What's the laziest kind of breakfast you can come up with on a Sunday morning? A few hair of the dogs and whatever someone else will make for you sounds about right. If you're thinking what we're thinking, then you're well on the way to enjoying Wandering Cooks' latest mid-morning session: Brunch Like a Sloth. The name actually stems from Merchant Brewing Co, who use the animal as their logo — and as a reflection of their laidback vibe. The NSW beer-makers will be heading up to South Brisbane for a morning of leisurely brews, such as their Earl Pear Golden Ale and Live Slow Pale Ale, with food from Indietreats and MX Flavour to match. Eat, drink, chat about making yeasty beverages — that's all on the agenda. As the name suggests, so is relaxing and taking things slow. That's how you really channel your inner sloth, after all.
Gin and beer mightn't be your usual spirit-and-brew combo, but The Mill on Constance wants to change that. On September 21, they're celebrating the juniper tastes of the former and the hoppy goodness of the latter. Choose your favourite and sip away, chase one with the other, alternate between the two — that's your decision. Indeed, however you want to approach the untraditional pairing, Gin Is the New IPA isn't lacking in options as it showcases the tipples of Epic Brewery and Hidden World Gin. And, to show you how well the two can go together, they'll have an Australian-first keg of gin and tonic flowing through their taps. Yes, a whole keg of G&Ts. Or, pick your poison and grab a flight of either, whether pale ale and IPAs or floral and crisp flavours take your fancy. It all kicks off at midday, should you be in the need of a lunchtime refreshment or a post-work bevvy, with folks from both booze makers on hand to chat about their creations as well.
Music fans, be sure to add The Wrong End of the Valley Festival to your calendar — and no, there's no prizes for guessing the general vicinity it'll be held in. Returning for its second year, and taking over two stages at the New Globe Theatre on Brunswick Street on September 23 and 24, the two-day event will see more than 30 live sets fill your weekend with all the music your ears can handle. That includes alternative rockers Her Affinity, the melodic punk of Zombie Creek, the blues and rock of Hotel Escobar and the self-described psychedelic nihilism of Flash Delirium, plus Screwjacks both opening and closing the whole fest. Basically, expect to see a host of local acts deliver epic performances. Tickets range from $20 pre-sold one-day passes to $30 two-day bundles.
Looking beneath the surface is becoming quite the rewarding pastime in Spring Hill. And, climbing beneath the surface as well. Fresh from being transformed into an illuminated wonderland, the suburb's reservoirs will be the site of another piece of art. This time, it's a blend of sound, film and kinetic sculpture. Don't be fooled by the rather plain name — Art in the Reservoir promises a creative treat over October 7 and 8. Open from 9am until 4pm as part of Brisbane Open House, it'll host a commissioned installation by artists Caitlin Franzmann, Dale Gorfinkel and Ross Manning. In keeping with the weekend's theme of exploring the city's spaces and considering its past, the work will ask visitors to contemplate the space's original use by evoking the memory of water. Just what that entails will be discovered on the day, but attendees are advised to wear enclosed shoes. Image: Reubot.
Any act that pairs physical movement with rigorous training and practice is an act that combines body and mind. When you're sitting on stage watching someone perform or dance, it's easy to forget that. Don't worry, Uninvited Guest won't let you. That's what this piece from Merge Dance Theatre is all about. A triptych that takes to the Judith Wright Centre of Contemporary Arts' stage on October 7 and 8, Uninvited Guest steps into the constant battle between mental and physical health. Or, rather, it conveys it through steps and other movements of the company's dancers. And, it's contemplating their spirit, too. What they're performing isn't just a feat by their limbs or their brain, but emanates from what makes them tick. If you sit, watch and start wondering about all of the above, then the show has done its trick. If you do all of that, appreciate their efforts and begin to think about your own body-mind-spirit connection, it has done even more.
Maybe you've watched too many party movies. Maybe you've always wanted to throw on a costume and head to a bar. Either way, come October 7 at Barbara, it's dress-up time. And, the pocket-sized Valley bar is teaming up with the folks at SWOP Clothing Exchange to really help you get into swing of things. If you have your own retro threads to wear while you have a few drinks, that's fine — but dropping by SWOP's West End store to find a recycled outfit really is part of the fun. They'll give you 10% off if you're picking up something to wear to No Holds Barbara, which is a thoroughly appropriate name for a party that throws caution to the sartorial wind. And, isn't getting ready what most of a costume party is all about? Well, that and dancing wearing outfits of the rad and bad variety, all of which you can expect here. The fun runs from 9pm until 2am. BYO your best (or worst) vintage fashion and a partying attitude.
We're all sculptors. Don't believe us? If you've ever taken a bucket, filled it with sand, plonked it onto the shore and shaped it with your bare hands, then you've sculpted something. With that it mind, it makes sense that part of the Gold Coast would celebrate the art form on its beach — but there's more than just sandcastles on offer. Returning for its 15th outing from September 8 to 17, SWELL Sculpture Festival features everything from salvaged items to installations to small-scale sculptures, and projection art, fitness sessions and guided twilight walks as well. In total, the ten-day festival brings over 50 works to Currumbin Beach for an event that attracts more than 275,000 visitors each year. Food lovers, aka everyone, can also grab a bite at The Green, while music fans can catch live weekend sets. Plus, while much of the program is free, if you'd like to spend some cash to learn a few new skills, the ticketed lineup includes masterclasses on bronze modelling, life drawing lessons and air painting sessions. Image: Rowly Emmett Photography.
It's the tasty green fruit we all loved smashed on toast, dipped on corn chips and turned into fries, and it's the edible substance in the spotlight on September 9. Forget ill-thought-out criticisms about brunching versus buying a house, and head west for Australia's only dedicated avocado festival. If you haven't been to Blackbutt, about two hours drive from Brissie, then the annual Blackbutt Avocado Festival is just the excuse you need. Set off early to enjoy an avocado brekkie, or mosey on over during the day for everything from cooking and competitions to markets and live music — and if the later doesn't find a way to work avo into every song, you're allowed to pretend otherwise. As well as just generally revelling in the food of the moment, highlights include snacking on avocado ice cream and avocado cheese cake from the canteen, wearing your best avo costume, and participating in avo juggling, the avo toss and the avo roll. Yes, they all involve throwing or otherwise moving the bumpy fruit. And yes, prizes are up for grabs.
How much gelato can you eat? No, that's not a trick question. Brisbane's annual celebration of all things Italian wants to put your ice cream munching abilities to the test with a gelato eating competition. That's just one of the events on offer at Festitalia — and just one of the inclusions likely to get your stomach rumbling as well. Fancy seeing how many cannolis you can feast on? There's a contest for that too. Eager to watch master chefs take part in a round of pizza acrobatics? It sounds like a great way to work up an appetite, doesn't it? While plenty of other Italian-themed festivities pop up across the year, this is the only official shindig hosted by the Italian Consulate in Brisbane and the Italian Embassy in Canberra. On October 8, they'll fill Newmarket's Spencer Park with artists, entertainers, dancers, singers and performers — and food experiences, of course. Taste test Italian bubbles, watch traditional flag-throwing and check out an exhibition of Venetian masks, or just browse one of the many stalls serving up everything from espresso and gnocchi.
If your idea of a great stint of reading involves zines, indie comics, self-published mags and local art, then there's only one place to be between August 18 and 20. For the fifth year, Brisbane's Zine and Indie Comic Symposium takes over The Edge at the State Library of Queensland, showcasing the wonderful world of independent publishing. Well, actually, there's three places to be. ZICS' main attraction might be its annual fair and market — complete with guest panels, workshops and enough indie reading material to keep you covered until next year's event rolls around — but that's not all that's on offer. Think boozy pen-and-paper sessions and dinner on a boat. The fun kicks off on Friday night with ZICS' annual Drink 'n' Draw Pub Scrawl, which will take the tipples, chatter and sketches on a crawl between Betty's Espresso & Bar, Brisbane Brewing Co. and The Bearded Lady. Then, after a full Saturday spent getting your symposium on, jump onboard the ZICS Boat for a zine launch, mixtape exchange, the Golden Stapler Awards, readings, pop-up speed portraits and a meal, all for $25.
In 1966, Gurindji tribal elder Vincent Lingiari sparked the national land rights movement. With 200 other Aboriginal workers, he walked off of the job at the Wave Hill cattle station, starting a strike that lasted seven years. Understandably, their protest against poor wages and working conditions — and for self-determination and recognition — left an imprint, with Still In My Mind: Gurindji Experience, Location and Visuality commemorating the event in line with last year's 50th anniversary. Inspired not only Lingiari's deeds but also his words — 'that land ... I still got it on my mind' — the exhibition shines a spotlight on this important chapter of history, as well as the ways that Gurindji community members endeavour to keep it in their minds. Through photos, an experimental multi-channel video installation, history paintings, digital platforms and archives, Still In My Mind does its bit to help, document and communicate, as curated by artist Brenda L. Croft,in partnership with Karungkarni Art and Culture Aboriginal Corporation. Image: Brenda L. Croft. Self portrait on country. 2014. 13 pigment prints (installation). Courtesy of the artist, Stills Gallery, Sydney and Niagara Galleries, Melbourne.
When harvest season ends, it's fire time — and fun time as well. In a tradition originating in France, wineries prune their grapevines, collect the cuttings, and get burning. It's a way of both cleansing away the season that's passed and celebrating the coming of new growth. At many of vino-producing establishments, it's also reason enough to have a party, and Sirromet Winery is no different. On August 13, they'll be celebrating with tipples, food trucks and live entertainment, all around a bonfire. At their first ever Burning of the Vines Festival, there'll also be plenty of picnic space, pizzas on their Tuscan terrace and just an all-round ace way to spend a boozy winter afternoon. Entry is free, but registration is required — and while relaxing on the grass is recommended, BYO food and drinks aren't allowed.
There's a reason that the Ekka comes with its own public holiday. Brisbanites are set free from work to rush to the Royal Queensland Show, fill themselves up with fried and sugary goodness, then brave the rides and gaze at the fireworks. Of course, there's much more going on than that, with everything from animal competitions to cooking demonstrations on the bill. Where else are you going to see a giant pumpkin, pat a pig, eat a strawberry sundae, listen to live music, crash dodgems, throw a ball in a clown's mouth for a prize and take home all the Bertie Beetles you can eat, after all?
Sample Food Festival is once again taking over the Bangalow Showground on September 2 for a day filled with the region's best producers. The festival is all about keeping it local, showcasing the creative cuisines of northern New South Wales. Set just outside of Byron Bay, over 200 stallholders will attract over 17,000 visitors each year. Since its debut in 2011, the festival has been dedicated to bringing together local restaurant owners, farmers and producers. Prior to the main event, there are four days of dinners and special events to get patrons excited. The region's top restaurants will also compete for the 'Gold Fork' awards and collaborate on special events. Expect to meet food lovers from all over the country who've come to share their passion in a meeting of the minds.
There really is a festival dedicated to everything you can think of. We've said it before, and we know we'll say it again; however, given that Redcliffe has a two-day fest dedicated to flying kites, we know that we're right. Yep, it's the event your inner seven-year-old will love — and, let's be honest, your adult self will too. It's a breezy way to spend the weekend, that's for sure. It's also a celebration of the simple pleasure of letting the wind catch a brightly coloured combination of wood, string and fabric, and then watching it soar. Of course, KiteFest is exactly what you make of it, whether something peaceful or action-packed is on your personal agenda. If you just want to stare at the sky, you can do that. If you want to browse market stalls, listen to live music, hop on a few carnival rides, watch roving performers and more — including world-class professional kite flyers, high-flying fly board performers, back-flipping sky skis and high-speed jet ski routines — you can do that too.
If a few drinks and a fine spread is your idea of Friday evening bliss, then the Treasury has you covered. Come September 15, they're hosting a night of cheese, wine and hops — and just indulging and relaxing in their courtyard. For $49, attendees get three hours of eating and imbibing fun, featuring Chandon, Squealing Pig and Rameau d'Or Provence Rose wines, Little Creatures beer and nosh aplenty. As well as dairy goodness, the food range will include buffet stations filled with antipasto tastings and wood-fired pizzas, while live jazz will provide a cruisy soundtrack. If it all sounds like enough to make you forget you're at a casino, well, you're right. Plenty of other people did just that at the Treasury's last shindig, so booking early is recommended. Image: Hayley Williamson Photography.
When the first-ever feature-length film with synchronised music, singing and speech made its way to cinemas 90 years ago, it told the tale of a fictional jazz singer. It was called The Jazz Singer, in fact. The movie made history for a whole heap of reasons, and it likely inspired plenty of jazz-crooning musicians to try their hand as well — such as the folks belting out tunes at the Brisbane Vocal Jazz Festival, for example. From August 3 to 8, a chorus of stellar jazz voices will be singing up a storm like they're the subjects of a film, with local, national and international talent descending upon the Brisbane Jazz Club for the festival's second year. Their croon-tastic celebration starts with a jam night, soars into a compilation of big screen jazz standards called Jazz at the Movies (fittingly enough), and includes everything from workshops to love songs to harmonies, before ending with an ode to Ella Fitzgerald to mark what would've been her 100th year.
A word of warning before attending the Museum of Brisbane's latest exhibition: you might want to have something to eat first. If you don't prior, we're betting that you'll be making a beeline to a cafe afterwards. Looking at food-inspired artwork tends to get the stomach grumbling, after all. At Tastes Like Sunshine, Brisbane's culinary culture is thrust onto a platter and served up for the cuisine and creativity-loving masses, endeavouring to challenge audiences' ideas of traditional still life, food and art mediums. Artists Elizabeth Willing, Sean Rafferty and Carol McGregor have used food as a stimulus to create new, multi-sensory pieces, using everything from possum skins and produce boxes to chocolate and marshmallows in the process. And, they've stepped into the heart of the city's food scene — spending time with local chefs, hanging out at the Brisbane Markets and working with the local Aboriginal community. The trio's works are joined by a photo series by Jo Grant that documents gardens created by some of Brisbane's migrant residents, plus a pictorial history of sugar farming and production in the region, as well as a look at our food markets.
Seven years after throwing their first fest, the outdoor music event meets weekend sleepover mix that is the Red Deer Music and Arts Festival is back for another round. Camping, creativity, alcoholic concoctions, and a cavalcade of live tunes and installations: they're all on the agenda in 2017, as is BYO booze, BYO couch and BYO brightly painted gumboots. Taking over the scenic 40-acre surrounds of Mt Samson in the D'aguilar Range on October 14, Red Deer will welcome a jam-packed lineup of national, local and up-and-coming bands, headlined by Sydney rockers The Preatures and Brissie's own The Kite String Tangle. They'll be joined by Kingfisha, Transvaal Diamond Syndicate, Alex & Bec Crook, MC Wheels, Band of Frequencies, Shag Rock, The COOL CALM, MEZKO and more. In fact, this year's fest boasts such a sizeable bill that they're setting up a third stage with an open mic, comedy, and other bits and pieces for the first time in the event's history. With a Space Oddity theme in full swing, attendees will also see astronauts, shooting stars and extraterrestrial life forms take to the main stage, along with belly dancing, meditation and hula-hoop workshops, the annual 'Fashion of the Fields' dance-off contest, and Red Deer's beloved sack-race. Markets and food trucks round out what promises to be much, much more than your typical music festival.
Back in May, when Mother's Day rolled around, Wandering Cooks held a pre-occasion day of food, beverages and shopping for two reasons. Whether you were looking for something for your mum, or something to do with your mum, they had you covered — and they're doing it all over again now that it's dad's time in the spotlight. From midday on September 2, expect ceramics, hand-made tools, leather goods, small batch wares and handcrafted furniture to fill the corner of Fish Lane and Cordelia Street, plus plenty to eat and drink. Bring your father to Father for some quality bonding time, or pick him up a few pressies somewhere much more fun than your local shopping centre. In fact, you won't just be browsing and buying in a better location — you're likely to find a whole different kind of gift here as well. That's how you make your dad feel special: by giving him something other than a box of chocolates, a book or some socks. He'll thank you for it.
It's not every day that Michael Caine blows the bloody doors off an artist's reputation, dubbing them the next Andy Warhol, but that's what happened to Lincoln Townley. The self-taught British artist has been the toast of the art world ever since, painting portraits of everyone from his aforementioned biggest fan to Prince and David Bowie — and a selection of his work is coming to Brisbane. In The Surprise Collection, Townley turns the darkest depths of the human mind into striking oil paintings, endeavouring to capture the darkness everyone has to overcome in order to become an icon. That term, icon, is one of his recurrent obsessions, with his pictures of famous faces similarly exploring the same topic. Some will also feature in this exhibition. A joint effort between REDSEA Gallery and Brisbane Powerhouse, The Surprise Collection graces the latter's walls from August 17 to October 1.
Adapting Mark Haddon's Whitbread-winning novel, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time has finished chewing up Broadway and the West End, and is now on its way to Brisbane. When Christopher Boone discovers the corpse of his neighbour's dog, he immediately becomes a suspect and sets out to clear his name. But while he sees himself as a modern-day Sherlock Holmes, everyone else sees an autistic teenager asking awkward questions. Regardless, the question remains: who stabbed Mrs. Shears' poodle with a pitchfork? Haddon describes the book as "peculiarly internal", in that its protagonist struggles more than most to escape the bounds of his own head. Playwright Simon Stephens and the UK's National Theatre have made the most of this by having the audience see the world as Christopher does. A set consisting of a black grid and myriad projections evokes physical locations, as well as the ordered and fiercely logical flow of Christopher's cognitive process. A Holmesian whodunnit as investigated by an Adrian Mole-esque outsider, The Curious Incident is both a celebration of difference and a decent argument against offing yappy pooches with gardening implements.
Hair of the dog that bit you? Or a refreshing start to your Saturday? Either way, Newstead Brewing Co is getting into the swing of the weekend with two tasty things at their Milton digs: beer, naturally, and Canadian-style breakfast. Originally scheduled for January 20 but postponed until February 3 due to customs, the first part comes courtesy of Founders Brewing Co, the Michigan-based beer lovers who'll be launching their new Canadian Breakfast Stout. Made with chocolate and coffee, aged in bourbon barrels and even including maple syrup, it's an early morning dream — and it'll be joined by other all-day and brekkie-themed tipples flowing through the taps. As for the food, you can't celebrate the Queensland launch of a Canadian Breakfast beer without a Canadian breakfast to go with it. On the menu: pancakes, maple bacon, eggs, sausages, potato hash and plenty of maple syrup. Washing it all down with the brew in question makes it the ultimate boozy brunch — but, if 10am is before your wake-up time, it'll be served up all day.
Think you know Li Cunxin's story? Think again. Sure, you've might've read his autobiography, Mao's Last Dancer. You've probably seen the Australian movie adaptation as well. And, you may have also gone along to one of Queensland Ballet's many performances since he became the company's artistic director in 2012. But wait... there's more. A book, film and his general creative vision can tell you plenty, of course — but peering behind the scenes in a world-first exhibition can build upon all of the above. Accordingly, that's just what Mao's Last Dancer, The Exhibition: A Portrait of Li Cunxin will be offering when it displays at the Museum of Brisbane from December 1 to April 29. Never-before-seen interviews with Li's family and ballet colleagues, Li's own original objects and documents, and footage from throughout his career all features as part of the extensive showcase, which aims to blend his personal and performing lives. So too does a snapshot of what he's been doing since he moved to Brisbane — aka the kind of things you won't see when the Queensland Ballet takes to the stage. Image: Museum of Brisbane.
Come December 1, you won't want to be late for a very important date. You will want to play croquet, drink espresso martinis and eat pizza, however. Sure, you mightn't find caffeinated cocktails and delicious slices in Alice in Wonderland, but folks at the The Fox Hotel are clearly using their imagination for this themed end-of-week laneway party. At Garden Wonderland, there'll also be a pop-up Colonial Brewing Co. bar, dedicated Asahi taps and wine spritzes — and that's just the beverage part of the proceedings. You can also throw some royal shapes to Thomas Prime x Lirks B2B, DIRTYLOVE and Darren Skaar, should that take your fancy. Or, play giant games of Jenga, Connect 4 and chess. Entry is free, with the fun taking over Fish Lane from 5pm. Pretending that you're following a white rabbit between bars, games and the dance floor won't cost a thing, either.
For the past two years, wandering through QUT Art Museum's last exhibition in its annual calendar has proven the artistic equivalent of peering into a crystal ball. On the George Street gallery's walls, you can see the future — of the art world. Given that The Churchie National Emerging Art Prize is all about rewarding up-and-coming talent, that's hardly surprising. Today's participants are tomorrow's stars, whether or not they emerge victorious. Indeed, Pierre Mukeba won the prize in 2017 with a piece titled James 2:10; however he's in very good company, 29 of which are part of the exhibition. Until December 17, all 30 of their efforts will be on display from Tuesday to Sunday, as whittled down from more than 900 submissions. Why 30? Well, as well as being a nice round figure — and ensuring the museum isn't too crowded — it also represents the number of years the prize has been up and running. 3o is also the average age of the award's finalists. Image: Anna Horne, Red 2017, concrete, paint, steel. Courtesy the artist.
There are three types of people: those who love whisky; those who've tried it, tried to get into and know it isn't for them; and those who haven't really dabbled in drams, for whatever the reason. All are welcome at The Whisky Social's new whisky appreciation night — aka the launch of their Brisbane events — but it's probably the first and last categories that'll have a sipping good time. At Style vs. Substance, you'll drink whisky, talk whisky and even ask the question "what's the difference between whisky and whiskey?" An evening for seasoned Scotch aficionados as well as eager newcomers, it involves five pours of the drink in question, two hours of information and conversation, and plenty of bites to eat. It all takes place from 6pm on November 16, and given that the Melbourne-based outfit is making their first Brissie splash, expect it to be a vibrant night. Expect more events to follow, too — which is great news if you're a whisky diehard, or if you want more chances to become one.
Twin Peaks: you either love it or you love it, right? Don't just take our word for it — take Janey-E's, with her reaction expressing every Peaks-loving TV fan's as well. Indeed, both 25 years ago and now, there's just absolutely nothing like David Lynch's most wonderful and strange television series. And, thanks to the music stylings of Angelo Badalamenti, there's nothing like its score and soundtrack either. In fact, the composer won a Grammy for the Twin Peaks theme, and since 1990 many a muso has tried to follow in his footsteps. Xiu Xiu have toured a stunning rendition of the show's tunes, and now it's time for a bunch of Brisbanites to try their hand at The Junk Bar's Fire Walk With Us: The Music Of Twin Peaks series, again After the first series of intimate and immersive sets back in August, Mia Goodwin, Lucinda Shaw, SS.Sebastian, Tylea will take on vocal duties, while James Lees, Helen Svoboda, Rohan Seekers, Jamie Trevaskis, Andrew Saragossi and SS.Sebastian (again) will pick up their instruments. Together, they'll be belting out new renditions of Twin Peaks' minimalist, atmospheric tracks, channelling their inner Julee Cruise, and clearly imagining they're making like "the Nine Inch Nails" and taking to The Roadhouse's stage. Booking now is recommended, because last time, the shows sold out quicker than damn fine cherry pie.
"Location, location, location," is the catchcry when it comes to real estate, but it works equally well when you're picking a Friday evening drinking spot, too. The ideal spot should have beverages, of course, plus a relaxed atmosphere, live music and ace scenery — like a pool and views over the CBD. Once the working week is done and the clock ticks 6pm, NEXT Hotel Brisbane boasts all of the above. At Live Music Fridays, you'll sit, sip, listen to a jazz and soul soundtrack, and enjoy the poolside vibes. And, it's a regular event, with the casual shindig aiming to become your pre-weekend go-to. Entry is free, as are the acoustic sounds, but bring your wallet for whatever tipple takes your fancy. Those keen on a post-work snack can also peruse the Pool Terrace and Bar's menu, which includes garlic bechamel croquettes, duck and spring onion wontons, pulled pork pizzas and soft shell crab burgers.
Everyone loves a Friday night market. The working week is over, two days of fun awaits, and strolling, shopping, browsing and buying — not to mention eating and being entertained — sounds like the perfect activity. From November 3 until January 26, all of that is part and parcel of Old Petrie Town's festivities. Say hello to the historical site's Moonlight Markets. Kicking off at 5.30pm each week, the details are simple: expect stalls, a lack of sunlight and the end of the 9-to-5 grind all combine. The free, dog-friendly event also has another trick up its sleeve, thanks to its location. Part of Whiteside, about 40 minutes drive out of the city, Old Petrie Town comprises over 50 acres of pre-1930s-style life — including a restored village, manicured gardens and a throwback vibe. You know that feeling you get the moment quitting time comes each week, and you want to kiss your usual routine goodbye? Start your weekend with this, and you'll find it here.
Another week, another beverage-focused shindig. No, we're not complaining. Crafted Beer & Cider Festival is the latest to serve up an array of refreshing tipples, and it comes to the Gold Coast with a difference — it's focusing on small-batch concoctions. You won't find just any old brews at Broadbeach's Pratten Park come November 4, although you will find more than 100 drinks on offer. Here, it's all about beverages made with care and artistry, rather than big brands and mass-produced wares. Aether, Balter, Batlow, Brouhaha, Granite Belt, Green Beacon, Mornington Peninsula, Slipsteam Brewing, Stone and Wood, Young Henrys and Your Mates are some of the names jumping in on the action, and they'll have foodie company from the likes of Food Kartel, The Weiner Haus, The Roaming Pig, A Taste of Africa, Cheese & Deli Kitchen and more. On the entertainment side of things, expect live tunes to get you in the boozing mood — and, if you need a change of drinks at some point, a Champagne bar as well.
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 bungalows, towering residential buildings, huge dams, grassy bowls clubs, the worlds first sand by-pass system, cute little granny flats... the list goes on. It's a side of the Goldie most of us never ponder, and it's on display come November 4. That's when Open House hits the sunny tourist spot, with more than 40 places welcoming anyone who'd like to take a sticky beak. 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, as well as a way to satisfy your architectural and design curiosity. As well as touring an array of the coast's top spaces, the program includes a talk about happiness in high-rises on November 1 — aka a very apt topic for the location.
Anything can happen at an art gallery, right? That certainly seems to be the case at Brisbane's Gallery of Modern Art. There's currently a giant slide sat right in the middle of the building, for example. David Lynch has been there. And, it once boasted a room covered with dot stickers, with everyone who entered asked to add their own to the fold. Now, opera joins GOMA's lineup of wondrous events, with OperaQ stopping by for a one-night feast of live performance, eye-catching art, gourmet food and tasty wine. At Sensory, attendees will watch singers, dancers and musicians perform while wandering through the gallery's array of artworks. And yes, it's for a special occasion. In fact, GOMA has been going all out as part of their ongoing GOMA Turns 10 shenanigans, but consider this the fanciest of the bunch — and the most dream-like. Designed to provide an immersive experience that engages the senses, "everything one encounters is somehow familiar, with a deep and intangible undertow," says OperaQ artistic director Lindy Hume. A word of warning: at $150 per ticket, this collision of art and opera doesn't come cheap.
MELT might be well and truly over for 2017; however that doesn't mean that Brisbane Powerhouse won't keep highlighting queer arts and culture all year round. The latest theatre work to grace their stage is I Am My Own Wife, which takes its tale from the real-life plight of a German transgender woman who survived both the Nazis and Communism. The 2004 Tony Award winner for best play and best lead actor — and Pulitzer Prize winner for drama in the same year, too — was written by playwright Doug Wright based on his conversations with Charlotte von Mahlsdorf. Sharing its name with her autobiography, I Am My Own Wife dives into what it takes to retain your identity under oppression, and to survive as well. A one-person show is the end result, with Ben Gerrard stepping into Charlotte's shoes for this production. A story like no other and a demanding performance are certain to combine, with Gerrard — who audiences might recognise from TV's Molly and Outland, as well as Wolf Creek 2 on the big screen — not simply playing the main part, but taking on more than 30 characters. Image: Harvey House Productions.
On April 8, if you happen to walk into Bistrotheque and exclaim "is this it?", it won't be taken in a bad way. In fact, the room will be on fire with folks asking the same question while they drink juiceboxes, chat about last night and wait for 12:51 to roll around. Spending an entire evening listening to The Strokes will do that — and no, it isn't hard to explain why. The New York five-piece that became everyone's favourite band in the '00s are in the spotlight at You Only Live Once: A Strokes Appreciation Night, and that means back to back tunes from their five records will be getting a spin. If you dreamed that this would happen someday, you were right. Just head to the Valley under cover of darkness, and prepare to spend all of your time getting your Strokes fix. Expect live versions cranked out by Brisbane Supergroups, the Bistro DJs rocking the rest in between, plus giveaways too. Sure, everyone in sight will be channelling their inner Julian Casablancas impressions — but, admit it, you will be too.
Get ready for a brand new scenario. Newstead now has a Hip Hop Festival, and it's called Scenario, actually. Taking place at The Triffid on April 30, the fest promises 12 hours of beats, rhymes and more, all in one of Brisbane's best venues, and all for free. If the joint's a-rocking, do come a-knocking from 1pm — and given the lineup, it's bound to be. B Wise, Birdz, Coda Conduct, Jayteehazard, Kaylah Truth and Kudos will all do their thing, heating up the stage on Labour Day Public Holiday Eve. That means that there'll be progress rap rolled out by a Sydney emcee, one of the Norther Territory's finest strutting his stuff, and two talented ladies showing off their quickfire stylings. Also on the bill: an experienced DJ with more than a decade of gracing stages under his belt, just the right blend of pop, rap and hip hop, and poetry and patter.
Forget eating green eggs and ham in cars, trees, houses, trains and all the other places that Dr Seuss mentioned. That's kids stuff. In the real world, away from iconic children's books, we eat wings on wheels. After the Valentine's meal took the city to great heights, The Charming Squire and the Wheel of Brisbane are joining forces again for another spinning culinary sensation. This time, chook is on the menu. In an alliterative event that'll tempt your tastebuds, Wings and the Wheel delivers exactly what it sounds like. Taking place on April 27, there'll be two sessions: first at 5.30pm, then at 7.30pm. Tickets start from $90 for a two-person gondola, and include wings in Charming Squire's Diemen's sauce plus smokey whisky BBQ beef ribs, as well as quite the spectacular view. Image: The Charming Squire.
When is a theatre show more than just a theatre show? When is an exhibition more than just an exhibition? Yes, both of those questions help answer each other. At England by Tim Crouch, audiences will experience a combination of performance and perusal as they step into the kind of production that can only take place in a gallery. Based on Crouch's internationally acclaimed contemporary theatre work, England asks patrons to step into Metro Arts, work their way through the space as they follow two guides, check out the pieces on the walls, and then realise they're not just looking at art — they're in some. Expect blurring when it comes to art forms, places, people, themes, questions and boundaries. It's the first time the production has been staged in Australia in almost a decade, with presenters Nathan Booth and Matt Seery doing the honours. Find out why the unique show has popped up in everywhere from Oslo to Madrid, Dublin to Singapore and Vancouver to Melbourne, and prepare to ponder some weighty considerations about life, death and more. Image: Richard Gailey.
Sometimes, you just want to watch a couple of coins get tossed into the air, and then try to guess which way they'll land. Come ANZAC Day, if that's you, The Shaftson has your day planned. After wowing the city with their Tinnies and Two-Up combo for the past two years, the East Brissie pub is giving their appropriately themed laneway party another spin. Expect food trucks, free-flowing beer and many a person throwing money about. Sure, that might sound like a normal Shaftston get-together — but this time, when you're splashing cash around for a one-day-a-year tradition, you'll be channeling the ANZAC spirit.
You might need a thousand monkeys working at a thousand typewriters to come up with the phrase "the blurst of times" — but you don't need them to tell you about how ace the festival of the same name will be. When an event is inspired by a quote from The Simpsons, it already has a fair head start in the awesomeness stakes. A lineup of 30 of the country's best current punk, rock, hardcore, garage, alternative and indie acts keeps making that case, as does the event's spread over three Valley venues. Basically, to hear the former, you'll have to head to the latter. So, find Skegss, Ngaiire, Royal Headache, The Creases and Alex Lahey— plus I Know Leopard, Good Boy, Jarrow and Bris 182 (yep, a Brisbane Blink-182 tribute), too — at The Brightside, The Foundry and Black Bear Lodge. Seeing them all on one bill is the kind of thing that doesn't happen very often, so you'd best get your ticket quick (2016's fest sold out). It'll be the best of times. Don't say we didn't warn you. Image: The Blurst of Times Festival.
Who says the first words in the pilot episode of Twin Peaks? Which two actors from the first two seasons used to be married? How many David Lynch films has Kyle MacLachlan starred in? Which now sadly deceased music icon pops up in Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me? Can you name two other musos who have — or will — feature in the Twin Peaks universe? If you can answer all of the above questions, head to Black Bear Lodge at 7pm on May 18 — your special skill is about to come in handy. With the long-awaited third season of Lynch's unique and influential TV show airing from May 22, Australian time, the Fortitude Valley bar is giving aficionados the chance to unleash their love and knowledge for prizes, glory and cherry pie (we hope). Man vs Bear will be asking the questions about damn fine coffee, the best diners in the region and how that gum you like is going to come back in style. Like the owls, all probably won't be as it seems, but if you want to find out then you'd best register early. Participation costs $5 plus booking fee per team member; however it's well and worth giving yourself as a present, Agent Cooper-style.
How do you show your love for your favourite filmmaker, particularly when the director in question is none other than John Waters? Sure, you could watch a stack of DVDs in the comfort of your own home. Or, you could head to Brisbane's one and only John Waters Fest. Returning for its second year, expect the kind of fun-filled screenings only cult cinema guru Kristian Fletcher could've thought of. And expect to spread the fun times around, too, with the fest taking place over two separate days: April 19 and 23. It all starts with Multiple Maniacs. That's the name of the film, aka one of Waters' earliest and least seen, and also a fitting description of the audience. Follow it all up with the rarely screened Pecker starring Edward Furlong and Christina Ricci, and then prepare your nostrils for what has to be the main attraction. Yep, you'll be getting your scratch 'n' sniff on thanks to Polyester in Odorama. It'll be smell-tastic.
One of the best things about living in Brisbane is the good weather, particularly in summer. So, why not make the most of our fair city by drinking and dining al fresco? Round up your date or your mates and have a picnic in the sun. Lucky for you, we're giving away lush hampers filled with tasty snacks and top-notch Wolf Blass drops to three Brisbanites, so you can take your picnic game to the next level — without spending a dime. The hampers will come with six bottles of Wolf Blass Makers' Project wine, including its popular pink pinot grigio, rosé and pinot noir, and a heap of gourmet goodies, including eggplant and chilli chutney, artisanal crackers, handmade chocolates, gingerbread bickies, nuts and mini meringues. So, should you win this prize, you'll be feasting away this summer, whether you choose to do so by the beach, in a park or in your own leafy backyard. To enter, see details below. [competition]791143[/competition] Remember to Drinkwise.
Brisbanites, it has been a dark and grey morning — and today, Tuesday, February 2, looks set to continue in the same gloomy and wet way. Yes, a storm is coming. So if you're currently reading this from somewhere dry and cosy, we suggest that you keep it that way for the rest of your Tuesday. Brisbane isn't just in for any old wet weather, either. The Bureau of Meteorology has reported that "heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding" is expected — which, if you can currently hear the constant sound of raindrops on your roof, you're probably already experiencing. The storms are slow-moving, BOM says, but they're expected to affect the region between Bribie Island and Brisbane. Within an hour this morning on Bribie, 65 millimetres of rain fell — if you're wondering just how wet this storm might be. It's forecast to move across the city, down to Greenback and Logan by around 9.55am. https://twitter.com/BOM_Qld/status/1356381056522452999 As the storms approach today, the usual common sense tactics obviously apply: secure loose outdoor items and stay inside. Queensland Fire and Emergency Services's number is 132 500 if you need SES assistance. Weather-wise, it's predicted to be wet for the next few days. Wednesday is set for more showers and a top temperature of 27 degrees, while Thursday is expected to get a shower or two as the mercury hits 29. A 20–30 percent chance of rain will hang around between Friday–Sunday, before showers are forecast again on Monday. Of course, that's just summer in Brisbane. Stay dry out there. And remember to check Live Traffic, Translink and BOM for warnings and updates. For more information about the Bureau of Meteorology's storm warnings, head to its website.
Do you live in a dog-friendly house? Do you have some spare time on your hands? Do you fantasise about hanging around at dog parks with an actual dog? The good folk at Guide Dogs Queensland need you. They have an abundance of puppies running around the place at the moment, and they're in desperate need of carers to raise them. In other words, they're giving away puppies. If you put up your hand, you'll get a puppy for just over a year — from its eight-week birthday to when it turns 15 months — although placements can run for as little as four-to-seven months. During that time, you'll be responsible for introducing the sights, sounds and smells it'll meet when it starts working as a guide dog (and giving your new friend heaps of cuddles). Of course, it's not all just fun, games and cuteness. You'll have to be responsible enough to take care of regular grooming, house training and exercise, and be available to attend local training days, along with vet checks and Puppy Pre-School. For the latter, you'll need to live within 90 minutes of Guide Dogs Queensland's Bald Hills headquarters. A car and a fenced-in property are mandatory, too. In return, the organisation provides a strong support network, food, vet care and prevention of fleas and ticks. Guide Dogs Queensland are looking for people who are home most of the time, and are able to put effort into training and socialising the pup. Every day, 28 people in Australia get diagnosed with vision impairment, nine of whom can expect to go blind. Guide dogs are provided free to those in need, but each costs $50,000 to raise. Keen? Apply here. And send pics please.
Lobster has long been the fancy champagne of the seafood world. For most of us, it's the kind of dish that you can only justify having when you really feel like going all out and treating yo'self — but, for the next few weeks, the indulgent crustacean-based meal is gracing Betty's Burgers' menu. Combining fresh lobster meat, the chain's special mayonnaise, shallots, chives, lemon and spice, Betty's new lobster roll is now on offer at all of its 22 Australian stores. If your stomach is already rumbling, you can tuck into one for $19 — or combine it with fries and a glass of wine for $29. You'll need to get in quickly, though, with the lobster roll only available for a limited time. Just how long you'll be able to nab one for hasn't been revealed, but it's expected to only last a few weeks. Known for its Shake Shack-style burgs and frozen custard desserts (called concretes), Betty's is making a foray into lobster to celebrate its beachy roots. While you can now grab a Betty's burger at six Sydney outlets, four Melbourne spots, four Brisbane outposts, one Toowoomba eatery and one location in Adelaide, the company first began in Noosa, and then expanded to the Gold Coast. Betty's Burgers' lobster roll is available at all 22 Australian stores for a limited time. For more information and to find your nearest store, visit Betty's Burgers' website.
No plans for Valentine's Day and no interest in making any? You're in luck. Go about your usual business this Wednesday — that is, as far as humanly possible away from red roses, schmultzy songs and pashing pairs — and you could still be in for a nice little surprise. That's because Penguin Random House is planning on helping you to escape — by setting you up with a book, instead of a person. After all, books can't talk back and, if they end up being not what you thought they were, you can always put them back on the shelf. Said books will be dropped in bundles on trains and at various sites all over Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane this Valentine's Day. There's no way of knowing where you'll find them and what you might find yourself reading. The idea is to do away with pre-conceived ideas, promoted by particular genres, authors and cover art. The publishing house is scattering the books in partnership with Street Library, Sydney, and Books on the Rail, which launched in Melbourne in early 2016 and regularly circulates books on Melbourne's public transport. If you find one, take it home and read it — just remember to pop it back on the train when you're done.
