There's not a whole lot that can't be fixed with a big serve of carbs, especially when that involves diving headfirst into a generous bowl of pasta. A slurp of spaghetti or forkful of fettuccine and life suddenly looks very sweet indeed. So we've teamed up with American Express to pick out some of Brisbane's finest pasta-slinging spots — especially the ones where you can easily tap that Amex of yours — to ensure no gnocchi craving ever goes unanswered again. Whether you're recovering from a big night or down in the dumps after a subpar day at work, here are the best places to go when a big bowl of pasta is the only thing that will bring you back to life. Got yourself in another dining situation and need some guidance? Whatever it is, we know a place. Visit The Shortlist and we'll sort you out.
Queensland might be hot, steamy, wet and stormy come summer, but it is also the place to be. Staying in the city isn't in keeping with the spirit of the season, even when there's plenty of fun to be had in the Brisbane sun. Head to a beach, hole up in the mountains or otherwise embrace the elements in that break you know you need: a summer getaway. SURFERS PARADISE See: Descending upon the centre of the Gold Coast sets any summer trip up for sun and fun. The beach is never more than a stroll away, and Cavill Avenue boasts more than its fair share of bars, clubs and restaurants. Wander down the road for a spot of mini golf, head to Broadbeach for some shopping, or jump on a bus to Sea World, Movie World, Dreamworld or Wet'n'Wild. Rest assured, you'll never be bored. Stay: QT Gold Coast is one of Surfers Paradise's newest hotel, and it shows. With its own bar, cafe and spa on site, you might not even want to venture further. Drink: Before your head starts thumping, why not enjoy a Pain Killer? This twist on the Pina Colada combines 60ml Appleton 8yr old, 120ml pineapple juice, 30ml coconut cream and 30ml orange juice, shaken, strained and served over ice. Add a Maraschino cherry and an orange slice for garnish. TAMBORINE MOUNTAIN See: A mountain getaway is just as enjoyable as a beach break, and more so if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the coastline. Tour the breweries, browse the galleries and trek along the many trails. Conquer your fear of heights on the rainforest skywalk, or bask in the glory of the glow-worm caves. Stay: Take your pick – of places, and styles. Camping embraces the back-to-nature vibe, and Thunderbird Park even has its own theme park, as well as lodges if sleeping under the stars isn't for you. Drink: Things might get Dark and Stormy staying up high, and we're not just talking about the weather. Pour 60ml Appleton 8yr Old, 90ml ginger beer and 15ml lime juice into a short glass filled with ice, stir and savour as the clouds form. NOOSA See: Which Noosa do you want to visit? Take your pick! Head to Noosa Heads for Hasting Street's boutique shopping strip, cavalcade of cafes and patrolled Main Beach. Go to Noosaville for chilling in, on or by the river. At Noosa North Shore, you'll find sand dunes, a national park and secluded swimming spots. Stay: If you can't choose where to stay – or want to take in all that Noosa has to offer – then why not try a houseboat? Bring your friends for the ultimate in waterfront accommodation. Drink: Kick back and relax with that summer-time favourite: the Daiquiri. You only need three ingredients and a cocktail glass, and you're on your way to liquid glory. Mix 60ml Appleton V/X, 40ml fresh lime juice and 20ml sugar syrup in a cocktail shaker full of ice, then strain and serve. MOOLOOLABA See: Home to Underwater World's aquarium delights, and a mighty fine surf club too, Mooloolaba is a little sleepy and a little stylish – and that's the way it likes it. Your trip might coincide with a local surf competition, if watching is your thing. Or cruise the canals all year round, and dream about permanent beachside living. Stay: You won't get closer to Mooloolaba's many esplanades of action than the Aegean — or better views, either. Everything you need is in walking distance, be it food, fun or the ocean. Drink: The Mai Tai is a cocktail classic, best enjoyed with a stunning summer view. Throw 30ml lime juice, 15ml orange Curacao, 7.5ml sugar syrup, 7.5ml Orgeat, 30ml Appleton V/X, and 30ml Coruba dark into a shaker, strain and pour over ice. Add a mint sprig and a lime shell, then look longingly out into the distance RAINBOW BEACH See: Known for its shaded sands of up to 72 different colours, Rainbow Beach is the quiet spot to end all quiet spots. Indoor types need not apply, unless you're happy reclining by the sea while others get active. There's fishing, boating and surfing – and diving and gliding, too, of the scuba and sky, and hang and para varieties. Four-wheel driving is the real thing to do, both along the beach and on specific tracks. Stay: Keep close to the main drag while peering out over the sea at Plantation Resort. As an added bonus, The Rainbow Beach Hotel is part of the same complex. Drink: You've enjoyed a spot of fishing – and maybe even caught your own dinner – so here's the drink to match. Mix up 45ml Appleton 8yr, 15ml cognac, 5ml peach brandy, 20ml lemon juice, 45ml water and 10ml sugar syrup, and you have yourself some Fish House Punch. Multiply all quantities by 10 to fill a punch bowl. MONTVILLE See: The only way is up if you want to eat your way through a summer feast. In Montville and its mountainous surrounds, you'll find candy stores, dairies, wineries, the ginger factory and strawberry fields ripe for the picking. You're also a short drive away from the famous Eumundi Markets for more supplies, and from the Glasshouse Mountains if you want to walk it off afterwards. Stay: This one's for the lovers, who'll want to relax the only way you should in such a setting: in a free-standing tree house. With a spa bath overlooking greenery, and a fire to snuggle up around, you'll soon forget what season it is. Drink: Holed up in a cabin and inspired to put pen to paper by your surroundings? You'll want a Hemingway Daiquiri to keep those creative juices flowing. All you'll need is 60ml Appleton V/X, 15ml maraschino liqueur, 20ml lime juice and 15ml grapefruit juice – and a Maraschino cherry for garnish – shaken up with ice. STRADBROKE ISLAND See: First, there are the ocean sights of the ferry ride across. Then, there's beach and bush as far as the eye can see. Checking out the flora and fauna – be it walking under koala-dotted trees, or going whale watching – are common pastimes. And then there's the famous Straddie Pub at Point Lookout. The old buildings may have been torn down, and new ones built, but its reputation remains. Stay: A private lodge suits the laidback island atmosphere, and is perfect for groups. Try Straddie Bungalows, set against nearly 2 acres of Moreton Bay waterfront. Drink: It does get mighty windy over at Stradbroke; however, the only Hurricanes you will see will be in your glass. The original fruity punch is a concoction of 60ml Appleton V/X, 20ml passionfruit puree, 30ml orange juice, 15ml lime juice, 5ml grenadine and 5ml sugar syrup, shaken, strained and served over ice. Then add as much seasonal fruit as you can find. STANTHORPE See: Head inland to eat, drink and be merry, courtesy of a plethora of gourmet food producers of all kinds and styles. There's a foodie event almost every weekend, but Stanthorpe isn't just known for its on-site tasty treats. Take a cooking class during your stay, and learn how to recreate the magic at home afterwards. Stay: When in wine and cheese country, there's only one type of accommodation that fits the bill: bed and breakfast. Head to Diamondvale Cottages to sample the local hospitality not only while you're out and about but overnight too. Drink: Being surrounded by so much wine and cheese might just set your sugary cravings into overdrive – and in need of Treacle. Add 60ml Appleton 8yr old, 10ml sugar syrup, 2 dashes of Angostura bitters and ice slowly to the serving glass a little at a time, constantly stirring. Float the 15ml freshly pressed apple juice over the drink, tasting as you're making, and add orange zest as garnish when it hits the sweet spot. CASUARINA See: So we've ventured over the Queensland border and into the wilds of Northern New South Wales – but this sleepy new stopover is worth the trip. Not yet a tourist trap, but with plenty to explore, this place just past Kingscliff is perfect for baking on the beach, lazing by the pool and doing little else. Well, there's also the nearby Tropical Fruit World, if you need some sights to see. Yes, that's a themed destination devoted to lychees, mangos, papaya and the like – and the home of the big avocado. Stay: Go all-out at Peppers Salt Resort and Spa, with its lagoon pool and top-notch day spa. If there's one spot for spoiling yourself, this is it. Drink: Hang out at a beach resort and channel the essence of a movie star such as Mary Pickford. The silent siren's cocktail namesake will perfect the picture, combining 60ml Appleton V/X, 45ml un-sweetened pineapple juice, 5ml Maraschino liqueur and 5ml grenadine in an ice-filled shaker, then straining and adding a Maraschino cherry. BYRON BAY See: What isn't there to see and do in Byron Bay? Swimming, surfing, sunbaking – all the typical beach activities are covered. Shopping, eating, drinking – all the fun holiday things, too. Depending on the time of year, there's probably a festival in town. And for something different, head to the hinterland to check out the serenity of the Crystal Castle and Shambhala Gardens. Stay: Accommodation is abundant in this popular destination, but there's only one place to experience the lifestyle of former lighthouse keepers: Lighthouse Cottages. You'll be surrounded by the peace and quiet of a national park, and gifted a truly amazing view. Drink: Find the right part of Byron, and come nightfall, you might feel like the only ones around. Whip up a Zombie to embrace the mood. Blend 30ml Appleton V/X, 30ml Appleton 8yr old, 25ml lime juice, 15ml grapefruit juice, 45ml unsweetened pineapple juice, 7.5ml Falernum, 10ml Maraschino, 5ml grenadine, 2 dashes Angostura bitters, and 2.5ml Pernod with ice until evenly mixed through, then top with a pineapple spear, orange slice, cherry and a mint sprig. Avoid brains.
If you fancy yourself a bit of a cocktail connoisseur, Lûmé is about to jump to the top of your must-visit list. Last night, bartender Orlando Marzo, from the South Melbourne restaurant, was crowned the world's best bartender. Which means Melbourne is now officially home to some of the tastiest cocktails in the world. Marzo took out the gong at the World Class Bartender of the Year competition in Berlin, where he beat more than 10,000 other bartenders from around the world for the prize. World Class, which is in its tenth year, is the biggest bartending competition in the world and culminates in four days of finals, during which Marzo impressed judges with a particularly notable Zapaca rum aperitif in a challenge called 'Before and After'. You might see this pre-dinner tipple pop-up on Lûmé's menu one day very soon. Before Marzo heads back Down Under to join the ranks of Australia's bartending elite — which includes Maybe Frank's Andrea Gauldi, who took out best bartender in Australia at last year's competition — he'll be travelling the world, making cocktails and judging competitions. When he's back, we'll let you know what drinks has plans to serve up at the South Melbourne restaurant and what pop-ups he plans to host. Who knows, he may even follow in Gauldi's steps and open a bar. You can check out the full list of past and present winners at the World Class website. Image of Lûmé: Josie Withers, Visit Victoria
On a hot summer's day, a sweet frozen treat will always hit the spot. A new brand has just launched in Australia that's providing a dairy-free solution to your sweet summer cravings. Originating in Thailand, Buono has created 100 percent plant-based frozen desserts that are vegan, gluten-free and contain no artificial colours or flavours. Buono has two types of frozen treats available in Australia currently. The first, Buono Boru Boru, is a tub of bubble tea-inspired ice cream. It's vegan, of course, made using coconut milk and containing flavour-filled balls reminiscent of the those you get in bubble tea. The Buono Boru Boru comes in two different flavours: classic Thai tea and genmaicha, which combines the flavours of green tea and roasted rice. The second range of dessert goodness Buono has created are called Mochi Ice. Made with coconut milk, these ice cream-filled mochi balls are a great bite-sized snack, but, be warned, you might find yourself returning to your freezer multiple times a day to grab one. They come in a range of flavours including strawberry, black sesame, vanilla, mango, coconut, chocolate and Japanese green tea. If you find yourself craving a cold creamy treat this summer, the Buono range is available at Coles and Woolworths stores nationally — and can be delivered to your door via Coles Online. Buono's range of plant-based desserts are available to order online or at select Coles, Woolworths and specialty stores nationwide. 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.
Let's face it, sometimes we just don't have the energy for crowded clubs where we're practically yelling at our mates over deafening music (which essentially just becomes noise after a while) just to make ourselves heard. If you still fancy that lifestyle, kudos to you. However, for those looking for nights out in more cosy, laidback surrounds (with quality drinks, of course), we've partnered with American Honey to gather a list of bars in Brisbane that will offer just that. From intimate, nook-filled venues to lively establishments, the bars below are perfect the next time you want to sit back, relax and soak up quality time with quality people. COVENT GARDEN, WEST END Located in the heart of West End, Covent Garden is a contemporary botanical-themed gin house that exudes a very conversation-friendly vibe. This leafy, verdant oasis is awash with calming bright hues and natural light, with a welcoming atrium-like vibe that's completed with a large stained-glass dome that sits above the main dining area. With its comfortable seating and lofty ceilings — not to mention several al fresco nooks — if this spot isn't already high up on your rotation, it soon will be. Not only does this Boundary Street spot boast an impressive cocktail list, but it's also known for its 100-percent gluten-free and coeliac-friendly menu, making it an easy win for even the pickiest of your mates. Our tip: pair your plate with a super smooth American Honey, fresh lime and soda to really lean in to those golden-hour vibes. THE PINEAPPLE HOTEL, KANGAROO POINT A Brisbane classic, The Pineapple Hotel is a no-brainer if you're looking for a spot for quality kick-ons after a game at the Gabba. Head in with mates to grab a post-game drink, and pair your bev with a juicy steak or woodfired pizza. Settle into a couch at the Pineapple's handsome Helsby's Ale House, where you can choose from 16 local and interstate beers on tap, including a house lager. The Pineapple also boasts a dedicated sports bar, while the breezy Park Bar, which overlooks the adjacent Raymond Park, features both indoor and outdoor seating, a solid all-day menu and live music on Saturdays. HEY CHICA!, FORTITUDE VALLEY Have you ever come across a neighbourhood street party that you wanted to join but couldn't bring yourself to do it out of fear of feeling like you were partying in a tin of sardines? Well, good news — Fortitude Valley's Hey Chica! offers the same exuberant street party energy but without you having to fight for personal space. There's always something happening at this vibrant Brunswick Street venue, whether it's Taco Tuesdays, Salsa Wednesdays or Tropical Thursdays, making it an ideal spot to both start your night and keep it going. Stay fuelled with a selection of pan-Latin street food-inspired dishes while sipping on serves like an impossibly smooth American Honey, fresh lime and soda, or summer-ready cocktails like mango coconut daiquiri or watermelon frose. CAN YOU KEEP A SECRET?, WOOLLOONGABBA Can You Keep A Secret? No, that wasn't a question, but rather the name of this vintage-inspired Woolloongabba bar. But now that we have your attention, don't sleep on this stellar venue located in a heritage listed Stanley Street building that serves up sophisticated signature and classic cocktails, with considered decor inspired by your nan's living room (in the very best way, of course). Keeping with the theme, Can You Keep A Secret? also houses a small vintage clothing boutique within its walls, while a regular lineup of lo-fi live music is the perfect soundtrack for weekend catch-up sessions. MRS J RABBITS, WOOLLOONGABBA Make your Narnia dreams come true and walk through a literal wardrobe where you'll find Mrs J Rabbits, a moody speakeasy hidden somewhere on Logan Road. (Okay, it's on the top floor of Electric Avenue to be precise, but you'll still need a password to get in.) This inviting spot features both spacious couches and intimate tables so no matter what size your crew is, you'll be able to get settled in for a night of good conversation as you sip on cocktails with suitably fairytale-inspired names like the Queen of Hearts and Glass Slipper. There's also a regular lineup of live music, including jazz on Friday and Saturday nights. For more ways to celebrate golden moments with mates, head to the American Honey website.
By now you’re probably well acquainted with the rooftop pool terrace, so it’s time we introduced the restaurant. A welcome addition to Brisbane CBD’s central dining scene, Lennons Restaurant & Bar is here to cater for everyone at any time, on any day, at any budget. A simple escalator ride from the mall, indulge in the a la carte menu, speed through the 60-minute 'Lunch Timed' concept or take your pick of the daily lunchtime deals. Located within the new Next Hotel, the venue is named after the original dwelling. With floor-to-ceiling glass windows that look onto Queen Street Mall, the interior finds that warm balance between modern sophistication and comfortable class. Large spaced with natural light? Tick. Executive chef worth writing home about? Tick (Todd Adams previously worked at Stokehouse and the Euro). Business lunch? Tick. Cheap and quick bite? Tick. Totally air conditioned? Tick (can’t be underestimated in summer). Breakfast, lunch and dinner? Tick. The a la carte menu offers everything from salads and burgers to pasta and woodfired pizza, but if you’re out to treat yourself, order a steak ($32–$38) hot off the parrilla grill. Lennons steaks could be the best you find outside of a specialty grill restaurant in Brisbane. Served with a whole bulb of roasted garlic, it's even better if you add the roasted honey pumpkin with spiced nuts and seeds side. Realising the Monday to Friday clientele consisted mainly of time-poor business people who wanted quick food (not fast food), the restaurant introduced Lunch Timed. "Making your time count", the express lunch menu delivers a three-course meal in under 60 minutes, or you get half off the bill. Either way, you’re winning. The menu consists of a set entree and dessert, and your choice of three mains. If you’re penny-pinching, from Monday to Friday there is also a daily lunch deal, $10 burgers on Monday, "veal-like-a-schnitzel" Thursday $15, and so on. The range Lennons shows makes it a winner among hotel restaurants. And if you haven’t been up to the pool terrace yet, then you’ve got some work to do.
The latest big-screen gems aren't the only movies on offer at a heap of Australian film festivals in 2024. When Europa! Europa returned in February and March, it also featured a retrospective dedicated to Poor Things director Yorgos Lanthimos. On this year's German Film Festival lineup: a spotlight on The Fire Within: A Requiem for Katia and Maurice Krafft's Werner Herzog. And, when the Spanish Film Festival hits picture palaces around the country in June and July, it'll pay tribute to the one and only Salvador Dalí. 2024 marks 120 years since the Spanish artist's birth, so this annual showcase of films from Spain and Latin America is including an ode to the surrealist great through cinema. Documentary Salvador Dalí: In Search of Immortality is filled with archival footage, 1929 short film Un Chien Andalou is a collaboration between Dalí and filmmaker Luis Buñuel, and 1930's L'Age d'Or is penned by the pair. Also featured: Alfred Hitchcock's Spellbound, in which Dalí was responsible for the dream sequence. When you're not celebrating Dalí at this year's Spanish Film Festival, there's plenty more to see — including opening night's Chile-set The Movie Teller from director Lone Scherfig (The Kindness of Strangers) and co-writer Walter Salles (Central Station), as starring the Buenos Aires-born Bérénice Bejo (Final Cut) and Barcelona-born Daniel Brühl (All Quiet on the Western Front). It'll kick off the fest in each of its stops in Canberra, Adelaide, Brisbane, Perth, Melbourne, Sydney, Byron Bay and Ballina, with the event's full tour running from Tuesday, June 11 (when it launches in the Australian Capital Territory) to Wednesday, July 10 (when every leg around the nation wraps up). When Un Amor, the latest from Elisa & Marcela director Isabel Coixet, pops up on the lineup, it's part of a focus on the filmmaker. Elegy, which stars Ben Kingsley (The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar) and Penélope Cruz (Ferrari), is also on the spotlight bill — as is 2013's Yesterday Never Ends and the Monica Bellucci (Mafia Mamma)-led Those Who Love from 1998. Other highlights span drama The Girls at the Station, a coming-of-age tale about three girls who grow up at a juvenile detention centre; Something Is About to Happen, focusing on a woman who loses her job, which won Malena Alterio (Strangers) a Goya; Jokes & Cigarettes, a biopic of comedian Eugenio; and vino-focused documentary Rioja: The Land of a Thousand Wines. Or, there's Checkmates, which rocketed up the Spanish box office with an underdog story about kids trying to win the Spanish Chess Championship — and Saturn Return, which takes inspiration from Spanish band Los Planetas. The timely Artificial Justice follows a judge assessing if AI can be used in the justice system, and Vera and the Pleasures of Others focuses on a 17-year-old girl who likes listening to exactly what the title spells out. Then there's the roster of titles from Latin America, such as Totem, which takes place across one day in a Mexican household; Bad Actor, which tells a post-#MeToo era tale; sci-fi thriller Aire: Just Breathe; and wellness dark comedy The Practice. There's more where they came from, including one helluva closing-night pick: Alejandro Jodorowsky's iconic The Holy Mountain, adding more surrealism beyond Dalí to the program. Spanish Film Festival 2024 Dates: Tuesday, June 11–Wednesday, July 10: Palace Electric Cinema, Canberra Wednesday, June 12–Wednesday, July 10: Palace Nova Eastend Cinemas, Adelaide Thursday, June 13–Wednesday, July 10: Palace James Street and Palace Barracks, Brisbane Thursday, June 13–Wednesday, July 10: Palace Raine Square Cinemas, Luna Leederville and Luna on SX, Perth Friday, June 14–Wednesday, July 10: The Astor Theatre, Palace Cinema Como, Palace Brighton Bay, Palace Penny Lane, Palace Westgarth, The Kino, Palace Balwyn and Pentridge Cinema, Melbourne Wednesday, June 19–Wednesday, July 10: Palace Norton Street, Palace Moore Park, Palace Central and Chauvel Cinema, Sydney Friday, June 21–Wednesday, July 10: Palace Byron Bay, Byron Bay Friday, June 21–Wednesday, July 10: Ballina Fair Cinemas, Ballina The 2024 Spanish Film Festival tours Australia in June and July. For more information or to buy tickets, visit the festival's website.
If you're a movie-loving Australian resident, and you're also constantly dreaming of overseas getaways, odds are you have the country's annual film festival lineup to thank. In March, the French holiday cravings kick in courtesy of the relevant cinema showcase. Then, it's time for Spanish fantasies beamed down from the silver screen. A trip to Germany comes next, followed by a whole heap of Scandinavian vacation cravings — and, when September hits, prepare to start wishing you're in Italy. Yes, it's Italian Film Festival time again, and it's doing the rounds with quite the lineup — including everything from Italian box office hits and Sophia Loren-starring classics through to a documentary about a shoemaker to the stars helmed by Call Me By Your Name and Suspiria's Luca Guadagnino. As the fest always does, it's touring its just-announced program around the country, kicking off in Sydney, then heading to Canberra, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Byron Bay, all between Tuesday, September 13–Sunday, October 16. This year's IFF will open with Belli Ciao, which did huge box office business in Italy. It both stars and is co-written by comic duo Pio D'Antini and Amedeo Grieco, who play once-inseparable friends who went their own ways after high school — Pio leaves for Milan, Amedeo stays in their hometown — and now reunite, complete with a north-versus-south culture clash. Among there, highlights include The Hummingbird, an ensemble drama with Nanni Moretti (Three Floors) and Berenice Bejo (Final Cut), which hits IFF fresh from premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival; drama Lord of the Ants, about the controversial 1960s trial of intellectual Aldo Braibanti, which screens direct from its Venice Film Festival competition debut; and The King of Laughter, which features Toni Servillo (The Hand of God) as actor and playwright Eduardo Scarpetta. From the documentary selection, two big titles stand out. The aforementioned Salvatore: Shoemaker of Dreams focuses on Salvatore Ferragamo, while Ennio — The Maestro sees director Giuseppe Tornatore (Cinema Paradiso) pay tribute to legendary Italian composer Ennio Morricone (The Hateful Eight). Elsewhere on the bill, there's rom-com Breaking Up in Rome, homecoming drama Nostalgia, play-to-screen adaptation The Great Silence, the fairground-set Swing Ride and prison The Inner Cage — the latter of which also features Servillo. In fact, he pops up again in Casanova's Return, as an acclaimed Italian director making his last movie about Casanova. More than 25 films grace the full lineup — including blasts from the past, such as closing night's Sophia Loren and Marcello Mastroianni-starring Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow. To celebrate the centenary of filmmaker Pier Paolo Pasolini's birth, three of his iconic movies — all adaptations of literary works — will screen as well, with The Canterbury Tales, Arabian Nights and The Decameron all getting big-screen showings. ITALIAN FILM FESTIVAL 2022 DATES: Tuesday, September 13–Wednesday, October 12 — Palace Central, Palace Norton St, Palace Verona and Chauvel Cinema, Sydney Wednesday, September 14–Wednesday, October 12 — Palace Electric Cinema, Canberra Thursday, September 15–Wednesday, October 12 — Palace Balwyn, Palace Brighton Bay, Palace Cinema Como, Palace Westgarth, The Kino, Pentridge Cinema, The Astor and Cinema Nova, Melbourne Wednesday, September 21–Sunday, October 16 — Palace Barracks and Palace James Street, Brisbane Wednesday, September 21–Sunday, October 16 — Palace Nova Eastend Cinemas and Palace Nova Prospect Cinemas, Adelaide Thursday, September 22–Sunday, October 16 — Palace Raine Square, Luna Leederville, Luna on SX and Windsor Cinema, Perth Friday, September 23–Sunday, October 9 — Palace Byron Bay The 2022 Italian Film Festival tours Australia between Tuesday, September 13–Sunday, October 16. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the festival website.
Forget long-haul flights and lengthy stopovers — our closest neighbours are brimming with idyllic islands, gorgeous beaches and scenic regions just waiting to be enjoyed. It's never too late or too early to start planning your next holiday — and New Zealand has plenty to offer if you're looking for an unforgettable travel adventure in the middle of the year. Between geothermal phenomena and snow-capped peaks, the country is home to first-class skifields, dramatic volcanic landscapes, practically untouched coastal tracks and foodie paradises. While it can be tempting to curl up and stay in come cooler temperatures, nature's most fun playground emerges during winter and an escape to New Zealand is the only way to make the most of the season. To help you get planning for your mid-year break, here are ten places worth working your 2025 travels around. Wānaka Just a one-hour drive from Queenstown over the dramatic Crown Range and through Cardrona Valley is Wānaka, a lakeside village offering an equal level of heart-stirring beauty as its larger sibling. Boasting its own microclimate, Wānaka comes to life in the winter. The waters become icy and the surrounding peaks, which become cloaked in snow, reflect off the lake. The arrival of winter also marks the start of ski season and Wānaka is home to not one, but four ski resorts — each with distinct terrain. There's the world-class Cardrona Alpine Resort, straddling Queenstown and Wānaka, where the southern hemisphere's most extensive terrain park proudly sits alongside a mix of groomed runs and backcountry options. Conquering Roys Peak — one of the South Island's signature hikes — on foot is weather dependent during winter and you might need confident hiking skills, but Treble Cone Ski Area offers breathtaking views of the peak and Lake Wānaka regardless of whether you hit the resort's steep slopes. Rounding out Wānaka's resorts are Snow Farm and Soho Basin by Amisfield, both offering one-of-a-kind experiences. The former is where you'll find New Zealand's only cross-country facility while the latter is home to a guided catskiing experience that will take you deep into the backcountry beyond resort boundaries with catering by Queenstown's lauded wine producer and restaurant Amisfield. Back on solid ground, the family-owned Maude Wines is highly recommended for wine lovers, while beer fans are spoiled for choice with everything from tasting rooms to open-plan breweries and garden bars. [caption id="attachment_986162" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ian Trafford[/caption] Wellington New Zealand's capital is brimming with more restaurants, cafes and craft breweries than you can poke a wizard's staff at. It's no secret that the city has more cafes, bars and restaurants per capita than New York City — meaning you'd have to try pretty hard to have a horrible meal or bevvy in the city. (Here are five spots to get you started at any rate.) Your weekend on the waterfront might also include wandering through street art-filled laneways, copping postcard-worthy views from the top of Mount Vic, taking in some culture at our national museum or getting up close and personal with native birdlife at the world's first fully-fenced urban ecosanctuary. The relatively small Wellington CBD also makes hopping around the city, and between eateries, a breeze. [caption id="attachment_986165" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Miles Holden[/caption] Abel Tasman National Park The Abel Tasman National Park is best known for its coastal track which bypasses stunning shoreline and lush native bush that's accessible year-round. A 60-kilometre one-way journey might seem like a long way to trek, but when you can set your pack down and rest on secluded golden sand beaches, it's well worth it. On the way you'll discover Cleopatra's Pool — a natural rock pool with a moss-lined waterslide — negotiate tidal crossings, walk across a suspension bridge and encounter a seal colony. If you'd prefer a more relaxing adventure, you can take a water taxi or kayak between different locations. Top beaches worthy of a visit include Anchorage Bay, which is home to the track's first large camping spot, Torrent Bay, Kaiteriteri and Awaroa. [caption id="attachment_986166" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Miles Holden[/caption] The Poor Knights Islands Northland's Poor Knights Islands and its underwater network of caves, cliffs and tunnels are renowned for their diving and snorkelling. Jacques Cousteau once rated the area as one of the top ten dives in the world. The sea surrounding the islands has been a marine reserve since 1981, and offers a great variety of underwater habitats to explore, from kelp forest and sponge gardens inhabited by a multitude of exotic fish — many of which aren't found anywhere else in New Zealand, to black coral found in deeper waters and the steep cliffs that plunge up to 100 metres below sea level. If you're willing to brave the colder winter water temperatures, you'll be rewarded with exceptional visibility in the water that's still rich with sealife to observe. Aoraki/Mount Cook Standing at 3724 metres, Aoraki/Mount Cook is New Zealand's tallest mountain. With its sharp peak and plummeting crevasses, the sheer sight is enough to keep you on edge, but the company of the mountain is oddly comforting. Ngai Tahu, the main iwi of the region, consider Aoraki as the most sacred of the ancestors that they had descended from. The name is believed to mean cloud piercer. Ascending the steep peak is no easy feat and should be reserved for the most experienced climbers, or those safely tucked inside a helicopter. Winter transforms the mountain and unleashes its full natural beauty. From Hooker Lake, south of the mountain, the modern explorer can indulge in the ever-inspiring lake and mountain. As you drive into the region, past the electric blue Lake Pukaki, and catch the first glimpse of the mountain in the background, you know you're in for a vision of a lifetime. [caption id="attachment_791440" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Glen Sinclair.[/caption] Wharariki This windswept beach at the top of the South Island has to be one of the country's most photographed sections of coastline. Wharariki is only accessible via a 20-minute track from the end of Wharariki Road, which travels over farmland and through coastal forest. With particularly big seas, sightseeing is the number one attraction here — and the Archway Islands will certainly serve up the goods. The group of four rock formations rising from the tide provide an exception photo opp, especially if you decide to tour the region on horseback. The beach is popular year-round, but winter is the best time to walk the flat shores if you prefer your vistas less busy. [caption id="attachment_610026" align="alignnone" width="1282"] Rob Tucker.[/caption] New Plymouth Sitting on the western knob of the North Island, halfway between Auckland and Wellington, is New Plymouth — one of the country's best-kept secrets and a town bored of being thrown into the same basket as Palmerston North. At the heels of the mighty Mount Taranaki, or mini-Mount Fuji, you'll find a blossoming foodie paradise, a thriving arts scene and world-class festivals like WOMAD. The 13-kilometre coastal walkway is a must when visiting the region — head along the winding trail past the rugged coast and popular surf beaches. Elsewhere, the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery/Len Lye Centre is the first gallery in New Zealand dedicated entirely to a single artist. The structure's undulating stainless steel exterior is a major landmark in the CBD, a work of art in itself, and gives great insight into the groundbreaking artist and his obsession with 'art of movement'. [caption id="attachment_791436" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trevor Klatko.[/caption] Ninety Mile Beach This epic 88-kilometre-long stretch of sand has to be seen to be believed. The famed northland beach starts near Kaitaia and makes its way up to Cape Reinga. At low tide, the beach is officially a public highway, but don't even think about bringing your rental hatchback here — several have been swallowed by the unforgiving seas. The dunes at Te Paki in the north are famously used for bodyboarding — just expect to take home pockets full of sand. Whether you're sliding on down when the weather dips or in full sunshine, bring water and sunscreen. [caption id="attachment_986368" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Miles Holden[/caption] Waipoua Forest The walking track to Tāne Mahuta, the largest known living kauri tree in Aotearoa, in Waipoua Forest only just re-opened at the end of 2024, which makes exploring this pocket of New Zealand even more special. Nearby is Te Matua Ngahere, which just might be the oldest tree in New Zealand. While it's not possible to test the tree to confirm, Waipoua Forest on the whole is incredibly lush, verdant and well worth exploring. Fiordland At the heart of Fiordland sits Milford Sound. A spot that hardly needs an introduction, visiting Milford Sound during the winter months is a chance to experience a completely different side to one of New Zealand's best-known and most-visited landmarks. Famously one of the wettest places not just in New Zealand, but the world, winter is one of the few times in the year when Fiordland dries up just a touch, revealing crystal clear skies and unobstructed views. Although it's still best to be prepared for wet weather, this is the season to try your luck. Just as we retreat inwards during the winter, so too do marine wildlife — during the winter, seals, penguins and dolphins tend to head inwards into the Sound, which makes spotting them in one of New Zealand's most breathtaking vistas a very real possibility. Find your very own Aotearoa New Zealand here. Top image: Miles Holden.
Everyone has one main motivating factor in the career path they choose, and if you're passionate about helping humanity and the state of the world, you've got a bunch of options available. Doctors, lawyers and politicians may take a lot of the credit for shaping our futures but they're not the only options. In fact, there are plenty of other avenues to explore. Whether you're at the beginning of your education, looking for a career change or wanting to gain some additional professional experience, knowing where to start can be hard. That's why we've tracked down a selection of degrees from leading Australian universities to study online via Open Universities Australia(OUA) if you're desperate to make a difference in the world. With the threat of climate change and limited natural resources becoming a reality in the not-too-distant future, the time for a focus on the environment, sustainability and education has never been greater. Here's our list of which degrees to study if you want to inspire or create change. BACHELOR OF EDUCATION Imparting wisdom to our younger generations is a hugely important undertaking — after all, these are the people that'll one day inherit the earth. Curtin University offers one of the best teaching degrees for primary education (years one to six). After studying the Bachelor of Education or the Master of Teaching degree via OUA, you will leave the course with advanced training for leadership roles in a teaching career. Although you'll be studying primarily online, the degree also includes hands-on experience in a range of schools and across year levels, and it culminates in a five-week professional placement. Your studies will also include lesson planning, classroom management, special education and digital literacy. BACHELOR OF ARTS: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Change starts from the ground — so getting involved in community-based projects, be it services, welfare or not-for-profit organisations, is a great way to see your effort being put into action before your very eyes. A Bachelor of Arts in Community Development will hone your communication, critical thinking, ethics and social justice knowledge — and that's just the start. The program from Murdoch University (available online through OUA) focuses on a wide variety of perspectives and solutions that can benefit different communities — from Indigenous and First Nation peoples to overseas aid development. You will graduate with the ability for persuasive oral communication and a broad knowledge of research methods. DIPLOMA IN COMMUNITY WELFARE AND WELLBEING Outside of teaching, another obvious do-gooder career path is within the welfare and health sectors. Whether you're interested in nursing, community service or social work, gaining a Diploma in Community Welfare and Wellbeing from the University of New England allows you to earn credits toward many community-minded degrees — and to develop the foundational skills for employment or toward further study. The course provides students with the theoretical and academic groundwork for a career in overall social care. Within the elective subjects offered, you can opt to specialise in working with members of the community dealing with disability or ageing, or working with Aboriginal people. BACHELOR OF ARTS: SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT Marching for climate action is a great start, but if you're passionate about finding more sustainable ways for you and your neighbours to live and preserve the environment, this Murdoch University program is worth exploring through OUA. Sustainable Development is a newer profession but is growing in popularity. The more prominent career paths you could take from this degree include joining the public sector, a local council or an NGO, or working within research institutes or national and international aid organisations. But the skills gained here are much more far-reaching and can also lead to careers in sustainable tourism, media, education and resource management. MASTER OF ENVIRONMENT Already got a degree in environmental science under your belt? First of all, good for you. Now, keep channelling that passion and experience into a masters degree from Griffith University. After all, it's arguably one of the most important fields of study you could enter into at the moment. Within this degree, you can choose to specialise in several different areas of expertise, including climate change adaptation, sustainable business, economics and policy, environmental planning and environmental protection. Career options hit a huge range, too, and include the likes of environmental assessment officer, consultant for government agencies and environmental and biosecurity management. Explore these degrees and hundreds more from leading Australian universities, available online through Open Universities Australia. You'll be making a world of difference before you know it.
Doughnuts might be Brisbane's current sweet treat craze, but before the city's residents fell in love with circular orbs of pastry, they couldn't get enough of cold, creamy confectionary. Who are we kidding — that's still true. And if all of the other ice cream and gelato shops around town haven't convinced you, Sonder Dessert will. Making its home on Farne Street in Sunnybank Hills, Sonder serves up the kind of dishes that you'll happily venture south of the CBD to devour — and at any time of the year, too. The eatery's minimalist, booth-lined interiors allow their mouth-watering morsels of frosty goodness to garner all the attention they deserve; however with flavours like peanut butter crunch, toasted marshmallow, sticky rice, black sesame, lamington and strawberry jam, their ice cream was always going to do that anyway. Don't worry if you can't choose your favourite; that's why 4, 6 and 8-variety mini-cone flights were invented. An array of cakes are also on offer, so leave soon room to feast your eyes — and then your stomach — on something from the in-store display case. And, in good news for those that liked their chilled scoops served with a hot beverage, the latter might just prove Sonder's second claim to fame. Matcha and hojicha are the drinks of choice here, whether you like them hot or iced, or as a float, affogato, frappe, parfait or creme brûlée.
Tucked between Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Ipswich, and sprawling around the towns of Beaudesert and Boonah, southeast Queensland's Scenic Rim region is home to scenic sights, national parks, mountains and plenty of other reasons to head outdoors. Come October, it'll also boast another attraction luring visitors into the area's the natural surroundings — a 55-kilometre walking trail, complete with eco-cabins. Dubbed Spicers Scenic Rim Trail, just approved by the Queensland Government and expected to take six months to complete, the new route will start at the existing Spicers Hidden Vale Retreat and venture through Mt Mistake, up to Spicers Peak Nature Reserve and through parts of Main Range National Park. Extending existing walking tracks, it'll trek through sub-tropical rainforests, eucalypt forests and mountain heathlands over five days. And if the frequent name-dropping didn't give it away, the venture is being spearheaded by the Turner family, who founded the Spicers Retreats chain, to the tune of $10 million. The Turners are building two new sustainable eco-camps along the path, both within Main Range National Park. The first, Spicers Amphitheatre, will feature light coloured cabins perched above the floor of the forest, surrounded by gum trees, decked out with king-sized beds and adjacent to an observation deck. As for the second site, Timber Getters Eco Cabins, the structures will take on a darker hue. Both will include six sleeping pods, two wash pavilions and impressive views. As well as bunking down for the night, the full walk itinerary includes a visit to the Hidden Vale Wildlife Centre, a 4WD trip to a private nature reserve, and hiking along the Scenic Rim's Main Range. Weekly journeys will depart on Sundays from October, costing $3190 per person twin share with all accommodation, meals and beverages included, while the 2020 season will run from March to November. The venture comes in response to a state initiative to increase ecotourism in Queensland's national parks, with Main Range National Park featuring one of 42 reserves that comprise the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area (GRAWHA). For those planning a visit to the area in general, without booking in for the official trail, the project will also include improvements to public camping and hiking facilities. Spicers Scenic Rim Trail and eco-cabins are slate to open by October, with bookings now open. For more information, visit the trail website. Images: Spicers Retreats and Spicers Scenic Rim Trail.
Melbourne's skyline is looking up, with the city set to gain another huge tower that'll become both the Victorian capital's and Australia's tallest building. Proposed by the Royal Society of Victoria and designed by Decibel Architecture, the structure is planned for the corner of La Trobe and Victoria streets in the CBD where the RSV is currently based — and as well as reaching high into the sky, it'll also catch the eye with its super skinny appearance. Named Magic, the building will feature 60 storeys soaring more than 330 metres high, with one document listing the skyscraper as 362 metres tall. While it'll primarily feature apartments, the site will also enable the RSV to upgrade its heritage-listed home, add a science engagement centre and cafe, and create a science precinct. The organisation has described its plans as "dedicated to science and the spirit of the Royal Exhibition Buildings World Heritage Precinct". Indeed, celebrating Melbourne's science prowess is at the heart of the project, which architect Dylan Brady states "will demonstrate ingenuity, cutting edge sustainable technologies and be an iconic marker to Melbourne". Magic's lofty status will join eclipse the city's current tallest building, the 297.3-metre tall Eureka Tower, as well as the in-progress 319-metre Australia 108 residential tower at Southbank and the 323-metre-tall One Queensbridge tower slated for the Crown precinct. Around the rest of the country, the Gold Coast's Q1 presently reaches 332.5 metres, with the new 328m Orion Towers in Surfers Paradise in development.
One of Brisbane's most prominent hospitality groups is adding another showstopper to its stable this spring when Fanda Group — the team behind Central, Southside, Rick Shores, Norté and Sueño — will open Marlowe, an elegant Australian bistro set inside a heritage-listed apartment block on Fish Lane. Marlowe will unfold across nine distinct dining and bar spaces in the 1938 building once known as the Merivale Flats, and will retain much of the building's art deco character as well as the original layout of the four apartments it occupies. Across two levels, the venue will feature a verdant terrace and four enclosed sunrooms alongside intimate dining rooms and bar areas. The design, led by J.AR OFFICE, will set rich walnut timber and polished chrome accents against a palette of sky blue, buttercream and deep crimson, bringing a thoughtful contemporary edge to the venue's heritage bones. It's the fourth Fanda venue designed by the Fortitude Valley studio, with Central recently taking out top honours at the Australian Interior Design Awards. In the kitchen, Head Chef and Co-Owner Ollie Hansford (Gauge, Stokehouse) oversees a hyperseasonal, produce-driven menu that takes its cues from vintage Australian cookbooks. Dishes might include a prawn cocktail tartlet in crisp pastry with marie rose sauce, braised duck pie with radicchio jam and jus poured tableside, a yabby-topped surf and turf, coral trout wellington finished with a rich caviar butter sauce and a trifle layered with rhubarb jelly, macadamia sponge and custard for dessert. Produce sourcing is equally considered. Hansford's close relationship with local growers has seen him secure weekly supplies of jumbo yabbies from a Gympie farm, heritage-breed chickens from Harrisville's Joyce's Gold and pure-bred, citrus-fed Chauvel wagyu, with Marlowe set to be the only restaurant in the region serving some of these ingredients. A custom-built woodfire hearth by Sam Fraraccio (The Brick Chef) will anchor the grill offering, while a raw bar will serve oysters and seafood sliced to order. Drinks also celebrate local makers and ingredients. Group Beverage Director Peter Marchant has curated a 150-strong Australian wine list, balancing legacy labels with new-wave producers plus verticals from icons like Henschke and Grosset. Twenty-five wines will be available by the glass via the venue's Coravin program, while French champagne will be the sole non-local feature. Cocktails will showcase native ingredients and nostalgic twists, like a lemon myrtle and eucalyptus highball topped with house-made Granny Smith creaming soda and a house martini with butter-washed gin and macadamia-infused manzanilla. With Fish Lane now home to some of Brisbane's most acclaimed restaurants, Marlowe looks set to be one of the city's most-anticipated openings of 2025. "There's real momentum building in Fish Lane, and we're proud that Marlowe can be part of its evolution," says Fanda Group Director David Flynn. "With so many great operators already in the precinct, and some of Queensland's key cultural institutions just a stone's throw away, Fish Lane is well on its way to becoming Brisbane's premier dining destination." Marlowe will open in Fish Lane this September at 105 Melbourne Street, South Brisbane. For more information, head to the restaurant's website.
How does Ryan Coogler do horror? With the supernatural, a blues soundtrack, and blood and gore, and also with evil honing in on twin brothers who are trying to create a new haven for their Black community to let loose in after dark, and to simply call their own, in the Mississippi Delta in the 1930s. Both portrayed by Michael B Jordan (Creed III) — because the only thing better than one version of the actor in the filmmaker's Fruitvale Station, Creed, Black Panther and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is two in Sinners — Elijah and Elias, aka Smoke and Stack, are back in their hometown from Chicago with cash to splash and a dream to bring to fruition. They secure an old saw mill, then set about turning it into a juke joint as speedily as they can. The siblings' young cousin Sammie (debutant Miles Caton), a talented guitarist, is enlisted to assist. So is everyone from other musicians (Unprisoned's Delroy Lindo and The Penguin's Jayme Lawson) and friends (Omar Benson Miller, True Lies) to loves from before the brothers left for the city (Loki's Wunmi Mosaku and The Marvels' Hailee Steinfeld) and the local Chinese American shopkeepers (Based on a True Story's Li Jun Li and The Last Bout's Yao). Not just anyone can enter — but when Irishman Remmick (Jack O'Connell, Back to Black) insists on an invite through the doors after being drawn the bar's way by Sammie's powerful tunes, and is refused, he gets persistent. Remmick also gets toothy. Chatting about the picture back when its second trailer released, Coogler described Sinners as "very genre-fluid". He continued: "it switches in and out of a lot of different genres. Yes, vampires are an element of the movie. But that's not the only element. It's not the only supernatural element". Seeing how that proves accurate in the finished film, and how the man behind the movie has written and directed the hell out of it, is already one of 2025's best cinematic experiences. While marking the first time that Coogler hasn't explored a true story, taken on an existing franchise or brought an already-known character to the screen, there's never any doubting that the flick that results couldn't have sprung from anyone else — and that it builds upon one of the best filmographies in the business over the past decade. Although Sinners is Coogler's debut official and overt entry in the horror realm, in a way he's been stepping into that terrain since 2013's Fruitvale Station. When that feature charted the events leading to the death of Oscar Grant in Oakland, it examined a real-life incident far more distressing than any movie that's predicated upon bumps and jumps. Now, 12 years later, Coogler's path from his first film to his fifth is clear: in both, terrors and traumas can lurk for no more reason than being Black in America. [caption id="attachment_1000420" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Marion Curtis / StarPix for Warner Bros.[/caption] Sinners also builds upon Coogler's tried, tested and terrific creative collaborations — with Jordan, yes, and also with cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw (The Last Showgirl), production designer Hannah Beachler (Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé), editor Michael P Shawver (Abigail), and two Oscar-winners in composer Ludwig Göransson (Oppenheimer) and costume designer Ruth E Carter (Coming 2 America), all back from either Black Panther, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever or both. Their sense of connection, of support, of coming together to realise a vision, is evident in every frame. Sinners' cast also gush about it. Indeed, when Coogler, Jordan, Caton, O'Connell, Lindo, Li, Mosaku, Steinfeld, Miller and Lawson chat through their experience making the movie, they talk about the shorthand between the film's writer/director and its two-time lead; first-timer Caton enjoying a spectacular learning experience; the depth at every turn, including for the feature's villain; and the cultural richness and attention to detail. Also covered: the flick's impressive choreography behind its frays, cultivating a sense of place, wanting to be on set on days off and more. On the Shorthand That Coogler and Jordan Have Established Over Five Projects and More Than a Decade of Collaborating Michael: "The shorthand has done nothing but get stronger over the years, especially with this one being my first movies that I've done since I directed my first film — and just having a deeper sense of empathy of what Ryan goes through on a day-to-day basis, all the hats that he must wear, the amount of places that he has to be at the same time. Especially on this one, for me to be able to be an extra set of eyes for him and help where I can or anticipate his movements or needs allowed us to maybe get a little bit more done, especially when time is always an issue on set in general — but it's a just mutual understanding. I can't really explain the nonverbal communication that we have that's only gotten better over the years." On Whether Coogler and Jordan's Working Relationship Evolved After Jordan Directed a Film Himself Ryan: "I worked as his producer on Creed III. It was a lot of times where I would never rub it in his face like that, but he would say 'whoa, man, I see what you're dealing with' — but the reality is, man, our jobs are so different. Even what he did when he was directing Creed III, he was acting in that movie. He was having to go get punched in the face and then go look and check to see how he did, and then go back and get punched again. I'm not on-screen ever when I'm directing. I'm behind the camera. Mike is an empathetic guy. He grew up on film and television sets. What I like the most about working with him is he has an incredible work ethic, but he's also a very kind and family-oriented person. When you're number one on the call sheet — in this case, he was 1A and 1B — you have that culture. Oftentimes, it's going to come from there and it trickles down. People are watching how the lead actor communicates with the PA; with the assistant director, the AD; with the camera operator; with the sound. Do they like to let the sound person mic them, or do they want to complain? All of these things, man. He's such an incredible sport and just kindness is the default. That's just infectious on the set in terms of establishing the tone that everybody's going to work with. It's unacceptable to yell at a PA — Mike had never done that, Mike had never raised his voice." Michael: "That's right. That's right." Ryan: "In an industry where it can get very high stress, it can get very toxic, it's great to have somebody who understands the value of keeping it loving and respectful, so that's what I like about Mike the most. The other piece is, he wants to challenge himself constantly. What was great was I got that with every cast member. Everybody who went through the works and stepped on the set, they were trying to be better than they were on their last movie. I believe that they're going to be better than they were on this movie on their next one. That's the type of people that we hired and that culture starts with Mike, but I was fortunate enough that everybody came with that, and I was very happy with that." On Caton's Journey with His First Film Role Miles: "I started off when I was 16 years old, I got the opportunity to sing background for HER, and we began a tour all over the world. We opened up for Coldplay. Towards the end of that tour, I got a call one day saying, she called me and she said 'little bro, there was somebody in the crowd that heard you sing and they want you to audition for this role'. I took that and I ran with it. I sent a self-tape audition. After that, I got a callback. Then they sent a couple sides. It was a kid, a young kid just playing the guitar. I did that and I sent that off. The next thing I knew, I had went to LA to do an audition, and I got to meet Mike and I got to meet Ryan along with a couple other people. From there, I got to really talk with them about the role and just put my best foot forward. After that, I was able to really learn from them. Just being on this project, I got to grow so much. Every day was a learning experience. From the time I got on set to the end, I really did push myself every day to be better. Being around actors at this level, they all showed me so much love, man, so to be here in this moment, I feel super blessed." On O'Connell's Job Unpacking the Many Layers of Sinners' Unsetting Supernatural Force Jack: "I think villain is a fair description. There's probably an easier way of doing things, but in the film, we do it the hard way for Remmick. He's all about fellowship and love. All he wants is just to bite you on your neck, and then that's everlasting love, just a little bite. He's constantly saying 'I promise I won't hurt you'. It's the easy way, but we end up going the hard way. Listen, there's a real richness, a real depth, I think, to Ryan's writing. What we were striving towards was — it wasn't superficial. It was grounded in something that's rooted in history. That, to me, was the main thing I was loving to latch onto, was the cultural richness that our characters were representing in individual ways." On Lindo Being Tasked with Getting Physical and Fiery Delroy: "First of all, we have such a wonderful team who work on the fights. I had said earlier 'oh, Ryan has a wonderful team that he puts at all the actors' disposal'. I had talked earlier about the fact that when I was younger, I did dance class and fighting on film, and in the theatre — it's like choreography, right? It's choreographed. On some level, the more violent the fights are, the more critically important it is that it be choreographed to a tee. These fights were. I came to the project a little late, because I was working on something else, but when I arrived in New Orleans they were already in the thick of building the moves in the fight. The very first fight rehearsal that I went to, the fight captain showed me what they were working on and showed me very specifically 'okay, this is how you will slot in'. We just worked very methodically to achieve that, so by the time we got on camera to shoot those scenes, we all knew exactly what we were doing, what our responsibilities were. The other thing I would say really quickly, there was an openness which trickles down from Ryan and from Mike in terms of the generosity shown to all of the actors. If something was presented to me, there were a couple of things presented to me in the fight scenes where I said 'can I maybe try this?'. 'Absolutely.' There was always space to incorporate what felt more organic for me as an actor." On the Attention to Detail That Went Into Exploring the Chinese American Experience Li: "I was not aware of the Chinese American community in the Mississippi Delta at all. I had no idea about them. All I knew was that when I was presented with the sides during my audition process, I had no other information other than the fact that she was a Chinese American with a very thick, deep southern accent, which was what really piqued my interest — and also obviously because it was Ryan's project. When we dived into the research, it was fascinating. They were such a crucial part of the world at the time. They were the only people who were able to open up grocery stores specifically for the Black and white communities, but they also endured a lot of prejudice themselves. In a documentary made by a filmmaker named Dolly Li, there were a couple of people that she mentioned. One of the women's names was Frieda Quon, which is whom we used for our dialect inspiration. She always said that as long as we stayed in our lanes, we were fine, but trouble would start if we crossed over. I just love how fascinating it was, how deeply embedded they were in the culture and how you would never think that a person who looks like me would speak that way, and yet they did. They also made southern-style Chinese food and they built their own community. It was really a gift to learn about this." On Why a Sense of Place Was So Important, Especially to Smoke and Annie's Love Story Wunmi: "Annie's shop, her home, is in this picturesque environment with these massive shaded oaks — and what's the other tree, the one in Louisiana with the moss? It's so beautiful and romantic and really adds to the magic of their relationship, their love. It elevates it. I love how, in the scene when we see Annie and Smoke for the first time, is it dandelions you've got blowing behind Smoke?" Ryan: "Yeah, pussy willows." Wunmi: "You say willow?" Ryan: "Yeah, pussy willow." Wunmi: "It's so beautiful. The whole shop itself, I feel like I wish we could see the whole thing because Hannah Beachler, she did such an amazing job." Delroy: "She did." Wunmi: "There's smoke coming up through the floorboards and there were these little cards hanging from the ceiling. This candle's burning in the background. You can't see all of this. There were spiderwebs on these spell books. These are real spiders. It's not even set design. It just felt really magical. It felt like their home. When he comes into the store, he knows where to pick his pipe from. He knows that time has stood still for her and everything is as it was. I really loved their environment. It felt like it really added to the scene, it added to our intimacy, it added to our connection." On Navigating Mary's Journey, and the Night-Time Shoots That It Entailed Hailee: "I think the nights were crazy, and a lot of the nights took place inside the juke, too. We would go in and it would be light — and we'd come out, it'd be light again. What I loved, though, so much about the juke for Mary was that even though it was a new place to her, it was home. There were so many elements within that juke that were created, that were brought to life, that were home. The food; the people, most importantly; the music; just the way, the layout where you'd have Smoke and Stack up above, Annie in her corner, the stage and Mary just moving through and feeling this sense of familiarity having never been there before because of who was around her. I love that so much about this character and how she falls into this story, because she's in a place of not knowing whether or not she, to an outsider, not so much herself — an outsider may not believe that she belongs in that space, but she does, she knows that and she feels it. Being in that juke, being on that stage and even in our exterior location, looking at that structure that was built, it was like it became our home. It became Mary's home. It became her connection to her mother and her past that she'd been away from for so long, living a very, very different life that we didn't necessarily see, but we could only imagine how beautiful it might've been or looked, rather, or how different it might've looked. It wasn't what she wanted. This is home. I loved walking in there and hearing everyone's shoes creak on the wood and the chairs that we see a little bit in the movie of the juke coming together. It's just like you wonder where it all came from and how they got it all together. It was all these people that are in there that made it happen, that brought it together. We had just the most incredible team, some of who you mentioned, bring this to life and make this feel like a safe space that we could call home." On the Collaborative and Creative Vibe That Comes with Working on a Coogler Film Omar: "I've been doing this for a good amount of time now. I've been blessed to work for a long time. Ryan Coogler runs the most-egalitarian set I have ever been on, and I say that in the most-complimentary way. Once we got to set, once everybody came out of the trailers, everybody was equal. For somebody who's had an underdog element to his whole career, I value that so much. To me, that was something that I leave with — leaving that set and always being welcome to return to the set, and always being a part of it with looking forward to return to it, was that I know that we're all being treated equally. Ryan knows everybody's first name. It's 200-something people. Ryan's calling people out: 'Roger Stevenson, how was your weekend?'. It's stuff like that. It's very, very, very impressive." Jayme: "This is hands-down my favourite experience. I think the way Ryan really set the tone, that it felt like we could bring our stories with us as he shared his with us — it made for this collaboration where, I think I can speak for a lot of us, we found a level of freedom that oftentimes you don't get to tap into, because you're being led by somebody that has so much faith in you and trust in you with his brainchild. At no point did he ever feel so precious about it. It was a gift that he was willing to share — every day, like Omar said. I would show up when I didn't have to be at work. Now, I don't know anybody else that would want to do that, but to be able to watch Ryan work, I had to. I just wanted be in that room at all times, and I am forever grateful for that." Sinners releases in cinemas Down Under on Thursday, April 17, 2025. Film images: Warner Bros / Eli Ade.
Ice cream-loving Brisbanites, start screaming — and not just for any old frozen confection. Gelato Messina has finally come to our fair city, with their first permanent Brisbane venture officially open. Remember that feeling you had as a kid when Christmas finally rolled around? Excitement, enthusiasm and an inability to decide just what you should do first? That's what walking into 109 Melbourne Street feels like. A red display case filled with 42 flavours of Messina's finest, all chilled to -14 degrees, is the first thing you see when you enter their largest store in Australia, sparking one immediate thought: it's okay to want to try everything. You're only human, after all. The ace thing Messina newcomers mightn't know is that taste-testing is heartily encouraged. In fact, you can sample as many flavours as your stomach demands. With vegan and dairy-free sorbet, a couple of yoghurt-based options, the permanent signature gelato varieties and five specials always on offer, there's certainly plenty to choose from. Salted caramel and white chocolate is Messina's best-seller around the country, should you need a recommendation. Anyone after something different might want to opt for the pandan and coconut sorbet, which is made from a green leaf used in Asian cooking — or the kind of choc mint you've never had before, which is actually made from the pressed herb and tastes nothing like you think it will. Like the rest of its stores, Messina brings in its house-made flavour bases from the company's Sydney headquarters, then makes ice cream magic on-site. Watching new batches being churned is quite something, and will make you even hungrier. And, if finding out just how your favourite sweet treat is made sounds like your kind of thing, you're in luck, with Messina's gelato classes heading to Brisbane by June, if not earlier. Yep, that's why their West End digs has its own classroom. Those eager to attend will not only get a glimpse behind the scenes, but will also learn how Messina's chefs whip up such frosty delights — and taste plenty of gelato. Always be tasting gelato, folks. That's great advice to live by. The larger Gelato Appreciation Class will shower around 20 people at a time with oh-so-much ice cream, while the smaller Hands On Class walks ten eager people through the process of pasteurising, plating, and other gelato tricks and tips. If you've ever wondered how their eye-catching mushroom cakes are made, for example, prepare to find out. Messina also plans to bring their Creative Department to Brisbane later in the year — that is, their regular seven-course degustation dinners that will expand your idea of just what ice cream can be. Think garlic gelato, just as one example, plus all kinds of savoury and sweet pairings. While their specials seem experimental — as seen in the appropriately named QUEENSLANDAARRR!!!, which combines ginger gelato with pineapple cake and Bundaberg rum caramel, for instance — their Creative Department offerings are something else. Design-wise, the Melbourne Street shop also boasts bench seating and bean bags, because everyone wants to chill over chilled desserts. It's also the first of Messina's 16 stores in Sydney, Melbourne, Coolangatta, Brisbane and Las Vegas to carve their name into the wooden wall. Yep, they've arrived in Brissie alright, and they're making it clear.
Sydney Airport's next public art installation is a colourful reminder of Australia's roots, in a place where cultures and people from all across the globe converge daily. The work United Neytions by Kamilaroi artist Archie Moore will set a pretty striking scene, hung from the 17-metre-high ceiling of T1 International Terminal's Marketplace. Featuring 28 distinctive flags to represent the diversity of our country's Aboriginal cultures, the piece was chosen by The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) and Sydney Airport for their latest art commission, edging out works from seven other leading Aussie artists. According to MCA Director Elizabeth Ann Macgregor OBE, the work, by "one of our nation's most important contemporary artists", is a fitting one to be shared with the 15 million passengers that flow through this part of the airport annually. "Archie Moore has approached this exciting opportunity with great flair and his visually striking installation will no doubt intrigue, engage and capture the imagination of the millions of passengers passing through the airport's International terminal every year," she said. Moore himself explained that the flags would help draw attention "to the histories, voices and presence of local Indigenous people on which land the airport – an international zone/'no man's land' – lies, but also the passages of cultures, pasts, territories, ages and cultural knowledges that airports foster." United Neytions is set to be completed and unveiled at Sydney Airport in 2018.
Whether vintage fashion defines your style or kitsch antiques make your house a home, one thing is certain: everyone has fallen head over heels for everything deco and retro. And art nouveau-style trinkets, 1950s throwbacks, and all other types of mid-20th century paraphernalia too. Just like every other trend, there’s now an event catering for this communal outpouring of affection. Focusing on items from the 1920s to the 1970s, the Everything Deco to Retro Fair will bring more than 40 dealers together to flaunt their wares. Think clothing, jewellery and accessories, of course, as well as homewares, furniture and other odds and ends. Basically, anything cool, cute, offbeat and one-of-a-kind you might come across from the period. Want more? Well, that’s not all. The fair’s Facebook page gives plenty of sneak peeks of all the rad retro things you’re going to want to take home with you.
We know. We've all done it. Home alone with a block of cheddar, a few scraps of brie and a lone Kraft Single. It all seemed so promising. When your mum/housemate/significant other returned, though, the truth became apparent. You'd made a cheese quagmire in your microwave, hadn't you? Hadn't you. Fortunately, the guys behind PappaRich, the ST Group, are now getting set to help you realise all of your cheese dreams without the weird kitchen smell three weeks later — they're bringing Malaysian chain Hokkaido Baked Cheese Tart to Brisbane. With multiple stores in Kuala Lumpur and other areas of the country — plus a handful in Melbourne and Sydney, as of last year, as well as Pacific Fair since July — the cheese tart connoisseurs are continuing their expansion with not one, but two Brissie ventures. The city's introduction to the gooey, creamy ways of the three-cheese tart arrives on November 27 in the Myer Centre, with a second store to follow at Garden City not long after (at a yet- to-be-revealed date). And, to celebrate, they're offering up 100 free original tarts on December 1. Stop by between 4pm and 5pm — or, arrive in advance and line up, because HBCT's openings in Melbourne and Sydney have seen people have been queuing out the door. If you're still wondering what all of the fuss is about, HBCT's namesake is the cornerstone of their offering: a savoury-sweet three-cheese situation encased in a shortcrust shell, designed to be eaten either hot or cold. The cheese, while made with local produce, is based on the distinct taste and texture of the dairy products of Hokkaido. The Japanese island is known for their dairy — it produces half of Japan's total milk and a huge 90 percent of their natural cheese — and HBCT have worked tirelessly to replicate it. Malaysia has gone nuts for it, as has Australia, where it's available in original, chocolate and blueberry flavours. We weren't joking when we mentioned hefty lines filled with folks eager to get their hands on one (or 12). Hokkaido Baked Cheese Tart will open in the Myer Centre, 91 Queen Street, Brisbane on November 27 — and at Westfield Garden City at a yet-to-be-revealed date. For more info and to look out for an opening date, keep an eye on their Facebook page. By Matt Abotomey and Sarah Ward. Images: Tim Grey.
Theatrical masterpiece This Is Our Youth will undergo another celebrity makeover when the play hits the Sydney Opera House this March. Michael Cera will lead the cast in an unconventional departure from his high-profile role in television series Arrested Development and films such as Juno and Superbad. He will be joined by Golden Globe nominee Kieran Culkin and AFI Award winning actress Emily Barclay. Having directed the world premiere of This Is Our Youth in 1996 and sophomore season in 1998, Mark Brokaw returns to the director role in his debut Australian showcase. The script was written by Kenneth Lonergan, who went on to pen Gangs of New York. This Is Our Youth follows a tumultuous day in the lives of three New Yorkers in 1982, and explores their contemplations and sense of confinement in the Big Apple. Painting a bittersweet image of a discontent generation lost in a society undergoing rapid change, the play takes Australian audiences to a time and place that may not be so different from our everyday lives. Although it explores American society in the Reagan-era, the play's sheer bluntness and honesty has garnered worldwide appeal and acclaim. Its popularity with theatre enthusiasts has been reflected in stars such as Matt Damon, Colin Hanks and Jake Gyllenhaal all playing roles in previous seasons. The Australian performance is set to uphold the play's celebrated status. This Is Our Youth will run from March 14-25, 2012 at the Sydney Opera House. Tickets are available from February 10.
Launceston's Cataract Gorge is no stranger to dazzling displays, especially when Mona Foma rolls around. But when the Museum of Old and New Art's (MONA) key summer event returns in January 2022, the natural landmark will host something particularly spectacular: a 2.4-tonne sculpted block of ice that'll hang over the gorge. If you're after jaw-dropping displays that make a statement, THAW by Legs On the Wall is it. When it's dangling between Friday, January 21–Sunday, January 23, it'll task one daring performer with standing atop that big chunk of ice for eight hours a day, all as the frozen block of water melts. The installation comes to Tasmania after hitting up Sydney Festival first, and it's certain to be a stunning sight in both locations. That's not all that Mona Foma has in store for its next fest, with MONA announcing a jam-packed program that'll run in Launceston across those aforementioned dates, and then arrive in Hobart from Friday, January 28–Sunday, January 30 — after the event confirmed back in November that it was definitely going ahead in 2022. On the bill across the whole lineup: lasers, monster trucks, Midnight Oil, sonic sculptures, the return of the festival's beloved morning meditations and more. While Launceston gets ice, Hobart will see lasers blast over the city thanks to Beacon by Robin Fox. Other highlights from the entire two-weekend program include Midnight Oil's shows in both cities, and cement mixers turned into monster trucks that'll rove around the two locales. Also, Kartanya Maynard will collaborate with Vernon Ah Kee on site-specific text and sound installations in each spot, pondering assimilation, displacement and Tasmanian Aboriginal protests. Plus, the Mofo Sessions will host nightly concerts in Launceston's Royal Park and on the Mona Lawns, with Gwenno, Mo'Ju, The Chills, Danny Healy Quartet, DENNI and Jason Whatley Quartet all on the bill. And, if you've ever wanted to see two dancers on a brutalist pile of concrete for more than four hours, that'll be part of Fertile Ground. In Launceston, musicians Karlin Love and Jon Addison will play tunes inspired by Cataract Gorge's ecosystems in the gorge itself; the Midland Highway will host Trawlwoolway artist, writer and curator Julie Gough's The Missing, which muses on the area's colonial history and treatment of Indigenous Australians; video work Pacific Sun by German artist Thomas Demand will take over the National Theatre; and Quandamooka artist Megan Cope will create sonic sculptures out of discarded mining relics, geological samples and piano strings that'll be used in live performances. And, in Hobart, you can also check out AQI2020, which sees New Zealand performance and installation artist Alicia Frankovich turn a transparent sulfur-hazed box into a live show. It'll house performers, mimic the look and atmosphere from Australia's 2019–20 bushfire season and, unsurprisingly, comment on climate change. Or, attendees can also see 70s-era organs rescued from the tip and given a last whirl in DJ TR!P and Scot Cotterell's Organ Donor; check out a huge, loss-inspired, computer-generated work by Albanian artist Anri Sala at Princes Wharf 1; and witness a series of pieces that pay tribute to and farewell Australia's video shops. [caption id="attachment_835603" align="alignnone" width="1920"] THAW. Photo credit: Shane Rozario. Image courtesy of the artists and Mona Foma.[/caption] Top image: Atrium, Alicia Frankovich. Image courtesy of the artist and Mona Foma.
When Scotland's BrewDog made the leap to Australia, setting up its own brewery to pump out its tipples, the beer brand turned a riverside patch of land in Murarrie in Brisbane's east into its Down Under base. That was back in 2019, and it always meant to be the company's first step on the path to boozy Aussie things. The next one? A new three-level beer bar in Fortitude Valley. Come September, likely towards the end of the month, Brisbanites keen on a BrewDog beer in a BrewDog bar will be able to pick between two locations. That said, BrewDog's Head of Australian Operations Calvin McDonald doesn't expect that it'll be a difficult choice. He loves the OG Brissie venue, and he's already singing the new Valley watering hole's praises — but he also thinks that the Murarrie spot will continue to draw in eastsiders, while the new Brunswick Street digs will appeal to everyone else. BrewDog's Valley home will definitely be central, taking over the heritage-listed Tranberg House building across the road from the Valley Metro complex. And, it'll be sizeable — nestling into all three levels, all with their own bars pouring brews from 20 taps each. View this post on Instagram A post shared by BrewDog Australia (@brewdogau) On the entry level — from Brunswick Street — beer lovers will find a space that caters to 115–120 people, while the big drawcard will be the beer hall-style lower-ground floor that'll fit around 120 folks as well. Then, up on the top storey, patrons will find two shuffleboard tables, as well as a space that'll be able to be used for functions. Being able to have separate areas, rather than one big setup like DogTap at Murarrie, gets McDonald excited — especially about what it means for events and group bookings. The idea, of course, is that the whole venue is always pumping. Based on how busy BrewDog's original Brissie site gets, plus the Valley locale, that seems highly likely. "It's been a bit of a long time coming," McDonald tells Concrete Playground. "We didn't want to our second opportunity in Australia to be two years after number one, but the situation dictated that that's which way it had to go." "Essentially, it's bringing all of the good elements of that [Murarrie] — so a similar food menu, along the lines of burgers and pizzas, and a similar draft lineup — but over three floors." "It allows us to run things slightly differently to how we do at Murarrie. Even though it's a great venue, it's only one space... So I was really quite proactive in wanting a multi-floor venue, which gives us a lot more flexibility," McDonald continues. Brews and food-wise, as McDonald mentioned, BrewDog will keep doing what its doing — pouring its own beers, celebrating other local brewers, and sticking with a pub grub-heavy menu that spans pizzas, burgers, vegan eats and the like. In terms of decor, playing up the heritage features is a big focus. "It's an old listed building. We've been really lucky with the landlord that we've got there, that he's really interested in preserving a lot of the heritage aspects of that," McDonald explains. "So as much as we can, we're keeping the original frontage, the original walls, the original finishes, a lot of the original brickwork is being preserved as well and the original floors... It's definitely a modern bar, but very much in a heritage setting." While Brisbane will boast two BrewDog sites within months, the brewery still has plans to expand nationally. Back in June, it was revealed that it is teaming up with hospitality company Australian Venue Co to set up bars around the country — starting at Pentridge in Melbourne this spring, and also including Sydney as well. Find BrewDog Fortitude Valley at Tranberg House, 235 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley, from sometime in September. We'll update you with an opening date and operating hours when they're announced. Top image: Kgbo via Wikimedia Commons.
First things first: if you're going to combine karaoke with feminism and need a name for the resulting event, you can't get any better than Femioke. If there was ever a term bound to inspire the proud and passionate singing of many a pro-girl anthem, it's this one. Expect to do plenty of that at Femioke, whether the likes of the Spice Girls, Aretha Franklin, TLC, Cyndi Lauper or Beyonce gets your vocal talents flowing. As emceed by Metro Arts' Amy-Clare, the event isn't only interested in belting out favourite feminist tracks, however — it's also about taking back misogynist songs. Think of it as a DIY-style sing-along, an all-inclusive feminist event and a safe space to celebrate International Women's Day — complete with a cash bar because every great karaoke session needs a tasty tipple. If you missed either of the first two events, don't do the same this time. All feminist identifiers are welcome. Image: Dollar Photo Club.
Hey boy, hey girl — we've got some news. Pioneering electronic music duo The Chemical Brothers is heading Down Under — for its first Aussie tour in six years. Off the back of dropping its ninth studio album No Geography just last month, the pair has just announced it'll be taking a new live show (also called No Geography) around the world this year. Stops include the UK, US and Mexico — and, luckily, also Australia. If you've been lucky enough to catch The Chemical Brothers live before, you'll know its shows aren't your average stand-behind-the-decks-and-play performances. They feature strobe lights, lasers and mind-bending images projected onto huge screens. It's sort of like a trip, without the LSD. If you haven't seen one before, take a peek at one of the psychedelic shows below. As well as new hits off the new No Geography album, including 'Free Yourself' and 'MAH', we're hoping the duo will add some throwbacks to its live performances — the late-90s and early-2000s hits 'Hey Boy, Hey Girl' and 'Galvanize' would be particularly welcome. As an added bonus, the duo will be touring the country with a big-name local: The Avalanches. The Melbourne-born electro group will be playing a live DJ set at all The Chemical Brothers' shows. If you don't know them, you'll definitely know their song 'Since I Left You'. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tri7gjlmfdk THE CHEMICAL BROTHERS NO GEOGRAPHY LIVE 2019 DATES Brisbane — Thursday, October 31, Brisbane Riverstage Sydney — Saturday, November 2, The Dome, Sydney Showground Melbourne — Tuesday, November 5, Melbourne Arena The Chemical Brothers No Geography Live pre-sale tickets start at 10am on Tuesday, May 7 with general tickets going on sale at 10am on Thursday, May 9. For more information, and to sign up for pre-sale access, head to the Frontier Touring website.
Halloween rolls around once a year, and it's always an occasion worth celebrating, especially if you're a horror film fan. Watching Michael Myers' various slasher exploits, staying away from wardrobes, devouring a marathon of scary movies — they're all great things to do. Come October 27, however, Netherworld and Crowbar are teaming up to provide something different across the two venues. Horror costumes? Tick. A spooky vibe and an all-round celebration of horror film villains? Tick again. Two stages filled with bands such as The Gutterbirds, Fiends and Cosmic Psychos cranking out killer tunes? Yep, you guessed it — tick again. Different acts will play at each place, but a whole heap of fun awaits at Nightmare On Brunswick Street no matter where you start or end up. Dressing up as your favourite horror movie villain could win you a prize, but you probably want to go beyond the obvious overalls, hockey mask or striped sweater. It all kicks off at 7pm, with entry free. Also, Semi Pro Brewing's Brunswick Street Blood Red Ale will be pouring through the taps, there'll be folks onsite at both locations to help you with your ghoulish, gory makeup, and two special enamel pins — one paying tribute to Michael Myers — will be available to collect.
Here in Brisbane, we're just about to enter winter. Well, our version of winter (socks and thongs weather). What makes it worse is it that the Northern Hemisphere is enjoying summer, taunting us with pictures of beaches, lilos, and rooftop cocktails while we pile on more blankets and feel our seasonal affective disorder turn up a notch. The smartest of us, the ones not shackled to our desks and chairs, will defect to the north and torture us even more with Instagram stories from the Amalfi Coast, photos that could be compiled into an overpriced coffee-table book and sold in a snooty art shop. But you know what they say: if you can't beat 'em, join 'em. And if you don't have enough annual leave to join 'em, eat so much pizza that your cheese dreams transport you to warmer places. And then start referring to your tummy as Little Italy. And then despondently look for flights for Euro-summer next year. To help you achieve this goal, we've teamed up with American Express to find the best Italian-style pizza to counteract Euro-summer FOMO. So, grab your American Express® Card and let's head out for some of the city's best cheesy rounds, slices and rectangles. Got yourself in another dining situation and need some guidance? Whatever it is, we know a place. Visit The Shortlist and we'll sort you out.
This post is sponsored by our partners, lastminute.com.au. It's hard to fathom how to tackle our nation's biggest state. Flights to Perth are easy enough, but what to do from there? The seemingly uncharted wilderness is huge and menacing, and you don't even remember how to apply mosquito repellant, let alone set up a tent. Don't worry, we've got you covered. Whether you're going for just the weekend or the better part of a month, here's the low-down on everything from swimming with whale sharks to kicking back in a brewery. If you're spending the weekend If you're only around for a couple of days it's going be hard to get too far out of Perth. This is by no means a bad thing though! For great cafes and kindred spirits, check out Leederville, Subiaco or Northbridge, and if ever in doubt, make a beeline straight to Fremantle. While there, you can catch the Fremantle Dockers play a game on home soil, and follow it up with a trip to the Little Creatures Brewery. After you've eased your way into the local custom, your next stop is the beaches. Just a short drive west of the CBD, Cottesloe is one of the best beaches in the entire country — why not take advantage with some swimming or paddle boarding? Once you've lounged around there for awhile, it'll be time to stretch your legs out to Rottnest Island. Bikes are your best bet for getting around, and if you've still got some energy by the end of it all, take advantage of that clear water with some snorkelling. Extending it to a week If you've seen all Perth has to offer and you're curious about the rest, the first pitstop is Exmouth. This place is so surreal you will think the two-hour flight from the city has transported you to an alternate dimension. Fittingly, your first task is to swim with some whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef. This World Heritage Listed marine park stretches over 300 kilometres and is home to more than 500 species of fish, as well as turtles, dugongs, dolphins and humpback whales — most of which you are welcome to swim with. Who knew the sea could be so much better than Seaworld? After Exmouth, we recommend hiring a car and driving to Monkey Mia. It'll take ten hours and there is the option to fly, but again, the coasts of WA are a destination in themselves. The coast at Monkey Mia is particularly excellent because it has the added benefit of being populated by dolphins. Each morning, hundreds of bottlenose dolphins come right up to the shoreline and say hi, and you'll definitely want to be there when they do. Alternatively, if sealife just ain't your thing, head to the Pinnacles — one of the many geographical wonders WA is naturally blessed with. In for the long haul All this is only brushing the surface. If you really want to have the full WA experience, jump in for more than a week. When a state is the size of Queensland and New South Wales combined, you need a bit of time to get your head around it. You'll also need some extra time to venture up to Broome. Here, you'll find a beautiful little community and an endless summer, but more importantly, camel rides on the beach. If that's not dramatic enough, check out the Kimberley — Baz Luhrmann's inspiration for Australia. Get grubby in the outback with a day trip to Karijini National Park, Koolpin Gorge or the Bungle Bungle Range, then balance it out the next day with a sojourn to Margaret River. Known best for its wineries, this south-west gem will have you eating and drinking all day with some of Australia's premier winemakers, and expending your leftover energy with leisurely bike rides. Last, but certainly not least, make time for the sightseeing. Whether it be an amazing natural sediment formation such as Wave Rock, or a city that's a spectacle in itself. The town of Esperance will take you straight along WA’s South Coast Highway — the perfect position for spotting whales and wildflowers, and an opportune place to pop off to the beach and rest your muscles in the sparkling water. This is a holiday after all. Book your next WA escape now at lastminute.com.au.
The annual festival of lights, art and music has revealed the first three installations in its 2021 program. The three installations include an immersive sound and light display in Cockle Bay, a 3D projection encompassing Circular Quay's Customs House and the projection of an artist's creative process in The Rocks. The announcement came 100 days before Vivid 2021 is set to begin, coinciding with the launch of two luminous clocks counting down to the festival's 'lights on' moment on Friday, August 6. You can visit the clocks which are ticking away at First Fleet Park in The Rocks and Wulugul Walk in Barangaroo. Following a breakout year of immersive walkthrough experiences, Sydneysiders will be able to head to Cockle Bay and wander across a floating walkway surrounded by 200 bubble-like spheres and towering structures scattered across the bay. The installation, titled Ephemeral, is the work of Sydney design studio Atelier Sisu and will be the first time Cockle Bay's waters have been incorporated into Vivid. [caption id="attachment_809931" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ephemeral, Destination NSW[/caption] Hong Kong's Treacle Media are responsible for Circular Quay's VORAX, a three-dimensional projection that will tell the story of a mischievous thief's rise to greatness in front of Customs House. Down the road in The Rocks, local artist Brad Robson and Esem Projects will project Robson's spellbinding portraits, as well as his process of creating them for the installation Point of View. "Vivid Sydney is a bright star on Sydney's events calendar supporting the entire ecosystem of the state's visitor economy," NSW Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney said. "It brings hundreds of thousands of visitors to the city and inspires locals to get out and enjoy Sydney and support our CBD businesses during winter which is typically a quieter period." Vivid will activate a little later than usual this year with the event tipped to run from Friday, August 6 until Saturday, August 28. It follows the cancellation of the 2020 event due to coronavirus. This year's full program is set to be announced in late May. Vivid Sydney 2021 will take place from August 6–28, 2021. We'll update you when the full program is released closer to the event date. For more information in the interim, visit the event's website. Top images: Destination NSW
Dev Patel means business in Monkey Man, both on- and off-screen. Starring in the ferocious vengeance-dripping action-thriller, he plays Kid, a man on a mission to punish the powers that be in Yatana (a fictional Indian city inspired by Mumbai) for their injustices, and specifically for the death of his mother Neela (Adithi Kalkunte, who Patel worked with on Hotel Mumbai) when he was a boy. As the film's director, producer and co-writer, he isn't holding back either, especially in adding something to his resume that no other project has offered in his almost two decades as an actor since Skins marked his on-camera debut. Dev Patel: action star has an excellent ring to it. So does Dev Patel: action filmmaker. Both labels don't merely sound great with Monkey Man; this is a frenetic and thrilling flick, and also a layered one that marries its expertly choreographed carnage with a statement. In the post-John Wick action-movie realm, it might seem as if every actor is doing features about formidable lone forces taking on their enemies. Patel initially began working on Monkey Man over ten years ago, which is when Keanu Reeves (The Matrix Resurrections) first went avenging, but his film still acknowledges what its viewers will almost-inevitably ponder by giving John Wick a shoutout. Thinking about the Charlize Theron (Fast X)-led Atomic Blonde and Bob Odenkirk (The Bear)-starring Nobody is understandable while watching, too — but it's The Raid and Oldboy, plus the decades of Asian action onslaughts and revenge-filled Korean efforts around them, that should stick firmest in everyone's mind. All directors are product of their influences; however, Patel achieves the rare feat of openly adoring his inspirations while filtering them through his exact vision to fashion a picture that's always 100-percent his own (and 100-percent excellent). In a city that has a Gotham-New York relationship with its real-life counterpart, Kid isn't a feared assassin who other hitman consider the boogeyman. While Batman nods come through, too, he's definitely not a wealthy man about town with a secret alter ego as a saviour cleaning up the corruption that's darkening the streets. The second part is his aim, just without the cash to fund it — but before that fantasy can fall into place, he's donning a monkey mask and playing the pawn to brawnier wrestling opponents, as the sunglasses-wearing Tiger (Sharlto Copley, Patel's Chappie co-star) emcees. Losing earns him a living. It also lets him hone his fighting skills. And, it's a time-biding tactic, as Kid works his way closer to Yatana's most powerful, such as Chief of Police Rana (Sikandar Kher, Aarya), plus Sovereign Party leader and guru Baba Shakti (Makarand Deshpande, RRR). (Parallels with reality that punch through Kid's quest aren't by accident, with IRL news footage weaved in to stress the point). His stepping stone to his targets: getting a job with Queenie Kapoor (Ashwini Kalsekar, Merry Christmas), who runs restaurant-slash-brothel King's Club, which services the well-to-do. In a gig that nabs him a friend in fellow employee Alphonso (Pitobash, Prachand), Kid says that he'll do anything. He isn't lying when it comes to using his position as a means to play out the vendetta against the man who made him an orphan, as well as the Hindu nationalist organisation leader that the latter is tied to. Patel and co-writers John Collee (Boy Swallows Universe, and another Hotel Mumbai alum) and Paul Angunawela (Keith Lemon: The Film) entwine flashbacks to Kid's childhood, heartbreak and getting comeuppance for it furnishing his backstory. They also knit in Hanuman, the Hindu deity that their protagonist was told stories about when he was young — as was Patel himself — and now draws upon, as assisted by India's third-gender hijras population, as if he's becoming the monkey god himself. Originally, Monkey Man wasn't set to bounce its kinetic brutality through cinemas, nor Patel's gravitas-laced action-star performance or Sharone Meir's high-octane, often neon-lit cinematography (which follows his lensing of Silent Night, another flick about one man seeking retribution against the unscrupulous for a shattering loss). Netflix was due to be its home, then Jordan Peele's (Nope) Monkeypaw Productions stepped in to help lock in a big-screen date. (Peele, who made his own blistering filmmaking debut with Get Out, knows the route that Patel is walking intimately). The vision for Monkey Man was clearly bigger from the outset, though, and not just via frays that dance with raw energy and prove a dazzling spectacle worthy of a movie theatre's giant canvas. It's impossible not to notice that this, like much in film of late, is an origin story. Monkey Man is a calling card several times over, then: for Patel kicking ass and killing it, for the actor-turned-director behind the camera and for more to hopefully follow. To describe the aesthetic Monkey Man experience, paraphrasing The Nanny's theme tune (as thoroughly unrelated as it is) works: this has style, it has flair, and Patel is well and truly there. It has an infectious immediacy and intensity as well, aided by dizzying fist-to-fist bash, crash and smash clashes — melees that injure eyes, heads, throats, limbs and testicles alike — plus propulsive editing (by Joe Galdo, an additional editor on Ferrari; The Crowded Room's Dávid Jancsó; and Black Mirror alum Tim Murrell) and a mood-setting urgency in its score (by Australian composer Jed Kurzel, who was responsible for the sounds of Snowtown, The Babadook and Nitram). There's also meaning in the franticness as blood and sweat fly feverishly, with each face-off increasing in polish. Again, Kid as an unstoppable force isn't a given going into his first bout out of the ring. Patel hasn't become a hulking figure to look at. His character grows into the physicality of his mission, on a journey that apes his coming-of-age path — because crunching bones and smartly telling this tale aren't mutually exclusive. Paying tribute to genres and movies that Patel loves, including taking cues from the liveliness and enthusiasm of both Hong Kong actioners and Bollywood musicals, and even nodding to Nicolas Winding Refn's Drive and Only God Forgives; making a deep-feeling ode to Indian culture and myths; baking in a heated takedown of oppression, inequality and societal power used only for self-interest; exploring the impact faith has for better and for worse; honouring family: Monkey Man does it all. Patel also gives himself the kind of fierce showcase that's worlds away from the likes of Skins, Slumdog Millionaire, his Oscar-nominated Lion performance and The Personal History of David Copperfield. If his portrayal has predecessors on his filmography, it's via The Wedding Guest and The Green Knight, both vastly different flicks that delivered glimpses of where Monkey Man now takes him. That destination: a passion project that's an arrival several times over for a talent crafting his dream flick with confidence and commitment, matching mayhem with a message, and knocking it out of Monkey Man's underground fight clubs, elevators, bathrooms, hallways and everywhere else where Patel wreaks intoxicating havoc.
It's happened to all of us. Your favourite band is in town and tickets are $50. Easy. Done deal. You see the tour announcement, log onto Ticketmaster or Ticketek and begin the transaction. But then, they start casually bringing up other fees. Oh, you want to book the ticket, that'll be an extra $5. Pay with a credit card? $2. Mail it, print it or pick it up at the venue? Each will cost you. By the end of the process your bargain price can end up looking pretty awful. Now, following an investigation led by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), these two ticketing companies will be forced to stop being so sneaky. This process, known as 'drip pricing', will be stopped and all compulsory fees will now be included in the up-front price. Both Ticketek and Ticketmaster will include the payment processing fee in the advertised cost, and Ticketek will also add the service/delivery fee as soon as you select the number of tickets. Admittedly, it's not a huge win for music fans. You're still paying these ridiculous arbitrary fees, but at least you'll know about it upfront. There's nothing worse than grabbing tickets to an event that's selling out and being gouged by mounting fees. Just look at this year's Splendour ticketing hack: even when the price climbed into the thousands people felt pressured to buy. "Although the law does not prevent traders from charging fees, it does require that they are disclosed clearly to avoid consumers being misled," said ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard. "The steps taken by these ticketing companies should give consumers more clarity upfront about the total cost of buying tickets for entertainment events." Two enthusiastic thumbs up. Next on the agenda: airlines. The ACCC have also launched a similar investigation into Jetstar and Virgin that will hopefully put an end to their extra booking and servicing fees. We can deal with buying our own sandwiches on board, but when you try to sneakily charge us $10 for picking a special seat, you've gone too far.
On a stage or screen somewhere, the Jets and the Sharks are usually facing off — or, given how popular that West Side Story has proven for almost seven decades now, that's how it feels at least. The famous musical last popped up in cinemas in Australia thanks to Steven Spielberg. Next, it'll tread the boards again courtesy of Opera Australia. And, when it returns in 2024, it'll do so in spectacular surroundings. Sydney Harbour is set to experience a taste of Broadway magic circa 1957, with Handa Opera's famed floating stage playing host to legendary show — again. West Side Story returns to the yearly event after doing the honours in 2019 and proving a smash, unsurprisingly. Over 65,000 tickets were snapped up, making it the most-popular of Handa Opera's productions to-date. In 2024, the musical will light up the unique waterfront opera venue from Friday, March 22–Sunday, April 21, again reimagining the classic tale of star-crossed lovers in 50s-era New York City. If you've missed past versions — film, opera or otherwise — West Side Story tells the tale of two rival West Side gangs, plus the drama that ensues when people from each side fall in love. Acclaimed director Francesca Zambello, along with Brian Thomson and Jennifer Irwin, created this new take on the original Broadway favourite — following on from famed musical figures Leonard Bernstein, Stephen Sondheim and Arthur Laurents, who originally did the honours in the 50s. And yes, the story is basically William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, but revamped and transferred to the Big Apple. Sydneysiders and visitors alike will get to see the captivating production brought to life under the stars, from harbourside seats at Mrs Macquaries Point, while bopping along to all of the musical's iconic hit songs — 'I Feel Pretty', 'Maria', 'Somewhere', 'America', 'Cool' and, of course, 'Tonight'. Also included in this West Side Story experience: not just the show on the overwater stage, but also fireworks each evening, dazzling Sydney skyline views and hitting up pop-up dining spots that are constructed onsite each year. "West Side Story is a theatrical phenomenon, as is Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour. This combination has proved winning before and we highly anticipate that it will again," said Opera Australia CEO Fiona Allan, announcing the 2024 season. West Side Story at Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour will run from Friday, March 22–Sunday, April 21, 2024 — with tickets via Opera Australia subscription packages available from Thursday, September 28 and general tickets from Thursday, October 5. Images: Opera Australia's 2019 cast of West Side Story on Sydney Harbour.
Unsurprisingly, Paul Feig has had Wham!'s 'Last Christmas' stuck in his head for some time. Given that the Bridesmaids, Ghostbusters and A Simple Favour director's latest film is a festive rom-com based on the well-known 1980s hit, and uses 14 other songs by the late, great George Michael, that comes with the territory. "It never goes away — but in a great way," he explains. Feig isn't complaining. "The funny thing is that, when you're working on a Christmas movie, your entire year is Christmas," he says. "So, in the middle of May, when you're singing 'Last Christmas' while you're walking down the street, you're like, 'this is weird'. But now it all comes full circle and you're like, 'I'm all set!'." Starring Emilia Clarke as down-on-her-luck Londoner Kate, and Henry Golding as the handsome stranger who turns her life upside down — again, in a good way — Last Christmas isn't Feig's first Yuletide-themed movie. That honour goes to 2006's Unaccompanied Minors, although considering the higher-profile titles on his resume (he created cult TV series Freaks and Geeks, featured on-screen in the 90s version of Sabrina the Teenage Witch, and also helmed The Heat and Spy), it's hardly his calling card. Indeed, based on his past experience on that feature, he didn't particularly want to make another Christmas movie. But Feig is a seasonal film fan. His favourite picture of all time: It's A Wonderful Life. Guided by his background in the genre, his love of watching Christmas movies himself, and a witty script co-penned by Emma Thompson (after he almost directed her in Late Night), Last Christmas is his attempt to add a new perennial go-to to everyone's end-of-year viewing lists. With recently Feig visiting Australia to promote the release of the movie, we chatted with the filmmaker about all things festive on-screen, creating a "warm hug" of a movie and championing funny women — among other topics. ON RETURNING TO THE CHRISTMAS GENRE "It was really Emma Thompson's script. Honestly, I didn't want to do another Christmas movie — and she said, 'oh I've got this script together, you should read it and we should do it'. And I was like, 'oh how exciting, it's Emma Thompson'. And then you open it up and it says Last Christmas and you're like, 'oh no, it's a Christmas movie'. But it was so good. My favourite movie in the world is It's A Wonderful Life, and to me, this had elements of that. It had elements of just every rom-com I've ever loved, too. And also it had this great lead character in Kate, who's this very challenging woman who is not behaving the way that women are normally meant to act in these movies. And Emma's writing was so smart and so honest about this woman that I couldn't not do it." ON THE ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS OF A CHRISTMAS MOVIE "[On Unaccompanied Minors] I learned that a Christmas movie needs to have a lot of layers. It needs to really have emotion — and characters that people relate to, and feel that the kind of issues that come around Christmas sort are filtering through them. Those layers are what gives you depth and reality. Here, Last Christmas is not only about a women surviving a catastrophic illness, but it's also an immigrant story. And that really appealed to me — this displaced family who were doing well in their country and, because of a war, had to flee, and now they've ended up in this big city where they can't do what they normally did, and how they're all damaged by that. None of us set out to make a political movie, but at the same time, if you're going to make a film about an immigrant family in London in 2017, they are going to be affected by Brexit. It's going to affect their psyche. I really liked that that layer was in there, but not in a way of just being preachy or being anti-anything — just saying 'look, these are the consequences of how people feel because of these things'." ON TRYING TO MAKE A FILM THAT VIEWERS WILL REVISIT EVERY YEAR "You definitely think about it. It's funny — when I made Unaccompanied Minors, I'd never made a Christmas movie before. So you kind of go is 'well, the great thing about this is it's going to be a movie that people are going to watch every year, and it's going to become a favourite, a perennial!'. And then you find out that that's not true. There are a tonne of Christmas movies, and a lot of them are very forgettable. A lot of them just sort of disappear and don't make that once-a-year list. If you look at that list, it's incredibly small. So I just realised that you can't take it for granted, and you just really have to make the best movie you can. Again, it's all about the characters and story. That's the only reason that any movie works. But you also make it, as Emma calls this movie, 'a warm hug' — that, visually, it's got this beauty of Christmas to it, and it's got this happy, lovely glow. I wanted to make Last Christmas something you'd want to revisit, hopefully not just at Christmas time, but definitely when Christmas rolls around — to make it one of these things that you have warm memories about and makes you feel good. Because no Christmas movie doesn't make you feel good at the end. Maybe Black Christmas or some horror movie. Even then, I think probably the protagonist wins and defeats evil. I remember when I first saw It's A Wonderful Life in film school — and saying that if I could make a movie that makes me feel the way that I do at the end of that movie, if I could do that on my own, then I would be very happy. I definitely feel like, for me, our movie gives you that same world of feeling." ON THE CHRISTMAS MOVIES HE REVISITS AGAIN AND AGAIN "Love Actually is such a great one, because it's so uplifting. I love watching that because I can never get over what a master feat Richard Curtis did juggling all those stories in a way that you follow them all and care about them all — that's the hardest thing in the world. But then, I like Die Hard. I think that's a great Christmas movie. I know there's a lot of controversy — people say it's not a Christmas movie, but I'm on the 'it's a Christmas movie' side. And it ends with 'Let it Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!'!" ON CHAMPIONING WOMEN IN COMEDY — AND WEATHERING THE DEBATE SURROUNDING GHOSTBUSTERS "It just shows you how ridiculous and how behind the times Hollywood has been for so long — the fact that we're still arguing that. Especially about should women be in certain franchises or roles and all that kind of thing. But the most onerous part is just the 'are women funny or not?' question. You just have to scratch your head and go 'what year are we in? Is it 100 years in the past? Have I stumbled into a time machine or something?'. It's not even a valid question, but people still seem to bring it up. How many times can we disprove it? How many hilarious women can there be before people wake up. But I think it's the same thing as, when I talk to people and they go, 'oh, the food in London is terrible'. And I say, 'when was the last time you were in London?'. And they go, 'well 20 years ago'. That's the dumbest thing. You're just saying some stupid thing and passing along some trope that you heard somebody else say, and it doesn't even make any sense. So yeah, it's crazy." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=co5jWMYsr34 Last Christmas is now screening in Australian cinemas — read our full review.
Every Easter long weekend for 29 years, Bluesfest has descended on Byron Bay for five days of blues and roots. But this year, the acclaimed festival's 30th anniversary, may be its last in the Northern Rivers location. In a scathing letter addressed to the NSW Government, Festival Director Peter Noble has revealed that Bluesfest might leave the state because of the government's strict new policies on music festivals. "I am saying now, Bluesfest will leave NSW. We have no choice it's a matter of survival," the letter, originally published on The Industry Observer, said. "Will the last festival to leave NSW please turn out the light of culture in this soon to be barren state?" You can read the full open letter, which was shared with Concrete Playground, below. Noble described the new policies — which include a strict new licensing regime — as "poorly thought-out", "unbalanced" and "the Lockout Laws Version Two for festivals", highlighting that the State Government had neglected to fully consult those in the industry. He also revealed that the 30-year-old festival is having to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to comply with recently implemented policies. Bluesfest, if relocated, will be just the latest casualty of the NSW Government's new policies, with both the Mountain Sounds and Psyfari teams cancelling their 2019 festivals in the last seven days, stating "the government's war on festivals", particularly "newly imposed safety, licensing and security costs", as reasons. Both said they were also required to spend thousands of dollars to comply with the new policies, but were unable to do so at such short notice. The new music festival licensing regime follows advice from the government's expert panel on music festival safety, which was assembled in September after two young people died of suspected drug overdoses at Defqon 1. Since then, three more young people have died from suspected drug overdoses at NSW festivals. The NSW Government is continuing to ignore increased calls for pill-testing as a harm-minimisation technique at festivals. Read Peter Noble's full letter below. Letter from Peter Noble OAM, Bluesfest Festival Director re NSW Government's policy changes to festivals in the State: Bluesfest may well be celebrating our last festival in NSW, should the sitting NSW Government proceed with its plans for its policies. Even though we are Australia's most highly-awarded festival both nationally and internationally – having won Best Major Event at the NSW Tourism Awards three years in a row; and in representing NSW we came in second in the Australian Tourism Awards (beating Victoria's F1 Grand Prix) – we have been designated a 'high risk event'. This will cost us hundreds of thousands of dollars to comply with a policy where we and every other event in this State have had zero opportunity to have any consultation or input into a policy where we will need to spend significantly more money to put on the event this year with zero notice. The policy will see our full-strength liquor approval denied, while a myriad of other costs may be levied costing us hundreds of thousands of dollars. The NSW police regularly state that our policies are those of an industry leader in the supply of alcohol, field hospital, and crowd security and care. But, due to headlines in the media, our 30-year-old professional business is to be seriously damaged in a new policy imposed regarding festival presentation by a government who has rushed the judgement of our industry without full consultation of stake holders, or meetings with entertainment industry professionals. I charge the Government with a systemic failure in fairness here and implore all politicians from all parties to quickly become involved with what is a serious injustice. We, like most events in this State, supply a significant level of culture – we don't receive a cent from government even though we cause thousands of people to be employed – and bring tens of millions of dollars into NSW through Tourism. In the recent study done by the NSW government into the arts, it was found NSW is significantly behind Victoria and Queensland. I ask the Premier, the Minister for the Arts, Tourism and Major Events and EVERY sitting politician: WHY? Why do you seem to be hell-bent on destroying our industry? We provide culture to the people of this state, and Australia, through our good works. Most festivals haven't had drug deaths and contribute greatly to our society through presenting well-run, professional, world-class events. Why have we been given zero recognition in this government's actions? It seems the new policies are poorly thought-out and through their implementation will decimate our industry, should our government not see good sense. Will the last festival to leave NSW please turn out the light of culture in this soon to be barren state? I have in my 50 years in presenting music NEVER EXPERIENCED such poorly thought out, unbalanced legislation. Surely a professional governing body could do better. It's the Lockout Laws Version two for festivals. This is NOT a vote winner in the upcoming election. Thank you, Peter Noble OAM Presenter, Bluesfest and the Boomerang Indigenous Festival Bluesfest 2019 is scheduled to run from April 18 to April 22 at Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm, Byron Bay. More details and ticket info here. Image: Joseph Mayers.
No need to dig for pocket change at this chocolate shop. All you need to surrender is a little piece of your generosity. Danish chocolatier Anthon Berg created his one-day pop-up sweet shop 'Generous Store' because he believes that "there is not enough generosity in people's lives". Adorned with numberless 'price tags' that specified good deeds, the store's chocolate boxes could be taken home for the cost of a promise. Shoppers had to promise to complete the good deed, sanctifying their pledge by sharing it on Facebook via the store's iPad. If they failed to hold up their end of the bargain, their Facebook friends would be aware to hold them accountable. Chocolates were exchanged for the promise to serve a loved one breakfast in bed, to speak nicely to one's mother, and to complete a variety of other deeds, proving that chocolates aren't the only thing that makes life sweet. https://youtube.com/watch?v=_cNfX3tJonw [via GOOD]
The silly season may be over, but that doesn't mean the country's (or your) cultural calendar is looking too bare. Some of the year's most exciting and immersive art exhibitions have opened their doors across the nation this autumn. Which is particularly exciting, because interstate borders are all fully open for the first time since the start of the pandemic — and there are cheap flights aplenty. So, get out your diaries and plan trips to walk over giant Monet artworks, visit Van Gogh's 'Sunflowers' and explore decaying rooms filled with street art. We've rounded up the best art exhibitions happening across the country this autumn.
Even if politics isn't your favourite topic, there's been no avoiding a certain name since the mid 2010s, ever since Donald Trump announced that he was running for US President. Over that time, he's been voted into America's top office, then voted out. Saying that he didn't take the latter well is an understatement. He got kicked off Twitter, too, and announced another bid for the gig in 2024. Much, much, much more has happened, of course — and much, much, much more again — but everyone has seen the constant stream of headlines already. One person who's been forced to observe all of the above from a unique position is Mary Trump, the former US President's only niece, as well as an outspoken critic of him and their family. You might've heard of or read the trained clinical psychologist's 2020 book Too Much and Never Enough: How My Family Created the World's Most Dangerous Man, which explores the obvious. Now, in winter 2023, you can see Mary chat about her thoughts and clearly chaotic life live onstage in Australia. That tome sold almost a million copies in a single day. Plus, with the next US elections two years away, that T word — Trump — isn't fading from view anytime soon. Accordingly, Mary will head to Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney to talk about it with Ray Martin, dishing the details from her firsthand experiences. [caption id="attachment_880176" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Matt Wade Photography via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] Attendees can expect to hear about her uncle's impact upon the world's health and economic security, plus society in general. And, about the ideas and American history — the American Civil War, slavery and the Founding Fathers all included — that've helped lead to his position of influence. Mary will also give an insider's view into how the US works, the rise of the MAGA movement and what a future with Donald Trump in power, or even out of it, could hold. Taking to the stage at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, Melbourne's Hamer Hall and Sydney's State Theatre, she'll add insights into her childhood and family dynamic in detail as well. Clearly, this won't be the kind of in-conversation session that anyone gets to see everyday. And, if you're a US politics junkie, it'd make quite the double — albeit spaced out by a few months — with Barack Obama's 2023 Aussie speaking tour. MARY TRUMP: LIVE ON STAGE — AUSTRALIAN 2023 TOUR: Saturday, June 17: Great Hall, Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, Brisbane Tuesday, June 20: Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne, Melbourne Thursday, June 22: State Theatre, Sydney Mary Trump's Australian speaking tour will take place in June 2023. To join the waitlist for tickets — which will go on sale in February — head to the tour's website.
The 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup is last year's news, sadly. There's still two years to wait until Australia hosts the 2026 Women's Asian Cup. But 2024 is the year of the Paris Olympics — and in preparation for vying for gold, the Matildas are hitting the field Down Under. The country's national women's soccer team are playing two friendlies against China, the first in Adelaide on Friday, May 31 and the second in Sydney on Monday, June 3. And although both are sold out — giving the Tillies a massive 14 sellout games on home soil in a row — you can still tune in from home, or the pub, if you won't be in the South Australian or New South Wales capitals or haven't scored tickets. These are the Matildas' first games in Australia since the last match of the final Olympics qualifiers back in February. Taking place in Melbourne against Uzbekistan, that game turned out mighty well for the squad, resulting in a 10–0 scoreline their way and locking in a spot in Paris. This time, there's nothing but bragging rights on the line, but a Tillies game is still a Tillies game. To watch, 10Play and Paramount+ are your destinations — plus Network 10 on regular TV. Sam Kerr is injured, but the squad is filled with high-profile names, including Steph Catley donning the captain's armband, Ellie Carpenter as vice captain, and also everyone from Mackenzie Arnold, Alanna Kennedy, Caitlin Foord, Mary Fowler and Kyra Cooney-Cross to Hayley Raso, Michelle Heyman, Cortnee Vine and Lydia Williams. Expect the latter to spend some time in goal, given that the legend of the game announced that she'll retire from international football following the Olympics. After this, the Tillies kick off their quest for a medal in Paris on Friday, July 26 at 3am Australian time, playing Germany. Their first-round draw also includes matches against Zambia and the USA. In-between, you can get another Matildas fix via documentary Trailblazers, which hits Stan on Tuesday, June 4 — and if you're in Sydney on Monday, June 10, at a Vivid 2024 talk with Mackenzie Arnold and Tony Gustavsson. The Matildas vs China PR Friendlies 2024: Friday, May 31 — 8.10pm AEST / 7.40pm ACST / 6.10pm AWST Monday, June 3 — 7.40pm AEST / 7.10pm ACST / 5.10pm AWST The Matildas' friendlies against in China PR take place on Friday, May 31 and Monday, June 3, 2024— and you can watch via 10, 10Bold, 10Play and Paramount+. Images: Tiffany Williams, Football Australia.
Brisbanites, if your flight routine involves checking in, going through security, stocking up on snacks and then having a cheeky pre-flight drink, you now have a new place to do the latter. Newstead Brewing Co has just set up shop inside Brisbane Airport's domestic terminal, launching its new taphouse on the facility's second level — and giving you a new excuse to say cheers to your next trip. The airport venue marks Newstead Brewing's third site — after its original location in Newstead, obviously, and its second home in Milton. Originally due to open in 2020, but delayed due to the pandemic, the domestic terminal bar sprawls across 300 square metres near gate 38, and has room to welcome in 120 pre-departure beer-lovers. While you're sipping a brew from the 12 taps, you'll look out over the runway. That's what airport bars are all about, after all. Here, you'll be able to choose from Newstead Brewing's core range, or knock back pints of its exclusive airport beer — the fittingly named Tailwood Ale. The site will also pour the brewery's limited-release brews as they pop up. If you're feeling hungry before hopping onboard, the taphouse's pub-style food menu spans Moreton Bay Bug rolls, chicken parmigianas, burgers and pizzas, plus a range of vegetarian, gluten-free and vegan dishes. And, decor-wise, Newstead Brewing has stuck with the same industrial look as its other sites, bringing a touch of the brewery aesthetic to the new venue. Opened in partnership with Airport Retail Enterprises — who are also behind the onsite Coffee Royal, Graze Grill & Bar, Merlo Caffee, Mezze Za Za, Seeds by Bruno Loubet and New Farm Confectionery stores — the Newstead Brewing taphouse forms part of Brisbane Airport's $40 million revamp of the domestic terminal. Find Newstead Brewing Co's new taphouse on level two, near gate 38, at Brisbane Airport's domestic terminal.
Back in 2020, which now seems a lifetime ago, St Jerome's Laneway Festival celebrated 15 years since Danny Rogers and Jerome Borazio first decided to fill a Melbourne alleyway with tunes. The beloved fest marked that milestone with a characteristically jam-packed lineup that made its way to Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane and Fremantle, as well as Auckland — but since then, it's been quiet thanks to the pandemic. After two Laneway-less years, the festival has finally locked in dates for its 2023 return — plus new venues for four of its five Australian stops. The festival will kick off in Auckland, returning to Albert Park for the long weekend of Auckland Anniversary Day on Monday, January 30. From there it will arrive in Brisbane on Saturday, February 4, Sydney on Sunday, February 5, Adelaide on Friday, February 10, Melbourne on Saturday, February 11 and Perth on Sunday, February 12. Across these five Australian dates, the Brisbane venue is the only one that has remained consistent from the festival's 2020 run of shows, taking to Brisbane Showgrounds again. The Melbourne leg of the festival has been forced to move away from its previous home at Footscray Park and will now pop up at the newly opened Epsom Road venue The Park in Flemington. The Park has an on-site train station and is located just 15 minutes from the CBD. [caption id="attachment_655626" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anthony Smith[/caption] In Sydney, after 10 years at Sydney College of the Arts and Callan Park, Laneway 2020's Sydney date shifted to The Domain. Now for 2023, it's moved again and will be making its home at the Sydney Showground. Sydneysiders will associate the Showground with the Sydney Royal Easter Show, but this won't be its first time hosting a major touring music festival, as it was once the regular home for the now-defunct Big Day Out. The South Australian leg has moved from Port Adelaide's Hart's Mill to the Adelaide CBD's Bonython Park, and, in the biggest move, the Western Australia leg will be going down at the recently revamped Wellington Square. "The Laneway Festival team is constantly looking for ways to improve and enhance the patron and artist experience and each of the sites will allow us to bring in A+ production and facilities. We are absolutely pumped to host music fans and our favourite ever line-up on these new sites," Laneway Festival co-Founder Danny Rogers said. If you're hanging out to know who will be gracing the stage next year, you'll have to wait a couple more days. The lineup is set to drop at 7.40am this Wednesday, September 21. In 2020, the lineup was headed up by the likes of The 1975, Charli XCX and Earl Sweatshirt, as well as a host of local favourites like Ruel, DMA's and Ocean Alley. View this post on Instagram A post shared by St. Jerome's Laneway Festival (@lanewayfest) St Jerome's Laneway Festival will return to Auckland, Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide, Melbourne and Perth between Monday, January 30 and Sunday, February 12. Head to the festival's social pages for all the info on its 2023 edition and for next year's lineup when it drops this Wednesday, September 21.
Sometimes, you can fall out of love with your city, get stuck in a monotonous 9-to-5 routine and start to feel a little like you're living in Groundhog Day. The best thing to do is pack your bags and get outta town for a couple of days, maybe more. Sydney is teeming with new places to while away a sunny day, it's the perfect destination if you want to escape the Melbourne weather or hightail it out of Brissie for a long weekend. But you don't want to get stuck visiting the same old tourist traps. To help you out, we've partnered with Qantas and curated sunrise-to-sunset guide for Sydney's hip 'n' happenin' inner-city suburbs, so you won't miss out on a thing. First destination: Coogee. There's more to this chill beachside suburb than a broad sandy beach, our step-by-step itinerary will show you how to pack the most into a day-long Coogee frolic and see all the best sites. From sunrise boxing on the beach to lounging on the rooftop at Coogee Pavilion, outdoor yoga at the Baths to dog-spotting on the foreshore, you can have an active, ocean-drenched, food-filled day all at once down at one of Sydney's most laid-back eastern suburbs beaches. Now, it's time to explore. 6AM: GO BOXING ON THE BEACH Book one of Beachfit and Wellbeing's outdoor boxing classes to kick-start your day with the zest of a lifestyle blogger. Coogee Beach itself gets fairly packed on sunny days, so the best way to enjoy the sand between your toes is to get down there early. Like, sunrise early. Meet at the centre of Coogee Beach, watch the sun come up and smash out a workout before most of Sydney has even registered that it's a new day. Don't forget to snap an Insta pic to make your interstate friends jealous. 7AM: GRAB COFFEE AND BREKKIE AT THE LITTLE KITCHEN Rinse off the sunrise sweat at one of the council's outdoor showers, and walk towards the south end of Coogee to The Little Kitchen. A family-run cafe open from 7am daily, you'll find modern Aussie cafe food in a relaxed, freshly refurbished setting. Pick a seat at one of the long tables inside away from the sun. Double Roasters coffee or cold drip takes care of all your caffeine needs. Keep brekkie simple with a humble order of fruit toast and ricotta, or have the grilled chorizo with roasted peppers, herb salad, hummus and labne for a more substantial feed. Don't forget to bring a book or the paper — anyone who gets up before 8am truly earns the right to savour that morning coffee. 8.30AM: ENJOY SOME PRIME DOG-SPOTTING Scientific fact: dogs are freaking cute. But you can test this hypothesis for yourself if you must. Grab a coffee to go, meander along the boardwalk towards Trenerry Reserve and you'll be in the heartland of peak dog-spotting action. Remember to wear a hat, some sunscreen and sunnies as those Sydney rays can be quite strong if you're not used to them. 9.30AM: PRACTICE YOUR SUN SALUTATION AT OUTDOOR YOGA Keep the active-wear on for a relaxing outdoor yoga session. From the dog park, just wander 100 metres back towards Coogee Beach to the historic Wylie's Baths for a wholesome al fresco Hatha Flow. Run by Wylie's Wellness, classes take place in the shade of a marquee overlooking the sea, so you can enjoy stunning ocean views while you're stretching it out. 12PM: FISH AND CHIPS AT CHISH N FIPS After an active morning, it's time to chill. Lunch from Chish N Fips is a local favourite and must-try for visitors. It's a reasonably priced, no-frills joint reminiscent of grabbing a feed on a camping car trip with the family circa 1998, but, more importantly, it's very tasty. Order calamari and chips to take away and enjoy unparalleled views of Coogee beach, with the sand beneath your toes and salty ocean breeze on your face. 2PM: COOGEE PAVILION Unequivocally the best place to scout a prime view overlooking the whole of Coogee Beach is from the rooftop balcony of Coogee Pavilion. Nab one of their balcony umbrellas, grab a Pavilion Pina Colada ($18) and some grilled haloumi wrapped in vine leaves ($12.50) and wind down overlooking post-card perfect views of the beach. Ah, how's the serenity? 4PM: SNORKELLING AT GORDONS BAY You don't have to travel to the Great Barrier Reef to live out your marine biologist dreams — check out the teeming aquatic life down at Gordons Bay, the coastal inlet just north of Coogee Beach. The word that comes to mind when describing the bay is 'magical'. This might sound like the overzealous puffery of a high-end Maldivian resort guidebook write-up, but when you're floating in the water looking up at the surrounding cliffs, you will second this assessment. Just think, if you were a Sydneysider you could do this every weekend. 6PM: DINNER AT SUGARCANE RESTAURANT Conclude your Coogee adventure with dinner and drinks at Sugarcane. It's a contemporary Asian dining experience with Japanese, Malay, Thai and Chinese cuisines all featuring on the menu. The decor has Balinese Seminyak vibes, but the ocean view from the restaurant's balcony tables is pure Sydney. Now's probably a good time to start planning your next trip back to this magical place. Ready to get away and experience Sydney? Book with Qantas for great fares to Sydney and NSW until 24 September. Terms and conditions apply.
What do Parks and Recreation, Wellington Paranormal and Ted Lasso all have in common? They're all stellar examples of kind-hearted TV comedies that are an utter delight to watch, especially in chaotic times. Like a balm for frazzled nerves, these types of sitcoms focus on nice and caring people doing nice and caring things, even while their characters navigate all manner of ups and downs. Michael Schur-created favourite Brooklyn Nine-Nine also fits the category, because it too celebrates people who support each other, are always there for each other and form heartwarming bonds as a result. That's what these instantly likeable programs perfect again and again — and do so to not just an entertaining but to a soul-replenishing degree. By now, three of the aforementioned shows have already established a legion of fans, and deservedly so. Ted Lasso, the fourth series named above — and a 2020 newcomer — definitely belongs in the same company even just based on its ten-episode first season, plus the first two instalments of its second season so far. Starring a gloriously optimistic, already Golden Globe-winning Jason Sudeikis, the comedy first introduces its titular character during a period of transition. A college-level American football coach, Ted is hired by struggling English soccer team AFC Richmond, despite having zero knowledge of the sport. Ted is recruited for the role by the club's new owner, Rebecca Welton (Hannah Waddingham, Game of Thrones), who received the organisation in her divorce settlement and is determined to tank it to spite her slimy ex (Buffy the Vampire Slayer's Anthony Stewart Head). And, she knows that her new hire will face more than a few issues in his unlikely job. The ravenous British media write Ted off instantly, the club is in a spot on on-field bother, and veteran champion Roy Kent (Brett Goldstein, Uncle) and current hotshot Jamie Tartt (Phil Dunster, Judy) just can't get along. And yet, this American in London's upbeat attitude does wonders — as aided by his laconic offsider and long-time friend Coach Beard (Brendan Hunt, Bless This Mess), and the team's kit man-turned-assistant coach Nathan Shelley (Nick Mohammed, Intelligence). For much of his career, Sudeikis has excelled at playing thorny, jerkish characters (see: the terrific Colossal) who initially appear otherwise. He's exceptional at showing how arrogance can lurk behind a nice-guy demeanour, and he's proven that multiple times. Ted Lasso is never mean-spirited, however — and that applies to both the series and its main figure. Sudeikis is fantastic here as the genuinely caring coach just trying to do his best, and attempting to bring out the best in others. Yes, the series he's in is just as spot-on, as are his impressive cast members. In Ted Lasso's second season, which has just started streaming on Apple TV+, Ted faces a new challenge. The team has just added psychologist Dr Sharon Fieldstone (Sarah Niles, I May Destroy You) to its ranks and, while Ted may be all positivity, all the time, he's not fond of Dr Fieldstone's profession — and finds her an unsettling presence. This is a series about working through those kind of roadblocks, though. It's one where Rebecca has moved on from just trying to use the club to annoy her ex, and is now thoroughly invested in its fortunes — and where her friendship with model, media darling, Jamie's ex-girlfriend and Roy's current partner Keeley Jones (Juno Temple, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil) is never framed as competitive, as would likely be the case elsewhere. Consequently, exploring this storyline in a meaningful and positive way just adds to Ted Lasso's strengths. Viewers definitely don't need to love soccer or even sport to fall for this show's ongoing charms, to adore its determination to value banding together and looking on the bright side, and to love its depiction of both male tenderness and supportive female friendships. Those traits keep building episode by episode, as does fondness for its underdog team both on and off the pitch, and its ability to make Roy's love of swearing constantly both smart and hilarious. It's no wonder that Ted Lasso picked up a whopping 20 Emmy nominations this year, for its first season alone, including acting nods for pretty much every main actor involved in the show. In fact, this is the best sitcom currently in production. Check out the trailer for Ted Lasso's second season below: The first two episodes of Ted Lasso's second season are available to stream via Apple TV+, with new episodes dropping weekly — and all of the show's first season is also available via the streaming service.
If you find yourself walking through QUT's Creative Industries Precinct at night, firstly be wary of the nocturnal creatures (possums have been known to Parkour onto people's heads from time to time) and secondly take the time to look up! The shining light on the buildings is part of an innovative outdoor projection exhibition thanks to The Parer Place Project. The Parer Place Project is solely dedicated to providing a digital canvas for emerging or experimental artists, allowing innovative work to illuminate QUT's burgeoning creative campus. This month the project will showcase Floating Effect – a collection of short animations from Japan's Digital Hollywood University. The film university holds strong ties with organisations both inside and outside Japan and represents a range of study fields including Anime, games, film and IT. The Floating Effects series of short animations will address the interweaving of Japan's strong traditions and historical traumas with contemporary aesthetics such as Superflat and western influences. An interesting and exotic spotlight on a culture that uniquely integrates modern change with traditional practices. Floating Effect will screen outdoors, every night from 6pm until dusk.
Playing Hawkins, Indiana's chief of police Jim Hopper, David Harbour has faced everything from monsters, grief and missing kids to frozen waffles, mall battles and a Russian prison camp. Across the rest of his non-Stranger Things resume, he's gone red in Hellboy, joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in Black Widow and played a not-so-jolly Santa in Violent Night, as well as showing up in three different versions of Law & Order — some more than once — and the American remake of Rake. Next on his agenda: a trip to Australia to revel in his fandom. For famous faces, that's what joining the bill at a big pop-culture convention is all about. A new excuse to show your love for your movie, TV, comic book and game favourites is popping up in Melbourne, with Metro Comic Con making its debut in July. That's news worth busting out your cosplay best for, but Harbour's involvement might have you donning Hawaiian shirts from Saturday, July 8–Sunday, July 9 at Melbourne Showgrounds. The convention's biggest name will make an appearance ahead of his next flick Gran Turismo, which reaches cinemas in August. And, he isn't the only Stranger Things cast member on the lineup. Also swapping the Upside Down for a stint Down Under is Jamie Campbell Bower, aka Vecna, in news that'll make you go running up that hill — any hill. Netflix's huge hit sci-fi series isn't the only title in the spotlight at the two-day event, of course. More than four decades since E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial became a classic, Henry Thomas and Dee Wallace want to get you phoning home about the beloved film. Sons of Anarchy aficionados can look forward to Kim Coates and Tommy Flanagan, while Lucifer's Tom Ellis, The Walking Dead's Khary Payton, and Shadow and Bone's Danielle Galligan and Dean Lennox Kelly will also be in attendance — plus Our Flag Means Death's Vico Ortiz, Roswell's Brendan Fehr and The Mandalorian's Katy O'Brian. The full list of guests also spans voice talents, writers, illustrators and comic artists, with Metro Comic Con's talents appearing across panels, and photo and autograph opportunities — and alongside stalls filled with merchandise, plus oh-so-many ticketholders in costume. Metro Comic Con hits Melbourne Showgrounds, Epsom Road, Ascot Vale across Saturday, July 8–Sunday, July 9 — head to the event's website for further details and tickets. Stranger Things images: Netflix.
On Sunday, January 20, Sydney staged a huge march through the city streets, with thousands waving witty (and moving) signs to protest violence against women around the globe. Australia was just one of 30 countries taking part in the third annual #WomensWave march — protests were also held in in France, Zimbabwe, New Zealand and across the USA. According to Destroy the Joint, an Australian group that researches and records the number of women killed by violence, 69 women died due to violence in Australia in 2018. This year's march was, unfortunately, timely, following the murder of exchange student Aiia Maasarwe in Melbourne just last week, and Maasarwe was the focus of many of the event's speeches and signs. Speakers at the event included Yumi Stynes, host of SBS documentary Is Australia Sexist? and ABC Radio podcast Ladies, We Need to Talk; Bri Lee, author of Eggshell Skull; Bhenji Ra, indigenous queer artist and activist; Jane Brock of Immigrant Women's Speakout and 1 Billion Rising; and Aunty Norma, a Wiradjuri woman and activist. It's estimated 3000 Sydneysiders marched from Hyde Park to Belmore Park, calling on the Australian government to address gender-based violence and to continue working towards equality for women. Words by Jasmine Crittenden.
What's better than one glorious art exhibition bringing a slice of America to Queensland? Two, obviously, and all in the same gallery. The Gold Coast's HOTA, Home of the Arts is currently filled with pop art from New York, but that's not the only way that the six-level venue is giving its heart — and walls and halls — to the US of A right now. From Saturday, March 11–Sunday, May 21, Lost in Palm Springs has another location firmly in its sights. This free showcase takes inspiration from the titular Californian spot's art, architecture and design — and yes, it's a case of a sunny Aussie city paying tribute to another radiant destination on the other side of the globe. Lost in Palm Springs has tasked 14 artists, photographers and thinkers from both countries to reflect upon and respond to Palm Springs' desert landscape. Doing the honours: talents such as Kate Ballis, Tom Blachford, Paul Davies, Rosi Griffin, Anna Carey and Robyn Sweaney. Unsurprisingly, the idea for the exhibition was first sparked by trips to the US, with Dr Greer Honeywill undertaking three artist research residencies in 2017, 2018 and 2019 in exactly the place expected. But the end result also examines the ties between Palm Springs and Australia, especially via mid-century modern architecture. Feel like watching the Andy Samberg-starring movie Palm Springs right now for obvious reasons? Whether you start streaming ASAP or save it for when you get home from peering at this exhibition, that's perfectly understandable.
When that slice of inner-city delights known as Teneriffe was officially named a suburb back in 2010, locals threw a party to celebrate. More than a decade on, the shindig is still going strong — you know it as the Teneriffe Festival. For its 2022 outing, the event will boast another wide-ranging day of fun, aka the kind of shindig that previous attendees have come to expect. When 10am–9pm rolls around on Saturday, May 28, there'll be music, food, markets and more, all helping locals and visitors alike make the most of the bustling locale. This is all familiar news, because the fest announced its date for this year last month — but now the event has also revealed its lineup. Leading the all-Australian bill: Ben Lee, so expect a 'Catch My Disease' singalong, and also local legends Resin Dogs. If you've lived in Brisbane long enough, you'll know that isn't really a party in this town of ours if the latter isn't on the lineup. The music program is curated by the crew from The Triffid — they are right there in the neighbourhood — and doesn't stop with its headliners. Also hitting Teneriffe Festival's two stages: the likes of The Steele Syndicate, Will Wagner, The Predators, Great Sage and Melaleuca. Between stints of dancing in the street — including at a jazz-fuelled, wine-pouring riverside garden — Brisbanites will be able to sample the area's bars and restaurants, find a feast of from a food truck, hit up pop-up beer gardens, then walk around more than 100 bespoke market stalls. Usually, everywhere from Green Beacon Brewing Co and Zero Fox to Dalgety Public House and Campos join in — and more than 50,000 people have attended in previous years, so you'll also have plenty of company. TENERIFFE FESTIVAL 2022 LINEUP: Ben Lee Resin Dogs The Steele Syndicate Will Wagner The Predators Great Sage Melaleuca Yb Danny Widdicombe and Dana Gehrman Pandamic Mojo Webb Jo Davie Holly Joy Miranda vs Arizona House of Harlen Lucy Korts The Verandahs The Dandys Jazz on the River Teneriffe Festival 2022 takes place from 10am–9pm on Saturday, May 28 on Vernon Terrace, Teneriffe.
As a generation, we've watched the internet emerge from its fledgling beginnings to its modern state, where nearly a third of Earth's population is logged on. In mere decades, the internet has gone from nonexistent to a necessity. We are a population obsessed. And then came Facebook. The ever-expanding social network debuted in 2004, turning us all into Facebook-stalkers and using up any free time we had left. It's hard to remember the internet before Facebook, let alone any of the computer technology of yesteryear. Squirrel Monkey's video tutorial, which imagines Facebook if it had been designed in the 1990s, will bring you right back to the horrendous colour graphics and primitive Windows versions of the technology's start. The video, a humourous how-to, takes a new user through the nuances of "the Facebook". The concept of Facebook, set against the simplistic '90s graphics, suddenly seems very ridiculous. And perhaps that is just the point. The subsequent videos, which imagine Twitter in the '80s and Draw Something as an old PC game, similarly put social media into perspective, reminding us not to take our status updates and tweets all too seriously. https://youtube.com/watch?v=xrYRH3PYYT0 [via Flavorwire]
Some events feel like they've always been part of Brisbane's cultural scene, and Stones Corner Festival is one of them — even though it'll only host its seventh fest when it returns in 2022. That's the sign of something special, with this street party swiftly becoming one of the city's must-attend festivals. It's been sorely missed during the pandemic, too. Come Sunday, May 1, Stones Corner Festival will once again unleash a day of food and music on the inner east when it finally makes a comeback after a two-year hiatus. And when that happens, the event is going big. On the lineup: Sneaky Sound System, The Porkers and Quentin & The Tarantino's, as well as Good Will Remedy, Jollee, Full Power Happy Hour, Sofia Isella & Cheap Date. That's who you'll be listening to — or dancing in the street to, to be more accurate — however, the music bill is only part of the Stones Corner Festival fun. You can also expect more than 20 craft breweries pouring beers, including Little Creatures, 4 Pines, Slipstream, Balter, Eumundi, Brookvale Union, Mountain Goat and Green Beacon. Four Pillars Gin, Your Mates Brewing Co, Heads of Noosa and Better Beer will be on hand as well, so you'll have sipping options. Eating-wise, a heap of food trucks will pop up to keep your stomach lined — including with burgers, paella, tacos and pizza. And as for what else awaits on the corner of Logan and Old Cleveland roads — and during the Labour Day long weekend, handily — there'll also be market stalls via The Market Folks. If you're planning a big one, that public holiday the next day is oh so convenient. Also, entry remains free, but giving a gold coin donation to the MND and Me Foundation is recommended. STONES CORNER FESTIVAL 2022 LINEUP: Sneaky Sound System The Porkers Quentin & The Tarantino's Good Will Remedy Jollee Full Power Happy Hour Sofia Isella Cheap Date Stones Corner Festival takes place from 12–10pm on Sunday, May 1 on Logan Road, Stones Corner.
You have to hear Noisy Jelly to believe it. This science project-esque game, imagined by Raphaël Pluvinage and Marianne Cauvard, allows you to create your own musical instrument out of jelly. Using water, agar agar powder and a set series of molds (contained in Noisy Jelly's mini chemistry lab) players can create their own set of jellies. The jellies are then placed on the included game board, where they may be touched and manipulated to create sound. If you don't quite get the jelly-to-music correlation either, Noisy Jelly includes a scientific diagram to explain what is actually happening. The game board functions as a capacitative sensor, and the final sound it produces all depends upon the shape and salt concentration of the jelly. The distance and strength of the finger-to-jelly contact can create different sounds, as well.
