Cafes are no longer just serving great coffee. They're serving great locally roasted coffee in many forms (from cold drip to batch and single origin espresso), great fare that caters to all dietaries. They also boast interesting decors and are passionate about sustainability and the ethical sourcing of ingredients. And our favourite cafes of the year do an impressive job at covering it all. From gluten-free doughnuts and perfectly flaky croissants flown in from France to vegan eateries and all-day spot serving V60s through to raspberry mojitos, these six cafes are doing it all. At Concrete Playground we encourage exploration and showcase innovation in our city every day, so we thought it fitting to reward those most talented whippersnappers pushing Brisbane to be a better, braver city. And so, these six new cafes, opened in 2018, were nominated for Best New Cafe in Concrete Playground's Best of 2018 Awards. You can check out all the winners over here.
Stretch out your after-work stresses, or sip them away? It's an age-old problem, and one hardly helped by the fact that both make you feel great. Doing one and then the other is certainly a solution — but doing both at the same time is better. Behold: beer yoga. Yes, The Flying Cock is getting in on the blissful boozing trend (or, finding a way to make drinking even more delightful, you could argue). Whether you're a yoga fanatic who also likes a tipple or vice versa, you won't find a better way to indulge your two loves, or clear your mind. Tickets cost $20 — and yes, that includes a brew, of course, as well as a mat if you need one. Booking ahead is recommended, partially because it's bound to be popular, and partially because your future self will thank you. Sure, you mightn't think you need this at the beginning of the week, but as it comes to a close, you know you will.
After a week that's seen torrential rain, flooding across the city, all public transport suspended for a few days and the main roads that have been open packed with traffic, getting around Brisbane — if you've needed to get around — hasn't been easy. But if you do have to head out until Sunday, March 6, it'll be cheaper, at least. Actually, whether you're catching a bus or train or driving on a toll road, it'll be free. The Queensland Government has announced that it has ditched fares on all public transport across southeast Queensland until the last service on Sunday, and also scrapped tolls until midnight that same night. Accordingly, if you're hopping on a bus or train from now until the end of the weekend, you won't need to touch your Go Card on or off — and if you're driving through toll points, you won't be charged a fee. Part of the motivation is to help Mud Army volunteers make their way around town to aid in the cleanup efforts. "We know the mud army will be moving around over the coming days, so the Palaszczuk Government wants to make that as easy and accessible as possible," said Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey in a statement. "This covers services from Coolangatta all the way up to the Fraser Coast and across to Toowoomba, because just about every community in between has been impacted in some way. Regarding suspending tolls, it's also about ensuring people can get around without paying a fee while other roads are flooded. "The toll road system provides drivers with connection to areas, which are currently cut off from other access due to flood damage," Bailey advised in another statement. That said, after a couple of days' reprieve, Brisbane awoke to rain and storms again today, Thursday, March 3 — and to severe thunderstorm and moderate flood warnings. So, heading far mightn't be on your agenda anyway. Also, the Queensland Government still advises reconsidering any non-essential travel. The free public transport fares only apply on government-run services — not through private operators — and, while both buses and trains have started services again, with the rail network resuming today, timetables aren't back to normal. As for the tolls, the suspension covers the Gateway and Logan motorways, AirportLink tunnel and Toowoomba Bypass, as well as the Legacy way, Clem 7 and the Go Between Bridge. If you're going out Brisbanites, stay safe and dry. Public transport and tolls across southeast Queensland will be free until the end of Sunday, March 6. Find more information about public transport services, head to the TransLink website.
There's no shortage of heartbreak in Till, a shattering drama about the abduction, torture and lynching of 14-year-old Emmett Till in Mississippi in 1955. Clemency writer/director Chinonye Chukwu tells of a boy's tragic death, a mother's pain and anger, and a country's shame and trauma — and how all three pushed along America's 20th-century civil rights movement. Heartache lingers in the needless loss of life. Fury swells at the abhorrent racism on display, including in the justifications offered by the unrepentant perpetrators. Despair buzzes in the grief, personal and national alike, that hangs heavy from the second that Emmett is dragged away in the night. Fury seethes, too, because an atrocious murder like this demands justice and change, neither of which was ever going to be easy to secure given the time and place. Indeed, the US-wide Emmett Till Antilynching Act making lynching a federal hate crime only became law in March 2022. Heartbreak builds in and bursts through Till from the outset — and in sadly everyday situations. Emmett, nicknamed Bo by his family, is played as a lively and joyful teen by the impressive Jalyn Hall (Space Jam: A New Legacy). He's confident and cheery, as his mother Mamie Till-Mobley (Danielle Deadwyler, Station Eleven) has lovingly raised him to be in Chicago. But even department-store shopping for a trip to the Deep South is coloured by the threat of discrimination. So, as his departure to see relatives gets nearer, Mamie utters a few words of advice. She's stern and urgent, trying to impart to him the importance of adhering to Mississippi's unspoken rules. She implores him not to do anything that could be construed as looking at white people the wrong way, to apologise profusely and instantly whenever he has to, and to heed the different set of norms. "Be small down there," she says — and it's one of the movie's many crushing moments. More devastation follows, in a film that wouldn't need to exist in a better world but is essential viewing in this one. While stopping at a grocery store in the sharecropper town of Money, Emmett talks to white shopkeeper Carolyn Bryant (Haley Bennett, Cyrano) — a fateful incident with specifics that've long been disputed since, as seen in infuriating testimony in the feature's later court scene. Chukwu depicts Emmett being chatty and charming, commenting that Bryant looks like a movie star. She responds by heading outside to get a pistol. Emmett's cousins and friends are frightened, a reaction that proves well-founded when Bryant's husband and brother-in-law arrive at Mamie's uncle's (John Douglas Thompson, The 355) door a few evenings later. The next time that the film's central teenager is seen, he's a horrendously beaten and barely recognisable corpse. Scripted by Chukwu with producers Keith Beauchamp (director of 2005 documentary The Untold Story of Emmett Louis Till) and Michael Reilly, Till isn't called Emmett or Bo, and isn't just the murdered boy's story — because Mamie was determined to make her heartbreak mean something. Accordingly, the movie devotes much of its running time to the aftermath, as Emmett's mother turns unspeakable sorrow into two quests: to try to hold the culprits responsible and to do whatever she needs to stop this from occurring to anyone else. Chukwu's film is sincere and clear-eyed about Mamie's courageous fight and the fortitude it takes, but it never veers away from the loss and hurt behind it. This is a portrait of a woman who became an activist icon, and also an ode to someone who was committed to ensuring that her boy's senseless killing wouldn't be excused or forgotten. When Till does see Emmett again after he's ripped from his family, the feature is careful — but also faithful to Mamie's actions. Chukwu smartly and sensitively chooses not to show the violence that Emmett was subjected to. When farmhand Willie Reed (Darian Rolle, Hard Drive) hears screams from a barn, it's deeply chilling without anyone needing to witness a single blow. And Mamie's cries when she greets her son's coffin are unsurprisingly hard to shake. But America and the globe were confronted with exactly what this crime looks like when Mamie insisted on holding an open-casket funeral, a move that Till both dramatises and copies. Chukwu is still restrained, however, never making a spectacle out of Emmett's maimed face and body. And, she's aware that watching how Mamie and others respond to the bludgeoned boy — seeing their faces crumple in distress and torment, as they naturally do — is equally as powerful. In fact, Chukwu and cinematographer Bobby Bukowski (Archive 81) can barely bring themselves to peer away from Deadwyler, who stuns in frame after frame. With both subtlety and potency, she's the picture of nervous, protective worry even before Emmett leaves — a venture that Mamie is against but her mother Alma (Whoopi Goldberg, Harlem) believes will help him know his roots — and, when he's away, conveys the motherly fear that something awful will eventuate in every look and gesture. Then, when the worst does come, Deadwyler is phenomenal in showing how Mamie summons up strength from enduring such horror. Till is a film of mourning, but it's also a movie about galvanising that mourning. While awards bodies have been woefully inconsistent with recognising Deadwyler's exceptional performance, with the BAFTAs and Screen Actors Guild offering nominations but the Golden Globes and Oscars overlooking her entirely, this is a haunting portrayal. The only Black woman employed by the US Air Force's Chicago office when Till begins, as well as a widow and a single mother, there's more to Mamie than living every mum's nightmare and crusading afterwards — and although that isn't the focus of Chukwu, Beauchamp and Reilly's screenplay, Till finds ways to layer in crucial detail. How rich the film appears, especially when it's observing Mamie, Emmett and their modest but happy life in its opening chapter, is a particularly pivotal touch. Amid the dread that Mamie patently feels about Emmett's trip, and the foreboding the audience shares as well, there's such warmth radiating from the screen early on. There's such vibrance, too, because that's the existence she had worked hard to give to her child — one she knows likely wouldn't have been possible in the south. In that and every way it can be, Till is a film about love first and foremost, even when its true tale is so heartbreakingly and irrevocably altered by hate.
They don't call Anton Chekhov’s The Seagull one of the best plays of the modern era without good reason. The Russian dramatist's work, the first of his four major offerings, tells of love, art and the conflicts of both through the interplay of a quartet of interconnected characters. So we have writer Boris Trigorin, ingénue Nina, fading theatrical diva Irina Arkadina and her son and playwright Konstantin, all circling around each other. And, in the hands of director Dan Evans, we also have a new take on the quintessential dramedy — indeed, he thinks Chekhov's effort was instrumental in shaping recent television shows such as Six Feet Under, Orange Is The New Black and Transparent. Accordingly, a classic work about family, power, sex, fame and passion gets a fresh interpretation — and Brisbane audiences receive a stripped-back, raw theatre experience. At the end, hopefully you won't just think that The Seagull is one of the greatest-ever works, but that this version is as well.
Because you're reading this, we know you're not someone who would receive a pet for Christmas, only to decide it wasn't for you. We know you're one of the good folks. You're probably hoping that you do receive a loveable animal as a gift, even if you already have one — or several — that you adore. We understand your yearning, and so does RSPCA Queensland. In trying to find permanent homes for dogs, cats, puppies and kittens surrendered into their care from all over the state, they're bringing all those cuddly creatures to the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre on Saturday, January 12 for their fifth annual pop-up adoption event. Entry is via gold coin donation, and includes demonstrations, entertainment, food, and activities, as well as RSPCA stalls and information. And then there's the hundreds of animals waiting for your affection — and for you to take them home with you. 432 critters found homes last year, in case you're wondering. Although you can't put a price on the happiness that a new four-legged friend will bring, those wanting to adopt an older cat or dog can do so for a cheaper price. If you've got your heart set on loving your new family member from an early age, kittens and puppies aged under four months will also be looking for human companions. There's more to pet adoption than overdosing on cuteness, of course, with making the commitment to care for an animal serious business. For further information, read RSPCA Queensland's FAQs. And, while you can take a pet home with you, you can't bring your existing furry pal.
After hosting everything from live gigs to cult film screenings to craft afternoons since 2005 — and operating as a cinema in the decades before that — Fortitude Valley's New Globe Theatre is set to close its doors in April. Announced via a Facebook post in February, the venue will celebrate its last day of operations on April 29, a decision that has come about "after extensive discussions with landlords, banks and just about every other stakeholder". What will happen to the site at 220 Brunswick Street is yet to be revealed, but the New Globe's loss will leave a significant gap — with its distinctive personality and eclectic roster of events, there's no other venue quite like it across the city. Shows, events and everything else on its calendar will proceed as normal in the interim, but if you're looking to say goodbye in style, don't worry. One last party is planned for the final day of trade, and while full details are yet to be revealed, it'll include live music all day across the New Globe's stages. Taking place from 10am until midnight on April 29, entry to the farewell bash is free — and expect the venue to unleash one heck of a final shindig. They'll be using up any remaining stock, so prepare to have a big one. Image: Google Maps.
Melbourne-based watercolour artist Kelogsloops has built a 1.4 million-strong following for his dreamy images. As a kid, he spent hours in his room, lost in his sketchbooks. As an adult, he turned his passion into a profession, and regularly exhibits in Melbourne, Los Angeles and New York. Sharing his tips with others online has long been part of Kelogsloops' mission. And now, he's hosting a weekend of hands-on masterclasses in Brisbane, where you can learn from him IRL. In a small group, you'll spend three days finding out how Kelogsloops merges traditional and digital techniques, drawing on all kinds of influences. These range from film and video games to masters like Monet and Klimt, and contemporary artists like Yoshitaka Amano and James Jean. The masterclasses will focus on drawing and painting techniques, particularly mixing skin tones and colour, to create the stylised watercolour portraits that are Kelogsloops' specialty. Artists of all levels are all welcome. Whether you haven't drawn a picture since primary school or have a years-long practice, you're in with a very good chance of learning something new.
What's better than eating pizza? Not much, really. But watching master chefs take part in a round of pizza acrobatics sounds like a great way to work up an appetite, doesn't it? [caption id="attachment_1020417" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image supplied[/caption] That's just one of the events on offer at Festitalia, Brisbane's annual celebration of all things Italian. Yes, plenty of other Italian-themed festivities pop up across the year, but this is the only official shindig hosted by the Italian Consulate in Brisbane and the Italian Embassy in Canberra. On September 7, they'll fill Brisbane Showgrounds with artists, entertainers, dancers, singers and performers — and food experiences, of course. Toast to Italy with a cheeky limoncello and eat your way through the country with over 30 stalls dishing out everything from espresso, cannoli and gnocchi to tiramisu, biscotti and gelato. You can catch live cooking demos by Italian chefs, then dig into regional delicacies like spiedini (Italian-style kebab), fritto miso (battered bites) and risotto. It's also the perfect spot to celebrate Father's Day — especially if dad's into fine wine, vintage Italian cars, or just a bit of friendly competition. Festitalia's quirky contests include Best-Dressed Italian Dad, Nonna's Slipper Throw and even Dad with the Biggest Pancia (belly!). Families can also get in on traditional games like tira molla (tug of war) and Italian-style musical statues. When you're not eating or competing, there's plenty more to explore. You can wander through a Roman military camp, try your hand at Prima Spada fencing, enjoy a live opera performance and more. [caption id="attachment_1020418" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Piotr Grzankowski[/caption]
Welcome to the Awesome Ocean Party, aka the party you never knew you always wanted to go to. Your host believes that she's half human and half octopus, and she'll be telling you a tale of romance, tragedy and yearning — plus more than a few legends from her amphibious family history — at her birthday celebration. At this surreal and silly shindig — which first premiered in Brisbane a few years back — you'll see Giema Contini in action. When it initially hit the stage, this was her first solo work, branching out after spending time with La Boite Theatre Company, Motherboard Productions and Dead Puppet Society. So exactly what does an Awesome Ocean Party entail? Songs, stories, plenty of talk about the sea and a whole lot of quirkiness. Running from Thursday, November 21–Sunday, November 24, it's part of this year's Wonderland festival at Brisbane Powerhouse, so expect it to be characteristically weird and wonderful.
As lovers of burgers and doughnuts already know, when Brisbane embraces a particular type of food, it doesn't hold back. Anyone who can't get enough juicy fried chicken should know that too, with the city's chook-slinging ranks only growing. Hot on the heels of Lucky Egg's new West End digs and 4Fingers announcing its arrival with not one, but two outlets, comes Flippin' the Bird — and it's serving up a container-load of poultry goodness. Making a James Street shipping container its home from mid-August, Flippin' the Bird is the latest venture boasting chef Shaun Hyland's cooking, which Brisbanites might recognise from The Defiant Duck. Keeping the feathered theme going, his new kitchen will focus on deep-fried, air-fried and pulled chicken in pieces, on burgers, in salads and with sides. The full menu isn't set to launch until the chook joint opens its doors, however one thing will feature: chicken tacos. The signature item is filled with pulled or crispy chicken layered with house-made slaw and chimichurri. As obvious joke fan Hyland puts it, "this is fast-paced food you'd cross the road for." Actually, some lucky folks already have. If this all sounds a bit familiar, that's probably because this year's Teneriffe Festival attendees were treated to a pop-up sneak peek. In just one day of fest trading, Flippin' the Bird sold over 217 kilograms of chicken. That's something to crow about — and expect those numbers to keep flying higher once they officially set up shop. Find Flippin' the Bird at 49 James Street, New Farm from mid-August, or head to their Facebook page for further details.
It's time to mark another food-based commemorative occasion. Yes, another one. By now, we all know that they're just excuses to eat more of a certain dish — and there's so many of them that you really could use them to plan your daily eating choices. But we keep celebrating dates like National Fish 'n' Chip Day because they're both tasty and fun. At Kangaroo Point, One Fish Two Fish is getting into the spirit of this seafood extravaganza in 2022 by, well, serving up seafood. And it's doing so across three days — from Friday, June 3–Sunday, June 5. You won't be tucking into just any old fish 'n' chips over this seafood-filled weekend, however. That OG pairing is a classic for a reason, so it's still on the menu, of course — as is a vegan version made with battered banana blossom — but One Fish Two Fish also has a couple of specials on offer. That means that you can opt for the fish 'n' chip brioche sub ($24) made with beer-battered cod, shredded baby gem, pea and mint smash, tartare sauce, crushed salt and malt vinegar crisps, plus a side of shoestrings fries. Or, there's the fish 'n' chip pie ($32) that comes filled with salmon, blue cod, prawns, mussels, bechamel and dill, and topped with chips. Also on the menu: fish schnitties ($28), which includes panko-crumbed barramundi plus warm potato salad, cornichons, golden shallots, dill, fennel and mayo. And, because it wouldn't be a fish shop meal without it, deep-fried Mars bars ($14) are being whipped up for dessert. One Fish Two Fish's National Fish 'n' Chip Day lineup is available for both lunch and dinner.
When Da Biuso first hit Brisbane's streets back in March, it took the meals-on-wheels concept up another level. The River City's only fine-diner on a bus, it plates up decadent degustations in luxe style, in a coach decked out to give the fanciest bricks-and-mortar restaurants a run for their money. That's a unique concept and experience, but how do you make it even more of a must-attend event? Put on a pasta degustation. One bus, seven courses of pasta and four days only: that's the maths behind this culinary feast, which runs from Thursday, June 29–Sunday, July 2. Already taking cues from Mediterranean cuisine in its regular menu, Da Biuso is going all in on Italian fare for this limited-time offering, which includes tagliolini scampi and caviar, lobster raviolo, pappardelle with rabbit and mushroom ragu, all for $140 per person. And for dessert, it's doing a sweet version of lasagne: lasagne dolce, which encases lemoncello custard in pasta sheets, and adds white chocolate and vanilla ganache with strawberries.
Maybe you don't ever manage to find the time to celebrate International Lobster Day each September. Perhaps you're just keen on an indulgent October and November feast. Or, you could simply want to treat yo'self to lobster whenever and wherever you can. Whichever one of these categories fits, you've got a date with Kangaroo Point's One Fish Two Fish from Sunday, October 1–Thursday, November 30. The Main Street eatery is celebrating all things lobster, clearly — and, yes, by serving up the obvious. And, it's doing so across two whole months. No wonder that it's calling the event House of Lobster. Make plans to dine in and you can tuck into a $120 three-course feast, which starts with lobster-filled jacket potatoes or grilled lobster in lemon butter sauce — your choice. From there, there's two options to pick from for mains and dessert. So, you can go for barbecued half lobster with sea urchin butter and Japanese noodles or the lobster mornay with salad — and then either raspberry sorbet or deep-fried vanilla ice cream. Booking quickly is recommended, with seats available for dinner Wednesdays–Thursdays and lunch Fridays–Sundays. Updated Thursday, November 2.
At the Valley mall mainstay that is Ric's, there's only one way to get into the BIGSOUND spirit. That'd be throwing the biggest shindig they can in the bar's backyard; when under the sunny Brisbane skies, and all that. From 4pm on Friday until whenever you wander out before closing time on Saturday morning, this blow-out has you covered. The Stiffys, The Durries, Baskervillain, The Flangipanis and Cordeaux will take care of the tunes, while Ric's will take care of the mood, leaving you with the simple task of showing up and having fun. This event is one of our top five picks of BIGSOUND. Check out the other four here.
It only took one song for The Spice Girls to become a hit — and what a hit they became. Since you started reading this article, one of their songs has become stuck in your head, hasn't it? If you wannabe our lover, you'll admit it. In fact, we're guessing that your toes still tap whenever you hear a Spice Girls tune, even if that's something else you don't really want to share. There's no need to hide your Spice love at Kristian Fletcher's latest event. It is a tribute evening celebrating 20 years since their first single and album burrowed its way into our ears, after all. The only response to news of such a Spice-tastic night? Say you'll be there, of course. An array of Brisbane performers will take to the New Globe stage to bring all things Spice back to life, with concert footage, music videos and rare clips featuring the real thing projected onto the theatre's big screen. Dressing like Posh, Baby, Sporty, Scary or Ginger for your chance to win a prize is heartily encouraged.
Calling all dumpling fiends: among the many highlights on the BrisAsia 2024 lineup, a festival devoted to these tasty parcels is up there with the best of them. On Sunday, February 4, the Southside Dumpling Festival will take over both its namesake restaurant and Fish Lane Town Square. Obviously, you already know what's on the menu. Southside's Sous Chef Benny Lam is taking attendees on a tour of delicious dumplings, har gow, gyoza and dim sums. Pop-up kitchens will also be part of the fest, which is slinging tickets for $25, as will live performances. Here's how it works: when you arrive, you'll receive a tasting steamer, which will be filled with three of the eatery's signature dumplings. Contained inside: prawn and truffle har gow; chicken siu mai with shiitake mushroom and black garlic; and peking duck and bamboo shoot dumplings with smoked hoi sin. You can then also pick what you like to purchase, with options including lobster and chive har gow with smoked salmon caviar, plus wagyu xiao long bao with madeira and pickled ginger — and, although it isn't a dumpling variation, truffle prawn toast. While the day runs from 10am–4pm, entry is timed, starting at 10am, 12pm and 2pm. But, once you're there, you can stay as long as your stomach demands. If you have vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free dietary requirements, let the organisers know when you're booking.
Sports movies tend to follow a fairly formulaic structure. We meet the competitors; we begin to see their strengths, weaknesses and that potential Achilles heel; we are introduced to their primary competitors; and then, after a couple of well-timed training montages, we watch, bated breath, as our hero manages to defy the odds and win miraculously/lose heroically. If you've seen Rocky, The Fighter, Remember the Titans or a hundred other sports films, then you already know the narrative arc of Ping Pong. Yet despite its predictability, this heartwarming documentary from little-known British director Hugh Hartford manages to sidestep the usual pitfalls of the genre, basically through the sheer strength of the characters. Ping Pong tells the story of the World Over 80s Table Tennis Championships in Inner Mongolia almost entirely through the perspective of the players themselves. There is 81-year-old Terry, who, prior to the tournament, was given a week to live; former bodybuilder Les, who, at 89, still uses weightlifting to prepare for the tournament; the trash-talkin', gun-toting Texan Lisa, whose 85 years have done nothing to diminish her wily competitive streak; and the championship's elder stateswoman, the 100-year-old Aussie Dot. Hartford does what many great documentarians have done before him, retreating from the role of writer. He is happy to simply leave the camera rolling and have the characters tell their own stories — their history, their motivations and what it means to be an athlete in the final chapters of their lives. Yet this picture is far more than simply a series of talking heads. Hartford takes great pains to capture the richness of these characters and their lives. The film takes us into their homes and training venues and watches as they cook strudel, show off old photo collections and, in one of the film's most touching scenes, guide us around the dementia ward that ping pong became a respite from. This level of detail gives the film an immersive quality. Even in a screening filled with cynical critics and hardened media-folk, a championship win from one of the octogenarians had the cinema quietly cheering. Despite the film's fixation on death and mortality, Ping Pong is a surprisingly hopeful and uplifting film. In one scene, Terry boasts that while bowel cancer could take away his penis, it couldn't take away his sex life. We come to see that while these characters may have accepted their impending death, that doesn't mean they're willing to go quietly into that cold night. Add to all this the fact that this may be the first film to show an 89-year-old doing a peck dance. That one was worth the price of admission on its own. https://youtube.com/watch?v=nwFVc2NAt94
It’s hard to envision collage as a legitimate artform when only pipecleaners, preschool and budget birthday cards come to mind at its mention. Brisbane artists Rachael Bartram and Warren Handley, however, have reinvented the art of collage in a more mature medium, with not a pom pom, paddle pop stick or glitter shaker in sight. Their combined exhibition Assembling Worlds II presents an idea of two or more worlds in just one image. While Rachael re-contextualises her imagery by collecting, cutting, slicing and splicing – praise the glue stick – Warren’s process involves a digital form of collage where by a computer becomes his Clag. Their pieces show off characters upon clashing backdrops, with a manipulation of fiction and fact make for a minefield of challenges and questions about global issues. Some pieces provide stark contrast, while others fit together quite cleanly, but they always hold a composition that sits within the fringes of two worlds. You can catch the work of Assembling Worlds II at West End’s Depo till the October 26.
Believe it or not, it's been 14 years since Stephenie Meyer's vampire romance saga first hit the big screen — and since tweens across the globe collectively fell in love with Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson, too. The pair's careers have rocketed since, with KStew hopping between everything from Clouds of Sils Maria and Personal Shopper to Charlie's Angels and Spencer, and RPatz going from The Rover and Good Time to Tenet and The Batman. They'll always have that undead franchise on their resumes, though. Forgotten what the five vamp films are like? Love them and want to see them on a big screen again? Just adore movie marathons in general? Whatever reason you have, the Twilight Saga Movie Marathon wants you to sink your fans in. Stewart, Pattinson, Taylor Lautner and all-star supporting cast that spans Dakota Fanning, Anna Kendrick, Michael Sheen and Bryce Dallas Howard will all feature on Saturday, August 6 as the five blockbusters hit the silver screen once more at Brisbane's Palace Barracks cinema. Tickets cost $30, and the lengthy journey of glorious supernatural light-erotica will kick off at 6.30pm as Bella lands in Forks, Washington in the original Twilight film. From there, it's all love triangles, revengeful vampires, and half-human babies as New Moon, Eclipse and the two-part Breaking Dawn features run back-to-back.
With several restaurant precincts spread throughout and around its parklands, and plenty of grassy sitting spots too, South Bank offers hungry Brisbanites the best of both worlds. Sometimes, you just want to dine in and feast on a fresh-cooked meal that's brought to your table. At other times, relaxing on the lawn and enjoying a leisurely picnic is exactly what the mood calls for. Enter new Italian eatery Mister Paganini, which will be able to cater to both scenarios when it opens its doors in early December. The multi-faceted venue will feature a restaurant serving up classic cuisine, as well as a deli for on-the-go and take-home bites and snacks. Those keen on the sit down, in-house approach will find simple, communal fare made with fresh, locally grown ingredients. Chef Steve Wildermoth's full menu is yet to be unveiled, but the veteran of restaurants Sorellina, Ortiga and Moda will be serving up spaghetti with spanner crab, garlic, chilli, parsley and olive oil, as well as porchetta with crispy pork belly, fried herb potatoes and pear mostarda. Dessert fiends can expect to devour millefoglie with coffee cream, puff pastry, peach jam and chocolate, among other delectable dishes. If dropping by and taking away takes your fancy instead, you'll be able to get your coffee fix, and then pick from traditional pastries and sweets — plus, there's more substantial offerings such as fresh salads and gourmet rolls for lunch. Whichever option you choose, it all sounds delicious. And if you like Italian food, there's really no wrong choice. Find Mister Paganini at 174 Grey Street, South Brisbane from early December, and visit their website and Facebook page for more information.
Whether they were painted centuries ago, snapped in a shopping centre photography studio in the '80s, or graced the pages of a recently published fashion mag, many portraits of women use the same poses. Perhaps the lovely lady in the frame is turned sideways and smiling. Maybe she's pouting while looking over her shoulder. Sometimes, she's staring enigmatically off into the distance. Yep, they're the kind of pictures everyone has seen countless times, but few people stop to contemplate in depth. By combining portrait photography and expressionist painting, Jess Cochrane's latest exhibition, FearLess, aims to inspire audiences to ponder why these images recur, what their repeated use says about perceptions of femininity, and the role the male gaze has played throughout history. That might be a considerable task; however it's surprising just how exaggerating and amplifying commonly seen images with splashes of paint and colour can spark many a train of thought. With the show representing Cochrane's attempt to create "space for the honest, powerful, raw and violent beauty that is all-inclusive", after seeing her pieces, you'll never look at a portrait the same way again.
Step into the world of the mysterious and the macabre. Step into the world of Night Vale. Home to angels, dragons and an ominous glowing cloud, and ruled by a shadowy city council whose true form remains hidden, the small desert town is best known as the setting of the hugely popular podcast Welcome to Night Vale. Since debuting in mid-2012, the surreal half-hour show has amassed legions of fans and embarked on several successful live tours – the latest of which will bring them to Australia. The tour consists of a series of one-night-only engagements in Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide, Perth and Melbourne across the second week of February. Fans — and curious — can join unflappable community radio host Cecil Gershwin Palmer as he guides them through the daily goings on in the weird and wonderful town that he calls home. Just make sure you stay on the right side of the Night Vale Secret Police. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JiLrr0h4ek8
When Burger Urge isn't in quarrels over its cheekily named burgers, the team here is churning out some of Brisbane's finest comfort food. While its angus beef burger selection is truly exceptional (especially the Big Boppa, with melted cheese, fried egg, pineapple and beetroot), we also love the fact that these guys cater to a wide variety of dietary needs. We're talking keto buns, plant-based burger patties, vegan sides, plus standout salads. Plus, we've got nothing but love for a business that throws a 'Mullets Eat Free Day' for anyone sporting the iconic hairstyle (a temporary Southern Cross tattoo is the prize). Images: Hennessy Trill
One day a year, the whole world celebrates romance. Do you know who loves you every day of the year? Your favourite barking cutie. That's the great thing about a pet pooch. Well, one of the great things. No matter what date it is, it adores you. Don't have your own four-legged bestie, but are keen to change that situation? Just eager to snuggle up to a woofer while you're at the shops? If you'd like to add some doggo devotion to this love-obsessed week, then Indooroopilly Shopping Centre's puppy kissing booth should be your first stop. Until the big day itself — Thursday, February 14, of course — Indro is welcoming RSPCA rescue dogs to the third floor, ready for you to pat, cuddle and perhaps even take home. They'll be onsite from 10am–2pm each day, and they're available for adoption. You can also spread the love even further by making a donation to the animal welfare outfit while you're there.
Everyone has a favourite aspect of the 90s, whether it's the clothes, the music, the movies or the TV shows. Maybe you just can't get enough scrunchies and glitter. Perhaps you loved everything grunge. Maybe you adored A Night at the Roxbury so much that you couldn't stop playing 'What Is Love' on repeat. Or, you could've lived for the weirdest family sitcom that ever graced the small screen, Dinosaurs. While several of those categories will apply to everyone heading to Black Bear Lodge's latest themed shindig, there's no guessing which one gave the retro gathering its name. At the Fortitude Valley venue's A Night at the Roxbury 90s Party, you'll dance, drink, feel mighty nostalgic and bop your head to Haddaway. With tunes selected by Mumgenes, expect more blasts from the past, all from a couple of decades ago. There's plenty of tracks to choose from, after all — it is the era that gave us everything from Eiffel 65's 'Blue', Ace of the Base's 'The Sign' and The Offspring's 'Pretty Fly (For a White Guy)' to Coolio's 'Gangsta's Paradise', Vanilla Ice's 'Ice Ice Baby' and The Spice Girls 'Wannabe', after all.
Padre in Woolloongabba is commencing a week-long celebration of all things Murray. Matching Murray brews to Bill Murray films at 7pm every night of Brewsvegas, head along to sip a Whale Ale while watching The Life Aquatic, or laugh along to Groundhog Day with the IPA you could drink again and again and again. If you prefer your movie marathons straight up, all in a row, then drag your sleeping bag along to Newstead Brewing’s Quintet Tarantino event. There will be you in your jim-jams, five Tarantinos, five beers, a pizza and your new best mates.
The stage is about to get saucy this weekend as finalists shimmy and sparkle away during the Miss Burlesque Australia 2012 Competition. Set to woo audiences and judges alike, Oz's brightest burlesque stars - one from each state - will take to the stage in a succession of themed performances. Each will show what they've got in a 'Classic', 'Gown Parade', and their choice of a 'Unique' or 'Neo' performance. Not brushed up on your burlesque lingo? Not to worry: these ladies will spell it out in feather fans and sequins. Not to be left out, burlesque-loving guys will compete in the pageant's first ever Mr. Boylesque Competition. Male entrants from around the country will perform their most outrageous 'Unique' routines in hopes of winning that crown. Regarded as one of the world's leading burlesque pageants, Miss Burlesque Australia 2012 promises to deliver the very best of this revived, tongue-in-cheek art form. Prepare for the finalists' one-two punch of sexy and sassy; it's bound to be one hell of a show. Further details can be found here. https://youtube.com/watch?v=yyfz6dJkx2s
Usually, five courses of lobster is an expensive and indulgent meal — the kind that makes you break open the piggy bank, don your fanciest threads and lap up a big night out. But for a week at Fortitude Valley's SK Steak & Oyster, it's simply part of the menu for the immensely affordable price of $85. The reason: Australia's lobster industry finds itself overstocked, with shipments to China cancelled at present. That means more Tasmanian rock lobster left at home, so SK has snapped up plenty — turning it into raw lobster tartare, classic lobster cocktails, lobster risotto and butter-baked lobster, plus lobster mash and lobster salad. [caption id="attachment_760584" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] SK Steak & Oyster[/caption] Eat your way through all of the above at the Calile Hotel's latest addition, with the five-course menu available for a week from Friday, February 7. Understandably, bookings are essential — because, as the frenzy surrounding Betty's Burger's lobster roll has demonstrated, lobster is always popular.
Filling the silver screen with espionage action for six decades now, the Bond franchise has long had a license to thrill — and to spruik shaken-not-stirred martinis, all manner of gadgets and smouldering stares, too. The spy saga has also been home to some of the most iconic pieces of music to ever be paired with movies over the years. Indeed, each 007 film's theme song is an occasion in itself. At Skyfall: The Music of James Bond, those tunes are well and truly in the spotlight. In fact, the entire show is all about them. The Little Red Company's Naomi Price and Luke Kennedy will take to the stage — donning gowns and tuxedos, naturally — and sing through tracks by Paul McCartney, Shirley Bassey, Tina Turner and Tom Jones, as well as Adele, Sam Smith, Billie Eilish and more. Helping the pair work through songs spanning everything from Goldfinger to No Time to Die: a four-piece band, an eight-piece brass section, dancers and what's being dubbed 'the queen of all Bond villains'. There'll also be two different guest vocalists at each show. Skyfall: The Music of James Bond hits the QPAC Concert Hall from Friday, July 15–Saturday, July 16 — with both an afternoon and an evening gig on the latter date. And yes, Price is well accustomed to belting out tributes to pop culture favourites; see also: Wrecking Ball, Lady Beatle and Christmas Actually. Images: Steph Do Rozario / Dylan Evans.
We all know that solid dose of 'the good feels' you get after you've done something nice for yourself/your body (like exercise). And from Monday, October 3–Saturday, December 3, you can expect those feelings to increase two-fold. Thanks to the return of Brisbane's Feel Good Program for spring, the city will welcome a series of outdoor fitness classes — and, unlike that fancy new yoga studio in your neighbourhood that smells like acai berries and only serves charcoal tea, these classes are all entirely free. Ranging from sessions to get your blood pumping (Zumba) to classes to get your zen flowing freely (yoga, tai chi), the Feel Good Program is an initiative designed to suit any and all fitness levels. Classes are being held around South Bank Parklands this time around. BYO water bottle, towel and, where required, a yoga mat — the ones provided are subject to availability. Classes happen every day except Fridays and Sundays, and they all run for between 30–45 minutes. Times vary depending on the day, but your options include getting started early with a 7am pilates session, splashing in the pool at 9.15am or 9.30am, or finishing up with hula fit or hip hop yoga from 6.15pm. Two different mindfulness options are also part of the spring calendar, giving you a Monday midday mindfulness break at 12.30pm, and diving into mindful art at 10.30am on Saturdays. Whichever you choose, it'll have you embracing the warm outdoors and feeling good — check out the timetable online.
Sometimes, street parties occur for a specific reason, to mark a date or open — or farewell — part of a neighbourhood. Sometimes, however, they happen just because. No one really needs an excuse to throw a big ol' shindig, especially if the whole community is invited. Consider the new Seven Hills Festival an event in the first mould, but with the spirit of the second as well. It aims to bring the Brisbane suburb together, but it's also taking place because The Rabbit Hole Cafe has been around on The Corso for a decade. Party in the street in Brisbane's inner east: that's on the agenda from 3–9pm on Saturday, November 5. There'll be food trucks to grab bites from, pop-up bars pouring sips and a whole heap of live entertainment. The idea is to start a new trend, too — so when this starts happening annually, folks who head along in 2022 will be able to say they were there at the very first festival.
Everyone knows who The Beatles are. Most people love them (yeah, yeah, yeah). George Martin mightn't have received the quite same amount of screaming fans and worldwide adoration as Paul, John, Ringo and George, but that's often the plight that producers must handle. When they do their job well, they ensure the on-stage talent steals the show. Indeed, Martin — who was also an composer, conductor, audio engineer and musician — helped give the Fab Four their ticket to ride. Paul once called him the fifth Beatle, and the Liverpudlians certainly wouldn't have enjoyed the same fame without him. He was another victim of 2016, passing away in March; however for one night, his contribution to the biggest band of the last century is in the spotlight. The title of the gig says it all: The Beatles: A Live Celebration Honouring George Martin. So, how do you pay tribute to such a much stalwart? Enlist a heap of ace Aussie talent, obviously. Linda Bull, Kram, Screamfeeder's Kellie Lloyd, Powderfinger's Darren Middleton and Halfway's Luke Peacock will come together under the guidance of You Am I's Davey Lane to play two sets of Beatles classics that Martin made possible. It won't be a hard day's night at all, but it will be an entertaining and celebratory one.
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 each week. On Sunday, October 25, something a little extra special is on offer as well: a drag brunch halloween party. Yes, it'll be themed to suit the occasion, so prepare to get spooky. And, if you'd like to come in costume, there'll be prizes. Food-wise, you'll tuck into an Italian-inspired spread and nab a drink on arrival, all as part of your $69 ticket. The event kicks off at 11am, with two hours of bottomless spritzes, mimosas, bloody marys, select beers and sangria on offer between 11.30am–1.30pm. And, if you're going booze-free, you can opt for mocktails instead. Social distancing will be in effect, as will table service, capped numbers and sanitising stations. The Brunch With Bite Halloween Party takes place from 11am on Sunday, October 25.
Everyone remembers the childhood thrill of spotting a strange object — be it an odd-shaped pebble or a gleaming shard of glass — then picking it up, putting it in your pocket and keeping it for your own makeshift treasure trove. In fact, if you still collect shiny seashells whenever you go to the beach, you're still doing the same thing. Catherine Large does too, but on a different scale. The jewellery and small object artist crafts her creative pieces out of items inherited or unearthed in places she has lived or travelled to. She's not just retaining them for later; she's examining, reconsidering and coming up with new uses and configurations for her found bits and pieces. The aptly titled Strange Objects is the end result, as well as an attempt to transform items of mysterious origins into something different — and to speculate about their backgrounds in the process. Taking over artisan's Gallery 1 until April 9, the exhibition also marks the beginning of the venue's partnership with Queensland College of Art, showcasing QCA's best student, staff and alumni work.
Wandering through an exhibition, any exhibition, can bring plenty of wise phrases and old adages to mind. One in particular mightn't have popped into your head, but as you're perusing each piece on the wall, it should feel relevant: not being able to see the forest for the trees. As we walk around galleries, do we spend too much time thinking about the individual items, rather than the whole collection? What is an exhibition even supposed to be? In Corps à Corps, Céline Condorelli inspires these questions — because they're her motivation. Displaying at the Institute of Modern Art between May 5 and July 15, the showcase takes over both indoor and outdoor spaces to probe the very nature of exhibitions. If you're a fan of Condorelli, the London and Milan-based artist who works with both art and architecture, you'll also be interested to know that it's her first solo show in Australia. Expect to enter a range of diverse worlds on site, and view more through a video installation of her previous efforts.
The Mighty Boosh, Flight of the Conchords, Monty Python and Hi-5 are just some of the comedic outfits that Aunty Donna has been compared to. Even if you're not a fan of any or all of the first three names on that list, the inclusion of an Australian children's musical band is certain to have aroused a sliver of interest. Our advice: don't waste your time wondering about the how and why, particularly when you can simply witness the comic trio's brand new show at Brisbane Comedy Festival and find out for yourself. You might've already helped ratchet up the 7 million hits their YouTube channel has received; however their subversive, hyperactive, witty and fast off-screen antics are the kind of thing that you have to see with your own eyes in person.
Two nights. Twenty-five food stalls. One bustling place — and one big celebration of Taiwanese culture. That's the formula behind Sunnybank Hills Shoppingtown's Taiwan Night Market, which is finally back for the first time since 2019, serving up a feast of bites to eat on Friday, July 8–Saturday, July 9. If you've been along before, you'll know that this excuse to tuck into noodles, bao, dumplings, bubble tea and more is always busy. With roti, sweet potato taro fries and desserts on offer as well, that'll still be the case this year. Around 15,000 people usually make a visit, so prepare to have company — from 4.30–9.30pm on the Friday and 1–9pm on the Saturday. As well as oh-so-much to taste and sip, the openair market will also span live entertainment, carnival games and activities for kids. Entry is free. Obviously, you'll still need to bring your wallet to purchase whatever tempts your tastebuds from the hefty Taiwanese street food selection as you wander along. And if you're wondering exactly where to head, the event is taking over the southside shopping centre's level four carpark.
Celebrated in Mexico and the USA, Cinco de Mayo is a holiday that fits in seamlessly with our ongoing obsession with everything Mexican, so we partnered with Corona to throw Cinco de Mayo celebrations in Brisbane's best Mexican bars. Here's how the night went down.
Do you sometimes lack confidence, or luck? Do you feel like you try more than you succeed? Do you seesaw between hoping things will go well and avoiding anything that could turn out badly? Of course you do — and so does Charlie Brown. For 65 years, the main character in Charles M. Schulz's Peanuts comic strip has captured the routine struggles of everyday life, acting as everyone's cartoon surrogate through life's eternal ups and downs. His troubles often involve kicking a football and flying a kite, but they're the kind of average antics anyone can relate to. That's one of the reasons why Peanuts has remained a comic strip favourite — and why a new big-screen outing has been eagerly anticipated. The makers of Snoopy and Charlie Brown: The Peanuts Movie know this, and they've acted accordingly. Their film might bring this ordinary boy, his beagle and their buddies into the 21st century, but it doesn't stray far from all the things that have made Peanuts such a cherished property for decades. Story-wise, that means a raft of scenarios fans will instantly recognise, and even the most casual of Peanuts readers or viewers probably will as well. Charlie Brown doesn't just tussle with his preferred outdoor activities, but with getting the attention of the Little Red-Haired Girl. His pals all continue to hang around, including his little sister Sally, best buddy Linus, the opinionated Lucy and tomboy Peppermint Patty. Back at home, mischievous pooch Snoopy dreams up a novel involving his World War I pilot alter ego, his girlfriend and his nemesis. If you're buzzing with not only nostalgia, but déjà vu, that's understandable. With Schulz's son Craig and grandson Bryan among the film's writers, The Peanuts Movie was always going to tread gently in its predecessors' footsteps. In what amounts to a series of interlinked vignettes, the film tells fond and familiar tales about beloved characters, with a tone of adoration more important than offering up any surprises. Indeed, consider the first Peanuts flick in 35 years a best-of compilation or a greatest hits package. The affectionate tribute that results comes complete with gorgeous 3D CGI animation that mimics pen strokes, a score that's appropriately jaunty, and the smart use of children instead of famous actors as voice talent. And while the movie's episodic nature means that some segments soar above others, when they do, they're something special. Charlie Brown's attempts to read War and Peace and his reaction when his classmates brand him a genius aren't just earnest and endearing — they're easily the film's highlights. Director Steve Martino (Ice Age: Continental Drift) might not be able to sustain the Peanuts magic for 88 minutes, but he certainly whips up a couple of memorable chapters. Of course, adapting comic strips into movies is a tricky task, even with ample material to call upon. Gags that work so well over four illustrations don't always translate to the cinema, particularly when pieced together and stretched out to feature film length. Accordingly, The Peanuts Movie is as slight and patchy as it is sweet, charming and amusing. When it all comes together though, it fittingly serves up another lesson about taking the good with the bad.
Indulging in some high-altitude hijinks — aka locating a vantage point to peer over the city from while consuming cocktails— isn't difficult in Brisbane, but doing so from the Sofitel's rooftop is. For most of the year, the hotel's highest space is only available for private functions and to folks of the VIP variety. Until December 18, that's changing as part of Pop Up Soiree. As a spring and summer treat, the Sofitel is throwing open their doors (and stairs and elevators) to the rest of the city. Of course, they're making an event out of it — why wouldn't they? Every Friday evening from 3.30pm, anyone fond of some panoramic fun can converge on the outdoor terrace on the edge of the building. You'll enjoy sweeping sights over the CBD, plus live music to set a festive mood, in case the 180-degree city vista hasn't done that already. If you think champagne and cocktails are the perfect drinks for the occasion, you'd be right, which is why you'll find both in abundance here. There'll also be share plates for snacking on and lounges for relaxing on. Given how chilled out you're likely to be thanks to ending your week on such a high, we think you'll need them. Pop Up Soiree runs every Friday afternoon until December 18. For more information, visit the Sofitel website.
The Gold Coast might be known for its sandy beaches, sizeable array of shopping strips and more than a couple of theme parks, but beyond all that lurks plenty of interesting and architecturally significant buildings. Luxe houses, sky-high residential buildings, cute seaside chapels, a towering art gallery — the list goes on. It's a side of the Goldie that many never ponder, and it's on display for two days across Saturday, October 12–Sunday, October 13. That's when Open House hits the sunny tourist spot for 2024, and welcomes in anyone who'd like to take a sticky beak at 25-plus locations. Public buildings, sites and structures opening their doors include HOTA, Home of the Arts, plus the Broadbeach Cultural Precinct, Gold Coast Airport International Terminal, the former Southport Town Hall, Gold Coast Hinterland Heritage Museum, Broadbeach Library, Robina TAFE and Broadwater Chapel by the Sea. Fancy peering inside homes and cabins? That's where the Tugun Hill House, a cabin in Tallebudgera, Dolphin Court House and more all come in. Remember your childhood dreams of getting to run rampant in a department store after hours? Or your grown-up version, involving IKEA? Think of this as a more realistic version. And, it's also a way to satisfy your architectural and design curiosity. The 2024 lineup also includes talks on Surfers Paradise's 60s and 70s apartment towers, plus future-proofing the Goldie, and a Coolangatta walking tour.
Travel looks a little different in 2021. With international borders still closed for the foreseeable future, there's no better time to explore your own backyard — and you don't need to drain your savings to do so. There are plenty of ways to get that much-needed dose of escapism without venturing too far from home or blowing your budget. In partnership with P&O Cruises, we've found six ideas to get you started. [caption id="attachment_803036" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Travel Sourced, Unsplash[/caption] ADMIRE THE CITY SKYLINE ATOP A LANDMARK The Story Bridge is undeniably the most iconic structure in Brisbane. It's one thing to marvel at the innovative design as you drive across it, but it's quite another to climb the bridge right to the top and admire the 360-degree views of the River City. Climbs operate at various times of the day, so you can watch the city wake up or take in the lights turning on as you conquer the 80-metre summit at twilight. Prices start at $129 for a day climb. If you're keen to add a little more action into your experience, you can lean out or walk the plank 50 metres above bridge traffic, or abseil down the southern pylon into Captain Burke Park. [caption id="attachment_766169" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Riverlife[/caption] ENJOY A LEISURELY PADDLE DOWN BRISBANE RIVER The Brisbane River is a landmark in itself. Hell, it was even given the moniker the 'brown snake' for the way it wraps its way around the city. So, there are few better (or budget-friendly, for that matter) ways to get to know Brisbane than from the water. Hire a kayak from Riverlife for a small fee ($35 for two hours) and make your way from Kangaroo Point to Howard Smith Wharves, marvelling at the city from a different perspective as you go. It'll blow your mind to paddle alongside the Citycats. LAUGH YOUR SOCKS OFF ON A COMEDY CRUISE Overseas travel might be on the back burner, but you can still hit the high seas with a cruise. If live comedy is your thing, then take advantage of P&O's Comedy Cruise, a three-night cruise that departs and disembarks from Brisbane. It gives punters the opportunity to spend a few nights at sea with some of Australia's best comedians. You'll enjoy all the luxuries of a P&O Cruise — think dining experiences to suit all taste buds, onboard entertainment and accommodation options for every budget. Fancy yourself a budding comedian? Sign up for a comedy workshop to learn all the tips and tricks from the professionals, then put your new skills to the test by entering the Comedy Gong Show. [caption id="attachment_800310" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dogtap[/caption] TAKE A SELF-GUIDED TOUR OF BRISBANE'S BEST BREWERIES Craft breweries are certainly having a moment, and there's no denying Brisbane is leading the charge. So, why not dedicate a day to sampling a brew at each one? You'll get to traipse your fair city with a mission and your mates while supporting a bunch of local businesses along the way. We suggest kicking off your self-guided tour at Brewdog's Murarrie site Dogtap. The extensive food offering — including burgers, pizzas, tacos, salads and more — will line your stomach for the full-day session. Next, make your way to inner city digs Range Brewing, Newstead Brewing and Soapbox Beer, before heading north to Aether Brewing. And that's barely scratching the surface. You can find a full list of our favourite Brisbane breweries here. [caption id="attachment_718545" align="alignnone" width="1050"] Daniel Christie, Unsplash[/caption] VENTURE UP MOUNT COOT-THA FOR A SUNRISE PICNIC Is there anything more romantic than watching the sun rise with the cityscape in the background? Start your day off early with a hike to the summit of Mount Coot-tha. Start about an hour before dawn — there should be enough light to see where you're going but we suggest packing a torch, just in case. The view from the top makes for a great reward after sweating it out on the hilly terrain below, as will the tasty treats you've packed for a picnic breakfast. Prefer a sleep-in? Head there for a romantic sunset instead and enjoy watching the day turn to night. [caption id="attachment_785008" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council via Flickr[/caption] CYCLE ALONG THE RIVERWALK Whether you're visiting Brisbane for the weekend or you're a local looking to explore your city on a budget, you can cover a lot of ground by hiring a city bike. And one of the most popular pathways to pedal along is The Brisbane Riverwalk, which stretches over the river between New Farm and the city. Follow the path starting at Merthyr Road and stop at Wilson Outlook Reserve for a rest and to admire the views — or head to Howard Smith Wharves to cool down with a beer at Felons Brewing Co. If you're keen to keep pedalling, the adjoining City Reach Boardwalk will take you from Howard Smith Wharves all the way to the City Botanic Gardens. For more information about P&O Cruises, head to the company's website. Top image: Travel Sourced, Unsplash
How do you celebrate an occasion linked to a British monarch? With a day of knocking back more than a few British beers — obviously. That's what Bacchus Brewing Co. have in store on Saturday, October 1 anyway, courtesy of their second Harvey's Real Ale Beerfest. As the name suggests, the day-long drinking extravaganza is dedicated to Harvey's Brewery, who are actually the oldest independent brewery in Sussex. Bacchus will be pouring four of their best brews, as well as their own English-themed creations — and they'll be putting on a ploughman's lunch as well.
This Christmas, the sound of tap, tap, tapping will be echoing around Victoria Park. While that's hardly unusual, it'll be accompanied by plenty of festive cheer, decorations and sculptures between Friday, November 6 and Thursday, December 31. Because nothing says end-of-year merriment like hitting up a seasonal-themed mini-golf course, the putt putt venue will be decking out its greens with boughs of holly, giant candy canes, gingerbread houses, elves, toy soldiers and everything else festive that it can think of — again. Yes, reindeers and Santa are involved, too, and different sections of the 18-hole site will be designed to look like, a winter wonderland, a candy cane lane and Santa's workshop. Find out whether you're naughty or nice by swinging your way through Christmas Putt Putt from 6am–11pm daily — which means that you can stop by on your way to work, during your lunch break or after quittin' time as well. If you head along post-6pm, you'll take to the green beneath Christmas lights, naturally. Tickets cost at $19 for adults for weekday daytime sessions, and $22 on evenings and weekends. [caption id="attachment_752778" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Pandora Photography[/caption] Victoria Park Christmas Putt Putt runs from Friday, November 6–Thursday, December 31, with tickets on sale now.
Roller Dance Australia loves pretending that it's still the 90s. Already the hosts of Brisbane's Roller Raves, the organisation is now hosting a Summer 90s Roller Disco. Instead of EDM tunes setting the beat, tracks by TLC, Britney Spears, Salt-N-Pepa and more will provide a soundtrack, all while you put your skates on. Here, you can kick it back three decades on four wheels — and yes, there'll be disco lights to go with the old-school tunes. Fancy a souvenir, other than the memories? A retro photobooth will also be onsite. It's all going down from 6.30–9pm on Saturday, January 18 at PCYC Lang Park / Suncorp Stadium in Milton, with entry costing $20 and pre-booked skate hire on top setting you back another $10. No matter your skating level, or if you just want to dance without strapping on wheels, everyone is welcome. You might also have a few fresh-faced skaters for company, with the event open to ages 12 and over. Images: @youartmore and @soggybreadissad.
Brunswick Street's resident arcade bar isn't short on activities, whether you want to mash buttons, bust out your board game skills or sip a few beverages. But that's just Netherworld's regular lineup. The Fortitude Valley joint is rather fond of turning an otherwise ordinary day into a special occasion, whether it's focusing on video games, carnival vibes, cult flicks or themed parties — or hosting an artist market. From 11am–2pm on Sunday, August 25, Netherworld will welcome a heap of local artists, letting them showcase their wares. Check out the results of their talents and find a few new creative pieces to take home with you, all while having a few cold ones and hitting the machines, too. The lineup is hefty, featuring Shani Finch, Planet Hostile, Serpentium Apparel, Kate Elizabeth, A.r.t Garbage, Kitty Kollect, Allegra Maeva, Gulp Magazine, Deeleeshous Treats, Gregory Hartogh and Silent Goat, just to name a few. And sure, it's only August — but it's never too early to start thinking about gift-giving season (or to buy yourself something just because). Image: Cole Bennetts.
On Saturday, September 22, Fortitude Valley's Chinatown mall will be glowing — under the moonlight, and while making lanterns and just generally being luminous. Running from 4–9pm, the Chinese Moon Festival harks back to Chinese tradition, and is timed to coincide with the moon at its roundest and brightest. It was originally a harvest fest, but has grown and evolved to become an all-round celebration, which is exactly what's on the cards in Brisbane. Learn how to make your own lanterns, pick up some calligraphy skills and browse the markets — or check out the lion and dragon dances, catch some V-pop and K-pop, and keep an eye out for other wandering entertainment. And, if you're feeling peckish, you're in the perfect place for dumplings, Peking duck and yum cha, thanks to the surrounding restaurants.
The end of October is upon us, and that means one thing: it's time to get a little evil. And what better way than to revisit the horror movie trilogy that made everyone fear cabins in the woods, be wary of dusty old books, warm to a chainsaw-wielding, shotgun-blasting hero, and take notice of director Sam Raimi and star Bruce Campbell. Yes, we're talking about 1981's The Evil Dead, 1987's Evil Dead II: Dead by Dawn and 1992's Army of Darkness (it'd really be best if we all forgot that the 2013 remake ever happened). To mark the spookiest time of the year, Palace Cinemas is treating audiences to a big-screen viewing of all three OG flicks — screening at Palace James Street at 6.30pm on Friday, October 29 and at Palace Barracks at 7pm on the same date. We know you've probably seen these movie many times before — you really should've — but there's never a bad time to return to this classic horror trio. And if your idea of an ace Halloween involves camping out in a cinema and hearing about boomsticks, even two days before the actual date, there's obviously never been a better time.
