Cashed-up visitors to the Gold Coast will soon have a new upmarket place to stay, and the southeast Queensland getaway destination will score some more bragging rights in the process. In 2027, the Glitter Strip is already set to welcome the first Aussie outpost from luxury brand St Regis. Now, in the same year, it'll become home to Marriott International's debut Luxury Collection resort on the country's mainland as well. The Marriott International hotel chain is behind St Regis, too, plus The Ritz-Carlton, which will open its third Aussie location on the Gold Coast in 2026. Accordingly, it's set to be a huge few years for the brand Down Under, adding the Marina Mirage Gold Coast to its existing JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa and Sheraton Grand Mirage Gold Coast in the city. If your bank balance allows, your future holiday plans will also benefit. Boasting 110 spots to slumber around the globe, The Luxury Collection made its local premiere with The Tasman in Hobart back in 2021, and also spans everywhere from the Bellagio in Las Vegas and the Prince de Galles in Paris to the Suiran in Kyoto. The Gold Coast's addition to the list will feature 122 rooms as part of the new precinct planned for the site of the existing Marina Mirage on The Spit, transforming Seaworld Drive. As part of their stay, guests can get excited about hanging out at the rooftop bar and pool, eating a meal at the signature restaurant and chasing bliss at the day spa. There'll also be a jacuzzi, wellness and beauty centre, garden, and function and event spaces. Exactly what each will entail — menu items, cuisine styles, relaxing treatments and the like — hasn't yet been revealed. Marriott International Inc is working with Makris Group on the Marina Mirage Gold Coast, with the family-owned company owning the site since 2013. The full resort-style overhaul of the Marina Mirage will also include a new marina, restaurants and shops, and both villas and residences. "The reimagination of the iconic Marina Mirage precinct presents an inspiring opportunity to expand our luxury footprint on the Gold Coast — a market we know very well, after more than 35 years' experience operating the city's two leading resorts under our JW Marriott and Sheraton brands," said Richard Crawford, Vice President of Hotel Development for Australia, New Zealand and Pacific at Marriott International. "The destination's resilience during and post-pandemic has been remarkable, and we are very confident that proven demand for high-quality hotel experiences will be a strong foundation for the success of our first Luxury Collection property on mainland Australia." Find the Marina Mirage Gold Coast on Seaworld Drive, Main Beach from sometime in 2027 — keep an eye on the Marriott International website for further details in the interim.
There are more than a couple of covert events taking place in the Tasmanian wilderness right now. But as of 2017, there is one less. Two revolutionaries — aliases Spinifex and Dr. Gesundheit — have left the cover of the canopy to declare they're constructing a contingency for the ailing human race. Starting today, they're calling for potential crew members who know — or want to learn — a thing or two about rebuilding societies from the ashes up. So as not to raise suspicion or alarm, the training/selection process has been given the moniker of Newkind Festival. The immersive event purports to be presented by UpUpTrampoline, a group known for creating live art events that pursue social change. The lie is a necessary one. For four days from March 17-20 in a secret location in eastern Tasmania known only as 'base camp', participants will become initiates of the future — the Newkind — and imbued with the skills to navigate the ascent out of the cataclysm. The Newkind are split into six categories — farmers, scouts, healers, administrators, engineers and artists — depending on the contribution one wants to make to the new world. Each group will camp together over the course of the weekend, taking part in lectures and classes on assisting a chastened humanity in rebuilding. For those with skills to share, Spinifex and the good doctor are still accepting applications for volunteers here. At $400 a pop, tickets are pricey. Then again, it includes all meals and the promise of calm acceptance should anarchy begin to shred the lie we call society. The reckoning isn't far off now. Will you be the one left in the desert still searching for phone reception or leading a small band to the only drinkable water for miles? Newkind Festival could be the difference. Newkind Festival will take place in a secret location in eastern Tasmania from March 17-20. Tickets are on sale and can be bought at newkindfestival.com.
The world has gone green. With carbon trading, hybrid cars and alternative fuels dominating elections and dining table chit-chat across the globe, the choice to be green is not simply an environmental consideration but a way of life for many people. Some environmentally-minded folks, however, have brought new meaning to the phrase "one man's trash is another man's treasure", transforming scrap metal and old beer cans into functional and often stunning houses. Here are ten bizarre and beautiful houses made entirely of recycled materials. Junk Castle Where: Washington State It took one high school teacher, one artist, $500 and a pile of discarded filth to make the Junk Castle, with everything from car doors to rusting kitchen appliances replacing the usual bricks and mortar. Le Casa de Botellas Where: Puerto Iguazu, Argentina The 'House of Bottles' is made from thousands of disposable plastic bottles for the purpose of "promoting ecological and social responsibility", and includes a matching bottle playhouse. Earthship Where: Haiti After the devastating 2010 Haiti Earthquake destroyed thousands of families' homes, eco-architect Michael Reynolds constructed this 120-square-foot house from discarded car tires. Not only did it cost next to nothing to build, but it is also resistant to earthquakes and hurricanes and harvests solar and wind energy. Jardin du Coquillage Where: Northern France 'The Garden of Shells' was a labour of love for French war veteran Bodan Litnianski, who upon returning from WWII began decorating the exterior of his house with shells. Upon finishing the walls, Litnianski then roamed the streets in search of abandoned toys, puppets and anything else that caught his fancy, transforming his tiny cottage into a veritable maze of colourful and exotic junk. House Built from Glass Bottles Where: Prince Edward Island, Canada 25,000 bottles were used by Édouard T. Arsenault to build this eco-friendly home. One wasn't enough though, with Arsenault making three similarly cost-effective houses across the island. Costa Verde Resort Where: Costa Rica This multi-million dollar extravaganza is one of the more innovative hotel designs you are likely to see, constructed from a decommissioned Boeing 727 previously used by South Africa Air. The striking exterior is more than adequately matched by its ritzy interior, in which the inside of the plane has been refashioned into wood panelled hotel rooms that fetch up to $500 a night. The Phoenix Commotion Where: Huntsville, Texas Architect, environmentalist and innovator Dan Phillips (above) is the brains behind eco-friendly construction company, The Phoenix Commotion. Having constructed 14 houses from materials salvaged from junkyards, flea markets and street corners across Texas, Phillips believes the possibilities for The Phoenix Commotion are just about endless. "You can't defy the laws of physics or building codes," Phillips told the New York Times, “but beyond that, the possibilities are endless.” The Beer Can House Where: Houston, Texas That's right, a house made entirely from flattened beer cans, beer bottles and other beer paraphernalia. Houston resident John Milkovisch became a local icon when in 1968 he began converting his family home into a shrine to the amber nectar. His only explanation for the hordes of perplexed neighbours was "I got sick of mowing the lawn". While it is now a favoured tourist attraction, it is only worth a visit if you are particularly strong of stomach, as 50 years of fermenting beer has apparently given the house a rather rancid stench. Houses Made From Shipping Pallets Where: Chile and Austria Designers in Chile and Austria have used discarded shipping pallets to create houses that are both functional and beautiful. The strong hardwood material and large holes in the pallets lend themselves perfectly for house exteriors providing homes with natural lighting, cooling and ventilation. Grain Silo House Where: Woodland, Utah Penny-saving, environmentally-conscious architects have been known to convert just about anything into houses, from churches to shipping containers to bomb shelters. One such trend that has developed in the US is repurposing grain silos into some surprisingly stylish homes. While this double-silo mansion took several years of redesigning and recreating, silos can be renovated into houses for as little as $7,000.
If the impending winter chill has you dreaming of cosy nights spent quaffing drams of whisky, there's a Melbourne-made creation that deserves a spot in your spirits collection. The team at the city's own Starward Whisky has just unveiled the latest edition of its Ginger Beer Cask series — and, as it has six times before, this spicy little number promises to keep those wintry blues at bay. The seventh iteration of Starward's ginger-based program since 2014, 2022's offering isn't just about pairing ginger and whisky, as fine a combination as that is. Another winning duo gets a look-in as well: chocolate and orange. So, expect to smell ginger, orange and dark chocolate while you're sipping — and to taste ginger, obviously, as well as vanilla, pineapple, sweet raisins and fig. For this year's version, Starward has also added more ginger for extra spice, and only used American Oak red wine barrels, which've helped ramped up the vanilla and coconut characters. Starward's experts say you can try the whisky any way you please, but they particularly recommend sipping it straight, perhaps alongside some good-quality dark chocolate. Either way, it's safe to say you can expect a very good drop — 2021's drop won a Double Gold medal at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirit Competition, while 2020's Ginger Beer Cask edition took out a gold medal at the World Whisky Masters, plus a bronze at the Hong Kong International Wine and Spirits Competition. The special-edition spirit is always quick to sell out, and this year's release is pegged to be no different. It's on sale now, so stocking up for winter ASAP is highly recommended. Starward's Ginger Beer Cask #7 is on sale now via the distillery's website, and at national retailers. A 700-millilitre bottle will set you back $149.
The largest-ever showcase of living Australian artists will casually drop by Ballarat this spring, with the inaugural Biennale of Australian Art (BOAA) in town from September 21 until November 6. It's big news for the small city, with the six-week event set to be a major drawcard for the Central Highlands region of Victoria. There'll be 150 artists coming from all reaches of Australia, making up 65 curated solo exhibitions, as the Biennale aims to have equal representation of artists from every state and territory. Taking place in over 14 different venues across Ballarat, its art points will certainly be amped up several notches by the array of visual arts and live music set to take over the town. With the event boasting a strong focus on Indigenous talent, art from the Numina sisters, Abdul Abdullah, Kim Anderson, David Jensz and Peggy Griffiths will be on display, among work from over a hundred others. Music-wise, the BOAA Band Wagon will be doing the rounds: a specially built music truck that'll provide the sound staging for the event's outdoor gigs at Lake Wendouree and St Andrews Grounds, as well as concerts held at Ballarat's other music venues. In special events, there'll be a living sculpture fashion parade, an evening program called BOAA Dark and a lake sculpture walk, which turns Lake Wendouree into an outdoor gallery featuring 26 sculptures. Free mini buses, bikes and rickshaws will transport attendees around the art path, pausing at pit stops providing food and local beers and wines for your hungry, thirsty and very well-arted selves. With the Biennale expected to draw tens of thousands of visitors, Ballarat looks set to be a pretty busy little place over the six weeks. Two-day or six-week (festival) passes are available at $25 and $100 respectively, so start planning your road trips. The Biennale of Australian Art runs from September 21 until November 6 in Ballarat. For more information, visit the BOAA website.
You've filled your house with its minimalist designs and homewares, and dreamed of living in its flat-pack homes and tiny pre-fab huts as well. MUJI fans, your love affair with the Japanese home goods giant isn't over yet. First announced in 2017, the retailer has been opening its own range of hotels — and while sites in Shenzhen and Beijing in China are already welcoming guests, the brand's Tokyo abode now has a launch date. Come April 4, 2019, you'll be able to check into MUJI's very own Ginza site, aka MUJI Hotel Ginza. The company's first Japanese hotel, it'll be located in the same spot as its new flagship store. The shop will take up seven floors from the basement upwards, the hotel reception will be situated on level six, and 79 guest rooms will be spread across levels seven to ten. A diner, which'll be open to the public, will also make its home in the basement. MUJI fans, and anyone looking for somewhere different to stay in one of Tokyo's busiest districts, can expect the retailer's usual minimalist aesthetic — think recycled wooden interiors and spaces filled with plenty of the brand's furniture. The company describes it as "anti-gorgeous, anti-cheap", which fits in with its overall practical but quality vibe, with the concept and interior design managed by MUJI-owning company Ryohin Keikaku. The site will also feature the multi-purpose Atelier MUJI Ginza, a space on the sixth floor that's all about design and culture. Between shopping for MUJI goods and slumbering in a MUJI bed, guests can wander through two galleries that'll feature craft and design exhibitions, grab a drink in the salon, and peruse arts-related books in the library. There'll also be a lounge where MUJI will host regular events and workshops. Image: Mitsui Fudosan Co Ltd.
What's better than giving a new TV show a whirl, enjoying it immensely and realising that it's one of the best new series of the year so far? Learning that it's coming back for a second season. Ideally, that happens to all of our favourites — but for now, it's definitely on the agenda for new Apple TV+ sitcom Loot. The streaming platform has confirmed that the show, which both stars and is executive produced by Maya Rudolph, will get a second run after its ten-episode first season wraps up. The latter is dropping episodes weekly now, and just when season two will hit hasn't been revealed. Apple TV+ does tend to like a yearly schedule, though — Physical season one arrived last year, and season two last month, for instance — so cross your fingers that Loot will be back to add some workplace-set laughs to your streaming queue within 12 months. If you haven't yet made a viewing date with the immensely funny satire, it does two things at once: slots into the workplace comedy genre alongside everything from The Office and Parks and Recreation to 30 Rock, and joins the list of recent shows that haven't had much sympathy for the ultra rich (see White Lotus, Succession, Squid Game and Killing It). The focus: Molly Novak (Rudolph, Big Mouth), who discovers that her billionaire husband John (Adam Scott, Severance) is cheating on her, becomes a billionaire herself in the divorce settlement, and starts partying around the globe. (She also inhabits the kind of house that doesn't look real, but genuinely is — Loot is partly filmed in one of America's biggest private homes, an enormous mansion that has 21 bedrooms, five pools, a bowling alley and a cinema). Drinking away her days in different countries only lasts for a short spell, though, with Molly's new routine getting a shakeup when she gets a call from Sofia Salinas (Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, Pose), the head of the foundation that bears her name. Soon, she's actually showing up to try to help out rather than merely splashing her cash about. Given that she hasn't worked for two decades, things get chaotic. Joining the always-excellent Rudolph on-screen: the aforementioned Rodriguez, Joel Kim Booster (Fire Island), Ron Funches (AP Bio), Nat Faxon, Our Flag Means Death), Stephanie Styles (Bombshell) and Meagen Fay (Dopesick). Clearly, Loot is a parody. It digs into all that wealth, the folks who have it and the bubbles that surround them. It also knows that handing out a tiny portion of a fortune to great causes is the absolute bare minimum that the one percent can do. And, it's definitely aware of the type of hijinks that can spring in any working environment. Loot's creators Alan Yang and Matt Hubbard are well versed in workplace comedies, sharing Parks and Recreation on their resumes — while Hubbard has written for 30 Rock and Superstore as well. Check out the trailer for Loot below: Loot's second season doesn't yet have a release date, but its first is available to stream via Apple TV+. Read our full review of season one.
You've played Nintendo's Mario games, including on Google Maps and mobile phones. You've tried your hand at Mario Kart in reality. You've made plans to hit up the Super Nintendo theme park in Japan, or perhaps the upcoming second site in Hollywood. And you've watched 1993's live-action Super Mario Bros, which starred Bob Hoskins as the titular, John Leguizamo as Luigi and Dennis Hopper as King Koopa. If all of the above fit — or even just some of it, because everyone has pressed start on at least one Mario game — then you're primed for the character's next leap to the big screen. This time, it's happening in animation, and Nintendo has just dropped a colourful sneak peek during its Nintendo Direct stream. The film: The Super Mario Bros Movie, which has enlisted Chris Pratt (The Terminal List) to voice the Italian plumber, because the former Parks and Recreation star doesn't have enough big franchises (see: Guardians of the Galaxy, Jurassic World and The Lego Movie) on his resume. (So far, there's only one new Super Mario Bros, but predicting there'll be more if it does well at the box office is as easy as collecting mushrooms in the games.) As initial teaser trailers tend to do, there's little in terms of story in this first glimpse at the movie — but Mario does frolic his way to the Mushroom Kingdom. Luigi (voiced by Charlie Day, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia) gets a-running in spooky surroundings (here's hoping that games' haunted house soundtrack makes the jump to cinemas, too) and Bowser (Jack Black, Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood) gets fiery as well. Also among The Super Mario Bros Movie's voice cast: Anya Taylor-Joy (Amsterdam) as Princess Peach, Keegan- Michael Key (Reboot) as Toad, Seth Rogen (Pam & Tommy) as Donkey Kong and Fred Armisen (Los Espookys) as Cranky Kong. Hailing from directors Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic (Teen Titans Go!, Teen Titans Go! To the Movies), penned by Matthew Fogel (Minions: The Rise of Gru) and produced by Illumination Entertainment (aka the studio behind the Despicable Me and Minions flicks, and the Sing films), the movie reaches cinemas Down Under at the end of March 2023. That gives you plenty of time to mash buttons in the interim — just try watching this first sneak peek and not busting out your old Mario games. Check out the trailer below: The Super Mario Bros Movie releases in cinemas Down Under on March 30, 2023.
If you don't already have a date with Bluesfest in 2025, here are two new reasons to head along: ten-time Grammy-winner Chaka Khan and rains-blessing rock group Toto. The pair have joined the Byron Bay festival as part of a new lineup drop — the fest's fourth for this year's event — that showcases its commitment to variety. There aren't many fests in Australia where audiences will find the Queen of Funk and the yacht-rock favourites behind 'Africa' on the same bill. Across the Easter long weekend, so from Thursday, April 17–Sunday, April 20, 2025, Bluesfest will also welcome 'Sailing' and 'Ride Like the Wind' singer Christopher Cross — another yacht-rock inclusion — as well as the Polynesian tunes of Maoli. Clarence Bekker Band, Hussy Hicks, Eric Stang, The Steele Syndicate and The Royals round out the latest batch of artists. Khan is playing an Australian-exclusive set to celebrate 50 years in music, and returns to Australia two years after headlining the 2023 Melbourne International Jazz Festival. Among the Chicago-born singer's hits: 'I'm Every Woman', which was later covered by Whitney Houston; the Prince-penned 'I Feel for You'; and 'Ain't Nobody' with her funk band Rufus. As well as hearing the drums echoing tonight in 'Africa', Toto's discography includes fellow anthems 'Hold the Line' and 'Rosanna' — and its members are known for playing on a wealth of albums from other artists in the 70s and 80s, including 'Thriller'. [caption id="attachment_986631" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Michelle Brody[/caption] Bluesfest's 2025 lineup already features Crowded House, Ocean Alley and Vance Joy, plus Hilltop Hoods, Budjerah, Kasey Chambers and The Cat Empire — and Xavier Rudd, John Butler, Tones and I, Missy Higgins, George Thorogood & The Destroyers and many more. Before it started announcing its roster of talent in August 2024, the festival advised that it would bid farewell with its 2025 event, marking the end of an era — and coming at a time when Australian fests have been struggling and cancelling (see: Groovin the Moo, Splendour in the Grass and Spilt Milk, for just three high-profile examples). Bluesfest saying goodbye may no longer be happening, however, with reports that discussions are underway about the festival's future and also that artists are already being booked for 2026. [caption id="attachment_969986" align="alignnone" width="1920"] LD Somefx[/caption] [caption id="attachment_969990" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Joseph Mayers[/caption] Bluesfest 2025 Lineup: First announcement: Crowded House Vance Joy Ocean Alley Tones and I Gary Clark Jr Rag'n'Bone Man RY X Allison Russell Christone 'Kingfish' Ingram Brad Cox Here Come the Mummies The California Honeydrops Marc Broussard Pierce Brothers Taj Farrant Fanny Lumsden 19-Twenty WILSN Cimafunk Neal Francis Second announcement: Hilltop Hoods Xavier Rudd John Butler The Cat Empire Kasey Chambers Melbourne Ska Orchestra CW Stoneking Budjerah Lachy Doley Group Ash Grunwald Kim Churchill Miss Kaninna The Beards Velvet Trip FOOLS ROSHANI Sweet Talk The Memphis Three featuring Fiona Boyes, Jimi Hocking and Frank Sultana Third announcement: Missy Higgins George Thorogood & The Destroyers Rodrigo y Gabriela Nahko BJ The Chicago Kid Melody Angel Don West Fourth announcement: Chaka Khan Toto Christopher Cross Maoli Clarence Bekker Band Hussy Hicks Eric Stang The Steele Syndicate The Royals [caption id="attachment_969988" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Roger Cotgreave[/caption] [caption id="attachment_969989" align="alignnone" width="1920"] LD Somefx[/caption] [caption id="attachment_969987" align="alignnone" width="1920"] LD Somefx[/caption] [caption id="attachment_867504" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kurt Petersen[/caption] Bluesfest 2025 will run from Thursday, April 17–Sunday, April 20 at Byron Events Farm, Tyagarah. Tickets are on sale now — for further information, head to the Bluesfest website. Top image: Lachlan Douglas.
Apple has set its fair share of technology trends, but today it seems more accurate to say they're chasing one — Apple has today announced HomePod, a seven-inch wireless speaker which acts as your voice-activated DJ and home assistant. Their newest product will be available just in time for the December holidays in the Australian, US and UK markets, but, at around $470 AUD a unit, this gift will be reserved for your nearest and dearest. HomePod will feature an Apple-designed upward-facing woofer with A8 chip, a custom array of seven beam-forming tweeters, automatic room-sensing technology, a six-microphone array with advanced echo cancellation, siri waveform, automatic detection and a balance of two speakers using both direct and reflected audio. To put it in plain terms, this means the speaker can sense its location in a room and automatically adjust audio. The six microphones allow users to control the speaker from across the room, as Siri can supposedly distinguish your voice among even the loudest music. Apple's new nuts and bolts should make for distortion-free, quality sound and means this tiny speaker can get seriously loud. Of course, this one is designed to work with an Apple Music subscription and Siri can track your personal music preferences for different moods, as well as handling advanced searches within the music library — meaning users can ask specific questions about the musicians they're listening to or create an 'up next queue'. As a home assistant, HomePod can provide remote access throughout the house, even if you're not home, including turning on lights and closing shades, sending messages and getting all internet updates or searches read out to you. In typical Apple fashion, there's a catch — HomePod is only compatible with iPhone 5s or later and must run on iOS 11. We wouldn't quite call HomePod the "breakthrough" they're positioning it as, with multiple home speakers already on the market that serve nearly identical functions at a much cheaper price point — HomePod is nearly double the price of Google Home and Amazon Echo and even more than Sonos' Play:3, which was previously the more expensive home speaker at $300 USD. As with any Apple device, it looks great, but with so much competition, they'll need more than looks to sell this one. Image: Apple.
When Super Mario Kart first rolled onto Super Nintendo consoles back in 1992, it came with 20 inventive courses and endless hours of fun. Nearly three decades later, the game has become a beloved phenomenon — not just speeding through desert tracks and rainbow roads, but into reality, through Google Maps and now into theme parks. Come 2020, you'll be able to enjoy a real-life Mario Kart experience as part of Super Nintendo World, which is joining Universal Studios in Osaka. First announced back in 2017, the park is due to open before next year's Tokyo Olympics, with the racing component described as "a new kind of attraction" by Mark Woodbury, President of Universal Creative and Vice Chairman Universal Parks & Resorts. Exactly what the ride will entail is yet to be confirmed; however it's safe to assume that fans will be able to strap into some kind of moving kart. Osaka's Super Nintendo World will also take over multiple levels — fitting for a gaming-themed space — and recreate the brand's popular characters and themes, complete with other rides, restaurants and shops. Again, specific details are sparse; however given that Nintendo's stable includes everything from Super Mario Bros and Donkey Kong to Tetris and The Legend of Zelda, there's plenty to play with. Our suggestions: a tunnel and brick Mario maze and a Donkey Kong water ride that uses the game's iconic aquatic music. Based on the park's adorable groundbreaking ceremony, the first idea mightn't be too far-fetched. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yKCqJ8llKuA Can't make it to Japan? Universal Studios is also planning Super Nintendo Worlds for its other parks in Hollywood, Orlando and in Singapore. The latter was just announced this month, and is set to open by 2025. When Super Nintendo World launches at Universal Studios Osaka next year, it'll join Japan's growing list of pop culture-themed attractions — including the towering Godzilla and Gundam statues, the existing Studio Ghibli Museum, the forthcoming Studio Ghibli theme park, Tokyo Disney Resort in general and the Japanese park's upcoming Toy Story hotel, to name just a few. On the international theme park scene, it's also a great time to live out your love for your favourite films, shows and games. As well as all of the above, both Walt Disney World and Disneyland in the US are about to gain Star Wars theme park zones, a Star Wars hotel is also coming to Walt Disney World, and a Marvel hotel is slated for Disneyland Paris.
This article is sponsored by our partners, Rekorderlig. Whether you want to board in your bikini in Californian sunshine, conquer some of the most extreme territory in the European Alps or rehearse your newly acquired Snowboarding 101 skills on friendly slopes, there’s a snowboarding spot somewhere on this planet of ours that’s made just for you. Here’s our pick of the world’s ten most exciting, beautiful and terrifying destinations. MAMMOTH MOUNTAIN, CALIFORNIA, US If you fancy hitting the slopes in your boardies or bikini, Mammoth Mountain is the place to do it. You can realistically expect 300 days of sunshine and clear skies out of every 365. Plus the snow season lasts ten months, kicking off in October yet not seeing the final flakes melt until July. While you’re cruising around Mammoth’s 3,500 or so acres or testing your prowess on the 6.7 metre Super Duper Pipe, there’s a chance you’ll catch snowboard champ Shaun White in action — it’s his preferred training ground. NISEKO UNITED, JAPAN Welcome to the second snowiest resort on the planet. The first, if you’re wondering, is Mount Baker, which you’ll find in Washington state. Most seasons, the slopes of Niseko United (situated on Hokkaido Island) are covered in a minimum of 15 metres of the white stuff. The Japanese skiing authorities are astoundingly relaxed about their guests going back country, so freeriding is the order of the day. That said, it’s an awful lot safer with a guide leading the way. Boarders of all levels will find a trail to keep them keen and floodlights mean Niseko is open until 9pm. ST ANTON, AUSTRIA For freeriders, St Anton is Europe’s holy grail. There are 180 kilometres of marked off-piste possibilities, featuring challenging steeps, open tree-lined glades and powder to die for. If, however, your preference is to stick to tried and tested trails, you have 280 kilometres to play on. That said, St Anton is certainly a destination for boarders of intermediate ability and above. Novices are likely to find it scarier than a Freddy Krueger movie. THREDBO, AUSTRALIA For a world-class experience that doesn’t involve long-haul flight prices, there’s Thredbo. The beginningest of beginners can rehearse their moves on the utterly non-threatening, 12 degree-angled Friday Flat before stepping things up on the resort’s gloriously wide, tree-fringed intermediate trails. And for hardcore carvers, there’s the rest: vertical drops, naturally formed jumps, wind lips, sizeable powder bowls and some of the finest off-piste terrain this side of the equator. If your muscles ache after a day on the slopes, a swim in the Rekorderlig Hot Pool should put you right. VERBIER, SWITZERLAND For some of Switzerland’s most extreme snowboarding, Verbier is your destination. To get the most out of it, you need to be on top of your game — you’ll be boarding alongside some of Europe’s most passionate and skilled riders. One lift pass enables access not only to Verbier but also to four other linked resorts — Val de Bagnas, La Tzoumaz, Veysonnaz and Nendaz — meaning 400 kilometres of trails. For beginners, Nendaz is the best bet. TIGNES, FRANCE This resort, situated at 2,100 metres, was one of the first in France to roll out the red carpet for the snowboarding community. While skiers in other places were warily guarding their territory, the Tignes crew was begging baggie-panted ones to come carve it up. The variety of terrain — both in terms of piste action and sheer visual beauty — is mind-blowing. There’s a glacier, a lake and runs to suit all shapes, sizes and ability levels. MOUNT BACHELOR, US Mt Bachelor might not have the steeps necessary to thrilling adrenalin junkies, but what it does have is some of the cruisiest, most enjoyable freeriding in to be found anywhere — which means that you can revel in the freedom of going off-piste without having to be as wary as you do in other places. Plus, if you want to brush up on your freestylin', there are three terrain parks and a half pipe to keep you happy. CHAMONIX, FRANCE For rugged mountain tops and that je ne sais quoi, Chamonix is the one. It's one of France's oldest resorts and was the site of the very first Winter Olympics back in 1924. Rough and ready is the vibe — there's less infrastructure in comparison with other places — but if you're keen on atmosphere and some opportunities for wild adventure, it's hard to beat. WANAKA, NEW ZEALAND Boarding on New Zealand’s expansive, uncluttered snow fields is a bit like surfing on an impossibly white, open sea. It’s often rather surreal, ridiculously fun and incredibly liberating. Rather than having to follow fellow boarders and skiers down particular trails, you can choose your own adventure. Plus you’re nearly always treated to the stunning backdrop of the Southern Alps. From Wanaka, you can reach Cardrona, Treble Cone and Snow Park NZ easily, meaning you can pack three resorts into one mighty vacation. WHISTLER-BLACKCOMB, CANADA This one comes as no surprise, right? The thing is, it’s not exactly possible to compile the world’s top ten snowboarding spots and leave out Whistler-Blackcomb. As far as North America goes, it’s the jewel in the Snow Queen’s crown. Between them, the two mountains offer 8,171 acres of snowboardable land. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a newbie or a pro. For views worthy of a Peter Jackson trilogy, Whistler’s got the goods. For more Narnia-esque tree-lined runs, the world-famous Nintendo Terrain Parks and the second biggest vertical drop on the planet (at 5,222 feet), head for Blackcomb.
Something delightful has been happening in cinemas in some parts of the country. After numerous periods spent empty during the pandemic, with projectors silent, theatres bare and the smell of popcorn fading, picture palaces in many Australian regions are back in business — including both big chains and smaller independent sites in Brisbane at present. During COVID-19 lockdowns, no one was short on things to watch, of course. In fact, you probably feel like you've streamed every movie ever made, including new releases, Studio Ghibli's animated fare and Nicolas Cage-starring flicks. But, even if you've spent all your time of late glued to your small screen, we're betting you just can't wait to sit in a darkened room and soak up the splendour of the bigger version. Thankfully, plenty of new films are hitting cinemas so that you can do just that — and we've rounded up, watched and reviewed everything on offer this week. HALLOWEEN KILLS They can't all be treats. That's true each time October 31 hits, sending children scurrying around the streets in search of sweets, and it's true of the film franchise that owns the spookiest time of year. Since debuting 43 years ago, the Halloween series has delivered both gems and garbage — and off-kilter delights such as Halloween III: Season of the Witch — but its latest and 12th entry carves a space firmly in the middle. Halloween Kills ticks plenty of boxes that a memorable Halloween movie should, and is also a horror sequel on autopilot. Somehow, it's also a Halloween movie lacking purpose and shape. It has The Shape, of course, as Michael Myers is also known. But it's more an exercise in spending extra time in Haddonfield, in its boogeyman's presence and in world inhabited by franchise heroine Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis, Knives Out) than a compelling slasher flick on its own. After giving the Halloween realm its second-best chapter in 2018, it's easy to see why returning writer/director David Gordon Green (Stronger) and his frequent collaborator Danny McBride (The Righteous Gemstones) have taken this approach. When you've just made a classic follow-up to a stone-cold classic — again, only John Carpenter's iconic franchise-starter is better — you keep on keeping on. That's not quite how Halloween Kills turns out, though. It picks up immediately where its predecessor left off, lets Michael stab his way through small-town Illinois again, and brings back Laurie's daughter Karen (Judy Greer, Where'd You Go, Bernadette) and teenage granddaughter Allyson (Andi Matichak, Son) from the last spin. It also pads things out with a vengeance storyline that endeavours to get political, yet proves about as piercing as a butter knife. In the last film — called Halloween, like the flick that started it all — Laurie faced the man who turned her into a victim back when she was a 17-year-old babysitter. She unleashed four decades of rage, fear and anxiety during a moment she'd been preparing for across all of that time, and it proved cathartic for her and for viewers alike. This saga was always going to add another sequel, however. As the second part of a trilogy under Green and McBride's guidance, Halloween Kills will also gain its own follow-up in a year's time. When it arrives in 2022, Halloween Ends won't actually live up to its name. No horror movie lover would want it to. Still, it already haunts Halloween Kills — because, like the townsfolk that the latex mask-sporting, overall-wearing Michael just keeps stalking, it feels uncertain about where it should head. First, Halloween Kills sends its three generations of Strode women to hospital, riffing on 1981's Halloween II. Sadly, it also replicates one of the latter's missteps, leaving Laurie there as her nemesis keeps slicing — and splitting its attention around Haddonfield. Here, both Karen and Allyson have also had enough of Michael's nonsense. So has Tommy Doyle (Anthony Michael Hall, The Goldbergs), one of the kids that Laurie babysat on that fateful night all those years ago. So, he rallies a mob and transforms the grieving and scared locale into a haven for vigilante justice; "evil dies tonight!" is their cheer. Read our full review. PASSING Locking gazes across the room, staring intently with a deep fascination that feels fated, seeing oneself in the sparkle of another's eyes: when these moments happen in a movie, it's typically to fuel the first flushes of romance. When they occur early in Passing, however, it's because former childhood friends Irene (Tessa Thompson, Westworld) and Clare (Ruth Negga, Ad Astra) have spied each other in a swanky Manhattan hotel. The pair peer back and forth, intrigued and attentive. That said, it isn't until Clare approaches Irene — and calls her Reenie, a nickname she hasn't heard in years — that the latter realises who she's been looking at. It's the immaculately styled blonde bob that fools Irene, as it's meant to fool the world. As becomes clear in a politely toned but horrendously blunt conversation with Clare's racist husband John (Alexander Skarsgård, Godzilla vs Kong) shortly afterwards, Irene's long-lost pal has built an entire life and marriage around being seen as white. Passing's eponymous term comes loaded not just with meaning, but with history; adapted from Nella Larsen's 1929 novel of the same name, it's set in America's Jim Crow era. This introductory scene between Irene and Clare comes layered with multiple sources of tension, too, with Irene only in the hotel because she's decided to flirt with visiting a white establishment. Still, she's shocked by her pal's subterfuge. When she initially spots Clare, the film adopts Irene's perspective — and its frames bristle with a mix of nervousness, uncertainty and familiarity. Irene rediscovers an old friend in a new guise, and also comes face to face with the lengths some are willing to go to in the name of survival and an easier life. Friendships can be rewarding and challenging, fraught and nourishing, and demanding and essential, including all at once, as Passing repeatedly demonstrates from this point onwards. Irene can't completely move past Clare's choices and can't shake her fears about what'd happen if the vile John ever learned Clare's secret; however, she's also quick to defend her to others — to her doctor husband Brian (André Holland, The Eddy), who swiftly warms to Clare anyway; and to acclaimed white novelist Hugh Wentworth (Bill Camp, News of the World), who's her own entry point into an artier realm. Indeed, in household where talk of lynchings is common dinner conversation, Irene recognises far more in Clare's decision than she'll vocally admit. Almost everyone she knows is pretending to be something else as well, after all, including Irene in her own ways. Largely confined to Irene and Brian's well-appointed Harlem home and other parties in the neighbourhood — after that first hotel rendezvous, that is — Passing is an economical yet complicated film. It may seem straightforward in charting Irene and Clare's rekindled acquaintance, but it's exacting and precise as it interrogates both societally enforced and self-inflicted pain. Its Black characters live in a world that pushes them aside and worse merely for existing, with its central pair each internalising that reality. Their every careful move reacts to it, in fact, a bleak truth that actor-turned-filmmaker Rebecca Hall (The Night House) never allows to fade. That's one of the reasons she's chosen to shoot this striking directorial debut in elegant, crisp and devastatingly telling monochrome hues: both everything and nothing here is black and white. Read our full review. ANTLERS When daylight nightmares infiltrate the horror genre and expose humanity's fears to the sun — in 2019's Midsommar, for instance — viewers tend to take notice. That isn't the case with Antlers, a film that's as gloomy in appearance and mood as an unsettling movie can be, whether it's finding darkness in mining shafts, neglected homes or the memories that haunt teacher Julia Meadows (Keri Russell, The Americans) upon returning to her home town after fleeing as a teen decades earlier. This is a grim and bleak feature in every way it can be, in fact, but it also throws sunlight upon troubles that too often go unmentioned. Writer/director Scott Cooper (Black Mass) uses Antlers' brooding hues and tones to lurk in the realm of myth, to confront domestic abuse, and to muse on the persecution of and violence against America's First Peoples and their land — and, as grey as this creature feature always proves, it wields its colour palette like a spotlight. Antlers can be blunt and blatant, traits that don't bode well for a film about a ravenous beast out of Indigenous American folklore that's biting back at its oppressors. It can be delicate and savvy as well, though, especially when it explores how Julia and her student Lucas Weaver (feature debutant Jeremy T Thomas) both grapple with childhoods no one could ever dream of. Julia has only come back to live with her brother Paul (Jesse Plemons, Jungle Cruise), who is now the town's sheriff, after their father's death. She still sees her younger self cowering in fear wherever she looks, and she can't help but gaze with yearning at bottles of liquor in the local store. Lucas, a slip of a boy, is nervy, jittery and defensive. He looks at the ice cream parlour with the same desire, wanting to lose himself in something fleeting but soothing — a sugar rush, in his case. It was never going to take long for Julia to notice that Lucas is also victim; however, in adapting Nick Antosca's short story The Quiet Boy, one of the smartest things that Cooper, Antosca and their co-scribe Henry Chaisson do is to make the connection via a lesson on storytelling. Julia informs her class about the importance and function of spinning tales. Then, only because he's called upon, Lucas shares his own illustrated version of Goldilocks and the Three Bears that's definitely no fairytale. Antlers may too often opt for the obvious route as it tracks the horned creature stalking the town, as well as the illness that's overcome Lucas' father (Scott Haze, Minari) and younger brother (Sawyer Jones, Modern Family) — two things that are linked from the movie's very first scene in that aforementioned mine shaft-turned-meth lab — but in baking the way we use stories to cope with life's horrors into its frames, it's also devastatingly astute. When Antlers is at its best, it echoes with unease, longing, guilt and sorrow. As both Crazy Heart and Out of the Furnace have shown, Cooper is no stranger to the latter trio emotions — and as both prior movies also demonstrated, he's at his finest when his cast is up to the task of conveying all three. Russell and Thomas each fit the bill here with a sense of trauma that's always haunting. Their respective characters tussle with threats both external and internal (and supernatural and domestic), and weariness and tension seeps through their every move. Antlers perceptively makes that malaise pulsate in a broader sense as well; it's the malaise of people and towns, and of a culture and a land subjected to far more than it should have to bear. And, in its gore, ooze, horns and crunched bones, it ensures that pain feels visceral. Cooper can't always find the right balance from scene to scene, but when Antlers pierces, it wounds. RON'S GONE WRONG In Ron's Gone Wrong, an internet-enabled R2-D2-style kids' gadget starts operating beyond its standard programming. Illegally sold to Barney Pudowski's (Jack Dylan Grazer, Luca) father (Ed Helms, Rutherford Falls) and grandmother (Olivia Colman, The Father), who are desperate to get the pre-teen the belated birthday gift he wants, the damaged robot sports an off-kilter personality and is nowhere near as concerned with mining the details of its owner's life for corporate data as it's meant to be. The same can't be said of this family-friendly animated film, unsurprisingly. It's a tech-focused all-ages flick straight out of the box, and designed to sell merchandise to its target audience. It's sweet, lively and bouncy enough, but also thematically problematic; stressing the importance of individuality and switching off while also positing that everyone needs an online device and social media to make friends and unlock their best will do that. Ron (voiced by Zach Galifianakis, Baskets) is a B-Bot; "your best friend out of the box" is the marketing slogan. When Facebook-meets-Apple style tech giant Bubble releases the product, every student at Nonsuch Middle School soon has one — except Barney, who gets teased about his rock collection instead. The peer pressure to get his own robot soon gives way to disappointment when he learns of Ron's idiosyncrasies; however, in its broad strokes, Ron's Gone Wrong tells a story of acceptance. After Bubble learns that one of its products has gone rogue — including pushing around Rich (Ricardo Hurtado, Malibu Rescue), the prank-loving bully making Barney's life hell — it decides to claim Ron back and crush him, but an entire grade's worth of children come to discover that that's not how you treat a friend. As spirited as Ron's Gone Wrong repeatedly proves, there's still a strong and inescapable sense of disconnection between its cavalcade of conflicting messages, which include: be yourself; be authentic; love your friends for who they are; don't try to change people; appearances don't matter; everyone has something in common; let technology help you find pals by showing what you all share; connect with others via your gadgets; and living your life online will lead to your best self. As a result, the film plays like a colourful mechanism for turning young viewers into eager consumers — of the Ron-shaped toys they'll now want immediately, and of social media — especially given how weakly it satirises big tech. When it's just about Barney, Ron and the joys of having a best friend, a warm-hearted thread of human-AI buddy comedy does manage to lurk inside writer/director Sarah Smith (Arthur Christmas), co-directors Jean-Philippe Vine (Shaun the Sheep) and Octavio Rodriguez (The Epic Tales of Captain Underpants), and co-screenwriter Peter Baynham's (Borat Subsequent Moviefilm: Delivery of Prodigious Bribe to American Regime for Make Benefit Once Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan) film. Much about the movie's parodies of technology's insidiousness and the way mobile phones have changed our daily lives balances both truth and humour, too — but not enough to make the overall formula, soulless product-spruiking and Ron's Gone Wrong glossy #sponcon Instagram post-esque atmosphere go right. If you're wondering what else is currently screening in cinemas — or has been lately — check out our rundown of new films released in Australia on June 10, June 17 and June 24; July 1, July 8, July 15, July 22 and July 29; August 5, August 12, August 19 and August 26; September 2, September 9, September 16, September 23 and September 30; and October 7, October 14 and October 21. You can also read our full reviews of a heap of recent movies, such as Lapsis, The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It, Fast and Furious 9, Valerie Taylor: Playing with Sharks, In the Heights, Herself, Little Joe, Black Widow, The Sparks Brothers, Nine Days, Gunpowder Milkshake, Space Jam: A New Legacy, Old, Jungle Cruise, The Suicide Squad, Free Guy, Respect, The Night House, Candyman, Annette, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, Summer of Soul (...Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised), Streamline, Coming Home in the Dark, Pig, Big Deal, The Killing of Two Lovers, Nitram, Riders of Justice, The Alpinist, A Fire Inside, Lamb, The Last Duel, Malignant, The Harder They Fall and Roadrunner: A Film About Anthony Bourdain.
Little has been normal about the past 12 months, and that includes heading to the movies to watch the latest blockbusters. When the pandemic first started causing lockdowns in 2020, the year's biggest flicks all started delaying their releases. So, plenty of the films you were looking forward to seeing last year didn't reach the silver screen — and, all this time later, many still haven't yet. Australian cinemas are open and running as normal, of course, and have been for some time. That said, apart from the likes of Tenet and Wonder Woman 1984, they've been light on high-profile titles. Instead, they've been showing everything else they can get their hands on, and giving local titles and smaller movies some love. But, fingers crossed, those projectors should be pumping out some of those big-name films you've been waiting for before 2021 is out. Hollywood isn't done delaying its high-profile releases just yet; however, there are still a number of notable releases slated to hit the silver screen this year. Whether you're keen on action, scares, sci-fi or a bit of singing and dancing, we've rounded up ten to put back on your radar. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ybji16u608U BLACK WIDOW When it comes to pushing women to the front, Marvel's track record isn't great. Captain Marvel, the Disney-owned company's first movie solely focused on a female character, only came out in 2019 — but now it's following that up with a film that really should've happened years ago. That'd be Black Widow, focusing on Natasha Romanoff, the highly trained ex-KGB assassin known played by Scarlett Johansson. The character debuted on-screen in 2010's Iron Man 2, and is now getting her own flick via a prequel. Also starring Florence Pugh (Midsommar, Fighting with My Family), Rachel Weisz and Stranger Things' favourite David Harbour, Black Widow jumps back a few years, setting the bulk of its story just after the events of 2016's Captain America: Civil War. On the run, Romanoff is forced to face her complicated (and violent) past, as well as a new masked opponent. We're sure a few familiar faces will also show up in the MCU's return to the big-screen, which is directed by Australian filmmaker Cate Shortland (Berlin Syndrome, Lore, Somersault). Black Widow opens in Australian cinemas on April 29. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aSiDu3Ywi8E&feature=emb_logo FAST AND FURIOUS 9 Given the Fast and Furious franchise's title, you'd think driving speedily and passionately is what this big-budget film series is all about. Over-the-top car antics play a hefty part, as the 2001 original, its seven sequels to-date and its 2019 spin-off have all shown via a constant onslaught of hectic stunts. But, if there's one thing that this Vin Diesel-starring and -produced saga loves just as much as vehicular mayhem, it's family. Over the years, Diesel's Dominic Toretto has extended the term 'family' to include not only his girlfriend-turned wife Letty (Michelle Rodriguez), his sister Mia (Jordana Brewster), her husband Brian (the late Paul Walker) and their various offspring, but their extended motley crew of fast-driving pals as well. So, when it comes to Fast and Furious 9 — or F9 as it's being called — it's unsurprising that the franchise is leaning heavily on one of its favourite concepts. Somehow, the saga hasn't expended all family-related options just yet, with John Cena joining the series as Dom's younger brother Jakob. Don't expect a happy sibling reunion, however, with the ex-wrestler playing the film's villain. Fast and Furious 9 opens in Australian cinemas on May 27. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0CL-ZSuCrQ IN THE HEIGHTS Over the past seven years, Hamilton has become a cultural phenomenon — and, thanks to its fame and acclaim, so has the hip hop musical's creator Lin-Manuel Miranda. But that's not the only stellar stage show to the multi-talented composer, actor, singer and playwright's name. Before he took on US history (and before he helped bring Bring It On to the theatre, too), Miranda turned life in Manhattan's Washington Heights into four-time Tony-winner In the Heights. It's making the leap to the big screen — with a stacked cast that includes Hamilton's Anthony Ramos and Brooklyn Nine-Nine's Stephanie Beatriz, with Crazy Rich Asians director Jon M Chu behind the lens, and via a film primarily shot on location in its titular spot. Quiara Alegría Hudes, who wrote the text for the stage version, has also written the feature's screenplay. And Lin-Manuel Miranda is involved, naturally, producing the movie, overseeing the music and popping up on-screen as well. In the Heights opens in Australian cinemas on August 26. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tlwzuZ9kOQU CANDYMAN For nearly three decades, horror movie lovers have fallen into two categories: those who've dared to say the word 'candyman' five times while staring into a mirror, and those who haven't. If you fall into the first group, then you'll be making a date with this unnerving sequel, which revives the Candyman franchise and boasts a few tricks up its sleeves. Firstly, Candyman circa 2o21 is produced and co-written by Jordan Peele, who adds another frightfest to his resume alongside Get Out and Us. Secondly, it's directed by Nia DaCosta, whose Tessa Thompson-starring 2018 film Little Woods deserved more attention. And last but by no means least, it features the OG Candyman, Tony Todd, among its cast. Plot-wise, the new flick focuses on artist Anthony McCoy (Aquaman and Watchmen's Yahya Abdul-Mateen II), who decides to start exploring the Candyman legend through his art. His girlfriend Brianna (If Beale Street Could Talk's Teyonah Parris) thinks the story is just that, but then the bee-covered figure starts wreaking havoc again. That's what happens when folks say his name while looking at their own reflection, after all. Candyman opens in Australian cinemas on August 26. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7qxYOpy9Ms A QUIET PLACE PART II In 2018, A Quiet Place tasked a young family with staying soundless, lest they be heard and then killed by giant spider-like monsters. As a result, audiences keenly listened out for any noise that could put Lee (John Krasinski), Evelyn (Emily Blunt), Regan (Millicent Simmonds) and Marcus (Noah Jupe) Abbott in jeopardy, with the film serving up a mighty tense — and noise-free — time at the cinemas. Now, three years later, the frightful aliens and the hushed tones are back. So is Blunt in kick-ass mode, too. Like the first film, A Quiet Place Part II is directed and written by Krasinski, with this follow-up picking up where its predecessor left off. Certain to serve up plenty of bumps, jumps and — naturally — silence, the sequel also welcomes franchise newcomers Cillian Murphy (Peaky Blinders) and Djimon Hounsou (Guardians of the Galaxy). A Quiet Place Part II opens in Australian cinemas on September 9. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n9xhJrPXop4 DUNE David Lynch's Dune is one of the most unfairly maligned sci-fi films ever made. It's not the version that Alejandro Jodorowsky would've whipped up — as explored in excellent documentary Jodorowsky's Dune — but the 1984 movie still has its surreal delights. Just how Denis Villeneuve's new adaptation of Frank Herbert's 1965 novel will fare is still yet to be seen, but the French Canadian director has already revived another 80s sci-fi property to stunning effect with Blade Runner 2049. Once again, he has amassed a stellar cast, including Timothée Chalamet, Oscar Isaac, Josh Brolin, Stellan Skarsgård, Dave Bautista, Zendaya, Charlotte Rampling, Jason Momoa, Javier Bardem and Doctor Sleep's Rebecca Ferguson. They'll all fight over 'the spice', the most valuable substance in the universe. Dune releases in Australian cinemas on September 16. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pBMY2rTz_VM NO TIME TO DIE Shaken (not stirred) martinis are back on the menu, and so are suave secret agents, sinister plots to destroy the world and espionage thrills. Yes, it's James Bond time again, with No Time to Die marking the British spy's 25th official big-screen outing. Daniel Craig returns as 007, which'll be his fifth stint as the spy since 2006's Casino Royale as well as his last. He'll be facing off against an unhinged, mask-wearing new adversary called Safin (Bohemian Rhapsody Oscar-winner Rami Malek), plus imprisoned ex-opponent Blofeld (Christoph Waltz); however, he has company in the 00 stakes, too. Following the events of 2015's Spectre, Bond has left active service and started a new life in Jamaica, causing MI6 to recruit someone else to cover his turf. That'd be new agent Nomi (Captain Marvel's Lashana Lynch), and you can obviously expect the pair to cross paths. Bond being Bond, he was never going to be able to escape his line of work easily, after all. Here, he's brought back in by CIA agent Felix Leiter (Jeffrey Wright) to help with a mission to rescue a kidnapped scientist. No Time to Die opens in Australian cinemas on October 7. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rHhZDYVoV7w HALLOWEEN KILLS For 43 years, the Halloween franchise has been delivering stone-cold horror masterpieces, weird and wonderful detours, and entries that deserve to be locked away for all eternity with Michael Myers. The difference between the series' John Carpenter-directed best and its trashy worst is enormous, but when David Gordon Green (Prince Avalanche, Pineapple Express) took the reins for 2018's Halloween — a direct sequel to the 1978 original that ignores the seven other follow-ups and two remakes in-between — he served up one of the saga's best chapters. It helped that Jamie Lee Curtis was back, of course. Also beneficial: a meaty story that grapples with trauma, a skill for slasher thrills, a new score by Carpenter himself, and producer Jason Blum's support. So it was great news when two more movies were announced, including 2021's Halloween Kills, which brings the whole gang back to Haddonfield for another encounter with the town's masked menace. Halloween Kills releases in Australian cinemas on October 14. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahZFCF--uRY GHOSTBUSTERS: AFTERLIFE There's something strange in the town of Summerville and a group of kids are calling upon themselves to bust it. That's the premise of Ghostbusters: Afterlife, which swaps New York for Oklahoma and grown men (and women) for children — and jumps firmly on the Stranger Things-led 80s nostalgia bandwagon. Whether siblings Phoebe (Annabelle Comes Home's McKenna Grace) and Trevor (Stranger Things' Finn Wolfhard) are seeing things runnin' through their heads or they'll catch an invisible man sleepin' in their beds is yet to be seen, of course. They've moved to the isolated locale with their mother (Widows' Carrie Coon), and into a rundown old house they've inherited from their grandfather. It's filled with ghost traps, containers of spores, mould and fungus, beige jumpsuits emblazoned with the name 'Spengler' and a very familiar car — which might come in handy when the ground starts shaking for no reason and a mysterious green light starts glowing. Also, Paul Rudd pops ups as teacher Mr Grooberson, who schools the kids in Ghostbusters lore, because this is a direct sequel to the original 1984 Ghostbusters and its 1989 follow-up Ghostbusters II. Ghostbusters: Afterlife opens in Australian cinemas on November 25. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcPk2p0Zaw4 THE FRENCH DISPATCH An offbeat storyline. Mesmerisingly symmetrical frames. A cast that includes Bill Murray, Tilda Swinton, Owen Wilson, Saoirse Ronan, Willem Dafoe, Jason Schwartzman, Edward Norton, Bob Balaban and Anjelica Houston. Yep, it must be a new Wes Anderson film — and The French Dispatch looks like Wes Anderson at his most Wes Anderson-esque yet. The premise: in the fictional French town of Ennui-sur-Blasé sometime in the mid-20th century, Arthur Howitzer Jr. (Murray) has turned a series of travelogue columns into a weekly American magazine. A supplement to the Liberty, Kansas Evening Sun, The French Dispatch resembles The New Yorker, is staffed by top expatriate journalists, and covers life in France, world politics, high and low art, and diverse stories of human interest. As for the film that shares its name, it focuses on three tales printed in the publication's pages. The French Dispatch doesn't currently have an Australian release date.
Put Shannon Martinez in charge of a menu and plant-based delights will await. Neon Dreams, a just-announced addition to Vivid Sydney 2025, is the latest example of that statement proving true. Popping up at Darling Harbour — transforming the Pier Street underpass, in fact — this event is an ode to American diners of the 1950s. Expect Happy Days flashbacks, and also Martinez's takes on burgers, mac 'n' cheese, milkshakes and jelly doughnuts. Expect a roller rink for a pre- or post-meal skate, too. "We all know and love the classic American diner menu, and what we have planned for Neon Dreams will be even more delicious. You won't even notice it's completely plant-based," advises the acclaimed chef. "All this with a retro aviation fitout and some roller-skating — let's just say Vivid Sydney hasn't seen anything like this before." [caption id="attachment_999006" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kristoffer Paulsen[/caption] As Martinez notes, the decor will fit the seven-decades-back theme, but also have another skew. If you've ever wanted to see a mail plane turned into a DJ booth — where the tunes spun will set the mood for hitting the rink — that's also on offer. For those having a skate, the venue will be fully accessible, including for wheelchairs and mobility aids. Back to the menu, you'll also be able to sip low-waste cocktails made with foraged and native ingredients — think: lemon myrtle margaritas and Illawarra plum sours — when Neon Dreams runs across Vivid's dates of Friday, May 23–Saturday, June 14. The overall festival isn't done expanding its food lineup yet, just days after it also added Martha Stewart chatting about her career and her lifestyle empire to the program — and with Nigella Lawson's touch on its culinary side part of 2025's event since the program first dropped. So, alongside Neon Dreams, the festival will also boast Hollywood Dreaming, a 23-night roster of events in the Hollywood Quarter in Surry Hills. There'll be bites to eat, and also films, music and performances — and, thanks to shindigs called Hollywood Dreaming: A Taste of HQ and Hollywood Dreaming: Foy Lane Lights Up, there'll be two huge free street parties. Accordingly, you can head by during Vivid's full run to hit up The Food Trail, where exclusive menus will be on offer at the precinct's restaurants and bars; The Neon Trail, which is where iconic movies come in; and The Gig Trail, aka live tunes and shows at Hollywood Hotel, Paramount House Hotel Rooftop and Butter. Or, make a date with A Taste of HQ on Saturday, May 31 and Foy Lane Lights Up on Saturday, June 14. The first will shut Foster Street to traffic and focus on al fresco dining, aided by Firedoor, Nomad, Gildas, Nel, Kiln, Poly, Brooklyn Boy Bagels, Alberto's Lounge, Tio's Cerveceria and Butter. The second, produced by Ace Hotel, will feature a curated digital art show, plus live tunes and pop-up snack options. "In 2025, Vivid Food offers a range of experiences for all tastes and price points. Neon Dreams and the Hollywood Dreaming program are perfect examples of Vivid Sydney constantly innovating and providing visitors with new and financially accessible experiences," explains Vivid Sydney Festival Director Gill Minervini. "Darling Harbour will be the place for family friendly fun, with Neon Dreams surrounded by captivating light installations and free live music. Shannon Martinez is an absolute rock star in the culinary world, and we're excited for visitors to experience it for themselves. "After dark, Surry Hills will come alive throughout the entire festival for Hollywood Dreaming, where you can dine, drink and dance your way through the Hollywood Quarter." Vivid Sydney 2025 runs from Friday, May 23–Saturday, June 14 across Sydney. Head to the festival website for further information.
Making progress in the field of stem cell-inspired organ production is notoriously difficult. So, recent developments at Yokohama City University, Japan, which have seen baby human livers growing inside mice, have taken the scientific world by storm. As far as we know (after all, who knows what's going on in underground labs in the more obscure corners of the world?), this is the first time that stem cells have been used to create functional organs. The livers, 4-5mm in length (a little like those found in human foetuses), are able to generate human proteins, clear toxins from the blood and go through the processes necessary to metabolising drugs. At this stage, it looks like they could be used to mend damaged livers by up to 30%. The team behind the research is hopeful that the transplant of thousands of tiny 'liver buds' might prove to be a way of preventing liver failure. Professor Takanori Takebe told the BBC that he was 'completely gobsmacked' and 'absolutely surprised' by the breakthrough. 'We just simply mixed three cell types and found that they unexpectedly self-organise to form a three-dimensional liver bud - this is a rudimentary liver. And finally we proved that liver bud transplantation could offer therapeutic potential against liver failure'. Even though the growth of adult-sized organs is not yet on the horizon, this development certainly promises to bring us a step closer to coping with organ shortages. If your scientific jargon is up to speed (i.e. words like 'endothelial' and 'mesenchymal' mean something to you), you can read the official story here. [via PSFK]
So you've started a business and it seems to be a success. People have been flocking to try something new and different, and the feedback is largely positive. But once the initial hype dies down, how do you keep customers coming back time and again? Surry Hills neighbours Paramount Coffee Project (PCP) and Butter have been serving the community for 11 and eight years respectively. Though their offerings differ — PCP slings contemporary brunch fare and top-notch coffee, while Butter dishes out fried chicken and tipples in a sneaker store — both venues know a thing or two about building customer loyalty. In partnership with Square, we asked the two industry mainstays how they managed to build customer loyalty, how they balance consistency and change, and what changes they've made to improve the customer experience. Paramount Coffee Project on Customer Service For Operations Manager Michelle Galloway, loyalty stems from how you treat your customers and whether you can foster a sense of trust. "Friendly and consistent customer service is most important when it comes to customer retention. One bad experience with a rude waitress is enough for a customer to completely dismiss your cafe, even if you have great food or coffee," shared Galloway. "It's important to acknowledge all customers that walk through the door with a friendly 'good morning'. We treat our regulars more like our friends than customers. Small things like getting to know your customers, friendly banter and remembering their names and coffee order is essential for any cafe," said Galloway. "There's lots of ways to create a memorable experience, but we focus on three main points: laidback, friendly customer service, a unique food menu and great coffee." For that reason, it's crucial to have a strong team that can construct a rapport with customers. "Staff play the most crucial role in building relationships with customers as they are the face of the company. They are the ones that can build a sense of community with our customers." Galloway continued, "Having good staff retention and good training systems means having strong, well-trained staff at all times that are ready to take on all your customers." As a cafe that's constantly updating its menu, how does PCP strike a balance between new offerings and classic menu favourites? "Keeping staples on the menu to build familiarity is important, but we're always on the hunt to add interesting items to both our food and drinks menu based on what's in season, what's popular and what's trending in Sydney." Either way, consistency is key for all menu items. "We pride ourselves on ensuring all products follow a strict recipe to ensure top quality and consistency. There's nothing worse than spending your money on a drink you ordered and loved last week, only for it to taste completely different the next time," explained Galloway. "All our drinks have a recipe that states how many grams of each ingredient goes in each drink." Butter on Technological Updates and Unique Offerings For owner, COO and Executive Chef Julian Cincotta, a small change that made an impact on customer retention was "implementing a digital loyalty program that connects with our POS system, website and EDM list — which is all Square." He continued, "By rewarding repeat visits and offering exclusive deals to regular customers, we've fostered a stronger connection and encouraged more frequent returns." Digital tools have allowed customers to be rewarded for returning to Butter, as well as allowing them the freedom to engage with the venue on their terms. "They [digital tools] have been instrumental in our customer retention," said Cincotta. "Our loyalty system rewards repeat customers, fostering a sense of appreciation and exclusivity." "Online booking has made it more convenient for customers to visit us, reducing barriers and enhancing their overall experience, whilst being able to spread the word of events, specials, collabs and media activations," he explained. "We also allow flexibility in our ordering — from having QR table ordering to bar ordering and table service — all depending on how the customer wants to interact with us." These tech updates have also allowed for greater customer satisfaction. "Streamlining our ordering process by integrating an efficient POS system has reduced wait times and minimised errors. This allows our staff to focus more on customer engagement rather than administrative tasks, enhancing the overall dining experience," Cincotta shared. Although helpful, these upgrades would be useless without an effective team and one-of-a-kind offerings. "Our staff are the heartbeat of Butter. They go beyond serving food; they engage with customers, remember their preferences, and create a welcoming atmosphere. Their genuine interactions and personalised service are key in building trust and long-term relationships with our wonderful customers." Cincotta went on to say, "At Butter, we focus on delivering a unique and immersive experience by combining exceptional food with elements of music and street culture. Our aim is to engage all the senses — from the taste of our dishes to the ambiance created by our curated playlists — making each visit memorable for our guests." That said, taking on feedback and keeping an open mind are also vital in appealing to customers. "We've incorporated customer feedback to introduce new dietary options, such as vegetarian and vegan dishes, catering to a wider audience," revealed Cincotta. Find out how Square can kickstart your business at squareup.com.
After 11 years as our accommodation go-to, Airbnb is now trying its hand at playing travel agent. The booking platform has just launched Airbnb Adventures, a series of all-inclusive, multi-day adventures available around the globe. The experiences act as a one-stop-shop for your next trip, with accommodation, meals and activities all part of the tours. Over 200 of these adventures are already up on the site. You can take a nine-day trek through the Amazon for around $270 per night, a five-day trip through the Oman desert for $300 per night or go on a culinary kayaking trip through Swedish islands for $360 per night. There's also a seven-day accessible experience on Easter Island, an overnight campsite on a cliffside in Colorado, island hopping around the Galapagos and, for something closer to home, an adventure around New Zealand subtropical islands, too. Prices range from a reasonable overnight trip for $115 all the way up to a rather exy 10-day trek for $7200. On average, the adventure packages cost around $850 for a three-dayer. The new platform, while having a different name, is part of Airbnb Experiences: the app's existing range of locally hosted events, such as cooking classes and hikes. And it runs in a similar way, as in all 'adventures' are 100 percent hosted and planned by locals — Airbnb is simply the mediator between the two. Each adventure is also kept quite small and set at groups of 12 max. To launch the new platform, Airbnb is offering an around the world in 80 days adventure to eight travellers for just $7214 per person, which comes down to about $90 per night. The trip will leave from London on September 1 and bring travellers through 18 countries across six continents — including to Bhutan, Iceland, Egypt, Romania, Japan and Ecuador. Bookings for this one will be available on June 20 and it'll likely book out in a minute, so you best get yourself prepped if you want a spot on this trip. Airbnb Adventures are now live and can be booked through the website or via the Airbnb app (available for Android and iPhones). Images: Tara Rice, Mason Trinca, Ryan Tuttle, Oivind Haug
Sorry Australia and New Zealand, you can't feel it coming after all — Abel 'The Weeknd' Tesfaye and his planned 2023 tour of both countries, that is. Just over two weeks out from his first scheduled gig Down Under as part of his visit, and after having to put on more shows to meet demand before tickets even went on sale, the musician has postponed his trip. "Due to unforeseen circumstances, we must reschedule the Australia/New Zealand tour. New dates will be announced next year and current tickets will be valid for the new shows," advises a statement on the Live Nation website, which is credited as a message from The Weeknd to his fans. "Refunds will be available for those unable to attend the new dates. Deeply disappointed but can't wait to be there with you!" the statement continues. "We understand fans will be disappointed, and Live Nation is focused on working with The Weeknd to secure a new tour schedule. We will make a further announcement as soon as possible," added Live Nation Australia and New Zealand. The Canadian singer-songwriter and The Idol star was due to play two shows at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium from Monday, November 20–Tuesday, November 21 to kick off the tour, then head to Sydney for three gigs at Accor Stadium from Friday, November 24–Saturday, November 25 and on Monday, November 27. After that, he had four shows locked in for Marvel Stadium in Melbourne: on Friday, December 1–Saturday, December 2 and Monday, December 4–Tuesday, December 5. Then, it was meant to be Eden Park in Auckland's turn from Friday, December 8–Saturday, December 9. An arena spectacular, The Weeknd's global tour has been notching up soldout shows far and wide. In the UK, The Weekend saw 160,000 folks head to London Stadium across two nights, smashing the venue's attendance record. And in Milan, he became the first artist to sell out the Ippodromo La Maura for two nights. Those feats are just the beginning. In Paris, the 'Starboy', 'I Feel It Coming', 'Can't Feel My Face', 'The Hills' and 'Blinding Lights' artist scored Stade de France's biggest sales this year — and in Nice, the 70,000 tickets sold across his two shows are the most in the city's history. The reason for the whole tour, other than just because — and when it does make its rescheduled trip Down Under — is to celebrate The Weeknd's 2020 record After Hours and its 2022 followup Dawn FM. Obviously, he'll be playing tracks from 2013's Kiss Land, 2015's Beauty Behind the Madness and 2016's Starboy as well. Just like new dates, there's no word yet if Mike Dean and Chxrry22 will still be supporting The Weeknd's Australian and NZ gigs when they do happen. THE WEEKND'S 'AFTER HOURS TIL DAWN TOUR' 2023 — POSTPONED DATES: Monday, November 20–Tuesday, November 21 — Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane Friday, November 24–Saturday, November 25 + Monday, November 27 — Accor Stadium, Sydney Friday, December 1–Saturday, December 2 + Monday, December 4–Tuesday, December 5 — Marvel Stadium, Melbourne Friday, December 8–Saturday, December 9 — Eden Park, Auckland The Weeknd is no longer touring Australia and New Zealand in November and December 2023. The shows will be rescheduled, with new dates yet to be announced — head to the tour website for more information.
Before it introduced anxious teen sex counsellor Otis Milburn (Asa Butterfield, Flux Gourmet), his fellow-therapist mother Jean (Gillian Anderson, The Great), his ever-exuberant best friend Eric Effiong (Ncuti Gatwa, the next Doctor Who), and his whip-smart and rebellious crush Maeve Wiley (Emma Mackey, Emily), Sex Education's very-first episode started with trembling lights. With that debut back in January 2019, depictions of adolescent sexuality on-screen earned a welcome shake up as well. Horny high schoolers struggling with life, love and lust are such a pop culture staple that they inhabit their own genre, which this British series has always recognised. But when a show bursts onto streaming queues with a roll in the sheets that ends with a guy (Barbie's Connor Swindells as Adam Groff) faking an orgasm with his girlfriend (Living's Aimee-Lou Wood as Aimee Gibbs), it's clearly not interested in sticking with the usual tropes — and it wants its audience to know it. Candidly and enthusiastically subverting well-worn cliches about growing up and exploring all things carnal has always been Sex Education creator, lead writer and executive producer Laurie Nunn's focus in her first major project beyond the stage and shorts, as seen in that attention-grabbing premiere run, then 2020 and 2021's equally excellent second and third seasons, and now the show's big finish. Another key element right through to the series' fourth and final go-around, which hits Netflix from Thursday, September 21 to cap off its tale with as much charm, heart, humour and maturity as ever: knowing that it's far more relatable to be open, honest, warm, authentic, inclusive and diverse than to just spill out the same old coming-of-age story. Here's a third factor that's also long been crucial to Sex Education: understanding that life doesn't begin or end with surging hormones. When the series arrived with bulb-jostling sex, it pushed viewers into the thick of an existing relationship in a situation that couldn't be more intimate, and yet it didn't need to get neat or overly definitive to reach that point. That approach has thrived throughout the show, and not merely in fellow opening scenes in following episodes that've laid bare other residents of Sex Education's English village setting in various steamy states. It's there in its handling of romances, friendships and getting erotic, and in every subject that comes with each. And, when the beloved hit comes to its last-ever climax, it does so by recognising that an array of futures await Otis, his friends and his family members — even if the program they're in is saying goodbye. In other words, as it spends time with Moordale Secondary School's students, parents and teachers — and, in season four, the pastel-hued and progressive Cavendish College cohort instead — Sex Education embraces being in the moment while also appreciating that lone moments rarely define anyone forever. That's among the lessons that its characters keep learning in their own ways, all while listening to their hearts, yearning over crushes, uncovering their preferences, pondering priorities, making mistakes, amassing regrets, grappling with history and dreaming about possibilities. Also, in a series with a Degrassi-esque list of topics covered — a show that could've been called Relationship Education, except that it isn't as pithy — as Otis and company touch upon everything from pregnancy, pleasure, body image, masturbation, asexuality and addiction to assault, faith, gender identity, transitioning, mental health and prejudice. Although no longer a virgin scared of self-love who gets talked into giving his peers advice, which is how Sex Education began his tale, Otis is still as uncertain as ever when season four kicks off. With his old school shuttered and snapped up by developers, he's forced into a new start, as well as a new bid to become the on-campus sex therapist — competing with existing student O (Thaddea Graham, Wreck). While Eric doesn't want them to be dubbed outsiders from the get-go, he fits in easily when he sees "all the gays everywhere", in his excited words. The fact that Maeve is at university in the US just after they've just come to terms with their feelings for each other was always going to hold Otis back, of course. The pair are finally more than friends, but also on different continents. Sex Education's fourth season isn't short on chaos for everyone, with Maeve being overlooked by her professor (Schitt's Creek favourite Dan Levy) for a well-to-do classmate, then coping with heartbreaking loss; Eric tussling with what it means to be queer and Christian, and not wanting to hide either; Adam attempting to find a path beyond school; Jackson Marchetti (Kedar Williams-Stirling, Small Axe) confronting both his health and past; and Aimee getting closer to Isaac Goodwin (George Robinson, Perfect) as she discovers new ways to work through her trauma. Viv Odusanya (Chinenye Ezeudu, The School for Good and Evil) makes a connection that turns dark, Cal Bowman (singer Dua Saleh) is six months into taking testosterone and desperate for top surgery, and Ruby Matthews (Mimi Keene, Tolkien) is trying to carve out a new status quo now that she's no longer the resident queen bee. Also, newcomers Abbi (debutant Anthony Lexa) and Roman (fellow first-timer Felix Mufti) beam with positivity as Cavendish's golden couple but have intimacy issues, while Aisha (Alexandra James, Backstage), who is deaf, helps fight for better treatment of pupils with disability. Among the adults, Jean finds being a new single mum to an eight-week-old baby filled with challenges, especially when her sister Joanna (Lisa McGrillis, Last Night in Soho) visits with good intentions but plenty of drama. After separating, Adam's parents Michael (Alistair Petrie, Funny Woman) — also Moordale Secondary's ex-headmaster — and Maureen (Samantha Spiro, The Pentaverate) are still working on who they each want to be. With such a wealth of folks familiar and fresh filling its frames — even with adored faces such as Ola (Patricia Allison, His Dark Materials) and Jakob Nyman (Mikael Persbrandt, Foundation), Lily Iglehart (Tanya Reynolds, Emma), Olivia Hanan (Simone Ashley, The Little Mermaid) and Anwar Bakshi (Chaneil Kular, Atlanta) absent — Sex Education's swansong has much to juggle. Balancing its various players and their plights has never been this astute and engaging series' problem, though, and neither has fleshing out its characters, their emotions, and their ups and downs. In fact, Nunn and her writers, directors and exceptionally cast actors have always taken the opposite route. The more amusingly and affectionately rendered mess that has surrounded Otis, Eric, Maeve and the like, the more realistic, resonant, sincere and meaningful they've all proven. This crew will be deeply missed, but perhaps the biggest compliment that season four inspires springs from the show's legacy: its young stars are already popping up everywhere (not just Swindells but also Gatwa and Mackey were in Barbie), and the series that thrust them to fame won't ever be forgotten. Check out the full trailer for Sex Education season four below: Sex Education season four streams via Netflix from Thursday, September 21. Images: Samuel Taylor / Netflix.
If Bluesfest is a regular part of your Easter plans, then the Byron Bay event's team has wrapped up 2025's festivities with some excellent news for you in 2026: the long-weekend fest will still be on the calendar next year. In fact, dates are locked in and early-bird tickets are on sale. If you haven't already, put Thursday, April 2–Sunday, April 5, 2026 in your calendar. The announcement comes after a massive year for the long-running fest, which notched up its 36th in 2025. Organisers have advised that this year's festival saw more than 109,000 attendees, "making Bluesfest 2025 the biggest we've seen in years, and the third-largest event in our history". [caption id="attachment_867505" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lachlan Douglas[/caption] This year's lineup drawcards included ten-time Grammy-winner Chaka Khan, rains-blessing rock group Toto, 'Sailing' and 'Ride Like the Wind' singer Christopher Cross, plus Crowded House, Ocean Alley and Vance Joy — and also Hilltop Hoods, Budjerah, Kasey Chambers and The Cat Empire, as well as Xavier Rudd, John Butler, Tones and I, Missy Higgins, George Thorogood & The Destroyers and many more. It wasn't just the roster of acts that saw Bluefest earn such a strong showing, however. Back in 2024, before the festival began revealing who was on its next bill, it advised that it would bid farewell with its 2025 event — marking the end of an era. That news came after Groovin the Moo and Splendour in the Grass had cancelled for 2024, neither of which returned this year. Within months of Bluefest saying that it was calling time, however, reports that discussions were underway about the festival's future — and also that artists are already being booked for 2026 — started circulating following widespread community support. Accordingly, Bluesfest making a 2026 comeback shouldn't come as a huge surprise. The festival is one of five New South Wales events newly named as recipients of backing from the first round of the state's Contemporary Music Festival Viability Fund, alongside Lost Paradise, Your and Owls, Listen Out and Field Day. [caption id="attachment_969990" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Joseph Mayers[/caption] [caption id="attachment_969989" align="alignnone" width="1920"] LD Somefx[/caption] [caption id="attachment_969987" align="alignnone" width="1920"] LD Somefx[/caption] [caption id="attachment_867504" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kurt Petersen[/caption] Bluesfest 2026 will run from Thursday, April 2–Sunday, April 5 at Byron Events Farm, Tyagarah. Early-bird tickets are on sale now — for further information, head to the Bluesfest website. Top image: Roger Cotgreave.
If you're the kind of Dark Mofo attendee who slips into a different mindset the very moment that you hit Tasmania each winter, the festival has plenty on its 2023 lineup to get you into that mood and groove. It announced Florentina Holzinger's dance theatre performance A Divine Comedy back in January, and then dropped its full dark, sinister, confronting and boundary-pushing lineup in March. The arts event isn't done with boosting its program yet, however — newly adding TRANCE to its bill, and openly inviting sliding into a reverie in the process. Hailing from Berlin-based Chinese artist Tianzhuo Chen, this three-day performance isn't just something that you watch. You purchase a 'trance pass' to head along, which gives you access to the whole show across its run. Then, you can wander in and out as you like, seeing each day's 12-hour ritual — which is batched up in six two-hour chapters — in what's basically a physical theatre-meets-rave show. [caption id="attachment_897773" align="alignnone" width="1920"] TRANCE by Tianzhuo Chen | Dark Mofo 2023. Photo credit: Camille Blake. Image courtesy of the artist and Dark Mofo.[/caption] Along the way, you'll notice nods to religious iconography and pop culture alike — and Butoh choreography as well — as things get psychedelic and transcendental. You'll also spot Tinazhuo's cast of characters go all-in on testing the body's corporeal limits. (For that moseying along whenever you're keen, booking Concrete Playground Trips' Dark Mofo accommodation package might come in handy.) [caption id="attachment_897771" align="alignnone" width="1920"] COMMUNITY OF GRIEVING | Dark Mofo 2023. Image courtesy of the artist and Dark Mofo.[/caption] TRANCE isn't the only new addition to the lineup, with Community of Grieving from Zosia Hołubowska and Julia Giertz similarly freshly on the bill. The European sound artists and music activists combine music and storytelling in a piece that's a a bit of sonic meditation and an audio essay, and also features theatrical costumes. As the name makes plain, it's a mourning ritual, specifically focusing on folks lost during the pandemic and since. "The exploration of darkness is key to our identity as a festival, but at the heart of Dark Mofo is powerful ritual, collectivity and transformation," said Art Program Curator and Senior Producer Dexter Rosengrave, announcing this year's latest shows. "We're really excited by these new additions to the program because they elicit an individual response that communally exalts us all." [caption id="attachment_895366" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trentemøller | Dark Mofo 2023. Courtesy of the artist and Dark Mofo.[/caption] Run by Tasmania's Museum of Old and New Art, and taking place in Hobart between Thursday, June 8–Thursday, June 22, Dark Mofo already named Trentemøller on its program back in March; however, that gig is one of three shows that were previously sold out but have now been moved to convert venue MAC2, upping their capacity to 2500 people. Accordingly, there's now extra tickets on sale for the electronic music composer, as well as to NYX's electronic drone choir soundscape event DO.OMYOGA: Nada Sound Ceremony (where you'll get yoga mats to sit on) and also Laterne by Berlin Atonal. As for the rest of the already-unveiled bill, it includes The Blue Rose Ball, which does indeed take its cues from the one and only David Lynch; Giant Teddy, EJ Son's towering Korean pop culture-inspired teddy bear that has lasers for eyes; Max Richter's SLEEP, which returns to Australia for an eight-and-a-half-hour overnight stint; and Soda Jerk's latest film Hello Dankness. The list goes on from there, whether you're keen on live tunes, the kind of performance shows you won't see elsewhere or nude solstice swims. [caption id="attachment_897775" align="alignnone" width="1920"] NYX | Dark Mofo 2023. Photo credit: Garry Jones Photography. Image courtesy of the artist and Dark Mofo.[/caption] Dark Mofo 2023 runs from Thursday, June 8–Thursday, June 22 in Hobart, Tasmania, with tickets on sale now. Top images: TRANCE by Tianzhuo Chen | Dark Mofo 2023. Photo credit: Camille Blake. Image courtesy of the artist and Dark Mofo. // Laterne by Berlin Atonal | Dark Mofo 2023. Pictured: Lee Gamble presents Flush Real Pharynx at Laterne by Berlin Atonal 2019. Photo Credit: Dark Mofo/Rémi Chauvin, 2019. Image Courtesy Dark Mofo, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia. 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 — including our Dark Mofo tickets and accommodation package.
Here's one way to brighten up this supremely frosty winter: rug up indoors, get cosy on the couch and belt out a tune while watching your favourite Disney musicals. Earlier this year, the Mouse House announced that it was bringing sing-along versions of heap of its popular flicks to Disney+, starting with Encanto. If you're done singing about Bruno, you can now look forward to crooning along with The Lion King and Beauty and the Beast as well. The OG animated version of The Lion King — not the recent live-action version — is getting the at-home karaoke treatment, hitting the streaming platform on Friday, August 5. Yes, that's when you'll be able to feel the love (tonight), and celebrate the circle of life as well. It'll be joined by a sing-long version of The Lion King II: Simba's Pride, so there's your double feature sorted. Prefer to sing about being someone's guest or tales as old as time instead? Then make a music-filled date with Beauty and the Beast — both versions — on Friday, August 19. So, you can pick between the 1991 animated flick and the 2017 live-action movie, or give your lungs a workout to both back to back. Plus, if you're not done with Disney fairy tales, Tangled will also get the sing-along treatment on the same date. Gone are the days when you had to wait for special cinema screenings to do what everyone can't stop themselves from doing while watching these films anyway — which, depending on how well you can hold a tune or how confident you are singing in public, might be a blessing. If you're new to the whole sing-along setup, as you watch, lyrics will dance across your TV screen when it's time to belt out ballads. So, if you don't know all the words yet (or if you're viewing with someone who thinks they do, but inserts their own mistaken lyrics), they'll all be there for you. Disney+ currently has sing-along versions of Moana and The Little Mermaid available as well — and, as also announced earlier this year, Frozen and Frozen 2 are on their way. The sing-along versions of The Lion King and The Lion King II: Simba's Pride will be available to stream via Disney+ from Friday, August 5 — and sing-along versions of both the animated and live-action versions of Beauty and the Beast, as well as Tangled, will hit on Friday, August 19.
When Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows dropped its last terrible three words on us at the close of the book, all was not well. It would never be well without Harry, Ron, Hermione fighting the Dark Lord in a series of fantastical and wholly engrossing scenarios. But, little did we know, this would not be the end of the Age of Harry Potter. Thanks to the internet and the sheer demand for all things HP, Harry has lived on through new books, fan website Pottermore, the Fantastic Beasts film spinoff series and all manner of events dedicated to the franchise. One of the biggest things to come of the post-Harry Potter era has been Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, of course — aka the West End play that's essentially the eighth book in the series. It first arrived in Australia in February 2019, hitting up Melbourne's Princess Theatre, and proved unsurprisingly popular. And while it's about to return after the city's latest lockdown — from Thursday, November 18, in fact — the production has just announced that its shows from May 2022 will be a whole lot different. Muggles, if you want to see The Cursed Child in its current two-part form, you'll need to accio yourself along before March next year. After that, from May, it'll be taking to the stage in a single one-session showing — condensing its story into one part. Basically, this'll be The Cursed Child reimagined — and it'll hit Melbourne after making its world premiere on Broadway this month. San Francisco and Toronto are also getting one-part versions of the show as well; however, Melbourne will beat them to it. So what exactly is The Cursed Child about? Well, it picks up 19 years after Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows and that abominably cheery epilogue on Platform 9 3/4. Harry is now an overworked Ministry of Magic employee, and the play focuses on both him and his youngest son Albus Severus Potter as they grapple with the past and future. Since debuting in London in July 2016, the production has won a swathe of awards and has proven a repeated sell-out — in the West End, on Broadway and in San Francisco, too. In its Melbourne run so far, it has become the most successful play in Australian history, including attracting 325,000 people in its first year. Melburnians — and other Australian Harry Potter and/or theatre aficionados — can access tickets now for the two-part run of the show, which'll remain onstage until Sunday, March 27, 2022. Tickets for the one-session showings of The Cursed Child will go on sale at 9am on Tuesday, November 16. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child will return to Melbourne's Princess Theatre on Thursday, November 18 in its two-part form, running until Sunday, March 27, 2022. It'll then switch to a one-session production from May, with tickets for the latter on sale at 9am on Tuesday, November 16. For more information, head to the play's website. Top images: Matt Murphy/Evan Zimmerman for Murphy Made.
Steamy, sunny days are still upon us, making afternoons around the pool an enduringly high priority — and a surefire reason to leave the office inappropriately early. While swimming a few laps satisfies the large majority of water babies, there are those of us yearning for the playful days of yesteryear; when fighting your siblings on the back of inflatable dragons was the ultimate, when diving for sunken rings was the best of times, when blow-up alligator time had to be shared out and rostered by your tired-but-practical Aunty Jane. But pool toy companies haven't forgotten you. There's a huge market for pool toys to suit all ages, with plenty of stylish, weird and genius inflatable ideas on offer. From floating poker and ping pong tables to giant floating birds and watermelons, these are our favourite inflatables to make any pool party that little more Instagrammable — and your summer that extra bit more nostalgic. THE GIANT FLAMINGO/SWAN One of the most Instagrammable pool accessories around: the giant swan (or pink flamingo, if you're feeling more flamboyant). According to the Giant Swan website, the swans are "popular in fashion shoots", so for $99 you can nab your very own oversized aquabird and get yourself a perpetually summery profile picture. POOL SHOOTBALL If you like shooting hoops but find the asphalt a little too steamy in summer, this genius little game brings the court to the water. For just $40 with free shipping, this one's perfect for pool parties or sorting out sibling rivalries. AQUA ZORBS With the increasing popularity of Zorb Bumper Soccer and Human Zorb Bowling, Aqua Zorb water walkers could be of the most epic additions to home pool toy collection. One of the more exxy pool toys on the market, the Zorbs are $595 each — and obviously you're going to need two for battle reasons. One for the truly dedicated pool fiends. FLOATING POKER TABLE Now here's a truly grown-up pool toy. Bestway are responsible for the world's first pool poker set, complete with inflatable poker table, chairs, cards, chips and most importantly, drink holders. It's just $39.95 for the set, however a day of poker in the pool may end up costing you more. THE LAKE TRAMPOLINE You're going to need a bigger pool for this one, preferably lake-sized. Remember all those hours you spent as a youngster doing precarious trick jumps from your trampoline into your pool? Now your adult self can get some solid (and somewhat safer) air jumping off a giant lake trampoline, priced from a rather steep $1800 to $3700. With a price tag like that, might be worth getting your crew to chip in. MOTORISED BUMPER BOATS Yep, motorised bumper boats. Longtime aquatic toymakers Hammacher Schlemmer have created these floating vehicles for long afternoons spent crashing into your loved ones at four kilometres per hour. For $100 each, these bumper boats can also be used to ferry your summer snacks from one end of the pool to the other, or could be used as a flimsy excuse for a jetski in a lake situation. FLOATING POOL PING PONG Never chase ping pong balls around your garage again. Yours for around $60-90, depending where you buy it, this floating ping pong table is as summery an activity you can get. You're going to want to take this to the shallow end though; treading water and playing ping pong sounds like one hell of an exercise. AQUAGLIDE REVOLUTION If you're looking to make other people jealous (or highly confused) of your toys, this'll do the trick. Priced at $4500, the six-foot-high Aquaglide Revolution has it all: slides on one side, some form of extreme seesaw on the other, climbing walls aplenty. The Revolution allows up to ten people on board at once, and will have you outrageously exhausted and immeasurably happy by the end of the day. URBAN OUTFITTERS POOL FLOATS Another much more realistic and adorable option to brighten up any pool party. From watermelons, Monaco bars, snakes, suns, smiley faces to floating beer pong, American retail giants Urban Outfitters have a variety of novelty pool inflatables on offer for just $25 to $50 each. By Tommy Codling and Shannon Connellan.
There are more than 150 Big Things across Australia — from the five-metre high can of Tooheys New that crowns a pub in the outback town of Cobar to the controversial Big Bogan of Nyngan, 190 kilometres northwest of Dubbo. These Big Things have become something of an obsession for Australians — in 2007 Australia Post even promoted them on a series of 50-cent stamps — perhaps for the way they're uniquely Australian, silly and provide a beacon of life on seemingly endless highways through hot, dry, barren country (or, at the very least, a toilet stop). Next time you go a-road tripping, consider paying one of these fantastic gigantics a visit. Before heading on a road trip or interstate, check the relevant state's COVID-19 guidelines. [caption id="attachment_698047" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] BIG BANANA, COFFS HARBOUR, NSW Dream destination of many a Sydneysiding child is the Big Banana. Found in Coffs Harbour – around 5oo kilometres north of the city – it's the gateway to warmer climes and summer holidays. It's also one of Australia's oldest big things, having been built in 1964. When you're done getting a pic, go exploring the surrounding fun park, which abounds in giant slides, toboggans, ice skating opportunities and real-life bananas. [caption id="attachment_697874" align="alignnone" width="1920"] South Australia Tourism Commission[/caption] BIG LOBSTER, KINGSTON, SA One of the most painstakingly detailed of the Big Things is the Big Lobster in Kingston SE, which you'll find on the South Australian coast around 300 kilometres south of Adelaide. It was the initiative of local lobster fisherman Ian Backler, who partnered with Rob Moyse, to commission builder Paul Kelly to construct a 17-metre high spiny lobster as realistically as possible. After going onto the market in June 2017, the Big Lobster (known to locals as "Larry") was snapped up by pastoralist Tim Brinkworth. BIG MELON, CHINCHILLA, QLD Our newest Big Thing is the Big Melon, which dominates a park in Chinchilla, the melon capital of Australia, located 300 kilometres northwest of Brisbane. The Melon was the winner of a competition run by accommodation website Wotif, which asked the Australian people to vote on their favourite submission. Among the other finalists were Glen Innes' Big Kilt (NSW), Mittagong's Big Tulip (NSW) and Kingaroy's the Big Peanut (QLD). Every February, the Chinchilla Melon Festival attracts 15,000 visitors from all over the world. [caption id="attachment_698048" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] THE BIG BENCH, BROKEN HILL, NSW The Big Bench isn't as well-known as many of Australia's other Big Things – mainly because it's all the way out in Broken Hill. But, it's one of the most fun and photogenic. If you've ever wondered how Lilliputiens feel, take a seat. The Big Bench is 2.5 times the size of a normal bench, putting the seat around shoulder height (when you're standing next to it) and making sure your legs are a long way from the ground (when you're sitting on it). It was built in September 2002, as part of Landscapes and Backgrounds, a contemporary public art exhibition. [caption id="attachment_698050" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Australia[/caption] BIG GUITAR, TAMWORTH, NSW In 1988, country legend Slim Dusty unveiled the Big Golden Guitar, a tribute to Tamworth's obsession with country music. Every January, the town swarms with tens of thousands of folk for the Tamworth Country Music Festival, the second biggest country music festival in the world (after Nashville). The guitar's twelve golden metres of fibreglass and steel tower over the Tamworth Tourist Centre. Head inside to visit a wax museum dedicated to country music stars, a collectors museum packed with Donald Bradman memorabilia and a music shop. If you're looking for more spots to visit in Tamworth, check out our weekender's guide. [caption id="attachment_698049" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] BIG MERINO, GOULBURN, NSW The Big Merino's hard to miss: not only because of its enormous horns, but also because of the constant stream of vehicles veering off the Hume Highway to bathe in its woolly wonders. 15.2 metres high, 18 metres long and weighing a whopping 97 tonnes, it's one of the biggest of all the Big Things. But that didn't stop the locals moving it 800 metres in 2007, when the arrival of the Goulburn bypass threatened its popularity. Next door you'll find a gift shop peddling an array of merino apparel, from scarves and ponchos to jumpers and socks. [caption id="attachment_697955" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Wikimedia Commons[/caption] BIG PRAWN, BALLINA, NSW In 2010, the Big Prawn came close to death when the Ballina Shire Council voted in favour of its demolition. However, the public revolted and the motion was never carried out. Today, the nine-metre high crustacean towers in all its bright orange splendour outside Bunning's hardware store, who own the land over which the Big Prawn reigns and revamped it to the tune of $400,000. The original design, built in 1989, allowed you to walk inside the sculpture and climb its internals via a spiral staircase. Those days are well over, though; you'll have to settle for a photo. [caption id="attachment_698027" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anne and David via Flickr[/caption] BIG PINEAPPLE, WOOMBYE, QLD Drive directly west of Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, and, after about 20 minutes, the Big Pineapple will loom on the horizon. Built in 1979, it's now a heritage-listed entity. Previous visitors include Charles and Lady Diana. When you're finished Big Thinging, head to the onsite wildlife zoo to meet red pandas and tuck into a pineapple-inspired feast at the cafe. [caption id="attachment_697945" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Wikimedia Commons[/caption] BIG POTATO, ROBERTSON, NSW One of the closest Big Things to Sydney is the Big Potato, in the Southern Highlands village of Robertson. We almost lost this beauty back in 2016, when a supermarket owner threatened to buy it – to destroy it and create a parking lot. However, locals Heather and Neil Tait came to the rescue. Unlike so many of the other Big Things on this list, the Big Potato is totally uncommercial. You won't see gift shops, gimmicks or ticket booths. There is, though, a picturesque park, dotted with hedges and daffodils, some of which were planted by local artist Ben Quilty. [caption id="attachment_698070" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Michael Zimmer via Flickr[/caption] BIG MANGO, BOWEN, QLD On a Monday night in February 2014, the Big Mango went missing. The theft was no mean feat, given that the colossal fruit is ten metres high and weighs in at seven tonnes. A Twitterer known as Urban Roo claimed to have found it floating off the Victorian coast, among the Twelve Apostles. However, the next morning, Bob, a local farmer, called ABC Radio to say he'd found it, hidden by tarps and branches, in a nearby paddock. A few hours later, Nando's claimed responsibility. These days, the Big Mango is back in its rightful place, beside the Bruce Highway, four kilometres south of Bowen, near Airlie Beach.
What with Kmart selling tents for 20 bucks these days, festival grounds across the country are often left looking like enormous rubbish dumps for canvases, poles and pegs after the festivities are over. For many people, taking down a tent just isn’t worth the hassle — especially when it’s cost them next-to-nix. It's a pretty disturbing phenomenon, given that we are (or should be) sorta worried about the fact that we’re killing the natural environment right now. Enter KarTent: a 100 percent recyclable tent made of cardboard, created by a Dutch startup. We’ll get straight in and pre-empt the most obvious question: cardboard? How’s that going to fare in a mud-fest? Well, according to the company’s site, the KarTent is guaranteed to keep you dry throughout a three-day deluge. Besides that, the tent’s most spruikable aspect is its friendliness to the environment. A regular tent can’t be recycled easily, but a KarTent can go straight into the nearest paper recycling facility, making the post-festival clean up easier, quicker and more sustainable. Cardboard’s other benefit is its decorate-able-ness. You can go to town drawing pictures on yours, or get KarTent to print any photos or messages you want to adorn your temporary home. Or festival organisers can buy a whole stack and cover them in sponsor messages. At this stage, KarTent is in pilot mode. It's been tested at a few festivals in Europe, but the company is looking for “adventurous” and “spirited” types to get involved. They haven't appeared at any Australian or New Zealand festivals yet, but if you want to make it happen, you can get in touch over here. Via Pop-Up City.
2020 might just be a mere one month old; however it has already been an eventful year for the British royal family. But if you've been scanning recent tabloid headlines, seeing the chaos surrounding the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's decision to step back from being senior royals, and thinking "that'll make a great season of The Crown one day", Netflix has some news for you. While The Crown was originally envisaged as a six-season show — which would've presumably followed Queen Elizabeth II's story up until the present day — creator Peter Morgan has now decided to end the series after its fifth season. As reported by Deadline, the screenwriter said it has become obvious "that this is the perfect time and place to stop". Just how much more of Lizzie's life the show will detail hasn't been revealed. This news doesn't mean that The Crown is ending just yet, though. With the series' third season only hitting Netflix last November, there are still two more seasons to come. The fourth season is in the works at the moment, and will take place during Margaret Thatcher's time as Britain's prime minister — and undoubtedly feature Princess Diana quite heavily. The fifth season is then likely to follow the Queen into the 21st century. One other big change has been announced, too, although it's hardly a surprising one. With the series changing its cast as its story progresses and characters age, Netflix has revealed that Imelda Staunton will play the Queen in The Crown's fifth season. She'll take over from Oscar-winner Olivia Colman, who dons the titular headwear in seasons three and four. Of course, Colman herself took over from season one and two star Claire Foy. Staunton will only spend one season in the top job, but she'll add it to a hefty resume that includes last year's Downton Abbey movie, the Maleficent and Paddington films, her Oscar-nominated work in Vera Drake and the Harry Potter franchise's Dolores Umbridge — to name just a few titles on her resume. Just who'll be joining her in The Crown — aka who'll be playing the older versions of Prince Philip, Princess Margaret, Princes Charles and the rest of the family — hasn't yet been revealed. In case you haven't watched The Crown's third season yet, check out the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLXYfgpqb8A Via Deadline. Image: Sophie Mutevelian / Netflix
There's never a bad time of day to visit Blockhouse Nundah. Just don't expect the cute cottage on Ryans Road to provide the same experience morning, noon and night. While breakfast, lunch and dinner are all served up every day of the week, the new venture from Angel and Oliver Markart and Jerome Dalton — the former best known as the owners of Redcliffe's Workshop Cafe, and the latter the man behind Dalton Hospitality — changes not only its menu but its vibe over the course of its opening hours. That's quite the ambitious offering for a suburban eatery, but as the glistening decor of wooden floors, a black-tiled bar and leather-padded timber stools attests, Blockhouse is certainly aiming high. First up is brunch-style "Toast & Oats", as best enjoyed in the sunny courtyard. As far as their early-in-the-day choices go, a baguette topped with a ham hock and green pea puree has to be one of the most unusual, but we're sure it tastes as delicious as it sounds. Then, when it gets dark, head inside for fine dining and a well-stocked drinks list. That means duck crackling share plates, blackened beef brisket for two to four, and Eton mess for dessert, among other tasty dishes, plus a choice of 25 types of champagne — or their signature Killer Bee espresso martini cocktail.
You're hitting the road on tour and you're only playing the greatest hits. That's one fine way to do the South Island of New Zealand, a destination known for its jaw-on-the-floor scenery, geological wonders, and oh so many gateways to adventure. Our tip? Start in the northwest corner of the island and drive clockwise. You'll hit every region — each with some miracle of landscape and gastronomy to call its own — see seven sublime sights, and emerge satisfied at the end. TASMAN: SPLIT APPLE ROCK Best accessed by way of the ocean, Abel Tasman National Park's Split Apple Rock is a vision emerging from the deep. The natural enigma is the gateway to one of the country's most stunning national parks, surrounded by 237 kilometres of blue waters and golden sands. The granite rock sits 50 metres out into the bay, and as local legend has it, the spherical form was cut by two gods arguing over it. Geologists, meanwhile, believe that the rock was split like an apple during one of the country's ice ages. These days, it's a popular spot for sea kayaking and swimming. You can float right up to the rock and marvel in the nature and wildlife surrounding it. The awe-inspiring beauty is just a taste of the Abel Tasman, which can be walked, kayaked or sailed in however many days your wanderlust desires. Other notable Tasman mentions: Wharariki Beach, Te Waikoropupu Springs. NELSON: LAKE ROTOITI A short drive inland from the abundance of beaches in Nelson, lies Lake Rotoiti, a gem in the region's second national park. The iconic view of the boat ramp, adored by local families and eels alike, stretches to the furthest reaches of the lake, and into the mountains in the distance. In winter, the snowy peaks reflect off the glassy surface. In summer, lush native bushland is a backdrop for children jumping into the water. Native birds can be spied in nearby bushes, with tracks circling the water's edge, and friendly Kiwis are never hard to find if you're looking to dabble in watersports. The money-maker? Watching the sun go down, and the sudden realisation that there's nothing but you and nature. It's captivating. Other notable Nelson mentions: Brook Waimarama Sanctuary, Blue Lake. MARLBOROUGH: QUEEN CHARLOTTE SOUND Chances are you have breezed through this beauty on a trip from the capital to head further south but have never taken advantage of the natural wonder at your fingertips. The Marlborough Sounds are an extensive network of sea-drowned valleys, mountains plummeting into the blue waters below. The calm waters are inhabited by dolphins, whales and friendly fish often caught by locals for food, and the sandy beaches are inhabited by laidback Kiwis and their baches that have passed through the generations. Queen Charlotte Sound is one of the largest channels in the network of bays and mountains and, like much of the country, can be enjoyed by boat or foot. The walking track is an easy route, showcasing some of the best sights all the way through to the capital, and can be done in three to five days. Pick of the bunch? Standing on the corner of the South Island, watching the sun rise over the North. Other notable Marlborough mentions: French Pass, Winery Tour. CANTERBURY: AORAKI/MOUNT COOK Aoraki/Mount Cook has a commanding presence, with a sharp peak and plummeting crevasses. The sheer sight is enough to keep you on edge, but the company of the mountain is oddly comforting. This is the tallest mountain in the country, standing 3,724 metres, and has an ability to render anyone speechless. Ngai Tahu, the main iwi of the region, consider Aoraki as the most sacred of the ancestors that they had descended from. The name is believed to mean cloud piercer. Ascending the steep peak is no easy feat and should be reserved for the most experienced climbers, or those safely tucked inside a helicopter. From Hooker Lake, south of the mountain, the modern explorer can indulge in the ever-inspiring lake and mountain duo. As you drive into the region, past the electric blue Lake Pukaki, and catch the first glimpse of the mountain in the background, you know you're in for a vision of a lifetime. Other notable Canterbury mentions: Lake Tekapo, seal spotting at Kaikoura. OTAGO: ROY'S PEAK Prepare to put in the hard yards to make this Instagram a reality. The five-hour round trek to Roy's Peak has been known to test the fittest climbers, but the view from the top is comparable only to being on Pride Rock. It's overwhelming when you stand on the edge of something so big, with the furthest corners of the country in sight. Gazing over Lake Wanaka, you can spot that Wanaka Tree, and see to the peak of Mount Aspiring in the distance. Bonus: The steep ascent will help you condition your glutes. In a region rich with adventure tourism, from skiing to jetboating, skydiving to bungee jumping, the breath of fresh air at the summit of Roy's Peak is a moment of solace. Take it all in, pinch yourself, it's real. Other notable Otago mentions: Moeraki Boulders, Tunnel Beach. SOUTHLAND: MILFORD SOUND There's no sight more sobering than standing at the foot of some of the world's most remote peaks. Watching lonesome waterfalls fall into endless ocean. It's a sight that's so iconically New Zealand, so undeniably unmissable, and it's all waiting at Milford Sound. This south corner of the country can be explored by foot, discovered by air or taken in by boat venturing through the never-ending turns of the fiord. Buses to Queenstown are abundant, and water tours of Milford Sound depart frequently. Guides will direct you to graceful waterfalls and sharp peaks that can be snapped from afar and savoured forever. Other notable Southland mentions: The Catlins, Stewart Island. WEST COAST: FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER A sight slowly slipping from our grasps, nothing is more striking than the geological wonder that is Franz Josef Glacier. Standing at the base of the icy slopes gives you a real feeling of how vast this country is. There are rare rock formations, frozen rivers from centuries past, mountainous peaks to one side and a blue ocean to the other. It can be dumbfounding if you think too much. A one-hour hike will get you to the base of the glacier, but the best seat in the house is slightly further uphill. Almer Hut is one of the humblest abodes on the planet, though it sits atop dramatic snowy peaks and stark cliff faces. Visitors can enjoy a view down Franz Josef Glacier to the rugged West Coast beaches below. The hike is for experienced climbers, but many local companies offer heli-tours to the picture perfect palace. Other notable West Coast mentions: Punakaiki, Oparara Arches. Start planning your trip to New Zealand's south with our guide to the South Island journeys to take here.
Wearable technology has been around for a few years now, but hasn't really taken off. Google Glass tried to get everyone to stick a computer on their face, while the Apple Watch attempted to move smartphones onto everyone's wrists — but, as cool and suitably futuristic as both are, they're hardly must-have gadgets. That's where Snapchat comes in. A few months ago they announced they would make their first foray into the hardware realm with Spectacles, a pair of sunglasses that can capture ten-second bursts of video. And now they're officially available to the public. But you can't just go online and order a pair. Oh no — that'd be way too easy. Instead, Snapchat will be selling the specs from a roaming yellow vending machine (that doesn't look unlike a Minion). Punters have to check the Snapchat website to see where it will be set up each day. Earlier today it was at Venice Beach in LA. pic.twitter.com/ECQhbYZBPa — Spectacles (@Spectacles) November 10, 2016 So what do the Spectacles actually do? Well, they're basically a cheaper version of Google's eyewear with one specific function: to take Snapchats. But as well as turning the act of taking photos into a mostly hands-free task (unless you can press buttons with your mind, you're still going to have to lift a finger to the frames to start each clip, sadly), Spectacles boast two major drawcards. Firstly, they look like regular glasses, rather than Robocop-like attire, complete with black, teal and coral styles. And even better, they're going to be affordable, at $130 USD a pair. Other features include a 115-degree lens designed to mimic the human field of vision, as well as the ability to capture circular images to approximate our natural perspective. And yes, everything you record with your new toy will then upload to your Snapchat account, after connecting to your phone via wifi. No word as yet regarding a local release date. By Sarah Ward and Lauren Vadnjal.
Cocktails, lights, presents, festive-themed movies, enjoying time with your nearest and dearest: when it comes to Christmas cheer, they're all on the nice list. Tucking into a hearty meal ranks high up there, too, but actually doing all that home cooking — and shopping for it, then washing up afterwards — doesn't always make all of us feel especially jolly. That's where Brisbane's culinary scene comes in, complete with Christmas Day lunches to suit all tastebuds — and even a Christmas Eve dinner if you'd like to double your fun. Spend this year's merriest days eating five-spice turkey spring rolls, drinking bottomless spritzes or treating yo'self to a French feast, all thanks to these six Brissie spots that you can still book right now. CIELO ROOFTOP, FORTITUDE VALLEY Whichever Christmas carol you get tend to stuck in your head at this time of year, none of them croon festive words about sitting on a Fortitude Valley rooftop, sharing a seafood tower, soaking in the sun — it's summer in Brisbane, after all, so bright skies usually come with the territory — and drinking wine and beer for two hours. Here's a jolly little task for you, then: coming up with a merry ditty about this exact experience. All of the above will take place at Cielo Rooftop, with its Christmas in the Clouds lunches taking seatings at 12pm and 2.30pm on Saturday, December 25. For $99 per person, you'll tuck into prawns, scallops, oysters, ceviche, calamari and grilled catch of the day, then wash it all down with vino and brews. Spend $128 each and free-flowing Aperol spritzes will also be on the menu. NAGA THAI, EAGLE STREET PIER Fancy all of the food but none of the hassle? Then you clearly want to gather the gang — friends, family, whoever fits — and book in for a shared banquet lunch. At Naga Thai at Eagle Street Pier, you have two options. So, you just need to work out if you'll all be hungry for a $150-per-person six-course feast or ravenous for the $180-a-head eight-dish version. The colourful inner-city Thai restaurant's smaller lunch kicks off at 11am on Saturday, December 25, while the larger option sits at 1.15pm — if that helps your decision. Whichever you choose, you'll be getting merry with oven-baked barramundi with scallop chilli mousse, cranberry and five-spice turkey spring rolls, bavette wellingtons, and mango and coconut trifle, all right by the river in the middle of the CBD. Only a few time slots are left, so booking ASAP is recommended. CRYSTALBROOK VINCENT, HOWARD SMITH WHARVES What starts with champagne upon arrival, pours drinks for three hours, serves up a three-course Italian meal and lets you soak in some of Brisbane's absolute best views? That'd be Christmas lunch at Crystalbrook Vincent at Howard Smith Wharves. By now, every Brisbanite should've checked out this waterside precinct, but this is your excuse to spend some time at its luxe hotel if you haven't gotten around to staycationing there yet. Crystalbrook Vincent's onsite restaurant Polpetta will be taking care of the food, which'll include prawn salads, slow-roasted porchetta with rosemary and sage potatoes, and mango, passionfruit and panettone parfait — all served share-style between 12–3pm on Saturday, December 25. And, your $289 ticket also includes live entertainment, which'll be better than listening to your relatives sing Christmas carols. [caption id="attachment_837435" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mitch Lowe[/caption] C'EST BON, WOOLLOONGABBA We're not saying that you can't whip yourself up a lavish French dinner for Christmas — Julia Child's Mastering the Art of French Cooking sprawled out on your kitchen bench, obviously — but letting someone else do all the hard work for you is a big festive treat. Woolloongabba's C'est Bon isn't just ready, willing and able; it's one of Brisbane's go-to French restaurants, and it's taking care of your Christmas Eve. At 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, you'll indulge in one of the most crucial parts of the French holidays, all without forking out to visit Europe. For $165 a head on Friday, December 24, you'll start with champagne, spanner crab vol au vents with roe and duck parfait and Davidson plum eclairs, which is a mighty fine way to begin any meal. Next, your tastebuds will enjoy rainbow trout with champagne caviar, pork with chestnut and apricot, and a boûche de noël (aka sweet chocolate roulade) for dessert. CROWN HOTEL, LUTWYCHE Looking forward to spending a hefty heap of your summer break at the pub? You've heard of beginning the year as you mean to go on — so why not apply that idea to Christmas, too? Get a jumpstart on all those hours you're planning to while away in beer gardens with your besties by hitting up Lutwyche's recently renovated and reopened Crown Hotel. As an added bonus, you'll be celebrating the season in a 140-year-old watering hole. Oysters, prawns, turkey, ham, brandy snaps, mince pies, boozy eggnog — they're all on the menu here for $150 per person, which includes a glass of bubbles to start things off. There's a vegetarian version as well, and you can choose between 11.30am and 2pm sittings on Saturday, December 25. BISOU BISOU, FORTITUDE VALLEY Christmas lunch is the favourite child of festive meals, hogging all the attention and hitting all the expected marks. Here's an option for everyone who's a bit over the midday fuss, would honestly prefer to sleep in instead of rush to make a noon booking, and is happy to kick into gear once afternoon hits: a late-in-the-day sitting at Bisou Bisou's Célébrez Noël Au on Saturday, December 25. Mark the occasion Parisian-style with a four-course menu, which starts with prawn and crab on melba toast, then includes duck rillette, sugar-cured salmon, rolled pork belly porchetta, turkey cooked on the rotisserie, and plum pudding, parfait and poached cherries. It'll set you back $169 a head and, at the time of writing, you can choose between 3pm, 3.15pm, 3.30pm, 3.45pm and 4pm time slots.
In the 70s and 80s, it was Countdown. In the 90s and early 00s, it was Recovery. Last year, the ABC added The Set to its roster of music-focused TV shows. Fronted by triple j's Linda Marigliano and newly minted Wimbledon quad doubles champion Dylan Alcott, the newcomer was a hit — and now it's returning for a second season in August. Screening on ABC weekly from 9.30pm on Wednesday, August 28, The Set features live music performances in front of a live studio audience — and will once again spotlight a different main band each week, who'll then invite two guest acts to perform as well. To end each show, the week's artists all team up in a one-off musical collaboration, because the series has a definite party atmosphere. That extends to the audience; with the whole thing taking place on a purpose-built share house set, which also includes a backyard, 250 folks get to head along, in person, enjoying the gig. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_pcuYplrTg While this year's bands haven't yet been announced, 2018's lineup included Baker Boy, Vera Blue, Ball Park Music and The Presets, as well as Illy, Odette, Wafia, Mallrat, Angie McMahon, Tia Gostelow, LANKS and Kult Kyss. The Set's second season will screen from Wednesday, August 28 till Wednesday, October 9, which each week's episode available on iView after it airs.
If were a kid in Australia over the past four decades, your birthday probably wasn't complete without a butter cake mix, vienna cream icing and some lollies. Thanks to The Australian Women's Weekly Children's Birthday Cake Book, that combination has long been the stuff of youthful dreams — and yes, you probably begged for it to be served in various creative shapes and configurations at all of your childhood birthday parties. We all know the book in question. Even when we were months and months away from next blowing out our candles, we all pored over pictures of its cakes for hours and hours, studiously planning which one we wanted next. And, we all should have a copy of that beloved tome on our shelves now; however, you'd best save some room for its new companion. Get ready to bake your way through the Allen's Party Cake Book, a collaboration between the sweet brand The Australian Women's Weekly that reimagines a heap of the cakes we've all grown up loving with Allen's lollies. To answer your number one question, yes, the famed train cake is included. There are 38 cakes in total, obviously all featuring plenty of Allen's lollies — think: snakes, freckles, bananas, strawberries and cream, raspberries and more — in a big way. That's reason enough to bake a cake, naturally. If you're currently in lockdown, consider it an excuse to treat yo'self to something tasty. And if you need another reason, the book has been released to celebrate Allen's 130th birthday, so you can get mixing and baking to commemorate the occasion. To nab a copy of the Allen's Party Cake Book, you'll need to head to Coles, where they're available for a limited time while stocks last. Because you'll need lollies for all of the recipes, you'll get a copy of the recipe book for free when you buy three Allen's or Bakers Choice products in one transaction. The Allen's Party Cake Book is available from Coles supermarkets while stocks last.
"Most people say don't meet your heroes, but she exceeded all my expectations," Cailee Spaeny tells Concrete Playground. The Priscilla star's idol? Sofia Coppola. In the Devs, Mare of Easttown and The Craft: Legacy actor's biggest role yet, and the Lost in Translation, Somewhere and On the Rocks' filmmaker's latest moving, mesmerising and meticulously made picture, Spaeny plays the movie's namesake for the director that she's loved since she was a teenager. Winning her Venice International Film Festival's Volpi Cup for Best Actress, she's teamed up with her dream helmer to explore the teen experience and beyond of one of the most-famous women in the world, who was also in one of the best-known romances, marrying and divorcing a music superstar whose celebrity is virtually peerless: Priscilla Presley. Coppola knows how to bring tales about teenage girls to the screen, and to do so with the emotion, care and lived-in specificity that makes audiences feel like they're being seen — as Spaeny once did. Priscilla joins a directing resume that initially moved into features with 1998's The Virgin Suicides, and has spanned The Bling Ring and The Beguiled as well. In Marie Antoinette, the filmmaker's only other biopic to-date, she also took a name that everyone knows, jumped into her story when she was just 14 years old, then charted her complicated time by the side of a man with influence and power. Spaeny co-stars with Marie Antoinette's lead Kirsten Dunst (The Power of the Dog) in the upcoming Civil War, in fact, and suspects that she put in a good word to help her get her Presley part. A performer who made her film debut in 2018's Australian-shot Pacific Rim Uprising, which was one of four movies that she had in cinemas that year (the others: Bad Times at the El Royale, On the Basis of Sex and Vice), Spaeny also believes that the right work finds you at the right period. That's especially the case with leading Priscilla, where Jacob Elordi (Saltburn) co-stars as Elvis, and which sees the two portray the blue suede shoes-wearing singer and the woman who fell for him when they were in West Germany — she was a schoolgirl residing there because her dad was in the army, while Elvis had been drafted — so swiftly after Baz Luhrmann's Elvis had Austin Butler (Once Upon a Time in Hollywood) and Olivia DeJonge (The Staircase) do the same. "I always think roles come to you in your life at certain times to sort of help you in your own personal life, in your own journey," Spaeny shares. "I was just getting out of a really intense relationship that went on for about five years. I was in it very young. And I was trying to process those emotions and where I gave a piece of myself up, and how I grew from that. I processed all that and put it into the movie and her story, and the decisions that she made, and the mistakes she made, and where she got it right, where she got it wrong. It's always cathartic playing roles, but this one especially hit me in a real way that I'll always take with me." What was it like to physically transform into Priscilla? "It was something. I didn't look like myself. I think I just looked at myself in the mirror and I went 'okay girl, get it together, you've got to pull this off," Spaeny advises. "Everyone had put so much hard work into it. You see the hours and the sleepless nights. All the blood, sweat and tears that goes into every department: costumes, hair, makeup, production design. All the work Sofia put in, that Jacob put in. So when I saw myself in those costumes, I think it's just like 'okay, it's game time'." "It was fun. It was stressful. It was life-changing. There were lots of tears. There were lots of laughs. It was an experience that I will take with me for the rest of my life, and it's given me so much — much more than I ever thought it would. And I feel really lucky and I hope that everyone enjoys it when they go and see it, and they see all the heart that we put into our film," continues Spaeny. The movie opened in Australia on Thursday, January 18, then does the same in New Zealand on Thursday, February 1. Also covered in our round-table chat with Spaeny: preparing to play Priscilla, including meeting the woman herself; getting the part, and her past experiences auditioning for the filmmaker; why Coppola is her dream director; being born to love Elvis by being born in Tennessee; and seeing Priscilla for the first time while sitting next to Presley. ON HOW SPAENY PREPARED TO PLAY PRISCILLA PRESLEY "I tried to do as much as I could do preparing for this role. Taking on playing a real person, especially one who's still around, there is enormous responsibility. And also working with my dream director Sofia Coppola — she's been my dream director since I was 14 years old — I felt a lot of pressure. I mean, I always I hope that I always work hard on every project that I do, but this was another level. So you just do everything you can. You have as many conversations as you can with the director. The script is based off of her [Priscilla Presley's] book that she wrote in 1985, and I had that on me the entire time. Then I got the honour to sit down with Priscilla Presley herself, so I got to take in the woman herself and look into her eyes, and hear her tell these stories about this chapter in her life. That gave me more than I could have ever imagined. Taking that with me, and also having her support and having several conversations down the line during prep, and asking her all different kinds of questions and just getting to be around her in general, gave me so much. And then, taking time to have conversations with Jacob Elordi, who plays Elvis, and making sure we were on the same page and just making sure we felt comfortable around each other — that was a big part of the process, too. You just try to get everything you could possibly get into your brain in the amount of time you have, and you've got to cross your fingers and jump out of the plane and hope for the best, hope that you'll land on your feet. But also to have the level of collaborators and artists that we had on this set in terms of cast and crew was extraordinary. I think anyone who works with Sofia, because of the environment she creates, everyone brings their A-game and wants to work really hard for her and do their best. I think you really see that in this film." ON WHAT MAKES COPPOLA SPAENY'S DREAM DIRECTOR — AND THE PROCESS OF WORKING WITH HER ON PRISCILLA "I think the thing that really struck me, especially living in the Bible Belt in America being a young girl, a church girl, trying to navigate myself and my emotions — you've got so much going on inside you when you're a 14-year-old girl, and I think I'd never seen teen girls depicted in the way that Sofia represents them. The way that she doesn't underestimate young women, and how she gives them a voice to have wants and needs, and dark sides and be sexual — I just felt like everything that was in my brain just got unlocked, and that I had permission to be complicated. I think that was something that really stuck with me and cracked me open. I think that working with her was just a lot of pressure to get it right. I'm thinking in my head 'am I going to be the reason this is going to be the first bad Sofia Coppola film?'. I mean, it's just very overwhelming, but she's kind and had my back every step of the way." ON GETTING THE PRISCILLA ROLE AFTER AUDITIONING FOR PAST SOFIA COPPOLA FILMS "I know that Sofia wanted to find one actress who was going to be able to play from 14 to 27 — and I was 24 when I filmed the movie, but I look really young. I think that it was really important. You see it sometimes where you see films push the age, like they don't really look that young, but it's fine. Or they really don't look that old, but it's fine. But I think it was really important, especially in the beginning, for her to feel 14. I think she had to genuinely feel that age. So I think from a casting standpoint for Sofia, that was something that she was looking for. It's not really something I think about too much, but I'm glad it worked in my favour. I've been auditioning for her — she gave me my one of my first callbacks ever when I was 16 years old. So I think her casting director knew of me for a long time, and Sofia knew of me for a bit. I don't know if she even remembers that. I don't know. But I knew her casting directors remembered me and one of her producing partners remembered me. And then I auditioned for two other things for Sofia. Then this project came up and I got a call [saying] 'hey, can you meet Sofia in New York for coffee?'. Didn't know what it was, met her there, was really nervous. We started talking and I had no idea — I was just like 'what is this about?'. Then she pulled out her iPad and started showing me photos of Priscilla Presley, and asked me if I knew the story. I didn't, which was surprising because I was such a huge Elvis fan growing up. But then I went away and I was filming a movie with Kirsten Dunst, and Kirsten is such a longtime friend and collaborator and muse for Sofia. And I think Kirsten put in a good word for me. So there were talks about maybe doing a chemistry read with whoever was going to be playing Elvis, but that didn't end up happening. She just locked this in. She locked me and Jacob in, and said 'we're going for it'. We didn't have any read. We didn't do any sort of chemistry test. We just hit the ground running. I think that's the one thing about Sofia: she's really soft-spoken and kind, but when she knows what she wants, she knows what she wants. And when she sees it, she has it in her head. Everything is in her head. That's what makes her so brilliant and also exciting to work with." ON THE CHALLENGES OF STEPPING INTO PRISCILLA'S SHOES — AND WHAT MAKES HER STORY SO RELATABLE "The biggest challenge for me, obviously, is having to play a real person who at the end of this is going to watch the film. I had that time with Priscilla, and something funny happens — it's like at first, the movie's first, [and] how you're going to play this, [and] making this movie for Sofia. Then you sit down in front of the woman herself, you're right across from Priscilla, and almost all of that goes to the back burner. You just are like 'I want to protect this person. I want them to feel safe. I want them to feel like they identify with this story. I just want to protect them'. She's been through so much in her life, and you just want this to be done right by her. So that was the biggest challenge. In terms of the things that I related to, I think that what's so interesting about this story, and what I found so surprising, is that you think 'well, I'm not going to relate to Priscilla Presley, she's lived this one-of-a-kind life that no one could ever really compare with' — but she goes through such an emotional journey. Falling in love and doing everything she can, giving everything up to try to make that work, and [being] desperate to find a path and a way out to be with the love of her life, and then realising that that's not going to happen, and all the pain that he's going through and the confusion he's dealing with, and how that then transfers to her, and then she realises she wants something more for her life — I think those moments are universal. And there's some milestones that she goes through that I think a lot of young women can relate to. I think that's why it's gotten the response that it has, is because of that — because I think young women or women in general, or anybody, can see this story and find themselves somewhere." ON FIRST DISCOVERING ELVIS "I think the second I was born, Elvis was just playing. My mum had a shrine of Elvis in her home. She named one of her kids' middle names after Elvis. We went to Graceland growing up. We had his number-one hits on the CD in the car. It was just always around. In America, Elvis really is such a symbol — especially, especially in the South. And I was born in Tennessee. You just know Elvis. You're born, you know Elvis. I think especially where I came from, you just didn't have a choice: it was Jesus and Elvis." ON SITTING NEXT TO PRISCILLA AT THE FILM'S WORLD PREMIERE AT THE VENICE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL "I had a couple opportunities to watch the movie before Venice, but I was just too nervous to watch myself in this movie. There's too much pressure and I just knew that if I would see the film, I knew I was going to spiral, so I didn't want to. I kept putting it off. Then I got to Venice and I asked them 'hey, can you pull me out when the movie starts? I don't want to see it'. And then I just had a voice in my head and I'm going 'Cailee, what are you doing? You're at the Venice Film Festival. You're with your dream director. Priscilla's here. You're celebrating this movie with these people that you care about. This is such a dream come true'. I brought my sister with me. I'd never been to Venice before. I'd just rode a gondola earlier in the day. It was such a dream moment. And I was like 'what am I doing? I'm going to not watch the film cause I'm scared? That's so lame'. So I told them 'okay, yes, I'll watch it'. But then they sat me right next to Priscilla Presley. Then I'm watching the movie going 'oh my god, what have I done? How am I going to watch this film while I'm sitting right next to the person who I'm playing?'. It was so bizarre and so surreal, and I was white-knuckling it the entire time I was watching the film. Sometimes I'd close my eyes during some scenes. But then the movie ended. We got the reception that we did. Then it was the first time that Priscilla turned to me and said 'you did it, that was my life and that was a great performance'. So to get that feedback from her was everything." Priscilla opened in Australian cinemas on Thursday, January 18, then does the same in New Zealand on Thursday, February 1. Read our review.
As well as collecting 13 Emmy nominations, the largest haul of any Netflix series in 2025, Adolescence is also officially the platform's most-watched TV show from the first six months of the year. If it felt like everyone you knew has been talking about the excellent four-part British series since it debuted in mid-March, that's why, notching up 144,800,000 views. Netflix has just unveiled its January–June 2025 Engagement Report, which outlines exactly what everyone has been checking out on the streamer to within 99 percent of all viewing. Over that time, audiences caught more than 95-billion hours of the service's series and movies. The most-watched title overall: Cameron Diaz (Annie)- and Jamie Foxx (Tin Soldier)-starring action-comedy Back in Action with 164,700,000 views. Back to the small screen, the second and third most-watched shows will come as no surprise if you're a Squid Game obsessive who needed to know how the deadly contest continued after season one, then how it came to an end. Season two ranks second with 117,300,000 views, and season three — which only released on Friday, June 27, and broke viewership and ranking records in the process — is in third place with 71,500,000 views. Season one, from 2021, also made 2025's list so far, sitting 12th with 42,000,000 views. Political thriller Zero Day and Harlan Coben adaptation Missing You round out the top five TV-wise, followed by true-crime docuseries American Murder: Gabby Petito, then Ms. Rachel, Sirens, the second season of The Night Agent and the third run of Ginny & Georgia. American Primeval, Running Point, The Four Seasons and Cassandra also ranked in the top 15. From Netflix's film slate, STRAW, The Life List, Exterritorial and Havoc followed Back in Action in the top five, with The Secret Life of Pets 2, The Electric State, Counterattack // Contraataque, Ad Vitam and Despicable Me 4 all sitting in the top ten. From there came The Secret Life of Pets, Kinda Pregnant, Nonnas, iHostage and La Dolce Villa. And yes, family-friendly fare did particularly well — in fact, The Boss Baby, Minions, Shrek, Plankton: The Movie, Despicable Me 3, Despicable Me 2 and Shrek 2 are also in the top 25. As the fondness for older all-ages flicks illustrates, Netflix viewers aren't just checking out new releases. Across the platform's originals — which doesn't apply to the bulk of those animated movies, though — around half of the titles on the list, TV and film alike, initially debuted in 2023 or prior. Think: Orange Is the New Black, Ozark, Money Heist, Red Notice and Leo, for starters. Also, across new and older series and features, more than a third were titles in languages other than English — so if you caught South Korea's When Life Gives You Tangerines and The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call, Denmark's Secrets We Keep, Norway's Number 24 or Colombia's Medusa, for example, you had company. Check out trailers for some of Netflix's big January–June 2025 titles above and below: For more information about the most-viewed Netflix titles from January–June 2025, head to the Netflix website.
This time last year, Netflix subscribers were getting excited about a slate of fresh flicks that included whodunnit Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, action-thriller The Gray Man, Marilyn Monroe biopic Blonde, Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio, the screen version of Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical and a new adaptation of Lady Chatterley's Lover. That's part of 2022's haul. In 2023, the streaming platform has another hefty list — and star-studded, too — of new movies to look forward to. And, to whet viewers' film-loving appetites, it has just dropped a sneak peek at quite the number of them. On Netflix's lineup for 2023, and therefore on yours as well: assassins, murder mysteries, battles at the edge of the galaxy, beloved TV series getting the movie treatment, action sequels, conspiracy dramas, rom-coms and more. And, a massive roster of recognisable faces, too, with everyone from Michael Fassbender and Adam Sandler to Emily Blunt and Reese Witherspoon popping up. Netflix has unveiled initial glimpses as well as release dates for all the flicks featured, which also means updating your calendar now. It isn't arriving first, but perhaps the number-one film to make a date with: David Fincher's assassin thriller The Killer, starring Fassbender (X-Men: Dark Phoenix) alongside Tilda Swinton (Three Thousand Years of Longing), and seeing Fincher return to his fondness for crime (see also: Seven, Zodiac and Mindhunter). It'll drop on November 10. Also instantly intriguing is Pain Hustlers, starring Blunt (The English) alongside Chris Evans (Lightyear) and Catherine O'Hara (Schitt's Creek), and hailing from Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts franchise filmmaker David Yates. Releasing on October 27, it tracks a woman striving for a better life but soon caught in a criminal conspiracy. [caption id="attachment_885547" align="alignnone" width="1920"] JoJo Whilden[/caption] Or, there's Rebel Moon, the latest from Zack Snyder — and his latest film for Netflix after 2021's Army of the Dead. Streaming from December 22, it focuses on conflict in an otherwise peaceful intergalactic colony, is firmly a space epic, and includes Charlie Hunnam (The Gentlemen), Sofia Boutella (Guillermo del Toro's Cabinet of Curiosities), Michiel Huisman (The Flight Attendant), Anthony Hopkins (Armageddon Time) and Djimon Hounsou (Black Adam) among its cast. And, from December 8, Leave the World Behind also gets well-known stars together — Julia Roberts (Ticket to Paradise), Mahershala Ali (Swan Song), Ethan Hawke (The Northman) and Kevin Bacon (The Guardians of the Galaxy: Holiday Special), for starters — with Mr Robot's Sam Esmail directing. Based on the novel of the same name, the film heads on a family vacation on Long Island, where strangers arrive with news of an eerie blackout. [caption id="attachment_885548" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Scott Yamano[/caption] Other titles reaching the platform throughout the year include Murder Mystery 2, arriving on March 31 and seeing Adam Sandler (Hustle) and Jennifer Aniston (The Morning Show) return (and get caught up in another mystery); Luther: The Fallen Son on March 10, with Idris Elba (Beast) back as John Luther after the hit TV show; the Gal Gadot (Death on the Nile)- and Jamie Dornan (Belfast)-led spy flick Heart of Stone on August 11; and Damsel with Millie Bobby Brown (Stranger Things) and Angela Bassett (Black Panther: Wakanda Forever) on October 13. And, there's the Jonah Hill (Don't Look Up) and Eddie Murphy (Coming 2 America)-starring You People on January 27; Witherspoon (The Morning Show) and Ashton Kutcher (That '90s Show) in Your Place or Mine on February 10; Extraction 2, the sequel to the Chris Hemsworth (Thor: Love and Thunder)-led hit, on June 16; comedy A Family Affair with Nicole Kidman (The Northman) and Zac Efron (Firestarter) on November 17; and coming-of-age animated musical Leo, featuring Sandler's voice work, on November 22. Add in Jennifer Lopez (Marry Me) in The Mother on May 12, the Kevin Hart (Me Time)-starring Lift on August 25, and They Cloned Tyrone with Jamie Foxx (Spider-Man: No Way Home), John Boyega (The Woman King) and Teyonah Parris (Candyman) on July 21 — yes, there's going to be plenty to watch this year. The list goes on — and, Netflix usually gives some of its new films cinema runs, too. That means that in addition to a heap of couch time coming up, you'll likely be able to see some of these movies on the big screen as well. Check out Netflix's trailer for its 2023 films below: New movies will hit Netflix throughout 2023— head to the streaming platform for its current catalogue. Top image: Brian Douglas/Netflix © 2023.
After years of performing complex procedures, Dutch surgeon Lex Van Stekelenburg was suffering from enough neck, shoulder and back pain to compete with Quasimodo. But rather than retire to a bell-tower, Stekelenburg decided to take to cycling. The only problem is that, over a long period, conventional bicycles tend to exacerbate upper body problems, rather than alleviate them. Figuring out that it's natural to want to move our arms in harmony with our legs, Stekelenburg decided to design a bicycle that mobilises all four of our limbs. A patented mechanism on the handle bar enables both pedalling and steering, placing the rider in the position that a quadruped might adopt. Our shoulders and pelvis are better aligned, plus we gain speed and strength from increased power. The 4 Strike Bike requires the use of 78 muscle groups, as opposed to the 50 set in motion by a regular two-wheeler. Stekelenburg, who has spent five years experimenting with various prototypes, is convinced of the efficacy of his final model. He says it's 'healthier for heart, better for aerating the lungs and prevents undercooling of the upper body in rain and cold. You'll have more fun on this revolutionary new bike.' [Via Inhabitat]
For decades, feasting your way through a Sizzler buffet was a regular part of Australian life. Families headed to the all-you-can-eat chain for special occasions, teenagers went along to gorge themselves full of bottomless soft drink and soft serve (and combine the two, obviously), and absolutely everyone couldn't get enough of the brand's beloved cheese toast. But, over the past few years, Sizzler restaurants have been shutting down around the country. Soon, they'll all be gone — with Collins Foods Limited, the company that owns and runs Sizzler in Australia, announcing that it is shutting down the chain's last remaining stores. Those nine restaurants — five in Queensland, three in Western Australia and one in New South Wales — will all close by November 15. So if you're eager for one last excuse to break out your stretchiest pants and indulge in a big dose of nostalgia (and food), you'll need to head to Mermaid Beach, Loganholme, Caboolture, Maroochydore and Toowoomba in the Sunshine State, Innaloo, Kelmscott and Morley in WA, and Campbelltown in NSW to hit the salad bar a last time. Collins Foods has been scaling down Sizzlers' footprint since 2015, when it announced that the brand was "no longer considered to be core to the company's strategic growth". In the half-decade since, 19 Sizzlers have shut down around the country. With COVID-19 now affecting the hospitality industry — and, unsurprisingly, people's eagerness to eat from buffets — Collins Foods has now completely called time on its endless soup, salad, fruit, pasta and dessert (and its regular menu of meals, too; however we all know they were never the drawcard). Announcing the news in a statement to the Australian Stock Exchange, Collins Foods Chief Executive Officer Drew O'Malley said that this was "not a decision we take lightly, especially for a brand as beloved as Sizzler, which has been such an important part of the Collins Foods' history". Collins Foods will continue to licence the Sizzler brand in Asia — so, when Australians are allowed to leave the country for holidays again, perhaps an overseas trip to the buffet can be in your future. In Australia, the Brisbane-based company also operates KFC and Taco Bell. Sizzler's nine remaining stores — in Mermaid Beach, Loganholme, Caboolture, Maroochydore and Toowoomba in Queensland, Innaloo, Kelmscott and Morley in WA, and Campbelltown in NSW — will all close by November 15, 2020. For more information about Sizzler, head to the chain's website. Top image: RegionalQueenslander via Wikimedia Commons.
While cats aren't known for being overly affectionate, there are many ways you can show them love. You can have their face plastered across a mask (or a pair of swimmers), channel your inner Picasso and recreate them on a canvas, or just buy them a box — because if there's one thing cats like, it's a plain ol' box. Only one adorable cat can get immortalised in Lego, however. We're not talking about just sticking a few bricks together at home, either. Inspired by International Cat Day, Melbourne's Legoland Discovery Centre will build a life-size replica of one lucky cat. If you're already clearing a spot for your new Lego addition to the family — and wondering how your fluffball will react to their own likeness — you'll need to submit a photo of your cat on the Legoland Discovery Centre's Facebook page, specifically to its competition post between now and 11.59pm on Tuesday, August 25. You'll also need to explain why your russian blue or ragdoll should get the Lego treatment, which shouldn't be hard. Serve up the best answer, and Master Model Builder Kieran Jiwa (yes, that's a real job) will recreate your cat with in tiny plastic bricks. Expect the final product to look a little like this: https://www.facebook.com/LEGOLANDDiscoveryCentreMelbourne/posts/1320438718159066 While the contest terms and conditions don't require entrants to live in Melbourne, the winner will need to head by in person to pick up their prize (restrictions allowing, of course). You'll also need to like the Legoland Discovery Centre's Facebook page to enter, and include your pet's name, age, breed and one crazy fact about them with your submission. If your cat loves swimming, can dance or has learnt to play 'Chopsticks' on the piano, don't keep that detail to yourself. To enter the Lego Cat Competition, visit the Legoland Discovery Centre Facebook page before 11.59pm on Tuesday, August 25.
Viticulture specialists are always experimenting with new ways to develop fresh and exciting flavours of wine, producing sharper tastes and more expensive blends, and creating the perfect amount of tannins for that lovely bitter aftertaste. Another way in which wine inspires competition is in the race to develop the most lavish and novel wine cellar designs. Hotels and homes alike are installing increasingly glitzy wine cellars, whether taller, brighter, larger, or simply fancier than any other. Take a look at seven of the most impressive and outlandish wine cellars from around the world. Radisson Blu Hotel, Zurich At 16m high, this exotic wine cellar is the highest of its kind in the world. And the only way (well the most entertaining and novel way) to retrieve these bottles from the shelves to the customers? With acrobatic barmaids, called Flying Angels, who zip up and down the tower using a winch, of course. This enormous structure was designed by US-based Jeremy Thom Productions, weighs a massive 27.5 tons, and cost around 4 million Swiss Francs to construct. Modern Pacific Heights, San Francisco Tucked away inside a quiet set of charming townhouses on the streets of San Francisco lies a wine cellar not usually found in your everyday basement. The idea of the space is to provide a mix between a house and an art gallery, with rather unorthodox and innovative features. On top of a hidden, underground car lift, one of the key features of the townhouse is an expansive wine cellar constructed from lucite and stainless steel, giving the impression of an endless cellar — and therefore an endless supply of wine. Multimillion-Dollar Estate, Tennessee For owner of Beckwith Interiors Jamie Beckwith, having a seven-bedroom, six-and-a-half bathroom, 12,398-square-foot mansion was simply not lavish enough. It was, of course, missing an LED-lit wine cellar complete with individual wine holders and a transparent ceiling. The lights can change to any colour, adding a retro vibe to Beckwith's many parties, and the arches within the cellar perfectly match the gothic style of the rest of the estate. Spiral Cellars, UK The modern craze for storing your wine, which focuses on ease of access, low expenses, and decor integration, is installing a spiral cellar in the kitchen of your own home. First developed in 1977, the spiral cellar system is a proven success when it comes to storing the old vino, and design firm Spiral Cellar has taken this acknowledged method and modernised it. Matching the furniture or flooring of your home, these wine cellars can be easily and cheaply installed in any room of the home with a trap door which when closed seamlessly blends with the rest of the room. Yet when open, it leads to a spiral staircase descending into a huge array of your favourite wines, which thanks to the pipes and advanced ventilation system, will be fresh and the perfect temperature. Carlton-Ritz Hotel, Shanghai Named the world's best hotel in 2011 by Conde Nast Traveler, this glamourous and appropriately ritzy Chinese hotel prides itself on grandiose designs and furnishings and a particularly high-end dining scene. One of the centrepieces in this department is naturally the wine, which then requires an equally opulent area in which to store it. In its signature Cantonese restaurant, all 10 dining rooms contain their own private wine cellar, each as impressive as the next. World's Largest Wine Bottle 480L, Switzerland The small inn located in eastern Switzerland Gasthaus zum Gupf is home to the world's most incredible, record-breaking bottle of wine. Holding 480L of sweet world-class quality wine and with a height of 240cm and weight of 630kg, it is no mean feat. Just as exciting as this bottle of wine is the cellar in which it is placed, playing host to 25,000 other bottles, making up 2100 varieties of wine. The tactic of utilising the ceiling to store these many, and rather large, bottles of wine also makes this innovative cellar stand out amongst others. Biggest Wine Cellars in the World, Moldova Renowned for its flourishing wine industry and hugely popular annual wine festival, Moldova is the must-see place for all those wine connoisseurs out there. In the city of Milestii Mici, you can also find the world's biggest wine cellars, as recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records. You'll find almost any blend, colour, or taste of wine your palette could desire within the many walls of their underground cellars.
The picnic mecca that is Moonlight Cinema doesn't just show movies outdoors each summer. It does exactly that, obviously, but it's also fond of theming its openair film selection around different parts of its season. So, when it kicked off for summer 2022–23 in November and December, it featured a heap of Christmas fare, naturally. When February hits, it'll be time for love — whether you're heading along with a date or mate. Surrounding both Valentine's Day and Galentine's Day — yes, Leslie Knope would be proud — Moonlight Cinema's just-revealed February program includes a week of romantic pictures spanning new and classic titles. Magic Mike's Last Dance will get a whirl, as will the Lily James (Pam & Tommy)-starring What's Love Got to Do With It. And, if you're fond of movie blasts from the past, perennial favourites 10 Things I Hate About You, The Notebook and Muriel's Wedding are also on the bill, as are the Julia Roberts-led Notting Hill and Pretty Woman. Other highlights include Australian favourites The Castle and Strictly Ballroom among the other retro titles — the latter, from Baz Luhrmann, also getting romantic — as well as repeat sessions of A Man Called Otto, Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody and Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre. Because the exact roster varies per city — and because Brisbane and Adelaide's season wraps up mid-February — some venues will also get treated to creepy doll thriller M3GAN, plus sneak-peek sessions of the cinema-loving, Olivia Colman-starring Empire of Light and Bill Nighy drama Living. As always, one piece of advice bears repeating: pack your picnic basket and get ready to watch a heap of flicks under the summer evening sky. Nosh-wise, Moonlight Cinema is letting you bring BYO movie snacks and drinks (no alcohol in Brisbane, though), but the unorganised can also enjoy a plethora of bites to eat from food trucks — perfect, messy treats made for reclining on bean beds. There's also a VIP section for an extra-luxe openair movie experience, a beauty cart handing out samples, and dogs are welcome at all sites except Perth — and there's even special doggo bean beds, and a snack menu for pooches. And, on Sundays in February, Moonlight Cinema will host a Singleton Whisky cart in Melbourne and Sydney. MOONLIGHT CINEMA 2022–23 DATES Brisbane: Thursday, November 24–Sunday, February 19 in Roma Street Parkland Sydney: Thursday, November 24–Sunday, March 26 in Centennial Park Perth: Friday, November 25–Sunday, March 26 in Kings Park and Botanic Garden Adelaide: Thursday, December 1–Sunday, February 19 in Botanic Park Melbourne: Thursday, December 1–Sunday, March 26 in Royal Botanic Gardens Moonlight Cinema runs through until March 2023, with dates varying per city. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the cinema's website — and we'll update you with further program details when they're announced.
Australia is getting accustomed to life without single-use plastic bags, but Europe is going one step further, with the European Union today voting to ban ten single-use plastic items by 2021. The European Parliament first drew up the plan in May last year, which is designed to specifically combat the growing amount of plastic that's clogging up the world's oceans. The ban will target ten items that are most frequently found on beaches, including plastic cutlery, plates, cups, stirrers and straws, as well as cotton buds and balloon sticks. This comes after researchers predicted that plastic will outweigh fish in our oceans by 2050. By 2029, all EU members will also be required to collect 90 percent of single-use plastic beverage bottles for recycling, while awareness campaigns will ramp up for the reduced consumption of other single-use products and countries will need to fund the public clean-up of litter — such as tobacco filters and fishing great — from beaches and oceans. A year later, in 2030, the EU is aiming to make all of its plastic packaging reusable or recyclable. You can dive into the nitty gritty of its plan here (if you please). The European Parliament passed the ban on Wednesday, March 27, and member states will have two years years to implement the legislation into their own national law. It is the latest recognition that the war on waste is one that needs serious attention. The British parliament announced plans to go plastic-free early last year, France will ban plastic plates, cups and cutlery from 2020, while Hobart will become the first Australian city to ban single-use plastics. And that's on top of the flurry of supermarkets, big name brands, well-known food chains and furniture behemoths making their own commitments to reduce, recycle or eradicate single-use plastics from their operations. The European Union's single-use plastic ban will be introduced by 2021.
In Groundhog Day, weatherman Phil Connors (Bill Murray) finds himself reliving the celebratory occasion over and over again. Since 1993, viewers have been able to enjoy their own looping experience, simply by watching and rewatching the movie. But later this year, there'll be another way to step into the beloved comedy's world — by jumping into the feature's virtual reality sequel. After being adapted into an award-winning stage musical back in 2016, Groundhog Day is now getting a follow-up. Coming to a VR headset rather than to the big screen, Groundhog Day: Like Father Like Son takes fans back to Punxsutawney, reunites with the Connors family, and lets players experience the joys — and stresses — of repeating the same events again and again. As the title suggests, however, it doesn't focus on Murray's misanthropic character. We all know that Phil Connors really spent the original flick not only waiting to see if a woodchuck sees a shadow, getting frustrated and dying repeatedly, but learning how to value life and his loved ones. This time around, his son Phil Connors Jr will follow in his footsteps, all while experiencing his own bad, endless day. If you've chosen your way through Black Mirror: Bandersnatch, you can now do the same thing with this VR game, playing as the younger Phil and trying to break the cycle. Here's hoping that Sonny and Cher's "I Got You Babe" features on the soundtrack — you know that you're going to have it stuck in your head anyway. The news comes with the best possible timing, given that Saturday, February 2 marked this year's actual Groundhog Day. At Gobbler's Knob, 'Seer of Seers, Sage of Sages, Prognosticator of Prognosticators' Punxsutawney Phil didn't see his shadow, meaning that spring is on the way in the US. As for the game that this marmot-inspired superstition has given rise to, audiences will be able to see it on PlayStation VR, Oculus Rift and HTC Vive at a yet-to-be-announced date later in 2019. Check out the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rHHzQlqXdU Via Variety.
Whether it be reluctant landlords, a busy schedule or allergic flatmates, the predicament of every city-dwelling cat-lover is not being able to have one. But Yarraville couple Anita and Myles Loughran are offering hope to these frustrated feline fanatics. They have quit their uninspiring jobs in pursuit of the dream: opening Melbourne's first cat cafe. The first cat cafes opened their doors in Japan and Taiwan in the early 2000s. Since then it has been a steadily growing phenomenon, with similar establishments popping up in Europe and Asia. The Loughrans plan on housing a number of ex-stray cats, and have launched an Indiegogo campaign to raise the necessary funds to provide the best possible environment for these loveable rescues. As well as offering Melburnians a much-needed kitty fix, the venture is aimed at raising awareness and will accept donations to various shelters and welfare programs. Unlike the traditional cat cafe, to comply with Australia's food safety regulations, there will be a glass screen separating the main cat area and the cafe area, providing a fur-free space to enjoy coffee and cake. Not to worry, customers will still be able to interact with the cats; in fact, this model of 'feline therapy' has been scientifically proven to help lower high blood pressure, stress levels and anxiety. If you're keen to see Australia's first cat cafe come to fruition in Melbourne, you can donate online at Indiegogo. How could you say no to those cute little faces? https://youtube.com/watch?v=kHjpSiJ8gfY
When you've been sipping on blue milk, how ready will you be to battle the Galactic Empire? Will tucking into green burgers and dessert space stations get you fuelled to rebel against oppression? There's only one way to find out the answers to these questions: by visiting the brand-new Star Wars Galactic Cafe, an Australian-first eatery that's now open at Melbourne Museum. After the Victorian venue became the top spot right now, in this very galaxy, to see Star Wars come to life via Lego courtesy of the world-premiering Lego Star Wars: The Exhibition — and the only place to check out life-sized recreations of the space saga's locations, characters, duels and moments as made out of eight-million-plus plastic bricks, in fact — the same site has welcomed another Aussie debut. As first announced back in May, never before has an official Star Wars cafe popped up Down Under. This one is only here for a limited season. Yes, blue milk is definitely on offer, because it wouldn't be a Star Wars-themed spot for a snack and a sip without it. You can enjoy it chilled or as part of a slushie. And the source of that all-important hue? Butterfly pea flower powder. The cafe's full food and drink range features other dishes and selections inspired by the franchise — and while there's no green milk or fish eggs, green-hued burgs and a Death Star by chocolate sweet treat are ready to tempt your tastebuds. Fittingly, the bites and drinks have names like Canto Bight Burger, Naboo Garden Vermicelli, Outer Rim Chicken Katsu and Tatooine Sunset. Also on offer: a Chewie gingerbread cookie that adorably resembles its namesake. A range of kids meal packs are available, too, with monikers such as Endo Explorer (featuring chicken nuggets) and Padawan Power (with a hummus and salad sandwich). Open since Saturday, June 7, 2025 and set to run until January 2026, the Star Wars Galactic Cafe is the result of Australian-first collaboration between Museums Victoria, Disney and Lucasfilm. The decor matches the menu, with the pop-up delivering an immersive eating and drinking experience beyond what you're consuming by taking you to a Corellian Star Cruiser to get feasting. If this sounds like the kind of spot that'll be popular, that's because it already is — so bookings are encouraged, with walk-in availability limited. Images: Carmen Zammit, courtesy of Museums Victoria.
Since 2021, Brisbanites have known that the Queensland capital will host the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Where exactly around the city? How will the lead-up to the sporting event impact residents? What will Brisbane gain afterwards? That's all remained an ongoing debate. First, the Gabba was being completely demolished and rebuilt, for instance. Then it wasn't. A temporary stadium at the RNA Showgrounds was suggested as a plan for the AFL and cricket if the Gabba was torn down. Then it wasn't needed. Adding a brand-new permanent stadium to Victoria Park at Herston was floated, then rejected, too, before upgrading Suncorp Stadium and the Queensland Sports and Athletics Centre was confirmed as the way forward in 2024. A year after the decision to use QSAC, following a change of government in the Sunshine State over that time, the situation has evolved again. Premier David Crisafulli has announced the new 2032 Delivery Plan, following a 100-day review of the proposed setup to stage the Olympics and Paralympics in Brisbane. The outcome: saying hello to a stadium at Victoria Park again, bidding farewell to Roma Street's proposed live arena and also getting ready to for eventual goodbyes to Woolloongabba's Brisbane Cricket Ground. [caption id="attachment_818960" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Victoria Park[/caption] Set to be carried out by the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority, the new $7.1-billion venue capital works program will see Victoria Park score that new stadium, despite community concerns about losing inner-city green space. What this means for the long-held plans to transform the patch of Herston into a 64-hectare parkland with a tree house lookout, water play gully, high-ropes course, mountain bike track, reinstated water holes and wetlands, and more is yet to be revealed. The new stadium will seat 63,000 people, and will become the future home of the Brisbane Lions, Brisbane Heat and Queensland Bulls, alongside being able to host major concerts. [caption id="attachment_904761" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr[/caption] Also part of the 2032 Delivery Plan is a new National Aquatic Centre at what's now the Centenary Pool in Spring Hill, with capacity for 25,000 spectators during the games and 8000 afterwards. Nearby, the RNA Showgrounds will get an upgraded arena that can welcome in 20,000 patrons, as well as hosting the athlete village for 15,000 competitors — and the latter will become permanent housing following the games. Still in Brisbane, the Queensland Tennis Centre will be upgraded as well, gaining a new permanent 3000-spectator show court, plus 12 new match courts — and the Chandler Sporting Precinct will become a site dedicated to para-sports. Elsewhere around the state, the Premier also advised that the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast will host athlete villages, Toowoomba Showgrounds will become an Equestrian Centre of Excellence, and Rockhampton's Fitzroy River will be the location for rowing and canoe events. Parklands and beaches around Queensland will become live sites and temporary venues, too, adding to the games' footprint. [caption id="attachment_929048" align="alignnone" width="1920"] JRA_WestyQld2 via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] With the National Aquatic Centre, the future of Brisbane Arena — a new live music venue at Roma Street Parklands that was set to host a drop-in pool for the Olympics — has changed. Clearly swimming there is no longer needed. In the press conference announcing the new way forward for the games, the Premier revealed that Brisbane Arena isn't an aspect of the 2032 Delivery Plan, but the government will instead work with the private sector to make the venue a reality in Woolloongabba, opposite where the Gabba currently sits. The Gabba will also still get torn down, albeit not for the Olympics. So, expect the River City to start looking a whole lot different, not just at the central Olympics precinct across Spring Hill, Bowen Hills and Victoria Park, but beyond. The plans also span transport network improvements, as will be greatly needed, including new rail lines and stations, new bus corridors, faster rail between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, and M1 upgrades. [caption id="attachment_782238" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Gabba, Your Next Kid via Wikipedia Commons[/caption] For more information about the plans for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, head to the Queensland Government website. Top image:.
It's been a huge few weeks for Australian tour news — Kraftwerk! Meredith! Strawberry Fields! This That! Summer Camp! Paul McCartney! Harvest Rock! Pendulum! Flight Facilities! Weezer! Beyond The Valley! Field Day! Bluesfest! — but only one big announcement can whip it, whip it good. When Good Things returns for 2023, it'll hit Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane with new-wave icons Devo on the bill. The 'Girl U Want' band will be celebrating 50 years since first forming in 1973, and also saying goodbye on a farewell tour that'll mark their last-ever Australian shows. Devo's famous energy dome hats will be on display at Centennial Park, Flemington Racecourse and Brisbane Showgrounds this December, on a jam-packed Good Things lineup that is brimming with nostalgia-inducing acts — including Fall Out Boy. A day after teasing that they were heading Down Under, the group behind 'Sugar, We're Goin Down' and 'Uma Thurman' have been confirmed as festival headliners, playing both tunes dating back to their 2000s heyday and recent tracks. From there, Good Things keeps rollin', rollin', rollin', rollin' with Limp Bizkit; will see Slipknot frontman Corey Taylor hit the stage solo; and is guaranteed to burst with punk energy thanks to Pennywise. Bullet for My Valentine, Taking Back Sunday and I Prevail are also on the bill, plus Enter Shikari, Pvris, Behemoth and Sepultura. Fresh from featuring a reunited TISM in 2022, Good Things boasts a packed roster of local names in 2023, too, celebrating Australian alternative rock with Spiderbait, Frenzal Rhomb, Jebediah and Eskimo Joe. On both the international and homegrown front, the list goes on, including Hanabie, While She Sleeps, Magnolia Park, Short Stack, Boom Crash Opera, Luca Brasi and more. And yes, this is a fest where you can likely hear 'Whip It', 'Dance, Dance', 'Society' and 'Buy Me a Pony' live on the same day, plus 'The Last Fight', 'Leaving Home', 'Punch in the Face' and a very non-George Michael cover of 'Faith' as well. GOOD THINGS 2023 LINEUP: Fall Out Boy Limp Bizkit Devo (The Farewell Tour celebrating 50 years) I Prevail Bullet For My Valentine Corey Taylor Pennywise Spiderbait Slowly Slowly Enter Shikari Behemoth Sepultura Taking Back Sunday PVRIS Bloom Boom Crash Opera Eskimo Joe Frenzal Rhomb Hanabie Jebediah Luca Brasi Magnolia Park Make Them Suffer Ocean Sleeper Royal & The Serpent Short Stack Slaughter To Prevail Stand Atlantic Tapestry The Plot In You While She Sleeps GOOD THINGS 2023 DATES: Friday, December 1 — Flemington Racecourse, Melbourne Saturday, December 2 — Centennial Park, Sydney Sunday, December 3 — Brisbane Showgrounds, Brisbane Good Things will hit the Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane in December 2023. Pre-sale tickets go on sale from 10am, Tuesday, August 22, and general sales from 10am on Thursday, August 24. Head to the festival website for more info and to register for pre-sales. Top image: swimfinfan via Wikimedia Commons.
It's already one of the most anticipated films of 2017 — Danny Boyle's iconic 1996 film Trainspotting is finally getting the sequel you kind of don't want to see but can't look away from. Set to be released on February 9, T2 will apparently be loosely based on Irvine Welsh's 2002 novel Porno, which was released six years after the film of Trainspotting. And while Trainspotting was perhaps the most effective campaign against shooting up heroin (and the need to learn the dialect and slang of Edinburgh youth), T2 may well do the same for the amateur porn industry. Don't worry, there'll probably still be gratuitous drug use. The old guard is back, with Ewan McGregor, Ewen Bremner, Jonny Lee Miller and Robert Carlyle reunited by Boyle, and even John Hodge, the screenwriter of Trainspotting, has worked on the film. Here's the latest trailer, one of the more detailed we've seen pop up ahead of the film's release. Take a peek and see Mark Renton (McGregor) returning to the only place he can ever call home. Gang's all here. T2 is in cinemas February 9.
