No longer confined to children's birthday parties, bouncy castles, inflatable obstacle sources and blow-up labyrinths are currently hot property for adults (and their inner kids, of course). And the next blow-up event to hit Australia is big. Really big. Dubbed 'The Big Bounce Australia', it's an inflatable theme park made up of Guinness World Records-certified world's biggest bouncy castle, a 300-metre long obstacle course and a three-part space-themed wonderland. You're going to need a lot of red cordial to bounce your way through all of this. Set to hit Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane and Perth in early 2020, The Big Bounce is open to both littl'uns and big'uns, but there are a heap of adults-only sessions, so you don't have to worry about dodging toddlers on your way through. Tickets for adults will set you back $55, which gives you a whole three hours in the park — you'll need it. Inside, you'll encounter the aforementioned bouncy castle — aptly named The World's Biggest Bounce House — covering a whopping 1500 square metres and, in some spots, reaching ten metres off the ground. In this house, you'll encounter a heap of slides, ball pits, climbing towers, basketball hoops and (if you can believe it) a stage with DJs, confetti cannons and beach balls. Then, there's The Giant, with 50 inflatable obstacles, including giant red balls and a monster slide. [caption id="attachment_749668" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Big Bounce AirSpace[/caption] Before you hit the final, three-part section of the park, you may need to pause, down some red frogs and maybe even have a nap. Or not, you do only have three hours to explore it all. Next up, is AirSpace, where aliens, spaceships and moon craters collide with a five-lane slide, some more ball pits and an 18-metre-tall maze. Now, you'll certainly need a nap. This extremely OTT theme park is hitting Melbourne's Flemington Racecourse first (January 3–19), before heading to Sydney's St Ives Showground (January 24–February 9). After that, it'll head to Adelaide (February 14–March 1), Brisbane (March 6–22) and Perth (April 3–19) — locations haven't been announced for these ones yet, but we'll let you know when they are. Tickets for The Big Bounce Sydney and Melbourne are on sale now. We'll update you when the rest drop.
What do Gertrude Stein, J.K. Rowling, Jack Kerouac, Rudyard Kipling, Sylvia Plath and Colonel Sanders have in common? On top of collectively penning a notable portion of the most memorable and well-known literature ever (the king of KFC came up with that song about Kentucky fried chicken and a pizza hut, right?) they are all familiar with the harsh sting of rejection, each having had their unpublished manuscripts rejected by people whose names no one remembers now. If only these seminal thinkers had been familiar with premier print-on-demand publishing company Blurb they could have cut out the middleman and saved themselves the heartache. The creative platform allows anyone with a computer (aka anyone with a pulse) to create, promote and flog his or her own seriously schmick looking book, photo book, magazine or e-book. This weekend Blurb hosts a series of free masterclasses and workshops run by photographers Daniel Milnor and Garry Trinh, who wax lyrical on the bookmaking process, the future of print and advancements in modern storytelling. Book now to avoid the kind of disappointment experienced by Stein, Rowling, Kerouac and co. Image Garry Trinh via Blurb
Brisbane fiercest arts hub, Metro Arts, have announced some wonderful news. They've successfully won funding from Arts Business Fund to transform their back laneway into a mini entertainment precinct. Ahhh, how refreshing it feels to share news about arts funding that's not grim. Metro Arts announced that Out the Back will launch in mid-2017. If you've ever visited Metro Arts, you might have already taken a wander up the graffiti-ed tunnel and had a squiz at the back courtyard. The revamped space will be used for a multitude of activities and purposes. We can expect a night market, more of the good stuff from cinema space (which is sporadically open currently) the Lumen Room, art exhibitions, and cafe and dining experiences up the wazoo. The aim for all collaborations is to support local artists. But, don't expect it to be anything like your standard laneway hub. Metro Arts chairman John Dunleavy says Out The Back will create unique experiences. He says, "our building really buzzes when we combine experiential activities. Initiatives such as night markets, distinctive contemporary art and cinema experiences will help attract new audiences". Keep your peepers on Metro Arts' website and Facebook page for more information.
UPDATE, December 17, 2022: White Noise screens in Australian cinemas from Thursday, December 8, and streams via Netflix from Friday, December 30. We're all dying. We're all shopping. We're all prattling relentlessly about our days and routines, and about big ideas and tiny specifics as well. As we cycle through this list over and over, again and again, rinsing and repeating, we're also all clinging to whatever distracts us from our ever-looming demise, our mortality hovering like a black billowing cloud. In White Noise, all of the above is a constant. For the film's second of three chapters, a dark swarm in the sky is literal, too. Adapted from Don DeLillo's 1985 novel of the same name — a book thought unfilmable for the best part of four decades — by Marriage Story writer/director Noah Baumbach, this bold, playful survey of existential malaise via middle-class suburbia and academia overflows with life, death, consumerism and the cacophony of chaos echoing through our every living moment. Oh, and there's a glorious supermarket dance number as one helluva finale, because why not? "All plots move deathward" protagonist Jack Gladney (Adam Driver, House of Gucci) contends, one of his words of wisdom in the 'Hitler studies' course he's taught for 16 years at College-on-the-Hill. Yes, that early declaration signals the feature's biggest point of fascination — knowing that eternal rest awaits us all, that is — as does White Noise's car crash-filled very first frames. In the latter, Jack's colleague Murray Siskind (Don Cheadle, No Sudden Move) holds court, addressing students about the meaning of and catharsis found in on-screen accidents, plunging into their use of violence and catastrophe as entertainment, and showing clips. In the aforementioned mid-section of the movie, when White Noise turns into a disaster flick thanks to a tanker truck colliding with a train — because its driver was distracted, fittingly — you can bet that Murray's insights and concepts bubble up again. Before there's a tangible calamity blowing in, life is still mayhem, as Baumbach stresses in White Noise's opening third. The professors natter all at once, with Jack and Murray even joining forces for a rapturous session on Hitler and Elvis Presley's commonalities — Baz Luhrmann's Elvis, this isn't — that's one of the film's tour-de-force scenes. Chatter awaits at home, too, where Jack's fourth wife Babette (Greta Gerwig, 20th Century Women) sports important corkscrew hair and mothers a blended brood spanning his kids Heinrich (Sam Nivola, With/In) and Steffie (May Nivola, The Pursuit of Love), her daughter Denise (Raffey Cassidy, Vox Lux), and their shared boy Wilder (debutants Henry and Dean Moore). Recalling Steven Spielberg's fondness for small towns and family dynamics, White Noise is both cosy and intricate in its everyday details (and oh-so-80s). The fact that everyone is always spouting and blasting something, again all at once, speaks volumes; little here, be it good, bad, sudden or expected, can be escaped. Baumbach keeps close to his source material, so much so that DeLillo's voice lingers in the dialogue; however, the director is no stranger to perceptively unpacking intimate bonds himself. Indeed, each one of his features across more than a quarter-century so far — including breakout flick The Squid and the Whale, quarter-life-crisis gem Frances Ha, the similarly arrested development-centric While We're Young, coming-of-age caper Mistress America and the adult sibling-focused The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected) — has done just that. Only White Noise boasts "The Airborne Toxic Event", though, which tests its characters and relationships through apocalyptic horror, a frantic evacuation, and detouring ambitiously and hilariously into madcap National Lampoon's Vacation-esque territory. That ominous feathery plume makes the fear of death physical, as scary movies have for a century-plus. And, it makes it unavoidable, no matter how much the film's motley crew would rather divert their attention anywhere else. Also, it briefly turns it comical in a 'what else are you going to do but laugh?' manner. How does humanity, en masse and individually, trick ourselves into forgetting that our time alive is finite, fleeting, fickle and fragile — and that it could fade to black at any second? White Noise is that question in anxious filmic form with a satirical and savage bite. Accordingly, Murray waxes lyrical about grabbing groceries, and also about being someone who either kills or dies, while Jack and the teenage Denise start noticing the usually perky Babette's secret pill-popping. The Gladneys' patriarch and matriarch already proclaim how they couldn't live without each other as bedroom talk, but they're really ruminating on what it'll mean when they simply can't live. Buying and medicating your way away from that train of thought, and ignoring warnings and doctors, are all firmly in the movie's sardonically scathing sights. So is seeing how danger, terror and death inevitably bring people together — and, although set in the 80s, working with a novel penned in the 80s, the striking pandemic-era parallels sting (masks, conspiracy theories and all). In Baumbach's hands, White Noise is anything but unadaptable, but it is jam-packed. The themes, ideas, emotions, neuroses and tones flow as fast as all the talk — itself overflowing with big-thinking yet also screwball dialogue with a zippy rhythm — and then there's the always colour-saturated production design and costuming, the hypnotic choreography of bodies and vehicles, and the dream cast. Both Driver and Gerwig have already shown their sublime talents under Baumbach's guidance before, and both perfect the crucial-but-rare skill of conveying a world of character minutiae via their presence. Driver's size instantly makes him tower over the Gladneys' mania, just not as much as that black cloud, and soar over his college discussions. Gerwig, missed on-screen for six years while directing Lady Bird, Little Women and the upcoming (and Baumbach co-written) Barbie, is the face of soldiering on until you aren't or can't — equally warmly and heartbreakingly so. Impressive turns by Cassidy and Sam Nivola as the eldest two of the precocious children stand out, too, and Jodie Turner-Smith (After Yang), André 3000 (High Life) and Lars Eidinger (Irma Vep) also make an imprint in small appearances. Again, there's a lot to White Noise. Again, that's all by design, stems from the page, happily comes with built-in lurches and veers, and a hefty part of the point. (Life is a lot, death is a lot and confronting is a lot, after all.) As Danny Elfman's (Wednesday) score adapts nimbly to the many changes in mood, and cinematographer Lol Crawley (The Humans) helps make everything a spectacle, bearing life's transience keeps proving wildly careening, spiralling, amusing and entertaining. And when the closing credits roll, fancy footwork breaking out to LCD Soundsystem's 'New Body Rhumba' in an infectiously engaging display, a clear message has beamed in through the static: everything in life, like in supermarkets, has an expiration date, but knowing that fact means enjoying what you have while you have it. Top image: Wilson Webb/NETFLIX © 2022.
The Ryan vs Seth debate incited gang wars (it's all Seth, all the time people, come on). Marissa made our eye twitch with stiff acting and then tore our hearts out in season three (no spoilers hey). Summer retrospectively became our life and style guru. And still, no true O.C. fan can hear Imogen Heap's 'Hide and Seek' without tearing up just a little bit. For everyone whose teenage expectations of life and love were shaped by the O.C. and Peter Gallagher's eyebrows, listen up: Bistrotheque is throwing a huge O.C.-themed party this weekend. Cue Youth Group, Death Cab for Cutie, Eels, Jem, The Futureheads, Spoon et al playing on repeat. Entry is free, so cancel all existing plans and start fashioning an outfit with maximum spaghetti straps and low-waist jeans that are neither skinny nor flared.
The Australian winners for the Airbnb Host Awards for 2022 have just been announced. As well as operating impressive places to stay, these Hosts have been recognised for providing extra special hospitality, going the extra mile to provide things like breakfast hampers, welcome gifts sourced from local boutiques and other stand-out experiences. It's far beyond the 'find your key in the lock box hidden in the carport, mind the rusty nails and spiderwebs' kind of hospitality. These Hosts truly go all out. The coveted Host of the Year award went to Alstonvale's Carla Dawes (pictured below), whose Olinda Cottage in the NSW Northern Rivers welcomes guests with a mix of personal touches, unexpected features and warm and welcoming experiences. Dawes cooks up homemade meals, gathers fresh flowers for each guest, buys local sourdough for brekkie and has even lent a hand with a proposal. (We just hope the couple left a five-star review.) Tasmanians Peter and Charlie were named Best New Host for the luxury self-contained studio they run on their bush property in the Huon Valley. One of the biggest perks of this stay is the in-studio dining — the hosts cook up a restaurant-quality dinner made from produce grown in their very own permaculture food garden. Meanwhile, The Winged House (pictured below), which is designed to look like a plane on a cliffside in Tasmania's Table Cape, has picked up the Most Unique Stay award. We'd also put it up for best room with a view — the panoramic sea views here are next-level stunning. The sole Victorian property on the list took out the title of Best Designed Stay. Coombs Hill Barn (pictured below), located in Merrijig in Victoria's High Country, was a true labour of love for owners Katherine and Wade Harris — they spent three years dismantling, re-erecting and designing a 160-year-old barn that they had shipped over from the USA. The result is a truly breathtaking property that blends traditional, rustic and industrial accents with a natural palette inspired by the surrounding mountains. The Best Nature Stay award, recognising Hosts who showcase the best of Australia's stunning natural landscape, went to The Container. Susie and Gordon (pictured below) have been Hosts for over 12 years, and wanted to ensure their Airbnb encompassed nature from the outside in while showcasing the possibilities of sustainable travel. Everything here is eco-friendly, from the repurposed shipping container which makes up the shell of the accommodation to the solar- and hydro-powered electricity that the property runs on and chooks laying eggs for guests. Plus, this rural paradise is located just 20 minutes from Launceston, making it an easy choice for holidaymakers looking to reduce their travel footprint. Of course, Airbnb isn't just about accommodation — it's also a platform for experience providers. Paul Quincey won the award for Most Magical Experience for his guided kayak tours along a secluded part of Noosa's Lake Weyba — and on-water experience that gives visitors the chance to see sea eagles and stingrays in their native habitats. For the full list of this year's winners and runners-up in each category (and to plan your next stay), head to the Airbnb website. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
Being an Airbnb Host is hard work, but also a truly rewarding experience — and Carla Dawes, who has just been named Australia's Airbnb Host of the Year, can certainly vouch for that. Having joined the accommodation platform as a Host five years ago, Dawes transformed the downstairs of her residence in Alstonville, NSW into a welcoming destination for travellers from around the world to call home during their time in the Northern Rivers. Dawes goes above and beyond to make her guests feel as welcome as possible — from providing fresh flowers, herbs and eggs from her property for guests to enjoy during their stay, to stocking local produce that showcases the best of the region. We sat down with the official host with the most to chat about her hosting journey, what she loves about it and her tips and tricks for beginners. What do you do to ensure an outstanding experience for your guests? Hosting for me is about putting everything into a stay that I would want to experience on my travels. For me it's all in the detail — greeting your guests is always a nice way to welcome them and answer any questions they might have before they settle in. I think wanting to give your guests the very best experience you can, in every way, is the making of a good Host. I supply a book full of my local recommendations for cafes, restaurants and places of interest — such as galleries, shops, walks and beaches. I think this is a valuable resource, especially if your guest isn't familiar with the area. Hopefully this directs them to a wonderful experience. To ensure an outstanding experience I think it's most important to have your place sparkling clean from top to bottom. Added extras like spare pillows, blankets and towels — things that make your guests stay that little bit more comfortable — also help. I supply local products to showcase our region's wonderful offerings, such as a fresh loaf of sourdough from Harvest in Newrybar, Brookfarm muesli and Byron Bay Cookies. I also like to place fresh flowers and herbs from my garden and fresh eggs from my hens as a special touch. Guests are also welcome to collect eggs and harvest their own vegetables, herbs or fruits from my garden to use during their stay. What inspired you to offer local ingredients for breakfast? When I'm travelling, it's about escaping my daily routine. Sitting on a deck and having breakfast with coffee is one of my favourite ways to start the day before exploring the local area. This is what I want my guests to experience. I take pride in using fresh eggs from my hens and homegrown seasonal produce from my garden. What's something you wish you knew when you started hosting? When I started hosting, I didn't have many people to talk to about tips and tricks for Hosts until I found the Airbnb Community online forum where a large range of subjects are covered. Now it's my go-to if I ever need advice from other Hosts and the Airbnb team. What do you find rewarding about hosting? I love that I get to meet all sorts of people from different countries, backgrounds and professions, and to hear their stories and help them in any way I can to make them feel welcomed, relaxed and taken care of. Creating magical moments with my guests for their loved ones is pretty special, even with such a small part I play in setting up the flowers, food or secret surprises is always a joy. What advice would you give to someone thinking of becoming a Host? What are some good ways to get started? I think when you start out as a Host, creating a routine around preparations and having an area to store equipment for your listing is helpful. Respond to guests' enquiries as quickly as possible. Also, provide clear instructions on check-in times, directions to your place and a contact number. What are some of the benefits of hosting? What has hosting allowed you to do? I run a 14-acre property with vegetable gardens, an orchard and chooks among some of the day-to-day jobs. Becoming a Host has not only allowed me to earn an income from my property, but it has also given me the freedom and flexibility to continue my work on the land without being committed to a 9-to-5 job elsewhere. Want to begin your own hosting journey with Airbnb? If you're feeling inspired, head to the website to find out how to get started. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
Welcome to the joys of major film festivals in spring, Sydney. Getting holed up in a cinema for a week or so is usually a winter activity in the Harbour City, because that's when Sydney Film Festival takes place; however, the first-ever SXSW Down Under is arriving in 2023 with its very own celebration of peering at screens. So, for eight October days, movie lovers can wander in and out of darkened rooms while the weather is pleasant outside, not frosty — and see everything from Saltburn, the new Jacob Elordi (Euphoria)-starring thriller from Promising Young Woman director Emerald Fennell, to the freshly remastered 4K version of iconic Talking Heads concert flick Stop Making Sense. After dropping a number of screening highlights over the past few months, SXSW Sydney's debut Screen Festival has unveiled the full 75-plus session bill that'll get projectors a-flickering from Sunday, October 15–Sunday, October 22. So, opening night's Australian thriller The Royal Hotel from Casting JonBenet and The Assistant director Kitty Green (and starring the latter's Julia Garner) now has more company than just the world premiere of documentary Hot Potato: The Story of The Wiggles, plus nine other titles announced back in July that span everything from features starring Indonesian rappers and docos about Tokyo Uber Eats riders. Saltburn will enjoy its Australian premiere at SXSW Sydney, while Stop Making Sense will get The ICC's Darling Harbour Theatre echoing in glorious 7.1 surround sound. The venue will be home to the fest's biggest titles, which also includes opening night and The Wiggles doco; ONEFOUR: Against All Odds about the eponymous drill rap band; and Ryuichi Sakamoto|Opus, which covers the recorded concert by the late, great The Revenant composer, who passed away in March 2023. Also on the bill: supervillain parody The People's Joker, which gives the caped-crusader realm a queer coming-of-age spin; TLC documentary TLC Forever; Sleep, a Korean horror-comedy by Bong Joon-ho's former assistant; the Hugo Weaving (Love Me)-starring The Rooster, which follows a hermit and a cop who form a bond during a crisis; and a retro session of Aussie classic Lake Mungo. Or, SXSW Sydney's film fans can see Black Barbie, a Barbie flick that isn't filled affection; the Indian Australian Sahela, which tells a queer tale set in Western Sydney; Satranic Panic, a homegrown road movie and a creature feature; Milli Vanilli, another of the event's music docos; and Uproar, as starring Hunt for the Wilderpeople's Julian Dennison, Our Flag Means Death's Rhys Darby and Starstruck's Minnie Driver. As part of the fest's First Nations program, Fancy Dance explores being pushed to the margins with star Lily Gladstone just as she'll also be in cinemas in Killers of the Flower Moon — and, from the main program strand that heroes pushing boundaries and serving up surprises, attendees can see This Is Going to Be Big, about Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School in Bullengarook staging a John Farnham-themed musical. For fans of cult fare in the making, the SXSW Sydney Midnighters lineup includes the 16mm-shot Riddle of Fire and the Steven Soderbergh (Full Circle)-produced thriller Divinity, while the music selection will also celebrate Cyndi Lauper via Let the Canary Sing. Among a feast of screen content that also encompasses 40 shorts, plus 20 music videos and 13 XR projects, TV will get some love — that's why the event is called a Screen Festival, not a film fest. Standouts span Night Bloomers, a horror anthology from both Korea and Australia; Erotic Stories, another anthology that'll deliver exactly what it sounds like; and Doona!, a Korean rom-com led by Suzy Bae. If you recall hearing about SXSW winners from its Austin fests, Sydney's version is doing the same, with ten movies competing in its feature competition, another ten vying in the shorts field and eight XR works also seeking some extra love. Alongside indoor sessions at Darling Harbour Theatre and Palace Cinemas Central, free outdoor screenings are also on the bill at the SXSW Sydney 2023 hub in Tumbalong Park. The complete lineup there is still to come, but the program will survey the OG fest's best and brightest, starting with Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement's What We Do in the Shadows — the movie, not the also-ace TV show — as well as classic anime masterpiece Ghost in the Shell and Richard Linklater's Dazed & Confused. "The first ever SXSW Sydney Screen Festival aims to platform the most exciting new voices, new forms and new ways of creating on screen. We hope to inspire our audiences and industry, by unwrapping the future of Screen innovation as it emerges," said Ghita Loebenstein, the event's Head of Screen, announcing the 2023 program. "Like our Austin counterparts, our festival presents global programming from leading creators, and our unique offer is this distinctive Asia Pacific lens. We also thematically lean into our sister pillars across music, games and tech, celebrating where our forms and communities converge. Most of all, SXSW Sydney is a festival which earnestly centres vision, irreverence and fun." Can't wait to watch your way through the everything that you can? SXSW Sydney Screen Festival wristbands are on sale now and will get you into unlimited screenings. [caption id="attachment_917938" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Netflix[/caption] As well as viewing movies and TV shows aplenty, the 2023 SXSW Sydney Screen Festival also features an array of speakers. Black Mirror's Charlie Brooker is one of the headliners — not just of the screen component, but of SXSW Sydney overall. Similarly getting chatting: Indigenous filmmakers Leah Purcell (The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson), Kodie Bedford (Mystery Road: Origin) and Jub Clerc (Sweet As); Osher Günsberg recording an episode of his podcast Better Than Yesterday with a yet-to-be-announced special guest; and Gone Girl, The Nightingale, The Dry, Big Little Lies and Nine Perfect Strangers producer Bruna Papandrea and Binge's Executive Director Alison Hurbert-Burns. Queer Eye star Tan France was also slated to attend, but has had to drop out due to scheduling conflicts. SXSW Sydney will run from Sunday, October 15–Sunday, October 22 at various Sydney venues, with the SXSW Sydney Screen Festival running from Sunday, October 15–Saturday, October 21 at The ICC's Darling Theatre and Palace Cinemas Central. Head to the SXSW Sydney website for further details. If you're keen to make the most of Australia's first SXSW, take advantage of our special reader offer. Purchase your SXSW Sydney 2023 Official Badge via Concrete Playground Trips and you'll score a $150 credit to use on your choice of Sydney accommodation. Book now via the website.
Many a Brisbanite has spent an afternoon or evening on wheels on Stafford Road, and felt like they've stepped back in time in the process. Entering Stafford Skate Centre will make you feel like you've gone back to the 80s — the venue is four decades years old, so that's hardly surprising. Soon, though, no one will be able to head in and hit the rink at all. The beloved spot is set to close up shop, as announced this week in a Facebook post. The building that houses the rink has been sold, and "this is the decision we have come to amicably with the new owners," the post advises. Exactly when it'll last welcome in eager skaters has yet to be revealed, although The Courier-Mail reports that the lease will end in September, which is when a gym will take over the site. That means that Brisbanites only have a few months at most to literally put their skates on, roll onto the rink, clutch the wall while trying not to fall over or whip out your best moves while imagining that you're in Whip It. And, to whirl around to an often-retro soundtrack, too. Stafford Skate Centre runs sessions on Friday nights (from 7.30–10pm), Saturdays (10am–12pm, 2–4pm and 7.30–10pm) and Sundays (2–4pm), as well as learn-to-skate classes on Wednesdays (5–6pm and 6.30–7.30pm) — other than on public holidays. It's also operating under a COVID-19 plan at present, with numbers limited per session, which is essential to take into consideration if you're planning a farewell visit (or several). Find Stafford Skate Centre at 280 Stafford Road, Stafford. An exact closure date hasn't yet been announced — keep an eye on the venue's website and Facebook page for further details. Top image: Google Maps.
Radiance in the face of conflict, determination amid oppression, striving for basic human rights at your most vulnerable: these aren't easy experiences to live through, or to bring to the screen. Iranian Australian filmmaker Noora Niasari knows both firsthand, with her debut feature Shayda based on her childhood. Aged five, she resided in a women's shelter with her mother. The latter fought for freedom by moving to the other side of the world, away from everything that she knew, and carving out an existence anew. As Niasari's mum battled for agency and independence, and for the ability to divorce and also retain custody of her daughter, she still taught the young Noora Farsi, and Persian dance. She passed on Nowruz, or Persian New Year, traditions as well. "I think that was the element of the process that I underestimated — how challenging it would be, just on a very psychological, emotional level," Niasari tells Concrete Playground about the sifting through her own experiences to make the Melbourne-set and -shot Shayda. "It's one thing to direct your first feature film with a much bigger crew than you've ever had, much bigger cast, a lot of different personalities. And then to be triggered by your childhood trauma every day in the process — it's not something I would recommend to anyone." "It's something that I'm still struggling with, to be honest," Niasari continues, noting that she continually comes back to why she made the movie. "The fact that this story is much bigger than me and my mum, that it's already touching women and families all over the world, that really means something to me. I feel like it's a catalyst for healing, not just for me and my mum, but for so many people. That's what drives me to keep going and keep putting the putting the story out there." [caption id="attachment_910860" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Taylor Jewell/Associated Press[/caption] Niasari started Shayda from her mother's unpublished memoir, adapting it and fictionalising elements — and while it doesn't tell an easy tale, it's an easy film to fall for. Named for her mum's on-screen surrogate, who is played by 2022 Cannes Best Actress-winner Zar Amir Ebrahimi (Holy Spider), Shayda is clearly deeply personal. With engaging first-timer Selina Zahednia as Mona, Niasari's own in-film double, naturally it feels not only lived-in but like it has materialised as a movie from memories. As it charts its eponymous character's quest to start afresh, it tells of resilience and perseverance, strength and self-determination, and courage and community. It doesn't ever shy away from its protagonist's struggle to be permitted to be her own person, or from the pain and distress that she's forced to feel as she maintains that mission; however, in heroing its eponymous figure's fortitude, bravery and spirit, Shayda is also a hopeful film. Audiences at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival agreed; in January, Shayda won the US fest's World Cinema — Dramatic Audience Award. That world-premiere berth in Park City was just the start of the feature's festival run. Next stops: opening this year's Melbourne International Film Festival, then closing Switzerland's Locarno Film Festival. Internationally, Amir Ebrahimi's name is a drawcard. Cate Blanchett's, too, given that the Australian Tár and The New Boy actor executive produced the feature. The Tehran-born, Australian-raised Niasari is equally as talented behind the lens, after studying architecture then film; being mentored by iconic Iranian director Abbas Kiarostami; making documentaries in Wales, Lebanon and Chile; and beginning to focus on the Iranian diaspora community with her shorts and now this. Ahead of Shayda launching MIFF in early August, then hitting Australian cinemas in late September, Niasari chatted Concrete Playground through turning her own childhood into this powerful and important feature — plus balancing darkness and hopefulness, casting, engaging Melbourne's Iranian community, the Sundance experience, MIFF's coveted opening-night slot and her journey to becoming a filmmaker. ON NIASARI REALISING THAT SHE NEEDED TO TURN HER CHILDHOOD INTO A FILM "I lived in that women's shelter with my mum when I was five years old, and the woman who was running the shelter, who the character Joyce [played by Leah Purcell, The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson] is based on, she's kind of my godmother now. She's been a family friend, my mother's close friend, for over 25 years. We often talk about those times, and it's an experience that's stayed with me through my whole life. Whenever I told people about living in a women's shelter, they were so surprised. I feel like there's not enough awareness of what services are available, and what those experiences are. But I was compelled to tell this story of female empowerment, and to show the world of a women's shelter that we haven't really seen on screens before." ON DECIDING WHERE TO STAY TRUE TO REALITY, WHERE TO FICTIONALISE AND WHY "I was lucky to have an amazing script editor throughout the scriptwriting process. The first draft was very much adapted from my mum's unpublished memoir, which I encouraged her to write before I did the adaptation. But the drafts after that were a departure from the autobiographical details of our life, of that memoir. There's certain things that in real life seem far too dark for a cinema audience — and it's important to prioritise the cinematic experience over what really happened. It very about finding the cinematic potential of the story beyond what happened to us. Thankfully I had my script editor, and a lot of amazing notes from producers — and also just a lot of kind of soul searching, and finding the moral compass of each character, and what they would do in this given scenario and that given scenario. It very much became a fictional exercise at a certain point, and it also incorporated not just my mother and I's story, but stories from my godmother — a lot of her personal experience of working in the shelter is in the film as well. So it's really an amalgamation of fact and fiction, and blurring those lines in order to tell a cinematic story." ON MAKING A FILM THAT SEES BOTH DARKNESS AND HOPE "From the start, I wanted there to be a lot of grounding in the mother-daughter connection, which is a beautiful one that they have. And in the celebration of Persian New Year — the film takes place over the course of that time. Celebrating the cultures and traditions, the poetry, the dance, those are things that kept my mother and I buoyant through those difficult times, and that's something I wanted to capture in the film. Whenever there's darkness, there's light as well. Finding that balance was really a priority for us — my cinematographer, production designer, all of us, we were always thinking about that, whether it came to the lighting or the set dressing or the costumes. Despite the fact that there's difficult themes, we wanted the audience to feel the hope and the joy, and the strength of Shayda and the other women in this in this shelter and in this situation, because there's more to life than the darkness." ON CASTING ZAR AMIR EBRAHIMI AS SHAYDA "We cast her before she won Cannes. It was very, very fortunate timing. Zar is an incredible woman, incredible human being, what she's been through. Just her story is amazing, but I'll leave that to for readers to Google. From the very first self-tape I received from Zar, within a few seconds I knew she was Shayda. It was that powerful. She has this dual strength and vulnerability happening all at once, just in her gaze, in her presence, the way she carries herself. This is a quality that I was always looking for in the character. And Zar also brings so much of her life experience to this film, and has so many parallels to my mother. They also became good friends in the making of the film, which was a beautiful thing as well because you could feel the sisterhood and bonding, and the deeply felt connections — which I feel came across in the performances, too." ON FINDING SOMEONE TO BASICALLY PLAY NIASARI HERSELF AS A CHILD "We auditioned Iranian girls all over Australia, through Persian schools, mostly grassroots casting. And Selina was one of the shortlisted applicants in Melbourne, which was lucky because we were shooting in Melbourne. She came to the callback and to the audition room, and my assistant and I were just blown away by her ability to lock into a situation emotionally and respond to it. For a six-year-old, her emotional intelligence was just phenomenal. She cried in the audition, not prompted by anything but the actual situation we gave her. Then she was able to snap back to the joy and dancing that she loves. She's actually very different to who I was as a child. She has a really happy family. She's got a beautiful childhood, no trauma — she's a really happy kid. As soon as the audition finished, when knew it was her, we were like 'that was remarkable, she's the one'. But then we were like 'but we have to protect her; we have to protect that joy and that light and spark'. So that's what we went about doing — protecting Selina from the material, and making sure that she stayed who she is. She has, and I'm glad that we went above and beyond to do that." ON ENGAGING WITH FELLOW MEMBERS OF MELBOURNE'S IRANIAN COMMUNITY "Their collaboration was really important when it came to preproduction and the making of the film. There's a place called House of Persia in in Melbourne — one of the founding members is my cinematographer's mum. We ran a lot of our rehearsals and auditions there. And we had huge amounts of volunteer extras and people helping us set up the fire-jumping festival, like multiple stall owners. It was a remarkable show of support from the community. They were very excited, very collaborative and just happy to be a part of something like this. It doesn't happen every day for there to be an Iranian Australian feature film financed by Screen Australia. I'm pretty sure that ours is the first. People were really, really excited, and generous and kind and supportive. And we're super grateful to everyone who supported us in the community." [caption id="attachment_910852" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Michael Loccisano/Getty Images[/caption] ON PLAYING SUNDANCE AND WINNING AN AWARD WITH NIASARI'S DEBUT FEATURE "It was definitely a dream come true to screen at Sundance, and to win an award was such a huge honour. It meant a lot to me, and to the whole team, because it just showed that the film is not just a film about my mother and I's personal experience — that it's a universal story that crosses borders, that audiences from all over the world and all different backgrounds are connecting with the film. That's what the audience award meant to me. For me, the most important thing is making a connection with the audience, so it was a wonderful thing to happen." ON OPENING MIFF "It feels surreal at the moment. I've had three shorts at MIFF. I was in the Accelerator Lab [a workshop for emerging short-film directors]. I became a filmmaker in Melbourne, and I really love Melbourne. In so many ways, it feels like a graduation to even just be at the festival with my feature. The opening-night spot, it's important in so many ways, but at the same time I just want to have fun with it and celebrate our hometown screening. But it does signify something new, in a sense, because I don't know how many Australian films have opened MIFF that are the majority in the different language, from a different cultural perspective to what we're used to, from a filmmaker who's lived that and who is from that world. I'm proud, and I'm grateful that my community is being seen and represented in this way." [caption id="attachment_910851" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images[/caption] ON THE JOURNEY FROM ARCHITECTURE TO DOCUMENTARIES TO SHAYDA "My mum used to take me to the Brisbane Film Festival, and I think one of the first films I saw in the cinema was a Jafar Panahi film. He was Kiarostami's assistant, and then I continued watching his films and Kiarostami's films. Just Iranian cinema in general was pivotal in my adolescence through to university. It always stayed with me, and the poetry and everything. I feel like I always had that undercurrent or simmering desire to tell stories, but I just didn't see it as a possible career path. It was never made mention to me until I was in architecture school. Even when I was in high school, I wanted to go to art school and I had a great art teacher, but filmmaking — nobody ever handed me a camera and said 'you could be a director one day'. It just never came to be. And especially with my mum, it was a single-parent family, and she was working, she was studying, she was hustling my whole childhood and adolescence. It was kind of amazing to discover it at that age of 19. I'm not one of those filmmakers who's like 'oh yeah, I watched E.T. when I was growing up and decided I want to be a director'. I think it was just something that was inside me, and was discovered slightly later based on the circumstances of what I was doing. I loved architecture school, too. I did work for a year and was definitely at a crossroads. But I just fell in love with storytelling, with making movies and being able to make a connection with people through that medium, so I haven't looked back since then." Shayda opens the 2023 Melbourne International Film Festival on Thursday, August 3, then releases in Australian cinemas on Thursday, October 5. Read our review.
Aspiring culinary wizards of Brisbane should already be familiar with Newstead's Golden Pig. In fact, if you've ever wanted to pick up a few kitchen tricks, you've probably taken a class there. Boosting your cooking skills is no longer the only reason to stop by, however, with the Ross Street venue adding a new pan-Asian restaurant to its warehouse building. Now called The Golden Pig Restaurant & Cooking School, the brick abode still lets everyone whip up a few dishes on Sundays and Mondays, hosting sessions on curry, Greek cuisine, gluten-free cooking, sourdough and bread-making, summer salads and more on its upcoming class calendar. Every other night of the week, the timber-accented 80-seat space will be filled with an array of Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese and Japanese-influenced dishes. Think Sichuan spiced duck with mandarin and miso, turmeric curry of pork belly, vegetarian ma hor with sticky fried peanuts, and king salmon with black bean, sweet soy, chilli and ginger. Working with head chef Sarah Hockings, owner and chef Katrina Ryan has designed a menu that aims to showcase a range of tastes and flavours, as well as matching Brisbane's usually sunny weather. "I think Asian cuisine and ingredients are a beautiful match with our subtropical climate," she explains — and Golden Pig's dessert selection of lemongrass tapioca, deep-fried banana ice cream, lime and coconut sugar delicious pudding typifies that sentiment. Two banquets are also available for those keen to try a little of everything, and the drinks list has been crafted by bar manager Cameron Silk. Overlooking the central open kitchen, the bar itself opens from 5pm Tuesday to Saturday — prior to the restaurant opening at 5.30pm — and serves up bao, potstickers and scallops alongside wine, beer, cider and fruit-heavy cocktails. Images: Dane Beesley.
Woolloongabba has always been the cultural and historic crux of Brisbane, though we might not acknowledge it. It has food and antiques, it has a killer view of the river, and now it houses one of Brisbane’s most exciting events of the year — End of the Line Festival. This isn’t you’re average RNA-hosted, do-my-Vans-match-my-half-dilated-pupils festival – it’s the creme de la creme of Brisbane culture compounded into a free, 12-hour party. If you ask us, that's well worth crossing the river for! "It’s a food festival, it’s a music festival, it’s a festival of diverse markets and eclectic wares and it's a community street party!" says festival director Morgan Jenkins. And, what a party it is! Local cafes and food trucks will be catering, crazy wares will be on sale, and over a dozen bands will be laying down the party beats. This isn’t strictly an event about music or food or even markets — it’s a 'to hell with it, we’ll cover it all' kinda deal! "Thats the whole idea of the festival — to showcase and celebrate the talent, diversity and history of this area as something of immense value to Brisbane, and something that is worth retaining as the population increases here in the coming years," Morgan says. "We love the fact that we'll have music lovers, foodies, dancers, cyclists, wine connoisseurs, antiques and vintage buyers, AFL heroes and kiddies all in the same space ... That’s what makes it great." The End of the Line is set to take place in that trendy little, café-dense enclave off Logan road in Woolloongabba, or as Morgan calls it, the suburb of "happy chaos". "[Woolloongabba] has a very long indigenous history, a very long migrant history, a complicated and intricate history as a transit convergence and catchment point and its sporting history doesn't need any explanation. The thing that makes it so interesting for us is as a space where all of these things converge and intertwine," Morgan says. "This happy chaos, coupled with the density of such incredible culinary talent makes for a pretty good starting point for a festival." As for music, expect a bunch of local acts whose styles range from heavy beats to '70s pop-rock. "We have predominantly local songwriters playing stripped back shows (Thomas Calder, Mardi Lumsden, Tom Cooney, Laneway). We have big brass bands and funk tunes (Bullhorn and Golden Sound). We have tunes to stomp your boots to (Suicide Swans and Emmett and Mabel). We have thick beats to boogie to from Vinnie La Duce. We have a return to the '70s in The Babe Rainbow, and we have Australian songwriting royalty in Darren Hanlon." And that’s just the music. We haven’t even mentioned the food trucks, historical displays, antique stalls, horse-drawn trams and the Penny Farthing Parade. End of the Line Festival kicks of at 10am this Saturday, and promises fun for tots, adults and everyone in between. Though Morgan says you best not arrive empty handed. "We're doing our best with shade, but it will be a good idea to bring a hat and sunscreen. Bring a camera. Bring a friend. But most of all my advice would be to bring an empty stomach." The End of the Line Festival takes place at Little Logan Road cul de sac from 10am-10pm. Entry is free.
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 — with tickets on sale from Friday, July 30, or from Wednesday, July 28 via pre-sales. Van Gogh Alive will run from Friday, October 29 at Northshore Hamilton. Tickets will go on sale from Friday, July 30, with pre-sales from Wednesday, July 28 — for further details, or to join the waitlist, head to the event's website. Images: Morgan Sette. Updated July 26.
Whether 2019 has been the best year of your life or you can't wait to see the back of it, there's always cause for celebration on New Year's Eve. By now, if you haven't made plans to mark the occasion by heading out of town, that means you're staying in Brisbane. Don't worry — this town knows how to put on quite an end-of-year party. Or should we say parties? There are events happening all around town to cater to every party style, whether you're keen on the fireworks, prefer a quiet dinner or want to dance away the year in style. Yep, there are a lot to choose from, so we've teamed up with Australian Venue Co. to bring you seven stellar options.
New year, new vaccination campaign, new chance to see life return to pre-pandemic normality: when 2020 ticked over to 2021, that's what was on the horizon. But the year hasn't turned out as planned so far thanks to ongoing lockdowns and restrictions — and the slow pace of Australian's vax rollout. For many Aussies under 40, it's been quite a wait to get the jab. Across most of this year, getting vaccinated if you're aged 39 and under — and getting the Pfizer vax, which is the preferred jab for that age group — has only been possible if you've fallen into a specific high-risk category. But, thankfully, that's no longer the case. So, it's time to roll up your sleeves, get your two jabs and protect yourself against COVID-19. In the process, you'll also help the country increase its vaccination rate, with more restrictions likely to ease for fully vaxxed Aussies once the nation hits both the 70-percent and 80-percent vaccination thresholds. That said, when it comes to the process of actually booking in for your vaccination, you might have a few questions. It isn't always as straightforward as it perhaps should be, in fact. So, we've run through the basics — and the queries you might have bubbling away in your head at the moment. Obviously, if you have any questions or concerns about the COVID-19 jab, you should seek advice from your GP or a healthcare professional. How do I find out if I'm eligible to get vaccinated? Brisbanites, your first point of call is the Queensland Health website, which runs through exactly who is eligible for both the Pfizer and the AstraZeneca jabs. All Aussie adults have been able to actively opt to get the AZ vax since late June, including under 40s. But, due to rare side effects with the AZ jab, Pfizer is the recommended COVID-19 vaccination for under 60s — and it's now available to any person aged 16–59 years in Queensland. The nationwide vaccination rollout opened up the Pfizer vaccine to under 40s on Monday, August 30. To get the Pfizer jab if you're aged 39 and under, you do need to book into a Queensland Health vaccination centre, though — more on that below. Where can I get vaccinated? The Queensland Government has set up Qld Health vaccination centres across the state, including at places such as Doomben Racecourse and the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. If you're under the age of 40 and you're getting the Pfizer vax, that's where you'll need to head. That means that you can't currently get the Pfizer jab from your GP or from a pharmacy. The Qld Health website has its own vaccination location map, which outlines all of the relevant sites. Or, in a nifty spin on another handy online map that's gotten quite a workout during the pandemic, COVID-19 Near Me now has a vaccination function — so you can use it to find your nearest location as well. How do I book in my first vaccination appointment? There are two pathways for people under 40 to book in their Pfizer jabs: via the Australian Government COVID-19 vaccination eligibility checker, and by registering with Queensland Health. The first path will actually lead you to the second, though. So, you can either hit up the Qld Health website straight away, enter your relevant details, then wait to receive an email invitation that then provides the necessary information — and link — to book. Or, if you want to triple check that you're eligible first, you can head to the eligibility checker, then follow the prompts through to the Qld Health site afterwards. If you need assistance from there, Qld Health has put together a tutorial video and a series of user guides, too. How do I book in my second vaccination appointment? Once you've had your first jab, your appointment for your second jab will be made for you — within three-to-six weeks for the Pfizer vax. You'll be emailed details, including on how to reschedule if the date and time isn't convenient for you. I've had my jabs. How do I find proof? Allowing people who've been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 more leeway — to go to venues and to travel, for instance — is part of Australia's National COVID Response that was announced in July. So, once you've had both of your jabs, you'll likely be looking for the documentation to prove it. The easiest way at the time of writing: via Medicare, either through the Australian Government's My Gov website and app, or the Express Plus Medicare mobile app. The Services Australia website will step you through accessing your digital certificate using both methods. For further information about Australia's COVID-19 vaccine rollout, head to the Australian Government Department of Health website.
Next time you pick up a club, order a drink and hit the mini-golf greens at Fortitude Valley's Holey Moley, you'll be able to swing your way around E.T., Stranger Things, Uno and Operation-themed holes — or, if you'd prefer, you can grab a microphone. The popular Warner Street spot occasionally gives its two nine-hole courses a revamp, with the multi-level venue unveiling its latest creations after refurbishing half of them. As well as making over a considerable part of its existing site, Holey Moley has also made two crucial new additions: two 60s and 70s-style karaoke rooms. If you're fond of belting out a tune, you can jump between pretending you're in Happy Gilmore and living out your A Star Is Born dreams by heading into the two onsite singing suites, which can accommodate up to ten people. For those keen to keep tap, tap, tapping away inside the converted old church, the rebadged holes also span zombies, mazes and magic, and come with names such as 'The Loop Hole', 'Par for the Corpse', 'Mazed and Confused' and 'Draw Fore'. While in renovation mode, Holey Moley has also shaken up its menu. Drinks-wise, newcomer On the Green goes heavy on the Red Bull and features a golf ball on top, while fellow fresh addition The Pink Tee blends gin, tequila, spiced rum and cointreau. There's the Duck, Duck Joose, too, which comes served in a bathtub complete with rubber ducks, plus mocktails dubbed the Ginger Ninja and Coco Loco. And, if you need to something to eat, beef nachos, cheese-laden garlic pizza (in both regular and vegan varieties) and a selection of bread and dips now rank among the edible options. Find Holey Moley at 25 Warner Street, Fortitude Valley, open Monday–Thursday 12–11pm, Friday 12pm–12am, Saturday 10am–12pm and Sunday 10am–11pm.
There's no shortage of ways to celebrate Halloween, whether scary movies, eerie art, a trick-or-treating stint, playing with Lego or themed mini golf is your thing. Here's a particularly tasty one: getting dressed up in costume and scoring a free Krispy Kreme doughnut. The chain is known for giving away its round treats, including handing out 100,000 of them each National Doughnut Day. For Tuesday, October 31, it isn't locking in an exact number of doughnuts that'll be on offer — but it will give one to everyone who turns up to a Krispy Kreme store dressed for the occasion. If that isn't an excuse to don your spookiest outfit, then what is? To snag yourself a signature glazed freebie, head to your closest Krispy Kreme store in Australia or New Zealand on Tuesday, October 31 while wearing a Halloween-appropriate costume. You'll receive one original glazed doughnut per person, and you don't have to buy anything else to nab the treat without paying a cent. That gives everyone a heap of places to flock to: 38 in Australia and six in New Zealand. Sydneysiders able to hit up 17 stores stretching from Penrith to the CBD, Victorians can visit nine locations from Chadstone to Collins Street, and Queenslanders given eight different doughnut shops to pick from (with the most central in Albert Street in the CBD). Residents of Perth can make a date with one of four Krispy Kreme locations. In Aotearoa, all options are in Auckland — including at Newmarket, Chancery Square and the domestic airport terminal. Of course, Krispy Kreme is hoping that you will be possessed by the Halloween vibe while you're in-store — or beforehand — and treat yourself to something from its themed range. On offer until Tuesday, October 31: four different varieties. If you opt for the Spiderweb, you'll get an OG doughnut that's been dipped in chocolate ganache and topped with white truffle. The Jack O'Lantern takes a shell doughnut, packs it with choc crème, then dips it in orange-coloured truffle — what else? — before giving it an eyes and mouth via sugar fondant. The Ghost goes with a white truffle dip, plus white choc flakes and candy for eyes. And the Graveyard fills a shell doughnut with strawberry filling, covers the outside with green truffle, then uses sour gummy worms and ground chocolate crumb as soil. Krispy Kreme's Halloween giveaway takes place in-store on Tuesday, October 31. The chain's Halloween range is available until the same date. To find your closest shop and check its opening hours, head to the Krispy Kreme website.
When the newly engaged Lauren (Miranda Tapsell, The Surfer) and Ned (Gwilym Lee, SAS Rogue Heroes) made a whirlwind visit to Darwin in 2019 film Top End Wedding, it was to get married. Six years later, the two key characters from the hit rom-com are heading back to the Northern Territory capital. Meet Top End Bub, which is extending the world of the flick by picking up again with its central couple — this time with an added child, and by unfurling the next chapter in the pair's tale via a streaming series. Tapsell not only starred in Top End Wedding but co-wrote the script. With Top End Bub, she's in both roles again — and also co-created and executive produced the series with fellow returnee Joshua Tyler (100% Wolf: Legend of the Moonstone). Their new story: sending Lauren and Ned to the NT again, away from their settled life in Adelaide, to become the guardians of their orphaned niece Taya (debutant Gladys-May Kelly). First confirmed in 2024, Top End Bub is set to span eight episodes — and you'll be watching it soon. The series hits Prime Video from Friday, September 12, 2025. Ursula Yovich (Troppo), Huw Higginson (Ladies in Black), Shari Sebbens (The Moogai), Elaine Crombie (Invisible Boys), Rob Collins (Austin) and Tracy Mann (Home and Away) are also making the leap from Top End Wedding to its new spinoff, while Brooke Satchwell (Triple Oh!), Guy Simon (The Secrets She Keeps) and Clarence Ryan (Territory) are among its fresh additions. "Words can't describe how excited I am to bring Lauren, Ned and the Top End back to your screens. We all love a happy ending, but what happens after happily ever after? We can't wait for you to find out!" said Tapsell back when Top End Bub was initially announced. "It's been fun to dive back into the world of Top End Wedding, a world that means so much to us and to our audience. A romantic setting full of funny characters who face heartbreaking challenges in heartwarming ways. I am thrilled to be collaborating with such an incredible team," added Tyler. There's no sneak peek at Top End Bub yet, but you can watch the trailer for Top End Wedding below: Top End Bub will stream via Prime Video from Friday, September 12, 2025. Images: John Platt / Prime Video.
As part of one of the only remaining independent cinema chains, Dendy Coorparoo offers a unique, somewhat nostalgic, cinema experience. The blockbusters are here if that's what you're after, but the bigger drawcard is the selection of first-run independent films and art titles. Through the Dendy Arts program, productions from MET Opera, National Theatre and National Ballet, among others, are screened. It also holds events throughout the year: advance screenings of new releases, retro screenings of old faves, and film genre festivals. Located in the heart of Coorparoo makes a visit to Dendy is a great way to either start or end a day of adventures. While everybody's favourite "cheap Tuesday" offer may have disappeared from most cinemas, it is still going strong here and it's not the only offer kicking around — members, students and seniors can unlock exclusive discounts of their own.
To mask or not to mask? During the pandemic, that's often been the question. In Brisbane over the past few months, you've always needed to carry a mask with you; however, the rules around that have changed more than a few times — and at 4pm today, Friday, October 8, they're changing yet again. Brisbanites, next time you head out for a bite to eat, to have drinks or see a movie, you won't need to keep your mask on while you're seated. Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has just announced the loosening of Queensland's COVID-19 restrictions, reverting back to the rules that were in place before they were last amended at the end of September. And, that means that mask rules are easing slightly as well. Masks are still staying for now, but you'll be able to take them off when you're sitting down in public. You will still need to always carry a mask with you, of course, but you can flash that smile if you're seated in a pub, bar, restaurant, cafe, cinema or theatre. At hospitality venues, you'll actually only need to mask up when you're entering and exiting, in another relaxation of the rules. At all other indoor sites — other than your own home — you can uncover your face once you're seated. Mask requirements change from 4pm. #covid19 pic.twitter.com/RaSRdRfCI8 — Annastacia Palaszczuk (@AnnastaciaMP) October 8, 2021 Queensland's standing mask mandate for flights, airports and stadiums still remains in place, though, so you'll always need to mask up there. And, they remain mandatory on public transport, in ride shares and while waiting for both; outdoors if you can't remain 1.5 metres away from people who aren't part of your household; and indoors in public if you're not sitting or you're not inside a hospo venue. Queensland currently has 31 active COVID-19 cases, with zero new locally acquired case reported in the past 24 hours. And, as always, the usual requests regarding social distancing, hygiene and getting tested if you're feeling even the slightest possible COVID-19 symptoms also still apply — as they have since March last year. For more information about the status of COVID-19 in Queensland, head to the QLD COVID-19 hub and the Queensland Health website.
If you're not attending a Christmas lunch to devour five different kinds of roast meats, Christmas Day can be a little up in the air. No, your regular coffee place won't be pouring, brunch will not be happening (sorry), and you can't even head into Woolies for some milk. But don't panic: things are still on, public transport is running (to a Sunday timetable), and 7-Eleven will remain open for emergency packets of chips and gum. And, as a gift from us to you, we've put together a few things that you can do if you're in town with nothing to do, don't celebrate Christmas or are otherwise uninterested in the big day. Inhale Tacos Over Margaritas Sure, most of Brisbane shuts down for Christmas Day, other than eateries specifically serving a festive menu — and if you're keen for that, you'll likely be testing your wallet. However, one location that'll remain pumping like it's any other day of the year is El Camino Cantina at South Bank. Fancy tacos and OTT margaritas instead of the usual festive spread? Here, that's exactly what's on the menu. The Tex-Mex chain's Surfers Paradise venue is also open as usual, too, with both locations serving up plenty to eat and sip — frozen margs included — amid their brightly coloured surroundings. Head down the coast and you'll also score beach views. See Some Aussie Wildlife Christmas in Australia — and in Brisbane, in particular — means something different to the rest of the world. We have heat and storms instead of cold and sleet, seafood lunches as well as roasts, and we play cricket in the street rather than make snowmen. In that spirit, why not embrace everything our sun-drenched country has to offer by sharing the day with some of our native animals? At Lone Pine, the world's first and largest koala sanctuary, you can see more than 100 koalas, hand feed a wild lorikeet or kangaroos, and watch sheep dogs, birds of prey and dingos. It's open from 9am–3pm on Christmas Day — and although cuddling a koala is no longer part of the Lone Pine experience, you can feel their fur and learn all about them. Attend or Help Out at a Charity Lunch There are plenty of organisations and people putting together free Christmas lunches for those that might not have anywhere else to go. If you're missing out by circumstance, not by choice, or if you want to volunteer your time to help make someone else's Christmas a little brighter, Community Friends hosts an inclusive December 25 event. 2024's get-together runs over both breakfast and lunch from 7.30am–1.30pm at Bunyapah Park, at 68 Vulture Street in West End. Bookings aren't necessary, but you can volunteer to bring a plate of food to share or presents for people of all ages. Peer Down on the City By day and by night, Brisbane is a pretty city as seen from great heights. The serenity that comes from looking down from above only increases when the usual hustle and bustle grinds to a halt — and there's no quieter time in the CBD and surrounding areas than Christmas. Head up to the Mt Coot-tha lookout to glance over the eerie stillness through the in-built binoculars. Or, watch the world go round as you head around on The Wheel of Brisbane — which is open from 12–10pm — followed by a stroll through South Bank and a dip in one of the riverside pools. [caption id="attachment_750974" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kangaroo Point via Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] Picnic Somewhere Scenic The joy of the city's many public areas — filled with green grass, tall trees and wide-open spaces as as they are — is a lack of adherence to standard operating hours. The Kangaroo Point Cliffs, Roma Street Parklands, New Farm Park and a variety of shady urban spots: they're each open all-year round, offering a free and accessible way to spend some time in the sun. Bring along your own rug, frisbee and basket full of scrumptious goodies, of course, and company. Here's our pick of the best picnic spots in Brisbane, plus nine waterside spots you mightn't have visited — and these are the places that allow you to BYO booze. Top image: Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.
What happens when you take the site of an old Fortitude Valley nightclub that's been shut for eight years, deck it out with vinyl and boomboxes, and dedicate it to retro vibes? Brisbanites are about to find out. With a name like Superfly Disco, the new venue sliding into Alhambra Lounge's old space on McLachlan Street was always going to feel like a throwback — and that's entirely the point. Get ready to hit the dance floor from Friday, October 7 — and to strut around a Saturday Night Fever-style light-up dance floor like you've travelled back five decades, too. Forget DeLoreans; making a night of it at Superfly Disco will send you back in time, although disco classics will pump through the speakers alongside recent party hits. Whatever the venue's disc jockeys happen to be spinning at any given time, they'll be doing so from a DJ car, another piece of Superfly Disco's retro look and mood. The space has been completely gutted from its Alhambra days, and given an entirely new fitout — including raising the floor by an inch and a half to accommodate the lights underneath. Yes, when you're not hanging out in private booths, you should be dancing here — and feeling the city breakin' and everybody shakin', and obviously thinking about other Bee Gees disco tracks. Unsurprisingly, the team behind Superfly Disco see a big future in functions and parties, and the venue's opening is timed just before festive season. [caption id="attachment_869149" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Drunken Monkey Group's Harlen Pointing and Adam Barton at Suzie Wong's Good Time Bar.[/caption] That crew? The Drunken Monkey Group team, adding another venue to its portfolio alongside Brooklyn Standard, Fat Angel Sports Bar and Suzie Wong's Good Time Bar. Suzie Wong's venue manager Michael Pattison will become the general manager role across the group's Valley sites, while Kyle Weir, who owns fellow nightclub Queens, will oversee DJ bookings. Drinks-wise, cocktails will be the tipples of choice, with the beverage menu yet to be revealed. Wearing flares and platform shoes: totally optional, but it'd fit the atmosphere. [caption id="attachment_869150" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Drunken Monkey Group's Manny Sakellarakis at Brooklyn Standard.[/caption] Find Superfly Disco at 12 McLachlan Street, Fortitude Valley, from Friday, October 7.
Bursting for a beach escape to Byron Bay but can't quite swing it at the moment? Try this instead. Classic fish and chips always reminds us of summer holidays as a kid, and Fancy Fish in Flinders View is making us all kinds of nostalgic. Remember scorching your legs from holding the bundle of chips on the car ride home? Luckily for us, the Fancy Fish delivery menu means that you can skip the third-degree thigh burns. The meal packs can serve up to four people, with a choice of fish, plus calamari rings, chips and tartare sauce. Do yourself a favour, and add on a couple of handmade potato scallops (just try not to argue with your Victorian mate who insists that they are called 'potato cakes', ugh).
Treating yo'self to tastebud-tempting dishes is what winter is all about — and for one entire month, Salt Meats Cheese is serving up a rather appetising menu that'll do the trick. That'd be its Everyday We're Truffling — Truffle Month lineup, with truffles popping up in all kinds of dishes. Yes, that includes truffle cocktails. Usually, SMC only celebrates truffles for a week this year. But in 2022, to the delight of your stomach, it's expanding the deliciousness across all of July. Accordingly, from Friday, June 1–Sunday, July 31, the Italian chain will be adding truffles to pizza, polenta, gnocchi and pappardelle — so that's four of Italian staples covered. It'll also be whipping up baked truffle brie and deep-fried bocconcini with truffles, if you feel like getting extra cheesy with your truffles. And, still on that topic, you can add a jug of truffle cream cheese to any dish you like as well. You'll need something to wash it all down with, so truffle margaritas are also on offer. They'll be garnished with freshly shaved truffle, and also feature a truffle salted rim. Or, you could opt for a truffle sour, which even includes truffle oil. For dessert, there's truffle gelato — which is made with caramelised truffle honey popcorn, and is now your new favourite type of gelato. The Everyday We're Truffling menu is taking place at all SMC venues during its month-long period, which spans Newstead and Surfers Paradise in Queensland. And if you're wondering why the Italian chain has suddenly gone truffle crazy, it's to celebrate the Australian truffle season — which is as good a reason as any.
When it comes to international rivalries, it doesn't get much bigger than Australia and England. But before the Rugby League World cup kicks off next month and the first ball is pitched in the 2023 Ashes series, sport fans can satisfy their search for entertaining, adrenaline-pumping clashes by grabbing tickets to see the the Origin Australian Diamonds in the upcoming test series against the England Vitality Roses. So, whether you're a netball novice or you're happiest watching a zippy wing attack passing expertly to a flash of a centre, being courtside at a Diamonds game will get you right up close to this energy, with the crowd's cheers feeding the drilled-down plays being executed with quick feet, intense stares and powerful throws. The upcoming England Series is kicking off at Newcastle Entertainment Centre on Wednesday, October 26. The one-off competition will be the first time Aussie netball stars have the home-ground advantage over the Brits — and the last chance to catch the Diamonds live this year. After match one, the athletes will make their way to Sydney's Qudos Bank Arena on Sunday, October 30 and then head north to Brisbane Entertainment Centre for what could be a nail-biter of a decider on Thursday, November 3. Following their Quad Series win in January and a gold medal at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games — which, excitingly, was the 1000th Australian gold medal in Commonwealth history — the Origin Australian Diamonds are sure to come out confidently. However, the exceptional talents that make up the Roses will be keen to prove they're no dainty English flowers (and will be looking for redemption after the Aussies knocked them out of gold-medal contention in the aforementioned Commonwealth Games). Our hot tip? Bookend your wing-attack-watching experience with an extended stay at your destination city. Transforming your sporty spectating into a sneaky little vacay (where you can hit the best of Brissie, Newy or the Harbour City) is sure to leave you feeling like a winner, too — whichever team you support. The Origin Australian Diamonds take on the Vitality Roses on Wednesday, October 26; Sunday, October 30; and Thursday, November 3. Be quick to nab your tickets, the series is set to sell out.
Is buying vinyl is part of your regular weekend shopping plans? Whether you're scouring the racks for something specific or just generally looking for a bargain, make a beeline to King George Square. While the CBD spot often plays host to a record fair around Christmas, another one is popping up at this non-festive time of year — and you can bet there'll be plenty of tunes waiting for a new home. Next taking place from 9am–3pm on Saturday, May 1, the King George Record Fair will bring vinyl galore to quite the striking CBD location. Expect a whole range of sellers, including folks travelling up from Sydney to offload their records to avid shoppers and collectors. Entry is free, although you'll want to bring your wallet if you're eager to boost your collection. You can find all manner of delights at a fair like this, from old classics to retro wonders — and albums you never even knew existed. Top image: Brisbane City Council. Updated April 29.
Solar power. Who needs it? Well, we do — and pretty desperately. To generate it though, we need those pesky black solar panels to be fitted to people's roofs and properties and anywhere we can find a space for them. This can be a little hard without overtaking natural environments and farmland. But France have found thousands of kilometres of space perfect for solar panels — their roads. This idea of paving roads with solar panels was first floated by Scott and Julie Brusaw, when they launched a crowdfunding campaign to pave American parking lots with the things in 2014. But this project is a little more legit. Proposed by French transport infrastructure company Colas and France's National Institute for Solar Energy, it's been given the go-ahead by France's Agency of Environment and Energy Management. And if all goes to plan, they're promising to bring solar power to 1000-kilometres of roads in the country over the next five years. Named the Wattway system, the 7mm photovoltaic road surface would be stuck on top of existing road surfaces. Both its thinness and ease of application to existing roads make it the best proposal yet — and seeing as roads are only occupied by vehicles only 10% of the time, they'll be soaking up a lot of sunlight too. Claiming they are "paving the way to tomorrow's energy" (nice one, guys), Colas say that a one-kilometre stretch of Wattway panels would be able to provide the electricity to power public lighting in a city of 5000 inhabitants. According to Global Construction Review, tests on the solar roadway panels will begin this year. Let's hope the French trial is successful, and makes its way over here. As anyone who's stood barefoot on asphalt on a hot day knows, that stuff stores a lethal amount of heat. Via Tree Hugger.
Here comes the songs, Beatles fans, but not quite as you know them. In fact, Lady Beatle isn't just for die hard aficionados of the fab four — it's for everyone that likes their pop culture a bit out of the ordinary. As they did with Miley Cyrus in Wrecking Ball, collaborators Adam Brunes and Naomi Price turn one of the most famous catalogues of tracks in history into something completely different and new. If you saw that show, then you'll be eager to see how this turns out. If you saw Lady Beatle back in 2017, you'll want to relive the fun again. Come together, because all you need is love and a modern memory play (aka a stage show where a character tells the tale from their recollections, with this one inspired by true accounts). Given the title, expect to see her standing there. Price, that is. Also expect the likes of 'Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds', 'Eleanor Rigby', 'Lady Madonna' and 'Penny Lane' come to life in a kaleidoscopic cabaret. Lady Beatle plays La Boite's Roundhouse Theatre from Wednesday, August 7 to Saturday, August 10. Image: Dylan Evans Photography.
UPDATE: June 21, 2020: Like a Boss is available to stream via Google Play, YouTube and iTunes. Comedies about women kicking ass in the workplace — overcoming sexism, ageism and other barriers, and generally demonstrating their business savvy — comprise a tiny genre. Based on its most recent additions, you can be forgiven for wishing it was even smaller. Where the smart and amusing 9 to 5 once sent three tenacious ladies on a quest for revenge against their misogynist boss, its latest successors all serve up easy, lazy tales paired with muddled messages. Exhibit A: the beauty industry-set I Feel Pretty, which judged as much as championed the allegedly average-looking Amy Schumer. Exhibit B: Second Act, where Jennifer Lopez plays a working-class manager determined to show her worth beyond her modest background, but only after lying to land a lucrative makeup company job. Exhibit C: newcomer Like a Boss, where women running their own cosmetics businesses are too busy acting petty and irrational to make sensible or even just realistic decisions. If you've noticed a similarity between the last three films, yes, they're all set in makeup companies. That's another reason this current breed of ostensibly empowerment-driven movies belongs in the bin. Hollywood might think it's using a field known for focusing on appearances to celebrate the opposite idea — that it's what's inside that counts — but it's really just making vapid, superficial and unfunny films that insult women's intelligence. No one needs a thematically linked cinematic universe about ladies who work in cosmetics and learn their real inner worth. Cinema chains might want one so they can host 'chicks at the flicks' sessions, hand out makeup samples and charge more for tickets, but audiences can grasp the underlying message without the beauty-driven angle. And yet, these movies keep coming. Worse: they keep insisting that the packaging does actually count, arrogantly assuming that no one would glean their purported wisdom if it wasn't juxtaposed against the cosmetics world. As an opening montage of Mia (Tiffany Haddish) and Mel's (Rose Byrne) 22-year friendship shows, Like a Boss' protagonists have always dreamed of working in the beauty industry. With their own makeup store and top-selling cosmetics kit, they've made that childhood wish come true. The duo also party and live together, to the point that they brush their teeth simultaneously while swapping Barack Obama fantasies — but, with Mia creative and pushy and Mel meek and practical, their business is in financial trouble. Conveniently, in swoops mogul Claire Luna (Salma Hayek) with an offer to bail them out. Requiring a considerable stake in the company in return, she secretly wants to steal their business for herself. Cartoonish from the moment her carrot-hued hair sweeps into frame — "my head is not little; it's just that my breasts are humongous," she snaps — Hayek's villain says much about Like a Boss. She's the titular figure suddenly ordering Mia and Mel around and pitting them against each other, and she fits every inane stereotype there is about women breaking the glass ceiling. Ruthless, catty and erratic, she plots evil schemes while balancing on towering heels and wearing tight dresses, with the film making fun of her appearance, her ambition and — in a painfully prolonged scene — her accent. It's grating to watch, and it typifies how contemptuously Like a Boss treats its characters. Indeed, add squandering a great cast to the film's many missteps. Despite the visible efforts of Haddish and Byrne, their central pair remains just as paper-thin. The usually reliable comedic actors work hard, but choking energetically and hurling over-the-top insults aren't the same as depicting fleshed-out people — and, when their characters aren't being belittled by Claire, they're being criticised by their wider circle of friends (Ari Graynor, Jessica St Clair and Natasha Rothwell) about their life choices. As for other supporting players Jennifer Coolidge (American Pie), Billy Porter (an Emmy winner for Pose) and Karan Soni (Miracle Workers), they're only asked to serve one comic purpose each. The ditzy employee who blurts out inappropriate things, the sassy gay man who tells it like it is and the compliant minion — they're all accounted for. Given the movie's premise and script, none of its performers ever stood much of a chance. It's hard to understand what first-time feature writers Sam Pitman and Adam Cole-Kelly are trying to achieve — although their pitch was bought as a Bridesmaids-style vehicle for Haddish after Girls Trip became a hit, so perhaps everyone simply thought she'd carry the feature. It's hard to see what filmmaker Miguel Arteta saw in the project either, or brings to it for that matter. When he directed Hayek in 2017's Beatriz at Dinner, the result was a dark and scathing exploration of class differences in America's current political climate. With Like a Boss, however, he just serves up broad laughs about women working, competing and acting like clichés. Even when the film tries to evoke blunt guffaws about a very relatable idea — that even the most successful ladies don't always have it together — it still proves weak and unconvincing. In fact, those aspects of the story feel clumsily tacked-on. Like its recent predecessors, this mess of a supposed comedy only achieves one feat: contradicting itself. No matter how forcefully Like a Boss pushes the 'it's what's inside that matters' mantra, every element of this superficial movie sadly screams the exact opposite. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XW9TtXgLOew
Occupying a cosy nook next to a rustic barbershop on the corner of Pashen Street and leafy Riding Road in Hawthorne, Hunna Bunna is a new addition to the suburb's fine crop of cafes. The cottage-style cafe opened in May and has been enjoying popularity in the precinct with a number of social events, great coffee and a possible love affair with synthetic grass — the outdoor seating area's floor is covered with it, as are several toy bunnies scattered throughout the venue, adding a lush, green whimsy to the place. Flavoursome, fair-trade BlackStar coffee ($3.50), of West End fame, is Hunna Bunna's bean of choice and it packs a rejuvenating punch. If you're pressed for time, you can order your morning cuppa online in advance so it's ready and waiting. There is a selection of sweet treats, including paleo and gluten-free varieties. In addition to coffee, Hunna Bunna's friendly staff knock up a mean hot chocolate and there is also a variety of juices and iced coffees available. The alfresco area has a warm, rustic, backyard (well, side-yard, to be specific) feel and is the perfect setting for a morning or afternoon coffee and/or cake. Did we mention pop-up creperie La French Attitude are there on Fridays to make delicious sweet and savoury crepes for all you crepe-lovers? Well, they do just that. Further adding to Hunna Bunna's uniqueness is their hosting of an alternative comedy night, Comedy @ the Cafe, on the second Friday evening of each month (the venue stays open later on these occasions. And, brilliantly, so does the crepe stall). So if you're looking for something a little bit different for a top-notch cup o' Joe and snack, then stop in at the hallowed (Astro)turf of Hunna Bunna.
On the water, near the water and from the water: that's one of the ways to look at the 2024 Sydney Festival lineup, which has just been announced in all of its 150-plus-event glory. When the Harbour City welcomes back its annual arts fest in January, the event will make the absolute most of its setting. So, cue a version of Puccini's opera Il Tabarro onboard the Carpentaria lightship in the harbour, a waterside Walsh Bay Arts Precinct takeover and a towering giant octopus sculpture that you can get closer to via a kayak tour. As proves the case every year, the festival's program will and does go on. In her third year at the helm, Artistic Director Olivia Ansell has compiled a hefty selection of things to see, do and experience — and if you're a fan of getting a snapshot via the numbers, the figures are impressive. Running for 24 days from Friday, January 5–Sunday, January 28, Sydney Festival 2024 will feature more than 1000 artists in bringing its showcase to audiences. Among the events, there'll be 26 world premieres, 29 Australian exclusives and 43 free activities. If seeing Il Tabarro performed on a boat piques your interest, you can catch the free one-act production at the Australian National Maritime Museum without spending a cent — but you do need to book. Or, you can watch from home via the livestream. Keen on hanging out at the Walsh Bay Arts Precinct? That part of the program is called The Thirsty Mile. On offer there: theatre and art, cabaret and dance, bars and speakeasies, and also a late-night club Moonshine Bar. This is where you'll marvel at a 46-metre-long installation Hi-Vis, a sculpture by Michael Shaw; enjoy a cabaret tribute to Kate Bush; and watch a Swedish dance double from GöteborgsOperans Danskompani — and that's just for starters. Also joining the bill: dance event SPIN, which is both interactive and guided; sunrise yoga sessions; and art exhibition Talking Posters: Garage Graphix 1981–1998. [caption id="attachment_923479" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sarah-Louise Young Onstage, Claudio Raschella Photography[/caption] A eight-legged sea creature scurries onto the program thanks to Te Wheke-a-Muturangi: The Adversary by Māori artist Lisa Reihana, which'll make its home in Watermans Cove in Barangaroo — well, once the octopus has been assembled from 1000-plus pieces — to explore the tale of the discovery of Aotearoa New Zealand. Another huge highlight is Summerground a new three-day Tumbalong Park music fest with a lineup that includes King Stingray, Electric Fields, Cimafunk, Queen Omega, The Brand New Heavies, Dem Mob, Beckah Amani, The Teskey Brothers, Full Flower Moon Band and more. Hopping between genres will be a big feature, spanning everything from alt pop and R&B to soul and reggae, all across the first weekend of the broader festival. Sydney Festival's Blak Out program is similarly worth hitting up the event for alone. ILBIJERRI Theatre Company's world-premiere production Big Name, No Blankets will pay tribute to the Warumpi Band; dance performance Mutiara will also make its debut, as set among Broome's early pearling industry; Anita Heiss adapts her own novel Tiddas for the stage; and GURR ERA OP will feature four Torres Strait Islander women who were born on the mainland explore the impact of the rising sea. Other standouts on the full lineup include Courtney Barnett playing a two-part performance at City Recital Hall; Night Songs at Coney Island, which will feature choral tunes at Luna Park; and Encantado, which will tell First Nations tales from Brazil thanks to Lia Rodrigues' choreographer, 11 dances and 140 bright blankets, and heads to Sydney Opera House. Also, Arka Kinari will be hitting the harbour with its music production that's powered by the sun and moved by the wind, and Kate Miller-Heidke's new musical-comedy Bananaland will make its Sydney debut, [caption id="attachment_919319" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Darren Thomas[/caption] Elsewhere, Dinosaur World Live will continue Australia's fascination with the ancient creatures (see also: Jurassic World: The Exhibition, for example); annual favourite Sydney Symphony Under the Stars: Pictures in the Sky returns to Parramatta Park; theatre production Things Hidden Since the Foundation of the World riffs on murder-mystery podcasts; Orpheus & Eurydice gets reimagined in contemporary times by Opera Australia; and the Art Gallery of New South Wales' Louise Bourgeois: Has the Day Invaded the Night or Has the Night Invaded the Day?, Kandinsky and Tacita Dean exhibitions all link in. And, also on the music roster: everyone from sitarist Anoushka Shankar and Irish folk singer Lisa O'Neill to Joe Camilleri and Deborah Conway paying tribute to Elvis Presley, plus a feast of tunes at the ACO Neilson. [caption id="attachment_923482" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sammi Landweer[/caption] Yes, 2024 is set for a busy start. "Get ready for a blockbuster summer that speaks to the heart and soul of Sydney — the best harbour city in the world," said Ansell. "With an explosive music program and the biggest to date, 2024 also offers spellbinding theatre, exquisite dance, electrifying circus and immersive experiences that lift Sydney's underbelly — see you in January at The Thirsty Mile," [caption id="attachment_923487" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lennart Sjoberg[/caption] [caption id="attachment_923488" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Moritz Kustner[/caption] Sydney Festival 2024 runs from Friday, January 5–Sunday, January 28 at venues across the city. For further details and to buy tickets from 12pm on Thursday, October 26, visit the Sydney Festival website. Top image: Mark Tantrum.
The unthinkable happens. Disaster hits, society collapses and the bulk of the world's population becomes shuffling, brain-munching members of the undead. Yes, a zombie apocalypse is in full swing — but how long does it last? In The Walking Dead's case, the answer is 11 seasons. Ten have already aired since 2010, and the show's final go-around will arrive in 2021. Whether you're well acquainted with its dystopian world, or you've somehow missed this TV horror classic, that means there's already 146 episodes to sink your teeth into. The story, as adapted from the comic book series of the same name, will sound familiar. But you don't squeeze over a decade's worth of life out of the concept without delivering some drastic twists and turns — and plenty of gore, too. The premise: awakening from a coma, sheriff's deputy Rick Grimes (Andrew Lincoln) learns that the zombie-free life he previously knew has well and truly disappeared. His first aim is to find his wife and son, but that's not the most straightforward feat when you're surrounded by walkers.
As mobile phones have evolved over the past three decades, every stage has had its charms. In the late 90s, Nokia's came with the wonder that is Snake. In the early 00s, devices got tiny. Since Apple released the iPhone in 2007, we all hate buttons. Then there are flip phones, which date back to the 80s, were hugely popular in the first wave of affordable handsets and offer something unique — the thrill that comes with slamming one shut. Thanks to Samsung, it seems that sensation will no longer be the domain of fond memories and 90s-set cinema, with the technology giant adapting the concept to the smartphone era. While clamshell handsets have never completely gone away, they don't tend to go hand-in-hand with touch screens. Samsung is solving that problem by making their new model foldable in the centre instead of flipping from the top, according to reports by CNBC. Speaking with the network, IT and mobile communications division CEO DJ Koh said the company would unveil its new phone later this year, with more details about size, cost and the device's release date likely to be announced at the Samsung Developer Conference in November. The handset is expected to use a single screen that's capable of being folded in the middle, and not two separate screens that are hinged together. Users will be able to use the phone both when it's folded and unfolded, although it'll have more functionality when it's in the latter state. Koh also pointed out that the foldable device won't just be a tablet in a more compact form. In short, it's set to serve up something a bit fancier than your old Motorola RAZR — and if it sounds familiar, that's because it's not the first time that Samsung have played around with the idea. The company released a concept video in 2014, showcasing its flexible OLED display and featuring a device that never came to fruition. Samsung also have competition in the foldable phone space, with Huawei reportedly also working on its own version that might make it to market first — although it's apparently targeting a 2019 release date. Via CNBC / The Verge.
Your dreams of ditching the slow peak-hour crawl for a quick flight through the skies could soon become a reality, as Uber reveals it's seriously considering Melbourne as a trial city for its world-first Uber aircraft. Having already flagged the USA's Dallas and Los Angeles as launch cities for its new flying service, dubbed the Elevate project, the ride share company now has Melbourne in its sights for a third location, largely thanks to its booming population. According to 7News, Uber executives have arrived Down Under to discuss opportunities with the government and to explore how a place like Melbourne could handle a flying ride share system, with passengers catching aircraft instead of cars. Uber's Head of Aviation Eric Allison told 7News that with rapidly growing populations in Sydney and Melbourne, "We see that there is a clear need for this type of service." Earlier this year, the company showed off new plans for its groundbreaking foray into air travel, at the Uber Elevate Summit. Based on these latest designs, the system would operate using electric vertical take-off and landing vehicles (eVTOLs), with helipad-style takeoff and landing 'Skyports' located on high rooftops at key points around the city. Passengers would be able to tee up a flight using the Uber app, then be driven to a nearby launch pad. "The button press will orchestrate you a car to get to the sky port and then to take you away from the sky port to get you to your final destination," Allison explained to 7News. In an example of how fast Uber Air trips could be, Uber has said that an average 55-minute trip to Melbourne Airport could be cut down to just 5 minutes. And in excellent news for your bank account, the flights would apparently cost no more than an Uber X. Here's a look at how it will work: https://youtu.be/JuWOUEFB_IQ If Melbourne's given the green light as Uber's third test city, we could see trial flights begin as early as 2020, with regular services kicking off by 2023. While this all sounds a bit too good to be true, we do hope we'll be Jetsons-ing around the city for pittance soon. Via au.news.yahoo.com Images: Uber and Humphreys & Partners Architects, Gannett Fleming, Corgan and Pickard Chilton.
Brisbane is burger crazy. We're a meat between bread kind of folks — and veggies between rolls, too — and we're proud of it. Before every corner boasted what's become one of the city's dietary staples, though, someone had to lead the way. Meet Ohio Café, the place that literally brought the burg to Brissie. You can't get any more iconic than that. In fact, Ohio even pre-dates the golden arches in Australia. Mosey over to Clayfield for one of seven types of burgers, spanning ham, steak, chicken, chicken with bacon, bacon, fish, lamb and veg, or order delivery if you live in the area — although, part of the fun of eating somewhere with so much history is actually visiting, nestling into the booths and kicking back old-school style.
Everyone loves Byron Bay, but there are so many northern New South Wales towns to explore outside of the tourist hotspot with just as much charm — if not more. When you want to escape it all, plan a road trip down the coast to towns like Fingal Head, Kingscliff, Casuarina, Cabarita Beach and Brunswick Heads. And when you truly want to tune out, book into the Kyoto Mountain Lodge where you'll sleep among the trees, which is just 15 minutes away from Brunswick Heads. Surrounded by a rainforest sanctuary, this retreat has a fully equipped kitchen, fast internet and an indoor fireplace. The location is considered a 'primitive campsite' — you'll need a four-wheel drive to get to its location atop a mountain — but once you're there the views over the rainforest and the outdoor showers will make the trek well worth its while.
Stellar LGBTQIA+ celebrations, the Sunshine State capital and sparkling spring weather: that's the Melt Festival formula every year, including in 2025. Brisbane's annual ode to "queer joy, protest and pride", as Melt Executive Producer Emmie Paranthoiene dubs it, is taking over the River City between Wednesday, October 22–Sunday, November 9. On the lineup: 18 days packing more than 60 venues with hundreds of performances and events. Getting excited about 2025's Melt Festival has been easy for a few months now. First, the Brisbane LGBTQIA+ fest announced that Broadway icon Bernadette Peters was making the River City her only Australian stop just for the event. Then, it also confirmed that the River Pride Parade would float its boats for another year. After that came news of 1000 Voices, uniting singers from queer and pride choirs en masse. Next came its initial big program drop. Now the full bill has been unveiled — one that Paranthoiene describes as "celebrating the full spectrum of LGBTQIA+ voices, from bold new talent to iconic artists who continue to break boundaries with this diverse program. Melt is a love letter to our community and everyone's invited to the party." Think: pageants, parades, musical theatre, comedy, choral installation, burlesque, visual arts, theatre, films such as Lesbian Space Princess and The Rocky Horror Picture Show, and plenty more. The fringe-style celebration of queer arts and culture fills Brisbane Powerhouse, and also spreads further across the city. Sugar by Tomáš Kantor is one new highlight, with the cabaret taking cues from Pretty Woman and boasting tunes from Chappell Roan, who has been on the Melt lineup herself in the past. Or, catch the return of BRIEFS with Jealousss, plus the Briefs Bus doing guided tours that explore Brisbane's queer history. Comedian Urzila Carlson is on the program, too, as is actor and activist Zoe Terakes (Ironheart, The Office, Talk to Me) doing an in-conversation session. 2025 newcomer Melting Pot is giving Brisbane Powerhouse a pop-up venue each week, featuring the likes of QUIVR DJs, Miss First Nation heats and queer line dancing — plus Melt artists putting on showcases and other surprises. Theatrical performance Rhythmology digs into factory resets as a theme, while daytime disco Play Date is designed for families. [caption id="attachment_1017773" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Atmosphere Photography[/caption] Reuben Kaye, the full Miss First Nation drag contest, a queer wrestle party, Femme Follies Burlesque: they're all on the lineup from past announcements. Kaye is heading to the fest to give his cabaret show enGORGEd, which'll feature Camerata — Queensland's Chamber Orchestra, its Sunshine State premiere. Shining the spotlight on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander drag queens, Miss First Nation is also making a date with Brisbane for the first time, bringing the finale to the city after putting on state heats around the nation in the lead-up. The Tivoli is your go-to for Melt's high-energy queer wrestle-party, while Femme Follies Burlesque will bring its sapphic moves to The Wickham. Or, you can catch The Lucky Country, a new musical about what it means to be Australian — and the myths and contradictions that come with it — in 2025. Malacañang Made Us and Whitefella Yella Tree are also treading the boards, the first about the Filipino Australian experience and the second telling a love story. There's also a queer boat party on floating venue Oasis; the return of Queer PowerPoint; and a drag Scream Queen shindig with Naomi Smalls and Yvie Oddly, plus Drag Race UK's Kyran Thrax. Or, check out a heap of instruments and performers suspended by rope to pay tribute to Brisbane's punk history, Gerwyn Davies' series of portraits in collaboration with Open Doors Youth Service's trans and gender-diverse young people, and Instagram imagery given a new life in Micah Rustichelli's Demon Rhythm. [caption id="attachment_1007544" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Claudio Raschella[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1007548" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David Kelly[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1007545" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Markus Ravik[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1007547" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Gregory Lorenzutti[/caption] Melt Festival 2025 runs from Wednesday, October 22–Sunday, November 9. Head to the festival website for more details. River Pride Parade images: brizzypix.
More totes, less plastic: that's been the motto of supermarkets and state governments around the country over the past few years, as plastic shopping carriers have been phased out by stores and the authorities alike. But if you're the kind of shopper who always leaves their own bags at home, you might've simply swapped the thin, single-use plastic variety for their thicker, reusable counterparts. Now, Woolworths and Big W are ditching those nationally as well. Announced to celebrate World Environment Day on Sunday, June 5, the two chains will phase out all of its remaining plastic shopping bags — which includes 15-cent versions at Woolies, and both 15-cent and 45-cent versions at Big W. The move also covers bags not only in stores, but for online orders as well. Exactly when they'll stop being available depends on the brand, with Woolies gradually making the move over the next year, and Big W committing to scrapping them completely by the end of June 2023. Those two timelines are very similar, though — so, by July 2023, you won't be buying reusable plastic bags if you've forgotten your own totes. Woolies will still keep its recycled paper carriers on offer, however, saving you from lugging out your purchases in your arms if you gone shopping without bags. And, Big W is introducing additional bag options alongside its existing printed totes and other fabric bags. Western Australian Woolies stores have already made the switch, since back in March. South Australia and Northern Territory will follow from September 2022, with other states doing the same afterwards — with exact dates for New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Tasmania and the ACT yet to be announced. Yes, that means that your shopping will help do the environment a solid — although, there'll still be plastic bags available for fruit and vegetables, but the supermarket is exploring more sustainable options for those as well. Woolworths will start phasing out reusable plastic bags over the next year, while Big W will ditch them by the end of June 2023. For further information, head to the Woolworths and Big W websites.
With the Olympic Games on their way to Brisbane in 2032, complete with the Brisbane Cricket Ground getting torn down and rebuilt for the huge sports event, Woolloongabba is set to look a whole lot different over the next decade. The inner-city suburb's massive makeover mightn't stop there, either, with a proposal put forward for a new $1.2-billion precinct on Stanley Street. Developer Trenert has unveiled plans for a space it's calling Station Square, which would sprawl across a hectare if it gets approved. Included are a five-star hotel, shops, restaurants, bars, apartments, social housing and green space — and reopening the Chalk Hotel for the first time since 2015. The aim is to have Brisbanites enjoying Station Square by 20230, which means wandering through its 7000 square metres of parks and open space, working in its 50,000 square metres of office space, and living in 165 residential apartments and 114 units dedicated as affordable and social housing. There'll also be 6000 square metres of retail and dining, plus a hotel featuring 320 suites for guests and 120 private residences. Getting the Chalk Hotel back in business is no minor feat, either. Other plans to reopen the pub were floated back in 2017, but didn't come to fruition (as the shuttered space just a short stroll from the Gabba has reminded Brisbane since). It won't be called the Chalk, though, instead reclaiming its original moniker — so you'll be getting a pre- and post-Olympics beer, and a post-cricket or -footy brew as well, at the Railway Hotel, which is what the spot was named back when it was originally built in 1889. The heritage-listed watering hole would be the centrepiece of the entire precinct, which Trenert has proposed to capitalise upon the Queensland Government's aim to revitalise the area in the lead up to the River City becoming the temporary centre of the sporting world. "The government investment in the Gabba stadium and Cross River Rail are the catalysts for the transformation of the Gabba, and this is an investment in that vision," said Trenert Managing Partner Peter Priest, announcing Station Square. "We're looking forward to delivering much needed housing as part of the Gabba transformation, putting homes adjacent to transport infrastructure and creating a vibrant 24-hour precinct." "The government's aim is to transform the Gabba precinct into a vibrant mixed-use hub, with access to world-class public transport as well as improved public spaces to encourage more visitors to the area," added Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning and Minister Assisting the Premier on Olympics Infrastructure Steven Miles. "This sort of private sector investment is an important part of delivering on that vision. Urban renewal of the Gabba precinct can be an obvious Olympic legacy and this proposal has the opportunity to address a clear need for greater housing affordability in the inner city." For more information on Station Square, head to Trenert's website. We'll update you if and when further details are revealed and/or confirmed.
Located in Burketown, Yagurli Tours is a First Nations-owned and operated tour company. With local Gangalidda and Garawa guides, these experiences offer a unique opportunity to learn about Tropical North Queensland from the Traditional Custodians of the land. Yagurli Tours offer five different immersive adventures, like Yaliya's Stories (Stargazing) on Australia's largest salt pans and the Gambumanda Sunset Cruise with dinner and drinks. Also on offer is the Marrija 4WD Cultural Tour and Aloft Hot Air Balloon flights showcasing the Albert River, salts pans and the Arafura Sea in the Gulf of Carpentaria. Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland.
When Queensland's Go Cards were introduced, they were billed as a quicker, easier way to pay for public transport — but if you've ever had trouble topping up, been wrongly slugged for not touching off or been forced to pay paper ticketing prices after leaving your card at home, then you might disagree. In fact, you've probably been dreaming of a day when you won't need that little piece of plastic. Well, we have good news: ditching your Go Card is about to become a reality. Back in 2018, it as revealed that the Queensland Government was planning to trial and implement electronic payment methods for public transport — and, as of this month, the first such trial is underway. If catching a tram on the Gold Coast is in your future, you can now pay for your ticket using your smartphone, MasterCard or AMEX credit or debit card, or smart watch. In effect since Monday, December 14, the trial is part of the Queensland Government $371 million smart-ticketing project — which is designed to complement rather than replace the existing system. So, if you do happen to be attached to your Go Card for some reason, you can keep using it. And, this test run is ongoing, taking place across 19 the Gold Coast's 19 light rail stations from Helensvale right through to Broadbeach South. Patrons just need to touch their phone, card or watch to the bright pink ticketing machine before boarding a tram, then tap off when they hop off. https://twitter.com/TransLinkSEQ/status/1338665126677852161 A caveat: if catching a tram is just part of your public transport journey, you'll still want to use your Go Card, given that you can't transfer your ticket to a bus or train under the current trial. Also, the test is only available for adult fares, not concessions. If you aren't visiting the Goldie any time soon — or you aren't jumping on a tram while you're there — the plan is to roll out the system across all of Queensland in the next three years. Exact timings of when Brisbanites can expect to ditch their Go Cards hasn't yet been revealed, however. Smart ticketing is currently being trialled on the Gold Coast tram network, across 19 light rail stations. For further details, check out the Queensland Government statement and head to the Translink website. Top image: Bahnfrend via Wikimedia Commons.
Snorkelling in the rainforest? Absolutely. About 20 minutes north of Port Douglas, Back Country Bliss Adventures offers a tour where you'll drift down the river through the Daintree. Sometimes it's a gentle journey through shallow waters where you can see fish and freshwater turtles, as well as water lizards and possibly even the elusive little platypus. But, if there's been a fresh downpour of rain, you'll find yourself on a more adventurous and fast flowing trip. The full-day Mossman Gorge Adventure Day takes you along the Mossman River and includes lunch and a smoking ceremony by the Traditional Custodians of this area, the Kuku Yalanji People. If you'd like an even bigger adventure, take the ten-kilometre Manjal Jimalji Hike and encounter the flora and fauna of the forest and boulders as you climb up for spectacular Daintree views. Plus, you can donate to Rainforest Rescue when booking your trip to help protect the future of the Daintree Rainforest long after your visit. Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland.
As the sun starts to dip over Brisbane and the skyline reflection makes the river glitter, the bar scene starts buzzing. In a city with a stellar ever-growing bar scene, finding the perfect venue is getting be an increasingly challenging task. But we've got you. Together with Basil Hayden Bourbon, we've selected six excellent Brisbane venues where you and your friends can congregate for your next golden hour outing. All have the perfect mix of intimacy and vibe, where you can debrief about personal dramas with no chance of eavesdropping but also feel like you're one drink away from a party at any given moment. Sit back, pour an Old Fashioned and learn why these spots are perfect picks.
At the beginning of each year, many of us vow to be more health-conscious and eco-friendly, but life gets in the way and it's often too tempting to pick up additive-laden, mass-produced snacks without thinking about the consequences. Ever since the industrial age, convenience has been put above the environment. Not to mention the popularisation of quick 'n' easy foods in the 40s and 50s, with the likes of McDonald's, Spam and TV dinners. But now, with increasing awareness of how our diets impact the planet, it's time to shake up our snack habits for the better. That's why we've teamed up with the folks at Glad and its Glad to be Green range to come up with some oh-so-convenient — and sustainable — snack hacks, so you can better look after yourself and the planet. [caption id="attachment_742407" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trent van der Jagt[/caption] BUY IN BULK When you're at the supermarket, it's all too easy to just buy what you feel like eating that evening. But, this is a surefire way to spend half your life trudging the aisles looking for inspiration. If you plan out what you need for the week, you only need to make one trip rather than several (which, you know, is also good for the environment), and you'll also reduce waste by planning a schedule that makes optimal use of your food. Even better, head on over to an environmentally conscious, waste-free outlet, such as The Source Bulk Foods stores across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, to get the exact volume of pantry staples you need. MEAL PREP LIKE A PRO This one might not seem like a timesaver when you're doing it, but we guarantee you it is — and you'll be thankful that you took the time for days afterward. Cooking multiple portions of food doesn't necessarily mean it takes more time than preparing for just one dish. It also means you will have midweek meals prepped and ready for a quick reheat on those busy days when time seems to get away from you. Also, some dishes can taste better a couple of days later — think curries, stews and soups — so it's a win-win. And, for any baking you're doing, be sure to make the switch to Glad's compostable baking paper. It's certified home compostable, and it even breaks down in a worm farm. PALM OFF PALM OIL Due to its versatility and the relatively low cost of its production, palm oil's use skyrocketed in the 20th century. However, such a quick expansion has been at a huge environmental cost, with native forests in the tropics bulldozed and burned to make way for new plantations. The knock-on effect is huge, with everything from loss of animal habitats to the warming of the atmosphere and the violation of indigenous land rights all attributed to palm oil's so-called popularity. It's an ingredient found in plenty of ready-made food, so, if you care about the environment, you may want to rethink that choccy bar. Thankfully, it's quick and simple to make your own planet-savvy, palm oil-free bites. Think bliss balls, granola bars, savoury muffins, veggie chips — you name it, there are plenty of recipes out there. And, think of the bragging rights when you bring your own homemade snacks to work. SAY HELLO TO SMOOTHIES We've all been down to our local cafe and bought our favourite smoothie or juice without giving a second thought to how easily we can make them at home. Not only do we usually spend too much money on store-bought smoothies, but we're letting all those browning apples, wilted kale bunches and slightly bruised avos go to waste. Instead, save your pennies and throw in any bruised and browned fruit and veg in a blender. Smoothies and juices take no time at all to make, and you'll have a tasty, healthy and filling snack (or brekkie). And, if you're really keen, you can pre-chop your fruit and veg, pop them in Glad's plant-based sandwich bags and throw them in the freezer for those mornings when you hit snooze too many times. TRY OUT ALTERNATIVE PROTEIN SOURCES Australia is a country concerned about over-farming and the environmental impact of agriculture — according to Animals Australia, about 12.1 percent of us are now eating a fully or mostly vegetarian diet, which is up from less than ten percent in 2012. So, if you want to steer clear of the industry while still getting your protein fix, there are plenty of alternatives — from lentil patties and vegetarian sausages to bush tucker. And you can incorporate this ethos into your morning flat white, too. All alternative milks are better for the planet than dairy, with oat milk widely considered the best of the bunch from an environmental impact standpoint. SOUPER SUNDAYS Weekends are great — we get to sink into the sofa, catch up with friends and get to tick off some of the fun things on our to-do lists. But, Sundays always roll around too quickly, with Monday looming ever-closer. Didn't make it to the shops or local farmers market this weekend? We get it, sometimes living your best life gets in the way of chores. But, you probably do still have some food in your fridge and cupboard that needs to be used, and you need lunch for the week. This is where soup is your friend. Get your biggest pot, put all your veg in, add water, stock, herbs, spices and whatever else you fancy and, bingo, you've got a cheap, waste-free meal. Plus, Glad to be Green's, plant-based bags — which are made with 50 percent sugarcane (a renewable resource) and have a smaller carbon footprint — are great for when you want to split your soup into portions and freeze for later. Not only that, but they also have a handy space to date and name the contents to avoid any mix-ups (and potential sore tummies). Go green and visit the Glad website for more tips and tricks.
This Brisbane stalwart has undergone a renovation in recent years and now boasts an impressive multi-level venue to explore. If you're feeling a wee bit flush, or just love a good excuse to slurp some oysters and a flute of bubbles, Gambaro is your spot. Smack bang in the middle of Caxton Street, this Brisbane icon since 1953 gives you a selection of fresher-than-fresh seafood and oysters to round off your week the right way. Take note: if thousands of chanting Broncos fans streaming up the middle of the road isn't your thing, make sure you pick a Sunday when there's not a home game. Image: Gambaro via Facebook
Here at Concrete Playground, we thrive on bringing you the very best of Sydney's cultural happenings. So much so, we decided to get in on the action. To celebrate the start of summer — and the good times that come with it — we're throwing a one-day festival of music, food, drink and sun. On Saturday, November 16, we're taking over a luxe beachside location for a massive summer party, marking the beginning of many balmy nights ahead. Best of all? It's all going down by one of Sydney's most picturesque beaches: Manly. We've partnered up with BATI & RATU by RUM Co of Fiji, too, who'll be bringing a touch of Fijian paradise to our Aussie shores. So, expect plenty of sea breeze, lush decorations, dance-worthy live tunes and, naturally, lots and lots of rum. And, seeing as rum is the drink of pirates, mavericks and seafarers alike, we've decided to keep this summer shindig a bit of a secret. So, while there'll be no 'X marks the spot' business, we're keeping everything under wraps for now. We will, though, be giving away double passes to the party — head this way to be in the running. So, buckle up, beachgoers, because this party will be bringing summer vibes in spades.
Since Tuesday, September 28, local COVID-19 cases have popping up in Brisbane again, which means that a familiar pattern has kicked in once more. We all know what happens from here, with Queensland Health issuing public health alerts about places that've been visited by people who since tested positive — and Brisbanites now keeping an eye on COVID-19 exposure sites. Indeed, naming locations and venues that coronavirus cases have visited is a key element of Queensland's containment strategy, and has been since last year. Also a core part of the plan: requiring people who've attended the same sites at the same time to take action, including self-isolating and getting tested. This time around, a number of high-profile venues are on the list — as tends to happen when new cases pop up. Two of the notable ones right now: Carindale Shopping Centre and Portside Wharf. So, if you've been to either lately, you might have a test and a stint at home in your future. If you went to Carindale, one of the big shopping centres in Brisbane's south, on Sunday, September 26, that may apply to you. Six sites within the centre have been named as close contact venues, which requires immediately quarantining at home, getting tested as soon as you can, completing the online contact tracing form and continuing to quarantine for 14 days even if you get a negative result. You're in that category if you were at Tree of Life between 12–12.20pm, City Chic from 12.05–12.25pm, Platypus Shoes between 12.10–12.35pm, Typo from 12.20–12.40pm, Jay Jays between 1225–12.55pm and BWS from 1.05–1.20pm. A number of Carindale venues have also been listed as casual exposure sites, which requires isolating ASAP, getting tested, then remaining in self-isolation until you get a negative result. That covers Cotton On from 11.55am–12.15pm, Kmart between 12–12.25pm, Big W from 12.35–1pm and Woolworths from 12.45–1.15pm. And, all of Westfield Carindale's level one and level two is named as a low-risk site from 11.55am–1.30pm on the Sunday, too. That calls for getting tested ASAP, then monitoring for symptoms. ⚠️ Public Health Alert ⚠️ Queensland Health is issuing new contact tracing locations for: 📍 Brisbane CBD 📍 Hamilton Full details can be found at: https://t.co/rujm8F3qL4 pic.twitter.com/1BaiS0NXXo — Queensland Health (@qldhealthnews) September 29, 2021 Over at Portside Wharf, the precinct is on the list on multiple days — all as casual contact sites. If you were there on Tuesday, September 21 from 6–9pm, Wednesday, September 22 from 6.30–9pm, Thursday, September 23 from 6–9pm, Friday, September 24 from 7.39–9pm, Saturday, September 25 from 6–9pm, Sunday, September 26 from 6–9pm and/or Monday, September 27 from 6–9pm, you need to isolate ASAP, get tested, then stay in self-isolation until you get a negative result. Other places that've joined the exposure sites list recently venues in Camp Hill, Cannon Hill, Spring Hill, South Brisbane and the CBD — for the full list, head to the Queensland Health website. As always, the usual advice regarding COVID-19 applies anyway. So, requests regarding social distancing, hygiene and getting tested if you're feeling even the slightest possible COVID-19 symptoms in general are still in effect, as they have since March 2020. As last reported on Wednesday, September 29, Queensland currently has 18 active cases. For more information about the status of COVID-19 in Queensland, head to the Queensland COVID-19 hub and the Queensland Health website. Top image: Kgbo via Wikimedia Commons.
