In Stay of the Week, we explore some of the world's best and most unique accommodations — giving you a little inspiration for your text trip. In this instalment, we take you to Wollemi Wilderness Cabins in the Blue Mountains, where Lionel Buckett has constructed the Secret Treehouse overlooking two National Parks and a World Heritage listed rainforest. WHAT'S SO SPECIAL? You'll spend a few nights in your own uniquely designed treehouse looking out over 600 acres of Australian wilderness. It's escapism on stilts. THE ROOMS The private treetop cabin comes with the lot. You have a kitchenette, Queen bed, fireplace and floor to ceiling windows looking out over the Blue Mountains. But our favourite feature has to be the in-floor spa bath. It sits in the corner of the treehouse and has retractable doors all around it so you can decide to either let nature in, or just look out at it from the warmth of your room. We could spend the whole day getting pruney in here. But they only have one treehouse, which fits two guests – and it's pretty damn popular. If you can't book the treehouse, don't be scared off. These guys do have other accommodations on site. They have a few large wooden cabins (and a tipi accommodation) with impressive views over the surrounding area. They aren't adult-sized treehouses, but they are still great for nature lovers. FOOD AND DRINK The treehouse is set up with its own little kitchen so you can be fully self-sustained here. BYO groceries and booze, and cook up a storm. But, we get it, sometimes you just want to be taken care of by someone else when you're on holiday. That's when Caroline comes in. Caroline is a local who runs her own catering company called Come by Chance. All you need to do is ask the accommodation's hosts for some brekkie or dinner — and they'll get Caroline on the case and she'll cook and deliver great meals to your room. Expect a classic chicken parma, tea and scones, or a full English breakfast spread. THE LOCAL AREA Come here to marvel at some classic Aussie bush landscapes. All the cabins are located within Wollemi National Park, which is the largest wilderness area in NSW. Forming part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area - Wollemi is made up of a consort of canyons, cliffs, watering holes and undisturbed forest. And it's only an hour drive from Sydney. Winner! THE EXTRAS But you don't have to spend your whole visit up in the treehouse. There are stacks of things to do around here. First off, there are hikes galore, of course. The hosts will direct you to the nearby trails where you can also go mountain biking, or to the nearby river for canoeing. Pampering is also big here — although it's done in true Aussie fashion. They have a few of their own hot mud baths available. Sit in an old tub, surrounded by bushlands, and let the in-house therapist guide you through a relaxing, muddy ritual. It's great for your skin, plus its loads of fun. You're already in a treehouse, so why not embrace your inner child even more with this experience? 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. Images by Jochen Spencer
If it's a culinary hit in Japan, odds are that Harajuku Gyoza will bring it Down Under. If it's a dumpling- or dessert-related food mashup, the chain with outposts in Sydney, Brisbane and on the Gold Coast is likely serving it up as well. The brand's new Mont Blanc air cheesecakes tick both boxes, riffing on Mont Blanc desserts with a Japanese air cheesecake spin. Already the home of raindrop cakes, as well as pop-up sweet versions of its go-to savoury dishes such as lemon meringue gyoza, marshmallow gyoza and Ferrero Rocher dumplings, Harajuku Gyoza has now combined the air cheesecakes that've been on its menu since 2022 with the vermicelli-style Mont Blanc. Forget chestnut puree, which traditionally features in the latter dish — this one makes its strands from white bean paste. So, whether you're tucking into gyoza or bao first, or just heading in for dessert, you'll be eating a fluffy piped cheesecake that's topped with strands in either strawberry or matcha, plus ice cream. The flavour dictates the colour, too, so you'll either be going pink or green with your $18 dish. Gleaning inspiration from Chacha Futatsume in Tokyo and Malebranche in Kyoto, these two-in-one takes on viral desserts are on offer at Harajuku Gyoza's four Australian stores: at Darling Harbour in Sydney; at South Bank and the CBD in Brisbane; and in Broadbeach on the Gold Coast. While cheeseburger gyoza, which is stuffed with burger pieces, aged cheddar, onion, pickles, mustard and tomato sauce, is a mainstay on the brand's menu, its limited-time dishes have previously included mac 'n' cheese and pepperoni dumplings, charcoal karaage chicken fondue, and bao in gingerbread and pavlova varieties. Harajuku Gyoza is no stranger to bringing the Japanese stars behind viral dishes this way, either, with Chef Motokichi Yukimura from Kyoto's Kichi Kichi hitting Australia back in February and March with his omurice. He's returning for winter, making July stops in both Sydney and Brisbane — but all sittings are already sold out. Harajuku Gyoza's Mont Blanc air cheesecakes are available at all Australian stores — at Darling Harbour in Sydney, South Bank and the CBD in Brisbane, and in Broadbeach on the Gold Coast. Head to the chain's website for more details.
Fancy seeing one of Brisbane's most popular spaces in a completely new light? Or, to be more accurate, with more than 22,000 square metres of lights flickering in, around and over the top of its lush greenery? As every home renovation-focused TV show has told us time and time again, a splash of colour can make a world of difference — and, at Roma Street Parkland's returning Enchanted Garden, it can turn an already picturesque space into a glorious festive wonderland. This local favourite pops up year after year, delighting Brisbanites of all ages — and 2022 is no different. This year, you'll be heading along from Friday, November 25–Wednesday, December 21, with the event sticking around for an extended season due to past demand. We all sure do love glowing lights, clearly. Designed to take half an hour to wander through and stretching along a one-kilometre walk, The Enchanted Garden combines custom-made LEDs — plus special effects, light sculptures, lasers, projections and holograms — with an immersive audio soundscape. The aim: getting merry and celebrating nature, with the 2022 installation featuring five sections. One will pay tribute to the parklands' water sections, another focuses on its rock formations, while a third showcases the locale's fig tree avenue. There's also a section that's all about floral art, and one filled with moving shadow sculptures. Unsurprisingly, it's a family-friendly affair — and, like in 2021, there is a fee. You'll pay $7 to head along and stare up at all that dazzling brightness. Once you're in, you can soak up the luminousness for as long as you like. Sessions run from 6–9.30pm and, if you're organised enough, you can always pack a picnic, arrive early and enjoy dinner beforehand. Plus, you can BYO drinks to one of the few public places that allows them in our fair town — although Roma Street Parklands' licensed areas are only licensed until 8pm. Food trucks will also be onsite at the Celebration Lawn from 4–9.30pm daily if you don't get around to taking care of your own nosh. A word of warning: people love all things glittery, so prepare to a heap company. Also, tickets usually get snapped up quickly, with this year's going on sale at 9am on Monday, November 7.
Peer around Azteca and shades of green await, hanging from the ceiling, painted across walls and spotted from its prime riverside position. Located at Brisbane's Queen's Wharf, and part of the suite of venues from Potentia Solutions Leisure — the team behind Lina Rooftop, Soko Rooftop, Carmen Tequileria, and Claw BBQ in both Bowen Hills and Carindale — this eatery and bar takes inspiration from Latin America. It goes luxe with its fitout, too, befitting its location in the River City's latest waterfront precinct. Plants are suspended from above, fill planters placed around the restaurant's indoor seating and can be found dotted acrpss its outdoor terrace. The lines of bottles backdropping Azteca's bar sit against a striking emerald wall. And gazing over at South Bank means spying a canopy of foliage, as diners have been able to enjoy since mid-October 2024. Celebrating greenery inside and out is an apt touch for an eatery that sprawls between the two spaces itself. Another choice in the same manner: the fact that water features are built into Azteca's walls, complementing its views of the Brisbane River. Also key to the design and decor in the 126-seat venue: mosaic tiles, Aztec artwork and custom-made brass tables, as well as a secret private dining room featuring custom ceramics that's located behind a handcrafted wooden door. Latin America might influence Azteca's name and aesthetic, but its menu under Head Chef Zac Sykes (ex-Merivale and Rockpool groups) also takes cues from Asian cuisine. The listing of dishes dubs the restaurant's fare "a culinary bridge between two continents" — and this is the type of place where raw scallop tostadas with shiso powder, yellowfin tuna tacos with kimchi, chicken liver parfait and truffle churros, and kangaroo tartare with hot sauce are just some of the options. Other standout bites include Elgin Valley free-range chicken covered in dark chocolate mole sauce; pork chops paired with grilled pineapple and fermented jalapeño; wagyu short ribs featuring sake, mirin, soy and asian leaves; and pot-roasted South Australian lobster with chipotle. The dessert range starts with alfajores with dulce de leche, coconut, macadamia and tonka bean ice cream, then serves up popcorn cheesecake with salted caramel ice cream, liquid nitrogen tres leche with white chocolate mousse, and cinnamon tostones with pineapple jam and star anise plant cream. Banquets are also a feature, giving customers a choice between an $89 seven-dish spread, a nine-dish option for $129 and a ten-dish feast for $149 — each with wine pairings available for an extra cost. To sip in general, the 16-page beverage menu spotlights the São Paulo-born Brazilian cocktail caipirinha, which is made with sugarcane hard liquor cachaça — and gives patrons a choice between types of cachaça, and also flavour blends (think: pineapple sage, watermelon jalapeño, pomegranate hibiscus, lychee dragonfruit and vanilla passionfruit). Or, try an old fashioned crafted with banana rum and chocolate bitters from the 12-strong signature cocktail list; opt for a house-made zero-proof limonata for something booze-free; or peruse the beer, wine and spirits — including agave — picks.
A wellness retreat in a scenic setting away from the hustle and bustle? Sounds dreamy. Queensland-based wellness haven Gwinganna does luxury a bit differently; it asks guests to leave indulgent food and booze behind in favour of spa therapies, organic meals, a yoga retreat and more health-focussed activities. And no, this is not the premise for Nine Perfect Strangers — far from it. The luxury design of the facilities, superior skill of the staff, and lush surrounding greenery ensure guests relax and unwind in whichever way suits them. If you're looking for a quick escape to the tropical oasis, you can opt for the Wellness Weekend Retreat package which covers two nights, all your organic meals, a wellness seminar and range of activities including Qi Gong. Those wanting a full cleanse from the daily grind can sign up for Gwinganna's signature seven-night where you'll get all of the above, plus multiple massages, a facial, evening meditation sessions and more. Fancy something in-between? Gwinganna also offers three-, four- and five-night packages. [caption id="attachment_829613" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Australia[/caption] Images: Tourism Australia
For half a century, no trip to the Sunshine Coast has been complete without visiting a 16-metre-high pineapple. In 1983, even Princess Diana and the then-Prince Charles went there, as throngs of tourists have before and since. Stop by now and you'll still see a giant piece of tropical fruit, but one that's had a revamp, with the Queensland big thing officially reopening after undergoing renovations. Plenty of changes have been floated for The Big Pineapple and its 165-hectare site over the years, with a craft brewery, water park, and places to stay via an RV park, an eco resort and a hotel all among the ideas under the attraction's master plan. For now, however, owner Peter Kendall and his company CMC Property have focused on repairing and restoring the main highlight itself, as well giving the location's train the same treatment. The Big Pineapple has also scored a new cafe, new viewing platform and new children's playground. If the towering sight looks extra shiny — and ready to gleam in the obligatory snaps that everyone takes while they're in its presence — that's thanks to sandblasting, repairs and marine paint by the hundreds of litres. To get a good glimpse, that's where the new viewing platform comes in. Dating back to the 50s, the train now has a similar sheen after a restoration process, including to its carriages and track. "We are awaiting some final certification for the train and hope to start public train rides soon, providing rides across the property including access to Wildlife HQ," said Kendall, also mentioning the zoo with 200-plus species of animals that's been onsite since 2014. Stopping by The Big Pineapple hasn't just been about its fibreglass namesake for some time, given that TreeTop Challenge Sunshine Coast and its high-ropes courses and ziplines also calls it home. So does coconut foods producer COYO, as well as Sunshine & Sons distillery. Come October, The Big Pineapple Festival — the locale's music festival — will return for the first time since 2021. The fest started in 2013, then ran annually surrounded by pineapple fields until its present three-year break. Getting a ticket isn't just about seeing live tunes in the location's natural amphitheatres in such close proximity to The Big Pineapple, but also pitching a tent at event's 4000-person campground. [caption id="attachment_944026" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Big Pineapple, Alpha via Flickr[/caption] "The Big Pineapple is undoubtedly the most-recognisable tourism icon of the Sunshine Coast and so I am very proud of the team's work to restore the pineapple to its original glory," said Kendall. "This is just the first stage of the regeneration project. Our number-one priority was to reopen the main pineapple structure and cafe, and to get the train running again." "Our next priority is to complete the renovations to the inside of the pineapple structure itself and we hope to reopen it for tours later on." [caption id="attachment_698027" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Anne and David via Flickr[/caption] Find The Big Pineapple at 76 Nambour Connection Road, Woombye, Queensland — open 8.30am–4pm daily. For more information, visit the attraction's website.
With the hustle of a 9-to-5 and the fast pace of modern life, each week can fly by in a way that leaves you feeling exhausted but, paradoxically, as though you haven't achieved anything of substance. Well, enough of that. Each day you can elevate your life by aiming for just one easy win — even small changes to your routine will help boost your week and leave you feeling accomplished. To get you started, we've teamed up with our friends at Coopers to bring you a list of 'easy wins' — small things that will enrich your week and help you balance that delicate trifecta of health, career and social life with greater aplomb than ever before. MONDAY: GET COFFEE WITH A COLLEAGUE You can go for months — years, even — only knowing your colleagues on a superficial level. So, why not take some time out of your Monday to get to know someone from the office a bit better. It's an easy win from both a social and career perspective. If you're shy or not too sure of what to talk about, the best place to start is to simply ask what path your colleague took to reach their current job. If that fails, Netflix chat is always a good back up — people love spruiking their favourite new series. Who knows, you could find a new work bestie. And, once the relationship progresses, you can swap coffee dates for after-work beers. TUESDAY: SPEND YOUR LUNCH BREAK AT A GALLERY Every day we are bombarded with images via our screens — but seeing things IRL is an altogether different, much more impactful, experience. Switch off your phone, head to an art gallery and stimulate your senses the old-fashioned way. It doesn't have to be a full-blown art affair where you spend your entire Sunday traversing one of the major galleries; it can be as easy as popping into a local gallery on your lunch break and doing a quick walkthrough. Add a bit of culture to your work week, and check out Kyle Montgomery's crystal Virgin Mary sculptures at China Heights in Sydney, Honey Long and Prue Stent's divine photography at Arc One in Melbourne or the young artistic talent at the Edwina Corlette Gallery in Brisbane. WEDNESDAY: DO A DIGITAL DETOX Sure, technology has its many benefits, but it can also have some pretty nasty side-effects. Constant connection can be stressful, distracting or, at worst, damaging to our mental health. While a full-on digital detox is off the cards for most of us — y'know work and stuff — design ethicist Tristan Harris has a number of tricks to help us reduce our reliance on smartphones and form more intentional relationships with technology. For starters, download Flux onto your computer (it cuts out the blue light from your screen at night so your melatonin levels are less disrupted), change your iPhone display to black and white (grayscale is less appealing to regularly check than colour) and turn off push notifications on your phone. Now that scrolling is no longer sucking up your time, you can bury your head in a book, catch up with friends, take a walk... the opportunities are endless. THURSDAY: EXPAND YOUR MIND WITH A TALK You know the importance of integrating physical exercise into our weekly routines, but it's easy to forget the need to keep our minds active, too. On any given night you can find a number of scintillating talks across your city on diverse topics like politics, media, art, sexuality and business. Many of these events — held at bookshops like Gleebooks in Sydney, Avid Reader in Brisbane or Readings in Melbourne — are free to attend. You can also check out our Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne event pages to find upcoming talks and classes in your city. FRIDAY: SAVOUR A BOWL OF PHO Wind down the work week with a Friday night pho from the best in the business. The most delicious meals often hail from the most humble looking places — a good noodle-soup discovery will attest to this adage like nothing else. Pho Tau Bay in Sydney's Cabramatta, Pho Hung Vuong 2 in Melbourne's Richmond and The Vietnamese in Brissie's Fortitude Valley all pack a punch with bountiful bowls of pure flavour. To take this easy win a step further, treat yourself to an ice cold beer — beer and pho are bros, trust us. SATURDAY: READ AN ACTUAL NEWSPAPER Yes, they still exist. Head to your local cafe, grabbing a paper on the way, order a flat white and catch up on the news in a slow, laidback way — rather than that frenzied, panicked newsfeed way. Kick leisure goals and expand your mind simultaneously. The Saturday Paper is prime for longer reads, The Australian Financial Review is perfect for the latest in business and politics, while The Age (Melbourne), The Sydney Morning Herald (Sydney) or The Courier-Mail (Brisbane) cover the news of your city. SUNDAY: TUCK INTO SOME TACOS You heard it here first, shrimp tacos are the at-home dish of choice for summer 2019 — fresh, zesty, and perfect for warm weather. Close out your week with the biggest of littlest wins, find your preferred recipe on the interwebs and put on a feast for your loved ones. Just add beers and sangria, and you have the perfect Saturday evening made. Kick off your 'easy wins' by enjoying a Coopers Dry, or two, with your mates.
Calling a beautiful art deco building on the corner of South Brisbane's Fish Lane home, Julius Pizza serves up authentic Italian cuisine in a relaxed — yet usually packed — setting. While you've probably heard about the delicious pizza, there's one section of the menu that flies under the radar — dolci. Once you've devoured a margherita with fior di latte, tomato and basil, treat yourself to one of their no-nonsense, authentic Italian desserts. Our pick? The traditional and authentic tiramisù, which includes rich Italian style trifle made with coffee, creamy mascarpone and sponge finger biscuits for only $11.
The weather's perfect to bask in the midday sun, and Aldi's got some killer camping specials at the moment – why not combine both coincidences, pack up for the weekend and head bush. There's plenty of camping hotspots that aren't too far a hike or drive from Brisbane, and they won't cost you more than a dime to set up tent. Stock up marshmallows, fly spray and the sweet 'summer' sounds of Daryl Braithwaite, and get in touch with nature. BUNYA MOUNTAINS Ticks aside, the Bunya Mountains are a cheap getaway that offer free food – bunya nuts – and free entertainment – is that a leach or a leaf on your back? The campings grounds are extensive, and offer luxurious chalets for the lavish, or your stock standard camping grounds for all you grass loving types. It's a mountain range that forms the northern edge of the Darling Downs near Bell and Dalby, making it great for hiking, but also close to a McDonalds in case you get a hankering for something other than damper. 3 hours drive west. HASTINGS POINT Isolation, tranquillity and sand stared beaches make for the best types of camping trip where you just want to go away, forget about routine, sleep in late and let the sun direct the day. Hasting's Point is perfect for a lazy getaway, that let's scenery and salt water take priority over hiking, activities and acting with a bit of vivaciousness. Hardly a car drive from Tweed, Hasting's Point camping grounds are perfect for the avid fishers, and even more perfect for salt loving sloth – you'll be able to taste the serenity. 1.5 hours drive south. [caption id="attachment_168379" align="alignnone" width="628"] Joshua White[/caption] LAMINGTON NATIONAL PARK It's a pretty strict set up Lamington National Park's got for its campers, but once you pay some people some money, and grab a permit or two, you'll be well on your way to experiencing all the Australian bush has to offer. With dense, foresty bushland, that make the hiking tracks like mazes, this remorseless national park would be daunting if it wasn't so beautiful. Protecting 20,000 hectares of rainforest, waterfalls and rocky peaks, this national park contains two sections – Binna Burra on the eastern side and Green Mountains on the western side. Don't force yourself to pick between the two – have a taste of both. 1.5 hours drive south. MT BARNEY NATIONAL PARK Forget the purple dinosaur, surpass memories of the drunken Simpsons character, and throw out any other association you have with the name Barney – this one's completely unique. Mt Barney National Park strays in scenery between open glassy fields and mountainous views that'll remind you how dull and bland concrete buildings and inner-city life can be. This rugged environment is part of the wild and beautiful Gondwana Rainforests, home to many rare animals, plant species and communities, and is riddled with bushwalks and bodies of water begging to be Instagrammed. 1.5 hours drive south-west. GIRRAWEEN NATIONAL PARK If the fusion of the existential, unknown and nature makes you jump for joy, then Girraween is the place for you. Spring and summer are the perfect times to catch the splashes of flowers that fill the gaps between the mountainous rocks in nougat like formation. It's Picnic at Hanging Rock-esque landscapes and mysterious balancing boulders make it just as surreal as it is serene. Rest assure though, there's nothing 'haunted' about Girraween – unless you believe the ol' legends, in which case you will die. 3 hours drive south-west. LENNOX HEAD As hard as it may be to bypass Byron Bay, sometimes you've just got to keep trucking on the premise the grass may just be greener on the other side. You have our assurance, and in this case it indeed is. Lennox head is just a 20 minute drive south of Byron, half as populated, and twice and beautiful. With fantastic surfing, your pick of outdoor cafes, and big Norther Rivers further insland, Northern Lennox Heads has got the goods for a picturesque get away. Camping options are endless – you can set up so close to the beach you'll risk scurvy, or pitch further inland, if shrubbery is more to your liking. 2 hours drive south. STRADBROKE ISLAND Stradbroke Island – or Straddy as the more travelled camper might call it – is just a quick drive, ferry and hike from Brisbane. The island is klamnown for its incredible sand dunes, clean beaches, subdue tourism industry and rusty ship wrecks. From family friendly resorts, to camping spots amongst the woods, Stradbroke Island caters to the most beginner camper, to the one who sleeps bagless, under the stars with raw testosterone the only repellent against mosquitoes. Have a sand toboggan, try your luck at fishing, keep an eagle eye out for whales and boat out to the mysterious shipwrecks. Beware letting your family, friends or self climb the wrecks though – your mum might fall through one, scratch open her knee, require emergency medical attention and ruin your summer '08 family vacation. Thanks a lot mum. 1.5 to 2 hour drive and ferry. Top image: Joshua White.
It’s time to stop fishing behind couch cushions and shaking piggy banks; the boutique hotel-hunters at Mr & Mrs Smith have unearthed 10 budget-conscious escapes that won’t need a second mortgage. These ten wallet-friendly stays made the shortlist for ‘Best Budget Hotel’ in the inaugural Smith Hotel Awards, which just took place in London. Want to know the winner? You’ll have to keep reading. Best for bona fide bohemia: Brody House, Budapest, Hungary Smith’s ‘Best Budget Hotel’ is more like the private designer digs of a swish friend than a hotel. Brody House is bursting with creative inspiration and can add sometime-host to film and fashion shoots to its artistically inclined resume. Each room has its own unique style — some feature freestanding gold bath tubs — and is named after the artists whose works adorn the walls. The Brody House Bar is open to the public and keeps pouring as long as guests keep sipping; there’s also an honesty bar, so you can tap into your inner mixologist. An in-house chef prepares simple and seasonal Hungarian fare that changes daily and is best enjoyed in the picturesque courtyard. Best for pool-side hedonism: Ace Hotel & Swim Club, Palm Springs, United States Escape the desert heat and hop into the cool cocktail that is Ace Hotel & Swim Club: a reinvented hotel haven, luring in pleasure-seekers, bohemian-beauties and the hipster-chic. Designed with an organic, laidback ethos, some rooms have garden patios and fireplaces, record players and old vinyl. Brave the heat by renting a candy-coloured Vespa or booking a horse-riding lesson. Those reluctant to venture away from the cool comfort of air-conditioning may prefer languidly lying in a hammock and working through the bar’s cocktail menu. The King’s Highway restaurant (formerly a roadside Denny’s diner) dishes up classic American fare with dashes of the unexpected, such as kurobuta pork chops and roasted halibut cheeks. Best for culture vultures: Home Hotel, Buenos Aires, Argentina Click your heels and escape to Home Hotel, a green dream hidden away in an ivy-entwined structure in residential Buenos Aires. The eco-design and open-air pleasures – an outdoor passageway leads to the restaurant overlooking the gorgeous grounds – extend through to the rooms, which are tricked out with retro Scandinavian furnishings and vibrant vintage wallpaper in pretty florals. Take in an obligatory tango performance and a Lloyd Webber-inspired stroll to the grave of Eva Perón, before succumbing to the nimble-knuckles of Home’s in-house masseur, Luis. Don’t go back to your actual home without sampling delicious tapas and a Bloody Mary at the bar. Best for a romantic rendezvous: The Reading Rooms, Kent, United Kingdom Tucked behind a classic Georgian facade, The Reading Rooms is dotted with antique furnishings, preserved features and nooks for rekindling romance or igniting a new flame. Each of the three rooms occupies a floor of the restored townhouse and has antique wooden floors fit for a foxtrot, high ceilings and views over a peaceful tree-lined square. Begin days by dining on the in-room breakfast spread — bacon and sausage sandwiches, just-baked croissants and fresh fruits — before exploring Margate’s vintage boutiques and the picturesque Kent coast. Best for a rural romance: Borgo della Marmotta, Umbria, Italy Peer over the high stone walls at Borgo della Marmotta to find clusters of beautifully converted 17th-century farmhouses and stables, olive trees and views of Spoleto Valley. There’s no flash and pomp here; instead, expect a simple spin on luxury: rustic cobblestoned passaged leading to charming rooms and pockets of lush garden, pots of lemon trees casting shadows on the terrace and vibrant bunches of wisteria hanging from pergolas. Rise early to snag a table outside for a breakfast feast of sweet croissants, conserves, cheeses and cold cuts, before whiling away Umbrian sun-soaked days by the glittering blue pool. Best for artistic inspiration: The Cullen, Melbourne, Australia One for art aficionados and the creative coterie, The Cullen is inspired by the eye-catching and contemporary works of Adam Cullen — the hotel even has its own dedicated art curator, who has the lowdown on the top exhibitions around town. The gallery-worthy aesthetic continues to the rooms, where cartoonish prints adorn the walls and glass showers are engraved with Ned Kelly-esque horses and bushrangers — the views of Melbourne’s skyline aren’t half bad either. After a day of pedalling between Prahan’s fashionable boutiques — bespoke red Swedish Kronan two-wheelers are available to rent — don your newest designer duds and head downstairs to one of the eateries off the hotel’s ground floor. Gramercy Bistro brings a taste of New York to Melbourne, serving Reuben sandwiches, buttermilk pancakes and six cuts of steak to knock your oversized sunglasses off; Hutong dishes up dumplings and delectable duck. Best for a weekend wind-down: The Wheatsheaf Inn, the Cotswolds, United Kingdom Having played host to Kate Moss, The Wheatsheaf Inn has gone from traditional British coaching inn to bang-on designer den. Paintings of historic British tobacco barons keep a watchful eye over the Inn’s dining room, an inviting and lively eatery where seasonal produce is the star in a daily-changing menu and the all-day weekend brunch is best washed down with a Buck’s fizz. Between feasts, shooting — of the real and clay-pigeon variety — is up for grabs near this rustic retreat or, if you prefer something with fewer bangs, meander around the wallet-tempting boutiques of Northleach. Best for beach bliss: Mia Resort, Nha Trang, Vietnam A sojourn at Mia Resort — once a sugarcane plantation — will certainly leave a sweet taste in your mouth. This sandy getaway is neighboured by imposing mountains, lush greenery and beyond-blue waters, where days are spent moseying barefoot between the turquoise pool, sun loungers and Xanh Spa. Sea-frolicking is thirsty work and Mojitos bar serves at least eight varieties (if we miscounted, blame the rum); sip your way through ginger, whatijo (watermelon), lemon and lychee libations. Nab a spot on the sugar-sand beach for a sunset picnic, complete with a hamper groaning with sandwiches, cupcakes, a cheeseboard and carafe of fruit juice — just make sure to book ahead. Best for palatial paradise: Baudon de Mauny, Languedoc-Roussillon, France Walk through the heavy, centuries-old wooden front door at Baudon de Mauny and into the quiet cobbled courtyard to feel instantly at ease. Sprawling rooms are coupled with vintage-inspired furnishings and contemporary cool to create an escape with style so sophisticated, it could only be French. After exploring the local markets and brocantes, recline on the antique scarlet sofas in the first-floor salon, a glass of Faugeres in hand. Best for coastal calm: Chapman House, Nantucket, United States Forget ships in glass bottles and cliched beach-themed interiors: at Chapman House, nautical stripes have been replaced with pops of teal, coral and ikat prints. A kingly Continental breakfast is served each morning — fresh-baked breads and croissants, homemade muffins, fruits, cheese and granola parfaits — the perfect preface to a stroll around the harbour town or a series of aquatic adventures, including sailing lessons, whale watching, fishing excursions and sea kayaking. You don’t need a reason to return to boutique base-camp but Chapman House gives you one anyway: freshly baked cookies are your afternoon treat here. For more Mr & Mrs Smith boutique hotels, visit www.mrandmrssmith.com or call the expert Travel Team on 1300 896 627. Smith guests enjoy exclusive extras at all stays.
Over the past decade, Brisbane has welcomed a hefty amount of new boutique hotels, giving travellers plenty of luxurious places to stay and gifting locals more than a few spots to book in a staycation. The next set to join the ranks is Hotel X — and, towering over Brunswick Street in Fortitude Valley, it marks the brand's first-ever venue anywhere in the world. If you've walked, cycled or driven from New Farm to the Valley (or vice versa) over the past year or so, you would've noticed construction occurring on the block that used to house the suburb's Blockbuster video store. Come February 22, Hotel X will throw open its doors there, with InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and Queensland-based developers Pointcorp joining forces on the 146-room site. Its white facade — and the geometric design that spans across it — certainly stands out, and it also boasts a custom-designed lighting system that helps draw the eye after sunset. Inside, guests will find artwork by Justin Nicholas, amenities designed by Karl Lagerfeld, a gleaming mini-bar setup, black and white-tiled bathrooms, and Dyson and GHD hair appliances in the more expensive rooms. Depending on your budget, you can also choose whether or not you'd like a balcony — or, from the upper tier of options, your own terrace or suite. There's an event space with an outdoor area as well, for those keen to throw a party and then hit the Valley afterwards. And, all of the usual hotel inclusions apply, such as room service and a gymnasium. You can leave your car with the valet, too, given that finding a park isn't the easiest thing to do in the area. The most exciting parts of the new hotel will have you seeing the city from a different perspective. While Hotel X boasts views of the CBD from its rooms, it's bound to have a killer vantage from its rooftop pool, bar and restaurant. Just when you'll be able to head up for a bite and a drink at the Mediterranean-themed joint, called Iris, is yet to be revealed; however, Ghanem Group will be running the show. Hotel X and Ghanem are also opening a brasserie-style French eatery on February 22, with the latter company adding two new venues to a portfolio that already includes Boom Boom Room Izakaya, Donna Chang, Byblos Bar and Restaurant, Blackbird Bar and Grill, and Lord of the Wings. Bisou Bisou will sit on the hotel's ground floor, and feature dishes by head chef Anthony Donaldson (ex-Blackbird) and executive chef Jake Nicolson. Think seafood bouillabaisse, confit duck and potato puree filled with melted cheese — and there'll also be an oyster and caviar bar, a freestanding rotisserie and a cheese trolley. Find Hotel X at 458 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley, operating from February 22. Bisou Bisou will open on the same date — and we'll update you with more details about its rooftop bar, Iris, when they're announced.
Yayoi Kusama's list of achievements just keeps growing. At the age of 96, the Japanese talent has proven a pioneer and an icon many times over across her eight decades of making art, and now she has breaking an Australian record to her name as well. Thanks to the exhibition that shares her moniker, which has been on display at Melbourne's NGV International since December 2024, Kusama can now claim the nation's highest-attended ticketed exhibition ever. This news confirms what Aussies have long known: we're dotty for the creative genius who uses spots aplenty in her work, plus pumpkins, tentacles and flowers — and for an art figure who knows how to get audiences losing themselves in a gallery via her infinity rooms. Since Yayoi Kusama opened on Sunday, December 15, 2024, it has welcomed more than 480,000 people through the door. That number still has time to go up, too, given that the exhibition runs until Monday, April 21, 2025. That it's open from 8am–6pm till Wednesday, April 16, then will operate from 8am–midnight daily between Thursday, April 17–Monday, April 21, will assist. To put that huge attendance in context, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan compared it to one of Melbourne's best-known venues. "This record-breaking exhibition has brought five MCGs worth of visitors to the heart of Melbourne — that's great for local jobs, great for local businesses and great for families looking for something to do these holidays," Allan said. "We're truly overwhelmed by how enthusiastically Victorians and visitors alike have embraced this exhibition — and connected so strongly with Kusama's work and life story. This milestone is a testament to the enduring impact of Kusama's work and the growing appeal of contemporary art in Australia," added NGV Director Tony Ellwood AM. This celebration of Kusama was already in the history books for giving Australia its largest-ever retrospective dedicated to the artist. In terms of tickets sold, Yayoi Kusama takes the record from another Victorian exhibition, Van Gogh and the Seasons, which displayed in 2017 and saw 462,262 people head along. The National Gallery of Victoria's spectacular tribute to Kusama includes the Japanese icon's brand-new Infinity Mirrored Room–My Heart is Filled to the Brim with Sparkling Light among its ten immersive installations, breaking the world record for the number of such pieces by the artist assembled in one spot as well. In total, there's 200 pieces on display, taking over the St Kilda Road gallery's entire ground floor with a childhood-to-now survey of its subject's creative output. Kusama's five-metre-tall dot-covered Dancing Pumpkin sculpture in NGV International's Federation Court, a new version of Narcissus Garden, the yellow-and-black spheres of Dots Obsession, the all-ages-friendly The Obliteration Room, participatory floral piece Flower Obsession, the mirror-heavy Chandelier of Grief, gourds aplenty in The Spirits of the Pumpkins Descended into the Heavens: they're all part of the exhibition. Across the eight decades of art on offer, some pieces have never been seen Down Under until now. Some are sourced from private collections, and others from Kusama's own personal stash. Overall, Yayoi Kusama steps through the artist's work via a thematic chronology. Her output in her hometown of Matsumoto from the late 30s–50s; the results of relocating to America in 1957; archival materials covering her performances and activities in her studios, especially with a political charge, in the 60s and 70s; plenty from the past four decades: they all appear. Yayoi Kusama displays at NGV International, St Kilda Road, Melbourne until Monday, April 21, 2025 — including from 8am–6pm between Saturday, April 5–Wednesday, April 16, and from 8am–midnight between Thursday, April 17–Monday, April 21. NGV Friday Nights: Yayoi Kusama runs each Friday until Friday, April 18, 2025. Head to the NGV website for more details and tickets. Images: Visitors and artworks in the Yayoi Kusama exhibition at NGV International, Melbourne until 21 April 2025. © YAYOI KUSAMA. Photos: Danielle Castano, Sean Fennessy, Tobias Titz and Kate Shannassy.
If you spent a few days this winter attending a Twin Peaks-inspired ball and seeing a giant teddy bear with laser eyes — watching a stunning new take on Dante's classic examination of hell, purgatory and paradise, too — then you went to Dark Mofo's 2023 run. Organised by Tasmania's Museum of Old and New Art, the winter arts festival fills Hobart with all manner of weird and wild surprises every year. In 2024, however, it's pausing its usual sprawling event to plan for the future. The fest's team has announced that it'll largely sit out next year, after celebrating its tenth year this year. Apart from its beloved Winter Feast and Nude Solstice Swim, Dark Mofo will take a break in 2024 in order to work out what the next decade looks like for the fest. "Dark Mofo has always been dedicated to enriching and transforming lives through ambitious art and ideas. We want to make sure that we have a festival that continues to deliver incredible art and artists, that continues to expand its artistic boundaries and remains a beacon of creativity, innovation and cultural significance," said Dark Mofo Artistic Director Chris Twite. "While this was a tough decision, it ensures we move forward in a viable manner. The fallow year will enable us to secure the future of Dark Mofo and its return at full force in 2025." The moves comes after a hit year that saw Dark Mofo smash it with attendances and at the box office — notching up record figures, in fact. Despite the most event's success, the crew behind it will now work towards "a more sustainable model for a full return in 2025, and set the foundation for the next ten years", taking rising costs and other changing elements into consideration. So, no full Dark Mofo is the not-so-great development for your winter 2024 plans. That the culinary-focused Winter Feast and the frosty Nude Solstice Swim will still take place next year even without the broader festival around it is better news. "We are excited that in June 2024 — amidst the rebirth and renewal of Dark Mofo — that Tasmanians and visitors alike will still be able to meet and commune around the fires of Winter Feast and cast off the weight of another year at the Nude Solstice Swim once more," said Twite. This year's Winter Feast was headlined by Chef's Table alum Ana Roš from two-Michelin-starred Hiša Franko, cooking up fare inspired by her homeland but made with Tasmania's top seasonal produce with help from The Agrarian Kitchen's Stephen Peak and Rodney Dunn. Exact details for the 2024 food-centric event, and for the next chance to bare all and brave the cold while taking a dip, are yet to be announced. Dark Mofo won't take place in 2024 — apart from the Winter Feast and Nude Solstice Swim — with plans to return in full from 2025 onwards in Hobart, Tasmania instead. Head to the festival's website for further details. Winter feast images: Jesse Hunniford, 2023, courtesy of Dark Mofo 2023. Nude Solstice Swim images: Rémi Chauvin, 2023, courtesy of Dark Mofo 2023.
Jane has a message to everyone who thinks print media is dead and buried. Jane who, you ask? jane. by the grey attic, a new high-end, independently produced, bi-annual fashion, photography and fine art publication, the first issue of which is now available for purchase. The brainchild of creative director, writer and stylist Annika Hein, and fashion and fine art photographer Dean Bell, who freelance in the Melbourne fashion scene under the name The Grey Attic, jane. features 320 pages of film-shot photographs, arts, poems and articles from contributors dotted in 21 cities around the world. Highlights from the first issue include a review of Helmut Newton: A Retrospective at the Foam photography museum in Amsterdam that includes original snaps by the famed photographer, and an interview with Marion Hume, international fashion editor at The Australian Financial Review. "Our aim was to revert back to slower processes that nurture and encourage the slow creation and consumption of art, something that celebrates undone beauty, effortlessness, authenticity, timelessness and unconventional thinking," said Hein and Bell in a joint statement. "The element of film photography and our preference to analogue processes also provides something different in today's digital market." You can find issue one of jane. in Melbourne at Fitzroy Newsagency and Readings, or online at www.janebythegreyattic.com where they ship internationally.
Another day, another new streaming service, or that's how it feels these days. When Tubi joins the ever-growing ranks of online platforms vying for Australian eyeballs, however, it'll boast a significant point of difference — it's free. Already up and running in the US and Canada, where audiences viewed more than 94 million hours of its content in May alone, Tubi is an ad-supported on-demand video service. Few things in life truly cost nothing, so, while this streamer doesn't ask for any of your hard-earned cash, it will make you sit through commercials. For your troubles, you'll get access to almost 7000 movies and TV shows when the service launches in Australia on Sunday, September 1. That number is due to grow, too, with the Aussie service aiming to reach 15,000 titles — which is what's currently offered on the US service — over time. If you're keen to get spooked by Hansel and Gretel, sing along to Hairspray and Purple Rain or watch Jean-Claude Van Damme unleash his martial arts skills in Lionheart, you'll be able to do without paying a cent from this weekend. As this range of flicks makes plain, Tubi doesn't focus on new releases, with fellow retro movies such as Dirty Dancing, I Am Sam and Young Guns also on the lineup. To access the streaming platform, you can head to Tubi's website or use most internet-connected screen devices — including Samsung televisions, Apple TV, Telstra TV, Amazon Fire TV, Google Chromecast, Apple iOS, Android tablets and smartphones, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. And if you're feeling spoiled for viewing choice at the moment, that's because Australia is in the midst of a streaming boom. Disney+ is due to launch in November, Apple TV+ should arrive sometime in spring, documentary service iWonder hit earlier this year, and everything from Netflix, Stan and Amazon Prime Video to Ozflix, DocPlay and Kanopy are already operational, just to name a few services. We're still waiting for horror-focused service Shudder, though, after it announced last year that it was heading to our shores. Tubi launches in Australia on Sunday, September 1. For more information, or to sign up, visit the service's website.
The wickedly weird and wild Dark Mofo lineup has been announced for 2023, and culture lovers all over Australia are poised to fight over tickets on Wednesday, April 5. But the most popular events and accommodations in Hobart are expected to book out ASAP — most local hotels tend to be fully booked even before tickets are released. That's why we've gone ahead and reserved a stack of rooms for those who book our totally unique Dark Mofo travel package, only available through Concrete Playground Trips. We'll put guests up in Hobart for two nights — with brekkie included — while throwing in a bunch of tickets to events. [caption id="attachment_895365" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dark Mofo/Rosie Hastie, 2021. Image Courtesy Dark Mofo, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia.[/caption] First off, you'll get access to the Winter Feast — a food-, art- and music-filled winter solstice celebration. Gather around the fire pits and long communal tables, grabbing drinks and food from local vendors while checking out live music, art installations and roaming theatrical performances. We've also organised your tickets to one of Dark Mofo's late-night parties, better known as Night Mass. While just about anything can happen here, you can expect debaucherous art experiences and an epic lineup of musical performances and DJ sets that'll keep you dancing into the wee hours. These infamous parties sell out really quickly, so thank us later for your entry being sorted already. [caption id="attachment_854707" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dark Mofo's In the Hanging Garden[/caption] And to keep you busy during one of the afternoons, we have organised your entry to Mona itself. Arrive in style, via the ferry's Posh Pit and explore the gallery's eccentric exhibitions. This package hits most of the best bits of Dark Mofo, giving you the ultimate Hobart getaway without the need to do heaps of planning and separate bookings. It's also a bargain, coming in at just under $600 per person. [caption id="attachment_895370" align="alignnone" width="1921"] Winter Feast, Dark Mofo 2022. Photo credit: Rémi Chauvin, 2022[/caption] Head to Concrete Playground Trips to book one of the exclusive (and strictly limited) Dark Mofo travel packages. Top image: Jesse Hunniford (Winter Feast, Dark Mofo 2021)
UPDATE, Monday, September 9, 2024: Rivermakers Farmers and Artisan Markets have been postponed until 2025. UPDATE, Friday, July 26, 2024: Rivermakers Farmers and Artisan Markets are now occurring monthly, not weekly as first planned. This article has been updated to reflect that change. Since 2021, maybe you've made the trip to Colmslie Road in Morningside to enjoy a drink at Revel Brewing Co's second site. Or, you could've headed to the waterside Rivermarkers precinct in Brisbane's inner southeast for spirits at Bavay Distillery, a ceramics workshop at Mas & Miek or barbecued meat from Low & Slow Meat Co. A couple of times, markets might've also beckoned — and if it's shopping at stalls that gets you excited, you have a monthly reason to visit from Sunday, July 21, 2024. Meet the Rivermakers Farmers and Artisan Markets. Goodwill Projects — which is also behind the Brisbane City Markets, Milton Markets, Carseldine Farmers and Artisan Markets, West End Markets and Westoria, plus the Nundah Farmers Markets and Redcliffe Farmers and Artisan Markets — has added another site to its hefty range of pop-up browsing and buying spots around Brisbane. In Morningside, the company is setting up shop from 7am–1pm on the third Sunday of every month, welcoming 150-plus vendors such as Lunar Farms Organics, Good Growin' Gourmet Mushrooms and Bellmere Honey. That's your organic zucchinis, capsicums and tomatoes covered, plus everything from oyster to shiitake mushrooms — and the tastiest bee product there is as well. Other stalls at the dog-friendly markets will serve up deli goods, fresh seafood, preserves and handmade pasta — and also designer garments and jewellery. Entry is free, as is parking in the 450 spaces. And once you're wandering around with a basket in your hand, you'll be getting your groceries and other items with the Brisbane River providing a view. The full Rivermakers precinct sprawls across a patch of land at the end of Junction Road that first housed a lime factory back in 1917. Since then, it's been used for alcohol distillation, radio broadcasting, naval barracks and a migrant hostel, and as the base for Hans Continental Smallgoods. Now, the 30-hectare heritage-listed spot is your new monthly market go-to.
Sculpture by the Sea kicked off its 22nd annual exhibition today — once again taking over the two-kilometre coastline from Sydney's Bondi to Tamarama Beach with many incredible sculptural feats. This year, you'll find 107 sculptures by artists from 21 countries globally. The works will be on display from October 18 through November 4, and it's all absolutely free. This year's highlights include a collaboration with China's leading art institute, the Central Academy of Art (CAFA), showcasing the works of eight alumni, all spread throughout the vast sculpture park. If you're looking to know more about the inspiration for the sculptures on display, you can grab a bean bag and hear directly from the artists every Saturday and Sunday. But, with so many sculptures to feast your eyes on, it can be overwhelming — and you want to make sure not to overlook the best of the bunch. Here are five sculptures to keep a look out for while you take that famed Sydney walk. [caption id="attachment_694145" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trent Van der Jagt[/caption] COOL SHIT: DAMIEN HIRST LOOKING FOR SHARKS UK artist Cool Shit (the nom de plume of David Glass) has created a large-scale inflatable snorkeler as a parody of artist Damien Hirst — it reference's Hirst's quest for the tiger shark that made him one of the most iconic postmodern British artists of his time. Hirst caught the shark off of Queensland's Hervey Bay back in the 1990s, preserved it with formaldehyde and sold it as a sculpture in 2004 for some $12 million. Glass' work is a comment on the commercialism of Hirst's work, titled The Physical Impossibility of Death in the Mind of Someone Living, which Glass feels was more a hunt for millions than for art. The inflatable sculpture is mainly air and the outer sheath is made of hundreds of hand-painted fabrics. [caption id="attachment_694147" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trent Van der Jagt[/caption] BARBARA LICHA: CBD Made of stainless steel bars and galvanised wire and mesh, CBD is a striking representation of the Sydney city centre, created by Polish-born Aussie artist Barbara Licha. She aims to bring attention to the structural beauty of our city and how we are connected not just to others but also to the place we live. This sculpture is full of movement and uses geometrical shapes to depict this intersection between people and place. It explores architecture as more than just a means to building houses, towns and cities but also as a form of art that connects us to our surroundings. [caption id="attachment_694175" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Charlotte Curd[/caption] MU BOYAN: HORIZON A three-metre-tall fleshy figure has really stolen the show this year as the most recognisable sculpture of the bunch. Mu Boyan's Horizon rests on the south Bondi headland at Marks Park and its towering stature is markedly contrasted by its peaceful pose. According to Boyan, the Buddha-like figure is an invitation to sit alongside it and empty your mind. A meditative force to be reckoned with, the sculpture is one-of-eight works in collaboration with Beijing's Central Academy of Fine Arts. [caption id="attachment_694174" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trent van der Jagt[/caption] PENELOPE FORLANO: COUNTERPOINTS WA artist Penelope Forlano directly responded to the Bondi coastline in her sculpture Counterpoints, creating a work that is familiar yet contrasting to the natural surrounds. She began by focusing on the dynamic flow of the waves against the Hawkesbury sandstone — which once connected Australia to Antarctica 300-million years ago. The sculpture is reminiscent of both a water droplet and stone spearhead, the latter of which is meant to connect to nearby Aboriginal engravings. It is a shape that at once fits in and stands out, echoing both the enduring and ephemeral aspects of nature. [caption id="attachment_694168" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trent van der Jagt[/caption] ALESSANDRA ROSSI: CAIRNS Referencing human-made piles of stones that have been created by cultures around the globe for centuries, Cairns uses opaque and mirrored perspex to reflect light on its surrounds. Visit it during different times of the day and you'll find yourself bathed in shimmering hues of red, pink, orange and blue. The impermanence of this light also helps convey a dichotomy between the temporary and the enduring, which is also reflected by the ocean — its ebbing waves and its surrounding solid rocks. The three pieces are by Italian artist Alessandra Rossi, who has also exhibited across Australia. Sculpture by the Sea runs until November 4. For more info, visit sculpturebythesea.com. Top image: Trent van der Jagt
Hordes of imitators have spilled ones and zeros claiming otherwise, but the greatest move The Matrix franchise ever made wasn't actually bullet time. Even 22 years after Lana and Lilly Wachowski brought the saga's instant-classic first film to cinemas, its slow-motion action still wows, and yet they made another choice that's vastly more powerful. It wasn't the great pill divide — blue versus red, as dubiously co-opted by right-wing conspiracies since — or the other binaries at its core (good versus evil, freedom versus enslavement, analogue versus digital, humanity versus machines). It wasn't end-of-the-millennia philosophising about living lives online, the green-tinged cyberpunk aesthetic, or one of the era's best soundtracks, either. They're all glorious, as is knowing kung fu and exclaiming "whoa!", but The Matrix's unwavering belief in Keanu Reeves and Carrie-Anne Moss is far more spectacular. It was a bold decision those two-and-a-bit decades ago, with Reeves a few years past sublime early-90s action hits Point Break and Speed, and Moss then known for TV bit parts (including, in a coincidence that feels like the product of computer simulation, a 1993 series called Matrix). But, as well as giving cinema their much-emulated gunfire-avoidance technique and all those other aforementioned highlights, the Wachowskis bet big on viewers caring about their central pair — and hooking into their chemistry — as leather-clad heroes saving humanity. Amid the life-is-a-lie horrors, the subjugation of flesh to mechanical overlords and the battle for autonomy, the first three Matrix films always weaved Neo and Trinity's love story through their sci-fi action. Indeed, the duo's connection remained the saga's beating heart. Like any robust computer program executed over and over, The Matrix Resurrections repeats the feat — with plenty of love for what's come before, but even more for its enduring love story. Lana goes solo on The Matrix Resurrections — helming her first-ever project without her sister in their entire career — but she still goes all in on Reeves and Moss. The fourth live-action film in the saga, and fifth overall counting The Animatrix, this new instalment doesn't initially give its key figures their familiar character names, however. Rather, it casts them as famous video game designer Thomas Anderson and motorcycle-loving mother-of-two Tiffany. One of those monikers is familiar, thanks to a surname drawled by Agent Smith back in 1999, and again in 2003 sequels The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions. But this version of Thomas Anderson only knows the agent from his own hit gaming trilogy (called The Matrix, naturally). And he doesn't really know Tiffany at all, instead admiring her from afar at Simulatte, their local coffee shop. Before Reeves and Moss share a frame, and before Anderson and Tiffany's awkward meet-cute, The Matrix Resurrections begins with blue-haired hacker Bugs (Jessica Henwick, On the Rocks). She sports a white rabbit tattoo, observes a scene straight out of the first flick and helps set the movie's self-referential tone. As a result, The Matrix Resurrections starts with winking, nodding and déjà vu — and, yes, with a glitch, with Lana and co-screenwriters David Mitchell (author of Cloud Atlas) and Aleksandar Hemon (Sense8) penning a playful script that adores the established Matrix lore, enjoys toying with it and openly unpacks everything that's sprung up around it. Long exposition dumps, some of the feature's worst habits, explain the details, but waking up Anderson from his machine-induced dream — again — is Bugs' number-one aim. The Matrix Resurrections' main task: reteaming Neo and Trinity, and getting them to realise that they even are Neo and Trinity. Once more, Wachowski knows where the saga's heart resides, that its existential dramas are about people, and that the bonds that bind us are our lifeblood. But now that Neo and Trinity inhabit a realm where a game series with the exact same plot as the first three Matrix movies is Anderson's livelihood, the path to simulation-dismantling love is unsurprisingly paved with difficulties. Here are three: the demands by Anderson's business partner (Jonathan Groff, Hamilton) for a sequel to the games, the blue pills prescribed by Anderson's analyst (Neil Patrick Harris, It's a Sin), and Tiffany's husband Chad (played by the John Wick franchise's director Chad Stahelski, who was also Reeves' stunt double in the first Matrix flick) and all he represents. Reviving a romance last seen on-screen 18 years ago, raising its main players from the dead, bringing back other characters in altered guises, liberally weaving in clips from past films — stitched together as it is from oh-so-many familiar parts, you could call The Matrix Resurrections a Frankenstein's monster of a movie. Wachowski has found a rare way to make that a positive more often than not, however, because deprogramming the notion that anything is just one thing alone couldn't be more crucial here. That truth pulsates through the film's action, too, which can't live up to the original and doesn't particularly seem to try. Enough of the movie's fights and chases and sci-fi trickery still look stunning, but The Matrix Resurrections wants audiences to go "whoa!' over its ideas, emotions and meta-philosophising above all else. Even the warmer colour scheme — sorry, fans of futuristic green — casts this new tumble down the rabbit hole in multiple lights. A film can be daring, evolve its franchise while mining nostalgia with care and savvy, and make the utmost of its biggest strengths — Reeves and Moss, clearly, who could melt faces with their chemistry. It can be both fun and funny, and also skewer the company resuscitating it (that'd be Warner Bros, with The Matrix Resurrections doing a superior job of making the joke than the studio's horrible Space Jam: A New Legacy). It can offer a sincere ode to love, human connection and perseverance, too, and transform old parts to make them feel different in the process. Still, while so much about The Matrix Resurrections dazzles — Yahya Abdul-Mateen II (Candyman) joining the fold and rocking magnificent suits among them — sometimes it's just clunkily new and clumsily self-referential rather than fresh. Believing in Reeves and Moss remains its biggest superpower, though. If the energy from their timeless on-screen romance can help the world forget how underwhelming The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions both proved, it can fuel this mostly thrilling, almost-always-entertaining look back in the sci-fi mirror.
Conformity rarely bodes well in cinema. Whenever everyone's dressing the same, little boxes litter the landscape or identical white-picket fences stretch as far as the eye can see, that perception of perfection tends to possess a dark underbelly. The Stepford Wives demonstrated that. Pleasantville, Blue Velvet and Vivarium all did as well. Yes, there's a touch of conformity in movies about the evils of and heralded by conformity; of course there is. That remains true when Florence Pugh (Black Widow) and Harry Styles (Eternals) navigate an ostensibly idyllic vision of retro suburbia in a desert-encased enclave — one that was always going to unravel when the movie they're in is called Don't Worry Darling. Don't go thinking that this handsome and intriguing film doesn't know all of this, though. Don't go thinking that it's worried about the similarities with other flicks, including after its secrets are spilled, either. It'd be revealing too much to mention a couple of other movies that Don't Worry Darling blatantly recalls, so here's a spoiler-free version: this is a fascinating female-focused take on a pair of highlights from two decades-plus back that are still loved, watched and discussed now. That's never all that Olivia Wilde's second feature as a filmmaker after 2019's Booksmart is, but it feels fitting that when it conforms in a new direction, it finds a way to make that space its own. That's actually what Pugh's Alice thinks she wants when Don't Worry Darling begins. The film's idealised 1950s-style setting comes with old-fashioned gender roles firmly in place, cocktails in hand as soon Styles' Jack walks in the door come quittin' time and elaborate multi-course dinners cooked up each night, with its protagonist going along with it all. But she's also far from keen on having a baby, the done thing in the company town that is Victory. It'd curtail the noisy sex that gets the neighbours talking, for starters. Immaculately clothed and coiffed women happily playing dutiful housewives in a cosy sitcom-esque dream of America generations ago: that's Wilde and screenwriter Katie Silberman's (also Booksmart) entry point; however, they waste zero time in showing how rebelling in her own child-free way isn't enough to quell Alice's nagging and growing doubts about utopia. There's much to get her querying, such as the earth-shaking sounds that rumble when Victory's men are at work, doing top-secret business on "progressive materials" out in the sandy expanse. There's the reflections in the mirror that briefly take on a life of their own, too — starting in a ballet class that's about retaining control, coveting symmetry and never upsetting the status quo far more than dancing. And, there's the pushed-aside Margaret (KiKi Layne, The Old Guard) after she disrupts a company barbecue. All the rules enforced to keep Victory's women in their places, and the cult-like wisdom that town and company founder Frank (Chris Pine, All the Old Knives) constantly spouts, are also inescapable. So is the force with which asking questions or daring to be different is publicly nixed, as Alice quickly discovers. And, it's impossible to avoid how the men band together when anything or anyone causes a bump, even their own other halves. Swiftly, Alice's days scrubbing and vacuuming her Palm Springs-inspired bungalow, then sipping cocktails poolside or while window shopping with fellow Victory spouses like Bunny (Wilde, Ghostbusters: Afterlife) and Peg (Kate Berlant, A League of Their Own), fall under a shadow — not literally in such sunnily postcard-perfect surroundings, but with shade still lingering over every part of her routine. Speaking up just gets dismissed, and Frank and his underlings (including a doctor played by Timothy Simmons, aka Veep's Jonah Ryan, who is instantly unnerving thanks to that stroke of casting) have too-precise answers to her concerns. As set to a jaggedly breathy score by John Powell (Locked Down), hell is all those drinks, chats and parties teeming with plastered-on smiles and oh-so-fake conversations. It's also the idea that deviating from the norm is an act of betrayal. Hell is the glitching existence that Alice finds herself in, in other words, as her suspicions won't subside and the urge to investigate and challenge keeps swelling. When it comes to showing the cracks fracturing Victory's gleaming facade, Don't Worry Darling moves fast — plenty of other movies have spent more time in the illusion of domestic bliss before shattering it, and Wilde smartly knows that her audience don't need to luxuriate in all that glitters to care about why nothing truly does glisten. Her audience can't miss the mirage anyway, thanks to the stunning production design and costuming, as brightly lensed by cinematographer Matthew Libatique (The Prom). Given how pristine that Alice's life literally looks, it's easy to see the flaws just as she does. It's easy to buy how speedily Alice's status quo starts to unfurl from there when the performance that accompanies it is so phenomenal. Pugh just keeps going from strength to strength since first earning attention in 2016's Lady Macbeth, in just her second film role, then backing it up with everything from The Little Drummer Girl and Fighting with My Family through to Midsommar and Little Women — and her anxious and alarmed work here is on par with her best. When Don't Worry Darling doesn't quite put its pieces together (when it gets repetitive with its psychological thrills in its midsection, primarily), she's the unbreakable glue still holding the movie in place. Forget the supposed feuds, screaming matches, affairs, boycotts and flying saliva, aka the picture's long list of highly publicised off-screen dramas; Wilde knows how to cast just as well as she knows how to lay impeccably manicured and yet insidiously tense scenes. That knack for finding the right actors for the part extends to Wilde enlisting her own talents (and visibly having a whole lot of fun in the process) as the gossipy but compliant Bunny — and, yes, casting Styles as well. The pop superstar-turned-actor is meant to pale in comparison to Pugh, in a portrayal that clicks exactly as it's designed to when the twist comes. On that subject, Don't Worry Darling's big revelation is hardly difficult to predict. It also doesn't say anything new about our patriarchal society, the power that men have long wielded over women and today's toxic perspectives. Still, that doesn't make Wilde's cautionary tale any less engaging, involving and rattling. It's imperfect, but that's apt; eschewing conformity always has to be.
In Stay of the Week, we explore some of the world's best and most unique accommodations — giving you a little inspiration for your text trip. In this instalment, we take you to the Intercontinental Hayman Island Resort, where they have just launched their new lavish beachfront pavilions. We've even teamed up with Intercontinental Hayman Island Resort to bring our readers a great deal. Head to Concrete Playground Trips here, to book a three-night stay in the Premium Lagoon Room (including all transfers and breakfasts). WHAT'S SO SPECIAL? Spend a few nights in your own luxury retreat located on a private island's shoreline. You can roll out of bed and slide right into your own plunge pool in mere seconds. THE ROOMS When staying at the Intercontinental Hayman Island Resort's new pavilions, you are located right on the beach. The beach isn't a short walk down a path. Just step off your private terrace and immediately feel the sand in between your toes. This place is about achieving absolute relaxation in the most luxurious of settings. And that means no kids. It's an adults-only accommodation for those who need a break from hectic youth energy and noise. Each standalone room has a generous living area, a plush king bed, an ensuite with a free standing bath and separate shower area as well as your very own plunge pool overlooking the beach. Yes, these luxury accommodations come with a fairly steep price tag but at the Intercontinental you very much get what you pay for. FOOD AND DRINK We get that you won't want to pull yourselves away from your private paradise, but you'll want to indulge in the excellent food and drinks program on offer. The resort has five distinct restaurants and bars, serving up all the best local produce to guests. But it's their private dining options which are most impressive. They organise private picnics on remote beaches including Langford Island and Blue Pearl Bay (where you'll be served premium honeymoon vibes along with the champagne). They also have poolside cabana lunches and hands-on chef's table experiences. It is proper decadence. [caption id="attachment_874908" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Guillaume Marques (Unsplash)[/caption] THE LOCAL AREA Hayman Island is the most northerly of the famous Whitsunday Islands, off the coast of Central Queensland. Once you arrive on Hamilton Island, you'll then need to get either a boat or helicopter to Hayman Island. Once you're here, you've got all the best nature experiences at your fingertips. You can walk into the tropical forests full of wildlife or find your very own remote beach away from the other resort goers. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the private island are also full of coral and tropical fish — making this ideal for diving and snorkelling. Editor's tip: if you're looking for an epic way to experience The Whitsundays then book one of these exclusive getaways through Concrete Playground Trips (including a sunset cruise, scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef, luxury accommodation and a tour of Whitehaven Beach). THE EXTRAS The Intercontinental Hayman Island Resort has a huge range of activities available to those seeking to either relax or go out on an adventure. On the island, guests can go on nature-bound walking trails, picnics on the beach, immersive wildlife tours, fish feeding trips, cultural weaving classes and take part in a whole host of sports and fitness activities. These guys can also organise a bunch of expeditions by air. Helicopter tours and private seaplane charters will take you above Whitehaven Beach's iconic turquoise swirls and gaze over the world-famous Heart Reef. And lastly, you can go exploring the Great Barrier Reef and nearby islands by sea. Get on a daytime tour of the reef (full of snorkelling or scuba diving), work up a sweat during a sea kayaking excursion, head on a fishing adventure by boat or fully relax on a sunset cruise. Heaps of premium sun-soaked activities are on the menu here. Feeling inspired to book a getaway unlike anything else out there? Only through Concrete Playground Trips, our new travel booking platform, can you now purchase holidays specially curated by our writers and editors. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips at destinations all over the world.
At the Art Gallery of New South Wales, 2024 started with Kandinsky and Louise Bourgeois exhibitions, all carrying over from 2023. Now that the middle of the year has hit, the Sydney institution has thrown over its walls to another massive art name: Alphonse Mucha. The Czech-born painter and illustrator is virtually synonymous with Paris in the art nouveau period in no small part thanks to posters for French stage actor Sarah Bernhardt in the late-19th and early-20th centuries — and Alphonse Mucha: Spirit of Art Nouveau, AGNSW's big winter showcase, is dedicated to his work. In an exclusive-to-Sydney display that opened on Saturday, June 15 in Naala Badu, the gallery's north building, and runs until Sunday, September 22, Australian audiences can now step through why Mucha's art is so influential. Whether they're devoted to a theme, a movement or a specific artist, every exhibition tells a story, with this one exploring the two parts of its name: a man who gave an era its look and the aesthetic that he helped immortalise. This isn't a small step through all things Mucha, with more than 200 items featured. Alphonse Mucha: Spirit of Art Nouveau is the most-comprehensive showcase of the artist's work that the country has ever seen, in fact. And yes, posters for Bernhardt and others are among the pieces on display, alongside illustrations, photographs, sculptures, jewellery and interior decoration. Surveying Mucha's five-decade career, created in collaboration with the Mucha Foundation in Prague and featuring works from the Mucha Family Collection, Alphonse Mucha: Spirit of Art Nouveau also includes a digital component, with painting cycle The Slav Epic from 1912–26 — a piece that spans 20 canvases — getting the immersive treatment. AGNSW is also pairing works by Mucha with Japanese prints sourced from its ukiyo-e collection that date to the same period that Mucha was in Paris, plus band posters and record covers from the 60s and 70s, as well as manga from more recently, that demonstrate his ongoing influence. "Alphonse Mucha was one of art's great stylistic innovators, and whilst best known for his iconic posters and decorative designs that contributed to the development of art nouveau, we hope this truly comprehensive exhibition will offer audiences the chance to take a deeper look at the remarkable life of this fascinating artist and his humanistic ideals," said AGNSW Director Michael Brand. "We are grateful to the Mucha Foundation for their generosity in lending these treasures to allow audiences here in Sydney the chance to discover an exhibition not only rich in art but also in history, human achievement and political commitment." Alphonse Mucha: Spirit of Art Nouveau displays at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, The Domain, Sydney from Saturday, June 15–Sunday, September 22, 2024. For more information, visit the venue's website. Images: installation view of the 'Alphonse Mucha: Spirit of Art Nouveau' exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, 15 June – 22 September 2024, photo © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Diana Panuccio.
When you're rallying the crew for a long-overdue catch-up, there's one surefire way to turn an ordinary get-together into a guaranteed good time: bottomless lunch. Luckily, Cloudland in Fortitude Valley is delivering the ultimate bottomless experience to add to your weekend rotation. Set in the vibrant, newly renovated urban oasis Cloudland Garden, this two-hour bottomless lunch is equal parts indulgent and affordable. It's all about relaxed, share-style feasting paired with premium bottomless sips—served to the laidback soundtrack of local DJs spinning all afternoon. Devour a carefully curated selection of gourmet share plates, like butter-poached bug rolls made with creme fraiche, dill, capers, trout roe, and sorghum, butternut pumpkin and taleggio arancini, seared beef skewers served with sauce ravigote and fried garlic, and fried calamari with Sichuan salt and charred lime mayo. Plus, moreish bowls of shoestring fries with spiced salt and house-made dips teamed with woodfired bread—and a Basque cheesecake with lemon curd finale. As for the bottomless drinks menu, you won't be disappointed with an elevated and generous mix of cocktails featuring Malfy Gin, Altos Tequila, Jefferson's Bourbon, along with Mumm Prestige and a selection of premium wines and beers. For more information or to book a table at Cloudland Bottomless Brunch, click here. By Elise Cullen.
"I do love this film." So advises Bob Odenkirk, exclaiming his fondness for Nobody 2 as soon as he starts chatting with Concrete Playground. As evident to everyone who sees the sequel to Nobody, that affection is already splashed across the screen. The same proved true in 2021, too, when the franchise's first movie initially gave its star a chance to switch up from leading one of TV's greatest-ever tragedies and series overall, aka Better Call Saul, with a jump into action mode. His task: playing Hutch Mansell, a seemingly ordinary suburban dad with a past that meant that he was never going to let gun-wielding thieves break into his home and upset his family life with his wife Becca (Connie Nielsen, Gladiator II) and their two children (Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent's Gage Munroe and Harland Manor's Paisley Cadorath) without making those responsible pay for it. The debut picture set Hutch against the Russian mafia, all to take care of his loved ones. That isn't Mr Show with Bob and David and Breaking Bad alum Odenkirk's IRL path at all, but elements of Nobody were indeed personal. The idea to begin with started with him in his prime Saul Goodman/Jimmy McGill/Gene Takovic days. And, as the Nobody 2 director Timo Tjahjanto (The Shadow Strays) explained back when the sequel's initial trailer dropped, "the first film is also sort of based on what happened to Bob in real life — the whole idea that he was confronting this thing that happened in his house, when somebody broke into his house. So he exorcised that sort of, I guess, trauma, by writing a script or writing a story." Four years later, with a movie that follows the Mansells on vacation to Plummerville — Hutch's dad David (Christopher Lloyd, Wednesday) included — this is still a action-flick saga with IRL connectioms for its lead. In his childhood, Odenkirk once went on a similar getaway. Again, the exact scenario that awaits Hutch isn't how its star's real life panned out; however, links to reality remain, including in exploring Plummerville's criminal element. Getting personal and relatable has always been baked into the Nobody films as well in a broader sense, given that both hone in on someone trying to do the best for their nearest and dearest. That's Hutch's emotional journey. Crucially for Nielsen, she tells us, the same applies to Becca. Nobody 2 kicks off pre-holiday, with Hutch working off his $30-million mob debt from the feature's predecessor, and barely spending time at home as a result. Becca isn't thrilled. Cue the trip, at Hutch's suggestion, to Plummerville's Wild Bill's Majestic Midway and Waterpark — a place with youthful memories for the film's protagonist. Of course, running afoul of the corrupt owner of the local theme park (John Ortiz, The Madness), a take-no-prisoners crime boss (Sharon Stone, The Flight Attendant) and underhanded law enforcement (with And Mrs' Colin Hanks as the sheriff) wasn't on anyone's dream vacation itinerary. Writing for Saturday Night Live, plus featuring in everything from Nebraska, Fargo, Little Women, Undone and Lucky Hank to The Bear and Glengarry Glen Ross on Broadway, are all on multiple Emmy-nominee Odenkirk's resume. Whether as Hutch in the Nobody films or as Jimmy-slash-Saul, he's been especially focused on bringing to life figures who refuse to get knocked down and stay down for over 15 years now, though — but that's a trait that he stresses he believes applies to everyone. Indeed, there's always a relatability-meets-wish fulfilment mix to Hutch, Becca and the situations they're in. Who can't relate to struggling with work-life balance, or their partner's lack thereof? Or a holiday not quite panning out the way you'd hoped and wanting to set that right? Or protecting those most important to you? Nobody 2 sees Nielsen on-trend in her own career. For the second time in less than a year, she's returning to a big-screen part. First came Lucilla in Gladiator II; now follows Becca. While both are formidable women, as she has played repeatedly across a career that started with screen roles in the 80s and also spans The Devil's Advocate, Rushmore, Brothers, Wonder Woman, Origin and plenty beyond, it is particularly satisfying and gratifying to portray someone who is meant to be an everywoman — as Hutch is an everyman — and who demonstrates that she too, like all women, can hold her own, she notes. Alongside digging into why Nobody 2 is personal, and its focus on family as well as everyday woes — amid and sometimes through the action setpieces — Odenkirk and Nielsen also chatted with us about the origins of all things Nobody, further fleshing out Becca's story in the sequel, tenacity and more. On Whether Odenkirk Was Keen to Find His Next Recurring Character Beyond Better Call Saul and Breaking Bad — and What He Was Looking For Bob: "I didn't really think on the grand scale that you've described to me. I was really thinking about how Better Call Saul, to my surprise, was pleasing people in countries around the world. I really was mystified initially that Better Call Saul played so well in Italy and Romania and Russia and even England — and everywhere. I actually asked a journalist in Europe 'how do you understand the show? Do you have lawyers like this?'. And they said 'well, we've seen a lot of American entertainment and we understand enough about American culture to understand who Saul is in his community, in his world'. And then I saw that it played in China, and it gave me the thought 'well, if I did an action film, that could play around the world, too' — because action is fairly simple and easy to follow. And the value or the kind of drive of the film is easy to relate to. So I asked my manager 'what about an action film?' — and I thought he'd laugh me off the phone, but he did not. He said 'I get what you're saying. That could work'." On Nielsen's Opportunity to Further Build and Flesh Out Becca Mansell in Nobody 2 Connie: "I think Bob is just such a generous writer. He just writes all these situations where the humanity of his wife is just so clear. There is a wisdom that he builds into Becca — and a zenness, like a knowingness, that I find so attractive about Becca. Becca is patient, but she's not long-suffering. The difference is huge. And she is critical but never blames, never uses blame. She holds him accountable for the sake of the family, for what's best for all of them, but not to control. So there's this wonderful way you can build a character, and I think that Bob just really writes that into Becca since day one. I remember the first time when I read the first script and the reason why I decided I wanted to do it, even though I knew that they wouldn't be developing Becca until the second installation — I just knew that I wanted to do it because there was this sensitive, beautiful scene of two people sleeping with a pillow in-between them. And they're both awake, and they just can't figure out how to how to ford that river between them. And I just thought that I've never seen that in an action movie, something as sensitive as that. And I just love that." On Nobody 2's Personal Ties for Odenkirk, as the First Nobody Also Sported Bob: "Nobody 2 is about a family going on vacation. When I was a kid, we went on two vacations: one to the Illinois State Fair and one to the Wisconsin Dells. And the Wisconsin Dells are just like Plummerville — or at least they were 35, well 45 years ago, when I went on vacation to them. They're mostly water-based. There's duck boats. There's a guy who owns all the attractions in town — just like Wyatt Martin, played by John Ortiz. Wisconsin is where Al Capone ran his booze through. He actually had a home there, in Lake Geneva, I believe. So all that stuff that The Barber [Colin Salmon, EastEnders] says to Hutch, 'used to be a bootlegging route' — that's true of this place where I used to go. All of that is true. The backroads of Wisconsin was where they ran alcohol up to Canada during prohibition, ran it out to the other states, ran it through to Wisconsin. So all that stuff is based on my memories of childhood — and also Derek Kolstad [John Wick], who wrote the movie, his memories. He grew up in Madison, Wisconsin, very close to the Wisconsin Dells. So yes, this movie too is connected to my personal experience." On Doing What's Best for Your Family Always Being at the Heart of the Nobody Films, Even as Action Movies Filled with Violence and Vengeance Connie: "It really is, and I think that that's what attracted me to the story — is that it always stays grounded in something real. There's a real family there, kids, and the real community as well. So I love it when you see writing that just makes the small things come alive, because they are the ones that we just inherently use to create reference points to who we are all the time, and I love that kind of writing." On What Appeals to Odenkirk About Playing Characters Who Refuse to Get Knocked Down and Stay Down, and Are Determined to Bounce Back Up However They Can Bob: "Well, you can say that they're special people or they're indefatigable spirits, but I actually think that's actually pretty common. Most people I know don't quit until they're forced to. They kind of just don't quit. People don't quit. Sometimes I think people are limited by what they imagine they'd be capable of. And that limits them more than their spirit of fighting. I think most people fight pretty hard." On What's Satisfying and Gratifying for Nielsen About Portraying Formidable But Also Relatable Women Connie: "I think the most important thing is really showing normal people trying to address the enormous difficulties of living. There's just so much stuff that's hard to do. Family is hard. Relationships are hard. Jobs are hard. And just showing that, I think, at the same time as you're also entertaining, I think that makes people feel like they're seen — that their lives make sense, because everybody is going through that. So I think I really respond to writing where I see a real human struggle, and I also see indicators for where it becomes meaningful — like, that struggle has meaning." Nobody 2 opened in cinemas Down Under on Thursday, August 14, 2025.
Digitise your notes and hold them forever without losing the art of touching ink to paper. The line between the digital and non-digital world becomes ever thinner and more transparent with the influx of nifty new technologies like Moleskine's Smart Notebook. This notebook changes the world of handwritten notes as it allows you to photograph them, upload them onto note-taking program Evernote, and view them on a smartphone, tablet or computer. The notebook is for sketches or brainstorms which require old-school pen and paper, but can still conveniently be stored digitally. The Smart Notebook makes your notes, sketches, lists etc. incredibly "accessible, searchable, and shareable." After you've uploaded your notes onto Evernote, you can store them easily, look through them on screen, and easily share them with friends, family or work colleagues. Moleskine's notebook also comes with stickers or tags, so that you can group relevant notes together and make it much easier to sift through and search for various notes or drawings. On the Evernote app, it is easy to search for tags or keywords to easily find past notes. It also does helpful things, like automatically straightening images according to the lines of the notebook. Each Moleskine Smart Notebook comes with a three month Evernote subscription, so you can could theoretically make use of their service by simply buying a new book every three months.
A superstar Hong Kong bar dedicated to mezcal and tequila has just been named the number one bar in Asia for 2023 at the annual '50 Best' awards which took place in Hong Kong overnight. The victorious establishment COA (pictured above) located in Central Hong Kong and helmed by acclaimed bartender-owner Jay Khan, has retained the number one spot on the list for the third consecutive year, demonstrating that excellence and consistency can go hand-in-hand — even when tequila is heavily involved. [caption id="attachment_909998" align="alignnone" width="1920"] COA's Head of Operations Ajit Gurung and Owner Jay Khan[/caption] The top 50 features bars from 17 cities across Asia from Taipei to Tokyo, providing ample inspiration for destination drinking on your next trip to the continent. The bars that made the top five spanned five different countries. At #2 was perennial favourite Jigger & Pony in Singapore — inarguably one of the most influential businesses in getting the Asian bar scene on the map. At #3 is the glitzy BKK Social Club located at the Four Seasons Hotel in Bangkok. Then at #4 is Tokyo favourite Bar Benfiddich, a delightfully oddball 14-seater bar in the hectic Shinjuku district that champions farm-to-bar cocktails. And rounding out the top five, at #5 is the beautifully-designed Seoul venue Zest, which also took out the Highest Climber Award for 2023 after jumping an astounding 43 positions from last year's 50 Best list. Explore the full list below and start making notes for your next getaway. [caption id="attachment_909985" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Inside Tokyo's tiny Bar Benfiddich[/caption] Asia's 50 Best Bars 2023 1. Coa, Hong Kong 2. Jigger & Pony, Singapore 3. BKK Social Club, Bangkok 4. Bar Benfiddich, Tokyo 5. Zest, Seoul 6. Tropic City, Bangkok 7. Nutmeg & Clove, Singapore 8. Argo, Hong Kong 9. Darkside, Hong Kong 10. Sago House, Singapore 11. Indulge Experimental Bistro, Taipei 12. Vesper, Bangkok 13. Cham Bar, Seoul 14. The SG Club, Tokyo 15. Analogue Initiative, Singapore 16. Republic, Singapore 17. The Aubrey, Hong Kong 18. Sidecar, New Delhi 19. The Cocktail Club, Jakarta 20. Virtù, Tokyo (winner of the Highest New Entry Award) 21. Manhattan, Singapore 22. Mahaniyom Cocktail Bar, Bangkok 23. Lamp Bar, Nara 24. 28 HongKong Street, Singapore 25. Le Chamber, Seoul 26. Penicillin, Hong Kong 27. Atlas, Singapore 28. Alice, Seoul 29. Pantja, Jakarta 30. Employees Only, Singapore 31. Quinary, Hong Kong 32. Stay Gold Flamingo, Singapore 33. Mostly Harmless, Hong Kong 34. The Curator, Manila 35. The Bombay Canteen, Mumbai 36. Bar Trigona, Kuala Lumpur 37. Southside Parlor, Seoul 38. Copitas, Bengaluru 39. Hope & Sesame, Guangzhou 40. Smoke & Bitters, Hiriketiya 41. Vender, Taichung 42. Native, Singapore 43. The Public House, Taipei 44. Bee's Knees, Kyoto 45. High Five, Tokyo 46. Soko, Seoul 47. The Old Man, Hong Kong 48. The Living Room, Mumbai 49. The Bellwood, Tokyo 50. Penrose Kuala, Lumpur Main image: COA
Everything old is new again at the New Farm Cinemas, the iconic Brisbane venue formerly known as the Village Twin finally reopening its doors. On August 1, the revamped theatre will welcome the public into its retro-styled confines for the first time since 2003. Boutique in style but big in impact, stage one of the renovated venue sees two screens entice cinephiles with a lineup of new and recent blockbusters — Guardians of the Galaxy, Lucy and Dawn of the Planet of the Apes among them. Patrons will enjoy state-of-the-art digital projection equipment and an Australian-first audio system as they sit in either all-new cinema seating or beanbags. The cinema’s second phase is still under construction, and is due to open by the end of the year. Four extra screens will be added, including two Gold Class facilities. Since purchasing the property in February 2013, Yatala Drive-in proprietors Peter and Stephen Sourris have worked to restore the cinema from an empty shell to a faithful recreation of its former glory. Their labours have paid off in a venue that reinstates the splendour of its most famous feature — the heritage-listed Purple Room, bathed in the colour from top to bottom — while salvaging other original elements and also celebrating the evolution of both the building and cinema in general. Stepping inside the New Farm Cinemas is akin to stepping back in time, with a modern twist. Walls of vintage movie posters for films such as Jaws, Mad Max, Saturday Night Fever and Serpico greet visitors, who can relax and appreciate the artwork in a foyer filled with brand new Eames furniture. Movie paraphernalia abounds, including tables and wine racks made from old film reels, and The Addams Family and Terminator 2: Judgment Day-themed pinball machines. A restored projector, dating back to 1904, provides a fetching centrepiece. Those familiar with the venue in its previous incarnation will feel a wave of nostalgia as they walk through the space. The floors retain the recognisable circular-patterned carpet throughout, in both renovated and new cinemas, and the glass chandelier many will remember still shines down from above. Other touches bring the past into future, from benches made from old cinema doors to the exposed beams of the roof trusses as a stairwell feature, to photo displays that provide a chronology of the cinema’s transformations. Since 1921, the site has hosted several incarnations of cinema screens, starting its life as the open-air Merthyr Picture Palace. It was remodelled in the 1930s to become the Astor, before morphing into the Village Twin in 1970, and now the New Farm Cinemas. The venue aims to cater for more than just film fans, with a street-level coffee and gelato cart adding an extra eating option to the popular stretch of Brunswick Street. Inside, the lounge bar serves pizza, light snacks and beverages that can be taken into every cinema in the fully licensed venue. Traditional movie snacks are available at the candy bar. For more information about the New Farm Cinemas, visit the New Farm Cinemas website.
Looking for plant-based Italian food your non-vegan friends and even your nonna will be able to get around (eventually)? That's what you can expect at Nonna's Nightmare. Cosy up at this West End spot with pizzas, pasta and comfort food made for feeling good about your choices. Locally sourced ingredients come together to make dishes like gnocchi al ragu (made using Beyond Meat bolognese), ravioli al tartufo with mushroom and truffle and sourdough pizzas. If you really want to see nonna get cranky, order the Italian Nightmare pizza, topped with grilled pineapple, vegan bacon, chilli and lime salsa. If only a burger will cure your cravings, there are three options to choose from, including one stacked with eggplant parmigiana. And if you somehow have room for dessert, check out the pistachio-infused ricotta cannoli. This is definitely not the kind of place you'll leave hungry — at least nonna can't be mad about that.
Something delightful is happening in cinemas across the country. After months spent empty, with projectors silent, theatres bare and the smell of popcorn fading, Australian picture palaces are back in business — spanning both big chains and smaller independent sites in Sydney and Brisbane. During COVID-19 lockdowns, no one was short on things to watch, of course. In fact, you probably feel like you've streamed every movie ever made over the past three months, including new releases, comedies, music documentaries, Studio Ghibli's animated fare and Nicolas Cage-starring flicks. But, even if you've spent all your time of late glued to your small screen, we're betting you just can't wait to sit in a darkened room and soak up the splendour of the bigger version. Thankfully, plenty of new films are hitting cinemas so that you can do just that — and we've rounded up, watched and reviewed everything on offer this week. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Ekw85OqJck THE WITCHES What's the one thing that every movie remake has in common? No matter how it turns out, the original film still exists. So, if the latest version doesn't cast a spell, you can return to the old one — revisiting it, appreciating it anew and steeping yourself in nostalgia in the process. That's worth remembering regarding the latest screen adaptation of Roald Dahl's The Witches, even with writer/director Robert Zemeckis (Back to the Future, Who Framed Roger Rabbit, The Polar Express) and co-writers Kenya Barris (Black-ish, Girls Trip) and Guillermo del Toro (Pan's Labyrinth and The Shape of Water's) involved. Its main achievement: reminding everyone just how great the previous screen adaptation of Roald Dahl's book from back in 1990 still is. It might be unfair to think that some remakes only eventuate because a studio executive thought it was time to wring some more cash out of a beloved story, but that's how this movie feels. It's simultaneously broader and tamer — including Anne Hathaway's (Dark Waters) over-the-top performance as the Grand High Witch, although she does appear to be enjoying herself immensely — and it radiates big pantomime energy. Indeed, there's a lack of overall magic in The Witches, either of the twisted or charming type (unless sending viewers clamouring to find wherever the original is currently streaming counts). A few things have changed in this fresh iteration. It's 1968, and the the film's unnamed young protagonist (Jahzir Bruno, The Christmas Chronicles 2) moves to Alabama to live with his grandmother (Octavia Spencer, Onward) after his parents are killed in a car accident. He's grief-stricken, but they bond over her shocking revelation: that witches exist, they're everywhere, they despise children and she has experience with them. Also, once a witch sets their sights on a kid, it never lets up. That's why, after one crosses the boy's path, grandma whisks him off to "the swankiest resort in Alabama", where she's certain they'll be safe among rich white folks. Of course, she couldn't have predicted that the group of women that have taken over the Grand Orleans Imperial Island Hotel's ballroom — the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, apparently — are all witches. Or, that the Grand High Witch is in attendance, unveiling a plan to turn every kid in the world into a rodent via a potion called 'Formula 86 Delayed Action Mouse-Maker'. Much that has endeared The Witches to readers and viewers over the years remains in the latest film, but tinkering with the details and tone makes an unfortunate impact. Brimming as it is with bright colours and overdone CGI, the new version of The Witches favours gloss and shine over chills and potential nightmares. Everything here is overt to an in-your-face extreme, and also far less intricate and much more bland. Read our full review. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8DT_zVzxhk THE FURNACE At this point in Australia's cinema history, audiences can be forgiven for wondering if homegrown movies have unearthed and told every tale there is to be found among the vast outback. The answer: an overwhelming no, especially when Aussie filmmakers traverse the country's sunburnt and sprawling expanse to explore stories steeped in our problematic past. The Furnace is one such movie that proves the point. The first feature from writer/director Roderick MacKay, the gold rush-era western serves up a powerful interrogation of Australia as a multicultural nation — harking back to 1897, to Western Australia, and to a time when transporting freight around the country relied upon a network of cameleers trekking across the desert. The men covering great distances to move goods from one place to another hailed from India, Afghanistan and Persia, were largely of Muslim and Sikh faith, and were badged together under the label 'Ghan' by white Aussies. They were treated poorly, except by Indigenous Australians. And, they're a real but oft-forgotten part of the nation's story, so much so that The Furnace will introduce their existence to many viewers for the first time. That's just one of this vividly shot, exceptionally acted film's achievements, though. Another: posing the kinds of questions about our national identity that we should always be asking. Afghan cameleer Hanif (Ahmed Malek, Clash) didn't choose to come to Australia, or to take up this line of work. So, when he witnesses the death of his mentor at the hands of a white man, he's eager to find a way to get the cash he needs to return home. The Indigenous Yamatji Badimia people he often spends time with on his travels, including leader Coobering (Trevor Jamieson, Storm Boy) and Hanif's friend Woorak (Baykali Ganambarr, The Nightingale), suggest that he stays and joins them instead. But, after stumbling across injured thief Mal (David Wenham, Dirt Music), he's determined to use half of his new acquaintance's stolen Crown-marked gold bars to finance his escape and leave the life he hates behind. Troopers led by the fervent Sergeant Shaw (Jay Ryan, IT: Chapter Two) are swiftly on the unlikely pair's trail; however, Hanif and Mal keep traipsing towards the eponymous smelter, where Mal promises they'll be able to melt down the precious metal and remove any trace of the government's ownership. Following Hanif's journey — physically, and emotionally and spiritually as well — The Furnace is a patient film. It's a meat pie western through and through, applying the western genre's trademarks to an Australian context, and it joins The Proposition, Sweet Country and the aforementioned The Nightingale as one of the best 21st-century examples. MacKay spies the beauty and the imperfections in Australia's arid, dusty landscape, as many filmmakers have before, but he also never lets the flaws in our national character that are made plain by this chapter of history ever fall out of view. Read our full review. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gb8ZbP6qAzE&feature=youtu.be THE MIDNIGHT SKY The Midnight Sky is George Clooney's first film role in four years (since 2016's Hail, Caesar! and Money Monster), so it's fitting that he's at his most bearded and reclusive within its frames. This sci-fi drama also joins the small but significant list of features that combine the star and space, following Solaris and Gravity — and there's something particularly alluring and absorbing about seeing Clooney get existential, as all movies that reach beyond earth's surface tend to. He clearly agrees, because he not only leads The Midnight Sky but also directs it as well. This is a big-thinking and big-feeling film, with its characters grappling with life, love and loss. It boasts aptly pensive and probing cinematography, too; however, both on-and off-screen, Clooney is the key. When the movie spends time with astronauts onboard the spaceship Aether, including the pregnant Sully (Felicity Jones, On the Basis of Sex), ship commander Adewole (David Oyelowo, Gringo), veteran pilot Mitchell (Kyle Chandler, Godzilla: King of the Monsters), and other crew members Sanchez (Demián Bichir, The Grudge) and Maya (Tiffany Boone, Hunters), it's at its most generic. Indeed, when it ventures to space, The Midnight Sky almost screams for either Clooney to head there as well, or for the feature to plummet back down to earth to join him once more. The actor/filmmaker plays workaholic research scientist Dr Augustine Lofthouse and, although The Midnight Sky rockets beyond the earth, it doesn't send its protagonist there. Instead, in 2049, after an environmental disaster has made the planet uninhabitable, he chooses to remain in the Arctic as his colleagues evacuate. He's dying anyway, and frequently hooks himself up to machines for treatment — in between downing whiskey, watching old movies, eating cereal and talking to himself. Then, interrupting his lonely decline, two things change his status quo. Firstly, a young girl (debutant Caoilinn Springall) mysteriously pops up out of nowhere, refusing to speak but obviously needing an adult's care. Secondly, Augustine realises that he'll have to trek across the oppressively icy terrain outside to connect via radio to Aether's crew, who've been on a two-year mission to ascertain whether newly discovered Jupiter moon K-23 can support life, and are now making their return unaware of what's been happening at home. The space movie genre is as busy as the sky above is vast, and The Midnight Sky proves familiar as a result, delivering plenty of elements that viewers have seen before — but this isn't merely an exercise in flinging together derivative parts. While this isn't Clooney's greatest achievement as a director in general or as an actor in a space flick, it's still an involving, engaging and poignant addition to his resume on both counts. Read our full review. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ij8m_XQ_J2E WORDS ON BATHROOM WALLS When it comes to portraying illness of either the physical or mental kind, Hollywood doesn't have the greatest track record. Case in point: this year's awful All My Life, a cancer-fuelled weepie that decided it'd rather focus on the girlfriend of its sickness-stricken character — who is based on a real-life person — than on the man fighting to survive. Accordingly, by actually directing its attention towards Adam (Charlie Plummer, Lean on Pete), a high schooler who is diagnosed with schizophrenia in his senior year, Words on Bathroom Walls immediately demonstrates a willingness to actually engage with its protagonist's predicament. The film is based on a YA novel by Julia Walton, rather than on reality, but it sees Adam as a person rather than a reason that someone else's existence increases in drama. That's a pivotal move by filmmaker Thor Freudenthal (Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters) and first-time screenwriter Nick Naveda, and one that improves their movie immensely. But Words on Bathroom Walls doesn't completely avoid cliches and tropes. Instead, it saves them for the usual teenage experiences, serving up everything from bullying classmates to first kisses, prom night antics and graduation chaos as Adam doesn't just try to cope with his condition, but with testing every treatment option there is, and also navigating the disappointments and the side effects. Adam's struggles begin in science class, where he has traumatic hallucinations, injures a friend and gets expelled. Seeing people who aren't there isn't new to him but, with the incident badged a psychotic break, his mother Beth (Molly Parker, Deadwood) devotes every waking hour to finding him the best care — when she isn't spending time with the new boyfriend, Paul (Walton Goggins, Fatman), that Adam doesn't like. For the teen himself, he's most concerned about chasing his dreams. He wants to be a chef, but he needs to get his diploma to get into his chosen culinary course. The local private school agrees to let him attend, as long as he undertakes a specific treatment plan and doesn't trouble his peers with his illness. Consequently, when he meets the studious and resourceful Maya (Taylor Russell, Waves), he keeps his condition to himself, even as a friendship and something more springs. At its core, Words on Bathroom Walls endeavours to address and break down the stigma that surrounds schizophrenia and mental illness, a feat that it perkily but thoughtfully achieves. Still, there's no missing the fact that it squeezes its empathetic intentions — and its narrative in general, and Adam's plight within it — into a well-worn teen formula. While Words on Bathroom Walls still succeeds where many other movies about health struggles fail, thanks in no small part to excellent performances all-round from Plummer, Russell, Parker and Goggins, its need to fit a template threatens to undercut its sensitive approach to its subject. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5uIUUKZsEUY&feature=emb_logo ARCHENEMY Looking for a world where superheroes don't exist? Archenemy travels between two dimensions, or so the often whiskey-swilling Max Fist (Joe Manganiello, Rampage) claims, and finds the super-strong figure in both of them. That said, Fist could be a fallen fighter from another realm who is trying to stop his nemesis Cleo (Amy Seimetz, The Secrets We Keep). Or, he could be a homeless person with problem — or someone about to start waging a crusade for the forces of good after teaming up with siblings Hamster (Skylan Brooks, Empire) and Indigo (Zolee Griggs, Bit). Fist joins forces with the latter duo after Hamster starts pestering him to tell his story. The teen, who has the word 'fiction' tattooed across his face, is trying to land a photojournalism job at a clickbait-chasing website called Trendible (and to go viral doing so), and thinks that Fist could be his ticket. Their new camaraderie is reluctant on elder man's part, but he's willing to talk about his alternate-universe home world of Chromium to anyone will listen. However, complications arrive via Indigo, who works as a drug dealer for a seedy figure known only as The Manager (Glenn Howerton, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia). Although she's trying to earn enough money to send Hamster back to school, she's soon immersed deep in murky gangster business. One of the small joys of this low-key caped crusader affair is that writer/director Adam Egypt Mortimer (Daniel Isn't Real) and his co-screenwriter Luke Passmore (Slaughterhouse Rulez) aren't trying to tell the usual story, or to make it fit the usual boxes — as the fact that Fist's tale could go one of several ways illustrates. Also impressive, as well as visually striking: the hot pink and black animation that literally illustrates Fist's narrative back on Chromium, and nods to the page origins of the superhero genre at the same time. Still, Archenemy is a mixed bag of a movie. It's trying to serve up a thematic and narrative mixed bag on purpose, but that quest spills over to unintended areas. The film strives to add something different to an overpopulated field, for example, but swiftly brings the likes of Hancock and Super to mind. It attempts to subvert a plethora of recognisable tropes, but also leans on a swathe of them itself. It features a moody performance by Manganiello that screams for more screen time (and, yes, more movies), but tasks Howerton and Seimetz with being cartoonish in a one-note manner. As its actors demonstrate, Archenemy often seems as if it's hedging its bets, trying to offer something more grounded than the usual superhero blockbuster but also more outlandish at the same time — and, while often messily entertaining and definitely benefiting from an attention-grabbing score, it doesn't ever find the ideal balance. If you're wondering what else is currently screening in cinemas — or has been lately — check out our rundown of new films released in Australia on July 2, July 9, July 16, July 23 and July 30; August 6, August 13, August 20 and August 27; September 3, September 10, September 17 and September 24; October 1, October 8, October 15, October 22 and October 29; and November 5, November 12, November 19 and November 26; and December 3. You can also read our full reviews of a heap of recent movies, such as The Personal History of David Copperfield, Waves, The King of Staten Island, Babyteeth, Deerskin, Peninsula, Tenet, Les Misérables, The New Mutants, Bill & Ted Face the Music, The Translators, An American Pickle, The High Note, On the Rocks, The Trial of the Chicago 7, Antebellum, Miss Juneteenth, Savage, I Am Greta, Rebecca, Kajillionaire, Baby Done, Corpus Christi, Never Rarely Sometimes Always, The Craft: Legacy, Radioactive, Brazen Hussies, Freaky, Mank, Monsoon, Ellie and Abbie (and Ellie's Dead Aunt), American Utopia, Possessor, Misbehaviour, Happiest Season, The Prom and Sound of Metal. Images: The Midnight Sky, Philippe Antonello/Netflix.
The Rave Cave of Psychotropic Nightmares is an immersive art installation, built to resemble somewhat of a do-it-yourself, post-apocalyptic environment, built by garden gnomes. A dreamlike world that will be brought to life for the Brisbane Festival. Melbourne's A.C.A.B Collective, Ben Johanson, Zinzi Kennedy, Gina Cuntstruct and Rowan Moyle, will be bringing the work to life "out the back" of the Metro Arts Complex. The work itself will grow and morph throughout the Festival, utilizing different media and found objects to "map the psychosis of a throwaway society". Viewers will be able to interact with the work, moving about the installation to discover zones of light and sound. It is a free event, and so will be worth your while to visit more often for alternative experiences. No matter your taste or perspective, there is sure to be something for everyone in the Rave Cave.
You don't have to stray far from the inner city to get back to nature in Camp Hill. Bowies Flat Wetland is a manmade park that has seen picnickers, walkers and nature lovers visit since 2001. This little suburban oasis features a boardwalk, plenty of grass and shade as well as wildlife to admire and look out for. Set up your picnic blanket for the day with the fam or do as the locals do and make this track a part of your daily stroll. The wetlands were built for a project which aimed to lessen the amount of flooding in the area and prevent polluted water from making its way to Moreton Bay. The space is free for public use — all the council asks is that we keep it clean and don't feed the ducks.
Back in 2015, when word arrived that the Flinders Street Station Ballroom would be brought back to life after three decades of sitting dormant, no one could've imagined the wonders that it has gone on to hold. Skywhale artist Patricia Piccinini filled it with twisted flowers and otherworldly creatures. Street-art legend Rone decked it out with a new immersive artwork. For RISING 2025, now an art exhibition that's also a nine-hole mini-golf course is temporarily moving in. When it takes over Melbourne each winter, RISING is always all about giving the Victorian capital — and Australia — brand-new experiences. As popular as putt putt is around the country, Swingers: The Art of Mini Golf is definitely a unique addition to the major annual arts festival's 2025 lineup. The event has enlisted female-identifying and gender-diverse artists to design mini-golf holes at the Flinders Street Station Ballroom, and is inviting RISING attendees — plus anyone in Melbourne for a couple of months after the festival — to get swinging at the three-month-long pop-up. While RISING itself will run from Wednesday, June 4–Sunday, June 15 in 2025, Swingers: The Art of Mini Golf will kick off on the fest's opening day but keep letting folks get putting until Sunday, August 31. When you're tap, tap, tapping, you'll be navigating greens designed by Kajillionaire filmmaker and All Fours writer Miranda July, Australian artists Kaylene Whiskey and Nabilah Nordin, Japan's Saeborg, the United Kingdom's Delaine Le Bas, and Indonesia's Natasha Tontey. Expect surreal, mindbending creations — whether July is riffing on her latest book's name with an 'all fores' setup, Whiskey is merging pop culture and Anangu traditions, latex creatures are a feature courtesy of Saeborg or Le Bas is working in embroidery, to name just a few of the details set to star. Swingers: The Art of Mini Golf is RISING 2025's first program announcement — and if you're keen to find out what else is in store, the full roster arrives in March. For this certain highlight of the fest, as well as a mini golf-meets-art mashup, there'll also be a Swingers Clubhouse, aka a pop-up Archie Rose Distilling Co bar, for when you're done swinging. As for what inspired the piece, "the history of mini golf is surprisingly subversive and sits at the heart of this project," explains RISING Senior Curator Grace Herbert, who developed Swingers: The Art of Mini Golf. "It's been incredible to see how each artist has taken this on. Alongside playing mini golf and experiencing the artworks, you might have your fortune told, travel to desert country, become a human-animal hybrid or even find yourself singing along to Dolly Parton." "RISING is about creating collective experiences and Swingers continues that tradition. Bringing such unique artistic minds into the creation of a nine-hole course is a literal game-changer. I can't wait to see audiences step up and take their shot," added RISING Co-Artistic Directors Hannah Fox and Gideon Obarzanek. RISING 2025 runs from Wednesday, June 4–Sunday, June 15 across Melbourne — and Swingers: The Art of Mini Golf will run from Wednesday, June 4–Sunday, August 31, extending past the festival. Head to the event's website for further information. Images: Eugene Hyland.
When one venue closes, another one usually opens. That's a unshakeable fact in the hospitality realm — in general, and also right here in Brisbane. Take the pile of containers set up on MacLachlan Street in Fortitude Valley, for instance. The site's original inhabitant, bar X Cargo, has now shut down; however, newcomer Summa House has just taken over its boozy setup. Here, you'll still find those metal boxes stacked high, grass sprawling out between them, and big beer garden vibes — all under the Brissie sun and, by night, beneath the stars as well. You'll also find fairy lights, couches, picnic tables, striped umbrellas and a giant flamingo mural. Oh, and cocktails to sip, pub-style food to tuck into and parties to dance through, too, with the latter taking over once evening hits. In total, there's also 14 event spaces — and the venue can host 1200 people. When you're not getting comfy on the ground level amid the gardens, you can literally take your hangout session up a level, and also peer at the city thanks to the venue's 360-degree vistas. If it's drinks you're after, the beverage menu spans reds, whites, sparkling, rosé, a range of beer on tap — including Balter, Byron Bay, James Squire and XXXX, and also Brookvale ginger beer — and summery-themed share jugs. There's an eight-option roster of cocktails for one, too, with names such as 'Tidal Wave' and 'Summasalt'. Bound to be a hit: Summa House's choc espresso martini. That pub grub-esque food lineup includes chicken parmigiana, beer-battered barramundi, steaks and lamb cutlets with sides like truffle mash and chat potatoes, as well as four types of burgers. For something light, there's spring rolls, tempura cauliflower, barbecue corn ribs and buffalo wings, too. And, on weekdays, you can grab a $15 lunch special, which features a choice between tacos, schnitzels, rumps and cheeseburgers (with a beer or wine costing $5 extra). X Cargo was known for its boozy weekend brunches, so Summa House is also doing its own version from 12–3pm on Saturdays and Sundays. This time, you'll get a tapas spread for two hours, and either cocktail jugs, beer and wine (for $55 per person), or menu cocktails, brews, vino and spirits (for $99).
As we're sure you've heard, Japan has quite a reputation as a travel destination. But even beyond the most hyped experiences — like eating endless bowls of ramen in Tokyo, walking among cherry blossoms with views of Mount Fuji, feeding deer in Nara — the country has an incredible array of lesser known regions that, if you cover, will take your holiday from great to practically life changing. For instance, the region of Tohoku in Japan's northeast is one of the country's less travelled but no less impressive destinations. It presents visitors with outstanding dining, unique stays and natural landmarks that'll blow your mind. So, if you truly want to make your next trip to Japan one to remember, consider riding the shinkansen (bullet train) just a couple of hours north of Tokyo, where you'll discover a wealth of experiences that you likely weren't aware existed (until now). VISIT AN ANCIENT EARTHQUAKE-PROOF PAGODA Found throughout Yamagata Prefecture, the Three Mountains of Dewa are considered some of the holiest anywhere in the country. And while Mount Haguro, Mount Gassan and Mount Yudono each provide a spectacular setting to explore during sun or snow, only the foremost has a 600-year-old pagoda buried deep within its cedar forest. Make your way down Mount Haguro's famous 2446 stone steps and you'll soon be surrounded by towering cedar trees. After a short walk, you'll come across the so-called Five-Storey Pagoda, which features an interior wooden pendulum that counteracts the shock of an earthquake. The pagoda dates back to the Heian Period (794–1185) and was rebuilt in the late 14th century — and it's been standing strong ever since. DO A FOUR-DAY PILGRIMAGE WITH A MOUNTAIN MYSTIC You'll also have the chance to reconnect with nature in the most fascinating way possible within the holy Three Mountains of Dewa. Link up with a mountain mystic such as Master Hoshino — a white-robed priest who teaches the ancient Japanese mountain religion known as Shugendo — and you'll learn about a range of traditional techniques to refresh your body and soul. This practice is called yamabushido. During your four-day 'journey', you'll hike a series of sacred trails, stay in a pilgrim lodge and try waterfall meditation. Shugendo dates back to the eighth century and combines elements of Shinto, Buddhism, Animism and mountain faith to explore ways to reduce excesses in day to day life. Here, you can try it for four days and see how you go. PRETEND YOU'RE WALKING ON THE MOON AT THIS EPIC CRATER Set along the border of Miyagi and Yamagata Prefectures, Mount Zao features some of Tohoku's most spectacular scenery. Besides the steaming hot springs and sprawling ski resorts that dot the landscape, the area's biggest draw is the renowned Okama Crater. Surrounded by three soaring mountaintops, the active volcano's distinctive shape has earned it the nickname of the 'cauldron'. Great to visit all year long, Mount Zao's steep landscape comes alive with alpine flowers during summer, while autumn reveals a charming smattering of red and yellow vegetation that contrasts with the turquoise crater below. SEE CONTEMPORARY ARTWORKS FROM YOKO ONO AND YAYOI KUSAMA Japan's well known for its forward-thinking tech innovations, but it's also the birthplace of some of the world's greatest contemporary artists. Featuring a permanent collection of 38 commissioned projects, the Towada Art Center, in Aomori Prefecture, is dedicated to showcasing many of the nation's top artists, alongside some international superstars, too. Inside, you'll come across an eclectic mix of installations by the likes of Yoko Ono, Ron Mueck, Yayoi Kusama and Ana Laura Aláez, among many others. With the gallery's airy, purpose-built design linked intrinsically with the outside world, there's a range of striking exhibition rooms, a café and a collaborative art space to explore. DISCOVER THE SECRETS OF SAKE AT A 400-YEAR-OLD BREWERY The precise origins of sake might still be something of a mystery, but who better to guide you through its ancient history than a producer who's been making it for more than 400 years? Situated in Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture, the Toko Sake Museum highlights the work of Kojima Sohonten, a renowned sake brewery that, 24 generations on, is still owned by the original family. Inside the museum, you'll be guided through the traditional brewing techniques and tools that provide the foundation for the brand. Meanwhile, in the adjoining shop, you'll get to sample a variety of sakes and umeshu, a plum liqueur that'll please your tastebuds. STAY IN A HOTEL INSPIRED BY YAMAGATA'S NATURAL BEAUTY Shigeru Ban is perhaps one of Japan's more famous architects and was the brains behind some of the world's most beautiful buildings. Having moved to Yamagata in 2014, Ban was struck by the natural beauty of the area and soon set about translating this into the design of the Shonai Hotel Suiden Terrasse. With everything but the foundation and the building's core made out of wood, the entire two-storey structure is designed to sink into the surrounding rice fields, making for one very peaceful stay. Featuring stunning views of the mountains and fields in the distance, the hotel also has a luxe onsen and a restaurant serving local produce. SAMPLE JAPANESE VINO AT A RENOWNED WINERY Japan might be most famous for its rice wine, but those who love the grape-based variety are in for a treat — if they know where to look. During your visit to Tohoku, drop into Takahata Winery, in Yamagata Prefecture, and take your pick from some stellar vintages, which are produced from grapes surrounding the property or on a nearby farm. Inside the shopfront, you'll come across award-winning wines ranging from chardonnay and pinot noir to cabernet sauvignon. Plus, there's a host of locally produced cheeses and snacks to pair with your wine. Need more reasons to visit Japan's stunning Tohoku region? For more travel inspiration and to start planning your adventure, head this way. Top image: Okama Crater by Σ64 via Wikimedia Commons.
Melbourne isn't the only patch of Victoria that's gaining a new place to celebrate creativity in 2025, and adding something different and welcome to Australia's cultural scene in the process. While the state's capital city is set to become home to the Australian Museum of Performing Arts in December, championing the nation's contribution to music, theatre, opera, circus and dance in a city that's never short on any of those artforms, Halls Gap at the foothills of Gariwerd/Grampians National Park is gaining the National Centre for Environmental Art before winter is out. Again, the venue's focus and its location match perfectly. If you're going to open an Aussie-first gallery that's dedicated to works about the natural world, doing so in stunning surroundings is a must. The National Centre for Environmental Art is the brainchild of the Wama Foundation and, as it hones in on artistic narratives heroing the earth, will form part of the organisation's new art and environment precinct. When it begins ushering patrons through its doors — at a yet-to-be-revealed midyear 2025 date — the National Centre for Environmental Art will launch as stage one of the broader hub, alongside the Gariwerd/Grampians Endemic Botanic Garden, plus new artwork around the grounds. From there, immersing art within the landscape will continue to be a highlight of stage two, which will also boast a sculpture trail. So, you'll be enjoying the site's affection for both creativity and nature indoors and out. Inside, Western Australian artist Jacobus Capone will be in the spotlight at the centre's debut exhibition, with End & Being contemplating the planet's warming, the crisis as a result and the influence that humans have had upon the situation. The Fremantle-based artist creates everything from paintings and video installations to photos and performances — and will take visitors to Bossons Glacier at Mont Blanc in France without leaving Victoria, all by documenting a performance staged above and beneath the icefall. [caption id="attachment_1006306" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Astrid Muller[/caption] "Our program, encompassing new commissions, group exhibitions and nationally touring shows, will be rooted by a spirit of inquiry. Our take on the genre of environmental art is expansive, offering ample space for both playful exploration and deep contemplation," explains Wama Foundation CEO Pippa Mott of the National Centre for Environmental Art's aim. "Jacobus and I are deeply honoured to be part of Wama's inaugural exhibition and to present a project that, like Wama, seeks to foster a dialogue between art, humanity and the environment," added curator José Da Silva, who is also UNSW Galleries' Director and previously was part of the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art's team in Brisbane, including leading the Australian Cinémathèque. "Capone's work, with its profound sensitivity to environmental change and human vulnerability, speaks directly to that mission, and has guided our decisions to present this particular project." [caption id="attachment_1006309" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Astrid Muller[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1006310" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jacobus Capone and Moore Contemporary[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1006311" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jacobus Capone and Moore Contemporary[/caption] Find the Wama Foundation and The National Centre for Environmental Art at 4000 Ararat-Halls Gap Road, Halls Gap, Victoria, Australia sometime from winter 2025 — head to the Wama Foundation website for more details.
UPDATE, May 30, 2021: High Ground is available to stream via Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Amazon Video. Violence is never splashed across a cinema screen unthinkingly. Depicting physical force is always a choice, even in by-the-numbers action films where fists and bullets fly far more frequently than meaningful moments. Accordingly, when brutality and bloodshed arrives in a movie that peers back at Australia's colonial past, there's no doubting that the filmmakers responsible have considered what they're including, why, the message it conveys and the impact it'll have on the audience. High Ground is one such Aussie feature. This outback western joins a growing number of homegrown efforts, such as Sweet Country, The Nightingale and The Furnace, and it's just as exacting about its scenes of confrontation and carnage. All excellent films, they each ensure that watching atrocities committed by white Australians against First Nations people and people of colour isn't a passive act — because having a visceral and emotional reaction, facing the horrors of Aussie history and releasing the imprint such violence still leaves today is the only natural response. High Ground's main forceful encounter occurs early, motivating everything that follows and proving impossible to forget. In 1919, ex-World War I sniper-turned-police officer Travis (Simon Baker, Breath) sets out across the area now known as Kakadu National Park, leading a law enforcement team on a routine expedition to track down runaway criminals. Travis is respectful of Arnhem Land's Indigenous residents; however, it doesn't take much — namely, the decisions of his less fair-minded colleagues — for the journey to end with slaughter. Twelve years later, in the 30s, Travis is still haunted by the incident. Thanks to one of High Ground's most important choices, it doesn't require any effort at all to understand why he feels the way he does, or why his eyes have taken on a sorrowful glint. The movie's viewers have witnessed the same awful events, with Aboriginal men, women and children who were enjoying a peaceful waterside gathering all suddenly and savagely killed, and a boy called Gutjuk (debutant Guruwuk Mununggurr) only managing to leave the scene alive due to Travis' intervention. The bulk of the film takes place in its later time period, when Travis is enlisted by his superior Moran (Jack Thompson, Never Too Late) and ex-partner Eddy (Callan Mulvey, Shadow in the Cloud) to address the still-lingering aftermath of the massacre. One of the few survivors, Baywara (Sean Mununggurr, Lucky Miles), has been waging a campaign of revenge — and, despite the fact that Travis turned in his badge in disgust after his bosses covered up the incident, he's given the task of locating him. Baywara is also Gutjuk's uncle, which sparks a reunion between the ex-cop and the child he saved. Of course, the latter is now a young man (fellow first-timer Jacob Junior Nayinggul), has spent the past decade-plus at a local mission with the kindly Father Braddock (Ryan Corr, Hungry Ghosts) and his sister Claire (Caren Pistorius, Unhinged), and is as begrudging about the new expedition as Travis. He's also just as aware that a showdown looms between Australia's colonisers and its original inhabitants, and that whatever eventuates isn't likely to be peaceful. Even when untainted by blood, the country's landscape has blazed with red, orange and ochre hues since long before European settlement — since the sun first started beating down upon it, undoubtedly — with those colours helping many an Aussie film bake heated feelings of fury and torment into their frames. Indeed, simmering anguish goes with the territory in High Ground. That's true of every movie that recognises that Australia was far from terra nullius when the First Fleet arrived, but there's no escaping the scorching mood that radiates here, as director Stephen Maxwell Johnson (Yolngu Boy) intends. Working with cinematographer Andrew Commis (Babyteeth) to bring screenwriter Chris Anastassiades' (The Kings of Mykonos) script to the screen, the filmmaker fills his first feature in two decades with picturesque yet also pulsating scenery. Peering down at eye-catching swathes of the Northern Territory, the nation's earthy beauty is striking and stunning, and so is the knowledge that it has been walked upon by Indigenous Australians for tens of thousands of years. And one goes with the other, as the movie's soundtrack also helps reinforce, layering the noises of birds and wildlife with songs by Yolngu singers such as Yothu Yindi's Witiyana Marika — who also appears in the film as Gutjuk's grandfather Dharrpa — and his son Yirrmal Marika. Johnson has a history with Yothu Yindi, directing music videos for the group, including for its 1991 hit track 'Treaty'. He also grew up in the NT, and has ties with Arnhem Land and Kakadu National Park's Yolngu and Bininj Aboriginal communities. And, he worked with the elder Marika and the late Dr M Yunupingu, also of Yothu Yindi, as the script for High Ground and the project in general evolved. It should come as no surprise, then, that the film stings with authenticity. It tells a fictional tale, but does so to illuminate inescapable truths. Everyone involved knows that they're interrogating a difficult but vital subject, and aims to get their audience thinking as long and hard as Johnson and his collaborators clearly have about the details, the violence, and the way the country's historic treatment of its First Peoples still echoes today. In one of his rare homegrown roles of late, Baker belongs among High Ground's intensely contemplative talent. He's one of the film's executive producers as well, but he's ideal on-screen. That said, he's at his best when he's acting opposite the exceptional Nayinggul, who seems to live and breathe Gutjuk's pain and conflict with such soulfulness and sincerity that his performance appears near-effortless. Their pairing speaks volumes at every turn, too. They play men pushed together by circumstance, with one made to confront the ills that an entire nation would rather ignore and the other forced to help clean up an invading culture's unspeakable acts. That juxtaposition alone paints a potent picture, and a purposeful one — but that's this latest great Aussie film all over. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WL-G4oCoDF0
A road trip along Victoria's Great Ocean Road should be on every Australian's travel bucket list. Hit up the small beach towns of Torquay, Lorne, Apollo Bay, Port Campbell and Warrnambool to discover Aussie surf culture at its finest and spend some time within the region's stunning natural surrounds. But first things first: you've got to sort out your accommodation. You can live that camping life, but we have curated this list of luxe hotels, guest houses and villas for those wanting more comfort. TORQUAY RACV TORQUAY RESORT The RACV Torquay Resort is located right at the beginning of the Great Ocean Road, boasting sweeping views of the coast and the surrounding golf course. Whether you join a chill yoga class, unwind with a sweaty sauna session or treat yourself to a day at the luxurious day spa, there are plenty of ways to unwind at this Torquay property. BOOK IT NOW. THE SANDS TORQUAY The Sands Torquay has been a mainstay of the area's luxe accommodation offerings for quite some time. People come back here, over and over again. And now that it has had a massive makeover, there are even more reasons to stay here. We're talking an indoor pool, outdoor tennis courts, large dog-friendly rooms, and Bunker restaurant, which serves up elevated pub classics to locals and hotel guests alike. BOOK IT NOW. WYNDHAM RESORT TORQUAY This large resort is one of the only hotels located right on the beach in Torquay — most are set back further, with local beach houses lining the shores instead. The location is one of Wyndham's greatest features. You can get down to Torquay's Fisherman's Beach within a couple of minutes and walk right into town in under 20 minutes. It's ideal for those wanting a chill beachside getaway. BOOK IT NOW. LORNE MANTRA LORNE This old-school resort has been a popular place to stay in Lorne for decades, and it's easy to see why. Mantra Lorne's heritage buildings are set right on the beach, within 12 acres of landscaped gardens (including tennis courts and croquet lawns). No other local accommodation will beat this location nor its traditional feel that's been seamlessly blended with modern amenities. The refurbished indoor mineral pool and glam steam rooms are just a couple of examples of such contemporary offerings. BOOK IT NOW. CUMBERLAND LORNE RESORT Cumberland Lorne Resort is located up on the hills above Louttit Bay, boasting stunning views across town. But it isn't up in the middle of nowhere. It's still close to the best bits, surrounded by local cafes and boutique stores. Head here for a sleek and modern stay, with luxurious penthouses as well as one- and two-bedroom apartments available to those road-tripping along the Great Ocean Road. BOOK IT NOW. APOLLO BAY SEAFARERS GETAWAY Few Great Ocean Road accommodations compare to this one. You have uninterrupted views up and down the coast from each of the studios and lodges that sit within eight hectares of grassland. From here, you can either head up to The Otway National Park's undulating green hills and woodland or walk down to the Seafarer's pristine beach within minutes. Whales and dolphins can often be seen in the surf, koalas can be found in the gumtrees and alpacas can be hand fed in the field. What more could you ask for? BOOK IT NOW. APOLLO PANORAMA GUESTHOUSE Perched up in the hills, a little further back from the beach, this five-bedroom guesthouse looks down over Apollo Bay and a big stretch of the Great Ocean Road. It is made for groups of mates or a big family, thanks to its many rooms, the kitchen with double-vaulted ceilings and the large deck with barbecue. We wouldn't blame you for stopping your trek along the coast to spend the rest of your time up here. BOOK IT NOW. PORT CAMPBELL EASTERN REEF COTTAGES Staying here feels like spending time at your mate's old family beach house. It isn't a glam hotel nor is it a bougie bread and breakfast. It is a humble set of cottages set within lush green surroundings not too far away from town. Either go for the large four-bedroom cottage or nab one of the smaller units that look out over the courtyard. Each accommodation has its own kitchenette and all the essential amenities. Eastern Reef Cottages is a really decent budget option in the sleepy town of Port Campbell. BOOK IT NOW. SOUTHERN OCEAN VILLAS If you're coming up this way for the 12 Apostles, then this spot will more than do. The famous cliffs and rock plinths are just a five-minute drive from the accommodation, while the town centre is easily walkable. The villas also offer a variety of different accommodation options. Capable of comfortably accommodating two to six people, each villa has an open-plan kitchen, lounge and dining room with two or three bedrooms and a scenic outdoor deck (each with a barbecue). BOOK IT NOW. WARRNAMBOOL DEEP BLUE HOTEL & HOT SPRINGS The Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs, Victoria's very first hot springs hotel, is made for those who want to run away and really relax. We mean it — lean into that self-care lifestyle. Book some time in the many indoor and outdoor geothermal pools, treat yourself to a massage and scrub, then finish with champagne and oysters at the hotel's restaurant. You can then spend other days exploring the town and the nearby beaches — which can be seen from many of the rooms' private balconies. BOOK IT NOW. LADY BAY RESORT The Lady Bay Resort in Warrnambool is a self-contained accommodation located right across the street from the beach, allowing guests to do what the locals do — swim along the coast, hit the local bars and pubs and even do some work (if you must). There's also an in-house restaurant, arcade room and outdoor pool for those who just want to rest at the property. BOOK IT NOW. Feeling inspired to book a truly unique getaway? Head to Concrete Playground Trips to explore a range of holidays curated by our editorial team. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips to destinations all over the world. Top image: Weyne Yew (Unsplash)
Brent Farrell is a Brisbane icon when it comes to the foodie scene, having successfully run his eponymous restaurant for more than eight years. Rebranding Brent’s Restaurant to 85 Miskin St at the end of last year saw the dining experience shift from “fine” with white gloves and silver service to a more “casual/relaxed” vibe where families are welcome. However, when it comes to the food there is no mistaking Brent’s signature artistry. Each dish is a guaranteed masterpiece, delivering incredible and innovative flavour combinations using the freshest of ingredients from the garden out the back. Plating is an art form, both allowing individual components on the plate to shine as well as being so visually striking that you may experience a sudden urge to take a photo of your food... The menu is designed so that you can “eat as you please” with the option to choose a three-course structure or share multiple starter and main plates. Don’t be fooled by the descriptions – they may seem simple but each dish you choose will pack a complex, mind-blowing punch. To start, opt for an antipasto style option or choose the impeccably light house-made Semolina crusty loaf and cultured butter. For entrée you simply can’t go past the sautéed scallop and broth with cauliflower and lemon oil (kid you not the broth is the tastiest, fluffiest, creamiest soup you will ever experience) or the Citrus cured ocean trout with edible ants (YES, ants!), rosehip sorbet, dill crème fraiche and radish. And for mains the crispy skinned glazed pork belly with mandarin, chilli and ginger and wild rice is a must. Finally, the desserts (although seemingly simple) are sweet surprises that tantalise the tastebuds and leave you in a state of awe. The fresh berries with Madagascan vanilla and garden flowers is served in a terracotta pot with chocolate dirt and the intriguing and unexpected yoghurt, dill and nasturtium comes with fragrant dill ice cream, a tangy yoghurt and French vanilla pannacotta and a halo of toffee. Highly recommended. Whether it’s a fine food experience you seek in relaxed surrounds, or you’re looking for something to excite and delight the taste buds then 85 Miskin St is your ultimate destination.
Sydney's no stranger to world-class drinking dens, but even we're due for a few surprises when one of the world's best, and most enduring, speakeasies hits Aussie shores next month. Since the first Employees Only bar opened its doors in New York back in 2004, it has picked up a whole swag of accolades — including ranking among The World's 50 Best Bars for ten years running, this year coming in at 26 — and its founders have successfully taken the concept global, launching outposts in Singapore, Hong Kong and Miami. And now, they're headed Down Under, taking over a heritage basement space in Sydney's CBD and bringing in Sydney native Anna Fang, for the bar's much-anticipated Australian debut. Here, Employees Only is sticking to its original principles, promising memorable cocktails and sophisticated fare in a beautiful space. But it'll also be rounded out with a distinctly local edge and a healthy dose of Sydney style. The Sydney outpost is being run by EO co-founder Dushan Zaric, along with EO New York bartender Robert Krueger and Fang as venue manager. And it seems no one is deterred by the city's ongoing lockout law woes, with Krueger saying, "We're excited to work with the incredible local bar community, together helping to reinvigorate Sydney's nightlife and bring it back onto the global stage." To that end, expect a cocktail offering that lives up to the hype, with some of the New York outpost's favourites sitting alongside a slew of new, Sydney-exclusive creations. Must-try classics that will appear on the menu include the Amelia, crafted on vodka, elderflower liqueur, puréed blackberries and fresh lemon, and the Provençal, with lavender-infused gin, vermouth and Cointreau. Meanwhile, the kitchen is taking its cues from classic New York bistro fare, the menu sporting a mix of Employee's Only favourites — think house-made pork sausage cavatelli, bone marrow poppers with bordelaise sauce, and the now legendary steak tartare, here done with hand-cut filet mignon — and Head Chef Aurelian Girault's latest Australian-inspired creations. Enter beneath the signature neon "psychic" sign, pull up a seat at the curved, brass-topped bar and get ready for some pretty exceptional boozing. Employees Only Sydney is slated to open in November at 9 Barrack Street, Sydney. Images: Robert Krueger and Anna Fang, by Joe Cheng.
Whether it sports a catchy beat, an intoxicating riff, a punchy melody or instantly quotable lyrics, a brilliant pop tune never gets old. As Girls5eva demonstrates with its second season, the same proves true for smart and hilarious sitcoms about pop stars who climbed the charts, lived the late-90s/early-00s girl group fantasy and, two decades later, are trying to become more than one-hit wonders. And yes, this Tina Fey-executive produced sitcom — which shares the same joke-avalanche approach that 30 Rock, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Great News and Mr Mayor do, too — is also filled to the brim with ridiculously infectious songs. When it first hit streaming in 2021, Girls5eva introduced viewers to the eponymous band when reclaiming their fame wasn't even a blip on their radars — until, unexpectedly, it was. Dawn Solano (Sara Bareilles, Broadway's Waitress), Wickie Roy (Renée Elise Goldsberry, Hamilton), Summer Dutkowsky (Busy Philipps, I Feel Pretty) and Gloria McManus (Paula Pell, AP Bio) had left their days as America's answer to the Spice Girls behind, barely staying in contact since the group split and their fifth member, Ashley Gold (Ashley Park, Emily in Paris), later died in an infinity pool accident. But then rapper Lil Stinker (Jeremiah Craft, Bill & Ted Face the Music) sampled their single 'Famous 5eva', and they were asked to perform backing vocals during his Tonight Show gig. Jumping back into the spotlight reignited dreams that the surviving Girls5eva members thought they'd extinguished long ago — well, other than walking attention-magnet Wickie, who crashed and burned in her attempts to go solo, and was happy to fake it till she made it again. Dawn had settled into life as a mother (to four-year-old Max, played by debutant Julius Conceicao), wife (to school guidance counsellor Scott, played by Billions' Daniel Breaker) and manager at her brother's (Dean Winters, Joe vs Carole) Italian restaurant. Summer was an Insta-celebrity among conservatives and Christians thanks to her longstanding marriage to ex-boy band member Kev (Andrew Rannells, The Prom). And Gloria was a successful dentist whose other claim to fame since Girls5eva was being part of the first gay couple to get divorced in New York City. It's a glorious premise, as brought to life with a pitch-perfect cast — there's zero weak links among Bareilles, Goldsberry, Philipps and pell — with Girls5eva's first eight-episode season bopping through the group's contrasting personalities and their shared dynamics. As they reunited, Wickie's oversized ego, Dawn's uncertainty, Summer's seeming ditziness and the now-forthright Gloria's engrained trauma from pretending to be straight back in the day all swirled around. So too did a cavalcade of clever and perceptive gags about the show's two favourite topics, unsurprisingly: the ludicrous chaos of the entertainment industry, in the 90s and now alike; and the way not only showbiz but the world in general treats women, especially anyone beyond their 20s. Arriving on Stan in Australia and TVNZ On Demand in New Zealand on Friday, May 6, dropping three episodes at once before unfurling weekly afterwards, season two picks up where its predecessor left off, in narrative, vibe and themes. It's also back with more rapid-fire pop-culture references and digs; the same knowing, light but still sincere tone; and a new parade of delightful tunes composed by Jeff Richmond, Fey's husband and source of music across every sitcom she's produced. Having stormed the Jingle Ball stage at the end of the last batch of episodes, Girls5eva now has a new record deal on their own terms, with Dawn penning all of their songs. That said, they're signed to a label owned by the Property Brothers, they've been given just six weeks in the studio by their assigned executive (Grey Henson, Suburgatory), and Gloria busts her knee during a show as they're hitting the publicity circuit. One of the joys of Girls5eva — one of many — is how gleefully absurd it skews, all while fleshing out its central quartet, their hopes and desires, and their experiences navigating an industry that treats them as commodities at best. That silliness is as much a trademark of Fey-produced comedies as Richmond's soundtracks, and it's a template that creator/showrunner Meredith Scardino clearly learned while writing for Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt and co-scripting the Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs the Reverend movie. It's easy to watch Girls5eva and spot similarities with 30 Rock, Kimmy and the like as a result, but the devil is in the detail in everything with Fey's name attached. Wickie boasts plenty in common with 30 Rock's Jenna Maroney and Kimmy's Titus Andromedon, for instance, but feels like a sibling, not a clone. She's a new song from a familiar band, rather than a cover version — and the same can be said of Dawn, Summer and Gloria, all of whom have counterparts in fellow sitcoms that feature Fey's fingerprints. Girls5eva has always been about second acts, second chances and new beginnings — and wading through the baggage that can hinder all three — so the fact that it hums to a recognisable refrain has never been anything but extremely fitting. The show's sophomore season finds much to satirise with that in mind, while also diving deeper and pushing Wickie, Dawn, Summer and Gloria to grow. Another of its supremely apt underlying riffs: how difficult it is to follow your own heart and let your light shine when life keeps putting you in the same old box. That pulsates through as Wickie falls in love with someone other than herself, Dawn keeps trying to balance her home and work commitments, Summer adjusts to singledom and Gloria woos back her ex-wife (Janine Brito, Wine Country), only to wonder if that's what she really wants. Along the way, there's an onslaught of goofy gags for every occasion (Wickie's boyfriend is a "lunch lord", for example), as well as a tune. Sometimes, Dawn is trying to work all 430 definitions of the word 'set' into a song. Elsewhere, the group belts out bangers such as immediate earworm 'BPE (Big Pussy Energy)'. At one point, they take cues from The Beatles and hit up a rooftop to play the anthemic 'Bend Not Break', which is actually about Gloria's knee injury, to the NYC streets. And season-one highlight 'New York Lonely Boy' gets an equally melancholic and lovely sequel called 'New York City Moms', too. There's power and self-reflection, ridiculousness and earnestness, determination and heart in everything about this series, music, jokes, characters and storylines included — and it just keeps proving a laugh-a-minute gem to watch. Check out the trailer for Girls5eva season two below: The first three episodes of Girls5eva's second season hit Stan in Australia and TVNZ On Demand in New Zealand on Friday, May 6, with new instalments dropping weekly afterwards. Read our full review of season one. Images: Stan/Peacock.
Direct flights from Australia's east coast to New York — and London, too — are on their way, with Qantas committing to make the massive trips from 2025. But first, the Aussie airline is heading non-stop from Auckland to the Big Apple. The carrier has announced two pieces of exciting news for travellers Down Under, both of which might change your holiday plans from 2023 onwards. Firstly, it's starting those direct Auckland–New York routes, kicking off on June 14. Secondly, it's recommencing flying to NY in general, including a new Sydney–Auckland–New York flight. Initially, the new service will run three days a week, starting in Sydney before soaring non-stop from NZ to NY. The latter part will take a whopping 16 hours, which is slightly shorter than the 17-hour direct Perth–London route that first hit the air back in 2018, but will still be a mammoth undertaking. Yes, time feels like it means nothing when you're on one plane for that long. Yes, if you're keen on as few stopovers as possible whenever you're jetting around the world, that hefty non-stop leg is worth it. When Qantas returns to NY for the first time in three years due to the pandemic, travellers will be flying on Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with the airline taking delivery of three new aircraft in 2023. If you now know what you're doing next winter — enjoying a hot NY summer, obviously — the Sydney–Auckland–New York flights have just gone on sale today, Thursday, August 25. The airline will also increase its daily services from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne to Auckland from six to 11 when the new route commences, to help Aussies can take advantage of it. In flying direct from NZ to NYC, Qantas follows in the footsteps of Air New Zealand, which announced its plans back in 2019 and will start the route in September 2022. Qantas will restart flying to New York via its new Sydney–Auckland–New York route from June 14, 2023. For more information or to make a booking, head to the airline's website.
In the latest development of wearable tech, luggage company Samsonite has teamed up with Google to bring you a smart backpack that syncs to your smartphone. The Konnect-i Backpack can receive calls and text messages, sync to your navigation and music apps and even take selfies — just to name a few features. It's basically the wireless headphones of backpacks. The bag — powered by Google's latest toy, dubbed Jacquard — connects to the users smartphone via Bluetooth and allows you to perform heaps of commands by moving your hand over and tapping the left strap panel. Users can control music, receive phone calls, use navigation apps, drop pins, save locations and receive rideshare alerts. Jacquard can also start a photo countdown for selfies and, if you have a Google android, it can chat to Google Assistant, too. You can also fix the LED light on the left strap to light up according to different alerts. Of course, the Jacquard will still need to be charged, but a single charge can last ten days-to-two weeks, depending on how much you use it. Keen shoppers can choose between two styles, slim or standard ($299–329) — which come with a vertical or horizontal zipper, respectively. Each is water-repellent, easy-care fabric coated and comes with matte silver reflective trimming. Yes, it looks (and sounds) like something Batman would own. Apart from the futuristic elements, the backpack comes with all of the usual features of a pricey bag, including extra padding along the back panel and shoulder straps, plus a padded laptop compartment and heaps of storage pockets. If you have the cash to splash, hands-free travel is in your future. The Konnect-i Backpack is now available Australia-wide. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
The two-kilometre coastal walk between Bondi and Tamarama is always a stunning Sydney sight no matter when you mosey along it, but it's especially impressive during Sculpture by the Sea. Once a year since 1997 — except during the pandemic's early days — the outdoor art event displays large-scale pieces with the ocean as a backdrop. Understandably, it isn't just one of the annual highlights of Sydney's cultural calendar, but of Australia's. That excuse to soak up the great outdoors in the Harbour City returns again in 2023, from Friday, October 20–Monday, November 6. On the agenda once more: 100-plus artworks by Australian and international sculptors, all along a two-kilometre walk. But this is the 25th Sculpture by the Sea, so it's celebrating notching up that milestone with pieces by artists who displayed at the event back at its beginning. Paul Bacon, Stephen King, Michael Le Grand, John Petrie, James Rogers and Margarita Sampson earn those honours, bookending a quarter-century run. Sculpture by the Sea 2023 will also feature works by Philip Spelman and Ron Gomboc, who reach double decades displaying at the event; Lucy Barker and Ayako Saito, who hit a decade; and Chinese artist Chen Wenling. Discovering exactly who'll be showing what and where is part of the fun of taking the spring stroll, but this year's event won't be short on talent. As always, the exhibition is set to draw a crowd. Each year, Sculpture by the Sea attracts approximately 450,000 visitors over 18 days, with the same number of art lovers expected this time around. The past few years have been particularly eventful for the exhibition, which had to sit out 2020 like oh-so-many festivities around the world, then tried to make a comeback in October 2021 but also had to scrap those plans due to the pandemic. It did successfully stage a CBD spinoff, Sculpture Rocks, in autumn 2021, however. Even before the current global health situation interrupted its annual plans, organisers were also at loggerheads with the Council over the construction of a new path back in mid-2019, and were scoping out alternative locations for the long-running art exhibition. In fact, it was only early in 2021 that the parties came to an agreement to remain in Bondi until 2030, with the organisers and Council agreeing to a ten-year deal. Amid all of the above, the Sculpture by the Sea team also branched in 2022, opening the Snowy Valleys Sculpture Trail. It's a permanent 100-kilometre collection of outdoor art along the Snowy Valleys Way, passing through the towns of Adelong, Batlow and Tumbarumba, the hamlet of Tooma, plus the Tumbarumba wine region's cellar doors. Sculpture by the Sea will return to the Bondi–Tamarama coastal walk for 2023 from Friday, October 20–Monday, November 6. For more information, head to sculpturebythesea.com. Images: Charlotte Curd, Reni Indrawan, Clyde Yee, Jack Bett, Jarrad Seng, W Patino, G Carr and Samantha Burns.
For his latest solo exhibition at the Museum for Contemporary Art in Tokyo, Tokujin Yoshioka has again indulged his fascination with organic structures and natural processes, embracing the interaction between prisms, space and light. In his series of striking sculptures and installations, Yoshioka aims to expose the beauty and energy present within self-generating wonders such as crystal formation, harnessing the process to become part of the art itself. He quite literally grows his artworks, using a special liquid that allows natural crystals to develop into whatever shape they choose, after which he sometimes decides to attach them to a base of some kind. And, like any true gardening fanatic, he believes in playing music to his 'plants' as they grow. His series entitled Swan Lake apparently blossomed under the soothing companionship of Tchaikovsky. Whilst we happen to think the huge fairy floss-like clouds of crystal comprising Tornado 2007 are pretty spectacular, the large-scale installation Rainbow Church has been heralded as the exhibition's highlight: a huge window made of 500 crystal prisms inspired by Henri Matisse's designs for the Rosaire Chapel. Yoshioka is known for combining architecture, design and installation art. His furniture designs appear at Salone del Mobile annually and he has also designed store interiors for high fashion brands such as Hermès and Issey Miyake. Via Yatzer.com. Images from the MOT.
Whatever your plans are on Tuesday, November 8, change them — or find a way to include peering at the sky into your diary, too. For 85 minutes, folks Down Under will be treated to a blood moon and a total lunar eclipse, giving you a stellar reason to spend your night staring upwards. While blood moons aren't particularly rare, there is one big reason to look up this time around. This total lunar eclipse is the last one that'll be able to be seen in Australia and New Zealand until 2025. If you're wondering what else you need to know, we've run through the details below. WHAT IS IT? If you're more familiar with The Mighty Boosh's take on the moon than actual lunar terms, here's what you need to know. When a full moon happens to coincide with a total lunar eclipse, it's also called a blood moon. Why? Yes, it has to do with the colour. When the astronomical body passes directly into the earth's actual shadow, it turns a blood-red shade thanks to sunlight that's filtered and refracted by the earth's atmosphere. WHEN CAN I SEE IT? If you're keen to catch a glimpse, you'll want to peek outside on Tuesday, November 8. According to Timeanddate.com, the total lunar eclipse is due to begin at 9.16pm AEDT in Sydney and Melbourne — and, because of daylight saving in the southern states, at 8.16pm AEST in Brisbane. Those times adjust accordingly in Adelaide (8.46pm) and Perth (6.16pm) — with the full total lunar eclipse running for 85 minutes. In NZ, you'll be looking up from 11.16pm. Moonrise will happen before that, and the partial eclipse will begin 67 minutes prior to the totality times, too — so at 8.09pm in Sydney and Melbourne and 7.09pm in Brisbane, for instance. WHERE CAN I SEE IT? You can take a gander from your backyard or balcony, but the standard advice regarding looking into the night sky always applies. So, city-dwellers will want to get as far away from light pollution as possible to get the absolute best view. Naturally, you'll be hoping for cloud-free skies that evening. If you can't get a clear vantage, The Virtual Telescope Project will be live-streaming from the skyline above Rome from 8.30pm AEDT / 7.30pm AEST / 10.30pm NZ time. The blood moon and total lunar eclipse will take place on Tuesday, November 8, with the full total lunar eclipse starting at 9.16pm AEDT / 8.16pm AEST / 11.16pm NZ time. For further information, including about timing, head to Timeanddate.com.
Sure, we all know Cleveland — but when was the last time you've actually spent an afternoon there? With plenty of history, the bayside town will make your day trip feel like a mini holiday. While Cleveland was settled in 1850, the town's biggest drawcard — other than the ocean — popped up in 1864: the Cleveland Point Lighthouse. Though this seaside watchtower shuttered for good in 1976, it still remains quite the place for scenic snaps and pretending you're in Round the Twist. Oh, and make sure you complete the experience with a trip to the bar-café-kiosk for some fish and chips. As for the seaside itself, trekking along Brissie's east coast offers an array of delights. Wander past historical buildings, go for a dip and grab a drink at the 166-year-old Grand View Hotel overlooking Moreton Bay. Image: Redlands Council.
