Last time Hunx & His Punx were here — back in 2012 — they charmed many an Antipodean heart with their penchant for getting (nearly) naked, offers to autograph genitalia and expletive-rich expressions of self-desire. In short, they delivered nothing less than what you’d expect of San Francisco’s maddest and baddest bubblegum punk band. So it’s only natural that we’ve invited them back. And this time, they’re bringing Shannon and the Clams in their suitcases for a five-date April tour that will see the two bands smashing genres at The Zoo on April 22. Since their previous visit, Hunx & His Punx have been busy blending ‘80s hardcore and ‘90s grrrl sounds to create nasty yet catchy tunes for their new album Street Punk, which was released in 2013 via Hardly Art. Meanwhile, co-tourers Shannon and the Clams have lately been spending time playing SXSW sideshows and Psych Fest and hitting the road via Burgerama tours. They mash ‘60s girl group sounds with West Coast garage rock, delivering “doo woppers, bomp stompers, punk rippers, country clippers and psych-o trippers”. Trying say that really quickly five times in a row. Tickets on sale on Friday, 14 March. Tickets via The Zoo.
When you're making shapes to a live set at the Woodford Folk Festival you're probably not thinking about what comes next. No, we don't mean the reality that is your post-fest life. We're talking about the impact of so many friendly revellers upon the event's luscious natural setting. Of course, the folks behind the annual event always have that on their mind. In fact, they've crafted a yearly pilgrimage to help redress the damage the festival does to the environment. It started as a tree-planting working bee back in 1997, and has evolved into something even bigger. Think talks, presentations and performances, as well as daily planting and weeding activities. In 2017, The Planting includes conversations about everything from activism and astrophysics to female brewers and herbal first aid— and yes, that's just the beginning of a lineup that features Helen Razer, Michael Leunig and Richard Fidler among the speakers. Learning more about natural plant dyeing, beekeeping, pilates and making profiteroles are also on the very eclectic agenda, as are wildlife-focused bushwalks, a host of culinary cook-ups, a craft beer appreciation class and more than a few meditation sessions. Music-wise, Band of Frequencies, Hollow Coves, Gawurra and The East Pointers are among those on the bill, while film fans can check out on-topic docos such as Sherpa and Frackman. And, by camping out and doing your part to give back to the place and space that hosts such a fantastic cultural event, you're not only making sure you can see in the new year there in the future, but that generations to come will be able to too. Image: The Planting.
The vacation's easy-going relative — the staycation — is a hot contender when looking to hit refresh on the monotony of our day to day. Without the need for annual leave applications, passport searching or airport shenanigans, it could even beat out ol' vacay. And what's better than a luxe staycation, you ask? A free luxe staycation. Enter JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa. We've teamed up with the five-star digs in Surfers Paradise to give away a two-night mid-week staycation — with brekkie each morning — and a five-course degustation for two at the award-winning on-site restaurant, Citrique. A true shake up to the normal Monday–Friday routine. Citrique welcomes diners with light and bright energy courtesy of high ceilings, expansive windows, a lush leafy outlook and a bevy of flashy live cooking stations. The all-day dining destination serves top-quality fresh, local and seasonal produce from 6.30am till 9.30pm. Our morning eyes are firmly on the lighter-than-air soufflé pancakes. Already sold? Head to the bottom of the page for details on how to enter. Or, for a closer look at the farm-to-table offering, read on. For after-dark dining, start with small plates. Perhaps the Vegetable Garden — heirloom carrots and baby beets direct to your plate from Tamborine Mountain — or maybe the Bay Bug dumplings, for delicate Moreton Bay bug parcels swimming in bisque sauce with coconut sambal and fresh-snipped herbs atop. On to the larger offering and you'll be tasked with choosing between Tablelands duck breast with a lavender-honey glaze or oven-baked snowfish beneath white miso sauce. Fire-roasted pumpkin with gnocchi and smoked garlic keeps it hot for the veggie-centric. And if you take out the top spot in the competition, you and your dinner date will be sipping a glass of Moët & Chandon, too. Booked a weekend visit? From Friday to Sunday, surrender to your oceanic feast of dreams at Citrique's award-winning seafood buffet. Prized Mooloolaba prawns join the likes of Pacific oysters, blue swimmer crabs and vongole. Opt for a dessert-imitates-life finisher via the Citrus Illusion (lemon curd and white chocolate moonlighting as a lemon), or stick to the signature gold bar — a chocolate glaze hiding a rich mousse, crisp feuilletine and salted caramel, with accompanying peanut ice cream for a grown-up serve of Snickers. All this gastronomical fun — plus a couple of heaven-sent nights of sleep in a spacious Hinterland King Room — could be yours to share with your date (or very lucky mate), just enter below. [competition]858895[/competition]
Struggling with returning to work after the Christmas break? Hankering for a brew to cope with the shock? Let's be honest — we all are. If you grab a drink between now and Sunday, January 12, your next beer will do more than just help you water down the back-to-the-grind blues — it'll also support folks affected by the bushfires, as well as those fighting the blazes. All week, East Brisbane's Semi-Pro Brewing Co is putting on karma kegs, with all proceeds going to the Red Cross Bushfire Recovery Appeal. Buy a Session Ale, and 100-percent of your money will be donated to this very worthy cause. Buy several — whether you're shouting your mates or settling in for the long haul — and you'll be putting even more of your cash in the hands of those who need it. Semi-Pro opens from Wednesday–Sunday, trading from 4pm–8pm on Wednesdays, 4pm–10pm on Thursdays, 3pm–10pm on Fridays and 12–10pm on the weekend.
Brisbanites have been through more than a few COVID-19 outbreaks now, and the lockdowns and restrictions that come with them. So, when they happen, we now know what to expect. In 2020, we saw what occurred when the Ekka was affected by the pandemic, for instance — and now all of those same things are happening again, including cancelling the event and scrapping the usual midweek public holiday. Last year, this exact chain of events also occurred; however, the public holiday was rescheduled to the Friday of the same week, all so Brisbanites could still enjoy a day off at that time of year and also score a long weekend. This time, the Queensland Government has announced that the public holiday will no longer proceed on Wednesday, August 11 as planned, but just when it'll be moved to won't be known until at least the end of the month. So, that day off you were looking forward to next week? That midweek sleep-in? That lazy day, even if the city was still in lockdown? Sadly, it's no longer happening. But, in terms of looking on the bright side, you will nab a public holiday at a later date in 2021 — and likely when Brisbane isn't under stay-at-home conditions. The new date is likely to give everyone a long weekend as well. https://twitter.com/AnnastaciaMP/status/1422710195231203331 Announcing the news at Queensland's daily COVID-19 press conference today, Wednesday, August 4, Deputy Premier Steven Miles said that "with the Ekka cancelled and the likelihood that we will still see some restrictions in Brisbane next week, we have made the decision to cancel the Brisbane Ekka public holiday on Wednesday. It will be rescheduled to some time later in the year. We have not yet determined when." He continued: "last year, when we delayed the public holiday to create a new special long weekend, we saw Queenslanders flock to tourist destinations, spending money in our hospitality businesses — and so we'd hope to create a similar opportunity again for Queenslanders to support our local tourism operators and local hospitality businesses. We'll have more to say about that as that decision is being made. We can cancel the holiday by regulation, so we have gone ahead and done that. To create the new rescheduled holiday, we need to go to Parliament and pass legislation. That won't be able to happen until the end of August at the earliest." The change of date will only apply to Brisbane council areas that receive the Brisbane Show Holiday; however, other councils may similarly change their show holidays to a later date due to COVID-19. Queensland reported 17 new locally acquired COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours to 6am today, Wednesday, August 4, with 100 cases now active across the state. Brisbane's 'People's Day' public holiday will no longer take place on Wednesday, August 11, and will be rescheduled to some point later in 2021. We'll update you when a new date is announced. For more information about the status of COVID-19 in Queensland, head to the QLD COVID-19 hub and the Queensland Health website. More details about the lockdown and associated restrictions can also be found on the Queensland Health website.
There are no losers or weepers when it comes to the Brisbane Finders Keepers markets; everyone wins thanks to the explosion of talent that can be found here. From bespoke stationery, to sassy gift cards, to animal-shaped cushions and typewriter key cufflinks, it is clear that every creation here has been made from a labour of love. Located at the Old Museum in Herston, the heritage building bustles with enthusiastic crafters sharing trade secrets with mind-blown untalented people (like yours truly) walking around with their eyes wide and jaws to the floor. After you finish ogling (and purchasing) whichever crafty designs take your fancy you can head down to the food stalls and enjoy a delicious meal in the sun listening to the live music acts throughout the day.
The Australian government's attitude towards asylum seekers and immigrants has inspired many things: anger, disbelief, sadness, public outcry, plenty of well-written words and more. In Michelle Stemm, it has sparked a series of silverware pieces, with the silversmith combining her research into the impact of human migration and her chosen art form. Displaying at Artisan from August 26 to November 4, Empathy to Infiltration is the end result — and you won't find any ordinary silver platters here. The showcase visually depicts Stemm's findings through reclaimed serving items decked out with familiar symbols and recognisable motifs. Each creation is designed to express messages that Stemm considers pivotal in shaping the way the country currently thinks and feels about refugees. If you didn't think tableware could make a statement, you haven't seen this. To inform her work, the Brisbane-based practitioner conducted one-on-one interviews and researched social and print media in 2016.
No one needs an excuse to slurp their way through a brothy bowl of ramen, and no matter the weather, but Motto Motto South Bank has a good one: $1 serves. The chain's latest Brisbane store is celebrating its official opening with 400 super-cheap meals on Saturday, February 3. Gold coins at the ready. For $1 Ramen Day, only this store will be serving up the deal, and you will need to get in early. If you're the 401st person to rock up from 11am, sadly you'll be too late. That's your Saturday lunch sorted, while stocks last — so having an early bite to eat will be a smart plan. Also, there's a limit of one $1 bowl per person. You'll be tucking into Motto Motto's signature classic tonkotsu, which obviously features pork broth, plus shoyu kaeshi, freshly made noodles, a marinated soft-boiled egg, fresh shallots and seaweed. Folks in the line will also score a free taste of the chain's new popcorn scallop.
In 2016, Cheated Hearts fans discovered that parting was such sweet sorrow. From 10pm on Friday, May 12, they'll learn how happy coming back together can be. The beloved queer-friendly night is returning for a massive ten-year reunion, because it has indeed been that long since it started hosting music-fuelled LGBTQIA+ get-togethers in Brisbane. Your destination: La La Land, aka the upstairs space at The Prince Consort. Of course, this party is marking the occasion it in its own classic style. The music will be loud. The dance floor will be packed. And everyone will be catching up, getting nostalgic, remembering way back when and having a helluva time. The dress code: donning your party best, with glitter, costumes and going all out heartily encouraged. If you need help once you're there, free face painting is just one of the event's perks. Jane Doe, Logan, Killer Prince and Tough Sook are among the DJs hitting the decks, with tickets only available in advance for $26.62.
Sara Jordenö might be in Australia to screen her debut documentary at this year's Sydney Film Festival; however showcasing Kiki to cinephiles down south isn't the only stop on her itinerary. Much to the delight of creative types further north, she's also heading to Brisbane. The visual artist turned documentarian will chat about collaboration in documentary cinema — and social practice public art projects, too — at the Institute of Modern Art. Given that Kiki offers audiences an energetic look at New York City's voguing ballroom scene, she'll certainly have plenty to discuss. There's a reason that Sydney Film Festival not only programmed her film but also anointed Jordenö one of the fest's ten women directors to watch, after all. And that honour caps off a big year all-round for the Swedish filmmaker, with Kiki also screening at the 2016 Berlin International Film Festival and taking home the Teddy Award for its troubles.
If jungle vibes inside a Coorparoo warehouse sounds like your perfect outing, head along to the Jungle Collective's indoor plant sale on Saturday, February 8 and Sunday, February 9. It's the latest greenery-filled Brissie market from The Jungle Collective, a Melbourne nursery that stocks all kinds of weird and wonderful species. Yes, it is trucking its way up north again for another Queensland venture. Whether you're after a hanging pot plant, some palms for the garden or a giant Bird of Paradise, chances are you'll find it here. Have a reputation for killing your cacti? Overwatering your ferns? Don't worry — there'll be horticulturalists on site on the night to give you advice and chat through any questions you might have. Get inspired by greenery aplenty and learn to incorporate plants into your home and living spaces, all while browsing and soaking up some tunes. Best get in quick though — these markets are always popular, with more than 170 different species usually on offer. Due to expected demand, the sale will be held in four sessions on Saturday (8-10am, 10am-noon, 12-2pm and 2-4pm) and two on Sunday (10am-noon, 12-2pm), and attendees will need to register for free tickets in advance from midday on Monday, January 27. Plus, if you wear at least two items of beach attire — and spend at least $10 — you'll get $5 off your purchase, because this sale is 'summer'-themed.
From the mind of writer/director Rian Johnson comes Looper, a dizzying example of incredible and imaginative storytelling through told the lens of Science Fiction. Looper features rapidly-rising star Joseph Gordon-Levitt and established veteran Bruce Willis playing the same character, only 30 years apart. The film sets a new standard for time travel story lines and is a gripping and imaginative film. Fans of mind-bending twists and fast paced action will enjoy this movie, which also features great performances from Emily Blunt, Paul Dano and Jeff Daniels. Get to your nearest theatre and watch what is fast becoming one of the most talked about films of the year.
In need of some new procrastination material? Well, you're in luck. Google image search 'Banff' and spend a few minutes (or half an hour) taking in the gorgeous pictures of snow-capped mountains, aqua water and towering pines. It's impossible to not daydream about holidaying somewhere far-flung and exciting while ogling these picture-perfect views, as we're sure you'll agree. Thankfully, from April 9 to 14, you'll have the opportunity to slip into this magical world without ever leaving Brisbane. Brisbane Powerhouse is once again hosting Banff Mountain Film Festival's 2018 tour — the event's latest stopover, after beginning back in 1976. Its stunning cinematography attracts film buffs and adventurers alike making the festival popular across the world today. Every November, hundreds of films enter the competition with the cream of the crop chosen to entertain and amaze festival goers. Some of the featured flicks battled it out in categories including Best Film on Mountain Sport, Best Film on Mountain Environment, Best Film on Mountain Culture, Best Film on Exploration and Adventure, People's Choice Award and more.
Drones: if filmmakers aren't deploying them to capture bird's-eye sights, they're making thrillers about their use and impact. Expect plenty of the former at Drone Film Festival Australia + New Zealand, as lofty visuals get their time to shine — and swoop, soar, float, glide and more. Touring Australia throughout September and October, the fest showcases 36 unique short drone films, stories and documentaries from around the world, including those made by filmmakers, production companies and everyday drone hobby enthusiasts. It's the kind of cinematic package those not so fond of heights mightn't be eager to see, so consider yourself warned. For the rest of us, however, it's a chance to look at the world from a whole new vantage. Last year's highlights included superhero-like tales, jaunts through natural and urban spaces, and even a beer odyssey, as filmmaking took to the skies thanks to the latest unmanned aerial technology. Expect a whole new crop when the festival comes to the Schonell on October 24 for a one-night-only stopover.
A great trailer does two things: makes you want to run to the cinemas to see the film in question, and makes you hit replay on the preview itself the moment it's finished. Or, thanks to the rise of TV trailers, it inspires your next date with your couch. You'll want to get as comfy as possible to binge-watch the next season of your favourite show, after all. Indeed, in the US, plenty of folks have been lounging around on their sofas today — and watching trailers. When the Super Bowl rolls around each year, the US gets immersed in one of the country's favourite sports, American football fans around the world join in the fun, and so do movie buffs. With so many eyes glued to the screen during the game, it's a prime slot to premiere the latest film previews during the commercial breaks. The biggest match of the year meets the biggest flicks of the year, naturally. This year's batch certainly kept to the theme, particularly where new instalments of long-running series are involved. Want to catch your first glimpse of Solo: A Star Wars Story? The next Jurassic Park movie, aka Jurassic World: Forbidden Kingdom? Mission: Impossible — Fallout, the sixth title in the Tom Cruise-starring franchise? The latest Cloverfield effort, which will then start streaming on Netflix once the game is over? Keen on some superhero action with Avengers: Infinity War? They're all here. Also on the agenda: The Rock versus a tall building in Skyscraper (because why not?), and a sneak peek at the second season of Westworld (which now has a US release date — April 22). There's also the John Krasinski-directed apocalyptic thriller A Quiet Place, which he also features in opposite Emily Blunt, plus the new Krasinski-starring Jack Ryan TV series. Plus, another look at Jennifer Lawrence getting her spy game on in Red Sparrow and the Castle Rock clip we were all watching just a few days ago aired as well. Check out the full slate below, and add them to your viewing list. SOLO: A STAR WARS STORY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Szts88zY4o In Australian cinemas May 24. JURASSIC WORLD: FALLEN KINGDOM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NooW_RbfdWI In Australian cinemas June 7. MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE — FALLOUT https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wb49-oV0F78 In Australian cinemas August 2. SKYSCRAPER https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THWBs0_khNs In Australian cinemas July 12. THE CLOVERFIELD PARADOX https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8brYvhEg5Aw On Netflix today. AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVxOVlm_lE8 In Australian cinemas April 25. WESTWORLD https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qUmfriZoMw0 Australian airdate TBC A QUIET PLACE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P8Q6ma2sfJQ In Australian cinemas May 10. JACK RYAN https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V69XYIRjKww On Amazon August 31. RED SPARROW https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M9VqmPX8m2k In Australian cinemas March 1. CASTLE ROCK https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwmhiqUPa28 Australian airdate TBC.
More than just that patch of grass and trees at the edge of the CBD, the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens boasts a whole heap of wonders — gorgeous greenery, ponds filled with cute turtles, free exercise classes and more. From April 6 to 15, it's also the site of Brissie's first major outdoor contemporary art exhibition: Botanica. For ten days, the gardens will come alive with artworks, talks, workshops, choirs, puppets and more, including Kerrie Poliness' geometric line drawings across the park's manicured lawns, which she'll tend to live throughout the event. Or, stop by on April 13 for Botanica by night, which will involve all of the above plus food trucks and live music. And if you're wondering about the timing, yes Botanica is part of The Festival, the huge arts and culture fest that's running alongside of the Commonwealth Games. While the athletes are getting active on the Gold Coast, you can roam through the centre of Brisbane and see its natural splendour in a whole new way. Image: Field Drawing #1 by Kerrie Poliness, courtesy the artist and Anna Schwartz Gallery.
Open the cinema doors, HAL, because one of Brisbane's cinemas is serving up a special film feast. You won't need someone to strap you to a chair and force your eyes open with a specula to get you to watch this fantastic movie lineup — and you won't have to don a robe while you're there, either. Woolloongabba's Angelika Film Centre is turning its attention to celebrating a movie master, with the one and only Stanley Kubrick in the spotlight. On Wednesdays and Saturdays between Saturday, August 17–Wednesday, September 11, the picture palace is unleashing four of the British filmmaker's full-length features upon eager cinephiles during its Angelika Auteurs: Stanley Kubrick season. Kubrick's final completed effort, aka the Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise-starring erotic thriller Eyes Wide Shut, is on the list. So is plunging into the horrors of the Vietnam War with Full Metal Jacket. And sure, 2001: A Space Odyssey and A Clockwork Orange pop up in retro programs around the country quite often, but there's never a bad time to see these classics the way that they were meant to be seen.
Brisbane's riverside Howard Smith Wharves precinct loves a party, hosting Italian festivals, throwing shindigs for Easter, celebrating margaritas and basically finding whichever reason it can to bring people together. That includes getting into the revelry every week at its long-running Weekends on the Lawn series. Taking place from 3pm on Saturdays and 2pm on Sundays, the event welcomes in Brisbanites eager to kick back by the water, have a bite to eat and knock back a few drinks. Bring along your mates to enjoy a refreshing beverage — Felons Brewing Co. is right there, after all, and isn't your only option. There's also be plenty of food to dig into, because lining your stomach is important. Mr Percival's, Greca, Yoko, Betty's Burgers, Goodtimes Gelateria and more are all right there, too with contactless ordering and payment via your phone available. Running until late, the live tunes echo until 6pm on Saturdays and 5pm on Sundays, with the lineup changing weekly. All that's left is to grab your friends and your pets, and enjoy that sultry Brissie weather by the water. And entry is free, but your wallet is needed for drinks and bites.
Introducing a must-do for dog owners who can't bear to be parted from their pooches: the Doggy Drive-In. Yatala's trusty site is welcoming all doggos for a chill night out at the movies on Saturday, June 8 and Sunday, June 9. Alright, so we can almost guarantee it won't be relaxing — no doubt the pups will run everywhere, sniff, snuffle, make friends, leave presents — and you won't have much time to sit and watch the movie. But dammit, there'll be so many pats to deliver. So for those of you who love dogs and movies and solid date ideas and watching films in your car, this could be your perfect outing. Yatala will be showing an advance screening of The Secret Life of Pets 2 for extra cute points — and there'll also be a runway pet fashion show, so dress your canine in its most adorable outfit and endeavour to win some prizes. Gates will open at 5.30pm each day — for plenty of pats and snacks — with the film commencing at 6.30pm. Tickets cost $35 per carload, which includes your pet pupper and up to six people.
Accidentally Annie Street Space is a Brisbane-based, artist-led initiative that has been operating out of the living room of its directors on Annie Street, Auchenflower, since 2008. In years past, AASS has been home (literally) to exhibitions such as Pixel/Stitch and House Party. This year, Accidentally Annie Street Space launches its new off site program with Soft Site, a one-night-only exhibition that playfully engages the notion of a cheap motel room as a site for a contemporary art exhibition. Risk, intrigue, sex, escapism, anonymity – the cheap motel room is laden with delicious possibilities. Soft Site marks a shift in Accidentally Annie Street Space’s style, being the first in a program of shows that no longer rely solely on the director’s home as a gallery. Based out of a motel room in Kangaroo Point, Soft Site will feature experimental works by Brisbane artists Chris Bennie, Tim Woodward and Victorian-based Lou Hubbard in an exhibition that aims to demonstrate the vitality of Brisbane’s artistic production outside of commercially orientated or institutional spaces. Accidentally Annie Street Space’s Offsite program is a unique and exciting addition to the burgeoning Brisbane art scene.
It’s that time of year again - you probably remember the feeling from your primary years when the last, sweltering week of school was reserved for watching movies, stacking desks, and taking home those crazy art projects that you couldn’t quite recall your inspiration for and thus have taken on a personality independent of your own. Think of that feeling, times it by one hundred, add a bachelor degree and a smattering of existential crises - now you’ll have an inkling for the vibe that is going down at QCA this month. To That Which Is is the name of this year’s exhibition of graduating Fine Art and Media and Visual Art students from the Queensland College of Art. It is one of several graduate exhibitions occurring this month at Queensland’s premier art school and will feature works across a wide range of media from Brisbane’s most talented emerging artists.
Tales of paranoia, blame, scapegoats, shouting forceful opinions and enforcing religious standards aren't hard to come by these days. Nor are stories where women bear the brunt of all of the above — and that's just in the news. But, before world affairs played out on social media, and even before The Handmaid's Tale had everyone exploring the consequences of female oppression, The Crucible waded into this very territory. In his now-classic play, Arthur Miller examined American history, as well the 1950s climate of McCarthyism, while also crafting a story of a divisive society that still rings true 65 years later. You won't hear about emails and fake news here, but you will see a fictionalised account of a community scrambling to point fingers. Sounds familiar, doesn't it? Of course, this one is set during the Salem witch trials. No stranger to the city's stages, the latest production of The Crucible plays Brisbane Arts Theatre until May 19. Performances run on Friday and Saturday nights, with extra shows on April 26, 29 and May 6.
Charismatic little brother to Gerard's Bistro, Gerard's Bar is no stranger to pairing crisp, tasty brews with seasonal nosh. Hidden behind its sibling in the James Street precinct, Gerard's Bar is home to insanely talented Brisbane chef Ben Williamson, curating quite the culinary experience from the charcuterie cabinet to the magnificent kitchen. For an opportunity to experience Williamson's produce first hand, James Squire and Concrete Playground served a special Winter Banquet at Gerard's Bistro and gave a group of lucky people a seat at the table. They sat down to a five-course meal custom-made by Ben, exploring fresh winter produce with some of Australia's favourite craft beers. Each dish was paired with a specific James Squire tipple, and guests heard from Ben and James Squire brand ambassadors on the night. By Kelly Pigram, Jasmine Crittenden and Shannon Connellan. Photography: Emily Jane Davies.
Making a cup of tea can be simple. Grab a teabag, pour in some boiling water, let it steep and voila, you've got yourself one of the world's favourite hot beverages. Enjoying a cuppa can be much more creative, too — whether you're keen on pure green tea leaves, some chai or matcha, high tea, a sip of kombucha, frosty iced tea, bubble teas or a tea latte. Expect all of the above at Brisbane's first laneway tea festival, which takes over Bakery Lane on Saturday, October 5. Someone will be putting the kettle on for a day of tea tastings, tea classes and tea readings. You'll also be able to blend your own teas, and take part in tea competitions. Run by Botanical Lab, the event will kick off at 10am and finish up at 4pm. While general entry is free, you can opt for a VIP $10 ticket, which'll nab you a tote bag and a ceramic tea tasting cup. Image: Botanical Lab.
When winter rolls around, W Brisbane's resident bar gets gooey in a big way. Now that the festive season is upon us, it's switching to an appropriately themed high tea. If you like drinking Christmas-themed cocktails while tucking into tiny bites to eat, then add Living Room to your list. On the menu: charcoal and feta arancini, mini pancakes with red pesto and chive creme fraiche and a number of other small dishes, all designed to look suitably festive. But you'll probably get most excited about the boozy side of things — including a 'Bad Santa' cocktail made with Hennessy and a 'Tipsy Angel' Belvedere vodka cocktail. Yes, it's time to chose your pals best in need of a Xmas treat, then make a date — with the Naughty or Nice Festive High Tea kicking off on Friday, November 20 and running from Friday–Sunday each week between until Sunday, January 10. You can book in for a two-hour sitting between 11am–3.30pm, and you have three price options. Pay $60 each, and you'll feast your way through the food like you're Santa on Christmas Eve. Opt for the $76 option, and you can add one of the two aforementioned cocktails. And for $85, you'll also get a glass of Veuve Clicquot champagne.
Space Betwixt, a group exhibition curated by Alexandra Winters, explores the concept of gaps in information, the places of transition and the blank spaces at the edges of existing forms. The works in the exhibition act as the visual representation of this concept — each of the four artists works in shapes and in the spaces between shapes, creating modernist-influenced geometric forms. Genevieve Felix Reynolds’ paintings are created from intersections of complex geometric shapes, with tonal colours giving the appearance of creased paper, or unfolded origami. In a similar fashion, Andy Harwood layers simple triangles and rectangles into larger forms, transforming them into tangible, almost sculptural objects. Christian Flynn’s work is inspired by a contemporary expression of modernism that references science and technology, with a bold approach that mixes organic forms and severe, hard-edged spikes of colour, while Freda Davies explores the shapes around us, recreating the simple geometry of the urban landscape. Space Betwixt exhibits in the Brisbane Powerhouse Foyer spaces from October 7 to November 1. Image: Genevieve Felix Reynolds
There’s nothing like a bit of cultural collaboration to stir some celebration, especially when drinks and dining is involved. Brisbane’s favourite Asian restaurant Kwan Brothers hasn’t let their heritage deter them from celebrating a great German tradition. Introducing Woktoberfest. Woktoberfest, derived from a similarly named festival you may have heard of, is all about food, drink and celebration for the hell of it. From October 13-19 Kwan Brothers (right next to Alfred and Constance) will be dishing up a menu that combines everything we love about Asian cuisine with sausages, sauerkraut and all things German. The Bratwurst Bao ($9.90) seems the star of the menu. It's a bao bun topped with mini bratwurst, sauerkraut and curried ketchup. You can also grab sweet and sour pork knuckles ($22.90), wok-tossed spatzle with Szechuan chicken ($22.90) and as many Kirin steins as you carry ($10 each). You’ve got less then a week to celebrate Woktoberfest at Kwan Brothers, so pull on your lederhosen, brace your chopsticks and dig in.
Once, when all else failed in matters of the heart, people turned to the radio. Callers rang in to share their troubles, seek assistance, and request songs for their beloved. If you’ve seen Sleepless in Seattle, you know what we’re talking about. Now you can experience it in person, and not just in the comfort of your home Barry and Barbara's Sweet, Sour and Saucy brings talkback advice and love song dedications to the cabaret stage for a night of singing and solving your problems. Step back to the 1950s with snappy hints and funny tips on how to keep your romantic life hot and spicy, accompanied by a soundtrack of hits by Eartha Kitt, Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Bessie Smith and Nat King Cole. The show isn’t just about watching, but about being part of the action. Before you head along, unburden your issues and ask for a tune to be crooned by visiting Barry and Barbara’s website.
What happens when a beekeeper and a quantum physicist meet and fall in love? Plenty — but not just the tale that you might be expecting. Great things can occur. Terrible and unpleasant things too. Most plays only explore one option; however, there's a whole universe of possibilities at the centre of Constellations, and the Nick Payne-written play wants to show you as many as it can in one production. It's no wonder the two-hander has been attracting acclaim since first premiering in London in 2012. Payne himself even became the youngest ever winner in the best play category at Britain's Evening Standard Theatre Awards for spinning a story not only about star-crossed lovers, but also intertwined with fate, all things infinite and unknowable, and the many paths thrown up by parallel and alternate worlds. For Queensland Theatre, Kat Henry directs the romance that has been wowing audiences around the world — and, if you don't want to take our word for it, maybe knowing one of the past stars will do the trick. When Constellations made it to New York, Jake Gyllenhaal tread the boards in it for his Broadway debut. Sounds enchanting, doesn't it?
Maybe you don't get paid until next week. Perhaps you're saving all your cash for your first holiday of 2019. Or you could've broken your bank account by buying, well, just about anything. However it happened, you're still short on funds. But, as long as you've got a fiver burning a hole in your wallet, you can still have a great Saturday night out. Thank the legends at The Zoo for an evening's entertainment that everyone can afford. If you've ever wondered how the Ann Street icon has managed to keep the tunes pumping and the crowds coming since 1992, it's because of ace ideas like this one. Yes, Five Bands Five Bucks is exactly what it sounds like — and what it sounds like is 100 percent awesome. Blussh, Rich Uncle, Siick Riick, Vivvid and Guava Lava will be on the bill, waiting for you to part with a piece of pink-coloured currency to hear their latest and greatest tunes.
The year may be drawing to a close, however the same should not be assumed for the fun and frivolity. Lust for Life are throwing a celebration for the festive season the best way they know how – a massive party, and you’re invited! Head along to Crowbar on Brunswick Street, where the tunes drown loudly and the drinks are always flowing, to meet your friends at Lust for Life Tattoo. Your golden ticket is your cover charge, which will get you a night of great music, as well as great people. Appropriately named bands will be on stage, including The Gifthorse and Deer Lord, as well as Arrows and Army of Champions. Doors are at 8, not to be a minute late, for the fun will be had from early hours and in great doses. If you’ve been to a Lust for Life party before, you’ll know to prepare for mass celebrations, as we reflect upon and rejoice the year that was.
This favourite Brisbane event is back for its ninth instalment on Thursday night. The popularity of this unique fiesta is ever-growing as it showcases local artists and musicians; attracting hoards of like-minded people. This time around The Zoo is hosting bands such as Terrible Truths, Major Leagues and more to be announced. View work by local artists such as Alice Rezende, Steph Hughes, Loretta Lizio and Kool Thing. This year there is a bit of a twist as only the lovely ladies of the Brisbane art scene will be showcased. Sorry boys. As always, the girls will be serving up awesome artwork on skate decks as this is the feature of the event. Whether I Used to Skate Once has been on your calendar since last June or you don't know the difference between an ollie and a shove-it, make sure you check it out before its gone for another year.
Not content with selling sweet and savoury treats from their James Street base, Brisbane's favourite bread, cake, pastries and provisions providers are spreading the love this festive season. If you're fond of the amazing array of edible items that Jocelyn's Provisions bakes up and you're in the inner city, then you'd best put on your stretchiest pants and hightail it over to their CBD pop-up. From November 29 until Christmas, expect scrumptious wares aplenty at Jocelyn's temporary digs at 480 Queen Street. Whether you're keen on a caramel, pear and pecan cake; chocolate swirl cheesecake; trusty lemon tart; or pork, apple and caraway sausage roll — to name a just a few items from their menu — it's the stuff food lover's dreams are made of. Feasting on all of the above until the big day is completely understandable — and to be expected, really. And if you're after a great gift, Jocelyn's pop-up will also be selling hampers. Yes, you can give one to yourself.
Believe it or not, Kim Buck works in charcoal, not photography. The incredible detail that is found in her work stems not from the mechanical recording of something in real life, but rather through Kim’s innate skill for producing hyper-real images in pencil and charcoal; a skill that was ‘stumbled upon’ and self-taught, rather than fostered in the traditional sense. The wonderful thing about realistic drawing is that although it mirrors the world around in its clarity and perfection, the medium of paper and charcoal bears a soft, tactile quality that lies in distinct opposition to this. It is the tension between the two that makes realist drawing so appealing. It is little wonder then that Kim was recently awarded South Australia’s top award for an arts graduate – the Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Award – and also took the cake at the 2010 Limestone Coast Art Prize and the People’s Choice Prize at the 2010 Helpmann Academy Graduate Exhibition. In an exhibition at Jan Murphy Galleries in the Valley, Kim will showcase her work in charcoal, hopefully making it her fourth sell-out solo show since 2007. Image credit: Kim Buck, 'Eternal Return', 2010
To make your summer feel like a holiday even if you aren't actually leaving the city, Friday's has given its outdoor area a getaway-inspired temporary makeover. Like a number of other Australian Venue Co spots around town, it's taking cues from far-flung destinations and flowers alike. The theme here: Greece. The aim is to whisk you off to Santorini, even if only mentally — and, five days a week the riverside spot is also serving up a bottomless snacks deal to match. If tucking into bottomless mezze doesn't make your tastebuds think they're in the Mediterranean, nothing will. On the menu: a spread of hummus, tzatziki and flatbread, as well as haloumi fries and lamb kofta skewers. It's on offer all day from Sunday–Thursday for $25 per person, or you can add a cocktail jug and pay $40 per person. You'll have two hours to dig into the food — so yes, that's your next long lunch or post-work drinks sorted. Images: Markus Ravik.
If you're a Brisbanite who's fond of a beer, you've probably already noticed something missing from this month: Brewsvegas, Brisbane's citywide beer fest, which hasn't poured brews from taps around town since 2020. What's a Brissie beer lover to do instead when they're keen on a brew this March? Head to Brewski's In Lieu of a Beer Festival Festival. This fest's name says all that it has to, because this is the kind of event that a bar throws when there's no Brewsvegas on the calendar. On the menu is a heap of beer — obviously — from Tuesday, March 1–Wednesday, March 30. Expect special tipples and returning yeasty favourites aplenty, as well as themed events that'll get you doing more than just sinking pints. At Pastry vs Pastry on Saturday, March 12, for instance, you'll drink pastry stouts and pastry sours while eating pastries from Flour and Chocolate. Or, head back on Saturday, March 19 for the opposite kind of event — pairing gluten-free brews with gluten-free snacks. A paint and slurp session is also on the bill, and so is a celebration of all things stouty. Some events are ticketed, so check out the full lineup before making a beer date. Images: Hennessy Trill.
Get into the BIGSOUND spirit before the rest at the Free For All Party, courtesy of Mushroom, the guys who lead the charge in independent music, and Sonos, the guys who make it sound so good. You’ll be treated to live performances by Bad//Dreems, The Creases, Fraser A. Gorman, Lurch & Chief and Steve Smyth, plus a bunch of specially-selected playlists by City Calm Down, Clubfeet, The Holidays, Husky and Stonefield. Nowhere else will so many high-quality acts be coming together outside of the annual conference events, making this a rare and exciting opportunity! If that wasn't tempting enough, you can get on the guest list and enjoy complimentary drinks (and snacks!) from the dudes at Sailor Jerry and CAPI. This is pretty much the best pre-BIGSOUND deal going; with the delegates wandering around there is a high possibility of running into and partying with your favourite BIGSOUND bands and enjoying the spirit in esteemed company. Entry passes are strictly limited to this event – get in quick to avoid disappointment!
Jim Ward might be one of the coolest guys in music. Apart from being one of the founding members of At The Drive-In and Sparta, his work ethic, like his music, is amazing and inspiring. He doesn’t have an annoying rockstar persona, despite heading two of punk’s best bands of the past decade. He manages his own career, while enabling the music careers of other artists in his hometown of El Paso via Tembloroso.com, amongst a bunch of other rad things. Okay, so I sound like a little bit of a creep, but the truth is I interviewed Jim a while back (no, I’m not actually stalking him online) and was in total awe of how incredibly down-to-earth and independent he is as a solo artist. He’s not out to impress anybody; he’s just here to do what he does – if you like it, cool. If not, then that’s okay too. Catch the man in action, bringing El Paso to Brisbane this Saturday to Alhambra Lounge. If you’re in a band and you’re a little too big for your boots (I’m looking at you, every band with members under the age of 22) it’d be a good idea for you to go and learn something new about music.
Brisbane does pretty well in the craft brew stakes, but come GABS time, it's difficult not to get a little envious of our pals down south. For those who haven't heard of Melbourne and Sydney's boozy annual celebration, we're talking about the Great Australian Beer SpecTAPular. It isn't coming up north, but Bloodhound Bar is serving the next best thing. Trust the Brunswick Street bar to treat Brissie residents to a highlights package, aka the GABS 2018 Beer Showcase, from 5pm on Thursday, May 31. A selection of beverages will be on offer, and they're really not the kind of brews you'll get to sip every day. In fact, this year, more than 160 unique beers were made just for the fest. From that huge array, you'll be able to sample beverages that sound like they were whipped up in a dream. Given some of the ingredients and flavours on offer, perhaps that's where the ideas behind them came from. Mornington Peninsula Brewery's Squidroot infuses beetroot into a New England IPA, Moon Dog's Cherry Pie A La Mode is exactly what you think it is — a cherry and vanilla bean ice cream beer — and Wolf of the Willows' Tom Collins Sour is a tart concoction inspired by the eponymous cocktail, complete with gin botanicals. There'll be more brews dripping off the keg, too, with the full lineup yet to be announced.
If your mid-week routine could use a little jazzing up, Jessie's Girl has the answer with its monthly Wednesday night jazz, soul and beer sessions. Just what's on offer is right there in the name, but there's absolutely nothing wrong with being upfront — if it's a great soundtrack and some top tipples that you're after, then you'll find them here. The folks from A Love Supreme down in the CBD are in charge of curating each evening's tunes — all on vinyl, of course — so you really are in for an ace selection. Plus, Wednesday night is parmi night on Petrie Terrace, so there's your dinner sorted. Wednesday Jazz, Soul and Beer happens on the last Wednesday of each month, from 5pm. Head on by on May 30, June 27 and July 25 for what's certain to be a cruisy shindig.
Combining three staples of everyday life - science fiction, freeform music and Detroit techno, Laurel Halo is the definition of musical fusion. Described by Pitchfork as, “oddly stacked and constantly shifting harmonies, portamento pitch-bending, narcotic melodies, [and] a prevailing sense of technological dread", Laurel boasts a style of music surreal enough to be deemed super-art, yet real enough to be enjoyable. Halo’s work, while originally being classical and piano-based in nature, has stemmed to a wall of bass and percussion that attacks the body in soothing, parabolic way - it’s that rare combination of art-house and spiritualisation. And rarer still, bass and vocal making for a truly defining genre that is coming to Australia for the first time. This musical innovation can be yours for just $29 dollars per 2.5hrs starting at 8:30pm. So, if you feel like having your mind rocked on Thursday 19 September, why not see the future of music at Powerhouse. If not because it sounds good, then for the hipster bragging rights. Check out Laura Halo's 'Thaw'
As the temperatures begin to soar, birds are dropping off their perch, snakes are slithering into bath tubs and the humans of Brisbane are starting to seriously sweat. To keep you cool and calm throughout the humid Brisbane summer, there are a few tactics to get you through: 1. Air conditioning - ignorance is bliss; 2. Hydrate - counteract the fact that you're dripping with sweat by drinking as many liquids as you can; 3. Embrace it - soak in the sun (after you've applied your 30+SPF), enjoy the heat and the fun that summer brings. Because we like to help you guys out, we have narrowed down our five best places in Brisbane to cool down - in whichever way that you prefer. Bacchus Located at Rydges in South Bank, Bacchus is one of Brisbane's newest hotspots and in turn one of Brisbane's coolest spots too. To embrace the summer heat, you can head to the Bacchus pool bar where you can lounge by the pool looking fabulous, or bomb dive* into the pool splashing said fabulous people. The pool bar is stocked with with top shelf booze sourced locally and from our Euro friends in Spain, France, Italy and Portugal. Pool side snacks include a selection of tasty tapas such as the tomato, basil and bocconcini empanada; and for something more substantial you have a delicious choice of hearty steak and club sandwiches or some fresh Greek salad, accompanied, of course, by shoestring fries. *Bomb diving is likely to be frowned upon. Cnr Grey & Glenelg Streets, South Bank; 07 3364 0843; www.bacchussouthbank.com.au Birdees In the heart of the Valley is Birdees, best known for backpacking, student partying debauchery. This bright and colourful place is the perfect spot for embracing summer, with Mexican food on the menu, reasonably priced drinks and pumping music. It's basically the scene out of a Cancun documentary. With a recently completed rooftop beer garden, and a 12 metre swimming pool, you'll be able to make the most of summer celebrating here with a big group of friends. 608 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley; 07 3257 3644; www.katarzyna.com.au/venues/birdees White Lightning Tiki Bar (Alfred and Constance) For a truly tropical experience, you must head to the White Lightning Tiki Bar, located upstairs at everybody's new favourite, Alfred and Constance. Be prepared to be lei'd upon arrival and keeping in the Hawaiian spirit, you should probably try the piña colada - served in a hollowed out pineapple. Icy-cold and delicious, this is one of the many incredible creations that the skilled bartenders can prepare for you. Everybody is happy including especially the bar staff who sing and dance behind the bar making it an unforgettable and awesome party vibe. Cnr Alfred and Constance Streets, Fortitude Valley; 07 3251 6500; www.alfredandconstance.com.au
Bingo. Rave. Two ends of the spectrum of fine holiday fun finally came together in Australia last year. If you didn't make it along, Bongo's Bingo is a games night like you've never seen before. Part club, part rave, and, of course, part bingo night, this unlikely fusion event has been wildly popular in the UK since 2015. It's hardly surprising that taking the show on the road — that is, launching Bongo's Bingo Down Under — went well. And now, it's hardly surprising that is's coming back for yet another round either. What you mightn't expect is the event's new special guests: British boy band royalty, aka Westlife's Brian McFadden and Boyzone's Keith Duffy. Under the name Boyzlife, they'll perform their respective groups' biggest hits while all of the debauchery of the original British version of Bongo's Bingo gets underway. That includes rave intervals, dancing on tables and a loose kind of bingo that you definitely never played with your nan (well, maybe you have). The victorious players can win everything from big cash prizes to some absolutely ridiculous surprises, which is all part of the fun. Bongo's Bingo heads back to The Tivoli on March 24.
A fixture of the city for decades, King George Square has seen many things over the years, from markets to live tunes to ice-skating rinks. But for two days this week, it'll welcome something different — a mini tennis court. It's not a throwback to a period, not all that long ago, when the CBD spot had its own patches of grass. Rather, it's a bit of fun timed to coincide with the Australian Open in Melbourne. Called Ace the Open, the pop-up court is open to anyone who thinks they can channel their inner Williams sister and serve up an ace. All you need to do is head on down across the weekend of Saturday, January 26 and Sunday, January 27, and racquets await. There's another good reason for this excuse to get active, other than letting Brisbanites do something they never thought they would in ol' KGS. For every ace someone scores, ANZ is making a donation to The Smith Family, Brotherhood of St Laurence, Berry Street and The Benevolent Society.
The most applause-worthy branch of Big Folk Theatre combines the cheap, raw and rowdy in a night of comedy improv. Cool Story Bro brings together some of the most talented, local guest storytellers, whose real life stories and experiences are turned into laugh-out-loud scenes, characters and situations, all in attempt to get a chuckle out of you. Think Chicago's The Second City, but performed by those who probably catch the same bus as you. Cool Story Bro features a talented cast of Brisbane's best improvisors and takes place at Boundary Street Markets. It's a bit of a trek to get to the actual comedy showcase, so follow these instructions carefully: enter the markets via the Boundary Street entrance, look for a black door to your left when you come to the clothing bazaar, then enter and and go up two levels of stairs for the laughs. Cool Story Bro kicks of this Friday, November 6 at 7pm. Grab a bite to eat, a drink and head on up!
When Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers first announced that they were launching Australia's first gnocchi bar, no one gnocch'd their idea. Our stomachs were too busy rumbling for pillowy dumplings of pasta. So, when they opened their doors in Paddington, people came a-running. In fact, Brisbanites' gnocchi appetites have been so feverish, the local specialists are expanding to a second location not even six months later. Opening at 76 James Street, New Farm on April 10, and trading every afternoon and evening of the week, Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers James Street is all about keeping as many people in a pasta-fuelled state of bliss as possible. To feed the ravenous masses clamouring for potato-based parcels, forget dining in; their new digs is takeaway only — and delivery via UberEATS, but hey, you get the picture. Thankfully, a lack of eating area for folks to lounge around while chowing down is the only difference on the menu. All those gnocchis you've been feasting on — or eyeing off, if you haven't yet made it in to sample their wares for yourself — remain on offer. Wild mushroom and truffle sauce, slow-cooked bolognese, duck ragu, spicy tomato and black olive, Genovese pesto, and prawns with cherry tomatoes are certain to hit the spot. Trying a different flavour every night of the week is completely acceptable. Find Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers James Street at 76 James Street, New Farm. For more information, head to their website or Facebook page. Image: Cyclone Bill.
If jungle vibes inside a Coorparoo warehouse sounds like your perfect outing, head along to the Jungle Collective's indoor plant sale on Saturday, October 16 and Sunday, October 17. It's the latest greenery-filled Brissie market from The Jungle Collective, a Melbourne nursery that stocks all kinds of weird and wonderful species. Yes, it is trucking its way up north again for another Queensland venture — and, after hosting plenty of online-only events over the past year, this sale is a 100-percent in-person affair. Whether you're after a hanging pot plant, some palms for the garden or a giant Bird of Paradise, chances are you'll find it here. Have a reputation for killing your cacti? Overwatering your ferns? Don't worry — there'll be horticulturalists on site on the night to give you advice and chat through any questions you might have. This sale has been dubbed a 'rare plant party', so prepare to shop for green babies you won't just find anywhere. You'll get inspired by plants in general, too, and learn to incorporate them into your home and living spaces — all while browsing and soaking up some tunes. Best get in quick though — these markets are always popular, with more than 170 different species usually on offer. Due to expected demand, the sale will be held in 30-minute sessions across both days, and attendees will need to register for free tickets in advance. Plus, if you come decked out with something unicorn-related (think: pastel colours, glitter, rainbows and clouds) and spend at least $10, you'll also get $5 off your purchase.
Crispy, sweet, stuffed with a creamy filling and made in a variety of flavours, there's only one thing wrong with cannoli. No matter how many that you happen to devour in a single sitting (admit it — no one just eats one), it never feels like you've ever had enough. If you know that sensation all too well, then you might want to tempt your tastebuds down to Locale on Saturday, April 11. For one day, the Newstead cafe is bringing back its cannoli pop-up bar. Adjusting to the current situation, it's strictly a pre-order-only affair — so head online, fill out an order form, send it through and then wait for your allocated collection time (which'll be between 8am–12pm). Feeling hungry? There'll be six kinds of the Sicilian pastries on the menu, with vanilla creme and traditional chocolate ($4 each) flavours waiting, plus ricotta and chocolate chip, and tiramisu ($5 each), too. If you're eager for something extra special, you can also opt for a limoncello cannoli ($5 each) — or go all out with a cannoli dip Easter egg ($9.50 each). If you're choosing to go out and support local businesses, have a look at the latest COVID-19 advice and social-distancing guidelines from the Department of Health. Images: Locale.
