Your next excuse to get out of the house, head out of town and spend time outdoors is here, and it's taking place for an entire month. That'd be the brand new Gondwana Festival, which turns March into a celebration of the Scenic Rim region — and the natural splendour between Lamington National Park and Mt Barney National Park, specifically — thanks to everything from rainforest walks and segway tours to glow worms and birdwatching sessions. Depending on which activities take your fancy, you'll be visiting Beechmont, Binna Burra, O'Reilly's Plateau, Lost World Valley, Christmas Creek, Round Mountain and Tamrookum. So yes, you'll only be around 90 minutes out of Brisbane. The program is concentrated around Binna Burra Mountain Lodge, Park Tours, O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat and Mt Barney Lodge, and it's a choose-your-own-adventure type setup. It's also designed to bring folks back to areas that were affected by 2019's bushfires. Highlights include daily encounters with wildlife, zipping along a flying fox, learning about birds of prey, testing your rock-climbing skills and picking whichever super-scenic walk suits your mood. And, while you can enter a cave and see glow worms even when the festival isn't on (which remains true of much of the Gondwana program), it really is a bucket list kind of experience. Images: Marc Llewellyn.
If your Easter routine usually involves a seafood feast, then you might want to make a date with a certain Kangaroo Point fish 'n' chippery this year. On Friday, April 2, One Fish Two Fish is serving up plenty of the ocean's finest for the occasion, all as part of a seven-course meal that starts with oysters — with limoncello dressing — and remains just as indulgent from there. Also on the menu: cooked Mooloolaba banana prawns, crispy calamari, seared Hervey Bay scallops, Moreton Bay bug toast and spanner crab omelette. We've only listed six seafood dishes so far, because the seventh course gets chocolatey. To wrap things up, you'll be tucking into an Easter egg on Oreo soil filled with white chocolate cheesecake and mango gel. Because you'll likely be thirsty, too, One Fish Two Fish also has two options on offer: one that just includes the lunch, for $129; and another that also spans a spritz on arrival and two hours of drinks, which'll cost you $199. Seafood fiends will need to book their spot for one of two sittings: at 12pm or at 2.30pm.
The days of simply scraping Nutella across a piece of bread — or licking a spoon filled with the choc-hazelnut spread — are long over. You can still do both, of course, but the world has come up with many far more creative ways to enjoy the beloved foodstuff. Quite a few will be on the menu at The Sound Garden on Friday, February 5, which is also known as World Nutella Day. Only one involves something to eat, too. That'd be a Nutella pizza ($17), with the spread slathered all over a base and topped with strawberries, marshmallows and raspberry jam. You'll find this dessert dish on offer from 11am onwards, alongside Nutella shots ($9.50) with either butter vodka or Tia Maria — and a heap of Nutella cocktails ($16). Say cheers to Nutella martinis (which also include chocolate vodka), or knock back a few Tipsy Dragons (with Malibu and cinnamon fireball whiskey). There's also the Nutella Toblerone, featuring Baileys, Frangelico and creme de cacao, plus a blend of rum, Baileys, Nutella and butterscotch schnapps called Release the Hazelnut. Live music will also be on offer, should your Nutella session need a soundtrack.
Cake sadly can't fix all the world's troubles, but it can provide a mighty fine temporary dose of sweetness. And if you like your baked treats by the jarful whenever the craving strikes — including when you're out and about — then The Mason Baker has just the thing for you throughout February. The Brisbane-based company is known for its mason jars filled with cakes, including salted caramel, strawberries and cream, blueberry and lemons, chocolate ganache and sticky date pudding varieties. From Friday, February 5, though, it isn't just selling them and delivering them to your door — it's vending them out of a pink-hued ATM that'll be stationed at 6 Warner Street in Fortitude Valley. You already know how vending machines work, of course, so you know how to get your hands on however many jarcakes your tastebuds demand. You'll just have to head by on Thursday, Fridays and Saturdays, in February — and after 5pm — because that's when the ATM will be up and running throughout the month. Yes, that means that you can grab an after-work cake snack, some dessert post-dinner or something sweet while you're bar-hopping late at night. And, while the Valley ATM will only be around for a month, The Mason Baker is hoping to pop up at other locations throughout the rest of the year. When the company last brought its wares to Brissie's streets back in October last year, it did so via emergency boxes that folks had to spot around town, then break open — with the cakes inside available for free. This time, however, you will need to pay for your goodies. You'll still be tucking into a heap of cake in a jar, though, and making your inner dessert fiend rather happy. Find The Mason Baker's cupcake ATM at 6 Warner Street, Fortitude Valley, from Friday, February 5 — operating from 5pm each Thursday, Friday and Saturday in February.
Grabbing a drink to celebrate the end of the working day is the whole reason that happy hours exist. But if you'd like to shake off the clients, customers, spreadsheets and Slack messages another way, you can now head to Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq to spend an hour playing games instead. The Toombul venue is calling its new special Power Hour, and it's on offer from 5pm each Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Drop by, and you'll pay $10 to mash as many buttons and enjoy as many of the site's attractions as you can manage in an hour. $10 bowling is on the menu as well. Nothing will help you forget you even went to work that day like a good stint in the dodgem cars — or you can hit up the arcade consoles or hop on a virtual reality ride, too. Drinks are available also, but they're not included in the price. So, if you'd like a 'Schnapps, Crackle and Pop' (with butterscotch schnapps, maple, popcorn syrup soda and whipped cream), or an alcoholic shake topped with fairy floss, you'll need to pay extra.
Usually, IKEA's food game is as unmistakably Scandinavian as its hard-to-pronounce furniture names — headlined, of course, by those iconic Swedish meatballs. But come Wednesday, February 10 in Logan and Thursday, February 11 in North Lakes, the retailer is shaking things up and taking a jaunt to the other side of the globe, dishing up an Asian-inspired feast in celebration of the Lunar New Year. The dinner is set to run from 5.30pm each night — and arriving hungry is recommended. On the menu, you'll find classic dishes like dumplings, spring rolls, and deep-fried eggs in sweet and sour sauce. There's both beef and vegetarian hot pot, tofu salad with chilli and sesame, hokkien noodles and honey soy chicken wings, and even sweet offerings like fruit salad, chocolate wafers and coconut rice pudding with mango sauce. Adult tickets to the buffet feast are $29.95, though IKEA Family members can nab theirs for just $24.95. And, you could even squeeze in a spot of pre- or post-dinner flatpack shopping while you're there. [caption id="attachment_757260" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Maksym Kozlenko via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] Images: Maksym Kozlenko via Wikimedia Commons.
Usually, no one wants to think pink at the beach. Typically, it means you've forgotten to slip, slop and slap — and your skin is paying the price. But at the new Rosé Coast Gold Coast festival, those reddish hues will be confined to your wine glass. You'll still want to protect yourself from the sun's rays, of course, but you also be celebrating rosy vino in a stunning location. The first-time festival hits up Kurrawa Beach from 11am–6pm on Saturday, May 1, with prosecco, sparkling rosé, rosatos and frosé all on the menu from more than 20 Australian wine-growing regions. Although the day focuses on rosé, there will be other beverages available — including red and white wines, gin, cocktails and beer. So, that's what you'll be drinking. Food-wise, different bars will cater to different types of dishes. One will serve up cheese and charcuterie platters, another will be all about freshly shucked oysters, and a third will go heavy on fish 'n' chips, crab rolls and prawn salads. Or, you can choose between burgers and Italian cuisine, and then lick your way through some gelato for dessert. Thanks to the location, you'll also be able to try your hand at a range of beach games, or give a sand-sculpting workshop a go. Rosé masterclasses, beachside massages, wine-tasting sessions set to music, pinot-fuelled art classes and a silent disco are on the bill, too. Tickets start at $49, and go on sale at midday AEST on Monday, February 22. If you're gathering the gang, there's a cabana option, which costs $2490 for up to ten people — and includes your own private space, four bottles of rosé, massages, masterclasses and a meal.
The Sunday roast is a tradition for a reason — but at Emporium Hotel's Signature Restaurant, it's going with a multi-plate seafood feast instead. Fancy swapping your usual end-of-weekend lunch for a five-course version that's big on the ocean's finest? Well, that's what's on the menu at the South Bank spot. On Sundays between 12–2.30pm, Signature is hosting Signature Sunday Seafood Lunches — and arriving hungry is definitely recommended. You'll start with Fraser Island spanner crab paired with chilled watermelon soup, avocado and rice. Next, you'll tuck into Mooloolaba king prawns, before moving on to Coral Coast barramundi with vegetables for the main course. Cheese follows, as does an apricot terrine for dessert (and no, neither of the last two dishes involve seafood of any kind, because of course they don't). The whole meal will set you back $75, or you can level it up with matching wines if you like. If so, you'll be paying $150 — and ending your weekend with in decadent style.
Already known for its bottomless vegan pizza and pasta feasts, Italian restaurant chain Salt Meats Cheese has been upping its cruelty-free food game at a monthly special event. Called Soul Meets Cheers, it serves up an entirely plant-based menu, featuring vegan versions of Italian classics. For the feast's February outing — taking place at all Brisbane venues from 5pm on Tuesday, February 2 — it'll be focusing on bites to eat inspired the northern region of Lombardy in Italy. Think polenta fries with napoletana sauce, three-pumpkin pizza and Milanese-style risotto. And yes, that's just a few of the dishes on offer. Your $49 ticket also includes a glass of vegan wine or or Young Henrys beer or cider upon arrival.
Every weekend could use a stint of sea shanty singing. They could use some other live tunes — the kind that don't get sung on boats — plus poetry based on tarot card readings and magnets, a spoken word ode to reality TV and an adult bubble show, too. They're the types of things you'll find on the Ruckus Fest: Music and Arts Fest lineup on Friday, November 5 and Saturday, November 6, as well as theatre, puppetry, stand-up comedy and improv as well. This two-day festival celebrates independent artists and performers, and it's giving you multiple ways to attend. Head along on the Friday night and you'll be able to bathe in cabaret — or head, by on Saturday for workshops, performances, and an arts market and zine fair. It all takes place at The Old Museum in Bowen Hills, and marks the fest's second-ever event after debuting back in 2019. More than 35 artists and collectives are on the bill, so you won't be lacking things to watch — all thanks to the folks at Ruckus Slam, who've put Ruckus Fest together.
No one ever eats one piece of cheese — or a single cheesy dish — and feels like it's enough. If you're a dairy fiend, cheese in all its glorious forms is one of the most moreish dishes there is. Salt Meats Cheese clearly feels the same, because it's dedicating a whole night to the creamy substance. Wondering what you're having for dinner on Tuesday, December 14? That'd be cheese, more cheese, and then even more cheese. The Cheesy Affair will serve up five different types of cheese-heavy options, ranging from $15–30 in price, so you can pick which ones you'd like to try. Start with truffled burrata with cherry tomatoes and basil, then work your way through baked brie, cacio e pepe and a ten-cheese pizza (decked out with ricotta, taleggio, gorgonzola, mozzarella, pecorino toscano, parmigiano reggiano, provolone, mascarpone, pecorino romano and brie, if you're wondering). For dessert: mascarpone and pistachio tiramisu. If your stomach is now grumbling, you'll need to book in advance, given that folks sure do love cheese. The Cheesy Affair is only happening at select venues — so you'll want to make a date with the chain's Newstead and Surfer's Paradise locations from 5pm.
Some films are long, slow and serious. Others are brief, quick and fun. There's a place for the former, of course; however. Radical Reels champions the latter category, combining the most action-packed mountain movies it can find into a compilation of high-octane shorts. Radical Reels is the adrenaline-loving little brother of the Banff Mountain Film Festival, the prestigious international film competition and annual presentation of short films and documentaries about mountain culture, sports, and environment. From the most recent festival's batch of submissions, a subset of daring displays have been singled out for not just one evening at the cinema, but four. Between Tuesday, November 23–Friday, November 26 at Brisbane Powerhouse, Radical Reels will approach the very edge of action sports and natural highs: the wild rides, long lines, steep jumps, and skilled stunts, as well as the rugged playgrounds thrill-seekers explore on their mountain bikes, paddles, ropes, skis, snowboards and wingsuits. Expect the world's best extreme athletes getting fast and furious — and expect quite the thrilling ride from the comfort of your cushy cinema seat, too. Images: Jeremy Bernard.
The 90s were great. That shouldn't be a controversial opinion. Whether you lived through them or have spent the last couple of decades wishing you did — aka binging on 90s pop culture — this late-night shindig at La La Land in Fortitude Valley will indulge your retro urges. Drinks, tunes, fashion — expect all of the above at the No Scrubs: 90s and Early 00s party from 9pm on Thursday, October 28. Of course, it's up to you to make sure the clothing side of thing is covered, and to get into the spirit of the party. If you want to use Mariah Carey as a style icon, it'd be fitting. Expect to unleash your inner Spice Girl and Backstreet Boy too. TLC, Destiny's Child, Savage Garden, Usher, Blink-182, No Doubt — we'd keep listing artists, but you all know what you're getting yourselves into. Tickets cost $17.34 online, with the fun running through until 3am. And if you're wondering why it's happening on a Thursday, that's because the next day is the belated Ekka public holiday. Image: No Scrubs.
Eventually, Denis Villeneuve's version of Dune will reach cinemas. Thanks to the pandemic, it's been a long time coming — but those sand worms and spice wars will hopefully be worth the wait. Until then, Dendy Coorparoo has a very fitting way for film buffs to pass the time, all thanks to a retrospective focusing on Villeneuve's past flicks. One of the reasons that this new take on Dune has everyone so excited is because the filmmaker behind it has quite the impressive resume. You've likely already seen and loved Blade Runner 2049 and Arrival, because Villeneuve has dived into sci-fi before. You may have done the same with Sicario and Prisoners as well. Now, you can watch them again on the big screen between Thursday, September 2–Wednesday, September 22 — and check out Oscar-nominee Incendies, too. The lineup also spans two movies few folks in Brisbane have had the chance to see in a cinema before: the Jake Gyllenhaal-starring Enemy, which is a weird and dark delight, and the stunning Polytechnique, which is based on shocking real events. And, rounding out the program are August 32nd on Earth and Maelstrom, so you'll truly be getting the full Villeneuve treatment.
If this returning Brisbane food event needs a theme song, it has plenty of options to choose from. Sure, most tracks that reference wings in their name come soaked in emotion (we're thinking about Jeffrey Osbourne's 'On the Wings of Love' and Bette Midler's 'Wind Beneath My Wings', for starters, because 80s tunes are just that impossible to forget). But hey, who isn't in love with crispy, deep-fried chicken wings? We're going on about potential anthems because the Australian Buffalo Wing Festival will make you want to sing an ode to its titular dish, we're betting. That's what showcasing all the great places in Brissie that sell these delectable sites of poultry does. Well, that and fill your stomach. Featuring everywhere from King of the Wings and KaiKai Chicken to Fritzenberger and Bite Markets among its locations — and Wing Fury, Seoul Bistro and Lefty's Music Hall, too — the fest is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of affair. Basically, pick an eatery between Monday, August 30–Sunday, September 5, and start munching. Or, go on a buffalo-crawl in search of the many deals on offer. Each joint will be serving up their own flavours, so you really will want to taste them all.
Three days, nine events, multiple art forms, plenty of stringed instruments. Add them all together, and that's the returning Restrung Festival, which is back for another round of genre-bending tunes. If you thought that violins, cellos and the like were just for classical music fans, prepare to have your perception altered at this fest. Here, everything from electronica, folk and jazz to rock, pop and minimalism also gets a look-in, challenging the status quo when it comes to these instruments. Taking over Metro Arts from Thursday, October 14–Saturday, October 16, the festival features strings doing different and unexpected things: responding to the pandemic in Topology's Killing Music, getting experimental in Dots+Loops' latest underground club-inspired performance, and pondering colonial Australia in Dreaming in the Sand, for instance. On Saturday night in Metro Arts' outdoor Factory Lane, there'll also be performance pop-ups — and three different art installations all inspired by strings will also be in display across the festival's run.
Once a year, the Caxton Hotel welcomes in seafood lovers, throwing a huge annual festival that pairs plenty of the ocean's finest with a huge Paddington street party. On Saturday, November 13, it's adding another big shindig to its agenda — without the fish, but will plenty of craft brews instead. Kicking off at 12pm, the inaugural Caxton Craft Park Party is all about beers from Aussie craft breweries, including regular favourites and up-and-comers. So, you'll spend your Saturday sipping tipples from Stone and Wood, Young Henry's, Brouhaha and Revel Brewing Co, as well as from Ballistic, Wayward, Your Mates, Brooklyn Brewery and Heads of Noosa. Also on offer: live music, food stalls, char-grilled meat platters and just generally taking over The Caxton Hotel's car park and beer garden. Entry is free, but you'll obviously need your wallet for all those brews — whether you're keen to stick with the tried-and-tested or expand your beer repertoire.
UPDATE, February 7, 2022: The Big Anxiety Festival will no longer take place from Wednesday, February 9–Saturday, February 12, and has moved its dates to the end of May instead. This article has been updated to reflect that change. Anxiety is the most common mental health condition in Australia so, when The Big Anxiety Festival makes its Brisbane debut in May 2022, it should be well-attended. First staged in Sydney back in 2017, and now taking its first trip north, the mental health and arts festival was created by the University of New South Wales and the Black Dog Institute along with over 25 partners across Greater Sydney, to use art as a means to transform the way people think about and deal with mental health. Given everything that life has thrown our way during the pandemic, that task is as worthy now as ever — although there's never a bad time to focus on mental health. Accordingly, from Thursday, May 26–Saturday, May 28, the inaugural Brisbane fest will bring together artists, scientists, technologists, thinkers, mental health workers, activists and people with lived experience to explore the field. The main focus: how arts-based experiences can help people work through not just anxiety, but stress and trauma, whether via interactive environments with a big reliance upon technology or thanks to innovative conversation formats. Taking place at QUT Gardens Point Theatre, highlights include Edge of the Present, the world's first virtual reality environment for suicide prevention, which uses visual transformations to help improve mood and hopefulness — and EmbodiMap, another interactive VR tool that tasks users with painting out their feelings, thoughts, and emotions onto a 3D life-sized version of their body in order to confront feelings of anxiety, stress and trauma. Plus, Gold Coast artist and art therapist Daniele Constance will curate Awkward Conversations, which'll enlist artists with lived experience to participate in no-holds-barred discussions. Chatting about the subject will be a big part of two-day festival-within-the-festival The Big Reach, too, with the ticketed event bringing together workshops, conversations and performances, as well as immersive media demonstrations, all thanks to more than 30 artists and presenters. This is the kind of festival where you can take sessions on writing as a form a self-care, use augmented reality as a way to explore trauma in storytelling, and step into a 3D experience based on memories of time spent in the Parramatta Girls Home. Or, you can view virtual reality artworks by Uti Kulintjaku, which is an Aboriginal-led mental health literacy project comprised of Ngangkari (traditional healers) and multi-artform artists from the Ngaanyatjarra, Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara lands in the remote western desert of Central Australia. [caption id="attachment_837623" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Edge of the Present, Jessica Maurer.[/caption]
There's never a bad time to enjoy a Cantonese meal with cracking river views at Stanley, the Howard Smith Wharves restaurant that pairs the two in fine style. That said, stopping by to celebrate lunar new year is obviously recommended. To mark the year of the tiger, chef Louis Tikram is adding special dishes to the menu — and for two nights only. Exactly what you'll be able to tuck into hasn't been revealed but, based on how delicious Stanley's regular spread is, your tastebuds won't be disappointed. The LNY specials will be available alongside the usual a la carte and banquet offerings, too — which spans everything from Moreton Bay bug spring rolls and Peking duck pancakes to kung pao cauliflower and salt and pepper squid — so you can enjoy the best of both worlds. You'll need to make a date for either Saturday, January 29 or Tuesday, February 1, with seatings from 5pm each evening. And there'll also be lion dances on both nights — at 6.30pm and 8.30pm on Saturday and just 6.30pm on Tuesday.
We've all been spending more time inside than usual this year. In the process, we've all been looking at our furniture far more often than we usually would. So, if you've been rocked by the urge to redecorate, rearrange and reorganise, that's hardly surprising — those well-loved cushions, that old couch or your overflowing shelves could probably do with sprucing up. If IKEA is your furniture go-to, then its end-of-year sale is here to help, too — offering discounts of up to 50 percent off on some items. Whether you're in need of something big like a bed, chair or desk, or you're eager to fill your walls and surfaces with frames and vases, you'll find slashed prices on a heap of products. And if you still have some Christmas gifts to buy, you might be in luck as well. The sale runs until Thursday, January 7 — and, for Brisbanites, you have multiple options if you're eager to start buying. Head into the Logan or North Lakes stores; browse online, then opt for click-and-collect; or do all your perusing and purchasing on the company's website, before waiting for delivery.
As fun as parties, feasts and downing eggnog all are at this time of year, one thing can make them better: games. We're not just talking about guessing how long until your uncle falls asleep after lunch, or seeing who knows all the words to every pop Christmas carol. Instead, we're talking about eating, drinking, playing and being merry in Brisbane's very own bar-slash-arcade. 'Tis the season for all of the above at Netherworld, and it's throwing quite the shindig to prove it. Just bring your button-mashing self; some cash for tokens, brews, eggnog and a Hellmouth roast; and your willingness to get snapped on a winter wonderland-themed Christmas stage It all takes place from midday on Saturday, December 19, complete an appropriately merry soundtrack to accompany your rounds of playing whatever pinball, arcade, console or board game takes your fancy. A karma keg will be pouring at the bar, too, raising cash for those needing some festive help. [caption id="attachment_622335" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Sarah Ward[/caption] Top image: Cole Bennetts.
While an actual holiday to Hawaii might be off the cards for some time, Brisbanites — and those visiting the River City — can get a good dose of vacay vibes at Osbourne Hotel's New Year's Eve party, aptly dubbed NYE Tropicala. Wave goodbye to 2020 (finally, finally!) and celebrate a brand new year at the Fortitude Valley venue's extravaganza, complete with hula dancers and fire performers, themed food stations, a Hendricks gin bar, champagne at midnight and, of course, plenty of piña coladas served in pineapples. Although the official event ends at midnight, the pub will be open till late, so you can continue to dance into the early hours. Tickets are $105 a pop, plus a booking fee, and include unlimited food and selected drinks for four hours. As part of the deal, you'll also score a piña colada on arrival — plus champagne when the clock strikes 12. NYE Tropicala runs 8pm till midnight. To book, head to the website or to the Facebook event.
Find us an occasion that isn't improved by pie, and we'll find you a plate full of reasons why the dish should always be on the menu. Pie suits every day, date, theme and celebration, because there's just so many different types of it — and that includes Halloween. Pie Town agrees, clearly, and it's doing more than just pumping out the food it's known for. The West End eatery is spending the week leading up to October 31 making 15-centimetre pumpkin, chocolate mousse and matcha custard pies, but it wants you to book yourself a slot to come in and decorate them. You'll be getting spooky, of course. Think eyeballs, fangs, tombstones, zombie hands and witches feet, all atop a delicious pie that you'll then take home with you. Tickets cost $25 and, if you're trying to decide which day to attend, you might want to think about just how much you love puppies. On Halloween itself, Pie Town is hosting a parade of costumed pooches, so you can either bring your own or head along and watch everyone else's adorable doggos.
Add Ireland to the list of places that you won't be jetting off to in 2020, but you can still visit via your screen. And, add Australia's annual Irish Film Festival to the growing ranks of cinema events making the jump online — so Aussies around the country can pop their own popcorn, scoop themselves some ice cream and watch along from their couches. In its virtual-only guise, the 2020 Irish Film Festival runs from Thursday, November 19–Sunday, November 29, with a lineup of features, shorts and documentaries on its bill. It's serving up something for everyone, so if you're keen on a dark comedy set in a small Irish town (thanks to Dark Lies the Island) or a doco about Nobel Prize-winning author Seamus Heaney (as seen Seamus Heaney and the Music of What Happens), you'll find both on the program. Among the highlights, horror-comedy Extra Ordinary stands out — as you'd expect of a movie about a driving instructor with supernatural powers, and one that co-stars Will Forte and Aussie comedian Claudia O'Doherty, too. Or, there's also grim and involving gang drama Calm with Horses, as led by Lady Macbeth's Cosmo Jarvis and The Killing of a Sacred Deer's Barry Keoghan. Tickets are on sale now — for individual sessions, in three-movie passes and as an all-access festival-long pass. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4MRcUzmFv8&feature=emb_logo
They're words every hungry stomach likes to hear: cheap dumplings. And, much to your tummy's delight, they're words that apply at Jade Buddha on Tuesdays each week from 12–1pm and 6–7pm. That's when the Eagle Street spot's fifty-cent pork dumpling offer is available, and it's all rather simple. Venture in for lunch or dinner between the allocated times, buy a drink and then order up to ten tasty parcels in exchange for a dodecagonal coin each. Want more? That's on offer too, but you'll have to pace yourself. Once you're done with your first serving, you can grab another beverage and another plate of dumplings. Given the location, you'll also be doing all of the above while soaking in riverside views. Obviously, arriving early is recommended — there's limited stock available, and Jade Buddha is also operating under a COVID-19 Safe plan.
Brisbanites haven't had much to say cheers to this year — but with the city slowly reopening after the most recent COVID-19 lockdowns, that's changing. And if you're looking for something to sip while you gather the gang (responsibly, while socially distancing and adhering to the requisite rules, of course), South Bank's Mister Paganini is doing an aperitivo special every single day. From 4–6pm daily, you can head by for $10 spritzes — with six varieties available. Choose from Pimms with prosecco, cucumber, mint and ginger ale; elderflower liqueur with lime and soda; or pink gin with rose syrup and strawberries. Or, you can opt for a version with Cointreau, orange juice and chilli sugar syrup; a mix of Chambord, chardonnay, lemonade, lemon and berries; or the classic that is Aperol, orange, soda and prosecco. If you're also feeling peckish, Mister Paganini's usual menu will be on offer.
Artistic inspiration comes in many forms. A fantastic view can do the trick. A refreshing beverage could get your creative juices flowing. Or, at the Breakfast Creek Lifestyle Precinct's three-night Paint and Pop Pop-Up, you can try both. Putting a paintbrush in your hand and seeing what a dose of liquid courage brings out is hardly a new concept, and Cork & Chroma have the history to prove it. But, between 6–9pm from Tuesday, December 15–Thursday, December 17, it's setting up shop somewhere other than its usual South Bank and South Brisbane sites, and hosting three sessions with quite the bubbly accompaniment. Your $125 ticket includes the class — where you'll whip up something arty on a canvas — plus Veuve Clicquot and nibbles for three hours. And, because of the location, you'll score views of the river to go with your champagne and painting, all in a brand new events space. Tickets are on sale now, but places are limited — so this is a get-in-quickly kind of affair.
Get your shopping done under twinkling lights while surrounded by real (not plastic) Christmas trees. No, this isn't a festive dream — it's the reality of South Bank's annual Christmas markets. Whether you've been every year since you can remember, or you've never gone a-browsing at the inner-city spot, visiting The Collective Markets Christmas Edition is worth the trip. While the entirety of South Bank will be in a merry mood (including via a free and festive outdoor cinema program), they can't steal the show from the most important part of the proceedings: the wares on offer at the rows of stalls. From 10am–10pm between Friday, December 18–Wednesday, December 23, you'll find handmade toys, jewellery and other trinkets just begging to be given as gifts, as well as tasty treats to add to your Christmas feast. Yep, everyone's a winner here. Reflecting the situation we all find ourselves in in 2020, you will need to check-in when you enter and exit the markets, for COVID-19 safety purposes.
The BrisStyle team is a rather busy bunch. A few times a year, it puts on twilight markets in King George Square, but that isn't its only regular event. If you're particularly after a treasure trove of handmade goodies — and who isn't? — it hosts another opportunity to browse and buy that's dedicated to exactly those kinds of objects. And, because it's that time of year, it's putting on a Christmas version of the latter. Fashion, art, jewellery, homewares — if someone's been using their nimble fingers to make it, then you can probably trade your hard-earned cash for their hard work. In fact, there'll be more than 70 artisans selling their wares. And, while you're shopping, you'll also be able to grab a bite at the onsite cafe and listen to live tunes from local musos. The BrisStyle Handmade Christmas Markets take place on Saturday, December 12, so that's when you can take care of your gift-buying needs. Head along from 9am–3pm, with it all taking place in the Queensland Museum's whale mall. Image: BrisStyle.
Even without sourcing and quoting an exact number, it's obvious that an immense amount of people owe their lives to Marie and Pierre Curie's research on radioactivity. Without their work — Marie's passion project, which she reluctantly agreed to collaborate on with Pierre after they first crossed paths in Paris — cancer treatment would've likely been vastly different over the past century. The results for scores of cancer patients would've been as well. But the pair's discovery of two new elements, radium and polonium, also led to disturbing side effects and cataclysmic events that changed the course of history in other ways. Radioactive touches upon both, from life-saving oncology usage and the ability to conduct x-rays on World War I battlefields to the bombing of Hiroshima and Chernobyl's nuclear reactor meltdown. It might seem strange for a biopic about Marie to leap forward at different moments, jumping to years and decades past her death in 1934, all to show how the physicist and chemist's work made and continues to make a colossal impact upon the world. But that's the most interesting thing about Radioactive: its willingness to contemplate both the significant benefits and proven dangers of Marie (Rosamund Pike, an Oscar-nominee for Gone Girl) and Pierre's (Sam Riley, Rebecca) pioneering discoveries. The latter is tasked with vocalising this battle in his acceptance speech for their shared 1903 Nobel Prize in physics, acknowledging the struggle but opining that "mankind will derive more good than harm". The film doesn't simply take him at his word, however. It shows his radiation sickness, and Marie's. It touches upon the backlash when news of radioactivity's health effects started becoming widely known. And those aforementioned flash-forwards to both positive and negative applications of the Curies' research keep the same conversation going, because Radioactive doesn't try to offer a right or wrong answer. Instead, as directed by Marjane Satrapi (The Voices), Radioactive recognises how the efforts of an astonishing woman have led to a complex array of outcomes. The movie doesn't weigh up saving the cancer-afflicted against deaths contributed to nuclear atrocities, but shows how they're both consequences of her work — and that, even though she died before some of the events mentioned above, Marie grappled with the pros and cons of her discoveries herself. This is such a crucial part of this adaptation of Lauren Redniss' graphic novel about the Curies, in fact, that it stands out in multiple ways. Curie deserves all the praise and acclaim that have been showered upon her, and this is an affectionate film, but Radioactive isn't a glossy exercise in hero worship. That said, the movie's complications and probing stem primarily from its unconventional line of thinking; take out the clips in a 50s hospital, in Japan, in the Ukraine and at a nuclear bomb test in Nevada in 1961, and a far less thoughtful feature would result. After an opening glimpse of an elderly Marie collapsing in her Paris laboratory, Radioactive heads back to 1893, where she's one of few female scientists in the French city. Expectedly given the era, she's reviled by her male peers and the decision-making powers-that-be — but a goateed Pierre has already heard of her when they meet-cute in the streets over a microbiology book. Marie is adamant that she be judged on her own merits, and that of her work, so she's resistant to his early professional advances. But the fact that she's kicked out of her existing lab space on the day she initially makes her future husband's acquaintance sets obvious wheels in motion. Being seen as an equal is a fight she'll keep waging, even after not one but two Nobel Prizes come her way. Pierre never regards her otherwise, but altering the scientific establishment and society in general's minds is a far tougher job. By design, it's dismaying how familiar Marie's treatment feels; her work has changed the world, but engraining gender equality as a given sadly doesn't rank among her achievements. The same can be said about the race-based attacks she's forced to weather, with her Polish background used as an insult to a chilling degree in early 20th-century Europe. Satrapi has brought similar themes and experiences to the screen before, as evidenced in 2007's Persepolis. Based on her own autobiographical comics about growing up in Iran and Austria both during and after the Islamic Revolution, it unsurprisingly felt far more urgent and personal — two traits that Radioactive lacks. From fast-paced montages of Marie and Pierre's scientific experimentation to snippets of their home life as their family expands with their fame, the process of detailing the Curies' lives largely takes on a routine air, with much of Jack Thorne's (Dirt Music, Enola Holmes, The Secret Garden) script reading from the biopic playbook. Thankfully, Radioactive looks as textured as its best moments feel, and sometimes as bold as well. That it springs from an illustrated text, and that Satrapi has experience in the medium herself, comes across in stylised frames shot by cinematographer Anthony Dod Mantle (The Undoing) that could've leapt from a page. The film also benefits from not only Pike as Marie, but Anya Taylor-Joy (Emma) as the adult version of her eldest daughter Irène, another Nobel Prize-winner. There's a spiky determination to both — a willingness to forge on with doing the right thing despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles — that effortlessly links their performances. Of course, Radioactive also asks Pike to spend its first half asserting that Marie will never be defined by a man, then to spend its second struggling when Pierre is killed. That plays a little too neatly, but it's actually in tune with the many contrasts that sit at the film's core; something can be two things at once, after all, as Radioactive's rumination upon the Curies' discoveries firmly shows. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UtVe_8CS6vU
When the Ekka was cancelled for the second year in a row in 2021, no one got to throw a ball in a clown's mouth. Hopping on rides, seeing fireworks and browsing for showbags were all scrapped, too. That's obviously no fun at all; however, for the farmers who were due to exhibit at Brisbane's annual show, the impact cut far deeper. So, in response, an idea was born: the Scenic Rim Farm Gate Trail. It first appeared twice in 2021, encouraging Brisbanites to head south, hop between properties and enjoy local wares. And, although the Ekka is happening in 2022, the trail has returned — including making a second comeback for the year on Sunday, July 31. Fancy throwing a little love towards the Scenic Rim's primary producers? Keen on a day out of town? Farmers in the region will be rolling out the welcome mat from 9am–3pm on. Follow the itinerary, and you'll be hitting up the likes of Scenic Rim Mushrooms, Scenic Rim Brewery, Tommerup's Dairy Farm, Bee All Natural Honey, Witches Falls Winery, The Overflow Estate 1895 and Tamborine Mountain Distillery. That's just a taste of the list of producers involved — and if you'd like to get up close to some camels while you're in that part of southeast Queensland, that's on the cards, too. The full a trail route covers 26 stops, firmly taking care of ideas on where to start, where to venture next and what to see. [caption id="attachment_823620" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] Top image: Sabine Bannard.
That soothing feeling that sweeps over you when you spy a cute canine, spend too much time watching internet cat videos or even just spot a picture of a newborn animal — that's the feeling at the heart of these out-of-the-ordinary wellness sessions. Sure, you've been to kitten yoga and puppy pilates, and they're both great. But we're guessing that you mightn't have tried meditating with baby goats or getting mindful with soft, cuddly lambs. After launching in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast a few years back, Karmably's cuddly classes are now a regular fixture. During them, you'll attempt to find inner bliss while surrounded by rescued baby farm animals. In short, it's the best way to de-stress when life's got your goat. After all, who can remain overwhelmed, exhausted or annoyed when they're sharing their chill-out session with actual goats? The classes focus on relaxation techniques; the session's name, Breathe In & Bleat Out, gives you an idea of just what's in store. Those heading along can expect three parts to the session: mindful stretching, meditation and snuggling the four-legged participants. If you're wondering where the concept came from, it was inspired by organiser Berenice Tan's own experiences trying to find something other than the usual mindfulness classes within Australia. Tan began to research animal therapy and, after learning of the benefits (and realising that everyone loves cute critters), her sessions with goats, lambs and even piglets were born. The bliss goes both ways, too — with Karmably not only helping humans to relax in a fun manner, but also assisting animals in need. Tan works with sanctuaries, rescue centres, and organisations such as Harmony Hooves Healing Hearts and ABC Animal Farm. They both raise baby creatures who have either been rejected by their mothers or lost their mums in other ways, and hand-rear them until they can be adopted out as pets to families who live on suitable properties. The next Brisbane sessions take place on Saturdays — on February 19, April 16 and June 18 at Elements Collective in Fortitude Valley, with session times at 8.30am, 10am and 11.30am. Tickets usually get snapped up fast, so you'll want to book yours ASAP. Updated March 4.
If your Easter routine usually involves a seafood feast, then you might want to make a date with a certain Kangaroo Point fish 'n' chippery this year. On Friday, April 15, One Fish Two Fish is serving up plenty of the ocean's finest for the occasion, all as part of a six-course meal that starts with oysters — served with oak-aged chardonnay mignette — and remains just as indulgent from there. Also on the menu: salmon sashimi, cooked Mooloolaba banana prawns, fish stew and snapper with roast vegetables. We've only listed five seafood dishes so far, because the sixth course gets chocolatey. To wrap things up, you'll be tucking into an Easter egg on Oreo soil filled with white chocolate cheesecake and passionfruit gel. If you're keen to eat in, you'll need to book a spot for one of four sittings: 11am–1pm, 1.30–3.30pm, 5–7pm and 7.30–9.30pm. There's also a takeaway menu featuring some — but not all — of the above dishes, as well as other fish 'n' chip fare.
When the working week is done, folks just wanna have fun. We're paraphrasing Cyndi Lauper because she knows what she's singing about. If your idea of taking her advice involves listening to ace musos belt out a few tunes, then QPAC's returning Green Jam is the Friday afternoon session you're looking for. All about live music, tasty bites to eat and kicking back in a grassy spot a stone's throw from the inner city, the regular event offers an ace start to your weekend from 5.30–7.30pm. This year's autumn season will run between Friday, April 1–Friday, May 6, so you can enjoy the cooler weather with an outdoor songfest at the Melbourne Street Green (aka that vibrant patch of turf just past the Cultural Centre walkway). The music lineup changes weekly, with Mama Juju & The Jam Tarts and Diddly Squat among the already-announced acts on the bill. Food-wise, you can tuck into pizzas and arancini — while sipping wine and beer, including of the non-alcoholic variety. Entry is free, but you'll obviously have to pay for the eating and drinking part of the evening.
After a start to the year we'd all rather forget, southeast Queensland could use a good giggle right about now. Happy to oblige is the GC Laughs Festival, aka the Gold Coast's annual comedy fest. On its 2022 bill: more than 30 comedy shows over six nights, all filled with funny folks. Taking place at HOTA, Home of the Arts, the festival kicks off on Saturday, March 12 with a big guffaw-inducing gala hosted by Celia Pacquola, but that's just the beginning of the lineup. Until Sunday, March 20, you'll also get chuckling at Melanie Bracewell, Aaron Chen, Peter Helliar, Dave Hughes, Mel Buttle, Kat and Stav Davidson, Becky Lucas and Rhys Nicholson — plus Michelle Brasier, Cameron James, Nikki Britton, Ivan Aristeguieta, Nick Cody and more, While that's a wealth of comedy worth hitting the coast for, GC Laughs is also popping up again on Wednesday, May 11 for a one-night-only show. The reason? Playing host to the one and only Aunty Donna. Get your cuppas of morning brown ready, obviously. Images: Anneliese Nappa.
There's one thing that all wine festivals have in common: vino, and plenty of it. But this returning rosé fest hosted by Brisbane's inner-city winery adds something extra to the mix — because, when it takes over King Street on Saturday, April 2, you'll be able to help make rosé between knocking back glasses of the pink stuff. At 2022's Rosé Festival by City Winery, stomping and pressing grapes is one of the big attractions. And, the results of all that jumping up and down will be bottled for the company's rosé release for the year, too. So, down the track, you'll be able to grab one, add it to your wine rack and know that you had a hand — or two feet — in making it. If you'd rather just sip the rosés already on offer, that's obviously also part of the festival. Bands and DJs will provide a soundtrack while you're tasting your way through different drops, and there'll be masterclasses and workshops to help up your knowledge on the topic as well. And, because this year's event is a street party, expect food trucks and bars to setup shop all along the Bowen Hills roadway, too. The fest kicks off at 2pm, with tickets costing $29.
Round up the Avengers, call all your SHIELD buddies and pick up your mighty mjolnir — it's time to hulk out at Brisbane's latest Marvel Cinematic Universe trivia night. So rove your hawk-like eye over plenty of questions about the huge film franchise, snap out answers faster than Thanos can snap his fingers, and web-sling yourself into Fritzenberger Petrie Terrace, because you've pop-culture glory to battle for. If you've caught all 27 films in the Marvel Cinematic Universe to-date, watched every TV show and basically dedicated the past decade and a half to this superhero-filled realm, then it's an evening that you've been training for. And if you're down with flerkens, wish you'd visited Wakanda, know the difference between Peter Parker and Peter Porker, and understand why Oscar Isaac sports two different accents in Moon Knight, then you'll be in your happy place. Taking place from 6.30pm on Wednesday, April 13, the MCU trivia onslaught comes hot on the heels of 2021 box-office behemoth Spider-Man: No Way Home — and will help keep you occupied before Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness arrives next month. Hosted by Isolation Trivia, MCU trivia is free to play; however, registrations are required. Also, if you want break out your finest cape and spandex outfit, that's up to you. The trivia night falls on Fritzenberger's 50-cent wing Wednesday, too, so you know what to snack on while you're conquering your opponents.
Any venue can serve up a brunch that goes on for hours, or so it seems given the sheer number of such mid-morning sessions across Brisbane. Cloudland's Brunch With Bite fits that mould, offering plenty of food as well as bottomless booze — but it also adds something a little different to the menu. Fancy getting a bit of camp drag comedy with your meal? Watching an uproarious game show? Belting out a tune while brunch rolls on? They're all on the bill at this banquet, with the lineup changing weekly. Food-wise, you'll tuck into an Italian-inspired spread and nab a drink on arrival, all as part of your $75 ticket. The event kicks off at 11am, with two hours of bottomless spritzes, mimosas, bloody marys, select beers and sangria on offer between 11.15am–1.15pm. And, if you're going booze-free, you can opt for mocktails instead.
According to a 2019 report by Foodbank Australia, one in five Australians experienced food security at some point in the past 12 months — and that was before COVID-19 hit and an estimated 600,000 Aussies lost their jobs. To help put food on the tables of those doing it rough at the moment, ten Asian Australian singers, comedians and rappers are coming together for a one-off live-stream to raise money for Foodbank NSW and ACT. Going down on YouTube from 9–11.45pm on Saturday, June 27, the live-stream will feature comedian Harry Jun, singers Krista Monica, Yura and Christine, and rappers Andy, Rako, Mike Choe, Cooee, Goyo and Saint. The YouTube link will be published on the event's Facebook page. While the live-stream will be free to watch, those bopping along in their living rooms are encouraged to donate to Foodbank over here. The group is hoping to raise $1000 — and has a strong start with $387 garnered before the live-stream has even begun. If you'd like a taste of what to expect, have a listen to Saint's single 'Kumbaya', which features fellow live-stream artist Cooee. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQH53ioF7hc
Can you solve a good mystery? Or spark one? Channel your inner Professor Plum, Colonel Mustard or Mrs Peacock, roam around a bar looking for the conservatory, cellar and billiard room, and be wary of candlesticks, lead pipes and spanners. That's what Cluedo! The Interactive Game is all about when it sets heads to Baedeker for a rescheduled run, and we mean that literally. Originally slated for April, postponed due to COVID-19, and now taking place on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays between Thursday, August 6–Saturday, August 22, each night will double as a lavish 1930s dinner and cocktail party complete with hidden rooms and passageways, enigmatic guests and plenty of secrets. [caption id="attachment_761755" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Brisbane Immersive Ensemble[/caption] In a theatrical reimagining of the ace board game brought to life by Brisbane Immersive Ensemble, you'll solve puzzles, find clues and try to work out who did the deed all while you're eating and drinking. Previous seasons have proven mighty popular, because everyone loves a Cluedo-themed shows. We'll call it a case of murder mystery board game fever. Top image: Baedeker.
They're red, sweet and juicy — and they're everyone's favourite fruit. They're also grown in abundance around Queensland. Did you know that 40 percent of the state's strawberries come from the Moreton Bay region? Well, you do now — and you might just want to celebrate that fact. All you need to do is head on over to Sandstone Point on Saturday, September 18, 2021 for the Strawberry and Dessert Festival. Because you can never have too much of a good thing, this Sandstone Point Hotel event will paint the pub pink with farm-fresh strawberries — and strawberry milkshakes, strawberry ice cream, scones with strawberry jam and chocolate-coated strawberries are all usually on the menu. So is a strawberry-eating competition, plus a bar serving strawberry-flavoured cocktails. As you might've noticed, this year's fest has made an addition to its moniker. This isn't just a strawberry festival, as it has been in previous years, but a showcase of many a sweet treat as well. Basically, arrive hungry — and wear something stretchy — as you prepare to devour desserts aplenty. Images: Sandstone Point Hotel. Updated September 13, 2021.
Autumn means falling leaves, slightly cooler weather and the feeling that, if you're eager to venture outside in Brisbane, you won't be sweating and sweltering for a change. So with the season just kicking off, it's the perfect excuse to spend an afternoon and evening eating, drinking and listening to live music in a northside park. Running from 3–8pm on Saturday, March 7, Park Vibes combines all of the above. Yes, bringing your picnic blanket and getting comfortable is recommended. Food-wise, three 'flavour zones' will showcase different cuisines, so you can choose between Asian, European and American bites to eat from an array of food trucks — while a pop-up bar will be serving wine and craft beers. Live performances will be running all arvo, ending in fireworks — and for both big and little kids, there'll be rides as well. Entry is free, with the event taking place at Pine Rivers Park. If you're driving, however, parking will cost you $5.
Ending the nine-to-five grind with a beverage can make any working day better. Pair that tipple with cheap seafood, and you'll be counting down the minutes until knock-off time. Il Gancio is clearly keeping that idea in mind from Friday, March 6 — by serving up $1 oysters every week. You don't just have to head by after work, however, with the deal on offer from 12pm each Friday. And there's no missing numeral in the price, although you do need to buy a beverage to go with your freshly shucked, locally sourced oysters. Drinks-wise, there's plenty to choose from — including classic cocktails, tap and bottled beers, and a hefty selection of wine and sparkling. [caption id="attachment_750713" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Upstairs at Toombul[/caption] And if you haven't yet checked out Toombul's new Upstairs food precinct, where Il Gancio is located, this is your new weekly excuse. Top image: Il Gancio.
Getting into the bottomless brunch game, Munich Brauhaus is embracing all-you-can-eat mid-morning meals in the appropriate fashion: German-style. That means pretzels, schnitzel, sauerkraut and apple strudel — and as much as you can handle for two hours — at the Bavarian-themed beer hall's new Das Brunch. Also on the menu at the monthly event: meat and cheese platters, plenty of bread with a traditional cheese spread called obazda, roast pork belly with onion and sage stuffing, hash browns, sausages, bacon, plus Munich-style slaw and potato salad from the salad bar. Leave room for käsespätzle, which is a creamy mac 'n' cheese-style dish that's rightfully considered a favourite back in its homeland. Dessert-wise, gingerbread men, black forest cake and blueberry cheesecake are also on offer, with the unlimited food spread costing $65 per person. Or, because brunch and booze go hand in hand, pair it with sparkling, rosé, house beer, wine and spirits for $99. Das Brunch runs monthly, kicking off from 11am on Sunday, March 22. Each smorgasbord will also be themed, with the first one taking inspiration from autumn — complete with flower crowns and floral displays. If you're choosing to go out and support local businesses, have a look at the latest COVID-19 advice and social-distancing guidelines from the Department of Health.
You've probably heard of starting your day as you choose to go on, but how about starting your month in the same fashion? In the return of its popular series from the past few years, Fortitude Valley's Institute of Modern Art wants you to kick off each portion of the annual calendar in an engaging and artistic fashion — and it has curated the perfect events to help. At First Thursdays, artists are invited to step into the IMA spotlight for a party-filled night — and you're invited to enjoy the fruits of their efforts. Participatory art experiences will take over the Brunswick Street venue, be it performance, dance, visual art, food or music, for a fun night of experimentation. [caption id="attachment_763293" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Institute of Modern Art[/caption] Because the lineup for First Thursdays changes each month, it's never the same shindig twice. In March, to get things started for 2020, the event will feature performances by Joella Warkill, Manisha Anjali, Shivanjani Lal, Sancintya Mohini Simpson and Isha Ram Das, who'll all delve into the tales of women forgotten by colonial histories.
Everyone should get to enjoy bingo. Grab a card, listen out for the right numbers, stamp away and yell out if you match a full line — what's not to love? There are also prizes, obviously, should you need any further motivation. And at Little Big Bingo, there's booze as well. Happening weekly on Wednesday nights, Little Big Bingo is Little Big House's regular reason to get excited about something that your grandmother loves. The South Bank pub is going all out, with hosts, DJs and plenty of fun. We expect there'll be bad number puns as well, because that's what bingo is all about. The bar will be pumping out beverages and, if you're hungry, serving up $1 wings as well. [caption id="attachment_763284" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Little Big House[/caption] Head along at 6pm to register, with the balls rolling from 6.30pm. And while entry is free, you'll want your wallet for food and drinks, of course.
If you've spent the past few months working from home in trackies and hole-ridden t-shirts, it's probably time to elevate your wardrobe. Thankfully, minimalist Australian clothing brand Assembly Label is hosting an online warehouse sale for a limited time this week, so you can buy some new linen pants, simple tees and big cosy jumpers without going too hard on the wallet. Known for its cool-yet-comfy timeless pieces, Assembly Label is a go-to for top-quality staples that'll take you from your morning coffee to working in your living room (aka the office), lounging around on weekends and going out for lunch with mates — really, you won't need much else. The online warehouse sale kicks off today, Wednesday, June 17, with a wide range of both men's and women's wear on offer. You'll find lots of winter essentials such as denim, basic tops, jumpers and jackets, plus its signature summery linen dresses, swimwear, skirts and shorts if you're already dreaming of hitting up the beach. Best of all, the selection will be on sale at up to 80 percent off — for a limited time only — with free shipping across Australia, too. Assembly Label's online warehouse sale kicks off on Wednesday, June 17 and will run until stocks last. To check what you can nab for up to 80 percent off, head here.
When you live in a city that's usually streaming with sunshine all year round, the onset of even slightly colder weather can be a shock. Fear not, "brrrrrrrr"-yelling Brisbanites — the frosty season comes bearing gifts. Indeed, at the just-reopened Riverbar and Kitchen, there's plenty of things to heat you up. On the menu for winter: pizza cob loaves for $18, lychee mojito jugs for $39 and — to keep you extra warm — open flames, fire pits and faux fur loungers. You'll find them on offer from 12–8pm Monday–Thursday, 12–10pm Fridays, 9am–10pm Saturdays and 9am–6pm on Sundays, with bookings recommended for groups of four and over. That said, entry is free, as is the warm, fuzzy feeling you'll get when you've been heated head-to-toe by hot cocktails, hot food and hanging out by the fire — all while socially distancing, of course. Riverbar's new specials are here for winter, although the venue hasn't announced exactly when they'll end — so if you need an excuse to drop by sooner rather than later, that's it.
It's 2011 and Bob Dylan is still touring, Mick Jagger has never been healthier and David Bowie is lying low. The rock stars of old may be living the quite life these days but there was a time when they prowled the stage with reckless abandon, and GOMA have the footage to prove it. Let There Be Rock will feature a series of films from the birth of rock right through to the current adaptation of the genre. From Elvis to Led Zepplin, to Prince, Nick Cave, The White Stripes and even Animal Collective, the extensive program offers a thorough incite into the journey of rock music, spanning over 50 films ranging from rare documentaries, concert footage, musicals and recent motion pictures. If you're a music fan or even pop culture buff, limiting the 'must see' list is going to be a tricky task. At the top of our lists is the 1978 footage from The Last Waltz which captures The Band’s final performance as they are joined on stage by friends and collaborators including Eric Clapton, Emmylou Harris, Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell. Another highlight is 1982 film Pink Floyd:The Wall which showcases Pink Floyd's surreal and impassioned rage against fascism, alienation and the commercialisation of music, using highly stylised memories and hallucinations to chart the growth of Pink (Bob Geldof) into the troubled rock star he is in the present day. Documentary Dig! 2009 film It Might Get Loud and This Is Spinal Tap are just a few more of our viewing suggestions. But we really could go on..
Brisbane-dwellers would have to have been living under a rock to have not heard about 21st Century: Art in the First Decade, an exhibition of contemporary art that has been showing at GoMA since 16 December. The exhibition is coming into its final week, after a roller-coaster ride of flood-endurance followed by record attendance numbers. If you have been meaning to see the 21st Century exhibition but have yet to follow through, this is your final call. The exhibition occupies the entirety of the GoMA space, delivering pieces across a wide variety of mediums, including Jana Sterbak’s video installation From Here to There, a 6-channel video work following film from the perspective of a dog as it journeys through an icy Canadian winter, and Tobias Putrih’s Connection installation, a giant archway constructed out of cardboard boxes. Much of the work is participatory, including Carsten Holler’s Left/Right Slide (yes, you can slide down it), Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Room and Martin Creed’s Work No. 956, which is a room filled to the brim with giant purple balloons (yes, you can walk through it). This exhibition has been a favourite with the crowds because it is fun, accessible, and, at times, mind-boggling. Get yourself to GoMA before it finishes on 26 April.
