No matter how jolly December normally looks to you, one merry getaway has your festive plans beat: staying in Santa's cabin for three nights. Say "ho, ho, holidays" to Airbnb's latest one-off listing, with the accommodation-sharing and -booking platform letting up to four lucky guests — two adults and two children — head to Finland to slumber in a winter wonderland adjacent to Santa's Main Post Office in Rovaniemi. And if that's not enough of a present, the reservation is free. Airbnb's Santa's cabin listing follows in the footsteps of Shrek's swamp, Barbie's Malibu DreamHouse, the Ted Lasso pub, the Moulin Rouge! windmill, Hobbiton, the Bluey house, the Paris theatre that inspired The Phantom of the Opera, the Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine, The Godfather mansion, the South Korean estate where BTS filmed In the Soop, the Sanderson sisters' Hocus Pocus cottage and more — all once-in-a-lifetime experiences. As well as the ultimate jolly vacation, the trip to the Arctic Circle includes channelling your inner elf to help with the letters. 'Tis the season, after all. If you're lucky enough to score the booking for Monday, December 18–Thursday, December 21, Katja, Chief Elf of Santa Claus' Main Post Office, will be your host — and teach you the necessary 'elfing' skills for your visit. You'll sort letters while referring to the naughty and nice list, as well as empty mailboxes, stamp the post with the Arctic Circle postmark and learn about how the post office runs on a day-to-day basis. "The elves have been working around the clock to transform Santa Claus' cabin into a winter wonderland. We want this to be a magical and immersive experience for a family in search of the ultimate yuletide experience. Not only will guests get to sleep in Santa Claus' cabin, they'll also get a sneak peek behind the scenes of the world's official Santa Claus' Post Office during our liveliest time of the year," said Katja. The stay isn't just about Christmas, Christmas and more Christmas. It also spans seeing the northern lights, getting steamy in a traditional Finnish sauna, a snowmobile activity and traditional Finnish meals. Still, grinches likely need to not apply — nor anyone already thinking "bah humbug!" to the idea. As for the cabin itself, it's decked out with Yuletide Lapland decorations, an open fire for roasting chestnuts and appropriate elf attire — because you'll be donning a felt hat, complete with a jingling bell, as well as a tunic for your stay. If you're keen, you'll need to try to nab the booking at 9pm AEDT / 8pm AEST / 11pm NZDT on Monday, December 11. Whoever gets these special kinds of Airbnb reservations is usually responsible for their own travel, including if they have to get to and from their destination, but this one includes complimentary return flights to Rovaniemi from London Heathrow Airport via Finnair. You will still need to cover your travel to and from London, however. This listing is also helping a good cause, with Airbnb making a one-off donation to Special Children's Omaiset ELO as part of the Santa's cabin promotion. For more information about the Santa's cabin stay on Airbnb, or to book at 9pm AEDT / 8pm AEST / 11pm NZDT on Monday, December 11 for a stay across Monday, December 18–Thursday, December 21, head to the Airbnb website. Images: Samir Zarrouck. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
UPDATE, February 27, 2022: Due to the weather conditions, the Sunday Retro Brunch has been moved to Sunday, March 27. This article has been updated to reflect that change. There really is a day for everything, and here's the latest proof: National Retro Day, aka a day to celebrate the good ol' days, arrives on Sunday, March 27. And if your idea of getting nostalgic simply involves partying like it's the 70s, then the newly reopened Hibiscus Room — which dates back that long — has the brunch session for you. From 12pm, it's hosting a Sunday Retro Brunch. Think: prawns with cocktail sauce, pavlova for dessert, and everything from oysters with Tabasco, eggs benedict, tandoori chicken, lamingtons and a cheese selection as well. And, while the menu is spiriting your tastebuds back in time, you'll be hanging out in a retro-themed rooftop poolside on level four of the Hyatt Regency Brisbane. You'll pay $79 per person for the food lineup, which includes a Four Pillars cocktail upon arrival and live entertainment as well. After that first boozy beverage, it's a pay-as-you-drink setup, with $15 Four Pillars spiced negronis, Bloody Shiraz Gin spritzes and Navy Strength Gin mule among the drinks selection for February.
From watching the fireworks on the river to drag queens, family fun, live music and epic DJ lineups, Brisbane sure knows how to throw a New Year's Eve party. We know how hard it can be to decide what to do on the all-important final night of the year, so we've enlisted the help of The Pass to round up some pretty epic New Year's Eve events and specials in Brisbane to bid farewell to 2024. Riverland NYE Celebrations Head to Riverland for an unforgettable New Year's Eve. From your prime spot along the river, you can sit back and watch the fireworks show while indulging in an exclusive four-hour premium food and beverage package. There will also be live cooking stations, live music and DJs. Honestly, we can't think of a better way to spend the last day of 2024. Grab your tickets here. Time: From 8pm until 3amWhere: 167 Eagle St, Brisbane City QLD 4000 Cost: From $209 Fridays NYE Party Ring in 2025 at Friday's iconic New Year's Eve party, set along Brisbane's stunning riverside with views of the fireworks. We're really looking forward to this one—you can expect gourmet food, drinks and live tunes from DJs, including KAOS, Chunky Dip, and Darley. Tickets can be purchased here. Time: From 8pm until 3am Where: Riverside Centre, 123 Eagle St, Brisbane City QLD 4000 Cost: From $170 Regatta - Through the Decades NYE For those who are nostalgic for New Year's Eve's past, or maybe you just love a bit of 80s music, The Regatta Through the Decades party is the place for you. There will be plenty of fun things to keep you entertained, like themed rooms, live entertainment and food pop-ups with oh-so-many tasty offerings. Or, opt for the VIP treatment on Level 1 with a four-hour canape and drinks package with an oyster bar, while VIP Level 2 takes it up a notch with a luxe four-course meal and exclusive live music. Get your tickets for the ultimate blast from the past. Time: From 8pm until late Where: 543 Coronation Dr, Toowong QLD 4066 Cost: From $30 Crown Hotel Head to the Crown Hotel for a memorable, fun night. A great option if you've got little ones with you, enjoy countless fun activities for the kids, live music and a delicious chef's selection menu, with DJs hitting the decks later in the night so you can let loose. There will be a family countdown starting at 7.30pm, with a confetti cannon celebration. Tickets can be found here. Time: From 3pm until late Where: 446 Lutwyche Rd, Lutwyche QLD 4030 Cost: Free Wickham's 90s + Early 00s NYE Festival One of Brisbane's favourite pubs, The Wickham will be hosting a 90s and Early 00s party and it's time to get excited. There will be three rooms and three vibes – Vogue: Pop divas & icons all night long, Show Me Love: 90s dance floor anthems and Bring It All Back: 90s and 00s pop, RnB, and hip hop. You can also expect drag shows, themed drinks, giveaways, and a best-dressed competition. Get your tickets for a night of queer chaos and throwback bangers. Time: From 8pm until late Where: 308 Wickham St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006 Cost: From $35.20 Images: Supplied.
Farewells are important. When something you love is coming to an end, you want to say goodbye in as fitting a way as possible. That's clearly the Queensland Art Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art's plan with the 10th Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art, which finishes its season on Monday, April 25 — after the two-day APT10 Festival takes over both South Bank sites first. Since early December, Brisbanites have been able to head to QAG and GOMA to see 69 artworks from more than 150 Asia-Pacific creatives, covering more than 30 countries. That remains the case right through until the exhibition's closing day, of course. But make a date with the exhibition across the weekend Saturday, April 23–Sunday, April 24 and a huge (and free) art party featuring more than 140 artists and performers across 40-plus events is also on the agenda. Highlights include pop-up performances by APT10 artist Brian Fuata and the Brisbane Pride Choir, as well as art-making workshops that've been designed by Phuong Ngo, Shannon Novak and Vipoo Srivilasa — all of which have pieces on display in the exhibition, too — as well as the Brisbane Tongan Community. Or, there's a story garden with Gordon Hookey, writers Nadine Chemali and Sandhya Parappukkaran, and members of The Pacific Climate Warriors, which'll let you hear tales about the Asia-Pacific region as told by local storytellers. Former Masterchef contestant and chef Emily Yeoh will be teaming up with the aforementioned Srivilasa for a cooking demonstration that'll highlight the importance of food in celebrating culture, too. Still on all things culinary, there'll be food trucks serving up international cuisine — and pop-up bars quenching your thirst. Plus, the onsite GOMA Bistro, GOMA Restaurant and QAG Cafe will be doing what they normally do, naturally. If you're eager to see a show, gig, both or several, make plans for 2–5pm on the Sunday afternoon. That's when drag performers Shivannah (Fez Faanana) and Kween Kong (Thomas Fonua) will also host the Performance Extravaganza, which'll showcase Queensland dance troupes and musicians. On the bill: Digi Youth Arts doing a clap stick flash mob, Dance Masala breaking out some Bollywood moves, local Pasifika performers Conscious Mic, and sitar sounds from Sudha Manian and YATRA. Or, there's Japanese drumming team Kizuna Taiko, Filipino-Australian folk dancers Hiraya Performing Artists, the House of Alexander's ballroom performances and the five-piece Shanasheel Arabic Music Ensemble. Also on the lineup: a series of talks with titles such as 'So…where are you from?', 'Art Futures', 'Wit: A Weapon of Mass Disruption' and 'I'm Not Racist But…' to get everyone thinking. The whole event is free — other than whatever you feel like eating and drinking — and much of it will be outdoors. Or, if you can't make it along to say goodbye to APT10 in-person, everything hosted on the Maiwar Green outside GOMA will be live-streamed. [caption id="attachment_849401" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Shivannah (Fez Faanana) & Kween Kong (Thomas Fonua) / Image courtesy: Fez Faanana & Thomas Fonua[/caption] Top image: The 10th Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art (APT10). 04 Dec 2021 – 25 Apr 2022. Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art. QAG Gallery 4, installation view, C Callistemon. Vipoo Srivilasa, Thailand/Australia b.1969. Shrine of Life / Benjapakee Shrine 2021 Mixed-media installation with five ceramic deities / Installed dimensions variable / Commissioned for APT10 / Purchased 2021 with funds from the Contemporary Patrons through the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art Foundation / Collection: Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art, Brisbane.
For the next seven days, renowned Aussie butter producer Pepe Saya is giving us a full-flavoured reminder to keep celebrating and supporting our homegrown food heroes. Heading up the new Aussie Artisan Week, which debuts from Monday, August 17 to Sunday, August 23, it's setting out to raise awareness about the benefits of shopping local, especially during these tough pandemic times. Right across the week, Pepe Saya is spreading the local love and encouraging you to check out some of this country's fine artisan producers. The company's Instagram is featuring stories from a raft of its favourite food businesses — and you'll find a growing directory of artisans over on its website complete with handy links to where to buy their wares. There are plenty of more familiar faces like Crumpets by Merna, Schulz Organic Dairy, Cobb Lane Bakery and Gundowring Ice Cream, alongside others perhaps yet to be discovered — think, cheese from Queensland's Frolicking Goat and hormone-free meat from Linga Longa. What's more, you can share your own food finds on socials via #AussieArtisanWeek. Shop the directory, cook up a storm and tag your creations in support of our hard-working Aussie producers. [caption id="attachment_769323" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cobb Lane Bakery by Armelle Habib[/caption]
From a cinema to one of the world's best hotels, plus plenty of food and drink options as well, James Street is home to many things. Also now included: a garden sanctuary in a brand-new woodfired diner that heroes Jordanian and Moroccan flavours. That's what Brisbanites will find at just-opened newcomer ēmmē. All-day dining is on the menu, with the latest addition to the Fortitude Valley precinct doing breakfast, brunch and lunch daily, plus slinging coffees from 6am–5pm — and opening for dinner Wednesday–Saturday. Whatever meal tempts your tastebuds, or even just a caffeine fix, you'll be heading opposite James St Market to Spoon Deli Cafe's former site. The look is luxe, but the vibe is laidback. Think: hues that bring flames to mind, fittingly, whether you're settling in at the bench seating by the window, perching at the bar — where you will indeed see fire — or surrounded by greenery outdoors. A source of inspiration for ēmmē is wabi-sabi, the Japanese take on impermanence and imperfection — which comes through in the textures around the place, the hues and also an aesthetic that isn't afraid of raw edges. In the kitchen, Thomas Tze Lian, fresh from Greca, oversees the culinary lineup. The range of dishes is tightly curated from avocado with harissa and native dukkah on sourdough to start the day through to mustard-spiced wagyu striploin for a big midday meal. Breakfast highlights also span pickled eggplant with fried egg and chilli, french toast paired with date caramel and whipped yoghurt, and crab and eggs. Come lunch — and dinner when ēmmē starts serving it — swordfish kofta with saffron yoghurt, wagyu rib skewers and barbecue chicken with garlic labneh are among the standouts. And for dessert? A plate of brie, quince, lavosh and fresh fruits is one option. Or, opt for the chocolate tahini cake or rosewater custard. Images: Ciaran Murphy.
Juniper has come a long way — from curing stomach pains and repelling snakes to burning sprigs to ward off the plague, and on to its most common use today in our beloved gin. To dig deep into the history of the botanical tipple, we spoke to master distiller Joanne Moore from Greenall's Gin (produced at England's oldest gin distillery — G&J Distillers) for advice on bluffing our way through junipers and genevers to get to the good stuff: gin. WHY DOES GIN HAVE AN EMOTIONAL REPUTATION? There are two sorts of people who drink gin: one, that after a touch grazing the lips, starts to bare their heart and soul and drags you into a D&M, and the latter, a shark-fresh-outta-water sort who can sink snooker balls like it ain't nobody's business. So what's the deal, Joanne? "I think this stems from the poor reputation of gin following the gin craze of the early 18th-century when there was no regulation around making it. The result was a lot of 'gins' of dubious quality being drunk, which was immortalised by William Hogarth's infamous painting of Gin Lane. There's nothing in gin that would make you cry any more than if you drank the same quantity of another product with the same alcohol level." [caption id="attachment_663983" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Letícia Almeida.[/caption] THE TASTE OF A GOOD GIN First up, genevers. We know this to be the drink that begat gin; the older Dutch spirit cousin you might say. But what else should bluffers know about gin to charm all their mates? "London dry gins, such as Greenall's original, are traditionally distilled white spirits, made from three building blocks: grain spirit (in Greenall's case, English wheat), botanicals and water. The only botanical we have to use to be legally defined as a gin is juniper berries, and for london dry, this should be the predominant aroma. "A good gin should have recognisable juniper notes — after all, that's what legally defines a gin — so, it should be dry, not overtly sweet, balanced and have a good soft mouthfeel. It shouldn't be too harsh or burning to the taste. "Much like wine tasting, gin tasting uses the same basic principles. Aerate your glass and nose the aromas, as your sense of smell signals to your brain what you are going to taste. There's no need to hold the spirit in your mouth like you do with wine though, just sip and enjoy," says Joanne. [caption id="attachment_638855" align="alignnone" width="1620"] Brook James.[/caption] A PERFECT TIME AND PLACE Like rosé to spring, red to winter and white to summer, is there a best time to drink gin? "That's a difficult one to answer as it all depends on the individual, how they feel and what sort of day they have had — do they want a long drink like a refreshing G&T, a cocktail or a short drink? For me, that's the real beauty behind gin. It's so versatile that you can drink it responsibly in lots of places," says Joanne. AN OPTIMAL VESSEL Now we know when we should be drinking gin, but what about how we should be drinking it? Are there certain vessels that are better than others? "It could be argued that for the optimum drinking experience, you need a glass with a narrow neck to allow the concentration of aromas to be appreciated. Plus, glass as a material is better suited than say, plastic, as it doesn't contain any elements that could potentially react with your spirit and leach into your drink." [caption id="attachment_663977" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Letícia Almeida.[/caption] HOW TO MAKE THE PERFECT G&T A classic gin and tonic can be traced back to when colonial Britain spread its tentacles across the world and the English encountered a whole range of new tropical diseases, including malaria. To try to combat the disease, troops in India were given rations of the very bitter cinchona bark, which contains quinine, a treatment for malaria. And from there, these wily soldiers mixed their rations with sugar, soda water and gin to make it more palatable. Now, when mates come over to celebrate being malaria free — or really for any occasion — we tend to go for a splash mighty enough to fill half a glass. What's the best way to mix up a good ol' G&T? "Gin is best served chilled with a good quality mixer and appropriate garnish to bring out the key flavours. For mixing a classic G&T with Greenall's gin, we recommend using some good quality tonic such as Fever Tree, lots of ice and a wedge of lime to bring out the rounded juniper notes, warm earthy spice and mature citrus notes of our Greenall's Original gin recipe. "It's also important to mix the gin and tonic to avoid layering flavours. Mixing allows the two to marry together and complement each other." WHAT'S TRENDING? Throughout gin's long life many trends have come and gone. There have been gins made with ants and seaweed, gins bottled with flecks of gold and turkey-flavoured gin (yes, really). Luckily, the latest trend is a bit more palatable (or, if we may, palette-able). While gin may traditionally be clear, that's no longer the hard-and-fast rule. And gin's colour of the moment is pink. Was it inspired by Regina George's midweek mantra? The millennial colour of the moment? A certain animated feline detective? We don't know. But we do know that it certainly adds an extra shade to your G&T. And, in the case of Greenall's Wild Berry gin, it tastes good too. This variation of the pink libation is made with natural blackberry and raspberry flavouring. As you'd expect, it has berry notes (on the nose and tongue) but the combination with juniper botanicals gives the drink a warming spice and slightly peppery after tones. [caption id="attachment_663980" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Letícia Almeida.[/caption] AND FINALLY, SHAKEN, STIRRED OR THROWN? The martini is the quintessential gin cocktail, a blend of gin and vermouth mixed to the drinker's exact specifications. But when you order a martini should you ask for it shaken, stirred or thrown? Many people will tell you there is a definitive answer, but the only difference is that the ice breaks into smaller chips and waters down the martini when you shake the cocktail. Joanne say, "too much ice doesn't dilute gin, but it does keep it chilled, dulling the effect of the alcohol in the mouth and making for a more pleasant drink." So tosh to them; drink it how you like, we say. Grab a bottle of Greenall's, throw that dry martini, aerate until it breaks into tiny droplets, serve in a chilled glass and don't let anyone tell you you're doing it wrong. Header image: Brook James.
Brisbane doesn't lack in markets, but what if the city's best place for arts and crafts isn't the regular haunts you've been heading to each week or month? What if it's a twice-a-year gathering of Brisbane's creative folks that happens at the Brisbane Botanic Gardens at Mt Coot-tha? Going along to the Brisbane Visual Arts Community Pop-Up Shop between 10am and 3pm on May 7 is the only way to find out. Don't worry, you'll be rewarded for your efforts. Browse through handcrafted original pieces by local artisans and craftspeople, including porcelain, textiles, leather, glass, silk, jewellery, paintings, prints, quilts, ceramics and enamels. And, watch demonstrations of how the crafty magic happens. The shop takes over the Gardens' auditorium to protect everything from the elements; however, once you're there, you may as well roam the grounds as well. Basically, buy something to brighten up your house, then brighten up your day with plenty of foliage.
It’s hard not to love a band with as many syllables as Ball Park Music. They started humbly as QUT students, worked the Triple J airwaves with ease, and now are one of Brisbane’s most successful music exports – we’re of course referring to their presence at Toowoomba’s 2013 Food and Wine Festival. But seriously, since their return from The Range, they’ve made quite a few exciting announcements – a new single 'She Only Loves Me When I’m There', the release of their third album Puddinghead, and a national album tour. That means happy days for their fans, friends and maybe enemies are in store! Ball Park Music are heading to The Tivoli to show of their new album and treat fans to the classics that made them party-playlist staples. 2013 was the year they could settle down, buckle up and throw all their heart into a new album, and the by-product, Puddinghead, is testament to their time and talent. It’s no doubt their most accomplished album to date. Get online and grab a ticket – don’t be a fence sitter, just go!
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.
Since it kicked off in 2015, Melbourne clothing not-for-profit HoMie has been one of the most genuine 'feel good' brands on the market. Their clothes look great, and their mission – combatting homelessness – is more important than ever. Now, HoMie has joined forces with global mega label Champion to launch a very special winter capsule. Dubbed 'Champion Change', all profits from the new campaign will go towards HoMie's mission of helping young people experiencing homelessness or hardship. You might remember other capsules from these guys. HoMie and Champion have technically been collaborating since 2019, and previous collections have all been absolute winners. It's HoMie meets Champion — what's not to like? Champion Change features six bespoke apparel pieces and accessories, all designed to keep you warm this winter. You'll notice the logo isn't the normal HoMie badge: they've co-designed a new-look design with Champion. There are genderless hoodies, crew jumpers and an eye-catching reversible parka in camo print. A little something for everyone. 100% of profits will go towards training, clothing and job opportunities for young people experiencing homelessness. The capsule is available for a limited time, or until stock runs out, so get around it. You can shop the new look here. Images: Supplied
As far as weekdays go, Fridays rank up there with the best of them. When a Friday marks the opening of a sibling cafe to one of Brisbane's favourites and comes with free food, then it's something extra special. That's all on offer on September 6, when Yolk cracks onto the Newstead scene with a grand opening giveaway that's certain to tempt your tastebuds. The latest venture from the folks behind West End's Morning After, Yolk is setting up shop at Gasworks Plaza and bringing a heap of tasty dishes to the other side of the river. Expect a menu that plays with the egg theme — and chicken, naturally — plus plenty of coffee, too. To say hello to the neighbourhood, Yolk will be serving up free bacon and egg rolls from 10am. Get in fast, though, because they're only available until either 1pm or when stocks run out. Image: Morning After.
From stocking fillers to well planned and executed surprises, Christmas gifting is upon us and we again find ourselves searching for the best presents. If the person you've pulled out of the hat this year is a little more hands-on and a little more inclined towards new tech than gig tickets or a bottle of wine, peruse this list with growing joy. We've compiled some of our favourite gifts for exactly that kind of person. From gadgets to classes and big kid's toys (see: BrewArt's swish home brewing kit), we've done all the thinking so you can sit back and use this time to relax before the flurry of Christmas arrives. Whether it's a gift for a co-worker you've only just met, someone you've known all your life or anyone in between, this guide has got something for the tech-minded, urban hobbyist in all of them. SPROUT PENCIL This multipurpose tool is the perfect kind of stocking filler for the avid home gardener who dabbles with a little writing on the side — or for anyone who needs to write anything down at all, really. The Sprout Pencil begins life simply as a humble writing instrument. But when too many memos have been written, and its size begins to diminish, simply stick the end of the pencil in a bit of soil, add some water and the seeds in the capsule on top of the pencil will sprout into a variety of herbs, flowers and even vegetables. Sprout Pencil, $6.95. Available here. TILE MATE People lose things from time to time, sure. But for some people, the regularity at which it happens is a little more than annoying. So for these people, we give you the Tile Mate. For things that are a little harder to locate, like a wallet, for example, this annoyance is greatly reduced, all thanks to this lightweight Bluetooth tracker. Slide this little sucker in your wallet, and you can track it down, wherever it may journey to. There's also the option of a key ring tile, for those who are of the key-losing variety. It's the perfect gift for that friend who would lose their head if it wasn't screwed on. Tile Mate, from $25. Available here. LEGO ARCHITECTURE SET While dreams of building your own shed or, even more lofty, your own home are all well and good, unless you have architectural training or something of the like, these grand design dreams may remain just that — dreams. For the passionate wannabe (or actual) architect, then, consider a LEGO Architecture set, which is essentially just LEGO for adults. Instead of the colourful bricks and smiling little dudes, these sets put the construction of city icons in your hands. Build your very own Eiffel Tower, towering Burj Khalifa or the Sydney Harbour Bridge complete with the Sydney Tower Eye. Your architecture-loving giftee may never build a massive city icon for all to admire, but they can surely build something special for the family to 'ooo' and 'ahh' at around the Christmas tree. LEGO Architecture, from $49.99. Choose a city here. BLACKSMITH INTRODUCTION CLASS Even though technological advances allow building and crafting to become easier as time marches on, the art of creating doesn't necessarily hinge on the newest toys and fancy gear. For anyone who likes to work with their hands and get that pride from a successful DIY project, the opportunity to pick up a few tips on one of the most ancient crafts is precisely what they'd like under their tree this year. Eveleigh Works run regular courses in the basics of blacksmithing, running over a weekend. From the basic theoretical knowledge to learning the tools to practising the trade, the class covers all the bases to help you master one of history's fundamental professions. Or at least have a bit of fun while learning. Sydney: Blacksmith Introduction I, $490; book here. Melbourne: Beginners Short Course, $490; book here. Brisbane: Blacksmithing Basics, $410; book here. BREWART PERSONAL BREWING SYSTEM The ultimate stage of pursuing the dream of self-sufficiency is the ability to brew one's own booze — and doing it well. For many commercial producers, it's a subtle art, perfected over centuries and, while there is a slew of personal brewing options available on the market, and though a lot of them are pretty good, it's never quite the same as it is straight from the tap at the pub. Enter BrewArt. It's the first personal brewing system that is fully automated, making brewing easier than ever before. Using BrewPrints, the corresponding combinations of ingredients inspired by great beers, the BeerDroid controls every aspect of the brew and can be personalised and controlled by an app, available on your phone. It's a matter of pressing a button on the BeerDroid (or the app) and waiting until the app says that the beer is ready. The BeerDroid also has a partner in the BrewFlo, the state of the art keg-meets-beer-tap. Far from the battered metal bad boys that sit out the front of your local, the sleek BrewFlo looks more like a coffee machine with an authentic looking tap handle. While the BrewArt Kegs keep your brew fresh, the BrewFlo then chills your beer when you're ready to serve. BrewArt comes in two parts the BrewFlo ($699) and BeerDroid ($799). Available here.
He's one of the world's most renowned chefs, his three Michelin-starred restaurant Osteria Francescana claiming top spot on this year's prestigious World's 50 Best Restaurants list. And now, culinary powerhouse Massimo Bottura is swapping kitchen for stage, heading Down Under and travelling the country for a speaking tour next August. Bottura, who you'll have spied getting wildly creative with his native Italian cuisine — and doing so to save thousands of wheels of parmigiano-reggiano — in episode one of Netflix series Chef's Table, is well-known for his storytelling, as well as for a deep love of art, music and history. Audiences are sure to gain colourful insight into the chef's childhood, his life spent in the Northern Italian city of Modena, and the rich local history and culinary traditions that helped ignite his love of food. Bottura will also share another of his passions, speaking about his own work in the fight against food waste and hunger. As founder of non-profit Food for Soul, which empowers communities to fight food waste and social isolation, the Italian chef's helmed a series of community kitchens and drop-in dining halls across Milan, Paris, Rio de Janeiro and London. He's long championed the idea that a chef's responsibility extends far beyond the kitchen and into their community, to help inspire global change. MASSIMO BOTTURA 2019 DATES Perth — Riverside Theatre, August 6 Sydney — The State Theatre, August 8 Melbourne — MCEC, August 10 Brisbane — BCEC, August 13 Tickets are on sale April 3, 2019. Register now for pre-sale.
Enjoying a Cantonese meal with cracking river views at Stanley, the Howard Smith Wharves restaurant that pairs the two in fine style, is an all-year-round treat. That said, stopping by to celebrate Lunar New Year is obviously a must. And, to mark the Year of the Dragon, Head Chef Louis Tikram is adding special dishes to the menu. The sample menu includes mixed seafood and black truffle dumplings, garlic butter mud crab, five-spice roast duck with blood plum sauce, and southern rock lobster steamed with white soy, ginger and shallots. Whatever ends up on offer, your tastebuds won't be disappointed based on how delicious Stanley's regular spread always proves. LNY specials such as grilled baby abalone, XO pipis with crispy noodles, and truffle and spanner crab egg fried rice with caviar will be available alongside the usual a la carte and banquet offerings, too, so you can enjoy the best of both worlds. You'll need to make a date between Friday, February 9–Tuesday, February 13, with seatings for lunch and dinner. At 6.30pm and 8.30pm each evening on the Friday and Saturday, there'll also be lion dances.
If you're going to launch a brand new online school encouraging creativity in girls, it doesn't hurt to have Marina Abramovic's backing. Or Yoko Ono's. Or Pussy Riot's. Or Sia's. Or Every Strong Awesome Wonderful Lady Doing Amazing Things Right Now. The School of Doodle did just that. A brand new, free online school geared to infuse a little creativity into girls' educations, the School of Doodle has launched a Kickstarter campaign with the support of some of the world's most high-fiveworthy women. The Portland-based (of course) SOD team (lead by Melbourne-born expat Kate Johnson) see an unacceptable lack of arts education in US schools, one they've particularly seen as detrimental to young girls' learning processes. "The arts are being cut from schools and yet all the research shows that when teens' creativity and imaginations are fortified, they excel and stay in school longer as well as develop the necessary skills for future success," says the SOD Kickstarter page. "After extensive research and interviews with teens, teachers and education reform experts, we believe that a girl’s imagination is a right and not a privilege. And, if we don’t fight to protect it, the next generation (of women and men) will suffer." The team have pooled their savings and started building their free online high school, but found funds wanting to finish the website (the key to the whole shebang). So the team looked to Kickstarter, bringing quite the flurry of famous friends to the party. Rounding up 28 all-round goal-kicking women like Marina Abramovic, Yoko Ono, Pussy Riot, Sia, Kim Gordon, Yayoi Kusama, Sarah Silverman, half the cast of Orange is the New Black and too many more to list without their inspirational faces, SOD had each fearless female submit an original doodle of their own devising. Kickstarter backers can nab an individual doodle or a colouring book with the whole series. Here's the backing team, it's honestly like scrolling through a glorious tunnel of oestrogen-charged high-fives: Right? What. A. Lineup. So once you've sent your Kickstarter backing funds, what can students actually learn at the School of Doodle? The team describe the whole thing as "part classroom and part content platform original programming, created by both teens and professionals, to engage and inspire imagination." The self-directed, free curriculum is made up of lessons called 'Daily Doodles', which end with a 'Doodle Challenge' each session for students to start putting their sweet knowledge into practice. The whole philosophy runs on creative confidence and 'being loud' through the 'three paths to imagination': Dabble, Dig, Do. If you're lurking in the dreaded so-called 'Dabble' stage (we've all been guilty of Dabbling), the team have put together a library of 'How Do' videos to get your creative juices flowing. And who's teaching these 'Daily Doodles'? This is where shit really gets cray. Salman Rushdie, Kim Gordon, John Baldessari, Yinka Shonibare, even Abramovic herself are all crafting lessons. Free lessons. From these guys: Best looking faculty lounge ever. Sure, there are no grades — students earn 'Doodle Dollars' that can be saved up and spent on live online expert chats, field trips (or 'dream trips') and other bits and pieces that 'aid imagination' (not in the Parklife way). But if Abramovic, Sia and Pussy Riot see value in a free online school boosting girls' creativity, we're on board for Doodle. Throw some cashola at the School of Doodle over here and nab one of those famously-penned doodles. Via Artnet.
Alright, alright, alright. NSW has a new tiny cabin — but this one is a little different. Aussie startup Unyoked, which currently has 12 tiny cabins around NSW and Victoria, has teamed up with the one-and-only Matthew McConaughey to launch the new extra-special off-grid getaway. As part of his role as Wild Turkey's creative director, the Dazed and Confused, Dallas Buyers Club and The Beach Bum actor helped design the cabin, which is popping up on the NSW Central Coast from December. It's launched as part of Wild Turkey's With Thanks campaign — a global initiative supporting people and organisations committed to preserving wildlife. [caption id="attachment_751856" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Inside the The Reserve by Wild Turkey X Unyoked cabin. Getty Images for Wild Turkey.[/caption] Previously, the campaign has helped firefighters battling blazes across California. Now, it's doing its bit in Australia, with both proceeds from stays at the new cabin and $1 from every bottle of Wild Turkey Longbranch sold in November and December going to the Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife, which is helping with the recovery and rehabilitation of native flora and fauna caused by the ongoing NSW bushfires. While this is a great excuse to book a getaway on its own, there's an added bonus for McConaughey fans inside the cabin, too. The actor himself won't be there, but he has filled it with his favourite music, vintage literature and booze (no prizes for guessing what that is). As well as a bar stocked with Wild Turkey Longbranch — McConaughey's own blend, which he says it best drunk with "a couple of rocks at sundown and neat at 8.30pm" — you'll find Og Mandino's The Greatest Salesman in the World, Origins: African Wisdom for Everyday by Olivier Follmi and a collection of essays by 19th century American philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson. [caption id="attachment_751855" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Getty Images for Wild Turkey.[/caption] You'll be able to listen to McConaughey's favourites tunes on tapes, too, including Talking Timbuktu by Ali Farka Touré and Ry Cooder, Sturgill Simpson's Metamodern Sounds of Country Music and Highway 61 Revisited by Bob Dylan. If American country and folk music isn't your schtick, make sure you download some alternative playlists before you head off — there won't be any wifi at this off-grid cabin. As well as the above, the solar-powered cabin is equipped with basically everything else you'll need for your off-grid adventure — bedding, towels, plates, a gas stove and even toilet paper is provided. Plus, you can add on extra luxuries like negronis, s'mores kits and pancake mix at the time of booking. Reservations for the one-of-a-kind cabin have just opened. A night in it will set you back $293 on a weeknight and $353 on a weekend (when you'll have to stay for at least two nights). Most of December is already booked up but there are plenty of free nights in January and beyond — for now. We're sure they'll get snapped up fast. The Reserve by Wild Turkey X Unyoked cabin will pop up on NSW's Central Coast in early December. You can book here. Images: Getty Images for Wild Turkey at the launch of the cabin at Bennelong Lawn. Updated: November 28, 2019.
2024 marks two decades since one of the best blends of romance, comedy, drama and sci-fi of the 21st century reached screens in the form of Michel Gondry's Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. How should you celebrate that fact? Rewatching the movie always, and also checking out the French filmmaker's latest feature at Australia's annual Alliance Française French Film Festival. In his first movie since 2015, the director draws from his own experience in semi-autobiographical comedy The Book of Solutions — one of the just-announced full AFFFF program's clear must-sees. French film fans, rejoice — the lineup goes on from there, with 41 titles on offer overall. The festival will run across March and April in its 35th year, giving most of its stops a month of Gallic movies. So, in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide and Canberra, get ready to see plenty of France from your cinema seat. Byron Bay's season is shorter, but still lasts for three weeks. At the end of 2023, AFFFF unveiled its first eight flicks for 2024, so audiences already had opening night's The Three Musketeers: D'Artagnan to look forward to, alongside its second part The Three Musketeers: Milady. And, the Catherine Deneuve (The Truth)-led The President's Wife, Juliette Binoche (The Staircase)-starring The Taste of Things, futuristic The Animal Kingdom, regal scandal-focused Jeanne Du Barry, legal drama All Your Faces and Laure Calamy (The Origin of Evil) in Iris and the Men as well. Joining them are plenty of new highlights, such as Last Summer, the latest from iconic director Catherine Breillat (Abuse of Weakness), about a woman and her teenage stepson. Not one but two movies starring the great Isabelle Huppert (The Crime Is Mine) are on the roster, with The Sitting Duck casting her as IRL whistleblower Maureen Kearney and Sidonie in Japan about a love triangle that includes a ghost. And Second Round gets the closing-night spot, hailing from Albert Duponte (Bye Bye Morons), and taking aim at politics and the media. Attendees can also check out A Difficult Year, from The Intouchables' Éric Toledano and Olivier Nakache, and with Noémie Merlant (The Innocent) and Mathieu Amalric (The French Dispatch) among the cast — plus rom-com Mr Blake at Your Service!, with author Gilles Legardinier turning director to adapt his own book, and John Malkovich (Billions) and Fanny Ardant (Well Done!) starring. Historical drama Bonnard, Pierre & Marthe is about the painter (Vincent Macaigne, Irma Vep) and his wife (Cécile de France, The Swarm), while Out of Season has Guillaume Canet (Breaking Point) and Alba Rohrwacher (La Chimera) play ex-lovers. Like The Book of Solutions, The Taste of Things, The Animal Kingdom and romantic drama Along Came Love, both Àma Gloria and Rosalie grace the program after debuting at Cannes 2023. The first focuses on a girl and her nanny, while the second tells of a real historical figure who was born with hair covering her face and body. Other options include Take a Chance on Me, as starring French pop singer Louane Emera; fellow comedy A Chance to Win, where two rival villages face off in rugby; the swashbuckling The Edge of the Blade; the world premiere of King of My Castle, from the writers of Welcome to the Sticks; and the animated Nina and the Secret of the Hedgehog, with Audrey Tautou (The Jesus Rolls) among the voices. The fest is also giving classic Children of Paradise from 1945 a new big-screen celebration, taking viewers back to the 1800s with its storyline, as well as into Paris' theatre scene — because looking at France's great films from year gone by is another way to showcase the country's cinema industry and its impact. Alliance Française French Film Festival 2024 Dates: Tuesday, March 5–Tuesday, April 2 — Palace James St and Palace Barracks, Brisbane Tuesday, March 5–Tuesday, April 9 — Palace Central, Palace Norton Street, The Chauvel, Roseville Cinema and Cinema Orpheum Cremorne, Sydney Wednesday, March 6–Tuesday, April 2 — Palace Como, Kino Cinema, Palace Balwyn, Palace Brighton Bay, Palace Westgarth, Pentridge Cinema, The Astor Theatre and Palace Penny Lane, Melbourne Wednesday, March 6–Tuesday, April 2 — Palace Raine Square, Luna on SX, Luna Leedeerville and Windsor Cinema, Perth Thursday, March 7–Wednesday, March 27 — Palace Byron Bay, Byron Bay Thursday, March 7–Tuesday, April 2 — Palace Electric, Canberra Thursday, March 21–Tuesday, April 16 — Nova Prospect and Palace Nova Eastend, Adelaide The Alliance Française French Film Festival tours Australia in March and April 2024. For more information and tickets, visit the AFFFF website.
In one of the best new shows of 2022, and a Golden Globe-winner as well, a Chicago sandwich shop served up far more than just meat and bread. Following Carmen 'Carmy' Berzatto (Jeremy Allen White, Shameless) as he returned to run the family eatery after his brother's (Jon Bernthal, We Own This City) death, The Bear's menu also spanned intense kitchen and interpersonal chaos, plus its head chef's dream of levelling up the humble beef-slinging business. When season two arrives this winter, change is well and truly part of the show's spread, with Carmy's renovation and revamp plans at the The Original Beef of Chicagoland underway. As seen in the just-dropped full trailer for the series' upcoming return — which follows an earlier initial sneak peek back in March — neither the show nor its protagonist's life have gotten any less stressful. Trying to bring a fine-diner's level of meticulous to a neighbourhood sandwich shop didn't go smoothly in season one, and endeavouring to completely transform the restaurant was always going to be peppered with mayhem in season two. Get ready to devour requests for cash, tight timelines, constant construction noise, cooking experiments, visits to culinary school, awkward interviews and t-shirt typos. And, of course, an array of dishes being whipped up and instantly whetting appetites off-screen. The new trailer also adds Shiva Baby and Booksmart's Molly Gordon to the cast — and, although he hasn't been seen in season two's early glimpses so far, Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul great Bob Odenkirk will also be guest starring. Gordon and Odenkirk join not only the exceptional White, but the rest of The Bear's impressive roster of talent, such as Ebon Moss-Bachrach (The Dropout) as Richie, aka Cousin, aka Carmy's brother's best friend; Ayo Edebiri (Dickinson) as sous chef Sydney; Abby Elliott (Indebted) as Carmy's sister Natalie, aka Sugar; and Lionel Boyce (Hap and Leonard), Liza Colón-Zayas (In Treatment) and Edwin Lee Gibson (Fargo) among the other Original Beef staff. The Bear was renewed for season two before the show even made its way Down Under, after debuting in the US last June, then reaching Australia and New Zealand via Disney+ at the end of August. Given that it's now a huge hit, here's hoping that audiences here won't experience a delay again this time around when it hits the US on June 22 again. This go-around will span ten episodes, giving viewers two extra servings of Carmy's culinary endeavours. While season one already saddled him more than his fair share of troubles and struggles, there's no way that season two is going to a cruisy dream for the kitchen ace. If you missed the first season, it jumped into the mayhem after Carmy took over The Original Beef of Chicagoland. Before returning home, the chef's resume spanned Noma and The French Laundry, as well as awards and acclaim. That's just the beginning of the story, in a series that truly conveyed what it's like to work in the hospitality industry — including navigating a restaurant kitchen's non-stop pressures. Yes, the mood is anxious from the outset, with The Bear's creator Christopher Storer (who also has Ramy, Dickinson and Bo Burnham: Make Happy on his resume) starting the series as he definitely meant to go on, but still expertly managing to balance drama and comedy. Check out the full trailer for The Bear season two below: The Bear streams via Disney+ Down Under, with season two set to return on June 22 in the US — we'll update you with an exact local season two release date when one is announced. Read our full review of season one.
When you have a favourite bar, brewery or eatery, or a beloved joint that offers a great combination of the three, scoring a second place to enjoy its beverages or bites is always welcome news. Slipstream Brewing Company has delivered just that. A beer-pouring — and -making — go-to on Brisbane's southside for the past seven years, it has now opened another location. Meet Slipstream Brewing Social House. Brisbanites will need to head out of town for a sip here, so add checking out the brewery's latest venture to your next trip to the Sunshine Coast. Since Wednesday, October 16, 2024, you'll find Slipstream Brewing Social House in Birtinya, in the local Stockland Shopping Centre, sprawling across a 300-person greenery-filled space with 40 taps, plus both steak and seafood on the food menu — and featuring indoor and outdoor seating, combining al fresco dining with cosy booths. If the word that comes to mind is "hangout", that's by design on co-owners Deale and Elisa Stanley-Hunt's parts. Brisbane's Slipstream Brewing brewpub in Yeerongpilly, which has been open on Wilkie Street since 2017, has the same vibe. The two sibling venues both take cues from America's west coast across their food menus, as Slipstream's beers do as well. On the brews front, the brand has also created a new North Coast pilsner that you can knock back exclusively at Social House. For something other than beer, cocktails, independent spirits, boutique wines and non-boozy choices — coffee among them — are on offer. The culinary options under Head Chef Jarick Quesada include new dishes and highlights from Yeerongpilly across a range of plates to share, grilled eats, burgers, salads, sandwiches and desserts. Think: southern fried chicken tenders with pickled vegetables, popcorn cauliflower, salmon tostadas, crumbed mushroom burgers, rib fillet steak sandwiches, 450-gram pork tomahawks with wagyu fat potatoes, fish tacos made with beer-battered barramundi and chocolate stout brownies. Unsurprisingly, Mooloolaba prawn are also on the menu — served barbecued with 'njuda butter, white wine, napoli sauce, parsley, preserved lemon and toasted ciabatta. Entertainment-wise, Social House is also set to host live music, Oktoberfest shindigs, pinball competitions, weekly trivia nights and more. "Our vision for Social House is to create a space that embodies the spirit of the Sunshine Coast community, where locals can come together and enjoy quality beers in a welcoming atmosphere, just like we have done with our Brisbane venue," explains Deale. "We're bringing the best of Slipstream to Birtinya, with an exclusive beer brewed just for the coast and a menu that pairs perfectly with our craft brews." "Birtinya is a fast-growing area, and our venue will fill a gap in the market for a sizeable, authentic and exciting hospitality offering," added Elisa. Find Slipstream Brewing Social House at 31/8 The Avenue, Stockland Shopping Centre, Birinya — open 11am–9pm Monday–Thursday, 11am–10pm Friday—Saturday and 11am–8pm Sunday. Head to the venue's website for more details.
Some days, you wake up, go about your business as normal, and absolutely nothing unusual or exciting happens. Other days, you're hit with the unexpected announcement that new Rick and Morty has just landed. That's the way the news goes sometimes, including today, Monday, June 21 — because the first episode of the animated comedy's fifth season has just landed on Netflix. Get ready for more interdimensional adventures — and to get schwifty if you want to — because the show's specific brand of chaos is back for another go-around. Once again, Rick Sanchez and Morty Smith (both voiced by show co-creator Justin Roiland) will do what they do best: not just aping a concept straight out of Back to the Future, but wreaking havoc in as many universes as they can stumble across. Also back are Morty's mother Beth (Sarah Chalke, Firefly Lane), father Jerry (Chris Parnell, Archer) and sister Summer (Spencer Grammer, Tell Me a Story) — and, as not one but two trailers have already demonstrated, they're playing a big part in Rick and Morty's dimension-hopping antics this time. Rick and Morty trailers are more about the mood, look and feel than the storylines — so, while you can obviously expect a heap of out-there situations, battles and general sci-fi mania, just what's in store is always best discovered by sitting down and watching a new episode. In season five, though, there'll be nods to and parodies of everything from Voltron to Blade. Rick and Morty will argue, too, because that's one of the thing that this Back to the Future-inspired pair do best. If you're keen to rejoin the smartest Rick and Morty-est Morty in the universe, you can check out the fifth season's first episode now — with new episodes then dropping each week. Now, unless you're a total Jerry, you've got something to look forward to come quittin' time for the next few Mondays. Watch the latest Rick and Morty season five trailer below: Rick and Morty's fifth season will stream weekly from Monday, June 21 on Netflix in Australia and New Zealand.
Whether you're staycationing, vacationing or travelling for work, there are many reasons to pick a particular hotel over others — and how your temporary home away from home looks is right up there. Do you covet open, airy and minimalistic spaces? Sleek lines aplenty? The kind of modern elegance that catches your eye, but still looks functional? That's the remit of design-driven Marriott brand AC Hotels, which has just made its way to Australia. Despite launching in 1999 — first in Spain under hotelier Antonio Catalan, then teaming up with Marriott in 2011 — the chain hadn't yet set up shop Down Under. Now, its sleek-looking first Aussie site is open for business at Southbank in Melbourne. Featuring 205 rooms within a sculptural tower that's marked by its geometric glass façade (and, by night, its shining LED lights), the new spot joins the brand's 195-plus hotels in more than 27 countries and territories worldwide. Popping up against the Fishermans Bend skyline, the towering exterior hails from DKO Architecture in collaboration with Capital Alliance — and views, both over the Melbourne CBD and the Yarra, are a big drawcard for guests. As for where patrons will be slumbering, accommodation options span both rooms and suites, all decked out in neutral tones and boasting streamlined (but not restrained) design. Think: greys, whites and natural hues, stone tiling, textured timber floors, metal detailing, open closets and integrated bathrooms. The inspiration: the brand's Spanish heritage, and also South Melbourne's industrial warehousing. Also, some rooms are pet-friendly — as long as your pooch is under 20 kilograms. Part of the just-launched spot as well: co-working space AC Lounge, which'll also serve tapas at night; restaurant Sorolla, with an open kitchen for chef-watching while you eat; and Triana Bar, which goes heavy on soaking in the scenery. Drinks-wise, there's also a gin and tonic experience — a speciality cocktail that is served in a custom glass by sculptural glass artist Adam Walmon, and has "been scientifically developed to heighten the taste, aroma and palate experience for the drinker" — which is available in all of the hotel's dining and bar spaces. For sips by the infinity pool — which runs the width of the building — head to Bar de Buceo. As well as drinks, it does al fresco dining. And, the usual range of hotel amenities are covered, too, including a 24-hour fitness centre, plus a meeting and event space. Find AC Hotel Melbourne Southbank at 201 Normanby Road, Southbank. For more information, or to make a booking, head to the hotel's website.
Cycle-fashion: most people consider the term an oxymoron, bringing to mind images of brightly coloured lycra, or even worse, cycling shorts worn so thin that they’ve become transparent. If you’ve been afraid of joining the cycling revolution for fear of committing a crime against fashion, then allow British fashion designer Paul Smith to put you at ease. His new collaboration with cycle clothing brand Rapha brings some style to the two-wheeled set. Their new spring/summer range blends Smith’s fashion sense with Rapha’s cycling nous to create cycle-wear with a stylish look, but maintaining the technical and functional elements needed to stay comfortable on a bike. Unfortunately, style comes at a price, so the hip pockets of hipster cyclists will be a little light if they’re sporting these threads. And of course, compulsory helmet laws in Australia mean you can’t legally look as cool as these models. [via Hypebeast]
Break out the cake, candles, streamers, party hats and lolly bags, because someone's having a birthday. Well, not just someone, but somewhere. And not just anywhere, but one of Fortitude Valley's favourite hangouts. Yes, that slice of music heaven on Brunswick Street that is Black Bear Lodge has now been part of the inner-city scene for 11 years. If that's not cause for celebration between Friday, June 3—Saturday, June 4, then we don't know what is. Trust the BBL crew to throw its own shindig (and cry if it wants to) to mark the occasion. And trust it to rope in a whole lot of other folks to make the two evenings something extra special, too. On the lineup: Benny Chiu, David Versace, Doggie Heaven and Gratitude Cowgirl, as well as Great Sage, Jimmy Ellis, Paulie Marinos and Simi Lacroix — plus Square and Sugar Leaves, too. The party runs till late on both nights, and tickets for each evening cost $15 on the door.
The days are shorter, the cold winds stronger and we can be sure of one thing: winter is here. While in Australia that may not have the dramatic effect it does in Game of Thrones, we can be sure that a plethora of dark and delicious beers are coming into their own now that the colder months are upon us. Here follows, in no particular order, a guide to the top ten brews to help you through the wintry season. MODUS OPERANDI BREWING, FORMER TENANT RED IPA Mona Vale's finest, Modus Operandi Brewing, is known for its big, bold, hop-driven beers and this glorious red IPA is no exception. Expect big fruity notes of passionfruit and mango, owing to the liberal dry hopping with Galaxy and Mosaic hop varieties, giving way to a burst of bittersweet red grapefruit flavour. Underpinning this maelstrom of hops is an incredibly well-balanced malt base with notes of earthy caramel and biscuit. The finish is piney and botanical, giving just a hint of the beer's namesake — the 'former tenant' of the brewery's site was a marijuana grower — which makes this beer a complex and rewarding brew from the first to last sip. $14.50 for a 500ml can or $48.99 for a four-pack at Beer Cartel. PHILTER, CARIBBEAN STOUT Philter has something of a knack for busting out surprisingly different beers with each new release. Having already nailed an XPA, a session red ale and a lager, it's no surprise that its latest offering is something to get excited about. Though the name might indicate some sort of coconut-infused-rum-barrel-aged craft beer experiment, the flavour is far more approachable, drawing inspiration from the tradition of fruitier stouts common in the Caribbean and surrounding areas. Weighing in at an impressive 7% ABV this beer pours midnight black with rich notes of cocoa, dried fruits and a hint of nuttiness. $10 for a 375ml can or $33.99 for a four-pack at Beer Cartel. BATCH BREWING CO, ELSIE THE MILK STOUT Milk stouts continue to grow in popularity among Australian beer drinkers, and once you've had a glass of Elsie, it's not hard to see why. Combining a complex malt bill, flaked barley, rolled oats and lactose, this beer offers a balance of sweet and roasty notes such as chocolate and coffee with a beautiful creaminess. Coming in at an approachable 4.3% ABV this is a great beer for those looking to cross over to the dark side this winter. $12.50 for a 640ml bottle at Beer Cartel. YOUNG HENRYS, MOTORCYCLE OIL HOPPY PORTER Brewing powerhouse Young Henrys continues to impress with the latest addition to its taps and tinnies. In keeping with the tattooed-up, beard sporting-style it's known for, the charmingly titled Motorcycle Oil is at once in your face, yet reserved, well balanced and approachable. The initial flavour is roasty with delicate hints of chocolate, coffee and a touch of caramel, giving way to a big hop character featuring citrus and medium pine notes. Sitting at 5.8% ABV it offers big flavours but in a balanced and welcoming beer — sure to please lovers of hops and malt alike. $8.99 for a 500ml can or $29.99 for a four-pack at Dan Murphy's. FRENCHIES, ASTROLABE RED BIÈRE DE GARDE Based on a style that originated in Northern France, bière de gardes are bound by a common malt-accented flavour, but, beyond that, each brew offers a wealth of idiosyncrasies. Frenchies Astrolabe pours a beautiful ruby colour with plenty of caramel malt up front followed by notes of cherry and berries with hint of pear. Finishing with a moderate bitterness, this beer is dangerously sessionable, masking its 7.4% ABV with ease and charm. $12 for a 440ml can or $40.99 for a four-pack at Beer Cartel. WAYWARD BREWING CO, FURIOUS GNOME ESB The name alone should be enough to win people over. But coupled with Wayward's reputation as one of Sydney's finest breweries, it's a must-try this season. Furious Gnome pays homage to classic British ESBs like Fuller's and Old Speckled Hen through its caramel and toffee dominated palate, with a biscuity dryness and rounded out by an earthy and ever so lightly spicy hop bitterness at the end. A great malt-accented interpretation of the style — sure to please thirsty expats and newcomers to the style alike. $11.50 for a 640ml bottle at Bucket Boys. MORNINGTON PENINSULA BREWERY, MORNINGTON BROWN ALE A classic English-style brown ale, this moreish brew from Mornington Peninsula Brewery offers an enticing aroma of toffee and dried fruits (think sultanas, raisins and dates) owing to the imported English malts that make up its base. On the palate, expect toffee and chocolate notes with a balanced sweetness and a slightly nutty finish. At 5% ABV, it's perhaps a little stronger than the beers which inspired it, yet is still supremely sessionable and well matched with nutty cheeses like gouda, as well as roasted meats. $3.99 for a 330ml bottle, $23.94 for a six-pack at Dan Murphy's. BRIDGE ROAD BREWERS, CELTIC RED IRISH RED ALE A longtime staple from the old hands at Bridge Road Brewers down in Beechworth, the Celtic red ale is a wonderfully delicate balance of caramel malts with a light roastiness and a dryer finish that you'd expect for the style. Pouring a deep amber, this beer is initially sweet with toffee and burnt sugar notes, followed by a subtle kick of noble hops to bring you back for another sip. At 5.3% ABV, it's a wonderful Aussie interpretation of a true Irish-style red, malty and sweet but wonderfully well balanced. $4.19 for a 330ml bottle or $15.49 for a four-pack at Dan Murphy's. STAVES BREWERY, ARDENNES TABLE BEER BELGIAN PALE ALE Named after a yeast strain sourced from the Ardennes region of Belgium, this delicate and well-balanced beer from the Glebe's charming Staves Brewery is not to be missed. Opening with lightly sour fruity notes, coupled with a gentle spiciness from the yeast, this Belgian-style beer is the perfect brew for when the sun is out, but the wind has an edge to it. The Glebe brewpub also features live music and comedy, whilst owner Steve Drissell is often found manning the taps, ready to share a laugh and his impressive beer knowledge with the punters. Ardennes Table Beer can be purchased in store at Staves Brewery, 4-8 Grose Street, Glebe. BADLANDS BREWERY, DRAUGHTY KILT SCOTCH ALE Scotch ale is a style not often replicated on Aussie shores, yet a handful of flattering imitators of the malt-driven Scottish style exist. And Orange's Badlands Brewery has long been at the forefront. Copper red in colour with toffee and caramel notes and a hint of vanilla giving way to a light burst of candied orange and date, this beer features a restrained bitterness that really allows its rich malty flavours to shine. At 5% ABV it's relatively light for a Scotch ale, but that just means you can enjoy more of it. $11 for a 500ml bottle at Beer Cartel. For alternative stockists in your city, check the breweries' websites. Top image: Frenchies
Every Wednesday, Palace Cinemas is giving movie-loving students in Brisbane an extra present. It's not just the gift of great flicks — that is, the cinema chain's daily bread and butter — but the gift of cheap great flicks. Head to one of the company's two Brisbane locations — Palace James St and Palace Barracks — each Wednesday, and any film at any time will only cost you $9. Want to see new blockbusters? Arthouse fare? Everything in-between? It'll cost you $9. Booking in advance is highly recommended, given how much everyone loves going to the flicks for little more than the price of a cup of coffee. If you do nab your tickets online, you will have to add a transaction fee to the cost. You will need to show your student ID to nab the bargain tickets. Also, you can't score the discount on Platinum sessions, or for film festival screenings or special events.
Barbeque pork buns, sushi, stir fried noodles, pho, laksa, prawn dumplings, rice paper rolls, beef masaman, honey chicken and so much more. Asian food really has the goods: mixing spices, sugar, oils, nuts, herbs and chillies to create flavours that really make the tastebuds sing! Brisbane City Council is giving local folk the opportunity to learn the secrets to making these delicious foods, with Asian cooking classes being held from 12-2pm each Saturday throughout February and March in the China Town Mall in Fortitude Valley. All classes are free, and are hosted by excellent local chefs, each specialising in a different Asian cuisine. A unique cultural dish will be featured each week, and participants will get a chance to observe the cooking process, ask questions, taste test the food and go home with a copy of the recipe. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn new skills, meet diverse people and to try some delicious food, to then replicate at home for friends and family (or maybe just yourself)!
Fresh from hosting the Foo Fighters at Geelong's GMHBA Stadium, Victoria's new statewide contemporary music celebration Always Live has just added two new gigs to its lineup: the first stops in the Australian leg of Nick Cave and Warren Ellis' Carnage tour. Mark Friday, November 25 and Saturday, November 26 in your diaries and prepare to head to the Macedon Ranges, because the two Aussie music legends and their must-attend 2022 shows are heading to Hanging Rock. The pair are hitting the stage to support the 2021 album that shares the tour's name, which actually marks Cave and Ellis' first studio album as a duo. Bandmates across several projects since the 90s — including Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, and Grinderman — Cave and Ellis are Aussie icons, with careers spanning back decades. Together, they also boast more than a few phenomenal film scores to their names as well, including for The Proposition, The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford, The Road, West of Memphis, Far From Men, Hell or High Water and Wind River. Cave and Ellis will head home after an American Carnage tour, and following Cave's subsequent tour with the Bad Seeds in Europe. Yes, this is some news to come sail your ships around — although, given that Cave announced that the tour was in the works back in early February via his The Red Hand Files email list, you might've already started getting excited last month. [caption id="attachment_845538" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Laurine Payet[/caption] The Hanging Rock shows will have a limited capacity, with getting in quickly when tickets go on sale — at 12pm AEDT on Tuesday, March 15, with general sales available from 12pm local time on Thursday, March 17 — highly recommended. Courtney Barnett will join the duo for the two gigs — and details of shows in other cities around the country is expected soon, so keep watching this space. Fans of the pair have something else to look forward to, too: film This Much I Know to Be True, directed by Chopper, The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford and Killing Them Softly filmmaker Andrew Dominik, about Cave and Ellis' creative relationship. Dominik also made 2016 Cave doco One More Time with Feeling, and his latest flick will hit Aussie cinemas on Wednesday, May 11. Nick Cave and Warren Ellis' Australian Carnage tour will kick off at Hanging Rock in the Macedon Ranges on Friday, November 25 and Saturday, November 26, then continue throughout November and December 2022 — with other cities, dates and venues still to be announced. Pre-sale tickets for the Hanging Rock shows go on sale at 12pm AEDT on Tuesday, March 15, with general sales available from 12pm local time on Thursday, March 17. For more information or to register for pre-sales, head to the tour website. Top images: Laurine Payet, Palma Sabina.
Brisbane's latest nightlife spot wants to wow patrons before they even step foot through the door. It's keen to make its customers feel like they've been whisked somewhere far from the Queensland capital, too. First up, to get inside, you need to step along an LED walkway that has the entrance glowing, its stairs as well, then clubgoers once you're in. And those vibes from places far beyond the River City? Ibiza, Miami and Las Vegas are all influences. Enigma opened in Brisbane to start off August 2024, giving Fortitude Valley a new nightclub. The Brunswick Street spot boasts a $9.3-million fitout, which attendees can enjoy on Friday and Saturday evenings. As the luminous sights and overseas inspirations make plain, the aim is to whisk clubgoers away from their routine even if they're not leaving Brissie. Visuals also accompany the beats inside, in a space that joins Maggie May, Lefty's Music Hall, The Lord Alfred and Hey Chica! are among the company's fellow venues in Brisbane. Retro's and Finn McCool's have locations both here and on the Gold Coast. And the latter is also home to The Cavill Hotel, Sandbar, Lost Kingdom and Asylum — while Hallmark is also behind The Spotted Cow in Toowoomba. Enigma's resident tune-spinners include Tasha Lee, Curdin, SF Fudge, Sophie Bridges, Nestor Vargas and Apolloco, setting the mood whether you're hitting the dance floor or hanging out in the seven booths surrounding the DJ in the VIP area. As for the drinks options, classics such as margaritas, Long Island iced teas, Aperol spritzes and espresso martinis sit alongside the club's signature sip. Opt for The Enigma and you'll be drinking vodka, white rum, gin, blue curacao and raspberry, plus Red Bull.
Captaining an eco-friendly boat, sipping biodynamic wines and feasting on farm fresh produce — this is just the very beginning of what a sustainable weekend in Canberra could include. The nation's capital is an ideal location for travellers who want to reduce their environmental footprint while uncovering new sights, tastes and adventures. We've rounded up a list of some of the top eco-friendly eateries and drink purveyors, sustainably powered activities and luxe experiences, plus accommodation options focused on preserving the natural beauty of the territory. Use this as your guide to exploring Canberra's renowned city sights and discovering the region's hidden gems — while staying green. Please stay up to date with the latest ACT Government health advice regarding COVID-19. [caption id="attachment_810977" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Capital Brewing, Kara Rosenlund, VisitCanberra[/caption] EAT AND DRINK Canberra's top farm-to-tote-bag source for fridge and pantry staples — plus, early morning sustenance — is the Capital Region Farmers Market. More than 100 local stalls pop up every Saturday from 7–11.30am at Exhibition Park, offering everything from fresh fruit and veg to flowers, honey, bread, smoked meats, eggs and pastries. Explore it all with a coffee in hand, and get to know the local producers' tips for planet-friendly cooking and growing. For a second breakfast, head to vegan cafe and bakery Sweet Bones to enjoy another caffeine fix and sugar rush. Order a plant-based big brekkie or stock up on sweet wonders from the treats cabinet. Next, make a quick trip southeast to Pialligo Estate. It wears many hats, including cafe, restaurant, grocer, vineyard, smokehouse, small farm plot and children's playground. Enjoy the fruits of the estate over an al fresco lunch, before touring the grounds for a real paddock-to-plate experience. [caption id="attachment_810980" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lark Hill Biodynamic Winery, VisitCanberra[/caption] Ready for a tipple? Start with sustainable malted magic at Capital Brewing Co. This Canberra craft beer baron is well on its way to becoming a zero-waste brewery, sending spent beer-making ingredients to farmers for cattle feed, composting leftovers, minimising water and energy consumption, eliminating unnecessary packaging, and more. Chip in on the environmental effort and order a banana-forward Belgian blonde ale or exquisitely tart pear and elderflower sour from the warehouse taproom. If you prefer vinous varieties on a drinks list, check out Lark Hill Biodynamic Winery. The drops here get gold stars in the organic and biodynamic wine categories, while also hitting the mark on the delicious scale. Regular sippers of riesling, chardonnay and pinot noir will be well served at this lofty location in the hills above Canberra where shale and clay soils let these hardy grapes thrive. Book a $10-per-person tasting by the open fire at the intimate cellar door and work your way through some zesty whites and dark cherry reds. [caption id="attachment_810979" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jindii Eco Spa, VisitCanberra[/caption] DO Reconnect with nature while you enjoy a little self-care luxury at Jindii Eco Spa. This dreamy retreat is hidden within the vibrant Australian National Botanic Gardens, offering spa treatments that utilise wild harvested native ingredients and Indigenous knowledge. Unwind with a massage and mineral bath, allowing botanicals like lemon myrtle, white flannel flower and banksia seed to hydrate your skin while the expert therapists pummel all the stress out of your weary muscles. Add a little retail therapy to the rejuvenation mix and stock up on a few goodies from the spa's signature skincare range after a wander through the gardens. One fun way to explore Canberra is zipping around on an e-scooter. You might have a few childhood memories of tragic scooter tumbles, but these electric beauties are far easier and safer to handle. You can tour Lake Burley Griffin and track down famously transient The Pop Inn, which moves its wine and pizza bar to new locations around the capital most weekends. Hire e-scooters from the Canberra and Region Visitors Centre for an hour at $15 or for two hours for $25, or book the Beam and Neuron scooters via their own apps. [caption id="attachment_810978" align="alignnone" width="1920"] GoBoat, VisitCanberra[/caption] Keen to get out on the lake? GoBoat provides eco-friendly electric vessels that can ferry up to eight inland pirates (and seafaring dogs) around Lake Burley Griffin. You'll be captaining the boat yourself. It's super simple to steer and doesn't require experience or even a driver's license — however, skippers will need to be over 18 years old. Pre-packaged boat picnics and a sensible amount of BYO alcohol for passengers are encouraged, but GoBoat can also supply snacks from local eatery, Bean & Table. If you've got enough steam left for one more activity, make it an epic hike up Mount Gingera, which sits atop the western NSW/ACT border in Namadgi National Park. If you want to conquer the full 15-kilometre return journey from the carpark, expect an intermittently steep but stunning trek with endless mountain views at the summit. There are shorter trails to follow in the area and plenty of opportunities to spot native birds and frogs throughout the carefully preserved park. Keep in mind this peak can be covered by snow in the depths of winter. [caption id="attachment_810983" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nil Desperandum, Australian Capital Tourism[/caption] STAY You can get well and truly off-grid staying in Canberra while maintaining accommodation elegance. The bell tents at Naked Cubby Co provide luxe mattresses and linens you can get lost in, as well as breakfast in bed and easy access to the cellar door at Mount Majura Vineyard, all just a 20-minute drive from Canberra's CBD. Choose between the solar-powered glamping tents perched among the vines and the tiny house on wheels near the pine forest. The facilities are similarly minimal but the nature is top-notch at Nil Desperandum, a heritage cottage in the foothills of the Tidbinbilla Range. You'll need a 4WD to make the last leg of the 45-minute journey here from the centre of Canberra, but intrepid explorers with smaller city wheels can hike the last six kilometres along the dirt roads. The charming two-bedroom cottage has solar lighting, a kitchen with a wood stove, a long drop toilet, and a veranda and fenced yard where you can spend the night cooking on the gas barbecue and reclining by the fire pit. Just remember to bring in your own firewood. Also be aware that there's limited phone reception and no power outlets, so you'll need to be pretty self-sufficient to enjoy a night or two in the reserve. [caption id="attachment_810984" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ovolo Nishi, VisitCanberra[/caption] Alternatively, you can stay within the city limits for access to all the mod-cons you've come to love at Ovolo Nishi. While this CBD hotel is 'plugged in', it does have a clear commitment to sustainability and nature. The retro furnishings and artworks in each room are made from materials like clay, cork, refurbished eucalyptus timber and natural fibres, and the lofty atrium rooms gaze into an internal courtyard of salvaged Tasmanian tree ferns. The in-house dining at Monster Kitchen and Bar also has a sustainable focus, including a 100-percent vegetarian menu for the next year led by local seasonal produce. Discover more experiences to have in Canberra at VisitCanberra and start planning your next city break. Top Image: Mount Majura Vineyard, VisitCanberra
It has been four years since Deliveroo started speeding through the streets of Brisbane to bring takeaway meals to your door — and, as everyone likes to when a birthday rolls around it, it's celebrating. This is the kind of party that rewards everyone, too, with the company offering 50-percent off a range of dishes until Friday, June 5. The half-price offer applies to 14 specific dishes. If you're wondering how they were chosen, they're the most popular Deliveroo dishes in Brissie — and they've been mapped out by suburb. In Paddington, Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers' traditional beef bolognese is the biggest hit. In Bulimba, it's wagyu beef broccoli from Yum Yum Gyoza House. Folks in St Lucia love yangnyum from KaiKai Chicken, South Brisbane residents opt for 'The Feasting Solo' from Big Roddy's Rippin' Rib Shack and those in Mount Gravatt go for the japa burger with fries from Seoul Bistro. [caption id="attachment_649746" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Fritzenberger[/caption] Pizza from Arrivederci in Milton, a burger from Fritzenberger in Petrie Terrace, pork fillets with sweet and sour sauce from Carindale's Yum Cha Cuisine and make-your-own poke bowls from Newstead's Cheeky Poke Bar are also on the list. And, so are the crunch chicken from East Brisbane's Sushi Kotobuki, butter chicken from Indian Brothers in Annerley and carbonara from Tomato Brothers in Wilston, plus American-style cheeseburgers from Boondall's Jack and Will's Burger Joint and crispy beef in peking sauce from Enjoy Inn in Hamilton. Order online or via the Deliveroo app — and yes, that's an easy way to decide what to eat for the next few days.
Reading-list inspiration, sorted: even if you've devoured plenty of books by the authors on the just-announced 2025 Sydney Writers' Festival program, there's still much more to discover and explore. Whether you're keen to start leafing through pages now or plan to finish the fest with a stacked pile of new material by your bed, get excited — more than 200 events are on the lineup, featuring 40-plus international guests and over 100 Australian talents, and showcasing 34 authors among that group that are releasing new books this year. Sydney Writers' Festival's latest roster isn't just great news for Harbour City literary fans. When it runs from Monday, May 19–Tuesday, May 27, it'll also livestream some sessions around the country, so joining in isn't only about being there in-person in Sydney. Either way, there's something on the program for all reading tastes, fans of a wealth of genres, and attendees looking to hear from beloved scribes and discover their next favourites alike. Taking over Carriageworks, Sydney Town Hall, State Library of New South Wales and other venues around the city, SWF 2025 is also budget-friendly with more than 50 events costing nothing to attend — and 30 of those free sessions are at Carriageworks alone. What opens with Torres Strait Islander writer and activist Thomas Mayo, Yuwaalaraay writer and performer Nardi Simpson, plus poet Lemn Sissay and Oranges Are Not The Only Fruit writer Jeanette Winterson, all responding to the theme 'in this together'? This festival. What closes with Anna Funder examining writing in artificial intelligence-heavy times? This fest again. What includes 2024 Booker Prize-winner Samantha Harvey, Brooklyn author Colm Tóibín and Australian Big Little Lies wordsmith Liane Moriarty as well? Yes, this program. [caption id="attachment_994837" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sam Churchill[/caption] Harvey will chat about the International Space Station-set Orbital, while Tóibín has Long Island, the sequel to Brooklyn, to dig into. Also the creative force behind Nine Perfect Strangers and Apples Never Fall on the page, Moriarty will discuss everyday life stories becoming smash hits with David Nicholls, as well as careers and having a literary family with her sisters Jaclyn and Nicola. Plus, Winterson isn't just part of opening night, but will celebrate 40 years since her debut novel and also explore the impact of AI. Similarly on the SWF 2025 bill: Torrey Peters, the first openly trans woman nominated for the Women's Prize for Fiction; Ian Rankin speaking about the 25th instalment in the Inspector Rebus series; plus everyone from The Ministry of Time's Kaliane Bradley and The Safekeep's Yael van der Wouden through to Vanishing World's Sayaka Murata and After You'd Gone and Hamnet's Maggie O'Farrell. You've likely seen actor Harriet Walter in Succession, Silo and Ted Lasso — and This Is Going to Hurt, Killing Eve and Rocketman in the past few years as well — and now you can add this fest to that list, where she'll be unpacking Shakespeare's female characters. Other highlights span Entitlement's Rumaan Alam, Discriminations' AC Grayling on cancel culture, stepping into the world of espionage stories and getting a hankering for pastries — the latter with Flour and Stone's Nadine Ingram, Beatrix Bakes' Natalie Paull and Lune's Kate Reid. The return of the Great Debate is a starry event, featuring Annabel Crabb, David Marr, Nicholson, Matilda Boseley, Justine Rogers, Jennifer Wong and Yumi Stynes. And from there, other topics on the SWF lineup also include the situations in Gaza and Ukraine, sleep, First Nations storytelling, life in exile, queer culture, dwindling workers' rights, Robodebt and Miles Franklin. "Sydney Writers' Festival is a place for brilliant writing and urgent conversations. Under the theme "in this together", the 2025 festival highlights extraordinary novels, poetry and writing of all kinds — and thought-provoking discussions," said Artistic Director Ann Mossop, announcing the program. "Writing remains one of the most powerful tools to make sense of the world, to spark change and foster understanding. The 2025 festival presents great writers discussing a range of important topics: from the future of artificial intelligence to feminism's next battleground; from monumental global power shifts to First Nations truth-telling. The SWF program brings readers and writers together and challenges us to think, feel and imagine what lies ahead." [caption id="attachment_994839" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David A Land[/caption] [caption id="attachment_994840" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bungeishunju Ltd[/caption] [caption id="attachment_994841" align="alignnone" width="1920"] uber photography[/caption] [caption id="attachment_994842" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sim Canetty-Clarke[/caption] [caption id="attachment_994843" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Reynaldo Rivera[/caption] [caption id="attachment_994844" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Monica Pronk[/caption] Sydney Writers' Festival 2025 runs at various venues across Sydney, and streams online, from Monday, May 19–Tuesday, May 27. Tickets go on sale at 10am on Saturday, March 15 via the festival's website. Sydney Writers' Festival images: Jacquie Manning.
The Eagle Street stretch of the Brisbane river is slated for a massive makeover, courtesy of a proposed new $1.4 billion waterfront hub. As announced by the Queensland Government, the plan will completely tear down Eagle Street Pier and transform riverside area, including the building of two new towers, the creation of a traffic-free precinct and the opening up of 1.5 hectares of public and riverfront space. That's the submission that commercial property firm Dexus have put forward, and it has just been given approval to progress to the next stage. The company now set to conduct a full feasibility study, working towards a 2020 construction start date. If it does receive the final go-ahead, the proposal will see the zone between Charlotte and Market streets permanently closed off to vehicles, the widening and upgrading of the Riverwalk, and the addition of expansive shaded areas. Within the two new towers — which will replace current structures — more restaurants and casual eateries will be added. The buildings will also boast the potential for commercial use, residential apartments, a hotel and retail spaces. It'll mark the biggest change to this part of the river since Eagle Street Pier was built back in 1989, and force the closure of existing establishments such as Aria, Il Centro, Cha Cha Char, Bavarian Beer Cafe, Jade Buddha, Sake and more to make way for the new development. Neighbouring buildings at 10 Eagle Street, 12 Eagle Street, Waterfront Place and the heritage-listed Naldham House will all remain, however, and form part of the precinct.
You can never have too many John Wick movies. After the first film in the Keanu Reeves (Sonic the Hedgehog 3)-starring action franchise arrived in 2014, more thankfully followed — and if you're a fan, two, three and four flicks about the dog-loving assassin have never been enough. Reeves returns to the role in upcoming spinoff Ballerina, but that's not the only time you'll see him in the series again in the future. Yeah, we're thinking he's back: a fifth John Wick film is now officially locked in. Film studio Lionsgate has announced both another entry in the main saga and Reeves' comeback as its titular figure — something that initially floated way back before John Wick: Chapter 4, but wasn't actually guaranteed after the way that feature wrapped up. There's no word on when the fifth movie will arrive now, who else will be in it or what the storyline will follow as yet, but there doesn't need to be: Reeves as John Wick again is plenty to look forward to. That said, Reeves isn't the only returnee for John Wick 5, with his former stuntman-turned-director Chad Stahelski joining him. All five films not only boast its inimitable star, then, but Stahelski behind the lens. "It's so important to get this story right and give John's story the proper next step. It's exciting to take the first step on that road," said producers Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee (Monkey Man) about the fifth entry, as per Variety, with both also involved in the John Wick realm since its beginning. Led by Ana de Armas (Ghosted), From the World of John Wick: Ballerina has a date with cinemas Down Under on Thursday, June 5, 2025. This franchise has already earned a TV series, too, courtesy of The Continental: From the World of John Wick — and more related tales are also on the way. Newly announced: an animated John Wick prequel film. Already revealed back in 2024: a Donnie Yen (The Prosecutor)-starring chapter picture about Caine, who first popped up in John Wick: Chapter 4. That movie now has a director, and it's none other than Hong Kong actor and filmmaker Yen himself. There's obviously no trailer for John Wick 5 yet, but check out the trailers for past John Wick films, plus the upcoming Ballerina, below: John Wick 5 doesn't yet have a release date — we'll update you with more details when they're announced. Via Variety.
UPDATE, June 14, 2020: Devs is also now streaming in full on new Foxtel-run platform Binge. This article has been updated to reflect that change. If you're a fan of watching smart, rewarding, deep-thinking science fiction, then you're probably a fan of Alex Garland's. Originally an author, he initially came to fame as the writer of 90s bestseller The Beach, before moving into screenwriting with the script for 28 Days Later. More screenplays followed, including Sunshine, Never Let Me Go and Dredd — but it was his 2014 directorial debut Ex Machina that showed the extent of his filmmaking prowess. Annihilation proved a highly worthy addition to his resume in 2018, too, even after it was shuffled onto Netflix rather than screening in cinemas in much of the world. Given his track record so far, any new project by Garland is cause for excitement. This year, direct your enthusiasm towards new series Devs. The writer/director has made the leap to television with a cast led by Nick Offerman, Ex Machina's Sonoya Mizuno, Love's Karl Glusman, American Horror Story's Alison Pill and Bad Times at the El Royale's Cailee Spaeny — and, as currently streaming on Foxtel Now and Binge in Australia, it's a trippy ride into cerebral sci-fi territory. The eight-part show also radiates unease from its very first moments, all while sporting both a mood and a futuristic look that prove simultaneously unsettlingly and alluring. The setting: Amaya, a US technology company that's massive in size yet secretive in its focus, especially when it comes to its big quantum computing project. When Sergei (Glusman) is promoted to its coveted, extra clandestine Devs division, his girlfriend and fellow Amaya employee Lily (Mizuno) is thrilled for him. But when Sergei doesn't come home from his first day, Lily starts looking for answers — including from the company's guru-like leader Forest (a long-haired, very un-Ron Swanson-like Offerman). As intriguing as it is involving — as both Ex Machina and Annihilation were, too — Devs is the kind of series with twists and turns that are best discovered by watching; however as each second passes by, the stranger and more sinister it all appears. Expect conspiracies, tech thrills and big questions, in a series that does what all the very best sci-fi stories do: tackle big existential questions and intimate everyday emotions in tandem, all while asking 'what if?'. Also a highlight is Devs' spectacular set design and overall look, with Garland bringing striking, dark yet vivid images to his first small-screen project. Giant woodland areas, floating cube-like workspaces glimmering in golden hues, shimmering fields, a towering statue of a small child — they're all part of the show's appearance, and its mysteries. Check out the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8klax373ds The first season of Devs is available to stream on Foxtel Now and Binge. Images: FX Networks.
If you haven’t heard of Mikala Dwyer now, don’t worry, there is still time. The Sydney artist has been around for quite some time now, impressing audiences in the 90s with her exuberant installations and provocative contexts – ranging from the amateur to the infantile and feminine. She has also had a residency at her hometown’s Museum of Contemporary Art in 2000, and since then, her art has broken off from its initially pure path and has moved into stranger territory, namely the paranormal and the occult. In Drawing Down The Moon, we see black magic become her niche, as she has included spiritually and emotionally demanding elements to her art: séances, candles, Ouija boards, as well as clairvoyants and crystal therapy. You can also expect her collaboration with neodadaist Justene Williams to channel spirits of female convicts of yesteryear to be particularly eerie, and like nothing you’ve ever experienced before. This striking reversal of interest displayed through her art has made Mikala’s installations all the more intriguing. It may seem as if the infantile, angelic past she had is repressed, but in her most recent work, it is a haunting backbone and a must see.
He wrote, directed, financed and starred in the best worst movie ever made, showed up as himself in the enormously funny making-of dramatisation of his biggest flick, and re-teamed with his best-known co-star for a two-part comedy-thriller based on their friendship — and now, like he was always destined to, Tommy Wiseau is saying "oh hi" to space. Once again working with The Room and Best F(r)iends' Greg Sestero, the distinctive Wiseau has loaned his voice to animated sci-fi series SpaceWorld, with the pair playing rival intergalactic bounty hunters. If you're naturally thinking the obvious, the company behind it has already made the blatant comparison, with Octopie calling the show "what happens when you merge The Room with Star Wars". In SpaceWorld's nearly six-minute pilot episode, Wiseau's TX battles it out with Sestero's Drogol, who — continuing a trend across their work together — happens to be his lifelong nemesis. Created by Brock LaBorde, the debut clip is suitably bizarre, even with its clear self-referential tone. As Wiseau's career just keeps proving, that's just what happens when he pops up. LaBorde is no stranger to Wiseau's orbit, having produced, co-written and starred in the 2011–12 series The Tommy Wi-Show — where Wiseau was abducted by aliens, shuttled off to a base on the mood and made to play video games. In addition to his better-known work, including his involvement with The Disaster Artist, Wiseau is no stranger to on-screen weirdness either. If you've ever come across his 2014–16 sitcom The Neighbours, which is set in an apartment building and combines the exact storylines you'd expect with his inimitable style, then you'll know exactly how odd his work can get. Whether SpaceWorld will progress beyond its pilot is yet to be seen, although it's definitely not the worst thing on Wiseau's resume. Check out the first episode below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oAv4ceFJH3U SpaceWorld is distributed by Octopie, and is currently available via its YouTube channel.
Food is usually the gift you give when you can't think of anything else. Come on, you know it's true. That said, anyone getting their dad Gelato Messina's latest special Father's Day creation can't be accused of that. If you're giving someone something that you're fighting the urge to just order for yourself, you're definitely giving a thoughtful present — and who doesn't want to tuck into three of the gelato chain's favourite desserts in chocolate bar form? Chocolates are Messina's Mother's Day go-to — and this year they're on the brand's Father's Day menu as well. The new three-pack marks the first time that Messina has ever made chocolate bars and blocks itself, however, with the team at its Rosebery headquarters doing the honours. Each kit actually contains nine items, but of three different types of chocolate. Loved Messina's recent cone-ception cookie pies? It has turned the concept into mini 105-gram chocolate bars, which combine sable biscuit, waffle cone spread and cone crunch, then cover it all in caramelised white chocolate. Your dad will get four of those, plus four mini milk chocolate Messinatella hazelnut bars featuring sable biscuit, Messinatella choc hazelnut spread and roasted hazelnuts. And, taking the final spot in the kit is the neapolitan chocolate block — and yes, it's made with milk chocolate, white chocolate that features Heilala vanilla, and strawberry chocolate infused with freeze dried strawberries. This gift will set you back $45, and it's being shipped, which is handy for folks in lockdown. Also, delivery won't cost you extra. Like most Messina specials, it's going on sale on a Monday morning — at 9am on Monday, August 23, to be exact. Then, it'll get brought to your door, with orders shipping on or before Friday, August 27. Gelato Messina's Father's Day chocolate three-packs will be available to order from 9am, Monday, August 23.
The New South Wales north coast is alluring, to say the least. It boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, along with lush rainforests and enviable freshwater swimming holes. But, it isn't just the natural wonders that keep people flocking to this wondrous patch of coast — it's the culinary offerings, too. New and exciting breweries continue to pop up in the region while quaint wineries and farm-to-table lunches remain popular with locals and travellers seeking relaxing weekends away. Want to know which food and drink venues to visit on your next trip to the region? We've uncovered our favourite venues to hit up for a weekend of excellent eating and drinking. And, if you're looking for an excuse to visit the region, look no further than the inaugural North Coast Festival of Flavour which is taking place across multiple venues from Friday, June 3 till Sunday, June 5.
When a music festival takes place in a winery, it already has two of the three fest essentials taken care of before it even announces its lineup: an ace location and booze. But, that doesn't mean that Grapevine Gathering slouches on talent. The acts hitting its stages around the country are always chosen to impress, and the just-dropped 2023 roster of folks is no different. Leading the charge: Spacey Jane, King Stingray and Vanessa Amorosi, with the latter meaning that 'Absolutely Everybody' will be stuck in your head for weeks afterwards. The Wombats and Hayden James are also on the bill, both doing Australian-exclusive shows at the wine-fuelled festival. [caption id="attachment_905845" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sam Hendel[/caption] Rounding out the list: Cannons, The Rions, Teenage Joans and Bella Amor, plus podcast duo Lucy and Nikki on hosting duties. Grapevine Gathering's lineup announcement comes after the fest locked in its 2023 dates and venues earlier in June, with a five-state tour with stops in Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, Victoria and New South Wales on the way this October. Its destinations: Sirromet Wines at Mount Cotton, Serafino Wines in McLaren Vale, Sandalford Wines in Swan Valley, Rochford Estate in the Yarra Valley and Hope Estate in the Hunter Valley, respectively. Victoria will play host to the first gig of the tour on Saturday, October 7, with Grapevine Gathering then pinballing up to Queensland on Sunday, October 8. The next weekend, it heads west on Saturday, October 14, then does NSW on Saturday, October 21 and SA on Sunday, October 22. Naturally, sipping wine is a huge part of the attraction. As always, attendees will have access to a heap of vino given the fest's locations, as well as an array of food options. GRAPEVINE GATHERING 2023 DATES: Saturday, October 7 — Rochford Estate, Victoria Sunday, October 8 — Sirromet Wines, Queensland Saturday, October 14 — Sandalford Wines, Western Australia Saturday, October 21 — Hope Estate, New South Wales Sunday, October 22 — Serafino Wines, South Australia GRAPEVINE GATHERING 2023 LINEUP: Spacey Jane The Wombats Hayden James King Stingray Vanessa Amorosi Cannons The Rions Teenage Joans Bella Amor Hosted by Lucy and Nikki Grapevine Gathering will tour Australia in October 2023. Pre-sale registrations are open now via the festival's website, for tickets from 6pm AEST on Wednesday, June 21 — and all remaining tickets will go on sale at 6pm on Thursday, June 22. Top images: Jordan Munns / Jess Gleeson.
If you're someone who habitually forgets to grab your dear ol' dad a Father's Day gift until the last minute, now is your chance to get him something really special — especially if he loves a dram and his motorsports. Glenfiddich has partnered with the Aston Martin Formula One Team to release a limited-edition 16-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (ABV 43%). Housed in an Aston Martin Racing Green presentation box, this will really pop on dad's bar shelf (when he isn't pouring himself a glass, that is). When it comes to whisky, few names are as renowned as Glenfiddich. Founded in 1887, this Scottish distillery has long been a pioneer in the production of single malt Scotch whisky and is one of the few remaining family-owned distilleries. Continuing to embrace the innovative practices of its founder, William Grant, it's responsible for some of the best-selling whiskies on the market, including the most awarded single malt Scotch whisky in the world. Its commitment to such a high level of craftsmanship is exactly why Glenfiddich has partnered with Aston Martin to release this limited-edition bottle. Announced at the Las Vegas Grand Prix 2024, this 16-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky celebrates the precision and mastery of these two iconic brands. "At Glenfiddich, we're committed to creating exceptional whiskies that honour tradition while embracing innovation," commented Brian Kinsman, Glenfiddich's Malt Master. "The Glenfiddich 16-Year-Old is a true testament to this philosophy. It combines craftsmanship and precision in a whisky that invites exploration and discovery, much like the journey of our partnership with Aston Martin Formula One Team. It's a celebration of blending tradition with the thrill of innovation." So what exactly makes this single malt Scotch whisky special? Like all of Glenfiddich's spirits, the devil is in the details. This 16-year-old whisky is aged in a carefully selected marriage of American oak wine casks, new American barrels and second-fill bourbon casks. Through the distillery's meticulous blending process, the result is a bottle that features distinct notes of maple syrup, caramelised ginger and, subtly, toasted oak. As it goes down, it has a silky and syrupy palate that tastes like fresh fruit salad and Chantilly cream. All of this culminates in a finish that's smooth and bold, with a sustained sweetness. What wouldn't Dad love about that? If he considers himself a bit of a whisky connoisseur or has an eye for the more luxurious things in life, this limited edition bottle is sure to go down smooth. It's also the perfect Father's Day gift if your dad is the kind of guy who saves spirits so he can crack them out for "special occasions". Every dram of Glenfiddich's 16-Year-Old Single Malt is sure to be enjoyed. If you're lucky, he might even let you have a glass. The Glenfiddich 16-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (RRP $150) is available at First Choice, Liquorland, Vintage Cellars and independent retailers. You can purchase it here. 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. Images: Glenfiddich
When Good Chef Bad Chef and Richo's Bar Snacks chef Adrian Richardson, ex-Cha Cha Char restaurateur Chris Higgins and lawyer Liam McMahon teamed up on BŌS, a 120-seater restaurant that adores meat so much that it has its own 'Cleaver Club', it promised Brisbane more than just a meal. The Queen Street spot opened in late 2022, with a sibling bar always in the works as well. Then, from August 2023, cocktail spot The Aviary Terrace Bar started pouring. Like BŌS, you'll find this watering hole opposite Customs House, in Otto Ristorante's old Dexus Tower digs — but making the most of an 800-square-metre al fresco space. Before, after or instead of a hearty lunch or dinner, Brisbanites can hit up The Aviary Terrace Bar for drinks and bites. The venue will sling sips three days a week to begin with, from Thursday–Saturday, with Sunday trading due to kick in sometime late in September. To get there, patrons are advised to either take the lift from the complex's Queen Street entrance, or use the escalator from Adelaide Street. Either way, a sunny openair hangout with Brisbane River, Story Bridge and city views awaits — and a spot with a colour palette heroing salmon and deep green tones, plus seven booths to get cosy in, too. Patrons will also find a curated range of tipples, including cocktails, craft beer, wine and champagne — complete with bottle service to the bar's booths — and light snacks. The libations span options with bird-themed names, such as the Ibis (vodka, blanc vermouth, manzanilla, olive brine and tonic water), the White Heron (agave, rum, coconut water, lime juice, pink grapefruit juice and fresh mint) and the Green Catbird (gin, lemon juice, basil liqueur and basil leaves). And among the bites: wagyu beef croquettes, oysters, prawn and bug rolls, eggplant crisps, Korean fried chicken, garlic prawn toasties, pork dumplings and cheeseburger spring rolls. If you're keen on pairing a trip here with a stint at BŌS as well, the latter clearly goes heavy on steak — it takes its name from the Latin word for beef, after all — with steak tartare, six cuts from the grill, and three giant 1.2–2.23-kilogram options to share all on offer. That said, diners can also choose from oysters, prawn cocktails, chargrilled Fremantle octopus, Tasmanian rock lobster, pork rib eye and duck breast with black garlic as part of BŌS' embrace of different types of proteins.
When a solar flare hits Europe, life changes instantly. Power grids go down, much of Britain is left without electricity, supply routes are threatened, vigilantes come out in force and chaos unsurprisingly ensues. That's the setup in COBRA, the high-stakes drama series that combines a disaster scenario with political intrigue, and tasks Prime Minister Robert Sutherland (Robert Carlyle) with deciding how to cope under such intense circumstances. If you're wondering about the show's name, no, snakes aren't involved. But meeting to discuss important matters is a firm part of COBRA, which takes its moniker from the nickname for the Cabinet Office Briefing Rooms (COBR) in London — and, as you might know from news during the past year, from the group of top-ranking British Government leaders who come together in times of crisis to respond to national emergencies.
"Do you guys ever think about dying?" When life in plastic is fantastic, that's not a line anyone that would expect to come out of Barbie's (Margot Robbie, Babylon) mouth. And, amid giant blowout parties with planned choreography with all her pals, and the constant devotion of her beau Ken (Ryan Gosling, The Gray Man), such existential musings do come as a shock. When she can no longer float off of her rooftop and her usually arched feet become flat, the Barbie movie's main namesake heads to the real world for answers. That's the plot for Greta Gerwig's film, which marks the actor-turned-director's third solo stint behind the camera after Lady Bird and Little Women, and has been teasing its extremely pink on-screen worlds in not one but two trailers prior to the just-dropped full sneak peek. Even dolls living in a dreamland struggle with life's big questions, it seems — and, when the film's key Barbie and Ken drive through Barbie Land's gates to discover what's on the other side, they struggle with Los Angeles as well. With mugshots to prove it, they even get arrested. Splashing as much humour as pastel hues throughout its frames, Barbie is scripted by Gerwig and fellow filmmaker Noah Baumbach — her helmer on Greenberg, Frances Ha, Mistress America and White Noise, and real-life partner — and boasts a cast that's a gleaming toy chest of talent. Indeed, it might just be the most anticipated toy-to-film release ever. There's that pedigree, of course. There's also the picture's patently playful vibe, which started with parodying the one and only 2001: A Space Odyssey and has kept beaming brightly from there. All those on-screen stars help fill the feature with Barbies, including Issa Rae (Insecure) as president Barbie, Dua Lipa (making her movie debut) as a mermaid Barbie, Emma Mackey (Emily) as a Nobel Prize-winning physicist Barbie, Alexandra Schipp (tick, tick... BOOM!) as an author Barbie and Ana Cruz Kayne (Jerry and Marge Go Large) as a supreme court justice Barbie — plus Nicola Coughlan (Bridgerton) as diplomat Barbie, Kate McKinnon (Saturday Night Live) as a Barbie who is always doing the splits, Hari Nef (Meet Cute) as doctor Barbie, Ritu Arya (The Umbrella Academy) as a Pulitzer-winning Barbie and Sharon Rooney (Jerk) as lawyer Barbie. There's also a whole heap of Kens, including Simu Liu (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings), Kingsley Ben-Adir (One Night in Miami), Ncuti Gatwa (the incoming Doctor Who) and Scott Evans (Grace and Frankie). And, Michael Cera (Arrested Development) plays Alan, Emerald Fennell (The Crown) plays Midge, Helen Mirren (Shazam! Fury of the Gods) is the narrator, America Ferrera (Superstore) and Ariana Greenblatt (65) are humans, Jamie Demetriou (Catherine Called Birdy) is a suit, Will Ferrell (Spirited) wears a suit as Mattel's CEO and Connor Swindells (also Sex Education) is an intern. Will this be the best figurine-to-film adaptation yet in a mixed field that also includes the Transformers series, Trolls, The Lego Movie and its sequel, Battleship and the GI Joe films? The answer will be pulled out of the toy box in cinemas on July 20 Down Under. And yes, Aqua's 'Barbie Girl' finally (finally!) gets a spin in this trailer, although you likely already had it stuck in your head just thinking about this movie anyway. Check out the full trailer for Barbie below: Barbie releases in cinemas Down Under on July 20, 2023.
From Friday, May 1, 2020 a maximum of two adult Sydneysiders can visit a second household, so you can start planning small dinner parties. Remember, though, that you need to continue to follow the rest of the social distancing and public gathering restrictions. If, like us, you've suddenly realised that you go to bed before 10pm, enjoy a fair slosh of milk in your tea and your ankles crack inexplicably when you stand up or sit down, you might be feeling like you're getting too old for places like 'the club'. Well, we say embrace it; start doing grown-up things like having dinner parties instead. Trust us, you're probably not the only one in your crew who'd much rather be at home on the couch, sipping G&Ts with mates and in bed by a wholesome hour. The days of nice cheese, top-shelf (or close to) alcohol, decent home cooking and adult conversations about the state of the world (you'll need the drinks for this) have arrived. So your dinner party is as successful as it can be, here are some tips. Start by buying some matching crockery, teach yourself to make a good roast and move on down this list. [caption id="attachment_731075" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Julia Sansone[/caption] THE APERITIF Luckily this one is easy. Well, it can be. You can throw together a refreshing G&T — this timeless combination of gin and tonic water isn't to be sneered at — whip up a spritz or get fancy with something slightly more complicated, like a negroni (which is just equal parts Campari, gin and sweet vermouth). If you want go even fancier, we've wrapped up some recipes for run tipples, such as sangria, a basil collins and le grand fizz — over here. [caption id="attachment_689382" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kitti Gould.[/caption] THE NIBBLES Proven over the centuries, the Italians know what to do with their savoury pre-dinner snacks. So, get your head, heart and stomach around the bellissimo antipasti game. Head to a proper Italian food store to stock up on the goods, because if there's something worth spending most of your week's pay on it's a really, really good pecorino and some deluxe salumi. Try the truly hallowed halls of Mediterranean Wholesalers in Melbourne's Brunswick, the storied Paesanella Food Emporium in Sydney's Marrickville or New Farm Deli in Brisbane's New Farm, which has been operating since 1975. You can also check out our Gin List for some recipe ideas for your pre-dinner eats — and what's more, each one comes with a gin cocktail pairing to try. You're welcome. THE TABLE SETTING Being an adult is all about putting in the effort — think making bread from scratch, remembering to send birthday cards or, you know, finally graduating from the sharehouse vibes and hanging art on the walls. The same thing goes for when you're hosting a dinner party: why not put in just a smidge more effort? Look up how to properly set a table, invest in some cloth serviettes (it's an eco-friendly decision, too) and make place cards for your guests. (Pinterest has approximately 200 million ideas to inspire you.) For the final touch, find every candle and candleholder you may own and scatter them across the table. Just no scented candles, please. You don't want those Glasshouse fragrances clashing with the meal you've thoughtfully prepared. THE LIGHTING Nothing can make a dinner party more uncomfortable than glaring fluorescent lights or the sun setting mid-meal making it almost impossible to see the food on your plate. Ease your way into the darkening evening with soft, warm lighting a la the candle collection above— or just throw a scarf over a lamp and call it décor. Whatever floats your lantern. If you're sitting outside for the evening, set up some candles early on to light once the sun dips beneath the horizon. Oh, and a string or two of fairy lights never goes amiss. THE MEAL It's the pièce de résistance of the evening, the opportunity to impress your friends with your cooking prowess (be it newly learned or well-honed). What you'll serve to eat should come with careful decision. Do any of your guests have dietary requirements? How much time do you have to prep and cook? Does your current salary afford a full roast to feed ten guests? When you've considered all these factors, then it's time to scour Google for the best-rated recipes. We've also delved into our archives to find you some past recipes we've scored from the likes of Sydney's Thievery, Porteño, Big Poppa's and Three Blue Ducks. THE PLAYLIST The first knock or ring of your doorbell may alert you of the fact that you have no music playing yet. Your mind has been kept busy prepping and cooking and primping that the evening's soundtrack hasn't even yet registered. Don't panic — we're here to help. Grab your phone and just chuck this smooth dinner party playlist on for the evening. Erykah Badu and Toto will help you chase away the nerves and comfortably settle into the evening (G&T in hand — you deserve it). https://open.spotify.com/user/concreteplayground/playlist/6SBK5b5pwaqhyGo8scJnQl
Wellington Paranormal is back for its fourth and final season, Rose Matafeo's rom-com sitcom Starstruck has just returned for its second batch of episodes, and now Taika Waititi and Rhys Darby's HBO Max pirate parody is less than a month away — yes, it's proving a fantastic time for TV comedies either made in New Zealand or starring NZ talent. And if you're particularly keen to say "ahoy!" to Waititi and Darby's Our Flag Means Death, here's some more great news: its just dropped an unsurprisingly hilarious full trailer. Sometimes, the world just handily delivers answers to questions you didn't even know you ever had. You might not have actively wondered to yourself "what'd happen if NZ treasures Taika Waititi and Rhys Darby played pirates?", for instance, but we're betting you're now keener than a buccaneer searching for a bottle of rum to discover how it turns out. And, arriving on Thursday, March 3 on Binge in Australia and Friday, March 4 on Neon in NZ, Our Flag Means Death will firmly answer that query. The ten-episode sitcom sees Darby lead the show as Stede Bonnet — who was a real-life pirate who took to the seas in the early 18th century. The reason that his story is getting the streaming treatment? Bonnet was a 'gentleman pirate', as both the initial teaser and just-dropped full trailer for Our Flag Means Death dubs him. He left his life of privilege to rove the oceans, which this comedy is set to have plenty of fun with. [caption id="attachment_840021" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Aaron Epstein/HBO Max[/caption] As the show's sneak peeks so far demonstrate, Bonnet has some bold ideas about how life onboard should run — bold compared to the usual pirate stereotypes, that is. And, that sees him clash with a very famous name from pirate history: Blackbeard, which is who Waititi plays, and who appears far more traditional with his views on the whole pirate caper.. The two immensely funny NZ talents are joined by a long list of co-stars that includes Ewen Bremner (First Cow), David Fane (Paper Champions), Nathan Foad (Bloods), Joel Fry (Cruella), Samson Kayo (Truth Seekers), Rory Kinnear (No Time to Die) and Leslie Jones (Death to 2020). And, while Our Flag Means Death is the brainchild of writer, showrunner and executive producer David Jenkins (People of Earth), Waititi directs the pilot — and executive produces, lending his name and support to another up-and-coming comedy after doing the same with Reservation Dogs last year. And yes, that means he's directing Darby yet again, as he's already done in everything from Flight of the Conchords and What We Do in the Shadows to Hunt for the Wilderpeople. Our Flag Means Death will drop three episodes on March 3, another three on March 10, then two episodes on both March 17 and March 24. Check out the full trailer for Our Flag Means Death below: Our Flag Means Death will start streaming in Australia via Binge on Thursday, March 3 and in New Zealand via Neon on Friday, March 4.
If your wildest dreams right now are all about getting in on Taylor Swift's Eras tour, then the pop superstar comes bearing gorgeous and enchanted news. The singer will play Melbourne and Sydney in early 2024, but she's splashing her massive show across cinema screens first, confirming that Taylor Swift: The 'Eras' Tour Concert Film will show Down Under when it rolls out worldwide this spring. Look what the world made Swift do: turn her current smash-hit tour into a movie that's hitting picture palaces and sharing all things Eras with the globe. The film was first announced a few weeks back, when it dropped a trailer, but only North American screenings were locked in at the time — and, it was feared that the flick mightn't play Australia and New Zealand until Swift visited this part of the world in February. Thankfully, Swift isn't making Aussie and NZ cinemagoers wait for this big-screen view of her huge show. "The tour isn't the only thing we're taking worldwide," the singer announced via social media. Taylor Swift: The 'Eras' Tour Concert Film will roll out across more than 100 countries, most on Friday, October 13 — including Australia and Aotearoa — and some in early November. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Taylor Swift (@taylorswift) Fans are in for a money-can't-buy view of the 'Shake It Off', 'We Are Never Getting Back Together' and 'Bad Blood' musician's gig — working through her entire career so far, playing tracks from each of her studio albums in a three-hour, 44-song, ten-act spectacular. The Eras Tour kicked off in March in the US, ending that run in August. Swift also headed to Mexico in August as well. Brazil is her last stop in 2023, before playing Japan, Singapore, France, Sweden, Portugal, Spain, the UK, Ireland, The Netherlands, Poland, Austria and Australia until August 2024. She'll then return to the US, and then visit Canada next November. Check out the trailer for Taylor Swift: The 'Eras' Tour Concert Film below: Taylor Swift: The 'Eras' Tour Concert Film will hit cinemas worldwide, including in Australia and New Zealand, from Friday, October 13 — head to the film's website for further details and bookings.
Alba Bar and Deli can be found tucked down on Burnett Lane, offering a unique blend of Spanish-inspired cuisine and innovative cocktails in a relaxed, laneway atmosphere. The intimate diner is brought to you by owner Jamie Fleming (ex-Lobo Plantation), who brings a wealth of experience to his debut venue: a fusion of old-world Spanish charm and the energy of 90s New York. Open for lunch, aperitivo and dinner, the food menu constantly evolves with the season, and each dish promises a celebration of local cuisine with a Spanish element, from Tin Can Bay king prawns served with chargrilled and pickled peppers to classic Iberico ham served with crunchy asparagus and buttered-up barley. Alba's drinks menu is as diverse as its culinary offerings, featuring lashings of vermouth, amaro, carefully curated wines ranging from Spanish imports (think albariño and mataro single varietals and blends) and Australian natural wines. The cocktail list also changes with the seasons and includes twists on classics and unique creations.
Not content with filling a Tokyo warehouse with some of the most dazzling and immersive art you're likely to feast your eyes on — not to mention play with — art collective teamLab is now turning an old oil tank into a digital waterfall. With the interdisciplinary outfit's Borderless Digital Art Museum open for less than a year and proving one of the Japanese city's hottest tickets, the group is set to bring a collection of eye-popping works to China. Coming to the new Tank Shanghai from March 23 to August 24, teamLab: Universe of Water Particles in the Tank features cascading waterfalls, blooming flowers, rushing waves and scattering cherry blossoms as part of an engaging series of digital, interactive and interacting pieces. There's no such thing as a dull artwork where teamLab is concerned, but the undisputed highlight of its next foray into China is Universe of Water Particles in the Tank, Transcending Boundaries. Spearheaded by art collector Qiao Zhibing, Tank Shanghai's 60,000-square-metre space is built out of five empty oil tanks, so there's nowhere better to project streams of falling water. teamLab's piece will take over one tank, running over the interior surface. And, when folks stand on the waterfall's floor or walk up to its wall of digital water, it'll react to their presence, with the flow changing direction just like it would if you were standing underneath the real thing. Living up to the 'transcending boundaries' part of its name, Universe of Water Particles in the Tank will also interact with other works. When its trickles hit floral piece Flowers and People, Cannot be Controlled but Live Together, Transcending Boundaries - A Whole Year per Hour, which represents 12 months' worth of blossoming and wilting as its moniker suggests, the digital stream will cause petals to scatter. Both pieces are reminiscent of works also on display in Tokyo, but that doesn't make them any less glorious. The same applies to Black Waves: Lost, Immersed and Reborn, which projects one continuous wave across multiple walls. teamLab: Universe of Water Particles in the Tank runs from March 23 to August 24 at Tank Shanghai,2380 Longteng Avenue, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China, with tickets currently on sale from 199 renminbi. Images: teamLab.
