Edinburgh Gin's 'Filled With Wonder' Floral Workshop is arriving in Melbourne this November, transforming Richmond's iconic Glasshaus Inside into a lavish greenhouse oasis for an afternoon of creativity, flavour, and seasonal celebration. As the Christmas party season approaches, this one-of-a-kind event offers the perfect way to ease into the festive season, inviting guests to unwind with a floral arrangement in one hand and the perfect Gin cocktail in the other. Inside the lush, plant-filled walls of Glasshaus Inside, florist Kathy Nguyen of Rosie Haus will lead the workshop. She guides guests through crafting their own seasonal bouquet, teaching them how to balance colour, texture and form while surrounded by cascading greenery and natural light. As guests arrange stems and blooms, Edinburgh Gin serves three expertly made cocktails from its botanical range, including an exclusive first taste of the brand-new Strawberry and Pink Pepper Gin, freshly launched in Australia. Expect vibrant serves that celebrate spring with every sip. Think a zesty classic gin and tonic with a citrus twist, a juicy watermelon and lime punch, and the standout Strawberry and Pink Pepper Gin Sour, shaken with lemon, strawberry syrup, and a hint of peppercorn spice. Tickets are just $35 and include the floral masterclass, three crafted cocktails, and access to a beautifully laid out table piled high with local cheeses and charcuterie. We promise the next time you host your own garden party, you'll be able to pull out all the tips and tricks from this event to recreate this perfect evening at home. So whether you're an aspiring florist, a Gin lover, or looking for a relaxing way to enter the spring season, Filled With Wonder is the perfect, relaxed escape, designed to celebrate creativity and welcome you into spring. The 'Filled With Wonder' Flower Arranging Class will run across two sessions on Saturday, November 15 from 12–1:30pm and 2:30–4pm. Tickets are $35 and include the class, three cocktails and grazing table.
Eyes to the sky, Australia — it's time to catch one of the year's most-impressive meteor showers. Each autumn Down Under, the Eta Aquariids meteor shower sets the sky ablaze. And yes, it's happening right now. This vibrant astronomical vision starts in April every year, but is at its peak in early May. In 2024, the best date to mark in your diary is the early hours of Monday, May 6, which is when the shower will be at its most spectacular. If you're eager to catch a glimpse, even from just your backyard or balcony, here's what you need to know. [caption id="attachment_769233" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] What Is It? The Eta Aquariids might not be as famous as Halley's Comet, but the shower is actually a distant relation — because the bits and pieces you see flying around were on Halley's path a really, really long time ago. And, rather than only being visible every 76 years (the next Halley's Comet sighting is in 2061), the Eta Aquariids come around every year, usually between April 19–May 28. The shower's name comes from the star from which they appear to come Eta Aquarii, which is part of the Aquarius constellation. So, that's what you'll be looking for in the sky. Luckily, being in the southern hemisphere, we get some of the best views in the world. On average, you can see up to 20–40 meteors per hour. When to See It The shower will reach a peak in the early morning of Monday, May 6, but its best viewing window runs for a few days on either side. The optimal time to catch an eyeful is just before dawn after the moon has set, so around 3am AEST — but between 2am–7am is also recommended. At that time, you'll be in the running to see as many as 50 meteors every 60 minutes. Each will be moving at about 225,000 kilometres per hour, shining extraordinarily brightly and leaving a long wake. The shower's cause is, essentially, the Earth getting in the comet's way, causing stardust to fry up in the atmosphere. How to See It Usually, when a meteor shower lights up the sky, we'd tell city-dwellers to get as far away from light pollution as possible to get the best view. If you can't venture out of town at the moment, you can still take a gander from your backyard or balcony. To help locate the shower, we recommend downloading the Sky Map app — it's the easiest way to navigate the night sky (and is a lot of fun to use even on a non-meteor shower night). If you're more into specifics, Time and Date also has a table that shows the direction and altitude of the Eta Aquariids. It has been updating this daily. The weather might get in the way of your viewing, though, depending on where you live. Sydney and Brisbane are set for showers until at least Thursday. Melbourne will be partly cloudy on Sunday and mostly sunny on Monday, and Perth partly cloudy across both days, with Adelaide mostly Sunny on Sunday and sunny on Monday. The Eta Aquariids meteor shower runs until Tuesday, May 28, 2024, and will be at its peak during the night on Sunday, May 5–Monday, May 6. For further details, head to Time and Date. Top image:
Across four seasons of Stranger Things so far, entering a rift to the Upside Down hasn't transported anyone Down Under. But jumping into the hit Netflix series' world keeps proving a reality in Australia — first via one of those portals popping up in Bondi back in 2022, and next courtesy of Stranger Things: The Experience, which has just locked in its Aussie debut at Luna Park Sydney as part of Vivid's just-unveiled 2025 program. Luna Park Sydney and immersive experiences based on Netflix shows keep going hand in hand of late; since the end of 2024, the Harbour City tourist attraction has been hosting Squid Game: The Experience, letting small-screen fans dive into another streaming smash. At the time of writing, playing Red Light, Green Light with Young-hee in Luna Park's big top is on the agenda until late April. Stranger Things: The Experience will run from Friday, May 23–Saturday, June 14. The must-attend event falls into the Ideas portion of Vivid's lineup. Get ready to visit 1986 — and also Hawkins, Indiana, of course — in what promises to be an interactive stint of Stranger Things-loving fun. Locations from the show are part of the setup, as is a supernatural mystery. And yes, you can expect to feel nostalgic, even if you don't have your own memories of the 80s because you hadn't been born yet. Stranger Things: The Experience isn't just about visiting recreations of settings that you've seen while watching Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown, The Electric State) and the gang. The installation features its own storyline, where playing along means trying to save Hawkins from yet another threat. And yes, you will take a trip to the Upside Down. You'll also be able to drink themed cocktails. Based on its time in other cities, Demogorgons and/or Vecna might await, too, along with Christmas lights, Scoops Ahoy and Surfer Boy Pizza. The experience initially opened in New York in 2022, and has enjoyed dates with Los Angeles, San Francisco, Atlanta, Seattle, Toronto, London, Paris and São Paulo since, with a Rio de Janeiro stint also on the way. "The rift is open and we're excited that our Stranger Things fans will get to jump into the magic once more," said Greg Lombardo, Head of Experiences at Netflix, back when the New York iteration launched. "This time they will take on the challenges themselves and work alongside Eleven, Mike, and the rest of the gang to fight the evil monsters plaguing Hawkins. As Dustin would say, you always say we should never stop being curious, to always open any curiosity door we find," Lombardo continued. Hanging out for new Stranger Things back in your Netflix queue? That's due to happen in 2025, when the show's fifth and final series arrives — although there's no exact release date as yet. Stranger Things: The Experience arrives at Luna Park Sydney, 1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point from Friday, May 23. For more information, head to the Vivid Sydney website. Vivid Sydney 2025 runs from Friday, May 23–Saturday, June 14 across Sydney. Head to the festival website for further information. Images: Netflix.
January 2025 brought the return of Severance. February has been all about The White Lotus and Yellowjackets making a comeback, both for their third seasons. March will see Daredevil: Born Again hit streaming queues, then April has new episodes of The Handmaid's Tale and The Last of Us — and HBO has just confirmed exactly when the latter will hit the small screen. Mark Monday, April 14 in your diary — and yes, the wait for the Pedro Pascal (The Wild Robot)- and Bella Ramsey (Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget)-starring game-to-TV hit's seven-episode second season is almost over. How does humanity endure in the aftermath of the Cordyceps virus, and the global devastation caused by it? What does it mean to persist? Also, who do we become in the process? Audiences will find out again in mid-autumn. Viewers have known roughly when The Last of Us would return for a while now, but not the exact date. At the end of 2024, the US network confirmed that the series would kick off its second season sometime in autumn Down Under. Then, it locked in the month. Also revealed along the way before now: sneak peeks at the hit TV show that's based on the hugely popular gaming series, including as images, in promos for the network's full upcoming slate and via teaser trailers. Prepare for a time jump. Prepare for a guitar. Prepare for hordes of infected. Prepare for a haunting feeling, too. Also, prepare for sirens, flares and a stern warning: "there are just some things everyone agrees are just wrong", one of the teasers advises. In season two, it's been five years since the events of season one. And while there has been peace, it clearly isn't here to stay. Yes, Joel and Ellie are back — and, in their shoes, so are Pascal and Ramsey. This time, however, part of the conflict comes from each other. The show's main duo also have company from both familiar faces and a heap of newcomers in its second season. Rutina Wesley (Monster High) and Gabriel Luna (Fubar) return as Maria and Tommy, while Kaitlyn Dever (Apple Cider Vinegar), Isabela Merced (Alien: Romulus), Jeffrey Wright (American Fiction), Young Mazino (Beef), Ariela Barer (How to Blow Up a Pipeline), Tati Gabrielle (Kaleidoscope), Spencer Lord (Family Law), Danny Ramirez (Black Mirror) and Catherine O'Hara (Beetlejuice Beetlejuice) are the season's additions. The Last of Us made the leap from video games to TV in 2023, and was swiftly renewed after proving a massive smash instantly. The series gave HBO its most-watched debut season of a show ever — and its first episode was also the network's second-largest debut of all time. Locking in a second season was also hardly surprising because the 2013 game inspired a 2014 expansion pack and 2020 sequel. For first-timers to the franchise on consoles and as a TV series, The Last of Us kicked off 20 years after modern civilisation as we know it has been toppled by a parasitic fungal infection that turns the afflicted into shuffling hordes. Pascal plays Joel, who gets saddled with smuggling 14-year-old Ellie (his Game of Thrones co-star Ramsey) out of a strict quarantine zone to help possibly save humanity's last remnants. There wouldn't be a game, let alone a television version, if that was an easy task, of course — and if the pair didn't need to weather quite the brutal journey. As a television series, The Last of Us hails from co-creator, executive producer, writer and director Craig Mazin, who already brought a hellscape to HBO (and to everyone's must-watch list) thanks to the haunting and horrifying Chernobyl. He teams up here with Neil Druckmann from Naughty Dog, who also penned and directed The Last of Us games. One question remaining for Australian audiences is where The Last of Us season two will be available. Season one arrived via Binge, but HBO is set to launch its Max streaming platform locally in the first half of 2025 — and doing so with one of its huge recent successes would be a logical move. Check out the latest teaser trailer for The Last of Us season two below: The Last of Us season two will arrive on Monday, April 14, 2025 Down Under. Season one is available to stream via Binge in Australia and on Neon in New Zealand. Read our review of the first season. Images: Liane Hentscher/HBO.
Fitzroy locals, this one is for you. If you've been searching for a way to enjoy Bistro Morgan's beloved baked goods without having to trek to the flagship outpost in Prahran, you're in luck. You can now enjoy the bakehouse's classics in a new Fitzroy locale. Following its transition from a successful pop-up to a Prahran staple, the bakery has finally expanded its reach. A second Bistro Morgan outpost arrived on Brunswick Street in late August. Need a snack before or after hitting up Brunswick Street Bookstore? A visit here will fuel the search for your next page-turning adventure with a cuppa or a brew. "The Fitzroy store is more than a location; it's a sentiment," said Bistro Morgan's founder Morgan Hipworth. "It's a fresh chapter in the Bistro Morgan journey, one where every corner, every product and every interaction tells a story." The suburb's newcomer has settled into an intimate eatery hosting up to 15 customers. Its casual fitout, designed by Studio Esteta, creates an inviting and relaxed atmosphere with timber furniture, soft lighting and an eye-catching marbled stone bench. Bistro Morgan's Fitzroy outpost maintains its flagship venue's ethos, keeping takeaway at the core of its operations. Swing by the new store and you'll be met with its handcrafted doughnut range — including the popular creme brûlée, naughty tella and cookie monster flavours — as well as its soft-centred cookies and its lightly-coated scrolls. For those with a preference for savoury treats, the toastie range on offer makes for a great snack. You can take your pick from five varieties — the pesto melt and reuben are crowd favourites — or opt for your own creation. Plus, Bistro Morgan's milkshakes and curated variety of coffee are available to wash down your selection of bakery goods. Find Bistro Morgan Fitzroy at 400 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, open from 8am–4pm daily.
With Easter just around the corner, you've probably already got stuck into a few fruit-spiked buns and choccy eggs, with plenty more to come. But here's another, more grown-up treat to add to your wish-list again this year — an Aussie craft rum inspired by the humble hot cross bun. Off the back of a wildly popular 2022 debut, family-run Margaret River distillery The Grove has been busy whipping up a new edition of its beloved Hot Cross Rum. Once again, the small-batch sip has been hand-crafted using The Grove's four-year barrel-aged dark rum, then housed in a former bourbon barrel made of American oak. Raisins, oranges and a bunch of warm spices are left to steep, before the rum is given a final infusion of classic hot cross bun flavours including cinnamon, cloves and vanilla. At the end, you've got a warm, rich, festive-tasting spirit, packed with notes of caramelised raisin, vanilla and cinnamon, with a lingering fruity finish and a hit of molasses to round it all out. A 40-percent ABV hot cross bun in a glass, if you like. The Grove team recommends you sip their new creation neat — with a hot-buttered Easter bun on the side for full effect, of course. Word is that it's also a solid match to a cheese board or dessert, and proves an ideal drop to whip out for any celebratory occasion through the rest of the year, too. Just 120 bottles of the Hot Cross Rum have been made this year, available now to purchase online, with Australia-wide delivery happening just in time for Easter. The Hot Cross Rum marks the fourth release from The Grove's Collector's Series of limited-edition spirits. Each of the French cubic glass bottles features a handwritten, numbered calligraphy label by Perth artist Stacey Teo. The Grove's Hot Cross Rum is available to purchase via the website at RRP $110 for a 500ml bottle. Images: Freedom Garvey Photographer
Cocktail lovers were devastated when The Everleigh — one of Melbourne's foremost cocktail bars — closed its doors after 14 years on Gertrude Street. Yet it was hard to imagine the creative force of Michael and Zara Madrusan would disappear into the ether for long, having spent over a decade at the top of their game. The time for their return has arrived, as The Everleigh makes its first appearance since shutting its doors in March earlier this year. Appearing at the Royal Exhibition Building's Makers & Shakers Market from Saturday, September 6–Sunday, September 7, this all-Australian showcase of design, creativity and craftsmanship is the ideal match for the duo's talent. For this one-weekend-only revival of The Everleigh, Michael and Zara will serve a selection of the bar's most iconic cocktails, while highlighting new creations from their upcoming book, The Madrusan Cocktail Companion. Featuring more than 2800 classic and modern recipes, this tome might just be the essential guide to cocktail-making here on out. Meanwhile, the duo will also host a 60-minute masterclass on both market days, presented from 3–4pm. With tickets available for $55 per person, including two cocktails, visitors will hear from the best in the business as they offer a deep dive into time-tested cocktails, contemporary twists and innovative techniques that will take your concoctions to greater heights.
Always fancied hanging a gallery-worthy masterpiece on your wall, but don't have anywhere near the hefty budget needed to make that dream a reality? Adore that idea, but believe that great art belongs in galleries where the general public can see it? Whether you're an art lover without deep pockets or a huge supporter of art museums, here's a handy, creative and gorgeous new alternative: building one of the most famous paintings ever crafted out of Lego. If you can construct flowers out of the colourful plastic blocks, brightening up your home with succulents, orchids, bouquets and bonsai fashioned out of bricks, then recreating phenomenal art is the easy next step. The toy brand has come up with the kit to do just that in collaboration with New York's Museum of Modern Art — and the pair have chosen quite the piece to reimagine in 2316 pieces. Painted in 1889, and a mesmerising, twinkling, blue-dripping sight to behold, Vincent van Gogh's The Starry Night is a post-impressionist wonder. When you're making it out of Lego, we recommend busting out the bricks next to a window with a view — given that van Gogh created the OG piece, entrancing colours, brush strokes and all, after taking inspiration from his vantage at the Monastery of Saint-Paul de Mausole asylum in Saint-Rémy, France. Unsurprisingly, The Starry Night is a big hit at MoMA, where it has been on display since 1935 — but now you can put together a version to look at whenever you want. Firmly designed for adults, Lego and MoMa's The Starry Night set measures 40 centimetres long, 21 centimetres wide and 28 centimetres high. And, yes, you can hang the 3D piece on your wall. Also included in the kit, which'll cost AU$259.99 / NZ $279.99 when it goes on sale on Wednesday, June 1: a van Gogh minifigure. It comes with a paint brush, palette, easel and mini painting on a printed tile, and there's an arm that you can attach to the big version of the The Starry Night, too, to show the artist painting the scene. It's been a great few years to be a fan of van Gogh Down Under — so if you went to the National Gallery of Victoria's huge van Gogh exhibition back in 2017, or enjoyed stepping into The Starry Night during multisensory showcase Van Gogh Alive's past Australian and New Zealand stops, this is the Lego set for you. For more information about Lego's new The Starry Night, which goes on sale on Wednesday, June 1, head to the company's website.
Among the many topics and ideas sung about in Hamilton, the fact that life is about seizing chances is up there with the most pivotal and resonant. In 2024 in Australia, it's time to take that notion to heart. So, you haven't seen Hamilton onstage yet? You have but you're eager to catch it again? Don't throw away your shot — the smash-hit musical is returning Down Under in July, but only to Sydney. After that, it'll finish its Aussie run. Lin-Manuel Miranda's masterpiece initially made its way to the Harbour City in 2021, then went to Melbourne in 2022 and Brisbane in 2023. The Australian production also travelled to New Zealand, Manila and Abu Dhabi, and will hit up Singapore next. Following that is its Sydney comeback, where the biggest thing in musical theatre in the 21st century — and a game-changing, award-winning, rightly raved-about sensation — will make Sydney Lyric Theatre the room where it happens from Tuesday, July 30, 2024. Hamilton's Australian return was announced in 2023, but now it has been confirmed that Sydney is its only stop. Also new news: locking in the cast that'll take to the stage, including some familiar faces and a few newcomers. Jason Arrow is reprising the role of Alexander Hamilton, Akina Edmonds returns as Angelica Schuyler, Elandrah Eramiha is back as both Peggy Schuyler and Maria Reynolds, and Brent Hill again slips on King George III's crown. This time, however, Vidya Makan will play Eliza Hamilton, Gerard-Luke Malgas does double duty as the Marquis de Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson, Etuate Lutui is Hercules Mulligan and James Madison, and Googoorewon Knox plays George Washington. Also, Tainga Savage steps up from the original Australian company — plus the international tour — to taking on the parts of John Laurens and Philip Hamilton. Still new to this song-and-dance take on 18th-century American politics? Not quite sure why it has been the most-talked about theatre show of the past decade? The critically acclaimed hip hop musical, for which Miranda wrote the music, lyrics and the book, is about the life of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, as well as inclusion and politics in current-day America. In addition to its swag of Tony Awards — 11 in fact, which includes Best Musical — it has nabbed a Grammy Award and even a Pulitzer Prize. Until 2021, Australians eager to see the show had to be content watching the filmed version of its Broadway production, which started streaming via Disney+ in 2020 (and yes, it's as phenomenal as you've heard). If you're not feeling financial enough to nab a seat, cross your fingers that the $10 ticket lottery, which offers Hamilton tickets for less than the cost of lunch, will return as well. In March 2023, Miranda came to Australia to see the local production, calling the cast "so fantastic". "I remember seeing Jason Arrow's audition — it had to have been April or May of 2020, and it was around the time that we were watching and editing Hamilton for [the Disney+] release. So they were really stacking up against the originals in a very tangible way, and so we were really proud of the incredible company that we were able to put together from there locally," he said at a press conference in Brisbane "Every original cast is like a four-minute mile," Miranda continued. "They said scientists proved you couldn't run the mile in under four minutes, and then someone did it, and then suddenly everybody's running it — and I feel like original casts are like that. It's impossible to find that first cast, and then it attracts the people who know they can do it." Hamilton's 2024 Sydney season will play Sydney Lyric Theatre from Tuesday, July 30, 2024. Head to the musical's website for further details and tickets — with seats currently on sale for shows until Tuesday, October 31. Production images: Daniel Boud.
St Kilda Pier is set to score a fresh look and more penguin-friendly surrounds, with the Victorian Government announcing plans to completely rebuild the long-standing landmark. Having nabbed a tidy $50.3 million in funding from the Victorian Budget 2019/20, the project will see the almost 50-year-old pier given a complete overhaul, including a new penguin viewing area. As the area's star residents, the St Kilda penguin colony is a major focus of the rebuild, with plans designed to protect these little feathered mates, while also improving the experience for visitors. Under the proposed rebuild, the new-look pier will curve out into the bay, boasting a dedicated penguin viewing area with tiered seating overlooking the water, plus new toilet facilities, more green space and sheltered areas to cope with that unpredictable Melbourne weather. The new curved design will also make for a more protected swimming area setting, while also allowing for improved views of the birds as they make their nightly post-sunset waddle home. [caption id="attachment_723241" align="alignnone" width="1920"] An artist's impression of the curved St Kilda pier.[/caption] The plans for the new pier were chosen after extensive community consultation, with construction expected to kick off next year. The landmark currently sees around 6000 visitors each year. The bayside suburb will also score further improvements, with the Victorian Government committing another $27 million to boost cyclist safety, installing a series of central safety zone bike lanes and Copenhagen-style kerbside bike lanes along St Kilda Road. St Kilda Pier construction is slated to begin in 2020. For more information, head to the Parks Victoria website. Image: Roberto Seba for Visit Victoria.
We all know the fun things that can happen when a nostalgic childhood treat is reimagined for a grown-up audience. And the latest collaboration from gelato masters Messina and Sydney distillery Archie Rose is certainly one of the goodies. The pair has gone and reworked the classic neapolitan ice cream combo into a limited-edition trio of spirits, heavy on the retro-tastic dessert vibes and ready for your spring cocktail sessions. Available from Monday, September 7, the Neapolitan Set features three 200-millilitre spirit varieties crafted on produce from Messina's own Aussie farms, paying homage to the familiar pink, white and brown scoops that have long graced dinner tables across Australia. There's a strawberry and pink peppercorn gin, a vanilla and pandan vodka, and a chocolate-inspired cacao husk and hazelnut whisky. Archie Rose individually distilled a swag of top-quality ingredients to create each sip and has even come up with some suggested cocktails to put them to good use. For example, the gin teams locally foraged pink peppercorn and native river mint with juicy strawberries from Messina's farm in Dural, NSW. They say this one works particularly well matched with some of Messina's strawberry sorbet in a blushing riff on the miami vice cocktail. Meanwhile, the collaboration vodka uses fragrant pandan and sustainably sourced Tongan vanilla beans to create a spirit that's the perfect addition to a grasshopper. And the whisky stars roasted hazelnuts from both Italy and the Messina farm in Seymour, Victoria, along with macerated husks from rare cacao beans. Best try that one blended with a scoop of Messina's hazelnut gelato in a creamy toblerone concoction. While the spirit set will be available to buy online and from select bottle shops, Messina will also be dishing up a supporting act with a limited-edition decorated neapolitan gelato tub up for grabs from September 7. Plus, stay tuned for a virtual neapolitan cocktail masterclass, presented by Messina and Archie Rose on September 25. Find the Archie Rose x Messina Neapolitan Set ($109) at select bottle shops, the Archie Rose bar and on the Archie Rose website, from September 7.
Stopping Godzilla isn't easy. Within the Monsterverse, the American movie and TV universe that's sprung up around the iconic kaiju, that lesson has been well and truly learned. On-screen, the giant critter is no longer seen as a foe, as 2024 film Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire embraced — and for Legendary Entertainment, the company producing the franchise, there's no such thing as too much of the towering behemoth. Cinemas have seen 2014's Godzilla, 2019's Godzilla: King of the Monsters and 2021's Godzilla vs Kong before this year's Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire. In 2023, Apple TV+ series Monarch: Legacy of Monsters brought Zilly to streaming as well. The latter starred none other than Kurt Russell (Fast and Furious 9) and Wyatt Russell (Night Swim), with the father-son duo sharing the same part in a time-hopping narrative. Understandably paying more attention to humans given its two leads, it proved an excellent addition to the franchise, so it comes as no surprise that Monarch: Legacy of Monsters has been renewed for a second season. Exactly when the series will return hasn't been revealed, but Apple TV+ is going big with its part of the saga, also announcing that multiple spinoffs are also on the way. What they'll entail, who'll be in them and when they will arrive hasn't been locked in, either, but get ready for plenty more Godzilla-related television viewing. "Monarch: Legacy of Monsters has left an indelible imprint on the hearts, minds and imaginations of audiences around the world," said Apple TV+'s Head of International Development Morgan Wandell. "We couldn't be more excited for viewers to not only have the chance to experience even more thrills in season two, but to embark on epic, new journeys in the franchise as we expand Legendary's Monsterverse." With Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, the Monsterverse went the episodic route via a story set across generations and 50 years. The Russells play army officer Lee Shaw — while a couple of siblings attempting to keep up their dad's work after events between Godzilla and the Titans in San Francisco in the aforementioned 2014 film, as well as their family history, also proves pivotal. So, Monarch: Legacy of Monsters involves unpacking links to clandestine outfit Monarch, activities back in the 50s and how what Shaw knows threatens the organisation. Yes, monsters and rampages were part of the first season, but so were secrets, lies, revelations and mysteries. Also appearing on-screen: Anna Sawai (Shōgun), Kiersey Clemons (The Flash), Ren Watabe (461 Days of Bento), Mari Yamamoto (Pachinko), Anders Holm (Inventing Anna), Joe Tippett (The Morning Show), Elisa Lasowski (Hill of Vision) and Takehiro Hira (Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story). Behind the scenes, Chris Black (Severance) and Matt Fraction (Da Vinci's Demons) co-developed Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, while Matt Shakman (The Consultant, Welcome to Chippendales) helmed the opening pair of episodes for season one. All three were among the series' executive producers, and will return for season two. Check out the trailer for Monarch: Legacy of Monsters season one below: Monarch: Legacy of Monsters streams via Apple TV+ — we'll update you with a release date for season two when it's announced. Read our review of season one, and our interview with Kurt and Wyatt Russell.
You may have caught Zoe Coombs Marr on ABC2's Dirty Laundry Live or in post's bloody riff on death scenes, Oedipus Schmoedipus. Separate to her work with post, Coombs Marr's thing tends to be the timely topic of gender, and bending it. The "awkward sapphic high priestess of cool" (that's a description worth milking) confirms she's been dressing up as a dude (intermittently) all her life — like when she skipped schoolies to put on a drag musical. She's also won a Phillip Parsons Playwright Award and FBi SMAC Best on Stage in her time, which is pretty much as close as you get to having a quality guarantee. Catch her in Dave this week at Sydney's 107 Projects. There are lots of comedians named Dave, but none are quite like this one. Or maybe they all are. Ahead of the show, Zoe gave us the lowdown on dressing in drag (just like Anne Hathaway, Kristen Stewart and Brie Larsen have been perfecting). START EARLY Drag is a skill like any other. Just like violin, tennis, and passive aggression, the earlier you start, the more honed it'll be! Due to a natural aptitude*, I was lucky enough to get a headstart in childhood and the evidence is strewn through our family photo albums. While my sisters played it safe, as fairies, princesses and fairy princesses, I used these formative years to progress from standard beginner 'genie' 'magician' and 'groom' (to my sister), into more challenging impersonations of The BFG and The Hunchback of Notre Dame before graduating to experimental drag looks including 'Box of Sultanas with a moustache' and 'Tim Shore from the Demtel infomercials, but dead'. If you feel the chance has passed you by, why not take a leaf out of the Dance Moms handbook and live vicariously through your kids? This is particularly easy as all babies look like genderless potatoes. You can easily confuse everyone with the simplest acts, like dressing little Sally in blue or adorning baby Jake's head with one of those weird elastic bows that anxious heteros put on their bald infant girls to make sure that no one mistakes her for a boy. *lesbianism Images: Zoe's baby drag looks. BREASTS See also: Boozies, boobs, melons, honkers, jugs, bazookas, norks… I could go on. Once you move out of your genderless potato phase you're going to have to deal with these guys. If you're Hilary Swank or Gwyneth Paltrow, you'll just need a single crepe bandage, or to stand facing into a strong breeze. If you've got big knockers, like me, you'll probably try a number of uncomfortable and complicated methods involving: Tape - Gaffa tape can work in a pinch, but you need to wear a shirt under it and the shirt will be ruined. Bandages - Don't really work, because they either (a) move apart, creating a 'sausage coming out of its casing' effect or (b) crush your ribs, restrict your breathing and make you feel a little panicky. This is my theory as to why Gwyneth got so emotional at the Oscars. Sports bras - One forward, one back. never worked for me. Thanks for nothing wikihow. Glad wrap - Which works so well at first. Until the sweat comes… and more sweat… and then the rash. And other household items. Then, after all of the sore ribs, bruises, breathlessness and rashes, you'll give in and buy a binder online. Why didn't you do this ages ago, you idiot? And a tip: You will need a helper. As awkward as this may seem, it is nowhere near as awkward as trying to do this on your own in a dressing room. Especially if, like me, you tend to do this at all-male comedy nights where the dressing room is just a small gap behind a curtain next to the pub’s coolroom. FACIAL HAIR You have a couple of options here. If you’re planning on maintaining some sort of attractive aesthetic, or getting laid after your gig, you can just google 'Drag King Makeup' and follow their tips to creating a sexy contoured look. Think sharp edged eyebrows and pencil thin sculptured beards (aka "chinstrap" or "douche beard") that will make you look like a member of Backstreet Boys, circa 1998. However, I personally prefer to take the less popular route and glue hair clippings to my face, giving the effect of a lolly that's fallen on the floor. Glue them on with spirit glue. (Don’t make my mistakes. Remember water-soluble is easiest to get off unless you have the removal fluid. I once had to wash my face with nail polish remover.) You can source the clippings from a friend, partner, pet, or your own ponytail. The darker and coarser the better. Secretly I’ve always thought that pubic hair would be the best route, but have never been game enough to try. We all have to draw the line somewhere. Actually, now that I think of it, an actual beard would be the best, so if you know any hipster dudes whose Newtown microbrewery has failed and they have to shave to get a job in a bank, let me know. HEAD HAIR This is easy. If you have short hair, you're set! If you have long hair, you're also set: just sweep it into a low pony and you'll look like you work at Harvey Norman and sell stolen microphones on the side. Done. GENITALIA So now that you're covered in tape and hair, you'll need a penis too. I read somewhere that a small plastic bag of birdseed in the undies makes a great prosthe-dick. Or you can just go the tried and tested rolled-up sock route, which is what I do. Mainly because I generally forget this step until the last minute and as a result I perform about half my shows in only one sock. But whatever you use, you'll be tempted to make it too big. Rookie mistake. Hold back! One sock is fine. In fact, I like to imagine that Dave's penis is slightly smaller than average. The lack of confidence has to be made up in bravado and results in a far more realistic performance. After all that just whack on a graphic tee, a flannie, a pair of Rip Curl jeans and off you go. Remember, your guy is complex, if beer ads are anything to go by, he could be into football or cricket or larrikinism. Dave is on July 25-26 at 107 Projects before heading to Edinburgh. More info here.
When John Carpenter gave the world the exceptional slasher flick that is Halloween, the iconic filmmaker also gave us all something to watch each and every October 31. No one wants to limit themselves to just one scary movie on the spookiest day of the year, though. And while the Halloween franchise has plenty of entries (some excellent, some terrible, some average), it's not the only thing worthy of your eyeballs while you're carving pumpkins, eating candy and dressing up in the most frightening costume you can conjure up. While 2020 has been unsettling all round for everyone, it has also served up a heap of unnerving flicks — especially (and fittingly) via streaming platforms. So if your idea of a perfect Halloween this year involves getting reacquainted with that groove on your sofa and binging your way through the latest and greatest horror movies that are currently offer, we've rounded up a ten-movie viewing list that'll do the trick. You'll need to supply the treats, obviously. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iZHg9xcK83s THE MORTUARY COLLECTION When The Mortuary Collection begins with a kid on a bicycle making his way towards a creepy multi-level mansion in a remote part of a small town — a mortuary, as the title makes plain — you can be forgiven for thinking that it's about to step into Goosebumps or Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark-style territory. That firmly isn't the case, even though this horror flick serves up an anthology of unnerving tales all framed by an overarching narrative. In the bigger picture, as set in the 80s, Raven's End mortician Montgomery Dark (Clancy Brown, Billions) finds a young woman called Sam (Caitlin Custer, Teen Wolf) hovering around the house. She says she's enquiring about the 'help wanted' sign outside and, as they chat, he starts talking her through the histories of folks who've died in the town. Cue four separate segments that feature everything from tentacled monsters and sleazy frat boys to creepy corpses and escaped asylum patients. Each story within the bigger story tells a tale about bad choices leading to bad outcomes, and they're so richly staged that even the briefest still keeps viewers interested. Writer/director Ryan Spindell might be making his feature debut, but from his handling of the movie's equally ominous and entertaining mood to its well-executed lashings of gore, he has crafted himself quite the calling card. The Mortuary Collection is available to stream via Shudder. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Atqf47wM5Gg RELIC It's a recognisable setup: a remote house, a family haunted by decades-old troubles, a murky history that's still leaving an imprint and tension levels rising when, naturally, strange things start to happen. But Australian horror movie Relic has more than a few surprises up its sleeves as it follows three generations of women in a Victorian-based family. In fact, while the slow-burning affair is set in a nerve-shatteringly creepy house that's up there with many a horror great, and it serves up well-executed jumps, bumps and unnerving sensations, this smart, thoughtful and constantly disquieting film also uses its concept and plot to ponder the physical and emotional impact of ageing, including dementia. It all starts with the disappearances of the widowed and elderly Edna (Top of the Lake's Robyn Nevin). Her daughter Kay (Mary Poppins Returns' Emily Mortimer) arrives from Melbourne to join the search, with her own offspring Sam (Bloom's Bella Heathcote) in tow, but then Edna reappears suddenly without any explanation for her absence. In the assured feature directorial debut of Japanese Australian filmmaker Natalie Erika James, Kay and Sam still need to try to ascertain just what happened, though, and work out why Edna's house — and, increasingly, Edna too — seems so sinister. Relic is available to stream via Stan. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HNZQ2GG833o SHE DIES TOMORROW When She Dies Tomorrow splashes Kate Lyn Sheil's face across the screen, then bathes it in neon flashes of pink, blue, red and purple, it isn't easily forgotten. It's a vivid, visceral, even psychedelic sight, which filmmaker Amy Seimetz lingers on, forcing her audience to do the same as well. Viewers aren't just soaking in trippy lights and colours, though. They're staring at the expression beneath the multi-hued glow, which seethes with harrowing levels of shock, fright, distress and anxiety. That's understandable; this is the look of someone who has just had the most unnerving realisation there is: that she is going to die tomorrow. Yes, that's the film's premise, with Sheil's Amy believing that her life will end the next day. But it's how the on-screen Amy copes with the apocalyptic news, and how it also spreads virally from person to person, that fuels this gloriously smart and unsettling thriller. Toying with surreal Lynchian moments yet always feeling disarmingly astute, She Dies Tomorrow follows the spread of that potentially paranoid, persecution-driven delusion like a contagion, with the haunting feature's cast also including Katie Aselton (Bombshell), Chris Messina (Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn)), Josh Lucas (Ford vs Ferrari), Tunde Adebimpe (Marriage Story) and Jennifer Kim (Mozart in the Jungle). She Dies Tomorrow is available to stream via VOD on Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Amazon Video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQ8CCg1tOqc #ALIVE Train to Busan and Peninsula aren't the only recent films to wonder how South Korea might cope with a sudden zombie outbreak. The unrelated #Alive also explores the concept, focusing on a video game streamer as an unexplained disease turns most of Seoul's residents into members of the guts-munching undead. Holed up in the seeming safety of his family's apartment, Oh Jun-u (Burning's Yoo Ah-in) doesn't initially take the situation well. As shuffling hordes lurk outside, his dismal food supply rapidly declines, and he worries about the safety of his parents and sister, he attempts to survive — and to fight off the gnawing feeling that perhaps his struggle is futile. A box office hit when it released in South Korean cinemas this year, #Alive never feels as formulaic as its premise might suggest. In fact, this horror-thriller proves constantly tense, and not just because pandemic films have that effect at the moment. Making his first feature, writer/director Il Cho handles the zombie scenes with urgency and makes ample room for quiet moments; however, his best decision is casting the ever-watchable Yoo. #Alive is available to stream via Netflix. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RlfooqeZcdY THE PLATFORM Set in a series of confined spaces, stressing the immense disparities between the haves and the have nots, and watching as people fight over everyday items — food, in this case — The Platform couldn't be more relevant to 2020. That's a coincidence, of course, with this twisty Spanish thriller first screening at film festivals in 2019 before hitting Netflix this year. It all starts when Goreng (Iván Massagué) wakes up in a prison cell. He's on level 48 and, as his cellmate Trimagasi (Zorion Eguileor) explains, there are 47 storeys above and who knows how many below. He can see this for himself, however, because the concrete room has a hole in the centre of both the ceiling and floor. Through this opening, their daily meal descends on a platform, before moving to the lower levels. For the folks at the top, that means that a huge feast awaits. Alas, as the platform makes its way down level by level, each cell is faced with leftovers, scraps, bones and eventually nothing. Funny, furious, grim and violent all at once, The Platform is also impeccably staged and shot, stressing the claustrophobia of its setting as well as the dog-eat-dog mindset that quickly develops among its characters. The Platform is available to stream on Netflix. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNlKbqHqGcY HOST Not to be confused with Bong Joon-ho's creature feature The Host, nor with the terrible sci-fi romance of the same name based on a novel by Twilight author Stephenie Meyer, Shudder's engaging horror flick Host is relevant to the absolute minute. Indeed, it could've only been made this year. The setup: bored in COVID-19 lockdown, a group of British friends (Haley Bishop, Jemma Moore, Emma Louise Webb, Radina Drandova, Caroline Ward and Edward Linard) decide to spice up their weekly Zoom catchup by enlisting a medium to conduct an online seance. Obviously, anyone who has ever seen a scary movie before knows that this is a bad plan, and that things won't end well. It's not so much what happens here that serves up the film's thrills, however, but how director Rob Savage (Strings) unfurls this creepy, timely premise. Frightening and tense features solely set on computer and mobile phone screens are by no means new — see Unfriended, Searching and Profile, just to name a few recent examples — but this is a savvy, cleverly managed and suitably spooky addition to the genre. It'll also turn you off trying to summon the dead next time you jump on Zoom yourself. Host is available to stream via Shudder. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=auVZKcxV7XQ SWALLOW Some films boast a stellar lead performance, so much so that you couldn't imagine the movie without it. Some find their strength in a clever, astute and engaging premise. Swallow ticks both boxes — and combines them with a mood and look that instantly make an imprint. In the feature debut of writer/director Carlo Mirabella-Davis, young housewife Hunter Conrad (Haley Bennett, The Devil All the Time) seems to have it all. She has married into a wealthy family, her husband (Austin Stowell, Fantasy Island) has a high-flying job, they've been gifted a lavish house surrounded by countryside and she's now expecting. But, when she isn't being left home alone day in, day out, she's expected to be dutiful and doting by her controlling new family. So, to regain a sliver of power over her life, Hunter starts swallowing strange objects. Bennett is phenomenal as a woman slowly awakening to her restricted reality, fighting to break free and coming to terms with her past, putting in a quiet, nuanced yet potent performance. And the film itself walks confidently in the footsteps of masterpieces such as Safe and Rosemary's Baby, while always following its own path. Swallow is available to stream on Stan. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NeYWT7CnFK0 SCARE ME Written and directed by Josh Ruben, and starring him also, Scare Me doesn't just like scary movies — it flat-out loves scary stories. Indeed, this pared-back horror film understands that sometimes all that's needed to keep an audience on the edge of their seats is a great tale told well. Its characters, both writers, are all about unfurling creepy narratives. Fred (Ruben) falls into the aspiring category, while Fanny (You're the Worst and The Boys' Aya Cash) has an acclaimed best-seller to her name. With each taking time out in the mountains to get some work done, these two strangers end up in Fred's cabin telling each other disturbing stories when the power goes out (and trying to one-up each other, naturally). For its first two-thirds, Scare Me makes the most of that basic concept. Fred and Fanny perform their tales, sound effects and ominous lighting kicks in — it's a stormy night, of course — and the mood is suitably perturbing. The film also demonstrates its self-awareness, namedropping other genre titles with frequency and sending in a pizza from the Overlook. When this Sundance-premiering feature decides to ponder real-life horrors as part of its layered stories, however, it proves especially potent. Scare Me is available to stream now via Shudder. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJvKDp54YjM SPIRAL It shares its name with the next movie in the Saw franchise, which'll hit cinemas next year. But this Spiral gives a familiar premise a smart, topical and resonant twist. In the mid-90s, Malik (Jeffrey Bowyer-Chapman, UnREAL) and Aaron (Ari Cohen, IT: Chapter Two) move to a small town with the latter's teenage daughter Kayla (Jennifer Laporte, iZombie), seeking a quieter, happier life away from the city. They're initially greeted warmly by neighbours Marshall (Lochlyn Munro, Riverdale) and Tiffany (Chandra West); however, in general territory traversed by many a horror film before this, things aren't quite what they seem. Indeed, when Malik comes home one day to find a homophobic slur graffitied on their living room wall, he starts to get suspicious about the cliquey community they're now calling home — fears that Aaron doesn't share. There is clearly much about Spiral that fits a template, but director Kurtis David Harder and writers Colin Minihan and John Poliquin do an shrewd job of moulding this unsettling movie into a timely statement. The result: a feature that's as much about spooky terrors as societal ones, and that possesses a considerable bite. Spiral is available to stream via Shudder. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nj6JIzrIzxk BLACK BOX Blumhouse, the filmmaking company started and run by producer Jason Blum, has quite a number of horror flicks to its name. It's responsible for Get Out, Happy Death Day, the latest Halloween and this year's version of The Invisible Man, with that list only continuing — and in 2020 it has launched a movie anthology series on Amazon Prime Video as well. Black Box is one of the flicks in the Welcome to the Blumhouse franchise, and it's the best of the four released so far. Written and directed by feature first-timer Emmanuel Osei-Kuffour Jr, the Black Mirror-esque sci-fi/horror hybrid focuses on photographer Nolan Wright (Mamoudou Athie, The Front Runner), who is struggling to regain his memory after a traumatic car accident. Then he's given the opportunity to try an experimental new treatment by brain specialist Dr Lilian Brooks (Phylicia Rashad), and this film starts toying with identity, loyalty and ethics. There aren't all that many surprises, narrative-wise, but Athie is excellent, Osei-Kuffour Jr maintains a sense of intrigue and, more often than not, the movie hits an emotional note, too. Black Box is available to stream via Amazon Prime Video.
Melbourne's HQ Group has already left its mark on a section of the Yarra, with adjacent riverside venues Arbory Bar & Eatery and Arbory Afloat proving firm fan favourites. Now, it's taking on another corner of the CBD, revealing plans to transform a historic Lonsdale Street building opposite Emporium into a five-storey food and drink haven. The as-yet-unnamed venture will feature five distinct venues, including a rooftop bar, together kicking on from morning until well into the night. It's set to deliver a dynamic fusion of art, design, food, drink and nightlife, in what HQ Group Marketing Director Georgie Larkins describes as "a totally new hospitality experience". Unfortunately, you'll have to wait a while before it opens, with the launch slated for some time next year. [caption id="attachment_793623" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Simon Shiff[/caption] Details about this ambitious project are still pretty scarce, though we do know the 117-year-old building features lots of historical touches throughout its collection of light-filled intimate rooms. HQ Group have owned and operated the site since 2015, and have been planning this next addition to their stable for quite some time. Meanwhile, it's been confirmed that Terry Clark — former head chef of acclaimed MONA restaurant The Source — will be stepping in to head up the kitchen offering, but we won't know much more about the food situation until early next year, when the team makes its next announcements regarding the venues and their concepts. HQ Group's next project will open at 270 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, at some stage in 2021. Stay tuned for more details dropping early next year. Images: Simon Shiff
Next time you venture to Kew for a feed at Chef David, you're in for some big changes. The venue, which is a sibling to the CBD hot pot destination of the same name, has relaunched following an extended pandemic-driven lockdown, embracing an entirely new direction. Introducing, Chef David Kew 2.0 — a degustation-only Asian-fusion fine diner with a penchant for the experimental. The new-look space is working a bold, futuristic fitout, with plenty of neon signage and a collection of art installations lending the feel of a contemporary gallery. A casual bar area at the front of the venue leads back through to a more formal dining space, while a ten-metre-long LED work along one wall displays dramatic projections inspired by the chefs' regional backgrounds. [caption id="attachment_855436" align="alignnone" width="1920"] by Lumea Photo[/caption] The all-you-can-eat hot pot of yesterday has gone, as has the sushi train. In their place, is a seasonal nine-dish set menu celebrating a vast spread of Chinese regions and built on ingredients sourced exclusively by the restaurant from their respective provinces. It's an innovative lineup, currently starring bites like sea urchin roe paired with yuzu dashi jelly; the confit duck marinated in 13 different Guizhou spices, finished with a plum and nitsume sauce; and a wagyu steak crowned with miso egg yolk and sea urchin 'bubbles'. Oysters come two ways, done with dashi jelly and a horseradish sauce, as well as with a Yunnan-style topping of salmon roe and yuzu vodka. [caption id="attachment_855439" align="alignnone" width="1920"] by Lumea Photo[/caption] The detailing and artistic flair continues on the dessert list, which includes an assembly of raspberry, vanilla gelato, chocolate bark and fairy floss crafted to look like a blooming cherry blossom tree. An ever-growing wine offering showcases drops from across Australia, New Zealand and Europe, with particularly impressive selections of burgundy and champagne. There's even a signature cabernet sauvignon made in collaboration with the Mornington Peninsula's Barmah Park Wines. Find the new iteration of Chef David Kew at Shop R01/140 Cotham Rd, Kew. It's open 5.30–10.30pm Wednesday to Saturday. Images: Lumea Photo
If you're a fevered festival-head, you'll know all about New Year's Eve favourite Beyond the Valley. At the end of 2022 an eclectic bill of musos will be taking to the stage in Barunah Plains, a region west of Melbourne, to see out the year with a dance floor heaving with good vibes. Nelly Furtado is heading up the festivities, and she'll be joined by the likes of Flight Facilities, Kaytranada, Charlotte De Witte and Lime Cordiale, too. It's set to be a big one. Now to squeeze as much fun as you can out of your festival experience, you don't just rock up without some forward thinking. To have the best time, you've got to know what you're doing — you've gotta plan. In our opinion, even the most experienced Aussie summer festival-goers could do with a few hacks. That's especially true with the influx of new tech and gadgets that work hard to see that our experiences are funner, easier and cheaper. Take, for example, inDrive, the new-to-Australia ride-sharing biz that lets you negotiate your own fares, and choose your own driver (based on star rating, pick-up time and car). Torn between surge pricing and waiting who-knows-how-long for public transport? That's not how you finish off a fest. Together with inDrive, we spoke to Taylah Hume, Beyond the Valley's Customer Experience Manager, about how to make the most out of summer festival season. BOOK YOUR RIDE BEFORE YOU GO "I cannot stress this enough — sort out your transport ahead of time! If you're going to a single-day event, make sure you've decided how you're getting home (or to kick-ons). No hitchhiking home please, and no one has time for surge pricing. Luckily there are businesses making this easier and cheaper — like inDrive, the ride-share app that lets you choose a pick-up time, a driver and your fare. You'll have no need to worry about being stung with surge pricing at the end of your night. That's a huge win for those of us on a budget — we don't need costly surprises at the end of a big festival when we're heading home. You can party as hard as you like, start and end your experience on a high with heaps of peace of mind." PACK D-FLOOR SNACKS "The best way to ensure you're not partying on an empty stomach — and crashing early — is to snack on the dance floor! I've never been as popular as when I opened a bag of chips in the middle of the dance floor on the second day of a camping festival. Don't forget to pack yourself some sweet treats, too. People are always so practical with their festival shopping and forget about the fun stuff. I bring lamingtons to every camping festival — they're perfect for summer festivals as they don't melt in the heat! You're welcome." [caption id="attachment_879657" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Beyond the Valley[/caption] ARRIVE EARLY "Always arrive early to catch the opening acts, because you'll never be disappointed — these artists are booked for a reason! And when they start getting more traction, there is no greater flex than telling your friends you were onto them months ago, duh. You'll also give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the festival's other activities — there's always more going on beyond the stages. Arrive early to get the full experience without rushing." DON'T BE AFRAID TO OVERPACK "You don't have the creature comforts of home, so a camping festival is the one time it's okay to overpack. My essentials? Face masks, a few extra pairs of socks, a portable charger, duct tape (you'd be surprised how often this comes in handy). And don't just come prepared with items, come prepared with an itinerary too. Who are your must-sees? When are they playing? And if you're still working it out, the best way to get prepared is to create a playlist ahead of the event — with both the artists you're already into and the new acts you want to check out all queued. Listening to the playlist on your way to the event is the best way to hype your crew, too!" KEEP YOUR KEYS IN A SAFE PLACE "There is nothing worse than having a big day/night/weekend — you're tired, the funs worn off — and then realising you have no idea where you left your keys. You want to be able to get home, and you want to be able to get inside once you're there. Make sure you keep them in a safe place — and make sure that safe place is not inside your tent (the tent that is currently packed up and wedged in between everyone else's belongings in the back of the car), because I guarantee you'll be getting the silent treatment the whole car ride home. If you can't tell, I learnt this one the hard way." If you're heading to a music festival this summer, or simply enjoying your city, inDrive will make sure you get to where you need to go — without any surge pricing. Head to the website for more information and to download the app. Top image: Mackenzie Sweetnam (first)
Every year, the World's 50 Best Bars ranking outlines the innovative drinking spots and watering holes that should be on everyone's must-visit list, with three Sydney bars — Maybe Sammy, Cantina OK! and Bulletin Place — making the cut in 2020. That's one way of scoping out the top establishments and folks currently doing their thing in the hospitality industry; however, the organisation behind that rundown has just come up with another: the 50 Next, which picks the standout next-generation leaders currently shining bright in the food and drink world. The inaugural list has just dropped, and Australia is represented here, too — with four Aussies named as part of the class of 2021. Fish Butchery's Josh Niland, ex-Oakridge Wines pair Jo Barrett and Matt Stone, and agriculturalist and farmer Josh Gilbert have all been highlighted as part of a selection that includes people from 34 countries. The 50 folks were chosen from a pool of 700 candidates, as sourced via applications, nominations and by scouting done by the Basque Culinary Centre. Sydney's Niland — who is fresh off of winning the James Beard Book of the Year Award in 2020 for The Whole Fish Cookbook — has been showcasing his seafood prowess to Sydneysiders for more than half a decade. The chef first opened restaurant Saint Peter in 2016, then launched fishmonger Fish Butchery in 2018. Nose-to-tail seafood is his focus — so using not only the usual parts that end up in dishes, but the rest that's often disregarded as waste. Niland was named in the 50 Next's 'gamechanging producers' category. [caption id="attachment_771911" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Rob Palmer[/caption] Jo Barrett and Matt Stone scored nods in the 'hospitality pioneers' field, with the acclaimed chefs considered among the forefront of change in the industry. In their current project, Future Food System, they're working with artist, activist and zero-waste restaurant pioneer Joost Bakker to reconceptualise the way food is grown, all in an attempt to move away from the reliance upon large-scale agriculture. That's meant living together in a house in Melbourne's Federation Square, and serving a daily dish from ingredients grown on the property. Hailing from Gloucester in New South Wales, Worimi man Gilbert has been dubbed one of 50 Next's 'empowering educators' thanks to his focus on interweaving Indigenous knowledge and generational learning into farming practices. His work spans his senior consultant role with Pricewaterhouse Cooper's Indigenous Consulting program, and his efforts as an advocate for agricultural, environmental and Indigenous change — including busting stereotypes and demonstrating how the food industry can help battle climate change. 50 Next lists its fifty impressive next-gen leaders, but doesn't rank them, and aims to promote "positive, sustainable and visionary thinking". As well as the aforementioned categories, it recognises hospitality figures it deems 'tech disruptors', 'entrepreneurial creatives', 'science innovators' and 'trailblazing activists'. This year's selection features 24 women, 19 men and seven groups, with everyone included aged between 20–35. Check out the full 50 Next lineup via The World's 50 Best website.
Since first making the jump from the page to the screen in 2019, The Boys has never been afraid to splash OTT violence — gory carnage, too — across its frames. The same proved true in 2020's second season and 2022's third, and also in college-set spinoff Gen V in 2023. That isn't changing in The Boys season four, which will hit streaming in June. But the show will reckon with why fights and frays (and killing as well) are always a solution for its characters, no matter whether they're meant to be good or evil. "Look, we've all done bad shit. What's insane is that our solution to every problem is murder," says Hughie Campbell (Jack Quaid, Oppenheimer) in the fourth season's just-dropped full trailer, which follows an initial teaser back in 2023. "Violence isn't brave," he continues. The counterpoint, coming from The Deep (Chace Crawford, Gossip Girl): "violence is power". Fans will know that Hughie is part of the show's titular crew, becoming a member after his girlfriend died at the hands of a superhero. The Deep sits among the caped crusaders and, specifically, The Seven. The latter is comprised of the superheroes that are placed above all superheroes in this vision of a world where superpowers are a regular occurrence, and therefore where the kinds of tales that Marvel and DC bring to cinemas and TVs are real. Chaos is still set to ensue, of course, as this new glimpse at season four makes plain. Cue: a supe-slaying virus and superheroes as "wrathful gods", for starters. The Boys' latest episodes will begin streaming Down Under from Thursday, June 13. The season will also see its world dealing with Homelander (Antony Starr, Guy Ritchie's The Covenant)-versus-Starlight (Erin Moriarty, Captain Fantastic) factionalism, and just being ready to tear itself apart in general. Victoria Neuman (Claudia Doumit, Where'd You Go, Bernadette) is getting closer to the Oval Office, too, with Homelander pulling the strings. Also on the way: no-nonsense Brit Billy Butcher (Karl Urban, Thor: Ragnarok) facing the fact that he's only got months left, and that he's no longer leading The Boys — aka the eponymous ragtag team intent on bringing down Vought International, Homelander, and the company's caped-crusader industry and dominance. And, there's a new face, with Jeffrey Dean Morgan (The Walking Dead) joining the cast, adding another Supernatural link after Jensen Ackles did the same in season three. The Boys has always stood out as an antidote to narratives about powerful folks who are supposedly better than most, by both parodying and questioning that very idea. Here, superheroes work for Vought. They're still the main form of entertainment, but they're real, the most famous celebrities there are and inescapable in daily life. While The Seven are the absolute top talent, most are hardly role models when the public isn't looking. That has made quite the change from the usual cinematic universes as the Prime Video show has kept notching up the seasons, all coming to the small screen from Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson's comics series of the same name. As well as Quaid, Crawford, Starr, Moriarty, Doumit and Urban, Jessie T Usher (Smile), Laz Alonso (Wrath of Man), Tomer Capone (One on One), Karen Fukuhara (Bullet Train), Colby Minifie (I'm Thinking of Ending Things) and Cameron Crovetti (Goodnight Mommy) all return — with Susan Heyward (Hello Tomorrow!) and Valorie Curry (The Lost Symbol) set to be season four newcomers. Check out the full trailer for The Boys season four below: The fourth season of The Boys will start streaming via Prime Video from Thursday, June 13, 2024. Read our reviews of The Boys season three and Gen V.
Whenever Dr Jane Goodall takes to the stage to look back on her career, fascinating tales follow. In Australia and New Zealand, that'll prove the case in 2024, when the English ethologist, activist and chimpanzee expert will return Down Under for her latest speaking tour. On her first visit this way since 2019 due to the pandemic, she's not only reflecting upon her work, however — she also has good news stories to share. It's been 63 years since Goodall volunteered to live among chimpanzees in Tanzania's Gombe Stream National Park, and since newspaper headlines were dismissive. Now, she's a pioneering primatologist who is world-renowned for her groundbreaking research, highlighting how closely connected humans are to our closest living relatives. Having dedicated the bulk of her life to her ongoing study, animal welfare in general and conservation, Goodall has lived a vastly fascinating existence, which she'll be speaking about in Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Auckland. "I love Australia and New Zealand with its rich biodiversity and proud First Nations heritage", she said. "It will be tremendous to catch up with old friends and meet some of the young leaders making a difference through Roots & Shoots," said Goodall. Goodall's Reasons for Hope tour heads to Curtin Stadium in Peth on Tuesday, May 28; Adelaide Town Hall on Friday, May 31; Melbourne's Palais Theatre on Tuesday, June 4; Sydney Town Hall on Thursday, June 6; and SkyCity Theatre in Auckland on Monday, June 10. The session will feature a presentation and lecture by Goodall about her work, followed by a conversation between Goodall and a host, plus a Q&A. Topics certain to get a mention include just how revolutionary her findings were at the time — and the impact they still have now — as well as her connection with the resident primates of Gombe. You can also expect Goodall to discuss her subsequent efforts to fight against threats to African chimpanzee populations, such as deforestation, illegal trade and unethical mining operations. Indeed, wildlife and environmental conservation is the main aim of the Jane Goodall Institute, which she founded in 1977. The Jane Goodall Institute Australia and TEG Dainty are behind her 2024 Down Under trip. DR JANE GOODALL: REASONS FOR HOPE TOUR 2024 DATES: Tuesday, May 28 — Curtin Stadium, Perth Friday, May 31 — Adelaide Town Hall, Adelaide Tuesday, June 4 — Palais Theatre, Melbourne Thursday, June 6 — Sydney Town Hall, Sydney Monday, June 10 — SkyCity Theatre, Auckland Dr Jane Goodall's Reasons for Hope tour visits Australia and New Zealand in May–June 2024. Head to the tour website for further information, and for pre-sales from 10am local time on Tuesday, December 5, then general sales from 11am local time on Friday, December 8. Images: Michael Neugebauer / Tony Burrows / The Jane Goodall Institute.
Despite the challenges of the past couple of years, the Sapphire Coast continues to be a much-loved holiday destination thanks to its stunning coastline, beautiful national parks and friendly locals. There's also a booming arts and culture scene in the region for you to explore if you time your trip right. To help you decide when to explore this picturesque part of the world, we've picked eight cultural highlights happening in the region that will give you plenty of reasons to plan a trip sooner rather than later. WANDERER FESTIVAL For an event in its first year, Wanderer Festival has one hell of a lineup. From international acts like Curtis Harding and The Dandy Warhols to breakout Aussie stars like Confidence Man and Jack River, the festival features a diverse group of artists. It's not all about the music, though. This multi-day event will also feature comedy, cabaret and circus alongside delicious local artisan produce at its idyllic location. There's also a strong focus on sustainability, with festival organisers implementing a 'leave no trace' policy to ensure there's minimal impact on the natural environment. Keen to head along? It's all happening from Friday, September 23 till Sunday, September 25. [caption id="attachment_861448" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David Rogers Photography courtesy of Sapphire Coast Destination Marketing[/caption] GIIYONG FESTIVAL Meaning 'come to welcome' in the local First Nations language, Giiyong is a festival that showcases and celebrates First Nations culture across music, dance, comedy, film, workshops and the spoken word each April. Since its inception in 2018, the festival has evolved into a Regional Tourism Award-winning event that hosts nationally renowned names such as Briggs and Baker Boy while continuing its community links. There aren't many arts festivals that include a local primary school dance group on its lineup, but it's performances like this that make Giiyong the memorable festival that it is. FAR SOUTH FILM FESTIVAL The Far South Film Festival shines a light on regional and remote filmmakers from across Australia. For this year's iteration, the festival is taking a hybrid approach, meaning films can be viewed online or in the theatres in Merimbula from August 19–31. From music videos to short films and feature-length productions, the program's highlights include a recording of a dance performance billed as "a pirouette through the turbulence of life," a spoken-word examination of female familial relationships, and a documentary about the Snowy Hydro scheme. MERIMBULA FESTIVAL AND YARN BOMBING Yes, it does look like we're recommending two completely unconnected events under one heading here. However, that's most certainly not the case. Merimbula Festival and Yarn Bombing is one of the most unusual but original attractions on the Sapphire Coast. The two-week event will take place from Saturday, August 20–Sunday, September 4. Organised by the Merimbula Historical Society, the festival begins with a day of food, stalls and displays in the local museum. Then, over the following fortnight, the museum grounds and surrounding areas will be adorned by a host of crocheted, knitted and woven art. Everyone is encouraged to add a little colour to the area to help wrap the town in wool for winter. [caption id="attachment_861449" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ben Marden courtesy of Sapphire Coast Destination Marketing[/caption] COBARGO FOLK FESTIVAL Having celebrated its 25th event earlier this year, the Cobargo Folk Festival is a long-established name on the folk and roots festival calendar. The event has been organised by the local Yuin Folk Club since 1996 and is staffed entirely by volunteers. In fact, any money the festival does make goes straight back into the local community. Folk musicians are known to break out into song at any opportunity, so you're just as likely to see a top-quality set in the middle of the campground as you are on one of the main stages. You've got a bit time to get organised for this must-do event — next festival is scheduled to take place from Friday, March 3 till Sunday, March 5, 2023. ART MONTH SAPPHIRE COAST This Sapphire Coast celebration kicks off with an art fair at the NIMO Motel on Friday, July 29, showcasing works from the best and brightest local artists. Following this, an entire month of events exploring visual art, dance, theatre and music at various venues across the region will take place. There are also partnerships with local eateries and accommodation providers, with the whole month geared towards helping visitors make the most of what the Sapphire Coast has to offer. Want to check it out? Book in a trip to the Sapphire Coast from Friday, July 29 till Wednesday, August 31 to see it for yourself. [caption id="attachment_861447" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sapphire Coast Destination Marketing[/caption] SCULPTURE BERMAGUI Sculpture is one art form that really encourages us to consider our surroundings. And when those surroundings are the picturesque landscapes of Sapphire Coast, it's nothing but a treat. If you're a fan of Sydney's Sculpture by the Sea, Sculpture Bermagui will be a welcome addition to your Sapphire Coast holiday itinerary. Browsing the gallery of previous years' festivals shows a gorgeous landscape augmented by stunningly crafted artworks. You've got a bit of time to sort out your schedule to attend the event, the next one kicks off in March 2023. MERIMBULA JAZZ FESTIVAL Since 1981, the Merimbula Jazz Festival has been delighting jazz aficionados from the local region and beyond thanks to its roster of talented artists and its fiercely independent ethos. From the very beginning, the volunteer-run festival has prided itself on providing equal opportunity for jazz musicians and steering clear of paid advertising. Alongside the incredible independent music events at the festival, you can expect market stalls and a lakeside lantern walk and more. Want to head along? It takes place on the Queen's birthday long weekend each June, so you've got ample time to get prepped for next year's event. Keen to take a break on the Sapphire Coast? Want to pair it with Wanderer Festival? To peep the full lineup and book tickets, visit the website.
Ever since the Mulberry Group (Hazel, Dessous, Lilac Wine, Liminal, Common Ground Project and Heidi Kitchen) announced it was opening two new venues in Abbotsford, we've been impatiently waiting to try them both out. That's because the team behind the new spots — named Molli and Little Molli — are absolute pros who've been at the forefront of Melbourne's hospo scene for decades. Even though he doesn't own them now, The Mulberry Group's founder Nathan Toleman started up Three Bags Full, Top Paddock, The Kettle Black and Higher Ground. These were and continue to be some of Melbourne's best brunch spots. Hazel also makes our list of the best restaurants in Melbourne, Dessous is one of the city's top bars, and Lilac Wine makes a strong case for our favourite Melbourne wine bar. With such impeccable credentials, the expectations for Molli and Little Molli are incredibly high. And the Mulberry Group seems to have absolutely delivered with both. Little Molli is a neighbourhood deli and cafe, open from 8am–5pm every day of the week and serving a regularly rotating selection of loaded sandwiches on To Be Frank focaccia and ciabatta, fresh pastries from Backhaus Bakery, as well as coffee from Square One Coffee Roasters. Cured meats, cheeses and a huge spread of antipasto goodies fill the deli cabinet, for you to take home or have in — either on one of the tables inside or out on the tree-lined street. Mini martinis and wines will be even available for those seeking to fashion their own aperitivo sessions. Right next door, Molli serves bigger bistro-style meals alongside a stacked drinks menu. Former Hazel Head Chef and Abbotsford resident Aleksis Kalnins is running the kitchen here, plating up contemporary Australian fare. Plenty of produce is sourced from the building's own rooftop garden, as well as the group's regenerative farm in Freshwater Creek. The menu heavily features snacking plates like pork neck skewers with date pûrée, potato rosti with sour cream, smoked eggplant with chickpea miso and seaweed crackers with mushroom ketchup. You can come in for a little sip and snack session with these or dive into the more substantial dishes. Two pastas — made fresh on-site every morning — will always feature on the menu, plus there'll be wagyu rump steak, whole alpine trout with horseradish and pork crackling, spatchcock with preserved lemon and Portarlington mussels with nduja. Kalnins is big on technique but is keeping deceptively simple at Molli. Instead of overloading a dish with ingredients, only a few thoughtfully selected ingredients will feature in each playful but approachable dish. Kayla Saito — the brains behind Hazel's and Dessous' ever-changing beverage lineup — has designed a drinks list that's described as "relaxed but thoughtful", with a deep sustainability ethos. Saito collaborates closely with the kitchen when formulating the funky tipples, which celebrate small-batch, local spirits. The cocktail menu includes a rotating offer of seven cocktails in core styles — such as a spritz, a sour and a house martini — as well as seven zero-proof alternatives like water kefir and kombucha. Punches served in vintage bowls are also available for groups. The wine list, which comes courtesy of Andre Magneklint (ex-Bahama Gold and Old Palm Liquor), showcases a broad yet accessible selection of vinos. You'll find familiar varietals from well-known regions as well as plenty of hidden gems that you're unlikely to have tired before. Craft spirits and draught beer from Clayton's Two Rupees round out the stacked drinks lineup at Molli. And to set the vibe within the bistro and bar, the team has enlisted the help of local record store Dutch Vinyl to curate a monthly-changing vinyl soundtrack. But cue the steak knives, because that's not all. Between the two venues sits a private dining room, plus there's a large rooftop space that can also be booked for private events. The rooftop has its own bar and kitchen, making it primed for summertime parties in Abbotsford. Abbotsford locals should be rejoicing now that they've scored Molli and Little Molli, and everyone else should rightfully be jealous. You'll find Little Molli at 66 Nicholson Street, Abbotsford, open from 8am–5pm every day of the week. And Molli is located next door at 20 Mollison Street, Abbotsford, open 5–11pm on Wednesdays, 12–11pm from Thursday–Saturday, and 11.30am–5pm on Sundays. For more information, visit the venues' website. Images: Tim Harris and Kristoffer Paulsen.
This article is sponsored by our partners, Byron Bay Council. To book your Byron Bay festival holiday, visit legendarybyron.com.au. Historically, Bluesfest might be the most famous shindig on the Byron Bay calendar. But if you've a tendency to limit your North Coast escapades to an annual Easter visit, you're truly missing out. Byron's got a pretty full organiser with plenty of festivities bubbling all year around — from the glorious aural Meccas of Splendour in the Grass and Falls Music and Arts Festival, to the erudite musings of the Writers Festival and the locally-sourced smorgasbord on offer at Sample. Here are the five best reasons to get behind a kombi wheel and find the '60s still swinging up the Pacific Highway. SPLENDOUR IN THE GRASS What started back in 2001 as a relatively modest one-day festival has transmogrified into one of Australia's biggest national events. From July 25 – 27 over 90 artists — Outkast, Interpol, Lily Allen, Foals and London Grammar among them — will converge on North Byron Parklands for three days of must-see sets. But it's not all about the ears, with installations, panels, comedy, food and pop-up bars aplenty onsite. "Now there’s an expectation that festivals do a lot more than music, and art is one of the essential elements," explains Splendour Arts curator Craig Walsh. "I try to create a program which can integrate across the site itself and create different kinds of experiences for audiences... We try to support new and experimental work and we see that as adding to the identity of the festival." Splendour in the Grass runs July 25 – 27 at North Byron Parklands. BYRON BAY WRITERS FESTIVAL Just days after Splendour comes to an end, poets and playwrights will pour into Byron for the Writers Festival. Held August 1 on Belongil Beach at the North Byron Beach Resort, the festival attracts some serious names up north. This year, the BBWF lineup's big tickets include Richard Clapton in conversation with David Leser, John Safran discussing true crime novel Murder in Mississippi and a John Weiley retrospective presented by Kerry O'Brien. "It’s a very relaxed format," says founding chair Chris Hanley. "It’s tents by the sea, so it’s very interactive... You can glide from session to session and taste what is going on. You can wander and sit on the beach. There is no other literary festival I know of with such a beautiful site." Byron Bay Writers Festival runs August 1 – 3 at Belongil Beach, North Byron Beach Resort. SAMPLE FOOD FESTIVAL A true foodie pilgrimage, Sample celebrates the distinctive flavours of North Coast fare. For one day of feasting on September 13, the Bangalow Showground will flood with local producers, farmers, celebrity chefs and exhibitors for this colossal food festival. Indulge in $5 and $10 tasting plates, get busy with classes covering everything from raw foods to cheesemaking, watch cooking demos and kick back to live music. With over 15,000 visitors are expected to attend, Sample is one of Byron's premier food events. Sample runs 8am – 4pm on September 13 at Bangalow Showground. BYRON BAY SURF FESTIVAL Unlike many other surf fests — centred around checking out who's mastering the biggest, most untameable waves right now — Byron Bay Surf Festival is a truly all-encompassing event for surfers and punters alike. Last year's festival involved ancient Hawaiian Olo demos featuring Dave Rastovich and Tom Wegener, surf yoga sessions, wooden surfcraft workshops, a money-free surf swap meet and a rule-free surf comp open to beginner, expert and in-betweener surfers. So far, 2014 is promising a Surf Shorts Film Comp (get your entries in asap), with the remainder of the program soon to be announced. Byron Bay Surf Festival runs October 24 – 26 at Byron Bay and at various spots throughout Byron's town centre. FALLS MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL Every year, thousands of live music aficionados flock to the three-day Falls Music and Arts Festival in Lorne, Victoria and Marion Bay, Tasmania, to usher in the new year. Last year, Byron nabbed its own piece of Falls action, holding the very first edition at North Byron Parklands. With the artists hopping across the three festivals in an applause-worthy feat of logistics, Falls fuses exceptionally high-quality lineups (with a noted emphasis on blues and roots) with stunning natural landscapes and all the chai you could possibly drink. This year's program is yet to be announced, but if you're after a guaranteed thumbs up of a New Year's Eve you should lock this one in already. Falls Festival runs December 30 – January 15 at North Byron Parklands. Image by Paul Smith. Feeling festive? Head to legendarybyron.com.au and get planning your Byron Bay holiday.
How does Jon Snow's future pan out? Sorry Game of Thrones fan, you're going to keep knowing nothing. Back in 2022, it was announced that HBO was potentially making a Jon Snow-focused sequel series, but those plans have now hit a wall according to none other than Kit Harington himself. If you're a fan of the series and you've been mourning the show's end back ever since 2019, you'll know that the US network has floated no shortage of options for extending everyone's time in Westeros. Prequel series House of the Dragon premiered in 2022, and will return for season two in 2024. Another series set before Game of Thrones itself, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight, will arrive in 2025. Among the rumours, a second new series to the Targaryens has also been mentioned. But this is the end of the line for the Jon Snow spinoff at the moment. In an interview with Screen Rant, Harington (Eternals) advised that "currently, it's off the table, because we all couldn't find the right story to tell that we were all excited about enough". "So, we decided to lay down tools with it for the time being. There may be a time in the future where we return to it, but at the moment, no. It's firmly on the shelf," he continued. The series was set to explore Jon Snow's story after the events of Game of Thrones' eighth and final season. You might recall that that last batch of episodes were rather eventful for the character, even more than normal. He found out that he was born Aegon Targaryen, and that he has a claim to the Iron Throne. He also ditched Westeros — after being exiled — to head North of the Wall. So, for now, you'll just have to look forward to the return of House of the Dragon this winter Down Under (when else?), starting on Monday, June 17, 2024. And as for A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight, it is based on the novella series Tales of Dunk and Egg, as has been rumoured for a few years now. The story follows knight Ser Duncan the Tall and his squire Egg as they wander Westeros a century before the events of GoT, when the Targaryens remain on the Iron Throne and everyone still remembers dragons. Check out the latest House of the Dragon season two trailer below: HBO's Jon Snow Game of Thrones spinoff is no longer happening. House of the Dragon streams Down Under via Foxtel and Binge in Australia, and SoHo, Sky Go and Neon in New Zealand, with season two arriving on Monday, June 17, 2024. Read our full review of season one. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight is set to premiere in 2025 — we'll update you with exact details when they're announced. Via: Screen Rant. Images: Helen Sloan/HBO.
The Ken doll, Barbie's hunky other half, is flying solo for his 50th birthday in Mattel's new advertising campaign to keep the Barbie brand relevant. The company decided to give Ken a makeover in the only way anyone in the 21st century knows how: creating a reality show. 'Dreamer Ken' Kurtis Taylor was selected as the fresh face of the Ken doll in the web-series Genuine Ken: The Search for the Great American Boyfriend, in which he wiped the floor with the seven other 'ken-testants' in a variety of cooking, decorating, entertaining and surfing challenges. The Hills star Whitney Port hosted the Bachelorette-style show and believed that Taylor, the 25-year-old Pro Football player from Iowa, was exactly what Mattel was looking for. Taylor described that his perfect date would entail: "A helicopter ride over Los Angeles. Then, we would land on a rooftop where dinner is prepared and Frank Sinatra is playing in the background. After a great conversation over dinner, we'd fly to the beach and walk under the moon." He certainly seems to be the perfect new arm candy for our favourite plastic blonde.
The Bridge Hotel is a Richmond institution. Located in a 100-year-old building — split in two by a quaint cobblestone laneway — the pub-cum-diner received a neat renovation back in 2011. It's now decked out with leather banquettes, lush hanging plants (and bikes), lots of exposed brick and quiet nooks and crannies to hideaway in. But don't get too distracted by the Bridge Hotel's impressive interior, the food and drink specials are why we're here. There's a weekday happy hour (with $4 pots and $5 wines), cheap parmas and steaks on Tuesday and Wednesday, $13 espresso martinis all day on Friday and $5 recovery Coronas on Sunday. And then there's Saturday — where a whole host of deals are on offer. As Saturdays are always busy — naturally — it's recommended that you book a booth. Each reservation comes with a free bottle of sparkling and a guest list, so that friend who's always running late can still make it in. You have to pre-pay a $100 bar tab to reserve your spot, but you can put this towards the Bridge Hotel's other promotion: the Match the Bar Tab. Until the end of May, pre-pay any tab (up to $150) and the pub will match your contribution. Meaning you can get up to $300 of drinks, of which 50-percent is free. The pub is sweetening the deal, even more, by throwing in a free jug of a the Skipping Girl Sour cocktail with every matched tab. It's a mix of Absolut Citron, coconut cream, pineapple juice and lemon or mint garnish. Don't delay, booths get snapped up fast.
It isn't hard to find street art in Melbourne. In fact, it's one of the things that the city is known for. But only a specific part of the city is now the Victorian capital's first official street art precinct, and also the host of the Wall to Wall festival for 2024. That spot: Mordialloc, with the suburb's industrial laneways embracing turning public spaces into a canvas in a big way, including from Friday, April 26–Sunday, April 28. Wall to Wall's return is huge news not just because it will bring together Australian and international street artists to get painting, but because it marks the fest's comeback year since the pandemic. Last held in 2019, and initially starting out in the town of Benalla, the Melbourne event will welcome Smug, Adnate, Celeste Mountjoy, George Rose and Zoer among the folks adding a splash of colour to the Mordialloc precinct. This is actually Wall to Wall's second comeback stop, with Murray Bridge in South Australia the first — also in April 2024, running from Friday, April 12–Sunday, April 14. One of the aims of Shaun Hossack, who hails from Melbourne street art collective Juddy Roller and is curating the fest, is to grow the event. But paying tribute to the history of street art in Melbourne clearly ranks just as highly. "Melbourne is known as a mecca for street art, but still lacks well-curated areas where major artworks can be viewed one after another, like an outdoor gallery," said Hossack. "The scale of Wall to Wall is unprecedented in Melbourne's beachside suburbs, and will help cement Mordi Village Arts and Cultural Precinct as a beacon of creativity and community engagement." "Street art was born in the heart of cities, but with the evolution of Juddy Roller's Silo Art Trail and Wall to Wall, we can expand the artform across Australia." [caption id="attachment_949524" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nicole Reed[/caption] Wall to Wall's Mordialloc home at the Mordi Village Arts and Cultural Precinct on Lamana Road will be filled with large-scale murals, and also host a block party on the Saturday featuring Adnate doing double duty as a DJ, plus April Kerry, Charles Eddy and Blo also on the decks. Attendees can look forward to hitting up food trucks, sipping spirits from local distillery Saint Felix, taking tours and shopping at markets, too, alongside learning new skills at workshops. [caption id="attachment_949520" align="alignnone" width="1920"] George Rose[/caption] [caption id="attachment_949526" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lucy Lucy[/caption] [caption id="attachment_949523" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nicole Reed[/caption] [caption id="attachment_949522" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kaffeine[/caption] [caption id="attachment_949525" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nicole Reed[/caption] Wall to Wall 2024 takes place in Melbourne from Friday, April 26–Sunday, April 28, in and around the Mordi Village Arts and Cultural Precinct, Lamana Road, Mordialloc. Head to the Juddy Roller website for more details. Top image: Adnate, Martin Ron.
Every quarter, Australia's Bureau of Meteorology releases its climate outlook for the coming season, signalling to the country just what type of weather might be in store. For winter 2020, for example, it advised that we were in for hotter and wetter-than-average conditions. And for the spring just gone — and for the warmer portion of the year in general — it predicted plenty of warm-weather rain. While BOM has already forecast summer's conditions as part of its severe weather outlook in October, it has now released its actual climate outlook for the season — given that summer officially started this week. The organisation noted two key points. First, it advised that temperatures are likely to be warmer than average in much of the country. Secondly, it noted that there's a high likelihood of above-average rainfall between December–February. Expect to feel the heat starting from December, especially if you live in southeast Australia, far west Western Australia and along the Queensland coast — where BOM is forecasting maximum temperatures above the long-term average between December 7–20 with a likelihood of at least 70 percent. Looking more broadly at the three-month period, it also expects the same temperature trend to play out across the entire summer along the coast of Queensland and the Northern Territory, in most of Victoria, and in Tasmania, far west WA and southeast South Australia. [caption id="attachment_793395" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Bureau of Meteorology[/caption] Another key indicator of warmth: how low — or high — the minimum temperature gets to overnight. To end November, Sydney reported its highest overnight minimum since temps started being recorded, for instance. BOM expects minimum temperates to exceed the long-term average this summer for the majority of the nation, and predicts there's more than an 80-percent chance that'll happen everywhere but the eastern interior of WA and adjacent parts of NT and SA, where it's touting a 60-percent likelihood. So, you know that it's going to be toasty. Summer always is, of course; however, again, BOM is predicting temps higher than average. In terms of how wet it'll be, December–February is expected to be wetter than usual with higher-than-average rainfall across most of Australia, especially the northwest of the country, eastern Queensland and along the New South Wales coast. It says there's more than a 75-percent chance that'll be the case in those aforementioned places, while the everywhere else except Australia has a 60-percent possibility. [caption id="attachment_793396" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Bureau of Meteorology[/caption] The predicted extra rain is influenced by La Niña, which is underway in the tropical Pacific — and usually increases the chance of above-average rainfall over eastern Australia during summer. BOM's Head of Operational Climate Services Dr Andrew Watkins advised that large parts of eastern Australia have an increased risk of flooding as a result, too. "Our climate outlook is the opposite of what we experienced last year in Australia. This summer, New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland are expected to see above average rainfall, meaning we face an increased risk of widespread floods," he said And yes, even with the wet conditions, heatwaves are still likely. "This summer's heatwaves may not reach the extreme temperatures of recent years, but may be longer duration and more humid," noted Dr Watkins. In other words, staying cool and dry has just become your number-one mission for summer. For further details about the Bureau of Meteorology's forecast for summer 2020–21, check out its summer climate outlook.
There's still a fair bit of November remaining, but Melbourne is getting a sneak peek of summer with a seriously scorching day on the cards on today, Thursday, November 21. According to the Bureau of Meteorology, Victoria is set to swelter through one of the hottest November days ever, with most of the state forecast to hit at least ten degrees above the average temperature for this last month of spring. https://twitter.com/BOM_Vic/status/1196961382564020224 Melbourne is tipped to hit a whopping 39 degrees — 17 degrees above average — with extreme UV levels and gusty winds, before a cool change swings through later this afternoon. Temperatures are expected to stay in the low 20s across the weekend before a forecast 30 degrees on Monday, November 25. If the mercury creeps above 40.3 degrees today, it'll be the hottest November day in Melbourne since 1997. If rises above 40.9, it'll be the hottest November day on record, with the current record set on November 27, 1894. https://twitter.com/BOM_Vic/status/1197298517313757185 With today's hot weather, comes very high to extreme levels of fire danger across parts of Victoria. A total fire ban has been declared for the state and a Code Red (the highest bushfire warning level) announced for Mallee and Northern County. More than 200 schools and early childhood centres are closed today and some V/Line routes suspended. You can keep an eye on the fires burning across the state at Vic Emergency. For more tips on staying safe during bushfires, head to the Country Fire Authority website.
Being spoilt for choice can be overrated. Sometimes, like when deciding which wine varieties you feel like at any given moment, it's easier to have someone else do the picking for you. Enter Pinot Palooza, which celebrates exactly the type of vino that's in its name, and has also locked in when you'll be able to spend a day sipping pinot noir in 2024. Here, the sound of a light- to medium-bodied red wine sloshing around a glass is the standard soundtrack. And you'll hear that noise a whole heap — before the pandemic, the Melbourne-born wine-tasting festival had notched up an estimated 65,000 tickets sold globally. In 2024, Pinot Palooza has spring dates locked in for Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, all for a two-day stint. So far, venues are yet to be announced. Also, tickets will go on sale in early July. The vino-sipping fun will play out similarly to before, although exactly who'll be doing the pouring is also yet to be revealed. Whoever it is, Pinot Palooza's lineup always spans drops from Australia, New Zealand and further afield. Last year, more than 50 winemakers came to the party. As always, attendees will spend their session swirling and sampling that huge array of pinot noir, and hitting up pop-up bars and food stalls between drinks. And, while Pinot Palooza as a standalone fest only has east coast dates for 2024, in Perth and Adelaide it's part of an already-announced collaboration with cheese festival Mould. Pinot Palooza 2024 Dates: Friday, October 4–Saturday, October 5: Sydney, venue TBC Friday, October 18–Saturday, October 19: Brisbane, venue TBC Friday, November 22–Saturday, November 23: Melbourne, venue TBC Pinot Palooza will tour Australia's east coast in October–November 2024. For more information, and for tickets from early July, head to the event's website.
After a massive reno, Wyndham Cultural Centre is set to open in early July. And one of the first shows scheduled for the theatre is King Stingray and Electric Fields. The two bands, which, between them, have scored tonnes of awards and toured all over the world, will appear in a double bill on Saturday, July 5. Tickets are available online. King Stingray, which hails from the Northern Territory, put out its debut EP in 2022, straight away scoring five ARIA nominations and the prize for Breakthrough Artist of the Year. Since then, they've been touring internationally — right now they're making their way through Europe. Electronica duo Electric Fields had a similarly speedy rise to fame. After launching in 2015, they were touring China, Scotland and New Zealand within six months. 2024 saw them become the first duo to represent Australia at Eurovision with the song One Milkali (One Blood).
Bacon is many things. It is a bona fide food of the gods, a saviour of all hungover mornings, and an eternal clogger of arteries, but now it can add one more title to its already stellar (if not a little oily) resume — bacon can now power vehicles. Or, more specifically, bacon grease can. To prove this fascinating tidbit of potentially environment-saving trivia, one man in the US endeavoured to ride his motorcycle from Minnesota to San Diego fuelled only by bacon-y goodness. The results are in, and they're pretty spectacular. Collaborating with Bio-Blend Fuels and the meat-l0ving legends at Hormel Foods, Eric Pierson took to the road last month on his tricked-out diesel motorcycle. The end-point of the trip was of course the San Diego Bacon Festival — yep, that exists — and the whole journey was captured for a documentary that is currently in post-production. Now, though we consider ourselves experts on the cooking and eating of bacon, we can't attest to much of the science behind the project. Supposedly bacon grease is a viable fuel source that also has the added benefit of being carbon-neutral. Pouring the oil from fast food fryers into your car is allegedly also a thing that could work somehow. If you don't believe us, feast your eyes on this incredibly technical flowchart: This could be a revolution in environmental science! In a few years, petrol stations could be replaced by bacon-frying stations. No longer would you have to spend half your paycheck on filling up your tank. Just buy a few kilos of extra-streaky bacon, fry it up, mop up the grease and eat the spoils. You'd already be craving it; everyone's exhaust fumes would smell like a Sunday morning fry-up. For the full story — and more scientifically accurate information — on the impending bacon revolution, keep an eye out for the documentary's release date. This is bound to be good news for everyone... except pigs. It's very bad news for pigs. Via PSFK.
Let the games begin: Squid Game: The Challenge, that is, and IRL rather than in a fictionalised thriller. When Squid Game became one of Netflix's biggest successes, a reality show that riffed on the concept was always going to happen. There's no death here, but there's still 456 players competing for a huge cash prize while wearing green tracksuits, being overseen by red-clad figures, and playing hopscotch, marbles, sugar honeycombs and tug of war. The reality competition TV show received the green light back in 2022, after the streaming platform had also confirmed that a second season of Squid Game itself was on its way. In June 2023, Netflix also announced that Squid Game: The Challenge would arrive in November. Then, it locked in Wednesday, November 22 as the spinoff's launch date, and dropped a teaser trailer. Now, a full sneak peek is here — and, sans murder, it looks exactly like its inspiration. If you're one of the hordes of viewers who watched Squid Game when it instantly became one of the best new TV programs of 2021, as we all are, then you'll understand the concept at the heart of Squid Game: The Challenge. As seen in the two glimpses at the show ahead of its arrival, the whole pesky compete-to-the-death angle is missing, obviously, but everything about the series is as everyone expects. The outfits, the games, the decor, the music and, yes, the notorious Red Light, Green Light doll: they're all accounted for. And the prize? $4.56 million, aka the biggest cash prize in reality-show history. How does it work? Again, you already know the details. Those 456 folks — all ordinary people, and not actors — will try to score the $4.56 million by playing a series of games inspired by the extremely fictional South Korean thriller, as well as a few new additions. Also, competitors will be eliminated as the games go on, and forming strategies and alliances will play a huge part. So, Squid Game: The Challenge is clearly designed to get as close to the OG Squid Game as possible, just without the body count. It's all being overseen by a Front Man, too, because of course it is. The results will unfurl over ten episodes, in what Netflix has dubbed "the biggest reality competition series ever". Well, it certainly has the biggest cast. Making a gripping and brutal TV show that satirises capitalism, then bringing its games into real life does sound like something that might happen in Squid Game itself if the show was getting meta. "This is a savage game," one of the contestants in the new trailer offers — but, again, viewers already know that. Check out the trailer for Squid Game: The Challenge: Squid Game: The Challenge will stream via Netflix in on Wednesday, November 22, 2023. Squid Game's first season is available to stream via Netflix . Images: Netflix.
Don't already have a date with Taylor Swift's Eras tour booked when it hits Australia in February 2024? Perhaps it won't be a cruel summer after all: more tickets are releasing on Friday, November 10. When Sydney and Melbourne stops for Swift's career-spanning showcase were announced back in June, it sparked a rush for seats. Before general sales even started, the 'We Are Never Getting Back Together', 'Shake It Off' and 'Bad Blood' musician had announced an extra gig in both cities. And, the Victorian Government even declared her Melbourne stint a major event so that anti-scalping legislation would apply to tickets. So, the response has clearly been huge — and now Swifties will have another chance to head along. Tour promoter Frontier Touring has announced that additional tickets will drop across all Aussie concert dates, with the Sydney shows releasing their extra tickets at 10am and the Melbourne shows doing the same at 4pm — all AEDT. Included among the new batch will be seats with a partially obstructed side view, with prices starting at $79.90. There'll still be limited tickets in the new release, but accessibility options will also be on offer. Expect another busy Ticketek day, obviously, with the singer-songwriter's Australian shows already garnering "historically unprecedented demand". Swift is playing the MCG in Melbourne across Friday, February 16–Sunday, February 18, and then heading north to hit the stage at Sydney's Accor Stadium from Friday, February 23–Monday, February 26. At all gigs, she'll have Sabrina Carpenter in support. [caption id="attachment_907314" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ronald Woan via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] That blank space in your calendar that you were hoping to fill with Swift working through her entire career so far, playing tracks from each of her studio albums in a three-hour, 44-song, ten-act spectacular? You now have another attempt to do so. Sadly, Swift still hasn't added concerts in any other cities across Australia — as Frontier has previously advised, "no further dates will be added for the Australian tour". This'll be Swift's first tour Down Under since 2018, when she brought her Reputation shows to not only Sydney and Melbourne, but Brisbane and Perth, too. And if you're wondering what's in store, then you clearly haven't seen Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour as a movie, aka a concert film of her latest shows that's been screening in cinemas Down Under since October. TAYLOR SWIFT: THE ERAS TOUR AUSTRALIAN DATES 2024: Friday, February 16–Sunday, February 18 — Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne Friday, February 23–Monday, February 26 — Accor Stadium, Sydney Taylor Swift will bring The Eras Tour to Australia in February 2024. Additional seats will go on sale on Friday, November 10 — at 10am AEDT for Sydney shows and 4pm AEDT for Melbourne shows. Head to the tour website for further details.
With the arrival of autumn, you might have been planning on spending less time outdoors. The produce of regional Victoria, however, has the exact opposite idea. This is its time to sprout, thrive, ripen and drop. This is its time in the sun — the gentle autumn sun, to be precise. So if you're a person who enjoys eating fresh food, you're missing out if you don't pull on your Blundstones and get out there. One of the best spots for produce in the autumn months is the Murray River region. Not only do the colours of autumn look twice as good reflected in the water, the area is home to a trail of farm gates where you can shop for produce that's seen zero food miles, roadside honesty boxes offering fresh fruit, and restaurants that turn their neighbours' harvests into high-quality dishes. A stream of events — like the Sun Country Food and Wine Festival and the Flavours of Echuca Moama — celebrate the bounty at this time of year, while workshops in pickling and preserving help get you prepped for the colder, leaner months ahead. To experience it for yourself, head two-to-three hours' north of Melbourne to the Sun Country on the Murray or Backroads trails, or make a beeline for the farm gates we've picked out below. And for more autumn highlights, check out the Wander Victoria website. PICK AND PRESERVE FRUIT AT THE STRAWBERRY PICK 359 Lady Augusta Road, Echuca Village Live your most bucolic life by heading to The Strawberry Pick, a farm where you can pick your own strawbs (and sometimes flowers too). If you've only ever had strawberries from the supermarket, this is a must — commercial fruit is picked early in its cycle so it transports well, but actually it develops more depth of flavour when left on the vine for longer. Most of The Strawberry Pick's crop are the sweet Albion variety, and although they produce fruit for almost three-quarters of the year, grower Wayne Mattschoss says they're particularly good in autumn. "The size of our strawberries will increase in autumn as well as the complexity of flavour because of the cooler nights, which extend the time required for the ripening process," he says. In particular, there is a "flush" in early to mid-autumn where the fruit is at its most abundant and easy to find in the field. If you don't want to spend hours foraging, that's your sweet spot. An added attraction: this season, the farm is for the first time teaming up with Tim Harley of Quincey Jones Jelly to run weekly strawberry jam-making workshops on site. STOCK UP AT MANTO PRODUCE 293 Campbells Road, Cobram Manto Produce is your number-one Murray destination for fresh fruit. The 200-acre farm has been run by the Mantovani family for more than 25 years, and when they started, it was entirely without machinery. They grow stone and pome fruit here, which in the autumn means lush new-season Pink Lady and Granny Smith apples, as well as sweet, blushing apricots. You can pick them up in the farm gate shop, which also sells produce from the neighbours, so you can count on the likes of fresh leeks, parsnips, broccoli, mandarins, lemons, oranges, persimmons, pomegranates, chestnuts and walnuts at this time of year. For more on the fruit and veg front, stop at Eden Farm in Numurkah as well. EAT AND LEARN TO GROW GARLIC AT KATAMATITE GARLIC 1307 Chapel Road, Katamatite Garlic might not be the first vegetable to come to mind when you think of tantalising fresh produce. But odds are its one of your favourite flavour enhancers, and it will be extra good if you get it at Katamatite Garlic, where the summer garlic crop is usually available until around May. Autumn is the time to stock up on the fresh stuff before it sells out, while also exploring other forms of the bulb. "We grow 30 varieties of garlic with ones that can store up to 10-12 months," says Lisa Eddy of Katamatite Garlic. "We also make lots of other garlic products such as garlic jellies — they're great on meat or cheese or as something different on a cheese platter — a range of pickled garlic, garlic salts, dried garlic flakes and three different flavoured garlic pastes." The farm also runs workshops — check out autumn's lessons in garlic planting and how to prepare your garden for winter — and will hold an open day on Sunday, May 6, 2018, which is International Permaculture Day. GET LOST IN CACTUS COUNTRY 4986 Murray Valley Highway, Strathmerton Based on the varied cacti collection that farm founder Jim Halls bought from his father in 1979, Cactus Country is home to eight acres of the desert plants in every conceivable colour and shape. And while cacti are in season year-round, there's a distinct advantage to coming to this spot in autumn: that more mild weather means you'll have more stamina to survive hours in the exotic gardens, which are frequently used for film and photo shoots and are a guaranteed heavy-lifter in your Instagram feed. Re-energise with the farm's trademark cactus cake (made with opuntia leaves), cactus jam (in Peruvian apple, orange or purple cactus pear varieties) or a tequila cocktail splashed with cactus syrup. Easter weekend is one of the busiest times here, as the gardens host an Easter egg hunt for kids. Enjoy or avoid accordingly. DINE AT CAFE3641 54 Main Street, Strathmerton You've eaten well on the Farm Gate Trail. But several separate tastings don't add up to a proper sit-down meal, and for that there's no better spot than Cafe3641 in Strathmerton. Newly harvested produce from the local farms is funnelled into the kitchen here and turned into seasonal dishes. What's on the menu in autumn? It's impossible to say until the day, but the lemon meringue cheesecake and the high tea that happens on the last Sunday of each month are two guaranteed winners. PAUSE FOR CIDER AT BYRAMINE HOMESTEAD BREWERY AND CIDER HOUSE 1436 Murray Valley Highway, Burramine Autumn is the season for apples. Apples go in cider. Your visit to the cider-producing Byramine Homestead & Brewery is written in the stars. One of Victoria's oldest homesteads, Byramine was originally built by explorer Hamilton Hume for his sister-in-law Elizabeth and her nine children after her husband was murdered by bushrangers. These days, it's a working vegetable farm, brewery and cider house. Try the sparkling Remi's Remedy apple cider, or for something a little left of centre, Quinn's Poison, which holds a twist of lemon and lime. MAKE A SIP STOP AT PFEIFFER WINES Distillery Road, Wahgunyah The Murray region is one of Australia's biggest wine-growing regions, so take advantage of it. Pfeiffer Wines is a great stop as not only do they grow some premium wines that you can taste at their cellar door, they host an autumn farmers' market on Saturday, April 7, that is a favourite of the local producers. Consider getting a chardonnay from here — the Murray region is renowned for them and a more full-bodied white will pair well with autumnal dishes. Lighter reds like pinot noir or merlot are also perfect for the season. For more ideas on how to spend your autumn getaway to the Murray region, check out the Wander Victoria website.
Southbank is set to gain an exciting new boozy addition when Patient Wolf Distilling Co opens (what is slated to be) the state's largest independent gin distillery come September. Co-founders Matt Argus and Dave Irwin have snagged a red brick industrial warehouse along Market Street, which will soon become the brand's new working distillery and public bar. The gin den will offer tastings aplenty, plus distillery tours, masterclasses and bottles for takeaway — including limited-edition and distillery-only releases. At the 30-seat bar, you can also expect seasonal cocktails, including G&Ts, negronis and martinis, as well as more experimental concoctions. Each will use Patient Wolf's boutique gins, which, at the moment, comes in three varieties. There's a dry gin, a thyme number with lemon zest and pine notes and the Blackthorn — a dark gin made from sloe berries handpicked in Tasmania. [caption id="attachment_728570" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Long Boy Media[/caption] The production facility will feature a 220-litre copper still by Müller ("the Bentley of stills") and, come next year, a 1000-litre still from Germany. When it arrives, Patient Wolf's new Southbank spot will become one of Australia's largest urban gin distilleries. Together, the two stills will allow the Patient Wolf team to continue to blend traditional distilling methods with modern technology and new-age botanicals. And, come September, you'll be able to taste every drop of it. Until then, the brand will continue to distill out of its Brunswick digs, so keep an eye out for its bottles at restaurants and bars around town. The Patient Wolf Distillery will open in early September at 34–36 Market Street, Southbank. Opening hours will be Thursday through Friday from 4–8pm and Saturday through Sunday from 10am–5pm.
It's that time of year again. Temperatures are rising and we're planning our summer getaways, but when you don't want to follow the crowds to the beach — and the idea of lounging around isn't your kind of holiday — perhaps it's time to rethink mountain adventures. Once the snow melts away, New South Wales' Snowy Mountains transform into an adventurer's haven. There are peaks for conquering, trails for cycling, rivers for kayaking, long plains for horse riding and swimming holes for cooling off after all that adrenaline-boosting action. Plus, you'll be surrounded by incredible views, fields of wildflowers and incredible wildlife. In partnership with Destination NSW, here are five reasons to make your great escape to the Snowy Mountains in the summer months. Please stay up to date with the latest NSW Government health advice regarding COVID-19. [caption id="attachment_742018" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Thredbo[/caption] GO MOUNTAIN BIKING Whether you're a newbie or veteran on two wheels, there are tracks and trails to suit your skills in the Snowies. A good place to start is Thredbo Mountain Bike Park, where there are 50 kilometres to explore — from skill parks to cross country routes. For a longer adventure, cycle to Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa along the Thredbo Valley Track — the 35-kilometre trail follows Thredbo River, taking in a few suspension bridges and plenty of pretty scenery. Note that it's closed until December 19 for track maintenance. Perisher's easier-going trails, which come with epic views, are also worth a spin. And, if you're looking for some local company, book a guided mountain biking tour. [caption id="attachment_745605" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Snowy Mountains[/caption] TREK INTO THE WILD Explore the legend that Banjo Paterson made famous on a pony of your own. At Thredbo Valley Horse Riding, you can choose from a range of trail rides, be it a one-hour taster, a 1.5-hour saunter or a two-hour adventure. All of them pass through magical, sub-alpine wilderness, and begin with a 15-minute lesson, so you learn the basics before jumping into the saddle. Ride at a level that suits you, whether you prefer a slow walk or a fast-paced gallop. Ready for something more epic? Plunge into a multi-day saga, with either Cochran Horse Treks or Reynella Rides. [caption id="attachment_742071" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Snowy Mountains[/caption] TAKE A HIKE You could spend months hiking in the Snowy Mountains without running out of terrain. The Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk is the best-known trail in the area, but there are loads of other routes to try. If you're into waterfalls, take a stroll along the Waterfall Walking Track, which passes through six kilometres of wildflowers, forests and granite boulders. For panoramic views, go for Dead Horse Gap Walking Track, a five-kilometre hike that passes beneath the Ramshead Range, 600 metres above Thredbo Valley. Or, to combine a walk with a swim, add Illawong Walk to your itinerary. It's an easy, five-kilometre return trail that follows Thredbo River from Guthega Village. [caption id="attachment_745602" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] SWIM IN SCENIC POOLS AND ALPINE LAKES The water isn't exactly tropical in the Snowy Mountains, but it's definitely an adventure. At Thredbo, you'll find a couple of swimming holes that are popular with locals, including Merritts Pond and Friday Flat Pond. Another super-peaceful spot is Lake Jindabyne, where there are various bays suitable for dipping, one of the prettiest being Rushes Bay. Then there's Thredbo River, home to a bunch of swimming holes. But, if you really can't hack the chill, make tracks to Yarrangobilly Caves Pool, a thermal, spring-fed pool, right near Yarrangobilly Caves, which is 27 degrees all year round. [caption id="attachment_742081" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Thredbo[/caption] SCALE THE SNOWY MOUNTAINS Need to clear your head? There are stacks of places in the Snowies where you can climb your way to greater heights — whether you're a novice who's never left the ground before or a hard-corer who's summited Mount Everest. K7 Adventures offers a variety of tours, from half-day escapades in Charlotte Pass suitable for beginners to full-day experiences at Blue Lake designed for advanced climbers. Another popular operator is Snowy Mountains Climbing School, which runs trips among Thredbo's granite tours for climbers of all skill levels, including newbies. Once you've scaled great heights it's time to put your trust in the ropes and abseil back down again. To find more things to do in the Snowy Mountains or to start planning your trip, go to Visit NSW. Top image: Tourism Snowy Mountains
When a new cinema starts its projectors, it's the gift that keeps on giving, no matter what time of year said picture palace opens its doors. So, Palace Penny Lane Cinema might've arrived just in time for 2023's biggest moviegoing day of the year, aka Boxing Day, but film lovers will be able to enjoy its flicks all year round from Thursday, December 21 onwards. First announced in June, then locking in its launch date back in October, the latest addition to Palace Cinemas' Melbourne footprint features plenty of spaces to enjoy the big-screen experience: 11 traditional screens indoors, plus a rooftop cinema as well, in fact. Wondering where to head? Palace Penny Lane is located on Puckle Street in the Penny Lane development — hence the name — which sits 6.5 kilometres out from Melbourne's city centre. [caption id="attachment_933541" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Shaney Balcombe[/caption] The opening lineup includes sneak peeks of Boxing Day titles before Tuesday, December 26, including the Emma Stone (Cruella)-starring Poor Things, the Anthony Hopkins (The Son)-led One Life, animated duck caper Migration and French comedy Two Tickets to Greece. From launch, Bottoms, Killers of the Flower Moon and Godzilla Minus One are also on the bill, alongside Wonka, Saltburn, The Boy and the Heron and The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes. And those Love Actually 20th-anniversary sessions that've been popping up? They're on here, too. Palace Penny Lane joins the independent cinema chain's existing range of places to worship the silver screen around Melbourne, including the historic wonder that is The Astor and Pentridge's picture palace in an old prison. At the brand's newest digs, movie buffs will be immersed in the usual Palace experience. Think: leather recliners, 4K projection and, for fans of wine with their flicks, double pours. Other titles on their way to the site include Ferrari, Priscilla, Next Goal Wins, Dream Scenario and May December — so, an Adam Driver (65)-starring and Michael Mann (Blackhat)-directed biopic, a different take on the Presleys from Sofia Coppola (On the Rocks), Taika Waititi's (Thor: Love and Thunder) based-on-a-true-story soccer comedy, Nicolas Cage haunting everyone's sleep and the latest from Carol filmmaker Todd Haynes. Palace's Movie Club has also made the jump to the new venue, of course, if you like cheaper seats, free entry on your birthday and access to special events. Find Palace Penny Lane Cinema on Puckle Street, Moonee Ponds from Thursday, December 21 — head to the Palace website for further details.
Dance parties are back on the menu for 2021, so Untitled Group is pulling together the tastemakers and boundary-pushers of the Australian dance music scene for one of its famed day parties. Taking over Port Melbourne's The Timber Yard from 2–10pm on Saturday, April 17 is New South Wales producer, Rüfüs Du Sol collaborator and king of the buzzy electronic ballad Willaris K. Joining him are hyped up-and-comers Pretty Girl and Slam Ross 1000 on the DJ decks, while Melbourne locals Purient will do a live set. The 6000-square-metre warehouse venue is primed for COVID-safe events, with roomy indoor and outdoor areas, and plenty of room for socially distanced dancing. That said, the venue will be operating at a reduced capacity for the eight-hour party, so you'll need to move quick if you want tickets. This will be Willaris K's first full-sized Melbourne show in over a year, following a few warm-up shows he performed at Fitzroy's Night Cat last week. Untitled Group hosted virtual day parties throughout lockdown, featuring the likes of Willaris K, Hayden James and Dom Dolla performing live-streamed sets. Now, it's taking the day party and the dance floor back to the people. Images: Ben Jones
If you prefer to match your morning latte and brunch with some lush, leafy views, then you'll be all about Melbourne's new cafe project from the Darling Group. The owners of Higher Ground, Kettle Black and Sorrento's newly-revamped Stringers have taken over the lakeside venue at the heart of the Royal Botanic Gardens, transforming it into an all-day cafe and event space. Surrounded by greenery, the Terrace Cafe is set to open in October with a menu full of breakfast and lunch classics, plus grab-and-go options for the picnic crowd. There'll also be homemade scones — a nod to a much-loved offering from the site's previous life. [caption id="attachment_870586" align="alignnone" width="1920"] By Julian Lallo[/caption] In the adjacent space, you'll find function venue The Terrace, which will be available to hire out for picturesque private events and weddings overlooking the gardens. Each venue boasts its own indoor and outdoor spaces, with views across the grounds and the city skyline. The project is a special one for The Darling Group's Nick and Chris Seoud. "Having grown up nearby, my brother and I were lucky enough to walk through the Gardens on our way home from school, often picking up scones from The Terrace kiosk," says Nick, the group's director. "To completely transform it and create a place for others to create their own memories is such an exciting opportunity for us." The dual venture marks the site's first new occupancy since 1991 and will be Darling Group's tenth venue. Find The Terrace and The Terrace Cafe in the Royal Botanic Gardens, corner of Alexandra Avenue and Anderson Street, South Yarra, from October.
With an abundance of islands ripe for exploration, the Philippines is a vacationer's dream. Snorkel alongside giant sea turtles, discover secret lagoons, eat sea urchin fresh from the shell, hike a volcano — these are just a few of the things on offer at this Southeast Asian wonderland. However, picking where to spend your holiday can be quite tricky. And for those looking to branch out from the tourist haunts and discover some lesser-known islands, the research and planning can take its toll. That's a helluva lot of islands to Google, after all. Well, to help you jet setters out, we've teamed up with Cebu Pacific Air and pulled together a list of stunning islands to visit on your next trip. Since the airline is offering budget flights from Sydney and Melbourne and then to 36 locations throughout the country, it's never been easier to get there and island hop around the Philippines. CORON Surrounded by iridescent turquoise waters, Coron Island is home to arguably the most picturesque surrounds in the Philippines. Located at the northernmost point of Palawan, visitors must fly into Francisco B. Reyes Airport in order to access the remote island. From here, there is a range of ways you can immerse yourself in these crystal-clear waters — kayaking among limestone karsts, island hopping in a local banka boat, swimming in volcanic lagoons at Kayangan Lake or shipwreck diving. The latter is centred around the remains of sunken World War II Japanese battleships and is considered the best wreck diving in Southeast Asia. For those not certified to dive, snorkelling around the pristine Apo Reef is also impressive. Smaller islands to visit include Diatoy Island, Dimalanta Island and Malpagalen Island. And after a long day of exploring, relax back on land at the Maquinit hot springs, just a short tricycle ride north of town. Closest airport: Francisco B. Reyes (AKA Coron) SIARGAO Siargao is synonymous with surfing in the Philippines. The island is accessible via a flight from Manila or Cebu and surfers travel the world 'round to catch the famous Cloud 9 wave. If you're not an expert, no problem; Siargao also caters to learners and Lanuza in Surigao del Sur is home to heaps of surf camps for beginners. So, even newbies can hang ten. But the allure of this island goes well beyond surfing. For day trips, check out the Magpupungko rock pools, which are exposed at low tide and allow you to cliff jump into clear waters. Closer to town is the Tayangban Cave pools, in which you can swim through a dark cavern aided only by torchlight, before emerging into a peaceful lagoon. Nearby island hopping destinations include Daku and Guyam islands — the latter of which is home to the white sand 'secret beach', another much-loved surf spot. And the island's nightly parties don't hurt its appeal, either. Closest airport: Sayak (AKA Siargao) El NIDO, PALAWAN The island of Palawan is home to some truly stunning sites, and you can drive from the northern tip to the southern tip in around ten hours. But there's so much to see and do, that you could spend weeks here and still have more to explore. If you're coming for a short visit, we recommenced choosing one region to focus on and El Nido is an ideal place to start. Situated at the northern end of Palawan Island (just south of Coron Island), the region includes a cluster of islands just off the coast that makes it ideal for island hopping. Expect dramatic rock formations, 'secret' lagoons and that breathtaking azure water Palawan is known for. For larger-than-life limestone, head to Secret Beach on Matinloc Island, which is surrounded by limestone cliffs and hidden from the outside. Divers can choose from more than 30 dive sites, including The Dilumacad in Helicopter Island — a 12-metre deep, 40-metre long tunnel that's filled with rare tropical fish and other sea life. And hikers can explore Taraw Peak or the Mantinloc Shrine and find some incredible vistas. Closest airport: Puerto Princesa with Cebu transfer to El Nido SAMAL ISLANDS, DAVAO For the extreme-sport fanatics, Samal offers heaps of options, including windsurfing, jet-skiing, water-skiing and ATV rental. It's also relatively easy to access, with Samal and its smaller sister island Talikud, just a short boat ride from Davao City, which you can easily reach by flight from Cebu. Along with adrenaline-charged activities, Samal is home to many experiences not found on other Filipino islands. Take a deep plunge into the Hagimit Falls or go caving in the intricate Balete, Mangongawong or Baga cave systems. A swim around the Vanishing Island in Barangay Tambo is another must — but plan carefully, the island disappears during high tide. Requisite water experiences like kayaking, boat rides and snorkelling are on offer, too. Plus conservation diving within the 150-hectares of the Coral Garden and Marine Reservation Park offers a chance to see some rare species in a protected habitat. And, if land animals are more your thing, you can hang out with more than two million bats living inside the Monfort Bats Conservation Park. It's Batman's secret lair, we're sure of it. Closest airport: Francisco Bangoy International (AKA Davao International) MASBATE Tourism has yet to truly take off in Masbate, which makes it all the more appealing. It's the kind of place you don't want to share for fear of it changing. The province consists of three major islands, along with Ticao (extreme solitude) and Burias, and their combined beaches redefine the term 'pristine'. Port Vega Beach is considered a rival to Bantaya's Sugar Beach, and its remoteness is definitely a plus. The island has no end to its exotic beaches, perfect for relaxing with a tipple in hand. If you're keen for an adventure, the 18-metre-high Catandayagan Falls and its pools and caves offer hours of fun. Or take a boat ride to Halea National Park, where you'll spend the night at either the island's only resort or camping on the beach. Wake up to entrancing green-blue waters and snorkel among the brightly coloured fish, then wander around the nature preserve to see the breathtaking tropical flora. Closest airport: Moises R. Espinosa (AKA Masbate) CARAMOAN ISLANDS The remote Caramoan Islands are located 3.5 hours northeast from the tiny Naga Airport — accessible from Manila — in the province of Camarines Sur. The island is considered a 'secret paradise' as it's relatively new to tourism — sounds like our kind of place. It's home to a 4000-hectare limestone forest rich in natural diversity and perfect for those who love to get among nature. Land adventures include limestone rock climbing and cave exploration. Meanwhile, water sports like kayaking, snorkelling and scuba diving allow you to explore the lagoons, reefs, waterfalls and smaller islands (including Guinahoan Island and Matukad Island, which, according to locals, are home to an enchanted lagoon). But, honestly, a relaxing day on the beach is just as attractive an option here. Closest airport: Naga BANTAYAN, CEBU Though Cebu City was once considered a beach town, it's now a built-up metropolis that rivals Manila. So, in order to see the true wonders of the Cebuana region, you have to venture outside of the main island and onto the smaller ones that surround. One such island is Bantayan, which is easily accessed from Cebu City. Compared with crowded Cebu, the beaches around Bantayan are secluded and pristine — especially Paradise Beach in Santa Fe, though Sugar Beach, Alice Beach and Maricaban Beach each have their own appeal. Inland, check out Madrilejos' Kota Park — this Spanish fort was built in the 1790s and has since been reclaimed by nature. Once you've finished exploring the site, head to Kota Beach where you can walk along a sandbar deep into the sea. Go farther afoot, and check out the Obo-ob Mangrove forest. To catch all the sites, bicycle rentals are available for around 200 pesos per day (roughly $5). For even more island hopping, Silion Island and Hilantagaan Island are close by, with a half-day tour costing around 700 pesos (about $20). Closest airport: Mactan-Cebu International MALAPASCUA North of Cebu, Malapascua Island is a haven for divers thanks to its marine sanctuary — and well worth the trek to get there, which can involve taxis, buses, boats and your own two feet. Its most famous dive site, known the world over, is Monad Shoal, which allows divers to swim with sharks at sunrise. (Let's hope they're like Bruce from Finding Nemo and not Jaws.) Day or overnight trips to Kalanggaman Island offer more sights for snorkelling and diving, but a trip to Malapascua shouldn't be limited to diving. Motorcycle tours or rentals around the main island cost around 700 pesos per day (about $20) and are a great way to see all that the island has to offer. Rides will take you past Lapus Lapus and Langub white sand beaches, Los Bamboos for cliff jumping and rock formations and the lighthouse for unbeatable sunsets. Afterwards, relax back on Bounty Beach where there are plenty of restaurants, bars and nighttime activities to get stuck into. Closest airport: Mactan-Cebu International BOHOL Bohol offers the ideal combination of jungle and beach holiday for those who love a bit of both. Catch a flight to the new Bohol-Panglao Airport, and head to Panglao Island's main beach, Alona. (It's considered a mini-Boracay, only much cleaner and less crowded.) From here, you are afforded a throng of exploration options, with diving, snorkelling and island hopping easy to organise with your accommodation or with local tour guides along the beach. Make sure to visit Balicasag Island — where you can snorkel with large sea turtles — and eat freshly shucked sea urchin in the Virgin Islands. Inland, trekkers can rent ATVs and explore the Chocolate Hills — mysterious, chocolate-coloured hills. Afterwards, take a cruise through the emerald-green Loboc River or opt for an adrenaline rush with a 200-metre-high, 480-metre-long zipline. You can even do all three activities on one day trip from Alona. You'll be back at your beach-side accommodation just in time to enjoy live music and cocktails as the sun sets. Closest airport: Bohol-Panglao (AKA New Bohol International) Ready for an adventure to the Philippines? Book with Cebu Pacific Air for affordable international flights from Melbourne and Sydney.
If you've ever had a hunch about a company that's gone on to make it big, or you think you can predict the future, you might have considered investing in the stock market. One way you can do this — without dropping a heap of cash — is by trying out Superhero, a new Robinhood-style trading platform, which has super-low fees and an easy-to-understand dashboard that lets you monitor the progress of all your stocks. Backed by the founders of Afterpay and Zip Co, Superhero offers Australia's cheapest brokerage fee of just $5 per trade. Plus, it lets you invest in ETFs (Electronic Traded Funds) and pay no brokerage fees at all, and has a $100 minimum investment — so you don't have to be moneybags to get started. While the website won't turn you into Eddie Morra (aka Bradley Cooper) from Limitless, it will let you pretend you're that good, with tips on how to spot the next big thing. At the moment, three of the most-traded shares on its platform include Zip Co, an Australian buy-now-pay-later company (think Afterpay); Brainchip, an artificial intelligence company; and Emerge Gaming, an e-sport platform. All three have seen their share prices grow between 43 and 620 percent in the last 12 months. Superhero itself has been super popular, too, with the Australian Financial Review reporting that a whopping 10,000 Aussies signed up in its first three weeks. If you want to try it out for yourself, you can sign up to Superhero for free over here. 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.
Apologies to backyard cricket, barbecues and water sports. Sure, they're ace things to do in summer in Australia, but movie buffs only have eyes for one outside activity. That'd be outdoor cinemas — and if you're keen catching a flick in Mt Martha under the stars, Sunset Cinema is returning to The Briars from Wednesday, December 20—Friday, January 20. Whether you're eager for a moonlit date night or gathering the gang in the open air, this season's program has something on the bill. That includes opening with Christmas flicks, including Elf, Love Actually and Home Alone — and also showing recent hits such as Barbie, Saltburn, The Marvels and A Haunting in Venice. Other options span an advance screening of the Mean Girls musical, Wonka, and perennial favourites 10 Things I Hate About You and Dirty Dancing. BYO picnics are encouraged, but if you want to enjoy a sparkling, cocktail or brew throughout the film, the onsite bar will be serving a range of drinks. Didn't pack enough snacks? There'll be hot food options, which you can order online and then pickup, plus plenty of the requisite movie treats like chips, chocolates, lollies and popcorn.
Every great exhibition should make you feel like you're surrounded by the artist's work, whether or not it includes giant fairy tale forests or a towering spider. Melbourne-based outfit Grande Experiences takes that idea to heart, turning peering at masterpieces into an immersive 360-degree experience. Fancy seeing Italian Renaissance works, including the Mona Lisa, get the multi-sensory treatment? That's on the company's list in Australia next. When you've ushered the world into Vincent van Gogh's art — getting them not just peering at it but stepping through it — and Claude Monet's as well, what follows? Showcasing Michelangelo, da Vinci, Raphael, Botticelli, Caravaggio, Titian, Veronese and their peers. Van Gogh Alive proved a smash hit when it toured the country, even hitting up some cities multiple times. Monet in Paris dazzled Brisbane in 2023. Now, come 2024, Italian Renaissance Alive will become everyone's new reason to visit HOTA, Home of the Arts on the Gold Coast. The idea remains the same as Grande Experiences' other art must-sees, but the works being splashed across the walls, floors and ceilings will now hail from Italy from around the 15th and 16th centuries. And yes, that includes some of the big ones. The Sistine Chapel, The Last Supper, The Birth of Venus: they're all part of Italian Renaissance Alive in a huge way. Given the large-than-life manner in which they're presented, we really do mean huge, too. From Friday, March 29–Sunday, August 4, 2024, you'll mosey around, spy iconic art surrounding you everywhere you look, and be part of not just a showcase but an experience. So, there'll be light and colour, obviously, but also sound and scents. Providing the soundtrack: Puccini, Verdi and other Italian operatic tunes. This excuse to spend some time on the Gold Coast, whether that means taking a trip down the highway or flying up from down south (or west), is part of HOTA, Home of the Arts' just-announced 2024 program. Also on the bill: the currently showing Sneakers Unboxed: From Studio to Street, a southeast Queensland stint for Elvis: A Musical Revolution and the latest tour for Agatha Christie's stage whodunnit The Mousetrap. HOTA attendees will also be able to see catch Queensland Ballet's Coppélia, a stage version of Roald Dahl's James and the Giant Peach for the young and young at heart, a one-night-only performance of New Zealand's Wild Dogs Under My Skirt, Stunt Double by The Farm and more. Italian Renaissance Alive will display at HOTA, Home of the Arts, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise Gold Coast from Friday, March 29–Sunday, August 4, 2024. For further details, head to the venue's website. Images: Grande Experiences.
"Luke, I am your father" might just be one of the most famous line ever uttered in a movie — except, of course, that's not actually what Darth Vader said. If you're pedantic about the exact phrasing of iconic Star Wars dialogue, or just brimming with Jedi-focused tidbits, then here's your chance to put those skills to the test. Come Monday, May 4 (when else?), Isolation Trivia is hosting an evening of fun that no one can have a bad feeling about. The live-streamed quiz night is delving into the series that has not only spanned 11 films to date — including last year's The Rise of Skywalker — but also inspired a host of new instalments yet to come. If you have a Chewbacca costume in your wardrobe, you're destined to hop online and play along. Sure, your house isn't quite the Mos Eisley Cantina, but you can pretend — may the force be with you, and all that. The night gets underway from 6.25pm, which is when you can start arguing over whether Han shot first. And playing along won't cost you a cent.
Countless late-night drinking sessions and cheap pizzas have been enjoyed at 376 Brunswick Street over the years, where famous former resident Bimbo made its mark as a beloved, sticky-floored student haunt. After a fire forced the building's closure back in 2018, and a short-lived relaunch the following year, it's now getting a proper restart at the hands of new owners, Australian Venue Co (Fargo and Co, State of Grace, The Smith). Say g'day to the Fitzroy site's newest iteration: Kewpie. Named after the iconic doll figure that's long graced its exterior wall, Kewpie will carry on the legacy as a laidback neighbourhood boozer with cheap pizza and a weekly roster of DJ-fuelled party sessions. Aesthetically, little has changed since the pub's last makeover, with low booths spread across the spacious ground-floor rooms, colourful posters plastered across the walls, and a sunny bar and terrace offering prime position up on the rooftop. From the kitchen comes a delightfully affordable offering of pizza and snacks, most clocking in at an easy $5. Vegetarian options might include a caramelised onion and potato number, or the Mexican-inspired Poncho topped with corn chips and jalapenos. There's a peri peri chicken pizza, another loaded with Calabrese salami, and a garlicky marinara creation starring calamari, prawns and capers. Throw on a side of the pizza spring rolls if you're feeling snacky. To match, the bar's keeping things simple, with a mix of crowd-pleasing brews, craft tins, wines and classic cocktails on offer. And soundtracking the Kewpie good times, there'll be a slew of music-focused happenings across the second half of each week — hip hop and funk for Bump Thursdays, the Friday Glow Down curated by Anyo and Kel Rhys, a slew of familiar selectors firing up House Party 3.0 Saturdays and smooth vinyl tracks for your Sundays. To celebrate its launch, Kewpie will be giving away 50 free pizzas every day, from Monday, November 8–Friday, November 12. Head in to nab yours. Find Kewpie at 376 Brunswick St, Fitzroy, from Monday, November 8. It'll open from 4pm–late Monday–Wednesday and 12pm–late Thursday–Sunday. Top Images: Kate Shanasy
Great renewal news for fans of Mabel Mora (Selena Gomez, The Dead Don't Die), Oliver Putnam (Martin Short, Schmigadoon!) and Charles-Haden Savage (Steve Martin, It's Complicated) usually means bad news for the folks that the trio know on-screen. Only Murders in the Building viewers get more episodes, but that means more deaths within the hit murder-mystery comedy's narrative. That's exactly the case right now, with the series just wrapping up its Paul Rudd (Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania)- and Meryl Streep (Don't Look Up)-guest starring third season, then revealing that there's more in store — with the show locked in for season four. More instalments, more killings and more amusing antics are all on the way, then, for the series that first got Gomez, Short and Martin sleuthing in 2021's season one (aka one of the best new shows of that year), then followed it up with 2022's season two (aka one of the best returning shows of that year, too) before arriving for its third go-around in 2023. Details of when the series will return, who else will pop up and the like haven't yet been announced, but expect to spend more time in Only Murders in the Building's world. The show started with three residents of the same New York apartment building crossing paths after a murder in their building — hence the title — then bonding over true-crime podcasts. Next, they did what everyone that's jumped on that bandwagon knows they would if they were ever in the same situation, starting their own audio series that's also called Only Murders in the Building. That's how season one kicked off — and continued, proving a warm, funny, smart and savvy series at every step along the way. In the show's second season, another death needed investigating. That time, it was someone the main trio were all known not to be that fond of, so suspicions kept pointing in their direction. Indeed, every season, another death has given aspiring artist Mabel, Broadway producer Oliver and actor Charles-Haden another case to dive into. In season three, that involved looking into who caused Ben Glenroy (Rudd) to shuffle off this mortal coil at the opening night of Oliver's latest show. "Is this really happening again?" asked the theatre figure in the first teaser trailer for season three. "Yes, yes it is" was the answer from Only Murders in the Building's audience then — and still now. "The trio's journey is far from over," US streaming platform Hulu, which produces the show, announced on social media. There's no sneak peek at season four as yet, but you can check out the full trailer for Only Murders in the Building season three below: Only Murders in the Building's streams Down Under via Star on Disney+. Read our full reviews of season one, season two and season three. Images: Hulu.
Feeling hot, hot, hot? While summer can be a beautiful thing of balmy evenings, backyard parties and inflatable pool toys, it can also turn at any moment. And when it decides to beat its relentless, fiery heatwaves down on us, the city turns into an apocalyptic state of dripping icy poles, too-hot tram carriages and overall frustration. So where to go and what to do without melting into a puddle? While hiding under the bed waiting for that blessed cool change is tempting, there are many other cooling and less hermit-like options that can help make your summer enjoyable — even when venturing outside feels like stepping into a fire pit. SWIM UNDER A WATERFALL AT TURPINS FALLS Water doesn't get any cooler, or more refreshing than this waterfall which flows directly from the Macedon Ranges. While taking a dip in this slightly-above-freezing billabong may require some encouragement and bravery, once submerged you'll be rewarded with instant refreshment and the cool embrace of water. It's also pretty easy to forget about the summer heat when you're pretending to be a mermaid. SEE A FILM AND STUFF YOUR FACE WITH POPCORN AT CINEMA NOVA Everyone knows that when Melbourne reaches apocalyptic melting point, the best place to take shelter from the laser beam-like UV rays is in the cool comfort of the cinema. With 16 screens, Cinema Nova is Melbourne's largest arthouse cinema, screening everything from the latest explosive blockbuster to favourite indie flick. So there's bound to be something on that at least partly takes your fancy. Scrooges take note of the Monday special — $7 before 4pm and a mere $9 after means you'll have extra pennies to enjoy popcorn and a refreshing pre-screening beverage at the Nova bar. GRAB A DOUBLE SCOOP AT GELATO MESSINA While ice cream hasn't been scientifically proven to reduce one's body temperature, it sure doesn't need rigorous scientific testing to know it can instantly bring a smile to one's sunburnt, sweaty face. The joy-makers at Gelato Messina create delicious A/C for the mouth with 35 permanent flavours and five new ones each week, using the best of smashed up cheesecake, cookies, red velvet and caramel pieces. Too hot for you to brave the wrath of the sun in search of a scoop? They now offer delivery, making home sweeter than ever. [caption id="attachment_554353" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Northcote Aquatic and Recreation Centre via Flickr[/caption] TAKE THE PLUNGE AT NORTHCOTE POOL While cooling down in chlorinated public waters may not sound as appealing as plunging into one of Melbourne's swimming holes, this local pool is a good alternative to embrace your inner fish during summer. Worth travelling to, the Northcote Aquatic and Recreation Centre not only has a sweet 50m outdoor pool, but they also have a separate 25m outdoor pool for kids and beginners. Plus, the pool backs onto a park so there's many a grassy patch to park yourself on for the afternoon. [caption id="attachment_554354" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Pascal via Flickr[/caption] GET YOUR SUMMER READING DONE AT THE STATE LIBRARY While your ideal version of summer reading may be lying luxuriously on a beachfront, in hot weather the reality that awaits you is most probably a lobster tan and scorching sand — not a peaceful page-turning experience. Instead, you can cooly relax in the air conditioned heaven of the State Library of Victoria, home of 200 million books and Ned Kelly's armour. This sesquicentennial building has a bunch of tranquil reading rooms, a mesmerising dome and free exhibitions — all blasted with beautiful, beautiful air con. HEAD FOR THE HILLS WITH A TRIP TO THE DANDENONG RANGES For an instant temperature drop, head for the hills of lush ferns, moss-covered beauty and delicious locally-sourced cafe tucker. The cool climate and sheltering forest of the Dandenong Ranges means it is typically a couple of degrees cooler than the city — making it a perfect haven to escape from the heat. If you're feeling energetic from all that mountain air, you may like to explore the area by foot by taking one of their hiking trails, try and steal some spray from Sherbrooke or Olinda Falls, or simply take it easy at one of the many eateries and cafes in the area. KEEP HYDRATED AT NAKED IN THE SKY They say hot air rises, but who cares when you're looking out at one of Melbourne's best views in the north, sipping on tasty house-made vodka, snacking on exquisite tapas? As well as the rooftop bar receiving some of the most refreshing summer breezes, the cool ambience and laidback crowd can make summer heatwaves a whole lot of fun. [caption id="attachment_602904" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Sean Fennessey[/caption] STEP INSIDE A 'CAR WASH' AT THE NGV If you feel nostalgic for days spent swanning through sprinklers in the backyard, this might be the next best thing. As part of the 2016 NGV Architecture Commission, M@ STUDIO Architects have set up a pretend car wash in the NGV's Grollo Equiset Garden for the summer. You'll be able to find your fun easily — just look out for the old-school glittering sign, a pretty translucent ceiling, frolicking in bright pink AstroTurf and kicking back on rubber speed bumps. There's be five 'bays', two hung with red plastic curtains and one equipped with a mist diffuser. Go forth and frolic (or just rest those sweaty, weary bones) within. PREVENT SCURVY WITH A COLD-PRESSED JUICE AT GREENE ST JUICE CO. Maintaining your new year's resolution health kick and searching for a refreshing beverage can be a tricky feat. Thankfully clean eaters need not reach for a sugar-filled Boost but instead can sip and slurp at this Prahran juice bar, serving 'holistic nutrition' in the form of cold-pressed organic juices full of healthy raw, organic herbal extracts. The bar itself is a cool place (both literally and figuratively) to sip on your elixir, with natural textures of stone, walnut batten and greenery. [caption id="attachment_554371" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Dollar Photo Club[/caption] GO ARCTIC AND HANG IN A BAR MADE OF ICE If all else fails, stick your head in the freezer, head into the cool room at the bottle-o or — if you're looking for a full-body experience — the novelty that is Ice Bar may be the only thing to cool you down. Step into the frozen wonderland of -10 degrees of their new Fitzroy premises and grab yourself a cocktail in an ice-cup, relax on a chilly bar-stool and marvel at the specially crafted ice sculptures. But being this cold isn't quite the cheapest perk going around, the $30 entry will give you 30 minutes of Arctic joy. This is for when you're desperate. Top image: Dollar Photo Club
