We all know that one day the singularity will be upon us and machines will rise up and take the planet. We know that. And yet when a super intelligent cooking robot wanders into our midst we welcome it with open arms — and that's probably because, even in the face of grizzly robot death, food is king. With that in mind, meet June the intelligent oven designed by a feisty gang of ex-Apple developers. June is incredibly advanced. Using image recognition technology, she can identify food types, weigh dishes and adjust cooking time to make sure your food is cooked perfectly (allowing you to have another wine and lose yourself in Game of Thrones without worrying about ruining dinner). She’s equipped with a touch screen with step-by-step instructions, a meal planner and recipe suggestions, a built-in digital scale, and push notifications. She also has (brace yourself) live HD video streaming from within the oven. Yep. We have a feeling that watching this fascinating live stream will become a household activity. And may opened-oven-door cakes never sink in the middle again. And although June looks like a wee microwave, she packs a powerful punch with the ability to preheat to approximately 180 degrees Celsius in four and a half minutes. And she has a NVIDIA Tegra K1 with 2.3 GHz quad-core processor, mostly likely making her more powerful than your laptop. Welp. The future is certainly now and we, for one, welcome our robot overlords. At least they know how we like our steak. Images: June Oven. Reserve your June oven here.
Master of all smooth tunes and poster child of Melbourne's enduring obsession with beards, Chet Faker is on his way around the country with a huge arena tour for 2015. And we really do mean huge — this local legend is returning from a string of massively successful European and American shows to play Sydney's Hordern Pavilion, Melbourne's Palais and the freakin' Brisbane Convention Centre. His shows are officially pulling the same numbers as the G20. This is no doubt welcome news for those that missed out on his national tour in 2014. With Hordern Pavilion holding roughly 4,000 more people than the Enmore where he played in June last year, tickets will be much easier to come by. Maybe. In Brisbane that difference will be even more pronounced. The Brisbane Convention Centre can host a whopping 8,000 rampant Chet lovers. All this hype comes after a stellar run of critical acclaim for the Melbourne musician. Faker took out five ARIA Awards last year, including best male artist and best independent release for his debut album Built on Glass (after a casual nine nominations) and his super single 'Talk is Cheap' took out the top spot in triple j's Hottest 100 this January, beating Peking Duk's tipped-to-win 'High'. Faker's arena setting is sure to affect the show itself too. Specialising in croony electronic ballads and music that makes you feel all warm and gooey inside, it's hard to see how Chet will translate well to the big stage. How are we supposed to snug up and get a little intimate around the stage where Barack Obama talked just a few months prior? Melbourne, on the other hand, may get treated to a rare glimpse of this intimacy. His show at the Palais — assuming it's still standing by then — will actually be smaller than when he played the Forum earlier in 2014. Get ready for some homeland lovin'; this will be one of the last tours Faker will likely embark upon in Australia for a while. Supported by GL + Roland Tings. To find out more about about Chet Faker and his killer debut album check out our interview a while back.
There's a time and a place for everything, and that applies to well-known suburban eateries opening up inner-city offshoots. If you've been to The Racing Cafe in Hendra, then you've feasted on their breakfast, brunch and lunch offerings. Their next venture, aptly named Racing II, serves up something a bit different. That'd be all-day dessert, just the kind of tasty treat that Fortitude Valley needs. When you start hankering for a brownie bowl, cookie cake, vanilla cream pie, butterscotch-drenched banana split or s'mores, this is where you'll find it. You don't make the jump to one of Brisbane's hottest areas, and turn the Winn Lane place formerly occupied by Skull It into a second venture, without doing something special, after all. Sure, the alleyway space is little more than a hole in the wall — but it's also tasked with segueing from a weekday, daytime hangout to a late-night, weekend pit stop. Of course, you'll also find the likes of pumpkin smash, savoury mince benny, Thai pies and and yoghurt-topped nachos on the menu, for anyone after something other than a sweet treat. Or, there's always one of five fruit-laden smoothies to bridge the gap between nutritious and indulgent (or to make you feel better about anything less healthy you might be eating along with it). Find Racing II in Winn Lane, Fortitude Valley. For more information, check out their website and Facebook page.
'The Voice' is coming to Bluesfest. Not the Delta kind, the only kind. Bluesfest have announced their second artist lineup for the 2016 festival. Living legend and eternal Sexbomb Tom Jones sits at the top of the bill, alongside Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds. Memories will be flooding (along with Bluesfest, if it rains again) with the appearance of Jackson Browne, alongside the The Decemberists. Things are going to get real Byron when The Wailers perform all four of Bob Marley’s albums Exodus, Survival, Uprising and Legend in their entirety. Returning Bluesfester Steve Earle is back with The Dukes, alongside Tweedy, Jason Isbell and Grace Potter. Add this motley crew to the first Bluesfest cornucopia of The National, City and Colour and UB40? You've got yourself a humdinger of a muddy, muddy weekend. Enough chatskies, here's who's playing. BLUESFEST 2016 SECOND ANNOUNCEMENT: Tom Jones Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds The Decemberists Jason Isbell Sturgill Simpson Tweedy Steve Earle and The Dukes The Wailers Grace Potter Lord Huron Nahko and Medicine For The People Vintage Trouble Lucky Peterson Emdee Blackberry Smoke BLUESFEST 2016 FIRST ANNOUNCEMENT: The National City and Colour UB40 featuring Ali Campbell, Astro and Mickey Virtue Joe Bonamassa Tedeschi Trucks Band The Cat Empire Lukas Nelson & Promise of The Real The Word Rhiannon Giddens Janiva Magness St. Paul & The Broken Bones Allen Stone The Selecter Shakey Graves Songhoy Blues + more Bluesfest runs Thursday, March 24 – Monday, March 28 at Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm, Byron Bay. Tickets from Byron Bay Bluesfest. Image: Andy Fraser.
It might be based on a book by New Zealand author Barry Crump, however Hunt for the Wilderpeople is a film only Taika Waititi could've made. If you enjoyed the writer/director's quirky brand of humour in Boy and What We Do in the Shadows, you'll know exactly what you're in for. Here, hiding out in the wild, dreaming about being a gangster and arguing about which Terminator you'd rather be go hand in hand. Indeed, that's Ricky Baker's (Julian Dennison) story — or, it is after the 13-year-old is taken in by the kindly Bella (Rima Te Wiata) and the cranky Hec (Sam Neill). When tragedy strikes, he absconds to the surrounding wilderness to avoid the controlling plans of an over-eager social worker (Rachel House). A national manhunt ensues, as does plenty of mayhem; think nods to '80s classics, over-the-top car chases, plus Rhys Darby popping up as an eccentric conspiracy theorist. Part coming-of-age adventure, part comedic trek through the New Zealand bush, if the end result sounds both hilarious and heartwarming, that's because it is. And, it's also Waititi's last indie effort before he takes on a rather mammoth task: directing Thor: Ragnarok, and bringing his distinctive sensibilities to the superhero realm. [competition]572050[/competition]
First, the bad news: one of Newstead's favourite hangouts is closing its doors. Now, the good news: they might be saying goodbye to the unlikely Masters Street spot they've called home since 2012, but they're about to say hello to South Bank. Yes, Tippler's Tap is jumping from an industrial complex to one of South Brisbane's favourite eating and drinking precincts, shifting its rotating lineup of beverages and permanent menu of American-style sliders, baskets and sandwiches to fancier digs. Don't worry, their famous wings, ribs and $2 tacos are moving along with the rest of their mouthwatering morsels. If you've visited their sister venue, Tomahawk Bar, then you've actually been to their new location already. Tomahawk will disappear forever, but a few of its food and drink offerings will live on at the revamped space, with Tippler's 2.0 salvaging as much as it can from its original site for the refurbishment of the Grey Street spot. And, in the bar's typical style, they can't leave their current surroundings without marking the occasion. Before the doors close at the end of trade on Saturday December 19, regulars can soak up the classic Tippler's experience one last time. Just bring a healthy appetite, a hefty thirst and plenty of good memories. Head along to the Tippler's Tap farewell party from midday on December 19 at Unit 1, 22 Masters Street, Newstead. From early January, find the bar at 5/182 Grey Street, South Brisbane. Visit their website or Facebook page for more information.
If you've caught Tkay Maidza's singles 'Switch Lanes', 'U-Huh' or 'M.O.B.' (that's 'Money Over Bitches') on radio of late, you'll know that the 19-year-old is all about putting in the hard yards. The Adelaidean youngster's touring schedule is evidence that she means what she sings. Maidza spent last summer rapping her way from one festival to another, appearing at Falls, Southbound, Beat the Drum and St. Jeromes Laneway. And now she's kicking off a national tour, which has almost sold out, and includes gigs at Mountain Sounds and Groovin' the Moo, as well as supports for Charli XCX. Since releasing her huge breakthrough hit 'Brontosaurus' in 2014, Australian music fans can't stop jibbering about Maidza. International booking company The Agency Group were immediately smitten and signed the teenager before launching her on an epic tour through the UK and the US. Maidza will be supported at every gig by two fellow bright young things from Brisbane — 19-year-old producer UV boi, and 17-year-old classically trained multi-instrumentalist JOY.
Remember when jars were something jam came in — and didn't double as something to drink out of? Well, those days are long gone, as are the days of simply sipping cocktails out of them. Next, you'll be eating cake out of one. No, we're not joking. We would never kid about something as important as dessert. Cake in a jar is exactly what it sounds like: moist, baked deliciousness crammed into a clear glass container for your feasting pleasure. And, from early March, it's just what The Mason Baker will be selling in seven different flavours. Yep, it's all there in their name. The brainchild of Brisbane entrepreneur James Willis and celebrity chef Philip Johnson, the Mason Baker won't just be serving up your new favourite sweet treat, though they'll be doing plenty of that. As well as popping up at E'cco, they'll be delivering it across Brisbane, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast as well. That's the great thing about the concept, which James spotted in the US: it doesn't just look great, thanks to its layers of frosting and toppings, but it's easily portable. Plus, you can keep the jar and use it for something else afterwards. For more information about The Mason Baker, visit their website or Facebook page.
If you haven't been hanging out in Milton recently, you will be soon. Not only is the inner western suburb about to boast its own fromagerie, but it'll also feature a licensed rotisserie. If cheese isn't your thing, then maybe chicken is? You'll find plenty of poultry products at French Bird, which is expected to open on Baroona Road in June. Those after juicy chooks roasted and rotated until they're finger lickin' good will be in food heaven — and the humble rotisserie, which used to be relegated to greasy corner stores and chicken shops, continues its resurgence. It's about time, really. More details are yet to come to light, however — given that French Bird is the latest venture from Jerome Dalton of Dalton Hospitality — we're certain that everyone one in Brisbane is going to want to give it a spin. If his name sounds familiar, that's because he has been quite busy of late. His latest eatery, Blockhouse Nundah, just unleashed its all day delights upon the city earlier this month, and he was one of the fine folks who helped helped save The Tivoli from being turned into apartments. With that on his resume, trying his rotisserie chicken won't just be a delicious treat — it's really the least you can do. Find French Bird on Baroona Road, Milton, from June. Keep an eye on the Dalton Hospitality Facebook page for further developments.
Throw on your robes, whip out your wand and fly your pet Hippogriff down to the BrisCentre in Paddington, where Pastel Palace will be hosting an enormous Harry Potter themed market. On Saturday March 26, Brisbane will be bustling with all manner of magical folk, selling everything local witches and wizards could possibly need. Even your Muggle mates will be welcome. Just nobody bring any trolls. The entrance to this pop-up Diagon Alley will be open from 1:30pm. Vendors will include Pastel Pixie, Kareki Art, Bonnie's Bathhouse, Enchanted Light and Ruby Kawaii, who'll be selling Potter inspired art, candles, soaps and accessories, as well as merch and memorabilia from the movies. There'll also be magical trivia and a costume competition, to help separate the wizards from the squibs. We just hope someone is stocking Bertie Botts Every Flavour Beans. Most vendors on site will have credit card facilities, but maybe bring a sack of galleons just in case. And if you're busy on the day, don't worry – unsold items will be made available for purchase online after the event. For more information about Pastel Palace's Evening at Hogwarts, go here.
Grab your diary. Call your mates. Reserve your horse. Secret Garden has just announced its 2017 dates. And we're happy to tell you that Australia's beloved, grassroots, made-for-mates-by-mates festival will be taking place over 48 hours, across Friday 24 and Saturday 25 February. You have less time, however, to scrape your cash together. Ticket sales kick off at 9am on Thursday, September 29. If you're a regular gardener, you'll know that they sell out pretty damn quickly, so don't dilly dally. Good news is, though, that, were you at the festival in 2014, 2015 or 2016, you're in for a sweet surprise in the form of pre-sales. To find out exactly what that involves and when it'll be occurring, keep a close eye on your inbox. As usual, we won't know anything about the lineup or festival program until tickets are sold out. But, we can tell you that, as always, Secret Garden will bring you an immersive experience, a long way out of the city, within a magical natural setting transformed into a wonderland. You'll find yourself wandering through a forest maze, getting lost in massive installations, discovering unexpected pop-up performances and coming across tucked-away parties in custom-made rave caves. Maybe. All we know for sure? As always, you're invited to wear your craziest, most dressed up fancy dress. Start planning. Secret Garden will run over Friday 24 and Saturday 25 February. Tickets on sale 9am Thursday, September 29. More details on the festival's (insanely awesome) website. Images: Tim Da Rin, Zakarij Kaczmarek.
It's no surprise that many of us are looking to upgrade our home comfort level at the moment. Aussie furniture brand Koala is keen to help you do just that with its end-of-financial-year sale, where you can nab major discounts on Koala's bedroom range, sofas and even its brand new desk built for WFH. That sturdy desk is made in Ballarat from hand-sanded timber, is easy to assemble and designed specifically with home office use in mind. During the sale, you'll get ten percent off this WFH lifesaver (which brings it down to $360). Other living room products on sale include 25 percent off the two-seater sofa, bookshelf (in three different sizes) and television unit, as well as 15 percent off the three-seater sofa and sofa bed. If it's the bedroom you're looking to elevate, you can also score 15 percent off the award-winning Koala Mattress, the Koala bed base, the gel-infused memory foam pillow and the incredibly silky sheets. The mattress, for the uninitiated, feels a little like memory foam and latex, but without the sink factor. All products come with free four-hour delivery (to Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane) and a 120-night trial — though, it might be hard to give any of these up after four-months of pure comfort. 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.
There are a few things that everyone knows about Ernest Hemingway. He was a Nobel and Pulitzer prize-winning author. He was fond of hanging out in Havana. And he loved his liquor, particularly the special concoction created for him in Cuba. You know it as the Hemingway daiquiri. Removing the sugar from, adding grapefruit juice and maraschino to, and doubling the rum in the classic cocktail, his eponymous drink is the extra-strong swill to end all extra-strong swills. It's also the perfect beverage to enjoy during Bacardi Rum Month — and on July 21, which happens to be Hemingway's birthday. Check out these three Brisbane bars and their special tipples, all doing their best to live up to the writer's memory. THE KITTY If there's one bar in the Treasury Casino that's all about knocking back cocktails, it's the Kitty. And if there's one bar in Brisbane's premier inner-city entertainment district that Hemingway might frequent if he was around today, it's this one. If he did rise from the grave to do so, they've definitely got the drink for him. With plenty of Bacardi, lime and grapefruit — plus black cherry and pepper shrub — their zombie twist on a Hemingway daiquiri might be just what he needs. Be warned: they're not holding the sugar on this one. 130 William Street, Brisbane BLACK BIRD BAR & GRILL Old meets new at Black Bird Bar & Grill — in their decor, their atmosphere and their approach to drinks. With their speakeasy vibe, they certainly have a head start at conjuring up Hemingway's golden days, and they're channeling the same mood in recreating his favourite cocktail. Remembering that the author was known to have an iron tongue and liked his drinks quite sour, they have altered the recipe ever so slightly to suit the modern-day pallet. Given that their tweak involves rock candy syrup, we're certain that no one will be complaining — not even Hemingway. 123 Eagle Street, Brisbane BYBLOS BAR AND RESTAURANT Overlooking the Brisbane river isn't quite the same as gazing out over Havana, but with a Hemingway daiquiri in your hand, you can certainly pretend. At Portside's Byblos Bar and Restaurant, you can add Lebanese cuisine to your globetrotting imaginings too, matching hearty, spicy meals with tart, tangy cocktails. For the latter, their take on the writer's preferred beverage is as fragrant as ever, while giving the drink a modern day twist. Called Clearer With Age, it keeps things simple with clarified grapefruit juice and maraschino sugar rum. Enjoying Hemingway's namesake doesn't get any purer than this. Portside Wharf, 39 Hercules Street, Hamilton Top image: Cocktailmarler - Wikimedia Commons.
“You are now about to witness the strength of street knowledge.” So begins both the film and the song ‘Straight Outta Compton’, and it’s equal parts preview and warning. The ‘street knowledge’ of NWA’s leading trio — Dr Dre (played by Corey Hawkins), Ice Cube (O’Shea Jackson Jr, playing his real-life father) and Eazy-E (Jason Mitchell) — was an affront to the establishment, a threat, even, but also helped facilitate the group's rapid rise from neighbourhood group to musical ascendancy. Acquired over two decades of daily exposure to gang violence, racial vilification and police persecution, it instilled in them a bravado, passion and unyielding determination that permitted neither retreat nor weakness. It also came at a price, however, because not all streets are the same, and when Crenshaw Boulevard became Rodeo Drive, the blinders and shortcomings of that knowledge became all too apparent. Straight Outta Compton, then, is not just an NWA biopic but a cautionary tale about loyalty, friendship and the corrosive effects of celebrity. Directed by F. Gary Gray (The Italian Job), Straight Outta Compton doesn’t push the genre in any new directions but does a superb job of keeping the focus on the chemistry and appeal of its leading men. Its earliest scenes are easily its strongest, chronicling the group’s formation and revealing how the constant police harassment contributed to not just NWA’s message and appeal but also its most iconic song ('Fuck the Police'). In light of the shocking number of black deaths at the hands of police this year alone, it’s a tragically timeless sentiment that continues to resonate with an especial significance. Hawkins, Mitchell and Jackson Jr put in excellent performances, with the latter's resemblance to his father so remarkable as to make his scenes feel more documentary than recreation. Paul Giamatti, too, is once again utterly engaging as their manager Jerry Heller, never quite allowing you the confidence to say whether he’s hero or villain. Regrettably, most of the female performances are relegated to bare breasts and bouncing buttocks, with key figures like Michel’le and Tomica Woods-Wright given little to no attention, while Dre’s history of violence towards women is completely ignored. Still, a film can only cover so many bases, and Straight Outta Compton shouldn’t be faulted too heavily for electing to keep its focus on the band and its significance rather than the individual stories within. Ice Cube once described NWA as journalists, reporting on a world that the mainstream media refused to. But in the end it was less what they said and more their preparedness to keep saying it as loudly and publicly as possible that made them such an important and ongoing musical force. Straight Outta Compton is a slick, provocative and timely film that absolutely warrants your viewing.
The legendary, controversial, performance artist who does 'nothing' is finally returning to Australia after a 17-year absence. The subject of two major projects at Hobart's Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), and an already semi-announced residency at Pier 2/3 with Kaldor Public Art Projects, Marina Abramovic is heading our way this June. Beloved and equally criticised, 67-year-old Abramovic has been invited by both MONA's David Walsh and John Kaldor to create a two experiences for the public — a retrospective solo exhibition at MONA called Private Archaeology, beginning June 13 and running to October 5, followed on June 24 (through July 5) by Kaldor Projects’ Marina Abramovic: In Residence, with a series of exercises from the Abramovic Method happening over twelve days at Pier 2/3 from June 24 to July 5. On the one hand, the MONA show Private Archaeology will be a major exhibition showing her early foundational work with German artist and Abramovic's former lover and collaborative partner Ulay, as well as more recent work. The exhibition intends to anchor the artist's current work in a historic context, featuring those pivotal solo works that brashly explored the artist's physical and mental limits. With Abramovic the main curator of the show, the works are 98 percent confirmed according to Walsh — who apparently wants to be as surprised as the audience when the exhibition opens. "Christ died on the Cross for our sins. So the New Testament tells us. Hopefully, I’ll do something worthy of his sacrifice one day. I’ve got real potential when it comes to sin," says Walsh. "Marina Abramovic seems to operate for all us. Her sins, her excesses, her minimalist, egocentric actions define the boundaries of what it is to be human. I would do the stuff she does if I had the balls. And the brains. And the desperation to understand. I’d rather be represented by a sinner than a saint." On the other, Kaldor Projects’ Marina Abramovic: In Residence, will see the artist present for twelve days of classic Abramovic 'performances' (although she doesn't like to call them that). Leading on from the Serpentine Galleries exhibition 512 Hours, the artist's Sydney project will focus on audience participation with intense works like Counting the rice and her famous 'gaze' work — a play on her work The Artist is Present performed in New York's Museum of Modern Art, where you're asked to sit face-to-face with a stranger for a certain period (apparently Kaldor's still in contact with the stranger he sat opposite at the Serpentine). Abramovic will work with collaborator Lynsey Peisinger to create a series of spaces for exhibition visitors that invoke certain physical and psychological states. "In Sydney, for Marina Abramovic: In Residence, I will be like a conductor in the exhibition space, but it will be the public who take the physical and emotional journey," says Ambramovic. "We constantly like to be entertained, to get things from outside. We never take time to get in touch with ourselves... our inner self. My function in this new kind of performance situation is to show you, through the Abramovic Method, what you can do for yourself." There will also be artist residencies offered to 12 lucky Australian artists for the twelve day exhibition, all of whom will have mentoring from Abramovic herself. Best bit for the public? It's all free. This is a big time pull for Australia, with two of the country's leading private arts patrons, Walsh and Kaldor, both separately approaching Abramovic, and both landing a 'yes'. Kaldor approached Abramovic following her successful involvement in Kaldor Project's applauded group exhibition 13 Rooms at Pier 2/3 — the work, Luminosity, which saw a naked artist wall-mounted on a bicycle seat for long periods of time (and didn't star Abramovic herself). Walsh approached the artist after meeting her over five years ago in Amsterdam. But this isn't the first time Abramovic has been to Australia; before presenting Gold found by the artists with Ulay at the 1979 Biennale of Sydney, the artist spent a cheeky five months with an Aboriginal community in central Australia in the '80s (and raised a baby kangaroo and cuddled this sheep). Private Archaeology opens at MONA on June 13 and runs through October 5. Kaldor Public Art Projects’ Marina Abramovi?: In Residence at Pier 2/3 Walsh Bay opens June 24 and runs through July 5.
Dust off your deckchairs and shake out those summer-lovin' picnic rugs because the lineup for A Day on the Green's November/December instalment has just dropped and phwoar, it's pretty darn good. Playing dates at various luxe wineries around the country, alt-rock superstars Garbage will make their triumphant return to Australia, joined by local legends The Temper Trap, The Preatures, Adalita and Tash Sultana in a lineup that champions some seriously killer frontwomen. Picture Shirley Manson, Isabella Manfredi and Adalita on the same stage — fingers crossed for an all-in song. This is the first time Garbage has played in Australia since 2013, and is culminating with their latest release Strange Little Birds. Take a moment to revisit their 1995 hit 'Only Happy When It Rains', because Thursday. The Temper Trap will also be playing their first shows since releasing their third album Thick As Thieves, which has been garnering some widespread airtime both locally and internationally. Early Christmas present anyone? A DAY ON THE GREEN 2016 TOUR DATES: Sat Nov 26 — Rochford Wines, Yarra Valley Sun Nov 27 — Leconfield Wines, McLaren Vale Tues Nov 29 — Kings Park & Botanic Garden, Perth (*Tash Sultana/Adalita not playing Perth) Sat Dec 3 — Bimbadgen, Hunter Valley Sun Dec 4 — Sirromet Wines, Mt Cotton Tickets go on sale Monday, August 8 at 12pm, starting at $99.90 +BF from ticketmaster.com.
On the lookout for a dope new denim jacket? Or do you want to be rid of that weird-looking lamp taking up space in the living room? Then, by golly, you're in luck. The Garage Sale Trail works with local council partners Australia wide to get as many trash-and-treasure troves happening on the same day as possible. Last year, more than 8000 garages opened their doors to bargain hunters, and they're doing it for the sixth time on October 24. Aside from the retro goodies up for grabs, the Trail is all about sustainability. Instead of ending up in landfill, unwanted clutter becomes a fantastic find. So get that tight pair of sunnies for peanuts and help the environment at the same time. The Garage Sale Trail began humbly in Bondi in 2010 and is growing bigger every year. Register online to make a quick buck from your old junk and hang out with the friendly folks in your hood.
With the working year back in full swing and winter fast approaching, you're probably already nostalgic for summer nights sipping brewskis or soaking up the heat at your favourite beach. But with temperatures set to stay higher than average for autumn, you don't have to retire your summer wardrobe just yet. Plus, there are still plenty of ways to take advantage of the warm weather and have a blast. We've compiled six ideas to keep the summer vibes going for a little while longer. Tourism and Events Queensland HEAD UNDERWATER Warm weather means warm waters, so why not pack your towel and swimmers and plan your next beach adventure? Water temperatures on the coast are currently sitting around a nice 26 degrees, so now is the perfect time to grab some mates or enjoy some you time by the water. Whether you're a fish in disguise or more of a landlubber, there are plenty of swimming holes and beaches, and pools where you can swim some laps or sprawl out with a good book. Or if you're planning to explore the depths, you can even do a day trip to these top-notch snorkelling spots like on North Stradbroke Island and at the Gold Coast Seaway. CAMP OUT ON THE SAND This one is fuelled by 100-percent bonafide seasonal denial. Hit the road, find that temporary piece of paradisiac real estate and wake up in on own little patch of beach. Australia's end of summer is the best time to beach camp, with clear days, cool nights and warmer water temperatures all round. Whether you're looking for a spot close to home or planning a road trip, it will be tough to choose from these tent-friendly beaches scattered across Queensland. If you're wanting to make a longer road trip, make tracks to one of the best beach camping spots around the country. Doze off to the sound of crashing waves and wake up with a morning dip in the ocean. Plus, you can wow your mates with these campside food hacks and all it takes is a bit of planning and a few handy tools. WATCH THE SUNSET (AND A MOVIE) Outdoor cinemas are a staple of summer and there's still time to take a date or your mates to catch the latest flicks under the stars. Plus, you can bring along a picnic of your favourite treats and drinks or enjoy what's on offer on-site. While some have already packed up for the year, there's still time to head down to the Moonlight Cinema in Roma Street Parklands or Sunset Cinema's outdoor season at Mt Coot-tha. COOL DOWN WITH AN ICE CREAM Summer days and ice cream go hand in hand, and escaping from the office to pick up a cone of classic pistachio or untraditional Thai milk tea is a great way to enjoy the final days of summery sunshine. Brisbanites are spoilt for choice, too, so pick up a scoop (or two) from one of our top ten ice-cream and gelato joints around the city. For those looking for something traditional, take a trip to Milani in Hamilton or to one of La Macelleria's three locations. If you're looking for something more unusual, you'll find some unique treats at Gelateria Cremorna and Lick! Ice Cream. [caption id="attachment_704615" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Burleigh Pavilion[/caption] EAT AND DRINK BY THE WATER What's not to love about sipping a refreshing cocktail while you soak up stunning views of beaches, harbours or rivers? Whether you're planning your next date night or an outing with friends, there are a bunch of spots where you can spend your final summer nights. And there's somewhere for every occasion, from Stokehouse's new view-laden offering, this new brewery to this casual waterside spot. Bring your togs and relax with a cocktail at the newly opened Burleigh Pavilion, or get a bunch of mates together for drinks at these waterside bars. [caption id="attachment_702576" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Evens Queensland[/caption] GO DAY TRIPPING If you're missing the excitement that comes with travelling, or you've been meaning to hit the road all summer, there's still time to explore somewhere new for a day. So grab the car snacks, make a jamming Spotify playlist and pick one of these summer day trips. Head north to Rainbow Beach on the Sunny Coast ato live out all your sand dune sliding and horse riding dreams, or head out to Moreton Island for a say of snorkelling around the Tangalooma Shipwreck. For those looking for a cooler climate getaway, trek through the damp rainforest in Springbrook National Park. If you still need guidance, check out our handy road trip guide. Top image: Michaelmas Cay, Tourism and Events Queensland.
UPDATE: MAY 24, 2018 — Brisbane City Council has officially approved plans for BrewDog's proposed development, meaning that construction will start on a the $30 brewery in July this year. If all goes to plan, construction should be finished by the end of the year, and the first Brissie-brewed beers will be pouring within the first few months of 2019. Watch this space for more information as we get closer to the opening. Brisbane's craft beer scene just scored itself a very high-profile new addition, with legendary Scottish brewer BrewDog announcing it'll build a state-of-the-art $30 million brewery in Murarrie. The city nudged out Newcastle to be chosen as BrewDog's first Australian home, following six months of public submissions, location scouting trips and feasibility studies. And the plans for these new riverside digs are nothing short of grand, incorporating a 3000-square-metre brewing and canning facility, as well as a visitor centre, taproom and restaurant. The brand's first brewery outside of the USA and the UK, the Brisbane operation will be crafting all of BrewDog's core beers — like the Dead Pony Club pale ale, the Jet Black Heart and the Punk IPA — alongside a selection of small-batch creations designed especially for local beer drinkers. It'll also showcase plenty of locally grown hops, from across Australia and New Zealand. "Australians are some of the most passionate and informed beer drinkers on the planet," said BrewDog co-founder James Watt. "I'm glad our Australian fans at home and in the diaspora were relentless in pushing for a brewery, and I look forward to sharing my first can of Aussie brewed Punk IPA with them." Construction on BrewDog Brisbane set to kick off in July 2018, with the first of the label's locally brewed beers slated to hit shelves in early 2019. For updates, visit brewdog.com.
Low restaurant lighting, basic plating and ineffective Nashville filters ruining your damn life? This social media-savvy restaurant knows your struggle. Israel establishment Carmel Winery have been working tirelessly against low-lit, poorly-composed foodstagrams, teaming up with Tel Aviv restaurant Catit to create special Instagrammable meals on tailor-made crockery. Available only on certain nights, the art project/gastronomy experience/publicity stunt is called 'Foodography' and is probably the most serious control we've ever seen a restaurant take over their social media presence. Created by ceramic design artist Adi Nissani, the Foodography dishes have been crafted to make your food look as good as it possibly could on Instagram. There are two types: This one comes with a little shelf to pop your smartphone into, to minimise pesky hand-created blur and give you that studio backdrop your poor dinner's been missing. Then things get truly crazy... It's like a Lazy Suzan, or the rotating pedestal they had Sofia Vergara perched on at the 2014 Oscars. 'The 360' allows you spin your food around to either get the perfect angle for your snap or take a weirdly hypnotic Vine of your dinner slowly rotating and let's be honest, probably getting truly cold. Look at it go! To be fair, that's some near-perfectly distributed sauce. It's not a cheap escapade of online whimsy; one Foodography session runs at $155 an hour. Yup. Granted, it's five epic-sounding courses (just the first course is bonito fish cured in red wine with grilled organic beetroots and carrots in salt and pomace crust dough, malt crumble, rhubarb jelly, red tune prosciutto, Uzbek apricots) and cheaper than a Blumenthal sitting — and obviously you'll take significantly superior Instagram photos — something that's only sort of acceptable and important with this level of food presentation. It gets better though. Because a bespoke studio setting doesn't make a primo foodstagrammer out of a novice. There are workshops (yep, workshops) on offer with leading Israeli food photographer Dan Perez to maximise your snapping wizardry. Although the concept isn't available in Australia as yet, Carmel Winery told BuzzFeed they were looking to expand internationally. Suck it, Nashville. You never truly work anyway. Via BuzzFeed. Images: Carmel Winery/YouTube.
After almost two decades in the political wilderness (and also briefly prison), ultra-conservative politician Pauline Hanson has once again been elected to the Australian Federal Parliament. Thanks a bunch, Queensland. While we can't say we're looking forward to having Hanson back in the public arena, we think we may have at least found a bit of a silver lining to the whole shemozzle, in the form of a new Pauline Hanson-styled poutine at Belleville in the Melbourne CBD. Fittingly inspired by the flavours of her less-than favourite meal, the Halal Snack Pack, the 'Pauline Hanson' consists of beer battered chips topped with cheese, chilli sauce, mint yoghurt and rotisserie lamb. According to a post on Belleville's Facebook page, the dish will be available from this week until it finishes with a Royal Commission. So there you go. At least now you've got something delicious to eat as you watch the country collapse around your ears. Democracy, hurrah!
The sun is staying out longer, and it's time to start utilising all our glorious parkland again — Moonlight Cinema is back for another year. From December until March, this local favourite is the place to be for the most explosive action-packed blockbusters, the latest comedy releases and even the odd sing-a-long. Going on sale today, the December–January portion of the program is basically a hit list of the summer's biggest flicks. Guardians of the Galaxy and Interstellar will make for perfect viewing under the vast night sky. Ladies will be taking a leading role for a fair portion of the action with The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Pt 1, Lucy, and the controversial Gone Girl. Then the latest comedy will be lightening the mood with Dumb and Dumber To, Horrible Bosses 2, and The Interview which sees Seth Rogen and James Franco basically going to war with North Korea. There are a few lesser known titles to watch out for too. The yet-to-be-released Birdman will see Michael Keaton poking fun at his days as the caped crusader alongside a stellar supporting cast, the heartbreaking Still Alice has Julienne Moore tipped for a Best Actress nomination, and The Gambler sees Mark Wahlberg front an adaptation of a '70s classic. Like every year, the gates open at 7pm and screenings kick off at 8.30pm when the sun goes down. Make sure to bring your own picnic blanket — and a full picnic while you're at it. While the cinema is totally BYO, there will also be an LA-style food truck on site boasting burgers with pulled pork brisket or Southern fried chicken. You can even go all out and get a New York-style chilli cheesedog. If that sounds too good to be true, check it out for yourself — in celebration of the launch, Moonlight Cinema are hosting a free pop-up picnic in Sydney's Martin Place right now. Run! Check out the full program at the Moonlight Cinema website. Tickets are $15-35 depending on whether you opt for the 'Gold Grass' option (where you are given the best spots and beanbags in the house).
Stars, street dancing musicals and plenty of Spanish-language cinema treats: yes, it's that time again. 21 years since the Spanish Film Festival first showered Australian audiences with its filmic delights, it's celebrating the occasion in its usual vibrant style. That means 25 movies showcasing the best the country has to offer, from recent crowd-pleasers to beloved classics, side-splitting comedies to gothic fables, and beloved talents to new up-and-comers. The list goes on, spanning Oscar winners, international hits and fresh discoveries alike as this year's event tours Australia until May 13. Whether you want to see two of Spain's biggest stars share the screen at two different points in their careers, revisit one of the biggest animated movies of the past six months or delve into the works of acclaimed Spanish filmmaker Bigas Luna, it's on the bill — including these five must-sees. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OzRjIMt2Wl8 LOVING PABLO From its titular drug baron subject, to its acclaimed Spanish director, to its high-profile stars, Loving Pablo comes to the Spanish Film Festival stacked with highlights. Here, Javier Bardem stars as Pablo Escobar opposite Penélope Cruz as journalist Virginia Vallejo — and while there's no shortage of movies telling the Colombian kingpin's tale, this one explores their romance. Helmed by A Perfect Day's Fernando León de Aranoa and based on Vallejo's memoir, it's an account of charisma, crime and trying to come out the other side in a world where violence and death threats are commonplace. Both leads were nominated for Spanish Academy Awards for their efforts, which shouldn't come as a surprise given their talents. Plus, if you're keen on another dose of the duo at the fest, they also feature in retrospective title Jamón Jamón. THE TRIBE There just aren't enough movies about cleaners turned street dancers, let alone cleaners turned street dancers who shoot to fame while strutting their stuff with the son they once put up for adoption. That's the story at the centre of The Tribe, and it's a truth-is-stranger-than-fiction scenario. Sure, it all sounds like something out of a feel-good, crowd-pleasing flick — which is exactly what this lively song-and-dance effort aims to be — however the film is based on a real-life dance troupe. There's more twists and turns to the on-screen tale, which features Spanish stars Carmen Machi and Paco León, but it isn't a spoiler to say that the actual group became a Spain's Got Talent hit. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WaLeUkqNfnE JULIA IS It's a scenario that everyone can relate to: you arrive in a new city with huge hopes and plenty of enthusiasm, but your new surroundings just don't match your dreams. In Julia Is, that's how the Catalan architecture student's arrival in Berlin starts; however, as anyone who has faced the same situation knows, sometimes you just have to persevere. In the directorial debut of filmmaker and star Elena Martín, the feature tracks Julia's efforts to do just that as she finds her place in the German capital. The film won best feature and best director at last year's Málaga Film Festival, and it's certain to achieve something unusual at the Spanish Film Festival — instead of inspiring a trip to Spain, it'll make you want to go to Germany. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVLnw6PScuU ABRACADABRA The last time that director Pablo Berger teamed up with actress Maribel Verdú, the enchanting Blancanieves was the end result. For their second collaboration, they're not dabbling with a different take on Snow White, but with ghosts. Expect something just as out-of-the-ordinary as their initial team-up, however, courtesy of a comedy that's also filled with horror flourishes, insightful commentary and an all-round offbeat air. That's what happens when Verdú's housewife attends a wedding with her husband, who then get possessed by the spirit of a murderous waiter. Unsurprisingly, the experience drastically alters his behaviour — and inspires plenty of laughs as well. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PFbJrR7XBQ8 GOLD No matter how many films chart treacherous treks through jungle landscapes, more keep coming. That's not a bad thing. As everything from Aguirre, the Wrath of God and Fitzcarraldo to The Lost City of Z and Jungle have demonstrated, there's something particularly alluring and fascinating about this sub-genre of movies, mirroring the obsession and passion of their protagonists. Gold is Spain's latest addition to the fold, not to be confused with the very average Matthew McConaughey flick of the same name from last year. Set in Central America in 1540, this adventure epic follows Spanish deserters trying avoid capture or death in their quest for freedom, with El Dorado their destination. The Spanish Film Festival tours Australia from April 17, screening at Sydney's Palace Norton Street, Palace Verona and Palace Central from April 17 to May 6; Melbourne's Palace Cinema Como, Palace Westgarth, Palace Brighton Bay, Kino Cinemas and The Astor Theatre from April 19 to May 6; and Brisbane's Palace Barracks and Palace Centro from April 26 to May 13. For more information, visit the festival website.
Fancy yourself a bit of an action hero? Maybe you watch the parkour scene in Casino Royale and think "yeah, I could manage that." If that's the case, this brand new running app might be just the thing for you. Developed by a South Korean tech company, Tracks throws exercise junkies into the middle of an audio blockbuster, giving them the spark to run like their lives depend on it. Admittedly, the idea isn't a new one – according to an interview with The Next Web, the app's creators took the premise in part from the insanely popular Zombies, Run!, which motivates runners with the sounds of an undead menace hot on their trail. But if Zombies, Run! takes its cue from horror stories, Tracks hopes to draw on a whole variety of different genres. Their first narrative mixes action and sci-fi, and sees runners traverse collapsing buildings and machine gun fire as they fight for survival over 15 chapters, against a malevolent force known as The Growlers. Assuming the app proves successful, the plan is to create additional stories, with the designers floating the possibility of branching out into thrillers or even romance stories. Not sure how that would work, exactly, but it sure sounds intriguing. The app is currently in beta testing while the team looks to raise additional funds via Indiegogo. They expect it to be available via the App Store and Google Play Market by the end of June. https://youtu.be/ETEpwWx_0rU For more information visit www.tracks.today. Via TNW.
It's the society wedding of the year, and you're invited. Melbourne socialites Jasper and Jasmine are going to tie the knot at St Kilda's West Beach Bathers Pavilion this May; trotting down the aisle, barking their vows and sniffing each other's butts. Yep, they're pugs. It's a pug wedding. A real life pug wedding. Seems there's a Leslie Knope living in Melbourne. Raising much-needed funds for Pug Rescue and Adoption Victoria Inc. (a volunteer-run, foster care-based animal welfare charity with a focus on pugs), this wedding doesn't have the happiest Disney backstory. Jasmine and Jasper came into the care of Pug Rescue in April 2013, after they were found to be so morbidly obese they could hardly breathe. They were taken from their former home by the rescue team and apparently were turning blue on the car ride, poor little things. But just one year later, Pug Rescue have nursed the pair back to health so they can enjoy a newfound pug life with each other and their new family — together. Take a hike, The Notebook; this is a true love story for the ages. Now, let's get these pugs married already. On Sunday, May 17, Pug Rescue are putting on the works for these pups. Get ready for this; Jasmine will wear an exclusive couture bridal gown designed by renowned Australian designer and Project Runway runner-up Craig Braybrook. A pug in couture. As if you're not locking this in already. Jasper's outfit is yet to be confirmed, but we're predicting mini bowtie at the very least. The whole event will be styled by Christian Wagstaff of Melbourne’s famed Creative Production and the venue will be decked out with flowers by Virginia Chorley of The Bouquets of Ascha Jolie. Tickets to the Wedding of the Year are $60, which we reckon is a straight-up bargain considering all funds raised go to Pug Rescue; helping to fund future pug psychological and physical rehabilitation along with the vet care and specialty surgery. And apparently they're selling fast, so get on it. If you can't make it, make sure you raise a water bowl to Jasper and Jasmine next Sunday; overcoming terrible odds and living a brand new #puglyf together. Jasper and Jasmine's pug wedding ceremony is happening from 1pm on Sunday, May 17, West Beach Bathers Pavilion, 330A Beaconsville Parade, St Kilda. Tickets are $60 per person from jasperandjasmine.com, or 'virtual tickets' are $19.95 — an invitation-only live video stream of the wedding online. Video of the wedding will also be available online for two weeks post-event for virtual ticket holders. Images: Ragamuffin.
Cinephiles, picnic-lovers and everyone in between, rejoice — the annual combination of movies, outdoor eating and park hangouts that is Moonlight Cinema is back for another round of film-watching fun. Kicking off their 2016-17 season on the first day of summer (when else?), Australia's biggest outdoor cinema returns with all the elements you know and love. Big screen shimmering beneath the stars? Check. Food trucks serving the ultimate movie munchies? Check. Letting super-organised patrons BYO their own snacks? Check. A huge lineup of new releases and cult classics? We'll confirm that when the 2016-17 film program is announced in the coming weeks. Of course, heading to Moonlight isn't just about the movies shown, as fun as getting a sneak peek of upcoming flicks or sharing the joyous glow of watching iconic favourites like Dirty Dancing and Top Gun on a big screen is. It's also about the experience, which is why you're allowed to start getting excited without knowing which films you'll be watching — and why you should be blocking out December through to April in your calendar. MOONLIGHT CINEMA 2016-17 DATES: Sydney: December 1 – April 2 (Belvedere Amphitheatre in Centennial Park) Adelaide: December 1 – February 19 (Botanic Park) Brisbane: December 3 – March 5 (New Farm Park at Brisbane Powerhouse) Perth: December 3 – April 2 (Kings Park and Botanic Garden) Melbourne: Dates and venue TBC Moonlight Cinema's 2016-17 season starts screening around the country from December 1. For more information and bookings, visit their website.
You'll never run out of juice in the Big Apple again, thanks to a new kind of public seating popping up around the city. Over the next 30 days, the Parks Department in Manhattan will unveil five solar-powered park benches that double as mobile charging stations for New Yorkers on the go. Developed by the MIT Media Lab, Soofa Benches come fitted with solar panels and a pair of USB charging ports, where pedestrians can plug in their phone or tablet for a much needed top-up. The first of the three person benches will be installed at Highbridge Park in the Bronx next week, with the rest due to pop-up over the course of the coming month. "We are super-excited about New York City," Soofa CEO and co-founder Sandra Richter told New York Daily News. "People are staying outside longer and using parks as their backyards. The Soofa benches are a perfect fit." Soofa Benches are already in use in a number of US cities, including Los Angeles and Boston. In addition to providing the public with a handy place to recharge, they can also keep track of park visitor numbers by counting Wi-Fi enabled devices as they go by. Via NY Daily News.
Public transport could be about to get a whole lot more delightful thanks to pioneering auto company Local Motors. After last year unveiling the world's first fully functioning 3D-printed car, the US-based startup has continued to innovate, and this week introduced the world to a self-driving bus named Olli. Rolling out across Washington D.C., the electric shuttle can transport up to 12 passengers at one time, and is capable of travelling at speeds of around 20km/h. Also, it's ridiculously cute. The autonomous, 3D-printed vehicles can be summoned by D.C. commuters using a mobile app. Moreover, thanks to IBM's AI Watson technology, they're also capable of understanding voice commands. So basically it's like Uber, except your driver is a computer. If your first thought after reading that sentence was to freak out over an inevitable Terminator-style robot uprising, don't worry. Although Olli drives itself – and is capable of making decisions much faster than human drivers – all vehicles are monitored by real people at all times. Y'know, just in case. Assuming things go well in Washington, Local Motors are hoping to bring fleets to Las Vegas and Miami by the end of the year. They've also outlined a number of other potential uses for Olli...which you can hear about, below. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ymz4SYVr_EE Via Quartz.
Staying sun smart over summer might have just gotten simpler, thanks to a new piece of wearable tech from cosmetic giant L'Oreal. Unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas earlier this week, the My UV Patch is a temporary tattoo that syncs with a mobile app in order to monitor levels of UV exposure. Developed by L'Oreal in partnership with design firm PCH and heath technology company MC10, the blue and white patch, which is less than 0.05mm thick, uses photosensitive dyes to measure UV levels, and changes colours depending on the wearer's level of exposure. Then all you need to do is snap a photo of the patch and the mobile app lets you know if it's time to head indoors. The patch is showerproof, and is designed to last approximately five days. "The partnership with L’Oreal really identified an area around skin health where this technology could have value—not just like, cool stuff in a material science lab," said MC10 co-founder and vice president Roozbeh Ghaffari to Wired. Tech companies have long speculated that smart tattoos could be the future of wearable tech. The My UV Patch will be available for free in 15 countries beginning later this year, although exact distribution details are still being hammered out. Via Wired.
Get your bingo cards ready, movie lovers — the Oscar nominations have arrived! This year's contenders are a motley crew, ranging from action blockbusters to little-seen indie flicks and worthy social dramas. And while there aren't many surprises, there are still plenty of great films on the ballot. Let's dive right in, shall we? Leading the pack with a dozen nominations is the grizzly DiCaprio vehicle The Revenant, although box office favourite Mad Max: Fury Road is hot on its heel with ten. Both scored nods for Best Picture, where they'll compete against current favourite Spotlight as well as The Martian, Room, The Big Short, Brooklyn and Bridge of Spies. The Best Director race, meanwhile, will come down to Alejandro G. Inarritu for The Revenant, George Miller for Mad Max, Tom McCarthy for Spotlight, Adam McKay for The Big Short and Lenny Abrahamson for Room. Were Innaritu to come out on top, it would mark back-to-back directing wins for the Mexican filmmaker, following his gong for Birdman last year. Perennial runner-up Leonardo DiCaprio might finally be in with a chance of taking home Best Actor for his work in The Revenant. He'll be competing in the category against last year's winner Eddie Redmayne in The Danish Girl, Matt Damon in The Martian, Bryan Cranston in Trumbo and Michael Fassbender in Steve Jobs. Australia's Cate Blanchett has been nominated for Best Actress for her role in Carol, along with Brie Larson in Room, Jennifer Lawrence in Joy, Charlotte Rampling in 45 Years and Saoirse Ronan in Brooklyn. Worth noting is that, for the second year in a row, no person of colour has been nominated in any of the acting categories. Other notable omissions include the absence of Star Wars: The Force Awakens in all major categories, although the film has been nominated for a number of technical awards including Best Film Editing and Best Special Effects. Quentin Tarantino missed out on a screenwriting nomination for his racially-charged Western The Hateful Eight, though the film is up for Best Cinematography and Best Original Score, and earned a Best Supporting Actress nomination for Jennifer Jason Leigh. The 88th Academy Awards will take place next month on February 28, and will be hosted by Chris Rock. For the full list of nominations, go here.
It's been almost a decade since 111 Mary Street was anything other than a hole in the ground – and no, we're not exaggerating about either the state of the place or the timeframe. The previous structures on the property were torn down in 2008. Excavation started, only for the global financial crisis to stall the planned development. Days, months and years passed, and other proposed projects similarly failed to come to fruition. Thankfully, it seems that's all about to change. At long last, one of the city's biggest eyesores is slated to transform into a brand new retail, dining and accommodation precinct named Mary Lane. While its moniker clearly capitalises upon Brisbane's current love of Melbourne-style nooks and crannies, the location is going high-end and high-rise, with Queensland's first Westin also included in the towering development. The five-star luxury hotel will boast 299 guest rooms, a day spa and a resort-style swimming pool with a swim up bar. Sure, it won't open until 2018, but you can start dreaming about relaxing with poolside drinks now if you want to. Restaurants, bars, cafes and stores will also feature inside the space that borders both Mary and Margaret Streets, as will residential apartments. Even if you can't afford to live there, prepare to say goodbye to a long-standing blight on the inner city, and hello to your new eating and shopping spot. For more information about Mary Lane, visit their website.
Board rooms are so done. Stockholm-based artist duo Bigert and Bergström have built a modal, stainless golden steel, reflective, egg-shaped sauna with a heart-shaped wood burning stove, named the 'Solar Egg'. Why? Commissioned by Swedish economic and real estate association Riksbyggen, the egg is a "social sculpture" according to the artists, providing a communal space for the residents of Kiruna to discuss their town's problems. Kiruna is the northernmost town in Sweden with a population of just under 20,000. In 2003, they realised that due to adjacent iron ore mining activity (activity which provides thousands of jobs for locals), the ground beneath the town was becoming unstable. The solution? Move the whole town three kilometres away. The relocation has been underway ever since and will continue to trudge along, piece by piece, for many more decades supported by the government and the mining company responsible. So, the residents of Kiruna have a lot to talk about while enjoying a sauna together. And, like the town itself, the golden egg can be disassembled and relocated. As far as interactive art installations go, it's both acutely beautiful and functional, with stainless golden mirror sheeting reflecting the fragmented, changing scenery of the surround mountains and tundra. Inside, the sauna's interior is made of pine wood panelling and decks, and aspen benches, with an iron and stone stove in the centre. Temperature varies between 75 and 85 degrees Celsius in the egg. Images: Riksbyggen and Futurniture.
Breakups are usually associated with loss (and copious amounts of wine and Meg Ryan). But they can be profitable, too. And we’re not talking about ‘whatever-doesn’t-kill-you-makes-you-stronger’, new age, Facebook-meme kind of profit. We’re talking about cold, hard cash. Well, that’s the idea behind a brand new service called Never Liked It Anyway, anyway. Dubbed ‘eBay for breakups’, it’s a platform that lets you sell everything that reminds you of your ex – without feeling bad, guilty or ashamed about it. The range of products on sale is mind-boggling, maybe even slightly unsettling. There are wedding dresses, engagement rings, mink shawls and even a bracelet with a coin from 35 B.C — all relics of past love ready for new owners. Because, out of sight, out of mind, right? It’s tough to forget your ex when your home is littered with his/her gifts. And, why burn them on a bonfire when you can turn them into your next shopping spree or dinner out or (depending on your ex’s generosity levels) holiday? Rather than just being any old online shopping platform, Never Liked It Anyway sees its job as bringing relief to the broken-hearted. “We started [it] to make moving on easier. It’s a place to shed the stories and the stuff,” founder Bella Acton told The Atlantic. Not only can you buy and sell on the site, you can tell your story, read the site's highly useful blog for tips on moving on, and read other tales of heartbreak. The site isn't just about making cash money out of closing a chapter, it's about looking forward to the next. The nicest bit of the whole site? The 'Break-Up Services' section, where you can procure a a 'Bounce Back Stack' (50 cards of warm fuzzies and advice to help mend your broken heart) or a 'Bounce Back Box' filled to the brim with things meant to 'get you back to fabulous': lip gloss, nail polish and a whole host of treat yourself goodies. Via Refinery29. Image: Dollar Photo Club.
Wocka wocka! After almost two full decades away, The Muppets are heading back to television. A new Muppets series was confirmed by the US ABC network last week, and has been described as a behind-the-scenes-style program for a grown-up audience. To give you an idea of what that might entail, they’ve just dropped their first trailer via Twitter. Give it a watch. While we’ll reserve final judgement until the show is actually on their air, there’s definitely a lot to like about this initial tease. All of Jim Henson’s iconic characters are back, as is their signature fourth wall-shattering humour. We’re also digging the Cersei/Margaery vibe between Miss Piggy and her young, brunette replacement. And is it just us, or did Kermit make a weed joke? According to ABC’s official announcement, "The Muppets return to primetime with a contemporary, documentary-style show. For the first time ever, a series will explore the Muppets' personal lives and relationships, both at home and at work, as well as romances, break-ups, achievements, disappointments, wants and desires. This is a more adult Muppet show, for 'kids' of all ages." The mockumentary format marks a bit of a departure from the variety-style setup of the '70s era Muppet Show, but seems like a smart choice given the popularity of The Office and Parks and Recreation. Sure Gonzo, maybe it is just a "totally overused device to make easy jokes." But if it ain't broke, why try and fix it? The Muppets is currently set to air in the United States at 8pm on Tuesdays starting in autumn. No word on an Australian airdate/Netflix addition as of yet. Via Empire.
Come festive season, finding a happy, willing designated driver is tougher than claiming a square metre of sand to yourself on Bondi Beach. Who wants to be the sober one in the corner, while everyone else is knocking back the boss's free Verve Clicquot at the Christmas party? That being said, someone's gotta do it. So we thought we might cheer you up and take a look at the upside of being responsible. Not only will your mates owe you one for potentially saving their lives and licences, you'll avoid drunken social media fails, have a higher chance of not getting sacked, do your liver a favour and wake up feeling like a million bucks, ready to kick all the goals. In partnership with Coca-Cola and their Designated Driver program that's celebrating us all getting home safe by giving us free Cokes throughout the night, here are eight reasons why it'll benefit you to volunteer to deso over the holidays. DO IT FOR THE HEALTH BENEFITS Apart from your friends, if there's one party that's going to be grateful for your decision, it's your liver. Drinking can cause it all kinds of nasties within your body — especially when you get into having too much of a good time over too long a period. Possible consequences of overdoing it include fatty liver, alcohol-related hepatitis and cirrhosis. But, even if things don't get as bad as that, a liver under pressure can cause fatigue, weight gain, digestive issues and mood swings. The good news is that your liver can repair itself — take on the designated driver mantle for a few weeks in a row and you're likely to have clearer skin, better vision and a more positive mindset. Boom. YOU'RE NOT GOING TO DO THAT DRUNK TEXTING THING YOU DO The first step to feeling good about being a designated driver is contemplating the things you'll avoid doing. Top of the pile are all the drunken texts and social media posts you won't send if you choose to forego alcohol for the night (or day). You won't message that ex-partner, rant about how much you hate your job or embarrass yourself with obvious spelling mistakes. YOU'LL REMEMBER EVERYTHING THAT HAPPENED THE NIGHT BEFORE We recommend using this one to your advantage. When you wake up bright-eyed, recalling with glee all the things you didn't do, your friends will be groggily struggling to put together the pieces — and agonising over what might or might not have happened, with or without who or what, when or where. This is where you can get smug. Knowledge is power. Don't hand over all the details straight away, but parcel them out slowly, like every good story teller does, and, wherever possible, use them as bargaining chips for future payback. (If you're stuck for ideas, see below, under "Your Mates' Worship"). YOU'LL WAKE UP FEELING DAMN GOOD The next day, while your friends are commando crawling to and from the bathroom, you'll be feeling like a million bucks. It's time to squeeze yourself a kale juice and start kicking all the goals. Always wanted to start a start-up? Set up the website and contact a designer. Been trying to get yourself into a consistent yoga routine? Roll out your mat and salute the sun. Been meaning to catch up with your mum for a coffee? Give her a buzz. One of the drawbacks of Australia's passionate drinking culture is the toll it can take on motivation to get things done. THERE WILL BE NO BAD DANCE MOVES, OR KARAOKE ATTEMPTS Now that everyone carries a HD camera in their pocket, one bad dance move can mean a lifetime of ridicule. Yet, even the most self-conscious of us, after a champagne or two, get to thinking we're Prince when the funk hits the airwaves. But not you. The only time you'll be making moves like these will be at No Lycra, No Lights, in the dark. The same goes for karaoke — as strains of Mariah Carey soar across the air, your lips will be firmly, blissfully sealed (maybe, it can be hard to resist the temptation of a Mariah singalong). YOUR FRIENDS WILL WORSHIP YOU You gotta milk this one for all it's worth. Every time you offer to hang out with your mates, while they get messy and you stay sober, you're doing them a major solid by looking after them and saving them a pricey Uber fare. And, we say, don't let them forget it — ever, ever, ever. We're thinking lots and lots and lots of presents, dinners in ferris wheels, sleepovers in luxurious hotels, spa experiences, Facebook pages set up in your honour and altars draped with incense and flowers. YOU'LL KEEP YOUR JOB (AND YOUR DIGNITY) As uncomfortable as this might make you feel, the fact is, employers scour social media accounts. They like to know who their employees (and prospective employees) are outside of business hours. And, by having a quick squizz at how you spend your time, they can work out a bit about your personality, values, family members, friends, opinions and, importantly here, drinking habits. So, creating a feed packed with photos that look like scenes out of The Hangover isn't putting your best foot forward. A shot of you as the designated driver, however? That's practically a job offer or promotion, right there. YOU'LL SAVE YOURSELF SOME MONEY As your friends weep over their empty wallets the next morning, you'll be taking yourself out to breakfast in a fancy, fancy cafe and ordering anything you damn well like. It's no secret that drinking isn't cheap, but once you get to feeling merry, it's all too easy to forget about that and let cash slip through your drunken hands quicker than water. Meanwhile, designated drivers all over the country are amassing fortunes.Become one of them and, when you're jetting off on your next international holiday, the few drunken nights you missed out on will disappear into nothingness. If you're a designated driver over the holiday season, ask a bartender for a driver's Coca-Cola and a wristband — they've teamed up with venues across the city to celebrate the hero of the night and give you free soft drinks from their range. The Coca-Cola Designated Driver program will run until the end of January. For a full list of participating venues, visit the website.
A new website and app lets LGBTIQ people test the waters with their friends and family when deciding whether or not to come out. Launching in April this year, You're Accepted lets users anonymously message their friends and family, in order to gauge their reaction. The hope, according to its creators, is that the service will help young people feel supported, allowing them to more confidently take that difficult first step. The project is a joint initiative between queer youth group Minus18 and creative agency GPY&R. The website allows anonymous users to message people – via Facebook, SMS or email – and ask whether those people would support them if that user decided to come out. "Their friends and family members are then given a notification, can read the message and choose to reply with a message of support, which is then moderated by our team," Minus18 CEO Micah Scott told SBS. "The LGBTI person can then read that message, and either choose to come out to them, or simply find comfort in the fact that they will have someone supportive for when they do come out." According to Scott, one of the most common questions young LGBTIQ people struggle with whether or not their friends and family will accept them for who they are. "Coming out can be an amazing experience too, but it's often hard to take that first step when you're not sure how people will react," he said. "It's been really exciting to see the impact the platform has made already." To find out more about You're Accepted, visit www.youreaccepted.com.au. Via SBS.
Maya Newell has joined the Tropfest judging panel on the eve of the 2016 festival. The director of the critically acclaimed documentary Gayby Baby will join actors Mel Gibson, Simon Baker and Rebecca Gibney, The Dressmaker director Jocelyn Moorhouse and Moulin Rouge! cinematographer Don McAlpine. Together, they will help decide the winner of the world's largest short film festival, which will take place this Sunday in Sydney's Centennial Parklands. Newell is the second last minute inclusion to the judging panel, following the surprise addition of Gibson – who is of course best known for his career as an actor and director as well as this long list of horrible public statements. Newell and her film were in the spotlight last year when the NSW government banned schools from screening the movie during class time. Jerks. Gibson, meanwhile, said he was "thrilled" to be joining Tropfest. "I know what it’s like to be starting out in this industry, in Australia, and what a big difference a break can make to a career," he said. "Tropfest has been doing an incredible job over the last 23 years as a platform for young filmmakers, and I’m absolutely delighted to support the great work Tropfest is doing." The panel of local actors and filmmakers will decide which of 16 short filmmakers takes home the festival's top prize, which includes $10,000 cash, a trip to Hollywood to meet with industry executives, a Nikon D800 digital camera along with $2000 worth of accessories, and a Hyundai Tuscon for a year. The festival also revealed its live music slate, featuring rock duo Winterbourne, DJ and singer KLP and The Preatures' vocalist Gideon Bensen. The announcement comes following a period of uncertainty for the iconic festival, which had a brush with death late last year after founder and festival John Polson discovered what he called "a terrible and irresponsible mismanagement of Tropfest funds" by a third party agency. The festival was briefly cancelled before receiving a financial lifeline from CGU insurance, although there are still some questions over the event's long term future. Polson recently announced that he had started a Pozible campaign to help ensure the festival remains free, although it has so far only raised a fraction of its intended $100,000 target. Maybe Mel can help. Tropfest will take place on February 14 in Centennial Parklands, with gates opening from 3pm. It will be broadcast around the country from 9pm AEDT. For more information go here. Updated: Saturday February 13.
Uber is making itself comfortable in the nation's capital, and soon it's going to be legal and everything. In the very same week that the NSW Government announced tough new fines and suspensions for Uber drivers caught using their vehicles as unauthorised taxis, their compadres across the border are giving UberX (the ridesharing service which lets everyday drivers give you lifts in their own Uber-approved cars) the official green light. First fireworks, then pornography, and now this? If it weren't for all the politicians, we'd seriously be considering a move. Under new reforms set to come into place at the end of next month ahead of Uber's entry into the market, UberX drivers who have passed criminal and driver history checks will be legally permitted to offer people lifts using the popular ridesharing app. Reported by The Sydney Morning Herald, the changes will make the ACT the first jurisdiction in the country where Uber drivers can operate without fear of being fined — not that that's been much of a disincentive for people thus far. Further reforms, to be enacted at a later date, will reportedly address issues surrounding UberX driver registration and insurance. Interestingly, the legislation also offers an olive branch to taxi drivers, whose annual licensing fees will be reduced from $20,000 to $10,000, and then $5000, in an attempt to help them compete. UberX drivers will also be prohibited from picking up passengers who hail them on the street. "These reforms champion innovation and help taxi and hire car services remain sustainable and important modes of travel in the Territory," said Labor Chief Minister Andrew Barr in a press release that accompanied the announcement. The taxi industry hasn't exactly welcomed Uber with open arms, but at some point they're going to have to accept that the ridesharing service is here to stay. The NSW review of taxi and ride-sharing operators will unveil their findings to the government next month. Maybe now that the government itself is trying to level the playing field, it'll encourage them to up their game? Hey, it could happen. Until then, NSW UberX drivers, head for the ACT border. Via The Sydney Morning Herald. Image: Dollar Photo Club.
Merry Christmas, music lovers! Radiohead have gone and dropped a brand new track in time for the holidays, and we don't mind saying that it's pretty damn spectacular. Turns out that Thom Yorke and his bandmates were commissioned to write the theme song for the recently released James Bond movie, although for some baffling reason the producers didn't end up using it. But the group finished the song anyway, and released it via SoundCloud overnight. So, without further adieu... First impressions? This is definitely how we'd expect a James Bond tune by Radiohead to sound. Which is to say that it won't be for everybody, although personally we like it a hell of a lot more than Sam Smith's eventual effort. The existence of this track, which shares a name with the movie, isn't entirely surprising. Rumours that Radiohead would be composing the Spectre tune circulated on the internet for months prior to the film's release, before it was eventually revealed that Smith had been tapped instead. As it happens, Radiohead were approached, but according to York "it didn't work out." Last year we were asked to write a tune for Bond movie Spectre. Yes we were ........... — Thom Yorke (@thomyorke) December 25, 2015 ... It didn't work out ... but became something of our own which we love very much .... — Thom Yorke (@thomyorke) December 25, 2015 .. As the year closes we thought you might like to hear it. Merry Christmas. May the force be with you ... https://t.co/BXN8MQKJyQ — Thom Yorke (@thomyorke) December 25, 2015 Bit weird that he finished that tweet with a Star Wars reference, isn't it? Unless...wait a minute...could Radiohead be working on a track for Episode VIII? You heard it here first people. Let the rampant speculation begin.
Your days of eating last night's leftovers alone at your desk may soon be at an end. A new app on the market called Never Eat Alone is linking employees in large companies with co-workers keen to grab lunch. Better yet, some businesses are already encouraging their staff to log on. The app is the creation of Marie Schneegans, who told TechCrunch she came up with the idea while completing a summer internship with finance company UBS. Eager to meet people in different departments, she started emailing people to set up lunch dates, and eventually wound up dining with the company CEO. Unlike most social networking apps, Never Eat Alone is being pitched directly to the heads of large businesses, who can then choose to distribute it to their employees as a means of improving company culture and morale. Once an employee has the app on their phone, they're able to create a profile that lists their interests – and before they know it, they're breaking down the latest Game of Thrones episode over sushi with Linda in accounting. Never Eat Alone is currently only available in France, but there are apparently plans to expand into the United States in the next few months. Via TechCrunch.
What's better than a new theme park? And no, that's not a trick question. If you're still excited by the news that the Gold Coast could be adding to their amusement park slate, then you'd best sit down. The latest development is rather epic. Those eager to get their thrills somewhere other than Dreamworld, Sea World, Movie World, White Water World and Wet 'n' Wild — aka the existing batch of attractions — might remember that the first round of rumours focused on a certain D word (i.e. Disney). The choice of letter was right, but the actual term wasn't. Instead, the Wanda Group is reportedly setting their sights on dinosaurs. Yep, the Chinese conglomerate allegedly wants to welcome south-east Queenslanders to their very own Jurassic Park. Just what that will entail is yet to be determined, but if a Brisbane university can set up a virtual Dino Zoo, then we're certain that a corporation the size of Wanda can come up with something pretty spectacular. The fresh speculation has been sparked by Wanda's purchase of Legendary Entertainment, with the media company responsible for last year's box-office behemoth Jurassic World. Over the last few years, they've also brought us Where the Wild Things Are, Pacific Rim, Godzilla and Crimson Peak, should they need any other ideas. Of course, other than the Legendary deal, nothing has been confirmed as yet, but dinosaurs aren't just the next big thing. They're a source of fascination that has literally been around for years, and one we just can't seem to get enough. Via The Gold Coast Bulletin.
Debauched banquets from Bompas and Parr, immersive art sleepovers at Cradle Mountain and all the demon purging and ceremonial death dances you could want in a festival. Now in its third year, Dark Mofo continues to evolve to be darker, weirder and wilder than before. Aligned with the winter solstice and running June 12-22, MONA's annual June festival celebrates the Neolithic tradition over ten hedonistic days of eclectic and unpredictable art, performance, music and happenings around Hobart, concluding with the annual nude solstice swim at dawn after the longest night in Australia. Last year's festival attracted more than 130,000 Mofos over ten days, with about a third coming from interstate. Ever the supporter of bizarre extravaganzas, Hendrick’s Gin, an official partner of MONA, will bring its weird and wonderful flavour to Dark Mofo this year with the installation of its legendary Parlour of Curiosities in Dark Park. Here, festivalgoers will discover a treasury of tipples, daring and intimate performances, as well as an eccentric revelry of otherworldly wonders and delightfully dark surprises (we're not giving much away). Picture an abandoned circus situated in the depths of a forbidden forest, full of dark and mysterious wonders. Then find yourself a crispy beverage and lose yourself, off you go. Thanks to Hendrick's Gin, we are giving one CP subscriber the chance to attend Dark Mofo with a friend as VIP guests of Hendrick's. The prize includes: 2x tickets to Dark Mofo 2x return flights (departing Saturday, June 20, and returning Sunday, June 21) 1 night's accommodation at the 4 star Best Western in Hobart. To be in the running, subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter (if you haven't already), then email us with your name and phone number. Sydney: win.sydney@concreteplayground.com.au Melbourne: win.melbourne@concreteplayground.com.au Brisbane: win.brisbane@concreteplayground.com.au The giveaway will be drawn at 10am on June 19, 2015, and the winner will be notified by phone.
Music festivals aren’t usually the most pet-friendly of places. Or at least they haven't been until now. Bounding into Burnley Park in Richmond this Sunday, the excellently-named Dogapalooza is Melbourne's first ever music festival designed to be 100 percent pooch-inclusive. Presented by Oscar's Law, One Little Indian and Artemis Pet Food, Dogapalooza is a festival for both dogs and the people who love them. There'll be ethical food options, including vegan barbecue, as well as stalls selling boutique dog products and Dogapalooza merchandise. The event is BYO beer, wine and pre-mixed spirits — sorry, no hard stuff. The music lineup will feature local acts such as Tash Sultana, Monique Brumby, Harrison Storm, Amistat and DJ double act Cocoa Noire. In a perfect world, they'd also have managed to get Bow Wow Wow on board... but we guess you can't have everything. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMICD3aMZpw Great song. Whatever happened to those guys, anyway? Meanwhile, the best thing about Dogapalooza is that all proceeds from ticket sales are getting donated to local animal rescue groups, including Stafford Rescue Victoria, Paws Of Love, Melbourne Animal Rescue, German Shepherd Rescue Victoria, Puppy Tales Rescue, and Kayas Mission. Frankly, if that doesn't get your tail wagging, then we don't know what will. Now the bad news: tickets to Dogapalooza are already completely sold-out. Sorry guys. Turns out people really, really like puppies.
Every time one of Australia's many cultural film festivals rolls around, viewers are taken on a journey to another country. Celebrating its 20th event, the 2017 Spanish Film Festival is embracing that idea — and they have the perfect movie for it. This year's festival will close with The Trip to Spain, the third instalment in the Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon driving-and-dining series following 2010's The Trip and 2014's The Trip to Italy. Of course, the Spanish Film Festival has put together a hefty program that showcases more than two British comedians trading Michael Caine impressions while seeing gorgeous Spanish sights and ticking off the country's fine dining spots, with the full lineup boasting 38 features. Touring the country between April 18 and May 17, the festival will kick off with Kiki, Love to Love, which actually has an Australian connection. Telling five comic tales about the passionate lives of Madrid lovers, it's based on Hoges actor Josh Lawson's 2014 directorial debut The Little Death. The film's star Natalia de Molina will be attending the opening night festivities in Sydney and Melbourne. Elsewhere, expect a vibrant cross-section of Spanish-language cinema, including moving coming-of-age effort Summer 1993, the Penelope Cruz and Cary Elwes-starring The Queen of Spain, and tense dark comedy The Bar, all heading to our shores after screening at the Berlinale. Or, viewers can catch the Goya-winning revenge flick The Fury of a Patient Man, bank robber thriller Escape Plan, secret agent spoof Heroes Wanted, literary-focused Venice Film Festival hit The Distinguished Citizen, or social realist musical At Your Doorstep. Plus, the program also features walk-and-talk romance The Reconquest, Smoke & Mirrors' true tale of corruption from the makers of 2015 festival standout Marshland, and Spain in a Day — the latest crowd-shot time-capsule companion piece to 2011's Life in a Day, joining fellow efforts made in Britain, Japan, Italy and India. This year's festival selections don't stop there, with four films embracing the joys of flamenco, spanning both dance and music. For those keen on looking back as well as catching the latest cinematic fare, three retrospective screenings will showcase the work of actress, singer and filmmaker Ana Belén, who has more than 35 albums, 40 films and 30 theatrical productions on her resume. The Spanish Film Festival tours Australia from April 18, screening at Sydney's Palace Norton Street and Palace Verona from April 18 to May 7; Melbourne's Palace Cinema Como, Palace Westgarth and Kino Cinemas from April 20 to May 7, and Brisbane's Palace Barracks and Palace Centro from April 27 to May 14. For more information, visit the festival website.
Animal lovers take note: New York’s JFK Airport is getting a new state-of-the-art animal terminal named the ARK. But unlike Noah’s lame prototype which could only take two of every animal, JFK’s ARK can handle more than 70,000 animals per year – and handle them in style. Fully decked out with a lap pool, veterinary services, salon and spa services and flat screen TVs, your pet’s accommodation will likely be far superior to your own. Current import and export services available to pets aren’t particularly streamlined – and the resulting stress can increase the chance of injury or illness for our high-flying furry friends. The ARK has been designed to reduce animal stress during their mandatory quarantine period (that it makes us awwwww is simply an added bonus.) The US$40 million, 16,500 square metre facility includes stalls for cattle and horses, pens for goats, sheep and pigs, an aviary for birds and even a special space for penguins – complete with private mating area. Its the dogs and cats that get the best of the deal though. They’ll be housed in a hotel-like facility run by Paradise 4 Paws, a national pet boarding service that provides insane levels of pet care including hot oil or mud baths, pawdicure (with colour pawlish), peanut butter kongs, treadmill sessions, outdoor hikes, massages and personal snuggle times. For a cool US$100 a night, your pet can stay in a room with a full-sized human bed, chandelier lighting and doggie furnishings, flat screen and a nightly tuck-in service. And while your pet is crapping all over the $100-a-night suite, you can watch them resentfully over webcam. But in all seriousness, good work America. Air travel is traumatic enough for humans; imagine the stress a pet must go through. It’s fantastic to see an investment that will benefit our animal pals. Australia, please follow their example – and if possible, provide a viewing platform so we can watch the animals frolic and gambol. via The Guardian. Image via Paradise 4 Paws.
Forget stale chips and overpriced packets of lollies. Two Australian companies are looking to change the way you think about vending machines, with new, healthy options coming to Melbourne and Brisbane (Sydney, fingers crossed). First up, Melbourne's FüD vending machine, is officially up and running. Built out of recycled timber, the new automatic outlets dispense a variety of gourmet meals made using healthy, organic produce, including salads, falafel and even freshly-chopped celery and carrots. Best of all, unsold salads are donated to Homeless of Melbourne, ensuring that nothing goes to waste. Total legends. Jars of salad will cost you $10 a pop, and come in a number of different varieties including the ‘Pump It Up’ (pumpkin, roast shallots, beetroot chips and white bean mousse), the ‘Super Soba’ (green tea soba noodles, zucchini and carrot) and ‘Overnight Oats’ (organic oats soaked in coconut milk, with banana, hazelnut and rice malt syrup). Got dietary requirements? The FüD vending machine is stocked with a number of choices for people on paleo, vegan, sugar-free or gluten-free diets. All meals are made fresh and delivered daily, and the machine is refrigerated to ensure nothing spoils. Brisbane's taking the healthy vending machine thing one step further — to a 'self-service cafe'. That's not just marketing jargon, that's what health food merchants All Real Food are calling their automated eateries, and it's a name that fits. With no junk food in sight, what you'll find instead are delicious, healthy snacks and meals, all freshly packaged and stocked each and every day. Think ready-to-go breakfasts and sweets, and soups down the track. Their touchscreen machines also feature a vertical herb garden to bring you back in touch with nature, and a gratitude board filled with health tips and inspiring messages that change daily. Just where and when they'll start popping up all over Brisbane is yet to be determined, but one thing is certain: eating on the run has never been so appetising (or so good for you). For more information, visit The Fud Revolution or All Real Food's websites. Via Good Food. Words by Sarah Ward and Tom Clift.
A genius design studio has made it so you'll never have to worry about being that weirdo jumping around in a bouncing castle full of children ever again. At the behest of the Federation of Swiss Architects, the Geneva and Lisbon-based Bureau A have created an inflatable nightclub, complete with dance floor, bar and inflatable furniture and DJ booth. The blow-up nightclub was commissioned by the Federation to host their annual summer party. Known as Shelter, the entire venue is made from lightweight PVC membrane, making it easy to deflate and transport from place to place. "For one night, the black hole of a neat and well-organised society is revealed as a potential for distortion," reads a description of the nightclub on the Bureau A website. "The mysterious black vessel lands in the modern space of a highly engendered concrete vault; a great spatial condition to explore the corners of what is hidden." As far as we can tell, that's just a very fancy way of saying it's a place where you can drink a bit too much and it doesn't really matter since you'll just bounce safely off the walls. In any case, it sure beats rocking up to your nephew's birthday party with a sack of goon. Via Dezeen. Image: Dylan Perrenoud.
When is a music festival more than just a music festival? When it's a series of gigs, a conference and all-round showcase of everything that makes the Australian — and the Brisbane — music industry great, all in one. You know we're talking about BIGSOUND, the three-day event that makes our little patch of the planet feel like the centre of all things sound-related each and every year. The 2017 edition wrapped up last week, with everyone from Aussie icons Archie Roach and Tina Arena to Quentin Tarantino's regular music supervisor, Mary Ramos, chatting up a storm. And, as always, the absolutely jam-packed festival bill featured more than 150 artists, including Polaris, Total Giovanni, The Cactus Channel, WAAX and Oh Mercy. It was a huge three days — and that's not even to mention the feast of unofficial parties, which took over nearly every nook and cranny of the Valley. After jetting between gigs (we'll be posting our top ten artist discoveries very soon), talks and parties, here are our favourite moments from BIGSOUND 2017.
Are you a new music fiend? The type who hunts for a good dose of freshly minted music on a regular basis? Sorting through a month of music is epic business. Sure, you could hit up a few Spotify playlists, but we reckon you're after a few true gems, handpicked from four weeks of new releases. We've done the dirty work for you, filled our ears with everything we could get our mitts on and picked ten tracks that really stood out this month. Whack in your headphones and load up on these newbies. CHRISTOPHER PORT — 'HEAVENS' One of the finest advocates for UK garage Australia currently possesses, Christopher Port recently launched his solo project after providing support for a number of this country's most loved acts — including Big Scary and Ngaiire. The producer's upbeat soundscapes and sampling have come as a bit of a surprise for those not privy to his extracurricular talents, and have marked his solo work as a hugely interesting aside to his usual engagements. 'Heavens' is the second single to come from his debut EP Vetement, out July 15 via Pieater. BADBADNOTGOOD FEAT. MICK JENKINS — 'HYSSOP OF LOVE' One of my favourite hip-hop collectives, BADBADNOTGOOD, are back this year with a new album which will be available in a matter of weeks. The latest cut from the Canadian's record IV features up-and-coming Chicago rapper Mick Jenkins (in the Ghostface Killah role), who has been on my watch list since his impressive debut record Water. BBNG provide a relaxed, blaxploitation-inspired backdrop to Jenkins' sharp delivery, and once again highlights this crew as one of the tightest acts in the world. THE GOODS FEAT. BRUCE HATHCOCK — 'NIGHTLIFE' Sydney-based duo The Goods are a recent find, having recently turned their attention to their own music having after cutting their teeth as session musicians and producers. Their sound sits somewhere between a throwback funk/soul outfit and an Australian version of Kaytranada, with this catchy recipe recently taking the form of single 'Nightlife'. Featuring the Marvin Gaye-esque tones of Californian vocalist Bruce Hathcock, it's the latest the track from The Goods' upcoming double EP out July 1. THE OCEAN PARTY — 'BACK BAR' One of the most loveable bands in Australia, you always know what you're going to get when the Ocean Party release a new track. Their latest offering, 'Back Bar', again hits the mark with an upbeat, catchy number that comes in at just over 2:30. I challenge you to listen without smiling, especially when you pair it with the track's comical video clip which features nudity, air guitar and something that resembles wrestling jello. 'Back Bar' is the first single from the band's upcoming 6th (!) full length record, which I'm already predicting will be on high rotation in my household. MADELINE KENNEY — 'SIGNALS' Perhaps the most beautiful song I've heard this year, Madeline Kenney's 'Signals' has been a revelation since I came across it earlier this month. The latest signing to Chaz Bundwick's (Toro Y Moi) label Company Records, Oakland-based Kenney's debut EP (also titled Signals) is a stunner, full of standout vocals and dreamy soundscapes. It's a must-have for fans of Beach House and Grizzly Bear, and I'd love to share this record with as many people while she still remains small so I can say 'I told you so' when she blows up. WHAT SO NOT x GEORGE MAPLE FEAT. ROME FORTUNE — 'BURIED' The combination of these two Australian acts with fascinating Atlanta rapper Rome Fortune was enough to grab my attention, and I was surprised by my appreciation for this one when I gave it a little time. The gorgeous opening of 'Buried' takes me back to my obsession with Meshell Ndegeocello's incredible Comfort Woman record, before the nicely balanced production takes off, giving Fortune the perfect platform to let his powerful verses fly. This is a track that could have been incredibly confusing given the combination of distinctive artists, but the result is the opposite, with the track perfectly balancing each strong element. UNKNOWN MORTAL ORCHESTRA — 'FIRST WORLD PROBLEM' Technically released in the shadows of May, there's no way I'm not including Unknown Mortal Orchestra's latest single 'First World Problem' in my list this month. The first new music since last year's breakout record Multi-Love, the track's slightly repetitive vocals are well and truly tempered by the its rich production and variation, with a brass section adding plenty of sass to this epically danceable number. As an aside, if you've overdone your UMO listening over the past few years, make sure to check out recent Laneway Festival casualty Silicon's (Reuben Neilson's brother Cody's project) debut album 2015 record Personal Computer. WALLACE — 'IS IT YOU?' There seems to have been a bit of a soul revival in Australia over the past few years, with acts like Hiatus Kaiyote, Jordan Rakei and Sasquatch leading the charge. One of this new breed of talent is Sydney-based Newzealander Wallace, who has been on the radar as one to watch since she released her debut single 'Vinyl Skip' early last year. Continuing to build on her early success, she released perhaps her most solid work to date earlier this month, teaming up with Dutch production duo Kraak & Smaak for the gorgeous 'Is It You?', a track that pairs Wallace's sultry vocals perfectly with smooth, tempered production that transports the listener to a smoky, backroom jazz bar. CASS MCCCOMBS — 'OPPOSITE HOUSE' Alt-country aficionado Cass McCombs recently announced a new addition to his impressive discography, with new album Mangy Love set for release in August. The first taste of said record is 'Opposite House', a dreamy track which features backing vocals from the radiant Angel Olsen (who'll be releasing her own new album later this year), and again solidifies the Californian as your favourite Sunday soundtrack artist. CITIES AVIV — 'MELANIN DROP' This track has so much going on, it's hard to believe it's only three minutes long. Experimental hip hop artist Cities Aviv jumps through numerous guises throughout, from aggressive MC, to laidback producer, to spoken word poet, all the while drawing the listener further into his web of brilliance. 'Melanin Drop' is one of the most interesting listens I've had in a long time, and is a worthy addition to this humble list. Top image: George Maple.
In August of last year, something amazing happened in Tasmania. Tasmania is like that distant cousin you never paid much attention to, but then, when you hit your mid-twenties, you take a second and realise that, hey, they're actually pretty cool. Yep, that's Tassie. While you might not have appreciated your 1999 family holiday to Hobart, now they've got that whole rugged landscape, quality art and bar scene thing going on and, all of a sudden, everyone's totally into it. And to blow your mind that little bit more, the island state did something really, really awesome. They passed in-principle support for marriage equality in the Parliament of Tasmania and, in turn, skyrocketed itself up the ladder of people everywhere to become Australia's coolest state. Both houses passed theoretical support for same-sex marriage (the Lower House passed the motion seventeen months ago) with a vote of 8-5 — which is big deal as Tasmania has traditionally had a pretty conservative government. Tasmania's display of support further erodes the notion that the (super exxy) plebiscite was never a good idea (may the marriage equality plebiscite rest in peace and never, ever rise again as a zombie). Each state has a varied history on support of same-sex marriage, but let's just remember that in March of this year, an Essential Media poll found that 64 percent of respondents agreed that same-sex couples should be allowed to marry. Ultimately, it's up to the Federal Parliament to make the call — not the states. The Coalition have proposed a potential plebiscite on the issue, which would have cost Aussie taxpayers anywhere between $158 million and half a billion, was smacked down in the Senate. However, if all states show their support for same-sex marriage, it could have a lot of influence on what happens at a Federal level. Tassie's shown their support, but where's the mainland at on the issue? In partnership with SKYY Vodka, which showed its support for marriage equality throughout March by donating $1.00 from every product purchased in Australia to just.equal, we take a look at where everyone's sitting at the moment. [caption id="attachment_584233" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Parliament of NSW[/caption] NSW In June of 2015, the NSW Parliament passed a conscience vote (unanimously, mind you), calling on the Federal Government to pass the Marriage Equality Bill 2015, showing their support of the issue. In 2013, they nearly passed a bill to legalise same-sex marriage but it fell through at 21 votes no to 19 votes yes. Close, but no cigar. And in 2014 they finally abolished the gay panic defence (pretty late to the game though). The state is generally moving in the right direction and seems to support same-sex marriage, but hasn't been able to coax the Federal Government to do the same. VICTORIA Victoria has just has passed the Relationships Amendments Act 2016 (which came into effect on October 1 2016) that allows immediate recognition of domestic partnerships, de facto relationships and international same-sex marriages and acknowledges civil unions on death certifications (hooray, now you can be yourself in the afterlife too!). While Victoria's government has been generally more liberal than other states, they haven't made huge headway on the marriage equality issue — but they've made a lot of noise about it. According to Australian Marriage Equality, 73 percent of the Victorian House of Reps support gay marriage and 50 percent of the Senate too. Since September 1 2016, Victoria has allowed same sex adoption as well, thanks to the Adoption Amendment Act 2015, a bill that was several years in the making. The Victorian Government introduced a bill in February of 2016 that aimed to crack down on 'gay conversion' therapist. Why on earth, in this state, gay conversion therapists are rampant enough to require a crack down, we'll never know. But from February 1 2017, a new commission has been set up to execute permanent bans on health providers peddling 'gay conversion'. QUEENSLAND In Queensland same-sex activity was considered illegal until 1990, which is disturbingly recent. Further to that, Queensland laws don't allow convictions to be expunged, meaning there are people alive today with a criminal record for being gay (come the heck on, Queensland). But the state has traditionally been incredibly politically conservative, and that's reflected in their stance on gay marriage. One little win of note, however, is the recent abolition of the gay panic defence on March 21 2017. About goddamn time. It only took a petition with 289,000 signatures and the support of Stephen Fry. So, heads up to the terrible people of the world – an 'unwanted sexual advance' from someone of the same sex as you is no longer grounds for self-defence murder. ACT Canberra is the dark horse in the running competition for Australia's best state. The capital briefly passed a marriage equality bill in December of 2013, but it was quickly returned to the earth by the High Court, who deemed it inconsistent with the Federal Marriage Act and hence unconstitutional (boo hiss boo). Since then, they've been pretty quiet on the gay marriage front. WESTERN AUSTRALIA In September of 2015, Western Australia (like NSW) passed a conscience vote calling for the Federal Government to pass the Marriage Amendment Bill 2015, which would grant full marriage rights to same-sex partners. The Feds didn't pass it, but snaps for Western Australia. The recent Labor victory in Western Australia s also a positive sign for the progression of LGTBQI rights. As the incoming party ran on a platform that promised to fully fund the Safe School program, expunge criminal records of consensual homosexual acts, and potentially legislating for civil unions. Let's hope they make good on their promises. NORTHERN TERRITORY Although the NT came to the party on legalising homosexuality pretty early, unfortunately they're pretty backwards when it comes to recognising same-sex marriage. Unlike all other Australian states, the NT government doesn't offer relationship registration or domestic partnerships to same-sex folk, but classifies them as 'de facto unions'. This grants them some of the same financial benefits as married couples but is not equal in any sense of the word. No snaps for the NT. Particularly since in November of 2016 they banned same-sex couples from adopting, while the rest of Australia legalised it. Absolute baloney, NT. SOUTH AUSTRALIA For a southern state with such a banging music scene, South Australia is pretty backwards on gay marriage and gay rights in general. They've shut down several attempts in parliament to consider same-sex civil unions and, despite support from some members of parliament, they still don't even recognise overseas same-sex marriages. And SA is the only to retain the gay panic defence within common-law. Very sad. However, they've made some strides recently. The Relationship Register bill was passed, meaning gay couples can register their relationship all official like (although, let's note that ABS don't count these registered relationships as marriages when totting up the number, boooo). And the bill also allows same-sex couples access to altruistic surrogacy and IVF treatment for the gals. And they've amended their adoption laws to allow adoption for same-sex couples, which went into effect on February 17 of this year. Better. Still not good. But definitely better. So some states are doing well to put pressure on the Federal Government to change same-sex marriage laws, but it's in no way unanimous yet. Ultimately, it's up to the Federal Government to decide if they introduce a marriage equality bill into the House of Reps like every other piece of legislation. If you want to make some noise on the issue, you can go visit just.equal to find out how to best take action. Show some SKYY Vodka support for marriage equality by taking a selfie and tagging it with #CheerstoEquality and #AusPol. Top image: Azhar J via Flickr.
