After some well-deserved quiet time, the folks at Cheated Hearts are back just in time for Halloween, and as per usual they’re bringing out the big guns. It also happens to be their second birthday. That’s right – these crazy kids from Brisbane's coolest queer dance party have hit the 'terrible twos', so they’re looking to blow off some steam. Head along for the biggest monster bash this side of the city’s graveyards. Get your freakiest get-up and get along to the new Woolly Mammoth bar from 9pm for a fright night like no other. Sydney’s Astrix will be bringing the beats, alongside Dimestore Diamonds, The Gatling Gun, DZYR, Lu-na and Sezzo. Entry can be paid on the door; however, you’d be best advised to sneak an early ticket online to save disappointment.
When a toddler is murdered in a small town and a mother's daughter comes home wearing blood-soaked sneakers, what is she to do? Wolf Lullaby is the grim story of nine-year old Lizzie Gael and the suspicious death of Toby Chester. Set in a small, Tasmanian town, this play searches for sense in a chaotic situation, in one of the most affecting, character-driven story lines to be performed on a Brisbane stage. This modern adaption of the classic Australian play by Hilary Bell follows four characters whose lives quickly take a dramatic turn for the worse. Reimagined by Joshua Taylor, this production utilises state-of-the-art multimedia, creative set design and the raw elements of Bell's captivating storyline to create a tense and thought-provoking live show. Wolf Lullaby plays at Metro Arts from October 22 to 24. Tickets cost $15 and can be purchased online. We have to warn you — this contains adult themes, coarse language, strobe lighting, and smoke effects, i.e., it's not one for the kiddies.
We all know that solid dose of 'the good feels' you get after you've done something nice for yourself/your body (like exercise). And throughout the months of October and November, along with a much-needed increase in temperature, you can expect those feelings to increase two-fold. Thanks to the return of the Medibank Feel Good Program, Brisbane will welcome a series of outdoor fitness classes — and, unlike that fancy new yoga studio in your neighbourhood that smells like acai berries and only serves charcoal tea, these classes are all entirely free. Ranging from sessions to get your blood pumping (HIIT and Zumba) to classes to get your zen flowing freely (yoga, tai chi), plus aqua classes held at the Boat Pool, the Feel Good Program is an initiative designed to suit any and all fitness levels. For the first time this year, classes will be held not only at the South Bank Parklands but also in the city at Queens Park on Tuesdays. BYO water bottle, towel and, where required, a yoga mat — the ones provided are subject to availability. Classes happen every day except Fridays and Sundays, booking isn't required and all run for 45 minutes. Get started early and face the day with a 7am HIIT session, or finish it with pilates from 5.30pm. Either way, it'll have you embracing the warm outdoors and feeling good. Check out the class timetable here for times and locations.
Cooler winter weather is starting to set in across Brisbane (well, Brisbane's version of cooler weather), which means it's time to bust out your warmer outfits once again. And if you're a fan of frostier climates, you might want to celebrate with some mates over a few beverages and a bite to eat — perhaps while partying in your own private igloo. Dubbed Igloo Gardens, these winter wonderlands will take over not one, not two, but five beer gardens at pubs across Queensland. Last week, they took over the Cleveland Sands Hotel, now they've arrived at the Chancellors Tavern on the Sunshine Coast and the Bribie Island Hotel. From Monday, June 22, Kenmore Tavern and Springlake Hotel will join the igloo party, too. With Queensland's current stage of eased COVID-19 restrictions allowing restaurants, bars, cafes and pubs to accommodate 20 patrons per area, it's a way for you to hang out with your mates in your own space while still being part of a socially distanced crowd. Each igloo can fit between two-to-six people and comes with twinkly fairy lights. You can hire out them for a 90-minute or two-hour time slot, which includes a three-course meal and a cocktail, with drinks, food and price varying slightly at each venue. Igloos at both the Chancellors Tavern and Bribie Island Hotel will set you back $39. Packages for Kenmore and Springlake will be announced in the coming days. So that you can not only enjoy a winter escape without having to leave the city, but can do so safely, Australian Venue Co's (who owns all the aforementioned pubs) COVID-19 policies include 30-minute cleaning breaks between igloo bookings, plenty of hand sanitiser on offer, floor markers for queueing and contactless ordering and payment. Igloo Gardens are now available to book at the Cleveland Sands Hotel, Chancellors Tavern and Bribie Island Hotel, with Kenmore Tavern and Springlake Hotel set to launch on Monday, June 22. The gardens are set to stay until August.
Very serious media outlet The Betoota Advocate is coming to Brisbane this summer, bringing its particular brand of satire and wit to Fortitude Valley. The travelling show will cover the last four years in Aussie news — a time that's not only seen three prime ministers, but inspires Betoota's latest book How Good's Australia?. How have we, as a country, managed to get through it? Why is Australia so chaotic and confused? Why did the Betoota folks write a book about it? All these questions will be answered and more, when The Betoota Advocate founders Clancy Overell and Errol Parker stop by The Outpost for a chat with Pip Courtney from the ABC's Landline. With millions of hits online per month, the Advocate is certainly doing something right — even if that something is turning the zeitgeist completely on its head. If you're reading this wondering who they are and what they write about — well, best get acquainted. Past headlines include "Australia Enjoys Another Peaceful Day Under Oppressive Gun Control Regime", and "21-Year-Old Disappointed To Learn He's Too Old And Out-Of-Touch To Be A SoundCloud Rapper". It's a riot. Since the website has birthed endless confused texts from parents — asking, for example, whether the Australian Citizen Test really includes a question on how to mix cordial properly — we suggest you bring them along. Tickets are on sale now for the Saturday, December 7 show — and you can opt for a ticket that includes the book as well.
For a man made famous playing a character named Silent Bob, writer, director and actor Kevin Smith has never had any shortage of things to say. Since bursting onto the scene in the mid-90s with his underground slacker film Clerks, Smith has cultivated a devoted audience through both his movies and his candid Q&As and podcasts, including ‘Jay and Silent Bob Get Old,’ recorded with his long-time friend and co-star Jason Mewes. Now the dastardly duo is headed to Australia, for an evening of personal anecdotes, filmmaking titbits and all the dick and fart jokes you could possibly desire. Starting in Sydney on Friday September 18 before hitting up Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth, Smith’s Australian tour will be split into two sections. The first will involve a live recording of Smith and Mewes’ podcast, where topics will likely range from Mewes’ struggle with drug addiction to arguments about comic book characters. The second half of the show will involve an audience Q&A, with fans getting the chance to question Smith on whatever topic they like. For an idea of what to expect, here he is on his ‘feud’ with Tim Burton. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3-XeM6kyWA&t=0m58s The shows in Sydney and Melbourne are billed as ‘all ages,’ which should prove an interesting challenge for a man known to frequently wax poetical about his sex life, and whose film Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back makes use of the f-word 248 times. In addition to Clerks and Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back, Smith’s films with Mewes include Mallrats, Chasing Amy, Dogma and Clerks 2. His recent output has included divisive horror films Red State and Tusk, while he’s currently working on a sequel to Mallrats, due out in 2017.
Remember when Saturday mornings were all about cartoons, cereal and not having a care in the world? Netherworld does. At the Fortitude Valley bar, you're never too old to kick back in their arcade room for some serious kidulting — or to start the day just like you did when you were a kid, but with beer. That's what their latest regular event, Saturday Morning Cartoons, is all about (in case the name didn't already give that away). And they won't just be playing any old cartoons. While their selection changes with each outing, the September 29 event will be enjoying the wonders of Rugrats and The Wild Thornberrys for two hours. Pair your nostalgia with a milk-filled bowl of cereal and a frosty brew, both of which are included in the $10 entry price. And wearing your pjs is fine — in fact, you'll get an extra treat if you do.
They told us that boys don't cry and that they wanted things to be just like heaven. They fell in love on Fridays, hopped into a mint car and dialled a wrong number. They're The Cure, the enduring English rockers who helped define the gothic rock genre. They're also the well-deserving subjects of the Triffid's latest icon-focused evening. Come Saturday, April 13, the Newstead hotspot is breaking out the hairspray, black outfits and ample eyeliner for a night with a more melancholy mood. And with a name like Disintegration: A Celebration of The Cure, it's all timed to mark the 30th anniversary of the band's Disintegration album, although tracks from their whole discography will feature. On the bill is Katy Steele (Little Birdy), Ashley Naylor (Even), Trish Young (The Clouds), Ashley Rothschild (Caligula) and David Challinor (Sounds Like Sunset), with The Exploding Boys (aka current and ex-members of Died Pretty, Glide, Knievel, Scarlet and Copperline) on backing band duties Given the music they're working with, there's no doubt you'll want to be close to them — and who knows, they might want to take pictures of you.
Been spending the first few months of 2020 pondering the future? Given the current state of affairs, that's only natural. Next week, however, you might want to look to the skies as well — and feast your eyes on a luminous night sky. From around April 16 –25, the Lyrids Meteor Shower sets the sky ablaze. It might not be as famous as Halley's Comet, but it's still very impressive. Plus, rather than only being visible every 75 years (the next Halley's Comet sighting is in 2061), you can catch the Lyrids annually. This year, the shower will be at its most spectacular from April 22–23. For folk located Down Under, early on Thursday, April 23 is when you'll be peering upwards. Here's how to catch a glimpse from your backyard. WHAT IS IT The Lyrid Meteor Shower is named after constellation Lyra, which is where the meteor shower appears to come from near star Vega, and is created by debris from comet Thatcher. While the comet, which takes about 415 years to orbit around the sun, won't be visible from Earth again until 2276, the Lyrids can be seen every autumn, between April 16–25. So you can even pencil it in for next year. It's also the oldest recorded meteor shower, so there's that, too. On average, you can see up to 18 meteors per hour, but the Lyrids are also known to have outbursts of nearly 100 meteors per hour. So, while no outburst is predicted for 2020, you could get lucky. [caption id="attachment_767783" align="alignnone" width="1920"] jpstanley via Flickr.[/caption] WHEN TO SEE IT In Australia, the shower will reach a peak in the early morning of Thursday, April 23 according to Time and Date, but still able to be seen for a day or two on either side. The best time to catch an eyeful is just before dawn after the moon has set, so around 4am. At that time, you'll be in the running to see meteors moving at about 177,000 kilometres per hour, shining extraordinarily brightly and leaving a long wake. The shower's cause is, essentially, the Earth getting in the comet's way, causing stardust to fry up in the atmosphere. HOW TO SEE IT Usually, when a meteor shower lights up the sky, we'd advise city-dwellers to get as far away from light pollution as possible to get the best view. That's not possible given the current COVID-19 restrictions in place, so you'd best take a gander from your backyard or balcony. To help locate them, we recommend downloading the Sky Map app — it's the easiest way to navigate the night sky (and is a lot of fun to use even on a non-meteor shower night). If you're more into specifics, Time and Date also have a table that shows the direction and altitude of the Lyrids. They've been updating this daily. Typically, clouds and showers are predicted for next week along the east coast, which could present problems in terms of visibility. But, there'll be little moon to spoil it, so hopefully the weatherman is wrong. Top image: Mike Lewinski via Flickr.
In February, Brisbane Powerhouse launched a brand-new festival dedicated to boundary-pushing performances. In March, the New Farm site hosted its first-ever Night Feast food market. Across April and May, the venue let laughter echo in every space it could thanks to its annual Brisbane Comedy Festival. And, now that winter is upon the River City, it's launching into June with some else just as impressive: a killer music lineup. Where can you dance to a French disco king, and also check out a supremely talented Icelandic singer-songwriter? At the Lamington Street spot, which is welcoming in Cerrone and Ásgeir. Playing on Friday, June 2, the former is a legend, selling over 30-million records worldwide; being sampled by everyone from Public Enemy, Jamie XX and Daft Punk to Run DMC and Paul McCartney; and known for 70s tracks 'Love in C Minor', 'Supernature' and 'Give Me Love'. Stepping behind the microphone on Saturday, June 3 , thelatter is a folk-pop star that's up there with Iceland's best-known talents, and will be playing through his decade-long discography. If that sounds like an eclectic duo, hitting Powerhouse's stage one night after the other, that's because it is. Pinballing between vastly different sounds, vibes and shows has always been a driving force behind the venue's lineups, and this wintry music season is no different. Here's two more cases in point: Cash Savage and The Last Drinks, who'll kick off the program on Thursday, June 1, plus Desire Marea on Thursday, June 15. The Melbourne-based Savage and her band head north fresh from releasing their new album So This Is Love, as well as singles Keep Working At Your Job' and '$600 Short On The Rent'. As for Marea, the South African-based artist also arrives with a recent release, On the Romance of Being, a blend of post-gospel, spiritual jazz, and the ancient music of the Nguni and Ndau peoples which was recorded live with a 13-musician ensemble.
If Owen Wilson was to comment on Melbourne's newest event, we're guessing he'd offer up a simple answer: "wow." That's actually just what thousands of folks seemingly want to hear — and say. In fact, celebrating the way the Zoolander star utters that one word is what this gathering is all about. Following in the footsteps of last year's 'Scream like Goku' sessions, some particularly keen Wilson fans have conjured up their own version: 'Say Wow like Owen Wilson'. Set to take place on from 6pm on February 26 at Melbourne's Federation Square, it's exactly what it sounds like. People will come together, pretend they're in The Royal Tenenbaums, Wedding Crashers or whichever of his flicks takes their fancy, and unleash their best wow-uttering impersonation. Saying one particular word like a famous actor — it's so hot right now, apparently. Or, it's just something different to do on your way home from work on Monday evening, we guess? Either way, the get-together will include warm-up wows, the main event — that is, a massive group wow — and kick-on wows afterwards. It'll also be livestreamed, for anyone who can't get there, doesn't live in Melbourne or simply needs to see it for themselves. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KlLMlJ2tDkg
Berberian Sound Studio and The Duke of Burgundy filmmaker Peter Strickland is one of cinema's inimitable auteurs, not only conjuring up narratives that no other filmmaker ever would or could, but bringing them to the screen with a distinctive sense of style and mood. That remains accurate with In Fabric — the lauded writer/director's haunted dress movie. In a London clothing store, bank teller Sheila (Marianne Jean-Baptiste) finds the perfect red frock for her first blind date; however, she soon discovers that the fabulous outfit has quite the dark side. Also starring Games of Thrones' Gwendoline Christie, this fashion-focused horror-comedy is lurid and intoxicating. As the above rundown should make plain, this film is something special — and, after touring the festival circuit last year, is one of the standout theatrical releases of this year, too. But if you missed it in cinemas, Melbourne's The Capitol and RMIT University have an online solution thanks to In Fabric: A Long Weekend for Fashion Victims and Film Fetishists. Running from Friday, September 11–Monday, September 14 via thecapitol.tv, the virtual event includes three components. Firstly, you can stream In Fabric for 24 hours from 7pm on Friday, because that's what this whole thing is about. Then, at 7pm on Saturday, Strickland will chat about the film live. And, on Monday, he'll join the movie's costume designer Jo Thompson and RMIT Associate Dean of Fashion and Textiles Design Dr Ricarda Bigolin for a masterclass about fashion victims, desire, bodies and consumption. Your $15.86 ticket includes access to all three parts of the event — and possible dreams about striking red dresses for some time afterwards. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=biHUTtV4K40&feature=emb_logo In Fabric: A Long Weekend for Fashion Victims and Film Fetishists runs online from Friday, September 11–Monday, September 14.
I don’t know if it’s biased for me to say this, but I think Brisbane’s Gallery of Modern Art is the best art gallery in Australia. Since moving here three years ago, I’ve walked through those doors countless times and every single time I am in awe of the immense detail and work put into each exhibition and the interactivity it allows between the patrons and the art. The Surrealism exhibition is no different, but the thing I am looking forward to the most is when Surrealism Up Late begins. Showcasing artists on a local and national scale, the Up Late program provides a unique Friday night experience, fusing music and art. First up on the Up Late program is Sydney’s Parades. The four-piece (including Jonathan Boulet on drums) have been lying low recently, working on material to follow their Water Stories EP, but are taking a break for this one-off show. It’ll be your only chance to catch Parades before they go into hiding again, plus it’ll be your only chance ever to catch them while watching Un Chien Andalou or ogling a Man Ray piece at the same time. Ah, GoMA. Nothing else compares.
It's an utterly modern dilemma: spending too much time looking at a computer, phone or television, and not enough time taking in the glorious sights of nature. Perhaps that's what makes Danie Mellor's latest exhibition so entrancing. The Australian artist makes visions of trees and plants his latest focus. The landscape is one of Mellor's recurrent creative concerns, after all, as is the concept of cultural histories. And while A sensual instinct might be designed to depict the visual side of biological life, it also offers an organic counterpoint to society's constant staring at screens. Across a collection of 13 photographic images, each tinted with his signature blue palette, Mellor both contemplates and depicts the allure of life and death unfolding. Images of the decay and growth of ecology speak to the cycles of existence, seduce the mind and the eye. As the latter is drawn into to intricate natural scenes, the former can't help thinking about what it all means.
As you may well know by now, museums aren't just for 19th century historical artefacts and giant dinosaur models anymore. They're also for food. Last year New York got a permanent Museum of Food and Drink, which joins a whole slew of weird and wonderful food museums, like Japan's instant ramen museum and the Kimchi Field Museum in Seoul. So it's surprising that, considering our total obsession with food, Australia does not have its own. But that's all set to change, with plans for a brand new institution dedicated to our food culture to be set up in Adelaide. The proposal comes from Adelaide City Council, who believe a culinary cultural centre could help both locals and international visitors learn about and experience Australia's multicultural food culture. Considering the city's proximity to world-class wineries and its own burgeoning food and bar scene, Adelaide — while nowhere near as big as Sydney or Melbourne — makes a good case for being the new centre's home. The project has the support of the State Government and other local cultural institutions, but discussions on what the centre would actually include and who would establish it are still taking place. We'll keep an eye on this one to see where it goes. Via ABC News.
2015 brought you a cornucopia of hideous yet good for you root veggies, international restaurant swaps and bargain basement lobster, among other gustatory revelations. So, what's in store for 2016? Well, the restaurant transplants are set to continue with Copenhagen's Noma popping up in Sydney later this month, and not-so aesthetically appealing foodstuffs are sticking around (see: algae). But just when you thought chefs and food technologists couldn't invent anything weirder, they come up with the goods. Then again, with the likes of Bompas and Parr setting up food museums, we shouldn't be surprised. This year is set to deliver a slew of culinary adventures, from cocktails you can inhale to niche food festivals, to more dishes featuring native Australian ingredients. Here are ten trends we've got our money on. [caption id="attachment_555266" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Attica[/caption] NATIVE AUSSIE INGREDIENTS Kylie Kwong's been caramelising wallaby tail and stir-frying native greens for a few years now, while our own Attica offers a dish of salt cured red kangaroo with bunya bunya (pictured). By and large though, Australian chefs have been slow to capitalise on Australia's indigenous produce. That might change when Copenhagen's two Michelin-starred restaurant Noma pops up in Sydney on January 26 for ten weeks. Head chef Rene Redzepi is passionate about expressing an area's unique environment through his cooking, and is sure to use our best native ingredients while he's here. Read more about the incredible potential of native foods over here. [caption id="attachment_555499" align="alignnone" width="1280"] blumblaum via Flickr[/caption] ALGAE Kale's still kicking around, but algae is closing in. In October, an upmarket Californian store put the world's first ever algae cooking oil on its shelves. With scientists warning us off other veggie oils due to their toxicity, this new product promises "goodness to your heart, the kitchen and the planet". Expect it to be added to foods and beverages to reduce fat and cholesterol and add a bit of extra protein and antioxidants. Meanwhile, a design collective has imagined a futuristic opera, in which singers grow algae with their breath during the show and give it to audiences to eat afterwards. But maybe that belongs under theatre trends. [caption id="attachment_555557" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Hunter and Barrel[/caption] PLAYING WITH FIRE Lucky we've been giving you inside info on how to throw an epic barbecue, because your tong-wielding skills are about to come in handy. When electricity arrived, we cast aside one of humankind's oldest technological developments, but, as any dedicated hiker knows, there ain't no potato like a campfire-cooked potato. So expect to see a lot more cooking with fire this year, whether it's at The Smoke or the Low & Slow BBQ Festival, which will hopefully return this year.. Just don't think you can go wandering into any of these bars with your marshmallow on a stick. [caption id="attachment_555568" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Stefano via Flickr[/caption] DNA MATCHING Not as in, would you like a chardonnay or a cup of genes with that salad, but choosing foods that best suit your DNA to avoid unpleasant symptoms and improve your health. Yep, it's a thing. It turns out your wheat intolerance mightn't be just about gluten, it might be linked to a plethora of factors, especially your DNA. Old mates Bompas and Parr are already onto this, having worked on a project that created bespoke cocktails based on your DNA last year. And Dr. Fredric Abramson, founder of Digital Nutrition, is already offering a service that helps you match your diet to your genes. So get on it. [caption id="attachment_555298" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Fir0002 via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] GETTING GOATY With bacon having some copped some bad press for its carcinogenic qualities, goat sales are on the rise. It's profitable news for Aussie farmers, who are the world's biggest exporters of goat meat. Long a staple of Bangladeshi, Nepalese, Sri Lankan, Pakistani and Indian diets, the horned creature will be making its way onto mainstream menus more and more often . In London, Aussie-born chef Brett Graham is already on the bandwagon at The Ledbury. NICHE FOOD FESTIVALS So, it happened before processed meat was added to WHO's top five most cancerous items, but Sydney hosted its biggest ever bacon party in August 2015. Across the country we had Pinot Palooza, a touring festival devoted to the mighty pinot noir, return for another year, and Juniperlooza answered Melbourne's prayers with a two-day festival showcasing the country's best gin. Food festivals have been around for thousands of years, but we reckon they're going to get more and more specific in 2016 — in fact, a festival 100 per cent dedicated to Nutella will be hitting Adelaide in April. [caption id="attachment_555572" align="alignnone" width="960"] Master's 'Roast Potato' by kseet via Instagram[/caption] SWEET AND SAVOURY DESSERTS Everyone knows what a decent dash of salt can do for a good chocolate. And the ebullient marrying of sweet and savoury flavours is likely to feature in desserts all over the planet in 2016. New Yorkers are already sampling beetroot, carrot and sweet potato yoghurts, courtesy of Blue Hill founder Dan Barber, and Sydney's Master is pushing the sweet-savoury envelope with their roast potato ice cream dessert. In Melbourne Lume is going down the same lines with their beetroot cake dessert, and Mammoth is confusing everyone's tastebuds with their sugary doughnut lobster burger. INHALABLE COCKTAILS Many of our favourite bars look to the cocktail's 'golden age' for inspiration. And with good reason — an old-fashioned or a martini is hard to beat. But the inhalable incarnation of the cocktail is bringing the drink into the 21st century. This is thanks to Bompas and Parr, who ran a pop-up bar named Alcohol Architecture in London last August. Visitors were invited to walk into a 'cocktail cloud', created with enormous humidifiers. Inspired by the duo, Brisbane Festival got on this last year, creating a breathable gin and tonic room as part of their 2015 program. We can't wait to see where this goes next. LEAVES OF ALL KINDS Your iceberg lettuce just won't cut it anymore. And neither will your cos, rocket or radicchio, for that matter. Your salads are about to get much, much fancier and more diverse. Heston Blumenthal was onto it at 2015's Fat Duck pop-up — he organised exclusive access to a source of local oyster leaves, which he combined with chicken, grilled onion emulsion and spiced celeriac sauce. [caption id="attachment_555270" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Superfood Sushi[/caption] GOING VEGAN Veganism is nothing new, but this year looks like it might be the one to firmly cement it as a full-blown cuisine. Doughnut Time now even does a vegan doughnut. Over in Sydney, Newtown's King Street added vegan superfood sushi and Bliss 'n' Chips — where soy-based protein and konjac are transmogrified into incredibly convincing deep fried seafood dishes — to its many restaurants, and and then, in news that shocked many, much-loved pizza place Gigi announced it was taking animal products out of its pizzas. All three businesses seem to be thriving, so we're banking on more vegan openings and conversions this year. Top image: Bompas and Parr
Prepare to say ciao to Italian cinema throughout September and October — and we mean hello, not farewell. Yes, the annual showcase of films from or about the European nation is back for another round. In fact, it's the Lavazza Italian Film Festival's 17th year — and if the program is anything to go by, it's going to be another good one. Not only will the 2016 fest kick off with Italian box office hit Perfect Strangers and close with the digital restoration of the Audrey Hepburn-starring classic Roman Holiday, but it also boasts a world premiere. Local audiences will be the first on the planet to see the first-ever Australian-Italian feature co-production, The Space Between. Charting the intersection of an Italian ex-chef and a spirited Aussie in the scenic Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, it has been described as "a celebration of the Italian spirit of la dolce vita". Elsewhere, the 30-film program keeps highlighting the best Italian filmmaking has to offer, such as Where Am I Going?, the highest-grossing film in Italian cinema history. Strands dedicated to relationships and leading ladies serve up plenty of both, including straight-from Cannes prison drama Fiore and straight-from-Venice romance The Worldly Girl (and yes, we mean straight from this year's Venice Film Festival in September). Plus, with coming-of-age tale Arianna, Gran Turismo racing thriller Italian Race and gritty character study Napoli Junglealso on the bill, IFF does what all good fests should by offering something for everyone. Don't say you don't have something to watch for the next couple of months as the festival tours the country.
Master sommelier Madeline Triffon describes Pinot Noir as 'sex in a glass', while winemaker Randy Ullom calls it 'the ultimate nirvana'. One of the most challenging grapes in the world of vinification, it's also one of the most surprising and rewarding. No wonder Bottle Shop Concepts — the good folk who bring Game of Rhones our way — are coming back to town with Pinot Palooza, an epic travelling wine festival celebrating all things Pinot Noir. For just one day, wine connoisseurs in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane will have the chance to sample more than 150 drops, direct from the Southern Hemisphere’s best producers. Think Ata Rangi, Yabby Lake, Bay of Fires, Rippon, Kooyong, Mount Difficulty — and that’s just the first few leaves on the vine. Whether you’re a newbie who wants to start with something light and inviting, or a Pinot pro ready for the biggest, most complex mouthful on the menu, there’ll be an abundance of selections at either end — and plenty along the spectrum, too. You’ll even be able to vote for your favourite and go in the draw to win some wine-driven prizes. If, at any point, you need to take a pause in your tasting adventures, you’ll be catered for. There’ll be cosy places to sit and mull over your chosen Pinot, loads of food and the epic Burgundy Bar – a kind of Pinot Noir mecca where you’ll be able to sample bottles worth $150+ at affordable, by-the-glass prices. Expert sommeliers will also be on hand to help you make selections. What's more, those keen to fuel their brains (and not only their tastebuds), can indulge in a 'Back Stage Pass'. It's a chance to partake in a master class with some of Australia's smartest wine educators and learn all about what's happening in Burgundy, France — Pinot Noir’s spiritual home. Pinot Palooza will hit Brisbane on Sunday, October 11 at Light Space. Tickets are $60, which includes tastings and a take-home Riedel 'Heart to Heart' Pinot Noir glass.
Every year, on the last Saturday in March, Earth Hour focuses the world's attention on the planet via a vitally important symbolic gesture. Although carbon is saved by turning things off, the point is the unmissable demonstration — with a huge chunk of the world's population caring about the same thing at the same time. If we can manage this for Earth Hour, why not for grander environmental things? It all started in Sydney in 2007, and has become an international event in the years since, with hundreds of millions of people taking part in more than 7000 cities across over 180 countries. Of course, in 2020, things will be a bit different, with no out-of-home activities taking place — but Earth Hour is still asking everyone to join in by staying in the house and turning off the lights at 8.30pm AEDT on Saturday, March 28 (7.30pm AEST). While you're sitting in the dark, you can also live-stream a heap of performers thanks to Earth Hour Live, with Montaigne, Cody Simpson, Jack River, Polish Club, Bobby Alu, Ella Haber, Dulcie and Alice Skye all on the bill — and journalist Patrick Abboud on hosting duties. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89ZegTD4buQ&feature=emb_logo And, although you won't be able to see them yourself, local and global landmarks and tourist spots such as the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Luna Park, the Wheel of Brisbane, Melbourne Star Observation Wheel, the Eiffel Tower, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Tokyo Skytree, Brandenburg Gate, the Colosseum in Rome, Taipei 101, the Petronas Twin Towers, the Ali Qapu Palace, the Akropolis and Victoria Harbour in Hong Kong are all getting into the Earth Hour spirit by switching their lights off for an hour, too. Images: Earth Hour 2019. Sydney. Luna Park, The Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House, photographed from Lavender Street, Lavender Bay. Photography by Quentin Jones. 30 March 2019. © Quentin Jones / WWF-Aus The Melbourne Star turns out its lights for Earth Hour 2018. © Alain Nguyen / WWF-Aus Story Bridge, Brisbane with lights switched off to celebrate 10 years of Earth Hour, Brisbane, 25 March 2017. © Anastasia Woolmington / WWF-Aus.
One week, you can pretend you're in France without leaving Brisbane, just by eating French food, drinking French brews and celebrating Bastille Day. The next week, you can do all of the above with Belgium thanks to Belgian National Day. Your destination for the latter: Saccharomyces Beer Café, which is spending Monday, July 15–Sunday, July 21 looking abroad. The South Brisbane venue is also calling its celebrations Belgian Beer Week, and pouring Belgian brews every single day. That's what you'll find pumping through its taps, with more than 40 different varieties on offer. And, there's a lineup of bottled Belgian beers as well, including limited-edition drops. Think you can pick different Belgian beers? Blind tastings will be on the agenda from Tuesday, July 16–Thursday, July 18. Fancy watching a documentary about Belgian beers while sipping them? That's also on the menu to kick things off. Old beer and old cheese, which makes quite the pairing, gets its time to shine on Tuesday, July 16. On Wednesday, July 17, Belgian-inspired Australian beers are in the spotlight. And on Thursday, July 18, it's time for Belgian Christmas in July. Over the weekend of Friday, July 19–Saturday, July 20, you'll be celebrating Belgian beer in general — and, over the entire week, the bar's kitchen will be doing Belgian specials. Then, come Sunday, July 21, it's time to get into the National Belgium Day spirit on the date itself, and sip and eat whatever's left — or kliekje, which is Flemish for leftovers. [caption id="attachment_669543" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cole Bennetts[/caption]
Food is usually the gift you give when you can't think of anything else. Come on, it's true. However, anyone getting their dad Gelato Messina's latest special Father's Day creation can't be accused of that. Given that the gelato wizards are pumping out VHS tape-shaped, Negroni-flavoured gelato cakes, wanting to eat it before Dad can is understandable. Their limited-edition offering, which is completely made out of gelato and chocolate, and is entirely edible. Well, the choc-orange flavoured cake layered with vermouth gelato (!), almond crunch, more choc-orange cake and Negroni gel (made with Archie Rose gin and blood orange mousse) is — and the edible VHS chocolate top layer as well. Best not to take a bite out of the box it comes in, though. Kids of the '80s and '90s, if you're having flashbacks about accidentally sticking food into your parents' video player when you were too young to know better, you're not alone (you're not alone). And yes, that's a good enough reason to get a cake. These memory-jogging sweet treats serve six to eight people, and will be available from Messina's Bondi, Darlinghurst, Miranda, Parramatta, Rosebery and Penrith stores in Sydney, Fitzroy and Windsor digs in Melbourne, and South Brisbane. As is always the case with their creative concoctions, they're certain to get snapped up fast, so ordering one asap is recommended. You'll have to wait until September 3 to eat it, so enjoy this GIF of the cake:
As much as we all might want to, not everyone can make it down south for the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. No, we're not happy about it — but it's time to turn that frown upside down, because you can go to the next best thing. Yes, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow is back for another year of touring hilarity. Bringing the best of the fest to the Brisbane Powerhouse, its showcase of highlights and hijinks is almost like being there. This year's line-up of local and international acts is certain to tickle your funny bone, including Barry Award-winning sketch stars the Pajama Men. They're joined by prolific performer Rachel Berger, Perth export Xavier Michelides, comedian and hip-hop didgeridoo player Sean Choolburra, and TV's own Bob Franklin. Catch all five funny acts live on stage during one chuckle-heavy set, trading their best jokes for your loudest laughs.
Jimeoin was one of the first comedians I knew of when I was younger - his effortless humour and funny accent made me laugh even as a little tyke. Not much has changed since then. The Irish comedian who us Australians have somewhat adopted over the last couple of decades is back in Brisbane with a crazy ten-show residency at The Powerhouse, delivering his trademark wit and craic. Not to mention the man's cheeky smile, which has also earned him brownie points with da ladeez. Something... Smells Funny is a show that consists entirely of Jimeoin's superb skill – talkin' shit. He talks about everyday life, observations and, for the first time, incorporates a guitar. Jimeoin has impeccable timing and breakneck delivery so there's no doubt that audiences will be lining up to get into these shows - and hey, let's be honest, there's a day that'll suit anyone's schedule. If pissing yourself laughing and having stomach cramps sounds like the cherry on the top of a great year like it does to me, then you pretty much need to see Jimeoin as he flaunts his quirky stand-up style for ten nights only.
Move over G20: there’s a bigger event about to hit Brisbane, and we’re fairly sure Obama wants in. SpringFlare happens this Sunday, and it’s going to turn the human contents of Brisbane Riverstage into a crowd of Teletubby hybrids. If you haven’t been to a colour festival before, the premise is pretty simple — wear your daggiest white clothes (ones you'd throw out in a heartbeat), hit the event with some friends and throw coloured powder (all natural and safe) at everyone within range. SpringFlare provides as much colour as you can carry, plus performances, food and music for every age group. From 11am to 2pm you can get colourful to multicultural performances and activities, all with some tasty food in your hand, and from 2pm you can catch on stage Queensland musicians Dubmarine, bobby Alu, Willow Beats, Michelle Xen, The Neon Wild, The Belligerents and Sarah Howells SpringFlare is a key event of the G20 Cultural Celebrations, so you might be pegging colour at your mate one minute then Putin the next. We won’t say who deserved it more.
Two of the Barracks' most beloved favourites, Cabiria and Peasant, have just experienced a menu renovation by new executive chef Jonathan Bryant. Never fear, as Jonathon has worked in some of Brisbane's best dining establishments including Anise, Cha Cha Char, The Dining Room, and Montrachet, so this will be no renovation nightmare. Concrete Playground caught up with him to get the scoop on the updates: What changes can we expect to see on the menus at Cabiria and Peasant? The Cabiria menu has been substantially updated with this new menu release. The French inspiration has stayed the same but every dish on the menu has changed. People who ate at Anise when I worked there will be pleased to see some old favourites on the new menu. The Peasant menu will also be updated in the next few weeks. It won't be a complete overhaul but there will definitely be some interesting new items to enjoy. Each restaurant has its own feel. How would you describe them? Cabiria is a European-inspired restaurant with a strong focus on delicious-tasting food and alcohol to match. Peasant has more of a boisterous atmosphere with a strong focus on Spanish and South American flavours from the kitchen to the wine list. As we like to say at Peasant, tapas is not just a style of food but a way of eating. What is the best occasion for each restaurant? Cabiria is an anytime restaurant — coffee stop, dinner date, or lunch destination. It's the type of place you can stop in for half an hour but stay for four hours. Peasant is great for groups to celebrate any occasion or for one of Brisbane's best Sunday Sessions with paella in the garden. Can you recommend your favourite wines on the menu? There's no such thing as a favourite when it comes to wine — but in saying that I am a riesling lover. What is your food philosophy? Using good produce, simply. What is your favourite meal of the day? I am always up for lunch but I am particularly partial to it running much longer into the evening, which usually leads to dinner. Where do you get your menu inspiration from? Comes from everything I eat!
When it comes to raising money to support Australians affected by the bushfires — folks who've lost their homes, firefighters battling the blazes, other volunteers helping out, animals caught in the crisis and more — Brisbane has been going all out. Add another benefit event to your must-attend list, with The Triffid putting on a huge gig to rustle up more donations. The Newstead venue has also enlisted some impressive talent to assist. Taking to the stage at From Brissy, With Love are The Grates, Thelma Plum, Alex the Astronaut, Kira Piru and Tia Gostelow, with comedian Mel Buttle on MC duties. It all takes place from 5pm on Sunday, January 19, with tickets costing $44.90 — and 100-percent of the profits will be donated to Fire Relief For First Nations Communities, the New South Wales Rural Fire Service, the Victorian Rural Fire Service RFS and WIRES Wildlife Rescue. Can't make it? You can also donate via the gig by buying a 'cannot attend event donation ticket'. Raffles on the day will raise more money — and giveaway prizes. And if you're keen on getting started early, there'll be free tunes in The Triffid's beer garden from 2pm courtesy of Mojo Webb. Top image: The Grates by Stephen Booth, via High Rotation.
If Jerry Seinfeld were to weigh in on Brisbane's current food obsessions, he'd likely ask: "what's the deal with all the burgers and doughnuts?" It’s a good question, given that every week seems to bring a new creation of one or the other — or a fresh mashup of the two. This week, Bella BBQ and The Doughnut Bar have joined the fold. Brisbanites with a healthy appetite should know the former as one of the city's best meaty food trucks, and the latter as the dough-focused spinoff of the Chocolate Komberry Co. They've teamed up to unleash their very own cronut burger, complete with low-and-slow smoked brisket, cheesy maple bacon-infused mac and cheese and maple hickory barbecue sauce (which is injectable, should you want more), all sprinkled with bacon dust. If you can calm your stomach for the moment, we'll keep telling you the good news: this wondrous creation is going to make its debut at the Brisbane Bandits Baseball game at Holloway Field on January 21. If sports isn't your thing, you’ll also be able to grab one from Bella BBQ as it traverses the town. We predict a whole lot of checking — that is, stalking — Bella BBQ's Facebook page in your future. In the spirit of true collaboration, that's not the end of the story. In the coming weeks, The Doughnut Bar will be serving them too. Yep, this cronut burger won't just be available at once place — because if there's one thing Brisbane needs, its more burger-doughnut hybrids available more often. Actually, that's exactly what seems to be happening of late. Ze Pickle and Doughnut Time unleashed their 'Doughnutfukwitdis' earlier this month, with the latter also releasing an Elvis Burger with Chur Burger last year. Add Doughnut Time's vegan offering to the list, and the city really has reached the peak of all things experimental (and downright ridiculous) when it comes to our two favourite foods. Not that we're complaining — instead, we're eagerly awaiting what might possibly come next. The Bella BBQ/Doughnut Bar cronut burger will be available from Thursday, January 21. For more information, keep an eye on Bella BBQ's Facebook page — and The Doughnut Bar's, too.
Gelato Messina first introduced its cookie pies to the world in 2020, and tastebuds across Australia thanked them. Then, it kept bringing the OTT dessert back when we all needed an extra dose of sweetness across the year. Now, it's releasing a new version of its OG chocolate chip flavour, but with an extra addition. This time around, you'll taste chocolate, of course; however, you'll also enjoy swirls of dulce de leche. Hang on, a cookie pie? Yes, it's a pie, but a pie made of cookie dough. And it serves two–six people — or just you. You bake it yourself, too, so you get to enjoy that oh-so-amazing smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen. The new pies will be available for preorder from 10am on Monday, March 8 — so if you missed out last time, here's your chance to get yourself a piece of the pie. On its own, the indulgent dulce choc chip pie will cost $20. But to sweeten the deal, the cult ice creamery has created a few bundle options, should you want some of its famed gelato atop it. For $30, you'll get the pie and a 500-millilitre tub, while with a one-litre tub or a 1.5-litre tub, it'll cost $36 and $40 respectively. The catch? You'll have to peel yourself off the couch and head to your local Messina store to pick up your order. They'll be available for collection between Friday, March 12–Sunday, March 14. You can preorder a Messina dulce choc chip cookie pie pie from Monday, March 8, to pick up from March 12–14.
The most talked-about band Sydney's seen in recent times since The Jezabels, The Preatures have unveiled their latest single 'Two-Tone Melody' and have announced their highly-anticipated upcoming debut album (with accompanying national tour). Sounding more like Jefferson Airplane than their usual Fleetwood Mac association, the new single is a chilled out ballad of sorts — a departure from the band's explosive debut single, 'Is This How You Feel?'. With just two EPs and four singles under their belt, The Preatures have seen huge applause (and national airplay) from a fairly limited catalogue until now. The Preatures have been hanging out in the US of late, playing SxSW and Coachella and recording with the dudes from Spoon in Austin — in particular Britt Daniel and Jim Eno. The fivesome told triple j's Doctor they recorded in Eno's garage-conversion studio, finishing the album taping in three weeks. Signing to Mercury Records in 2012 with a whopping five album deal, the Sydney fivesome's success snowballed in 2013 after the release of their second EP and ultra-catchy single 'Is This How You Feel?', prompting international touring and national high-fivery. The easily replayable single nabbed an ARIA nomination for Best Pop Release, number nine in the triple j Hottest 100 and just today nabbed a top five nomination for APRA|AMCOS Song of The Year. https://youtube.com/watch?v=M8XmoroZ3zo But it's not just fans interested in The Preatures — when the quintet played at New York's 2013 CMJ showcase, almost the entire audience was made up of industry representatives. Often compared to Fleetwood Mac and the Bee Gees, The Preatures' Isabella Manfredi, Gideon Bensen, Jack Moffitt, Thomas Champion and Luke Davison have garnered a significantly loyal fanbase in just a few short years. The Preatures will tour the US and Canada during June, make their way over to festivals in Europe and the UK before venturing back home for an Australian tour, stopping by Splendour In The Grass this July alongside fellow Sydneysiders RÜFÜS, The Jezabels and Sticky Fingers. The Preatures will be supported on their Australian tour by Adelaide's Bad//Dreems and Perth's Gunns. THE PREATURES AUSTRALIAN TOUR DATES: Sat 12 July — Corner Hotel, Melbourne Sat 19 July — Metro Theatre, Sydney Fri 25, Sat 26 and Sun 27 July — Splendour in the Grass, North Byron Parklands Fri 1 August — Fowlers Adelaide Sat 2 August — The Bakery, Perth Tickets available from The Preatures website.
The Australian film world has a striking new talent. Scooping up a best director gong at the Sundance Film Festival in January and winning the prestigious Crystal Bear in Berlin the following month, Adelaide's Sophie Hyde has with her debut feature, 52 Tuesdays, produced a powerful and progressive piece of cinema that defies formal, social and narrative expectations. With memorable characters and exceptional performances helping to shore up an intriguing structural gimmick, it's a bold and original coming-of-age drama that discerning local audiences should hurry to the cinema to see. Newcomer Tilda Cobham-Hervey plays Billie, a 16-year-old high-school girl struggling to find her footing after her lesbian mother Jane (Del Herbert-Jane) announces her intention to become a man. The transition, which involves a regimen of testosterone along with surgery, will take a year, during which time Jane — now going by James — requests that Billie go and live with her father (Beau Travis Williams). Billie agrees, on the condition that she can still visit every Tuesday after school. If nothing else, 52 Tuesdays is noteworthy for its approach. Fully committed to her year-in-the-life premise, Hyde shot the film in chronological order, one scene every Tuesday, over the course of an entire year. The result, captured on consciously uncinematic digital video, has a particular kind of lived-in realism; the actors were given a new piece of the script every week, allowing for performances that feel both spontaneous and authentic. Through a long and sometimes arduous process, Hyde and her writing partner, Matthew Cormack, handle James' transition frankly and without judgement. Herbert-Jane, an actor who identifies as gender non-conforming, is excellent in the role, conveying each and every moment of excitement, frustration and doubt. Interviews with other trans individuals, captured by James on a trip to San Francisco, further contextualise his experience for his daughter, who in turn serves as a kind of surrogate for the audience. The year sees big changes for Billie as well, particularly as her friendship with a pair of students in the year above her (Sam Althuizen and Imogen Archer) evolves into sexual experimentation. A soulful screen presence, there's little doubt that Cobham-Harvey, like Hyde, has a big future ahead of her. As Billie, she gets us on side with a potentially unlikeable character, whose own adolescent drama seems to dwarf everything happening around her. Honest, insightful and bravely against the grain, 52 Tuesdays is a magnificent debut for cast and filmmaker alike. Expect big things going forward. https://youtube.com/watch?v=Y5WcMzEYRGU
Trivia nights mean gathering your mates, enjoying a few beverages and trying to convert your respective stores of knowledge into glory. At this particular trivia night, you'll do all that, but there'll be a particular emphasis on your pals. Given that the topic of the evening is a certain sitcom about a band of best buddies, celebrating your chums is the thing to do. Yes, Friends is in the spotlight at Ivory Tusk's next battle of pop culture tidbits, which takes place on Thursday, July 23. If you think you know everything there is to know about the show that caused viewers to agonise over whether Ross and Rachel would get together, wish that Joey and Chandler lived next door and get their hair cut like Jennifer Aniston, here's your chance to prove it. Prizes are on offer — and if you want to break out those 90s and early 00s fashions, no one will stop you. Remember, though, it has been more than 15 years since Friends was on TV, making the contest not just a test of trivia, but a workout for everyone's memories. No one told you that watching endless television reruns could turn out this way. Friends Trivia takes place from 7pm on Thursday, July 23. Attendance is free, but registration is required in advance.
What's the deal with trivia nights based on pop culture commodities? They're great, that's what — and, even with everyone staying home during the COVID-19 pandemic, they're clearly a hit. Accordingly, Isolation Trivia is busting out another virtual session, and this time it's Seinfeld's turn in the quizmaster's spotlight. The show about nothing has inspired an evening about everything that made its nine-season, 180-episode run so great. The fun unravels online from 6.25 on Saturday, May 9. Playing along is free (just as George Costanza would like it), so all you need to do is head to the event Facebook page at the appropriate time. Lock in some mates who think they know every conceivable detail about the hit 90s sitcom — and about Jerry, George, Kramer and Elaine — and you can all play along from your own homes. The quizmaster will put your affection to the test, potentially covering everything from soup to sponges, puffy shirts to Pez dispensers, and even the parade of famous faces that played Jerry's girlfriends. Yada, yada, yada — you get the picture. Best check your drinks supply first, in case those pretzels make you thirsty.
A film about abstaining from alcohol probably shouldn't make its audience want a drink, but that's exactly what Ruben Guthrie does. On one hand, perhaps the desire to knock back the hard stuff after watching the film speaks to its intended commentary about Australia's booze-friendly culture. On the other, maybe it's just the natural reaction to a movie that is both slickly packaged and self-pitying. Either way, Ruben Guthrie doesn't let the topic of drinking wander far from anyone's minds, whether its titular advertising wunderkind (Patrick Brammall) is guzzling champagne then jumping off the roof of his waterside mansion — and breaking his arm when he almost misses the pool below — or talking about past benders at the Alcoholics Anonymous meeting his mother (Robyn Nevin) swiftly drags him to. Often, he's just arguing about his consumption, first with his disapproving model fiancée Zoya (Abbey Lee), who gives him an ultimatum to stop, and then with his enabling father (Jack Thompson), boss (Jeremy Sims) and best mate (Alex Dimitriades), who can't accept his hiatus from partying. Transitioning from yelling "let's get smashed!" to looking longingly at half-filled bottles, it's the kind of scenario that feels like art imitating life — or a movie adapting a theatre production that was inspired by real experiences more accurately, because that's what it is. Brendan Cowell turned his own attempt to get sober after a big binge into a play, and now fashions it into his first big-screen full-length directorial effort. As a character, Guthrie's aim — and Cowell's before him — is to get through a year without beer, wine, spirits and other tipples. That's clearly a difficult feat for the ad man in the film, made more so by the brash manner in which both the situation and everyone involved in it is depicted. Guthrie feels sorry for himself and seeks redemption, but his behaviour warrants little understanding in return. He lives large, then mopes and yells, with Brammall doing his best to simultaneously channel Cowell and bring nuance to the role. The supporting players, meanwhile, become little more than one-note reminders of Guthrie's conflicting urges. Of course, the constant Aussie fondness for a pint, glass or shot that Ruben Guthrie highlights proves an interesting subject; here, it's just treated a little too superficially, and further suffers when the movie tries to conjure up too much sympathy. Stagey dialogue and travelogue-like shots of Sydney don't add any depth, nor do routine scenes of debauchery contrasted with outdoor activities. Also missing is comedy that does anything more than try to wring laughs out of stating the obvious — as well as the more satirical tone of the play, which might've made the feature and its protagonist feel like a statement. Instead, this cinema cocktail is shaken in its ingredients and, in its final blend of hedonistic excess, garnished with sober navel-gazing. You'll need a stiff drink will wash away the aftertaste.
If you ever managed to wrangle a trip to Disneyland back when international travel was a thing, chances are you're well acquainted with Dole Whip. The pineapple-flavoured dairy-free soft serve has long been a staple treat for visitors to the famed theme parks, with the dessert becoming as much a symbol of Disneyland as Mickey Mouse's ears and that wild Space Mountain ride. But, this August, you won't need a plane ticket or a Disneyland pass to get your mitts on one of these classic creations — because Dole Whip is headed to the Redcliffe Markets. The much-loved soft serve is making its first-ever Brisbane appearance, too, thanks to Aloha Twist. The latter is slinging the sweet treat officially from Sunday, August 29 — but if you happened to venture north for a spot of browsing and buying over the past weekend, you might've spotted its blue van onsite on Sunday, August 22. Pineapple is the OG and best-known Dole Whip flavour, first launched by the Dole Food company back in Hawaii in the 80s. And, it's the main variety that Aloha Twist is focusing on. That said, you'll also be able to tuck into mango, raspberry, strawberry, watermelon, cherry, orange, lemon and lime flavours, too, with the pineapple version always on offer and the rest of the range on rotation. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aloha Twist (@alohatwist) Head along to the official launch and you might also nab a voucher for a free Dole Whip, if you need any extra motivation to give it a try. And, if it all sounds a bit familiar, that's because Dole Whip food trucks hit up the Sydney Royal Easter Show earlier in the year and proved rather popular; however, this is Brisbane's first taste of the beloved dessert. Find Aloha Twist at the Redcliffe Markets, Redcliffe Parade, Redcliffe, from Sunday, August 29.
Country music's ballsy blonde is now reading kid's books online and, in this time of uncertainty, it's pretty heartwarming. Through her charity Imagination Library, Dolly Parton is hosting a weekly bedtime story series: Goodnight with Dolly. So, if you've ever wanted Dolly to lull you to sleep, this is for you. Imagination Library is a book-gifting program for young children that runs in the US, Australia, the UK, Republic of Ireland and Canada. As of February this year, the charity has donated over 133 million books since its inception in 1990. Now, Goodnight with Dolly will see the 'Jolene' and '9 to 5' singer read books from the Imagination Library. Sure, it may be aimed at kids, but we're all in a bit of bedtime comfort right now. The ten-week series will feature books such as Watty Piper's classic The Little Engine that Could, Anna Dewdney's Llama Llama Red Pajama, Floyd Cooper's Max & The Tag-Along Moon and even Dolly's own titles Coat of Many Colors and I Am a Rainbow. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ia-ozHDaLs&feature=youtu.be Goodnight with Dolly premieres at 10am AEDT (12pm NZDT) on Friday, April 3 and will take place at 10am AEST (12pm NZST) every week after for ten weeks. You can watch via YouTube, Instagram and Facebook.
You spent 17 hours watching one of Australia's most famous trains as it travelled across the country, all as part of the slow TV trend. Now, you can splash out and spend seven-to-nine days leisurely riding the rails through the outback yourself. And while you're lapping up the scenery at a very relaxed pace, you'll be doing so on another historic vehicle — one of the nation's oldest passenger locomotives. The Spirit of Progress first went into operation back in 1937, travelling from Melbourne to Albury. Then, from 1962–1986, it made nightly journeys between Melbourne and Sydney. But it has been largely out of action since, other than commemorative trips to mark its 50th, 60th and 70th anniversaries. This year, however, it's powering up its engines again — first retracing its familiar Melbourne–Sydney leg overnight at the end of March; then heading from Melbourne to Sydney, on to Broken Hill, then back to Sydney, all in early- to mid-July. Tickets for the first one-night trip have all been snapped up, but you can still hop onboard the second, lengthier journey, which has been dubbed the Far West Express. Feeling like treating yo'self and seeing the countryside? If so, you'll travel 4100 kilometres if you depart from Melbourne, and 2300 kilometres if you jump on in Sydney. Run by tour operator Cruise Express, the trip includes an overnight stop in Orange on the way there and two nights in the same spot on the way back. In Broken Hill, you'll hang around for three nights — touring sights that include filming locations for both Mad Max 2 and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. Passengers won't just be riding on a famed 83-year-old train, either, or simply exploring the country at a slow pace — they'll be part of the Spirit of Progress' longest-ever trip. That said, this isn't a cheap venture. Prices start at $5890 per person twin-share and $6490 for solo travellers out of Sydney, and cost $6390 per person twin-share and $7190 for solo travellers out of Melbourne. The Spirit of Progress' Far West Express trip departs Melbourne on Wednesday, July 8 and Sydney on Thursday, July 9 — visit the tour operator's website for bookings and further details.
When a hole-in-the-wall eatery expands to bigger and better digs, you know they're doing something right. Of course, Rogue Spice Canteen does plenty of things right — just ask anyone who has ever tasted their street food menu. After all, there's a reason that Fortitude Valley residents have been flocking to their tiny Brunswick Street store in droves since late 2014, as anyone who's had to choose between their 12-hour pork belly and their signature char-grilled Angus coconut beef ribs surely knows. When the rest of the city discovered Rogue's mouthwatering cuisine at last year's Night Noodle Markets, owner-chef Shannon Oey's 20-seater space couldn't handle the demand — so he set about opening a second store across the road. Taking over the area in the Judith Wright Centre of Contemporary Arts formerly occupied by Glass Bar, the new restaurant is the original location's more sophisticated sibling. The décor is a bit shinier, complete with a roomy dining area that can cater for 70 patrons; however, the same great dishes remain the main point of focus. And whether you're after a solo meal or one to share — like the twice-cooked red duck curry and lemongrass-poached chicken salad — Rogue is committed to remaining affordable. Once their liquor license comes through, Asian-inspired cocktails will also be on offer, though that's about as far as any changes extend. And don't go removing their previous address from your Google Maps favourites just yet, because the initial shop is still up and running for takeaway orders and deliveries. Find Rogue Spice Canteen and Bar at the Judith Wright Centre of Contemporary Arts, 420 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley. The original Rogue Spice Canteen still operates across the road as a takeaway and delivery-only location. For more information, check out their Facebook page.
The road back to music festivals in a post-COVID world has been long and bumpy. Many festivals attempted to be among the first to return, announcing dates and lineups before being forced to postpone. One event that has managed to succeed despite changing restrictions on mass gatherings over the past few months: the new Summer Sounds Festival. Back in November 2020, it was revealed that Splendour in the Grass organisers Secret Sounds — with the help of the Australian government — were working on a new music festival. An announcement for the Adelaide edition of Summer Sounds Festival followed shortly, with the SA leg of the fest taking place across January with a lineup full of local Australian talent, including Ball Park Music, Bernard Fanning, Mallrat and Ruel. A season in Melbourne at the end of February and the beginning of March followed, too — and, come April and May, it'll be Brisbane's turn. Because summer is now over for the year, the Brissie leg of the fest has been dubbed Summer(ish) Sounds. Well, the weather is usually still warm and pleasant in autumn, so it fits. Taking place over four nights, the Brissie lineup features Violent Soho, The Avalanches and Ball Park Music. They'll be joined by King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, Tropical Fuck Storm, The Murlocs, Tired Lion and Seathru. More acts are set to be announced, too, with the lineup of gigs running from Friday, April 23–Monday, May 3. In order to comply with COVID-19 protocols, ticketing will be split into sections, with limited spots available in each area. This means you're saved the pain of rubbing up against too many sweaty strangers in the crowd, plus you'll be able to have a dance with your closest friends. Plus, at the front of the site — right by the stage — there'll be a reserved seating area if you have some cash to splash (and want to sit down). [caption id="attachment_675360" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Violent Soho by James Simpson[/caption] SUMMER SOUNDS FESTIVAL, BRISBANE Friday, April 23 — King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, Tropical Fuck Storm and The Murlocks Friday, April 30 — The Avalanches and special guests Saturday, May 1 — Violent Soho, Tired Lion and Seathru Monday, May 3 — Ball Park Music and special guests Summer(ish) Sounds Festival Brisbane will take place at the Brisbane Riverstage from Friday, April 23–Monday, May 3 Registration for the pre-sale is now open, with pre-sale tickets available from 10am AEST on Wednesday, March 24 — and general ticket sales opening at 10am AEST on Thursday, March 25. Top image: Summer Sounds Festival Adelaide by Morgan Sette
Partying, dancing and celebrating all things LGBTQI doesn’t just happen in Sydney. Sure, Brisbane might not have Mardi Gras, but for 15 years, it has played host to the Big Gay Day. Yes, 2015 commemorates a decade and a half of annual summer street parties at The Wickham — and it has the lineup to prove it. Sneaky Sound System returns to headline the event, but as always, there’s more acts on hand to get Brunswick Street pumping. Paul Mac, Bimbo Jones and Crazibiza DJs will be joining in the fun, plus Sarah McLeod, Reigan Derry, Pam Ann, Kira Pura and Shaun J. Wright. We could keep going, but we’re sure you’ve realised by now that this isn’t just any Big Gay Day — it’s going to be the biggest Big Gay Day ever. Indeed, the Big Gay Day Facebook page warns that tickets are selling fast and may not be available at the door, with buying in advance recommended to guarantee entry. Those after the VIP experience can also pay extra to venture to the dance bar upstairs, as hosted by Courtney Act, and with its own party-within-a-party.
Finding something great to eat in South Bank's new Southpoint building isn't difficult, but choosing what to munch on increasingly is. First, Neil Perry's Burger Project set up shop. Then, Vietnamese canteen Mrs Luu's did as well. It's not yet open, but Japanese seafood restaurant Ariake on Grey is the next to follow suit. Opening in mid April, the 60-seat eatery will focus on combining the ocean's finest bounties with Japan's best offerings like sushi, sashimi and yakitori. Owners John Hojae Jung and Anthony Kim will also sell trawler-fresh seafood for those wanting to cook up a fishy storm at home, while providing an izakaya-style dining and drinking experience in-house. Those eating on the premises can expect nigiri and sashimi with tuna, salmon, kingfish, snapper, scampi, eel, squid, octopus, salmon roe and prawn (available in packs, or on platters to share) — but that's just part of menu. Starters include ponzu jelly oysters, snapper chips, salmon and tuna tacos, and sake, mussels and Japanese-style vongole (that is, spaghetti with clams). When it comes to bigger dishes, the robata will be sizzling up kingfish teriyaki, the assorted tempura boasts seafood and vegetables, Spanish mackerel tataki sounds like a highlight, and nine types of rolls span everything from soft-shell crab to tempura prawns. Lunch sets will also be on offer for both dining in and taking away. Drinks-wise, the beverage list will feature taps pouring Asahi and Kirin, as well as a selection of sake. Find Ariake on Grey at Southpoint, 271 Grey Street, South Brisbane. Head to their Facebook page for further details. Via The Courier-Mail.
This article is sponsored by our partners, Rekorderlig. Christmas in July first took hold in Australia back in 1980. An otherwise cheery group of Irish travellers hanging about in the Blue Mountains got teary when they saw snowflakes falling outside their window and, instead of moaning about it, decided to throw themselves a Christmas dinner six months early. Ever since, Australians, especially in mountainous regions, have turned July into an excuse to indulge in Yulefest feasts, knock back an eggnog or three and generally get festive. If there's one place where the celebration takes on an especially Northern Hemispher-ean flavour, it's Thredbo. Between July 20 and 26, the resort will be transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with overloaded Christmas trees, glittering tinsel, fairy lights, baubles, toasty log fires and gallons of mulled warm Winter cider from Rekorderlig. Various eateries will be hosting epic, multi-course feasts, serving up all the European goodies that our ridiculously hot December Christmases often make unpalatable. Think stuffed turkey, ham, cranberry sauce, mince pies, plum pudding and mulled wine. Plus, there'll be a steady stream of live entertainment and, of course, a visit or several from Santa Claus, who, according to rumour, has been waxing his skis in preparation.
Fancy chowing down on some of Brisbane's best Italian and Chinese cuisine, but not so keen on making the trek to the western suburbs? Come February, anyone with a hankering for Pizzeria Violetta or Sichuan Bang Bang need only venture as far as Paddington. That's right: the two Kenmore favourites are expanding. The extra venues will mean that traditional-style pizzas and flavoursome Sichuan cooking will only be a stone's throw away from the inner city. It also means that twice as many people can enjoy the likes of Violetta's tasty calzones and Bang Bang's feast of local dishes at any given moment. The news caps off a big year for the sibling restaurants, particularly considering that Pizzeria Violetta only opened back in March. It quickly became one of the city's must-eat Italian spots, and expanded its operations in October. If you've dropped by during the day, then you've probably seen the results. When the sun is shining, Violetta becomes morning coffee shop Benzina. Benzina will also pop up at the new Given Terrace digs, gracing the deck that joins the two eateries. That makes three great places to eat in one convenient inner-west location. Yep, everyone's a winner. Find Pizzeria Violetta, Benzina and Sichuan Bang Bang at 8-10 Wongabel Street, Kenmore — and at 167 Given Terrace, Paddington from February 2016.
Burger-loving Brisbanites no longer need feel pangs of hunger and envy whenever Huxtaburger comes up in conversation. Well, for one day, that is. Melbourne's American-style hamburger haven is venturing up north, but it's for a limited time only. Huxtaburger head honcho Daniel Wilson will actually be in town to share his culinary style as part of the annual James St Food & Wine Trail, but he couldn't leave without sharing his famed meat-and-bread combination as well. At 12.30pm on Saturday August 1, he'll be signing copies of his new cookbook — aptly called The Huxtaburger Book, of course — at Scrumptious Reads, with the first twenty patrons receiving a free, freshly-made burger. Arriving early is advised, obviously, but if you do miss out, don't despair. Remember, you can also glean his burger secrets in printed form, and then go home and try to make your own. Those interested in Wilson's other Food Trail stopover will want to head to the Huxtable dinner at Harveys Bar and Bistro on July 31 for an evening of sit-down deliciousness. Thanks to the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, Wilson will be collaborating with Harveys' chef PJ McMillan to serve up a five-course-menu that showcases Victorian's finest produce and plonk. It's a bit fancier than a burger, and a bit more expensive at $140, but sounds just as likely to make your mouth water. The James St Food & Wine Trail runs from July 31 to August 2. For more information, check out their website or Facebook page.
Festivals have evolved. Nowadays, they're almost unrecognisable from the pits of despair we experienced in our teens — and there's a festival to suit almost everyone. If your bag is being terrified until you poop your pants, Horror Movie Campout is the festival for you. Basically, it's the Meredith of monstrosity, the Splendour of spookiness… and it's happening again at Sirromet Wines on May 20. So what goes on at a horror festival? Well, it's full of horrifying spectres and hair-raising scenes of horror (aka, your blood will literally curdle). We've had some clues from last few years: yep, survivors camped out overnight in the woods (first mistake right there, seriously). They reported roaming zombies, all the classic pop-culture murderers you can shake your pathetic choice of weapon at and of course, menacing clowns. Not only do the organisers hire actors to scare the bejesus out of you, but everyone comes to event dressed in costume. So get down to your local stuff shop before they sell out of 1920s nightgowns, fake blood and Kabuki masks. You can expect a horrifying 'death chamber' maze, as well as a main stage with live music (will it be horrifying? They haven't specified, but probably). Then, the main event is a series of curated horror shorts followed by two headliners, decided by you, the victims.
If you spend your free time binging on true crime, then you're probably familiar with the Golden State Killer. Between 1974–1986, the serial killer, rapist and burglar terrorised California, committing at least 12 murders, over 50 home-invasion rapes and more than 100 burglaries. Until 2018, however, the culprit hadn't been caught. Accordingly, it's the type of case that has kept more than a few folks wondering over the years and decades — including writer Michelle McNamara. HBO's new true-crime docuseries I'll Be Gone in the Dark chronicles McNamara's obsession with the case, as well as her hunt to find the perpetrator. Her tale is filled with intrigue, too, with her nights spent sleuthing through unsolved crimes and penning the blog True Crime Diaries while her family slept. Fixating on the Golden State Killer led McNamara to writing an article for Los Angeles Magazine, plus a book deal. But before she could finish her manuscript, McNamara — who was also married to comedian Patton Oswalt — died of an accidental prescription drug overdose in her sleep. Based on McNamara's book I'll Be Gone in the Dark: One Woman's Obsessive Search for the Golden State Killer, which was published two years after her death (and before an arrest was made in the case), the six-part series steps through this whole scenario. Across both its first and second trailers, it promises quite the detective story — and, after airing in the US from the end of June, it's finally making its way to Australian screens from Sunday, August 9. Available to binge in full via aptly named new streaming service Binge, and also airing on Foxtel as well, the series combines archival footage and details from police files; interviews with detectives, survivors and family members of the killer; and McNamara's own words, via original recordings as well as excerpts from her book read by actor Amy Ryan (Late Night, Beautiful Boy, The Office). It also doubles as an exploration of the handling of sexual crimes in the 70s and 80s by law enforcement, as well as an examination of true-crime obsession and pursuit of justice. Check out the trailer below: I'll Be Gone in the Dark will be available to stream via Binge on Sunday, August 9 — and will also air on Foxtel as well. Top images: Robyn Van Swank/HBO.
"The World Has Enough Superheroes". That's not our opinion, mind. Rather, it's literally the slogan for Venom, right there up on the posters. After watching the film, one wonders if it wasn't actually a studio note placed on the banners by accident. It's true, Venom is more antihero than superhero, but given he is still part of the wider Marvel universe (a Spider-Man spinoff owned by Sony Pictures), to call this anything other than a superhero movie is as laughable as Tom Hardy's attempt at bumbling comedy. Here he plays Eddie Brock, a VICE-like gritty street journalist whose video segments focus on taking down the rich, powerful and corrupt. Fixed firmly in his sights this time is the Elon Musk-esque tech mogul Carlton Drake (Rogue One's Riz Ahmed), whose determination to advance humankind routinely requires him to also sacrifice them in human trials. Drake's current focus is on four "symbiotes": amorphous sentient blobs from space who need to occupy a human host in order to survive our atmosphere. But Drake believes they also hold the key to humans being able to survive in space (which we'll need to do, because...global warming). In the course of his investigation, Eddie becomes entangled with one such symbiote (aka Venom), who wildly enhances Eddie's strength, speed and stamina, but also compels him to commit regular acts of extreme violence (mainly head eating) as they grapple to form some sort of symbiotic relationship. It's a device not entirely unlike the earlier Spider-Man villain Doctor Octopus, but even more so the recent Aussie film Upgrade, whose protagonist becomes infused with an AI that speaks to his subconscious and allows him to fight off hordes of villains whilst essentially watching on as a passenger in his own body. Directed by Ruben Fleischer (Zombieland), Venom flicks back and forth between violent battle scenes and mismatched buddy comedy, so much so that it never fully lands the vibe of either. It's almost as if Fleischer himself was possessed by a studio symbiote, one compelling him to make one type of film whilst he sought to make another. This incongruity is never clearer than in Hardy's misfiring performance as Brock, whose scratchy and stammering accent sounds like a half-baked Adam Sandler impression. Brock's presented as a hard-hitting journo one minute, then consistently called a loser the next – including by Venom. He's shown as principled and driven, then spends half the movie avoiding responsibility. He'll do whatever it takes, but often does nothing at all. The result is a character without an arc, ending the film – at best – somewhere in the ballpark of where he started. In all, Venom feels like an enormous squandered opportunity. Hardy is a juggernaut of charisma and physicality when given the right material, so to use him in this way is like using a prized stallion for birthday party pony rides. The same goes for his character's fiancée in the film, Anne, played by Michelle Williams. Decked out in the Spider-Man franchise's weirdly consistent tartan skirt and knee-high boots ensemble (seriously, what's up with that?), she's a paper-thin character with almost no reason to be there. An actor of her calibre deserves far better. There's the inevitable teaser of a sequel in the film's closing moments, including the introduction of another terrific performer. It's possible that with the back story and setup out of the way, Hardy and the gang could cast off the origin movie shackles and properly go for it next time round. That's assuming they even get the chance, which is by no means a lock given Venom's disastrous beginning. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9Mv98Gr5pY
If you're one of the 99% of self-entitled Australians who think they're funny just because they can burp the alphabet, quote half of Crocodile Dundee or would openly challenge Kochie to a joke-fuelled-turf-war, chances are, you're not reeling in as many laughs as you think. Why not learn a thing or two about being funny at this year's Brisbane Comedy Festival! The line up is a brilliant fusion of comedy royalty, precious unknowns and perfectly fitted duos. Chaser boys Andrew Hansen and Chris Taylor are taking stage with their two man One Man Show. Russell Coight creator, Glenn Robbins, will be teaming up with Dave O'Neil for Now I'll Have to Kill You – hardly out of character Russ. Solo acts include Pete Helliar, Frank Woodley, Glenn Wool, Alex Williamson, Triple J's estranged ex, Tom Ballard, and Triple J's new squeeze Matt Okine – awkward. As far as comedy festivals go, line ups don't get much better than this – don't miss out on this opportunity to feel happiness at the hands of some grown men, women and their jokes.
