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
The best summer days are the carefree, spontaneous kind, where you can turf the long-laid plans out the window and embrace some new adventures on a last-minute whim. Preferably, those involving sunshine, good company and a healthy serve of Mother Nature's finest. So, to help you make the most of the many balmy days to come, we've teamed up with Aussie winemaker Jacob's Creek to share our pick of spontaneous activities to enjoy in the great outdoors this sunny season. [caption id="attachment_795212" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Abbotsford Convent, Visit Victoria[/caption] STROLL ALONG THE MAIN YARRA TRAIL For a scenic riverside stroll, it's hard to beat the Main Yarra Trail, which is brimming with things to see and places to visit. Follow the river through leafy bushland and open parkland, making sure to check out the tumbling waters of Dights Falls, and the lush grounds and historic architecture of the Abbotsford Convent. The nearby Collingwood Children's Farm also begs a stop, home to an array of animals and blooming gardens. The trail is a whopping 33 kilometres long so, when you need a rest, choose a sunny spot by the river and throw down your rug for some food and fizz. The Brut Cuvée from Jacob's Creek's new low-alcohol range Better By Half is a winning option if you want to keep things light. [caption id="attachment_795213" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Royal Botanic Gardens, Visit Victoria[/caption] HAVE A PICNIC IN THE ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS Sprawling over 38 verdant hectares, the historic Royal Botanic Gardens are just a tiny hop from the CBD, making it the perfect match for your picnic rug this season. Between the lakeside expanses, tree-shaded slopes and secluded clearings, there's many a spot here to suit your personal picnic vibe. And no matter where you land yourself, we promise you'll feel world's away from the buzz of the nearby city. Claim a patch of turf for the afternoon with some mates and bask in some nature while grazing your way through a cheese board and a bottle of the Jacob's Creek Sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir — a vibrant drop that'll lend a sense of celebration to any al fresco adventures this summer. CATCH A FLICK AT MOONLIGHT CINEMA 'Tis the season to enjoy some movie magic under the stars. And the legendary Moonlight Cinema is back and offering just that at its home on the Central Lawn within the Royal Botanic Gardens. Here, you can make the most of those balmy summer evenings and catch a flick on the outdoor screen while kicking back on your picnic rug. The program features both classic films and new-release titles, including The Holiday, Notting Hill and new Aussie crime drama The Dry, and you can bring along your own eats and drinks for the ultimate chilled-out movie-going experience. A modern take on a summer classic, the delicate Jacob's Creek Le Petit Rosé would work a treat alongside those movie snacks. PICK YOUR OWN CHERRIES IN THE YARRA VALLEY There's something inherently festive about a handful of plump, red, juicy cherries. Especially if you've plucked them fresh from the tree with your very own hands. So heed the call and make a day trip out to the Yarra Valley's Cherryhill Orchards, where you can spend a couple of hours picking and devouring your fill of the much-loved summer fruit. The renowned orchard is running daily picking sessions right through the cherry season, allowing punters to harvest their own fruit while soaking up some rays and taking in idyllic views of the Yarra Ranges. You can even stick around afterwards for a picnic in the grounds. CATCH SOME FREE PUBLIC ART Getting an art fix needn't mean booking exhibition tickets or being cooped up inside some windowless gallery for the day. This summer, you'll find plenty of creative installations have popped up under the open skies all over town. And you can check them out without parting with a cent. Right now, gracing Birrarung Marr's Upper Terrace, you'll discover a colourful reflection on community in Zahava Elenberg's kaleidoscopic piece Sukkah, created for the Jewish Museum of Australia. And over in Federation Square, there's the luminous cluster of giant, inflatable arches that is Sky Castle — an interactive installation that changes colour and sound as you wander through it. TAKE A WANDER ALONG SOUTHBANK AND SOUTH WHARF PROMENADE When that sun's a-shining, you can soak up the full effect of Melbourne's summer energy with a stroll along the banks of the mighty Yarra. The buzzy stretch of Southbank comes alive at this time of year, with its bustling restaurant terraces, sunny riverside pop-up bars and the odd outdoor entertainer lending their tunes. Meander further and you'll come across the striking angles of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and the historic cargo sheds of South Wharf Promenade that have transformed into lively waterfront eateries. Once you're done wandering, stop by the long-running Left Bank, nab a seat in the venue's newly hatched riverside deck and kick back with a glass or two of your favourite tipple. Reconnect with your friends and family this summer with a bottle of Jacob's Creek. Discover the Jacob's Creek range and purchase a bottle today from all good liquor retailers. Top image: Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Visit Victoria Please drink responsibly.
Feeling impulsive? Got annual leave to burn? In need of an escape from the dreaded routine? How about booking a last-minute Asia holiday? We've all dreamed of it, and now you've got a damn good excuse for a surprise sojourn — but only for the next 48 hours. For a limited time, Scoot (the low-cost arm of Singapore Airlines) is offering one-way airfares from Sydney, Melbourne and Perth to the most sought-after destinations across Asia — at prices between $139 and $850. Think about it: A little springtime getaway to lounge by a pool on Koh Samui, cycling the streets of Ho Chi Minh City or taking a spin at self-discovery in Chennai. You could be sipping a cocktail in the Marina Bay Sands infinity pool while your colleagues are sipping coffee at their desks. The sale's travel periods are October 13–November 19 or January 19–March 17, so you could spend the last weeks of summer escaping to a market in Seoul, serene temple grounds in Chiang Rai or a winter lights festival in Osaka. Either way, you'd better act fast, you've spent too much time reading about it. On the fence? Need convincing? You officially have our permission to book the impulse holiday of your dreams, and your boss can complain to us about it. Our tip for Melbourne travellers? Be smart with your A/L and book one day off, Tuesday, November 4, for an easy extra-long weekend overseas. Scoot's Gotta Scoot sale is on now until 11.59pm on Friday, September 26th. For more information, visit the website.
Are you a cat person or a dog person? Alongside whether or not you're a fan of pineapple on pizza, pet preference is one of humanity's great dividing factors. Some folks love the unconditional affection that a barking bestie brings. Others thrive on the contented purrs of a meowing mouser sitting on their lap. Whichever camp you fall into, here's something that even the most-avid pup proponents and feline fanciers can agree on: that an exhibition dedicated to both cats and dogs, charting their place in art, design and human history, is a delightful must-see. Cats & Dogs is that showcase, giving NGV Australia in Melbourne's Federation Square one of its big summer highlights. It's a great time to be an art lover in the Victorian capital, or visiting the city, with all things Yayoi Kusama taking over NGV International and beyond — and also this thoughtful and adorable exhibition bringing joy via more than 250 cat- and dog-focused works at the Ian Potter Centre until Sunday, July 20, 2025. If your camera roll demonstrates your firm belief that there's no such thing as too many pet pictures, consider this the wide-ranging display that understands, then illustrates that idea — literally — via art. Pieces by Rembrandt van Rijn, Francisco de Goya, Pierre Bonnard, David Hockney, Jeff Koons, Hulda Guzmán, Atong Atem, Charles Blackman, Grace Cossington Smith and Nora Heysen are among the works featured, spanning both international and Australian artists. And yes, because cats and dogs don't always get along, the exhibition places dog pieces on one side and cats on the other. For plenty of pet lovers, you could hang all the pictures in the world of cats and dogs in a gallery and it'd instantly become a cherished art experience, but NGV International has arranged its showcase thematically to dig into what these two types of cute creatures mean to us. Using works from the NGV Collection, it explores subjects such as working dogs and cats, how the two pets feature in mythology and the occult, and their significance in religion and spirituality. So, expect cattle dogs, superstition-inspiring black cats and everything in-between, Also included in a display that ranges from ancient history to today: a survey of cats in popular culture. And if thinking about moggies and art gets you thinking about Théophile-Alexandre Steinlen's 1896 Chat Noir art nouveau poster, the recent acquisition by the NGV is part of the exhibition. Paintings of cats and dogs, prints of cats and dogs, drawings of cats and dogs, photos of cats and dogs, sculptures of cats and dogs, fashion featuring cats and dogs: they're all covered, as are textiles and decorative arts heroing the two critters. Other specific highlights include Atomicus, the surrealist photography by Philippe Halsman with Salvador Dalí pictured next to flying cats; Thomas Gainsborough's two-metre-high oil painting Richard St George Mansergh-St George, focusing on a soldier and his hound; Atong Atem's 2022 self-portrait Maria of Mars, complete with a lapdog earning atttention; pieces by First Nations artists, such as wooden carvings of camp dogs by Far North Queensland's Aurukun artists; and fashion by Alexander McQueen, Romance Was Born and others. Do you know in your bones that your own cat or dog belongs in the same company? There's a pet portrait gallery, too, where attendees can share images of their own pets. Images: Installation view of Cats & Dogs at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia from 1 November 2024 to 20 July 2025. Photos: Eugene Hyland and Tom Ross.
Situated in Gippsland's east, Tinamba is just a speck on the map with a population of around just 500 people. But locals are likely to consider themselves pretty lucky with the local Tinamba Hotel offering up some great pub food — some of Victoria's best, in fact. Most of the pubs in the surrounding area offer a more ridgy-didge atmosphere but Tinamba Hotel is where you can get a more refined feed without fear of straying into pretentiousness. Plus, it's located just over halfway along the Gippsland Plains Rail Trail, making it an excellent pit stop to refuel if you're planning a cycling excursion. Menus change frequently, often highlighting locally grown produce, including fresh herbs and vegetables straight from the hotel garden, through dishes that take your pub classics to elevated heights. For dinner, there are freshly shucked oysters to start, while the braised ox cheek makes for a good winter dish. For those hunting for a bargain, the lunch menu offers incredible value with two courses for $35 or three courses for $45. Images: Visit Victoria
Industrial chic meets neighbourhood comfort for this hip, friendly Seddon local serving inventive cocktails and Greek street food. Lay Low's owners and staff all live in the surrounding suburbs and the for-locals, by-locals vibe really shines. This collaborative spirit extends to bringing in the team from The Brotherhood Yiros to create seasonal food menus featuring dishes such as kolokithokeftedes — zucchini, feta and ricotta fritters served with tzatziki — and traditional yiros wraps with fillings like chicken, lamb or zucchini. Cocktails are a standout here, with highlights such as the Slow, Eh — an alluring blend of two gins, with a spiced red wine and orange cordial — or the wonderfully named Umami Issues, featuring smoked spiced rum, sherry, tomato, worcestershire and tabasco. If you're not feeling a cocktail, check out the short but diverse wine list, or grab a local tap beer from the likes of Hop Nation. Images: Julia Sansone
In 2006’s Night at the Museum, the exhibits and dioramas of New York City's Museum of Natural History sprang to life, surprising freshly hired evening security guard Larry Daley (Ben Stiller). In 2009’s Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian, Larry returned to save enlivened treasures being shipped off to storage in Washington, D.C., stumbling upon a power battle between magically resurrected pharaohs in the process. The films, mixing an everyman protagonist with an exaggerated situation, established an easy formula of heroics and humour, history and fantasy, and quests and chaos, as suitable for all ages. Now, once more adhering to the blueprint but transporting the action to London, the trilogy crawls towards its conclusion with Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb. Here, the perpetually bumbling Larry is thrust into trouble once more when an important event goes awry as a result of his animated mannequin friends. The tablet that endows the appearance of life into the museum’s trinkets is starting to corrode, courtesy of an Egyptian curse. Only specimens housed in Britain hold the answers to stopping the rot, reinstating the spell and rescuing the likenesses of famous figures from reverting to a permanent state of wax. Adding to the antics are Larry’s English counterpart, nightwatchwoman Tilly (Rebel Wilson), and an arrogant Sir Lancelot (Dan Stevens), both endeavouring to thwart the visitors’ efforts for their own reasons. Returning director Shawn Levy (This Is Where I Leave You) and new scribes David Guion and Michael Handelman (Dinner for Schmucks) aren’t concerned with offering any unexpected detours in the events that follow, repeating the beats of the earlier films with a heightened emphasis on outdated pop culture jokes. Indeed, that the feature’s biggest source of laughs — and its best surprise cameo – stems from an internet meme gives an indication of the level of comedy cultivated, as does the prominence of online cat videos to the plot. Even the usual reliance upon slapstick wavers, for worse, not for better. The odd-couple banter of Owen Wilson as an old west cowboy and Steve Coogan as a Roman soldier is similarly toned down. Elaborate staging aside (best manifested in Secret of the Tomb in an uncharacteristically excellent M.C. Escher-inspired sequence), the biggest lure of the Night of the Museum series has always been its extensive cast. Performers express enough energy to keep the movie bubbling along; however, for reasons inconsequential to the content itself, it is Robin Williams’ return as Teddy Roosevelt that stands out. His last on-screen appearance evokes both sweetness and sorrow that far exceeds the average franchise swansong he is saddled with.
For the past five years, Qantas has been promising to eradicate one of the worst things about international long-haul air travel to and from Australia: the dreaded stopover. First, it announced and then implemented non-stop 17-hour flights from Perth to London; however if you live on the east coast, you still have to get to Western Australia. So, the airline revealed that it was exploring direct routes from Sydney, not only to London but to New York as well, with a launch date of 2022. Since then, Qantas has been pursuing the idea enthusiastically, widening their plan to also include departures to and from Melbourne and Brisbane. This weekend, the Aussie carrier is taking the next step by piloting its first ultra long-haul research flight from New York to Sydney. Initially announced a couple of months back, it's the first trial as part of the airline's Project Sunrise scheme. It's also the first flight by a commercial airline to ever make the huge 19.5-hour journey — and will use a Boeing 787-9 to soar the 16,200 kilometres, all with 50 passengers and crew on board. While the Boeing 787-9 hasn't been designed for such a mammoth trek, when it departs New York's John F Kennedy Airport at 9pm on Friday, October 18 New York time (midday in Sydney on Saturday, October 19), it'll do so with a maximum fuel contingent, a restricted passenger and baggage load, and no cargo. Indeed, almost half of the flight's weight will be fuel, and it's expected to use all but 6000 kilograms of its 101,000 kilogram load during the trip. No members of the public are making the voyage, though, with the flight's passengers comprised of crew and Qantas employees. Given that the aim of the journey is to gather data about inflight passenger and crew health and wellbeing, they'll be fitted with wearable technology devices to monitor their monitor sleep patterns, food and beverage consumption, physical movement and use of the entertainment system during the flights. The results will then be assessed by scientists and medical experts from the Charles Perkins Centre, with minimising jetlag, and helping identify optimum crew rest and work patterns part of their research. The flight's four pilots will also take part in studies, working with CRC for Alertness, Safety and Productivity researchers to record their melatonin levels before, during and after the flights, as well as their brain wave patterns and alertness — again, to help ascertain the best work and rest routine when they're commanding those long-haul services. While spending nearly a day on one single plane to get to the USA or Europe is definitely better than jumping on and off different vessels multiple times, it's still a seriously long slog. Yes, you'll avoid the sometimes long, always painful stopovers, but the lengthy journey isn't without its physical, mental and emotional toll — as anyone who has made the Perth to London trip knows — which is what makes this testing so important. Two more trail flights are planned in November and December, including one that'll travel direct between London and Sydney. That trek has actually been made before; however the last time the latter happened was back in 1989, when Qantas made the journey on a Boeing 747-400 with just 23 people onboard. Qantas is expected to announce whether Project Sunrise will progress to making commercial flights, rather than just trial flights, by the end of December 2019. If it proceeds, it'll eclipse the current record for the world's longest direct flight — which clocks in at over 19 hours on Singapore Airlines' 15,322-kilometre Singapore-to-New York route. Image: Qantas.
Whether TLC is singing about chasing waterfalls, Backstreet Boys are reminding us that they're back, Elton John is saying farewell again or Billy Joel is saying that it's still rock 'n' roll to him, Australia and Aotearoa's music venues are frequently alive with the sounds of nostalgia. Going retro is big touring business of late, and it's hip hop and R&B festival Juicy Fest's whole angle — with T-Pain, Ashanti and The Game on the bill for its just-announced 2024 events. Expect to hear auto-tune aplenty when the 'Buy U a Drank', 'I'm Sprung' and 'Can't Believe It' rapper hits the stage, performing tracks from a career that's also included featured appearances on Flo-Rida's 'Low', Akon's 'I Can't Wait', The Lonely Island's 'I'm on a Boat' and Snoop Dogg's 'Boom'. If it seems like a while since he's been our way, it has: this will be his first time in Australia in more than a decade, too. When Juicy Fest kicks off its January 2024 season in Christchurch, Wellington, Tauranga and Auckland, then heads across the ditch to Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Adelaide and the Gold Coast, it'll see Ashanti return Down Under after appearing on 2022's Fridayz Live tour in Australia and Friday Jams tour in New Zealand. As for The Game, who came to fame in the 00s in the West Coast scene, he was meant to tour Down Under in March 2023, but was replaced by AB Original. Bone Thugs-n-Harmony are also on the bill, as are T.I., Trey Songz, Fabolous, Mario and Keri Hilson. And, there's still one headliner to be announced down the line. Juicy Fest's 2024 run will mark its second, after debuting in January 2023 and attracting more than 100,000 attendees. The event has only announced a specific venue so far for the Gold Coast, hitting up Doug Jennings Park, with further details to come. JUICY FEST 2024 DATES: Wednesday, January 3 — Venue TBC, Christchurch Friday, January 5 — Venue TBC, Wellington Saturday, January 6 — Venue TBC, Tauranga Sunday, January 7 — Venue TBC, Auckland Friday, January 12 — Venue TBC, Melbourne Saturday, January 13 — Venue TBC, Sydney Sunday, January 14 — Venue TBC, Perth Friday, January 19 — Venue TBC, Adelaide Saturday, January 20 — Doug Jennings Park, Gold Coast JUICY FEST 2024 LINEUP: T-Pain T.I. Ashanti The Game Trey Songz Bone Thugs-n-Harmony Fabolous Mario Keri Hilson Juicy Fest will tour Australia and New Zealand in January 2024, with tickets on sale from Wednesday, April 26. Head to the festival's website to register for pre-sale access.
There is a particular type of holiday-goer who makes decisions based on very specific details about the accommodation they intend to stay in. For some (more than you might think), that detail is an al fresco bath tub. Such a detail is one of many winning qualities of The Gully, one of four charming stays on the property of Budgee Budgee Farm located a 15 minute drive outside the centre of Mudgee in central west New South Wales. The Gully is an appealing one bedroom cottage nestled among the trees. The oeuvre of the lodgings is accessible antique charm — deep Prussian blue walls complement the timber floorboards and antique furnishings, vintage light fixtures and framed botanical illustrations on the walls. An antique bed frame of the cushy queen mattress is updated with fresh sheets, plump pillows and cosy throws. The cooler months are when the Mudgee is particularly compelling — when wine tastings, fireplaces and extended long weekends are all de rigueur. And The Gully is a mere ten minute's drive away from some of the best local vineyards, breweries and dining spots in the region. With that said, it's the onsite options that give this accommodation its allure. Case in point: the claw foot bath perched amid the trees on a platform, positioned specifically so bathers can take in a view of the dam and property while soaking. [caption id="attachment_904553" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The al fresco tub surrounded by bush forest.[/caption] There is also an indoor bathroom with shower, a fully stocked kitchen complete with a stove, crockery and a Nespresso machine. There's also an indoor wood-burning fireplace and an outdoor fire pit, ensuring your every move is kept flame-y and warm so long as you need the assistance of heat and atmosphere. Getting the different accommodations of Budgee Budgee Farm ready for guests was a labor of love and passion project for the group behind the property which includes the team behind Sydney-based design studio Worktones plus partners and friends. The result is as tastefully considered as you might anticipate. You can book The Gully at Budgee Budgee Farm on Airbnb. Image credit: Amber Creative Now you can book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations everywhere.
UPDATE, Friday, December 8: Leave the World Behind screens in cinemas from Thursday, November 23 and streams via Netflix from Friday, December 8. Call it the one with Julia Roberts playing the mother of a Friends-obsessed 13-year-old girl who hasn't clocked that someone closely resembling her mum pops up in the sitcom's second season. Call it writer/director Sam Esmail still ruing humanity's technological reliance and seeing only dystopian outcomes after Mr Robot became such a small-screen success. Call Leave the World Behind an effectively unnerving psychological thriller about a mysterious communications blackout striking while one New York family holidays at another's palatial Long Island vacation home, too. Down Under, badging it the horror version of Australia's November 2023 Optus outage also fits — just with a home-invasion angle that can be read two ways; Hitchcockian suspense, sharp writing and baked-in bleakness; Barack and Michelle Obama as executive producers; and Roberts (Ticket to Paradise) starring alongside Ethan Hawke (Reservation Dogs), Mahershala Ali (Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse), Myha'la Herrold (Dumb Money) and Kevin Bacon (The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special). In her second chaotic getaway in two successive movies, Roberts plays Amanda Sandford, an advertising executive who prides herself on being able to read people and situations. But her professor husband Clay (Hawke) is surprised to awaken one morning to news that their brood is going away for a few days, thanks to a humanity-escaping misanthropic urge and a last-minute online booking. He and the couple's kids — the older Archie (Charlie Evans, Everything's Gonna Be Okay) and younger Rose (Farrah Mackenzie, United States of Al) — aren't complaining about the break, though. Then problems after eerie problems occur. First, an oil tanker runs ashore on the beach. Next comes the late-night knock at the door from their holiday home's owner GH Scott (Ali) and his daughter Ruth (Herrold), who've driven in all dressed up from a night at the symphony. In a movie that isn't afraid of M Night Shyamalan-esque setups on its route to potential societal collapse, a power, phone and internet outage follows, plus oddly behaving wildlife and disquieting developments from above. Paranoia is Esmail's on-screen wheelhouse as much as distrusting the gadgets and connectivity that've become foundations of 21st-century life, so him bringing Rumaan Alam's 2020 novel to the screen is hardly a shock. Cultivating tension is also key among the film and TV director, writer and producer's skills, with Leave the World Behind providing another superb avenue for him to demonstrate that talent. With Mr Robot and this, which is only his second feature as a filmmaker (after 2014's Comet), Esmail has proven fond of filtering life's stresses, reliances and fears through harrowing but grounded-enough situations. Leave the World Behind's circumstances coming true doesn't feel like a fiction-only jump, and nor do the reactions from Amanda, her loved ones and the strangers that they encounter. If existence as we currently know it concludes, falters or is disrupted significantly, perhaps it'll be more mundane than instantly cataclysmic, Esmail keeps positing. Scene by scene, Leave the World Behind tears into the vacation idyll early. The trip to the beach under beaming sunlight becomes a disaster movie when Rose spots the ship heading straight for the shore, as grippingly handled by Esmail, his regular Mr Robot cinematographer Tod Campbell and editor Lisa Lassek (Dead Ringers). The distress that lingers in that incident's aftermath only multiplies when the Scotts show up — not thanks to their presence, but due to Amanda's Karen-style reaction. When there's no way of accessing the outside world, the kids try to swim away the unease while the adults argue, yet the disquieting vibe just keeps building. As the tanker moment illustrates, Leave the World Behind doesn't shy away from hefty instances of prospective end-of-the-world mayhem, with more springing; however, blockbuster spectacle isn't this feature's core focus. Indeed, this isn't just a film about responding to another apocalyptic scenario, of which screens big and small can't get enough (see: Shyamalan's Knock at the Cabin, plus The Creator, Biosphere and The Last of Us are a mere few fellow 2023 examples). Leave the World Behind is also steeped in today's attitudes as well as its accoutrements; that Alam's book is a pandemic-era release is fitting. So, the entitlement and prejudice that Amanda sports when financial planner GH and twentysomething Ruth arrive speaks volumes. The division and doubt between Amanda and Ruth across generational and racial lines do as well. The same applies to the panic when no manner of devices can deliver the news, a number of supremely self-serving decisions, and one helluva dark but glorious gag that stops anyone from hightailing it out of there and never looking back. As the Sandfords and the Scotts alike — and survivalist Danny (Bacon) as well — contemplate what's behind their chilling change of affairs, surveying everything from cyberterrorism to nuclear troubles, that humanity might be its worst enemy echoes loud and clear. Esmail and Roberts have teamed up before on TV series Homecoming, which he created and directed, and also when the former executive produced the latter-starring Gaslit. Enlisting America's sweetheart in an against-type part that gets her playing suspicious, privileged, contemptuous and prickly guides out a compelling performance, and one of her best in years; Roberts turns in an invested portrayal, and is also among the movie's producers. An always-magnetic two-time Oscar-winner (for Moonlight and Green Book), Ali renders GH as open, trusting and reasonable where Amanda is not, with some of the film's top sequences stemming from the pair sharing the frame. Hawke nails his affable part, and Herrold her no-nonsense role. It isn't just how its characters handle their plight, for better and for worse, that makes Leave the World Behind resonate with emotional truth, but the fleshed-out performances that are always centre stage. On the list of things that Esmail and his film don't shirk, humour and paying homage to Hitchcock also rank highly. The idea that the crashing of society mightn't stop a TV fan from wanting to see how their favourite show ends is both an astute commentary on the dominance of pop culture and deeply funny, while nods to The Birds and North by Northwest are well-handled tributes. Making Friends the series that Rose is obsessed with is all the more affecting after Matthew Perry's recent passing, but it's "I'll be there for you" refrain was always pitch-perfect for this tale. As America and the globe keep being factionalised, doomsday possibilities continue to loom and conspiracy theories about almost everything abound, what and who will be there for you? Call that one of the trains of thought that this ambitious, playful, savvy and cutting picture serves up.
Calling all Dans. The Melbourne Food & Wine Festival pop-up Dan's Diner is giving anyone named Dan a free cocktail during its happy hour on Thursday, March 21, Friday, March 22 and Sunday, March 24. And this isn't just for the basic Daniels of the world. If your name is Danielle, Daniele, Daniela, Danny, Dani, Danni, Dannii, Dana, Daen, Daan, Daniyyel, Danail or Danyal, then this one is also for you. On each of the three days, from 4–5pm, the first 20 people through the door to show photo ID proof that their name is indeed a variation of Dan will get a free Dan Murphizz — a cocktail made from Melbourne Gin Company's fine dry gin, Marionette apricot brandy and lemon juice. Dan Murphy's is running this Fed Square pop-up and has gathered together a heap of Dans from Melbourne's hospo scene to serve up American diner-inspired food and bevs. This includes Dan Hunter from Brae, Daniel Puskas from Sixpenny and Daniel Wilson from Yakimono. The Dan Murphy's crew has clearly leaned in hard to the Dan theme. And come Saturday, March 23 and Sunday, March 24, visitors to the pop-up can also have a go at getting some free merch — if you're keen on the Dan Murphy's logo. The team has made their own strength tester, so folks can swing a mallet and try and ring the bell to get some free goodies. Either stick around for more diner eats and drinks after Dan's Hour or explore other Fed Square happenings like the pop-up bakery Baker's Dozen.
Whether you're in desperate need of some extra brownie points, or you're letting someone know they're pretty ace, flowers are a sure-fire way of imparting some warm and fuzzy feelings. After all, there's nothing like a big, vibrant bunch of freshly-cut blooms to turn a frown upside down. We've rounded up some of Melbourne's finest floral artists — six studios creating swoon-worthy bouquets and show-stopping arrangements for all occasions. Next time you want to say it with flowers, check out this lineup of Melbourne floristry stars — from the sustainability-focused to the downright luxurious and every kind in-between. And most of them can deliver those blooms with just a few clicks of your mouse.
If you A) live east of the city, B) love a good glass of vino and C) have creative flair here's the news for you. On Saturday, October 29, Frida's Sip n' Paint is celebrating the opening of its brand-new Ringwood North studio. Starting with a red-carpet welcome, you'll meet your host, bust out the BYO drinks and nibbles and get settled in for a stand-out painting experience. Painting is a beautiful thing, but not all of us have the confidence to create art with no assistance. Classes can be dull. Some of us prefer to learn by doing — and maybe have a cheeky bevvy while doing so. Don't fret, because that's what Frida's is all about. A memorable experience that's all about fun art, not fine art. Your talented host will take the group through a featured artwork, brush by brush, with no painters left behind. After 2.5 hours well spent, you will be the creator of a bona fide masterpiece to take home. There is no experience required for the classes, and you are in the hands of skilled instructors, so you might even uncover a hidden talent. To get involved, you can either book tickets to the grand weekend opening or follow these steps to go in the running to win your way into an exclusive VIP night. Frida's Sip n' Paint Ringwood opens its doors on Saturday, October 29. You can book a seat in one of two opening sessions, running 2–4.30pm or 6.30–9.30pm. Tickets and more information can be found on the website.
Like the sound of a power reformer strength class? Always wanted to try hot pilates? Absolutely pumped to sweat, smile, and soak up all the good vibes? Upstate's annual Open House Weekend is back, and you're invited. With 290 free classes cranking across 12 studios in Melbourne and regional Victoria, this event – which takes place on Saturday, March 22 and Sunday, March 23 – offers two days of electrifying workouts, as well as awesome prizes and offers. To celebrate, Upstate is giving you an exclusive 50% discount on their 30-Day intro offer. Plus, there's a chance to win a 12-month membership – just share a photo or video during the weekend and tag @upstate_studios on Instagram. Whether it's yoga or heavy-hitting boxing that takes your fancy, Upstate's no-strings, no-catches classes are an excellent way to challenge yourself, have fun and meet new people. They'll take place across all Upstate locations, including Richmond, Fitzroy, South Yarra, South Melbourne, Balaclava, Ascot Vale, Geelong, Newtown, Torquay, Ocean Grove and Ballarat. Ready to go? Simply download the Upstate app and reserve your free classes. Saturday sessions run from 6am-4pm and Sunday session from 7am-7pm – but don't forget to check the schedule for exact times. Whatever your vibe, Upstate is ready for you.
For the next two months, visitors to MoMA PS1 in New York's Queens best start looking up. The gallery has just installed its latest installation, Lumen, which turns the venue's courtyard into a environmentally responsive, colour-changing wonderland. Designed by Jenny Sabin Studio, winning The Museum of Modern Art and MoMA PS1's annual Young Architects Program, and on display until September 4, Lumen consists of cellular canopies made from textiles that react to conditions around them: light and heat, namely. As the environment changes — aka the weather gets gloomy, or day turns to night — so do the hues emitted by its digitally knitted fibres. If you've ever wondered what the '90s Hypercolor fad would look like if it was strung across the sky, this dreamy interactive piece provides the answer. So, how does it work? Well, those fibres are solar-active and photo-luminescent. Almost a million metres of them have been turned into 250 hanging tubular structures, and paired with 100 robotically woven recycled spool stools, as well as a misting system that responds to visitors' proximity. The aim is to use insights and theories from biology, materials science, mathematics and engineering to create an adaptive piece of micro-climate-like architecture that behaves like an organism. As Sabin describes, "by night, Lumen is knitted light, bathing visitors in a responsive glow of photo-luminescence; by day, Lumen offers succor from the summer heat, immersing participants in delicious ground clouds of cooling mist." She continues: "Lumen is a feminine form that offers luminous interiorities, informal networks, social fabrics, and fibrous assemblages that are pliable, transformative, and playful." Via: Inhabitat. Images: Lumen by Jenny Sabin Studio for the Museum of Modern Art and MoMA PS1's Young Architects Program 2017. Courtesy MoMA PS1. Photo by Pablo Enriquez.
For more than half a century, the Australian Aboriginal flag has flown high with pride as a symbol of the nation's First Peoples — and you can now expect to start seeing it in more places. The Federal Government has just announced that the black, red and yellow design, which was created in 1970 by Luritja artist Harold Thomas, is now freely available for public use following a hugely significant copyright deal. Before the new arrangement, copyright for the flag resided with Thomas — and, when displayed on clothing, to an apparel company thanks to an exclusive license. The latter deal helped spark the Free the Flag movement, after reported infringement notices were issued over the design's use by other organisations including Clothing The Gap and various sporting codes. Over the past few years, you've probably seen Free The Flag shirts, posters and billboards raising awareness about the flag's copyright restrictions. "We've freed the Aboriginal flag for Australians," said Prime Minister Scott Morrison, announcing the news in a statement. "Throughout the negotiations, we have sought to protect the integrity of the Aboriginal Flag, in line with Harold Thomas' wishes. I thank everyone involved for reaching this outcome, putting the flag in public hands." The @ScottMorrisonMP Govt has secured the free use of the Aboriginal Flag. The Aboriginal Flag copyright has been transferred to the Commonwealth & all Australians can use the Flag digitally or in any other medium without having to ask for permission or pay a fee. pic.twitter.com/COpVC0DVKJ — Ken Wyatt (@KenWyattMP) January 24, 2022 Now managed in a similar manner to the Australian national flag, the Aboriginal flag is free to use moving forward, "but must be presented in a respectful and dignified way," the Prime Minister said. "All Australians can now put the Aboriginal Flag on apparel such as sports jerseys and shirts, it can be painted on sports grounds, included on websites, in paintings and other artworks, used digitally and in any other medium without having to ask for permission or pay a fee." Minister for Indigenous Australians Ken Wyatt confirmed that the new agreement resolves the copyright issues around the flag — and that "all Australians can freely display and use the flag to celebrate Indigenous culture". The Minister continued: "now that the Commonwealth holds the copyright, it belongs to everyone, and no one can take it away." [caption id="attachment_840573" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Oliver Lupton via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] Aboriginal flags and bunting will still be made by Carroll and Richardson Flagworld, the exclusive licensed commercial manufacturer; however, that arrangement doesn't restrict individuals from making their own flag for personal use. The copyright deal also includes an agreement that future royalties from Flagworld's flag sales will be but towards the work of NAIDOC, the provision of an annual $100,000 scholarship for Indigenous students by the Australian Government in Thomas' honour, and the creation of an online history and education portal for the flag by the National Indigenous Australians Agency. And, the Australian Government will also display an original painting by Thomas recognising the flag's 50th anniversary and the historic transfer of copyright in a yet-to-be revealed but prominent location. For more information about the Aboriginal flag and the transfer of its copyright, head to the Australian Government website. Top image: Peripitus via Wikimedia Commons.
In Stay of the Week, we explore some of the world's best and most unique accommodations — giving you a little inspiration for your text trip. In this instalment, we take you to Hanging Gardens of Bali where guests stay in luxury villas overlooking some of Indonesia's untamed jungle. WHAT'S SO SPECIAL? This Balinese resort sits far away from the crowds, up in the lush rainforest surrounded by local wildlife and charming rice terraces. Hanging Gardens of Bali has also won so many international accommodation awards thanks to the breathtaking views, super luxurious villas and gracious service. THE ROOMS This high-end resort is made up of 44 private villas, each perched high atop wooden pillars overlooking the valley below. Wake up and enjoy this view from your extra-large canopy bed before rolling out into your own private plunge pool — it's paradise on stilts. And each villa is full of character. The villas combine contemporary and Balinese décor with signature hand-crafted furniture, exotic fabrics, open-air dining areas and epic master bathrooms. We see no reason why you'd ever need to leave your villa. FOOD AND DRINK Keeping with the 'never leave your villa' life, these guys will make and deliver an enormous breakfast to your room, made to be eaten in your private pool. It's all served in a bespoke wooden boat that sits out in the water with you. A dining experience that, due to your location, is quite literally next-level. But, if you do want to get out of your villa for dining, they have stacks of other options available. Either head to the main pool area for cocktails and snacks or dine in their Three Elements Restaurant. The restaurant has won separate awards for their cuisine and dining experience so shouldn't be missed. And that's just the start. Hanging Gardens of Bali also offers a wide range of other dining experiences. Spread throughout the valley are a series of cosy private dining spaces. Have a gourmet picnic on their riverside Bale, be served a romantic dinner within an ancient temple and eat some traditional afternoon tea around the rice fields. [caption id="attachment_872752" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Niklas Weiss (Unsplash)[/caption] THE LOCAL AREA This luxury resort is located near Payangan, a small village north of Ubud. Zip around the winding roads of the area on a quad bike (or just get a taxi if you dare not undertake this feat) to explore the nearby temples, holistic centres, yoga studios, rice fields and stacks of local markets. Explore this area to see why Bali is still on the top of so many people's travel bucket list destinations. You can also visit Canggu and Uluwatu to find the best surf or temporarily leave the serenity and hit Kuta and Seminyak for those famous Bali party vibes. Choose your own Bali adventure — it's all pretty easy to do from this location. THE EXTRAS Now we've already mentioned all of the extra dining options available at Hanging Gardens of Bali, but these guys don't stop there. The team here has created an impressive smorgasbord of additional pampering activities. First off, there is the spa — yes, this has won a handful of awards too. It's truly luxurious treatments combine natural, local ingredients and ancient techniques, to create beauty therapies and treatments that soothe the mind, rejuvenate the body and energise that poor old soul of yours. Of course, these treatments also come with a view of the Balinese jungle so you'll feel surrounded by nature even when you're technically inside. We are also big fans of their guided morning walks. Take off on a journey through the local villages, led by their resort guide before reaching one of the local rice fields. Here, the guide will serve a few refreshing drinks while talking a little bit about rural life in this part of Indonesia. It's a really delightful way to start the day. Get 30% off your stay at The Hanging Gardens of Bali here (with daily breakfast, sunset yoga and a couple's massage included). You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
If you've got a penchant for the cheesier things in life, this week is set to deliver the feasting experience of your wildest dreams. Toorak's +39 Pizzeria is teaming up with the cheese masters at That's Amore to serve up an utterly indulgent, four-course degustation celebrating everyone's fave dairy-based food. Held at the Toorak restaurant this Thursday, March 4, the decadent Italian dinner will showcase a series of exclusive dishes crafted around That's Amore's locally made cheese varieties. For $60 a head, you'll find yourself eating the likes of handmade gnocchi starring the label's bitey Isolation Blue cheese; a baked wheel of the mould-ripened Stella Alpina served with black truffle paste and garlic focaccia; and a smoked buffalo mozzarella pizza with sundried tomato and shredded eggplant. There's even a chocolate and coffee mousse for dessert, made on that creamy signature buffalo ricotta. In between cheesy courses, you're in for some knowledge, too — one of That's Amore's expert cheesemakers will be there on the night to talk guests through the history and art of cheesemaking. [caption id="attachment_801683" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Smoked buffalo mozzarella pizza with shredded eggplant, basil and sun-dried tomato[/caption]
Over the past few years, Gelatissimo has whipped up a number of creative flavours, including frosé sorbet, ginger beer gelato, Weet-Bix and fairy bread varieties, hot cross bun gelato and even gelato for dogs. For its latest offering, the Australian dessert chain is taking inspiration from other sweet treats — in case you can't choose between tucking into a frosted cinnamon scroll or licking your way through a few scoops of ice cream. Yes, that very combination is now on the menu, all as part of Gelatissimo's deluxe range. Just launching this week, its frosted cinnamon scrolls flavour is made from cinnamon, vanilla and cream cheese gelato. It's then filled with chunks of soft cinnamon scrolls and topped with cream cheese icing, with the scrolls and icing made by Sonoma Baking Company. Gelatissimo has also added a fudgy choc chunks and raspberries flavour as well, which is exactly what it sounds like. You'll bite into chocolate and raspberry gelato, then find whole chocolate fudge chunks made by Yarra Valley's Fudge by Rich inside. It also comes with a thick chocolate sauce made from cocoa butter, as well as a raspberry sauce. The two newcomers join a lineup that already includes double choc brownie, cookie dough, choc-dipped strawberries and New York cheesecake, should your dessert-loving tastebuds need a few more mashup options. Gelatissimo's deluxe range focuses on chunky gelato made with locally sourced ingredients — and while the two new flavours are now available nationwide, they're only on offer for a limited time, although the chain hasn't specified an exact period. Gelatissimo's frosted cinnamon scrolls and fudgy choc chunks and raspberries gelato flavours are available from all stores nationwide for a limited time.
Melbourne's just about got it all when it comes to bars, but that hasn't stopped them opening in droves this year. 2017's newbies have been diverse so far; as well as some top-notch Euro-leaning wine bars, we've had an inner-city microbrewery open alongside an all-out bar dedicated to mini golf with 21 themed holes. Yeah, there's just some things you can't recreate at home. With so many openings hitting the city in a six-month period, we whittled it down to our favourite newcomers raising the bar for Melbourne's drinking scene. Well, our favourites so far — there's still another six months to go. Image: Brook James.
Melbourne's eclectic calendar of activities might bubble all year round, but it takes on a new level of excitement once the summertime heat arrives. Of course, there's no shortage of peaceful destinations to soak up the warmth or simmer down in the shade, whether in the pool or by the beach. Yet things get even more interesting when you add live sport, stage shows, food festivals and fashion exhibitions to your weekend agenda. When you're keen to make the most of the long, hot and sunny days, there are few better places than Melbourne. While the city is renowned for its cultural happenings, it's also a world-leading hub for sports lovers, meaning you don't have to choose one or the other this summer. Instead, check out these enlightening events, then head to the KFC Big Bash League with your best pals to finish your day with some fireworks.
When it comes to exploring Broome (Rubibi) and the Kimberley, we recommend packing your sense of adventure. This vast, varied stretch of country holds some of the most breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences in the world. There's ocean wilderness and colourful coral wonderlands, Aboriginal cultural sites and places of ancient, enduring story and significance. You'll see otherworldly rock forms, lush greenery and sprawling lakes, optical lunar illusions and sideways — yes, sideways — waterfalls. There's nowhere like it, and there are so many ways you can explore. Whatever way you want to adventure, we've got a standout spread of activities here to choose from — and a few ready-to-go trips if you're already packed and ready. It's time to choose your own quest out west.
It's a whole year since Moon Dog opened Wild West in Footscray – and, to celebrate, the venue's throwing a massive shindig: its Rootin' Tootin' First Birthday Party, to be precise. Get down there on Saturday, April 26, from 11.30am, for free drinks, live music and scrumptious food specials. To claim your cowboy shot gratis, you'll need to make your way to the bar on the hour and say "yee-haw". A total of 365 shots will be given away – one for each day that Moon Dog Wild West has been open. Hang around till 3pm for DJs who'll take over the rooftop, before vacating the stage for Elly McK & The Unbelievers. They'll be banging out a bunch of country-influenced covers and originals until 9.30pm, before the DJs return until 1am. Meanwhile, $1 chicken ribs and $30 buckets of beer or fizzes will be making the rounds. You're strongly encouraged to wear your cowboy or cowgirl hat with accompanying boots – and, of course, bring your finest line dancing moves. Entry is free but bookings are recommended over here.
