The next email you receive from Netflix mightn't be telling you what to watch. Instead, beginning Wednesday, May 24, the streaming platform is contacting all of its Australian customers about its new password sharing rules. Promised for a few years now, and originally expected to kick in by the end of March this year, the service is cracking down on letting people from different households use the same account — effective immediately. Accordingly, if you've been enjoying someone else's Netflix subscription to get your Stranger Things, Squid Game and Wednesday fix or work your way through its hefty slate of movies — or letting your mates or siblings use your logins — your current streaming situation is changing. The password-sharing functionality will still exist; however, it'll come at an extra cost, involving paying $7.99 per month to add an extra member to your account. Netflix now advises that "a Netflix account is meant to be shared by people living together in one household" — and you can set up and define your household in the platform's settings. If you don't set one yourself, it'll do so for you based on your IP address, device IDs and account activity, which is what it'll also use to monitor if someone is using your details from elsewhere. That said, for folks who don't actually watch Netflix via a TV, you won't need to worry about the household requirement, but the password-sharing change still applies. To add people outside your household to your account, you'll buy an extra member slot. The caveats: they have to be activated in the same country where the account owner created their account, and you can't add them to ad-supported plans (or Netflix-included packages or third-party billed accounts). So, if you've opted for the service's cheaper option since it rolled out in late 2022, your pals won't be able to share — but they can transfer their profile on your account to their own new account. That transferring functionality applies to everyone who decides to sign up themselves after sharing someone's password, and will port over recommendations, viewing history, My List, saved games and settings. Clearly, the main motivation is to increase subscriptions. The new password-sharing block was called "paid sharing" by Netflix in a letter to shareholders, after all. "Today's widespread account sharing (to 100 million-plus households) undermines our long-term ability to invest in and improve Netflix, as well as build our business," the company states in that shareholder letter, which is dated January 19, 2023. "While our terms of use limit use of Netflix to a household, we recognise this is a change for members who share their account more broadly. So we've worked hard to build additional new features that improve the Netflix experience, including the ability for members to review which devices are using their account and to transfer a profile to a new account. As we roll out paid sharing, members in many countries will also have the option to pay extra if they want to share Netflix with people they don't live with." Of course, logging into your Netflix account from a place outside of your own household doesn't automatically mean you're sharing your password. You might be travelling and still want to get your streaming fix. Initially, needing a temporary access code was floated — but at the time of writing, the platform simply says that you can still "use Netflix as usual to watch on your portable devices — like a tablet, laptop, or mobile phone — or sign into a new TV, like at a hotel or a holiday rental" without explaining if or how the new password rules will have an impact. The company does specify that if you have a second home or frequently travel to the same location, you'll need to connect to the internet and open the Netflix app on your mobile device in both the main spot you watch the service and in the second location Netflix's password-sharing crackdown is coming into effect in Australia from Wednesday, May 24. Head to Netflix for more details.
Maybe you really love Patrick Swayze. Perhaps you've always loved terracotta or ceramics. Or, the idea of pottering around a clay-based showcase and taking home standout pottery pieces could just be your idea of a great time. Whichever category you fall into, coast on over to the Clayschool shop and Clayschool: Current and Alumni, both of which are celebrating ten years of works made out of its chosen medium during 2023's massive Brisbane Art Design festival. Even if you've never tinkered yourself, you might be familiar with the Brisbane clay institution thanks to its seasonal shows and markets. With its latest excuse to get shopping from Wednesday, May 3–Sunday, May 28, you'll be heading to West End's Vacant Assembly to browse and buy from 10am–5pm Wednesday–Friday and 10am–4pm Saturday–Sunday. Then, across three days from Friday, May 26–Sunday, May 28, the Current and Alumni exhibition focuses on celebrating not only the best of the best, but also the full range of Clayschool's output. So, you'll see pieces from beginners and professionals. Jewellers and ceramic artists will be covered as well. And, there'll be potters that've won major art awards, plus creatives who've featured in galleries elsewhere. In total, more than 40 potters will have works on display, names such as Ray Cavill, Ky Curran, Laura Pascoe and Jennifer Hillhouse included. Entry to the exhibition is free, with opening night running from 6–9pm, Saturday's session spanning 10am–4pm and Sunday's from 10am–2pm.
If you met a young man with the MTV logo emblazoned across his neck, there are a few assumptions you would probably make. 'This chap is a fan of music television', you might say. Or, 'Surely, at some point in the past, this man had too many drinks too close to a tattoo parlour after reminiscing on highlights of the '90s. What you probably wouldn't deduce is that the character before you runs a YouTube music account with almost 40 million views, that he was a key inspiration for James Franco's latest role as Alien in the Harmony Korine film Spring Breakers or that his mixtapes have garnered applause from Pitchfork, Stereogum and Complex. You definitely wouldn't guess that his soon-to-be-released major label debut, Neon Icon, will feature the likes of Wiz Khalifia, Mac Miller, Drake, A$AP Rocky and Snoop Dogg(/Lion), just to name a few. In fact, instead of gawking, it might be more appropriate to salute respectfully because the young man you've just been introduced to is none other than eccentric Texan rapper RiFF RAFF. Currently on his first Australian tour, the electrifying performer brings his notorious live show to Brisbane this Thursday. Featuring the overblown bling, intelligent rhymes and hilarious antics that have gained him worldwide acclaim, this will be a night for the hip-hop fan with an ear for the weird.
When your nine-to-five plays out like a well-oiled machine, it can sometimes feel like each week is a little same-same. But Brisbane is brimming with a fine bounty of things to experience and explore each and every day. So aside from casual laziness and a little lack of inspiration, there's really nothing stopping you from squeezing some adventure and spontaneity into your schedule. We've teamed up with Mazda3 to help you celebrate the little things that bring a sense of adventure to life. Shake things up, as we give you seven different detours to take each week in Brisbane. From Monday to Sunday, enrich your everyday with one completely achievable activity that inspires you to take the scenic route as you go about your daily routine. This week, cuddle some cats at a dedicated cat cafe, cool off at some old-school baths just outside the CBD and get someone else to cook Sunday roast for you. Plus, we've got your future detours sorted for the new few weeks here. All require no more effort than a tiny break from the norm — what's your excuse for not trying them all?
In 1994, when Daniel Johns was just 15 years old, he became one of the biggest music stars in the country. Silverchair's 'Tomorrow' hasn't just a hit — it was a song that turned a group of Aussie teenagers into instant legends, soundtracked the mid-90s and helped define growing up in Australia at the time. Saying it was huge really isn't quite saying enough. But what if things hadn't turned out that way? That feels almost unthinkable, but Daniel Johns himself has been thinking it. And, he's made it the premise of a new featurette — not a full-length movie, not exactly a short either, and not really a music video — called What If The Future Never Happened?. In the film, it's 1994 again. Daniel isn't a teenage rockstar yet, but that's only months off. Then, on a normal day in regional Australia — whether or not it'll actually be Newcastle, that's what we'll all be thinking — Daniel's future changes while he's trying to escape three local bullies, all thanks to a mysterious figure. You wait till tomorrow indeed. What If The Future Never Happened? has just dropped a trailer, and it looks as moody, as stepped in all things 90s, and as eager to play around with sci-fi and fantasy as as you'd expect — and the casting of surfer, actor and musician Rasmus King (Barons, Bosch & Rockit) as Johns is downright uncanny. He could've stepped right out of the 'Tomorrow' music video and into the featurette. Perhaps that'll be the concept behind a future movie? Hailed as "from the mind of Daniel Johns" — and clearly based on his life — What If The Future Never Happened? is written and directed by James Medlam (who boasts helming Dune Rats' 'No Plans' music video on his resume). It's also co-penned by producer Heath George and based on a story by Heath Johns, aka Daniel's brother. While exactly when and where it'll drop hasn't been revealed, Daniel Johns' latest solo studio album FutureNever released back in April — and yes, he has a theme at the moment. Check out the trailer for What If The Future Never Happened? below: What If The Future Never Happened? doesn't yet have a release date — we'll update you when it does.
To someone who hasn't spent a heap of time in Brisbane, explaining the allure of the Ekka's famous strawberry sundaes isn't easy. Yes, strawberry ice cream exists year-round in the River City. Yes, anyone can scoop their own onto a cone and top it with a strawberry and some cream whenever they want. But for decades, the pink-hued sweet treats served up at the Royal Queensland Show have been as much of a drawcard as carnival rides, sideshow games, fairy floss and Bertie Beetles — perhaps even more so. The Sunshine State's southeastern corner doesn't just love Ekka strawberry sundaes. It's obsessed with them, as evidenced by the array of other folks who've whipped up their own versions over the years — some also in dessert form, some even boozy. In the latter category in 2023: Ekka Strawberry Sundae Gin from local distillery Granddad Jack's. Yes, this tipple's appeal is all there in its name. Here's how it works: the Gold Coast-born purveyor of spirits, which also has an outpost in Brisbane, has taken fresh strawberries, then macerated them. They're then combined with strawberry jam, vanilla beans, vapour-infused dehydrated strawberries, strawberry cheesecake bars and juniper berries. The end result, when the hard stuff is ready to drink: a liquid strawberry sundae with a kick (and with 40-percent alcohol by volume) that smells jammy and sweet, and feels creamy on the palate. Granddad Jack's recommends sipping the gin with tonic plus a citrus garnish, or in a punch. Whichever you opt for, you'll get the full strawberry sundae experience — those strawberry cheesecake bars are designed to bring a waffle cone flavour, too. This is a limited-edition drop, so much so that the first batch sold out on its first weekend. Granddad Jack's hustled to put together another batch in time for the Ekka's arrival, and the public holiday, which you can purchase now for $95 a bottle. Granddad Jack's Ekka Strawberry Sundae Gin is available to purchase online while stocks last via the distillery's website.
A familiar face on panel shows like Would I Lie To You? and Never Mind the Buzzcocks, Paul Foot is one of the most unique voices on the stand-up circuit today. His strange, ranty, stream-of-consciousness comedy has made him a favourite with festival audiences around the world. An Evening With Mr Paul Foot at the Brisbane Powerhouse features highlights from some of his best shows in years gone by, making it a perfect primer for those unfamiliar with his work, and a must-see trip down memory lane for his fans.
Summer has finally rolled around, and what better time to catch up with your mates than when the sun is shining, the wine is flowing and the silly season is in full swing? If you've been so focused on getting through the year (ditto) and you haven't made a booking yet, we've thrown together a list of excellent catch-up ideas to (not) plan, with help from our mates at Jacob's Creek. Don't miss out on the friends-mas party everyone forgot to organise with one of these ideas. AGNES, FORTITUDE VALLEY If you're looking to impress some out-of-towners or perhaps a new boo with the very best of Brisbane, you must put Agnes on the list. Touted as one of the best new openings in Brisbane in 2020, it's a little bit fancy, a little bit intimate and very suitable for a rendezvous with your favourite humans. The menu is centred around one thing: fire. This means every single dish on the menu has been cooked over woodfire. What better way to prove to your interstate besties that Brisbane really does measure up in the fine dining department? [caption id="attachment_697318" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Grace Smith[/caption] PIG 'N' WHISTLE, FORTITUDE VALLEY There's nothing better than a cheek Sunday sesh during summer. Throw in a stunning Brit-style pub, a glass of vino (or two) and all your best mates, and you're onto a winner. You can't beat Pig 'N' Whistle for a relaxed-yet-classy pub atmosphere, especially the heritage-listed Fortitude Valley location. If the crew is hungry, there are plenty of classic British dishes on the menu, as well as contemporary Australian pub grub. LEFTY'S MUSIC HALL, PETRIE TERRACE Aah, Lefty's. We've all had a night out to remember at this Brisbane institution. So, it was a sad shock when we learned the old-time music hall and its prized whisky sours were going to be leaving us for good last year. Luckily for you and your mates, the hospitality gods have spoken and Lefty's is back up and running again. That's one major win for 2020, and one you should celebrate with a beverage with your besties. [caption id="attachment_593141" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Emily Davies[/caption] RIVERSIDE GREEN, SOUTH BANK South Bank may feel like a bit of a tourist location to some locals, but we want you to put that idea aside for just a moment. Riverside Green and River Quay Green are two of the most idyllic spots to experience our beautiful river city and, on a summer evening, there's no place that gets a better breeze this side of the Gold Coast. Settle in for a takeaway picnic from one of the nearby eateries, including the likes of Burger Urge, Brooklyn Depot and Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers. The best part is that you're permitted to drink alcohol at Riverside Green between 10am and 8pm. So, grab a bottle of Jacob's Creek Sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir and toast some bubbles to getting through 2020. SAME SAME, FORTITUDE VALLEY Do you love Southeast Asian cuisine? Same. One of the brand new restaurants to grace the beautiful Calile Hotel development is here to treat you and your friends to the fresh, fiery and flavoursome tastes of Thailand. If you're heading in with a group of seven or more, we recommend ordering the banquet menu. At just $65 per head, you'll receive seven dishes, from a betel leaf, sticky pork and prawn entree to a coconut panna cotta, watermelon sorbet and peanut dessert. After dinner, head upstairs to Los, the stunning bar serving tasty cocktails. It's the perfect place for you and your mates to shoot the breeze. PASTA CLUB, WEST END When everyone in your group is hankering for big bowls of pasta, Pasta Club in West End is your go-to. By the team that brought you the super popular CJ's Pasta, this Boundary Street joint is all about heroing local, seasonal produce. As a result, the menu changes daily, which means you can't scope out the menu in advance (though you may get sneak peeks on its Instagram). But, in better news, it's BYO. Just grab a bottle of Jacob's Creek — we recommend the Jacob's Creek Double Barrel Shiraz — and tuck into some pasta with your crew. TETTO ROOFTOP BAR, EVERTON PARK We may not have been able to enjoy a lavish European holiday this year, but Tetto Rooftop Bar is bringing the best of the Italian Riviera straight to you instead. Located above Corbett & Claude in Everton Plaza's Park Lane precinct, Tetto is a lovely spot to meet with friends over the summer. Combine a striped umbrella, bougainvillea bushes, a cool tipple, a glorious view and all your best mates and you've got the recipe for a Positano-inspired good time. Our sneaky tip? Head in between 4–6pm from Monday to Thursday to watch the sun set with a glass of $5 house beer, wine or sparkling in hand. Reconnect with your friends and family this summer with a bottle of Jacob's Creek. Discover the Jacob's Creek range and purchase a bottle today from all good liquor retailers. Top image: Lefty's Music Hall. Please drink responsibly.
For firm believers that all good things come to those who wait, or even casual ones, that patience is set to be rewarded at Portside Wharf's soon-to-open new seafood restaurant. Fosh was first announced in 2022, and originally targeted a March 2023 launch date. Now, the waterside spot will start welcoming in patrons from August, and boast plenty of reasons for Brisbanites to stop by. Fosh hails from Michael Tassis, the restaurateur behind Opa Bar + Mezze, Massimo Restaurant, Yamas Greek + Drink and George's Paragon — as well as Eagle Street's now-closed Fatcow Steak & Lobster and Rico Bar + Dining — and has an enticing concept. Fancy staring at the river while tucking into fish, oysters, prawns, scallops and bugs? Peering at the water while enjoying lobster with bottomless fries for lunch and doing caviar bumps with your fellow diners? That's what's on the menu at this Portside seafood venue. The full culinary lineup hasn't yet been revealed, but there'll be a focus on sustainable, high-quality local line-caught catches that are served to guests within 24 hours. In the kitchen, a team boasting an impressive restaurant pedigree will be doing the cooking. Head Chef Vikash Gurung comes to Fosh from Greca, as well as Fatcow Steak & Lobster, Rico Bar and Dining, and Jellyfish — and sous chef Daniel Hernandez boasts Agnes, Restaurant Dan Arnold and La Cache à Vin on his resume. Rounding out the restaurant's core crew are Daniel Burton and Erik Di Luca, Manager and Operations Director, respectively, with the former spending five years at Matt Moran's Aria and the latter working for Tassis Group since 2012. Fosh will operate both as a dine-in eatery and an upscale takeaway fish 'n' chippery. "This will be next-level takeout," advises Tassis. The restaurant won't be small, either, settling into a 700-square-metre space at Portside as part of the precinct's current revamp, which is set to be complete this December. The makeover has already seen the Gold Coast's Rosé Gelateria launch its debut Brisbane ice creamery in Hamilton. Rise Bakery, which also originated on the coast, is slated to set up shop as well. Whether you're eating in or dropping by to grab some takeaways, you'll notice the luxe yet naturalistic and relaxed decor, which is inspired by The Hamptons. As part of a $3-million fitout, Fosh will boast both indoor and outdoor dining areas, too — with boosting the latter year-round one of the big aims of Portside's facelift. "Our indoor space includes a glamorous island bar which will flow to the al fresco area, where guests can enjoy uninterrupted river views," says Tassis. Launching a dedicated seafood restaurant at Portside, and one run by Tassis, seems like an obvious step for a number of reasons. The location screams for it, and Tassis' father George founded George's Paragon Seafood Restaurant in Sanctuary Cove more than three decades ago. "It's very much in my roots," Tassis notes. Tassis Group also has two other high-profile dining spots on the way, also heroing their water-adjacent locations, but over in Kangaroo Point: overwater restaurant and bar Bombora, plus landing cafe Mulga Bill's, which are set to open in the new green bridge in 2024. Find Fosh at Portside Wharf, 39 Hercules Street, Hamilton, from August 2023 — we'll update you with an exact opening date when one is announced. Images: Markus Ravik.
If blitzing the ARIAs and taking out the number one spot in this year's triple Hottest 100 wasn't enough for Sydney producer Flume, he's just landed himself a Grammy. The 25-year-old has just won Best Dance/Electronic Album at the 2017 Grammy Awards for his runaway May 2016 success Skin, beating Jean-Michel Jarre, Tycho and Louie Vega to the trophy. It's the first Grammy win for Flume, aka Harley Streten, who was also nominated for Best Dance Recording, for triple j Hottest 100 winner 'Never Be Like You', but was pipped to the post by The Chainsmokers with their popular single 'Don't Let Me Down'. Watch Flume's delightful acceptance speech here, which includes a mad shout out to Australian music: Check out Flume's exclusive anthem for Keep Sydney Open here. Image: Cybele Malinowski.
Back in the 2000s, if you weren't listing to Interpol and Bloc Party, were you really in the 2000s? No, no you weren't. The former arrived out of Manhattan in the late 90s, then helped define the city's turn-of-the-century indie music scene with The Strokes, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, TV on the Radio and The National. Hailing from Britain and also coming together just before Y2K, the latter initially scored some hefty approval in 2003 via Franz Ferdinand's lead singer Alex Kaprano. From those beginnings, both bands became indie rock greats. Next, they're heading to Australia to remind music lovers why. Busting out everything from 'Slow Hands' to 'She's Hearing Voices', the two groups will share the same bill on a co-headlining tour of the country's east coast in November, including a show at Brisbane's Riverstage on Wednesday, November 22. For Interpol, it'll be their first visit Down Under since 2019, plus their debut chance to play 2022 album The Other Side of Make-Believe in Australia. Tracks from past records such as Turn on the Bright Lights, Antics and El Pintor will also feature. Bloc Party are making the trip after last rocking Aussie stages in 2018, and will perform songs from Silent Alarm, A Weekend in the City, Intimacy and 2022 LP Alpha Games. Bloc Party images: James Kellegher. Interpol image: Ebru Yildiz.
Forget about decking the halls with boughs of holly. At A Very Vegan Christmas, you'll be piling up your plates with mounds of vegetables. Held at Windsor's The Green Edge, it's a three-course festive feast with a cruelty-free focus — aka the type of seasonal meal you won't find anywhere else. On the menu: no animal products, a gluten-free option (if you need it), gifts, Christmas-themed drinks and an all-round jolly and merry time. And tasty dishes shared with fellow herbivores, too. No one will be fighting over turkey legs here. This year, The Green Edge isn't just dedicating one evening to their festive deliciousness, but two, with sittings available at 5.30pm and 7.30pm on both December 22 and 23. Dinner costs $49 per person, and bring your own booze if you plan on doing some extra celebrating. Plus, if you want to spread the love to animals in need while you're there, a tree will be set up for donations to Deathrow Unchained Animal Rescue.
After eight days in lockdown, residents of southeast Queensland will be permitted to leave their houses for whatever reasons they like from 4pm today, Sunday, August 8. As a result, a heap of restrictions will change throughout the 11 Local Government Areas in the region that's been under stay-at-home conditions since last weekend — but wearing masks isn't one of them. If you live in the Brisbane City Council, Logan, Moreton Bay, Ipswich, Redlands, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Noosa, Somerset, Lockyer Valley and Scenic Rim LGAs, it has been some time since you've been able to flash your smile at people outside of your own home. And, that isn't changing now. Since the end of June, in an effort to stop the region's recent COVID-19 cases from spreading, wearing masks has been compulsory across the region — a mandate that's remaining in place until at least 4pm on Sunday, August 22. This is familiar news, because the State Government has extended the mask requirement for these 11 LGAs not just once but multiple times now. Masks were compulsory under lockdown conditions, obviously. Announcing the extension of the mask mandate for the next fortnight, Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said that "until we can get to those 70 and 80-percent vaccination rates, masks are absolutely critical. These masks are absolutely crucial, because they are your protection against the Delta virus, as well as getting the vaccine." https://twitter.com/AnnastaciaMP/status/1424166496717086722 If you need a refresher, the mask rules apply whenever you're spending time indoors somewhere other than your own home — and outdoors as well. In all of these situations, you must wear a mask. Accordingly, you also always need to be carrying a mask with you. They must be worn at all times when you're not in your own house, unless specific conditions apply. So, you don't have to mask up if you are alone in your car or with members of your household, you are alone outdoors or with folks you live with, if you're eating or drinking, if you're doing strenuous exercise, or if it is unsafe to do so. Obviously, these rules cover — but aren't limited to — all indoor spaces other than your house, all indoor workplaces unless it is unsafe to do so, public transport, and in taxis and ride share vehicles. Queensland currently has 148 active COVID-19 cases, with nine new locally acquired cases reported in the past 24 hours. As always, the usual requests regarding social distancing, hygiene and getting tested if you're feeling even the slightest possible COVID-19 symptoms also still apply — as they have since March last year. For more information about the status of COVID-19 in Queensland, head to the QLD COVID-19 hub and the Queensland Health website.
Nominated for the Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film, family drama The Past is writer-director Asghar Farhadi's first film since 2011 release A Separation, one of the most critically lauded films of the past decade. It begins with Ahmad (Ali Mosaffa) arriving in Paris from Tehran to finalise divorce proceedings with Marie (Berenice Bejo). He wanted her to book him a hotel — she hasn't, the first crack in the veneer of politeness. Temporarily back at his former home after a four-year absence, he finds Marie is now living with Samir (Tahar Rahim). The home is a mess of wet paint and half-finished renovations, as though in the process of removing any trace of Ahmad's time there. Ahmad has to share a room with Samir's eight-year-old son, Fouad (Elyes Aguis), who is acting out because of his confusion about the divorce. Ahmad snipes at Marie about this arrangement and the ensuing bickering bothers Samir, who senses there is something too familiar about their disagreements, that the feuds have the tone of a couple with unfinished business. Meanwhile, Ahmad's teenage daughter, Lucie (Pauline Burlet), has become unhappy and is often absent from home, largely because of the circumstances of Samir's split with his wife and his new relationship with her mother, as well as her own guilt at a train of events she believes she has set in motion. The Past starts off being about the final dissolution of Ahmad and Marie's relationship and the messy, unsatisfying experience of formally ending their marriage, but the story soon spirals off into something else entirely. Just when one strand seems to have exhausted itself, another complication arises, adding to the tragic mess these characters find themselves in. Yet while it is a film of revelations, there is never hint of melodrama and the story unfolds with complete, compelling realism. The small details are incredibly well-observed: one scene where Samir asks Lucie to pass him a kettle and she holds it so he has to scald his hands on the hot surface speaks volumes of their relationship, as does his almost comically stoic refusal to acknowledge what is happening. Another scene places Ahmad and Samir at a table together and watches as their silence and awkward refusal to engage with each other grows into something almost painful. Berenice Bejo won the Best Actress award at Cannes for her committed performance here, but The Past is a true ensemble piece with Burlet exceptional as the shell-shocked, troubled Lucie and Rahim having some brilliant moments as his Samir develops from being a sullen figure annoyed by the arrival of his lover's ex-husband into something much more layered and complex. A film that is rarely less than compelling for its entire running time, The Past gets even better in its wrenching unforgettable final scene, which is all the more emotionally powerful for unfolding at a glacial pace. Acting as both a haunting coda to proceedings and shedding new light on the motivations of its characters, it is an overwhelming last gasp of a truly great film. https://youtube.com/watch?v=Z2-_lt4kwXE
Pixels is a movie that demonstrates how two rights can make a significant wrong. The first ‘right' is a brilliant Futurama vignette named ‘Raiders of the Lost Arcade’ that featured in the 2002 episode ‘Anthology of Interest II’. In it, the protagonist, Fry, queries what life would be like as a video game, whereupon characters based on ‘80s arcade staples like Space Invaders and Donkey Kong invade earth, and Fry proves to be the only one capable of stopping them thanks to his misspent youth as a gamer. The second ‘right' is a 2010 short film by Patrick Jean named ‘Pixles', in which pixelated arcade characters invade earth and reduce everything to, well, pixels. Together, these two sources constitute almost the entirety of the plot, title and visuals of Adam Sandler’s latest outing, where, unfortunately, the whole is very much poorer than its parts. Much of this is because of the missteps made in the means by which those parts were combined. Pixels, to put it simply, is an excellent idea turned into a children’s film where almost every joke is aimed at people over 30. In other words, it seems to have no idea who it’s actually catering to. Consider the final scene: just moments after the adorable merchandise children’s toy character ‘Q-Bert’ says something cute to make kids laugh, there’s an extended threesome joke involving Serena Williams and Martha Stewart. And it’s not the first in the film. Not by a long shot. The action scenes are solid and fast-paced, yet the first one doesn’t arrive for almost an hour, with the preceding 50-odd minutes spent on a semi-romantic subplot that lacks both romance and plot. It all feels very much a victim of studio influence — a failed attempt to hedge box office bets by playing to both children and adults without giving either enough of what they want. On paper, the cast of Pixels is pretty decent. Peter Dinklage, Josh Gad and Kevin James play the adult versions of Sander’s childhood arcade gaming buddies, now a convict, conspiracy theorist and President of the United States respectively (no, seriously, James is President). Michelle Monaghan plays the ‘love interest’/senior DARPA scientist (in that order), representing the only real female role of any substance, albeit with most of her character development involving wildly different hairstyles in every scene without any mention made of it. Ashley Benson also makes an appearance as ‘the hot girl’ who literally doesn’t say a single word in the entire film. She just switches back and forth between pouting, kissing and ‘being hot’. Ultimately, director Chris Columbus has actually crafted a half-watchable film here, which — given the script — is something of an achievement. The Harry Potter director brings an energy and light-heartedness to the action sequences, complete with a handful of those trademark uplifting, fist-pumping moments of exuberance that defined his exhilarating Quidditch matches. There are also a couple of solid laugh-out-loud jokes and nifty ‘80s nostalgia references that frustrate more than entertain because of their infrequency. Had Pixels been predominantly an action movie, the plot vacuum might have mattered less, but with so little action to enjoy, at least until the final 15 minutes or so, we’re left with a film that feels like a giant missed opportunity, and that will likely fade fast from the memories of all who see it.
When Princess Mononoke marked its 25th anniversary in 2022, the Studio Ghibli gem returned to cinemas. Because Hayao Miyazaki's movies should never be far from a picture palace, one his most-stunning features is making another big-screen comeback three years later. There's no milestone to celebrate this time, just an exceptional flick from a beloved Japanese animation house just because — as well as the fact that Princess Mononoke is getting both the 4K and IMAX treatment. This is also the first time ever that the 1997 film is being released in IMAX. So, no matter how many times you've seen it before, you haven't seen it like this. The date for your diary: Thursday, August 21, 2025. Language-wise, two versions of the movie are playing in both Australia and New Zealand: the original Japanese version, which is the one that every Ghibli fan should be flocking to, and the English-dubbed version as well. If you're a newcomer to this delight by the one and only Miyazaki — a film that only ranks behind Spirited Away and Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind among the director's greats — get ready for a picture that makes a clear ecological statement. The iconic filmmaker has never shied away from doing just that; however, Princess Mononoke might just send his most forceful message about humanity's impact upon the earth. As set in Japan's Muromachi period (from the 14th to 16th centuries), the involving fantasy takes place among humans, animals and gods, all of which have been living in harmony until the movie starts. From there, the film charts the paths of a young prince with a curse and a young woman raised by wolves, as well as the conflict between a modernising town and the forest it's destroying. Every Studio Ghibli film is worth seeing — the animation house hasn't ever made a bad one, even if a few sit below the rest — but Princess Mononoke is a stone-cold classic. The highest-grossing Japanese feature of 1997, it's also the picture that helped bring the company's wonderful flicks to western audiences. If you do catch the English-dubbed version, the voice cast includes Gillian Anderson (The Salt Path), Claire Danes (Full Circle), Billy Crudup (The Morning Show), Minnie Driver (The Assessment), Jada Pinkett Smith (The Equalizer) and Billy Bob Thorton (Landman). Check out the trailer for Princess Mononoke below: Princess Mononoke returns to Australian and New Zealand cinemas from Thursday, August 21, 2025. For more information, head to the Crunchyroll website.
After the year that's been, we've all got our sights set on making this summer one to remember. So, no doubt, you'll want to shake things up a little — and, if you're hosting the crew around for some backyard drinks, you'll want to make sure those sips are darn memorable, too. Because balmy days call for cocktails, we've teamed up with tequila distiller 1800 Tequila to help you unleash your inner bartender. Recently, the brand launched a limited-edition merch range in collaboration with Aussie accessories queen Poppy Lissiman and Sydney-based artist Manu Crooks. So, if you were looking for some bold new accessories for summer, it's got you sorted in that department — but you better get in quickly, before they sell out. Now, the two aforementioned creative legends, plus 1800's Hayley Dixon (Proximo Spirits Tequila Specialist), have come up with three tequila cocktail recipes that are guaranteed to spice up your next at-home session. POPPY LISSIMAN'S TASTE OF TULUM Serves one Sleek, chic and a little bit fun, this little libation created by Poppy Lissiman is the perfect drink for summer nights spent on the dance floor. The concoction uses 1800 coconut-infused tequila, which lends a taste of the tropics, while prosecco keeps things sophisticated. So, break out the champagne flutes and get shaking. Ingredients 30ml 1800 Coconut 15ml peach syrup 10ml Fino sherry 20ml fresh lemon juice 5ml simple syrup 90ml prosecco Method Minus the prosecco, shake all ingredients together, then double strain into a champagne flute. Top the glass with prosecco and garnish with lemon zest. MANU CROOK'S CHERRY CHILL Serves one The classic cherry-cola combo gets served a grown-up twist in this moody drink designed by hip hop artist Manu Crooks. Expect smoke and spice from the 1800's barrel-aged Reposado, which is perfectly balanced with a fun, fruity hit from the rest of the ingredients. It's safe to say that this is one smooth sip that'll see you from day to night. Ingredients 30ml 1800 Reposado 15ml cherry liqueur 2ml vanilla extract 15ml simple syrup 25ml fresh lemon juice Dash Angostura orange bitters 60ml cola Method Minus the cola, shake all ingredients together, then double strain the mix into a double rocks glass over ice. Top with the cola and garnish with a lemon twist. 1800 TEQUILA'S SUMMER STAPLE Serves one When sunny skies and post-swim sessions call for a tipple that's fresh and fruity, keep your cool with this fizzy, pink-hued number. Made with the extra-smooth, double-distilled 1800 Silver, it's a crafty riff on the classic G&T that's sure to become your new summer go-to. Ingredients 40ml 1800 Silver 15ml watermelon syrup 15ml honey syrup (three parts honey, one part warm water) 20ml fresh lemon juice 15ml fresh grapefruit juice 60ml dry tonic Method Minus the tonic, shake all ingredients together, then double strain the mix into a highball glass over ice. Top up with tonic and garnish with a watermelon wedge. Spice up your summer with these three easy-to-make 1800 Tequila cocktails, then get yourself some fresh new accessories from the 1800 Essential Artists merch range. 1800 Tequila promotes responsible drinking practices, for 18 years and over only.
Julian Assange. You might have heard of him? That Lucius Malfoy-haired, Peter Garrett-choreographed, Ecuadorian Embassy-ensconced hacker who almost certainly kisses and tells. Yeah, you know him? Of course you do, because thanks to years of media coverage, Robert Connolly's impressive biopic Underground (2012), Alex Gibney's excellent documentary We Steal Secrets (2013) and, of course, Mr Assange himself, the Wikileaks/Assange saga (now largely synonymous) is one of the most well-known, well-told stories of the decade. Accordingly, if you're going to make a new movie about that story, it had better offer up something new. Unfortunately, The Fifth Estate does not. Directed by Bill Condon (The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn), The Fifth Estate sources much of its material from the two books Assange is least likely to ever recommend during cake corner, namely: Inside WikiLeaks: My Time with Julian Assange and the World's Most Dangerous Website (2011), and WikiLeaks: Inside Julian Assange's War on Secrecy (2011). Both were written by men who were about as close to Assange as one could get in the lead up to, and during, his infamous publication of hundreds of thousands of classified US military and government documents, and both detail how their initial infatuation with this quasi-messianic figure for openness and transparency gave way to horror at his apparent total disregard for consequence. In short, powerful stuff but nothing even remotely revelatory this far into the Wikileaks narrative. If there is a reason to see The Fifth Estate, then, it is unquestionably Benedict Cumberbatch. Few who are not Australian have ever mastered the accent, yet Cumberbatch wields both it and Assange's specific cadence and timbre with aplomb. So impressive is the feat, in fact, that it actually works against the movie. Assange's slow, measured and largely monotone articulation robs even the most dramatic moments of energy, both in real life and in this film, so much so that were it not for the consistently explosive content of his conversations, one suspects he'd be an unbearably boring man to meet in person. Stylistically, The Fifth Estate does what it can to make coding, reading and emailing something of a spectator sport; however, the only real drama occurs when the key figures engage in actual person-to-person (cf peer-to-peer) exchanges — most notably, the debates between Assange and his right-hand man, Daniel Domscheit-Berg (Daniel Brühl), who wrote Inside Wikileaks, over what to release, and when. Everything else feels largely pedestrian, and — remarkably — the contentious allegations of sexual misconduct for which Assange has been indicted by Sweden appear only as a footnote in the credits. Ultimately, The Fifth Estate is an example of the whole being somehow lesser than its parts; a film easily outperformed by its performers and the real life players who inspired it. https://youtube.com/watch?v=YQOiS_l_0Jk
The Colonel's finest chook pieces have helped line many a stomach before a big night out. They've proven tasty in the boozy early hours of the morning, too, and also when a hangover strike the next day. KFC isn't usually eaten at a nightclub, however, but the fast-food chain itself is changing that for one night only in Sydney. From the brand that's done 11-course fine-dining degustations, Peking Duk-led festivals, weddings, cocktails, ugly Christmas sweaters for humans and pets alike, and a soothing playlist of chicken frying and gravy simmering — which is genuinely relaxing — of course a place to hit the dance floor with KFC in hand is next on the list. Dubbed The Fried Side Club, it's popping up from 8pm–3am on Saturday, October 21 at a secret venue in central Sydney. And yes, it comes with free chicken. There'll be tunes, too, courtesy of Luude — which means hearing 'TMO (Turn Me On)' as well as his 'Down Under' remix — plus Kinder and Foura. So, you'll make shapes and eat chicken. If someone decides to give the 'Chicken Dance' a spin, it'd be mighty fitting. The Fried Side Club will also be selling KFC x Luude t-shirts and KFC footwear (yes, sliders will come in there, too) both at the club and online, with proceeds going to the Black Dog Institute, ReachOut Australia and Whitelion. The reason for KFC setting up a temporary nightclub is to launch Luude's Zinger sliders, a new menu item that's served in pairs featuring two varieties. One uses chilli relish, the other KFC's Supercharged sauce — and both include half a Zinger fillet. They'll be given out free all night at The Fried Side Club, so no need to grab dinner before showing up. "KFC has been a staple on the diet forever — so when they reached out to partner on a project, I was 100-percent keen," said Luude. "We're setting up a secret club that is a replica KFC store, you've even got to go through the fridge to get in — it's sounding wicked. They've also let me create a secret menu item too, so you'll be able to ask for Luude Zinger sliders all over Australia. A childhood dream collab." If you're eager to head along, you'll need to grab a ticket, which are available from 9am AEDT on Wednesday, October 4. Everyone who nabs a spot will be told the secret location 48 hours out. And if you just want to try Luude's Zinger sliders without experiencing a KFC nightclub, they're available from now until Monday, October 30 via the secret menu on the KFC app. The Fried Side Club will pop up from 8pm–3am on Saturday, October 21 at a secret venue in central Sydney — get tickets from 9am AEDT on Wednesday, October 4.
When Australia was saying goodbye to border restrictions, the country's various states started giving away vouchers and incentives to get folks travelling around the nation again. Those days are gone, but Queensland still wants everyone — Queenslanders, interstate residents and New Zealanders alike alike — to make holiday plans in the Sunshine State. To help, it's giving away five impressive getaways over five weeks. The catch: you will need to actually answer your phone. If you're the kind of person who always texts about everything over calling, you'll need to change your ways if you want to score a free vacation. First, you'll need to register online, too, to be on the Sunshine State's call list. Then, it's time to wait for the phone to ring. [caption id="attachment_842401" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] On offer: a different free getaway each week, starting with a 12-night road trip for two through Queensland's outback. The first holiday focuses on the Sunshine State leg of the Savannah Way, and will see you start off in Mount Isa, get a 4x4 hire vehicle with rooftop tent for hitting the bitumen, camp in Burketown and Croydon, go up in a hot air balloon, spend two nights in Karumba, glamp (and soak) at Talaroo Hot Springs, stay at (and tour) Undara Volcanic National Park, then end with an evening at Crystalbrook Flynn in Cairns before flying home. You'll need to be able to go between July 8–21. After that, you could nab an island-hopping stint in the Torres Strait for four nights, which covers four people and will happen from May 28–June 1; a four-night Sunshine Coast Hinterland trip for two that's all about artisanal experiences, and runs from July 28–August 1; and six nights in the Bundaberg and Capricorn regions, including hiking the Carnarvon Gorge, from August 15–21. [caption id="attachment_650357" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] Or, there's a gather-the-gang getaway in the Granite Belt wine region, flying you and five mates to Brisbane, then sending you out Stanthorpe way. Running from July 14–17, it includes three nights staying at the Barrel View Luxury Cabins. Tourism and Events Queensland is teaming up with Virgin Australia, Air New Zealand, Webjet, MyQueensland, Accor, Helloworld, Luxury Escapes, Expedia/Wotif and Experience Oz on the giveaways, which folks from around Australia and in New Zealand can enter. Do so once and you're in the draw for all five holidays — or however many are left after you sign up before 5pm AEST on Wednesday, April 19. You can only win one, however, and you don't get to choose. Also, if you get lucky, you will be up for some costs such as food. [caption id="attachment_702568" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland / Jewels Lynch[/caption] To go in the running for the Queensland Is Calling giveaways, sign up online — and find out more via the Queensland.com website, too. Top image: Talaroo Hot Springs. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
You can take away Brisbane's annual show, and the midweek public holiday that usually goes with it. You can do so two years in a row, in fact. But, you can't erase the city's love for the Ekka, or for some of its staples — dagwood dogs, Bertie Beetle showbags and those iconic strawberry sundaes, naturally — so the event's organisers are giving the people what we want. Already, a delivery service that's been dubbed the Strawberry Sundae Taskforce has been announced. It's delivering 20-packs of strawberry sundaes in DIY kits for you to make at home, and it's a great excuse to stock up on the cult dessert for the days, weeks and/or months ahead. But, like in 2020, the Ekka is also hosting a couple of physical takeaway-only events: a drive-thru at Brisbane Showgrounds and a pop-up on King Street in Bowen Hills. These two events are being called Ekka Tastes, and they'll run from 10am–7pm between Saturday, August 14–Sunday, August 22. So, Brisbanites will have nine days to get their Ekka fix at both locations — and yes, this means that your August plans can still involve battered sausages on sticks, glossy plastic bags filled with beetle-shaped chocolates and Brisbane's most beloved form of ice cream. This year, there won't be any other fun around the food. Obviously, you won't be able to crash dodgems and throw a ball in a clown's mouth for a prize, and there won't be any fireworks either. Still, dagwood dogs, Bertie Beetle showbags and strawberry sundaes are always a winning combination. Ekka Tastes is popping up as a drive-thru at Brisbane Showgrounds (enter via Gate 4A on O'Connell Terrace, Bowen Hills) and as a pop-up on King Street (at 5/45 King Street, Bowen Hills) from 10am–7pm between Saturday, August 14–Sunday, August 22.
In the last few years, Ball Park Music have been rocking the national band circuit with rave reviews showing that this band is truly a force to be reckoned with. From their debut hit 'Ifly' to their recent number 'Surrender', Ball Park have pumped out some steller dance tunes as well as some more deeper, mellow tracks. Having performed at The Hifi, Big Day Out and Splendour in the Grass, Ball Park Music are a much loved credit to the Brisbane music scene. Starting as just a few students and a uni based band, they have grown to become one of the biggest names on Triple J and Australian music today; the evidence is in the massive crowds that they attract to every one of their performances. Ball Park Music will be playing at the Tivoli for one night and will be supported by Loon Lake, the band that gave us Triple J favourite 'Cherry Lips.' Be sure to catch Ball Park Music while they're home, because it won't be too long before they make us proud and hit the big time. Ball Park Music's 'Surrender'
Maybe you like magical movie experiences. Perhaps you're a Timothée Chalamet obsessive. Or, you could love nothing more than catching an old-school flick on the big screen again. Whether one, two or all three of the above applies to you, there's a reason to head to Moonlight Cinema in January 2025. And if you're a fan of romances, horror, animal-led tales and biopics, there's even more where they came from. This Australian summer tradition unveils its lineup in batches — and has just dropped the program of flicks that will start the year. Wicked will be defying gravity, A Complete Unknown has your Timmy C (Dune: Part Two) fix covered and the OG Freaky Friday will give you a blast from the past before the sequel arrives later in 2025. Plus, We Live in Time, Heretic, Mufasa: The Lion King and Maria will also play under the stars. With seasons in Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide, Melbourne and Perth, Moonlight Cinema mostly screens the same movies in each location; however, there are some differences. In January, 2024 Palme d'Or-winner Anora and crime thriller-meets-musical Emilia Perez are only heading to Sydney and Melbourne, for instance, but the bulk of the lineup will play across all five cities. Other highlights include Gladiator II, Moana 2, Paddington in Peru and Sonic the Hedgehog 3, giving franchises plenty of love; Better Man joining the music-fuelled picks; the Jesse Eisenberg (Sasquatch Sunset)-starring, -written and -directed A Real Pain; and Conclave's tension in the Vatican. Among the retro fare, Bridget Jones's Diary, Shrek and The Princess Diaries will get you looking backwards. Brisbane's season is on until Sunday, February 16 in Roma Street Parklands, while Adelaide's runs till the same date in Botanic Park. Moonlight Cinema's stints at Centennial Parklands in Sydney, Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne, and Kings Park and Botanic Garden in Perth all extend through to Sunday, March 30. As always, the films and the setting are just two parts of the cinema's experience. Also a drawcard: the Aperol spritz bar. Nosh-wise, the event is again letting you BYO movie snacks and drinks (no alcohol in Brisbane, though), but the unorganised can enjoy a plethora of bites to eat onsite while reclining on bean beds. There's two VIP sections for an extra-luxe openair movie experience, too, as well as a platinum package with waiter service in Sydney and Melbourne only, and a beauty cart handing out samples. Plus, dogs are welcome at all sites except Perth — there's even special doggo bean beds. Moonlight Cinema 2024–25 Dates Brisbane: Thursday, November 21, 2024–Sunday, February 16, 2025 in Roma Street Parklands Sydney: Friday, November 22, 2024–Sunday, March 30, 2025 in Centennial Parklands Adelaide: Thursday, November 28, 2024–Sunday, February 16, 2025, 2024 in Botanic Park Melbourne: Friday, November 29, 2024–Sunday, March 30, 2025 in Royal Botanic Gardens Perth: Thursday, December 5, 2024–Sunday, March 30, 2025 in Kings Park and Botanic Garden Moonlight Cinema runs until February 2025 in Brisbane and Adelaide, and until March 2025 in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the cinema's website — and we'll update you with further program details when they're announced.
Legendary 1960s pop group, The Hollies, sport a very different look these days. Gone are the charming matching suits, black ties and suave hair dos - now it's all about black on black, with a flare of white to tease the eye. But if one thing hasn't changed about one of the most commercially successful acts to emerge from the British Invasion, it's their music. Best known for classics such as, 'He Ain't Heavy, He's my Brother', 'The Air that I Breathe' and 'Long Cool Woman', The Hollies are a band that through hook-happy material and infectious melodic cheer, have produced 19 studio albums, 30 charting singles and a committed fan-base to match. To this day, five decades after their first live gig, these life-filled musicians are continuing to record and perform. The Hollies will be playing for one night only at QPAC, so be sure to check out these legendary rockers while they are still going strong. The Hollies' Classic 'Long Cool Woman'
Plenty of things can change in just a few days during a pandemic, as everyone around Australia already knows. But in the latest instance in Queensland, a number of COVID-19 restrictions have just been tightened — only days after they were eased on Friday, June 25. Since 1am on Friday morning, Queenslanders have been able to have as many people as they like over to their houses, and to gather in hospitality businesses at a density of three people per four-square-metres. That changed again at 6am this morning, Monday, June 28, however, with stricter requirements now in place for the next two weeks. Wondering what's changed? The at-home gathering limit is now back to 100 people, including children and infants. And, at bars, cafes, restaurants, pubs and clubs, the one person per two-square-metres cap is back in effect. Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced the rule reversions on Sunday, June 27, noting that the changes were being made to help the state counter the potential spread of the Delta variant — the strain of COVID-19 that's behind New South Wales' current outbreak. In an effort to stop the variant spreading to Queensland, the Sunshine State has already closed its borders to Greater Sydney, which was placed under a two-week lockdown on the weekend. https://twitter.com/AnnastaciaMP/status/1408940468331679750 Other eased restrictions that came into effect on Friday haven't been rolled back, so Queenslanders can still hang out with more folks in the great outdoors — and at galleries, museums, convention centres, theatres, gig venues and cinemas. Outside, there's no longer a limit on how many people can gather. For venues with seated and ticketed capacity, they can fill to 100 percent. Of course, whether those looser rules will remain in place will depend upon COVID-19 cases in Queensland. Also yesterday, Queensland Health announced that three community acquired cases had been identified — with an alert first issued for Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, followed by a further case who transited through the Brisbane Airport before heading to the Sunshine Coast. Queenslanders are asked to keep social distancing, maintaining the hygiene practices that have been in place since March 2020, and checking the state's list of exposure sites — and to get tested if you're feeling even the slightest possible COVID-19 symptoms. For more information about the status of COVID-19 in Queensland, head to the QLD COVID-19 hub and the Queensland Health website. Top image: Atlanta Bell.
If you like music and you like trivia, TV shows such as Spicks and Specks and Never Mind the Buzzcocks likely sit high on your favourites list, with both combining tunes, musicians and questions about them. But in Brisbane, you don't have to confine your music trivia fix to staring at a screen. One of the city's most reliably entertaining evenings out comes in the form of Not On Your Rider, the IRL quiz show that's also filled with well-known faces — but staged live in the River City, with Brisbanites invited not only to watch but to also play along. This pop-culture delight has been doing the rounds for a few years now — and testing its contestants via rounds of questions — and it's back again in 2023. From the end of March, Brisbanites can look forward to monthly shows at The Triffid. Yes, given there's an October 26 date on the list, you can probably expect another Halloween celebration. And, come December 14, a Christmas show as well. If you're not already acquainted with Not On Your Rider, it takes something that everyone loves — showing off their music trivia knowledge — and dials it up a few notches. Here's how it works: the event is hosted by The Creases' Aimon Clark, and features Velociraptor's Jeremy Neale and The Grates' Patience Hodgson as team captains. Also, while the two on-stage teams are always filled with musos, comedians, drag queens and other guests, anyone can buy a ticket, sit at a table and answer questions along with them. Previous events have boasted folks from Powderfinger, Ball Park Music, The Jungle Giants, The GoBetweens, Dune Rats, DZ Deathrays, The Kite String Tangle, Butterfingers, Last Dinosaurs, The Chats and more, because you never know which music figures might be involved on the night. Guests change each show, but the past lineup has also spanned Robert Irwin, Kate Miller-Heidke, Ben Lee and Steven Bradbury, as well as Trent Dalton, Ranger Stacey, Mel Buttle and Ian 'Dicko' Dickson. And as for the quiz itself, it's accompanied by chats about the music industry, plus other mini games involving attendees. NOT ON YOUR RIDER 2023 DATES: Thursday, March 30 — The Triffid Thursday, April 27 — The Triffid Thursday, May 25 — The Triffid Thursday, June 29 — The Triffid Thursday, July 27 — The Triffid Thursday, August 31 — The Triffid Thursday, September 28 — The Triffid Thursday, October 26 — The Triffid Thursday, November 23 — The Triffid Thursday, December 14 — The Triffid
As temperatures soar over the summer, it can be hard to keep fit. No matter how early you go, your morning jogs are stifling. You hardly feel like moving. And it's way too hot for your usual weekend hike. More often than not, you'll find that you just want to head indoors and stay cool — but that doesn't mean your workouts need to take a hit. From team sports to solo workouts, there's a tonne of options in Brisbane for keeping fit over the summer. Check out how you can beat the heat with these eight indoor workouts — and not one of them takes place at a traditional gym. URBAN XTREME, HENDRA Bet you didn't know you could go skiing in Brisbane. At Urban Xtreme, you can try your hand at snowboarding or skiing, and brush up on your skills without having to brave the cold or even leaving the city. The slopes features full-length mirrors so you can check out and improve your technique, and its suitable for all levels of experience. As if this isn't enough, Urban Xtreme also features parkour, climbing, a ninja warrior course, trampolining and laser tag. That should just about fill out your summer with midweek active activities. URBAN CLIMB, MILTON, NEWSTEAD AND WEST END Urban Climb has a number of climbing gyms in Brisbane. Milton and Newstead are bouldering-only gyms (short, unroped climbs that don't require a partner), while West End is the flagship location with both roped climbing and bouldering facilities, and heaps of fitness and technique classes. Or mix it up and combine the powerful movements of climbing with the intuitive flow of yoga in a single workout — there are heaps morning and evening yoga classes at West End, and Urban Milton even has a self-serve yoga booth if you can't make the classes. Once you're there, staff will have you sending routes like Alex Honnold in no time. It's an extremely popular climbing gym, so you'll never be in want of a belay partner. STAFFORD SKATE CENTRE, STAFFORD Roller skating is both a charming old-school blast from the past and a novel way to exercise. If it's been a while since you've tied up your skates, head into Stafford Skate Centre for a session on the weekend or a Friday evening. The evening sessions are an especially good option for avoiding the sweltering temperatures — but, whenever you go, the centre's huge fan will be keeping you cool with you skate. If you're serious about getting fancy, the rink also holds learn to skate classes on Saturday mornings and Wednesday evenings, which means you'll be scooting around South Bank like a pro in no time. So, don your most flamboyant duds and get rolling — admission is only $13. ICEWORLD, ACACIA RIDGE AND BOONDALL When you really need to beat the heat, there's nothing as ice-cold as ice skating. It's fun with friends or a date, but you can also zoom around solo and still have a great time. Iceworld boasts Olympic-sized rinks at both of its locations. And, if you're a little wobbly, classes are available. You can also try your hand at ice hockey, curling, speed skating, synchronised skating, and figure skating. Which is enough to keep anyone occupied all year round. Wear your gloves and a warm coat and, if you really want to pretend it's winter, you can even get a hot chocolate at the cafe afterwards. CRANK INDOOR CLIMBING, MACGREGOR If you're an Australian Ninja Warrior fan, you have to pop into Crank for your next workout. Crank has produced several of the show's top performing ninjas, and you can even get some training from them at Crank's in-house ninja warrior course on Wednesday nights. Crank also boasts a small traditional gym, a parkour gym, as well as yoga classes, a ceiling rope and, of course, climbing and bouldering — so it's really a one-stop shop for anyone into alternative fitness. With huge industrial fans throughout the venue, it's also nice and cool throughout summer. BOUNCE, TINGALPA Trampolining is a high intensity activity and a great choice for ramping up your cardiovascular fitness. It's also a total throwback to your childhood, which is reason enough to hit Bounce for a session the summer. Bounce features several specialised trampolines, so whether you want to jump high, do an obstacle course, shoot hoops or whack people with beams, there's something for you. Even 10-30 minutes of jumping has huge health benefits, so it's a good post-work activity for a quick heart rate lift. SKYZONE, MACGREGOR Having trouble deciding between rock climbing and trampolining? There's no need to at Skyzone in Macgregor. Loosen up with an hour on the tramps, then finish with an hour of concentrated climbing for around $34. The climbing section of the gym is less serious than other climbing gyms and is more about novelty than anything else — you can climb up a giant twisting plant like Jack and the beanstalk, try your hand at a maze climb or compete for glory on a two-person speed climb. It's open until 9pm throughout the week, so you can do an after-work summer session. And if you're on a budget, Skyzone has cheap as chips unlimited trampolining on Monday nights for just $10. ROCKSPORTS INDOOR CLIMBING, FORTITUDE VALLEY Rock climbing is a full-body workout that's becoming more popular by the day — probably because it feels more like play than fitness. And even if you don't have a climbing buddy on-hand, it's suitable for a solo session, too — just ditch the rope for a bouldering pad. Rocksports was Brisbane's first climbing gym and has a chill and welcoming atmosphere — and it offers technical classes and yoga sessions to complement your climb. Once you get good, you also have the option of taking things outdoors with lead climbing trips taught by qualified instructors.
One of Brisbane's historic sites is enjoying a new life. Since 1889, the building at 271 Grey Street in South Brisbane has been a police station, a squatter's den and a Spaghetti House, as well as a Ship Inn and, most recently, Little Big House. In its new guise, the two-level Queenslander remains a watering hole. It's still benefiting from the significant spruce up that the building received as Little Big House, in fact. But head by now for a drink, a bite or to while away an afternoon doing both and you'll be hitting up a London-inspired gastropub. Alex Derrick has taken over the heritage-listed spot, renamed it The Rose & Crown and gleaned inspiration from more than two decades spent in Britain — including working in pubs, and winning awards for doing so. "I fell in love with two things in the UK: the great British pub and my wife Bella," he advises. "So much so, I changed my plans for a career in medicine and started operating some of the first gastropubs in London. These were pubs that really took food seriously, using the best available seasonal ingredients and producing a small but ever-changing menu." "At the time this was a revelation," Derrick continues. "The secret was keeping the informal atmosphere of a local pub, not trying to be fancy or pretentious but blowing customer expectations out of the water with restaurant-quality food." Gastropubs may no longer be new; however, Derrick's addition to Brisbane's pub scene upon his return to Queensland still takes the idea seriously. He calls The Rose & Crown "a place you can feel at home in, whether you are looking for a three-course freshly cooked meal or a spontaneous pint with a mate". "I really want to recreate the famous feel of a good British pub where regulars love bringing friends to their local and staying up later than they should, having a ball — a true home away from home." Drop in for a drink and you can get a brew of cask beer, with The Rose & Crown the only place in Queensland pouring it straight from the cask. In digs decked out by the aforementioned Bella Derrick, an interior stylist — complete with nods to the UK, of course, and a new three-metre olive tree taking pride of place in the garden — you can also sip your way through the 40-selection wine list, which includes pudding wine. Or, there's the pub's house lager, a heap of other beers on tap and by the bottle, two types of spritzes, and classic cocktails such as margaritas and gimlets. The food menu owes a debt to Britain, naturally, with Head Chef Kevin Honeywood also experienced working in the UK. Expect to tuck into scotch eggs, homemade steak and ale pies, pork scratchings, grilled sardine and tomato tarts, beer-battered fish with mushy peas, and Cumberland sausages with mashed potato and onion gravy. Every Sunday, roast dinners are available all day — in beef, chicken and nut varieties, complete with Yorkshire puddings — while dessert options span sticky date pudding and treacle tart. Open since the end of February, The Rose & Crown also hosts a weekly pub quiz. Prefer belting out a tune instead (whether or not it is by a British artist)? Make a date with the karaoke room. Screens around the place show sport, while live music is on the bill. Also, soaking in a London vibe here comes far cheaper than an airfare to the other side of the world. Find The Rose & Crown at 271 Grey Street, South Brisbane — open from 11am–10pm Monday–Wednesday, 11am–12am Thursday–Saturday and 11am–9pm Sunday. Head to the venue's website for more details. Images: Axis Productions.
Fancy prancing through fields laced with the charm of provincial France? It's just casual summer weekendery when So Frenchy So Chic is in town. The ever-popular one-day French festival is waltzing back to Melbourne in 2021, although this time there'll be a few changes. If you haven't been before, expect an entire afternoon of French-inspired niceties, including (but not limited to) gourmet picnic hampers, top-notch tipples and a chill French soundtrack. But, this particular event has been badged 'Le Long Lunch', rather than being called a festival. From 11am on Sunday, February 21 at Rippon Lea House and Gardens, you'll listen to tunes from Tame Impala's Julien Barbagallo, ex-Paris street musician Nadéah, Melbourne-based five-piece Bananagun, Melbourne DJ Mike Gurrieri and So Frenchy So Chic founder Jean-François Ponthieux. And, you'll do so in a group with your mates — because, to stick to social distancing requirements, tickets are only being sold in lots of six or ten. This picnic is fully catered and licensed, too, with So Frenchy putting on the works. You can pre-order a picnic box, or grab something from Frederic, Romu, Tarts Anon, Milk The Cow and L'Hôtel Gitan on the day. As for drinks, expect French champagne and beer from Laurent Perrier and Kronenbourg 1664. Images: Max Kruse.
Attention all wannabe heroes: something big is coming. This March, much-loved comic company Marvel will bring its world-class Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. exhibition to Melbourne. The immersive exhibition, held at Federation Square, will give would-be caped crusaders the chance to delve into the history, engineering, genetics and technology behind Captain America, Hulk, Thor, Iron Man and the rest of their superhero team. Visitors will also undergo training, as if they were learning to become agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., and can explore bespoke equipment and costumes including the Hulkbuster suit, Captain America's uniform and shield, Iron Man's MK armor and Thor's hammer, Mjölnir. Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. combines complex science and technology, developed by Marvel to help bring the successful film franchise to life. Space agency NASA have also contributed to the interactive experience, helping to enhance its scientific authenticity. After successful stints in cities including New York, Seoul and Paris, the exhibition will now head down under for the very first time. Organisers hope it will be an epic fan experience as well as a way to pique visitor interest in real-world science and technology. Earlier this year Marvel broke records when it brought its Creating the Cinematic Universe exhibition to Brisbane, drawing in close to 270,000 fans. Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. is expected to be even bigger. Marvel's Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. will open at Federation Square in March 2018. More information on ticketing will roll out in the coming months – you can sign up for updates here.
Gender bias is, unfortunately, a thing that people identifying as women (i.e. 50 percent of the population) deal with on a regular basis. A lot of the time it's so culturally ingrained, it goes mostly unnoticed — so one of the ways gender equality activists and groups often raise awareness about the issue is by pointing out the small, every day inequalities and making the population think about them. Like when you're standing at the traffic lights waiting for the little man to turn green. But if you're in Melbourne today — look up. For International Women's Day, ten of the CBD's pedestrian crossing traffic lights will not depict the standard male sign, but a female one. The project — which will see ten pedestrian crossing lights around the Swanston and Flinders intersection change from male to female representation — has been led (and funded) by local business and community non-profit organisation the Committee for Melbourne. "The idea is to install traffic lights with female representation, as well as male representation, to help reduce unconscious bias," committee chief executive Martine Letts told ABC News. Though a small change — and one that is largely symbolic, particularly on International Women's Day — the symbols are supposed to be a meaningful way to give women more ownership over public space. The aim of the committee, says Letts, is to get one-to-one male and female representation. Of course, not all female-identifying people wear skirts or necessarily feel represented by what is a traditional sign used to symbolise the split between male and female. Nonetheless, seeing a little green woman as you cross Flinders Street is a bit of a novelty — and one that could stick around for a while. The project is apparently supported by the Victorian Government and will remain in place for a 12-month trial. Via ABC News. Image: Committee for Melbourne/Twitter.
Clear your diary, grab your sneakers and prepare to get busy, boombastic and nostalgic — another new music festival is coming to southeast Queensland, with Shaggy and Sean Paul topping the bill. After attracting more than 20,000 festival-goers each year for the past decade, New Zealand's huge One Love Festival is making its first-ever trip across the ditch. The reggae-focused fest will debut in Australia on Saturday, February 1, 2020, taking over Southport's Broadwater Parklands for a day of Jamaican-influenced tunes. Yes, the festival is taking place in the summertime — and yes, Shaggy is bound to sing that classic track — however he'll have plenty of company when he hits the waterside stage. As well as Sean Paul, the lineup also includes old-school reggae stars Toots and the Maytals, Polynesia's Fiji and New Zealand's Sons of Zion, as well as 1814, Third World, Lion Rezz, Paua and the One Love DJs. The one-day Gold Coast leg — which will take place a week after the 2020 New Zealand fest — marks the fifth new music festival headed to the region in the next six months. It's clearly a great time for fans of massive outdoor live music gigs, with the XXXX brewery hosting its first music festival in mid-November, Coolangatta welcoming beachside fest Sandtunes at the end of that month, Calvin Harris and Armin van Buuren hitting up Brisbane for Festival X at the same time, and Wildlands arriving in Brissie just before the end of the year. One Love Festival will take place on Saturday, February 1, 2020, at Southport's Broadwater Parklands on the Gold Coast. Tickets go on sale on Wednesday, September 11 at Oneloveaustralia.com.
Black Friday and its super-cheap sales only come once a year. Use the occasion to score a bargain holiday, however, and the memories will last a lifetime. Thanks to Virgin's addition to the 2022 shopping frenzy, you have options — whether you're happy to explore Australian destinations or fancy a getaway further afield. A whopping 500,000 fares are currently up for grabs as part of the airline's Black Friday, Bright Holidays sale, covering a heap of Aussie and international spots. Sticking with home turf, you can head to Byron Bay, the Whitsundays, the Sunshine Coast, Cairns, Hamilton Island, Alice Springs, Hobart and more. And, if you're eager to journey overseas, you can hit up Bali, Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu and Queenstown. With discounts of up to 30-percent off, one-way domestic fares start at $55, which'll get you from Sydney to Byron Bay. As always, that's cheapest route. Other cheap flights include Brisbane to either Cairns for $89 and Hamilton Island for $99, Melbourne to the Sunshine Coast from $109, Adelaide to the Gold Coast from $125 and Perth to Hobart from $189. Internationally, both one-way and return flights are on offer — with return deals including Sydney to Fiji from $469, Brisbane to Vanuatu from $539 and Melbourne to Queenstown from $489. If you're wondering when you'll need to travel, there's a range of dates from January–June 2023, all varying depending on the flights and prices. As usual when it comes to flight sales, you'll need to get in quick. Virgin's discounted fares are now on offer until midnight on Tuesday, November 29 or sold out, whichever arrives first. Virgin's Black Friday, Bright Holidays sale runs until midnight AEST on Tuesday, November 29 — or until sold out. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
If Four Lions, Nightcrawler and Rogue One haven't already made you a fan of Riz Ahmed, then The Night Of will. The British actor is phenomenal in the tense eight-part mini-series, putting in the type of quietly potent performance that he has become known for across his career, and also winning himself a well-deserved Emmy Award in the process. Ahmed plays Pakistani American college student Nasir 'Naz' Khan. When a young woman is murdered on New York City's Upper West Side, he's accused of the crime — with hardworking lawyer John Stone (John Turturro) enlisted to try to prove his innocence. If someone made an entire series that just featured Ahmed and Turturro chatting, it'd be must-see TV. Based on the first season of UK series Criminal Justice, The Night Of delivers much more than merely its two leads talking, but it also makes the most of its stars.
The Taste Riverina Festival sees the region's producers come together in a month-long celebration of local food from October 1 through 31. The curated program spans agricultural tours, cooking demonstrations, food treks and beer and wine tastings, along with your requisite degustation dinners, farmers markets and cafe specials available around town. Riverina is know for its diverse range of local produce, including rice, citrus, olive oil, lamb and beer — to name a few. The region's plentiful vineyards will be offering up cellar door tastings paired with music and food to boot. There will be whole meals dedicated to salami and the Ploughman's Lunch, along with a food and art fusion exhibition. Bush tucker tours, pool parties and pub crawls round out the jam-packed program that is sure to leave your belly satisfied.
If you haven't yet had the chance to check out Oche, Fortitude Valley's new electronic darts bar, then consider this your excuse. From midday on Saturday, January 18, the two-level Constance Street joint is donating the entire day's profits to bushfire relief efforts. Chuck darts, help those in need — that's how it'll all play out. Calling the day-long event Bullseye for the Bush, the venue has another trick up its sleeves, too. For every bullseye that someone gets, it'll donate an extra $100 as well. Better start practising your dart-throwing now. Funds will be donated to the Australian Bushfire Appeal, including proceeds from karma kegs provided by Stone and Wood and Two Suns Lager. And if you're wondering just what's on the agenda at Oche in general — aka what you'll be spending your cash on — expect a variety of different electronic darts games, all on boards that look exactly as you expect. There's also an outdoor terrace, two separate bars and a food menu overseen by Ben Williamson (Gerard's Bar).
Industrial meets rustic at Coorparoo's newest eatery, and restaurant meets function space too. Factory 51's origins are all there in its name, after all. Now, the red brick building that everything from metal fabricators to enamel painters to laminex manufacturers have previously called home has become a warm, welcoming bistro and bar with its very own party and meeting venue. Indeed, you can't escape Factory 51's history when you walk in the doors, with an original cast iron band saw the first thing that greets patrons. Concrete, brick and steel-heavy décor keeps the mechanised theme going, but don't expect food to match. As you can see while watch your meals get made — and guess from the inviting fairy lights and cosy deck with a retractable roof — all things hearty and tasty have pride of place on this menu. Gastropub-like nibbles, salads and share plates including a delectable-sounding baked camembert board kick off the edible side of things; however an imported wood-fired oven and char grill are the main attraction in Factory 51's open kitchen. It shouldn't come as a surprise, then, that lunch means burgers and steaks, or that dinner means seared meats and ten types of pizzas made with 48-hour fermented dough. For dessert fiends, the latter also boasts a Nutella option, while anyone after an accompanying tipple can enjoy one of ten brews on tap, or browse the extensive cocktail, wine and spirits lists. Now that's our kind of factory.
There's a wonderfully authentic innocence about the circus. The combination of childish comedy mixed with the professionalism of performers is a sure way to keep you enthused and entertained, even more so when you become involved in the performance concept. After impressing crowds at the Adelaide Fringe Festival, Brisbane’s new contemporary circus company Casus treat local audiences to their stunning premiere work with their latest performance, Knee Deep. Knee Deep invites the audience to re-imagine notions of limitation. Throughout this journey, the artists demonstrate that delicacy does not necessarily equate to fragility, although it is often a fine line to tread. The circus's four performers explore the boundaries of strength and tenderness. Bodies are pushed and pulled, weighed and tested, probing the limits of both physicality and feeling to question your stance of limitation and boundary. When was the last time you took a break from life's boring debacles? Jump on the fun bandwagon and brighten your grin with Casus's brilliant circus.
It's blast from the past time, again — and time to spend a couple of nights journeying back a few decades just by hitting the dance floor. Whether you lived through the 90s rave scene, spent every weekend enjoying club life in the 00s or just wish you were old enough to have ticked both boxes, Ministry of Sound will take you there when its huge Testament parties return for 2025. Ministry of Sound itself was around through both eras, so you couldn't be in better hands to get retro via old-school 90s and 00s bangers. The Testament events also toured Australia in 2023 and 2024, and will return for another year — including for two nights in Brisbane on Friday, April 4 and Friday, April 11. Each evening is devoted to either the 90s or the 00s, so you'll need to attend both if you want to make shapes to tunes from both decades. But it's a choose-your-own-adventure type of affair, which means that fans of late 20th-century beats can hit up the session dedicated to 90s house, rave, trance and garage tracks if that's all that you're keen on, while lovers of 00s electro and breaks get their own shindig. The DJ lineup is headlined by international acts such as Paul Oakenfold, Roger Sanchez, Felix Da Housecat, Graeme Park, Krafty Kuts, Plump DJs, Smokin Jo and Utah Saints. Australia's own John Course, Sgt Slick, Minx and Mark Dynamix are also on the bill, alongside over 60 other names across the tour. Your destination: Superordinary, with the 00s night taking over on the first week and the 90s evening on the second.
Adelaide songsmith Jesse Davidson has been called prodigious and a wunderkind — and those Jeff Buckley comparisons just won't shake. This June and July, Davidson's taking his minimalist acoustics and dreamy vocals on tour, his first solo effort. The tour is set to draw a considerable loyal following who'll want seriously in-grill "I saw Jesse Davidson before anyone" bragging rights. Since being a runner-up in triple j's 2012 Unearthed High competition, the 18 year old has been signed for a Warner development deal, toured with Mac DeMarco and Ball Park Music, co-headlined with Eves, been signed to booking agency Select Music, finished school and released his debut EP Ocean — making you feel really great about having a good few years on him and feeling terribly unaccomplished in comparison. Davidson will play tunes from the Ocean EP, including 'Flaws' and the buoyant 'Big Bois Gotta Eat'. If you can brave the frosty winter nights, his deep baritone — mature beyond his years — is sure to warm you up. https://youtube.com/watch?v=hR4b_JAg7KI
It has been a big few weeks in the sporting world, thanks to everything from Wimbledon to the European Football Championships. Australia's own football codes have been ticking along despite COVID-19 outbreaks, too. But, this week, the biggest event in global sport will commence for the first time in five years. That'd be the Olympics, obviously. After being postponed for a year due to the pandemic, the 2020 Tokyo games will finally take place from Friday, July 23–Sunday, August 8. There won't be any spectators onsite due to the pandemic, with neither overseas travellers nor local residents permitted to attend; however, Queenslanders can still watch along locally — including when they're out of the house. Pubs will be screening the Olympics, of course, and so will a heap of pop-up sites around the state. As part of an event called Olympics Live, screens will be set up at a number of locations, including at South Bank's Riverside Green from Wednesday, July 21. Also getting into the spirit: Kurrawa Beach on the Gold Coast, Kings Beach Amphitheatre on the Sunshine Coast and The Esplanade in Cairns, which'll also celebrate the games for the same period. The event will pop up at Tulmur Place in Ipswich's Nicholas Street Precinct and Walton Stores in Toowoomba from Friday, July 23–Sunday, August 8, and in the Bloomfield Street Park in Cleveland from Saturday, July 24–Sunday, August 8 as well. Attendees will be able to hit up the outdoor hubs to get their Olympics fix — and, if you've noticed that some of the sites will start screening before the opening ceremony, that's because they're setting up early to hopefully celebrate Brisbane's bid for the 2032 games. The 2020 games do actually begin some events on Wednesday, July 21; however, that's also the date that the International Olympic Committee is expected to announce who'll be hosting the 2032 event. The Queensland capital looks poised to land the games, with Brisbane named the preferred host for the Games of the XXXV Olympiad back in February. It also received an endorsement from the International Olympic Committee Executive Board in June, so now the IOC itself just has to vote to make it all official tomorrow. https://twitter.com/AnnastaciaMP/status/1416998538001539072 If Brisbane does indeed get the nod as widely anticipated, Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced that the city will be celebrating instantly. Fireworks will be set off from river barges and CBD buildings when the news comes through. Brisbane's buildings, bridges and City Hall will also be lit up in green and gold hues as well. It's expected that the news will be announced between 6–7pm Brisbane time, if you're wondering when Brissie might start partying. Olympics Live will pop up at South Bank's Riverside Green from Wednesday, July 21–Sunday, August 8 — and at Kurrawa Beach on the Gold Coast, Kings Beach Amphitheatre on the Sunshine Coast and The Esplanade in Cairns for the same period. It'll also pop up at Tulmur Place in Ipswich's Nicholas Street Precinct and Walton Stores in Toowoomba from Friday, July 23–Sunday, August 8, and in the Bloomfield Street Park in Cleveland from Saturday, July 24–Sunday, August 8.
Southeast Queensland isn't lacking Mexican joints. But, still, it's set to get another dose of colourful, unapologetic Tex-Mex when El Camino Cantina opens its third local outpost in Robina on Wednesday, July 22. El Camino already has spots in Bowen Hills and Chermside — and Sydney and Melbourne, too — and is part of Rockpool Dining Group, which also owns Sake, Beerhaus, The Bavarian, Munich Brauhaus and WingHaus. If you've been to the chain already, you'll know this casual dining venue is loud, colourful, and filled with over-the-top with giant cocktails, rock 'n' roll jukeboxes and lively Tex-Mex fare. The new El Camino — which will be located on The Promenade dining strip at Robina Town Centre — will hold 280 patrons, including in a rowdy neon-lit dining room, as well as an outdoor area that has room for 175 people to spill out in front of the restaurant. Slushie machines signal big nights and brain freezes, with El Camino's margaritas coming in multiple sizes and renditions — such as a tropical Red Bull flavour, which really says it all. Other options include a host of beers from near and far, and a sizeable collection of mezcals and tequilas. The food lineup is as fun and casual as the drinks. Think fiery buffalo wings, sizzling fajitas, plump burritos, soft shell tacos loaded with punchy flavour combinations, and unlimited complimentary corn chips and salsas. It'll also have El Camino's signature specials, including $2 tacos on Tuesdays and ten-cent wings on Wednesdays. El Camino Cantina will open at Robina Town Centre, Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina at 4pm on Wednesday, July 22. Images: El Camino Cantina Manly by Tom Ferguson.
Goodbye Shiv Roy, hello Dorian Gray — plus every other character in Oscar Wilde's gothic-literature masterpiece. That's Sarah Snook's current path. The Australian Succession star is swapping the hit HBO drama, which wrapped up forever with its just-aired four season, with a stage date with the sinister portrait that lets its subject stay young and beautiful. And, she's playing every single role in the production. On the page, The Picture of Dorian Gray is exceptional, as well as astute and unnerving, as it follows the selling of its namesake's soul in order to keep indulging every corporeal whim, urge and desire. There's a reason that it just keeps getting adapted for the screen and in theatres, after all. But there's never been a version like Sydney Theatre Company's The Picture of Dorian Gray, which is the iteration that Snook will star in — in the UK's West End. [caption id="attachment_896386" align="alignnone" width="1920"] HBO[/caption] This news is two huge announcements in one: Snook's return to the London stage after debut in the 2016 production of The Master Builder, and this Aussie reworking of Oscar Wilde's classic making its UK premiere. With its high-profile star, The Picture of Dorian Gray is headed to The Theatre Royal Haymarket, with a season from Tuesday, January 23–Saturday, April 13, 2024 locked in. Premiering in Sydney 2020, this take on the tale uses video and theatre to get its star playing 26 characters. In Australian runs, Eryn Jean Norvill has done the honours, and brilliantly, with Snook following in the actor's footsteps abroad. "I am elated to return to the London stage in such an astonishing piece of theatre," said Snook. "From Oscar Wilde's remarkable original text to Kip Williams' stunning adaptation, this story of morality, innocence, narcissism and consequence is going to be thrilling to recreate for a new audience. I can't wait." Williams, who adapted Wilde's text into the phenomenal production and also directs, is heading to the UK as well. "In creating a new piece of theatre like The Picture of Dorian Gray, you always hope to have the opportunity to share it with a wider audience. I am so excited for theatre lovers in London to experience our show, and am thrilled to have the extraordinary Sarah Snook bringing to life the many characters of Oscar Wilde's remarkable story." [caption id="attachment_856346" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dan Boud[/caption] Taking the show to London is part of a partnership between STC and Michael Cassel Group, which is all about sharing the former's works around the globe. A similar path — from Australia to the UK, but originating from the Griffin Theatre Company — has worked out spectacularly for Prima Facie, with the British production starring Killing Eve's Jodie Comer winning Best New Play and Best Actress at the 2023 Laurence Olivier Awards. On-screen, Snook will next be seen in straight-to-streaming films Run Rabbit Run and The Beanie Bubble. Check out a trailer for STC's Australian seasons of The Picture of Dorian Gray starring Norville below: The Picture of Dorian Gray will play The Theatre Royal Haymarket, 18 Suffolk Street, London from Tuesday, January 23–Saturday, April 13, 2024 — for more information and tickets, head to the venue's website. Top image: Alexi Lubomirski.
‘Frenzy’ is a word that conjures up a sense of chaotic, energetic movement – a kind of mindless consumption or fulfillment of base needs and instincts. It’s this primal nature that underpins FRENZY, a collaborative exhibition by young artists Eric Sesto and Ben Shih. Their art is driven by impulse and intuition, capturing honest reactions to the constant balancing act between culture and counter-culture, societal norms and individualism. Both artists’ work shows fluid movement and form that complement each other, creating a conversation throughout the exhibition. Sesto uses watercolour, sketch, pastel and acrylic to create softly-coloured, dreamlike forms, mixing human figures with landscapes and objects. Shih twists familiar scenes and shapes into impressionistic creations with bold, dramatic expanses of colour. FRENZY exhibits at The Hold Artspace from 19 to 22 August, with an opening event on 21 August. Image: Eric Sesto, 'Creation Dialogue', 2015, watercolour and coloured pencil.
In case there was still anyone out there who thought donning a Native American style headdress was a totally appropriate, acceptable, fun-loving thing to do, one of the world's biggest music festivals has just laid down the law. Glastonbury has officially banned the sale of these offensive accessories from their 2015 festival. The decision announced today comes after a well-researched Change.org petition was submitted to the festival's organisers. Though it only gained a humble 65 signatures, the petition made some salient arguments that have been echoed by most of the world for the last few years. "[Wearing these headdresses] is an offensive and disrespectful form of cultural appropriation," the petition read. "It homogenises diverse indigenous peoples, and perpetuates damaging, archaic and racist stereotypes." Amen. Though cultural appropriation is still a contentious topic with no hard and fast answers (see: bindis/everything to do with Miley Cyrus), most people are on the same page in regards to headdresses — well, everyone except Harry Styles. And, if the thought of being on the same side of this debate as One Direction didn't irk you out enough, trust us, there are a lot of other reasons to stand against it. Though a couple of other festivals around the world (including Australia's own "no dickheads" darling Meredith) have banned these headdresses from being worn at all, the new ban at Glastonbury will only relate to their sale. Though we'd obviously rather they get rid of them completely, it's a great step in the right direction. Last month, Glastonbury was declared "the most influential festival on the planet" after a survey conducted by Spotify. Here's hoping this policy proves as popular as their headline acts. Via Music Feeds. Photo credit: Shell Daruwala via photopin cc and Hipsters in Headresses.
Sure, going back to the office has its perks — you get to catch up with your work pals and help yourself to the free coffee. But, for some, it can also be a bit of a drag. After all, we've just spent months gussying up our WFH offices, spending more time with our pets and, let's face it, not having to commute was pretty dreamy. And sometimes you just want to be living your best working life in track pants, we get it. To help get you excited about being back in the physical rat race, we've teamed up with Australian Cocktail Month to bring you seven after-work activities that'll get you through the nine to five. From knock-off drinks to cheese-making workshops and letting lose in a dance class, these are sure to beat any back-to-office blues. SIP A-CLASS TIPPLES Enjoy a well-earned drink after work? Then head to the inaugural Australian Cocktail Month to support local bartenders and bars who've had it pretty rough over the past year. Running throughout May, the event is taking over 72 bars across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide — you can find out your locals over here. Australian Cocktail Month is partnering with liquor brands to serve up speciality cocktails for $14 a pop, plus non-alcoholic drinks for a tenner. But first you must get yourself a $20 ticket, which unlocks the entire month of offers. Then, head on down to a participating bar and show your ticket. After that? Well, bottoms up and cheers to Australia's hospitality industry. [caption id="attachment_791359" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Omnom[/caption] LIVE OUT YOUR WILDEST CHEESE DREAMS WITH A CHEESE-MAKING CLASS If you're a hardcore cheese lover, no doubt you've tucked in to a wheel of brie or stinky gorgonzola after a hard day's work. Instead of simply buying — and eating — your one true cheesy love, why not book yourself in to a cheese-making workshop? With help from experts, you'll get your hands into the dairy and learn the basics, such as how to prepare and curdle the milk, cut the curd and salt the cheese. In Sydney, Rosebery's Omnom hosts regular classes on making ricotta, haloumi and a standout burrata and bocconcini one. The aptly named Cheesemaking offers intensive workshops around the country and will show you how to make various gourmet dairy delights. And, in Melbourne, CERES runs a heap of workshops throughout the year, including classes where you'll make vegan, cheddar and blue cheese. [caption id="attachment_723106" align="alignnone" width="1920"] MYST Escape[/caption] BOND WITH YOUR COWORKERS IN AN ESCAPE ROOM What could bring coworkers closer together than solving puzzles to escape to your freedom? These interactive experiences will transport you through films, history, space and time — and it's up to your team to make it back to reality. So, we'd say it's a pretty good bonding experience. If you're a Sydneysider, you can check out our top nine picks here or make a beeline to Glebe's MYST Escape, which claims to be 'Australia's largest escape room complex'. In Brisbane, the CBD's Fox in a Box is home to themed rooms like prison cells, war bunkers and zombie labs. Or, you can become a spy, pirate or detective at Escape Hunt Brisbane. For Melburnians, head to TRAPT Bar & Escape Rooms to find your way back to Kansas in a Wizard of Oz game, or enter the school of magic at the Harry Potter-inspired Mystery Rooms, with locations in Fitzroy and Collingwood. [caption id="attachment_689129" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cork & Chroma[/caption] CHANNEL YOUR INNER ARTIST AT A PAINT AND SIP SESSION Yes, we've seen the trend of painting while sipping wine grow in the past few years — and it looks like it's here to stay. After all, who doesn't want to channel their inner Picasso? Plus, it's a great way to unwind and forget about the day that's been. Cork & Chroma has locations across Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne and is one of the more popular studios around. Or, attempt your own rendition of Gogh's 'The Starry Night' at Life with Paint, which also has studio spaces across Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne. [caption id="attachment_785738" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Crossover Dance[/caption] SHAKE OFF THE WORK WOES BY DANCING Make like Taylor Swift and shake off any work stresses by heading to an after-work dance class. Not only will you cut some serious shapes, but you'll also get some sweet endorphins from all that moving and shaking. If you'd rather bust moves in your own home, we recommend 80s-themed online dance workouts from Retrosweat — just be sure to put on your leotard and leg warmers. Sydneysiders are lucky enough to be able to attend Retrosweat's IRL classes, too. Or, you can head over to inner city K-pop studio Crossover Dance. In Brisbane, get your hips moving in a 50-minute class at Rio Rhythmics or give ballet a go at Mad Dance House. Melburnians can get down with a casual jazz or hip hop class at the Dance Factory or try some burlesque at Bottoms Up studio. HAVE A SUNSET PICNIC For those who like the great outdoors, picnics are no doubt a favourite pastime. And, in our opinion, there's no better time to have one than at twilight. So pack the snacks and a few cold ones, grab your mates and head to a picturesque spot to watch the sun go down — just be sure to bring some cosy clothes. There are plenty of good picnic spots no matter what city you live in. In fact, we've rounded up our go-to spots in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, should you need any inspiration. CATCH A LOCAL COMEDY SHOW They say laughter is the best medicine, so why not catch a local comedy show? Whether you're a fan of watching live comedy or dabble in stand-up yourself, it's likely to cure those back-to-office woes. In Sydney, you can check out Underground Comedy Club at queer-friendly pub The Imperial Hotel, or hit up comedy-centric theatre Giant Dwarf at its new Surry Hills digs. In Brisbane, catch regular improv and sketch comedy nights at Big Fork Theatre or head to Sit Down Comedy Club to see some big names in the stand-up game. And Melburnians can catch some late-night laughs at Spleen Bar, stand-up at Lido Comedy or comedic quizzes at Comedy Republic. Australian Cocktail Month is taking over top bars across the Australia from May 1–31. To buy your ticket, and for the full list of participating bars, head here. Top image: Double Deuce Lounge, Kimberley Low
Slumbering surrounded by red kangaroos, emus, echidnas and koalas just got cosier, and more targeted to couples keen on an animal-filled getaway without their mates in tow. Up at Australia Zoo, the Queensland tourist attraction has been welcoming overnight guests to Beerwah since 2022, launching The Crocodile Hunter Lodge with two-bedroom cabins. Now, it's expanded its accommodation options to include one-bedroom spaces, adding four new rustic lodges. If you're keeping count, that gives Australia Zoo 12 cabins in total now, all tailored for memorable and unique holidays. Here, patrons can visit the zoo, check out all creatures great and small, then stay the evening. There's even a wild group of eastern grey kangaroos that are seen hopping around the place each day. The four new one-bedroom 'Red Kangaroo' cabins come complete with wraparound decks that peer out over the site's bushland surroundings, as well as the wildlife within it. Expect to spy microbats, owls, kookaburras, possums and parrots, too, with nest boxes placed around the lodges to create homes for each. Also included: king-size beds, kitchens in each cabin, heated floors, smart TVs in the lounge, private carports and stone bathtubs for post-zoo soaks. Plus, guests all get access to The Billabong, the Crocodile Hunter Lodge's 25-metre infinity pool, which also looks out over the native wildlife. "We're delighted to introduce four wonderful one-bedroom cabins for guests, which will help us cater to groups of different sizes," said Terri Irwin. "The Lodge offers a unique and immersive experience that not only reflects on our conservation work, but honours Steve's important dream to connect people with wildlife and encourage them to become true conservationists." Whichever size cabin you stay in, your visit comes with unlimited Australia Zoo entry, where more than 1200 animals await — and a peek inside the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital. Getaways here still don't come cheap, though, with prices starting at around $949 for an overnight visit for two adults. For larger groups planning a visit, three-bedroom cabins will also join the site in 2023, with an exact opening date yet to be revealed. When it first opened its doors, The Crocodile Hunter Lodge launched alongside the zoo's Warrior Restaurant & Bar, if you're looking for somewhere to grab a bite during your trip. Boasting a focus on Aussie cuisine, locally sourced ingredients, and paying homage to Indigenous Australians and the plants that have long been part of First Nations diets, it welcomes in lodge guests and general punters for breakfast, lunch or dinner, and also for group bookings in its private dining room. The Crocodile Hunter Lodge's grounds also spans more than 3000 native trees and shrubs, including greenery that provides food for species such as the endangered glossy black cockatoo, with sustainability and conservation is a big focus. Find The Crocodile Hunter Lodge at 88 Irwin Road, Beerwah, Queensland. For further information, or to make a booking, visit the venue's website.
When Inside popped up on Australia's film festival circuit in 2024, including at the Melbourne International Film Festival, SXSW Sydney Screen Fest and Brisbane International Film Festival, it was instantly one of the must-see homegrown titles doing the rounds. If you didn't catch it then, the Guy Pearce (The Clearing)-, Cosmo Jarvis (Shōgun)- and Toby Wallace (The Bikeriders)-starring thriller should be at the top of your to-watch list in 2025 when it hits local cinemas in February — and it has just dropped its trailer to demonstrate why. Fresh from earning a well-deserved Golden Globe nomination for The Brutalist — and likely on track for an Oscar nomination for the same role, too — Guy Pearce (The Clearing) leads the prison-set film as Warren Murfett, an inmate on the cusp of parole. As he's preparing for potentially earning his freedom, he's asked to take Mel Blight (Vincent Miller, Plum) under his wing after the latter is transferred from juvenile detention to adult prison. Also giving the newcomer a guiding hand is the infamous and widely despised Mark Shepard (Cosmo Jarvis, Shōgun). Inside doesn't just bring the three men together in a powderkeg of a location; it immerses them in a violent plot that could change each of their lives forever, all while thoughtfully and empathetically pondering choices, repercussions, and the impact of inherited damage and trauma. Also among the cast: Toby Wallace (The Bikeriders), Chloé Hayden (Heartbreak High) and Michael Logo (Colin From Accounts), with the film boasting impressive names on- and off-screen. Inside marks the feature debut of writer/director Charles Williams, who won the 2018 short film Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival for the also-excellent All These Creatures. The Stranger and Acute Misfortune filmmaker Thomas M Wright is onboard, too, as an executive producer. "Inside is a movie that's been with me in some form or another for the better part of a decade. I wanted to make the kind of film that resonated with me growing up. Movies that you could get lost in, often uncovering very specific worlds and complicated characters," explains Williams. "They felt very real but also oddly transporting and almost spiritual — while still being visceral, cinematic experiences for the big screen. It's been such an honour to collaborate with this incredible cast and crew to bring Inside to life." Check out the trailer for Inside below: Inside releases in Australian cinemas on Thursday, February 27, 2025. Images: Mathew Lynn.
