Luck, be a lady tonight: when Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour's famed floating stage returns for 2025, Guys and Dolls will be sweeping audiences off to 50s-era Manhattan from the city's — and the country's — most-stunning performance venue. As one production does each year, the hit five-time Tony-winning musical will unleash its showgirls and gangsters, as well as its incredibly catchy tunes, against a helluva backdrop. Guys and Dolls will play the unique waterfront opera venue at Mrs Macquaries Point from Friday, March 21–Sunday, April 20, following in the footsteps of West Side Story in 2024, Madama Butterfly in 2023, The Phantom of the Opera in 2022 and La Traviata in 2021 — to name just a few shows that've gotten the Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour treatment over the years. This time, expect a new version of a musical that first premiered on Broadway in 1950, then on West End in 1953, and has enjoyed many a revival in the seven decades since. [caption id="attachment_968000" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour 2016 — Turandot, Hamilton Lund.[/caption] The story, as also conveyed in the 1955 Marlon Brando- and Frank Sinatra-starring film — which was nominated for four Oscars — follows Sky Masterson as he endeavours to win big, then crosses paths with missionary Sister Sarah Brown. Also weaved into the narrative: the tale of Nathan and Adelaide, with the former also immersed in gambling and the latter his fiancé. Tunes such as 'Luck Be a Lady', also 'Sit Down You're Rockin' the Boat', 'Adelaide's Lament' and 'I've Never Been in Love Before' will echo across the harbour in the latest take on Guys and Dolls, as directed by Opera Australia's Artistic Director Jo Davies. "Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour is so magical, just the walk through the venue to reach your seat creates such a sense of anticipation. I'm thrilled to be bringing a beloved musical like Guys and Dolls, with its wild ensemble dance numbers and brilliantly sharp comedy, to this incredible stage," said Davies. [caption id="attachment_968002" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour 2021 — La Traviata, Hamilton Lund.[/caption] Helping make the season even more of a spectacle is Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour veteran set designer Brian Thomson, who also demonstrated his talents on La Traviata, Carmen and West Side Story. As always, also included in this Guys and Dolls experience is not just the show on the overwater stage, but also fireworks each evening, dazzling Sydney skyline views and hitting up pop-up dining spots that are constructed onsite each year. [caption id="attachment_968003" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour 2022 — The Phantom of the Opera, Hamilton Lund.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_968006" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour 2024 — West Side Story, Richard Milnes, Alamy Stock Photo.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_968004" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour 2019 — West Side Story, Hamilton Lund.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_968001" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour 2017 — Carmen, Hamilton Lund.[/caption] Guys and Dolls at Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour will run from Friday, March 21–Sunday, April 20, 2025 — with tickets via Opera Australia subscription packages available and general tickets on offer from Tuesday, August 13, 2024. Top image: Opera Australia's Performance of West Side Story on Sydney Harbour 2019, Hamilton Lund.
Anyone can pour orange juice and vodka into a glass and call it a screwdriver. But if you're after a cocktail more sophisticated and complicated than that, that's where top-notch bartenders come in. They're the folks who mix up drinks that you definitely don't feel like you can make at home — or know you have (again, see that OJ and vodka combo) — and they're as crucial a part of hitting a bar as the menu, vibe and company. Australia isn't short on fine folks whipping up brilliant beverages; however, if you're after the best of the best, there's now a rundown naming the country's top 100 bartenders. Consider it your next excuse to work through a boozy list, if you already started 2022 sipping the 100 best brews. Created by global bartending competition Diageo World Class, the Top 100 Australian Bartenders for 2022 list spans every state and territory — with New South Wales particularly well-represented, and Victoria and Queensland as well. Here's another way to think of it: you now have a list of bartenders to seek out on your next few holidays. [caption id="attachment_714471" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cantina OK![/caption] Standouts include folks from Sydney favourites such as Maybe Sammy and Cantina OK!, Melbourne's Nick and Nora's and Black Pearl, and Brisbane's The Gresham and Agnes. This is just part one of the contest, though. From here, these 100 bartenders will compete by mixing up impressive, boundary-pushing tipples at their venues, which'll be available for patrons to sip from Monday, May 30–Monday, June 13. Then, a top five will be announced — also on Monday, June 13 — before finals in July. The winner will be deemed the Diageo World Class Australian Bartender of the Year for 2022, and fly the flag for Aussies at the comp's global final, which is happening here for the first time, in Sydney, between Monday, September 12–Friday, September 16. [caption id="attachment_795641" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Gresham, Millie Tang[/caption] Whoever emerges victorious will take over the title from Evan Stroeve from Sydney's no-waste bar Re, 2021's winner. Here's 2022's full top 100 rundown: DIEGO WORLD CLASS TOP 100 AUSTRALIAN BARTENDERS FOR 2022: NEW SOUTH WALES: Alex Gondzioulis, The Rover Behzad Vaziri, The Star Elisa Rodgrigues, Paloma Wine Bar Hunter Gregory, Maybe Sammy Matthew Dale, Re Ryan Bickley, Cantina OK Siôn Roberts, Re Storm Evans, Cantina OK Sanghyun Park, Will's Wen Wang, Maybe Sammy Albert Rust, Eileen's Bar - Four Pillars Andrew McCorquodale, Charlie Parker's Beaux Donelan, Charlie Parker's Ashley Miller, Blue Kahunas Ben Hardy, Bar Planet Brianna Aboud, Ramblin' Rascal Tavern Chloe Natterer, The Lobo Claudio Bedini, Sammy Junior Daniel Hilton, The Lobo Eduardo Conde, NO 92 GPR Dominic Causley-Todd, Dead Ringer Emma Bernardi, Bar Planet Eoin Kenny, Long Chim Hamish Mitchell, Charlie Parker's Harrison Kenney, Bar Planet Helen Yu, The Lobo James Russell, Apollonia Jenna Hemsworth, The Gidley Koby Harris, Dean and Nancy on 22 Krisztian Csigo, Dean and Nancy on 22 Sara Rinaldo, Dean and Nancy on 22 Sarah Proietti, Maybe Sammy Judith Zhu, KittyHawk Kalisha Glover, Apollonia Kat Scibiorski, Long Chim Kate Gale-Re, The Gidley Michal Wowak, The Gidley Kiaran Bryant, Earl's Juke Joint Liam Gavin, Door Knock Marco Rosati, Grain Bar Samuel McWilliams, The Lobo Thomas Opie, Births and Deaths VICTORIA: Aiden Rodriquez, EDV Melbourne Alejandro Archibald, NOMAD Melbourne Kane Smith, Nick and Nora's Melbourne Darren Leaney, Aru Cameron Parish, Gimlet Elisabetta Luppi, LUI Bar Francesca Camilli, Beneath Driver's Lane James Armstrong, The Cloakroom Bar Josephe Kourmouzis, Above Board Julien Wurtlin, LUI Bar Kayla Saito, Black Pearl Nicola Dean, Black Pearl Max Allison, Good Measure Miriam Wahlhütter, LOVER Nick Tesar, Bar Liberty Olivia Devlin, Capitano Tioni Naslund, LUI Bar Taylor Matthews, Frederic Tom McHugh, Hazel Restaurant QUEENSLAND: Dino Francia, Rosella's Bar Jack Connor, Rosella's Bar Aidan Perkins, Agnes Restaurant Daniella Darakis, The Gresham Edward Quartermass, Maker Ellery Low, Maker Jamie Fleming, Alba Bar & Deli Jenny Wang, Sono Japanese Restaurant Joe Steadman, Alba Bar & Deli Kate Bartlett, Cobbler Bar Liam Murphy, Frogs Hollow Saloon Liam Shepherd, Bar Brutus Martin McConnell, Frogs Hollow Saloon Peter Hollands, Frogs Hollow Saloon WESTERN AUSTRALIA: Dyllan Balm, Foxtrot Unicorn Max Guidice, Republic of Fremantle Nicola Herbert, Foxtrot Unicorn Shirley Yeung, Foxtrot Unicorn Samuel Cocks, Bar Rogue SOUTH AUSTRALIA: Al Simmons, Maybe Mae Alfonso Lizana, Maybe Mae Anabel Rowe, Long Story Short Georgia Edmonds, Maybe Mae Grace Rawlins, Memphis Slim's House of Blues Jack Somers, Memphis Slim's House of Blues Talis Heggart, Memphis Slim's House of Blues Michael Keogh, Memphis Slim's House of Blues Lachlan Gunner, Long Story Short Oscar Butler, Maybe Mae TASMANIA: Rachel Mynczywor, Rude Boy Rohan Massie, Rude Boy Hobart Jack Turner, Void Bar at Mona Mateo Ortiz, The Den Salamanca NORTHERN TERRITORY: Anneliese Grazioli, Hanky Panky Lounge Katerina Kosta, Hanky Panky Lounge Matt Zarimis, Smoke and Oak Darwin ACT: Cameron Abercrombie, Zaab Street Food Jack Sandeman, Zaab Street Food Liv Kelly, Bar Rochford For more information about Diego World Class, head to the competition's website. Top image: Maybe Sammy, Paolo Maffietti.
Australian Cinémathèque is the cinema within Brisbane's GOMA — and because it's a member of the International Federation of Film Archives, they have access to the best film archives in the world. There are films you won't see on the big screen anywhere else in Australia, and many of the sessions are completely free. On Wednesdays and Fridays (cheap date night, anyone?), Australian Cinémathèque shows flicks from its eclectic range. From contemporary arthouse to historic cinematic fails, rediscovered restored works to cult classics, experimental styles to international oddities — and even silent film featuring live musical performance — a trip here is an absolute must for any true cinephile. Image: John Gollings
Each autumn, Australian movie lovers score a super-sized French treat: a feast of flicks hitting the big screen in cinemas around the country, all thanks to the Alliance Française French Film Festival. In 2025, the fest marks its 36th year. On the lineup: 42 pictures that span the breadth and depth of Gallic filmmaking. So, when you're not enjoying the latest version of the The Count of Monte Cristo, you'll be diving into France's newest black comedies, then plunging into French drama and seeing a restored masterpiece. AFFFF revealed eight of 2025's films late in 2024; now, however, arrives the full 42-title program. To venture to Paris and beyond from your cinema seat, you'll be heading along in March and April around Australia. Kicking off the fest: opening night's Tahar Rahim (Madame Web)-starring Monsieur Aznavour, about singer-songwriter Charles Aznavour — which has been doing big business in France, selling 1.8-million-plus tickets. If you're in Sydney, the fun starts on Tuesday, March 4. Melbourne's season launches the following day, then Brisbane and Canberra the day after that — and Byron Bay the day following. Perth's stint arrives the next week, while Adelaide gets into the action the week afterwards and the Gold Coast joins in another week later. There's more locations on the roster, too. Already the largest celebration of French cinema outside of France itself, AFFFF is even bigger in 2025, hitting up 18 cities — and adding five new locations, in Darwin, Ballina, Ballarat, Warriewood and Warrawong, to its slate. Across its full run, the festival is set to host 5500-plus screenings. After Monsieur Aznavour gets the 2025 event started, the highlights keep coming, right through to closing night's rom-com In the Sub for Love. The aforementioned The Count of Monte Cristo features Pierre Niney (The Book of Solutions) in the lead and takes AFFFF's centrepiece slot, while Jean-Pierre Melville's 1969 great Army of Shadows arrives in 4K Down Under after premiering its restored version at Cannes 2024. Or, catch a 50-years-later remake of Emmanuelle, this time starring Noémie Merlant (Lee) and Naomi Watts (Feud), with Audrey Diwan (Happening) directing — or see Mélanie Laurent (Freedom) and Guillaume Canet (All-Time High) portraying Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI in their final days in The Deluge. Plus, Meet the Leroys is a road-trip dramedy that marks Charlotte Gainsbourg's (Alphonse) latest film, while Prodigies delivers a tale of sibling rivalry with Emily in Paris' Camille Razat. Viewers can also look forward to The Divine Sarah Bernhardt, with Sandrine Kiberlain (Meet the Barbarians) as the eponymous actor; All Stirred Up, a comedy focusing on a customs officer on the border between Quebec and the United States, plus her daughter's attempts to win a cooking contest; and Riviera Revenge, where an affair almost four decade prior sparks a quest for vengeance in the French Riviera. Elsewhere, How to Make a Killing features regular AFFFF face and Call My Agent favourite Laure Calamy (The Origin of Evil), as does My Everything; Louis Garrel and Vincent Cassel (co-stars in the 2024 festival's The Three Musketeers: D'Artagnan and The Three Musketeers: Milady) team up in Saint-Ex, about Argentinian pilot Antoine de Saint-Exupéry; When Fall Is Coming is the latest from acclaimed director François Ozon (The Crime Is Mine); and nonagenarian filmmaker Costa-Gavras (Adults in the Room) delivers the personal Before What Comes After. Or, get excited Beating Hearts, which is helmed by Gilles Lellouche (Sink or Swim), stars Adèle Exarchopoulos (Inside Out 2) and François Civil (The Three Musketeers), and played at Cannes International Film Festival 2024 — as did the music-loving My Brother's Band from The Big Hit writer/director Emmanuel Courcol. Also in the Cannes contingent are a range of movies exploring the stories of a courier facing a interview to obtain residency, plus artist Niki de Saint-Phalle, a midlife crisis, pastoral France and being a teenager amid Corsican gang politics, aka The Story of Souleymane, Niki, This Life of Mine, Holy Cow and The Kingdom. The lineup goes on — and so do your reasons to lock in more than a few French movie dates. Alliance Française French Film Festival 2025 Dates Tuesday, March 4–Wednesday, April 9 — Palace Central, Palace Norton Street, Chauvel Cinema, Palace Moore Park, Hayden Orpheum Cremorne, Roseville Cinemas, Warriewood, Sydney Wednesday, March 5–Wednesday, April 9 — Palace Cinema Como, The Kino, Palace Balwyn, Palace Brighton Bay, Palace Westgarth, Pentridge Cinema,The Astor Theatre, Palace Penny Lane, Palace Regent Ballarat, Melbourne Thursday, March 6–Tuesday, April 8 — Palace Cinema James Street, Palace Cinema Barracks, Brisbane Thursday, March 6–Wednesday, April 9 — Palace Electric Cinemas, Canberra Friday, March 7–Wednesday, April 2 — Palace Byron Bay, Byron Bay Thursday, March 13–Wednesday, April 16 — Palace Raine Square, Luna on SX, Luna Leedeerville, Windsor Cinema, Perth Wednesday, March 19–Wednesday, April 23 — Palace Nova Prospect Cinemas, Palace Nova Eastend Cinemas, Adelaide Tuesday, March 25–Tuesday, April 15 — Dendy Southport, Gold Coast The Alliance Française French Film Festival tours Australia in March and April 2025. For more information and tickets, visit the AFFFF website.
Heading to an outdoor music festival normally means hoping for fine and sunny outdoor weather. At Snow Machine, you'll be praying for one thing: yes, snow. Because spending a day or several dancing to tunes in the open air isn't solely synonymous with summer, this event embraces its wintry setup, combining live music with a ski trip — as Japan first experienced in 2020, and New Zealand has been enjoying since 2022. The Japanese fest takes place for 2025 in March, but you'll want to mark September in your calendar if you're keen on the Aotearoa event. The hottest festival for the colder months is unleashing its avalanche of music and adventure at two mountain-topping NZ ski resorts between Tuesday, September 9–Sunday, September 14 this year. The snow-filled attraction has also just dropped its impressive lineup. On the Thursday night, Claptone and Hot Dub Time Machine will be headlining. On the Friday, Amyl and The Sniffers are playing an exclusive New Zealand show, with Mallrat also on the bill. Come Saturday, Netsky and Luude are doing the honours. Also helping to give Snow Machine's NZ winter wonderland a thumping soundtrack across the fest: Argonaut, Baby J, Ben Silver, Beverly Kills, Body Ocean, Boogs, Brian Fantana and Casey Leaver — plus Dannika Peach, Jimi The Kween, Lenni Vibe, Mell Hall, Montel2099, Odd Mob. And, then there's Bribera, Savage, Spacey Space, T-Rek and What So Not. As the hefty roster of talent demonstrates, attendees are in for a helluva few days, including hitting the slopes and partying at après ski events on both Coronet Peak and The Remarkables. How much dancing, skiing and sipping you want to do is up to you — as is how many other adventurous activities you'd like to add to your itinerary, such as heli-skiing, jet boating, bungy jumping, canyon swinging and skydiving. Snow Machine's official welcome party is also on the agenda again, taking place at AJ Hackett Bungy Kawarau Bridge. So is another annual highlight: the Polar Bare, which endeavours to set a world record for the most amount of people heading down the slopes their swimwear. Alongside the wintry backdrop and the fun that comes with it, one of the things that sets Snow Machine apart from other music fests is being able to book your entire getaway with your ticket. Packages span both five and seven nights of accommodation, and include a four-day festival ticket, plus multi-day ski pass. If you'd rather make your own way or pass on the skiing, there are ticket-only options — and VIP packages if you really want to do it in style. Snow Machine 2025 Lineup Amyl and The Sniffers Argonaut Baby J Ben Silver Beverly Kills Body Ocean Boogs Brian Fantana Casey Leaver Claptone Dannika Peach Hot Dub Time Machine Jimi The Kween Lenni Vibe Luude Mallrat Mell Hall Montel2099 Netsky Odd Mob Bribera Savage Spacey Space T-Rek What So Not Plus stage takeovers from: Poof Doof Ski Club Thicks as Thieves Revolver Sundays Electric Rush Snow Machine 2025 takes place from Tuesday, September 9–Sunday, September 14 in Queenstown, New Zealand. Presale tickets go on sale on from 1pm AEDT / 12pm AEST / 3pm NZDT on Monday, February 24, 2025, with general tickets available from 1pm AEDT / 12pm AEST / 3pm NZDT on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. For more information, visit the festival's website. Images: Han Lowther / Amee Freeman / Luke O'Keefe.
"Do you guys ever think about dying?" When life in plastic is fantastic, that's not a line anyone that would expect to come out of Barbie's (Margot Robbie, Babylon) mouth. And, amid giant blowout parties with planned choreography with all her pals, and the constant devotion of her beau Ken (Ryan Gosling, The Gray Man), such existential musings do come as a shock. When she can no longer float off of her rooftop and her usually arched feet become flat, the Barbie movie's main namesake heads to the real world for answers. That's the plot for Greta Gerwig's film, which marks the actor-turned-director's third solo stint behind the camera after Lady Bird and Little Women, and has been teasing its extremely pink on-screen worlds in not one but two trailers prior to the just-dropped full sneak peek. Even dolls living in a dreamland struggle with life's big questions, it seems — and, when the film's key Barbie and Ken drive through Barbie Land's gates to discover what's on the other side, they struggle with Los Angeles as well. With mugshots to prove it, they even get arrested. Splashing as much humour as pastel hues throughout its frames, Barbie is scripted by Gerwig and fellow filmmaker Noah Baumbach — her helmer on Greenberg, Frances Ha, Mistress America and White Noise, and real-life partner — and boasts a cast that's a gleaming toy chest of talent. Indeed, it might just be the most anticipated toy-to-film release ever. There's that pedigree, of course. There's also the picture's patently playful vibe, which started with parodying the one and only 2001: A Space Odyssey and has kept beaming brightly from there. All those on-screen stars help fill the feature with Barbies, including Issa Rae (Insecure) as president Barbie, Dua Lipa (making her movie debut) as a mermaid Barbie, Emma Mackey (Emily) as a Nobel Prize-winning physicist Barbie, Alexandra Schipp (tick, tick... BOOM!) as an author Barbie and Ana Cruz Kayne (Jerry and Marge Go Large) as a supreme court justice Barbie — plus Nicola Coughlan (Bridgerton) as diplomat Barbie, Kate McKinnon (Saturday Night Live) as a Barbie who is always doing the splits, Hari Nef (Meet Cute) as doctor Barbie, Ritu Arya (The Umbrella Academy) as a Pulitzer-winning Barbie and Sharon Rooney (Jerk) as lawyer Barbie. There's also a whole heap of Kens, including Simu Liu (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings), Kingsley Ben-Adir (One Night in Miami), Ncuti Gatwa (the incoming Doctor Who) and Scott Evans (Grace and Frankie). And, Michael Cera (Arrested Development) plays Alan, Emerald Fennell (The Crown) plays Midge, Helen Mirren (Shazam! Fury of the Gods) is the narrator, America Ferrera (Superstore) and Ariana Greenblatt (65) are humans, Jamie Demetriou (Catherine Called Birdy) is a suit, Will Ferrell (Spirited) wears a suit as Mattel's CEO and Connor Swindells (also Sex Education) is an intern. Will this be the best figurine-to-film adaptation yet in a mixed field that also includes the Transformers series, Trolls, The Lego Movie and its sequel, Battleship and the GI Joe films? The answer will be pulled out of the toy box in cinemas on July 20 Down Under. And yes, Aqua's 'Barbie Girl' finally (finally!) gets a spin in this trailer, although you likely already had it stuck in your head just thinking about this movie anyway. Check out the full trailer for Barbie below: Barbie releases in cinemas Down Under on July 20, 2023.
New South Wales is dotted with seemingly endless country towns and weekend destinations. Among the best of these is Kangaroo Valley, named for the Kangaroo River along which the tiny village is situated. The town is only two hours south of Sydney but packs all of the charm that we love about rural NSW — breathtaking mountain and valley views, bushwalks aplenty and wineries galore. Kangaroo Valley is a cabin retreat that will feel decades away from the city hustle and bustle, but is still close enough for a quick weekender. Here's how to make the most of it. [caption id="attachment_581967" align="alignnone" width="1280"] @she_eats[/caption] EAT/DRINK Kangaroo Valley may not be the most talked about wine region, but it sure is a quiet contender. The region is distinguished by its rich volcanic soil which is ideal for viticulture — aka growing grapes. The winding pathway to the remote Yarrawa Estate is not an easy one to follow, but you'll be pleasantly surprised as the path opens to this lakeside vineyard. If the golden retrievers and frolicking children remind you of a visit to the family country home you either have or dream about, well, it should — the cellar door is quite literally set in the Foster family dining room, where strangers momentarily become relatives. Apart from the incredible wine, they also offer a range of nuts, jams and pickles made from homegrown produce. Be sure to taste their homemade walnut liquor wine, a combination of both passions. Possibly the best known among the region's wineries is Silos Estate. The cellar door is run by friendly, knowledgeable locals and set among the estate's sloping Shiraz vineyards. Order a local producer's cheese plate at the cellar bar while you enjoy your free wine tasting or peruse the collection of locally-made smallgoods for sale. If you're hankering for something more substantial, head over to the Silos restaurant which is set in a 100-year-old hay shed and has a relatively reasonable tasting menu ($29.95 for lunch, $95 for dinner). Head chef Nick Gardner (Tetsuya's, Quay, The French Laundry) focuses on native Australian ingredients and local produce, like the decadent red snapper topped with warrigal greens, smoked oyster cream and citrus caviar sauce. The open fireplace keeps you cosy in the winter months while outdoor seating is perfect for warm weather days. Once you're out by Silos, might as well stop over at The Famous Berry Donut Van for their notorious cinnamon-sugar doughnuts. You deserve a second dessert — you're on holiday after all. [caption id="attachment_575084" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Southern Pies.[/caption] If wineries aren't your thing, Kangaroo Valley holds plenty of small town eateries to explore. If you're looking for a quick, road trip snack, check out Southern Pies — the cheeseburger pie or the curry beef are standouts, and vegetarians will love the award-winning lentil and chickpea dhal pie or the honey-roast pumpkin and spinach. The only pub in town, The Friendly Inn, has been around since 1892 and is one of the oldest in the region. Though it's pretty standard pub fare, the real draw is the expansive beer garden which overlooks the rolling valleys and mountains beyond. On the drive down from Sydney, or on the way back home, have a stopover at Berrima's Bendooley Estate, which houses the original Berkelouw Book Barn. The architecturally-designed winery is situated within a gorgeous backdrop, while the produce-driven restaurant sits within the bookshop itself. Check out our Foodie's Guide to Kangaroo Valley for more eating destinations. [caption id="attachment_581969" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Angus L.[/caption] DO As the town lies along the Kangaroo River, one of the best ways to see the valley is via kayak or canoe. Two companies in town, Kangaroo Valley Safaris and Kangaroo Valley Kayaks are comparable in price and both offer pick-up service at the end of the five-kilometre, self-guided journey. The gentle rapids and overall calm river is easy to navigate and includes spectacular scenery and plenty of wildlife to sight. A pro tip is to go on an overcast or drizzly day when the tourist count will be at its lowest and the river will be as peaceful as ever. If bushwalks are more your speed, Mortan National Park and Kangaroo Valley Nature Reserve seem to have an endless number of hiking trails to explore. Within the park is the Fitzroy Falls walking track, which offers both forest and cliff-side views, as well as a good chance to see platypus and lyrebird in their natural habitat. The full West Rim walking track, a moderate 3.5 kilometre trip, will take you through eucalypt and lush rainforest, remarkable gorges and waterfalls before finishing at Twin Falls. Beach lovers should go for the Seven Mile Beach track, which includes stunning ocean views and beach side picnic areas. [caption id="attachment_581975" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Maarten Danial.[/caption] Once the great outdoors has you good and tired, it's time to check out the many antique shops around town. While Kangaroo Valley town itself is loaded with boutiques and craft shops, our favourite is the out-of-towner, Grandpa's Shed. Located down the road from Fitzroy Falls, this warehouse has every antique imaginable, from hand-axes and old farming equipment to antique jewellery and comic books. The shop is connected to an old-school, working gas station, which will offer a much needed cold drink if you're visiting after a trek. [caption id="attachment_581976" align="alignnone" width="1280"] The Heavens.[/caption] STAY Kangaroo Valley is ideal for a cabin getaway weekend and there are plenty of options to that end, from The Heavens to Kookaburra Hill. Twin Falls Bush Cottages is by far our favourite — family-owned and operated, the five one- or two-bedroom cottages are nicely spaced for privacy from the neighbours and include a fireplace, full kitchen and outdoor barbecue. The expansive property is set right in the bush, with private hikes and mountain bike trails, as well as a communal tennis court, pool and fire pit to boot. The location is also perfectly situated for both for Twin Falls and Fitzroy Falls treks and the remote location is a true removal from city living. If you're looking to stay closer to town, the Tall Trees Bed and Breakfast is conveniently located just one kilometre from the town centre and is walkable for those without a car. You can either choose a traditional B&B or a self contained unit here. Another, more upscale option is the villas at Kangaroo Valley Golf and Country Club, only a four-minute drive from town and offering sweeping valley views. [caption id="attachment_581974" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Flickr.[/caption] LET'S DO THIS, HOW DO I GET THERE? By car: Kangaroo Valley is two hours drive south of Sydney along Hume Highway. This is the suggested route, as it makes it much easier to travel around the valley for hikes and wineries. By public transport: Catch the Southern NSW train line from Central Station to Moss Vale Station, then transfer to the 810 bus toward Nowra, which stops in the heart of Kangaroo Valley. Top image: Rodney Campbell.
In news that won't surprise Melburnians, the city has been ranked Australia's number one night-time economy hotspot. From Fitzroy's buzzing bars to the fine dining restaurants in the CBD, Melbourne is doing its part for the economy by enjoying life after dark. This is according to the Visa Australia Night-time Economy Index 2025, a new in-depth analysis measuring data such as spending, vibrancy, venues open and even the amount of nightworkers boosting the economy after dark. Trailing just behind Melbourne is Sydney's CBD, which came in with a night-time Vibe Score of 74.3. So close. [caption id="attachment_1029745" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Martin Vlnas[/caption] The Visa Vibe Economy report, commissioned by Visa and conducted by McCrindle, reveals that the Victorian capital is dining out at restaurants more frequently than other cities after dark. The report surveyed 2,009 Australians to learn how we spend our evenings (and how much cash we splash on a night out). [caption id="attachment_912072" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Nick & Nora's[/caption] Who's going out after dark? While Australians may be proponents of morning run clubs and coffee catch-ups pre-work, it turns out that there are a few of us who still make the most of the evenings. According to the report, nearly half of Australians are going out at night at least once a week, with an average of 5.8 night-time outings per month. Not bad. Gen Z is at the head of the pack, with 73 per cent of the demographic making it out at least once a week. Millennials are right behind their younger siblings with an average of 7.2 nights out per month. Melbourne and Sydney may be leading the night-time charge, but other cities aren't glued to their couches all week. People in Wollongong and the Gold Coast are keeping the night alive, with an average of 6.3 nights out per month, followed closely by Brisbane at 6.1 nights a month. [caption id="attachment_868653" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kate Shanasy[/caption] What are we up to on a night out? In good news for business owners, the majority of nights out are spent in our world-class restaurants. While most Australians prefer to keep their dining local, Gen Z is maintaining its adventurous reputation by being the demographic more likely to try cuisine in a new suburb. Outside of restaurants, 46 per cent of Australians are heading to the cinema to watch a movie after dark, with night markets and bars and pubs also ranking high on our evening activities. How much are we spending? With so many Aussies enjoying a night out with friends, the report finds that the majority of us are factoring evening activities into our spending. More than half of Gen Z actually consider spending after dark an essential part of their budgets. According to the report, the average we're forking out for an evening on the town is $120 or less per person. On the other hand, 66 per cent of respondents reported that cost is one of the main barriers to heading out for the evening. Feeling safe is also a major factor in shaping how, when and where Australians go out. [caption id="attachment_1026041" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Ennui[/caption] The future of the evening economy Sadly, many Australians feel their local nightlife isn't as vibrant as it could be—and want to see councils and businesses invest in making it better. Whether it's the after-effects and behavioural changes post-pandemic or the cost of living crisis, the report shows that nearly half of Australians believe their local nightlife needs investment to feel more vibrant. The report notes that Australians are asking for more night markets and festivals, affordable night-time options, and safer public spaces over the next two to five years. Despite Australians' reputation for being morning people, it's clear we're doing our bit for the economy by seeing our friends for a meal out, sipping on a pet nat in a Collingwood wine bar and enjoying the night markets in Sydney. So, consider this your sign to do your part and book an after-dark experience this weekend. Discover the vibe near you. Lead image: Getty/ Prasit Photo
The Northern Rivers' food scene has got a new kid on the block, and it's bringing more than a little of the Big Apple with it. Tucked inside a newly renovated community business precinct in Byron Bay, Baloney's is a New York-Italian-style deli and cafe that's serving up nostalgia, deli meats and loaded sambos — no baloney. It's been brought to life by founder George McFarlane as a passion project that puts a breezy Byron spin on Italian-American food culture. And while the two-hander sandwiches might be the initial drawcard, the space itself — designed by Northern Rivers studio Happy Hour — is full of character. Inside, you'll find black-and-white checkerboard tiles, a standing espresso bar and a restored vintage church bench that serves as a nod to old-school delis, while outside, a sun-soaked, 40-person deck sets the stage for relaxed al fresco hangs. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Baloney's Deli (@baloneys_deli) If you reckon the name sounds playful, that's exactly the point. Inspired by the Americanisation of mortadella — a meat banned by the US government during the Italian migration waves of the late 19th and early 20th centuries — 'baloney' became both a regulation-friendly substitute and, in time, slang for 'nonsense'. And McFarlane is actively leaning into the word's double meaning, too: "I am not Italian or American, however I am passionate about Italian and American food so I'm a phoney baloney," he tells Concrete Playground. As for the menu? Expect stacked sandwiches with a personal twist. Each one is named after someone close to McFarlane — like the Spicy Gabita, a tribute to his partner — who, according to McFarlane, is "a little bit spicy" — that sees eggplant, mozzarella, rocket, fermented chilli and balsamic layered on fluffy focaccia. You'll also find other creative combinations like the Alt Tayo, which features lemon-spiked cannellini beans, roast capsicum and vegan basil pesto, alongside the likes of a classic Reuben and, of course, a loaded mortadella, stracciatella and green olive number. If that's not enough to get you road tripping, there's also java juice by Coffee Supreme, artisan deli goods and a rotating selection of sandwich specials. Baloney's also carries the influence of McFarlane's time cutting his proverbial teeth at Mortadeli in Torquay, Victoria, and Byron's much-loved Pixie Food & Wine. Baloney's is another feather in the cap for the burgeoning Byron food scene, which continues to evolve far beyond açai bowls and organic smoothies. Baloney's is located at 10-12 Shirley Street, Byron Bay. It's open Tuesday–Sunday, 8am–2.30pm. For more info, head to the venue's Instagram page.
In 2026, Flickerfest Short Film Festival will celebrate its 35th year as a highlight in the cultural calendar. The curated programme, which takes place from Friday, January 23 until Sunday, February 1, showcases around 200 short films, including 42 world premieres and 41 Australian premieres, giving Sydney audiences a first look at the industry's creative talents. Alongside Flickerfest's outstanding lineup, the festival has also partnered with Specsavers for the third year running to support emerging filmmakers. The competition invites filmmakers to create a 30-second short film in the spirit of the brand's recognisable "Should've Gone To Specsavers" ad, which has been gracing Australian screens for over 15 years. "The partnership is about getting people to think creatively and giving opportunities for emerging filmmakers," says Flickerfest director, Bronwyn Kidd. "It has evolved from a script competition to people producing their own 30-second ideas. It encourages people to get a team together and make something." From all of the entries, five finalists have now been selected, with each short film set to be showcased at Flickerfest and awarded $20k in prize money. One entrant, however, will win a major prize — $50k cash to help launch and support their creative career. While the finalists have been handpicked by a judging panel, the winner will be chosen by the general public. Voters are also in with a chance at some prize money. Voters are also in with a chance at some prize money. Tell us, in 25 words or less, why your favourite 30-second short film deserves to win. You'll then go in the draw to score a $1000 Digital Visa Gift Card. Perhaps the winner will be Edvard Christie's wine blunder with The Expert? Hannah Dougherty's hilarious crime mystery, Sketch Artist? Or the unique animated short, Garbologist? Justin Villar's The Chase makes for a thrilling TVC, while Muraya Moore's Fishtank nails the creative brief. Watch and vote for the five Flickerfest finalists at the Specsavers hub and go into the running to win $1000 — all while supporting the Australian film industry. See the full Flickerfest programme and find more information here. Lead image credit: Flickerfest
A 90s-era Blockbuster Video might play a prominent role in the next big superhero movie headed to cinemas, Captain Marvel, but in Australia, the chain and its bricks-and-mortar outlets will soon be a mere nostalgic memory. The country is currently home to one last Blockbuster outlet in Western Australia, and one of only two remaining on the planet; however the store's owners have just announced that they're shutting up shop. As reported by Community News, Blockbuster Morley in Perth will close its doors at the end of March, with locals able to head in and say farewell for the rest of the month. Speaking with AAP, owner Lyn Borszeky said that the rise of streaming services had impacted the business. "We knew change was coming but were a bit surprised how quickly it affected our customer base once Netflix hit the Australian market." [caption id="attachment_710127" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Blockbuster Morley[/caption] When the Morley shop says goodbye, just one Blockbuster will remain worldwide. Located in Oregon in the US, Blockbuster Bend earned the title of America's last outlet back in July 2018, when a fellow store in Alaska closed up. It's a far cry from the brand's glory days, aka the late 90s and early 00s, when it had more than 9000 stores worldwide. In Australia, the first Blockbuster store opened in Melbourne in 1991. For Perth folks who haven't completely replaced their physical media collection with a never-ending streaming queue, the Morley shop will also be throwing a closing down sale — the bittersweet part of any video store's last moments. For everyone else, hold on to those memories of spending way too long walking up and down video store aisles, picking movies based on their cover artwork, and taking home towers of plastic cases during school holidays and sleepovers. Scrolling through Netflix isn't quite the same, and doesn't throw up anywhere near as many old gems that you wouldn't have come across otherwise. Via Community News.
Now, before you get us all wrong, this is a guide to hotels where you can swing back and forth on actual swings and hammocks. It's not for the other kind of swingers. These hotels have swings on the beach, by the pool, at the bar and in the rooms — on which you can gleefully rock back and forth and take in spectacular views in total comfort. Read on to find our favouriting swinging spots. Recommended reads: The Best Hotels in Sydney The Best Hotels in Melbourne The Best Hotels in Brisbane The Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Australia SHINTA MANI, CAMBODIA You'll rethink your kitchen chairs after a stay at Shinta Mani, where the streetside Kroya restaurant boasts dreamy swings on a breezy terrace. The idea of swings and food might sound messy, but you'll soon get the hang of things in no time. Plus, these swings are huge — you really shouldn't be falling off them. The excellent Cambodian dining options available will also make practice a pleasure rather than a chore (perhaps only the steady-handed should order crab bouillabaisse). American architect and interiors whizz Bill Bensley styled the hotel and added in all the swinging details. NALADHU PRIVATE ISLAND RESORT, MALDIVES Why doesn't every hotel have beach hammocks and in-room swing chairs? Naladhu Private Island Resort, set between a lagoon and the sea, boasts both. That's not all it has, either: each of the 19 intimate beach houses comes with its own private pool and romantic semi-outdoor glass-sided bath and shower. With all this in your villa, don't be surprised if you never reach the main pool, flanked by inviting sun loungers and overlooking the lagoon. When you want to have both feet planted firmly on the ground, head to the Living Room, a thatched-roof restaurant with an openair hardwood deck, to feast on local seafood as the sun sets over the water. COQUI COQUI COBA, MEXICO This luxury Mexican resort is a swinger's paradise. Within the Coqui Coqui Coba suites and villas, you'll find hammocks hanging in the centre of rooms, wooden swings in the bathrooms and hammocks simply used as decorations on the walls. You can even head down to the pool located by the lagoon and surrounded by Mayan-inspired towers to swing about on one of the outdoor hammocks all day long. Order some food and cocktails from its restaurant and swing here while watching the sun set over the mountains. THE GRAY, ITALY The swinging scene at Milan's The Gray revolves around the lobby, where a giant fuchsia-upholstered swing with lipstick-red cords drops from the ceiling: a memorable first impression, regardless of whether you're bold enough to go and sit on it. If you take the swing as a promise of the unexpected, you won't be let down. The rooms have ivory-silk curtains that whoosh open at the touch of a button; there are Jacuzzis in bathrooms; the restaurant has black-velvet chairs, grass-topped tables and spoons and forks suspended from light fittings. It's all over the top and we love it. SAL SALIS, AUSTRALIA A little closer to home, this swingers accommodation is set right on the Ningaloo Reef, where the desert meets the sea — an extraordinary and unique part of Australia that should be on all travel bucket lists. The 16 off-grid wilderness tents are located right on the beach, surrounded by little else but untamed nature. Swing in your hammock all day long, gazing into your stupid-beautiful views with an ice-cold beer at hand, or get out on a sea kayak to explore the nearby reefs full of colourful sea life. Not only is this one of the best accommodations for swingers, it's also one of the best glamping spots in Australia. COMO COCOA ISLAND, MALDIVES COMO Cocoa Island is your quintessential luxury Maldives resort that's home to villas hovering on stilts above clear blue waters. It's the kind of place you see in honeymoon brochures and would expect to be the next location of The White Lotus. It is pure luxury. It's also where swingers can hop from beachside hammock to beachside hammock throughout a long sunny day. When you grow tired of your own private pool and the waters full of turtles and dolphins, you can hit up some of the swings dotted about the island. Bring a good book and a few beers with you and spend your holiday swinging by the sea. RUSCHMEYER'S, UNITED STATES This grown-up, summer camp-style boutique hotel in the Hamptons is home to 19 detached rooms surrounding a large swath of grass that provides a back-to-basics luxury — with swings, a tepee and lawn chairs aplenty. Swingers will even find hammocks in some of the Ruchmeyer's bedrooms. And come night-time, the lawns host summer parties and outdoor cinemas. This means you can swing here all day and all night long. GAYANA MARINE RESORT, MALAYSIA At Gayana Eco Resort, you can take swinging to whole new heights: this eco-luxe hideaway has jungle paths with a canopy walk and zip line, so you can whoosh through the trees like an over-caffeinated monkey. For calmer moments, there's also an excellent spa with horizon-view rooms and a selection of massages, scrubs, facials and beauty treatments. There's even an on-site marine research centre: a hub devoted to giant-clam breeding and coral restoration programmes, where guests can feed man-sized groupers in floating pens, plant coral, or scoop up starfish and squishy sea cucumbers in the touch tanks. WALDORF ASTORIA LOS CABOS This Los Cabos resort is huge and opulent. The 115 individually decorated guestrooms feature fireplaces, private plunge pools and balconies overlooking the private beach. Swingers won't find any swings in their rooms, but there are plenty dotted about the resort. On the beach, stacks of hammocks line the shores, while the beach bar has swapped out the stools, preferring guess to sip cocktails while sitting on wooden swings. These may get a little dangerous once you've had a few bevs, so you best head to the beachside hammocks or one of the four Waldorf Astoria restaurants soon after. THE KOROWAI, INDONESIA Each of Korowai's wood-framed rooms are carved into the limestone cliff overlooking Bali's famous Impossible Beach (known for surfing, not partying). Marvel at the ridiculous uninterrupted 180-degree views across the ocean from the privacy of your own little balcony adorned with traditional Balinese décor — including many hammocks and crochet nets. It's one of the most romantic places to stay in Bali. The glitz and glam of other Uluwatu resorts doesn't exist here. Instead, you and your partner will feel as if you've found your own hidden oasis. But, when or if you do want to get into town, the hospitable resort staff will rent you a scooter or organise a taxi ride. Plus, there are a few walkable restaurants nearby if you somehow get tired of dining at their restaurant overlooking the beach. Top images: Naladhu Private Island Resort Feeling inspired to book a swinging getaway? Book your next dream holiday with Concrete Playground Trips — with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations around the world.
Sometimes in The Whitsundays, sometimes outside the Sydney Opera House, sometimes in the rooftop carpark of a Melbourne Woolworths, thousands of people have disrobed for Spencer Tunick. The New York-based artist stages naked installations in public places that also become nude photography works. He's filled Bondi beach, Federation Square, Munich's Bavarian State Opera, a patch of the Nevada desert and many more places with folks sans clothes, too — and, in both 2023 and 2024, he's turned his attention to Brisbane as well. Tunick first hit the Sunshine State last November for a piece called TIDE by the Brisbane River, which formed part of 2023's queer arts and culture-focused Melt Festival. On a spring Saturday, more than 100 participants shed their attire for the camera by the water. Before that installation even took place, it was revealed that he'd back in 2024 for an installation now called RISING TIDE. It too is part of the same fest, and it also involves another Brisbane landmark: the Story Bridge. On Sunday, October 27, 2024, the famous river crossing will welcome thousands of naked volunteers. Accordingly, it isn't just traffic that will bring the structure to a standstill this spring. For the shoot, the stretch across the water is closing to cars. If you're keen to get your kit off for the camera — and be part of history — there's no limit to the number of people who can take part. RISING TIDE is just one way to engage with Tunick's art in Brisbane this year, however. The other: TIDE Exhibition, featuring images from his debut in the River City. It's displaying at Brisbane Powerhouse from Saturday, September 28–Sunday, November 10, also falling into Melt, featuring projected video from the installation. The TIDE Exhibition marks a few firsts for Tunick as he celebrates 30 years of making his style of art, over which period he's staged more than 100 installations. This is his first-ever Australian exhibition, and it's the first time that his work will be on display for the public. The single-channel video at the heart of the TIDE Exhibition not only includes imagery from the shoot by the Brisbane River, but also stories from participants. Images: Spencer Tunick.
For the first time ever, the Art Gallery of New South Wales brings to Sydney masterpieces from the golden age of Dutch painting — a culturally confident, powerful era when the art of painting flourished. It was during this time that artists including Rembrandt van Rijn and Johannes Vermeer produced vivid works depicting the world around them, with subjects ranging from intense portraits and dramatic seascapes to tranquil scenes of domestic life and careful studies of fruit and flowers. Exclusive to Sydney, the exhibition features 76 artworks sourced from Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum, including seven pivotal paintings and 16 etchings by Rembrandt presented in a room dedicated solely to the celebrated artist. The exhibition also brings a rare and celebrated piece by Vermeer, Woman reading a letter (1663). Jacob van Ruisdael, recognised as one of the most important landscapists of the era, and Jan Davidsz de Heem, the revered flower painter, also take their place among many other masters of this golden age. Meticulously painted, these artworks remain as vital and fresh as they were 400 years ago. What's more, to celebrate the launch of the exhibition — and help reduce the strain the return of summer puts on your wallet — we're giving away ten double passes to the exhibition so you can enter the world of rich paintings and celebrated works for yourself. To enter, see details below. [competition]641676[/competition]
UK singer-songwriter Olivia Dean will make her ARIA Awards debut in Sydney this November, performing live just one day before a special headline show. ARIA confirmed the news today, announcing that Dean will take the stage at the Hordern Pavilion on Wednesday, November 19. The London-born artist will stick around for a one-off Sydney gig the following evening, before returning in 2026 for a full arena tour. "I love Australia and I'm so excited to perform at the 2025 ARIA Awards," Dean said in a statement. "This will be my first time at the awards ceremony, it's going to be lots of fun!" The announcement follows the release of Dean's sophomore album The Art of Loving, which dropped last week and is already climbing the ARIA charts. Its third single, 'Man I Need,' is sitting at #2 on the Singles chart and is tipped to go Platinum within a fortnight. This year's ARIA Awards are shaping up to be a big one, with Ninajirachi, Dom Dolla and RÜFÜS DU SOL among the top nominees. The ceremony will stream live on Paramount+ and air on Channel 10. Check out the full list of ARIA Award nominees. Images: Getty
What did a negroni taste like in the 70s? That's one of the questions that Stan's, the lounge bar at Howard Smith Wharves, answers. Here's another: does Cantonese restaurant Stanley need a Hong Kong-inspired watering hole that combines XO sand crab cigars, lobster and truffle dumplings, design-your-own martinis, DJ-spun tunes and a late-night dance floor, all on its second level? The answer to the latter is a hearty yes. A night out at at one of Brisbane's top eateries now doesn't have to start or end with dinner. An evening at Stanley can expand beyond your meal without leaving the premises, in fact. While there's no change to the restaurant's operations downstairs in its heritage-listed 1930s-era former water police building by the river, the upstairs space relaunched in October 2024 — which is where Stan's comes in. As a result, one of the city's best places to eat has become one of Brissie's must-visit places for a drink as well. So, when you're not tucking into a feast of dishes on the ground level — including yum cha daily for lunch — you'll want to head up a floor for beverages over snacks in a newly transformed part of the site. At Stan's, the vibe and the decor take inspiration from Hong Kong — and the idea is to mix old-world touches with modern flourishes as well. Think: jewel-hued furnishings and decor, such as rich red seating and velvet curtains in emerald tones; dark and moody lighting; antique mirrored wall panels, including the back bar; timber aplenty as accents; hand-painted mural walls across the private lounge; and aged brass cocktail tables to sit at. This is also a place to make shapes or simply enjoy the DJ's music picks, thanks to a vintage JBL sound system. The promise for the tunes: extensive and eclectic. The bar has folks on the decks most evenings, and is also hosting album listening sessions in the middle of the week. Turning the space into a late-night dance floor is encouraged. Naturally, cocktails feature prominently on the beverage list — and the approach here is classic-meets-new, too. Martinis and daiquiris are highlights, with the signature martini menu letting patrons pic their gins or vodkas, bitters and extracts to taste. If you're just after spirits and you have some cash to splash, a collection of vintage tipples from around the world, some dating from as far back as the 60s, is also a drawcard. You'll find the range of rare drops on display in a custom-built cabinet, and those 70s-style concoctions as well. Stanley Executive Chef Louis Tikaram isn't just focusing on the main restaurant downstairs now that Stan's is up and running. He's whipped up a new range of Cantonese bites just for the upper floor, designed to match the beverages. Options span steamed lobster and truffle dumplings, rolled peking duck pancakes, rock lobster buns, painted tropical crayfish, fried prawn toast and more, ensuring the venue's luxe vibes come through in its food offering.
My ode to Scout shall be swift and sweet like the café itself. Its food is fun, its drinks are molten magic and the venue itself is as cosy as Yogi. It wreaks simplicity in perfection, yet the dozens of special touches apparent from entrance to exit makes Scout one of the most creative and cherished coffee spaces in little old Brisbane. It has my tick of approval, but more impressively it has my parents' – here's why. The one thing that tends to grind my parents' gears are limited selection menus. Boutique cafes that stingingly offer a house muesli, a cryptically labeled bacon and eggs and a drink selection of lattes, Darjeeling and aqua. It's frustrating for a an excited stomach and boring for those who crave options, only to be greeted with a few passages of text on a white space dominated menu. Scout's menu is anything but stingy, though it's margins and font size suggest otherwise. Combining cabinet specials, with a sweet selection drinks, and offering five to six fat and fabulous mains, Scout understands the balance of keeping options open, without being a whore. Its salted caramel milkshake founded the flavour craze that's been sweeping the Brisbane boutique café scene, and their strawberries and cream and chocolate ganache options are nostalgically dazzling. Their organic lemonade contains evident traces of really lemon, and their coffee is a-grade in taste and execution. What makes Scout though is the bagels. They hold the throne as having Brisbane's best bagels, according to us, and we've never wavered in throwing this title to anyone but these craft masters. Meatloaf Monday could turn any vegetarian meat lover – well in my case it certainly did, and every other flavour combination is executed with perfect filling ratio, with the highest sourced ingredients. From truffle sopressa to white bait, with generous dashing's of aioli and relish, Scouts holds a cabinet of well sourced fillings and stuffs them in bagels with the most genius of expertise and generosity. Scout, their shakes, and of course their bagels induce that type of food coma your mind assumes and prays can only be treated with more food. It can get dangerous, but when visiting Scout be anything but careful.
Sydney comes alive in summer — long lunches segue into golden-hour drinks, warm evenings spill into the streets and the city buzzes with new exhibitions and openair experiences. Whether you're browsing a waterside market or diving into a boundary-pushing gallery show, this season is built for discovery. Instead of dipping in for a single exhibition or market visit, treat each outing as the start of its own mini escape. In the spirit of making the most of every sunny moment, we've paired five must-see summer events with nearby neighbourhood gems that showcase the breadth of Sydney's food, culture and creativity. The Rocks Markets: Christmas Edition Why it's unmissable Set beneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge, The Rocks Markets: Christmas Edition brings together local makers showcasing their wares for three festive weekends of openair browsing. Add woodfired pizza, gozleme and crepes into the mix — along with furoshiki gift-wrapping workshops — and you've got one of summer's most charming holiday pit stops. Find out more here. Make a day of it Once you've filled your tote, wander a few steps to Hooked and Harvest, The Rocks' sunny new fish and chippery serving market-fresh fish, freshly shucked oysters and flavour-packed salads. If you're after something with a deeper sense of place, Midden by Mark Olive heroes native Australian ingredients via refined dishes like kutjera-braised beef cheek, blue gum-smoked miso eggplant and Olive's signature Bush Pavlova topped with a native fruit coulis and wattleseed cream, all from a breezy spot under the sails of the Sydney Opera House. [caption id="attachment_921470" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] Wind down nearby As the sun starts to slip, take the lift up to Martinez, Circular Quay's breezy rooftop bar with Mediterranean coastal vibes, panoramic views and a bright drinks list made for golden hour. Extend your stay Make a weekend of it at The Russell Boutique Hotel, the charming new stay in the heart of The Rocks (and set right above Sydney's oldest pub). With its warm, character-filled rooms — some of which have direct courtyard access — and unbeatable proximity to some of Sydney's most iconic spots, it's an ideal base for an urban summer escape. [caption id="attachment_918689" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Eugene Hyland[/caption] RELICS: A New World Rises Why it's unmissable This immersive new exhibition at the Australian Museum transforms discarded objects into intricate LEGO® civilisations, from a grandfather clock reverse-engineered into a time machine to a cryogenics facility inside a vintage freezer. Part art installation, part nostalgic playground, it's a summer experience for kids and adults alike — and a reminder that creativity and curiosity have no age limits. Find out more here. Make a day of it Kick things off with coffee and a pastry — or an inventive breakfast plate like avo and kale bagel with peanut chilli sauce, or soft scrambled eggs swimming in chicken broth and served with garlic-buttered baguette — in the charming sandstone-framed courtyard of A.P Bread & Wine in Darlinghurst. Post-exhibition, stroll down to Woolloomooloo for a late lunch at Akti, the breezy, coastal-Greek diner serving moussaka croquettes, lamb shoulder with chimichurri and summer-ready cocktails overlooking the Finger Wharf. Wind down nearby Round out your day at Monica, Paddington's new sun-drenched rooftop bar overlooking the bustle of Oxford Street. Head up to take in sweeping skyline views, playful cocktail — like a rhubarb and grapefruit paloma on tap — in hand as the city lights flicker on. Extend your stay Not ready to go home? You don't have to — Monica sits on the roof of the new 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia, a design-forward Paddington boutique set in a heritage-listed former cinema. Its prime location offers easy access to some of Sydney's most vibrant neighbourhoods, with hire bikes available if you're keen to explore more. [caption id="attachment_1045265" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Emmaline Zanelli, 'Magic Cave', 2024-2025, installation view, image courtesy the artist and Museum of Contemporary Art Australia © the artist, photograph by Hamish McIntosh[/caption] MCA double-header: Primavera 2025: Young Australian Artists and A Conversation with the Sun (Afterimage): Apichatpong Weerasethakul Why it's unmissable While we're never short of reasons to visit Australia's home of contemporary art, this summer, the MCA is giving us two more. Running until early March, Primavera 2025: Young Australian Artists continues the annual exhibition's nearly four-decade legacy of providing a platform to Australia's next generation of artistic and curatorial talent. This year's works invite visitors to consider what it means to continue making art in a digital and post-industrial world. Find out more here. Also on show: Palme d'Or-winning filmmaker Apichatpong Weerasethakul's new cinematic site-specific installation for the MCA. The large-scale work — on display in the MCA Macgregor Gallery until early February — features video diaries projected onto floating fabric, creating a dream-like experience inspired by pondering the sun while walking in nature. Find out more here. Make a day of it Take a leisurely stroll around Circular Quay and drop anchor at Flaminia, the refined yet laidback venue by acclaimed chef Giovanni Pilu (Pilu at Freshwater) plating up Italian coastal classics alongside sweeping harbour views. Feeling adventurous? Hop on the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly and arrive at Felons Seafood for towering seafood platters, salt and vinegar martinis and a tap pouring Australia's coldest beer. Take a seat in the spacious outdoor terrace to soak up the sun, or nab a seat by the window for uninterrupted views across Manly Cove and Sydney Harbour. [caption id="attachment_1011783" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] Wind down nearby Next door to its namesake restaurant, Felons Manly brings the award-winning Brisbane brewhouse's beers to an expansive, sun-washed space, with regular events and live music keeping things lively throughout the evening. Or, follow the boardwalk around the shoreline to settle in at The Espy Manly, an alfresco bar serving up spritzes and sunshine in equal measure. If the mood is less wind down and more turn up, venture to neighbouring Freshwater and settle in at Bombies, a late-night bar and live music lounge that brings 1970s beach house energy to the rooftop of the historic Harbord Hotel. Extend your stay If there's a better way to start your day than at the beach, we're yet to find it. And at Manly Pacific Hotel, you'll wake up mere steps from the sand. And whether you choose to start your day with espresso on your sunlit balcony overlooking Manly Beach or you're popping across the road for a pre-breakfast surf, your morning will feel like its own little holiday. The Makers and Shakers Christmas Gift Market Why it's unmissable If you're hunting for holiday gifts with personality, this market at Rozelle's White Bay Cruise Terminal ticks every box: you'll find over 140 stalls selling Australian-made homewares, slow-fashion pieces and artisan treats in a bright, harbour-framed warehouse setting. Add drop-in workshops, kids' zones and free parking, and you've got all the ingredients for some feel-good festive shopping. Find out more here. Make a day of it Start the day with a hearty Middle Eastern-inspired brunch at The Rusty Rabbit, a light-filled corner spot in leafy Concord. If it's views you're after, it's hard to beat The Fenwick. This restaurant and art gallery on the edge of the East Balmain waterfront, set in an 1880s former tugboat store, plates up Italian-inspired fare and postcard-perfect views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. [caption id="attachment_706208" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Old Clare Rooftop[/caption] Wind down nearby Swap the Inner West waterfront for its indie bar scene. Start with the Inner West Distillery Trail, where small-batch gin, whisky and new-world spirits are poured straight from the source in tasting rooms across Rozelle, Marrickville and surrounds. The Inner West is also home to some of Sydney's best breweries, and the Inner West Ale Trail links a string of top-tier taprooms within a few easy kilometres. From hazy IPAs in sunny beer gardens to crisp lagers and barrel-aged sours in cavernous converted warehouses, it's a relaxed way to dig a little deeper into one of Sydney's most creative neighbourhoods. Extend your stay Make it a full weekend escape at The Old Clare Hotel, which blends luxe contemporary comforts with the character of a historic Chippendale building. By day, bask by the rooftop pool and bar, soaking up the city skyline with a drink in hand; then, wander into the laneways of Chippendale's buzzy food and bar scene to make a night of it. Ready to feel the Sydney side of summer? Discover the full calendar of what's on across the city at sydney.com.
Trust Kate McCartney and Kate McLennan, Australia's favourite Kates and funniest double act, to make a killer TV show about chasing a killer that's the perfect sum of two excellent halves. Given their individual and shared backgrounds, including creating and starring in cooking show sendup The Katering Show and morning television spoof Get Krack!n, the pair unsurprisingly add another reason to get chuckling to their resumes; however, with Deadloch, they also turn their attention to crime procedurals. The Kates already know how to make viewers laugh. They've established their talents as brilliant satirists and lovers of the absurd in the process. Now, splashing around those skills in Deadloch's exceptional eight-episode first season — which streams via Prime Video from Friday, June 2 — they've also crafted a dead-set stellar murder-mystery series. Taking place in a sleepy small town, commencing with a body on a beach, and following both the local cop trying to solve the case and the gung-ho blow-in from a big city leading the enquiries, Deadloch has all the crime genre basics covered from the get-go. The spot scandalised by the death is a sitcom-esque quirky community, another television staple that McCartney and McLennan nail. Parody requires deep knowledge and understanding; you can't comically rip into and riff on something if you aren't familiar with its every in and out. That said, Deadloch isn't in the business of simply mining well-worn TV setups and their myriad of conventions for giggles, although it does that expertly. With whip-smart writing, the Australian series is intelligent, hilarious, and all-round cracking as a whodunnit-style noir drama and as a comedy alike — and one of the streaming highlights of the year. The place: Tasmania, in the fictional locale that gives Deadloch its name (that Deadloch Lake means 'dead lake lake' doesn't go unmentioned). That first body: a local gym owner and ProBro entrepreneur ("it's protein for bros," is the sales pitch), who'll soon have burning pubic hair, too ("holy shit, his dick's on fire," is the response). The key police duo: Senior Sergeant Dulcie Collins (Kate Box, Stateless), a by-the-book type who traded being a stressed Sydney homicide detective for a quieter life for her vet wife Cath (Alicia Gardiner, Wakefield); and Darwin Major Crimes division's Eddie Redcliffe (Madeleine Sami, The Breaker Upperers), who asks "how long has shrivel dick been dead for?" about the deceased, is as loud as her Hawaiian shirts and fluoro camouflage getup, and intends to catch the easy culprit ASAP so she can hightail it back north. That Deadloch's initial victim is male gives the standard dead-girl trope an instant a gender-switched twist — even the genre's best, from Twin Peaks and The Killing to True Detective and Top of the Lake, have leaned upon it — but that isn't the source of Deadloch's humour, nor should it be. As recent comedy hits Only Murders in the Building and The Afterparty also know, murder itself isn't amusing either. Rather, it's the chaos around it and the people who get caught up in it that can be comic, which is where Deadloch frequently tickles ribs — that, and lampooning everything from small-town gentrification and tourist-courting winter festivals to arrogant detective archetypes and the male-centric world order, plus the show's glorious way with dialogue and Aussie swearing. Again, the series isn't funny because heterosexual white men comprise its rising body count, or because women are doing the investigating. The way that Deadloch's blokes react, the pressure piled on from the top and the frenzy swirling around is pointedly sidesplitting, though. This is a whodunnit with something to say, because there's no escaping the vast difference between the urgent demands for action from its fictional males and the off-screen reality when women are killed. Who did it? As Eddie leaps to obvious conclusions amid spitting out a non-stop barrage of insults, Dulcie's detective muscle memory kicks in. Deadloch's odd couple have help from constables Abby Matsuda (Nina Oyama, Koala Man) and Sven Alderman (Tom Ballard, Fully Furnished) — one as eager as can be, especially with forensics; the other affable but seeing policing as just as job — and hear theories from almost everyone. That includes doctor and mayor Aleyna Rahme (Susie Youssef, Rosehaven), the driving force behind Deadloch's just-commenced Dark Mofo-influenced Winter Feastival, who is determined to keep the festivities going. And, as Eddie struggles with baggage from back home and Dulcie grapples with investigating her friends, their quest also leads them to Margaret Carruthers (Pamela Rabe, Wentworth), the town's most powerful figure, whose husband was Deadloch's previous mayor. Also adding thoughts and complications: new widow Vanessa Latham (Katie Robinson, Five Bedrooms); bakery owner Vic O'Dwyer (Kris McQuade, Irreverent) and her gastropub chef daughter Skye (Holly Austin, Miss Fisher & the Crypt of Tears); the rabble-rousing Phil McGangus (Shaun Martindale, Sissy); obnoxious pathologist James King (Nick Simpson-Deeks, Winners & Losers); and aspiring AFLW player Tammy Hampson (Leonie Whyman, Mystery Road: Origin) and her studious cousin Miranda Hoskins (Kartanya Maynard, The Messenger). The list goes on, with the pool of suspects similarly broad. Whether they're vocally vicious — Phil spews misogynist vitriol, particularly about Deadloch's influx of lesbian tree-changers — or seemingly oblivious, this cast of characters is also aware that the town's facade isn't as calm and cosy as it appears. Indeed, McCartney and McLennan examine Australia's horrific race-relations history as well as the country's gender politics, interrogating how both blighted the show's setting long before multiple murders upset its supposed idyll. If The Kates had penned Deadloch as a book, it'd be a can't-put-down page-turner. On streaming, as cinematographers Katie Milwright (The Clearing) and Simon Ozolins (Heartbreak High) revel in a Tasmanian gothic look, their tale is that propulsive and addictive. And, the show's deeply layered writing — with Sami, Kim Wilson (Wentworth), Christian White (Clickbait), Anchuli Felicia King (Class of '07) and Kirsty Fisher (Mustangs FC) scripting with McCartney and McLennan — couldn't have a better roster of actors bringing it to life under directors Ben Chessell (The Great), Gracie Otto (Seriously Red) and Beck Cole (Black Comedy). Playing it straight and giving the series its emotional centre, Box could've walked straight in from Broadchurch. Tasked with thundering in, Sami is a comic genius as Eddie, ensuring that the character's unflinching honesty couldn't be more pivotal, and that Eddie is never a one-note OTT outsider. Trust McCartney and McLennan to give TV another tremendous pairing, swapping their own The Katering Show and Get Krack!n dynamic for Box and Sami killing it. Trust them to leave viewers with the feeling that every The Kates' project leaves: wanting more right now. Their time as a food intolerant and an intolerable foodie ran over two seasons, then their breakfast television stint repeated the feat. Here's hoping that Deadloch at least matches them — while its creators don't grace the screen this time, this crime-comedy ranks among The Kates' best work in every other way. Check out the trailer for Deadloch below: Deadloch streams via Prime Video from Friday, June 2.
It isn't just traffic that will bring Brisbane's Story Bridge to a standstill in 2024. On one October Sunday, the famed river crossing will close to cars to become the site of a new nude photography work instead. Staging spectacular pieces filled with naked participants has long been Spencer Tunick's remit — and the New York-based artist has announced his next River City installation in advance of staging his first. On Saturday, November 18, 2023, Tunick is taking to numerous spots along the Brisbane River for a piece called TIDE, which forms part of this year's MELT Festival and was announced by Brisbane Powerhouse earlier in the year. Featuring around 150 people posing for the camera, that photography shoot is now considered a prequel for Sunday, October 27, 2024, when the Story Bridge will welcome thousands of folks sans clothes. [caption id="attachment_926438" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cape Town, Spencer Tunick[/caption] "This challenging work on the Story Bridge marks the second in my two-part series in Brisbane scheduled one year apart, in 2023 then 2024. It is the first time I have ever worked on installations with the same institution for an extended two-year project. This will allow me to deeply explore the city, its light, environment and its people," said Tunick. "The series will hopefully speak to diverse groups of people, and everyone navigating their way through the difficult challenges of our current world. It is a privilege to be making art that centres around the LGBTQIA+ community with all its beauty and vibrance." [caption id="attachment_926440" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lyon, Spencer Tunick[/caption] The Story Bridge piece will form part of Melt Open, an expansion of Brisbane Powerhouse's LGBTQIA+ arts and culture festival that'll debut next year. The broader fest is a fringe-style open-access event that, like MELT first, champions diversity. So has Tunick's work for decades, whether he's been in the Whitsundays with almost 100 Aussies in 2019 or briefly turning Bondi into a nude beach in 2022. Tunick initially turned his lens Australia's way in 2001 in Melbourne, when 4500 naked volunteers posed for a pic near Federation Square as part of the 2001 Fringe Festival. Since then, he's also photographed around 5000 nude people in front of the Sydney Opera House during the 2010 Mardi Gras, then returned to Victoria in 2018 shoot over 800 Melburnians in the rooftop carpark of a Prahran Woolworths. Elsewhere, Tunick has photographed the public painted red and gold outside Munich's Bavarian State Opera, covered in veils in the Nevada desert and covered in blue in Hull in the UK. The list goes on, with more than 100 temporary installations on his resume since 1992. [caption id="attachment_926441" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Melbourne, Spencer Tunick[/caption] "This major Tunick installation featuring thousands of nude bodies on the landmark Story Bridge is a visual expression of the diversity and inclusion that Brisbane's new LGBTQIA+ festival, Melt Open, aims to deliver across the city," said Melt Open Executive Producer Pieta Farrell. Brisbanites, or anyone who's keen to disrobe on the Story Bridge for a new piece of art, can put their hand up to join in — with the call for volunteers open now. And Tunick does indeed mean anyone, because there's no limit to the number of people who can take part. If you're not usually located in Brissie and you'd like to get snapped, you will need to travel at your expense. Successful applicants will be informed via email a few weeks prior to the shoot. [caption id="attachment_926442" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jay Cull[/caption] Spencer Tunick's 2024 Story Bridge installation will take place on Sunday, October 27, 2024 during Melt Open. Head to the Brisbane Powerhouse website to register to take part. TIDE will be shot on Saturday, November 18, 2023 along the Brisbane River as part of MELT Festival 2023, which runs until Sunday, November 26 at Brisbane Powerhouse. For more information or to buy tickets, head to the fest's website now. Top image: Gateshead, Newcastle, England by Spencer Tunick.
Airports are a necessary part of the international travel experience. They're hardly most people's favourite place or anyone's ultimate destination, but you can't fly overseas without visiting them. Next time you're jetting abroad, however, you might want to add a visit to Singapore's Changi Airport to your trip. Nothing breaks up a long-haul journey like a 40-metre tall indoor waterfall, after all. After hosting a short-term immersive Harry Potter-themed world over the Christmas period, the Asian transit point has now launched a new permanent addition — the 137,000-square-metre Jewel Changi complex, under a glass-and-steel dome, that's jam-packed with shops, dining options, greenery, activities and one massive water feature. Designed by Safdie Architects, it takes over ten storeys, including five above the ground and five below, as part of the airport's terminal one expansion project. If it's the cascading attraction that you're most interested in, it's called the Rain Vortex. As the name suggests, it uses water collected from above. Running from 8am–12.30am, it's also the world's tallest indoor waterfall, and also provides the backdrop for a light show. Surrounding the Rain Vortex is the Shiseido Forest Valley, which is home to over 2000 trees and palms, as well as more than 100,000 shrubs, all across five storeys. To allow visitors to really soak in the natural splendour, the manicured garden features a number of walking trails that take around half an hour each to complete — and they're open 24/7. Although the waterfall and garden have been welcoming travellers since Wednesday, April 17 — as has Jewel Changi in general, its new onsite IMAX theatre and YOTELAIR Hotel, plus Nike, Marks & Spencer, Muji, Zara and Uniqlo stores as part of 280 retailers and eateries overall — there's also more to come. From June 10, the site will mark the opening of its fifth-level Canopy Park, which'll bring with it a heap more adventurous activities. Specifically, visitors will be able to walk along a bridge suspended 23 metres above the ground, and even see through the glass floor to the garden below. You'll also be able to bounce along a 250-metre span of sky nets, wander through both a hedge maze and a mirror maze, and slip down the slide-filled sculptural playground. Forget just killing time on a layover, searching for a phone charger or suffering in uncomfortable chairs while you're waiting for your flight home. Here, you might have to remind yourself that you're actually at an airport. For further details, visit the Jewel Changi Airport website.
For more than two decades, every Australian kid was familiar with Aerobics Oz Style. It's the show that kept TV-loving children from their early-morning cartoon fix — airing each day before Cheez TV and its predecessors started. Back then, between 1982–2005, the sight of leotards, tights and leg warmers probably brought a frown to your face. Now, while we're all trying to keep active in isolation, it's reason to smile. Bust out your best retro workout outfit and get ready to stretch, bend, step and tone — because Network Ten has just dropped a heap of old-school episodes on its free streaming platform. Over at 10Play, 15 90s-era instalments of Aerobics Oz Style are now available to watch (complete with 90s-era soundtracks). The bulk were first aired in February 1995; however you can also get sweaty to episodes from April and October 1996, December 1997 and February 1998 as well. Most of the available episodes were filmed in a studio, so prepare not only for some thoroughly 90s activewear fashions, but also for pastel-heavy set design from the period. If you're eager to get a glimpse of Sydney from more than 20 years ago, though, three of the episodes were shot at various outdoor locations around town — so you can get fit and check out the scenery. Need an amusing reminder of what you're in for? In 1998, TISM satirised the show in the music video for their single 'Whatareya?', which you can watch below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GiHdpAVIHgo To sweat your way through 15 retro episodes of Aerobics Oz Style, head to 10Play.
For animal-lovers, one silver lining of the pandemic-era cloud was all the adorable live-streams that made their way into our feeds. Watching cute critters all day, everyday, became a favourite pastime, thanks to various zoos and aquariums around Australia and beyond. After all, what better way to brighten your mood than to lose a few minutes, hours or days to some adorable creatures on screen? Fast-forward to now and Melburnians — or anyone interested in the city's birdlife, really — again have something special to watch. This live-stream isn't actually new, but it's particularly relevant at this time of year. Thanks to a camera on 367 Collins Street in the CBD, you can train your peepers on two rare peregrine falcons nesting on a high-up ledge outside the building. You're able to give them a squizz any time you like, but from August onwards each year (aka now) is when you'll see them lay and hatch their chicks. At the moment, the eggs are already there, so you'll spy a whole lot of sitting atop them as the feathered couple waits for their progeny to hatch into the world. Once they've arrived, you'll also see vision of the parents bringing food back to the nest for their little ones to eat. For a peek at all the action, head to the Mirvac building's website. For those visiting the high-rise itself, the CCTV footage of the falcons is also on display in the foyer. This particular nest comes with quite the history, too, as peregrine falcons have been nesting at 367 Collins Street since way back in 1991. This is actually the only known peregrine falcon nesting site within the Melbourne CBD, which obviously makes it extra special. Check out the live-stream below: For more information about 367 Collins Street's peregrine falcons and their nest, head to the 367 Collins website and the 367 Collins Falcon Watchers Facebook page.
How much Korean BBQ can you devour in 90 minutes, plus hotpot dishes, other hot and cold bites, salads and desserts as well? Visit this Sunnybank spot and you'll find out. Queensland's largest Korean BBQ and hotpot venue is open at Market Square, serving up buffets seven days a week. Here, you'll get cooking, scooping, slurping and feasting. Summer always sizzles in Brisbane, as do most other seasons, but the temperature is no longer the only reason on trips to the city's south. Seoul Garden started firing up its grills on Wednesday, December 11, 2024 on Market Square's second floor, taking over the entire level — or, to be more accurate, customers at the first Sunshine venue from the Victorian-born chain are doing the searing. This is a big addition to the River City in a range of ways. The 300-person-capacity restaurant sprawls across 800 square metres, which is why the brand advises that it's the Sunshine State's biggest Korean BBQ and hotpot venue. It is also dishing up more than 50 hotpot choices, with 30-plus meat options, as part of its the all-you-can-eat experience. Amid neon lights that take inspiration from the eatery's namesake, customers sit at tables with grills, pairing their chosen ingredients with house-made sauces and side dishes. Or, opt for the hotpot buffet or dedicated raw bar — or make a date with all three. Either way, no one should be leaving feeling hungry, with this stomach-filling meal setting patrons back $49.90 per person. In Victoria, where the chain operates in Docklands, Highpoint, Northland and Glen Waverley Century City, Seoul Garden's setup has unsurprisingly proven popular — but its move to Brisbane is its first venture out of the state that it has always called home until now. Images: Vanguard Events Entertainment.
Next time you're hankering for a pastry and you're in the vicinity of West Village, let Hungary's cylindrical-shaped kürtőskalács tempt your tastebuds. The traditional dish, also known as chimney cake, is caramelised, crunchy and flaky on the outside, soft on the inside, and can even come filled with Nutella — and it gives West End newcomer Kürtősh its name. Now open at the Boundary Street precinct seven days a week, the bakery takes its cues from Central Europe, as its name and favourite menu item makes plain. Here, you'll also find burekas in a range of flavours — ricotta and feta, potato and mushroom, and sweet potato, rosemary and thyme, for starters — plus chocolate brandy balls. Croissants, danishes, chocolate twists and cookies, too. Another highlight: cakes by the slab that are sold by weight. Owner Ben Haikin takes his kürtőskalács seriously, travelling to learn how to make them and coming back with a 70-year-old recipe. But his now eight-store chain of bakeries also serves up everything from cheesecakes to coffee, and mixes up its menu regularly. Making many of its dishes onsite, the West End store marks Kürtősh's first in Queensland, with its seven other shops spread across New South Wales and Victoria — and new outposts to come in both southern states, too. Visitors can expect both indoor and outdoor seating, a packed cabinet full of baked goods, and a drinks lineup that also includes iced drinks — coffees, teas, chocolates and mochas — and juices. And yes, if you've been paying attention to the ever-growing West Village precinct, it just keeps gaining new spots to eat, with Kürtősh following Anita Gelato among the newbies indulging your sweet tooth this summer. Find Kürtősh at 111 Boundary Street, West Village, West End — open 7am–10pm daily.
Had a big night out in Fortitude Valley? You might not be thinking about heading back the next morning, but The New Black is a great place to come back to life. It's flagship cafe for Brisbane roaster The Black Lab Coffee Co, so you're guaranteed a soul-reviving brew alongside a selection of top-notch brunch dishes. You can keep it simple with a classic homemade granola with seasonal berries or opt for something a little more special. Our recco? The avocado on toast that's miles above those you find on most Brisbane cafe menus. This one comes with a basil pesto, watermelon radishes, kale chips, whipped ricotta and seed crackers. It's giving Melbourne and Sydney brunches a run for their money. And for those who want to really indulge for breakfast, there's The New Black's decadent espresso waffles or the fried chicken benny. This is real bougie hangover food, for those of you who prefer to eat through the pain rather than try to sleep though it.
If furniture could talk, the couch from Friends would have plenty to say. For a decade up until 2004, the orange-hued lounge played a pivotal on everyone's favourite 90s sitcom, as Rachel, Ross, Monica, Chandler, Joey and Phoebe whiled away the hours in Central Perk, reclined upon the sofa's comfortable-looking cushions, drank copious amounts of coffee and nattered non-stop about their lives. As far as on-screen seats go, it's up there with the most famous. And Australian streaming platform Stan bringing it Down Under. The current home of Friends in Australia, the service is celebrating the show's 25th anniversary — and while it can't bring Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer to our shores to mark the occasion, it can whip up a replica of the couch they plonked their butts on for ten seasons. Keen to sit where your TV besties once did (or on a settee that resembles the one they sat on, to be precise)? Then you can do just that between Thursday, August 29 and Sunday, September 22. Stan's couch pop-up is touring Aussie shopping centres during that period, spending different weekends in various spots in Victoria, Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia. We can't promise that the sofa will always be empty, like it magically was whenever Monica, Rachel and the gang wanted to grab a caffeine hit, but you will be able to see and touch the replica either way. An adjacent coffee cart will also serve up drinks, an acoustic performer will set the mood by playing 90s covers (including Phoebe's memorable ditties) and there'll be themed merchandise on offer, naturally. There's not much more to the promotion, other than showering Friends fans in nostalgia, letting everyone snap a selfie on the sofa and serving up a reminder that the show is available to stream. That said, if you take a pic, post it to your social media network of choice and tag Stan, you can win prizes, including a trip to New York City. COUCH DATES AND LOCATIONS Melbourne Central, Vic — Thursday, August 29 (10–9pm); Friday, August 30–Sunday, September 1 (12–5pm) Robina Town Centre, Qld — Thursday, September 5 (3–9pm); Friday, September 6–Sunday, September 8 (11–4pm) Westfield Tuggerah, NSW— Saturday, September 7–Sunday, September 8 (11–4pm) Westfield Chatswood, NSW — Saturday, September 7–Sunday, September 8 (11–4pm) Burnside Village, SA — Saturday, September 14–Sunday, September 15 (12–5pm) Westfield Southland, Vic — Saturday, September 21–Sunday, September 22 (12–5pm) Broadway Shopping Centre, NSW — Saturday, September 21–Sunday, September 22 (12–5pm) The Friends couch is touring the country between Thursday, August 29 and Sunday, September 22. Visit the Stan Facebook event for further details.
The Mansfield Tavern is an icon of Brisbane's southside, having served cold pints and hearty food to all-comers since 1974. Following a recent renovation, the down-to-earth pub has entered its next chapter, offering a refreshed bistro, beer garden and sports bar. Plus, its historic entertainment space, The Arena, is better equipped than ever, breathing new life into one of the city's famed live music venues. In the bistro, this light-filled space is a go-to spot for easygoing cuisine. Spanning the full spectrum of laidback pub staples, the menu offers shared plates and comforting dishes, like smash burgers, classic chicken parmi and a steak lineup, served with garden salad and chips or creamy ranch slaw and garlic buttered potatoes. Meanwhile, there are dedicated menus for seniors and kids. Speaking of little ones, the bistro leads directly into a landscaped courtyard with a spacious kids' play area. You also have an openair beer garden running adjacent to the bistro, adorned with festoon lighting and relaxed seating. No doubt this spot will prove popular on sunny days and sweltering evenings. The sports bar is another inviting zone, featuring pool tables and comfy furniture alongside a six-metre-wide LED screen wall primed for big games and a rowdy crowd. As for The Arena, Mansfield Tavern's storied entertainment venue, expect regular programming that maintains its 50-year history. Over the decades, the stage has featured bands like Midnight Oil, INXS and Violent Soho, while the space has routinely doubled as a boxing venue for major events. For something a little more lighthearted, the schedule is also stacked with touring comedians and family-friendly entertainment.
Oi, don't be an inner-city brat. If it's been a while since you left the lights of Brissie, it's time to go out and discover the great outdoors outside of your usual metropolitan orbit. Check out your own backyard. Get the fresh air inya. Make John Williamson proud, see it for yourself — and so on and so forth. Queensland is home to some of Australia's most beautiful country towns, brimming with A+ parmigianas, out-of-this-world views and even the trendy café or two. Australia wouldn't survive without these little plots, so go out, say thanks and learn for yourself that this state extends beyond Queen Street Mall. Here are six country towns perfect for a day trip from Brisbane. [caption id="attachment_575404" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Bluebird Kitchen.[/caption] WARWICK Something exciting is going on in this little rural pocket, and if you've got a stomach (and the appetite) for brisket, you'll want to take the trek southwest for a bite. We wouldn't go as far as to call Warwick culinary crux of regional Australia, but hoo boy is it showing off some strong game. Bluebird Kitchen is the newest edition to an already solid cafe scene in Warwick, and they're going above and beyond to produce food worth making a day trip for. Potato hash and brisket, homemade bagels, brioche French toast, pasture eggs and beans — their menu compares to (and beats) some of Brisbane's best. They're combining local produce with American-style cooking to produce plates that'll have you checking out the local rental scene. Road trip time: two hours. [caption id="attachment_574381" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Queens Park. Image credit: Tatters via Flickr[/caption] TOOWOOMBA Quite honestly, Toowoomba has spent a good deal of time on Queensland's grubbiest list (I can say it, I grew up here), but in the last decade or so Toowoomba has done a 360. It's embraced the fact it's a) beautiful, b) a viable tourist hotspot, and c) homes some of the richest people in Queensland who don't mind putting a bit of coin back into the town. Toowoomba is known for its gardens and flowers, so be sure to check out all the parks in the area; Laurel Bank, Queens Park and Picnic Point are the top three. Ground Up Espresso is king of the café scene, showing off an insane eggs Benedict and Toby's Estate coffee. The Spotted Cow is the top pick for a craft beer or Saturday night gig. Road trip time: one and a half hours. [caption id="attachment_575412" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Apple pie at Sutton's Farm. Image credit: fujitake95 via Instagram.[/caption] STANTHORPE Stanthorpe is a like the Wholefoods version of a small town. The main street — and even the highway leading in to town — is littered with delis, fresh fruit barns and coffee shops. There's a vineyard on pretty much every corner and apple trees seem to grow on the street. Go to a café and you'll be spending over $15 for a bowl of muesli, but it will be the damn freshest muesli you've ever tasted as everything is sourced from within a five-kilometre radius. Sutton's Farm boasts the best apple pie around — and when we say 'around', we mean on a national scale. The property is accessed by a slightly hidden turnoff from the New England Highway, and you'll have to venture into the creepy looking shed to find their café. They make their own apple juice and cider, so just order anything and everything with apple in it. Road trip time: two and a half hours. [caption id="attachment_575413" align="alignnone" width="1280"] bertknot via Flickr.[/caption] KILCOY Besides a lake filled with really friendly turtles, this 1700-person town doesn't offer much else... except the best bakery in Queensland! We're not talking artisan sourdoughs, cronuts or macarons here. Coff & Co is a real bakery that is known for (and gets away with) boasting the best pies in Queensland — and offers up a pretty mean lamington to boot. You won't always have to wait in a line, but be prepared to join the queue because this is a popular little spot. And tomato sauce doesn't cost extra, so how's that for real Aussie service? Kilcoy also claims to home a Yowie. Read up on it here. Road trip time: one and a half hours. [caption id="attachment_574376" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Mary's Commercial Hotel. Photo credit: Matt via Flickr.[/caption] DALBY Once upon a time Dalby used to be the town you wouldn't even thing to stop at, locking your doors and looking straight ahead as you drove through. But now it has all the trappings of a bustling country town — a Stella Ross, a Coffee Club and three Indian restaurants — and holds its own on the Queensland tourism map. Check out Dalby for it's pub scene (there's close to a dozen of them), as well as Katty Cakes, which is home to some of the best cupcakes in the Western Downs. Maybe have a feed in Dalby, then check out some of the cute, little towns that surround it — Warra, Jandowae and Brigalow all home at least one heritage-listed something. And if none of that wows you, just go for the wild parakeets, cockatiels and cockatoos. Road trip time: three and a half hours. [caption id="attachment_574375" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Crows Nest Falls. Image credit: Tatters via Flickr.[/caption] CROWS NEST This is one you may not have heard of. It's an offshoot of Toowoomba of sorts, but homes some of the most majestic forestry and water habitats in Queensland. Lake Cressbrook offers fishing, canoeing, sailing and swimming for anyone who is game. Most spectacular of all though is Crows Nest Falls. It's a tucked away secret that's frequented mostly by locals on the weekend, rather than the usual hoards of tourists. It's beautiful. Let's just say, it's the kind of untouched, rarely populated scenery that would have Baz Luhrmann in a frenzy. Road trip time: two hours. Top image: bertknot via Flickr.
What’s better than two new cinemas? Four more new cinemas, of course! Since New Farm Cinemas’ grand unveiling in late July, eagle-eyed patrons and passers-by will have noticed an extra word nestled amongst its name. As emblazoned in lights on the front of the building, the picture palace’s official moniker is New Farm Six Cinemas — but that number didn’t quite ring true until now. For months, only two screens were operational while renovations in the heritage-listed site continued. Instead, the boutique-sized, retro-styled venue’s name was a sign of things to come as builders laboured away behind the scenes to create and finalise four additional theatres. Just in time for Christmas, the city’s newest movie house can now proudly live up to its proper name. Stage two of the refurbished building is complete, doubling the seating capacity of the complex. New Farm Cinemas’ friendly proprietors believe the extra four screens were worth the wait, and we have to agree. The new the Red Room and Blue Room can house 100 and 88 people, respectively, and feature bean bags at the front of each auditorium for extra comfort. The main attractions are the 30-seat Gold Rooms, home to the venue’s premium movie-going experience. If you’re after full-service food and drinks directly to your cinema seat, extra legroom and plush surrounds, then this is the place to be. And in keeping with the venue’s affordable pricing, a Gold Room ticket is only $21.50. The just-opened theatres join the Purple Room — the cinema’s restored centrepiece harking back to the venue’s many former lives as the Merthyr Picture Palace, The Astor and The Village Twin — as well as the newly created, already-operational Bronze Room. In even better news for cinema-goers, more seats to fill means more movies to screen, including new releases, special events and the venue’s growing program of flashback films. Whether you’ve already been to New Farm Cinemas, or you’ve been waiting to find the right time, you no longer have an excuse.
There are swimming holes, and then there are swimming holes — and yes, there is a difference between the two. In the first camp, you'll find all the standard haunts that those seeking a splashing good time rush to, aka the usual beaches and pools. But in the second category lurks spots that are a little further off the beaten path, just waiting for the adventurous and the curious. They're the kind of places where you can soak up the benefits of tea trees, scramble over rocks to secret coastal pockets and look out from waterfall caves. Here's our list for the most unusual swimming holes to try around Brisbane. Put these on your summer itinerary and check them off one by one. [caption id="attachment_795007" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] FOR WAVES: CHAMPAGNE POOLS, FRASER ISLAND As far as natural phenomena go, seaside pools are up there with the best of them. You get the benefits of a dip in the ocean and a place to wade about. Located between Waddy Point and Indian Head just up from 75 Mile beach, Fraser Island's Champagne Pools offer both, as well as the only place on the landmass that allows saltwater swimming. The real source of their attraction, though, is the sensation that gives them their name. Here, as the waves crash over the pools, the foam that remains fizzes, leaving bathers feeling like they're soaking in a splash of sparkling goodness. [caption id="attachment_794956" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tatters via Flickr[/caption] FOR ADVENTURE: LOWER PORTALS, MOUNT BARNEY As many a cliche reminds us, the destination isn't the only source of fun to be found when venturing away from the usual haunts — the journey is just as important. Heading for a swim at Mount Barney's Lower Portals ticks both boxes, particularly for those keen for a hike and then a dip to cool off afterwards. To get to the gorge that keeps people trekking to Queensland's most impressive peak — after you've driven from Brisbane and through Beaudesert and Rathdowney, that is — you can choose to wade along a creek or slither through a hole in a cave. Adventurous sorts will opt for the latter. [caption id="attachment_795005" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Duranbah Beach, Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] FOR SNORKELLING: SPIRAL BEACH, COOLANGATTA If you're thinking about snorkelling in Queensland, you're likely thinking about the Great Barrier Reef. But venturing up north isn't the kind of thing you can just do for the day, so thankfully the Tweed area boasts the southeast's best spot to don a mask and flippers. Even though Spiral Beach — located just past Duranbah Beach near Coolangatta — is actually in New South Wales, us Sunshine Staters will still claim it as our own. If you haven't heard of it before, that's because it's really considered a local secret. At high tide, you'll discover why: that's when the soft coral is visible, as is the brightly coloured marine life. [caption id="attachment_794967" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Richard Ryde via Flickr.[/caption] FOR HEALING: LAKE AINSWORTH, LENNOX HEAD Don't shy away from the discoloured waters of Lake Ainsworth at Lennox Head — or its healing powers, either. As well as being a great place to paddle, kayak and canoe, the secluded, amber-stained spot is infused with the properties of the neighbouring tea trees, and is said to have rejuvenating benefits as a result. That's the reason it was historically embraced by Indigenous communities and used as a women's swimming hole for post-childbirth soothing. To enjoy its restorative powers, you'll need to head over the border and towards Ballina — trust us, this therapeutic freshwater swim is worth driving interstate for. [caption id="attachment_794966" align="alignnone" width="1920"] lilianedeazevedo via Instagram.[/caption] FOR THRILLS: FAIRY POOLS, NOOSA NATIONAL PARK As the name suggests, there's something magical about the Sunshine Coast's Fairy Pools, which can be found in Noosa National Park at Noosa Heads. These oceanside tidal basins are best visited when water levels are high, which is when you'll spy colourful fish, coral and sponges — plus enjoy a vigorous blast from the lively waves that come crashing towards the shoreline. At times, you might need to wade and splash through the energetic spray more than actually swim in it. But, if slipping into the secluded pools by the sea isn't enough of a thrill, the trek there — which involves climbing down the rocky face of the headland, sans path or official walking track — should definitely help get your adrenaline pumping. [caption id="attachment_794999" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] FOR VIEWS: MINYON FALLS, NIGHTCAP NATIONAL PARK Imagine relaxing in a natural pool of water while looking up at 100 metres of glistening rainforest and an unbelievably steep cliff face. At Minyon Falls in Nightcap National Park — located in the hinterland just outside of Byron Bay — there's no need to engage your brain's creative faculties, because that's exactly what you'll find. While gazing out from the lookout above is the more popular pastime, the view from below is just as majestic; but be sure to check what the weather before you make the trek, because this spot is at its best when the water is really flowing. Note: Minyon Falls is currently closed for upgrades until December 23. Before you head out, check for the latest alerts on the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website. [caption id="attachment_795011" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Sunshine Coast[/caption] FOR SECLUSION: SERENITY FALLS, BUDERIM FOREST PARK A place that's less than a 30-minute drive from both Buderim and the coastline might not seem like it should be secluded, but these falls offer a truly hidden paradise. The Serenity Falls in Buderim Forest Park are aptly named for the relaxed state of nature-induced bliss you'll find here. Indeed, this watery wonderland is set in the midst of 45 hectares of rainforest and feels like you're stepping into a world far removed from the beach and town nearby. Just make sure you time your trip to coincide with recent rainfall, otherwise you'll be paddling in ponds rather than swimming in a rockpool. [caption id="attachment_795000" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] FOR CAVE DWELLING: KILLEN FALLS, TINTENBAR Everyone loves a waterfall you can walk behind, which already puts Killen Falls in northern New South Wales on many a must-visit list. Here, just a short two-hour drive from Brisbane, you can swim in the mist of the waterfall-fed basin — but that's not all. For those keen on holing away in a rocky retreat, you can crawl into the crevice that lurks behind the cascading water and watch the stream of spray tumble down. With the beach in such close proximity, it's not a tourist hot-spot, which means there's more chilled-out cave and lagoon dwelling for you to enjoy without the crowds. [caption id="attachment_795009" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] FOR NUDITY: NORTH BELONGIL BEACH, NEAR BYRON If you're a Queenslander fond of sunning yourself in your birthday suit, then you'd best hit the road. Nude bathing isn't actually legal in the Sunshine State, but North Belongil Beach near Byron Bay will let you indulge in this pastime. Just look for the end of Grays Lane, south of the picnic area — about four kilometres north of the main Byron turnoff. Be sure to check that you're in the clothing-optional section before you disrobe, though, as only a 600-metre stretch of the beach is nudist friendly. Signs at the Tyagarah Nature Reserve carpark will point you in the right direction. Note: you'll also be in the thick of a national park, which means you'll have to pay a daily visit fee — but $8 is a small price to pay for some sun, sea and sans-clothes freedom.
Proving that causing the internet to lose its mind by delivering adorable puppies to offices around Australia is simply not enough for them, Uber has moved yet another step closer to total world domination. The ridesharing service will launch UberEATS in Brisbane today, October 11. Because who needs multiple apps when you can use one for just about everything? Melbourne was the first city in Australia to be bestowed the food delivery platform back in April, followed by Sydney in July — and now Brisbane can start using the standalone food delivery app too. It basically allows restaurants to get their food delivered to customers between 10am and 10pm by a wide access of ever-available drivers — much like (and in direct competition to) other food delivery apps like Foodora/Suppertime, Deliveroo and Menulog. The list of Brisbane restaurants exceeds 100, including the likes of Esquire, Sake, Ze Pickle, Doughnut Time, Pawpaw, Alfredo's, Miss Bliss and Ben's Burgers. Oh, and delivery will be free for the launch. So you only have to pay the cost of your burg, and not a cent more. Plus, you can get ten bucks off your first meal with the code BRISEATS until November 10. UberEATS launched in select US cities last year, allowing users to order lunch or dinner from an ever-shifting menu that includes options from a number of different restaurants. Brisbane's UberEATS service will be available in the inner suburbs only, from Albion to Auchenflower, Newmarket to Woolloongabba and all the suburbs inside that area. You can download the UberEATS app here. For all the details, visit ubereats.com/brisbane.
Located within The Regatta Hotel, and overflowing with natural light and summer ambience, The Boatshed is the perfect venue to come and indulge in a long, steak- and wine-filled lunch. In the middle of the restaurant sits its stunning two-metre-long flame grill, so if the conversation at the table is a little dry, feel free to head over and watch the chefs work their magic. And magic it is, as you'll soon discover when your steak arrives. Head chef Lachlan Alexander has been at the helm since 2018 and prides himself on working with some of the world's best beef producers. The Boatshed has won QHA's Best Restaurant in 2017, 2018 and 2019, which earned it a place in the hall of fame, and Lachlan is determined to drag that legacy well into the future. The menu starts off with raw options such as oysters, caviar, tuna tacos and pickled vegetables, before moving on to more substantial options such as salt and pepper squid, Tasmanian half shell scallops with Korean chilli sauce and slow-cooked brisket croquettes with smokey aioli. There's a seafood linguini, braised lamb ragu, beer-battered fish and pan-roasted barramundi for the mains. But it's the steaks that make this place stand out. They start out with a not-so-intimidating 250-gram pure black angus flank from Gloucester, and move on to a Bass Strait MB2+ Tasmanian 500-gram T-Bone, before finishing with a 1.2 kilogram MB4+ 150-day grain-fed angus Tomahawk from South Australia. There are fifteen different cuts on offer all up, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time to peruse the menu. Toppers include blue cheese wedges, kilpatrick oysters, barbecue prawns and Moreton Bay bugs. When pairing your steak with wine, be sure to grab the attention of one of the expert sommeliers. The list is long, as you'd expect, with plenty of options by the glass or bottle — don't be afraid to ask for help.
Anyone can take their significant other, whether current or prospective, out for dinner and a movie. And while there's nothing wrong with that tried-and-tested dating staple — there's a reason it's an oldie but a goodie, after all — sometimes a romantic outing calls for something a little more unusual. No, we don't just mean picking a different flavour of choc top to munch on during the film. Rather, we're talking about heading somewhere new and doing something different. Brisbane is overflowing with not-so-typical activities, as long as you know where to look. So, here's our pick of the ten best unconventional dates that this city has to offer. Level Up with Arcade Games, Dodgems, Bowling and Karaoke If the couple that hits the arcade together stays together, then this town of ours has a few options to help your relationship keep going strong. From the moment you walk into Fortitude Valley's Netherworld, you'll notice a laidback vibe, shelves of board games, rows of games consoles and plenty of craft beers, so you and your date can hit flippers, smash buttons and pass go. It also has a sibling karaoke bar — which is still underworld-themed — called Lost Souls. Nearby, at B. Lucky and Sons, you'll be able to shoot hoops, show off your dance game skills and race through Mario Kart, all while drinking boozy bubble cups. There's also Holey Moley in the vicinity, should you feel like tap, tap, tapping with your other half — plus Victoria Park's mini golf course just over in Herston, and Archie Bros Cirque Electriq in Bowen Hills. Or, at Chermside and Mt Gravatt, give Hijinx Hotel a shot (you'll find Holey Moleys at both locations, too). No, you can't stay there. Rather, you play (and drink) your way through it, taking part in retro games and challenges in a space that looks like The Grand Budapest Hotel, The Shining's Overlook Hotel and Willy Wonka's chocolate factory all in one. See the City Via Kayak If you'd like to hang out on or around the river, the ocean or another body of water with your date, Brisbane is a town with options. In almost every instance, you can select your favourite watery or water-adjacent pastime and then pick a heap of places to indulge in your chosen activity. Kayaking is no different. Riverlife at Kangaroo Point will let you get paddling through the CBD and seeing the inner city in a completely different way, but that's merely the most central and best-known choice. You can also kayak at Enoggera Reservoir. The list goes on, and spans professional tours and just hiring a kayak, hopping inside and making your own way at your own leisure. Hurl a Few Hatchets, Sling Darts or Break Stuff with a Baseball Bat Most dates don't involve throwing things, or picking up a weapon. So, it might come as a surprise to discover that you can do just that with your special someone — and that Brisbane has multiple options. If hurling hatchets sounds like your kind of fun, you can book a session at several different axe-throwing joints, with Maniax setting up shop in Newstead and the CBD, and West End's Lumber Punks doing its thing in West End. For those who prefer darts, Oche in Fortitude Valley is all about flinging projectiles. It's all about an electronic version of the sport, too, with a heap of different games to play. Or, if you and your other half have always wanted to reenact the Office Space printer smashing scene, Rage Cage in Slacks Creek lets folks work through their stress, manage their anger and even get a workout, all by hitting stuff with a baseball bat. Go for a Soak Bathhouse chain Soak has made its way to Brisbane, complete with relaxing dips, sundeck, stints getting steamy no matter the weather and staring out over the city from a West End rooftop. At this sky-high perch in West Village, you and your special someone can chase your bliss in seven spas and mineral pools, while also hitting up the infrared saunas, steam rooms and relaxation gardens. This can be a social date, too; Soak's pools are meant to be shared, so you can book in for a plunge with your date and mates in the communal facilities. Fancy a luxe pampering session in a national park? A dip with views over South Bank and the CBD? An excuse to hit the Gold Coast for some rest and relaxation? Check out the most-extraordinary day spas around Brisbane as well — which includes two recently opened luxe northside spots in Albion and Lutwyche. Eat Your Way Through a Fish and Chip Crawl Sure, you've been on a pub crawl — but have you and your significant other been on a fish 'n' chip crawl right next to the water? We're guessing that you haven't, but it's one of those simple ideas that's both brilliant and oh-so-easy to execute in Brisbane, because it just involves taking advantage of the abundance of greasy spoons along in the Wynnum–Manly or Sandgate–Shorncliffe areas. We'll give you two options, too: you can either order something from each place you pass as you walk along the relevant seaside region, or you can come back at regular intervals to sample a new eatery. Head north and you'll be hitting up the likes of Flinders Seafood & Bar, Sandgate Fishmonger and Doug's Seafood Cafe, while in the southeast you can enjoy Finn's Fish House, Baywatch Cafe, Manly Fish Co and more. [caption id="attachment_764589" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Arcadium Adventures[/caption] Try to Escape From a Locked Room (For Fun) By now, we've all heard about escape rooms. They've been one of the big thing in adult puzzles for a few years now, so much so that Brooklyn Nine-Nine even based one of its storylines around the concept. And, they've popped up all around Brisbane, so you can choose between sites in the CBD, West End, Spring Hill and more. The idea is simple: people enter a room, get locked in, and have to work together to find their way out. The solution is often far from straightforward, and usually involves a theme of the crime, mystery or horror variety. But, no matter which kind of room and experience you choose — because picking from all the different themes is part of the fun — trying to find your way out of a confined space is a great bonding activity. Wander Around a Cemetery Blame Buffy for this addition to the list. Whether she was dating humans or members of the undead, the TV vampire slayer was often found stalking around a cemetery with the object of her affection — and, apart from having to deal with pesky bloodsuckers, their evenings always seemed quite sweet. Follow in her footsteps by taking your loved one through Toowong's towering city of the dead, South Brisbane's riverside burial ground, Ipswich's heritage-laden spot or Nundah's small and intimate graveyard. A tour guide will tell you all the secrets of the site, including many a ghost story. Grabbing your date's hand because you're a little scared is perfectly acceptable. See Wildlife After Dark When Brisbane went into lockdown in 2020, staring at cute animals via livestreams became an essential activity. In fact, it was one of the ways that we all added some joy to our days — and there's no reason that you can't apply the same idea to your next date. Everything seems rosier when there's a cuddly creature in the vicinity, after all. That proves true even when things prove pretty peachy anyway, as all the time that you spend with your significant other should. So, make the trip to Lone Pine — including after dark. The Fig Tree Pocket venue now sports a new nocturnal precinct, so you can now see cute critters in their prime time. It's a separate experience to a usual ticket, and heroes Australia's nocturnal wildlife across seven exhibit spaces filled with ten species. Get Your Skates On It can often feel as if time has forgotten the humble skating rink, but you and your favourite person shouldn't. Strapping on some wheels will make you feel like you've gone back to the 80s — and the soundtrack will probably help. Rolling onto the rink, clutching the wall trying not to fall over or imagining that you're in Whip It are all timeless activities, and you can get retro — and turn skating into an exercise session — thanks to Rollerfit in Milton and New Farm. If you'd prefer to bust out your best Blades of Glory impression, you can get icy instead at Iceworld at Acacia Ridge and Boondall. [caption id="attachment_559369" align="alignnone" width="1280"] JAM Project via Flickr[/caption] Scope Out the City's Street Art If movies have taught us one thing about romance, it's the joy of the walking-and-talking date. Richard Linklater, Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy made the Before Sunrise, Before Sunset and Before Midnight trilogy about it; Chris Rock tried his hand with Top Five, too; and 2023 British effort Rye Lane also enjoyed its wonders. Brisbane boasts plenty of great places for a stroll; however, we're head over heels with the idea of moseying, nattering, and feasting our eyeballs on the thriving street art scene. You'll get to know your city and your walking partner better — and you'll always have something interesting to talk about. The Museum of Brisbane also does guided public art walking tours, if you'd like some expert commentary as you mosey. Top image: Soak Bathhouse.
It gets to a certain point in winter when it doesn't matter which Brisbane bar is trendiest or which has the cheapest drinks. There's a far more important question afoot — which has a fireplace? While most Brisbane venues are more interesting in appealing to the summer crowd (we're looking at you and your rooftop pool, Limes) there are some seriously winter-friendly gems with snug interiors and natural, log-fire heating that make leaving the house an easy feat. Here's our top eight bars in Brisbane boasting a solid fireplace — aka places where you can find yourself with a belly full of pale ale and the warmest tootsies in town. AT SIXES AND SEVENS James Street's go-to bar has style, substance and a fireplace to boot. At Sixes and Sevens is housed in a heritage-listed cottage on the corner of James and Arthur Streets, a bustling pub where you can find the likes of James Squire One Fifty Lashes and White Rabbit Dark Ale on tap and snuggle into a leather armchair at the end of the day. While the building interior has received a bit of modern makeover, the homely feel and exposed brick interiors have been well preserved — that includes the fireplace. While they're a little hesitant to stoke it up, Sixes are not ones to say never — we bet by August it'll be burning 24/7. 67 James Street, Fortitude Valley THE GRESHAM There's only one thing better than a fireplace and that's a heritage-listed one. As Brisbane's only heritage-listed bar, The Gresham fireplace is the kind you'd imagine Branson from Downton Abbey stoking while thinking of his late Lady Sybil, his socialist Irish roots and his rumbling feelings of attraction for the local school teacher. Not that we watch that show. Anyhow, if you're stuck in the CBD with ice cold fingers and the hankering for a brewski, the Gresham is your spot. 308 Queen Street, Brisbane THE CHALET BAR The Chalet Bar is reason alone to be optimistic about the cooler months. Brisbane's first après ski bar is prime grounds to kick back and warm up like you've just had a busy day on the ski field. In case you have to engage in some intense ski talk around the fireplace, we recommend watching Vertical Limit or Snow Dogs before coming here. Other than that, expect a roaring fireplace surrounded by candles, chesterfield lounges and antique ski paraphernalia at this snug little bar. 320 Boundary Street, Spring Hill ALFRED AND CONSTANCE A busy, but a good one. If you can find a path through the hoards of Ralph Lauren shirts and venture inside one of Alfred and Constance's many rooms, you'll find a cracking fireplace and some comfy leather seats to match. To improve an already idyllic winter setting, lash out and order a warm, oozy pudding. That'll be pair nicely with a Nine Tails Amber Ale and a fleece blanket. Corner Alfred and Constance Streets, Fortitude Valley COWCH If you've ever said it's impossible to eat ice cream in winter, then wash your mouth out. South Bank's dessert bar Cowch can satisfy a whole range of cravings, especially one for a warm fireplace. Their super modern, spruced-up fireplace is the kind that would make Grand Designs Kevin McCloud green with envy. Make sure you get in early if you want a seat fireside — Cowch gets busy on the weekends and the easiest way to lose an ice cream appetite is outdoor seating. 2/179 Grey Street, South Brisbane HUNDRED ACRE BAR Hillstone St Lucia's Hundred Acre Bar is as warm and cosy as Piglet's tree cottage. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner this bar is perfectly suited to Brisbane's cooler months with it's homestyle cooking, multi-page wine list and huge fireplace that sits elegantly on the dining room wall. Hundred Acre Bar has only just been renovated so this fireplace is a newy — consider this winter a long, long housewarming. Indooroopilly and Carawa Streets, St Lucia TORO BRAVO Fortitude Valley's Toro Bravo specialises in three things: wine, tapas and keeping its patrons nice and warm. With its Old World Spanish wine, beer and Latin cocktails menu, this bar is perfect for everything from a lively night out to a cosy, food-filled one by the fire. There's also plenty of smoking and charring going on here, which is really just a fireplace meets fresh meat. Yeah, we're counting it. 455 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley CAN YOU KEEP A SECRET Okay, so it might be an ornamental fireplace, but sometimes the placebo effect extends to heating. Woolloongabba's Can You Keep A Secret is so warm and jolly that its fireplace doesn't really need to be lit. This vintage store-meets-bar is fitted out like Granny's house with an old piano, humble chandeliers and antique landscape paintings. Grab a warm drink, rub your hands together and play a serious game of pretendsies in front of this antique fireplace. 619 Stanley Street, Woolloongabba
We reckon that you're never too old for Easter. Let's be honest: when an occasion involves copious amounts of chocolate, that's something that you never outgrow (and if you claim you have, we call fibs). Sure, egg hunts and bunny ears seem better suited for kids; however, there's still plenty of tasty concoctions that'll make even the most mature among us start salivating. You just need to know what to look for — from Easter eggs that melt into fondue and chocolate hot cross cruffins through to banoffee cocktails (and more). Easter Eggs That Melt Into Fondue, Bunny Cookies and Bottomless Champagne at Belle Epoque There's never a bad time to treat yo'self to high tea, but Easter is one of the best. Plenty of spots around town celebrate the occasion with exactly that kind of spread — and this list includes more than one. So, what makes Belle Epoque's high tea stand out? Firstly, there's the fact that it's available for more than just a few days, hanging around for a month this time around. Tuck in daily from 10.30am–1pm up until Wednesday, April 30. This feast includes sea salt caramel whip bunny cookies, an edible garden with cocoa soil, a red velvet and raspberry cake, scones, quiches, and smoked salmon and beetroot sandwiches. It also comes just with tea or coffee ($80), or you can add bottomless champagne ($130) on top. Another option: the most decadent of Easter eggs to share. For $45 for two people, your handcrafted chocolate orb will melt in front of you, turning into fondue — which you can dip fruit, marshmallows and cookies into. Fruit Hot Cross Cruffins and Chocolate Hot Cross Cruffins at Lune Croissantrie First, Lune perfected croissants, so much so that the Australian bakery chain is renowned for its flaky pastries all round the world. Then came giving cruffins, aka croissant-muffin hybrids, a spin. For Easter, the obvious next step followed: hot cross cruffins, for when you want a hot cross bun, but you're also hankering for a croissant and a muffin — and you don't want to have to choose. Lune's hot cross cruffins have been popping up annually for years, but 2025's batch is different. This time, they're made using the acclaimed bakery's signature croissant dough. You can also pick between two varieties this year: the OG and chocolate, both for $10.50 each. Can't decide which one, after being unable to select between hot cross buns, croissants and muffins to start with? You can get mixed six-packs featuring the two for for $63. Banoffee Cocktails at The Terrace Stop by the Emporium Hotel in South Bank before the end of April and you'll find multiple ways to celebrate Easter. That not only spans Belle Epoque's options above, but also includes boozy choices upstairs at The Terrace — yes, 21 floors up, and with striking views over Brisbane to prove it. Two seasonal tipples are available for those who like their Easter spirit with some actual spirits. The first is a banoffee cocktail made with spiced rum, caramelised banana, coffee caramel, chocolate and meringue, and will set you back $24. Also available: a $26 drink called the Sunny Side that's made with vanilla vodka and lime zest oleo, and features a mango yolk that looks incredibly realistic. Hot Cross Scones with Martinis at W Brisbane Located within W Brisbane, Living Room Bar is home one of Brisbane's most-reliable events: weekend high teas. In 2025, the bar's Golden Glow High Tea is putting on an Easter edition for three weekends only, too, running Friday–Sunday for sittings between 11am–3pm across Friday, April 11–Sunday, April 27 — and yes, Easter eggs are among them. Those orbs come in a vanilla, cherry and hazelnut combination, and pair well with hot cross scones, the mango and coconut slice, Easter parfait to share, yoghurt and guava profiteroles, green olive crumble bruschetta, tartlets with salmon and avruga caviar, and more. Your price options vary, with $79 covering the high tea, plus bottomless tea and barista coffee; $99 adding a Golden Glow martini; and $109 swapping that cocktail for Veuve Clicquot Champagne NV Brut. You can also just opt for a Golden Glow martini for $26 — it's made with Bacardi Gold rum, peach aperitif, vanilla and clarified oat milk. Yuzu Custard Bunny Teacups and Cherry- and Chilli Chocolate-Infused Umeshu Cocktails at Hotel Indigo's Bar 1603 At Indigo Isuta Soirée: A High Tea Affair, Easter gets a Japanese spin, complete with yuzu custard bunny teacups, green tea yuzu tiramisu and matcha macarons, plus a cherry- and chilli chocolate-infused umeshu cocktail. The high-tea menu also includes green apple mousse flourless tartlets that come flecked with gold flakes, tamago sandos, mini wagyu burgers and, of course, both hot cross buns and Easter eggs. You'll pay $99 per person, with a minimum of two people needed, to get feasting from 11am–3pm daily across the entire month of April — right through till Wednesday, April 30, 2025 — at Bar 1603 inside Hotel Indigo on Turbot Street. That cocktail is extra, however, for an additional $15. Hot Cross Bun Bread and Butter Pudding at One Fish Two Fish If your Easter routine usually involves a seafood feast, then you might want to make a date with a certain Kangaroo Point fish 'n' chippery this year — and for the last time before it closes down. From Friday, April 18–Sunday, April 20, 2025, One Fish Two Fish is serving up plenty of the ocean's finest for the occasion, all as part of a $125 four-course meal that starts with seafood platters and remains just as indulgent from there. Those platters are made to share, and come stacked with pacific oysters, Moreton Bay bugs, cooked Mooloolaba prawns, sand crab toast topped with caviar and green-lip mussels. Next, you'll enjoy apple and blackcurrant granita as a palette cleanser, then grilled goldband snapper with fries and garden salad. We've only listed three rounds so far, with the fourth course getting sweet. To wrap things up, you'll be tucking into hot cross bun bread and butter pudding with vanilla ice cream and baked white chocolate crumble.
When it comes to camping, it's possible to have the best of both worlds: sleeping under the stars and enjoying creature comforts. Yes, we're talking about glamping, which lets you spend an evening or two in the great outdoors but without all the less-than-luxurious elements. Like its portmanteau name suggests, it's a more glamorous kind of camping that's perfect for everyone, even those who prefer hotels and cosy bathrobes to tinned meals and singing around the campfire. It's also something that Brisbanites can experience in plenty of spots — including these, our eight favourites — whether you're after a scenic beachside stay, a secluded mountainous getaway or something in between. Rest assured, you won't be doing it rough at these Queensland glamping sites. Recommended reads: The Best Glamping Sites in Australia The Best Hotels in Brisbane The Best Spas in Brisbane The Best Dog-Friendly Hotels in Australia Minjerribah Camping, Stradbroke Island It doesn't get much better than this: a roomy tent decked out with everything you could need, all within a stone's throw of the water on Stradbroke Island. And that's just what Minjerribah Camping has up its sleeves at its Adder Rock site at Point Lookout. You'll get cosy in a mini village of beachfront tents, with each equipped with sheets, towels, outdoor furniture and power. Plus, as well as roaming around the camping ground's communal kitchen, barbecue and picnic facilities, you can stroll up to the shops and pub — when you're not splashing around or soaking in the view, that is. Minjerribah also has glamping sites at Amity Point, Cylinder Beach and Bradbury's Beach. Sanctuary by Sirromet, Mount Cotton Not only home to grapevines as far as the eye can see, but also a restaurant with views over Moreton Bay and regular concerts, Mount Cotton's Sirromet Winery has onsite glamping within its expansive 560-acre grounds. When it opened, it was the first vineyard glamping experience in Queensland, with visitors able to get cosy in its lavish tents — or, as it calls them, pavilions. Each features a king bed, indoor day chairs, outdoor tables and seating, bathrooms with a shower and toilet, and reverse cycle air-conditioning to cope with southeast Queensland's usually warm weather. Every safari-style abode also includes a mini-bar filled with Sirromet wine, and all bookings include complimentary breakfast either at Tuscan Terrace (on weekends) or via a gourmet hamper delivered to your door (during the week). Nightfall, Lamington National Park It takes less than two hours for Brisbanites get to one of Queensland's best glamping spots — and its most exclusive. At Nightfall in Lamington National Park in the Scenic Rim, only eight guests can stay at any one time, with each of the permanent safari tents located in its own private clearing. When you're not enjoying your own space within the lush thickness of nature, everything from creekside lounging and dining to a waterfall walk and taking a dip in the swimming hole is on the agenda. Unsurprisingly, this kind of outdoorsy luxury doesn't come cheap, so expect to pay handsomely. [caption id="attachment_656608" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Moreton Island Adventures[/caption] Castaways, Moreton Island Straddie isn't the only island calling Brisbanites' names, or the only one with a glampground perfect for an outdoorsy holiday. While you won't be directly on the beach at Castaways, you may as well be — you'll just have to stroll a mere 100 metres to stick your feet in some water. Each tent comes with a queen bed, private ensuite, solar lighting, verandah and linen, with every stay also including use of the communal camp kitchen. The best part? Switching off and truly getting away from it all, because you won't find any power points in your canvas home away from home. Alure, Stanthorpe 'Go West' isn't just a catchy 70s Village People track — and 90s Pet Shop Boys cover — that you probably now have stuck in your head. It's also good advice if you're after an epic Queensland glamping experience. At Alure in Stanthorpe, you'll spend your time in a 56-square-metre tent on a timber deck, with interiors put together by a designer. With a fireplace, Netflix, a kitchen and even air-con part of the package, this is the kind of tent you stay in when you really, truly, definitely don't want to rough it. You'll be situated on 50 acres of farm, with an outdoor spa ready and waiting, right in the middle of the Granite Belt wine region. Lake Somerset Holiday Park, Somerset Everyone in Brisbane has heard of Somerset. In a city so reliant upon our dams, it pops up in the news whenever there's too much water or not enough. And, we've all heard of folks day-tripping out to the lake and even staying the night — but, knowing you can do just that and following through are completely different things. An affordable, scaled-back glamping option that'll still have you sleeping in a safari tent on a bed with your own fridge, tea- and coffee-making facilities and dining area, Lake Somerset Holiday Park is all about its location. Want to wake up metres away from the water, and spend your days frolicking about on the shore? Of course, you do. And don't forget to bring a frisbee and a fishing rod for some primo lake fun. Murphy's Creek Escape, Upper Lockyer There's glamping, and then there's glamping at Murphy's Creek Escape. Yes, not all fancy camping experiences are created equal. Or, perhaps a better way to look at it is this: getting out in nature without actually kipping on the dirt comes in many shapes and sizes. Here, you'll be located on a sandstone ridge overlooking the eponymous waterway, and you'll enjoy king beds, fluffy bathrobes and even a clawfoot bath in each tent. You will need to bring your own food, but you'll find a bar fridge, kettle, toaster, barbecue and utensils onsite — or, you could drive 25 minutes into Toowoomba to combine your trip with some eating and sightseeing. Ketchup's Bank Glamping, Boonah A secluded spot? Tick. Views of mountains and national parks that'll make you want to say goodbye to city-living forever? Tick. Mod cons, even when you're immersed in nature? Tick again. That's what's on offer at Ketchup's Bank Glamping in Boonah in the Scenic Rim. Here, going bush gets the glamorous treatment. The site's eco-tents feature everything from wifi to DVD players, while you can also get into the swing of the setting by cooking your meals in a cast iron campfire oven. Or, do both — because if glamping is about one thing, it's about picking, choosing and combining the best parts of going away and heading outdoors. Feeling inspired to book a truly unique getaway? Head to Concrete Playground Trips to explore a range of holidays curated by our editorial team. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips in destinations all over the world. Top image: Nightfall.
Were it not for a fearless, feisty adventurer by the name of Marie Byles, Bouddi National Park wouldn't exist. As a kid growing up in Palm Beach in the 1900s, she spent hours and hours gazing across the Hawkesbury River towards the Central Coast. As an adult, she ventured across the water whenever she could, to walk, camp, swim and write. By 1930 (shortly after becoming New South Wales's first practising female solicitor), she'd decided the area should belong to the public forever. And, after five years of fierce, relentless campaigning, she made it happen. Thanks to Byles, Bouddi looks pretty similar to us to the way it did to her. Its 3790 glorious acres still stretch along the Central Coast's southeast corner. Among them are more than 100 important Aboriginal sites, secret sandy beaches, dizzying cliffs, waterfalls, patches of rainforest, walks and mountain bike trails. At either end lie the ultra-relaxed, tree-filled villages of Copacabana in the north and Killcare in the south. SEE AND DO For a thorough exploration, slap on some sunscreen and take on the Bouddi Coastal Trail. This 8km hike runs the length of the park, sticking to the coast most of the time. You'll pass lookouts and beaches and, if you're not too raucous, meet wildlife of all kinds. Don't have the time — or inclination — for such an enormous journey? You can always squeeze in a briefer stroll. One of Bouddi's most popular short walks is the Maitland Bay Track, which begins at Maitland Bay Information Centre (cnr, Maitland Bay Drive and The Scenic Rd, Killcare Heights; (02) 4320 4200). It's a 1.5km wind through sandstone and rainforest to beautiful Maitland Bay. Take your snorkelling gear — Bouddi has a 300-hectare marine extension, so you'll catch plenty of underwater action — and if the tide's low, tiptoe around the PS Maitland, shipwrecked in 1898 in the bay's eastern corner. On your return journey, there's every chance you'll notice the trail seeming steeper than it did on your way down. If you're not in top form, travel slow or take the gentler, 3km route to Putty Beach — another excellent beach for swimming. Just don't forget to organise a ride back to your car. Some of Bouddi's indigenous history can be explored at Daley's Point. It's reached by an easy, 1.7km-long stroll along a ridge. The views over Brisbane Water are brilliant and inside Milligans — also known as Fish Hook Shelter — you'll find a series of ancient sandstone engravings. Alternatively, go day tripping with your mountain bike and conquer the Bouddi Ridge Explorer, a 10 km loop around the park's north-western section. Count on cracking views and keep an eye out for swamp wallabies and echidnas. Inexperienced riders might want to limit themselves to one or two easy sections, like the 5km Strom Loop. If you're keen to stay the night, there are three campgrounds in Bouddi National Park. The biggest is Putty Beach, with 20 spots, while Tallow Beach and Little Beach have six each. It's definitely a good idea to book in advance. EAT AND DRINK When you're ready to refuel between outdoor escapades, drop by Copacabana or Killcare. Copacabana is a 2,700-person settlement on mighty Allagai Bay. For breakfast or lunch right on the beach, there's Bar Copa. It's a casual kiosk operating out of the northern end of the Copacabana SLSC (220 Delmonte Place, Copacabana; Wed-Mon, 8am-3pm). The coffee comes from the Byron Bay Coffee Company and the menu specialises in tasty, wholesome, goodness, covering both classics and surprises, from salted caramel hot chocolate to vegan burgers filled with homemade patties, featuring exotic flavours like carrot and coconut. Just across the road, sheltered by a Norfolk Island pine, is Allagai Bay Cafe (2/204 Delmonte Place, Copacabana; Sun-Thu, 7am-3pm; Fri-Sat, 7am-3pm and from 6pm;(02) 4382 6120), serving up inventive dishes, which change according to the availability of quality produce. Current examples include scallops with chorizo and pea puree; salt and pepper soft shell crab; and deconstructed cheesecake with nutella, berries and marshmallow. Visit on a Sunday afternoon to score some live acoustic sessions with your meal. For beachside dining in Killcare, drop into Horizons, a cafe and tapas bar occupying the first floor of the SLSC. The focus is on simple, hearty fare done well. Lunch dishes are big on fresh seafood — think prawn risotto with tarragon, peas and parmesan; and grilled barramundi with French beans, crispy prosciutto, almonds, mint and lemon. If you're treating yourself to a fancy, schmancy day out, make a booking at Manfredi at Bells Restaurant (Fri-Sun, lunch and dinner; Mon-Thu, dinner only; 107 The Scenic Road, Killcare Heights; (02) 4349 7000). Manfredi's hung onto its chef's hat since 2008, so you're pretty much guaranteed a top-shelf feast. Plus there's a strong commitment to sustainability and ethical farming: the 500-square metre kitchen garden supplies more than 15 percent of produce, roaming hens provide free-range eggs and there are hives onsite. And, if you're feeling worn out after a day's adventuring, this is the perfect place for a luxurious overnighter. GETTING THERE AND AWAY Copacabana and Bouddi National Park are both a 1.5-hour drive north of the Sydney CBD. You can also catch a ferry from Palm Beach to Wagstaffe (near the park's southern end), but your adventures will be limited to what you can cover comfortably on foot. Image: Dollar Photo Club, FotoSleuth (Flickr), Allagai Bay Cafe.
If you're a regular coffee drinker, no doubt you've been caught up in the recent push towards recyclable or reusable coffee cups. And for many of us, drinking the sweet nectar from a one-use, environmentally-unfriendly takeaway cup is just not the same as a weighty, handmade ceramic cafe cup. But who has the time to stop and sip? Where can you find a fusion of both? Thanks to a talented Queensland couple, you can now have your ceramic-bound coffee and drink it (on the go) too. Queensland potter Renton Bishopric and partner Clare Botfield have recently launched Pottery for the Planet — a series of limited edition pottery pieces that raise money and awareness of environmental issues. "If we want to continue living in a beautiful clean country and world, we have to make some serious changes and that starts with the choices of each individual," says Bishopric. In an effort to make this choice a little more design-savvy, the duo has begun making what customers have dubbed 'Planet Cups', bespoke ceramic coffee cups that reduce paper cup wastage, one coffee at a time. Bishopric and Botfield make each 8oz or 12oz cup by hand on the pottery wheel, drying and firing them in the kiln before glazing in a selection of colours. The intricate process by which they are made means each Planet Cup is unique. "With a handmade product there are so many variables starting with the hands of the person that threw the pot, down to the firing environment in the kiln. So no matter what, each cup is unique from its brothers and sisters," says Bishopric. Each Planet Cup comes with a silicone lid and the option of a heat band so extra hot coffee drinkers can protect their fingers. Due to the incredible popularity of the Planet Cups, an online shop is set to be launched soon. In the meantime, the colourful creations can be purchased through the pair's Sunshine Coast retail store, Cinnabar Soul. You can also check out the Pottery for the Planet website for a list of local stockists. If you live in Hobart, you're going to need one very soon. Image: Renton Bishopric Ceramics.
Dig in deep and revive that Saddle Club phase. Whether you're hiding a few Gymkhana medals under your belt or don't know your stirrup from your saddle, there's a horse riding institute to suit any level of experience in Brisbane and its surrounds. You can get friends together and try your luck at riding into a sunset, or go solo like the man from Snowy River — all you need is a pair of jodhpurs, some RMs, and maybe a Telfast or two. RAINBOW BEACH HORSE RIDES One of Australia's most beautiful strips of surf and sand, Rainbow Beach is as pristine a place as any to saddle up and go for a ride. Andrew and Kirsty McCarthy run Rainbow Beach Horse Rides, one of those picturesque little ventures that seems like never-ending fun and the dream of small businesses. With a team of certified trail guides and some of the prettiest and quietest horses this side of the equator, Rainbow Beach Horse Rides is the perfect little adventure for when you've got a free, hot summer's day. SLICKERS HORSE RIDING If there's one thing better than a nice relaxing trail ride, it's a nice relaxing trail ride that involves a stopover at a pub or winery. Slickers Horse Riding at Ocean View (45 minutes drive from Brisbane) offers a variety of different day trips and activities on horseback, such as pub and winery tours, farm stays, moonlight rides and birthday parties. The pub ride kicks off at 10am, with riders travelling down the mountainside to the Crown Hotel for a couple of drinks and big pub meal. The winery ride stops of at Ocean View Estates Winery for a tasting of some great local wines and a cheese board. Good luck staying in the saddle after your third or fourth glass. COWBOY UP TRAIL RIDING The phrase 'cowboy up' refers to that point in time where things are feeling a little tough, and all you can do is dust yourself off and keep trying. And that's what Cowboy Up Trail Riding is all about: a relaxing ride to give you the chance to 'cowboy up' for the rest of your day, week or month. Situated about 20 minutes outside Crows Nest (or a two-hour drive from Brisbane), this trail riding club offers docile horses, comfortable western saddles and the chance to ride through rollings hills that lay ground to magnificent views of mountains and farmlands. Chances are you'll also see a wallaby, deer or native bird or two. If you're looking to up your horse riding game, Cowboy Up also offer cattle musters, office parties, whip cracking lessons and a monthly moonlight ride. HORSE RIDING QUEENSLAND TRAIL RIDES Okay, so you might have to dig deep into your pockets for this one (around $100 per person) but we can give you some solid assurance that it's worth every buck. Horse Riding Queensland are the kingpins of our state horse riding scene — we assume there is a scene — which means they've got sound expertise and know-how to set up the perfect environment for beginners. Situated in Alberton, only a half an hour drive from Brisbane, Horse Riding Queensland is close enough to the city to be a convenient half-day trip, but also shows off beautiful paddocks and Australian bushland without a main road in sight. MARY VALLEY ADVENTURE TRAILS If you're looking for a great combo of rainforest and beachside trail riding, then Mary Valley Adventure Trails can deliver. As a minimum, $120 gets you a half-day ride (around three hours) — but if you're after something more serious, they've also got full day and multi-day rides on offer. You'll get to ride through the beautiful Gold Coast hinterland and witness spectacular views all from up in the saddle. If you're looking to stay a little longer in the area, they can happily recommend accommodation. Added bonus: they also offer trail rides for children and sell gift vouchers if you're stuck for a Chrissy gift. Good luck up there in the saddle, and remember: be a Lisa, not Veronica. Top image: Dollar Photo Club
Perfect for a nature-filled long weekend, Grampians National Park boasts some of Victoria's best mountain views, waterfalls, and wildlife. For those looking to temporarily ditch the hustle and bustle of city life, or are after a secluded getaway surrounded by lush greenery, visitors to Halls Gap and surrounding areas can hike to famous mountain lookouts including the Pinnacle, explore the town's food and drink options, or just stay in, light a fire and take in the scenery. That sounds relaxing. In order to keep it relaxing, we did the research and found some of the best stays in the area to rest, relax and enjoy great views. These are some of the region's best Airbnbs for your next kangaroo-and-cockatoo-filled weekend getaway. Recommended reads: The Best Hotels in Melbourne The Best Places to Go Glamping in Victoria The Best Dog-Friendly Stays in Victoria The Best Places to Stay on the Great Ocean Road Blue Ridge Retreat, Halls Gap After a day of exploring Grampians National Park's bushland, pour yourself a glass of wine and settle into this property's spa bath with leafy outlooks from all angles. From $370 a night, sleeps five. Hemley House, Halls Gap Take in the picturesque view of the Grampians' notable wildlife against the backdrop of the mountains from your seat in this property's heated jacuzzi. From $368 a night, sleeps eight. Wine Down, Halls Gap Within walking distance to Halls Gap town centre, this cosy spot offers plenty of activity options. Explore the town's food and drink options, walk any of the several nearby nature trails, or light a fire and unwind in the outdoor kitchen area. From $210 a night, sleeps four. School House Villa, Halls Gap Nestled amongst the trees not far from Halls Gap town centre, visitors of this cottage can enjoy the best of both worlds: the creature comforts of town and the rugged charm of the bushland. From $190 a night, sleeps two. Aztec Escape, Halls Gap Light a fire and ease into a bottle of wine in property's picturesque living area, or step outside and relax on either of its patio areas. From $240 a night, sleeps four. Awonga Cabins, Halls Gap Rent out one of these six cabins for their proximity to an easy 1.3 km walking path to Main Street or to enjoy an evening BBQ on the deck. From $180 a night, sleeps two. The Escarpment, Halls Gap What better way to end a day than by relaxing in the outdoor hanging chair of this treetop-level home with sandstone cliff views — plus, this particular stay is kid-friendly with highchairs and cots provided. From $180 a night, sleeps six. Mountain Hideaway, Halls Gap Enjoy views of the Pinnacle from this property's front verandah or take the 20 minute stroll along the path into Halls Gap for an evening in town. From $205 a night, sleeps six. Heath House, Halls Gap You'd be hard-pressed to find better panoramic mountain views than from the floor-to-ceiling windows of Heath House. From $514 a night, sleeps eight. Redgum Log Cottage, Halls Gap Trade out your usual address for this rustic log cabin with epic mountain views and you might be personally greeted by the local emus, kangaroos, birdlife, and the property's free-ranging chooks. From $289 a night, sleeps six. Halls Gap Cottages Couples Retreat, Halls Gap Under the famous Pinnacle, lay out on this property's outdoor sectional and enjoy the fresh mountain air, views and nearby wildlife. From $317 a night, sleeps two. Hillrise Cottage, Moyston If you're willing to venture a little further, this remote cottage is the perfect base for the explorer. And, if you happen to overheat during your adventures, you can cool off in the nearby dam. From $250 a night, sleeps five. Ironstone, Hills Gap If you want to splurge, check out Ironstone. Designed to be the ultimate couples' retreat, this home's best asset is its spectacular mountain views from the living area, bathroom and bedroom. From $524 a night, sleeps two. Views at Pomonal, Pomonal Settle onto this home's front porch that is the epitome of rural single-level Australiana living with a drink in hand and watch as sunsets colour the skies. From $175 a night, sleeps five. Bush Lodge Retreat, Halls Gap Centrally located in Halls Gap, this cosy holiday home has all you need to relax indoors or out. From $317 a night, sleeps four. Romantic Tiny Home, Halls Gap If you're looking to see if the tiny house craze is for you, this tiny home is compact without sacrificing comfort. However, it also has easy access to trails into the mountains and to town just in case you decide you need to temporarily escape the close quarters. From $177 a night, sleeps three. Dacelo, Halls Gap If you're seeking out an eco-friendly option, there are many places to take in the mountain views in this two-storey home, although the soaker tub might be hard to beat. From $310 a night, sleeps eight. Mount Ida View, Halls Gap Hang out with the visiting cockatoos and kangaroos and take in the scenery on this home's shaded back deck. Or, enjoy a short stroll to the town of Halls Gap and explore the area. From $220 a night, sleeps six. Top image: Redgum Log Cottage courtesy of Airbnb. 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.
Delivery service apps like UberEats continue to rise in Australia and New Zealand, claiming exclusivity deals with everything from major grocery stores to hardware giants. Yep, hardware, you read it right. The latest Australian megastore to join the order-to-your-door offer posed by Uber Eats is the home of things home and garden — Bunnings. Following a successful Victorian pilot program in January, the nationwide rollout will begin in 15 locations across Australia, with plans to expand further and over to New Zealand throughout the year. The partnership will give eligible customers access to 60-minute guaranteed deliveries of over 30,000 items from the Bunnings catalogue — including lawn mowers, power washers, pet food, gardening equipment, DIY products, nuts, bolts and packing boxes. Bunnings COO, Ryan Baker, told 9Honey that the partnership will "offer customers another convenient way to shop a wide range of products from Bunnings, delivered directly to their home or worksite via the Uber Eats app. While many customers enjoy visiting our stores to browse and get advice in person, we know there are times when convenience and speed are the priority." [caption id="attachment_1076390" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Ceri Breeze via iStock[/caption] "This partnership complements our existing delivery options and helps us better understand how customers want to shop with Bunnings," Baker added. Lucas Groeneveld, General Manager of Uber Eats APAC, said in a press release, "From last-minute DIY fixes and garden projects, to preparing for a BBQ or keeping a work site moving, this partnership makes it easier than ever for customers to get what they need, delivered on demand, whatever the occasion." Bunnings joins a mix of other non-edible delivery partners on Uber Eats, including Pet Barn, Officeworks and EB Games. If you're wondering, though, Bunnings snags are not included in the delivery service — you'll still have to get those yourself. Check to see if your local Bunnings delivers via UberEats here, more stores are expected to roll out later in 2026. Images: iStock
When it comes to eating out, we're spoilt for choice at every turn. Choosing where to eat is a difficult choice relegated to only the most decisive of friends. But, even so, sometimes you want to cook something at home. With that in mind, we annoyed the Porteño team to give us a recipe. So they relented and told us how make their insanely good, crispy brussels sprouts. You can make 'em too! PORTEÑO'S CRISPY BRUSSELS SPROUTS Serves eight 2kg brussels sprouts, cut in half 150g lentils 1 bunch of mint 1 bunch of continental parsley river salt flakes cottonseed oil (for deep frying) For dressing 2 tbls hot English mustard 100ml vincotto 200ml EVOO salt and pepper to taste Cook lentils in simmering water until tender, drain and set aside. Whisk all ingredients for dressing together. Trim ends and remove outer leaves of Brussels sprouts then cut in half lengthways. Heat cottonseed oil to 180˚ in a heavy based saucepan. Deep fry brussels sprouts in batches until golden and crispy. When done, drain on paper towel then place in a large bowl. Season with river salt flakes, add dressing, mint, parsley and lentils and toss to coat. Updated: December 24, 2017. This article was originally published in the lead-up to Taste of Sydney 2016.
When it's hot and humid you'll find us hurling ourselves into the nearest water source to take the heat off. And after the past couple of years we've all had, we're pretty keen to cool off somewhere extra special in 2022. One place that is overflowing with waterfalls and crystal clear freshwater swimming holes is Tropical North Queensland. Autumn is the perfect time to see the rainforest and its waterfalls truly thrive thanks to higher rainfall. From natural rock waterslides to rope swings in the Daintree, there's no shortage of incredible ways to make a splash and extend your summer in the north this year. Just make sure you always follow the advice from Queensland Parks and steer clear of out of bounds zones, flooded waters or dangerous areas so you're always swimming safely. [caption id="attachment_830046" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] SLIDE DOWN A NATURAL WATERSLIDE AT JOSEPHINE FALLS When you drive 75 kilometres south of Cairns to Josephine Falls, you'll quickly realise why this picturesque playground is so popular among locals and tourists. Located in Wooroonooran National Park, which is home to the Noongyanbudda Ngadjon people, this incredible waterfall cascades through World Heritage-listed rainforest near Queensland's highest peak, Mount Bartle Frere. From the carpark, you'll wander 600 metres through lush rainforest before reaching the viewing decks that overlook the falls. Here, you can take a few snaps of the incredible view before making your way down to the water peppered with smooth boulders for you to perch on — then it's time to get wet. If you're feeling adventurous, have a crack at the natural waterslide in the main pool. Or, if you like to take your swimming at a slower pace, there's plenty of space to float about in the rejuvenating water fresh from the mountain. [caption id="attachment_830048" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] HIKE THROUGH AN INCREDIBLE NATIONAL PARK TO CLAMSHELL FALLS If you want to get properly warmed up before jumping into fresh rainforest water, take the track through Behana Gorge to discover the impressive swimming spot that is Clamshell Falls. Situated 30 minutes drive south of Cairns, the track winds its way alongside a babbling creek for 3.5 kilometres before opening up to a dreamy dip destination. The waterfall itself acts as an active backdrop to the gentler swimming hole that sits below. The incline of the walk can be challenging in parts which means it's likely there won't be too many people around. Just make sure you take all your essential items with you as there are no amenities when you're this deep into the jungle. [caption id="attachment_830044" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] GET UNDERNEATH THRIVING FALLS IN THE ATHERTON TABLELANDS If seeing one waterfall in a day isn't enough, head to the highlands to experience the beauty of the Atherton Tablelands waterfall circuit. With a bunch of tumbling waterfalls and vast crater lakes to explore, the trip up the mountain range to these rainforest delights is essential Tropical North Queensland travel. Take the Gillies Highway from Cairns to Crater Lakes National Park to dive into Lake Barrine and Lake Eacham. Unlike their explosive origins, these water-filled volcanic craters are ideal for a serene morning float. Next, drive to the nearby town of Millaa Millaa to find out why its eponymously named falls are one of the most photographed cascades in the country. Have a soak in the swimming hole at the base of Millaa Millaa Falls or get underneath its 18-metre drop to have your very own rainforest shower. And, if more waterfall action is what your heart desires, visit nearby Zillie Falls and Ellinjaa Falls to round out the circuit. [caption id="attachment_830047" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] SWING INTO THE PRISTINE WATERS OF THE DAINTREE RAINFOREST Willing to head off the beaten track to find a quality swimming hole? Then head a couple of hours north of Cairns to beat the heat at Emmagen Creek. You'll bounce down an unsealed road to reach this picturesque pool located five kilometres north of Cape Tribulation in the Daintree National Park. From the carpark, head toward the Emmagen Creek road crossing and take the track on the left-hand side to the swimming section of the creek located a few hundred metres upstream. If the water is high, consider plonking yourself in the clear rainforest water via the rope swing. Or, clamber down the twisting tree roots to enter the freshwater swimming hole slowly and try to spot a cassowary from the creek. [caption id="attachment_830054" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] BE SPOILED FOR CHOICE AT CRYSTAL CASCADES When you want to get wet on a whim in Tropical North Queensland, head to Crystal Cascades. This stunning swimming spot is a popular place for locals to plunge and it's located only a 20-minute drive from the Cairns CBD. Crystal Cascades boasts a series of swimming holes and waterfalls that tumble down the mountain in a section of Freshwater Creek. If you don't feel like walking far, cool off in one of the cascade's lower pools. Or, if you're keen for a longer stroll, head to the top to take a dip at the larger waterfall at the track's end. The arching rainforest canopy provides for shady swimming and the granite boulder-filled creek helps to keep the pools cool year-round. There are picnic tables and barbecue facilities available too, so pack yourself some seasonal tropical fruit to refuel after all your waterfall exploration. [caption id="attachment_830049" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] SPEND THE NIGHT CAMPING AT DAVIES CREEK Drifting off to sleep to the sound of falling water doesn't have to be created through a mindfulness app and your imagination when you're in Tropical North Queensland. If you head to Davies Creek National Park and Dinden National Park, you can listen to the sounds of an actual babbling creek situated right next to your campsite. To get there, drive an hour west of Cairns and then pitch a tent at either the Lower Davies Creek or Upper Davies Creek campsites. Then, spend a couple of days exploring the hikes, mountain bike trails and waterfalls throughout the neighbouring parks. Just make sure you book your campsite in advance as there are only eight spots available at each campground. [caption id="attachment_832593" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] EXPLORE THE JUNGLE AT STONEY CREEK In the rainforest at the back of Cairns, you'll find locals cooling off at much-loved swimming hole Stoney Creek. Whether you want a quick dip not too far from town or to hike your way to a waterfall further afield, this series of private swimming holes has all your swim cravings covered. It's just a short walk from the carpark in Barron Gorge National Park to the first pool perched underneath a small footbridge. Swim here or continue down the left side of the creek adjacent track past a series of swimming spots before reaching the spilling waters at Old Weir Falls. If you're keen for even more mountain action, head back to the footbridge after a swim at the falls and take the right side track up to Glacier Rock. [caption id="attachment_832594" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] DIVE INTO THE MAGIC OF FAIRY FALLS If you make your way to Crystal Cascades, it's worth checking out its little sister swimming spot located close by, too. Tucked away in the dense rainforest next door to the cascades, you'll soon realise what's so magical about Fairy Falls. Take the track to the left of the carpark at Crystal Cascades to make your way to the mystical falls a 15-minute walk away. The narrow waterfall shoots into a clear blue swimming hole and the log wedged in the centre of its stream makes it easy to imagine fairies frolicking in this picture-perfect rainforest pool. Just make sure you follow the path along the creek when you're trying to find this veiled treasure — the alternative track at the fork won't lead you to the magical place you're seeking. [caption id="attachment_832597" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Raging Thunder Adventures[/caption] FLOAT DOWN THE TULLY RIVER TO PONYTAIL FALLS A couple of hours south of Cairns is where you'll find the spectacular sights of Tully Gorge National Park. The Tully River churns its way down the mountain creating rapids and world-class white water rafting throughout this stunning gorge. But it's not all rough and tumble in at every turn along this river. You have two options to find Ponytail Falls — by car or by raft with Raging Thunder Adventures. For drivers, follow signs to Cardstone Weir until you spot the number 11 painted on the road. Then, take a short stroll through the rainforest to uncover the hair-like spout that spills into pale blue water below. Or, if you want to see the falls from a raft, sign up to a white water rafting adventure and a guide will take you there via wet and wild rapids. Ready to extend your summer by soaking up waterfalls and freshwater swimming holes in Tropical North Queensland? For more information and to book your holiday in the tropics, visit the website. Top images: Tourism Tropical North Queensland.
Jed Kurzel boasts one of the most-enviable recent resumes in Australia's film industry. It was back in 2011 that the founding member of The Mess Hall added a haunting layer to Snowtown, the first feature directed by his elder brother Justin, via its score. The pair have worked together on every one of Justin's films since. But Jed doesn't just have the sounds of stunning Shakespeare adaptation Macbeth, game-to-screen flick Assassin's Creed, the dark-but-playful True History of the Kelly Gang, the complicated Nitram and the upcoming The Order to his name. Jennifer Kent's The Babadook and The Nightingale, Ridley Scott's Alien: Covenant, Dev Patel's feature directorial debut Monkey Man: he has scored them all as well. With a filmography that also hops from The Turning, All This Mayhem and Slow West to Overlord, Seberg and Encounter — plus Guillermo del Toro's Cabinet of Curiosities on the small screen — it might seem an impossible task to pick favourites. Even whittling down what to talk about at Kurzel's Screen Commentary session at SXSW Sydney 2024, where he's chatting through his work, might sound difficult. But ask him which of his projects stand out, as Concrete Playground did, and he has answers, even if he notes that his responses differ over time. "There's a few. But then they start to change as I go on, because I guess you learn more things, and some films follow a particular style that you might have gotten onto, or a particular thing that I've discovered and I will push that through a few films," he explains. "Snowtown for me is the one that that really stands out, I think because it's the first one and I still get offered films today that have put Snowtown in their temp music, which is the music they put in while they're editing — it's kind of crazy that's it's still being used. So that one particularly, it still pops up. Macbeth as well, I think just because it was the first real string score I've done, orchestral score, and I did it all over in the UK, so I met a lot of people that I'm still collaborating with then and I felt like we were all jumping into this thing together," Kurzel advises. "I think those two stand out for me, and The Babadook." His fruitful career composing for the screen might've come about as one could expect when your brother is a filmmaker — Justin asked him to have a go at scoring Snowtown — but working together and taking this path wasn't a long-held childhood plan. "Never. No, I don't think that we have ever spoken about it. It was just how it worked out," Kurzel notes. "We'd been working together before that, in that he'd been doing the video clips for us and all that kind of stuff. We were always doing things together. So it wasn't like it felt like an 'oh, here we go' kind of thing. It was really just one of those things where we're always a part of what the other was doing." Viewers can be thankful for sibling bonds and the route it has taken Jed down. As brilliant as everything they each splash across the screen is, Snowtown, Macbeth, Nitram, The Babadook, The Nightingale and more wouldn't be the films they are without Kurzel's scores. Ahead of his session at SXSW Sydney, we also chatted to the composer about what sparked his contributions to some of the above films, how collaborating with Justin is different to working with other filmmakers, ensuring that his music isn't commenting on the content of the movies, the influence of genre, challenges he'd like to take on and plenty more. On How Kurzel Began Composing for the Screen "I was touring around with The Mess Hall and I had some time at home. Then Justin, my brother, was doing his first film Snowtown, and he asked me if I'd like to have a go at scoring it because, outside of the things I was doing with the band, I was always messing around with stuff at home. I guess it was more in the film soundtrack kind of land, but I was just doing it for my own enjoyment. And he said 'oh, you know, some of that stuff could work well, all that kind of thing could work well'. And I said 'I've never done that before, so'. And he said 'look, it's fine if it doesn't work, I'll get someone else. But you have a go with it'. So I did and then that was kind of it, it just it snowballed from there. It wasn't something that I had set out to do really. At that point, I was really happy playing music — and playing, actually. But I was missing just being in the room and making music. We were out playing a lot, and it's very hard to make music when you're doing that. So I was missing that at that time — so it came at a perfect time, I think." On Collaborating with Justin on All of His Features So Far — and How It's Different to Working with Other Filmmakers "It is different now, because I think we've developed — I mean, we always had a shorthand, but it feels like it's become even shorter now. We almost hardly ever discuss it while we're doing it. It just happens, in a way, now. We used to take a long time. I'd start really early on his films and it would be this drawn-out process, and sometimes the process could get quite difficult as the edit changed and things like that. I think just through experience, we've started to work out an efficient way to work that is still as creatively rewarding. And the last couple of things I've done with him, like The Order, it was all very free-flowing and it came quite quickly, and it wasn't something that we laboured over. I think we've discovered that the more we labour over things, it doesn't help anything." On What Sparked the Score for a Film as Complicated as Snowtown "With that one, we always talked about that hitting the bullseye was a very slim chance in some ways, because we found that with most music that we put on it, it felt like it was commenting on it. So immediately it was like 'well, we don't want to do that' because that just wasn't what the film was doing — and it didn't want it anyway. So it became a really instinctive thing about what it wanted, and there was a lot of to-ing and fro-ing of changing the edits to suit where we were taking it. So a lot of back and forth between us. And then, I always feel like if you just listen to the film, it'll eventually tell you what it wants. You throw things on it and just sort of shrug it off, and then there'll be something that starts to stick. And as soon as it starts sticking, you're on your way." On Whether Working on Films Like Snowtown, Nitram and The Nightingale Brings a Sense of Responsibility Given the Historical Details They're Diving Into — and How to Avoid a Score That Comments "I think so. But, I mean, I think with those projects, you're well-aware of that before you've even started them. There is a certain responsibility, I think, not to — I guess what it is musically, I'm always aware of not commenting, and that you're adding. I feel like you're just adding another layer and energy to the film, rather than going 'this character comes on and they've got a theme' or anything like that. It's just different, it's adding a feeling. It's what the film wants — and if you start commenting with some of these films, it just doesn't work. It just feels wrong. But on other films, you can go into those areas and the film absolutely wants to have that. I think it just depends on what you're working on. I always love to look at the film itself, and how it feels and what it looks like, and where it's set and those kind of things, because I think with music, you can actually add to that even more so. Even cinematography, I think, is really a big one for music, too, that maybe gets overlooked a little bit, because we are responding to images, so that's the first thing you're looking at." On Adding Playfulness to a Score That's Also Quite Dark, Such as True History of the Kelly Gang "That one, I'm glad you said that, because actually that's what I wanted to achieve with that score — that there was a playful quality to it. I always really loved the Sidney Nolan paintings, and I was sort of taking a cue from that. And also I love the old Hanna-Barbera cartoons and things like that. So for me, they were the influences that I was grabbing. I guess if you've got a concept or an idea that you want to launch things off of, that's always helpful." On How to Find the Score for a Shakespearean Adaptation Like Macbeth When There's So Many Past Big-Screen Versions —Including Initially Skewing Electronic "I remember doing that and both of us [Jed and Justin] feeling a lot of pressure because it's been done. There's not many times when you do a film that's like 'well, this has been actually been done before word for word'. When films are made, I think there's some directors who've got it all in their head and then they go out and make it, and what happens in the edit is the film just wants to be something else — and if you fight against that, usually you'll end up with something that's probably nowhere near your vision, and that frustrates you. Whereas if you follow what the film wants and then listen to it, and just go with where it wants rather than trying to hold onto your initial idea, then I think you can end up in really interesting places. In that case, yeah, it started out as an electronic score, that's what we wanted to do, but the film just, again, didn't want it. So we had to change tact a little bit, and we got something completely different, but I think it's the same sort of idea that we started out with. We had an initial idea, and then we just followed our gut while we were doing the edit." On How Working on Something Smaller, or More Character- or Mood-Driven, Differs From a Big-Budget Sci-Fi Sequel Like Alien: Covenant "I think there's similar pressures with both. On a smaller film, even though it's a smaller budget, there's almost more at stake because a lot of the times that might be someone's first film that they've directed. So they're kind of like someone's baby. Whereas the big-budget films, there's so many people involved, and they keep changing and they tend to have a lot more time to sit with things. The smaller budgets, the smaller films, they don't, they have to finish by a particular time because they don't have the money to keep editing or keep doing things. So I think there's different pressures with both. But in terms of scoring them, I just I think they just different hills to climb." On the Way That Genre Has an Impact on How Kurzel Approaches Scoring a Movie "We all grow up watching films, so we've all got that language. So whether you like it or not, you're aware of genres, and what those genres are and what's come before you, which I think is great because it can set benchmarks for you. If you're looking at something and going 'I want to do a horror film' and 'what are the films that I really like in this sort of genre?', you can go back and have a look, and just see the way they've been approached — which may make you go 'well, I don't want to approach it like that, I want to approach it like this'." On What Drives an Unnerving Score Such as The Babadook "That's a good question because that score, the inspiration for that — I think I wrote this in the sleeve of the vinyl — when I was scoring that, I was living in Erskineville and there was a possum on my roof or in the tree above me. And it was knocking things down through the night, and it would jump off the tree onto the roof. So I was always listening to what sounded like people throwing bodies on my roof. On top of that, it would make these strange noises, or there'd be strange noises outside. So a lot of the time, I was keeping the door open and making music, and just letting those sounds come in as well — and going 'okay, that's interesting. I could kind of do something'. So I think what I'm listening for is what's unnerving me — and particularly late at night, if I'm doing something, you can hear things. The world really is making music all the time. So the environment's always really great, if you've got your ear out, you can always hear really interesting stuff. But in terms of horror, I like to be unnerved. I'm not that much into the jump scares and things like that. I like an eerie, unnerving kind of feeling." On the Response to The Babadook — Then and Now "Even internationally, you mention it and everyone knows it, and the characters. It's pretty amazing. I'm really proud of the work we all did on that and how much Jen stuck to her guns with the film. I think it's just been re-released on screens in the US, it's doing a tour of America at the moment, which is amazing. And that was a film that if you told us that's what was happening, and most of the things that happened with that film, we would have laughed at the time because it just was not on anyone's radar. Even when it was released here, it had such a tiny release, I don't think anyone even knew it'd come out." On Being in Action Mode with Monkey Man, But Using the Score to Build an Emotional World "That was really different, because Dev already had, for a lot of the action scenes, there was already a lot of source music placed in there as music that already existed. And he had a definite thing for me, which was 'I want the film to be the emotional underground of the character'. So a lot of it, we talked a lot about memory, and the music was representing his memory of his mother. And so it was really strange, I was doing an action film but I wasn't really doing the action side. There's a few chase scenes and things like that. But in terms of that being the focus, it really wasn't, it was this whole other world that Dev was after which I found really appealing and exciting when we first spoke about the film." On the Most-Important Task for a Film Score to Achieve "I always feel like I'm there to add a layer that's almost not even music — it's another layer to the film that wasn't previously there, that if you took out, you would really notice it. A lot of people talk about watching films and not noticing the music. But I feel the other way. I want to notice it. And I want it to give me another layer on there that I know wouldn't exist otherwise — the performances wouldn't get it, the editing, it's adding something that's unique and almost impossible to describe, which is what to me that music is. It feels like some sort of magical language." On the Ultimate Challenge in Composing for the Screen That Kurzel Hasn't Taken on Yet — But Would Like To "I really don't know, because I find everything that I do, there's a new challenge and it usually rears its head pretty quickly. You get into something and you think 'oh yeah, I know how to do this' — and suddenly the film, like I said, the film starts to move into a direction and that tilts everything. Being aware of those things, I think that's the exciting part about it. If you're living in the moment and scoring things for the moment, listening out for really happy mistakes — which I call those things that you kind of go 'ohh, I'm going to try this' but something else happens that was a mistake, and you think 'that's actually better than what I was going to do. I'm going to go down that path for a while'. They're the things that I love about composing. In terms of feeling like there's something I haven't done yet, I haven't really done any romantic comedies. But I just, for some reason, I don't think I'm the go-to guy for those." [caption id="attachment_875685" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Courtesy of Netflix © 2022[/caption] Concrete Playground: "I chatted with Justin about Snowtown and he told me at the time that the next film he had in mind was a tennis rom-com." Jed: "Yeah, yeah, yeah." Concrete Playground: "So maybe if he does end up doing one, you'll get one." Jed: "I keep saying to him, because he's very funny, so I keep saying 'you need to do a comedy. That has to be your next one'." Screen Commentary: Jed Kurzel takes place at SXSW Sydney from 11am–12pm AEDT on Friday, October 18, 2024 at Fortress Sydney. Head to the SXSW Sydney website for more details.
Sweet news: if nothing says Easter to you like tap, tap, tapping your way around a mini-golf course that'll get you hankering for dessert, Victoria Park's Candyland setup is returning. The Herston site has been known to give its greens a makeover for special occasions, including Christmas, Halloween and Valentine's Day in the past. Candy-themed holes aren't new to the rotation, but they're back in 2025, taking cues from Easter eggs, ice creams, cakes, gumballs and popcorn and more. From Friday, March 28–Monday, May 5, a trip to Herston Road means trying your luck on greens with names like 'Candy Corner', 'Ice Cream Lane', 'Bakery Bunker, 'Popcorn Party', 'Gumball Green', 'Bunny Hop' and 'Candy Workshop'. In previous years, rabbits have featured heavily, unsurprisingly — plus giant ice creams, gummy bears, candy necklaces, Easter eggs, cupcakes, doughnuts, lollipops and other sweet treats. Basically, if it's sweet and can somehow be worked into a themed mini golf course, you'll find it here. While there's obviously nothing edible among the decorations, you can order drinks and snacks to the green as you play, including lollies and ice creams. Bookings are recommended, with the course open from 6am–11pm Monday–Thursday, and 6am–12am Friday–Saturday and 6am–10am Sunday. Fancy a few holes before work? Want to add some fun to your lunch break? Need something to look forward to come quitting time? They're all options. Candyland's run covers not just the Easter public holidays, but the ANZAC Day and Labour Day long weekends, should you need a few days off as motivation to head by. Expect company, because Brisbane sure does love themed mini golf courses — as seen at the city's Holey Moley sites in Fortitude Valley, the Wintergarden, Chermside and Mt Gravatt; Redcliffe's underwater-themed spot; Hey Caddy in North Lakes and South Bank; and Tingalpa's 16-hole jungle-themed green. Candyland Putt Putt takes over the Victoria Park Putt Putt Course at 309 Herston Road, Herston from Friday, March 28–Monday, May 5, open 6am–11pm Monday–Thursday, and 6am–12am Friday–Saturday and 6am–10am Sunday — with tickets costing $23 for adults. For more information, head to the venue's website. Images: Stephanie Adams Photography.
