Snow place like home, right? Here at CP, we're excited for winter playtime. Whether you can't wait to hit the slopes again or you're a curious first-timer, we know just the snow-covered playground that will hit the spot: Thredbo. Just a 5 and a 1/2 hour drive from Sydney, winter holiday goers congregate to the alpine village in their masses for the longest ski runs in Australia (when the mountain is fully covered in snow). And we've got the lowdown: where to stay, where to re-fuel, and where to party in your snow boots. Athol Got a lot of friends? This cosy, rustic self-contained chalet sleeps up to 12 people with a perfect communal layout for a big group. Gather round the open fire, sprawl out on the balcony and dig in to some hearty food at the canteen-style dining table. Diggings Terrance, Thredbo Village; Athol website Banjo Townhouses Each townhouse is a modern apartment with one or two bedrooms and beautiful views of the mountains. Loft units have their own slow-burning wood fire: lush! Banjo Drive, Thredbo Village; stayz.com.au/93085 Bernti’s Mountain Inn Bernti's is restaurant, hotel and nightlife all rolled into one. This European-style boutique inn has 30 rooms (and a rather entertaining host in Donna), gourmet food and a popular al fresco deck. Why would you ever leave? 4 Mowamba Place, Thredbo Village; (02) 6457 6332; berntis.com.au Black Bear Inn In the heart of Thredbo, and at the centre of all the action, this traditional lodge and restaurant has rooms to rent from single to family-sized. It’s a stone’s throw from the shuttle stop, plus never-ending German beer at the Inn. 30 Diggins Terrace, Thredbo Village; (02) 6457 6216; blackbearinn.com.au Thredbo Alpine Hotel Thredbo Alpine Hotel is boutique accommodation with the pick of rooms or chalets for an easy, comfortable stay at the base of the Kosciuszko chairlift. Thredbo Resort Centre, Thredbo Village; 1300 020 589; Thredbo Alpine Hotel Moonbah Hut A short 30 minute drive from Thredbo, and 15 minutes from Jindabyne town, Moonbah Hut is in a whole world of its own. This completely isolated, unique stone hut is fully equipped with underfloor heating, a rocking chair and fluffy robes for a romantic getaway. Jindabyne; (02) 6457 8311; moonbahhut.com Paringa Self contained, all the mod-cons and a shuttle bus on your doorstep, Paringa apartments are two bed units plus loft space, the obligatory balcony BBQ and a Swedish sauna. (02) 6457 7030; skiinskiout.com.au River Inn Priding itself on being a ski-in, ski-out hotel, River Inn has modern rooms and suites with plenty of extras, like wireless, a heated indoor pool and laundry service. 4 Friday Drive, Thredbo Alpine Village; (02) 9369 3010; riverinn.com.au Rockpool Lodge Like a little luxe? When only 5 star will do, Rockpool Lodge is a good pick. It’s got the spa, faux fur throws, sauna and champagne on chill (okay, we can’t guarantee the last one, but you get the picture). (02) 6457 7132; rockpoollodge.com.au Kareela Hutte Breakfast, coffee, champagne or cellar door, Kareela Hutte is a well-loved haunt for skiers and boarders on their up or down the mountain. On the Supertrail at 1810m altitude; (02) 6457 6099; kareelahutte.com.au Merritts Mountain House On-slope marketplace dining, from fresh juices and salads to stews, soups and strudel. Merritts uses artisan produce to create lovingly homemade food, conveniently located between slopes. Top of Merritts chairlift at 1660m altitude; (02) 6457 6084; merritts.com.au Black Sallee's Nestled amongst the gum trees off Crackenback Supertrail, Black Sallee's is famous for its hot chocolate, European beer selection (try the Maisel's Weisse) and schnapps. The service is quick, so you’ll be shoop shooping again in no time. At the top of Snowgums chairlift; (02) 6457 6439; Black Sallee's Bullwheel Bar & Bistro Laying claim to being Australia’s highest bar and bistro, Bullwheel has quick snacks and warming drinks, as well as German wheat beers, gluhwein and schnapps. At the top of Kosciuszko chairlift at 1937m altitude; (02) 6457 6019; Bullwheel Bar & Bistro Bernti’s Tapas Bar Serving a gourmet selection of international tapas, from smoked trout bruschetta to veal schnitzel, Bernti’s has al fresco dining and plenty of wine and beer to wash it down with. 4 Mowamba Place, Thredbo Village; (02) 6457 6332; berntis.com.au/tapas-bar The Knickerbocker Pan fried market fish, duck confit, spinach and ricotta dumplings... Yum! Riverside Cabins, Diggings Terrace, Thredbo; (02) 6457 6844; theknickerbocker.com.au The Terrace Relaxed fine dining: head chef Karen Forsstrom, formerly of Sydney’s Kingsleys restaurant, cooks up the finest ingredients to serve up her handcrafted menu. The Denman Hotel, 21 Diggings Terrace, Thredbo; (02) 6457 6222; thedenman.com.au The Wildbrumby Open daily for breakfast and lunch, the kitchen at Wildbrumby schnapps distillery door has a hearty selection of soups, pates, sandwiches and burgers - all created using local produce. Cnr of Wollondibby Rd and Alpine Way, Jindabyne; (02) 6457 1447; wildbrumby.com Apres Bar For a sophisticated start to the night, head to Apres Bar at The Denman. Cocktails, retro decor and tapas. The Denman, 21 Diggins Terrace, Thredbo Village; (02) 6457 6222; thedenman.com.au/bar Schuss Bar A little more laid-back, the Schuss Bar has live music and entertainment every night throughout winter. Threadbo Village Resort, Alpine Way; (02) 6459 4200. Thredbo Alpine Lounge Bar From 12 noon to midnight, the Alpine Lounge Bar is the place to kick-back and enjoy a coffee (or something stronger) beside the fire. Relaxed vibe, live music and great views. Thredbo Village Resort, Alpine Way; (02) 6459 4200. The Keller Looking to party late into the night? Revellers migrate to Thredbo’s famous nightclub. Thredbo Village Resort, Alpine Way; (02) 6459 4200.
Keeping track of the pooch-friendly events around Brisbane almost requires a separate calendar — a doggo diary if you like. If taking your pet pupper to all the places you can is your idea of a great time, here's the latest thing to add to your schedule: The Prince Consort's Paws and Pints session. All throughout August, the venue is celebrating Pawgust — and this Sunday session, taking place from 11.30am on Sunday, August 14, is one of the star attractions. Yes, it's a chance to take your furry best friend for a few brews. Plus, if Max or Frankie is judged the cutest canine there, you'll also get some time in the pupper photo booth. Entry is free and, to get your dog's tail wagging, treats and bowls will be available for the barking attendees — and the usual bar menu will be on offer for two-legged patrons. Sip Stone & Wood pints and you'll be helping a great cause, too, with proceeds being donated to the Animal Welfare League Queensland. As for the soundtrack, you can expect 'Who Let the Dogs Out?', 'Hound Dog', 'Black Dog' and more appropriately themed tracks to get a whirl.
If you're reading this article, you almost certainly know about food and craft beer matching and you may know about locations and craft beer matching, but have you heard of (or tried) books and craft beer matching? There are a number of elements to this growing trend. In the US, for example, book bars are becoming part of the urban landscape. Operating on the same principle as book cafes, only with craft beer instead of coffee, these establishments have a strong craft element. The books stocked are often non-mainstream, much like the beers served to accompany them. Elsewhere in North America — Canada, to be precise — beer and book clubs are being formed "for those who like to read a good book, drink a good beer, and maybe combine the two once in a while". Meeting at various pubs within a certain area, these gatherings bring a craft beer twist to the traditional book club. And then, of course, there’s the internet — where all manner of unlikely combinations get together. You'll find blogs about the right beer to drink while following the adventures of your favourite comic book hero, or about craft beers to match to certain authors. But in sites like Book and Beer, you'll also find recommendations for a particular beer to enjoy with a particular book. (For the record, the author — Jason Hensel, a writer, musician and comedian living in Dallas — reckons American Gods by Neil Gaiman is best enjoyed with a glass of James Squire Jack of Spades Porter.) So which book (or series of books) is best suited to the various beers in the James Squire craft beer range? Get reading and sipping this summer, there's Kerouac-paired beers afoot. F. Scott Fitzgerald: The Great Gatsby "It’s a great advantage not to drink among hard drinking people." Pair with James Squire The Chancer Golden Ale. Joseph Heller: Catch-22 "He knew everything there was to know about literature, except how to enjoy it." Pair with James Squire Jack of Spades Porter. Ian Fleming: The James Bond series "You only live twice: Once when you're born. And once when you look death in the face." Pair with James Squire Four 'Wives' Pilsener. J.R.R. Tolkien: The Lord of the Rings "Ho! Ho! Ho! to the bottle I go, to heal my heart and drown my woe." Pair with James Squire Nine Tales Amber Ale. Fyodor Dostoyevsky: Crime and Punishment "The darker the night, the brighter the stars." Pair with James Squire One Fifty Lashes Pale Ale. Alexandre Dumas: The Count of Monte Cristo "All human wisdom is contained in these two words: wait and hope." Pair with James Squire Stowaway IPA. Jack Kerouac: On the Road "The only people for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time, the ones who never yawn or say a commonplace thing, but burn, burn, burn like fabulous yellow roman candles exploding like spiders across the stars." Pair with James Squire Orchard Crush Cider. Ian Rankin: The Inspector Rebus series "Rebus drank his coffee and felt his head spin. He was feeling like the detective in a cheap thriller, and wished that he could turn to the last page and stop all his confusion, all the death and the madness and the spinning in his ears." Pair with James Squire The Constable Copper Ale. Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves "Open Sesame!" Pair with James Squire Hop Thief American-style Pale Ale. Jon Cleary: The Sundowners "Do me a favour, will you? If you're gonna be a drover, look like a drover. Get rid of that silly flaming hat." Pair with James Squire Sundown Australian Lager (what else?).
When it comes to exploring Broome (Rubibi) and the Kimberley, we recommend packing your sense of adventure. This vast, varied stretch of country holds some of the most breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences in the world. There's ocean wilderness and colourful coral wonderlands, Aboriginal cultural sites and places of ancient, enduring story and significance. You'll see otherworldly rock forms, lush greenery and sprawling lakes, optical lunar illusions and sideways — yes, sideways — waterfalls. There's nowhere like it, and there are so many ways you can explore. Whatever way you want to adventure, we've got a standout spread of activities here to choose from — and a few ready-to-go trips if you're already packed and ready. It's time to choose your own quest out west.
Ten-year anniversaries are traditionally celebrated with tin, but fantastic NZ designer Karen Walker has no time for such banalities. To mark ten unconventional years in the eyewear game, she has released the 'Celebrate' collection, entirely done in gold. If they look like lavish versions of what's come before, well, that's exactly what they are. Each style is an iconic favourite from a previous year's collection. So there's 2005's Annie, earlier seen on this vampire; 2013's Northern Lights, earlier seen on this grande dame; and 2012's Number One, earlier seen on this balloon. The metal frames have been encased in a clear epoxy resin, making them look like solid gold. But you'll be looking more Greek island hopper, less Daft Punk member thanks to the warm, amber-brown mirrored lenses, which is what's really elevating these golden oldies to the next level. Here's to another ten years of taking loud, playful and sometimes silly risks on our faces, and another ten years of waiting to see who/what will model Karen Walker's designs next. Check out the festive campaign for Celebrate, shot by Derek Kettela, below. To see out the full collection or just dive in and buy, head to the Karen Walker Eyewear website. Each style is priced at NZ$399 ($358) and is in store from October 9.
"I do love this film." So advises Bob Odenkirk, exclaiming his fondness for Nobody 2 as soon as he starts chatting with Concrete Playground. As evident to everyone who sees the sequel to Nobody, that affection is already splashed across the screen. The same proved true in 2021, too, when the franchise's first movie initially gave its star a chance to switch up from leading one of TV's greatest-ever tragedies and series overall, aka Better Call Saul, with a jump into action mode. His task: playing Hutch Mansell, a seemingly ordinary suburban dad with a past that meant that he was never going to let gun-wielding thieves break into his home and upset his family life with his wife Becca (Connie Nielsen, Gladiator II) and their two children (Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent's Gage Munroe and Harland Manor's Paisley Cadorath) without making those responsible pay for it. The debut picture set Hutch against the Russian mafia, all to take care of his loved ones. That isn't Mr Show with Bob and David and Breaking Bad alum Odenkirk's IRL path at all, but elements of Nobody were indeed personal. The idea to begin with started with him in his prime Saul Goodman/Jimmy McGill/Gene Takovic days. And, as the Nobody 2 director Timo Tjahjanto (The Shadow Strays) explained back when the sequel's initial trailer dropped, "the first film is also sort of based on what happened to Bob in real life — the whole idea that he was confronting this thing that happened in his house, when somebody broke into his house. So he exorcised that sort of, I guess, trauma, by writing a script or writing a story." Four years later, with a movie that follows the Mansells on vacation to Plummerville — Hutch's dad David (Christopher Lloyd, Wednesday) included — this is still a action-flick saga with IRL connectioms for its lead. In his childhood, Odenkirk once went on a similar getaway. Again, the exact scenario that awaits Hutch isn't how its star's real life panned out; however, links to reality remain, including in exploring Plummerville's criminal element. Getting personal and relatable has always been baked into the Nobody films as well in a broader sense, given that both hone in on someone trying to do the best for their nearest and dearest. That's Hutch's emotional journey. Crucially for Nielsen, she tells us, the same applies to Becca. Nobody 2 kicks off pre-holiday, with Hutch working off his $30-million mob debt from the feature's predecessor, and barely spending time at home as a result. Becca isn't thrilled. Cue the trip, at Hutch's suggestion, to Plummerville's Wild Bill's Majestic Midway and Waterpark — a place with youthful memories for the film's protagonist. Of course, running afoul of the corrupt owner of the local theme park (John Ortiz, The Madness), a take-no-prisoners crime boss (Sharon Stone, The Flight Attendant) and underhanded law enforcement (with And Mrs' Colin Hanks as the sheriff) wasn't on anyone's dream vacation itinerary. Writing for Saturday Night Live, plus featuring in everything from Nebraska, Fargo, Little Women, Undone and Lucky Hank to The Bear and Glengarry Glen Ross on Broadway, are all on multiple Emmy-nominee Odenkirk's resume. Whether as Hutch in the Nobody films or as Jimmy-slash-Saul, he's been especially focused on bringing to life figures who refuse to get knocked down and stay down for over 15 years now, though — but that's a trait that he stresses he believes applies to everyone. Indeed, there's always a relatability-meets-wish fulfilment mix to Hutch, Becca and the situations they're in. Who can't relate to struggling with work-life balance, or their partner's lack thereof? Or a holiday not quite panning out the way you'd hoped and wanting to set that right? Or protecting those most important to you? Nobody 2 sees Nielsen on-trend in her own career. For the second time in less than a year, she's returning to a big-screen part. First came Lucilla in Gladiator II; now follows Becca. While both are formidable women, as she has played repeatedly across a career that started with screen roles in the 80s and also spans The Devil's Advocate, Rushmore, Brothers, Wonder Woman, Origin and plenty beyond, it is particularly satisfying and gratifying to portray someone who is meant to be an everywoman — as Hutch is an everyman — and who demonstrates that she too, like all women, can hold her own, she notes. Alongside digging into why Nobody 2 is personal, and its focus on family as well as everyday woes — amid and sometimes through the action setpieces — Odenkirk and Nielsen also chatted with us about the origins of all things Nobody, further fleshing out Becca's story in the sequel, tenacity and more. On Whether Odenkirk Was Keen to Find His Next Recurring Character Beyond Better Call Saul and Breaking Bad — and What He Was Looking For Bob: "I didn't really think on the grand scale that you've described to me. I was really thinking about how Better Call Saul, to my surprise, was pleasing people in countries around the world. I really was mystified initially that Better Call Saul played so well in Italy and Romania and Russia and even England — and everywhere. I actually asked a journalist in Europe 'how do you understand the show? Do you have lawyers like this?'. And they said 'well, we've seen a lot of American entertainment and we understand enough about American culture to understand who Saul is in his community, in his world'. And then I saw that it played in China, and it gave me the thought 'well, if I did an action film, that could play around the world, too' — because action is fairly simple and easy to follow. And the value or the kind of drive of the film is easy to relate to. So I asked my manager 'what about an action film?' — and I thought he'd laugh me off the phone, but he did not. He said 'I get what you're saying. That could work'." On Nielsen's Opportunity to Further Build and Flesh Out Becca Mansell in Nobody 2 Connie: "I think Bob is just such a generous writer. He just writes all these situations where the humanity of his wife is just so clear. There is a wisdom that he builds into Becca — and a zenness, like a knowingness, that I find so attractive about Becca. Becca is patient, but she's not long-suffering. The difference is huge. And she is critical but never blames, never uses blame. She holds him accountable for the sake of the family, for what's best for all of them, but not to control. So there's this wonderful way you can build a character, and I think that Bob just really writes that into Becca since day one. I remember the first time when I read the first script and the reason why I decided I wanted to do it, even though I knew that they wouldn't be developing Becca until the second installation — I just knew that I wanted to do it because there was this sensitive, beautiful scene of two people sleeping with a pillow in-between them. And they're both awake, and they just can't figure out how to how to ford that river between them. And I just thought that I've never seen that in an action movie, something as sensitive as that. And I just love that." On Nobody 2's Personal Ties for Odenkirk, as the First Nobody Also Sported Bob: "Nobody 2 is about a family going on vacation. When I was a kid, we went on two vacations: one to the Illinois State Fair and one to the Wisconsin Dells. And the Wisconsin Dells are just like Plummerville — or at least they were 35, well 45 years ago, when I went on vacation to them. They're mostly water-based. There's duck boats. There's a guy who owns all the attractions in town — just like Wyatt Martin, played by John Ortiz. Wisconsin is where Al Capone ran his booze through. He actually had a home there, in Lake Geneva, I believe. So all that stuff that The Barber [Colin Salmon, EastEnders] says to Hutch, 'used to be a bootlegging route' — that's true of this place where I used to go. All of that is true. The backroads of Wisconsin was where they ran alcohol up to Canada during prohibition, ran it out to the other states, ran it through to Wisconsin. So all that stuff is based on my memories of childhood — and also Derek Kolstad [John Wick], who wrote the movie, his memories. He grew up in Madison, Wisconsin, very close to the Wisconsin Dells. So yes, this movie too is connected to my personal experience." On Doing What's Best for Your Family Always Being at the Heart of the Nobody Films, Even as Action Movies Filled with Violence and Vengeance Connie: "It really is, and I think that that's what attracted me to the story — is that it always stays grounded in something real. There's a real family there, kids, and the real community as well. So I love it when you see writing that just makes the small things come alive, because they are the ones that we just inherently use to create reference points to who we are all the time, and I love that kind of writing." On What Appeals to Odenkirk About Playing Characters Who Refuse to Get Knocked Down and Stay Down, and Are Determined to Bounce Back Up However They Can Bob: "Well, you can say that they're special people or they're indefatigable spirits, but I actually think that's actually pretty common. Most people I know don't quit until they're forced to. They kind of just don't quit. People don't quit. Sometimes I think people are limited by what they imagine they'd be capable of. And that limits them more than their spirit of fighting. I think most people fight pretty hard." On What's Satisfying and Gratifying for Nielsen About Portraying Formidable But Also Relatable Women Connie: "I think the most important thing is really showing normal people trying to address the enormous difficulties of living. There's just so much stuff that's hard to do. Family is hard. Relationships are hard. Jobs are hard. And just showing that, I think, at the same time as you're also entertaining, I think that makes people feel like they're seen — that their lives make sense, because everybody is going through that. So I think I really respond to writing where I see a real human struggle, and I also see indicators for where it becomes meaningful — like, that struggle has meaning." Nobody 2 opened in cinemas Down Under on Thursday, August 14, 2025.
The Market Folk has been bringing a heap of stalls to Newstead's Gasometer for some time now, and it's clearly a smart move. Browsing and buying beneath one of inner-city Brisbane's most striking sights, including at night — what's not to love? In 2021, this winning combination is making a comeback. And, it's next unleashing it wares for a certain February date worth celebrating. Yes, you'll be shopping for fashion, art, homewares, plants and ceramics in the lead up to the romantic occasion that is Valentine's Day. Taking place from 5–9pm on Friday, February 12, the Gasworks Valentine's Market will feature plenty of artisanal goodies to tempt your wallet — and a heap of perfect gift ideas for your special someone, too. As always, Brisbane creatives will be in the spotlight, so you'll also be showing them some love as well. [caption id="attachment_758933" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] The Market Folk[/caption] Top image: Andrew S via Flickr.
Add another date into your doggo's diary — a new dog festival is coming to town. On May 27, Newmarket Village is going to the dogs, but in a good way, thanks to the NewBARKet Dog Fest. Take your pupper along from 11am till 3pm, with everything from pooch parades to puppy yoga to plenty of pats on offer. Pet photography, pampering sessions, dog first aid, and trick and obedience workshops are on the agenda too, so you can show off your four-legged best friend, make them feel special and teach them a thing or two. For attendees of the two-legged variety (no, your clever canine standing on their two back legs doesn't count), there'll also be food and live music. And if you're sadly lacking in the pooch department, don't worry — everyone else will have you covered, so you'll be in for a top day of dog watching.
A backstage tribute to an iconic TV series. The sequel to a huge horror hit. Amy Adams transforming into a dog. A portrait of an indie band as unique as the group itself. Disquieting filmmaking becoming a family affair. If you're heading to SXSW Sydney in 2024, you'll be able to tick all five of the above boxes, all in the SXSW Sydney Screen Festival's headline slots. When it returns for its second year, the film- and TV-focused fest within the broader SXSW Sydney will feature Saturday Night, Smile 2, Nightbitch, The Front Room and Pavements. Everything except the latter is a new addition to a program that's been unveiling titles on its roster for a few months, so you've now got more movies to fit into your schedule across Monday, October 14–Sunday, October 20. Directed by Juno, Young Adult, Tully and Ghostbusters: Afterlife's Jason Reitman, Saturday Night recreates how SNL's first-ever episode came to be. The Fabelmans' Gabriel LaBelle plays Lorne Michaels, leading a cast that includes Dylan O'Brien (Fantasmas) as Dan Aykroyd, Ella Hunt (Horizon: An American Saga — Chapter 1) as Gilda Radner, Matthew Rhys (IF) as George Carlin and Matt Wood (Instinct) as John Belushi as well. Also featuring in Saturday Night: Finn Wolfhard (Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire), Rachel Sennott (The Idol), Kaia Gerber (Palm Royale), JK Simmons (The Union), Cooper Hoffman (Licorice Pizza), Lamorne Morris (Fargo), Nicholas Braun (Dream Scenario) and Willem Dafoe (Beetlejuice Beetlejuice). And yes, at SXSW Sydney, the film is indeed screening on a Saturday evening. If you got creeped out by Smile back in 2022, you won't be surprised that the unnerving flick has spawned a new chapter. This time, Naomi Scott (Anatomy of a Scandal) stars as a pop star caught up in the chaos around the worst grin you can see. To chat about it, returning director Parker Finn is heading to the fest to present the film, too. Nightbitch hails from The Diary of a Teenage Girl, Can You Ever Forgive Me? and A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood filmmaker Marielle Heller, and stars Amy Adams (Dear Evan Hansen) as a stay-at-home mum who turns canine. And as for the already-announced Pavements, it sees filmmaker Alex Ross Perry (Her Smell) focus on the band Pavement via an experimental blend of documentary, narrative, musical and more. Then there's The Front Room, aka one of two upcoming pictures from the Eggers family. While The Witch, The Lighthouse and The Northman's Robert Eggers has his own take on Nosferatu on the way, his siblings Max and Sam have made their feature directorial debut with this A24-backed and Brandy (Best. Christmas. Ever!)-led affair about a pregnant woman doing battle with her mother-in-law (Kathryn Hunter, Poor Things). One of Saturday Night, Smile 2, Nightbitch, The Front Room and Pavements will screen nightly across the fest's Tuesday–Saturday dates. Wondering about the Monday? There's more news to come, with SXSW Sydney's 2024 Screen Festival opening-night film still to be announced. Elsewhere, as seen in past lineup announcements, 2024's SXSW Sydney Screen Festival spans cults, cat-loving animation and Christmas carnage thanks to Azrael, Ghost Cat Anzu and Carnage for Christmas. Movie lovers can also look forward to Ilana Glazer (The Afterparty)-led mom-com Babes; Audrey starring Jackie van Beek (Nude Tuesday); coming-of-age tale DiDi; the maximum-security prison-set Sing Sing with Colman Domingo (Drive-Away Dolls); and Inside, which features Guy Pearce (The Clearing), Cosmo Jarvis (Shōgun) and Toby Wallace (The Bikeriders). There's also doco Omar and Cedric: If This Ever Gets Weird, spending time with At the Drive-In and The Mars Volta's Omar Rodriguez-Lopez and Cedric Bixler-Zavala; Teaches of Peaches, which goes on tour with its namesake; the Lucy Lawless (My Life Is Murder)-directed doco Never Look Away about CNN camerawoman Margaret Moth; Peter Dinklage (Unfrosted) and Juliette Lewis (Yellowjackets) lead western-thriller The Thicket; and Aussie documentary Like My Brother, about four aspiring AFLW players from the Tiwi Islands. The list goes on, with The Most Australian Band Ever! about the Hard-Ons, That Sugar Film and 2040 filmmaker Damon Gameau's Future Council, and Slice of Life: The American Dream. In Former Pizza Huts from Barbecue and We Don't Deserve Dogs' Matthew Salleh and Rose Tucker also set to screen. SXSW Sydney 2024 runs from Monday, October 14–Sunday, October 20 at various Sydney venues. Head to the SXSW Sydney website for further details.
Last year, HBO said goodbye to Game of Thrones, at least for now. It also farewelled Veep and wrapped up Big Little Lies, although the latter apparently could still make a comeback. But don't go thinking that the US cable network has gaps in its schedule in 2020. Not only did Westworld return, but The Outsider, Perry Mason, Lovecraft Country, I May Destroy You and The Undoing all proved must-see viewing. Australian viewers can watch its Italian-set mini-series We Are Who We Are from this month, too — and in December, HBO's new six-part psychological thriller The Third Day will also hit local screens. Starring Jude Law, Naomie Harris (Moonlight, Spectre), Paddy Considine (The Outsider), Emily Watson (Chernobyl) and Katherine Waterston (the Fantastic Beasts franchise), The Third Day is comprised of two halves: 'Summer' and 'Winter'. In the show's first three episodes, it follows a man called Sam (Law) who is drawn to an island off the British coast, only to discover that he can't leave. In its second three episodes, it spends time with Helen (Harris), who also finds herself on the tiny Osea Island. If it sounds familiar, that's because it started airing in the US in mid-September and just finished up its overseas run in mid-October. Now Australian viewers will be able to enjoy its intriguing premise, eerie setting and top-notch cast, with The Third Day hitting Foxtel from Monday, December 7 — airing weekly, and also making every episode available to stream via Foxtel Go and Foxtel Now. There's no word as yet regarding The Third Day's other component, called 'Fall' — a day-long event that featured Law, Watson and Waterston, was broadcast in real time and was also captured in one continuous take. Behind the scenes, the show stems from creators Felix Barrett and Dennis Kelly, with Barrett founding British theatre company Punchdrunk — which created the aforementioned 'Fall' segment of the show — and Kelly writing the original UK version of Utopia. Check out the trailer for The Third Day below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9hHT5FlMaIQ&feature=youtu.be The Third Day starts screening via Foxtel from 8.30pm on Monday, December 7, with new episodes airing each week. All six episodes will also be available to stream on the same date via Foxtel Go and Foxtel Now. Top image: Liam Daniel/HBO.
Hungry? Thirsty? If you're not already, you will be soon. With everything from everyday deals to special sit-down dinners on offer, just perusing the program for Brisbane's annual Good Food Month is enough to inspire a healthy appetite. That's what happens when the city turns itself over to all things food and drink-related from July 1 to 31, after all. Prepare to rush to and from every restaurant and cafe you can think of (and a few you can't) while consuming all manner of delicious morsels. And if that sounds like you're being spoiled for choice, well, you are — but perhaps our ten top picks of events to attend can help you out.
For those of you who like your cuisine on the retro side, you'll be happy to hear that South Bank has a new dining option that promises to take you on a nostalgic journey back to the diner culture of 1950s USA. Opening on October 23, South Side Diner serves up all the American standards you’d expect from a good old fashioned diner (think milkshakes, burgers, hot dogs, Budweiser, onion rings, apple pie, ice cream sundaes, root beer floats) plus a few modern, slightly healthier twists thrown in there too (think labna, think kale). Owner Harun Gencerler, who you may know as the man behind Little Stanley Street's Next Door Kitchen Bar, says “We’re creating a space that captures the classic American diner image — think tall frosty milkshakes, swivelling bar stools, cosy booths and a pumping jukebox.” The best news? It's open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, so you can start your day with a stack of pancakes and end it with a round of sherbet watermelon margaritas. South Side Diner is open Monday – Sunday, 7.30am - late, at 162 Grey Street, South Bank.
Roll up to the latest music festival that's taking to Australian and New Zealand stages: Light It Up, a brand-new hip hop fest that'll make its debut this spring. Hitting arenas Down Under come September, the event is backed by the folks that brought Snoop Dogg and Ice Cube this way earlier in 2023, and boasts its own impressive lineup. Leading the bill: 'See You Again' rapper Wiz Khalifa. If you've had Khalifa's 2015 single in your head for years, you're obviously a Fast and Furious franchise fan. The last time that the North Dakota star toured Australia was the same year that tune was featured in Fast and Furious 7, after being commissioned as a tribute to Paul Walker. It isn't the only track he'll be busting out on his next visit, of course, thanks to a career that also includes everything from 'Say Yeah' and 'No Sleep' to 'Work Hard, Play Hard' and 'Remember You'. Khalifa will be joined by fellow US talents Rae Sremmurd and Lola Brooke — both fresh from Coachella 2023, with the latter making her first trip to Australia. Rounding out the lineup are local acts Hooligan Hefs, Youngn Lipz and DJ BeastMod. When Light It Up debuts, it'll host its first-ever gig at Sydney's Qudos Bank Arena, then head to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Adelaide Entertainment Centre, RAC Arena in Perth and Melbourne's Rod Laver Arena. After that, the fest will cross the ditch to Auckland's Spark Arena. LIGHT IT UP 2023 DATES: Saturday, September 2 — Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney Sunday, September 3 —Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane Tuesday, September 5 — Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Adelaide Wednesday, September 6 — RAC Arena, Perth Friday, September 8 — Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Sunday, September 10 — Spark Arena, Auckland LIGHT IT UP 2023 LINEUP: Wiz Khalifa Rae Sremmurd Lola Brooke Hooligan Hefs Youngn Lipz DJ BeastMode Light It Up will tour Australia and New Zealand in September 2023. For more information, or for tickets — with pre-sales from 12pm local time on Thursday, June 1 and general sales from 12pm local time on Friday, June 2 — head to the festival website.
A hit in the 90s, and a high school-set favourite ever since — as well as a key title on Sarah Michelle Gellar (Do Revenge), Ryan Phillippe (I Love That for You), Reese Witherspoon (Your Place or Mine), Selma Blair (After We Collided) and Joshua Jackson's (Dr Death) respective resumes — Cruel Intentions isn't done with its dangerous liaisons yet. The teen-centric adaptation of 1782 novel Les Liaisons dangereuses has already spawned two direct-to-video sequels in 2001 and 2004, one of which starred a very young Amy Adams (The Woman in the Window) taking over Gellar's role. As theatre fans know, Cruel Intentions: The 90s Musical has also been singing and dancing its way across Australian stages of late. Now, in the works next: a Cruel Intentions TV show. TV Line reports Amazon is behind this latest revival of a 90s favourite — a trend that's also seen A League of Their Own and Interview with the Vampire get the same treatment in the last year alone. This isn't the first time that Cruel Intentions has been slated to make the leap to the small screen, though, with a sequel series floated in the mid-2010s but never coming to fruition, and the aforementioned Cruel Intentions 2 actually fashioned out of a prequel series called Manchester Prep that didn't make it to air. This time around, it looks like there's an eight-episode reboot on the way, once again about scheming step-siblings. They'll be in Washington, and at an elite college — getting immersed in fraternity and sorority life, and even seducing the US Vice President's daughter. If you're now humming Placebo's 'Every You Every Me', The Verve's 'Bittersweet Symphony' or Fatboy Slim's 'Praise You' to yourself, that's understandable. There's no word yet if the next spin on Cruel Intentions will feature any of the 1999 classic's tracks — or cast, or indeed who might star it in. There's also nothing on when the show might drop, or where Down Under, with it reportedly set for Amazon's FreeVee streaming service in the US. Filming is apparently set to start in Toronto before April is out, however, which means that this series isn't all that far away from hitting streaming queues. If you've seen the OG movie, then you'll know the initial story, with the 90s-era Cruel Intentions following step-siblings Sebastian Valmont (Phillippe) and Kathryn Merteuil (Gellar). Manipulating each other's love lives is their main hobby, a pastime that levels up a few notches when Kathryn places a bet on whether Sebastian can sleep with Annette Hargrove (Witherspoon), the headmaster's daughter at their exclusive prep school. There's obviously no sneak peek at Amazon's Cruel Intentions series yet, but here's the orignal's trailer: Amazon's Cruel Intentions TV series doesn't yet have a release date — we'll update you with one when further details are announced. Via TV Line.
If you grew up in the 90s, odds are that you tried to memorise every single word to Billy Joel's 'We Didn't Start the Fire'. Every 90s kid did. That's a skill that probably hasn't been called upon much since — other than while watching one specific episode of Parks and Recreation, and all of The Boys — but it's about to get its time to shine. Yes, the Piano Man himself is coming Down Under to sing us a song or several. Making his first trip to Melbourne in the longest time — well, in 14 years — Joel will only play one Aussie gig. He's hitting up the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Saturday, December 10, in an Australian exclusive thanks to the Victorian Government's Always Live program. That's the blockbuster live music program that's designed to attract international acts to the state, and kicked off earlier in 2022 with the Foo Fighters playing in Geelong. When Joel takes over the MCG, the sounds of AFL club tunes will be replaced with everything from 'Uptown Girl' and 'It's Still Rock and Roll to Me' to 'You May Be Right' and 'Only the Good Die Young' — plus 'Tell Her About It', 'Big Shot', 'River of Dreams' and, yes, 'The Longest Time' and 'We Didn't Start the Fire'. Joel hasn't been our way for a while, but the six-time Grammy-winner has been playing one show a month at New York City's Madison Square Garden since January 2014 — and became the venue's first-ever music franchise in the process. Before he makes the trip to Melbourne, he'll notch up his 84th monthly and 130th show at The Garden. Obviously, that's just one of his achievements. Joel has sold over 150 million records, making him the sixth best-selling recording artist of all time and the third best-selling solo artist. If you're now keen to see the Piano Man in what's promising to be one huge gig, tickets go on sale at 10am AEST on Monday, July 4, with pre-sales from 11am AEST on Thursday, June 30. Billy Joel will play the MCG on Saturday, December 10. Tickets go on sale at 10am AEST on Monday, July 4, with pre-sales from 11am AEST on Thursday, June 30. Images: Myrna Suárez.
It's no surprise that many of us are looking to upgrade our home comfort level at the moment. Aussie furniture brand Koala is keen to help you do just that with its cyber sale where you can nab up to 20 percent off mattresses, sheets, sofas, desks and armchairs to help you upgrade your pad or improve your night's sleep. A heap of products from across the brand's range are on sale from Monday, November 23 to Monday, November 30, including the popular Koala mattress, which you can score for up to $250 less than the usual price. Plus, if you order a bed today, you will be sleeping pretty tonight as Koala offers a free four-hour delivery service. Also on offer in the sale is the WFH desk, which is made in Ballarat from hand-sanded timber, easy to assemble and designed with home office use in mind. If you've found yourself working from home a lot more this year, you can pick up the desk for a sweet 15 percent off. Comfy Koala sofa beds, TV units, pillows, bed bases and more are going with a 20 percent discount, too, so you can give your whole house a makeover. And everything comes with a 120-night trial — though, it might be hard to give any of these up after four-months of comfort. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
For an entire month leading up to Christmas, kicking off back on November 25, Brisbane's CBD gets into the festive spirit. King George Square becomes home to a 22-metre-tall tree, decorations line the Queen Street Mall and markets pop up. As part of a program called Christmas in Brisbane, City Hall gets bathed in nightly light shows, too, and roving performances take place along the mall. Also on the Christmas list in 2022: a jazz lounge around the Queen Street Mall's stage, with performances by local quartet Scat. From Friday, December 9–Saturday, December 24, Brisbanites can stop by for a merry soundtrack that doesn't just involve listening to Mariah Carey and George Michael over and over (and over and over some more). The jazz performances are free, and run for five hours daily across two time slots. Get all up in the Christmas jazz over lunch from 12–2.30pm or listen to smooth tunes from 5–7.30pm during late-night trading. Or, if you have a hefty amount of shopping to do — or you work in the CBD — dropping by for both is definitely an option.
In 2023, Matt Adnate was an Archibald Prize finalist with his portrait of Daniel Johns, his first-ever entry for the acclaimed award. In 2024, the Northern Rivers–based artist has both repeated the feat and gone one better with his second entry, a new work featuring Baker Boy. Rhythms of heritage is among this year's shortlisted entries for the prestigious award, and also the recipient of 2024's Packing Room Prize. Which artist will tale home the Archie in the gong's 103rd year will be unveiled on Friday, June 7, but Rhythms of heritage status as the Packing Room Prize-winner for 2024 has just been announced. The latter is selected by three members of the Art Gallery of New South Wales' packing room team — Timothy Dale, Monica Rudhar and Alexis Wildman in 2024 — hence the name. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Art Gallery NSW (@artgalleryofnsw) "I have always been inspired by music as it can help me channel and evoke strong emotion into my work. It gives me the energy to keep painting, from canvases in my studio to large-scale murals. I'm in awe of artists like Baker Boy who have the power to use music to transform people's mood, mind and energy," said Adnate about Rhythms of heritage and his Packing Room Prize win. "It was an honour to paint him again and capture the intensity of his music. It has been incredible to watch Baker Boy evolving into a multi-talented and award-winning artist over the last decade, cementing his legacy as an Australian music icon," Adnate continued. "I learned to paint through doing graffiti letters as a teenager; I switched to portraiture in 2010. This painting was produced mostly with spray paint, a medium that has always allowed me the most control. It's been a challenge to maintain my own technique and resist the pressure to use oils or more traditional mediums. I've always considered the Archibald to be the pinnacle of art prizes, especially for portraiture. To win the Packing Room Prize with a portrait that is so significant to me, and to be the first street artist to do so, it really pushes me further." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Adnate (@adnate) If you're wondering how Baker Boy, aka Danzal Baker, feels about being a Packing Room Prize-winning subject, he's also thrilled. "Big congratulations to Matt for taking home the Packing Room Prize with his portrait of me. It's unreal to see how he captures me as I am today, reflecting my love for music and a deep connection to my home of Arnhem Land, seen through the soulful reflection in the eyes," he said. Dale, Rudhar and Wildman had no shortage of praise for Adnate's work. "Matt Adnate is an incredible Australian street artist renowned for his large mural paintings. His portrait of singer-songwriter Baker Boy in his signature style is characterised by grand scale, vivid colours and a gaze that draws you in," advised Rudhar. "Matt and Baker Boy are both highly accomplished in their respective fields and share a mutual recognition of each other's talents. Matt's powerful portrait encapsulates Baker Boy as the inspirational Indigenous storyteller that he is, mirroring the joy and hope that his music brings to the world." [caption id="attachment_959475" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Archibald Prize 2024 finalist, Caroline Zilinsky 'A lucid heart – the golden age of Jacob Elordi', oil on linen, 152.5 x 122.4 cm © the artist. Sitter: Jacob Elordi[/caption] Rhythms of heritage is one of 57 finalists in the Archibald, as whittled down from 1005 entries. Other works vying for the accolade include Caroline Zilinsky's portrait of Saltburn and Priscilla's Jacob Elordi, Mia Boe's of Tony Armstrong, Jessie Bourke's of Heartbreak High star Chloé Hayden, Paul de Zubicaray's of Jaguar Jonze and Angus McDonald's likeness of Professor Marcia Langton. Also on the list: Drew Bickford's portrait of Hello Dankness filmmakers Dan and Dominique Angeloro, aka Soda Jerk; Camellia Morris' of Anthony Field from The Wiggles; Tim Owers' of Matildas player Cortnee Vine; and Nick Stathopoulos' of film critic David Stratton. If you'd like to see all of the above, plus the rest of 2024's finalists, they'll all be on display at the Art Gallery of NSW in Sydney from Saturday, June 8–Sunday, September 8, 2024. And, they'll have company from works shortlisted for the venue's similarly coveted Wynne and Sulman prizes. The Wynne received 738 entries, with 41 named as finalists, while the Sulman received 628 entries, naming 40 as final contenders. The Wynne also made history by selecting 21 pieces by Aboriginal artists — the first time that there's been more works by Aboriginal artists than non-Aboriginal artists among the finalists. [caption id="attachment_959474" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Archibald Prize 2024 finalist, Jessie Bourke 'Different, not less', oil on canvas, 130 x 90.2 cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter. Sitter: Chloé Hayden[/caption] Speculation about who will be awarded the coveted Archibald Prize — and, more often than not, the Archibald winner itself — usually causes much-heated debate. From 2018's five-time Archibald finalist Yvette Coppersmith's first win to Tony Costa's 2019 victory with his painting of fellow artist Lindy Lee — the first portrait of an Asian Australian to pick up the prize — it's hard a prize to pick. All that's really assured is that it'll be a portrait of a person by an Australian-based artist. In 2020, Vincent Namatjira's portrait of Adam Goodes did the honours, and also marked the first time the award has gone to an Indigenous artist. In 2021, Peter Wegner's portrait of fellow artist Guy Warren nabbed the gong. In 2022, it was Blak Douglas' portrait of artist Karla Dickens in the Lismore floods that came out on top, while 2023's accolade went to Julia Gutman for a portrait of Montaigne. Whoever earns the nod for 2024's Archibald, there's still another award up for grabs afterwards. If you don't agree with the judges, you can cast your own vote for People's Choice, which will be announced on Thursday, August 8. [caption id="attachment_959477" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Archibald Prize 2024 finalist, Angus McDonald 'Professor Marcia Langton AO', oil on canvas, 154.5 x 271.5 cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter. Sitter: Marcia Langton[/caption] Archibald Prize 2024 Dates: Saturday, June 8–Sunday, September 8, 2024 — Art Gallery of NSW, Sydney, NSW Friday, September 20–Sunday, November 17, 2024 — Orange Regional Gallery Saturday, November 30, 2024–Sunday, January 26, 2025 — Ngununggula, Southern Highlands Regional Gallery Friday, February 7–Sunday, April 6, 2025 — Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre Thursday, April 24–Sunday, June 15, 2025 — Araluen Arts Centre, Northern Territory Friday, July 4–Sunday, August 31, 2025 — Lismore Regional Gallery [caption id="attachment_959478" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Archibald Prize 2024 finalist, Drew Bickford 'Direct-to-video', oil on canvas, 152 x 101.7 cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter. Sitter: Soda Jerk[/caption] The winner of 2024's Archibald, Wynne and Sulman prizes will be announced on Friday, June 7 at 12pm — check back here then. If you can't make it to any of the above exhibition dates, you can check out the award winners and finalists of the Archibald, Wynne and Sulman prizes on the Art Gallery of NSW website. Top image: Winner Packing Room Prize 2024, Matt Adnate 'Rhythms of heritage', spray paint and synthetic polymer paint on linen, 220 x 188.5 cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter . Sitter: Baker Boy.
After bringing Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban back to the big screen with a live orchestra soundtrack, the Queensland Symphony Orchestra is giving the fourth film in the franchise the same movie-and-music showcase. Across two sessions on Saturday, February 9, 2019, the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre will come to life with the sights and sounds of the Yule Ball, the Triwizard Tournament and the return of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named, because JK Rowling's boy-who-lived and his pals are never far away from a theatre — or a concert hall. And tickets for the 1.30pm and 7.30pm shows are now on sale. This time around, viewers can expect something a little different. While the event will run as usual, it's the score itself that'll stand out. After doing the honours on the first three HP flicks, veteran composer John Williams stood aside for the fourth film, with two-time Oscar nominee Patrick Doyle (Hamlet, Sense and Sensibility) in charge of whipping up a wondrous wizarding soundtrack.
Already home to the best beach in the world for 2024, Palm Cove in Queensland's north now also boasts the best hotel in the South Pacific — and also Australia — for this year. The first accolade arrived back in March, when the Sunshine State locale near Cairns topped Condé Nast Traveller's beach list. The second has just dropped via Tripadvisor, as part of its Best of the Best Hotels ranking in its 2024 Travellers' Choice Awards. The celebrated hotel: The Reef House Adults Retreat Palm Cove, which takes over the top spot on both the South Pacific and Aussie Tripadvisor lists after coming second to Pinetrees Lodge on Lord Howe Island in 2023. That said, while it earned plenty of local love, it didn't make the global 25, which Pinetrees Lodge managed last year. [caption id="attachment_901977" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Reef House Adults Retreat Palm Cove[/caption] The Reef House was applauded for its beach access, onsite pools, calming atmosphere and well-appointed rooms, if you're now thinking of heading north for your next getaway. Queensland is also home to the second-best hotel in both the South Pacific and Australia, with that honour going to Emporium Hotel South Bank in Brisbane. It's been a big year or so for showering the Sunshine State with affection, with Brisbane named one of the best places to go in 2024 by The New York Times, travel guide Frommer's also selecting the city as one of 2024's best spots to visit, TIME putting it on its world's greatest places list for 2023, and the World's Best 50 Hotels picking The Calile as its only Australian and Oceanic entry in its inaugural countdown in 2023. [caption id="attachment_952781" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Emporium Hotel South Bank[/caption] On Tripadvisor's South Pacific rankings for 2024, Australian hotels scored six of the top ten spots, including MACq 01 Hotel in Hobart in third place, Next Hotel Melbourne in fifth, Quest Orange in sixth and Zagame's House in Melbourne at tenth. They had company from two Fijian places to stay — Tokoriki Island Resort in fourth place and Six Senses Fiji at ninth — as well as the seventh-ranked Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts and eighth-placed Sojourn Apartment Hotel Riddiford in Wellington in New Zealand. The Aussie-only list filled its top six positions with the local hotels named above, then found a spot for Pinetrees Lodge this year, plus Element on Coolum Beach, Terminus Apartment Hotel in Newcastle and The Tasman in Hobart to round out the top ten. The full top 25 spans accommodation in Tamworth, Sydney, South Perth, Adelaide, Echuca and Canberra, too. [caption id="attachment_866700" align="alignnone" width="1920"] MACq 01 Hotel[/caption] Globally, the best place to stay is Hotel Colline de France in Gramado, Brazil — with OBLU SELECT Lobigili in Malé, Maldives coming in second; La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa in Hoi An, Vietnam sitting in third; Adiwana Suweta in Bali, Indonesia taking out fourth; and Iberostar Grand Packard in La Habana, Cuba notching up fifth spot. From there, it's back to the Maldives via Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa on Fasmendhoo Island, then to La Siesta Classic Ma May in Hanoi in Vietnam, Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya in Mexico, Padma Resort Ubud in Bali and finally Sofitel Mexico City Reforma back in Mexico. Next time that you're planning a vacation or a staycation, you've clearly got options. Tripadvisor's rankings are based on reviews on its platform, with its hotel lists joining its beach picks for 2024, which were announced in February. Manly Beach in Sydney was the only Aussie spot in the top ten, coming in seventh place. [caption id="attachment_952780" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hotel Colline de France in Brazil[/caption] Top Ten Hotels in the World 2024: 1. Hotel Colline de France — Gramado, Brazil 2. OBLU SELECT Lobigili — Malé, Maldives 3. La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa — Hoi An, Vietnam 4. Adiwana Suweta — Bali, Indonesia 5. Iberostar Grand Packard — La Habana, Cuba 6. Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa — Fasmendhoo Island, Maldives 7. La Siesta Classic Ma May — Hanoi, Vietnam 8. Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya — Akumal, Mexico 9. Padma Resort Ubud — Bali, Indonesia 10. Sofitel Mexico City Reforma — Mexico City, Mexico [caption id="attachment_952783" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Reef House Adults Retreat Palm Cove[/caption] Top Ten Hotels in the South Pacific 2024: 1. The Reef House Adults Retreat Palm Cove — Palm Cove, Australia 2. Emporium Hotel South Bank — Brisbane, Australia 3. MACq 01 Hotel — Hobart, Australia 4. Tokoriki Island Resort — Tokoriki Island, Fiji 5. Next Hotel Melbourne — Melbourne, Australia 6. Quest Orange — Orange, Australia 7. Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts — Bora Bora, French Polynesia 8. Sojourn Apartment Hotel Riddiford — Wellington, New Zealand 9. Six Senses Fiji — Malolo Island, Fiji 10. Zagame's House — Melbourne, Australia [caption id="attachment_952782" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Emporium Hotel South Bank[/caption] Top 25 Hotels in Australia 2024: 1. The Reef House Adults Retreat Palm Cove — Palm Cove, Qld 2. Emporium Hotel South Bank — Brisbane, NSW 3. MACq 01 Hotel — Hobart, Tas 4. Next Hotel Melbourne — Melbourne, Vic 5. Quest Orange — Orange, NSW 6. Zagame's House — Melbourne, Vic 7. Pinetrees Lodge — Lord Howe Island, NSW 8. Element on Coolum Beach — Coolum Beach, Qld 9. Terminus Apartment Hotel — Newcastle, NSW 10. The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel — Hobart, Tas 11. Goonoo Goonoo Station — Tamworth, NSW 12. Adina Apartment Hotel Sydney Chippendale — Sydney, NSW 13. The Henry Jones Art Hotel — Hobart, Tas 14. Treasury On Collins — Melbourne, Vic 15. Quest South Perth Foreshore — South Perth, WA 16. Majestic M Suites — North Adelaide, SA 17. Quest Echuca — Echuca, Vic 18. Adina Apartment Hotel Adelaide Treasury — Adelaide, SA 19. Alcyone Hotel Residences — Brisbane, Qld 20. Vibe Hotel Hobart — Hobart, Tas 21. Little National Hotel Sydney — Sydney, NSW 22. Lancemore Crossley St — Melbourne, Vic 23. East Hotel — Canberra, ACT 24. Deco Hotel Canberra — Canberra, ACT 25. Park Hyatt Melbourne — Melbourne, Vic [caption id="attachment_901978" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tokoriki Island Resort[/caption] For more information about Tripadvisor's 2024 Travellers' Choice Awards, head to the service's website. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
Resembling vintage photos from a bygone era, these time-aged Postcards from Above are actually aerial images taken from Google Maps and reworked by Hungarian art director, Akos Papp, ad agency at BBDO New York. Instead of just using Google Maps as a directory tool, Papp takes snaps of businesses, schools, shipping yards, airports and more, retouching them to look of a 1950s postcard. Papp was inspired by the idea of being able to show loved ones the various foreign places he has travelled using mesmerising aerial imagery, and creates a pleasant reminder of a way we once communicated. Here are 12 examples from Akos Papp's collection.
How do you choose Australia's best beach from the country's 11,761 coastal locations? That's the enviable annual job of beach expert Brad Farmer AM. It might sound like one of the best gigs that there is, but it's also far from an easy decision given that there's so many places to pick from in this nation girt by sea. So for 2025, Farmer hasn't been able to select just one — he's opted to anoint a ten-kilometre stretch of beaches as the country's finest instead. You'll find the top spots for some beach time in 2025 along the Tasmanian coastline, at the Bay of Fires Conservation Reserve. Farmer has chosen an expanse across the site's southern portion as his pick for the year. In doing so, he's given his list a few firsts. [caption id="attachment_666210" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sean Scott[/caption] Never before has Tasmania taken out top spot for Farmer's recommendations for sun-, sand- and surf-fuelled getaways for the year ahead. Bay of Fires earns the honour after Squeaky Beach in Victoria did the same in 2024 and South Australia's Stokes Bay on Kangaroo Island achieved the feat in 2023. Other past winners include Misery Beach in Western Australia in 2022, Cabarita Beach in New South Wales in 2020, Nudey Beach on Fitzroy island in Far North Queensland in 2018 and Cossies Beach in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, in the Indian Ocean, in 2017. Similarly making history: Farmer selecting a cluster of beaches over a single winner. "I spent plenty of time in Tasmania assessing the beaches and in the end there were so many incredible options I couldn't even settle on one, which is why, for the first time, I'm awarding the best beach to a cluster of neighbouring beach bays in the Bay of Fires," he advised. "They say the colder water is good for you, but even if you're not up for a refreshing dip there is still plenty to do and see along this ten-kilometre stretch of coast. It's a location made for photography or painting, fishing and surfing." [caption id="attachment_990475" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Liz McGinnes[/caption] As always, Farmer has spread the love across his top-ten list around the country. Woolgoolga in New South Wales came in second, then Emily Bay Lagoon on Norfolk Island placed third, Queensland's North Kirra Beach ranked fourth and Little Lagoon in Western Australia sits fifth. After that, South Australia's Fishery Bay earned sixth position, before Queensland, WA and NSW all pop up again — with 1770, Scarborough Beach and Caves Beach, respectively, in that order. Then, Victoria makes a showing thanks to Cowes Beach in tenth place. Situated on the Coffs Coast, Woolgoolga has notched up an impressive feat, too: its second-place ranking makes it Australia's best mainland beach and finished in second spot. Farmer has dubbed it "the quintessential Aussie beach destination". [caption id="attachment_990476" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Norfolk Island Tourism[/caption] He's also badged Emily Bay Lagoon as "Australia's hidden gem in the South Pacific" and North Kirra on the Gold Coast as "Australia's best airport beach". The praise goes on; Shark Bay's Little Lagoon is "a unique oasis", Eyre Peninsula's Fishery Bay is recognised for its sacred First Nations connections and 1770 near Agnes Waters is highlighted for being "a beautiful Queensland inlet shoreline environment". Perth's Scarborough Beach is "Australia's number-one integrated foreshore development", while Caves Beach in Lake Macquarie has the best caves and rock pools to explore, and Cowes Beach on Phillip Island earns affection for its lack of pretence. [caption id="attachment_990477" align="alignnone" width="1920"] www.coastalreflections.com.au[/caption] "Every beach which makes the list is a winner and this year really highlights the incredible diversity of the beach offerings we have here in Australia. It really is like nowhere else in the world. In 2025 we recognise beaches of all shapes and sizes right around the country," he continues. Farmer might've unveiled his picks with less than a month left of summer 2024–25, but you still know what to do from here: start making holiday plans that involve a splash. For Aussies in most states, there's a site on the list in your own backyard. And if there isn't or you're just keen on heading further afield for a gorgeous beach trip, you have options. [caption id="attachment_990478" align="alignnone" width="1920"] @theultimateaus Chris Bulloch[/caption] The Top Ten Best Australian Beaches for 2025 1. Bay of Fires, Tasmania 2. Woolgoolga, New South Wales 3. Emily Bay Lagoon, Norfolk Island 4. North Kirra Beach, Queensland 5. Little Lagoon, Western Australia 6. Fishery Bay, South Australia 7. 1770, Queensland 8. Scarborough Beach, Western Australia 9. Caves Beach, New South Wales 10. Cowes Beach, Victoria [caption id="attachment_990479" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Serio Photography[/caption] [caption id="attachment_990480" align="alignnone" width="1920"] londonerinsydney.com[/caption] [caption id="attachment_990481" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Will Wardle Media[/caption] [caption id="attachment_990482" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lake Macquarie City[/caption] [caption id="attachment_990483" align="alignnone" width="1920"] www.coastalreflections.com.au[/caption] For more of Brad Farmer's beach tips, head to his Best Australian Beaches website. Top image: Will Wardle Media. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
Move over tea with the Queen — the coffee in London has improved so much over the last few years even Lizzy would ask for a flat white over an English breakfast. We sacrificed the money we were saving for a house deposit to taste coffee all over the city, and here are five coffee shops worth hunting down while you're in town. [caption id="attachment_622923" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Levent Ali via Flickr.[/caption] MONMOUTH COFFEE, COVENT GARDEN Monmouth is the grand old dame of London coffee, and has been pumping out caffeine since 1978. And even though Monmouth likes to keep things fresh with an ever-changing selection of house-roasted beans, some things will never change, like the house blend, the queues and the fact that Monmouth makes the best coffee in Old Blighty. We've heard good things about the filter, but we only tried the flat white, because, well, why change when you're onto a good thing? Queen Lizzy gets it. [caption id="attachment_622924" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Espresso Room via Instagram.[/caption] THE ESPRESSO ROOM, BLOOMSBURY The Espresso Room is so small it could double as Harry Potter's cupboard under the stairs, so it's a good thing you don't need much space to pump out great coffee (as the Japanese know). This Bloomsbury coffee shop is unsurprisingly known for its espresso, but for our money (too much of our money, to be honest — coffee here is more expensive than home), the flat white is where the magic is. Not too milky, not too strong — it's the best thing this side of getting a letter from Hogwarts. [caption id="attachment_622927" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bex Walton via Flickr.[/caption] KAFFEINE, FITZROVIA You'll need coffee after spending time on London's most insane shopping artery, Oxford Street. Luckily Kaffeine is just a street or two behind the insanity, serving up damn fine coffee in a damn fine looking coffee shop. This is the place to go if you want a taste of classic Australian espresso-based coffee in London; you won't find American- and Scandi- style filter here. You can even grab an Anzac biccie to snack on if you're feeling seriously homesick. TIMBERYARD, SEVEN DIALS Timberyard is buzzing at all opening hours, and not just because of the free Wi-Fi — the coffee here, although although on the expensive side of things, hits the spot. The flat white is strong, flavoursome, with just the right kick of calcium. Grab a seat — try for one of the hotly contested window spots — and the staff will bring your coffee over on a wooden chopping board (because timber yard, geddit?). You'll want to stay for coffee number two. Your tastebuds will thank you, even if your wallet does not. ALLPRESS, SHOREDITCH You go to Kaffeine for a taste of Australia, but for a taste of New Zealand, head straight to one of Allpress Espresso's two cafes in Shoreditch. Founded in Auckland, Allpress is swiftly taking over the world, with cafes in Australia, Japan and London. And you can taste exactly why: their coffee is one of the best, wherever in the world you find it. The Shoreditch cafe has the antipodeon design look down-pat, with white walls and exposed pale timber. The espresso-based coffee, which uses Allpress roasted beans, is delicious, of course.
After the great Marvel drought of 2020, when the blockbuster franchise pushed back all of its cinema releases due to the pandemic, 2021 hasn't been short on superheroes. So far, WandaVision, The Falcon and The Winter Soldier and Loki have all hit streaming, Black Widow debuted in cinemas and online at the same time, and Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings unleashed its Sydney-shot action on the big screen — and Eternals, Spider-Man: Now Way Home and Hawkeye are all still to come. Indeed, by the time the year is out, no fewer than eight new movies and TV shows will have brought the Marvel Cinematic Universe's crime-fighting, world-saving figures back to our screens in 2021. And, one of them is getting festive, because obviously Disney+ thinks that we could all use some streaming superhero antics combined with holiday hijinks (or that Marvel's sprawling film and TV realm could take some cues from Home Alone and Die Hard). That show: Hawkeye. Like the rest of Marvel's Disney+ shows, it has gone with the obvious, title-wise. And, when it hits Disney+ in late November, it'll start streaming just as everyone's starting to feel merry. So, the eight-part mini-series is leaning into that idea — twinkling lights, appropriate tunes and all — as the just-dropped first trailer for Marvel's fourth TV series of the year demonstrates. Yes, viewers will see how Clint Barton (Jeremy Renner, Avengers: Endgame) is doing in his post-blip life. They'll also watch him team up with hotshot archer and aspiring hero Kate Bishop (Hailee Steinfeld, Bumblebee), who slings arrows just as well as the Avenger she admires. And, they'll see the pair try to get Barton back to his family for Christmas — and try to escape a presence from Barton's past. As well as Renner and Steinfeld, Hawkeye stars Vera Farmiga (The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It), Fra Fee (Pixie), Tony Dalton (Better Call Saul), Zahn McClarnon (Reservation Dogs), Brian d'Arcy James (Devs) and debutant Alaqua Cox. Obviously, exactly who else from the MCU will turn up is the kind of detail that'll be best discovered by watching. Check out the Hawkeye trailer below: Hawkeye will start streaming via Disney+ on Wednesday, November 24. Images: Chuck Zlotnick/Mary Cybulski. ©Marvel Studios 2021. All Rights Reserved.
Something delightful has been happening in cinemas in some parts of the country. After numerous periods spent empty during the pandemic, with projectors silent, theatres bare and the smell of popcorn fading, picture palaces in many Australian regions are back in business — including both big chains and smaller independent sites in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. During COVID-19 lockdowns, no one was short on things to watch, of course. In fact, you probably feel like you've streamed every movie ever made, including new releases, Studio Ghibli's animated fare and Nicolas Cage-starring flicks. But, even if you've spent all your time of late glued to your small screen, we're betting you just can't wait to sit in a darkened room and soak up the splendour of the bigger version. Thankfully, plenty of new films are hitting cinemas so that you can do just that — and we've rounded up, watched and reviewed everything on offer this week. PARALLEL MOTHERS Whatever Pedro Almodóvar and Penélope Cruz happen to be selling — and whenever, and in whichever films — audiences should always be buying. It isn't quite right to liken the acclaimed filmmaker's long-running collaboration with one of his favourite leading ladies to commerce, though, so another comparison fits better: whatever this duo birth into the world, viewers should embrace as a parent does a child. Across four decades now, the Spanish pair has gorgeously and soul-stirringly made cinematic art with the utmost understanding of how to make people feel. They know how people feel, too, and have the combined resumes best exemplified by Live Flesh, All About My Mother, Volver, Broken Embraces, Pain and Glory and now Parallel Mothers to prove it. Their shared filmography also constantly demonstrates another essential insight into human existence: that life is emotion, whether facing its beginning, end or both. Now helming his 22nd feature, Almodóvar has long filled his works with other recurrent inclusions and fascinations, many of which also burst onto the screen again here. When he initially united with Cruz on 1997's Live Flesh, she gave birth on a bus; in their second pairing, the Oscar-winning All About My Mother, she played a pregnant nun; with their most recent collaboration before this, Pain and Glory, she was mum to the writer/director's fictionalised surrogate — so that she's one of his titular matriarchs now is vintage Almodóvar. He brings back another of his veteran stars in Rossy de Palma (Julieta), paints with the vibrant-toned costume and set design that make his movies such a blissful sight for colour-seeking eyes, and focuses on mothers of all shades navigating life's many difficulties as well. Yes, Parallel Mothers is classic Almodóvar, but nothing about that description ever simply unfurls as expected. As the movie's moniker indicates, Janis, the almost-40 photographer that Cruz (The 355) inhabits with the quiet force and fragility that's second nature whenever she's directed by Almodóvar, is just one of Parallel Mothers' mums. Teenager Ana (Milena Smit, Cross the Line) is the other and, despite the feature's title, their stories keep converging. The two first meet in a Madrid hospital, where they share a room, give birth simultaneously, chat about how they're each going it alone with no father in the picture and quickly form a bond — as different as they otherwise appear, down to contrasting sources of support (Janis' brightly attired magazine-editor best friend Elena, which is where de Palma pops up, versus Ana's self-obsessed and distant actress mother Teresa, played by Estoy vivo's Aitana Sánchez-Gijón). Janis and Ana descend separately into motherhood afterwards, but twists of fate keep bringing them back together. Soapiness, aka the kinds of narrative developments characteristic of daytime TV, is another of Almodóvar's touches. But while his career has spanned films light and camp, dark and serious, and almost everything in-between, he inherently recognises that the line between what's dismissed as melodramatic contrivance and what people do truly experience is thinner than a blue slash on a positive pregnancy test. He unravels Parallel Mothers' story with that notion beaming underneath, and while also tackling a real and grim chapter of his country's history that he's never overtly confronted in his work. Before Janis and Ana can meet again and again, their lives and those of their infant daughters' forever intertwined, Janis gets in the family way to anthropologist Arturo (Israel Elejalde, 45 rpm) — who she snaps at a job, then asks to unearth the mass grave in her village that she suspects has housed her great-grandfather's body since he went missing in the Spanish Civil War. Read our full review. THE EYES OF TAMMY FAYE Not for the first time, the eyes have it, but then they always have with Tammy Faye Bakker. Not one but two films called The Eyes of Tammy Faye have told the 70s and 80s televangelist's tale — first a 2000 documentary and now this new Jessica Chastain-starring dramatisation — and both take their monikers from one of the real-life American figure's best-known attributes. In the opening to the latest movie, the spidery eyelashes that adorn Tammy Faye's peepers are dubbed her trademark by the woman herself. They're given ample focus in this biopic, as OTT and instantly eye-grabbing as they they are, but their prominence isn't just about aesthetics and recognition. This version of The Eyes of Tammy Faye hones in on perspective, resolutely sticking to its namesake's, even when it'd be a better film if it pondered what she truly saw, or didn't. In the path leading to her celebrity heyday and the time she was a TV mainstay, Tammy Faye's life saw plenty. It began with an unhappy childhood stained by her stern mother Rachel's (Cherry Jones, Succession) refusal to be linked to her at church, lest it remind their god-fearing Minnesotan townsfolk about the latter's sinful divorce. But young Tammy Faye (Chandler Head, The Right Stuff) still finds solace in religion, the attention that speaking in tongues mid-service brings and also the puppets she starts using as a girl. Come 1960, at bible college, her fervour and quirkiness attract fellow student Jim Bakker (Andrew Garfield, Tick, Tick… Boom!), with the pair soon married even though it gets them kicked out of school. Unperturbed, she keeps seeing their calling to the lord as their way forward, first with a travelling ministry — puppets included — and then with television shows and their own Praise the Lord network. From her mid 20s through until her late 40s, when multiple scandals spelled their downfall — involving Jim's alleged sexual assaults, as well as the misuse of funds donated to Praise the Lord by its loyal viewers — much of Tammy Faye's life was lived in the public eye, too. That gives both Chastain (The 355) and director Michael Showalter (The Big Sick) copious materials to draw upon beyond the original The Eyes of Tammy Faye, and also turns their film into a glossy recreation. There's no shortage of details to convey, but that's primarily what Abe Sylvia's (Dead to Me) script is content with. Depiction doesn't equal interrogation here, and does skew closer to endorsement; Tammy Faye's outsized appearance, her makeup and outfits getting gaudier as the Bakkers' fame keeps growing, can border on parody — it's camp at the very least — but that isn't the same as asking probing questions about the movie's central figure. Chastain serves up a performance that seems primed to delve deeper. With the exceptional Scenes From a Marriage star leading the show, the eyes don't just have it, or the hair that just keeps getting bigger, or the ostentatious clothing. In the twice Oscar-nominated actor's hands — with a third nod likely for this very portrayal — there's heart and soul behind Tammy Faye's larger-than-life persona, thoughtfully and sympathetically so. As she was with The 355, Chastain is also one of The Eyes of Tammy Faye's producers, and her investment in the part is apparent in every aspect of her portrayal. The film was clearly built around her work, which is excellent, but the picture plays like that's its whole point. Indeed, when it comes to seeing past the blatant, already-known and openly endorsed about its subject, and to genuinely unpacking her role in the prosperity gospel her husband promoted, the movie conspicuously stops short. Read our full review. THE HATING GAME Misery loves company in the world of publishing industry-set toxic romance novels, which just keep coming — as do film adaptations of such books. After the Fifty Shades franchise fittingly came After movies, doubling down on idealising unhealthy relationships cast against a literary background. Now, as based on Sally Thorne's tome of the same name, The Hating Game follows the same broad concept as well as the same path from page to screen. For anyone who loves words, there's a sense of romance about the business of immortalising them in print, so perhaps that's why these tales keep plunging into the publishing realm. Or, if you're turning destructive ideas about love into fiction, maybe using the industry responsible as a backdrop just feels apt? As more keep arriving, it could simply be the easiest and laziest choice. Charting a professional rivalry that eventually (and thoroughly unsurprisingly) sparks a-fluttering hearts — capitalising upon the schoolyard notion that teasing and torment is actually a sign of affection, and legitimising it as an acceptable form of human behaviour as eons of parental advice to children mistakenly has, too — The Hating Game doesn't pretend to stretch its chosen genre. The thin line between love and loathing here is ridden by two duelling assistants at a recently merged publishing house, and the fact that they'll end up together isn't meant to cause any astonishment. Instead, like with all formulaic rom-coms, viewers are supposed to enjoy the journey towards the happy ending. But that's a difficult feat when everything about that voyage proves noxious, from the underlying notion that workplace acrimony will lead to a fairytale romance through to the glaring lack of chemistry between its stars — and, of course, the overstuffed bag of obligatory tropes and cliches. Narrating the movie, Lucy Hutton (Lucy Hale, Son of the South) is upfront about her disdain for Joshua Templeman (Austin Stowell, Swallow) from the outset. She hails from Gamin Publishing, home to weighty works that exemplify literature as an art form, while he comes from Bexley Books, purveyor of ghost-written sports autobiographies. Creativity meets commerce in this business marriage of convenience; however, since the two organisations joined forces, The Hating Game's chalk-and-cheese central pair have dedicated as much time to annoying each other as they have to their jobs. The dangling carrot that is a big promotion not only ups the stakes but sees Lucy and Josh ramp up their animosity, but then their bickering begets an unexpected kiss. Afterwards, she struggles with lusting after the enemy while still trying to beat him out for her dream position. After co-starring in 2020's Fantasy Island, Hale and Stowell experience a case of history repeating with The Hating Game. Both movies value predictability over personality, to bland results — and neither film adds a highlight to either actor's resumes. Director Peter Hutchings (Then Came You) and screenwriter Christina Mengert (the filmmaker's co-scribe on The Last Keepers) also endeavour to have things both ways whenever the feature flirts with getting saucier, as the tale does on the page. Although Lucy is candid about sex and, when she realises it, her attraction to Josh, the picture she's in makes the Fifty Shades and After flicks seem far steamier than they are. The Hating Game misses every mark when it tries to be comedic, too, including in its key duo's games of one-upmanship and their exploits at Josh's brother's wedding. The film does take place in a world where the protagonists share a ridiculously spacious office while the company they work for cries budgetary issues, so it's all pure fantasy, but this rom-com's idea of escapism springs from nothing more than riding an already-overdone publishing trend's dispiriting coattails. QUEEN BEES Squandering veteran acting talent in insulting comedies about being senior citizens has to be one of cinema's most infuriating moves. It's a fate that's claimed too many stars — Robert De Niro, Christopher Walken, Diane Keaton and Pam Grier included in just the past few years — and, following the likes of Poms, Dirty Grandpa and The War with Grandpa, Queen Bees is the latest film to jump on the bandwagon. Where the also female-focused Poms endeavoured to bring Bring It On to older age, this Ellen Burstyn (Pieces of a Woman)-led effort does the same with Mean Girls. It knows it, too, with Donald Martin's (Christmas Town) script saddling Burstyn's Pine Grove Senior Community newcomer Helen Wilson with describing her cliquish fellow residents as "like mean girls, but with medical alert bracelets". That line alone is the extent of Queen Bees' self-awareness, however. Widowed for three years and dwelling in the memories that her marital home still holds, Helen is fiercely independent, but also increasingly forgetful. Her doting grandson Peter (Matthew Barnes, Little Fires Everywhere) helps her laugh off the repeated times she locks herself out of the house, but when she accidentally starts a fire one night, it leads to her interfering daughter Laura (Elizabeth Mitchell, The Expanse) convincing Helen to spend the month it'll take to fix the place seeing what Pine Grove is like. The word 'temporary' gets bandied about constantly upon her arrival, and she's just as adamant about steering clear of the retirement community's locals. And the fact that the group of women who've gleefully adopted the movie's moniker — led by the sniping and stern Janet (Jane Curtin, The Good Fight), with Margot (Ann-Margret, Going in Style) and Sally (Loretta Devine, The Starling) always by her side — are instantly unwelcoming only solidifies Helen's resolve. Flatly directed by Michael Lembeck (A Nutcracker Christmas), Queen Bees does bring something closer to its target audience than Mean Girls to mind, but trying to follow in The Golden Girls' footsteps is a fool's errand. There isn't a laugh to be found here regardless of what the film is aping at any given moment, but Martin's screenplay does take the sitcom approach to its attempts at both comedy and drama, wisecracking one-liners and big narrative developments included. It also leans heavily on its cast to make its thin, formulaic writing spark, but no one can improve such rote material. Burstyn has tackled many horrors on-screen, including in The Exorcist and Requiem for a Dream — both of which earned her Oscar nominations — but seeing her stuck attempting to do her best with something this contrived, condescending and insincere is a true horror show. In the narrative, contrivance abounds, including to shoehorn more acting greats into the movie's on-screen roster. James Caan (Out of Blue) plays a kindly love interest for Helen — one of the reasons she might change her tune about Pine Grove, which'd be a lucrative result for the facility's manager (Curtain's Third Rock From the Sun co-star French Stewart) — while Christopher Lloyd (Nobody) gets the movie's most thankless role as another new arrival. The only charms that Queen Bees boasts spring from watching its overqualified talents share scenes, but again, that isn't enough to salvage everything around them. Retirement home comedies should be retired after the excellent 2020 documentary Some Kind of Heaven anyway, which showed that reality truly is wilder than anything these bland fictional flicks will ever conjure up. If you're wondering what else is currently screening in Australian cinemas — or has been lately — check out our rundown of new films released in Australia on September 2, September 9, September 16, September 23 and September 30; October 7, October 14, October 21 and October 28; November 4, November 11, November 18 and November 25; December 2, December 9, December 16 and December 26; and January 1, January 6, January 13 and January 20. You can also read our full reviews of a heap of recent movies, such as Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, Summer of Soul (...Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised), Streamline, Coming Home in the Dark, Pig, Big Deal, The Killing of Two Lovers, Nitram, Riders of Justice, The Alpinist, A Fire Inside, Lamb, The Last Duel, Malignant, The Harder They Fall, Roadrunner: A Film About Anthony Bourdain, Halloween Kills, Passing, Eternals, The Many Saints of Newark, Julia, No Time to Die, The Power of the Dog, Tick, Tick... Boom!, Zola, Last Night in Soho, Blue Bayou, The Rescue, Titane, Venom: Let There Be Carnage, Bad Luck Banging or Loony Porn, Dune, Encanto, The Card Counter, The Lost Leonardo, The French Dispatch, Don't Look Up, Dear Evan Hansen, Spider-Man: No Way Home, The Lost Daughter, The Scary of Sixty-First, West Side Story, Licorice Pizza, The Matrix Resurrections, The Tragedy of Macbeth, The Worst Person in the World, Ghostbusters: Afterlife, House of Gucci, The King's Man, Red Rocket, Scream, The 355, Gold, King Richard, Limbo, Spencer, Nightmare Alley and Belle.
If Pedro Pascal wins an Emmy for The Last of Us, how charming will his speech be? From its whopping 27 nominations, how many trophies can the final season of Succession collect at Hollywood's TV night of nights? What will Jennifer Coolidge say when she beats out three of her co-stars from The White Lotus season two for the Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series award? You'll now find out in January. Hollywood's big television celebration usually takes place in September, and has already announced its 2023 nominees. But, as expected since late July, this year's Emmys will delay anointing a new round of winners. Due the current film and TV industry strikes, with both writers and actors downing tools, the awards ceremony for the small screen-centric accolades has been postponed. The new date, as announced by the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences and FOX (which will air the event): Monday, January 15, 2024 in the US, which is Tuesday, January 16, 2024 Down Under. Accordingly, the entertainment industry's beginning-of-the-year awards rush will get even busier next year. When a new annual calendar ticks over, the Oscars, Golden Globes and more hand out their latest round of gleaming trophies, celebrating films and TV shows that've shone bright over the prior 12 months — and now the Emmys will join them. 2023's awards were due to take place on the night of Monday, September 18, 2023 in the US, which is Tuesday, September 19, 2023 in Australia and New Zealand. If the strikes are still ongoing on that date, however, actors and writers can't attend the ceremony — not the red carpet, nor the awards themselves — meaning that the bulk of the televised accolades wouldn't be able to be accepted by their recipients. Also, the shindig would look mighty empty. Cue the move to reschedule, holding off until the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers comes to an agreement with SAG-AFTRA and the Writers Guild of America. The Television Academy and FOX clearly hope that a January delay will be long enough. When the ceremony is held, the Emmys will likely give HBO plenty of love. In this year's nominations, the US cable network scored a massive 74 nods for just three series: Succession, The Last of Us and The White Lotus. TV's best case of family feud earned recognition for almost every actor who appeared in its fourth and final season in leading, supporting and guest roles. In the Best Actor category alone, Brian Cox, Jeremy Strong and Kieran Culkin are going head to head. The most spectacular game-to-screen adaptation yet nabbed 24 nominations in total, while vacation chaos brought about 23 nominations. The other show that racked up a comparable tally? Apple TV+'s Ted Lasso with 21 nods. Similarly in the running: everything from Andor, Better Call Saul, House of the Dragon and Yellowjackets (all in the drama fields) to Abbott Elementary, Barry, The Bear, Only Murders in the Building and Wednesday (the comedy categories), plus the likes of Beef, Daisy Jones & the Six and Fleishman Is in Trouble (limited series) as well. Hollywood talents are fighting against diminishing residual payments for performers, and to establish firm rules about the future use of artificial intelligence in the industry, among other improvements to working conditions. When they took action in mid-July, SAG-AFTRA's members joined their counterparts in the Writers Guild of America, who've been striking since May. The current strikes are affecting film releases, too, with Australian crime-thriller Force of Nature: The Dry 2 already ditching its planned August date with cinemas given that star Eric Bana a member of the striking SAG-AFTRA. It's also been rumoured that big blockbusters such as Dune: Part Two, Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom and The Colour Purple might also delay their releases, including until 2024; however, none have officially shifted their dates as yet. The 75th Emmy Awards will take place on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, Australian time. Check out the list of 2023 nominations, and head to the Emmys' website for further details.
Traditionally, Albury hasn't made many a traveller's bucket list. Drivers tend to whizz past on their way to quainter spots, like the gold rush town of Beechworth or the alpine village of Bright. But, over the past couple of years, this 45,000-person city on the northern banks of the Murray River has transformed itself into a destination. There's a blockbuster-capacity gallery, a sculpture trail, a designer hotel, and a slew of new restaurants, bars and cafes. In between art-ing and eating, you'll find mountain biking and paddling adventures a-plenty. So, next time you're racing along the Hume, stop over for a night — or three. Albury lies 462 kilometres southwest of Sydney and 326 kilometres northwest of Melbourne. Let's get into all things Albury. STAY Stretch your legs after the easy drive and check in to one of Albury's best modern stays. With its oversized industrial light fittings, Scandi-inspired high stools, vintage-style bicycles and open plan, the Atura Hotel's foyer feels more like an inner-city warehouse than a hotel lobby you'd stumble across in Albury. And this is just what Atura, a brand belonging to the AHL Group (which also owns QT, Rydges and Art Series) is going for — more art and better design in regional places. The reception 'pod' flows into the bar, where guests crowd around a retro-inspired pool table. The bar morphs into the Roadhouse Grill, dishing up popcorn prawns, braised lamb shanks and local Gundowring ice cream sundaes by night, and buffet breakfasts from 6.30am. Through the glass back wall, black and white NEMO face chairs look over an arc-shaped pool. Keep an eye out for inflatable pink flamingos around the place and Friesian cattle, who drop by occasionally. [caption id="attachment_563142" align="alignnone" width="1279"] Supplied by Atura[/caption] For excellent views of Albury's motley skyline, ask for an east-facing room on the seventh floor. That said, each of the 140 rooms is decorated with the fun yet sophisticated aesthetic informing the entrance. You'll be napping in a king-sized bed, swinging a cat around in loads of space, cleaning up with Malin + Goetz toiletries in a mural-covered ensuite, sipping free coffee from your own machine and tapping into free wifi. To save some dosh, jump on one of Atura's packages, which top up your stay with gallery tickets, cocktails, movies and more. EAT AND DRINK Make your first stop the River Deck Cafe, open daily for breakfast and lunch, and Thursday to Saturday for dinner. You'll find it right on the Murray, among the leafy plane trees of idyllic Noreuil Park. For years, there was only a kiosk here, but in May 2015, Alex Smit, who's been proprietor since 2011, transformed it into a 120-seater restaurant, bringing in Mauritian-born Ludo Baulacky as head chef. Goat's cheese is turned into dollops of pannacotta, carefully arranged among pickled mushroom, baby beetroot, stonefruit and dukkah. For a light lunch, it's a good match with the herby quinoa salad, which comes with candied walnuts, honey dressing, tomatoes and olives. Among the share plates, there's a Milawa cheese platter and a salmon brushcetta with smoked salmon, crème fraiche and caperberries. If you're looking for a hearty main, try the seared barramundi with cauliflower and dill puree, pickle, clams, soy bean and chicken jus. A map in the menu shows you what produce comes from where — one of the River Deck's local mainstays is Rad Growers, a small farm in Bungowannah, twenty kilometres west of Albury. On the main drag, Green Zebra has been making housemade Italian food for 15 years. You can design your own dish by choosing from the pasta, sauce and ingredients menus. Do not stop yourself from ordering the lemon tart for dessert. On Townsend Street is The Proprietor, a friendly, pendant-lit, checkered-floored cafe, serving Padre coffee from Brunswick, and an all-day menu driven by local suppliers. Go for grilled haloumi and dukkah eggs with hummus, salty lemon, watercress and sourdough, or the mushroom toastie, with cheese spread, haloumi, garlic and green sauce. Another of Albury's outstanding new additions is Boom Boom. Tucked away in AMP Lane, this wine bar and eatery feels like a transplant directly from Melbourne. Owner Matthew Carrington has made sure that every element is on point — from the beautifully-curated, globe-spanning wine list to the impeccably-balanced cocktails to the in-house charcuterie and laidback soundtrack. The star share plate arrives crowded with wagyu bresaola, finocchiona-wrapped caperberries, pancetta, pickled grapes and oyster mushrooms. Unwilling to share? Go for a 'Big Thing', like the ling en papiotte with chilli, lemon, coriander and kipfler medallions, or the scotch fillet with potato rosti and tomato bourbon relish. You can relax in the laneway at a table for two, perch at the bar or take over a communal bench. Another dinner option is the long-standing Border Wine Room. If wine bottles could speak, this place could tell a tale or two — the walls are dotted with empty Grange vessels. The a la carte menu changes monthly, while the six-course tasting menu is revamped fortnightly. Keep an eye out for special events — from French wine tastings to chocolate degustations. DO In late 2015, after a $10.5 million makeover, the Albury Regional Gallery reopened as MAMA (Murray Art Museum Albury), with a 14-metre-high curved wall and a visionary director named Jacqui Hemsley, who's passionate about getting people excited and engaged. To that end, MAMA is currently hosting its first blockbuster: Marilyn: Celebrating an American Icon, showing till May 8. Live circus is coming up on April 22 and 23, and, on May 21, the MAMA Art Foundation National Photography Prize, worth $50,000, will move in. The gallery also now has its own modern, casual eatery: Canvas. It's hidden away from the main street, overlooking a quiet, grassy square. Concertina windows allow natural light to stream into the high-ceilinged space, and the menu features luxurious twists on classics. Think coddled egg with truffled mushroom duxelle and brioche soldiers, and duck benedict with house-smoked duck ham, brioche, poached eggs, beurre noisette hollandaise and spinach. Canvas is open daily for brunch and lunch, and Wednesday-Saturday for dinner. Back alongside the Murray, you'll find the five-kilometreYindyamarra Sculpture Walk, stretching between Kremur Street and Wonga Wetlands. It's part of the Wagirra Trail, a work-in-progress that will ultimately consist of 70 kilometres of riverside shared paths. Every sculpture — from the giant-sized Maya Fish Trap by Uncle Tunny, Darren Wighton and Andom Rendell, to Reconciliation Shield by Tamara Murray — was created by local indigenous artists and is a response to the river. Whether you walk or cycle, take your mobile, to access augmented reality at each stop. Despite Albury's sizeable population, wild places are easy to access. To get on the river, hire a canoe from Murray River Canoe Hire, who'll drop you eight or 12 kilometres upstream for an easy one-two hour paddle back to town. Prepare to meet cheeky flocks of white cockatoos, cormorants and white ibises — 350 bird species live along the Murray, which, at 2,700 kilometres, is the third longest navigable river in the world, after the Amazon and the Nile. There's also some cracking mountain biking terrain. And, four years ago, elite biker Indi Boer, who's won 19 international and national titles, set up a coaching school named The Fastline Bikademy. If you're a beginner, sign up for a basic skills lesson and by the end of it, you'll be conquering scary dips and powering around corners. Experienced? She'll spend hours helping you to refine your skills, so you can take on tougher rides with more skill and strength. If you're looking for an excuse to head to Albury sooner rather than later, the annual Gold Cup is coming up on March 17 and 18. With more than 15,000 people expected to attend, it's the most popular country race in NSW — and an official public holiday for Albury residents. There'll be live music, craft beers and pop-up stalls peddling local produce. LET'S DO THIS; GIVE ME THE DETAILS By car: Albury is about six hours drive southwest of Sydney, and about three-and-a-half hours' drive northwest of Melbourne. By train: The XPT takes seven-and-a-half hours to reach Albury from Sydney, and three hours and twenty minutes from Melbourne. By plane: QANTAS, Virgin Australia and REX all fly the 80-minute route between Albury and Sydney. REX flies between Melbourne and Albury, taking about an hour. Jasmine Crittenden travelled as a guest of Destination NSW. Images: Peter Saw (unless otherwise specified).
Brisbane has a new home for luxury retail, with the arrival of The New Trend (TNT) on James Street. Founded by Vanessa Spencer in Melbourne in 2017, the multi-brand retailer has gradually expanded to numerous brick-and-mortar locations in both Victoria and New South Wales. Now, a brand-new flagshop store is set to make contemporary fashion more accessible. At the heart of the brand's success is its carefully curated selection. Serving as a go-to destination for global fashion powerhouses like The Attico, Coperni and Wardrobe NYC, each store also offers several leading designers from Australia and New Zealand. Think Christopher Esber, Alemais, ESSE Studios, Wynn Hamlyn and Harris Tapper. Yet what sets TNT apart from other Fortitude Valley spots is how it operates as more than just a stockist. Through meaningful dialogue with the local brands it believes in, a collaborative approach puts considered feedback and development support front and centre. Together, this creates a robust platform that aims to elevate local designers into international names. The new James Street boutique will help support this aspiration. Thoughtfully located in a high-end retail precinct like TNT's other stores, renowned interior design studio AKI was brought on board to shape a suitably refined, inviting space that complements the building's existing facade and architectural context. Browsing the racks at TNT James Street, shoppers will be immersed in natural light, with high ceilings, layered textures and organic materials that reflect the luxe garments on display. Meanwhile, custom-designed furniture produced by local designers adds to the sophisticated atmosphere, where every detail has been carefully crafted with purpose. As for the client experience, personalised attention transforms retail therapy into a VIP encounter. Inside dedicated styling suites, knowledgeable staff offer one-on-one advice so you nail your dream look. Plus, select appointments come complete with refreshments and champagne — a tailored experience you won't get scrolling at home. The New Trend is now open Monday–Friday from 9.30am–5.30pm, Saturday from 9.30am–5pm and Sunday from 10am–4pm at Shop 3, 48 James Street, Fortitude Valley. Head to the website for more information.
Perhaps you enjoyed Netflix's Heartbreak High revival and can't wait for its second season. Maybe you're fond of Aunty Donna's Big Ol' House of Fun instead. Or, via Stan, Bump, Black Snow, True History of the Kelly Gang and Nitram might've sat among your homegrown highlights. When you're getting cosy on the couch streaming something filled with Australian faces, accents and places, these titles likely stood out, too, because they're a rarity. Aussie content comprises a tiny portion of digital platforms' catalogues, which has been the case since Netflix officially launched in Australia back in 2015; however, that's about to change thanks to Australia's new streaming content quotas. First, some background: for Aussie commercial free-to-air television and pay TV stations, programming is subject to quotas requiring a certain contingent of each channel's content to hail from Australia. Such rules haven't applied to streaming services so far, though, even as more and more have popped up Down Under. So, for years, there's been a hefty to push to change the situation, placing the likes of Netflix, Disney+ and more under similar content rules. A green paper on the topic was published in late 2020, and a heap of well-known Aussie talents helped raise attention to the cause back in 2021. Now, the Australian Federal Government has confirmed that streaming content quotas are coming as part of its just-announced National Cultural Policy. "It's been ten years since the last National Cultural Policy. During that time, online streaming platforms have taken off, but our Australian content obligations haven't. I know we can do better," said Minister for the Arts Tony Burke on social media. Accordingly, the new $286-million National Cultural Policy locks in streaming content obligations, which it deems pivotal given there is "an increasing consumer trend away from broadcast and subscription television services to online subscription content". "In 2020–21, for the first time, Australians were more likely to have watched an online subscription service than live or recorded free‑to‑air television," the policy continues — saying what plenty of us already know from our own viewing habits. As a result, the Federal Government has committed to introducing "requirements for Australian screen content on streaming platforms to ensure continued access to local stories and content", and will do so by July 1, 2024. Beforehand, Burke will consult further with the industry, which'll be the focus for the first half of 2023, before legislation implementing the Aussie content quota for streaming platforms is put in place. What the quota might look like in terms of hours of Australian shows and movies required, or percentages of streaming services' roster of content, hasn't yet been revealed. Still, the aim is clear: more Aussie series and films on all of those platforms constantly competing for your eyeballs, and in the near future. Past proposals, including the Make It Australian campaign with backing from Blaze's Simon Baker, Hungry Ghosts' Bryan Brown and Justine Clarke, and Ellie and Abbie (and Ellie's Dead Aunt)'s Marta Dusseldorp — and more — have lobbied for all streaming services operating in Australia that have at least 500,000 subscribers to spend 20 percent of their local revenue on new Aussie dramas, documentaries and content for children. Some streamers have put more cash into developing original local stories already, doing so voluntarily, but now they'll all be required to — and to boost an overall buffet of movies and TV shows that has noticeably lacked new Aussie content from the get-go in the process. Indeed, it took more than two years for Netflix to finally announce that it was making its first Australian series, Tidelands, after it launched on our shores. For more information about Australia's new National Cultural Policy, head to the Australian Government's website. Top image: Heartbreak High, Netflix.
Canberra is set to glow again as Enlighten Festival returns in 2026, transforming the capital into a city-wide playground of art, ideas and after-dark discovery. Running for 11 days from Friday, February 27 to Monday, March 9, the festival invites locals and visitors alike to explore Canberra in ways you normally wouldn't. Now in its 16th year, Enlighten delivers a packed program of world premieres, Canberra-firsts and large-scale experiences that tell Australian stories through art, exhibitions and immersive installations. At the heart of the festival are the Illuminations, the only time of year Canberra's national institutions unite to showcase monumental, original artworks across their facades. In 2026, architectural projections will light up the Australian Parliament House, the National Library of Australia, the National Gallery of Australia, Questacon, the National Portrait Gallery, and the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. The lineup features works by celebrated artists Kaylene Whiskey, Yarrenyty Arltere Artists, Grace Kemarre Robinya, Sam Wallman, Philip Bunting, and Eleanor and Giovanni. After dark, Enlighten: The Night Shift unlocks Canberra's major institutions for unexpected late-night experiences. Think karaoke and live performances inside the Department of Memories at the Museum of Australian Democracy, free lantern-making at the National Archives, and degustation dining within the walls of Parliament House. The Festival Hub Artworks turn the National Triangle into an open-air gallery filled with immersive installations and roaming performances. World premieres, including Serendipity by Atelier Sisu and Glitch Monument by Collide Public Art, make their debut, alongside large-scale installations such as Whispers of Wonderment and Amorphia. Beyond the Triangle, Enlighten: BEYOND encourages audiences to venture further across the city, connecting Canberra's arts organisations, institutions, and local businesses through exhibitions, events, and pop-up experiences throughout the festival. One of the festival's standout moments is Symphony in the Park, a free, all-ages outdoor concert in Commonwealth Park. In 2026, Mark Seymour of Hunters & Collectors joins the Canberra Symphony Orchestra for world-premiere orchestral arrangements of classics, including Holy Grail and Throw Your Arms Around Me. Entry is free, but booking tickets is essential to secure your spot. The program is rounded out with events for those keen to dive deeper, from Luminous Ideas at Canberra Theatre Centre — featuring Jennifer Wong's FEAST — to the immersive digital exhibition Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius. Whether you're visiting Canberra for the first time or rediscovering your own backyard, Enlighten Festival 2026 is an invitation to wander, connect and see the city in a whole new light. Plan your trip to Enlighten Festival 2026 and see the program here.
Gone are the days of choosing between man's best friend and man's perfect holiday - there are more dog-friendly hotels, spas and getaway cottages in Queensland to pick from than ever before. And it's not just the big cities that are catering to pet parents and fur babies. You and your pooch can pack your bags and hit the road for surf beaches, dog-friendly wine tours, idyllic hinterland serenity and eco-friendly retreats to soothe the soul. Check out the best of what's on offer for you and Fido throughout the Sunshine State at these pet-friendly accommodations. Recommended reads: The Best Hotels in Brisbane The Best Glamping Sites Near Brisbane The Best Dog-Friendly Cafes, Bars and Restaurants in Brisbane SPICERS, VARIOUS QUEENSLAND LOCATIONS The Spicers group offers a series of luxury pet-friendly stays across Queensland for travellers hitting town and country. Stay in the urban heart of New Farm at Balfour, a stone's throw from parks, bars and the winding River Walk. Head to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland and Tamarind Retreat for rainforest luxury stays in a South-East-Asian-influenced wellness hotel. Enjoy French-inspired luxury at Clovelly Estate in Montville in the lavish guest house suites or private, self-contained cottage. Or stay in the historic Chinese Cottage near Hidden Vale homestead, set among 12,000 acres of serene bush at Grandchester - and don't miss the famed paddock-to-plate dining at Homage Restaurant. Wherever your next escape might be, the Spicer's Pooch Package includes bedding, bowls and little treats, and a warm welcome and tummy rubs (for the pup, of course). SALTWATER VILLAS, MOOLOOLABA Make your next Sunshine Coast weekend a little more 'extra'. Saltwater Villas offers the best of both worlds: canal-side accommodation tucked away from the main street high-rises but with all the cafes, bars and restaurants of the Esplanade just a wander away. All villas are pet-friendly with private enclosed courtyards, and they offer dog-minding and dog-walking by prior appointment. You'll find this service invaluable if you're booking one of their in-house massages, pedicures, facials and spa treatments. If you'd prefer some soothing beach-therapy, head into town with the pooch and walk along the rock wall and water's edge, watching the waves roll in. Stop for lunch at a cafe, grab a drink at The Good Bar or make the most of the famous Mooloolaba seafood by cooking up a storm in the villa kitchen - with your best friend by your side. LILLYPILLY'S, MALENY An easy drive from Brisbane brings you to Lillypilly's spa getaway. It's your perfect escape from the hustle and bustle in the charm of a private country cottage - without sacrificing all the modern conveniences of air con, coffee machine and wifi, plus spa treatments, gourmet additions or a full 'spoil yourself' package. Relax on the verandah or daybed with tranquil views over the lake and rolling hills. If you and the pup get restless, head out and about to explore the towns and nature walks of the Sunshine Coast hinterland before you return for the night. Massage for you, fresh air for the pooch and a cosy living room with a crackling fire that everyone can snuggle up in front of. Pawfect. MT COTTON RETREAT, MOUNT COTTON Fancy a green getaway for you and your furry friend? Mt Cotton Retreat has Advanced Eco Certified status and a 20-hectare nature reserve and koala conservation program. The rustic 'treetop' cabin is the perfect place to unplug and unwind. It's all about the simple pleasures of you and your pup together. Wander through woodland, spot wildlife in the trees, listen for the creek after the rains, enjoy utter peace and quiet. For an elegant touch to your bush retreat, you can arrange a gourmet picnic hamper for the humans - but you'll need to BYO canine catering. There are lovely spots nearby for easy day trips, including a local winery. Best of all, this pet-friendly stay in Queensland is only a 30-minute drive from Brisbane. OVOLO, THE VALLEY, BRISBANE All creatures deserve the Ovolo creature comforts, and now your four-legged friend can enjoy them thanks to its V.I.Pooch package. Your pets will get a special bed, mat and bowl plus a goodie bag with toys and treats. And humans get complimentary breakfast, snacks, a 24-hour gym and your own loot bag (with different treats, of course). If you want to get out and explore The Valley nightlife - after your hotel sundowner drinks during 'social hour' - you can arrange dog-sitting via the pup-loving Ovolo staff. The Ovolo is more than a stylish getaway: it wants to be known as Queensland's best dog-friendly hotel - let them try to prove it to you. BRIAR ROSE COTTAGES, STANTHORPE All aboard a dog-friendly wine tour of the Granite Belt. Set up a luxe base camp at Briar Rose Cottages, just 1km outside of Stanthorpe (which happens to be one our favourite day trip destinations from Brisbane). These three darling little cottages are straight out of a picture book. Think, 'aspirational country chic'. Crackling woodfire heating, white wicker chairs on the verandah and heritage elegance with a welcoming, homey feel. They're self-contained, for 2, 4 or 6 people, but as there's no fence on the property, you'll just have to keep the doggo on a leash when you're outside. When you've settled in, head out to one of the numerous dog-friendly wineries, including Ridgemill Estate, Robert Cannon Wines, Summit Estate and the trendy Symphony Hill Wines. A tasting for you, some head-pats for the pup, then return to your cosy country abode. W BRISBANE, NORTH QUAY Fantastic news: your doggo can now enjoy the Marriott luxury, too. The five-star W Hotel in South Bank welcomes well-behaved pooches to join its pet-parents for an indulgent city getaway. Admittedly, your fur baby probably won't appreciate the fun, quirky, Aussie-inspired design choices of the W, and they might not think much of the view over the river, Mt Coot-tha and the suburbs beyond. That's all for your enjoyment. And you'll need to leave them with a sitter when you dine at the restaurant and hit up the sun-drenched rooftop pool. But together you can take in the city sights. Jump on a ferry, wander along the river, explore the vibrant West End and Southbank arts district, and stop in at one of the many pooch-friendly pubs and cafes. NOOSA HINTERLAND RETREATS, NOOSA There's no reason why your pooch has to miss out on a sunny surf holiday at Noosa. Head into the hinterland for a bit of R&R in a completely private and self-contained apartment just 20 minutes' drive from the main beach. The Hinterland Suite on the ground floor has a fenced private yard with an enviable view of Mt Cooroy. A queen size bed and spacious living area provides ample room to relax, and there's a bushwalk trail nearby when you need to stretch your legs. Drive down and explore Noosa at your leisure, pick up local gourmet provisions or stop in at one of the many dog-friendly cafes, such as Aromas at Noosa Heads. WONGARI ECO RETREAT, SCENIC RIM Because pets are family too, Wongari Eco Retreat welcomes well-behaved doggos with open arms — so you and your pup can reconnect with nature together. The house rules are simple: don't make a mess, don't worry the wildlife and don't leave the pooch alone in the cabin. You can take them with you on your adventures along nearby bushwalks or let them run freely through wide open spaces. Serenity cabin is tucked away in a secluded pocket of forest, while Bimbul cabin — which runs on renewable hydropower — has open views across the Hoop Pines. Bowls are provided, but BYO food and bedding. Live your idyllic rustic dream around the Scenic Rim as you bake bread in the woodfired oven, watch the sunset over the hills and enjoy the simple pleasures of rural life with your pup. Absolute bliss. TREETOPS RETREAT, CAIRNS Craving the tropical heat and clear blue seas of beautiful Far North Queensland? Make a road trip north with a few pals and rent out this spacious treehouse getaway. Set amongst the heritage-listed Crystal Cascade rainforest, Treetops Retreat has space for nine people — and your pup. This luxury retreat has everything you need to recharge and replenish your energy in style: wooden sauna, pool, tranquil garden and an outdoor Bali daybed. Fling open the wide doors and let the sounds and scents of the rainforest wash over you. You're just a short drive from Cairns or the foodie hotspot of Port Douglas, but if you'd rather stay in and have fun, you can gather around the pool table for a game, or book a private nature experience via the host. When it gets too hot, just lie back in a hammock while your pup plays on the deck - just keep them off the leather couches and you'll be as golden as the FNQ sunshine. Feeling inspired to book a truly unique getaway? Head to Concrete Playground Trips to explore a range of holidays curated by our editorial team. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips in destinations all over the world. Top image: W Brisbane
Nestled into the fast-growing Howard Smith Wharves precinct underneath the Story Bridge, Mr Percival's looks out over the Brisbane river — and, if that's not enough, the octagonal bar and restaurant is actually perched right on top of it. Here, you can grab a beverage and a bite to eat while both peering at the snaking central waterway and sitting in a structure elevated above it. When it opened, it became Brissie's first venue of its type since Oxley's on the River in Milton was destroyed in the 2011 floods — although Mr Percival's is less about sit-down dinners and more focused on chilling out in a scenic and stylish spot. From 11am every day, Brisbanites can relax in a watering hole that's been designed with European beach clubs and the Brisbane's own park rotundas equally in mind. Think decking, six arched doorways, outdoor seats with a view underneathpink umbrellas, plus an indoor colour scheme that takes inspiration from the Mediterranean. Star windows, round lights, eye-catching wallpaper, 70s-style upholstered chairs, terracotta marble and a brass-fronted bar round out the hangout's inside decor, which was overseen by Brisbane interior designer Anna Spiro. Mr Percival's menu aims to match its look and feel. Unsurprisingly, seafood features heavily among the range of small and large plates. As for the drinks selection, it includes three types of spritz, spicy watermelon margaritas, shared cocktail jugs and more — plus rosé, bubbles, aromatic whites and light reds among the vino range. Beer-wise, Mr Percival's keeps things super local by pouring four brews from fellow HSW spot Felons through its taps. And if you're wondering about the moniker, it's a nod to Australia. Pelicans are a common waterside sight around the country, and the 1976 Aussie classic film Storm Boy — which was remade in 2019 — features a pelican called Mr Percival.
Fancy a dip with a difference? Boutique hotel connoisseurs Mr & Mrs Smith have a bunch of seductive watery wonders. From awe-inspiring views and cater-to-every-whim butler service, these shimmering stretches will have you flapping your water wings in excitement (Speedos optional). Hotel Crillon le Brave, Provence Where: Rue Église, 84410, Crillon-le-Brave, Vaucluse, France What: Stone-built hilltop hideaway Perched high on a peachy-hued Provencal hilltop, Hotel Crillon le Brave is made up of seven houses clustered around a 16th-century church. After a quick bonjour to the hotel’s namesake — a mustachioed statue of the real Crillon le Brave — follow the discreet grey signs on pale stacked-stone exteriors to this hip hostellerie. A maze of footpaths leads down stone steps and over cobbled terraces to the separate maisons: charming sleeping quarters that look out over pale terracotta roof tiles, neatly coiffed vineyards and limestone-topped hills. The Cezanne-worthy panorama continues poolside; swimmers can catch glimpses between strokes as they work off a lion's share of croissants, pastries and crisp local rosé. Perivolas, Santorini Where: Oia Santorini, 847 02, Cyclades Islands, Greece What: Dream lava Plucked straight from the pages of a glossy spread, Perivolas is a supermodel in hotel form. Poised high on the hills of Santorini above the Aegean sea, this is the sort of hideaway that inspires spontaneous marriage proposals. A soundtrack of distant lapping waves fills whitewashed-walled rooms that peer out over the caldera (the proper name for the volcanic crater-cum-bay, if you please), while sunlounger-graced terraces provide the postcard-perfect spot to stare out into the brilliant blue. A resplendent infinity pool is the jewel atop Perivolas’ crown: seamlessly merging with the endless azure horizon and offering a spectacular setting to sup sundowners and watch the sun melt into the sea. Masseria Torre Maizza, Puglia Where : C.da Coccaro, 70015, Savelletri di Fasano Brindisi, Italy What: Spacious and gracious A 16th-century coastal estate set in olive groves with ocean views, Masseria Torre Maizza is sister to Masseria Torre Coccaro — good looks clearly run in the family. There’s no cause to fret about countryside isolation: days here are spent ambling between the spa, cookery school and golf course. Water babies should head straight for the outdoor pool, surrounded by vine-dressed columns, hammocks and more sunbeds than you can poke a crostino at. When a growling stomach interrupts, make for Ristorante delle Palme, where black-lacquered chairs and white-linen-topped tables spill onto the poolside terrace. Rayavadee, Krabi Where :214 Moo 2, Tambon Ao-Nang, Amphoe Maung, Thailand What: Sand-circle garden pavilions Flanked by dramatic limestone cliffs and glittering beaches, Rayavadee is accessible only by boat from Krabi. Picturesque pavilions are tucked between towering tropical palm trees; it's a look befitting a tribal jungle village with a penchant for Jacuzzis, spa treatments and homemade cookies. The sapphire-coloured waters of the sprawling lagoon-style infinity pool offer uninterrupted views of the Andaman Sea and respite for those weary from jungle treks. If you can be coaxed from your plumped sunbed, adventure-junkies can pursue rock-climbing, kayaking and scuba-diving; land-lubbers should seek out the spa for an hour (or more) of towel-cocooned pampering. Raas, Jodphur Where :Tunwar ji ka Jhalra, Makrana Mohalla, Gulab Sagar, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India What: Achingly hip haveli Set in the shadow of the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, Raas is a modern-day Maharaja’s mansion. A cluster of four heritage rose-red sandstone buildings make up this refashioned family manor, decorated with sprawling terraced gardens, boutiques, spas and restaurants. Beyond the hotel walls, the city is a frenetic blend of colour and chaos. Inside, your only disruptions are birds trilling and water tinkling. An at-your-service butler-attended infinity pool brings a splash of Ibiza to the Indian desert; expect white-canopied sunloungers, chilled tunes and poolside yoga. Ace Hotel & Swim Club, Palm Springs Where :701 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, California, United States What: Hipster’s canyon commune Seducing the young and young at heart, Ace Hotel & Swim Club marries sleek architecture and low-key luxury with a smattering of vintage design accents. Sun-seekers can brave the heat by renting a candy-coloured Vespa or booking a horseback riding lesson, leaving those attached to air-conditioned comfort to languidly laze in a hammock and work through the hotel bar’s cocktail menu. An eclectic soundtrack of indie rock, '70s and '80s hits, top-40 numbers and spinning DJs provide the poolside playlist. The King’s Highway restaurant (once a roadside Denny’s) dishes up classic American fare with splashes of the unexpected — try the harissa lamb and pan-seared tilapia. Eagles Nest, Bay of Islands Where: 60 Tapeka Road, Russell, New Zealand What: Modern, minimal, magical Prepare to be hypnotised at Eagles Nest, a hotel where pampering means private chefs, peaceful pools and a Porsche at your disposal. From its perch atop a private peninsula, this North Island retreat has sweeping views over the Bay of Islands and 75-acre grounds that are ripe for exploration. Villas are cool and contemporary, tucked away in the middle of lush native bush; all are self-contained with a gourmet kitchen and private deck. Each villa has its own heated infinity-edge lap pool (except the First Light, which has a Jacuzzi), fringed by sleek white day-beds and romantic lanterns for moodily lit evenings. Alila Villas Uluwatu, Bali Where: Jl. Belimbing Sari, Banjar Tambiyak, Desa Pecatu, Bali, Indonesia What: Minimalist eco-glam From the lobby at Alila Villas Uluwatu you’ll catch your first glimpse of the hotel’s 50m infinity pool and the Indian Ocean beyond, and we challenge any paddling professional not to be impressed. With each villa replete with its own pool and butler, it’s quite possible that you’ll be the only guests at the hotel’s main watering hole. With a cliff-edge perch and cantilevered cabana, a few languid strokes is enough to have you feeling like you’re floating above the world. When hands and feet become sufficiently wrinkled, retire to Spa Alila, a holistic heaven where local therapists use traditional Asian healing techniques and age-old beauty recipes. Shoreditch Rooms, London Where: 1 Ebor Street, Shoreditch, London, United Kingdom What: Cool crash-pad club Dust off your hipster specs and dig out your coolest ‘resting designer’ attire: it’s time to mention Shoreditch Rooms. An outpost of the media-savvy SoHo House members’ club, glamourpusses and hip creative types have long flocked to this converted warehouse to let off some steam. With breathtaking views across the city, the heated rooftop pool is where it’s at. The bar’s close by, as are gardens complete with open fires, double day-beds and a herb plot. Closer to earth, the ground-floor Cowshed spa has famous facials and massages tailored to your mood. Hotel Habita, Mexico City Where: 201 Avenida Presidente Masaryk, Colonia Polanco, Mexico City, Mexico What: Modern minimalist classic Bang in the middle of posh Polanco, Hotel Habita is a favourite with Mexico City’s fashion-forward and in-the-know elite. Follow in their well-heeled steps by ascending to the rooftop. A glistening pool is overlooked by the hotel’s mezzanine bar, flanked by curvy white loungers, dark wooden decking and complete with a wet bar. Upstairs, the full lounge boasts tables, chairs and a crackling fireplace for cosily cool evenings; films are projected on to the walls of nearby buildings on clear nights. If you prefer dinner a deux to designer-clad crowds, the lobby restaurant offers Mexican bistro cuisine and huge windows prime for people-watching. Feeling hot under the collar? Cool off by taking a dip at other Mr & Mrs Smith pool hotels or browse more hotel collections .
Sometimes, the best events spring from the simplest ideas. In Hat Swap's case, the concept is both straightforward and sure to be delicious. Taking place at the two-hatted Gerard's Bistro, resident head chef Ben Williamson will join forces with Dave Verheul, his counterpart at Melbourne's Embla. Together, they'll be turning out a five-course feast on July 27. This is the first collaboration for the two highly-regarded chefs and your tastebuds won't want to miss it. Tickets are at a pricey $165 per person, but do include paired wines with each course. The 2.5-hour dinner will be run over two sessions, with seatings at 5.30pm and 8.30pm.
Get crabby, Brisbane — and no, we don't mean your mood. When a feast of crab awaits, there's nothing to be cranky about. For the entire month of February 2025, Bar Alto at Brisbane Powerhouse is hosting Crab Fest, aka an excuse to add a heap of dishes featuring the crustacean to its menu. Opt for the spanner crab maritozzi and you'll be tucking into spanner crab on brioche bun, for instance. For something bite-sized to share, the sand crab and zucchini fritters come in six-piece servings. Pasta fans have three selections to tempt tastebuds: spanner crab gnocchi with chilli and lemon, spanner crab tortellini with trout caviar, plus sand crab spaghetti alla chitarra to share. The latter pairs a whole sand crab with handcut spaghetti, chilli, garlic, vermentino, cherry tomato and basil, and is only available in servings for two. Whichever you pick, you'll also be enjoying your crab dishes of choice with the venue's glorious riverside view right up until Friday, February 28.
The finishing touches are currently being put on a colourful new hotel with multiple dining options just metres from Sydney's Oxford Street. ADGE Hotel + Residencies is the ambitious new transformation of the Riley Street building formerly known as Cambridge Hotel. The new hotel will open in August with 93 guest rooms before expanding to 242 in early 2023 — all of which will be bursting with creativity and colour thanks to SJB. The Sydney-based practice has been in charge of the interiors as part of the $65-million transformation and has reinvented the space from a straight-and-narrow accommodation provider to a space filled with bold flourishes and personality. On entry to the lobby, you'll notice bright carpets, eye-catching furniture and a huge mural from Australian artist Adrian Hing. These standout features foreshadow what you'll find upstairs in your room, with each suite equipped with more retro-influenced carpets and plenty of colourful, one-of-a-kind light fixtures and eccentric pod-style bathrooms. Down in the lobby, you'll also find one of Surry Hills' best cafes, Soul Deli. The Korean favourite recently relocated from down the road, with owners Daero Lee and Illa Kim transforming its original 185 Campbell Street into a new wine and Korean tapas bar. Soul Deli brings Korean staples to the classic Australian cafe menu. Hotel guests and Sydneysiders alike can stop into the new lobby location for sticky fried chicken, house kimchi toasties, specialty coffee and Korean fried doughnuts. Joining this inventive breakfast and lunch spot within ADGE is longstanding eight-seat omakase restaurant Raida Noda's Chef Kitchen and a soon-to-open Italian restaurant with a high-profile chef set to be in charge. Bookings are now open for the hotel with rooms starting from $199 a night. ADGE Hotel + Residencies is opening in August at 222 Riley Street, Surry Hills.
New Zealand entrepreneur Hamish Dobbie is in the final rounds of a Kickstarter campaign to fund Yolkr, a rather nifty egg yolk separator. 'Finally', I hear you say, a simple and incredibly good looking kitchen tool for separating those whites from the yolk, without scattering shells throughout your 'egg'cellent kitchen creation. Having been tested by his 90 year old Grandfather, who has one eye, wears glasses and shakes somewhat, along with numerous others, the Yolkr project reached its Kickstarter goal within 5 days, and there are still 54 days remaining. Move over Number 8 wire, a new and revolutionary Kiwi invention has arrived. And it will change the way you make your omelette forever.
The best types of magazines are the ones that pucker up and tackle the real issues. The one’s that don’t dabble in celeb-gossip, provide Kardashian-laced crosswords or provide a definitive guide on how to drive your boyfriend wild. The BEST types of magazines are the ones that don’t take smack, show a bit of grunt and make a reader think about issues of legitimate substance and meaning. That’s why Lip is one of the best types of magazines. Self-published by women in Melbourne from 1976 to 1984, Lip’s life in the press has held a track record of performance pieces, feminist preachings, ecological statements, social engagement and Labor politics – all deeply intersecting the other making pieces of writing unrivalled by those under the thumb of Uncle Rupert. To celebrate and rediscover Lip’s raw approach to journalism, they’re releasing an anthology of their greatest pieces as chosen by editor Vivian Ziherl. Brisbane's Institute of Modern Art will be hosting the Brisbane leg of the Lip Anthology Launch this Thursday at 6pm – jog along and admire a creative work that changed Australian mindsets for the better.
Whether you're looking for something on a budget, or you're after the best vintage fare, there's nothing like trawling through other people's wares. Forget your regular old household clear-outs, trash and treasure markets, outlet sales and car boot offerings though — Brisbane's biggest clothing garage sale is back again. We're not sure whether its size has been officially confirmed; however if it delivers a massive array of sartorial bits and pieces — and it always does — then we won't ask questions. Taking over Bizzell's Garage on Latrobe Terrace from 10am until 3pm on Saturday, September 22 and Saturday, October 20, prepare to arrive with shopping on your mind and leave with a full basket. Prices vary, as will condition, but expect to pay anywhere from $5 to over $100 for clothes, swimwear, shoes, accessories, denim, leather items and jewellery. Brands spanning the sporty likes of Adidas and Puma, the upmarket style of of Burberry and Christian Dior, and the street red of Converse and Calvin Klein will all be on offer. And, if you want to add a few plants to your home garden — including succulents — you'll find greenery on sale too.
There's always something happening in New South Wales, no matter what time of the year. So whether you're a local looking for extravagant summertime surf carnivals on the coast or an interstater on the hunt for cosy winter festivities, there's something for everyone. So why not get a weekend getaway on the books? We've scoured the calendar for festivities taking place across the state, and here's our round-up of the outdoor events. Depending on where you go, you'll need some sunscreen, a good jumper or a couple of napkins. Adventure awaits.
For plenty of Australians, a piece of toast isn't complete unless it's slathered with Vegemite. For others, musk sticks are a go-to sweet treat and always have been. Of course, what one person eats for breakfast or dessert, another considers gross, with both Aussie favourites earning a place in Sweden's new Disgusting Food Museum. Now open in Malmö, the museum does indeed feature Vegemite and musk sticks, as well as a third Australian item: witchetty grubs. Beyond much-loved but highly polarising Australian spreads and sweets, everything within the site's walls is considered food somewhere. Think Sweden's own surstömming, aka fermented herring; cuy, the Peruvian roasted guinea pigs; casu marzu, a maggot-infested cheese from Sardinia; hákarl, the Icelandic dish comprised of well-aged shark; and Thailand's notoriously pungent durian. In total, 80 foods from around the world are on display until January 27, with liquorice, jell-o salad, fruit bat and bull's penis among the other exhibits. For an entry fee of 185 Swedish krona (approximately AU$29), visitors can also smell and taste selected items. Plus, the museum holds 'taste one for the team' sessions for groups of six or more, where you can challenge your friends to the kinds of tastings that you don't get every day. If you're currently asking yourself the obvious question — not 'what's wrong with Vegemite?', but rather 'what would inspire someone to open this kind of place?' — the Disgusting Food Museum is all about challenging accepted ideas of what's edible and tasty. It recognises that what one person finds delicious, another might find revolting and vice-versa. Speaking to Vox, curator and 'chief disgustologist' Samuel West specifically uses Vegemite as an example, explaining that it initially tastes awful, but you can learn to like it. Find the Disgusting Food Museum in Malmö, Sweden from October 29. For more information or to buy tickets, visit the museum's website or Facebook page. Via ABC.
First, Lune perfected croissants, so much so that the Australian bakery chain is renowned for its flaky pastries all round the world. Then came giving cruffins, aka croissant-muffin hybrids, a spin. For Easter, the obvious next step followed: hot cross cruffins, for when you want a hot cross bun, but you're also hankering for a croissant and a muffin — and you don't want to have to choose. Lune's hot cross cruffins have been popping up annually for years, but 2025's batch is different. This time, they're made using the acclaimed bakery's signature croissant dough. You can also pick between two varieties this year, too: the OG and chocolate. Can't decide which one, after being unable to select between hot cross buns, croissants and muffins to start with? You can get mixed packs featuring both. The hot cross cruffins hit Lune's shelves at all stores on Monday, April 7 — so at Armadale, Fitzroy and the CBD in Melbourne; South Brisbane and Burnett Lane in Brisbane; and Rosebery and Martin Place in Sydney. You've only got until Easter Monday to enjoy them, however. Lune is open every day across the Easter long weekend from 8am, and will either close at each store's regular time or earlier if everything is sold out prior. Single hot cross cruffins cost $10.50 each — or, you can also order pre-order those aforementioned six packs for $63, but you can only do so until Friday, April 18, and only for collection at Fitzroy, Armadale, South Brisbane and Rosebery. If you're a fruit hot cross bun fan all the way, Lune's hot cross cruffins feature dried fruit, candied peel, mixed spice and brown butter mousseline. For chocolate lovers, you're getting hot cross cruffins made with cocoa choc-chip croissant pastry and chocolate mousseline. Each features a cross on top, of course, but only the chocolate version boasts a cocoa cross. Also worth noting: that Lune has just launched an ongoing loyalty program for pastry fiends. Lune's Easter specials are available until Monday, April 21. Head to the brand's website — or to its stores at Armadale, Fitzroy and the CBD in Melbourne; South Brisbane and Burnett Lane in Brisbane; and Rosebery and Martin Place in Sydney — for more details. Images: Peter Dillon.
The weather's perfect to bask in the midday sun, and Aldi's got some killer camping specials at the moment – why not combine both coincidences, pack up for the weekend and head bush. There's plenty of camping hotspots that aren't too far a hike or drive from Brisbane, and they won't cost you more than a dime to set up tent. Stock up marshmallows, fly spray and the sweet 'summer' sounds of Daryl Braithwaite, and get in touch with nature. BUNYA MOUNTAINS Ticks aside, the Bunya Mountains are a cheap getaway that offer free food – bunya nuts – and free entertainment – is that a leach or a leaf on your back? The campings grounds are extensive, and offer luxurious chalets for the lavish, or your stock standard camping grounds for all you grass loving types. It's a mountain range that forms the northern edge of the Darling Downs near Bell and Dalby, making it great for hiking, but also close to a McDonalds in case you get a hankering for something other than damper. 3 hours drive west. HASTINGS POINT Isolation, tranquillity and sand stared beaches make for the best types of camping trip where you just want to go away, forget about routine, sleep in late and let the sun direct the day. Hasting's Point is perfect for a lazy getaway, that let's scenery and salt water take priority over hiking, activities and acting with a bit of vivaciousness. Hardly a car drive from Tweed, Hasting's Point camping grounds are perfect for the avid fishers, and even more perfect for salt loving sloth – you'll be able to taste the serenity. 1.5 hours drive south. [caption id="attachment_168379" align="alignnone" width="628"] Joshua White[/caption] LAMINGTON NATIONAL PARK It's a pretty strict set up Lamington National Park's got for its campers, but once you pay some people some money, and grab a permit or two, you'll be well on your way to experiencing all the Australian bush has to offer. With dense, foresty bushland, that make the hiking tracks like mazes, this remorseless national park would be daunting if it wasn't so beautiful. Protecting 20,000 hectares of rainforest, waterfalls and rocky peaks, this national park contains two sections – Binna Burra on the eastern side and Green Mountains on the western side. Don't force yourself to pick between the two – have a taste of both. 1.5 hours drive south. MT BARNEY NATIONAL PARK Forget the purple dinosaur, surpass memories of the drunken Simpsons character, and throw out any other association you have with the name Barney – this one's completely unique. Mt Barney National Park strays in scenery between open glassy fields and mountainous views that'll remind you how dull and bland concrete buildings and inner-city life can be. This rugged environment is part of the wild and beautiful Gondwana Rainforests, home to many rare animals, plant species and communities, and is riddled with bushwalks and bodies of water begging to be Instagrammed. 1.5 hours drive south-west. GIRRAWEEN NATIONAL PARK If the fusion of the existential, unknown and nature makes you jump for joy, then Girraween is the place for you. Spring and summer are the perfect times to catch the splashes of flowers that fill the gaps between the mountainous rocks in nougat like formation. It's Picnic at Hanging Rock-esque landscapes and mysterious balancing boulders make it just as surreal as it is serene. Rest assure though, there's nothing 'haunted' about Girraween – unless you believe the ol' legends, in which case you will die. 3 hours drive south-west. LENNOX HEAD As hard as it may be to bypass Byron Bay, sometimes you've just got to keep trucking on the premise the grass may just be greener on the other side. You have our assurance, and in this case it indeed is. Lennox head is just a 20 minute drive south of Byron, half as populated, and twice and beautiful. With fantastic surfing, your pick of outdoor cafes, and big Norther Rivers further insland, Northern Lennox Heads has got the goods for a picturesque get away. Camping options are endless – you can set up so close to the beach you'll risk scurvy, or pitch further inland, if shrubbery is more to your liking. 2 hours drive south. STRADBROKE ISLAND Stradbroke Island – or Straddy as the more travelled camper might call it – is just a quick drive, ferry and hike from Brisbane. The island is klamnown for its incredible sand dunes, clean beaches, subdue tourism industry and rusty ship wrecks. From family friendly resorts, to camping spots amongst the woods, Stradbroke Island caters to the most beginner camper, to the one who sleeps bagless, under the stars with raw testosterone the only repellent against mosquitoes. Have a sand toboggan, try your luck at fishing, keep an eagle eye out for whales and boat out to the mysterious shipwrecks. Beware letting your family, friends or self climb the wrecks though – your mum might fall through one, scratch open her knee, require emergency medical attention and ruin your summer '08 family vacation. Thanks a lot mum. 1.5 to 2 hour drive and ferry. Top image: Joshua White.
Picking up just seconds from where the last Muppets film left off, Muppets Most Wanted opens with a rousing song that explains: "Everybody knows a sequel is never quite as good". A few famous exceptions notwithstanding, the in-joke is right on the money, and even though it's definitely true of this film as well, thankfully the follow up to James Bobin's 2012 hit is only slightly poorer than its predecessor. This time round, the gang is talked into embarking upon a world tour by Ricky Gervais's smooth-talking yet unscrupulous talent manager, Mr Badguy ("Its...French. It's pronounced...Bad Geeee"). The tour is, however, just a front to enable Badguy and his boss Constantine (aka Evil Kermit) to conduct a series of high-end museum robberies and steal England's Crown Jewels. Key to the plan is Constantine's escape from a Siberian gulag and an ole switcheroo that sees him trade places with the real Kermit. "Eeets...dee Marrr-pet shaow" practices the heavily accented villain as he reviews file footage of Kermit in what's just one of dozens of charming imposter-Kermit based jokes. As always, the film is packed with self-referential humour (one Muppet complains that it's actually the seventh movie in the franchise), cameos (Usher plays an usher, Celine Dion takes the absolute piss out of herself and James McAvoy appears as a 'blink and you'll miss him delivery man', to name just a few), and — of course — musical numbers. None of the songs come close to matching The LEGO Movie's impossibly catchy 'Everything Is Awesome', but several of them are good enough to gets the toes tapping. Constantine's 'I'm Number One', for example, is amusing in its constant forcing of Gervais to reply 'I'm number two', and the disco-inspired 'I'll Get You What You Want' is just crying out for a Pharrell cover. The highlight of Muppets Most Wanted, however, is the subplot involving the partnership of Sam the Eagle and Interpol's Jean Pierre Napoleon (in an outrageously cliched swipe at the French by Ty Burrell). Their dogged pursuit of the thieves leads to some fantastic scenes involving muppet interrogations, crime scene analysis and police badge oneupmanship. Tina Fey also impresses as the gulag's warden Nadya, whose determination to put on the prison's annual revue sees Kermit end up directing a terrifically funny all-male A Chorus Line. I'm also told Ms Piggy's wedding dress (designed by Vivienne Westwood...no, seriously) is to die for. Based on the laughter of the kids attending the screening, kids will laugh at screenings of this movie, and so too will adults, though not in the same way or with the marked regularity of, say, a Pixar film. It's a little light on plot, and begins to feel a little repetitive by the end, yet the pacing is rarely in danger of lagging and the jokes come often enough to keep everyone entertained. Empire Strikes Back it 'aint, but it's not a bad sequel to what was always going to be a hard act to follow. https://youtube.com/watch?v=wXfLrt90CHM
There's no time of year like New Year's Eve. It's only once a year we get to party this hard, so the limited opportunity means you should go all out. The worldwide celebrations are legendary, and Australia stands shoulder to shoulder with the rest of the world in opening a new year with parties of all sizes and noise levels. Brisbanites (or those in town for the season) have choices aplenty, but what if you could ring in the New Year in New York from the comfort of the Brisbane skyline? Sixteen Antlers, a bar known for its high altitude and jaw-dropping views, is upping the ante for this year's celebration, hosting a swanky NYC-themed party to end the year with a bang. If you have yet to visit, the venue is on the sixteenth story of the Pullman and Mercure Brisbane hotel, and it boasts a rooftop bar with space for 200 guests and views of King George Square and the City Hall Clock Tower. Your ticket will give you access to the complete Times Square experience: think fancy dress (to impress), roaming NYC-themed canapés (we're talking sticky beef ribs, bbq meatballs and more), a 5-hour premium beverage package, live music from rising local talent Jarrod Costello and top-tier DJs spinning epic beats in the lead up to a midnight ball drop and confetti cannons to start the year with a glittery bang. Celebrations begin at 8pm and run until 2am on January 1, 2023. For more information and to get tickets, visit the website.
Stay tuned. More info is coming soon.
UPDATE, September 9, 2022: Dune is available to stream via Netflix, Binge, Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. A spice-war space opera about feuding houses on far-flung planets, Dune has long been a pop-culture building block. Before Frank Herbert's 1965 novel was adapted into a wrongly reviled David Lynch-directed film — a gloriously 80s epic led by Kyle MacLachlan and laced with surreal touches — it unmistakably inspired Star Wars, and also cast a shadow over Hayao Miyazaki's Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind. Game of Thrones has since taken cues from it. The Riddick franchise owes it a debt, too. The list goes on and, thanks to the new version bringing its sandy deserts to cinemas, will only keep growing. As he did with Blade Runner 2049, writer/director Denis Villeneuve has once again grasped something already enormously influential, peered at it with astute eyes and built it anew — and created an instant sci-fi classic. This time, Villeneuve isn't asking viewers to ponder whether androids dream of electric sheep, but if humanity can ever overcome one of our worst urges and all that it brings. Dune tells of birthrights, prophesied messiahs, secret sisterhood sects that underpin the galaxy and phallic-looking giant sandworms, and of the primal lust for power that's as old as time — and, in Herbert's story, echoes well into the future's future. Blade Runner 2049 ruminated upon a similar idea in its own way, as many movies do. Indeed, Ridley Scott was hired to helm Dune before Lynch, then made the original Blade Runner instead, so Villeneuve is following him again here. Dune's unpacking of dominance and command piles on colonial oppression, authoritarianism, greed, ecological calamity and religious fervour, though, like it's building a sandcastle out of power's nastiest ramifications. And, amid that weightiness, it's also a tale of a moody teen with mind-control abilities struggling with what's expected versus what's right. That young man is Paul Atreides, as played by Timothée Chalamet in a stroke of genius casting that seems almost fated — as if returning Dune to the big screen had to wait for the Call Me By Your Name star. (The book also earned the TV miniseries treatment in 2000, and we should be thankful that a 90s iteration soundtracked by the Spice Girls' 'Spice Up Your Life' didn't ever eventuate.) When the narrative begins in Villeneuve and co-screenwriters Jon Spaihts (Prometheus) and Eric Roth's (A Star Is Born) retelling, Paul's life has been upended. House Atreides, led by his father Duke Leto (Oscar Isaac, Scenes From a Marriage), must leave its watery home planet of Caladan to take over the desert world of Arrakis. Previously run by their enemies in House Harkonnen, it's the source of the universe's melange stores, with the spice making interstellar travel possible. Spice also expands consciousness and extends lives — and, while forced by imperial decree, the monstrous Baron Vladimir Harkonnen (Stellan Skarsgård, Chernobyl) isn't happy about handing Arrakis over. To say House Atreides' move doesn't go smoothly is like saying that its new home is a tad toasty, but the tricky transition is just one of Dune's concerns. Another: the plans for Paul. House Atreides' heir, he's being trained as such by the Duke, security expert Thufir Hawat (Stephen McKinley Henderson, Devs), swordmaster Duncan Idaho (Jason Momoa, Aquaman) and weaponry whiz Gurney Halleck (Josh Brolin, Avengers: Endgame). But Paul's mother Lady Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson, Reminiscence) hails from the Bene Gesserit, an all-female group who pull the galaxy's strings, and she sees him as its fabled chosen one. On the page, Dune sports an abundance of plot, of which this film only relays half; its title card dubs it Dune: Part One, a move only backed up post-US release when Dune: Part Two was greenlit. This opening chapter is never overladen, however, even if the Fremen — Arrakis' blue-eyed Indigenous peoples, including tribal leader Stilgar (Javier Bardem, Everybody Knows) and the defiant Chani (Zendaya, Malcolm & Marie) — are clearly poised to enjoy a larger part in the sequel. Savvily, one of Villeneuve's big choices is to let Chani's narration introduce the movie. It immediately helps to side the feature with the oppressed, rather than merely embracing several layers of power from the get-go. It also signals a concerted effort to ensure this isn't primarily a story of men. It whets the appetite for more, too, including from Zendaya — who doesn't get much screentime, but still leaves an imprint that'd stick even in sand. Treading not only in Lynch's footsteps, but in Chilean French director Alejandro Jodorowsky's — whose aborted 70s stab at Dune is chronicled in stellar documentary Jodorowsky's Dune — is a mammoth task. Big-budget slams and failed visionary attempts tend to stick in filmic memory. Plus, Lynch's movie featured a heap of other future Twin Peaks stars, and Sting, and a score by Toto (no one blessed the rains, though). Meanwhile, Jodorowsky had Mick Jagger, Salvador Dali and Orson Welles, with Pink Floyd on soundtrack duties. To match, Villeneuve boasts a magnificent cast, all doing their utmost, while Hans Zimmer's throbbing notes set an intense and ominous mood as expertly as his immensely dissimilar work on No Time to Die also did. But what gleams brightest in this take on the tale is its breathtaking visuals, meticulous plotting, a pace that gives the narrative space to breathe and an alluring sense of mystery, as well as the ability to prove simultaneously vast and intimate. When Dune's desert landscapes linger as far as the eye can see, they shimmer with heat, texture and possibility. When the film lurks in palaces bubbling with political scheming, it hews slick, muted and brutal. As lensed by Australian cinematographer Greig Fraser (Lion), these are shrewd choices — pitting the expansive, grainy yet inviting against the confined, sleek and savage — in a movie that knows how to make every image both count and feel visceral. Awe-inspiring to behold, and operatic, Dune turns a literary giant into a cinematic one. It broods brilliantly, dreams vividly and muses sharply, as Villeneuve's work (see also: Arrival and Enemy) does at his best. It stages tremendously engaging action sequences, too, as Sicario also did. The one drawback: as grand and majestic as it is, and as much of an astonishing feast for the senses as well, it could use a slightly wilder streak. Dune rarely makes surprising moves — it doesn't quite take a "walk without rhythm and it won't attract the worm" ethos to heart, aka the line from the book that's immortalised in Fat Boy Slim's 'Weapon of Choice' — but it's always thrilling, immersive and spectacular.
This Christmas, the sound of tap, tap, tapping will be echoing around Victoria Park's mini golf course. While that's hardly unusual, it'll be accompanied by plenty of festive cheer, decorations and sculptures between Friday, November 5 and Friday, December 31. Because nothing says end-of-year merriment like hitting up a seasonal-themed mini-golf course, the putt putt venue will be decking out its greens with boughs of holly, giant candy canes, gingerbread houses, elves, toy soldiers and everything else festive that it can think of — again. Yes, it's been here before. Yes, the venue also celebrated easter and Halloween with appropriate theming. But there's always something special about being surrounded by Christmas decorations. Reindeers and Santa are obviously involved, too, and different sections of the 18-hole site will be designed to look like Frosty's Fairway, Gingerbread Village, Elf City and Santa's Runway. Find out whether you're naughty or nice by swinging your way through Christmas Putt Putt from 6am–11pm daily — which means that you can stop by on your way to work, during your lunch break or after quittin' time as well. If you head along post-6pm, you'll take to the green beneath Christmas lights, naturally. Tickets cost $22. [caption id="attachment_752778" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Pandora Photography[/caption] Victoria Park Christmas Putt Putt runs from Friday, November 6–Thursday, December 31, with tickets on sale now.
