Fortitude Valley loves a laneway, with plenty popping up — or being brought to life, more accurately — across the inner city spot in recent years. And those laneways love markets. In fact, the trio that is Winn Lane, Bakery Lane and California Lane has been hosting various markets under various names for quite some time. In 2020, those different events joined forces, took on one communal moniker and became one big event. Happening monthly, it also expanded to include the Brunswick Street Mall — which isn't a laneway, but it definitely is a thoroughfare. And, for Valley Fiesta, said markets are making a twilight appearance, taking place from 4–8pm on Saturday, November 21. As always, you can browse through the stalls, pop into the permanent retailers, and grab a bite to eat and something caffeinated (or boozy) from one of the many cafes and eateries in the area. Whichever you're doing, you'll have a heap of options to choose from. These markets also place a heavy focus on local talents, so when you're rifling through the racks, eyeing off some retro threads, and pondering picking up some jewellery or accessories, you'll be supporting Brissie's best. And, like everything this year, they'll be socially distanced. Images: Valley Laneway Markets.
In its former life, West End's West Village precinct was home to the Peters ice cream factory. As a result — and because ice cream is tasty — it doesn't miss an opportunity to remind Brisbanites of that fact. Indeed, you might've licked your way through its Ice Cream Festival in previous years, or moseyed along to its pop-up bar inspired by the frosty dish. And from Friday, November 13–Sunday, November 29, you can treat both your eyes and your tastebuds to its latest dessert-inspired shenanigans. There are multiple parts to Daydreams and Ice Cream. Yes, eating ice cream is one of them. Head by on weekends — from 4–8pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and from 2–6pm on Sundays — to feast on dishes from a heap of ice cream vendors. There'll be live music then, too, in case you need a soundtrack. Running daily, the other attraction is Daydreams and Ice Cream's installations. If you went along to Sugar Republic when it was in town, you'll know the kind of thing you're in for. At West Village, there'll be 12 sections all in a circle — so get ready to be surrounded by ice cream-style hues and imagery, and to get snapping.
When it comes to eating your way through a few scoops of ice cream, no one really needs an excuse. But when there's free ice cream on offer, well, that's obviously as good a reason as you're ever going to get. And it just so happens that Ben & Jerry's is serving up exactly that across Australia until Sunday, November 15 — including at its own stores in Mooloolaba, Noosa, Pacific Fair and Surfers Paradise, plus at Hoyts in Sunnybank. We hope you like your ice cream stuffed with dough — cookie dough, that is — because that's what's on the menu. To celebrate 30 years since it first started mixing cookie dough into its desserts, Ben & Jerrys is whipping up 35,000 free scoops from its dough-filled range. Yes, you'll have to choose between the old favourite that is chocolate chip cookie dough, the caramel and peanut butter-heavy 'The Tonight Dough' and the 'Totally Baked' flavour with bits of brownies, too. Or, you can opt for 'Boots on the Moooo'n', with toffee and sugar cookie dough; 'Peanut Butter Half Baked', which is clearly self-explanatory; and a non-dairy version of choc-chip cookie dough. To score your free ice cream, you'll need to register online first. You'll also need to select a times and a location — and then you can get licking.
It's time to get festive beneath one of Newstead's most striking features: the Gasometer. For one night in December, The Market Folk is taking over the eye-catching Gasworks space, bring a heap of stalls with it and helping you finish your Christmas shopping — because, let's face it, no one ever gets 100-percent of their gift buying done too far in advance. From 5–9pm on Friday, December 11, the Gasworks Plaza precinct will be home to plenty of market stalls as the sun goes down, all brimming with items that'd make perfect presents (for your loved ones, and for yourself). If you're wondering just what kinds of things you can expect to pick up, think fashion, art, homewares, ceramics and vintage goods — and plants as well. There'll be a particular focus on Brisbane creatives, too. So, you'll also be gifting them some Christmas cheer by supporting their hard work. [caption id="attachment_758933" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] The Market Folk[/caption] Top image: Andrew S via Flickr.
UPDATE, May 1, 2021: I Am Greta is available to stream via Stan, Docplay, Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. If a single image can sum up the current crucial battle against climate change, it's a picture — any picture — of Greta Thunberg. Since deciding to skip school to protest outside Sweden's parliament back in August 2018, the braid-wearing teen has become the face of a movement. She isn't the first person to sound an alarm about the dire state of the planet, to vehemently speak truth to power or to gain widespread attention, but her determined, no-nonsense approach really isn't easily forgotten. Sometimes, it's directed at ordinary Stockholm residents going about their days while she strikes. As she has garnered increasing attention, Thunberg has trained her stare on crowded United Nations' conferences, too, and at attendees with the capacity but not necessarily the inclination to make a difference. She has also met face to face with world leaders, but she knows that politicians usually only share her gaze for a photo opportunity. Demonstrating patiently, speaking passionately, shaking hands for the cameras: all of these moments are captured by documentary I Am Greta, which surveys Thunberg's ascension from everyday Swedish 15-year-old to one of the best-known figures fighting to save the earth. The film acts as a chronicle, starting with her activism on her home soil, following her efforts as she's thrust to fame, and culminating in her trip across the Atlantic Ocean via yacht to present at 2019's UN Climate Action Summit, where she gave her iconic "how dare you" speech. But as the title indicates, this doco is just as concerned with Thunberg's home life as her public impact. Accordingly, while filmmaker Nathan Grossman has an array of recognisable footage at his disposal in this slickly packaged affair — packed protests, widely seen speeches, British parliament addresses, meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron — he interweaves it with quieter, intimate and unguarded moments. Including material preceding her present status as a household name, I Am Greta watches Thunberg prepare for big events, spend time with her beloved dogs and horses, eat meals with her family, and get escorted around the world by bus, train and boat by her father Svante. These snippets help paint a picture of the teenager behind the activism, and much of it is highly relatable. She adores her pets, finding their presence soothing. She obsesses over every detail of every speech, even when her dad is reminding her to rest and eat. She happily calls herself a nerd, explains the helpful side of her Asperger syndrome diagnosis ("it might be good if everyone had a tiny bit of Asperger's, at least about the climate," she shares), talks through details of past episodes of selective mutism and notes that being bullied isn't a new part of her life. Viewers looking for something more revealing in Thunberg's daily existence will be disappointed, as will anyone eager to discover details that haven't been covered in many a profile, or keen for in-depth facts and figures. But by purposefully and repeatedly stressing that its subject is simply a young woman who feels passionate about doing everything she can to raise awareness about climate change, and to motivate the world's powers-that-be to act before it's too late, I Am Greta makes an immensely potent statement. It's one that Thunberg has vocalised on many occasions with words as direct as her glare, and it resonates just as strongly here. It shouldn't take a teen skipping school and inspiring millions more around the world to follow in her footsteps to get people talking, thinking and enacting solutions to counteract the earth's warming. Thunberg shouldn't need to be a leader in this space. At the beginning of the film, during her time spent sitting outside Swedish parliament, she acknowledges that she likely knows far more about climate change than the overwhelming bulk of Sweden's politicians — and that firmly shouldn't be the case. Also cutting through astutely is Thunberg's continued recognition of how, as her fame increases, the global response by naysayers encapsulates so much about the status quo and the lack of government action. She calls out politicians who chat and get snapped in pictures but do nothing to follow through, with Grossman letting viewers see the pageantry alongside Thunberg's perceptive observations. She reads trolling comments, too — and I Am Greta says plenty when it shows figures such as Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison either attacking Thunberg, childishly insulting her, discounting her message or saying that the planet's younger generations should stick to studying instead of fighting for their futures. It isn't ever explicitly said, but I Am Greta also makes another pivotal point, and it applies not only to its central figure but to the rousing film itself. In addition to emphasising that the steadfast eco-warrior is a teen tackling a topic that so many of her elders have happily ignored for decades, this documentary understands that its audience already knows how they feel about Thunberg. It also recognises that its viewers are just as aware of which side they fall on when it comes to combating climate change. As a result, this movie isn't going to convert skeptics and Thunberg's critics, or alter her fans' thinking, and it isn't trying to. It'd rather show the work to effect change in action, and let that speak volumes. Indeed, what echoes here is that simply doing the right thing — doing something, in fact — is essential regardless of any obstacles and opposition, whether urged by Al Gore, David Attenborough, Aussie doco 2040, your best mate, your neighbour, a stranger or Thunberg. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mwk10YGPFiM
Do you love spending the twilight hours bending and stretching? When you knock off work for the day, do you crave some time in the open air? Whichever category you fall into, if you like getting active for free — and within West End's greenery-filled precinct, too — then you now have plans every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon. With West Village now well and truly open, the space is hosting twice-weekly exercise sessions in its central area, aka The Common. The classes are open to everyone, whether you live in the neighbourhood or you're dropping by on your way home from work. And yes, if you want to go to both each week, that's perfectly understandable. Head by at 5.30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, which is when you can bliss out over yoga in the inner-city spot. The current batch of classes run until November 26, and you'll need to bring your own mat, towel and water bottle. Images: West Village.
The BrisStyle team is a rather busy bunch. A few times a year, it puts on twilight markets in King George Square, but that isn't its only regular event. If you're particularly after a treasure trove of handmade goodies — and who isn't? — it hosts another opportunity to browse and buy that's dedicated to exactly those kinds of objects. Fashion, art, jewellery, homewares — if someone's been using their nimble fingers to make it, then you can probably trade your hard-earned cash for their hard work. In fact, there'll be more than 70 artisans selling their wares. And, while you're shopping, you'll also be able to grab a bite at the onsite cafe and listen to live tunes from local musos. The BrisStyle Handmade Markets next take place on Saturday, October 24, so mark your calendars now. Head along from 9am–3pm, with it all taking place in the Queensland Museum's whale mall. Image: BrisStyle.
When the working week is done, folks just wanna have fun. We're paraphrasing Cyndi Lauper because she knows what she's singing about. If your idea of taking her advice involves listening to ace musos belt out a few tunes, then QPAC's Green Jam Unlocked is the Friday afternoon session you're looking for. All about live music, tasty bites to eat and kicking back in a grassy spot a stone's throw from the inner city, this regular event offers an ace start to your weekend every week. It usually happens across most of the year, but this hasn't been a usual year, as we all know — so, after lockdowns and restrictions, it's making a socially distanced comeback every week between November 6–December 11. Held between 5.30–7.30pm, the outdoor songfest takes over the Melbourne Street Green (aka that vibrant patch of turf just past the Cultural Centre walkway) with live tunes — with plenty of street food, of course. So, who's on the bill? The lineup includes the Melissa Clarke Trio first up, then changes every week. At future sessions, expect musicians from Queensland Conservatorium – Griffith University, as well as Digi Youth Arts. And as for your stomach, it can feast on pizzas, broad bean and feta dip (with warm bread to go with it), and pumpkin and provolone arancini — while sipping spritzes, wine and beer. You'll have to pay for the eating part of the evening (and any bevs you place in your hand), but it'll be worth it.
When Longtime closed up its Ann Street restaurant, it left a hole in Fortitude Valley's dining scene — but, post-pandemic lockdowns, something new sprouted in its old digs. That'd be Eterna, a fresh venture from Salt Meats Cheese's Stefano de Blasi. And yes, it has a big Italian focus. Fans of cocktails will want to stop by between 5–7pm from Tuesday–Thursday, though, because that's when the venue is doing its aperitivo special. For $10, you'll get a drink and a snack — and a mighty fine way to end a weekday afternoon. The aperitivo menu is called 'eter-mini', because its cocktails are made in half sizes. You can choose between a martini, a 'perfetto' (with gin, red vermouth, Amaro Braulio and clarified apple), a 'malt and myrtle' (with whisky, pineapple-infused vermouth and lemon myrtle tea) and a 'borghese' (with tequila, marsala, a hibiscus infusion and bitters). Food-wise, each drink comes with a choice of three snacks. Fancy a red snapper croquette with roasted capsicum sauce? That's on the lineup, as are chickpea and lentil-stuffed and fried olives, plus marinated sardines served on crusty bread with herbed butter. [caption id="attachment_780657" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Lewis Lotherington[/caption]
On any given Saturday morning across Brisbane, plenty of pooches can be found descending upon the city's markets. Come 6am–12pm on Saturday, October 15 in Carseldine, dog lovers and their furry four-legged BFFs will be doing what they usually do — with the added bonus of attending the northside spot's returning Barktoberfest. What do cute canines have to do with celebrating this time of year? Nothing, but don't let that get in the way of a dapper doggo-friendly morning out. As well as the usual food and fresh produce, an array of pet-related stalls will ramp up the fun to barking great levels. There'll also be a pupper fashion parade and a pawparazzi photo contest — to determine just which canine cutie friend is the most adorable. Also returning this year is a pooch splash zone, which first debuted in 2021. Yes, that means pools for your doggo. It is getting warm again, after all, and we're betting that your pupper also feels the heat. Doggy dancing, pooch portraits, canine competitions, pupper prizes — they're all on offer, too. Entry is free, and live entertainment is part of the market as well.
It mightn't be anywhere near the season for trimming trees, singing carols and exchanging gifts just yet, but July is the time to pretend otherwise. And New Farm Cinemas has an event that's tailor-made for getting jolly mid-year — even if you usually avoid or ignore not-quite-Christmas shenanigans. At 7pm on Saturday, July 23, the venue is giving seasonal classic Love Actually a whirl. That means there'll be plenty of jovial tales of romance starring seemingly every actor who was famous in Britain in 2003. Yes, Colin Firth broods, Hugh Grant dances, Alan Rickman charms and Liam Neeson shows his softer side. Keira Knightley is wooed and Emma Thompson proves a calm force to be reckoned with. To accompany the session, the cinema is also serving up some very fitting refreshments. There'll be mince pies, which'll keep your stomach warm — plus wine, to help warm your insides thoroughly. Given that the movie will warm your heart — because if you're going along, you're definitely already a fan — prepare to feel mighty toasty as you revisit Richard Curtis' rom-com classic.
You've gotta love it when breweries throw birthday shindigs. It's their big occasion, but everyone gets a gift. Forget party bags filled with lollies — at All Inn Brewing Co's Ninth Birthday Party, it's all about thirst-quenching beverages, live music tasty eats. Once midday rolls around on Saturday, July 9, the beer fiends' Banyo headquarters will kick into celebration mode until 9pm, letting tanks of yeasty beverages flow. And, it'll have Flamin Grillas Low & Slow BBQ cooking up a storm, so you can line your stomach amid all the merriment. All of the above will be set to the strains of local tunes — catch sets by Corn Liquor and The Cookie Jar Assortment while you sip, hang out, mark the occasion with your mates, and sip some more. And yes, you just know there'll likely be a hearty rendition of 'Happy Birthday' at some point. Also, entry is free — and dogs are very much welcome.
Every Wednesday, Palace Cinemas is giving movie-loving students in Brisbane an extra present. It's not just the gift of great flicks — that is, the cinema chain's daily bread and butter — but the gift of cheap great flicks. Head to one of the company's two Brisbane locations — Palace James St and Palace Barracks — each Wednesday, and any film at any time will only cost you $9. Want to see new blockbusters? Arthouse fare? Everything in-between? It'll cost you $9. Booking in advance is highly recommended, given how much everyone loves going to the flicks for little more than the price of a cup of coffee. If you do nab your tickets online, you will have to add a transaction fee to the cost. You will need to show your student ID to nab the bargain tickets. Also, you can't score the discount on Platinum sessions, or for film festival screenings or special events.
The strangest public holiday of the year is upon us, Brisbanites: the Ekka public holiday. This year, the Royal Queensland Show is well and truly happening. And, the day off we all get to enjoy it strawberry sundaes is back in its traditional Wednesday slot. It's still all a bit odd, though — as smacking a public holiday in the middle of an August week has always proven. No, that isn't a complaint. Yes, if nothing feels ordinary around your Ekka day off, thats understandable. Here's something that'll help you kick things off in style the night before, though: the return of the Hekka Festival to Greaser. Live tunes will hit the Fortitude Bar's garage stage, as well as a second stage, with the fest starting at 5pm and keeping on keeping on till late. On the bill: Pandamic, Total Pace, Annoying Neighbours, Mitch Please, Hot Reno, Pvcker Up, Naaki Soul, PHD!, Laura Mac and Black Bugs. Tickets cost $10 — and if you need any more of an incentive, Total Pace features members of I Heart Hiroshima, Violent Soho and DZ Deathrays. Images: Anwyn Howarth.
The Brightside's ABBA Appreciation Night isn't a spur-of-the-moment event. The Fortitude Valley venue has held similar shindigs before, because paying tribute to classic pop and disco hits is always fun. But this particular party has just the right name and theme for right now — because dancing is allowed again in Queensland, so hitting up an event called Dancing Queen really couldn't be more perfect. The one-night event will have you thanking everyone for the music from 11pm on Saturday, April 17. Here we go again, indeed. If you're wondering how much money, money, money it'll set you back, tickets cost $15 — and buying in advance is recommended. DJs will spin the band's tunes, and you and your fellow super troupers will take a chance on dancing and singing along. You'll be able to say 'gimme, gimme, gimme' to other tracks from huge artists of the 70s and 80s, too. Basically, prepare to step back in time while cutting a rug to everyone from Queen, Toto, Blondie and Fleetwood Mac to Dolly Parton, Talking Heads, Madonna and Earth, Wind and Fire. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFrGuyw1V8s
In 2020, everyone spent more time at home than expected, hopefully with their noses in several good books. In 2021, literature-loving Brisbanites can once again head out and celebrate all of those word-filled wonders. Yes, Brisbane Writers Festival is back — and yes, there's an in-person component to the annual event this time. While last year's fest went virtual, this year's wants avid readers to gather. Across Friday, May 7–Sunday, May 9, you can get together at the Queensland Art Gallery for the opening night address by Robert Dessaix, or at Custom's House for high tea with author Kate Morton. Or, hop over to Palace Barracks, where eco-conscious Australian documentary 2040 will be screening with director and star Damon Gameau in attendance. You can also hang around BWF's base at the State Library of Queensland, where everyone from All Our Shimmering Skies writer Trent Dalton to a panel featuring Lisa Fuller, Thomas Mayor and Bruce Pascoe will be doing plenty of talking. Benjamin Law has curated five events, too, all around the theme of survival — and there is still an online program as well. Where the latter is concerned, that means that you can still view sessions on climate anxiety, women speaking their truth, how internet technologies track our daily lives, mental health, and the path from poem to stage to book to film The Drover's Wife has taken (and more), all without leaving home.
If the current wave of boozy exercise classes has taught us anything, it's that alcohol is a great motivator. If it has taught us anything else, it's that we mightn't be too far away from a future where the alternative — aka getting active without a drink in your hand — seems strange. Add Gin and Yang Tuesdays to the list of sessions making the case for simultaneous sipping and stretching. Here, you'll strike your best yoga pose while knocking back some juniper spirits. And, thanks to its midweek, post-work timeslot, you'll brighten up an otherwise ordinary Tuesday in quite the relaxing fashion. Unsurprisingly, something this ace is likely to prove popular (when Stretch Yoga has held similar sessions before, they've often sold out). Running monthly, this cocktail-fuelled class next takes place on Tuesday, March 23 — from 6–7.30pm, and again from 7.30–9pm — at Three Brews, just downstairs from Stretch Yoga's Holland Park studio. Your $32 ticket includes two G&Ts made with Four Pillars gin, and the yoga class. Bookings are essential.
At Boho Luxe Market (the event's term, not ours), Byron Bay comes to Brisbane. Well, the beachy New South Wales spot's general vibe does at least. Forgoing the trappings of the city for bohemian fashion, jewellery, homewares and the like is on the market's agenda, and has been since it made the jump from Melbourne to Brisbane in 2019. Clearly we responded well to three days of dreamcatchers and flower crowns, because it's coming back yet again in 2021. If that sounds like your kind of thing, then block out Friday, April 16–Sunday, April 18 in your diary for the market's autumn dates. The Boho Luxe Market will head to The Old Museum for a weekend of browsing and buying, food trucks, live music and more. Usually there's also be a dedicated vegan section, plus a kombi display and glamping providers tempting you into booking your next holiday — so fingers crossed they'll return. Entry costs $5, with kids under 12 allowed in for free. Drop by and pretend you're somewhere quiet and coastal on Friday from 5pm–9pm, Saturday from 9am–5pm, and Sunday from 9am–3pm.
Brisbane's annual bad event is back. Yep, Museum of Brisbane is celebrating all things art and design with its four-week Brisbane Art Design (BAD) festival. Running from Friday, May 7 through to Sunday, May 30 the event is happening across four inner city hubs and surrounding suburbs. So, expect to see art in unexpected places. On the first weekend, prepare for the CBD to be populated with installations and immersive art activations galore, including the light projection show Botanica that's taking over the City Botanic Gardens after dark. There'll also be food trucks and pop-up bars on site, so you can kick back with a snack as you gaze at the luminous, large-scale projections. From Friday, May 14 to Sunday, May 16, meet artists in the Valley at exhibitions and events like Hot'n'Heinous by Visaya Hoffie — a multi-platform project aptly named to describe a typical summer's day in Brisbane. Then, on Friday, May 21, head north to catch fashion designer Ivy Nui's exhibition The Tent Dress Project. On the last weekend, you can head to an open studio session at the Queensland College of Art to learn First Nations weaving techniques. And that's just the tip of the iceberg, with everything from talks and tours to workshops and exhibitions taking over more than 80 Brisbane venues. Head here to peep the lineup of free and ticketed events to plan your BAD weekends.
Purveyors of fashion, art, homewares, jewellery, ceramics, plants, pots and more, Metre Market has been popping up all over town over the past couple of years. Its next destination: The Lanes precinct, where it'll be unleashing a curated lineup of stalls across California and Bakery lanes in Fortitude Valley. This one-off pop-up is also staying true to Metre Market's original mission, and giving Brisbanites an opportunity to sell their pre-loved clothes as well. If you have a pile of old clothes burning a hole in your closet, get in on the action by applying for a metre or two of space as part of the rack sale. You'll need to bring your own rack; however it's a great way to spring clean your wardrobe, make some extra cash and share your unwanted sartorial choices with the world. Or, you can just browse and buy, of course, if that's what you'd prefer. Either way, it all place from 10am–2pm on Saturday, August 24 — with free entry, live music and plenty of nearby eateries. Image: Bakery Lane.
Sunset Cinema only burst onto Brisbane's movie-going scene in 2018, but it's making its presence known. After returning this past autumn, the outdoor event is coming back for a second time this year with a spring fling — and bringing a heap of ace movies along with it. From Thursday, October 2 to Saturday, November 16, you'll be able to sit outside at the Mt Coot-tha Botanical Gardens, train your eyes at the big screen and get viewing. The season kicks off with Rocketman, then zooms through everything from new hits to old favourites. Step back five decades with Quentin Tarantino's star-studded Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, get your action fix with Fast & Furious: Hobbs & Shaw, sing along to the Beatles thanks to Yesterday or head to the African savannah with The Lion King remake. On the retro front, you can catch a double of Mean Girls and Clueless, or the rom-com duo Bridget Jones' Diary and Notting Hill — or opt for Dirty Dancing, 10 Things I Hate About You or Love Actually. A heap of flicks that'll be in cinemas soon are also on the bill, including Ad Astra, Gemini Man, Good Boys, Zombieland: Double Tap, Joker and a screening of IT: Chapter Two on Halloween (naturally). Pack a picnic to take with you — or, if you'd rather grab something while you're there, expect nachos, pork subs, tacos, chilli dogs and more, plus the usual ice creams, lollies and popcorn, and a drinks range from Young Henrys and Grant Burge Wines. Image: Sunset Cinema.
When the weather is warm in Brisbane, having a picnic is one of the best things that you can do. Given that sun is almost always out, that's most of the time — and, if you're looking for a shady spot to relax, this city of ours boasts plenty of inviting grass just begging for you to laze around on. Combine all of the above with a historic site, pop-up bars and jazz and you have Newstead House's Parkside Sundays series. It takes over the venue's stunning lawn from 12–7pm monthly, with the next event happening on Sunday, December 8. The chilled kind of daytime hangout we all need every now and then (or maybe even more often), it's the type of event to bring your best picnic blanket to, plus your mates and some cash for something to eat and drink — and then let the event take care of the rest. There'll be live jazz tunes to set the mood, a range of food and plenty to sip. Updated December 4.
Who is the reigning Halloween Heist champ? What costume did Rosa Diaz wear the first time that she took part? Which detective asked a criminal to help them win? Who was crowned the 'Queen of the Nine-Nine'? If you can answer all of the above — and you love both Brooklyn Nine-Nine and halloween — then you're set for this trivia night. Yes, it's all about the hit cop sitcom we all know and love. And, the one that goes all out when it comes to the spookiest time of the year. It's also the series that was cancelled and then resurrected in the space of 36 hours, and is thankfully coming back for a seventh season. We'd keep asking Brooklyn Nine-Nine questions and dropping tidbits, but we'll save some for the big night. Every time trivia sessions dedicated to B99 hit town, places are snapped up faster than Terry can snap open a tub of yoghurt. This time, you need to register in advance for Fritzenberger's trivia night at its Petrie Terrace joint, and then Saturday, November 2 can be your night for glory (that can also be the title of your sex tape if you'd like). It all starts at 6.30pm, and entry is free. Bring your wallet for burgs, obviously, plus beers. If all this sounds rather noice, get in quick as spots are limited. UPDATE, SEPTEMBER 27: The first 'Brooklyn Nine-Nine' Halloween Heist Trivia Night, on Friday, November 1, has sold out, so a second event has been added on Saturday, November 2. The above text has been updated to reflect this change.
With the end of the year comes plenty of occasions to dress up — and not just don your sleekest threads, but put on a costume. Maybe you need something spooky for Halloween. Perhaps you really want to spread the festive cheer. Or, you could just need something wizard-related for one of Brisbane's regular Harry Potter-themed events. Operating for more than a century — first as a hairdresser, then selling wigs and theatrical supplies, and later turning to fancy dress and costumes — Sweida's knows all about throwing on a different outfit. And for two days, it's hosting a huge sale at its Salisbury warehouse to help Brisbanites do just that. Head by between 9am–2pm on Friday, October 18 and Saturday, October 19 to add a few new costumes, props, masks, hats, accessories and samples to your own rack. It's a cash-only affair, so arrive prepared.
Fortitude Valley's newest edition, Za Za Ta specialises in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, including for Sunday brunch. Stop by from 12–4pm each week for a decadent grazing-style spread that goes heavy on the flavour and spice — and, if that's the kind of mood you're in, on the boozy beverages as well. Food-wise, you'll be tucking into salads, pickled vegetables, plus housemade Israeli breads with hummus and labneh. And, because this is Middle Eastern feast, expect woodfired shakshuka too. Stop by the slow-cooked meat carving station to add some protein to your plate, then finish up with fruit and regionally inspired sweets. As for drinks, ZZT Brunch Sundays has three choices available. The standard $69 package includes a glass of prosecco, while the $99 option includes bottomless prosecco, rosé, mimosas, spritzes, beer, cider and kombucha. Pay $149, and you'll get free-flowing French Champagne as well — with all sittings running for two-and-a-half hours.
There are many activities you can do in a two-hour time slot. You could watch all six episodes of the ABC's satirical beauty blog Sarah's Channel, cook 60 packets of 2 Minute Noodles or listen to Pink Floyd's 'Shine On You Crazy Diamond' 4.6 times. But we think the tastiest way to pass 120 minutes is to spend it eating endless plates of tacos. And that's exactly what you can on Friday, October 4, when Bowen Hills' El Camino Cantina celebrates 'World Taco Day' with two hours of unlimited tacos for just $25 a pop. Rock up anytime after 11am and you'll be able to dig into bottomless tacos topped with cajun chicken and pickled cabbage; minced beef, cheese and lettuce (it's meant to taste a little like a cheeseburger); or mushrooms and chipotle coleslaw. If you want to spend a bit more on your feast, you can also splurge on a $10 lobster or wagyu taco. To redeem the bottomless offer, you will need to purchase a drink of sorts. You can choose from one of the restaurant's five frozen margaritas, a glass of sangria, a Dos Equis or, really, anything else on the extensive drinks menus. To book your spot, head to the El Camino Cantina website.
BIGSOUND has come to town, bringing as much live music as it can to as many places in Fortitude Valley as possible. From 3–7pm on Wednesday, September 4 and Thursday, September 5, that includes Bakery, Winn and California lanes, where free tunes will be echoing through the cosy passageways as part of the BIGSOUND Lanes Markets. Each lane boasts a different lineup, not only when it comes to bands and musicians, but other activities. Head to California Lane for the Made in Brisbane Markets, where you'll be able to browse artisan goods — and even take a crafty workshop or two. Over at Winn Lane, art is in the spotlight. Or, if you'd like to bulk up your vinyl collection, Bakery Lane is hosting a record fair with the folks from Phase 4. The BIGSOUND Lanes Markets are free to attend, although your wallet is essential if you're planning of scouring the stalls and racks, then making a few purchases. And, if you're feeling thirsty or peckish too — all three lanes are filled with plenty of eateries, cafes and bars that'll help there.
As far as weekdays go, Fridays rank up there with the best of them. When a Friday marks the opening of a sibling cafe to one of Brisbane's favourites and comes with free food, then it's something extra special. That's all on offer on September 6, when Yolk cracks onto the Newstead scene with a grand opening giveaway that's certain to tempt your tastebuds. The latest venture from the folks behind West End's Morning After, Yolk is setting up shop at Gasworks Plaza and bringing a heap of tasty dishes to the other side of the river. Expect a menu that plays with the egg theme — and chicken, naturally — plus plenty of coffee, too. To say hello to the neighbourhood, Yolk will be serving up free bacon and egg rolls from 10am. Get in fast, though, because they're only available until either 1pm or when stocks run out. Image: Morning After.
If you don't eat animal products and have visited Sydney in past few years, you've probably come across The Green Lion. The pub not only caters exclusively for vegans, but recreates classics such as burgers, hot dogs and nachos — all with meat- and dairy-free alternatives. For one night only, it's coming to Queensland. Brisbanites will still have to travel down the highway to the Gold Coast to Burleigh Pavilion; however if you're committed to plant-based eating, you'll probably want to make the journey to the beachside spot. Running over two ticketed sessions, costing $55 per person, and taking place at 6pm and 8pm on Thursday, September 19, this once-off vegan shared feast boasts quite the menu. Kick things off with a vegan cocktail, then tuck into poutine fries with gravy, and macaroni balls with aioli and pickles. Next, opt for potato pizza with caramelised onion and truffle oil, as well as plant-based cheeseburger. Chocolate brownies are on the dessert lineup, and you'll also be able to sip vegan wines — although the tipples aren't included in the price.
Earlier this year, VEND Marketplace added a new space dedicated to plants. Its mission: to help you fill your home with all types of greenery. And to help you do just that, it's hosting a huge sale. Welcome to the Greenhouse, as the area is aptly known. The place where gardeners' dreams come true, it's upping the ante from 8am on Saturday, September 21. That's when the 250-square-metre indoor garden will be slinging its green babies at a special one-day event — and yes, there'll be about succulents, cacti, indoor plants, hanging plants, outdoor plants, pots and more. Plenty of plants will be on sale for less than $12, and there'll also be juice, smoothies, tea, coffee, beer and wine to drink. Plus, if you can find a hidden jungle animal, you'll nab yourself a free piece of greenery. Image: VEND Marketplace.
We're all sculptors. Don't believe us? If you've ever taken a bucket, filled it with sand, plonked it onto the shore and shaped it with your bare hands, then you've sculpted something. With that it mind, it makes sense that part of the Gold Coast would celebrate the art form on its beach — but there's more than just sandcastles on offer. Returning for its 17th outing from Friday, September 13 to Sunday, September 22, SWELL Sculpture Festival features everything from salvaged items to installations to small-scale sculptures, plus guided twilight walks, a beachside film screening and artist talks as well. In total, the ten-day festival will bring over 50 works to Currumbin Beach for an event that attracts more than 275,000 visitors each year. While most of the program is free and simply involves walking along the sand, if you'd like to spend some cash, you can also learn a new skill. The ticketed lineup includes a class on limestone carving, as well as arty sessions for kids if you have young sculpture fans in tow. Image: Karl Meyer, Foci. Leximagery.
Cross your fingers, dog lovers — here's hoping that your four-legged friend feels like heading to a brewery. From 1pm on Saturday, September 7, Ballistic Beer Co. will be turning its Salisbury space into a pupper wonderland, all while people knock back a pint or several. On the Dogs Go Ballistic agenda: craft brews (obviously), dog-centric market stalls, canine activities, an obligatory dog show, a chance to raise money for dog rescue organisations, and live music. We can't promise that the latter will feature pooch-related tunes, but perhaps both you and Fido will be wondering who let the dogs out, asking if the dog days are over and crying all the time like a hound dog. Because taking your barking bestie to a brewery is both thirsty and hungry work, food trucks will also be on the premises, serving barbecued meals, Mexican dishes and other bites to go with Ballistic's own brews. Entry is free, and all woofers great and small are welcome at the picnic-style event — although these very good doggos must stay on their leashes.
If you haven't had the chance to drop into the Brisbane City Cathedral Square Markets, here's the motivation you need: free doughnuts. That promise will get most Brisbanites moving at the best of times, so expect to have plenty of company — but you won't go home empty-handed. Just head by the corner of Ann, Turbot and Wharf streets between 8–11am on Thursday, September 12, and go for a wander through the CBD's newest markets. Then, you'll get a round, doughy treat for your troubles. Whether you feel like a pre-work snack or something sweet for morning tea, you'll find it here. The cinnamon-topped doughnuts come courtesy of OMG Decadent Donuts, which means they're vegan, gluten-free and nut-free — and free of wheat, yeast, dairy, eggs and sulphates as a result. Image: OMG Decadent Donuts.
Fond of Betty's Burgers and its Shake Shack-style burgs? Keen to share the love with someone you love? On Thursday, September 26, the chain of eateries wants Brisbanites to come in for a bite — and to bring their besties in as well. To mark the first ever Betty's Bestie Day, the brand's Brissie joints will be serving up two-for-one burgers. Pay $10 for a Betty's Classic — which stacks angus beef, lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese and Betty's special sauce on a soft bun — and you'll score a pair of them. The offer does only apply to this one type of burg, but it's a classic for a good reason. If you're already salivating, make plans to head to one of Betty's four Brisbane stores: at Chermside, Indooroopilly, Newstead and Howard Smith Wharves. The two-for-one deal is available all day, so if you and your favourite fellow burger fiend are especially eager, you could always hit up one for lunch and another for dinner.
Like beer? Like monsters? Like your brews named after creepy critters, with bottle, can and label artwork to match? Horror-loving drinkers, there's never been a better time to pair your beverages with your fondness for all things scary — but Saturday, October 12 will be even better than usual thanks to Netherworld's Monster Menagerie Beer Festival. The returning event will bring together eight yeasty tipples, strange creatures and stellar collaborations, all for a day of boozing fun. And if you're wondering why it takes place in October, just think about it for a second. 'Tis the month of Halloween, after all. Everyone from Hop Nation to 3 Ravens to White Lies Brewing will be involved, plus locals like Newstead Brewing too. Tickets cost $30, which gets you a taste of each and every one of the unique themed beers, plus a limited edition enamel pin and eight game tokens. As an added bonus, this year the beers will all be inspired by sweet treats as well — so get ready to sip on dessert, candy and chocolate bar-flavoured brews.
Mexican food and margaritas share a specific quality. No matter how many tacos you eat and salt-rimmed drinks you sip, you always want more. Given that El Camino Cantina specialises in both, it's easy to indulge your hankering at the lively bar — and even easier at its new Tex-Mex Fiesta. For $79, you'll tuck into a share-style feast of food. You'll start with buffalo wings with blue cheese mayo and mango chilli sauce, then move onto loaded nachos — with the latter coming topped with melted cheese, black beans, chilli con carne, smoked barbecue brisket, pico de gallo, sour cream and guacamole. Then, it's time for chargrilled chicken fajitas (which feature house-made tortillas, pico de gallo, sour cream, cheese, seasonal veggies, melted butter and sauteed onions), before wrapping things up with hot churros drizzled with chocolate and caramel sauce. That's the food side of the deal. You can also get drinking, too, with the fiesta also including beverages. Sip your way through two hours of bottomless margaritas, with the cocktails served in four flavours, and either frozen or on the rocks. You'll also get free-flowing house beer and wine as well. El Camino Cantina's Tex-Mex Fiesta is available all-day Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays weekly at the chain's store in Bowen Hills.
For the past two decades, the Brisbane Queer Film Festival has brought the best and brightest in LGBTQIA+ cinema to this city of ours — and it's back to just that all over again for its 21st outing. Running across 11 days between Thursday, March 15–Sunday, March 25 at New Farm Cinemas, the 2020 lineup includes 16 features and a heap of short films, spanning everything from highly acclaimed dramas to engaging documentaries. In the first camp is opening night's And Then We Danced, which plunges into the Georgian dance scene in a stunning and moving fashion. In the latter category, viewers can look forward to Queer Japan — which explores exactly what its title suggests, and highlights the full spectrum of queer expression in the Asian nation today. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n25XEhQ6764&feature=emb_logo Other standouts include Monsoon, starring Henry Golding (Crazy Rich Asians) as a man returning to Vietnam for the first time since he was six; Gender Derby, a documentary about a gender-fluid transgender boy who loves roller derby; and So Pretty, which follows young queers in New York City by using fictional and semi-doco techniques. Drama Port Authority also drifts around NYC, specifically its ballroom community, while Australian flick Ellie & Abbie (& Ellie's Dead Aunt) explores teenage love — and documentary Changing the Game tells the stories of transgender high-school athletes.
If you're going to watch Dwayne Johnson and Zac Efron run across a beach in Baywatch, you may as well do so while you're splashing around in a pool. The same applies to Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams locking lips in the rain in The Notebook, and to Leonardo DiCaprio sunning himself in The Beach's secret paradise. They're all on the bill at Brisbane's newest outdoor cinema pop-up — the fittingly called Float In Cinema. A collaboration between W Brisbane and Openair Cinemas, it's taking over the riverside hotel's WET Deck for five Tuesday nights in February and March, pairing swim-in movies with food and cocktails. Perhaps that's why Cocktail, the 1988 flick starring Tom Cruise as a bartender, is on the bill. If you're a fan of shark movies, you can check out Open Water, too. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9q1qJi1nMs Kicking off on February 25, then screening on March 3, 10, 17 and 24 as well — with a 7pm seating time for a 7.30pm start — Float In Cinema costs $25 per person. Your ticket includes a recliner chair, a dip in the pool and use of a towel. You'll have to buy your food and drinks on top, but they will be delivered to you on floating trays. If you're keen, you might want to get in quick, as only 40 seats are available per session.
Sometimes, spending quality time with your significant other means going all out. At other times, getting cosy means keeping things simple — like munching on pizza, sipping cocktails and listening to live jazz, all on a South Brisbane rooftop. Once a week, The Fox Hotel's new Date Night on the Roof is combining all of the above. In other words: prepare to stare into your other half's eyes beneath the bar's glowing lights, and with the city skyline as a backdrop. Just head on by from 5pm each Thursday and get ready to feel romantic. [caption id="attachment_760445" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] The Fox Hotel[/caption] The music starts from 6.30pm and, food and drink-wise, you have a couple of options. Share a pizza and a cocktail jug for $20, or opt for two pizzas and a bottle of wine for $38. Either way, this is a mighty affordable way to treat your favourite person to a night out. Top image: The Fox Hotel.
Yeerongpilly's Plant Empire sells greenery every day of the week, helping folks with green thumbs — and those who wish they had them, too — fill their homes with leafy babies. But on Sunday, March 1, it's doing something more than that. You can still browse the store's shelves for plants, of course; however you can also head round back to check out the pop-up autumn market. As well as plants, you'll be able to peruse a range of pots. If you're going to buy some greenery, you'll want something to put it in, obviously. Also on offer: ceramics, jewellery and other handmade crafts. And if you happen to arrive hungry — Sunday mornings can do that to even the most satisfied stomach — there'll be food available as well. Just drop by the Station Road spot between 9am–1pm, when the morning-long market will be in full swing. The usual advice applies here, as it does to all plant markets: yes, more greenery is always a good thing. Images: Plant Empire.
On Tuesday, November 26, Salt Meats Cheese Gasworks is adding a new all-you-can-eat event to its lineup: all-you-can-eat arancini and meatballs. Unlike the restaurant's weekly bottomless pizza and pasta feast, this is a once-off, so you'll want to clear your night if the idea is already making you hungry. Tuck into arancini and meatballs in four varieties, including beef, barramundi, falafel and vegan arancini, then smother them in toppings. That's where you can choose from napoletana or carbonara sauce, go traditional with bolognese, opt for mushroom and cream, get super cheesy with four cheeses, or even slather them with truffles — and the list of goes on. Vegan and vegetarian options are available, so everyone can enjoy indulging in as many arancini and meatballs as you can possibly stomach. The night kicks off at 5pm, and costs $25 with a drink purchase. Unsurprisingly, bookings are recommended. And, take note: this is only happening at SMC's Gasworks store. Image: Salt Meats Cheese.
More than once in Farming, Enitan stares into a mirror and loathes his reflection. Born in Britain to Nigerian parents, fostered out to a white working-class family and constantly taunted about his race, he even tries to scrub away his darker pigment while glaring daggers at himself. When that doesn't work, the boy (Zephan Amissah) cakes his skin in talcum powder, such is his desperation to see anything but his usual likeness looking back. By the time that Eni becomes a teenager (now played by Damson Idris), his self-hating gaze has solidified, and yet it has also taken on a different tone. As he peers forward, he shaves his head, buttons up his collared shirt and pops his suspenders over his shoulders, all to fit in with the local skinheads. Farming depicts Eni peering intently at a mirror again and again for a reason: no matter which cruel names are spat his way, the feature makes plain that it's his own opinion of himself that matters most. Sadly, he internalises the surrounding resentment and prejudice, so that's all that he can see in his own reflection. But, the fact that Farming even exists is proof that something changes. The film itself is a mirror — and in a more literal sense than most movies. Written and directed by Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, this picture relays the actor-turned-filmmaker's own childhood. Known as Enitan as a kid, he once tried to scratch off his own skin, then joined forces with the very thugs that made his life hell — and now, after a two-decade on-screen career that's seen him feature in everything from Oz, Lost and Game of Thrones to The Bourne Identity, Thor: The Dark World and Suicide Squad, he shares that story. In Farming, Akinnuoye-Agbaje's tale begins with the actor and director playing his own father, Femi — who, alongside his wife Tolu (Genevieve Nnaji), is tearfully handing over baby Enitan to Ingrid Carpenter (Kate Beckinsale). It's 1967, and the practice that gives the movie its moniker is common. Kids like Eni are left with white families while their birth parents study and find work, with couples such as Femi and Tolu hoping their children will get better opportunities in the process. As Farming steps through Eni's Essex-based youth, showing him weather threats from Ingrid and torment from everyone else around him, it demonstrates the impact of this decision — a hard choice made with love by the people who brought him into the world, and one with significant repercussions. Eni transforms from a smiling infant, to a shy kid happily lost in his own head, to a self-loathing outcast who believes that his only path forward is to embrace the hatred he keeps being made to wear like a second skin. In scenes such as the aforementioned soap and talcum powder incidents, it's clear that Farming is directed by an actor, as well as by someone with a personal stake in this bleak and challenging story. This is a highly physical and expressive film that often feels like memories transposed onto the screen — and frequently highlights strikingly framed images and visceral, palpable emotions over dialogue. Thankfully, that's a mode that suits the talented Idris, who takes on that most difficult of tasks: not only playing a real-life figure, but playing the teen-aged version of his director. Raw pain doesn't just burn in his eyes, but infects every move that he makes, whether Eni is lashing out at his self-centred foster mother, himself or the only person (Gugu Mbatha-Raw, in a one-note role as a kindly teacher) who sees past his skin colour. That said, Farming is also a forceful movie — building its confronting, compelling tale one horrific moment at a time, and hitting as bluntly as the blows directed Eni's way. As a boy, he may turn his skin a shade of grey, but the movie he's in only paints in black and white. Of course, that's how this experience clearly felt to Akinnuoye-Agbaje. There's nothing subtle about being told by your foster mother that you come from 'Wooga-Wooga Land', or being expected to grin through daily teasing from neighbourhood kids, or getting stripped naked and spray-painted with racist statements by the Tilbury Skins, after all. There's nothing nuanced about Eni's time among his violent bullies, either, where he's treated like a pet by vicious leader Levi (John Dagleish) and never considered an equal, even as he desperately hopes otherwise. It's tough viewing, but Farming's great achievement — like the hallmark British race-relations drama of the 21st century, This Is England — springs from its willingness to stare unflinchingly at its grim contents. That Akinnuoye-Agbaje treats his adult successes as a mere footnote is telling; who he has since become is important, but what he endured to get there, and the ugly attitudes he faced that still echo today, are far more vital. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_xWwFfT5jak
Forget about decking the halls with boughs of holly. At A Very Vegan Christmas, you'll be piling up your plates with mounds of vegetables. Held at Windsor's The Green Edge, it's a three-course festive feast with a cruelty-free focus — aka the type of seasonal meal that you won't find anywhere else. On the menu: no animal products, a gluten-free option (if you need it), gifts, Christmas-themed drinks, and an all-round jolly and merry time. And tasty dishes shared with fellow herbivores, too. No one will be fighting over turkey legs here. This year, The Green Edge isn't just dedicating one evening to their festive deliciousness, but two, with sittings available at 5.30pm and 7.30pm on both Friday, December 20 and Saturday, December 21. Dinner costs $55 + booking fee per person, and bring your own booze if you plan on doing some extra celebrating.
Some films are awful. Some films are excellent. Some manage to be both all at once. Inspiring movie-goers to throw spoons at the cinema screen since 2003, The Room falls into that category. He'll likely claim otherwise, but Tommy Wiseau couldn't have made a flick this unique if he'd really been trying to. Of course, The Room does have an obvious companion piece — and no, don't mean his next effort with Greg Sestero, Best F(r)iends (or the animated space show they recently loaned their voices to, either). No, we can only be talking about The Disaster Artist. After Sestero penned a book about his experiences making The Room, James Franco came along and turned into into a film. He also decided to play Wiseau himself, with Dave Franco playing Sestero. The two movies make quite the pair, and they're playing back-to-back at Metro Arts from 5pm on Saturday, October 5. Be there, or risk the feeling on missing out on a double feature like no other — a feeling that'll tear you apart, naturally.
Can your canine companion cut a rug, instead of just lazing about on one? Is your four-legged bestie as good at boogying as it is at barking and being cute? If you don't know the answer, now might be the time to find out, because Prohibition is hosting a Dogs & Beats silent disco. First, take a second to marvel at the concept. We're guessing that headphones will be reserved for humans, not puppers — but hitting the dance floor with your doggo isn't something that you get to do everyday. If you'd like to take a few seconds to wonder just how it's all going to turn out, that's fine, too. Again, making shapes while surrounded by mutts isn't on the regular agenda for most folks. There are a few caveats, of course, with the event restricted to small and medium pooches up to 25 kilograms in weight. Your dog will also need to stay on a leash the whole time. If you're as keen as Fido at dinner time, the silent disco will take place in the Fortitude Valley's garden bar from 12–6pm on Sunday, November 10. Tickets cost $20, with $10 from each going to the RSPCA.
Colourful anime hits, intriguing murder mysteries and moody yakuza thrillers — they're all on the lineup at this year's Japanese Film Festival. Throw in a rom-com about renting a friend, a musical-comedy starring a former J-pop idol and a live-action version of a best-selling manga, and Brisbane viewers will have plenty to watch at Event Cinemas Myer Centre between Wednesday, October 23 and Sunday, October 27. It all starts with opening night's Masquerade Hotel, which tasks a detective (Blade of the Immortal's Takuya Kimura) with going undercover at a swanky Tokyo establishment. The reason? He believes that a murder is about to take place within its walls, and he's determined not only to stop it, but to solve three other seemingly unrelated killings. From there, standouts include Little Love Song, about Okinawa high schoolers in a pop band; family reunion drama Born Bone Born, as set on the island of Aguni; and Melancholic, which follows a new university graduate who takes a job at a bathhouse, only to find himself working for dangerous mobsters. On the animated front, Ride Your Wave takes to the sea on a surfboard, because Japanese animators can make surfing movies too. Final Fantasy fans might want to catch Brave Father Online, given that it focuses on a father and son reconnecting through their love of Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn, while closing night's Dance With Me takes its characters on a singing and dancing road trip.
Some films are long, slow and serious. Others are brief, quick and fun. There's a place for the former, of course; however Radical Reels champions the latter category, combining the most action-packed mountain movies it can find into a compilation of high-octane shorts. Radical Reels is the adrenaline-loving little brother of the Banff Mountain Film Festival, the most prestigious international film competition and annual presentation of short films and documentaries about mountain culture, sports, and environment. From the most recent festival's 300-strong submissions, a subset of daring displays have been singled out for not just one showcase, but three. Across the four nights between Tuesday, October 22 and Friday, October 25, seven shorts will approach the very edge of action sports and natural highs: the wild rides, long lines, steep jumps, and skilled stunts, as well as the rugged playgrounds thrill-seekers explore on their mountain bikes, paddles, ropes, skis, snowboards and wingsuits. Expect the world's best extreme athletes getting fast and furious when the Radical Reels Tour 2019 stops in at the Brisbane Powerhouse. Image: Jeremy Bernard.
That soothing feeling that sweeps over you when you spy a cute canine, spend too much time watching internet cat videos or even just spot a picture of a newborn animal — that's the feeling at the heart of Australia's newest wellness sessions. Sure, you've been to kitten yoga and puppy pilates, and they're both great. But we're guessing that you haven't tried meditating with baby goats or getting mindful with soft, cuddly lambs. Currently held in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast, attendees at Karmably's classes attempt to find inner bliss while they're surrounded by rescued baby farm animals. In short, it's the best way to de-stress when life's got your goat. After all, who can remain overwhelmed, exhausted or annoyed when they're sharing their chill-out session with actual goats? The classes focus on relaxation techniques, like Breathe In & Bleat Out, which gives you an idea of just what's in store. Those heading along can expect three parts to the session: mindful stretching, meditation and snuggling the four-legged participants. If you're wondering where the concept came from, it was inspired by organiser Berenice Tan's own experiences trying to find something other than the usual mindfulness classes within Australia. Unimpressed with the options already available, she flew to Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco "and experienced every meditation class under the sun," she explains. "Funnily enough, I heard about goat yoga and laughed it off as something ridiculous I wasn't interested in trying." Upon returning to Brisbane, Tan began to research animal therapy and, after learning of the benefits (and realising that everyone loves cute critters), her sessions with goats, lambs and even piglets were born. The bliss goes both ways, too — with Karmably not only helping humans to relax in a fun manner, but also assisting animals in need. Tan works with sanctuaries, rescue centres, and organisations such as Harmony Hooves Healing Hearts, Brisbane Pony Parties and My Little Farm Friends. They're all outfits that raise baby creatures who have either been rejected by their mothers or lost their mums in other ways, and hand-rear them until they can be adopted out as pets to families who live on suitable properties. After setting up shop last year, classes are already selling out months in advance — but there's currently spaces for the latest Brissie session at 10.15am on Saturday, November 23. The calming cuteness takes place at 46 Evesham Street in Moorooka.
They're a horror movie staple, as seen in everything from The Shining to Friday the 13th to Mandy. They're also what the folks at Maniax happen to specialise in. So when October 31 rolls around, throwing a hatchet-hurling Halloween shindig just seems like the natural thing to do. At the axe-throwing venue's Night of 1000 Axes event, you'll fling sharp weapons at a target in a safe and controlled environment — and, to suit the occasion, there'll also be zombie attacks. If you're wondering just what the undead action will entail, you'll find out at the party; however if you're easily spooked, scared, startled or frightened, Maniax warns that this mightn't be your night. Dressing up is encouraged, with free passes on offer for the best costumes. The theme: apocalyptic, obviously. Night of 1000 Axes runs as part of Maniax's regular small group sessions, which kick off at 7.30pm. Tickets cost $50 per person — and hatchet-hurling Brisbanites can even combine their weapon-flinging antics with up to three beers or ciders, because the outfit's Newstead venue is licensed.
Love splashing around, sipping drinks and hanging out on rooftops? When the weather is warm, we all do. There's rarely a bad time to combine all of the above given Brisbane's tropical climes; however spring and summer are prime pool party season — especially at Next Hotel's new Sunday Splash series. Running from 12pm every Sunday between October 6 and the end of summer, these end-of-weekend shindigs are all about going for a dip, having a few beverages and just generally enjoying a cruisy afternoon. And, because they're taking place weekly at hotel's Pool Terrace + Bar, they're happening at one of the city's best lofty vantages. If you like peering down on the Queen Street Mall, they also come with a rather nice view. Entry is free, DJs will be spinning tunes and everything is open to the public — so, to hit up the bar or the pool, you won't need to book a night at the hotel. Bring your wallet for beverages and snacks — and, while you can just show up, you can also reserve a table in advance for a $50 deposit. Images: The Pool Terrace.
