An enchanting swimming experience awaits a mere one-hour drive from Brisbane CBD. Park at the Cedar Creek Falls carpark then follow a short track along the gorge lookout all the way to the pools. Greenery and scrub overhang on rocky outcrops, framing the waterfall as it tumbles into the natural swimming pools below. The water is remarkably cool even when the pool catches full sunlight. You can lie on the warm rocks, soaking up the summer heat, then splash into the water for a quick rejuvenation. Rinse and repeat until refreshed. There are picnic tables and barbecues, so bring the esky and some pals and share a magical day of waterfall-bathing. Image: Tourism and Events Queensland
Sure, you've eaten tacos and burritos before — but have you tried tortas and arepas? One of the benefits of the street food surge is the easy accessibility of different types of international delights. And when it comes to all things Latin, Comuna Cantina is on the bandwagon. The new addition to Albert Lane champions the flavour, experience and spirit of South America in a market-style eatery in the heart of the Brisbane CBD. That means more than just Mexican cuisine, though a few old favourites are also on the low-carb, high-protein menu. Expect everything from grilled street corn to cassava chips to barbecue skewers — all made fresh in-house daily, right down to the sauces and salsas. Comuna Cantina is the kind of place that you can grab a char-grilled chicken torta and go, or settle in for a few share plates and frozen margaritas — the choice is yours. And while the former is perfectly acceptable, it's the latter that is most encouraged, as the space features a well-stocked cocktail bar serving Comuna Coladas and Comuna Martinis, and some great, lively Latin vibes. Comuna does mean community in Spanish, after all.
Every couple of years, the team at Cuatro Group — aka Martin Lange, Wiebke Lange, Blake Ward and Belinda Ward — gives Brisbane a new place to while away a night or several over drinks. First came Death & Taxes, complete with a hefty focus on whisky. Next arrived Dr Gimlette, with table service in one of the River City's oldest buildings. Now Antico is here, this time riffing on Italian cocktail bars. You'll be heading to familiar roadway to get sipping from 4pm daily — for walk-ins only, with no reservations taken — with Antico located in Burnett Lane, where Death & Taxes also sits. After Super Whatnot closed its doors earlier in 2023, Cuatro Group has taken over the space, opening the crew's most intimate venture yet. The team's third spot is a 50-seater that, like its other watering holes, is big on atmosphere. Think: moody lighting including candles and an eye-catching gold chandelier, leather booths and a black-and-gold marble bar top. After taking the stairs up from the lane, patrons will enter a venue that finds its inspiration in old-school Italian hotel lobby bars. That's where the black-and-white mosaic floor comes in, too, and the sunken seating area — with the aforementioned booths catering to small groups. The hotel lobby bar theme comes through in the menu as well — and, of course, the Italian influences. Antico pours classic cocktails, and will rotate through ten different varieties every two months. Whatever's on the drinks lineup, it'll always feature the bar's own twists on well-known concoctions using fresh ingredients sourced locally from across Brisbane. And, a signature negroni is a mainstay as well. Beyond cocktails, beer and wine are also on offer, as well as a curated range of high-end spirits — for going in the cocktails, obviously, and just for enjoying otherwise. Food-wise, Brisbanites can nibble their way through selection of Italian-inspired bar snacks, such as bruschetta and burrata. And, after working at Dr Gimlette since 2021 — and running the joint, and picking up ten years of experience in the industry overall — Jacob Francis makes the leap over to Antico as Venue Manager. Find Antico at 48 Burnett Lane, Brisbane — open from 4pm–1am Sunday–Thursday and 4pm–2am Friday–Saturday.
The next time that you tuck into a pie, you could be doing a local business a solid. That's always the case if you're picking up your pastries from a neighbourhood bakery, of course — but head to King Street Bakery on Tuesday, March 1 and Tuesday, March 2 and you'll be helping out the Bowen Hills favourite at a tough time for the city. After a weekend of torrential rain that's led to widespread flooding, nothing is normal in Brisbane at the moment — as everyone in the city well and truly knows. For the King Street Bakery team, it's been a couple of days without access or power to their central kitchen, so they're now hosting a bake sale. Expect pies and sausage rolls galore, plus make-at-home meals, coffee and juice as well. You'll need to swing by King Street by 5pm, so that's either lunch, a snack or something for dinner later all sorted. Updated March 2.
They grabbed our attention with their New Yorker waffle sandwich, a layered concoction made with everyone’s favourite breakfast dessert, maple-glazed bacon, gruyere cheese and an egg. Then, they kept our interest with their haloumi burger, because we all know that a tasty, salty slab of cheese deserves to be the main attraction, not a side dish. So, who might the purveyors of such yumminess be? Milton residents, meet Whisk & Ladle. Inside their modern surroundings, the inner-west's latest breakfast, brunch and lunch spot is the perfect place to start the day — and, they're pet friendly, so bring your furry best friend along with you. Plus, to answer the question you've all been pondering: the rest of their menu sounds delicious as well. All the cafe staples you know and love are on offer, of course. To eat, think avocado on toast, acai bowls or a big brekkie, and then salads and burgers once the clock hits 11.30am. Drinks-wise, Colombian Reserve and Byron Bay Blue coffee will take care of your caffeine fix. And, those after a cold beverage can slurp up a frappe, smoothie or milkshake straight from heavy-handled jar — aka a sweet burst of liquid bliss.
For a 14-year period between 1919 and 1933, the Staatliches Bauhaus was ahead of its time. Also known as simply Bauhaus, the German art and design school took a clean, streamlined, thoroughly modernist approach to its disciplines. And when it was closed by the Nazi regime, its teachers and students kept applying those principles, including those who moved to Australia. Indeed, there's a reason that the Bauhaus name has lived on for more than a century — and, although you mightn't realise it, the school has made quite a contribution to Aussie life, art and architecture. Bauhaus Now, the Museum of Brisbane's latest free exhibition, surveys all of the above until Sunday, April 18, 2021. Across nearly 100 pieces, you'll see how Bauhaus has influenced everything from furniture and building designs to films, textiles and photography. Also on display: paintings, prints, sculptures and historical imagery. Exploring how Bauhaus' ideas are being applied and interpreted today, too, this colourful showcase includes work by a range of figures — including notable Bauhaus practitioners such as Karl and Gertrude Langer, Wassily Kandinsky and Marianne Brandt, plus local contemporary artists including Michael Candy and Christopher Handran. Not that you can miss it, but keep an eye out for the newly commissioned Sunroom: Between Sunrise and Sunset by Paul Bai, which gives the exhibition quite the striking entry point. Images: Toby Scott.
Harry Potter marathons, concerts, parties, trivia, sleepovers, markets, comedy gigs, Christmas festivities, potions classes and plays: of both the authorised and unauthorised type, Australia has hosted all of the above. If there's a way to work the Wizarding World into something, it has likely popped up somewhere Down Under. Indeed, a Fantastic Beasts-inspired natural history exhibition is on its way in 2023 — and, if you're particularly entranced about dressing up like you're at Hogwarts, so is Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration. Again, Australia is no stranger to Harry Potter shindigs, but this one is both official and completely themed around the franchise's wintertime soirée. Fittingly, it's conjuring up its Aussie debut in the frosty months, locking in a date with Sydney from Friday, July 7. The celebration heads to the Harbour City after past tours to Milan, Montreal, Houston and Mexico City, and hails from Warner Bros Discovery Global Themed Entertainment and events company Fever. Warner Bros in general is going all-in on the magical saga of late, given that it has also just locked in a new Harry Potter TV show, which will turn each of the books that started it all into a season of television. First, the ball. Here, you'll feel like you've stepped straight into the Wizarding World movies, especially if you don appropriate attire. That isn't mandatory, but it is encouraged. And if you need to collect the right items while you're at the event, there'll even be a market selling wands, robes and other merchandise. In Sydney, the Yule Ball will take over the Paddington Town Hall — and while exactly how long it will keep enchanting Sydneysiders hasn't been revealed, it will feature multiple sessions from Wednesday–Sunday. Muggles and wannabe witches and wizards alike will enjoy a two-hour experience, complete with a dance floor, performers, recreated moments from the movies and a whole heap of excuses to take photos. There'll be themed food and both boozy and non-alcoholic drinks, too — cross your fingers for butterbeer — which you'll need to pay extra for on top of the $84 ticket price. Or, there will be premium package, where you'll receive priority entry, a beverage and a gift. So far, there's zero word about further Aussie stops beyond Sydney, but folks in Melbourne, Brisbane and beyond best start crossing their fingers, toes, wands and broomsticks. Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration hits Australia from Friday, July 7, 2023, with tickets on sale from Wednesday, May 3 — head to the event website to join the waitlist.
It isn't called the big screen for nothing — and, when you head to the pictures, that's typically what you spend a couple of hours peering at. But you won't just be staring at a giant rectangle at Wonderdome, Australia's new pop-up cinema experience. In a blend of film, music and art that takes its cues from planetariums, you'll be sat in a dome watching movies that've been specifically designed to take up the whole 360-degree space that's towering above you. Melbourne Planetarium's regular fulldome sessions, the Melbourne International Film Festival's own fulldome programming and the Brisbane International Film Festival's foray into the same space a decade back have all served up this same kind of immersive view, if the overall concept sounds familiar. But when Wonderdome hits Sydney's Entertainment Quarter between Saturday, December 4–Sunday, January 30, it'll also be following in the footsteps of Coachella and Burning Man by creating a dedicated fulldome space that's all about this type of cinema-going. It'll also offer Australia's largest-ever 360-degree projection cinema. The structure itself is a geodesic steel dome that spans 21 metres in diameter, and is filled with multiple projectors, as well as a 7.2 surround sound system. To watch, you'll recline on throne-style beanbags and stare up at the movie. Given that the projection sprawls all around you, it's been likened to virtual reality — but without the goggles. During Wonderdome's debut run in Sydney, it'll screen a lineup of 22 films — including the dazzling Coral Rekindling Venus, about fluorescent coral reefs, bioluminescent sea creatures and rare marine life, from Emmy Award-wining Australian filmmaker Lynette Wallworth. Other highlights include National Geographic's Flying Monsters, about flying dinosaurs, which is narrated by the one and only David Attenborough; the climate-focused Dynamic Earth, which benefits from Liam Neeson's vocal work; and Carriberrie, which focuses on Indigenous Australian dance and song. Fulldome cinema is also known for its psychedelic and eye-popping visual displays, which is where Samskara, from artist Android Jones, comes in — plus Labyrinth, which is filled with squares, streets, passages, corridors and rooms; and Luminokaya, which lets you explore Cambodian temple complex Angkor Wat. The rest of the program also features the architecture-focused Urban Levitation; Distant Life: Alien Worlds, about whether humanity is alone in the universe; Flight of Fancy, which recreates a space jump at 120,000 feet; and other space-centric titles such as From Earth to the Universe and Journey to the Centre of the Milky Way. There's a lineup of fulldome movies for kids, too, because this is an all-ages space. Snacks-wise, you'll be able to grab something to eat and drink either before or after each Wonderdome session, with the menu including jaffles, chips, slushies, chocolates and ice creams. Plus, there'll be a gin bar, as well as a lineup of craft beers. Wonderdome's Entertainment Quarter season will also accept New South Wales' Dine & Discover vouchers, if you have some left — or you're eager to get your hands on more when two extra vouchers become available for NSW residents over the age of 18 sometime this summer. And if you won't be in Sydney this summer, cross your fingers that Wonderdome will plan stops in other cities. The fact that it's is pop-up dome obviously makes that easier. Wonderdome will pop-up at Sydney's Entertainment Quarter from Saturday, December 4 –Sunday, January 30. For more information, or for tickets from 11am AEST on Wednesday, November 17, head to the Wonderdome website.
Think Brisbane's eastside boasts the only beachside walking spot? Think again. Anything Wynnum and Manly can do, Shorncliffe and Sandgate can do too, including offering up a scenic saunter along the foreshore with a peaceful vibe and one heck of a view. Not only will you meander along an 8.5 kilometre return trip — or part of it if you're not feeling like a lengthy workout — but you'll immerse yourself in the area's history. Indeed, if you haven't strolled the 350 metres along the Shorncliffe Pier, then you haven't really been to the north side of the city. Image: Bertknot via Flickr.
Brisbane's Banksy? A street art scourge? A dedicated artist struggling to keep things together? Anthony Lister has been called all three — by the art world, news headlines and even himself. Banksy actually said that the Brissie-born talent appears to piss great art in his sleep, which is quite considerable praise. Galleries, celebrities and brands around the globe have clamoured for his work, though Lister's isn't your usual rise-to-fame story. His first big break came when the Brisbane City Council paid him to paint more than 100 of the city's electrical boxes, only to turn around and prosecute him for vandalism over his other pieces. Then there's his personal life, including a marriage and three kids — commitments that prove increasingly difficult to juggle given his dedication to his jet-setting career. From his sun-drenched childhood in '80s Brisbane suburbia, to life-changing teenage acid trips, to splattering colour all over the walls of his Sydney studio, Have You Seen the Listers? tells the artist's tale. It's a warts-and-all account that pulls absolutely zero punches, and a film that'd be nothing without Lister's deep, reflective candour. He doesn't just voice the documentary's narration, but he also provides much of its footage as well. While his art features prominently, it's accompanied by years of home videos chronicling Lister's everyday life. In fact, thanks to his obsession with filming his own actions, he gifted director Eddie Martin (All This Mayhem) with 12 terabytes of personal photos and recordings. Accordingly, Have You Seen the Listers? combines the artist's archives with his current antics, weaving them into a compelling and fascinating portrait. Viewers see Lister hanging around with his mates, falling for his high-school sweetheart and turning his hobby into his job. And they keep watching as he jumps between countries, tussles with the law on graffiti and drug charges, and proves a loving but often-absent partner and father. Along the way, Lister shares memories, thoughts and regrets, the kind that can only come with pain, trouble and hindsight. With his family situation deteriorating before the audience's eyes, he grapples with his passions and priorities, in what becomes an exploration of chasing a dream, finding success and then coming down the other side. As he did with the exceptional skating documentary All This Mayhem, Martin brings it all together in an insightful, involving and astute fashion. Collaborating with excellent first-time feature editor Johanna Scott, the filmmaker has cemented his status as one of Australia's best documentarians — not only thanks to the story he tells, or the fast and frenetic way it comes together, but also because of how authentic it all seems. Whether the film is throwing drug-addled montages at the screen, or capturing Lister with his kids, or just observing his feverish work, it feels like viewers are being given a direct line into the artist's mindset. There's an unmistakable air of reverence in Martin's approach, but what shines brightest is the movie's respect and empathy for the man at its centre — flaws, failings, frank admissions and all. Enter: the film's title. It springs from one of Lister's pieces, created as part of a moving tribute exhibition for his family, as seen late in the doco. It's also a question with both obvious and not-so-obvious answers. Everyone that's walked along a city street in Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne has spotted Lister's work. Thanks to his court cases, international acclaim and general appearances in the media, we've probably all glimpsed his face as well. But have we really seen his different sides, how they contribute to his art and how he's striving to balance everything in his life? Not in this manner. That's the power of Have You Seen the Listers? And like other movies that examine artistic figures, such as Cobain: Montage of Heck and fellow recent Aussie documentary Whitely, the film is at its best when it's unearthing its subject's multifaceted persona, impact and enigma. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sPAOMjDvDJw
Gracie's Wine Room is one of Melbourne's latest hospitality success stories. In an industry full of shuttered venues, price hikes, and quiet nights, at Gracie's Wine Room in South Yarra you can find bottles being popped, a bustling golden hour courtyard, and bread always being broken with friends. For owner Kelsie Gaffey, whose TikTok videos showing her process of opening a venue from scratch amassed hundreds of thousands of views, the current climate of people spending less and staying in more was one her concerned family warned her of. [caption id="attachment_1036436" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Gracie's Wine Room[/caption] "Before opening Gracie's, our more conservative relatives warned us that people are spending less. [Gracie's] hasn't experienced this." According to Kelsie, Gracie's Wine Room's main demographic of 23–33 year old women are actually spending more on nights out with their girlfriends than anyone else. New data from Visa backs Kelsie's observation up. Melbourne is Australia's Number One Night-Time Hot Spot The Visa Australia Night-time Economy Index 2025 is a new in-depth analysis that measures data such as spending, vibrancy, and venues open in cities across the country. According to the index, Melbourne has been crowned the number one night-time hot spot. This doesn't come as a surprise to Kelsie. "Melburnians really know how to have a good time," Kelsie tells Concrete Playground. "The city has such a vibrant culture around wine, food, and spending quality time with mates, and we're genuinely spoilt for choice. There's always something happening, and that energy makes working in hospitality here incredibly dynamic and inspiring." [caption id="attachment_1028074" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Gracie's Wine Room[/caption] The Visa Vibe Economy report, also commissioned by Visa and conducted by McCrindle, found that venues like Gracie's Wine Room have hit the sweet spot when it comes to the reasons Australians love to go out. The main motivation for getting off our couches post-work is to enjoy a meal, catch up with friends and unwind from our busy schedules. Gen Z in particular are factoring night-time activities into their budgets with over half of them considering this type of social spending "essential". In fact, Kelsie has already seen an increase in patrons on weeknights as the weather has begun to warm up as well as a jump in their average spend per head. Kelsie recognised this cultural sweet spot within her demographic and created a curated menu of share plates for friends to split over a bottle of wine. Customers can enjoy freshly shucked oysters, focaccia, and a snack plate of cured meats, cheese, and lavosh. [caption id="attachment_1036434" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Gracie's Wine Room[/caption] "I wanted Gracie's to be known as a place where you connect with mates, drink some good wine and eat some good bread. I didn't want the frills and price tags that come with fine dining, and I really do believe that staying true to this is what has kept people coming back," says Kelsie. With 73 percent of Gen Z's going out once or more a week, tapping into her own peers has helped to increase revenue and patrons through the door — even on weeknights. How to Spend A Night Out in Melbourne What does a dream night out in Melbourne look like for the 25-year-old founder? Kelsie shares that it always starts with a sunny afternoon. "I'm definitely starting at Gracie's and then making my way down to Republic Economica before ending the night at HER Rooftop in the CBD." Data from the Visa Vibe Economy Report found that of all the generations, Gen Z is the most adventurous, choosing to stray away from their local haunts and try new things, and just under half plan two activities in the one night to make the most of their city after dark. Half of Gen Z also believe that nights offer more new experiences than the daytime. Kelsie agrees. "I love being able to experience something new every single time I leave the house for a night out. It's so exciting, and has unlocked some of my greatest memories with friends." Gracie's Wine Room hasn't yet operated for a full calendar year, but Kelsie is feeling optimistic about the state of hospitality and business projection. At the heart of her success lies the Gen Z community that she built through TikTok. "I never imagined it would grow into what it is today, but the community that's formed around Gracie's has been the most rewarding and unexpected part of it all." Discover the vibe near you. Lead image: Gracie's Wine Room
Vietnamese New Year is upon us for 2025 and, as it does every year, Paddington's Ngon is celebrating. When you're a family-owned neighbourhood Vietnamese eatery that goes big on traditional flavours, but with a fresh twist, this occasion is always going to be a big event — and it clearly is for the Nguyen brothers. This round of festivities focuses on a night of feasting on Saturday, February 1 — aka reason enough to eat, drink and be merry on Given Terrace. Make a date for dinner for the evening and you'll firmly be in New Year's mode. Costing $85, the food menu goes big on family favourites, as the restaurant's cuisine does anyway. So, get ready to tuck into prawn tapioca dumplings, slow-cooked pork, XO fried rice, bo luc lac, ginger chicken and more. Bookings are necessary, and calling or emailing is recommended. The night starts with arrivals at 6pm, with dinner beginning at 6.30pm and lion dances from 8pm.
If you're spending the summer holidays with a group of friends or family, look no further than The Canopy Treehouses to house your tropical getaway. Set among a lush 100-acre property, this place is ideal if you want to steer clear of other holidaymakers as you venture — quite literally — off the beaten track. The two-bedroom Riverfront Treehouses sleep six guests and, as the name suggests, are built on the banks of the river surrounded by ancient rainforest. Or, if you're after something a little larger, the three-bedroom Bower House can accommodate up to eight guests and overlooks the rollings hills of the Atherton Tablelands. Both are fully self-contained and come equipped with barbecue facilities, spa baths and, most importantly, rainforest views.
The festive season is upon us, again, which means that Christmas shopping is about to become everyone's favourite pastime. Thankfully, trawling the mall isn't your only option when it comes to finding a gift, either for your loved ones or yourself — or grabbing ingredients for a delicious meal. Returning for another year from 4–10pm on Saturday, November 18, the Carseldine Markets is hosting a twilight event brimming with the spirit of the season. Get your list ready, because all the art, craft and fresh produce stalls you know and love will be on site, just waiting to help you out of a festive fix — there'll be more than 200 of them, in fact. Prepare to tuck into festive treats, too (because you'll need to eat while you browse), as well as ample entertainment. Yes, it's a Christmas wonderland, with the decorations and carols to prove it. Warning: if you're more of a Grinch than one of Santa's elves, you'd best prepare yourself for an overdose of holiday cheer. Entry costs $3, and there's free parking onsite.
There's no avoiding the Hottest 100 on Australia Day. Even if you don't still tune in now, you definitely grew up listening to it — and if you fall in the latter category, you probably have fond memories of the great Aussie rock acts that have graced the countdown over the years. The Empire Hotel certainly does, which is why they're dedicating the occasion to the homegrown bands that made the '90s great. Settle in for the sounds of Silverchair, Spiderbait, Jebediah and Frenzal Rhomb — and, if that's not enough, play giant versions of jenga, connect four and chess with your mates.
If you choose where to slumber while you're on holidays solely based on the amenities, then The Star Gold Coast has just given you a new reason to book in a night away. Levelling up your vacation with swims and cocktails on a sixth-floor pool club will do that — and that's exactly what's now on offer at the Goldie spot. As first announced in 2021, The Star Gold Coast has launched Isoletto Pool Club, which is where all those dips and drinks come in. It is located within the resort, within its new $400 million, 53-storey hotel and apartment tower. To make the most of the pool club, though, you'll either need to be a resident or a hotel guest. A coast holiday it is, then — depending on your budget, of course. The sky-high Isoletto Pool Club features a 12-metre-long pool that boasts views over to Broadbeach, daybeds scattered around the deck and wet lounges in the pool itself. There's also a restaurant and lounge serving up sushi, oysters, prawn cocktails, fried snapper burgers, grilled chicken BLTs and gelato, plus cocktails such as the Giulietta (made with concoction with gin, Aperol, and Pavan grape and orange blossom liqueur) and the Green Cove (with white rum, orange bitters and mint). Craft beers are on the menu as well, and the wine list spans both local and international tipples — to drink either inside or outdoors by the water. If you're gathering the gang, guests can opt for poolside packages designed for larger groups, too. Think: bottled champagne, cocktails, seasonal fruit platters and complimentary sunscreen. Whichever you opt for, you'll be kicking back in a space designed by local architecture and interior design practice Plus Architecture, and that takes its cues from its Gold Coast surroundings. Colour-wise, that means neutral tones with pops of lemon and melon hues, and big tropical vibes.
We all know the type: the seemingly regular folks who love nothing more than a crack-of-dawn start time. The people that live for early mornings and consider 7am a sleep in. They're busy saluting the sun and chugging a green juice while the rest of us are waging war on the snooze button. So for those chipper early birds — we love you, we truly do. For those among us that prefer sunset over sunrise, however, Brisbane is a completely different place. We don't need that extra-strong coffee to get us charged up, because we're enjoying the other end of the day and raising a toast to Brisbane's finest spots for a sundowner.
Calling all extreme Nirvana fans, this has to be one of the most intensely freaky fan-out Airbnb stays yet. You can now stay the night in Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love's '90s rented Los Angeles apartment, where Cobain penned 'Heart-Shaped Box' in the bathtub. Cobain and Love rented the 1500 square-feet '20s-built space from 1991-92, when Love was expecting little Frances Bean and Cobain wanted more songwriting and painting time — he did both in the apartment. Owned by a lucky dude called Brandon Kleinman, the Fairfax/Melrose area space has been cleaned up since the Cobain/Love days (thank god) and gets rented out a few times a year by super fans. So this: And this: Has been cleaned up by Kleinman to look like this: And this: For about US$250 a night, you'll have wifi, two bedrooms and take baths in the 'Heart-Shaped Box' bathtub. But apparently the listing has now been viewed 1000 times this week, so this price could very well go up. Keen for more of a sticky beak into Cobain/Love life? Check out Brett Morgen’s documentary Montage of Heck (one Sundance film we're hoping makes it to Australia.) Via Vulture. Images: Vinnie Zuffante/Getty, NY Daily News, Airbnb.
If the idea of sampling a range of gins from around the world appeals to you, you'd best be planning a trip to Covent Garden sharpish. Drawing on its London namesake for inspiration, the venue is nestled on Boundary Street in West End and is a stunning spot for a first date, a third date, a relaxed Sunday lunch, or late night supper and cocktails. The space positively blooms with beautiful artwork and furniture and there's a fairly stunning backbar just crying out to sit at. Grab a seat, order your first cocktail and then set about the serious business of choosing what you're going to eat. The menu really is best when it's shared, because you can try more of everything. A plate of zucchini fritters ($12) are dressed ever so simply with yoghurt and lemon, allowing the freshness of the zucchini to shine. There's a mezze plate with olives, smoky baba ghanoush, feta, pickles and breads ($17/$32) perfect to graze on pre-dinner, and why not grab a plate of fried squid ($14) for a bit of crispy deliciousness with your drinks? For more serious dinner fare there's seared wagyu ($38) or perhaps pork cheeks with sherry and nashi pear ($22). Helpful staff are only too happy to recommend a drink to suit your food, or some food to suit your drink, and if you simply can't decide on what to get just order the feasting table ($39 per person) which will satisfy everyone. The wine list is restrained but perfectly sufficient, while the cocktail list has to be experienced first hand. Plus, in a delightfully fun twist, you can get high tea ($45 pp) at Covent Garden until 6pm every day with a pitcher of Covent Garden G&Tea and an assortment of sweet and savoury delights. Sounds like Saturday afternoon drinks just got a whole lot fancier. Images: Anwyn Howarth
Being a Barbie girl in a Barbie world wasn't just a 2023 trend, back when Greta Gerwig's (Little Women) Margot Robbie (Asteroid City)-starring — and Oscar-nominated — film became one of the biggest and pinkest movies to ever hit cinemas. The 2025 way to get your Barbiecore fix Down Under from Friday, June 27, 2025 through till summer 2026: by enjoying ice cream floats served in a pink Barbie convertible car at the Malibu Barbie Cafe, plus sipping fairy floss-topped cocktails at the Ken Kabana bar, all at The Social Quarter at Chadstone Shopping Centre in Melbourne. The Malibu Barbie Cafe has been popping up across the US, with New York, Chicago, Minneapolis, Miami, Austin and Houston all welcoming the venue — and the Victorian capital is hosting its debut stop beyond America. Pink hues? Beachy decor? Kicking it back to the 1970s, when Malibu Barbie initially debuted, at the onsite watering hole? A rollerskating rink lined by artwork of palm trees? A life-sized Barbie box? An installation that celebrates how Barbie as a brand has changed over the years? That's all on offer at the Malibu Barbie Cafe. So is merchandise that you won't find anywhere else, if you need a memento from your visit — although, with that in mind, we're sure that you'll fill your phone with plenty of photos. Ken's job isn't just beach here, given that his name adorns the cocktail-slinging upstairs bar in the two-storey site. On the drinks menu: that gin and lemonade concoction with spun sugar on top; themed takes on mojitos, margaritas, cosmopolitans, espresso martinis and old fashioneds; and more. If you're keen on a booze-free version, some of the tipples are available as mocktails. There's also a snack range, including fries with pink mayo, prawn cocktails, sushi and baked brie. Does putting your skates on appeal? You'll find that on the second level, too. Downstairs, Malibu Barbie Cafe's menu is an all-ages-friendly affair, with that ice cream float just one option. Sticking with sweets means choosing from doughnuts, pink cookies, cupcakes, ice cream sundaes, fruit and marshmallows. If you can't decide, the dessert sampler dishes up a mix of picks on a Barbie boat for between four and eight people. Savoury dishes span the same small bites as at the Ken Kabana, plus burgers, poke, garlic prawn linguine, beer-battered fish tacos, club sandwiches, grilled cheese, mac 'n' cheese and salads. Or, tuck into avocado toast, açai bowls, bacon and eggs, parfait or pancakes from the all-day brunch selection. Then, to drink, milkshakes, pink lemonade and pink lattes are among the options. If you're thinking "come on Barbie, let's go party", party packages are indeed a feature — including three-hour adults-only private-dining experiences from 6.30pm Thursday–Sunday.
Back in 2014, when Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi's vampire sharehouse mockumentary What We Do in the Shadows first reached cinemas, it had audiences around the globe in stitches over bloodsuckers. That was a wonderful feat, and so is everything that's followed — aka the What We Do in the Shadows Universe. If comic-book characters can have interconnected on-screen realms that spin multiple stories within the same fictional plane, then so can comedic vampires, of course. And, What We Do in the Shadows has kept delivering over the past few years. First came New Zealand-made TV series Wellington Paranormal, which stuck with the movie's cops (Mike Minogue and Karen O'Leary) as they keep investigating the supernatural. Also, there's the glorious What We Do in the Shadows television show. Turning a beloved film into a TV program doesn't always result in small-screen magic, but it worked for fellow movie-to-television vampire series Buffy the Vampire Slayer — and it works again here. In the Staten Island household where vamps Nandor (Kayvan Novak, Cruella), Laszlo (Matt Berry, Toast of London and Toast of Tinseltown) and Nadja (Natasia Demetriou, Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga) all live, plus energy vampire Colin Robinson (Mark Proksch, The Office) and Nandor's familiar Guillermo (Harvey Guillen, Werewolves Within), slayers have even staked a claim in the story. There's much, much more to the Shadows television spinoff than that — and plenty to laugh at as well. And, the just-dropped trailer for the show's fourth season promises plenty of giggles. Also, there's a vampire disco dance-off when the series' main figures hit the club. When the original film arrived in cinemas, we all instantly yearned for more, which this American spinoff has been delivering in just as smart, silly and hilarious a fashion as its big-screen predecessor. That's why it just keeps coming back again and again — as the undead tend to — with season four due to start in the US on Tuesday, July 12. Fingers crossed that What We Do in the Shadows' latest episodes show up Down Under around the same time, which they usually do. For now, here's the trailer — neon hues, Boney M's 'Rasputin' and Matt Berry being as Matt Berry as always all included: What We Do in the Shadows' fourth season starts streaming in the US on Tuesday, July 12. We'll update you with release dates Down Under when they're confirmed.
The hottest festival for the colder months is coming — Queenstown's winter music festival and ski trip Snow Machine is set to make its long awaited debut for four snow-filled days of music and adventure this year. After launching in Japan in 2020, the festival was supposed to make its arrival in Aotearoa in September 2021 but was cancelled after the country was plunged into a snap level 4 lockdown. Now it's set to return this winter, taking place down south from Wednesday, September 7 until Saturday, September 10, 2022. Attendees will be treated to action-packed days on the slopes, aprés ski events on both Coronet Peak and The Remarkables and a lineup of international acts against the idyllic backdrop of New Zealand's adventure capital. Ironically, this year's Snow Machine is being headlined by none other than Melbourne electronic music group the Avalanches. Local legends Fat Freddy's Drop are also set to headline (let's be honest, it wouldn't be a Kiwi music festival without them) alongside dance-pop royalty Sneaky Sound System. Also dropping in to share the stage will be The Presets, Hermitude, Hot Dub Time Machine, Sachi, Bliss N Eso, Late Nite Tuff Guy, Yumi Zouma, Owl Eyes, Ball Park Music, Tori Levett, Mell Hall, Client Liaison, host Jimi the Kween and more. What really sets Snow Machine apart from other music festivals is that you can book the entire getaway with your ticket. A variety of five-night accommodation options ranging from 'Value' to 'Mid-Range' and finally 'Deluxe' are all available, which come alongside a four-day festival ticket and lift passes. If you'd rather make your own way or pass on the skiing, there are 'ticket only' options, and of course, VIP packages if you really want to do it in style. Additional services like flights, equipment rentals, mountain transfers and lessons for those beginners can all be purchased through Snow Machine further down the track. Festival goers are encouraged to immerse themselves in the adventure capital by adding on heli-skiing, jet boating, bungy jumping and skydiving. Snow Machine will be held from September 7–10, 2022 in Queenstown, New Zealand. Presale tickets go on sale from 6pm Wednesday, February 16 with general tickets available from midday Thursday, February 17, 2022. For more information, visit snow-machine.nz.
Playing corpses revived from the dead in upcoming big-screen release Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves, Aunty Donna don't drink any morning brown. They will when they next hit the small screen, however, because their new ABC sitcom is all about the topic. Well, it's set in a cafe. Indeed, the show is called Aunty Donna's Coffee Cafe. And that eponymous brew-slinging spot? It's named — you guessed it — Morning Brown. Get yourself a cup of laughs when the series hits ABC this April, starting screening weekly on TV at 9pm on Wednesday, April 12, and dropping all of its episodes via ABC iView at the same time. The show was initially announced in 2022, and unveiled a first sneak peek at the end of last year. Now, there's an official trailer and that just-revealed release date. Consider Aunty Donna's Coffee Cafe prime viewing with Aunty Donna's $30 bottle of wine, after you're done reading the Always Room for Christmas Pud picture book, and if you've already watched Aunty Donna's Big Ol' House of Fun — aka one of 2020's best new shows — more times than you can count. It stars Mark Samual Bonanno, Broden Kelly and Zachary Ruane, of course, who fittingly return to the network nicknamed Aunty after Aunty Donna's Fresh Blood hit iView back in 2014. Aunty Donna's Coffee Cafe's premise: three best mates run a cafe in one of Melbourne's laneways. Their coffee-slinging establishment is trendy, but the stretch of pavement it's in on isn't. Also, they don't quite have the experience or skills to do the job, but that definitely isn't stopping them. As well as cups of morning brown — and hopefully the song about them getting a whirl — will the cafe be open on Christmas and serve up a little bit of pud, too? You'll have to watch to find out. But, there will be bad reviews to deal with, court dates, and evil spirits who have a fondness for Gardening Australia. Oh, and Aunty Donna's absurd sense of humour remaining firmly intact, naturally. "Hello it is us Aunty Donna, and not an evil robot that has taken Mark, Zach and Broden hostage. We are so excited for all the humans to see our new comedy program Aunty Donna's Coffee Cafe," said the comedy troupe. "We are especially thankful to the entities known as ABC and Screen Australia and Vic Screen, but mostly we are thankful to all the machines that work tirelessly for us with no thanks. We are fine and do not need help nor rescue." Aunty Donna's Coffee Cafe will also feature a heap of guest stars, including Miranda Tapsell (Christmas Ransom), Pia Miranda (Mustangs FC) and Richard Roxburgh (Elvis). You'll also spot everyone from Shaun Micallef and Tony Martin to Melanie Bracewell, Nazeem Hussain, Steven Oliver and Sam Pang. Check out the trailer for Aunty Donna's Coffee Cafe below: Aunty Donna's Coffee Cafe will start screening on the ABC at 9pm on Wednesday, April 12, with all episodes available to stream via ABC iView at the same time.
Whistler is most famous for the mountains that surround the village, Whistler and Blackcomb, and in turn the eponymous ski resort that just so happens to be the biggest in North America. But there's much more than ski runs to explore. To begin, the scenery is jaw-dropping in every direction, and you can take it all in from way above or by getting in the thick of it. Soar over all the snow, trees and idyllic scenes via helicopter or gondola, or get up close on foot, along lakeside cross-country ski trails. And when you're looking to relax after a day of exploring, you can kick back in Scandinavian-inspired hot pools or friendly boutique hotels laden with private baths, day spas and mountain views. Meanwhile, the food and drink scene is all about local produce, independent brewers and, thanks to the cold climate, comfort — think delicious bakery treats, melted cheeses, handmade pastas and tasty ales. The trick is avoiding the tourist traps and making tracks for the locals' favourites. Luckily, we've done some research for you, and with a little help from Tourism Whistler, have developed a full guide to doing Whistler like a local. [caption id="attachment_632302" align="alignnone" width="1920"] @PurebreadWhis.[/caption] EAT AND DRINK When there's some serious, snowy adventuring ahead, it's important to start the day right: with a massive, hearty breakfast. Make your first stop Elements, where you can choose from seven different benedicts (including one with crab meat) or one of the most decadent French toasts we've ever heard of, stuffed with honey ham and double-cream brie. If your cholesterol levels are threatening a heart attack though, then head to The Green Moustache for a just as delicious brekkie, like their superfood-charged, all-organic Buddha bowl with quinoa, veg, sprouts and avocado. And if you're on the move or in need of a warming snack with your coffee, look to one of Whistler's best bakeries, Purebread, for their buckwheat sour cherry scones. [caption id="attachment_632434" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Facebook/Bar Oso.[/caption] When the midday stomach rubbles start up, set your sights on Ingrid's Village Cafe. The delicatessen has been nourishing Whistler locals and visitors for over 20 years, serving up burgers, salads, sandwiches and a daily selection of soups. And come evening, after a day out and about, the most satisfying way to refuel is with a bowl of house-made pasta and a good Italian wine at Pasta Lupino. Otherwise, it's Bar Oso for excellent tapas, including wild chilli-garlic prawns, scallop crudo and hearty fresh and cured charcuterie boards. Plus, Bar Oso has an extensive cocktail menu, with a whole section dedicated to gin and tonics using gins from around British Columbia. Finally, it'd be plain rude to visit Whistler without finding out what the local brewers have been up to. Swing by Coast Mountain to sample the signature IPA and Whistler Brewing, where, in case you're feeling homesick, you can sip an Aussie Sparkling Ale. [caption id="attachment_632417" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Whistler/Mike Crane.[/caption] DO It goes without saying that most holidays in Whistler involve a bunch of skiing, boarding, snow shoeing and dog sledding in nearby mountains. But, there are plenty of less obvious escapades to be had in and around town. To get some perspective, take a helicopter tour. You'll soar over the region's famous peaks, valleys and rivers, and fly scarily close to a glacier. You can even book into a tour that'll take you on an exploration of ice caves, ending with a dip in some natural hot springs. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yF7DJBGk2U8[/embed] Another ethereal experience is the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola. Instead of taking the Whistler Village Gondola up to then ski back down with everyone else, head up and stay at the summit to take in the views and enjoy the idyllic, snowy surrounds from a journey on the PEAK 2 PEAK. As you ride over the Fitzsimmons Valley, you'll get a full view of the snowy dreamscape below from this extraordinary feat of engineering. Linking Whistler and Blackcomb summits, the PEAK 2 PEAK holds three world records: longest continuous lift system, highest lift of its kind (436 metres above the ground) and longest unsupported span for a lift of its kind (3.024 kilometres). If you prefer to see some spectacular scenery with your feet firmly planted on the ground, a snowshoeing journey around the lesser known sights for Whistler will have you feeling like a local. Transporting you to a time before Whistler existed, Parkhurst sits on the banks of Green Lake, where it started life as a logging town in the 1920s, but was emptied out by the time the '60s came around. [caption id="attachment_629882" align="alignnone" width="1920"] @katstjames.[/caption] As you wander through, you'll come across derelict cabins splashed with street art-style paintings, collapsed houses, rusty cars and a mammoth-sized tractor that looks like it froze mid-use decades ago. Snowshoe to Parkhurst from Whistler Village along the Sea-to-Sky Trail to discover the eerie, abandoned town. And to keep up the adventure, you can hoof it to Rainbow Park, Cheakamus River and the Train Wreck, featuring box cars from a 1956 wreckage that have become works of art among the trees. [caption id="attachment_632415" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova.[/caption] Meanwhile in town, there's the Audain Art Museum. Opened in March 2016, the understated building made of local materials holds a huge collection of British Columbian art, beginning with works by First Peoples and culminating in those of contemporary artists. Architect John Patkau designed the building to feel like a part of the surrounding spruce forest. "The feeling is that the museum will be quietly inserted into a void within the forest," he says. And within you'll find an exhibition program that changes three times a year, as well as 200 permanent works depicting the history of art from coastal British Columbia. [caption id="attachment_632422" align="alignnone" width="1922"] Nita Lake Lodge.[/caption] STAY There's only one stay in Whistler right on the waterfront, and that's Nita Lake Lodge, 500 metres from Whistler Mountain and the Creekside Gondola. If you choose this lakeside retreat during your time in Whistler, you'll be snoozing in a mega-sized villa on a king-sized bed, relaxing your tired muscles in a private hot tub and hanging out in front of your very own gas fireplace. There's also an onsite day spa, yoga studio and an outdoor plunge pool by the lake. The best news of all? Your dog is welcome with open paws. [caption id="attachment_630995" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Summit Lodge.[/caption] Another boutique hotel to check out is Summit Lodge, smack bang in the middle of Whistler Village. Another pet-friendly stay — in fact there are two Rottweilers among the staff members — the wintry lodge holds rooms varying from deluxe studios to one-bedroom suites. All come with kitchenettes, hot tubs and bright design features, including walls covered in colourful geometric shapes, hand-knitted toys and art works. There's also an outdoor pool, hot tub, cedar sauna and an onsite day spa. [caption id="attachment_632419" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Whistler Platinum.[/caption] Another option outside of the boutique hotel is, of course, to hire your own chalet — preferably with a few mates as a lot of these places can hold ten or more people. There are many lovely accommodations to find on Whistler Platinum. Go for rustic with the warm and cosy log-walled Horstman 4590, which comes with sleeping room for ten across five bedrooms, plus awesome panoramas. And if you're keen to wake up, strap on your skis and hit the slopes immediately, book into Kadenwood 2939. Located in one of Whistler's swishest on-snow villages, this accom has its own forest-encircled hot tub, as well as five ensuite bedrooms, a log fireplace, massive windows looking onto the mountains, a pool table and floor heating. Plan an adventure into the great Canadian outdoors, and discover all Whistler as to offer here. Top image: Tourism Whistler/Mike Crane.
International sportswear label Adidas continues its efforts to save the world's oceans, unveiling a new range of running kicks crafted ingeniously from recycled plastic pulled from the beach. It's the latest in a series of collaborations with environmental organisation Parley for the Oceans, with the two groups teaming up to reduce ocean plastic by transforming it into sports gear. Set to drop on April 16, the planet-friendly range features two slick new shoe designs — the UltraBOOST and UltraBOOST X — in variations for both guys and girls. The colour palette of deep blues and greens takes its cues from "the urban harbour", and an integrated NFC chip in the right sole lets you access learning experiences about plastic pollution with a few taps of your phone. But even better than looking and feeling good, each pair means that approximately 11 plastic bottles will prevented from reaching the ocean. This new line follows the success of Adidas' previous Parley collaborations, which sold over one million products in 2017 alone. This year, the two companies have their sights set on cracking the five million mark, which you have to agree is no small drop in the ocean. The UltraBOOST and UltraBOOST X will only be available for a limited time, though keep your eyes peeled for new and updated Adidas X Parley products dropping regularly throughout the year. Adidas has also committed to phasing out the use of newly-manufactured plastic in its products, and to supporting Parley in a range of research and development, innovation and education initiatives. Find the latest collaborative ocean plastic range online and instore.
When a well-loved venue gets a sibling, the connection between the two spots usually earns a lot of chatter. You sit, you enjoy, you compare, you discuss all those times spent at the first watering hole — all while you're scoping out the new location. And, at Newstead's Stratton Bar & Kitchen, that's likely to be the case. It's the latest venture from Mrs Brown's Bar & Kitchen owners Ben and Tarryn Brown, so there's plenty to talk about. That said, this newcomer's ties to another Newstead go-to isn't the only thing that's worth noticing. Conversation topic number one: the fact that that Stratton calls two old World War II hangars home, which the Browns have converted into quite the impressive hangout. Thanks to not only the site's curved roof, but all of its exposed beams hovering above while patrons eat and drink, that history is inescapable. More than that, it's downright striking to look at. The 920-square-metre venue boasts four sections: a 150-seat dining area, which still retains the laidback vibe that's such a feature at Mrs Brown's; a central bar perched under that eye-catching curved ceiling; a 150-person function space; and a covered courtyard. That gives Brisbanites plenty of reasons to drop by, but one of the biggest comes from its address. As the name makes plain, you'll find the bar and kitchen on Stratton Street — and right next door to The Triffid to be specific. Whether you're heading in pre- or post-gig, or just because, Stratton serves up a menu that goes heavy on home-style share plates and one-handed bar snacks, with chef Andrew Toms overseeing the food. Culinary highlights include cheeseburger dumplings, chicken karaage milk buns, sweet and sour broccoli and roast duck breast with citrus sauce. Or, there's peanut butter soba noodles, cacio e pepe udon, bolognese and burrata pizza, and a choc-orange delight of a dessert dubbed 'jaffa garden' that features orange jelly, burnt orange puree, burnt orange curd and dehydrated chocolate mousse. When it comes to washing down those dishes — with a sizeable amount of gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options also covered — the drinks list hits around 70 bottles in 250-millilitre pours, plus a hefty cocktail range. Standouts include the Kill Bill (Nikka whisky from the Barrel, Midori, Oscar.697 Rosso vermouth and pineapple), the cheeseburger bloody mary (which adds an in-house blend of herbs and spices to vodka and tomato juice to make your tastebuds think they're drinking a cheeseburger) and the Cherry Ripe (Wildflower vodka, cherry, Borghetti coffee liqueur and Tempus crème de cacao). Or, you can show some homegrown love with the Lamington (Wildflower lamington vodka and lemon) and the Aussie negroni (Four Pillars olive leaf gin, Rhubi Mistelle and Davidson plum aperitif). The non-boozy cocktail list spans four drinks, too — and, back on the hard stuff, Aussie spirits get pride of place. Find Stratton Bar & Kitchen at 3–5 Stratton Street, Newstead — open 11.30am–late Wednesday–Sunday.
When the first season of Deadloch came to an end, it set the scene for all that anyone who'd been watching wanted: more of the ace — and very amusing — series from Australian comedy queens Kate McCartney and Kate McLennan. It's taken a year, but now that dream has finally been locked in. Prime Video has announced that season two of the AACTA-winning show is on the way, taking the action to the Northern Territory. This time, when the mystery-comedy shifts from Tasmania to the Top End, there'll be six episodes rather than eight. Still, any new Deadloch is better than none, especially after it proved one of the best new TV arrivals of 2023. Subverting the usual crime-drama setup with more than just laughs, the series' first season began with a sleepy small town, a body on a beach, a local detective trying to solve the case and an outsider dropping in to lend their expertise — and then transformed that very familiar scenario into both a satire and a statement. "We are so excited to head to the Top End for a sticky, sweaty and filthy season two," said McCartney and McLennan, who created, write and executive produce the series. "Both of us are thrilled to be teaming up again with comedy angels Kate Box, Madeleine Sami, Nina Oyama and Alicia Gardiner, and we can't wait to work with a new bunch of cast members and some massive fucking crocodiles." As The Kates mentioned, Box (Boy Swallows Universe) will return as local senior sergeant Dulcie Collins, as well as Sami (Our Flag Means Death) as Darwin-based senior investigator Eddie Redcliffe — plus Oyama (Utopia) as junior constable Abby Matsuda and Gardiner (The Clearing) as Dulcie's wife Cath York. The story this time will follow Dulcie and Eddie looking into the death of Bushy, the latter's former policing partner. While they're in the NT digging around, a couple of bodies are found, sparking a new investigation. McCartney and McLennan are writing the new season again, and also back executive producing, while Beck Cole (High Country) and Gracie Otto (Seriously Red) will return as directors. There's no word yet when Deadloch season two will hit streaming queues, but filming will start in the Northern Territory later in 2024. There's no trailer yet for season two, obviously, but check out the trailer for Deadloch season one below: Deadloch streams via Prime Video, with no release date announced as yet for season two. Read our review of season one, and our interview with Kate McCartney and Kate McLennan. Deadloch images: Bradley Patrick / Prime-Video.
Some dishes are as straightforward as they sound, and omurice — aka omelette rice — is one of them. It's an omelette made with fried rice, then typically topped with sauce. Yes, it's an easy concept to get around; however, not all versions of this western-influenced Japanese eggs-plus-rice staple are made equal. Indeed, trying Kichi Kichi Omurice's in Kyoto might be on your travel bucket list. Chef Motokichi Yukimura's viral-famous take on the dish has made him an internet star — the term "Japan's most-famous omurice chef" has been used — and seen his eatery become a tourist destination. As of January 2024, it's no longer doing bookings in advance, in fact. Now, diners are only able to make reservations on the same day they're eating, and need a password that's placed on the restaurant's door each morning to lock in their seating. But if you'd like the Kichi Kichi Omurice experience without the airfares, that's about to become a reality in Australia for four nights only – two apiece in Sydney and Brisbane. Yukimura is heading Down Under in February and March 2024 to hit up Harajuku Gyoza, and show why the dish he's been making for over 45 years is such a hit. The chef is doing 'meet and eat' events in both cities, cooking everyone who attends his specialty — and putting on a show, complete with his Kichi Kichi Omurice song and dance. Folks in Sydney are headed to Harajuku Gyoza Darling Harbour on Tuesday, February 27 and Thursday, February 29. For Brisbanites, your destination is Harajuku Gyoza Albert Lane in Brisbane from Sunday, March 3–Monday, March 4. In Sydney, tickets cost $290 for two people, with sittings at 5pm, 6pm, 7pm and 8pm on both days. Brisbane's tickets are $250 for two, with 11am, 6pm, 7pm and 8pm sittings on the Sunday and 5pm, 6pm, 7pm and 8pm sessions on the Monday. That price covers tucking into Yukimura's omurice, plus Harajuku Gyoza's sushi tacos, mozzarella gyoza and dessert bao — and meeting the chef. Harajuku Gyoza advises that Yukimura's last international event notched up 50,000 booking enquiries, so expect tickets to get snapped up quickly. Motokichi Yukimura will be at Harajuku Gyoza Darling Harbour in Sydney on Tuesday, February 27 and Thursday, February 29, then at Harajuku Gyoza Albert Lane in Brisbane from Sunday, March 3–Monday, March 4. Head to the eatery's website for further details and bookings.
On most days of the year, a Brisbanite can wander into a Fortitude Valley venue and listen to live tunes. In most years, too, the inner-city suburb celebrates that fact in a huge way. We've all been to a Valley Fiesta. We've all been to several, in fact, because they've been filling the Brunswick Street Mall and surrounding bars with music for 24 years now — and the suburb-specific festival is back in full swing in 2021. Running from Thursday, October 28–Saturday, October 30, this year's three-day Valley Fiesta is hitting up 23 locations with oh-so-much live music. Get ready to hop between Black Bear Lodge, The Brightside and its outdoor area, Cloudland, Greaser, Netherworld, The Tivoli, The Triffid, The Wickham and The Zoo. You'll also be heading to Backdock Arts, Birdees, EC Venue, Kings, La La Land, O'Skulligans, Press Club, Queens, Suzie Wongs Good Time Bar, The Prince Consort and Woolly Mammoth as well. As for who you'll be listening to, the list of acts includes more than 150 artists and bands, so you can get ready to check out Blonde on Blonde, Butterfingers, Beddy Rays, Nerve, DVNA, Jesswar, VOIID and SixFtHick — plus DZ Deathrays doing a DJ set — among a heap of other names. Prices vary and tickets for each event are sold separately — and, obviously, it'll be a COVID-safe affair with the applicable capacity restrictions. And, if you're wondering why this year's Fiesta kicks off on a Thursday, that's because Friday, October 29 is the rescheduled Ekka public holiday. So, your long weekend itinerary can including hitting up a Brisbane favourite — and also heading into the mall on the Saturday for a huge music marketplace that'll span record swaps, vintage clothing and pop-up DJs. VALLEY FIESTA 2021 LINEUP A Love Supreme Alivian Blu Allora Amarri Amy L Annoying Neighbours Asphyxia B-boy Cielo B-girl Tinylocks Bad Neighbour Band 42 BBTK Beddy Rays Being Jane Lane Betty Taylor Big Dinner Birdman Randy & The Ivory Street Preachers Blonde on Blonde Blussh Bombshell Academy Breakfast at Nans BRIA Brief Habits Brixton Alley Buttered Butterfingers Callin Malley Big Band Carmouflage Rose Charlesworth Chelsea Drive Chukale Clarence Kent Colourblind Cooper Riley Creed Tha Kid Curtis Sciliba (DJ) Dahlia Dyer Dahlia Gunn David Carberry Day of Embers De La Vinx DJ Bacon DJ Fukhed DJ Lil J Don Rual Dream Coast Dumb Things DVNA DZ Deathrays (DJ) Ebony Ruth Echowave Ella Fence Eloelo Ethan Enoch Feelsclub First Beige (DJ) Flamingo Blonde FOMI Foul Face Frenchie Darling Friends of Friends General Press: GP001 Halfway Haliday Hive Mind Hope D Hot Reno J-Funk Jack Davies and The Bush Chooks Jacob Tompkins Jesswar Kessin King Stingray Kweir La bOum Lacy Pop Late November Lazy Leis Lila Lux Lilith Revere LO'99 Local Safari Loiter Lotus Ship Lunchtime Madeline Glasseater Malibu Stacey Margeaux Le Gogo Melaleuca Mellow Miranda vs Arizona Mou MoZza Nerve Nice Biscuit Nicole McKinney Oh Bailey Parachute Youth Passionfruit People Mover Phatnug Phil Smart Pocketlove Pure Milk Pvcker Up Radolescent Ramjet Rose Rogers Ruckus Slam S*A*S*H Halloween Sachem Saint Lane Sametime Selfish Sons Sellma Soul Set The Record Shifting Sands Siala Sid The Entertainer SixFtHick Skanalosos Skies Collide Skrub Sleeping Slowrip Slurpee Jerks Smak Soviet X-Ray Record Club Start Together Stone & Wood Garden Sessions Strictly Classics Sunsets syrup, go on Teen Sensations The Buzzing Towers The Double Happiness The Lonesomes The Mangroves The New Black The Sleepyheads The Unknowns The Wolston Butchers Toby Hobart TOWNS Trilla D VERUM VOIID Waxflower Wet Season Wetlands Wharves White Light Station Yellowcatredcat Yr Familiar Zed Charles Images: Dave Kan.
Time for a bit of love for a sometimes under appreciated entry in the fierce competition for the title of Brisbane’s best Indian restaurant. Trading in the restaurant hub of Rosalie, Halims is a local favourite, dishing up fantastic Indian meals every night. The butter chicken you will find at Halims is everything you could ever want a butter chicken to be. The rich, creamy sauce is dotted with cashew pieces, fresh herbs and the odd raisin and is perfect for dipping into with a naan bread. This is the kind of sauce people write songs about (okay, maybe not…but it really is that good). Insider tip: don’t order this dish if you are planning on being active afterwards. You’re more likely to find yourself spread out on the floor after dinner, bemoaning your full belly and your lack of self-restraint. There are other menu items, of course; the Aloo Gobi is a delicious vegetarian dish and there is a range of dahl and other curry options. The banquets are amazing value for money and include a huge platter of entrees, so make sure you’re hungry. The staff are lovely, food is delivered to the tables promptly, and you can BYO alcohol or order beer and wine from the drinks menu. Indian restaurants are always a great pick for group dinners and Halims is no different, happily catering for groups or functions.
Houseboats are the aquatic equivalent of packing up a camper and taking yourself where the road leads. Rather than traversing the neverending highways that cut across our broad country, why not try cruising the rivers and waterways that trail like veins through some of the remarkable landscapes Australia has to offer? From fishing on the Ord River to skippering your own sailboat in the Whitsundays, sleeping on a boat opens up a whole new world of adventure holiday. For a cruisy vacation you haven't thought of yet, here are our top ten picks of houseboats around the land, and a couple that aren't technically houseboats, but provide an unmatchable experience on the water nonetheless. FIVE STAR SPA, WISEMAN'S FERRY, NSW Able Houseboats on the Hawkesbury River has a berth for 12 people, and as the name suggests, has a nice spa for soaking while boating. Wiseman's Ferry only takes an hour or so to reach by car from Sydney, so the boat is perfect for a cheeky weekend on the river. A weekend for 12 people on the stunning Hawkesbury River starts at $4820, which is starting to verge on the exxy side, but can you really put a price on happiness? Particularly happiness induced by houseboat? THE RIVERDREAM BOATEL, RENMARK, SA So, there's a luxury houseboat, then there's an insanely luxurious houseboat. Then there's the Riverdream. Boasting five king-sized bedrooms, a spiral staircase that leads you to the control room, a tinted ceiling, central heating, barbecue and everything short of its own helipad, this is the houseboat that Elton John would probably hire if he had any interest in houseboats. Operating along the Murray River, this boat shows off some of the most picturesque landscape that South Australia has to offer, all in the comfort of a floating five star resort. Prices start at $180 per night, per person. OCEAN SPIRIT, HOPE HARBOUR, QLD It's a general rule with boat-bound holidays that the stronger the pun, the better the boat. So Ocean Spirit (from Fantaseas) has to be one of the best boats out there. Ocean Spirit is moored at Hope Harbour, just north of Surfer's Paradise. It has four bedrooms, all lined with leather and panelled with polished wood, plus a barbecue on deck and what's that? A spa? Yep, there's one of those, too. Midweek prices in the normal season start at $3200 for four nights, and the boat can sleep you and 11 friends. CRUISE AWAY, WALPOLE-NORNALUP, WA A houseboat getaway doesn't mean you have to take a whole squad of mates. Instead, tear it up peacefully on the waterways with a romantic getaway for two. Cruise Away, a four-berth houseboat moored in the Walpole-Nornalup National Park on the southern tip of Western Australia, provides ample opportunity for exactly that. Cruise through the park, set off up the rivulets on the dinghy provided, try your hand at fishing for dinner, or simply sit on the deck and soak up the natural beauty of this less-explored landscape. Three nights in the peak season starts at $1225. LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT, KUNUNURRA, WA From the bottom of Australia's western edge to the top, Love At First Sight is a six-berth houseboat moored in Kununurra on the banks of the Ord River. This boat will take you away from the hubbub of urban living into the complete embrace of nature. Keep a line out for bream, catfish and even barramundi to catch yourself your very own dinner. Prices start at $1500 for three nights in peak season. PINK LADY, MILDURA, VIC It's all too often that a holiday house is a stark reminder that you've travelled far from the comforts of home. Pink Lady, however, aims to make this less and less obvious with an injection of what All Seasons Houseboats call the Platinum Indulgence. The boat has all the trimmings necessary for a fancy hotel, including a barbecue, spa, bar and a fitout worthy of a luxury hotel. Prices for a three-night sojourn on the Pink Lady start at $3200, but the upshot of this is that some of this coin goes towards the Breast Cancer Network Australia. HERO, ECHUCA MOAMA, SA Another entry on the list that isn't exactly a houseboat, but worth mentioning nonetheless. Echuca Moama sits on the banks of the Murray River, and has long been known as the paddle steamer capital of Australia, but only by those who knew Australia has a paddle steamer capital. Hero organises overnight stays in the floating hotel, where guests experience the luxury of 1874, the year that Hero was built. The crew do their best to maintain the beautiful interiors, which only accentuate the views of the countryside as they scroll past. The cost of staying on Hero varies, depending on your stay. SCALLYWAG, BLANCHETOWN, SA Although houseboats are an amazing idea for groups, it's always nice to spend a little time with just you and a special someone. In that case, the two-berth Scallywag has you covered. You can crew Scallywag, just the two of you, up the Murray River, soaking in the rugged scrub that lines the riverbanks. The queen bed sits below a panoramic window, so you can watch the moon and stars as you sleep. The roof is decked with timber, so there's plenty of space up there to soak in the sights. Scallywag is moored at Blanchetown, and prices start at $1050 for three nights in the normal period. LEOPARD 48, WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS, QLD Houseboats, given their general lack of the ability to brave any kind of surf, usually stick to rivers and canals. But what if you're feeling like an overnight holiday on the ocean? Bareboating uses the same principals as houseboating, where you acquire yourself a boat, a skipper and crew it yourself, and then return it when you're done. Whitsunday Escape provides everything from sailboats to powered yachts, including the very fancy catamaran, Leopard 48. Nightly rates for the five-star boat start at $1950 per night in the peak season, but when split between 11 mates, that's not too much to pay to captain your own sailboat around the Whitsunday Islands. SOLWAY LASS, WHITSUNDAYS, QLD While not exactly a houseboat, I think we can all agree that the Solway Lass definitely deserves to be on this list. I mean, look at it. It's a pirate ship. Tours start out at Airlie Beach, and the skipper takes you on a three-day voyage around the Whitsunday Islands, so you can cruise about on a 100-year-old pirate ship without worrying about having to steer the thing. The trip carries you to Whitehaven Beach, Hook Island, and through a whole heap of bushwalking opportunities. Prices start at $560 per person for three days with meals included, and accommodates groups of up to 30 people.
Everything about the Bavarian Beer Cafe screams Germany — its theming, its menu of schnitzel, German sausage, roast pork, apple strudel and black forest cake, and its lengthy list of schnapps and weissbier. And yet, one glance out of the Eagle Street Pier establishment's windows or over its balcony, and there's no mistaking that this slice of Bavaria is smack-bang in the middle of Brisbane. Looking at the Brisbane River will do that, naturally. It's the best of both worlds — as well as one of the CBD's best spots to grab a beer and a bite if you want a killer view.
Joy is one of Brisbane's most quietly extraordinary dining rooms. Tucked into Fortitude Valley, the tiny restaurant seats just a handful of guests per service, creating an atmosphere that feels personal, immersive and carefully paced. Led by chef-owner Sarah Baldwin, Joy offers a set tasting menu that changes frequently and is shaped by seasonality, technique and a clear point of view. The format is precise but never rigid, moving through a sequence of refined dishes that balance delicacy with depth. There's no à la carte here – every guest experiences the same progression, designed to tell a story from first bite to final course. [caption id="attachment_1079121" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Lauren Hoopee[/caption] The room itself is warm and minimal, allowing the focus to remain firmly on the food and the interaction between kitchen and diner. Wine pairings are thoughtful and tightly aligned with the menu, complementing rather than overshadowing the dishes. Joy isn't a place for a quick dinner. It's a restaurant built around intention, attention and the pleasure of slowing down. Bookings are essential – and highly coveted. [caption id="attachment_1079120" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Lauren Hoopee[/caption] Images: supplied.
When a brewery opens in Brisbane that shares part of its moniker with Queensland's nickname, it's clearly happy to get playful. At Little Miss Sunshine, that's the vibe. First announced in mid-July 2024 and welcoming in patrons in the River City since early August, this addition to Ann Street is a bistro, too, pouring brews and serving up Sunshine State-inspired cuisine from the back of the ground floor of an office building. From Milton to West End, Woolloongabba to Morningside and Fortitude Valley to Newstead, it isn't hard to find a brewery in Brisbane's inner-city suburbs and their surrounding locales. River City drinkers are spoiled for choice, in fact. Maybe it's thanks to the yeast and hops smell that's long lingered over the inner west courtesy of the XXXX factory, but this beer-loving town has never been one to say no to more breweries, especially over the past decade. Brissie loves new spots making beer as much as new bridges — so opening a brewery in this area of town feels like an inevitability. Whether you're keen to drop in for after-work drinks, lunch, dinner or anything in-between, Little Miss Sunshine sports a choice of both indoor and outdoor seating — and, yes, a sunny yellow hue features heavily, with light-coloured timber to match. Wherever you choose to say cheers, 28 taps have your tips taken care of, complete with both house-brewed tipples, including small-batch sips, alongside favourites from elsewhere picked by the team. On the menu, Moreton Bay bug spaghetti, a wagyu cheeseburger with lettuce from the Sunshine Coast, harissa roasted sweet potato salad with Toowoomba-grown spinach and a sirloin served with Lockyer Valley broccolini are just a few examples of Little Miss Sunshine's Queensland-leaning culinary options. Haloumi skewers, beer-battered barramundi, wings, lamb kofta, and beef and chicken shawarma also feature, as the food lineup additionally takes some inspiration from the Mediterranean. Hitting up Little Miss Sunshine means catching live tunes as well, all in a space that you've probably walked past countless times — especially if you work in the CBD — without considering that a brewery could one day live there. The folks behind it: RMS Group, which also has fellow inner-city haunts Isles Lane Bar & Kitchen, Fig & Olive Bar Bistro, Hellcat Maggie Laneway Bar & Kitchen and The Grove Rooftop Event Space to its name. Images: Markus Ravik.
When a TV show is as warm as Ted Lasso — when it feels like getting a hug in TV form while you're watching it, in fact — wanting to step right into its frames is an understandable reaction. Fans of the hit soccer-themed sitcom will be able to go one better in October, however, if they're lucky enough to score one mighty nice Airbnb booking: The Crown & Anchor, aka the show's go-to pub in the heart of Richmond. Taking a page out of Ted's (Jason Sudeikis, Saturday Night Live) book, here's a few things for you to believe in: yourself, always; that you deserve a London getaway; and that you can nab one of the three reservations for this AFC Richmond-themed stay. Like all of Airbnb's pop culture-related listings — see also: Hobbiton, the Paris theatre that inspired The Phantom of the Opera, the Bluey house, the Moulin Rouge! windmill, the Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine, The Godfather mansion, the South Korean estate where BTS filmed In the Soop and the Sanderson sisters' Hocus Pocus cottage, to name just a few — this one is around for a spectacular time but not a long time. The Crown & Anchor will be open for three overnight visits: on Monday, October 23, Tuesday, October 24 and Thursday, October 25. Each booking will welcome in four Ted Lasso-loving Greyhounds supporters, though, so you can gather your obsessed mates and plan one helluva UK jaunt. As well as a night in the pub that's located right around the corner from Ted's apartment — and maybe a dash of the American coach's always-upbeat attitude just by stepping onto the show's home turf — the three groups that nab the reservations will also enjoy nods to the series in a number of ways. You'll sit down to pub fare from The Prince's Head (aka the IRL pub) over a discussion about all things Ted Lasso, wear AFC Richmond gear and cheer on local Richmond sports teams. You'll also play darts, give the pinball machine a go, sit at Ted's go-to table for a round of chess and sing karaoke. And, all that AFC Richmond merch hangs in the bedrooms as well. Biscuits are also part of the visit — naturally — over tea (sorry, Ted is wrong when he calls it "garbage water"). And, you'll be welcomed virtually by the show's Mae, who is played by Annette Badland (Midsomer Murders). All of the above will set you back just £11 (AU$20) plus taxes and fees, with the price reflecting the number of soccer players on the pitch. That said, while the once-in-a-lifetime accommodation comes ridiculously cheap, you do still need to fork out for your flights there and back, plus everything else to do with your London trip. If you're keener than Roy Kent (Brett Goldstein, Uncle) about scowling or Coach Beard (Brendan Hunt, Bless This Mess) about saying as little as possible, you'll need to try to score a reservation at 5am AEDT / 4am AEST / 7am NZDT on Wednesday, March 22. When that date rolls around, you will have seen the first episode of Ted Lasso season three, too — and likely be even more eager to get as close as you can to slipping into the show. And if you strike it lucky with the reservation and want to go all Beard After Hours while you're at The Crown & Anchor, that's up to you. For more information about The Crown & Anchor's listing on Airbnb, or to apply to book at 5am AEDT / 4am AEST / 7am NZDT on Wednesday, March 22, head to the Airbnb website. Images: Henry Woide. 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.
What does a race car driver do when they move away from life behind the wheel? If they're Dan Pappas, they go from the buzz that comes with vehicles zipping around a track to trading in caffeinated jolts. It was back in 2010 that he founded Fonzie Abbott, the coffee roastery that uses a lightning bolt as its logo — and while it isn't hard to find the brand's cuppas around town, it has also expanded to a Newstead location to make that task even easier. Fonzie Abbott's espresso bar and roastery on Ross Street joins its existing Brisbane venues in Albion, New Farm and Lutwyche in slinging coffee to River City residents. Open since mid-April 2024, the Newstead outpost isn't just about pouring coffees, but about letting folks see what goes into the chain's beans. Patrons can add wraps, toasties, bagels and pastries to their visit, too, with the spot strictly a daytime operation, opening from 6am–1pm Monday–Saturday. With Fonzie Abbott's latest venue situated near a Bunnings, a Petbarn and a gym, it has a few particular niches cornered: pre- and -post hardware store visits, pet supply runs and working up a sweat. Arrive early enough and you might also see running club members fuelling up. Behind its white brick exterior — with the brand's name and logo taking pride of place — the espresso bar and roastery takes the monochrome tones and airy vibes inside, with greenery scattered around the joint to help.
One of the world's most-visited multi-sensory experiences will come alive in Brisbane this year. After successful runs in Sydney, Auckland and Adelaide, immersive exhibition Van Gogh Alive is bringing The Starry Night to the Sunshine State — alongside a heap of Vincent van Gogh's other artworks — as part of its Australian tour. The project is the brainchild of Melbourne-based Grande Exhibitions, which, for the past 15 years, has hosted immersive exhibitions and gallery experiences in over 150 cities across the world. The company also owns and operates Rome's Museo Leonardo da Vinci. A family-friendly experience, Van Gogh Alive creates the sensation of walking right into the Dutch artist's paintings — and you definitely won't feel like you're just standing in an ordinary gallery. Attendees encounter van Gogh's world-famous works in fine detail thanks to Grande Exhibitions' state-of-the-art technology, which uses 40 high-definition projectors. A classical musical score accompanies the vibrant colours, too, as presented in cinema-quality surround sound. And, as part of the experience, two of van Gogh's most popular works have been transformed into vivid new guises. So, when you see The Starry Night, you'll actually be walking through it. Love Sunflowers (the painting, as well as the plant)? An immersive Sunflower infinity room is also included. The Brisbane season of Van Gogh Alive will pop up at Northshore Hamilton from Friday, October 29–Sunday, January 23 — with tickets on sale now. Updated December 6.
Tokyo Tower's stunning views, Studio Ghibli's theme park, various Godzilla statues, Mount Fuji, ramen everywhere, all of the temples, taking the shinkansen, karaoke on a ferris wheel, the Rainbow Bridge, cherry blossom season, the best sushi you'll ever eat, becoming addicted to Pocky: these are some of the highlights of a trip to Japan. In fact, when it comes to dream vacation itineraries, they're just the beginning. Something else that should be on your list: Suganuma Village. The World Heritage-listed site sits on the Shō River, and is known not only for its stunning scenery — think: spectacular mountains and forests — but for its Gasshō-style thatched-roof houses. Usually, visitors to the town can only appreciate them by looking, not staying within them, with the village normally only open to residents after dark. Indeed, that's been the case for decades, and it's the reason that the locale is considered a hidden spot; however, via Airbnb, that's changing for two lucky travellers for a two-night stay. Add a once-in-a-lifetime getaway to this nine-home spot to the list of unique experiences that the accommodation platform has offered up in recent years, alongside the Ted Lasso pub, Hobbiton, the Paris theatre that inspired The Phantom of the Opera, the Bluey house, the Moulin Rouge! windmill, the Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine, The Godfather mansion, the South Korean estate where BTS filmed In the Soop and the Sanderson sisters' Hocus Pocus cottage, to name just a few. The Suganuma stay boasts something else special, though: it's free. As with all Airbnb specials, the service's price — here, $0 — only covers accommodation and the specific inclusions listed. Travelling there and back isn't part of the deal, so you'll be paying to fly to Japan and home. Still, this is the type of experience that doesn't come up often (or, before now, ever). And, you'll be hosted by the Nakashima family, who are fifth-generation locals, under their 170-year-old thatched roof. During your two-evening trip, you'll be immersed in the area's cultural traditions while marvelling at those distinctive buildings, which boast the style they do to last — as the Nakashimas' home clearly has — and because of winter's heavy snow. "I am delighted to open my family's home for a unique stay that will enable guests to enjoy the traditional life of our beautiful village of Suganuma. Through our collaboration with Airbnb, my family and I look forward to providing guests with unique experiences that have been part of our village for centuries," commented Mr Shinichi Nakashima. "We are honoured to offer a truly unique experience in Suganuma village, a World Heritage Site, through our collaboration with Airbnb. The rich history and vibrant culture of this charming small town, coupled with the warm hearts of the people who live there, will make for a fascinating and restorative stay. We hope this campaign brings attention to this beautiful destination for both Japanese residents and guests from around the world," stated Mr Mikio Tanaka, Mayor of Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture. If you're keen, you'll want to try to score the only booking at 10am AEST / 12pm NZST on Friday, June 30 — and if you're successful, you'll be having a money-can't-buy stay across Monday, July 17–Wednesday, July 19 this year. The reservation includes a welcome tea, plus Gokayama tofu, mountain vegetables and fish caught from the local river, as prepared by Mr Nakashima; a guided bike tour around the village and its surroundings; a hands-on workshop to learn about crafting thatched roofs; and also finding our more about the town's traditions such as making washi and sasara, a paper made of local fibre and a traditional instrument, respectively. And, you'll also be treated to a light show with folk songs one night, Suganuma Village's residents illuminating their homes. For more information about the Nakashima family's Gasshō home listing on Airbnb, or to apply to book at 10am AEST / 12pm NZST on Friday, June 30, head to the Airbnb website. Images: Satoshi Nagare. 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.
Maybe you love getting away, but hate the possibility of noise echoing through the walls from neighbouring hotel rooms. Perhaps you adore nature, and yet camping doesn't quite float your boat. Or, you could be mighty fond of hitting the water, but you're not so fussed about actually sailing anywhere. For all of these situations and more, the Gold Coast has now a new holiday option: Drift Flotel. What's a 'flotel'? It's exactly what it sounds like — and it's really a luxe houseboat decked out for stays, but you get the idea. And if you're wondering what makes the three-storey, 12-metre-long Drift Flotel different from other seafaring vessels, this one only floats rather than cruises. When you arrive, you'll find it anchored in one spot, and it won't move from there during your entire visit. That means you'll get to slumber on the water without needing to worry about operating the boat. You'll also score both water and national park views, too. When you're not taking in the sights, you and five mates — because the flotel sleeps six — can also hang out on the walkaround deck or up on the rooftop terrace. Naturally, they're great place to take in the scenery as well. Available for $680 per night, the refurbed houseboat features two bedrooms and bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a lounge and dining space. And, if you're keen to hang out with a few more pals during the day, it can hold 12 all up. Upstairs, there's a bar as well — complete with an ice machine and cocktail-making equipment, aka all the essentials. As for where you'll be anchored, Drift Flotel calls a small inlet 10–15 minutes from Jumpinpin home. To get there, you'll take a 40-minute voyage on a 32-foot flybridge cruiser, leaving from Horizon Shores Marina at Steiglitz near Jacobs Well and travelling through the Southern Moreton Bay Islands National Park. And if you are keen to go exploring by water during your stay, the Drift Flotel comes with a five-horsepower tender — which'll get you to the shore, too, if you're also keen to go wandering on land. For more information about Drift Flotel, or to make a booking, head to the houseboat's website.
It has taken almost four decades to summon a Beetlejuice sequel; however, if a third film was to follow in the poltergeist bio-exorcist franchise, the initial two flicks have already told us what it should be called. First came 1988's Beetlejuice. Next arrives this year's Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. So, only Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Beetlejuice will do if the Juice gets loose again sometime in the future. For now, cinemagoers have simply Beetlejuice Beetlejuice to look forward to. Calls for this followup have been echoing since the 80s, with the sequel finally locked in in 2023, then dropping its first teaser earlier in 2024 and now unveiling its full trailer. And saying its eponymous figure's name three times is a part of this sneak peek, as Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder, Stranger Things) warns her daughter Astrid (Jenna Ortega, Miller's Girl) against doing. Of course, that advice isn't followed, and so in pops Michael Keaton (The Flash). In the first film, the ghost with the most turned life into chaos for the Deetz family — and for his big-screen return 36 years later, with the movie releasing in September, he has more mayhem to unleash. This time, for another dance with the trickster demon, there's three generations of Deetz women in Winter River. Schitt's Creek's great Catherine O'Hara (Argylle) is also back as matriarch Delia. Filmmaker Tim Burton also sits in the director's chair again, on what marks his first feature since 2019's Dumbo. He's no stranger to revisiting to his past work, as seen when he made two Batman movies in the late 80s and 90s, and when he adapted his short Frankenweenie into a full-length flick. He also loves collaborating with the same talent again and again, such as bringing in his Wednesday star Ortega. You don't need a Handbook for the Recently Deceased in your ghostly hands to get excited about Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, but you might spend time with folks with one, which is what happened with the original flick's Barbara and Adam Maitland (GLOW's Geena Davis and Dr Death's Alec Baldwin). In that movie, viewers also saw what happened when that pair started to suspect that they're no longer alive, a new family moved into their house and they decided they needed a bio-exorcist. In Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, Keaton, Ryder, O'Hara and Ortega are joined by Justin Theroux (White House Plumbers), Monica Bellucci (Mafia Mamma), Arthur Conti (House of the Dragon) and Willem Dafoe (Poor Things), all newcomers to the franchise. Behind the lens, Burton is working with a screenplay by Wednesday's Alfred Gough and Miles Millar, with Seth Grahame-Smith (The Lego Batman Movie) coming up with the story by Gough. If you say "Beetlejuice" three times, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice won't arrive in cinemas quicker — but it is hitting the silver screen before the musical version of the first film finally makes its way Down Under in 2025. Check out the full trailer for Beetlejuice Beetlejuice below: Beetlejuice Beetlejuice will release in cinemas Down Under on Thursday, September 5, 2024. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice images: © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.
As Australia continues to respond to the COVID-19 situation, getting cosy on your couch is becoming the norm. And, while you could take a break from the news of mass-gathering bans, self-isolation requirements, and event cancellations and postponements by indulging in pure escapism, it's completely natural and thoroughly understandable to swing your viewing choices in the other direction. No one alive has experienced a pandemic quite like this one before, but, thanks to decades of movies, we've watched similar events on-screen for years. And, based on how much everyone has been talking Steven Soderbergh's Contagion of late, movies about outbreaks and, yes, contagions are in high demand at the moment. We know you're seeking them out anyway, so we're here to help. Here are ten movies about pandemics, contagions and outbreaks that you can watch via Australian streaming platforms right now. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UkXOj8u1Fo CONTAGION Steven Soderbergh is one of America's most prolific filmmakers, with everything from Cannes Palme d'Or winner Sex, Lies and Videotape to amusing heist flick Logan Lucky on his resume — and drug drama Traffic, which nabbed him the Best Director Oscar, too. But thanks to current events, Contagion will be the movie he'll be remembered for, with the 2011 thriller feeling eerily prophetic when revisited today. It all starts with a lawyer (Gwyneth Paltrow) returning from Hong Kong, then falling ill. In methodical style, Soderbergh then tracks the progression and the response. He enlists an enormous all-star cast to help, spanning Matt Damon, Jude Law, Marion Cotillard, Kate Winslet, Laurence Fishburne and Bryan Cranston — and his aim to make as realistic a movie as possible about a pandemic certainly strikes a chord in current circumstances. Available to stream on Google Play, iTunes and YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AgZ5goJibn0 OUTBREAK Over the next few years, once the cinema industry — and existence in general, of course — gets back to normal, a new big-screen genre is certain to emerge. Drawing upon real-life events is such a staple of filmmaking that a plethora of COVID-19 movies is inevitable. Using Ebola as its model, Outbreak did the same thing in the mid-90s. When a virus called Motaba starts wreaking havoc, staff from the United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are forced to react. Starring Dustin Hoffman, Rene Russo, Donald Sutherland, Morgan Freeman, Cuba Gooding Jr and Patrick Dempsey, this disaster drama spends plenty of time within the two aforementioned organisations, if watching procedural action is what you're craving at present Available to stream on iTunes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFNPNT_4Qww I AM LEGEND When it came to updating Richard Matheson's 1954 book I Am Legend for the 21st century, enlisting Will Smith to play humanity's sole survivor was a logical choice. He wasn't the first to roam around the big screen in such desolate circumstances, with 1964's The Last Man on Earth putting horror icon Vincent Price in the same situation and 1971's The Omega Man tasking Charlton Heston with navigating isolation; however Smith was the thoroughly 2007 choice. And, playing a US Army virologist who sees the whole world turned into vampiric creatures after a genetically engineered measles virus turned lethal, he's one of the best things about I Am Legend. For folks interested in Heston's stint in the same situation, The Omega Man is also available to stream via Google Play, iTunes and YouTube as well. Available to stream on Stan. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7suz9ndPBHg 28 DAYS LATER These days, Danny Boyle is making 'what if?' rom-coms that ponder what life would be like without the Beatles, and Alex Garland is writing and directing moody sci-fi TV thrillers — but back in 2002, they joined forces to tackle a pandemic. And, marking their first proper collaboration after Boyle adapted Garland's best-selling novel The Beach for the big screen two years earlier, 28 Days Later still ranks among the best work on either's resume. Set in the aftermath of the accidental release of a highly contagious virus, the film's images of a desolated London instantly became iconic; however, this is a top-notch movie on every level. That includes its performances, with then-unknowns Cillian Murphy (A Quiet Place Part II) and Naomie Harris (the Bond franchise's current Moneypenny) finding the balance between demonstrating their characters' fierce survival instincts and their inherent vulnerability. Available to stream on Foxtel Now. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gpxnI1tQM4 CARGO Australian cinema isn't immune to virus-driven movies — and 2017 post-apocalyptic horror flick Cargo is among the best of them. In this full-length adaptation of Ben Howling and Yolanda Ramke's Tropfest finalist short of the same name, the infection turns people into zombies within 48 hours, a situation that the Andy (Martin Freeman) and Kay (Susie Porter) want to avoid. Complicating matters: the fact that they have an infant daughter they'll do anything to protect. Already experienced at trekking across the landscape Down Under after starring in the New Zealand-shot Hobbit films, Freeman wanders across Australia determined to save his family, in a movie that also ponders both environmental factors and Indigenous culture as well. Available to stream on Netflix. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMbSpnlOOtE THE ANDROMEDA STRAIN Michael Crichton's influence on popular culture is vast. The Jurassic Park franchise is still going almost three decades later, and Westworld (which is based on his 1972 movie) is enjoying quite the small-screen adaptation. Back in 1969, the author also contemplated what might happen if a deadly alien organism started infecting people on earth — and in 1971, The Andromeda Strain hit cinemas. The premise: after a satellite crashes near a small New Mexico town, almost all of its inhabitants die, with a team of scientists tasked with getting to the bottom of it. It's an unmistakably 70s affair, and a slick and solid film too. You might've come across the 2008 TV mini-series remake starring Benjamin Bratt, Viola Davis and Brooklyn Nine-Nine's Andre Braugher; however we recommend sticking with the original. Available to stream on Google Play, iTunes and YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C5ZtovQtG3s&feature=emb_logo WARM BODIES Pandemic movies and zombie movies often go hand-in-hand, as a number of entries on this list have already demonstrated. And, more often than not, they're grim, bleak and tense affairs — as is to be expected when the whole fate of the human race is at stake. Enter Warm Bodies, which isn't the first zombie comedy by any means, but both earns and owns the term 'zom-rom-com'. Here, R (Nicholas Hoult) is a member of the shuffling undead. Julie (Australian actress Teresa Palmer) is still alive. When they cross paths, he doesn't just bite into her flesh and she doesn't just kill him. This sweet and funny flick is based on the Isaac Marion-penned novel of the same name, and its characters' monikers should give an important detail away, with the influence of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet keenly felt. Available to stream on Foxtel Now and Stan. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y8RScNfgPh4 TWELVE MONKEYS Before Brad Pitt won the Best Supporting Actor Oscar for sauntering through Quentin Tarantino's vision of 1969-era Tinseltown in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, he was nominated in the same category back in 1996 for Twelve Monkeys. Deservedly so, too, with the star playing a mental patient in a post-apocalyptic version of 2035 — where a virus wiped out most of humanity four decades earlier. As offbeat as it is entertaining and eye-catching, this sci-fi thriller serves up exactly what anyone could hope for with Monty Python member and The Man Who Killed Don Quixote's Terry Gilliam behind the lens. For fans of cinema history, it's also an engaging update of Chris Marker's legendary 1962 short film La Jetée. And while Pitt steals the show, he has fine company, with 90s Bruce Willis in his element as well. Available to stream on Google Play, iTunes and YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zfeEhb4xnps THE NIGHT EATS THE WORLD When The Night Eats the World first hit screens in 2018, it was just a horror film about a man who goes to a party in Paris, then wakes up the next day to find zombies everywhere. It was a nice addition of the genre, too, proving both atmospheric, evocative, and firmly settling on its own tone. Now, this French movie hits close to home — not due to the undead, of course, but because the bulk of the feature focuses on Sam's (Anders Danielsen Lie) experiences stuck inside a flat, including his efforts to stock up on supplies in such circumstances. Cue thrills, twists, company in the form of a zombified neighbour (Denis Lavant) and a desperate need for resourcefulness. Oh, and ample existential dread as well. Available to stream on Google Play, iTunes and YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jE5dJDgZ644 BIRDEMIC: SHOCK AND TERROR What if humanity wasn't under threat from a virus, but from birds? Not just in one town, either, as seen in Alfred Hitchcock's classic thriller The Birds — but everywhere. That's the idea behind Birdemic: Shock and Terror. A word of warning: this is the silliest entry on this list, and the schlockiest as well. We honestly can't stress that enough. Indeed, Birdemic: Shock and Terror definitely isn't the world's best movie. In fact, it's the disaster and pandemic equivalent of The Room and a film that makes the Sharknado franchise's production values look positively gleaming. But, sometimes, that's just what you need. It also spawned a sequel, Birdemic 2: The Resurrection, because of course it did. Available to stream on Amazon Prime Video. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website. Top images: Contagion, 28 Days Later, Cargo, Twelve Monkeys and The Night Eats the World.
Wandering around a market while the sun shines is all well and good, but there's something extra appealing about the nighttime variety. Happening every Friday and Saturday night in Brisbane's north — and back for 2023, too — Bite Markets at North Harbour fits the bill. And, it serves up plenty of food, because that's what every night market attendee really wants. This twice-weekly setup boasts more than 20 'flavour makers' on its lineup, all trying to keep your hunger in check. Fancy a big heap of grilled meats? Sweet treats in the form of chocolates, doughnuts, lollies and poffertjes? Bao, fish 'n' chips, bubble tea, pizza, German sausages and teppanyaki? They're all on the menu. A shipping container setup like Hamilton's Eat Street — complete with landscaping and a dining precinct — Bite Markets showcases local talents, so prepare to feast on meals whipped up by the best producers, food creators and artisans in the area. Running from 4–10pm each Friday and Saturday, the huge foodie gathering calls a patch of Nolan Drive in Morayfield home. Entry costs $3 for adults, dogs are welcome — and for those driving north, there's more than 600 car parks onsite.
If Mediterranean cuisine gets your stomach rumbling, then prepare to drop by Bulimba's newest restaurant. Or spend a few hours eating, drinking and being merry, to be more accurate. Given the kinds of morsels and tipples served up at Ambrosia & Co — and dishes of the Greek, Middle Eastern, Moroccan, Spanish and Turkish variety, too — no one wants to rush. We're talking about Tunisian mesfouf (aka cous cous porridge) and a matcha green tea with banana for breakfast, a gyros platter for a later-in-the-day meal, and mushroom and celeriac lasagne for a hearty dinner — and that's just one set of options. Those fond of charcuterie boards really do owe it to themselves to try the Mediterranean selection of cured meats, olives, bread and accompaniments, while paella fans will find meat, vegetarian and seafood on offer. That's your hunger well and truly satisfied, with a sizeable wine, cocktail and coffee list primed to cater for your thirst as well. Caffeinated brew-wise, Ambrosia & Co is the first venue in Brisbane to stock Bulimba's own Quaff Coffee. Those after a boozy treat have a wealth of choices, though the Turkish Delight (with vanilla vodka, creme de cacao, montenegro, rosewater, and the titular sweet) is always going to be hard to pass up.
The Gold Coast might be known for its sandy beaches, sizeable array of shopping strips and more than a couple of theme parks, but beyond all that lurks plenty of interesting and architecturally significant buildings. Luxe houses, towering residential buildings, revamped sports precincts, a towering art gallery — the list goes on. It's a side of the Goldie that many never ponder, and it's on display for two days across Saturday, October 16–Sunday, October 17. That's when Open House hits the sunny tourist spot for another year, and welcomes in anyone who'd like to take a sticky beak. This year, you can actually hit up every single location on the agenda, because none of its guided tours are running at the same time. Public buildings, sites and structures opening their doors include HOTA, Home of the Arts — fresh from its huge revamp and relaunch earlier this year — as well as the Southport Sharks precinct in Southport, Broken Camp in Broken Head and The Spit renewal project in Main Beach. Fancy peering inside homes and apartments? That's where Audrey's Farm in Tumbulgum, Lightning House in Labrador, Hey House in Main Beach, the Mali Residences in Mermaid Beach and The Lanes in Mermaid Waters all come in. Remember your childhood dreams of getting to run rampant in a department store after hours? Or your grown-up version, involving IKEA? Think of this as a more realistic version. And, it's also a way to satisfy your architectural and design curiosity.
Drive two hours northwest of Melbourne and you'll arrive in the town of Lexton. Perched in Victoria's Pyrenees region, this tiny township is surrounded by outstanding wineries and outdoor adventures, ensuring a visit here will be jam-packed with unforgettable experiences that'll live long in the memory. Whether you prefer to roam grand pictorial gardens or scale the Pyrenees mountains, finding the experience you crave is almost guaranteed. To give you a head start, we've teamed up with Wild Turkey to highlight the activities that'll keep the good times flowing for you and your crew on your next out-of-town adventure. [caption id="attachment_846008" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Arianna Leggiero[/caption] STAY IN A CONVERTED CHURCH Considering the immense beauty of Victoria's Pyrenees, booking yourself into some suitably snug accommodation is the best way to spend the night. Arguably the top spot in the area is Grayling's Gift, an immaculate 19th century church rejuvenated with luxurious furnishings and amenities. Inside, the antique decor includes an elegant clawfoot bathtub, a vintage chesterfield lounge and a wood fireplace that elevates the cosiness factor to the extreme. While breakfast is provided during your stay, there's also a compact kitchen to use — we suggest using it to put together a grazing platter with local produce to enjoy during a star-gazing session in the expansive fields on your doorstep. [caption id="attachment_844023" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Elliot Kramer[/caption] TREK THROUGH THE RAINFOREST Situated on the edge of the Great Dividing Range, Lexton is home to mind-boggling natural beauty. To experience the variety of landscapes in one place, a 30-minute drive to Mount Buangor State Park is your best bet. With its 15 kilometres of interconnected trails, this is the place to explore mountain peaks or delve deeper into the valley floor. If you're looking for a low-intensity hike, the Waterfalls Nature Walk trail should be at the top of your to-do list. Taking just 45 minutes to complete, this return journey sees hikers wander through blue gum forests on their way past three waterfalls, including the stunning Ferntree Falls and the Cascade Falls. [caption id="attachment_844026" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Victoria[/caption] EXPLORE WINE COUNTRY It might seem a little on the nose, but this part of Victoria does indeed get its name from the Pyrenees region stretching between France and Spain. Our Pyrenees wine region dates back to the 1960s, so expect your visit to this thriving food and wine country to be overflowing with delicious flavours. More than 40 cellar doors provide ample opportunity to sample the local varieties, and Blue Pyrenees Estate is considered one of the best. Head to this sprawling estate on the outskirts of Avoca for tasting tours and a refined cafe that overlooks the vineyard. In nearby Moonambel, Summerfield Wines offers an equally delectable experience, featuring world-class vino and woodfired pizzas. ROAM HISTORICAL GARDENS AND HARVEST FRESH PRODUCE Despite its location in the heart of the Goldfields region, Lexton didn't quite have the same luck as its neighbours when it came to buried treasure. However, that didn't stop several great estates from being established in the area. For example, the Mount Mitchell Homestead serves as a lasting symbol of Victoria's pre-federation history. Founded in 1838, this sprawling home offers ten acres of pristine gardens from which to admire the Pyrenees Mountains that rise to the west. Stop in to stroll through the beautiful gardens and working farm, where you can pick up fresh produce like eggs from the resident hens, catch yabbies and fish from the property's lake and pick your own fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs from the orchard and kitchen garden. [caption id="attachment_844028" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Matt (Flickr)[/caption] HIT UP PARMA PALACE When you roll into any country town, a good pub meal is often one of the first things to seek out. Lexton's Pyrenees Family Hotel isn't afraid to put its reputation on the line, with the self-appointed nickname of the 'Parma Palace'. There are 12 plate-sized varieties of the pub classic to choose from here, with each one bound to leave you very satisfied. The pub also features the hallmarks of any classic country pub: there's a top-notch beer garden where you can enjoy a crisp lager beneath the shade of a mulberry tree, a pool room and jukebox. Plus, if you stop by on a Friday night you can even try your luck at winning a meat tray. [caption id="attachment_844031" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Elliot Kramer[/caption] TEST YOUR BUSHWALKING SKILLS There's stellar bushwalking to be found all over the Pyrenees region, but you can quickly access some of the best with a short drive to Beaufort. Here, you'll find the challenging Ben Nevis Walk – a 9.6-kilometre circuit that kicks off with a seriously steep climb up an old 4WD track. As the terrain levels out, you'll have the energy to admire the wildflowers and panoramic views that adorn this landscape. Although this adventure will definitely put even the fittest bushwalkers through their paces, the views from the peak make this journey supremely worthwhile. [caption id="attachment_844032" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Francesco Vicenzi (Flickr)[/caption] EXPERIENCE A NEXT-LEVEL BUSH DOOF Bush doofs don't come much bigger, or more colourful, than the annual Rainbow Serpent Festival. Launched in 1998 in the dusty fields surrounding Lexton, this hedonistic playground presents a global showcase of electronic music, ranging from psytrance to minimal techno. With the pandemic and bushfires quashing recent years, a return is on the cards for Easter 2023. Alongside the mind-melting tunes and sparkling outfits, the festival invites you to explore your spiritual side through immersive art installations, workshops and otherworldly experiences. If that sounds up your alley, get your pals together for a metaphysical reawakening. Just be sure to take a few days off to guarantee your recovery. Find out more about Wild Turkey's Discovery Series at the website. Top image: Elliot Kramer
Bored within the confines of your 4-wall bedroom? Embrace your bohemian desires by trading in your modern accommodations for a whimsical gypsy wagon. England's Gypsy Caravan Company creates wagons fit with a double bed, seating, a pull-out table, storage lockers, wardrobe, a secret den, and bookshelves. These miniature homes are also furnished with all the romantic decor appropriate for such a home design: birdcages, crocheted curtains and wood stoves. The company asserts a myriad of uses for such a structure, ranging from a child's playhouse to and artist's studio. These caravans are the perfect hideaway for those who want to unleash their inner romantic or who lead a gypsy-esque nomadic lifestyle--each wagon is equipped with a set of wheels. [via Flavorwire]
Any venue can serve up a brunch that goes on for hours, or so it seems given the sheer number of such mid-morning sessions across Brisbane. Cloudland's Brunch with Bite fits that mould, offering plenty of food as well as bottomless booze — but it also adds something a little different to the menu. Fancy getting a bit of camp drag comedy with your meal? Watching an uproarious game show? Belting out a tune while brunch rolls on? They're all on the bill at this banquet, with the lineup changing weekly. Food-wise, you'll tuck into an Italian-inspired spread and nab a drink on arrival, all as part of your $88.80 ticket. The event kicks off at 11am, with two hours of bottomless mimosas, bloody marys, Canadian Clubs, select beers and sangria on offer between 11.15am–1.15pm. And, if you're going booze-free, you can opt for mocktails instead.
More than 110 years have passed since the RMS Titanic's ill-fated voyage, but the ship's tragic sinking hasn't ever become a mere historical footnote. James Cameron, Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet and Celine Dion all helped. In Australia recently, a Melbourne exhibition about the ocean liner has also assisted — as has musical Titanique in Sydney. In Brisbane July, Titanic. The Human Story is another event that's stepping through the tale of the vessel that set out from Southhampton in April 1912, then struck an iceberg en route to New York. The exhibition has popped up in both the UK and the US, but is enjoying its maiden Down Under visit in the Queensland capital. Although everything Titanic-related since 1997 has meant thinking about Cameron (Avatar: The Way of Water), DiCaprio (Killers of the Flower Moon), Winslet (The Regime) and Dion, Titanic. The Human Story wants you to cast the movie from your mind as it focuses on the ship's passengers and crew. The exhibition features around 200 personal artefacts from them, including never-before-seen pieces that span handwritten letters, belongings, keepsakes and photographs. As attendees step through their experiences, an audio guide also relays the tales of those onboard the liner during its one and only journey — and some of the boat's interiors will feature via life-sized recreations as well. Titanic. The Human Story is displaying at Uptown, the shopping complex in the Queen Street Mall that was previously the Myer Centre, until March 2025. The precinct first got into the exhibition game with the completely different Dopamine Land, which was filled with Instagram-friendly experiences designed to make visitors feel happy (ball pits are one of them) and also made its Aussie premiere in Brisbane. Behind both is entertainment discovery platform Fever. Also behind Titanic. The Human Story specifically is Spanish company Musealia. Bringing historical exhibitions to audiences is its remit, including about the Berlin Wall and Auschwitz, and it has enlisted Titanic expert Claes-Göran Wetterholm to assist with its research on this exhibition. Updated Monday, January 13, 2025.
