 33 years, it remains just as cosy here. To segue into the bulk of the film, Hanks' pitch-perfect version of Rogers says that he's going to tell a story about his hurt friend Lloyd — and while that might seem like cutesy gimmickry, it works perfectly in Heller's hands. With screenwriters Micah Fitzerman-Blue and Noah Harpster (Maleficent: Mistress of Evil), she understands that Rogers left such a lasting imprint on so many people because he made kids feel like he really saw them. Accordingly, treating Vogel in the same way isn't just a creative flourish — it's essential. The same idea applies to A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood's audience, who the film never forgets. This movie is well aware that viewers are experiencing the famed figure through Vogel's eyes — and it wants you to feel like you're in his shoes, being seen, welcomed and accepted by the kindly host as well. A new father struggling with issues with his own long-absent dad (Chris Cooper) that stem back to childhood, Vogel's backstory assists. While somewhat generic, it's also immensely relatable. Everyone has pain from the past they haven't fully processed, which was Rogers' whole remit. His show helped kids express their emotions and personalities in healthy ways, and tackle topics as dark as death, divorce and war. Even though Vogel is much, much older, it's a role Rogers is still eager to play for his new friend. Conveying that compassion, grace and sincerity is a task only Hanks could've mastered. It's a case of getting a beloved, benevolent icon to play just that — although Hanks ensures that Rogers is a person rather than a shining picture of perfection. This isn't a warts-and-all tell-all and, as 2018 documentary Won't You Be My Neighbour? demonstrated, that film will never exist. Instead, A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood remembers a man who considered himself ordinary while having an extraordinary effect on others. You could say the same about Hanks, which is what makes his casting so sublime. His is a superb, deservedly Oscar-nominated performance that's never an act of simple mimicry, but that he's as revered — and has been a reliable screen presence for decades, too — is never forgotten. Amidst cardboard backdrops recreating Mister Rogers' Neighbourhood, talking puppets and scenes of Rogers making adults wait so he can spend more time with his child fans, A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood doesn't completely or even primarily belong to Rogers. His influence looms large, but this is really Vogel's story — and that makes the film all the better. Rhys finds his character's world-weary centre, then allows it to slowly crumble as his bond with Rogers grows. In the process, the movie mirrors the way the TV host found a place in millions of children's hearts, and cracks the cloak of cynicism hanging over some of its own viewers, too. It's easy to think that a feature like this will be too sappy, kitschy or hokey, just as Vogel thought about Rogers — but a man brimming with empathy and this charmingly made movie about his impact are both the perfect antidotes to distrust and disillusionment. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CELbK9q_ZeA
No matter who you are, the need for a nice, long holiday is real. And, while far-flung adventures on the Mediterranean may not be in your cards, you can find a wealth of sensational coastal destinations right here in your own backyard. The stretch of the Mornington Peninsula offers sandy beaches, untouched bushland and award-winning wineries, all less than two hours south of Melbourne's CBD. You can find luxury retreats peppered throughout the region, ranging from plush waterfront hideaways to peaceful farm escapes. Get into holiday mode and start scrolling for some of the most luxurious stays you can book on the Mornington Peninsula. Because if ever there was a time to treat yourself to a taste of the high life, it's now. Recommended reads: A 48-Hour Guide to the Mornington Peninsula The Best Hotels in Melbourne The Best Summer Day Trips From Melbourne The Best Places to Go Glamping in Victoria Monterey Stud, Shoreham Set among rolling green hills, this designer farmhouse boasts both good looks and a tranquil setting. Plus, a stunning wraparound deck for sunset drinking sessions. Sleeps eight, from $900 a night. Barefoot, Blairgowrie A stylish holiday pad with a breezy indoor-outdoor flow, nestled right on the beach. This spacious beauty has loads of modern features and a solar-heated pool. Sleeps nine, from $775 a night. Bay Crest Manor, Mount Eliza Perched on top of the cul-de-sac of the Morning Peninsula, this manor resembling an ancient Greek temple boasts an unbeatable bay view. Watch the sun set in the infinity pool or take on your friends in life-sized lawn chess. Sleeps eight, from $1023 a night. Hart's Farm Retreat, Shoreham This smartly appointed farm stay makes for an idyllic couples' retreat, featuring high-end furnishings, a sun-drenched private deck and a magical outlook over olive groves and vineyards. Sleeps two, from $650 a night. Coastal Bush Retreat, St Andrews Beach Unwind in style at this quiet, leafy beach escape which boasts modern interiors, a chic coastal style and a roomy deck primed for sunset drinks. Sleeps four, from $250 a night. The Red Hill Barn, Main Ridge This charming barn has been reworked into a stylish couples' studio, featuring a bright, breezy fit-out and secluded setting in the heart of wine country. Sleeps two, from $470 a night. Crown Cove Villa, Safety Beach A luxury waterfront stunner with open-plan indoor-outdoor living that'll take your breath away. Enjoy the private jetty, dedicated dining room and spectacular heated pool. Sleeps 12, from $1590 a night. Coastal Luxe, St Andrews Beach Decked out in soothing natural tones, this designer beach pad is a dreamy home away from home. Spa, pool table and incredible outdoor living, all included. Sleeps 12, from $836 a night. Portsea Dairy, Portsea This lovingly restored farmhouse will win you over with its modern features, sun-drenched yard and spacious deck complete with an outdoor spa. Sleeps four, from $329 a night. Sunset Coastal Retreat, Mount Martha 180-degree views of Port Phillip Bay await you in this modern abode tucked away on Mount Martha. Enjoy the solar-heated pool, unwind in the spa, or take in the stunning city skyline from the expansive balcony. Sleeps nine, from $1219 a night. Images: Airbnb FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
It isn't easy to eat fried chicken in moderation. The same applies to bao, too. So if you're planning to take advantage of Bao Bar's new all-you-can-eat night, we have two tips for you: wear something comfortable and stretchy, and arrive hungry. Every Tuesday evening from 5–9pm, the South Brisbane eatery is welcoming in patrons with ravenous stomachs, all for its new weekly bottomless Korean fried chicken and bao sessions. Over the course of an hour, you'll munch your way through four types of chicken, including original, soy garlic, and both regular and spicy sweet chilli. You'll also tuck into two different kinds of chicken karaage bao, as well as prawn crackers, cheese fries, kimchi fries and braised pork fries. The full all-you-can-eat feast will set you back $26.90 for your 60-minute feed, and you'll need to eat in — and that's all that's on the menu on Tuesday evenings. If you need something to wash all that chicken down with, Bao Bar is also doing $5 Young Henrys' Newtowner tinnies on Tuesday nights, too.
All those jokes you made about jumping into IKEA display beds are about to come to fruition. IKEA is the latest registered accommodation on Airbnb, offering Sydneysiders the opportunity to stay the night instore at the furniture giant's Tempe store. For free. Airbnbing airplanes, igloos and backyards just got old hat. Setting up their room displays as so-called quirky accommodation, IKEA is letting three winning groups of up to four guests snuggle in to their fake homes for one epic slumber party on Sunday, August 31, as reported by SMH. Sydney's the only lucky location for the Airbnb shindig, with the rest of the country's IKEAs just settling for kicking out rotten teenagers trying to hide in the displays after hours. On the night, you won't just be sitting awkwardly in a fake kitchen with fake fruit and fake dogs, or playing frisbee with novelty ice cube trays. You're invited to a big communal dinner feast (probably featuring dem meatballs), there'll be Playstations to take the slumber party vibe next level (as well as something painfully wine-dependent called "circus games" according to SMH) and Airbnb are putting on a whole bunch of sessions with top notch hoster Claire Ferguson on how to make your home better equipped to become an Airbnb hosting. Ahp, there's the branding exercise. But don't get all tipsy on that elderflower syrup; apparently you're in for a "remarkable wake-up call" the next morning, because nothing says the first day of spring like an airhorn to the face in a giant furniture store. But they're giving you free IKEA breakfast and you're probably going to want to bail before all those rotten customers roll in. Because they don't want to be left with your dirty, dirty sheets (because you know everyone's gonna get buckwild in IKEA), you'll nab them as a little gift. You're not allowed to take anything else from your set, so put those fake family photos down. Incredibly, the cost for the night is zero beans (plus $12 Airbnb admin fee). But dude, you're getting free sheets. And you're staying the night at IKEA, who are probably going to pour meatballs down your gullet. To enter, head over here. Families are more likely to nab a spot so don't plan on an instore booze-up just yet. Via SMH and Gizmodo. Image: David/CC.
For the past decade, personal health has become a paradox. Never have people exercised more, tracked more, supplemented more or optimised more and yet uncertainty has never been higher. Protein intake is debated daily. Sleep protocols multiply. Longevity routines proliferate. People are trying. Consistently. But largely without visibility. This is the cultural gap Everlab is built to address, not as another wellness brand promising better habits, but as a fundamentally different way of approaching health: calm, preventative and data-led. Their premise is simple, most people aren't failing their health because of motivation. They're failing because they're guessing. The invisible years of health One of Everlab's central ideas is that longevity doesn't begin later in life, it begins decades earlier, in the silent phase before symptoms. Most chronic conditions develop gradually and invisibly, cardiovascular disease, metabolic dysfunction, hormonal decline, inflammatory disorders. For years, people can feel entirely fine while risk quietly accumulates. Traditional healthcare rarely intersects with this phase. It is designed for treatment, not early detection. Appointments are short. Testing is symptom-driven. Investigation begins once a problem is suspected. Everlab's model inverts that timeline. Rather than waiting for symptoms, the program maps health proactively through comprehensive diagnostics across cardiovascular, metabolic, hormonal, immune and musculoskeletal systems, alongside imaging, advanced blood biomarkers and genetic insights. The aim is not diagnosis of illness. It is visibility into trajectory. Why guessing keeps people stuck Modern health culture offers abundant advice but little precision. People experiment with supplements, diets, training plans, and recovery tools. When results plateau, motivation is often blamed, discipline, consistency, adherence. Everlab reframes this entirely. Without biomarker insight, health decisions become trial-and-error. Symptoms are lagging indicators. Fatigue, weight change or poor recovery often appear only after underlying physiology has shifted. The company's position is that most people are not under-committed; they are under-informed. Through advanced blood panels screening hundreds of biomarkers, physiological testing and longitudinal tracking, Everlab attempts to replace guesswork with clarity — identifying which systems actually require attention, and which interventions are unnecessary. In this sense, the program is as much about subtraction as optimisation, reducing wasted effort, spend and misplaced focus. Beyond transactional healthcare Everlab also reflects a broader shift from episodic healthcare to continuous health management. Traditional models operate in snapshots, isolated tests, individual appointments, fragmented records. Preventative health requires continuity: baseline, monitoring, retesting, adjustment. Everlab structures this as an ongoing cycle. Members build a comprehensive baseline integrating historical records, advanced diagnostics and imaging. Results are reviewed by a multidisciplinary care team including longevity physicians and nutrition specialists. A personalised protocol is created across lifestyle, supplementation and, where clinically indicated, medication. Biomarkers are then tracked over time, typically at six- and twelve-month intervals, allowing physiological change to be measured rather than assumed. A digital platform consolidates results and trends into a longitudinal health record. Data-led prevention Everlab arrives as health culture itself matures. The early wellness era emphasised motivation. The optimisation era emphasised performance. The emerging phase emphasises measurement and prevention. In this model, biomarkers become the organising principle of decision-making. They allow risks to be identified years before symptoms, interventions to be personalised to physiology rather than averages, and progress to be measured rather than guessed. Everlab frames this shift succinctly: health decisions should be guided by data, not trends. A framework, not a fix Notably, Everlab avoids positioning itself as a quick-outcome wellness product. Its language is structural: baseline, diagnostics, monitoring, optimisation. This reflects its deeper claim, that prevention is not an intervention but a framework. The company reports that a meaningful proportion of members discover previously unknown health risks through testing, reinforcing its central thesis: feeling well does not necessarily mean being physiologically optimal. The opportunity lies in the gap between the two. Stop guessing Everlab's relevance lies less in any individual test than in the question it poses to modern health behaviour, what if the problem isn't effort, but visibility? In a category saturated with motivation and optimisation narratives, Everlab positions itself differently, as a rational infrastructure for prevention grounded in biomarkers and longitudinal data. A calm voice in a noisy space.And a reframing that may define the next phase of personal health. Stop guessing. Start knowing. To start a deep dive into your health journey visit Everlab to explore a framework suited to your needs.
Another week, another cookie pie. That's how it feels sometimes thanks to Gelato Messina's beloved desserts — and no, we're not complaining. After the gelato chain first introduced its cookie pies to the world in 2020, it has kept bringing the OTT dessert back. We all need an extra dose of sweetness every now and then, obviously, including while both Sydney and Melbourne are in lockdown. So, it should come as no surprise that Messina is serving up the decadent dessert yet again. This time, though, it's quite the Frankenstein's monster of a dessert. This version is also a returning favourite — and, if you like fairy bread, cookie pies and Messina's gelato, prepare to get excited. Hang on, a cookie pie? Yes, it's a pie, but a pie made of cookie dough. And it serves two-to-six people — or just you. You bake it yourself, too, so you get to enjoy that oh-so-amazing smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen. Now that you're onboard with the overall cookie pie concept, the fairy bread version really is exactly what it sounds like. That crunchy, crumbly cookie dough is filled with milk and dark Messina chocolate chunks, as well as vanilla custard. It's then topped with more 100s and 1000s than you've probably seen since your childhood birthday parties. It wouldn't be a fairy bread version otherwise, of course. You can only buy this pie in kits, which means that you'll get some of the cult ice creamery's famed gelato along with it. You can opt for a 500-millilitre tub for $38, a one-litre tub for $44 or a 1.5-litre tub for $48. If you're keen to get yourself a piece of the pie, they're available to preorder from 9am on Monday, July 19 — with pick up between Friday, July 23–Sunday, July 25 from your chosen Messina store. Once you've got the pie safely home, you just need to whack it in the oven for 30 minutes at 160 degrees and voila. You can preorder a Messina fairy bread cookie pie from Monday, July 19, to pick up from all NSW, Vic and Queensland Gelato Messina stores except The Star.
Not even Australia's balmy December temperatures can keep us from embracing the ironic ugly Christmas sweater trend. Christmas in July is here again, my friends, and so too is the Colonel's line of OTT Yuletide-themed pullovers for another year. Yep, KFC has just dropped its 2023 Christmas jumper range — and, like in 2022, there's a matching outfit for the furry mate in your life, too. Available to snap up now, the limited-edition designs are primed for cheesy family photos, rocking a cheery red-and-white pattern and emblazoned with a cheeky nod to fried chicken: "Tis The Seasonings". Both the human sweaters ($60) and the pet versions ($40) come in a range of sizes, so you're sure to find a good fit no matter how hard you — or Murphy— have gone on the winter comfort food this year. What's more, there's zero shame to be felt in this daggy knitwear purchase, since all profits from the jumpers are going to support KFC's charity partners such as The Black Dog Institute, ReachOut Australia and Whitelion. 2023's range also includes socks ($25) — if you're all about business on top and a party on your feet — and a black long-sleeved jumper ($60) that's a bit more subtle in its seasonal cheer (although KFC buckets and drumsticks still feature). And if the matchy-matchy outfits have left you and your pooch really wanting to cash in on that Christmas in July spirit, KFC is also doing festive food specials until Tuesday, July 11. KFC's 2023 Christmas in July sweaters are available to buy online, costing $60 for the human jumpers and $40 for pets.
What do killer Squid Game dolls, Stranger Things rifts, Jurassic World raptors and very nice Borat statues all have in common? They've all brought pop-culture hits not just to Sydney but to Bondi, albeit temporarily. On the morning of Thursday, December 19, 2024, a towering toy loomed over Bondi Icebergs, accompanied by plenty of red and green outfits — and yes, as part of the latest pop-up celebrating the upcoming return of the South Korean Netflix smash for season two, a game of Red Light, Green Light took place. Ever since the world initially watched Squid Game in 2021, the streaming platform has been obsessed with bringing everyone's favourite South Korean streaming series into real life. First came pop-up stunts. Then arrived reality competition show Squid Game: The Challenge, obviously without a body count. Experiences that let everyone play the show's games without appearing on TV also keep proving part of the IRL fun. As the show's second season approaches, dropping on Boxing Day 2024, Australia has welcomed three Squid Game activations — starting in St Kilda, where 200 pink guards relaxed on the Melbourne suburb's beach to kick things off; then cruising through Sydney harbour; and now at the pool so famous that it recently earned the documentary treatment. The Harbour City is no stranger to Squid Game stunts, or to Young-hee. Three years back, the Red Light, Green Light doll first made its eerie presence known in Sydney. When it took to the water this time around, it did so by ferry with 300 pink guards as an escort to get to Luna Park Sydney for Squid Game: The Experience. And now it has visited another iconic location. At Bondi Icebergs, 50 Squid Game guards were also in attendance, while ten players tried their hand at avoiding Young-hee. And the winner? Steve Bradbury, chalking up another claim to fame.. Come Thursday, December 26, Squid Game will unveil its second batch of episodes — and fans' second-last opportunity to press play. The show will return in 2025, too, with its third season; however, that will be the end of the series. More Squid Game: The Challenge is on the way, however. Squid Game season two streams via Netflix from Thursday, December 26, 2024. Season three will arrive in 2025 — we'll update you when an exact release date for it is announced. Squid Game: The Experience is now on at Luna Park Sydney, 1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point. Head to the venue's website for more information and to buy tickets.
It's a tradition we all know well: go to IKEA with the intention of picking up some new water glasses, spend two hours wandering the labyrinth and filling a basket with tea light candles (you can never have too many), bath rugs (so soft!) and plants (you'll keep this one alive, promise), then sit down for a plate of delicious meatballs and mash. During COVID-19, IKEA has had to temporarily shut its in-store restaurants, in line with the government's closure of non-essential indoor venues. But, so you can get your fix at home, it has just released the recipe to its blessed meatballs. The Swedish flatpack experts are also now offering contactless delivery (in Australia) and have a podcast that reads through the IKEA catalogue, so you can really relive your time strolling through its endless corridors. But, we'll skip the smalltalk and get straight to what you're all looking for: the recipe. IKEA'S MEATBALLS Serves four 500 grams beef mince 250 grams pork mince 1 onion, finely chopped 1 clove garlic (crushed or minced) 100 grams breadcrumbs 1 egg 5 tablespoons of milk Salt and pepper to taste For the cream sauce Dash of oil 40 grams butter 40 grams plain flour 150 millilitres vegetable stock 150 millilitres beef stock 150 millilitres thick double cream 2 teaspoons soy sauce 1 teaspoon dijon mustard To make the meatballs Combine beef and pork mince and mix with your fingers to break up any lumps. Add finely chopped onion, garlic, breadcrumbs and egg and mix. Add milk and season well with salt and pepper. Shape mixture into small, round balls. Place on a clean plate, cover and store in the fridge for two hours (this will help them hold their shape while cooking). In a frying pan, heat oil on medium heat. When hot, gently add your meatballs and brown on all sides. Add to an overproof dish and cover with aluminium. Place in a hot oven (180°C conventional or 160°C fan) and cook for a further 30 minutes. To make the cream sauce Melt butter in a frying pan. Whisk in flour, stirring continuously for two minutes. Stir in vegetable and beef stock. Stir in double cream, soy sauce and dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer and allow sauce to thicken. Serve with your favourite potatoes — either creamy mash or mini new boiled potatoes.
We all know that video piracy is a crime and that we should pay for the music we are listening, too, but just how far we have come from 20th-century entertainment is not always present in our minds. Enter photographer Julia Solis and her new book Stages of Decay — a feat that took her across Europe and the US over a period of years to document over 100 disused and dilapidated theatres that once housed The Who, witnessed the cinematic events of their eras and were symbols of popular culture, cultural hubs and signifiers of Western affluence. The images tiptoe along that enticing line between nostalgia, beauty, decay — actually it is all very Tintern Abbey — and all those butterfly feelings that come up when we dream of days long gone. Solis sees the images as more experiential, as she told Flavorwire: "You want a one-on-one encounter with it, to open secret closets and fondle plaster and play with rusted machinery without your parents' interference. In a society that's increasingly controlled, monitored and publicised, a wild space like that can't help but have an incredible allure." Be sure to note the cars parked underneath the ornate ceiling of the old Michigan Theatre, and for the trivia buffs, it is now the parking lot for the new cinema. Circle of life?
In Swiss Army Man, Daniel Radcliffe plays a dead guy with a rather particular set of skills. Manny is prone to excessive bouts of flatulence, and uses his explosive gift to assist his only friend. After he washes up on a deserted island, he's just what Paul Dano's stranded and suicidal Hank needs to help him find his way back to civilisation. Manny also comes in handy in a host of other ways: his erections act as a compass, he spits fresh water out of his mouth, and he simply gives Hank some much-needed company. You may have already heard about the so-called farting corpse movie, particularly after it reportedly prompted mass walk-outs at this year's Sundance Film Festival (where it also won the Best Directing award). In truth, there's a lot more to Swiss Army Man than the emphasis on bodily functions would suggest. The feature filmmaking debut of Dan Kwan and Daniel Scheinert (known collectively as DANIELS), consider it the sweetest film you're likely to see about a deceased dude who looks like Harry Potter letting rip. Indeed, every burst of air expelled from Manny's buttocks provides a reminder of why everyone is so obsessed with the noisy but amusing phenomena. Put simply, to fart is to be human. Remembering what it is to be alive is just what Hank needs after much too long spent in isolation — and if it takes being forced to explain the ins and outs of love, family, masturbation and more to a cadaver whose chatter could simply be a figment of his imagination, then so be it. Sure, it's a rather absurd way for a film to address existential concerns, but hey, it works. As silly as it all appears, there's a careful balancing act at the heart of Swiss Army Man as it charts the unlikely duo's time together, including the stories Hank tells Manny about the girl (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) he had a crush on before his current predicament changed his life forever. Kwan and Scheinert might seem to spend a little too much time revelling in scatological humour, but after inspiring laughs, they also spin a story that contemplates plenty of hard truths. Actually, it's not just the toilet gags that may throw viewers off, but also the film's dream-like look and feel. Yet it's also why the end product isn't only insightful, but also so utterly disarming. It takes confidence to go from boy wizard-level fame to zipping around the ocean like a human jet ski. Radcliffe proves not just up to the challenge, but adept at bringing his dead character to life. While some sequences follow in the footsteps of '80s comedy Weekend at Bernie's, Manny is more than a prop — he's the film's not-quite-beating heart. Across from Radcliffe, Dano does what he does best, although he's much more effective when he has his co-star to bounce off of. With that in mind, you can add tender buddy comedy to Swiss Army Man's list of qualities. In short, this fart-filled flick will move you in more ways than one.
Upon returning from a winter escape to sunny Vietnam, my response to the obligatory "how was it?" was consistent in message, and in enthusiasm. "THE FOOD! Oh my God!", pretty much sums it up. Most surprising was just how regional the cuisine is and how it can differ from the north to the south, east to the west. Of course, if you go along looking for pho, spring rolls and banh mi, you will indeed find — and no doubt enjoy — them everywhere. However, if you open your eyes and mind a little wider, you'll discover each region has a set of specialties, and an approach to food that differs slightly from everywhere else. What does consistently run through the entire country is a commitment to freshness and flavour; fragrant fresh herbs liven even the simplest of meals, and local dishes are borne from what's available to be caught from the sea or picked from the ground. In one reasonably short trip you can experience vast differences in not only the food, but also in the scenes and 'scapes. From city madness — which mostly entails throngs of scooters careering around the roads and tourists closing their eyes and hoping for the best when crossing the street — to beautiful beaches, and mountain peaks to rice fields in the valley. Here are a few highlights to be discovered with eyes, mind and mouth wide open. HANOI Hanoi in the north is the country's capital, and yet seems a touch more modest and visitor-friendly than Ho Chi Minh (Saigon). The traffic system will leave you aghast for the first day, and after that you must embrace it, roll with it and trust in the controlled chaos of the road when you close your eyes and run towards the other side. Taking the city on foot will let you discover hidden laneways, a hint of French architecture, buzzing street food stalls, plenty of cheap fake goods for sale, and a snippet of local life. The Old Quarter and area around Hoan Kiem Lake is the perfect base to explore the city. Hit the lake early one morning to get a glimpse of what keeps the locals so happy, healthy and vibrant: plenty of Tai Chi, stretching, breathing and all manner of interesting morning rituals. HANOI FOODNOTE Here it seems nearly all to do with rice noodles and soup (yes, you will find pho aplenty in Hanoi). One of the local specialties here is bun bo nam bo — which is not only delicious, but incredibly fun to pronounce. This is a beef noodle dish of vermicelli, barbecued beef strips, a tasty stock sauce, chopped peanuts and lashing of fresh herbs on top. At Bun Bo Nam Bo (67 Hang Dieu – be careful of imitators who have popped up nearby), you need only to walk in and tell them how many serves and you will be presented with a bowl of this tasty meal for all of about $2.50. Similar local options include bun cha (pork and noodles) and bun ca (crispy fish and noodles, this time served in a soup), while cha ca is a slightly different local treat – barbequed fish with chilli and lemongrass, served with dry rice paper, fresh salad and peanuts, and a dipping sauce all to be wrapped, dunked and downed. An unsung hero of Hanoi cuisine, cha ca will prove its worth if you seek it out. MAI CHAU Mai Chau lies about four hours south-west of Hanoi and is home to a White Thai community of people. There are small villages that can be reached by wandering through the rice fields (among the song of frogs, geese and cows), where you'll find homestay options, stalls selling woven scarves, bags and clothing, and even a few traditional looms on display or in use. It's a beautiful change from the city and a real taste of rural life. If you stay at Mai Chau Lodge, there are plenty of activities to book, such as walking tours with local guides, cave explorations, market trips and cooking classes. MAI CHAU FOODNOTE Because this area is inhabited by White Thai people, the food is highly varied and pulls strong influences from Chinese and Thai cuisines. So while dishes such as tom ka ghai and fried noodles might have you wondering if you've strayed from traditional Vietnamese cuisine, just think of how little you worried about the 'Frenchness' of that banh mi baguette. The cuisine here holds a very interesting identity, and that is precisely thanks to the different influences. Of course, being in the rice fields, the ubiquitous white grain features heavily, and is served with pretty much everything. As are the flavours of lemongrass, lime, garlic, chilli and salt. And, somewhat surprisingly, sweet potatoes that are grown in the fields and sold at the local markets in abundance. HOI AN Hoi An in central Vietnam is a quaint little delight of a town that seems highly geared towards tourism, yet still retains some element of small-town charm. Lanterns hang outside the shops and the old town's cobbled streets are filled with wanderers of the non-motorised variety, in very European fashion. Don't be overwhelmed by all the clothes tailors and shoemakers. Save time and energy and head straight to Miss Forget-Me-Not (37 Phan Chu Trinh Street) for clothes and shoes, and Tu Chi (24 Phan Boi Chau Street) for bags — they come highly recommended by many travellers, including this writer. Then find respite from it all at An Bang Beach, about four kilometres out of town. My recommendation is to base yourself out there, in one of the few homestay properties (there are no hotels, per se, but Beach Hideaway and Seaside Village both offer glorious villa-style cottages), and cycle into town when the days calls for dining or shopping. For the other times, the beach provides long stretches of white sand dotted with traditional fishing coracles, warm calm water to float about in, and a stretch of bars and restaurants with shaded beach lounges for their customers. Watch the local families descend on the beach as the sun recedes — they bring tables, chairs, big pots of rice and grilled meats, make a fire and settle in for an evening on the sand. It's quite a sight. HOI AN FOODNOTE Perhaps the jewel in Hoi An's food crown is cao lau, a traditional dish of noodles made using water from the well to give them a heavier, chewier texture. These noodles are sandwiched between rich, salty stock at the bottom and grilled pork and fresh leaves on top. It's served at breakfast time (although you can find it any time of the day) and is a surprisingly great way to start the day of eating. Other treats specific to Hoi An include white rose (rice paper dumplings filled with minced prawns) and com ga, shredded chicken with yellow rice. Of course, being by the sea, fresh seafood also features heavily. Ordering the fish special often means whatever the local fishermen have brought back in their coracles that morning, so you can guarantee it will be fresh, and local. Beyond all that, wherever you are in Vietnam, remember to wear sunscreen, cross the road with bravery, barter with a smile, look for regional specialties and try ca phe sua da (Vietnamese iced coffee) at least once, if not daily. Photography by Greg George and Julia Gaw.
A few years ago, it would've been hard to imagine millions of people getting excited about watching someone sleeping in a box. But two weeks ago, we all did just that, as that most sculptural of humans, Tilda Swinton, set up in New York's Museum of Modern Art for some shut-eye under glass. The performative art work, titled The Maybe, had been exhibited previously in 1995, but this time it generated a huge level of interest — and Swinton's heightened celebrity wasn't the only driver. Performance art — these days often called live art, time-based art or just plain performance — is having a bit of a moment. Right now, thousands of Sydneysiders are queuing to experience 13 Rooms, an installation of, yes, 13 rooms, each containing a flight of performative fancy from one of 13 internationally renowned artists. Once in, they're swapping their personal belongings for those of others, negotiating a revolving door made of people and comprehending a live person floating on air. The art form is easy to make fun of (sometimes brilliantly, as in this Portlandia clip), but that's partly because it's fun and easy to engage with. So why have we entered the time of performance art? Here are a few of the factors behind the rise. 1. Art parties The last time performance art was at its heights was in the 1960s, when Andy Warhol's 'happenings' were a major way of doing cultural business. These were events at his famous Factory studio and one of history's main moments in which artists from all different disciplines were invited to mingle — along with people who just liked to party. There might be paintings on one wall, video projections on another, the Velvet Underground everywhere. "What's happening now is happenings — where music, dancing, movies, everything happens at once and assaults all the senses," wrote Newsweek in its Pop issue in 1966. Sound familiar? Minus some orgies and taboo breaking, it's not unlike the current mode for art parties like Jurassic Lounge, ARTBAR or Next Wave events. Performance art — based, as it usually is, on a strong central concept that can be communicated within minutes, if not seconds — is the sort of thing that can thrive in a hullabaloo. Even if it's a durational performance whose real meaning will only become known over days, you can still just engage for 30 seconds and move on to the next thing. It also helps that much like then, we're into interdisciplinarity at the moment — the Australia Council even has a separate funding body for it, the Inter-Arts office. More on that in point two. 2. A response to digital The internet is big, you guys. Photorealistic blending of oil paint is great, but how much can it tell us about our technologically precipitous times? Let's throw everything we have at that moral puzzle, is the thinking: film, video games, live art, big ideas. A blend of sculpture and theatre, performance is one of the quintessential interdisciplinary arts. There are two particular aspects of it that suit our ubiquitously digital times: interactivity and the idea of 'absolute presence'. Interacting with stuff is our modus operandi now, and we don't want to stop when we put down our devices. Although it doesn't usually put you on the spot in the dreaded 'public participation' way, performance art is essentially interactive. A performer and an observer (performer #2?) in one space cannot help but have an effect on each other. And then there's almost the converse quality: sometimes we just want to cut the digital tether and just be in one place, without distraction (like mindfulness. But arty). Seeing performance art is a way of having an experience that you know is personal, private, fleeting, immediate and real. It's kind of nice. 3. Marina Abramovic Marina Abramovic has been a presence in popular culture for a while now — she was on Sex and the City back in 2003, when Carrie dated an artist. But her 2010 MoMA show, The Artist Is Present, captured public attention as few art world things have. With the still-entertaining Tumblr Marina Abramovic Made Me Cry, she basically reached meme status through the act of sitting. Since then a documentary about the exhibition and her weird mutual obsession with that other interdisciplinary something, James Franco (she's apparently making a movie about him) have continued to endear and fascinate. (In the above clip, she has a surprise reunion with her ex-partner Ulay at The Artist Is Present — gah!) 4. Art gallery infiltration Sydney's MCA is about to launch a second season dedicated to performance art, this year dubbed Workout. Previously, the Dachshund UN held there was something of a live art coup. And the MCA is not alone; traditional galleries are increasingly finding space for the oft-puzzling art form that can't be hung on the wall or put behind glass (unless it's Tilda). Melbourne's ACCA will soon host Mikala Dwyer's performance project, and last year London's Tate Modern opened the Tanks, a cavern underground that plays host to a roster of performance as well as film, sound and, of course, happenings. As Laura Cumming wrote in her Guardian review, "For the moment, the Tanks are the coolest part of the whole Tate enterprise. They have an air of freedom about them, as if anything might happen, and that comes from the ever-changing relationship between the raw building, the art and its audience." With institutional support, this era of performance art could be a long one. Settle in.
Whether they riff on fairy bread or turn lamingtons into something cold and creamy, plenty of Gelato Messina's popular desserts transform other foods into a frosty sweet treat. Who doesn't love a culinary mashup? Not this chain and its devotees, clearly. And, since 2021, the brand has been taking that process a step further by whipping up a chocolates based on its already-inventive gelato flavours. With 2022 now here, Messina is kicking off the new year the way it always goes on — with a fresh batch of one-off specials, starting with a return to its gelato-inspired choccies. This time, there's four varieties available, all in one box. So yes, you'll get to try them all without having to choose which one you'd prefer. Love Messina's take on Iced Vovos, Coco Pops, lamingtons and fairy bread? They're all accounted for here. And they all look the part, because of course they do. They all look delicious, too. The Vovovroom bar comes filled with layers of raspberry cream, raspberry jam, desiccated coconut and sablé biscuit, then coated in raspberry chocolate. With the Just Like a Chocolate Milkshake bar, you're getting chocolate malt cream, milk chocolate-panned rice bubbles and chocolate sablé biscuit, all coated in milk chocolate. Obviously, the fairy bread bar is coated with 100s and 1000s — and includes layers of toasted breadcrumb cream and sablé biscuit coated in white chocolate as well. Or, for the lamington, you'll get chocolate cream, raspberry jam, chocolate-dusted desiccated coconut and chocolate sablé biscuit, as wrapped in dark chocolate. Boxes cost $40 each and you'll need to place your order on Monday, January 17, with times varying depending on your state. You can then pick up the choccies between Saturday, January 22–Sunday, January 23. Gelato Messina's chocolate box will be available to order from on Monday, January 17, from 9am local time in Queensland and the ACT, 9.30am in Victoria and between 10am–11am in New South Wales.
Among the many things that happened at this year's Oscars, looking back on movies gone by ranked high on the agenda. The ceremony didn't just pay tribute to the films that won awards, but to a heap of flicks celebrating big anniversaries. It's a natural urge, and it's also a nostalgic one that Gold Coast Film Festival understands. See: the southeast Queensland event's 2022 lineup, which peppered with the same kind of tributes — including a big nod to features that are as old as this cinema-loving fest. This year marks GCFF's 20th, so it's hosting screenings of Scooby Doo, Blue Crush and Van Wilder Party Liaison, all of which are celebrating the same anniversary. None of these movies are your usual film fest fare, but here they're each being turned into events — so you'll venture back to Spooky Island as part of a gala session, commemorating the fact that the flick was shot on the Goldie; soak in the surf-movie vibes at a free outdoor beachside session in Coolangatta; and sip beers at Burleigh Brewing Company while watching a young Ryan Reynolds. GCFF isn't just peering backwards between from Wednesday, April 20–Sunday, May 1, however — although it does also include sessions of Shaun of the Dead and Zombieland as well. Still, the rest of the fest's lineup is filled with new titles, starting with opening night's How to Please a Woman starring Sally Phillips (Blinded by the Light), then wrapping up with the Luke Hemsworth (Westworld)-starring Bosch & Rockit. Between those bookends, highlights include a gala session of blistering Aussie revenge flick The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson, which is directed by and stars Leah Purcell; fellow Australian effort Friends and Strangers; plus eerie homegrown indie Mother Mountain. Or, there's also surfing documentary The Waterman, about five-time Olympic medallist Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, as narrated by Jason Momoa — and the Javier Bardem-starring Spanish dramedy The Good Boss. Other standouts span Miss, which ponders gender identity within the confines of the Miss France beauty pageant; Cannes 2021 gem Compartment No 6, which has been compared to the Before Sunrise/Sunset/Midnight films; and Benediction, a biopic about British soldier and poet Siegfried Sassoon. Throw in Cambodian sci-fi/drama Karmalink, Cannes award-winner Murina, the world premiere of all-ages mystery/drama The Curious Case of Dolphin Bay, a documentary about photographer Helmut Newton, a movie and music trivia night at the QT, and short films by the beach, and there's plenty on GCFF's 2022 lineup to tempt movie-loving Brisbanites down the highway.
Like plenty of other booze-making companies around the country, Brisbane Distillery has jumped into the hand sanitiser game, using its high-class alcohol to pump out the product no one can get enough of at the moment. If that sounds like just the kind of thing you'd like to slather all over your digits, you can pick up some at Get Sanitised — Woolloongabba's short-term hand sanitiser pop-up. Yes, 'short-term hand sanitiser pop-up' is a term no one could've or would've ever dreamed up just a few short weeks ago. Yes, it's a definite sign of these strange times. And yes, it's likely to be popular, as you'd expect of anything selling non-gel hospital-grade hand sanitiser made from 80-percent alcohol. A collaboration between Brisbane Distillery and carpark outfit Get Parked, Get Sanitised is setting up a drive-through at 73 Ipswich Road, so you can pick up some sanitiser without getting out of your car. Head along from Thursday, April 9–Sunday, April 12 between 9am–4pm, which is when you'll find three different sizes on offer. Nab a 500-millilitre bottle for $24.90, opt for hefty five-litre container for $149.90 or go for a whopping 20-litre pack for $425 — all of which can be pre-ordered online in advance. Because this pop-up is being held over the Easter long weekend, you can also score a treat with your hand sanitiser if you drop by on Sunday, April 12. Every pickup on the day will come with free Easter eggs — well, while stocks last. And, to maintain social-distancing requirements, those eggs will be rolled into your car via a 1.5-metre tube. If you won't be in the vicinity of Brisbane's inner east over Easter, look out for future Get Sanitiser pop-ups elsewhere — with plans afoot for future events in north Brisbane, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast. Get Sanitised will pop up at 73 Ipswich Road, Woolloongabba from Thursday, April 9–Sunday, April 12 between 9am–4pm daily.
Inspired by Madonna, Michael Jackson and Nine Inch Nails, Auckland based synth pop duo Computers Want Me Dead have decided they're not going to take themselves too seriously – resulting in a sound that's chaotic, almost dizzying synth pop that you can't help but pull shapes to. They've played Rhythm + Vines, Big Day Out and supported 30 Seconds to Mars – all while having only released their debut EP in March this year. They've taken over New Zealand and plan to take over the rest of the world later on this year, one synth track at a time. One half of Computers Want Me Dead, Sam Harvey, chats to Kirstie Sequitin about Gary Numan, Nine Inch Nails and embracing their inner synth pop. I read this thing on your Facebook profile last night, saying that your set is 'a whirling and buzzing tornado of sound akin to some wonderful lovechild of Gary Numan and Nine Inch Nails on ecstacy'. And then I saw that you had a photo taken with Gary the other day – did he have something to say about that? Yeah, yeah that was amazing! A friend of mine was organizing the Gary Numan show over here in Auckland, so as soon as I found out I ran in saying 'please, please, please can I meet him?' And I met him, he was the nicest guy I've ever met, it was incredible. Did he listen to your music at all? I don't know. It was funny because the friend that hosted the television show knows I'm a huge fan (of Gary) and actually gave him a copy of our CD live on air. I was like 'Oh my God, I can't believe you did that.' But, I don't know. I'd like to think that he would have heard it but yeah, no idea. Why do computers want you dead? The name is definitely ironic, because we both love computers and we're kind of nerdy in that way. But it actually comes from a friend of mine who had moved to Chicago wrote me this massive long email on MySpace, back in the day when MySpace was all the rage. So she wrote me this massive email and clicked send and… it timed out. She had spent two hours writing this email and was really really pissed off. The next email she wrote was titled 'Computers want me dead'. I was like, "I'm totally going to use that as a band name". She didn't believe me until we put out a single. What were you guys doing before Computers Want Me Dead and how did you guys start working together? I was wearing a Nine Inch Nails t-shirt at a work function and Damien came up to me and was like, "Oh yeah, I'm a fan of Nine Inch Nails too." And we just got talking. We were both talking about how we wanted to, you know, start a band, and we started jamming. We ended up moving into an apartment – I live here with Damien and his girlfriend – and it kind of just went from there. So how does a love for Nine Inch Nails translate to the stuff that you guys make together? Well, it's funny - it started off being a lot darker and kind of grittier. Then one day I changed the bass line on something and added the sort of poppy sounding synth and all of a sudden it was a different song and we just ran with that. But yeah, Nine Inch Nails are definitely a massive influence on both of us and kind of evidence of earlier stuff that we've done. I've played one of our singles to a friend of mine who is also a Nine Inch Nails fan and – I don't know if this is compliment but - he said "It sounds like Nine Inch Nails on E". And I was like, "Sweet. That's awesome". That was the coolest thing he could've said. You say that your music comes from being able to embrace pop music shamelessly; do you think other bands take themselves too seriously? Do you think that there's a bit of synth pop in every band? (laughs) I think everyone has a potential to take themselves too seriously. We're all guilty of it sometimes. But yeah, I don't know, there's some music that's more serious than others – and I'm a big fan of all kinds of stuff. I don't look at people who are really into what they're doing as taking themselves too seriously – I don't think they're pretentious or anything, but it's just not what this band is about. Computers Want Me Dead's self-titled EP is out now.
Now streaming on Disney+, Moon Knight arrives as the latest chapter in a seemingly non-stop franchise that's near monopolised popular culture over the past decade and a half. The newest episodic series to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it adds yet another tale to the saga's ever-expanding web of superhero stories — this time focusing on a character first seen on the page back in the 70s; hardly as well-known as the likes of Iron Man, the Hulk, Captain America, Thor and Captain Marvel; and otherwise wholly unseen in the MCU so far. Moon Knight also starts unfurling as the latest instalment in another trend. For the second time in less than a year, Oscar Isaac stars in a must-see streaming series. In cinemas in-between, he's also added Dune and The Card Counter to his resume, too, because the compulsively watchable actor pinballs between projects vast and intimate — and between blockbusters and character-driven pieces. His two most recent small-screen projects couldn't demonstrate that chasm better, although Moon Knight has more in common with 2021's Scenes From a Marriage than it might initially seem. Or, to be accurate, it boasts one very specific and important shared trait: it wouldn't be what it is without Isaac's magnetic performance. Make that performances. The setup: in this six-episode miniseries, Isaac plays Steven Grant and Marc Spector. They're one and the same due to a case of dissociative identity disorder, although this is news to mild-mannered British gift-shop employee Steven. Usually, he wishes that he could lead tours at work, obsesses over studying Egyptian history and, thanks to a sleeping disorder, chains himself to his bed at night. But as gaps in his days lead him to learn, he is also American mercenary Marc Spector — or, to be exact, vice versa. Complicating matters further, he's the on-earth conduit for the Egyptian moon god Khonshu (voiced by Mythic Quest's F Murray Abraham) as well. Already struggling with being able to tell the difference between being awake and asleep, Steven's role as the moon god's offsider is a source of stress, unsurprisingly — especially with shadowy cult-like figure Arthur Harrow (Ethan Hawke, The Good Lord Bird) hanging around. Character-wise, the Steven/Marc combo swiftly proves as complex as the MCU has delivered so far in Moon Knight's first four episodes, as deepened even further during a continent-hopping mystery-adventure that has him doing Khonshu's bidding. That's where Harrow comes in, complete with unfinished business with the moon god and big plans of his own. Archaeologist Layla El-Faouly (May Calamawy, Ramy) also adds another layer, sporting ties to Marc's past that Steven is initially unaware of, and sparking a patch of romantic rivalry. Even within franchise confines, Isaac is mesmerising playing duelling dual personalities in Moon Knight, turning in the kind of portrayal that the MCU has been lacking. It isn't known as an actor's showcase, which is why even this far in — 27 movies and now six Disney+ series — the sprawling saga's standout performances make a splash bigger than throwing mjölnir into an ocean. It's what made Tom Hiddleston a hit in his big-screen outings, and also in fellow streaming show Loki. Also on the small screen, the greater texture served up by Elizabeth Olsen and Paul Bettany, and the scene-stealing perfection of Kathryn Hahn as well, ensured that WandaVision left an imprint, too. Isaac bests them all; while Marvel's knack for casting has long been one of its superpowers — even with simply entertaining rather than necessarily meaty performances resulting — it flexes those talents magnificently in Moon Knight. Indeed, it's as shrewd a casting move as has been made to-date in this pop-culture behemoth. The fact that Moon Knight also tasks Isaac with playing someone that film and TV fans aren't already acquainted with is also pivotal. Welcomely, the Marvel formula feels fresher here. The series still spins an origin story, and will undoubtedly tie into the broader narrative to come. It also often falls back on a template between daring to be stranger and weirder. And yet, by branching off with a previously unseen protagonist, this is the first MCU Disney+ series that doesn't feel like homework. That isn't a slight upon WandaVision, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Loki and Hawkeye, but recognition that reaching in new directions reaps considerable rewards. Moon Knight doesn't lack in star power, of course — there's a reason that Isaac is rarely seen suited up with his face covered, Hawke is also fantastic, and they bounce off of each other compellingly — but it hasn't enlisted its big-name MCU newcomers to merely go through the by-the-numbers motions. Similarly leaving an impression: having Egyptian filmmaker Mohamed Diab (Clash) direct four episodes, and getting American sci-fi/horror wunderkinds Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead (Synchronic, The Endless, Archive 81) to helm the other two. Both help ensure that Moon Knight's biggest thrills come from its best asset, especially given that he's doing double duty in a Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde-style premise — and the scenes where Steven and Marc bicker with each other about who gets to control their shared body (which happens via reflective surfaces such as mirrors and puddles, and are shot with not just flair but boldness), are the show's clear highlights. The Indiana Jones nods, and the swings in The Mummy's direction, are clunkier, but the end product is still easily the most intriguing small-screen Marvel effort so far. Actually, when Moon Knight does ultimately end up overtly linking into the MCU in its final two episodes — and if it smoothes itself down in the process — that'll feel like a let down. Check out the trailer for Moon Knight below: The first episode of Moon Knight is available to stream via Disney+, with new instalments dropping weekly. Images: courtesy of Marvel Studios. ©Marvel Studios 2022. All Rights Reserved.
There are seemingly endless picture-perfect stays across Australia to choose from, so convincing yourself to smash that book button is often easier said than done. Yet keeping tabs on what like-minded holidaymakers are sharing on socials is one way to avoid analysis paralysis when it comes to finding a short-term stay that delivers a breathtaking experience. With this in mind, Airbnb has turned to social media to identify which stays have generated the most Instagram and TikTok engagement over the past 12 months. Resulting in a list capturing the most-loved stays on the platform, a single Aussie Airbnb made the final cut — and it's as serenity-inducing as you'd expect. That'd be Gilay Estate, a meticulously designed off-grid tiny house that calls the similarly small New South Wales town of Quirindi home. Nestled into the state's food bowl on a family farm, this wonderfully cosy Airbnb offers a charming perspective over the laidback farming region, blending contemporary comfort with the natural beauty of Liverpool Plains. When you're not tucked up next to the fireplace with a glass of wine in hand, guests are welcome to stroll the scenic grounds, unwinding amid the fresh country air. Alternatively, the surrounding paddocks and open skies can be enjoyed from the outdoor hot tub or adjacent firepit, primed for sunset cookouts that evoke a slow-living ethos. According to Airbnb, the global survey data used to create the list shows that younger travellers are using platforms like Instagram and TikTok to discover new destinations. Delving a little deeper, Airbnb says the most-loved listings often share some key characteristics, those being the chance to connect offline and feel inspired by unique surroundings. As for the rest of the most-loved list, there's no shortage of fascinating stays to explore. In the US, guests can relish a soothing escape perched right alongside Washington State's glacier-fed Cascade River. Meanwhile, an unsurprising hit on social media is Quetzalcoatl's Nest, a Javier Senosiain-designed stay that reflects Mexico's organic architecture movement. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Australia's best Airbnb hosts for 2025 or head to the website to see the full list.
How does Jon Snow's future pan out? Sorry Game of Thrones fan, you're going to keep knowing nothing. Back in 2022, it was announced that HBO was potentially making a Jon Snow-focused sequel series, but those plans have now hit a wall according to none other than Kit Harington himself. If you're a fan of the series and you've been mourning the show's end back ever since 2019, you'll know that the US network has floated no shortage of options for extending everyone's time in Westeros. Prequel series House of the Dragon premiered in 2022, and will return for season two in 2024. Another series set before Game of Thrones itself, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight, will arrive in 2025. Among the rumours, a second new series to the Targaryens has also been mentioned. But this is the end of the line for the Jon Snow spinoff at the moment. In an interview with Screen Rant, Harington (Eternals) advised that "currently, it's off the table, because we all couldn't find the right story to tell that we were all excited about enough". "So, we decided to lay down tools with it for the time being. There may be a time in the future where we return to it, but at the moment, no. It's firmly on the shelf," he continued. The series was set to explore Jon Snow's story after the events of Game of Thrones' eighth and final season. You might recall that that last batch of episodes were rather eventful for the character, even more than normal. He found out that he was born Aegon Targaryen, and that he has a claim to the Iron Throne. He also ditched Westeros — after being exiled — to head North of the Wall. So, for now, you'll just have to look forward to the return of House of the Dragon this winter Down Under (when else?), starting on Monday, June 17, 2024. And as for A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight, it is based on the novella series Tales of Dunk and Egg, as has been rumoured for a few years now. The story follows knight Ser Duncan the Tall and his squire Egg as they wander Westeros a century before the events of GoT, when the Targaryens remain on the Iron Throne and everyone still remembers dragons. Check out the latest House of the Dragon season two trailer below: HBO's Jon Snow Game of Thrones spinoff is no longer happening. House of the Dragon streams Down Under via Foxtel and Binge in Australia, and SoHo, Sky Go and Neon in New Zealand, with season two arriving on Monday, June 17, 2024. Read our full review of season one. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight is set to premiere in 2025 — we'll update you with exact details when they're announced. Via: Screen Rant. Images: Helen Sloan/HBO.
In 2020, Netflix's Enola Holmes asked a question: what if Sherlock Holmes had a teenage sister who was just as good at sleuthing as he is? Now, in 2021, the streaming platform has another query for fans of the famed detective: what if there was actually a team of teens who were tasked with solving his mysteries, all while Sherlock gets the credit? That latter train of thought provides the premise for The Irregulars, Netflix's next dalliance with the character created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Set in Victorian London, the eight-part series meets its motley crew of adolescents as they're asked by Doctor Watson (Royce Pierreson, The Witcher) to work for Holmes (Henry Lloyd-Hughes, Killing Eve). As the just-dropped trailer shows, they're also enlisted for their new gig as the city and the world comes under threat from insidious supernatural forces — which only they can stop. Yes, it sounds like something that an algorithm would concoct (and probably has) after seeing how many people stream both Stranger Things and the multiple other iterations of Sherlock Holmes that have reached screens over the years. But at least part of the concept does tie back into Conan Doyle's work, with the Baker Street Irregulars even popping up in 1887's A Study in Scarlet, the first novel to feature Holmes and Watson. When the series hits Netflix on Friday, March 26, you'll be watching Thaddea Graham (The Letter for the King), Darci Shaw (Judy), Jojo Macari (Sex Education), Mckell David (The Gentlemen) and Harrison Osterfield (Catch 22) as Irregulars members Bea, Jessie, Billie, Spike and Leopold — and Clarke Peters (His Dark Materials) as The Linen Man. Check out the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lTE5MAGpflw The Irregulars starts streaming via Netflix from Friday, March 26.
Drive two hours northwest of Melbourne and you'll arrive in the town of Lexton. Perched in Victoria's Pyrenees region, this tiny township is surrounded by outstanding wineries and outdoor adventures, ensuring a visit here will be jam-packed with unforgettable experiences that'll live long in the memory. Whether you prefer to roam grand pictorial gardens or scale the Pyrenees mountains, finding the experience you crave is almost guaranteed. To give you a head start, we've teamed up with Wild Turkey to highlight the activities that'll keep the good times flowing for you and your crew on your next out-of-town adventure. [caption id="attachment_846008" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Arianna Leggiero[/caption] STAY IN A CONVERTED CHURCH Considering the immense beauty of Victoria's Pyrenees, booking yourself into some suitably snug accommodation is the best way to spend the night. Arguably the top spot in the area is Grayling's Gift, an immaculate 19th century church rejuvenated with luxurious furnishings and amenities. Inside, the antique decor includes an elegant clawfoot bathtub, a vintage chesterfield lounge and a wood fireplace that elevates the cosiness factor to the extreme. While breakfast is provided during your stay, there's also a compact kitchen to use — we suggest using it to put together a grazing platter with local produce to enjoy during a star-gazing session in the expansive fields on your doorstep. [caption id="attachment_844023" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Elliot Kramer[/caption] TREK THROUGH THE RAINFOREST Situated on the edge of the Great Dividing Range, Lexton is home to mind-boggling natural beauty. To experience the variety of landscapes in one place, a 30-minute drive to Mount Buangor State Park is your best bet. With its 15 kilometres of interconnected trails, this is the place to explore mountain peaks or delve deeper into the valley floor. If you're looking for a low-intensity hike, the Waterfalls Nature Walk trail should be at the top of your to-do list. Taking just 45 minutes to complete, this return journey sees hikers wander through blue gum forests on their way past three waterfalls, including the stunning Ferntree Falls and the Cascade Falls. [caption id="attachment_844026" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Victoria[/caption] EXPLORE WINE COUNTRY It might seem a little on the nose, but this part of Victoria does indeed get its name from the Pyrenees region stretching between France and Spain. Our Pyrenees wine region dates back to the 1960s, so expect your visit to this thriving food and wine country to be overflowing with delicious flavours. More than 40 cellar doors provide ample opportunity to sample the local varieties, and Blue Pyrenees Estate is considered one of the best. Head to this sprawling estate on the outskirts of Avoca for tasting tours and a refined cafe that overlooks the vineyard. In nearby Moonambel, Summerfield Wines offers an equally delectable experience, featuring world-class vino and woodfired pizzas. ROAM HISTORICAL GARDENS AND HARVEST FRESH PRODUCE Despite its location in the heart of the Goldfields region, Lexton didn't quite have the same luck as its neighbours when it came to buried treasure. However, that didn't stop several great estates from being established in the area. For example, the Mount Mitchell Homestead serves as a lasting symbol of Victoria's pre-federation history. Founded in 1838, this sprawling home offers ten acres of pristine gardens from which to admire the Pyrenees Mountains that rise to the west. Stop in to stroll through the beautiful gardens and working farm, where you can pick up fresh produce like eggs from the resident hens, catch yabbies and fish from the property's lake and pick your own fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs from the orchard and kitchen garden. [caption id="attachment_844028" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Matt (Flickr)[/caption] HIT UP PARMA PALACE When you roll into any country town, a good pub meal is often one of the first things to seek out. Lexton's Pyrenees Family Hotel isn't afraid to put its reputation on the line, with the self-appointed nickname of the 'Parma Palace'. There are 12 plate-sized varieties of the pub classic to choose from here, with each one bound to leave you very satisfied. The pub also features the hallmarks of any classic country pub: there's a top-notch beer garden where you can enjoy a crisp lager beneath the shade of a mulberry tree, a pool room and jukebox. Plus, if you stop by on a Friday night you can even try your luck at winning a meat tray. [caption id="attachment_844031" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Elliot Kramer[/caption] TEST YOUR BUSHWALKING SKILLS There's stellar bushwalking to be found all over the Pyrenees region, but you can quickly access some of the best with a short drive to Beaufort. Here, you'll find the challenging Ben Nevis Walk – a 9.6-kilometre circuit that kicks off with a seriously steep climb up an old 4WD track. As the terrain levels out, you'll have the energy to admire the wildflowers and panoramic views that adorn this landscape. Although this adventure will definitely put even the fittest bushwalkers through their paces, the views from the peak make this journey supremely worthwhile. [caption id="attachment_844032" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Francesco Vicenzi (Flickr)[/caption] EXPERIENCE A NEXT-LEVEL BUSH DOOF Bush doofs don't come much bigger, or more colourful, than the annual Rainbow Serpent Festival. Launched in 1998 in the dusty fields surrounding Lexton, this hedonistic playground presents a global showcase of electronic music, ranging from psytrance to minimal techno. With the pandemic and bushfires quashing recent years, a return is on the cards for Easter 2023. Alongside the mind-melting tunes and sparkling outfits, the festival invites you to explore your spiritual side through immersive art installations, workshops and otherworldly experiences. If that sounds up your alley, get your pals together for a metaphysical reawakening. Just be sure to take a few days off to guarantee your recovery. Find out more about Wild Turkey's Discovery Series at the website. Top image: Elliot Kramer
2018 came and went without new episodes of two of television's most popular series. Thankfully, the same won't prove true of 2019. Game of Thrones' final season is coming in April — before winter — and Stranger Things will return mid-year. Mark your calendars accordingly. In the case of everyone's favourite 80s-set sci-fi/horror series, Stranger Things will drop its third season on Thursday, July 4. Prepare to return to Hawkins and face the demogorgon once more — and to find out what 1985 has in store for Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown), Will (Noah Schnapp), Mike (Finn Wolfhard), Dustin (Galen Matarazzo), Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin) and the gang. Netflix unveiled the date as part of a brief teaser, which doesn't feature any new footage from the forthcoming eight-episode season, but does interrupt a New Year's Eve broadcast with cryptic government messages. It also reveals that the series will be set around the July 4 American holiday, continuing a trend of releasing new episodes to coincide with special occasions. The show's second season dropped in October 2017, with Halloween weaved into its storyline. While the streaming platform is yet to launch a proper trailer for season three of Stranger Things, it did reveal the season's episode titles in another teaser back in December. Feel free to ponder the meaning of names such as 'Suzie, Do You Copy?', 'The Mall Rats', 'The Case of the Missing Lifeguard' and 'The Battle of Starcourt' until July 4 rolls around. https://www.facebook.com/NetflixANZ/videos/366266914175965/?__xts__[0]=68.ARB6tA30GHZBliVxnjVfAQxVNsz_44Zuezt6075kSgJQk1NDr6kHK5hQSmwE2gCZIba35AqA010k8OC9d1oImVX3qqzIh89nRh4BIPIfRfFeZlosAB31BFi-mC6se4R0ibCnvdo3R9RSi4Ip36BjZ_j_UmOpbYQdZdlUPAYsg4kQhBxseS4PgzCL3nYHlLTru5XVDn1GV5dzbtMsMGjQmlmRqzND6gm9xeqit_zmru8SrmgqXGSOJhoL42UFS5cUGT45wf_7vlSdE0PcfB5WK0OfczrE8pUODXnX0KNVzBvIzICi_tw-Klap4ZgIDKKInsCSUU-lGzAkgFZMt42oackL8lqMKpVaedzLZA&__tn__=-R Stranger Things season eight will arrive on Netflix on Thursday, July 4.
Sebastián Lelio's A Fantastic Woman has been unexpectedly popular with the pundits, which is great for two reasons. For starters, it's always encouraging when foreign language films are financially successful. But what's even better is that the film offers a sensitive, uplifting portrayal of a transgender protagonist. After taking home a deluge of awards, there's no doubt that A Fantastic Woman is a serious contender to win Best Foreign Language Film at this year's Academy Awards. Frankly, it's just a shame it wasn't nominated for Best Picture The story follows Marina Vidal, played by trans actress Daniela Vega. We meet her partner Orlando, played by Francisco Reyes, on the evening of her birthday, and get a glimpse into their tender, hopeful relationship before it all comes crumbling down. Orlando, who is a fair bit older than Marina, wakes up feeling sick – and although she rushes him to the hospital, it's all too late. The bulk of the film takes place in the aftermath of Orlando's death, as Marina is forced to deal with his family as they tear strips off her from all angles. It can't be overstated how wonderful it is to see transgender representation on the big screen (no offence Eddie Redmayne, but this is how it should be). Vega's performance as Marina feels authentic, in no small part because it is authentic. Every movement, every delivery is subtle, considered and real. To convey the character's mental state, Lelio oscillates between realism and magical realism, maintaining an elegant balance that ensures neither style feels heavy or overdone. And all the while, his leading lady is mesmerising in every scene. One of the most heartwarming elements of this film is the relationship between Marina and Orlando. It's sweet, romantic, sexy, like a healthy relationship should be. It's neither fraught nor kept secret – and while the depiction of it shouldn't feel remarkable, it absolutely does. A Fantastic Woman does great work capturing a spectrum of light and shade, love and grief, without relying on excessive violence or grim stereotypes that are so common in cinema about marginalised groups. That's not to say that this film doesn't contain disturbing scenes. Marina experiences more than her share of abuse and menacing microaggressions, enough to set your teeth on edge. And yet she's never portrayed as a helpless victim. Leilo's narrative realism and restraint, coupled with Vega's captivating performance, are proof that you don't need to use shock and awe tactics to have an impact. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PJHex4ZitgA
