They're the TV equivalent of page-turners: the shows that have you hanging on every twist and revelation, and that you just want to keep watching when each episode comes to an end. You know the type. They're filled with mystery and intrigue, as well as wild plot developments that constantly keep you guessing. And they're exactly the thing to watch when you've had a long and busy day and just feel like immersing yourself in someone else's ups and downs. Perhaps you want to jump into a moody supernatural thriller. Maybe an involving crime drama is more your style — or you could prefer the ins and outs of a marriage rocked by scandal, the trials and tribulations of a hitman who really just wants to be an actor, or to see what happens when a flight attendant comes under suspicion for murder. They're all on offer on Binge, and we've teamed up with the streaming service to explain why you'll want to add them all to your must-watch list — including via a 14-day free trial for new customers.
You might associate Newcastle with surf, sand and summer, but the coastal location also makes this a perfect winter short break. There's no more invigorating way to start a frosty morning than with a brisk beachside walk. What's more, winter equals whale-watching season, and for spotting humpbacks, Newie's towering headlands are spectacular. When you're ready to head back indoors, you'll find the city packed with excellent chefs, baristas, artists, designers and makers. Many of them have escaped the big smoke to set up digs here, where they get to be beside the sea without paying torturously high rents. With that in mind, set up home base at one of the AccorHotels in the city and follow our guide to a warming, delicious winter weekender, just a two hours' drive north of Sydney. EAT AND DRINK Good cafes aren't hard to find in Newcastle; it's choosing one that's the tough bit. For a cheery beginning, settle among the bright tiles, artworks and plants of Ground Up Espresso in Carrington, a waterfront suburb on Newcastle Harbour's north shore. The most decadent, comforting brekkie on the menu has to be the crepes with smoked salmon and creme fraiche. Afterwards, cross the water to Maryville to warm your mitts on bakery treats at Uprising. Alternatively, if you want to stick to the CBD, then One Penny Black serves a bunch of single origins and blends, as well as winter-inspired dishes including coconut and cinnamon porridge. For tea drinkers, The Tea Collective in inner-city Cooks Hill is something of a mecca. Here, leaf obsessive Becci Fowler serves premium-quality, perfectly brewed cuppas. On a frosty morning, the gingerbread chai is hard to beat. Downstairs are The Autumn Rooms, a sun- and greenery-splashed space, offering buttermilk waffles with chai-infused mascarpone, pistachio crust, mixed berries and dark chocolate ganache, among other delights. At a nearby bowling club is Bistro Lowlands, home to some of Newie's tastiest burgers, including the Firebird 2.0 (buttermilk fried chicken, double cheese, sriracha slaw and jalapeno mustard). If it's Italian you're hankering for, head to the CBD's Napoli Centrale, where Naples-trained chef Alfonso Muras whips up traditional pizzas and a mean black truffle gnocchi with gorgonzola sauce. Mediterranean eatery Rustica offers both stunning views overlooking Newcastle Beach and a hearty share-style menu. Start with tapas and small plates, think Turkish-style carrot labne, before graduating to roast pork belly and Moroccan vegetable tagine. Meanwhile, for indulgent dining, book a table at hatted restaurant Subo. You'll be treating yourself to a set five-course menu, designed especially for winter. Dishes include carpaccio of Hervey Bay scallops with jamon, nori and XO sauce, as well as Cape Grim short rib cooked overnight in Guinness and red wine with bagna cauda (an Italian dipping sauce), turnip and fried herbs. Pre- and/or post-dinner drinks? There's The Grain Store for an epic craft beer collection, Reserve for hundreds (really, hundreds) of wines and The Koutetsu for cocktails among antique lampshades, dark timber and secretive nooks. DO Winter might not be the most appealing time for a swim at Newcastle's pretty, blissfully uncrowded beaches, but it's a whale watcher's dream. Get an eyeful on foot at either Nobbys Headland or Shepherds Hill Lookout, or take to the sea aboard the trusty vessel Coast XP. Another way to embrace the salty air is with a hike. The Bathers Way coastal walk stretches from Nobbys to Merewether Beach, with views of Newcastle from every which angle and a chance to learn about the city's history at Fort Scratchley, where guns were fired in 1942 during shelling by a Japanese submarine. Another key point along the walk is the Anzac Memorial Bridge, an icon of Newcastle that offers a 450-metre clifftop walkway. Not enough outdoorsiness for you? Hit the dunes of Stockton Beach on a quad bike (hire from Sand Dune Adventures, Quad Bike King or Port Stephens 4WD), take to the skies at TreeTops adventure park, or get some wind in your hair on one of Newie's many cycle paths. The 15-kilometre Fernleigh Track takes in peaceful bushland and wetlands. Meanwhile, you can get your art dose at the Olive Tree Art and Design Market, where local creatives gather on the first Saturday of every month, or anytime among the indie shops and galleries of the Darby Street Precinct in Newcastle's urban heart. Also worth checking out is the Newcastle Art Gallery — which hosts talks, tours and concerts throughout winter — and the Newcastle Jazz Festival that comes to town in August. SLEEP If there's one element that's vital to a winter weekender, it's a warm, tranquil hideaway for the evenings. If you're keen to snuggle up with the beach at your doorstep, book at the Novotel Newcastle Beach. Rooms — which range from Standard to Superior Balcony — come with king-sized beds, bucketloads of winter sunshine, loads of space and uplifting splashes of orange and blue. There's also a spa, sauna, gym, on-site restaurant and 24-hour room service. For a real indulgence, head to the on-site restaurant, Bistro Dalby, for high tea. Mini pressed Cuban sandwiches and prawn brioche sliders feature among the savouries, with salted raw caramel slice and chocolate eclairs in the sweet selection. A more affordable, yet still cosy, hotel option is the Ibis Newcastle, located near the city's Honeysuckle Precinct, a harbour-front area where former shipping wharves have been transformed into eateries and apartments. Some rooms offer water views, while all give you a super-comfy bed, flat-screen TV, free wifi and 24-hour room service. Alternatively, if you're on a brief visit, then the Mercure Newcastle Airport could be the way to go. It lets you easily explore nearby areas, such as Port Stephens, and all rooms have a sleek, minimalist design and photos of iconic landmarks taken by local Owen Signs. Go to the AccorHotels website to book your stay in Newcastle, and to discover more of regional NSW, swing by Visit NSW.
Every now and then the opportunity comes your way that you just simply can't say no to. You find yourself coming up with all the excuses in the world into why you shouldn't take it, only to get slapped across the face and kicked in the shins by your mates asking how stupid you actually are. All the facts and figures point towards the only option. Pick up your nuts and go for it. The opportunity? I've been nominated as one of five international bloggers undertaking one of the latest regional tourism engagement campaigns, this time from Destination NSW. The campaign is called The Unmapped Roadtrip. The locals are asked to recommend where we should be going in NSW, who we should see and what we should do throughout the entire month of March. Someone has recommended already that we dive with sharks. Sceptic Kiwi right there. Anyway, I'll be on a bus, with 4 other strangers who will no doubt become good friends, travelling around the great state. This is all I know at this point. I leave on Thursday 1 March at 6am for Sydney and I believe we're heading along to the infamous Mardi Gras for our first weekend, with none other than Kylie Minogue headling. Stop it! I should be so lucky alright. https://youtube.com/watch?v=haoCgGzS0wY To be clear, I'm not really a sceptic Kiwi, but in light of the recent Air New Zealand campaign, I thought I would take this approach in order to lay down the challenge to all New South Welsh Men and Women, and say "come on, show us what you got". I arrive back on Sunday 1 April, where I will ultimately arrive at my conclusion of the Ten Best Things to do in New South Wales. In the meantime, you can follow me on our Twitter page (@PLAYGROUNDNZ) and for those that are that way inclined, I'll also be regularly posting via the Concrete Playground Instagram account. I promise to be entertaining and represent New Zealand responsibly. Is that possible? I guess you will have to find out.
An ode to everyone's favourite two-handed feed, East Brunswick Sandwich Parlour is the inner north's new go-to for delicious things stuffed between bread. Or more specifically, for hefty ciabattas featuring a diverse range of creative fillings. The venture comes from the same minds behind Green Acre Pizza Bar and boasts a similar commitment to sustainability. That's evident in its largely homespun fitout of recycled materials, as well as the menu's thoughtful ingredient list. Here, carnivores and plant-based diners are catered to in equal measure — you'll find the likes of a vegan beetroot reuben with Russian dressing ($13) celebrated with as much fanfare as the signature Cubano starring 12-hour orange-braised free-range pork ($16). There's also a spicy school prawn and avocado number ($16), a vegan salami sanga with plant-based fior di latte ($13), and even a breakfast option teaming cheesy omelette with chilli jam ($12). Gluten-free alternatives are available for most of the sandwiches and you can whack a side of chips onto any order for an easy $4. To match the eats, you'll find ethical blends and single origins from These Days Coffee Roasting — another project from co-owner Phil Gijsbers — along with a nostalgic lineup of cold drinks that includes classic cans of Pasito. Images: Jake Roden Appears in: Where to Find the Best Sandwiches in Melbourne for 2023
For many years, The Gertrude Hotel was hard to miss with its two-storey Bowie-style lightning bolt painted on the exterior of the building and its bold colour palette — big bursts of fluoro pink and green contrasted with a lot of black and iridescent artwork. The 'more is more' design aesthetic was fully embraced by this Fitzroy boozer. Now, The Gertrude is under new ownership and sports an entirely different look and feel. A cool cream and navy colour scheme now permeates the building, paired with plenty of natural finishes. It's gone from high-voltage to stylishly understated and more refined across all elements. At the front bar, either jump on one of the leather stools at the curving marble-topped bar or pull up by the windows to watch the Gertrude Street crowds. Grab some Italian and Aussie vinos (there's a focus on smaller producers and natural and low-intervention wines), or get through some of the Euro-centric cocktails that change seasonally. You can eat at the bar or head into either the small dining room out the back or upstairs to the private dining rooms and outdoor terrace. Andy Lockyear (ex-Rockpool), is running the kitchen at The Gertrude Hotel, conceiving classic, beautifully executed gastropub fare alongside a selection of Italian bites and very good pizzas. A tight selection of antipasti work well for the drink and snack crowd — including fresh and baked oysters, fried calamari and an heirloom tomato and stracciatella salad, as well as larger plates for those wanting to further flex their appetites. Try one of the five pizzas (that can be made gluten-free), go heavier on one of the pasta dishes, or just embrace the pub energy and grab a classic chicken or eggplant parma with a schooner of your favourite lager. Come Mondays, you can get a kilo of mussels for a very modest $20. Tuesday nights are for discounted pizzas. The Gertrude Hotel also runs a wine and pasta deal every Wednesday for $29. These weekly specials are always loved by local Melbourne pub stans, and they're pretty much essential for any successful local gastropub these days. The spot has only been open since December 2023, but it is already buzzing, with tables filling up on weekends. If you want to get a table for lunch or dinner, you best book ahead. Images: Niki Schuch
The Grand Dame of Swanston Street, the State Library Victoria, is officially bursting into its next era of life, with the first stages of its hefty redevelopment today unveiled to the public. At the halfway point of the building's $88.1 million revamp, visitors will now find two new reading rooms, a dedicated events space complete with huge production kitchen and space for 220, and a new lounge off Russell Street. There's a new Readings bookstore that eclipses the original library outpost, as well as brand new cafe Guild, helmed by the team at Almond Milk Co. This little gem will be serving seasonal salads and sandwiches, Sensory Lab espresso and 'coffee day passes' that'll get you a whole day's supply of filter coffee when you madly need to meet a deadline. Part of the new shared space also boasts a 29-metre-long original work by Melbourne artist Tai Snaith, which is bound to provide some sure-fire inspiration for the various working happening within. A new entrance to the building has been opened on La Trobe Street, while the historic Russell Street entrance, closed for more than a decade, has made its triumphant return complete with a lounge and welcome area. The famed site, which was also home to the Melbourne Museum from 1906–1997 and the NGV from 1999–2002, has been in operation for 162 years. Heading up the transformation are Australasian firm Architectus and Scandinavia's Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects. The library's Swanston Street entrance and ground floor are currently closed to the public while they're given their own makeover, and are expected to reopen by spring 2019. Images: Patrick Rodriguez.
It's a well-known fact that cleanse diets were invented as a form of modern, self-imposed torture. The human body is built to eat burgers (that's why we have two hands) and it's surely no coincidence the human mouth is just big enough to cram an entire doughnut inside. But, alas, from time to time we all need to give our bods a break and flush out the grease from our arteries. Sure, you can limit yourself to homemade meals only, but you don't want to then find yourself one day standing outside your favourite burger joint, breathing deeply every time a waft of burg floats out the door and wailing in agony like a hungry banshee. It can be tricky to eat out and be healthy at the same time, but, thankfully, Melbourne has a smorgasbord of food options. Instead of signing up to a cleanse, we've teamed up with American Express to give you the best places to eat out when you're trying to be healthy, but also can't bring yourself to suffer through another homemade kale salad with quinoa blobs and sadness dressing. At these joints, the healthiest thing on the menu isn't the blandest, and you can use your Amex to buy some grub that's surprisingly healthy. And, what's more, actually delicious. Got yourself in another dining situation and need some guidance? Whatever it is, we know a place. Visit The Shortlist and we'll sort you out.
Rooftop bars are an integral part of Melbourne's nightlife culture. And we are fully supportive of that — sipping on some cold ones under the stars is a glorious way to spend an evening. Whether you're keen for a boogie or just want to hang out with some mates, rooftops bars are a must. The winter weather may be blowing strong, but with ample outdoor heating, no one can stop Melburnians from enjoying a night in the fresh open air. So, it's time to raise the roof and enjoy a drink from great heights. With help from our friends at Heineken, we've come up with a list of our favourite sky-high Melbourne establishments perfect for catching stars and savouring a beer.
The first WorldPride to ever be held in the southern hemisphere is upon us, boasting more than 300 shows, gigs, exhibitions and parties, and taking over Sydney across 17 days from Friday, February 17–Sunday, March 5. On the program: everything from art exhibitions and film festivals to dance parties and big-name international headliners, in one helluva jam-packed festival. We've pulled together a list of ten events popping up throughout the festival that feature once-in-a-lifetime lineups or celebrate LGBTQIA+ pride in their own unique way. From the long-awaited return of the annual Mardi Gras parade to its spiritual home through to multi-day party programs, these are the cream of the crop that will have you considering last-minute flights to Sydney. Explore our picks for the best WorldPride events this massive program has to offer. LIVE AND PROUD: SYDNEY WORLDPRIDE OPENING CONCERT Who else to open the Southern Hemisphere's first WorldPride than Australia's pop princess Kylie Minogue? Sydney shall be so lucky, with the iconic hitmaker taking to The Domain for a blockbuster concert kicking off the festivities on Friday, February 24. But, it doesn't end with Kylie. Live and Proud will also feature appearances from Charli XCX and Jessica Mauboy, with local legends Casey Donovan and Courtney Act on hosting duties. If you can't be there in person, the performance will be broadcast live nationwide on the ABC as well. [caption id="attachment_749877" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jeffrey Feng[/caption] MARDI GRAS PARADE One of Sydney's biggest nights of the year is returning in a massive way in 2023. Not only is this Mardi Gras parade the event's 45th anniversary, as well as its return to Oxford Street, but it's also part of WorldPride. It's all happening on the streets of Darlinghurst on Saturday, February 25. The theme: gather, dream, amplify. All of the colourful floats and community groups the parade is known for will begin to march from 6pm, with the parade continuing until 11pm. Expect more than 12,500 marchers and 200 floats throughout the five-hour celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community. DOMAIN DANCE PARTY Two days after Kylie takes to The Domain, another megastar will arrive, with Kelly Rowland headlining DJ Dan Slater's Domain Dance Party. DJ Suri and DJ Isis Muretech will also be on the decks, but the big star is clearly the former Destiny's Child member, who'll work through tracks from across her career. Fancy getting sweaty on the dance floor with 10,000 people? That's what's on offer on Sunday, February 26, with Rowland, the DJ lineup, onstage dancers and surprise acts all providing good times. MARDI GRAS FAIR DAY Fair Day is traditionally one of the first events of Mardi Gras each year, but in 2023 it's going one better: happening on Sunday, February 19, it's also the first major event of WorldPride. Get ready for a family-friendly, pup-friendly, eco-glitter-friendly day in Camperdown's Victoria Park that's inclusive, relaxed and free. This year's Fair Day will feature a fancy dress competition for dogs, over 300 market stalls, pop-up bars, a main stage with leading queer performers in Australian music, plus the chance to shine brightly with your nearest and dearest chosen family. Highlights from the performance lineup include Eurovision champion Conchita Wurst, a Sissy Ball vogue showcase, The Buoys, Nana Miss Koori, Carla Wehbe, Jamaica Moana and Latifa Tee — plus pop-up bars from the likes of Archie Rose and Squealing Pig. RAINBOW REPUBLIC: SYDNEY WORLDPRIDE CLOSING CONCERT While we'd love the celebrations to continue year-round, nothing lasts forever, and WorldPride will be coming to an end on Sunday, March 5 — but not before one last pop-filled party. Wrapping things up will be Rainbow Republic, another hit parade in The Domain featuring German pop star Kim Petras. Joining the 'Unholy' and 'Coconuts' hitmaker is MUNA, G Flip, Peach PRC, Alter Boy, BVT and Vetta Borne. Keiynan Lonsdale (Love, Simon, The Flash, Eden) will also be performing and taking to the stage between acts on hosting duties. MARDI GRAS FILM FESTIVAL The annual Mardi Gras Film Festival returns with a bumper edition celebrating both WorldPride and its own 30th anniversary. Fans of queer cinema, rejoice: this annual Sydney film fest is screening 166 films at eight venues around the city, running from Wednesday, February 15–Thursday, March 2. MGFF highlights include All the Beauty and the Bloodshed, 2022's Venice Film Festival Golden Lion-winning documentary about queer artist Nan Goldin, her life and career, and her battle against the billionaire Sackler family — plus closing night's The Venus Effect, with the Danish movie about two young women in love enjoying its Aussie premiere. The full fest program includes 100-plus sessions in cinema, outdoors and on-demand, alongside panel discussions, workshops, networking events and parties. Plus, there's an online component showing 21 movies nationwide. [caption id="attachment_887917" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Alex Davies[/caption] DAY FOR NIGHT: THE PLEASURE ARC Festivalgoers should prepare their endurance for The Pleasure Arc, a 24-hour party packed with incredible talent set to immerse attendees in an extravagant queer utopia. Enjoy some of Australasia's best queer artists including House of Sle, House of Silky, Marcus Whale, Basjia Almaan and imbi during the opening weekend of the festival across Saturday, February 18–Sunday, February 19 at Carriageworks. In charge of keeping the tunes rolling during the overnight extravaganza will also be the Your Pleasure DJs, meaning there won't be a dull moment across the non-stop party. [caption id="attachment_887907" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Daniel Boud[/caption] MARRI MADUNG BUTBUT Also at Carriageworks is Marri Madung Butbut (Many Brave Hearts): Sydney WorldPride First Nations Gathering Space. This six-day program from Thursday, February 23–Tuesday, February 28 celebrates Indigenous LGBTQIA+ artists and communities. Kicking off the festivities is a free-to-attend opening night party, the Djarraba Disco, featuring some of Eora and Naarm's best performance artists lighting up the dance floor. From there, you can head along to 11 different free events and several ticketed pop-ups ranging from variety shows to heartfelt plays. "Marri Madung Butbut is a place where everyone is welcome to experience the rainbow heart of the oldest surviving culture on the planet," explains Festival Creative Director Ben Graetz. ALL THE SEX I'VE EVER HAD We've all heard of the saying "the older you are, the wiser you are" — and in this case it stands true. It is common knowledge that we can glean so much from our elders with their breadth of experience. So when it comes time to learn about experiences pertaining to love, romance and sex, who better to ask than the ones with the most expertise? Strap in — or on — for a wild ride, as All The Sex I've Ever Had returns to Sydney completely revamped for WorldPride. The Darlinghurst Production Company has teamed up with Canada's Mammalian Diving to bring an LGBTQIA+ edition of the hugely successful, 90-minute tell-all production back to Sydney. From Tuesday, February 21–Friday, February 24, plus a 5pm show on Sunday, February 26, you can draw upon the wisdom of queer local senior citizens at the Eternity Playhouse Theatre. You'll also experience the climaxes of truly raw storytelling as these generous elders recount some of the highest highs and lowest lows when it comes to dating, relationships and sexuality. THE ABERCROMBIE WORLDPRIDE PROGRAM Following years of lockouts and lockdowns, the dance floor has finally made an emphatic comeback in Sydney. Part of this return is the reopening of storied nightclub The Abercrombie, which is making full use of its 24-hour license and multiple dance floors for WorldPride by rolling out a stacked program of parties. Curated by DJ Kate Monroe and party-starter Xander Khoury, the program runs from Friday, February 17–Sunday, March 5, and enlists the help of party crews like Heaps Gay, Kerfew, Fur Ball and the Queer House Collective to bring together three weeks of packed dance floors, thumping bass and joyous energy. From full-venue takeovers and post-parade kick-ons raging until 8am to rooftop recovery brunches, this lineup has packed in as much dance music and good times to WorldPride as possible. The entire program features plenty of free events as well as a few ticketed nights — and all events are free for drag performers and First Nations attendees. Sydney WorldPride runs from Friday, February 17–Sunday, March 5 — for information, or for tickets, head to the event's website.
Put that bottle of fake tan down. Yes, summer may be fading, but the boutique hotel hunters at Mr & Mrs Smith can give you a last-minute dose of Vitamin D. Complete with stretches of beyond-blonde beach, #unfiltered views and too-turquoise water, these ten boutique bolt-holes will have you topping up your tan faster than the autumn leaves darken. Constance Moofushi, Maldives What: Sea world Where: South Ari Atoll, Ari Atoll Don’t be surprised if a sojourn at luxury escape Constance Moofushi has you tearing up your passport the moment you spy the private-island locale, sprawling beach and lagoon-toting villas. (You can tear up your wallet, too, thanks to the generous all-inclusive rates, which even include free cigarettes from the humidor.) Snag a sunbed by the knee-weakeningly seductive pool — curved to mirror the shape of the beach — for uninterrupted Indian Ocean views. If splashing around brings on the munchies, make the most of the afternoon tea and pancakes, served poolside every afternoon. Adrenaline junkies can get their fix with a spot of windsurfing, kayaking, pedal boating and snorkelling; for a different kind of liquid thrill, head to Totem or Manta Bar, where a DJ will have you cutting shapes until the early hours (the potent cocktails should help, too). Anantara Seminyak, Bali What: Balearic style in Bali Where: Jl. Abimanyu (Dhyana Pura), Seminyak, Bali From its perch overlooking one of Bali’s most popular beaches, Anantara Seminyak boasts some serious style: suites are kitted out with marble, dark wood and just-so Balinese accents; some have access to a private or semi-private pool. Following an afternoon of peaceful paddling in the infinity-edge swimming pool, it’s only a few barefoot steps to poolside eatery Wild Orchard. Wednesdays see the restaurant dishing up an Indonesian buffet dinner with traditional dance performances. On Saturdays, Wild Orchard plays host to a seafood barbecue. For drinks with a view, head up to the fourth-floor rooftop and SOS Supper Club to laze on oversized day-beds and listen to tune-pumping DJs. Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia What: Castaway luxury Where: Koh Ouen, Koh Rong Islands Spread over a pair of pristine tropical isles, Song Saa Private Island is a green-minded resort that doesn’t skimp on glamour. All of the villas have breathtaking ocean views, private pools and an effortlessly elegant blend of thatched roofs, rustic timber beams, polished marble walls, Moroccan lanterns and carved tribal statues. If you’ve forgotten to pack sarongs and kaftans, the island’s two exclusive boutiques are stocked with designer labels. The resort offers snorkelling trips around Song Saa, island and marine safaris, nature treasure hunts and sunrise yoga classes; couples seeking a romantic canoodle can have a night in with in-villa movies and private poolside dining. Hotel El Ganzo, Mexico What: Hipster yacht party Where: Blvd. Tiburón s/n – La Playita, San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur Doubling as an arts and culture centre, design den Hotel El Ganzo is the first of its kind in Los Cabos. It lures the hip and beautiful faster than a pair of new-season Ray Bans, abd it’s not hard to see why: charms include a private beach club with one of the area’s few swimmable beaches, a rooftop pool, sushi bar and a recording studio for would-be chart-toppers. When being hip-achingly cool takes its toll, choose from the treatment list at Spa El Ganzo — from traditional Swedish massage to agave-scrub — or take a turn in the sauna, steam room, salon and marina-view gym. By day, Ganzo Downstairs restaurant serves fresh, locally sourced dishes — ceviche, lion’s paw scallops, chilaquiles, and so on. As the sun sets, locals flock to this buzzy hotspot for the free-flowing tequila, churros and soft tunes. Qualia, Great Barrier Reef What: High-end luxury Where Hamilton Island, The Whitsundays, Queensland & Great Barrier Reef Sitting smack-bang in the Great Barrier Reef, Qualia has dazzling views from every angle. Villas are dotted amid the 30 acres of immaculately manicured gardens and each has postcard-perfect views of the Whitsundays or tropical bushland, and their own two-seater buggie. The Long Pavilion, helmed by chef Alastair Waddell, serves modern Australian cuisine — milk-fed veal, pork and marron tail, coral trout, white gazpacho — on candlelit tables, backdropped by neighbouring islands and spectacular sunsets. Enjoy a tropical fruit-inspired sundowner in the sunken lounge or in a raised area overlooking Qualia’s lap pool. Monastero Santa Rosa, Amalfi Coast What: Ancient monastery, reborn for sybarites Where: 2 Via Roma, Conca dei Marini, Campania, Italy Clinging to a cliff overlooking the azure-blue ocean, Monastero Santa Rosa is postcard perfection. Once a monastery, the hotel pays homage to its heritage by naming each of the former nuns’ quarters after herbs grown in the private gardens. Rooms are decorated with furniture and one-of-a-kind antiques (handpicked by the owner); some have terraces swathed in bougainvillea. Days are spent ambling in the tiered gardens and filling in tan lines by the heated infinity pool. Plucked from Alain Ducasse’s thrice Michelin-starred restaurant in Paris, chef Christoph Bob dishes up the spectacular using organic ingredients grown onsite. The hotel’s spa is a destination in its own right, boasting a Finnish sauna, steam room, ice fountain and hydro pool. The Nam Hai, Vietnam What: Seaside design shrine Where: Hamlet 1, Dien Duong Village, Dien Ban District, Hoi An, Quang Nam Province Traditional Vietnamese chic meets cutting-edge design at The Nam Hai. Rooms are decorated with romantic net-canopied platform beds, freestanding eggshell-lacquered baths, private gardens and outdoor rain showers. Water-babies can work their way between the three pools, beginning with the temperature-controlled upper pool with artsy ceramic urns, onto the long lap pool and finishing at the infinity pool that melts into the ocean horizon. The Beach Restaurant is perfect for a lazy, poolside lunch. The restaurant has views over the East Sea, high ceilings and a menu that champions contemporary fusion and authentic Indian fare. Trisara, Phuket, Thailand What: Understated glamour Where: 60/1 Moo 6, Srisoonthorn Road, Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket, Thailand Overlooking a private bay in Phuket’s less developed north-west coast, each suite or villa at Trisara has jaw-dropping ocean vistas, its own pool and sexy outdoor showers. With your underwater-friendly camera in tow, mingle with technicolour fish in the bay. Back on dry land, there are muay Thai classes, tennis courts, a library and gym. For slower-paced pursuits, the hillside-set Trisara Spa has double treatment rooms and indulgent offerings including body wraps, facials and scrubs. If two nimble-knuckled hands just won’t do, opt for the Royal Trisara, a six-hand massage by three therapists. When hunger strikes, grab a table on the palm-shaded deck for ultra-fresh Thai and international cuisine. Beachfront eatery Trisara Seafood features the freshest fruits de mer, plucked from local waters. Maia Luxury Resort & Spa, Seychelles What: Wholly holistic happy hideaway Where: Anse Louis, Mahé Have knots in your shoulders? An aching back? Treat them to a restorative retreat at Maia Luxury Resort & Spa. We challenge even the most furrowed of brows not to unfurl after spying the turquoise waters gently lapping at sugar-sand beaches, tall palms waving in the breeze and thatched roofs dotted amid lush gardens. Forget about lifting a finger; each villa has its own private butler who can fill your days with snorkelling and cookery lessons, make dinner reservations, unpack luggage and even run a bath. Coaxing guests out of their villas is Maia’s spa. Hidden down dainty lanes flanked by bread fruit trees and hibiscus blooms, this shrine to pampering has a built-in soundtrack of birdsong and trickling water. Alila Villas Soori, Bali What: Sleek sea-kissed sanctuary Where: Banjar Dukuh, Desa Kelating, Kerambitan, Tabanan, Bali Pairing its spectacular scenery — untouched beaches and lush rice paddies — with effortless architecture makes Alila Villas Soori a visual delight. From the minimalist pads (complete with personal butler) to the communal areas, the hotel is sleek and effortlessly elegant, with neutral hues and dark accents. At the resort’s heart, the 25m infinity pool has four submerged day-beds at the shallow end to allow for slinky water access. Days begin with a tasting-style breakfast at open-air Coast. Lunch and dinner sees the talented chefs rustle up authentic Indonesian dishes. For something more swish, Ombak is a posh-nosh eatery perfect for romance. Find more boutique bolt-holes at Mr & Mrs Smith and search all the hotel collections. Smith members enjoy exclusive extras on all stays.
Whether you've had a stressful start to 2021 or you're enjoying leaving the mess of 2020 behind, it's always a good time to take the day off, forget about the daily grand for a hot minute and immerse yourself in nature. This hike and hot spring tour will provide you with just that. Hike and Seek is running tours out of Melbourne to the idyllic hills of the Mornington Peninsula, where you'll enjoy an eight-kilometre hike from Bushrangers Bay while spotting wildlife, venturing through rich forestry and discovering picturesque coastal lookouts. From there, you'll head to Cape Schanck to have lunch at Merchant & Maker before continuing onto the award-winning Peninsula Hot Springs for a dip and a dose of relaxation. The day trip leaves from Melbourne, stopping at the summer of Arthurs Seat on the way for an extra does of natural beauty. Running every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, the experience costs $179 and includes travel to and from Melbourne, your tour guide, entry to the hot springs, a towel, snacks and coffee. Book online to secure a spot and embrace the natural beauty that lies just outside of Melbourne. 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.
Cheese is a wonderful thing. It can be decadent, it can be everyday, it can be simple, and it can be complex. It also goes perfectly with wine — our other favourite thing. Can you tell we really love cheese? Well, we all like cheese in some way or another, so we've found the 10 best places to get your cheese fix in our lovely city. Happy cheese dreams. Milk The Cow You know when it's 12am and you're craving cheese? We know it's not just us. Well, anyway, the team at Milk the Cow are there for you when you do. Milk the Cow in St Kilda is a licensed fromagerie. Yep, that means wine and cheese. They've got around 120 artisan cheeses on rotation for you to choose from. They also do flights of cheese matched to wine, beer, cider, sake, whiskey and dessert wine. They weren't kidding with the licensed part. They are of course on hand to teach you the ways of perfect combinations and take you through what you might like to try. 157 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda, (03) 9537 2225, milkthecow.com.au Harper & Blohm Wine and cheese is a special paring, as we've already gushed about above. These guys know that all too well, placing themselves up close and personal with Essendon Prince Wine Store. Their resident cheese expert, Olivia Sutton, has collected a varied range of Australian and international cheeses. Think Bruny Island's raw milk cheeses, Holy Goat, Red Hill Blue, Fleur de Maquis, Epois, Prom Country white mould, and L'Artisan's washed-rind Mountain Man. Tivoli Road Bakery is being served up. on the side We think that's just a lovely accompaniment to cheese. Don't you? 80 Primrose Street, Essendon, (03) 9370 6428, harperandblohm.com Il Fornaio Another St Kilda haunt, Il Fornaio is primarily known for its cheese makers Sabrina and Katia Capodoccio, from Fossanova in Italy, who made the venue famous. During their time at Il Fornaio, they created a stunning cheese menu using biodynamic water buffalo milk from Milaa Milaa in Queensland, and cow's milk from Inglenook, Victoria. Guests can taste favourites, like the fior di latte, taleggio, buffalo mozzarella, stracchino, primo sale and scamorza, or try even less common varieties like caciottina ubriaca (wine-soaked caciottina) and ricotta con marmellata (ricotta with berry marmalade). The head chef has also created an all day menu that serves up something for any time of the day. This cheese haven opens at 7am and is open all day. Il Fornaio, 2C Acland Street, St Kilda, (03) 9534 2922, ilfornaio.com.au Spring Street Grocer Spring Street Grocer is kind of a jack-of-all-trades. They are of course known for their cheese, but they are also known for their gelato, cold pressed juices, take away sandwiches and their foodstore. A one-stop shop for Italian inspired indulgences, you could say. They also have Australia's first underground cheese maturation cellars kept under close watch by Anthony Femia. They serve up a cheese inspired menu downstairs and cheese workshops and pairing events for those who want to learn more. 157 Spring Street, Melbourne, (03) 9639 0335, springstreetgrocer.com.au Richmond Hill Café & Larder These cheese lovers have been kicking around for a while now. This cosy Richmond cafe also has a cheese room. Yes friends, a cheese room. Go in, taste your life away, and revel in the stinky goodness. You can also take away all you'll need for a perfect at-home cheese platter. Or, just stay in the cafe and have one there. It's a win win really. 48-50 Bridge Road, Richmond, (03) 9421 2808, rhcl.com.au La Formaggeria This one is a relatively new player in the Melbourne cheese scene. Again we see Sabrina and Katia Capodoccio, from Fossanova in Italy, who now have their own micro lab where they will be doing their thing with over 100 types of cheeses. The menu here flips from Italian indulgence to Melbourne clean-eating in a moment. Think just-baked panino with sliced-to-order San Daniele prosciutto and fresh buffalo mozzarella next to baked quinoa with cashew and kale pesto. Oh, and you can grab a cold pressed juice with that. Two great things. We approve. You can buy fresh mozzarella to take home, or leave with activated buckinis, raw vanilla protein isolate, organic heirloom veggies, free-range eggs and even certified organic skincare. 72 Acland Street, St Kilda, (03) 12 345 671, laformaggeria.com.au The Cheese Shop Deli Prahran Market is a place of greatness with the likes of health food shops, Sweet Greek serving up to die for Greek food, and The Cheese Shop Deli, who know a thing or two about cheese. This family has had the stall for 122 years and they have around 150 cheeses, including raw milk cheese. They also sell olives, smallgoods, and other things that will make you happy. We promise. Shop 703, Prahran Market, 163 Commercial Road, South Yarra, (03) 9826 8088 La Latteria This piece would seem incomplete without a mention of Melbourne's little Italy: Lygon Street. Enter La Latteria. People cross town for this stuff. Think fiore di burrata, buffalo mozzarella, ricotta, and diavoletti (a.k.a stuffed cheese goodness). This place gives artisan its true meaning, with the fresh cheeses hand-stretched and shaped here daily. They also help your other dairy cravings with milk, yoghurt, and cream. 104 Elgin Street, Carlton, (03) 9347 9009, lalatteria.com.au The Cheese Cave Toorak residents, don't fear — we've got you covered as well. The Cheese Cave serves up farmhouse and artisan cheeses from around the country. They also bring in some of the best raw milk cheeses, as well as European and American cheeses when they become available here. Their on-site cafe is a sweet little spot to enjoy a cheese platter and a glass of wine. Don't mind if we do. 429 Toorak Road, Toorak, (03) 9826 1105, thecheesecave.com.au Farmgate Cheese Okay okay, so this is an online mention. But for those who like to eat their cheese without having to worry about putting on pants, Farmgate Cheese is for you. You can even get $200 worth of the stuff delivered. Including cloth matured cheddar. Gippsland brie, Fourme d'Ambert, Meredith chevre (goat's cheese), Ossau-Iraty, crispbread, truffle oil, dried sour cherries, wild figs, pinot noir jelly, and a stainless steel cheese knife. Case = closed. Farmgae Cheese online store, 1300 267 673, farmgatecheese.com.au View all Melbourne Restaurants.
Melbourne's north has a new go-to for those wanting to make authentic Italian at home. Gnoccheria is a takeaway pasta shop with handmade gnocchi, as well as other pastas, lasagne, pizza bases and more. It's located in Coburg and run by the folk behind Take Me Home, which has been selling its wares to gourmet delis, supermarkets and local farmers markets (where they regularly sell out by 11am) for over ten years. With its new brick-and-mortar store, the team is making fresh gnocchi all day long. There are up to 20 different gnocchi flavours available at a time, spanning classics such as potato, three cheese and spinach and ricotta to varieties like truffle honey, saffron and burnt butter, and carrot and turmeric. Some even more left-of-centre flavours include pepperberry and parmesan, wild nettle and an activated charcoal number. The shop has all of the fixings for creating your very own Italian feast, too. Sauces, flavoured butters for gnocchi frying (think confit garlic, fennel and sage) and passata are all on offer — the latter is made using San Marzano tomatoes and basil from the family's organic Gippsland farm. Apart from all the gnocchi, there are other freshly made, organic pastas up for grabs, including pappardelle, cavatelli and orrechiette, as well as a whole heap of lasagne varieties. Expect Moroccan lamb, organic beef and pumpkin and sage, with gluten free and vegan options available, too. Pizza doughs, flours, oils and specialty salts also make the menu. And, if the gnocchi-making and huge display counter don't inspire you to make a hearty Italian dinner, the portrait of co-owner Felicity Giuliani's big Italian family tucking into a pasta feast will surely do the trick.
In recent years, Brisbane's Gallery of Modern Art has played host to an array of weird and wonderful exhibits. The Hulk's giant bed, a real-life snowman and Patricia Piccinini's otherworldly field of not-quite-flowers have all graced the South Brisbane site's halls and walls, as have David Lynch's inimitable art and a recreation of a real-life riverbed. But between Saturday, November 28, 2020–Monday, April 26, 2021, the cultural institution is heading in a completely different direction. A gallery-wide celebration of motorcycles mightn't be the kind of thing you'd generally expect to find at GOMA; however, that's exactly what'll be on display. Called The Motorcycle: Design, Art, Desire, the Queensland-exclusive showcase explores the two-wheeled vehicle's enduring appeal — from the way it looks and how it has evolved over the years, to the way it's portrayed in popular culture and how it makes people feel. Obviously, the exhibition does so by displaying plenty of motorbikes. Sourced from public and private collections from around the world, more than 100 are riding into GOMA — with some dating back more than 150 years. That'd be the Perreaux steam-powered velocipede from 1871, which is the oldest-known motorbike on the planet. It's joined by a selection of the first Aussie built and designed motorcycles, including one made in Brisbane in 1906; record-breaking bikes, such as the land speed record-breaking 1951 Vincent Black Lightning; and a lineup of super-modern motorcycles that represent the vehicle's future. [caption id="attachment_798484" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Motorcycle - Design, Art, Desire; VIP Preview; GOMA Level 1[/caption] Honing in on the motorcycle's importance not just as a mode of transport, but as an ever-evolving machine, The Motorcycle: Design, Art, Desire also features interactive experiences — so prepare to virtually hop on a 50s Vespa and go riding in real-time through a themed landscape, or build and customise your own bike. And, because there are quite a few motorbike-related movies to choose from, GOMA's Australian Cinematheque is getting into the same gear so you can revved up while watching a film. In March, there's an Up Late program of after-hours parties, too. Installation view The Motorcycle: Design, Art, Desire 28 November 20 – 26 April 21 Gallery of Modern Art, Brisbane Photograph: Chloë Callistemon, QAGOMA
If you like sipping Four Pillars' bloody gin, the distillery doubled your drinking options when winter 2023 rolled around. Last year, it didn't just make its bloody excellent Bloody Shiraz Gin, as it has annually since 2015. In addition, it also debuted a brand-new Bloody Pinot Noir Gin. Yes, the drop gives another grape variety the bloody treatment. Yes, it was popular. When winter 2024 started approaching, Four Pillars announced the return of its shiraz option; however, there was no sign of its other bloody tasty limited-edition wine-infused concoction for another vintage. Until now, that is, with the brand waiting until the thick of the cold weather to reveal that this too is a Bloody Pinot Noir Gin year. How much of a hit was the first vintage? It sold out in less than a week. So, if you're keen to add 2024's to your gin shrine, you'd best mark a few dates in your diary. It goes on sale around the country on Tuesday, August 13 — via the Four Pillars website, plus Four Pillars Distillery at Healesville in Victoria and the Four Pillars Lab in Surry Hills in Sydney — but you can get your hands on some from Wednesday, August 7 if you're a Four Pillars subscriber. 2024's tipple wasn't always a certainty. "When we had some early rain in the season, we weren't quite sure we'd be able to pull it off," explains Four Pillars Co-founder and Head Distiller Cameron Mackenzie. "But lo and behold, 2024 is pretty bloody good pinot. It also helps we don't just get grapes from one place. We source from a couple of vineyards and use multiple clones to get a more complex gin at the end. The only downside is we can only get so much of it." Like its shiraz sibling, the Bloody Pinot Noir Gin sources its fruit from Yarra Valley again, from Yarra Station and Upper Ngumby. The end result is lighter, brighter in colour, and with rhubarb, strawberry and rose petal notes. This vintage underwent a new process, soaking entire pinot bunches in Four Pillars' high-proof Rare Dry Gin for seven weeks, then pressing them and blending in more Rare Dry Gin. The best way to drink it? Four Pillars recommends using it in gin and soda, with just a squeeze of lemon and a lemon slice as a garnish. Head to the distillery's website for a few other cocktail ideas, too, including the Pinot Colada and the Pinot Blush. The 2024 Four Pillars Bloody Pinot Noir Gin will go on sale around the country on Tuesday, August 13, or on Wednesday, August 7 if you're a Four Pillars subscriber. Head to the Four Pillars website to make a purchase — or hit up the Four Pillars Distillery at Healesville, Victoria and the Four Pillars Lab in Surry Hills, Sydney.
As if Kendrick Lamar shows weren't already hard enough to nab tickets to, it's just been announced that the West Coast king will play an uber-exclusive/downright splurge-worthy show in the Bermuda Triangle. Performing this Halloween alongside Calvin Harris and Ellie Goulding, Kendrick will take the stage in the spookiest place on earth as part of a three-day festival sponsored by Bacardi. Here's hoping he makes it back alive. Unless you're an heiress, Bruce Wayne or Tony Stark, The Bacardi Triangle festival is pretty completely unlike any festival you've ever been to. From October 30–November 2, 1862 guests will descend on the Caribbean via private chartered jet from London, New York and Los Angeles. And it's safe to say they won't be roughing it with a broken tent and goon bag. Festival patrons will be put up at the five-star Waldorf Astoria El Conquistador, treated to intimate poolside performances and then taken to a private island via boat for the main show. Usually we wouldn't even tell you about this kind of stuff. It just makes people feel bad. Who wants to hear about luxurious world-class performances on a private island while they're bunkered over a pint of draught watching young screamo kids at the local bandroom? It's cruel. But this time around, Bacardi Triangle are offering up free tickets. Bacardi are giving away all-expense paid trips and plane tickets to 12 Australian island-less peasants. The price of everything adds up to over $20,000 and the value of the stories you'll have is absolutely priceless. Just head along to their website, tell them in 25 words or less what the weirdest place you've ever partied is and you'll be in the running. Sure, the possibility of winning is sure to be smaller than the actual lottery, but you have nothing to lose and a literal boatload of free Bacardi and epic Kendrick times to gain. The full lineup is yet to be released, but rumour has that it will feature an Aussie electronic act. We'd tell you to keep your eyes peeled for further details, but if you're still reading this you've missed the point entirely. Kendrick Lamar. Bermuda Triangle. Private jets. Actual swimming pools full of liquor. Enter here. https://youtube.com/watch?v=B5YNiCfWC3A
It's hard to beat a long lunch on a hot summer's day. This glorious time of year is made for taking extended work breaks and soaking up the weekend's afternoon sun with mates. But, not all lunch spots were made equally. So, together with Aperol — the brightly hued liquid behind the reigning champ of spritzes, the long-lunch bev of choice — we've compiled this list of Melbourne's top spots to head to when your lunch has the potential to go on and on. Some of these haunts come with sun-soaked outdoor spaces and others with plush indoor dining rooms (where the aircon is blasting). But, most importantly, each has a bloody good lunch menu and a great selection of summery cocktails — did someone mention a round of spritzes for the table?
It hasn't been the greatest couple of years for dining out at fancy restaurants. But, when it comes to the World's 50 Best restaurant awards, the show must go on. After a COVID-driven break last year, the prestigious awards have named their 2021 picks for the greatest restaurants in the world. Taking out this year's top spot was the newest incarnation of Denmark's Noma, led by renowned chef René Redzepi. While no Aussie venues claimed a position among 2021's 50 Best list, two Victorian restaurants secured spots in the 51–100 lineup. Dan Hunter's Brae placed 57th — up from its 2019 ranking of 101 — and Ben Shewry's Ripponlea fine diner Attica came in at number 97, shuffling slightly from its previous position at 84. Both have been regular contenders in the awards for the past few years. [caption id="attachment_616539" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dan Hunter and Ben Shewry[/caption] The 2021 World's 50 Best awards were unveiled at a glitzy ceremony held overnight in Antwerp, with the 51–100 lineup announced a couple of weeks earlier, on September 23. Coming in second place was another famed Danish diner, Geranium, while Spain's Asador Etxebarri retained its 2019 title of third best restaurant in the world. If you're planning any future overseas adventures based entirely around food, you'll be interested to know that both the USA and Spain cleaned up in this year's rankings, each with six restaurants earning spots among the top 50. Running annually since 2002, the World's 50 Best awards are chosen by a panel of over 1000 culinary experts, guided by a strict voting procedure. They're now hosted by a different country each year, with Melbourne playing host city back in 2017. Check out the full list of The World's 50 Best award-winners for 2021 over here. Top Images: Colin Page, from the cookbook 'Brae: Recipes and stories from the restaurant'.
Thanks to the expert curators behind 'Bourne Local, you've now got another top-notch artisan market to put on rotation. On the last Sunday of each month, the crew takes over a former car showroom on Hoddle Street to host its latest offering — the 'Bourne Local Collingwood Artisan Market. Running 11am–4.30pm, each instalment is brimming with locally-made fashion, homewares, crafts and produce, and backed by a range of seasonal delights. While you shop, you can tuck into bites from the day's food truck rotation (maybe vegan Mexican eats by Cha Chas), and soak up live sounds from a lineup of local artists. Unlike other markets, however, this one also features a roller rink disco and table tennis hall, for a spot of extra entertainment. For its September 25 edition, you'll also catch a BMX and car display put together by Street Car Culture, and a pop-up barbershop from the hair legends at Kings Domain Academy. More goodies are in store for the rest of the series, happening on October 30 and November 27, with a special twilight market following on December 11 (3–9pm). Entry to the markets is free, though you can reserve a spot online. Images: Simon Fazio
Bringing together some of the region's finest fare, the Margaret River Gourmet Escape presents a tantalising four-day festival of food, drink and merriment, all set in one of the most naturally beautiful areas imaginable. It's a packed program with over 100 boutique producers involved and highlights, including a star-studded chef's table, cooking masterclasses, coffee workshops and a buzzing village green featuring an array of local produce. Margaret River is often seen as a wine region. While that's not wrong, seeing it as just a destination for vineyard-hopping would massively underplay the charms of this picturesque spot for a multi-faceted summer holiday. Few regions of Australia are as rich in natural beauty and densely populated with world-class dining options. We've teamed up with Mazda3 to help you make the most of your trip to Gourmet Escape. Here are the best options for what to eat, what to do and where to stay during the feasting fest. [caption id="attachment_632002" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Elements Margaret River.[/caption] EAT AND DRINK If you're looking to make the most of Gourmet Escape, be sure to plan ahead — you'll find there are more than just a few fringe events and degustations you'll want to find. This year's all-star program corrals top chefs like Andrew McConnell (Supernormal, Supernormal Canteen, Cumulus Inc.), David Thompson (Long Chim), Guillaume Brahimi (Bistro Guillaume), Clayton Wells (Automata) and Paul Carmichael (Momofuku Seiobo). There is also the option to simply kick back in idyllic surrounds and sip some local tipples. Outside of the festival, Saturday mornings in Margaret River see the buzzing Margaret River Farmers' Market set up with dozens of stalls offering all kinds of local baked goods, fruits, vegetables, flowers, chocolates and wines. It's an ideal spot to stock up on supplies for a beach picnic, as is the gourmet deli located at Smiths Beach at Lamont's winery. This coastal favourite is also a great spot for a laidback brunch with an all-day menu split in two — offering brekkie eats like buttermilk pancakes and shakshuka or lunchtime bites like pork rillette and spaghettini with walnut sauce. [caption id="attachment_642075" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Margaret River Farmers' Market.[/caption] An iconic restaurant of the region, the acclaimed Cape Lodge's menu revolving around local produce attracts many to the area — everyone from Bill Clinton to Katy Perry has stopped off at this famed lakeside restaurant. On any given visit, you might find Western Australian options like marron from Donnybrook, mussels from Safety Bay or Exmouth prawns. And if you're after a more casual option, White Elephant Beach Café — who'll also be among the many local dining options in attendance at Gourmet Escape — is located ideally overlooking the boat ramp at Gnarabup beach and pumps out great coffee and classic all-day breakfast options like bircher muesli and smashed pumpkin on sourdough. [caption id="attachment_642073" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Peta Hopkins via Flickr.[/caption] DO Along with great eats, there's also plenty of entertainment on offer at Gourmet Escape. Matt Okine will do his food and comedy thing, DJ sets from the likes of Hugo Gruzman (Flight Facilities) and Triple J's Tom Tilley will be held throughout and locals San Cisco will headline the closing night party. So plan to have a boogie or two during your visit. Spending some time in the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park is also an absolute must. Named as a world biodiversity hotspot by the World Wildlife Foundation, the region's unusual climate and soil profile means it's home to a dazzling variety of colourful wildflowers, many of which are rarely seen elsewhere. Look out for the likes of blue grass lilies, spider orchids and crimson one-sided bottle brush. The very keen hikers may want to tackle the famous Cape to Cape Track, a 135-kilometre walk which hugs the coastline. For everyone else, there are many options to drop in on the track for much shorter walks. [caption id="attachment_642066" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mammoth Cave.[/caption] The area is also notable for its limestone cliff and crystal caves. You can enter a network of caves at CaveWorks, just south of Margaret River. A narrow staircase leads you down into the most spectacular of the underground hollows, the giant Lake Cave, which includes an ethereal sunken forest. A rare example of an 'actively dripping' cave, it's like something taken from the pages of a fairytale. Further natural beauty is found in the region's string of stunning beaches, which include Hamelin's Bay, a photogenic stretch of white sand and blue-green water where stingrays weave their way through bathers. The popular Smiths Beach is another gorgeous part of the coastline, while Prevelly Beach, where Margaret River meets the ocean, is home to professional surfing events. STAY Riverglen Chalets offers a range of boutique accommodation options, with everything from studios to larger chalets for up to eight people. Best of all, it's set amongst seven acres of lush, green natural surrounds with a picturesque pond and towering gum trees. In a seemingly secluded location, the chalets are only a few minutes from town proper. Grab a breakfast hamper from the festival and head back to the chalets and start the day with an al fresco feast. Old Dairy Cottage is a quirky, character-filled option, proudly wearing its heritage as a pioneering district farm, but also including all the modern amenities. The light, airy accommodation is designed to make the most of the summer sun. Hilltop Studios also splits the difference between pastoral living and pure luxury; their designed accommodation comes with an award-winning chef on site and views of rolling hills and rugged countryside from your bathtub. For something entirely different, Conto offers a range of camping options alongside the winding coastline and peppermint woodland. Whether you're looking for a cheaper option or just like the idea of waking up to the sound of roaring waves, it's perfect a way to experience a truly spectacular part of the country. Margaret River Gourmet Escape 2017 takes place in the Margaret River region from November 16 to 19. Top image: Elements Margaret River. Personalise your next adventure via The Playmaker, driven by Mazda3.
Spectacular spectacular news: we've just found the best excuse you'll ever have to head to Paris, other than, well, just generally heading to Paris. Making movie-lovers' dreams come true, and just fans of the French capital's as well, Airbnb has listed quite the iconic spot. When it comes to the Moulin Rouge's famous windmill, no other word comes close to describing it. You've seen it lighting up the big screen in Baz Luhrmann's Moulin Rouge!, spotted it as part of Moulin Rouge! The Musical's sets and, if you've been to Paris before, maybe even tangoed past it. Now, you can slumber in a secret room within the red-hued site. Yes, you'll be peeking behind the velvet curtains of the famed location — and walking through them. The space inside the windmill has never before been opened to the public, let alone been made available to book via Airbnb — and yes, it's decked out to look the part. The interior has been turned into a Belle Époque-inspired boudoir, so you really will feel like you've danced back to late 19th-century France or into a film (or both). To get the details exactly right, Airbnb worked with French historian Jean-Claude Yon on the renovations, with authenticity obviously a big driving factor. The results: that opulent boudoir, which comes filled with art nouveau features and a miniature paper stage; a dressing area filled with vintage costumes, perfumes and letters from admirers; and a private rooftop terrace with an ornate pagoda and garden furniture that would've been around at the time. Come what may, indeed. That's all stunning as it is — and the fact that you'll get backstage access to the theatre, a traditional three-course French meal and the best seats in the house for the Moulin Rouge's acclaimed show Féerie as well as an overnight stay makes it even better. So does the fact that your host for the booking is Claudine Van Den Bergh, lead dancer of Féerie. Then there's the cost, with all of the above only setting you back AU$1.49 / NZ$1.63 (or €1) for the evening. Yes, that price is correct. If you've tried to sleep in the Bluey house in Brisbane, or Dracula's castle in Transylvania — or shark tanks, van Gogh's bedroom and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles' secret lair — then you'll know that getting into Airbnbs like this is more about entering to score a shot than booking, though. In this case, the Moulin Rouge windmill will only be hosting three individual one-night stays for two guests each on June 13, 20 and 27 To get your chance, you'll need to head to the windmill's Airbnb listing when reservations open — at 3am AEST on Wednesday, May 18. If you score a stay, that AU$1.49 / NZ$1.63 doesn't cover getting you to Paris, unsurprisingly. Accordingly, your bank account will still get a workout. And, if you've always wondered about the windmill's history — well, since seeing Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor fall in love on-screen near it — it was first constructed in 1889, to nod to the site's rural origins. Then, after a fire, it was reconstructed three decades later. For more information about the Moulin Rouge windmill listing on Airbnb, or to apply to book at 3am AEST on Wednesday, May 18, head to the Airbnb website. 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. Images: Daniel Alexander Harris.
The line for the inaugural Flour Market in October last year could have been mistaken for a Beyonce meet and greet. So frenzied was the rush for specialty baked goods that the place was cleared of every last crumb within two hours. So popular was this super bake sale the first time around that early bird tickets were introduced (and sold out) for the keenest of beans to get first dibs before the crowds descended. Mark Free is one of the masterminds behind the wildly successful Flour Market, a project he created to showcase the best of Melbourne's unrepresented emerging, artisan and underground baking community. With an impressive skillset including music making, party throwing, word doing and caffeine knowing, Free is somewhat of a jack (or in this case, Mark) of all trades, and as friendly as the nicest teacher from primary school. One third of the dream team behind Collingwood's beloved Everyday Coffee (along with co-owners Joe Miranda and Aaron Maxwell), Free knows how to please a crowd. Their caffeine-focused cafe serves up some of Melbourne's best coffee along with delectable, special sweet treats to a strong crowd of loyal locals, 365 days a year. While Everyday provides an outlet for a variety of bakers to sell their goods, Free recognised the need for a greater platform to bring together a much larger, relatively unknown baking community, and thus, the Flour Market was born. Joining forces with the ever-fresh Seb Godfrey and Charlie Lawler of creative studio Open Season; endlessly hilarious, chronic doer-of-things Sarah Booth; and many others, Free built the Flour Market team into a tour de force of design, collaboration and puns (as good as the buns), supported by some of the most talented creatives in this city. We spoke to Mark before he gets baked at Flour Market's third instalment this Sunday, April 13, at Fitzroy Town Hall. Both of the previous Flour Markets sold out in a flash! Did you expect such an overwhelmingly positive response? I don't really know what we expected. We just crossed our fingers, closed our eyes and hoped for the best. How did you initially connect with the emerging, artisan, underground baking community, The Flour Market champions? We searched high and low for the best of the best cakes and pastries when we opened Everyday Coffee, and as we met more and more of these specialist bakers I began to notice an emerging community. Now that Flour Market is established, lots of new talent seems to be coming out of the woodwork and contacting us, which is great. What have you found the most challenging about the process of establishing the Flour Market? Keeping up with demand while trying to remain true to our values. Both Everyday Coffee and the Flour Market are known for collaborating with other local creatives. In general, how important is celebrating the local talent and community to you? Collaboration is crucial. I believe there is strength in numbers when it comes to creativity. Melbourne's creative community has an almost small town feel to it. Everybody seems to know each other whether they're a painter, baker, barista, dancer, DJ or whatever, and each of us have a role to play in keeping this city vibrant. What's the *perfect* coffee snack? This is tricky, because I like to tackle my treats one at a time, but a blueberry bagel and a sharp African coffee is a strong combo. What goodies will you be taking home from the Flour Market this time? That's if they make it home! All the vendors are amazing so it's hard not to sample one of everything. I think there will be a lot of Easter-themed goods, which I can't wait to sink my teeth into. I've asked the bakers to hot cross everything. Each Flour Market has been bigger than the last; it obviously has the potential to continue evolving and expanding. What's next? The sky's the limit! New York, London, the Southside … We've got heaps of great ideas that we can't wait to put in action. We'd love to take Flour Market to new places and connect with new communities. We'd also love to present some masterclasses to bring out the baker within for some home enthusiasts. I could go on all day; suffice to say, we're very excited about where Flour Market is heading. The Flour Market Easter Bake Sale is this Sunday, April 13, at Fitzroy Town Hall, 201 Napier Street, Fitzroy. From 9am till sold out. Entry is by gold coin donation.
When you've got something big to celebrate, an extravagant dinner out is the default solution — and for good reason, too. Getting the gang together for a night of good food, good booze and good vibes is one of the best ways to splash that hard-earned cash. But, we have to acknowledge the minefield of awkward moments that needs to be navigated when organising a dinner, from balancing social calendars to conflicting budgets. The latter is where the magic of banquet menus come in — everyone knows exactly what they're paying for so they can kick back, relax and focus on stuffing themselves with delicious food. Together with Melbourne's ridesharing app DiDi, we've hunted down five of the best banquet menus in Melbourne. Whether you're celebrating a big win at work or taking your partner on a romantic date night, any of these set menus are bound to hit the mark. Oh, and every single one is under $100 a head — talk about bang for your buck. Plus, in more good news, DiDi is also focused on keeping things affordable so, after you've rolled out of the restaurant full and happy, your ride home is equally stress-free on the 'ol hip pocket.
The temperature is hovering somewhere around Antarctic levels in Melbourne, which means truffle season is officially here. To celebrate this year's harvest of expensive black fungus, Queen Victoria Market is hosting their annual truffle season party, and most traders are getting in on the action. This is your chance to pick up truffle oil, truffle salt, truffle butter, truffle honey and truffled truffles – the Truffle Melbourne stall in A Shed is selling pure black gold by the gram. Perhaps the pick of the bunch is the famous truffle toastie from all-Australian cheese shop, RIPE. It's back again this year for a limited-season run: golden brown sourdough stuffed with cheddar and mozzarella, topped with 12g of freshly shaved Australian truffle, then sprinkled with black truffle salt for good measure. If you get lost on the way to A Shed, just follow your nose. Truffle season at Queen Vic generally runs until the last truffle, so you've got a little while to catch this one. Check out the full program here. Images: supplied.
After introducing its cookie pies to the world last month, followed by serving up an OTT red velvet one, Gelato Messina is bringing the decadent dessert back again. This time, though, it's filled with a gooey choc-hazelnut spread the gelato chain calls Messinatella. Hang on, a cookie pie? Yes, it's a pie, but a pie made of cookie dough. And it serves two–six people — or just you. You bake it yourself, too, so you get to enjoy that oh-so-amazing smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen. These pies are available for preorder from Monday, June 8 — so if you missed out last time, here's your chance to get yourself a piece of the pie. On its own, the indulgent choc chip pie will cost $20. But to sweeten the deal, the cult ice creamery has created a few bundle options, should you want some of its famed gelato atop it. You can add on a 500-millilitre tub for $28, a one-litre tub for $34 or a 1.5-litre tub for $39. To get your pie to your oven, you will have to peel yourself off the couch and head to your local Messina store between Thursday, June 11 and Sunday, June 14 to pick it up. Once you've got the pie safely home, you just need to whack it in the oven for 10-15 minutes and voila. You can preorder a Messina cookie pie from Monday, June 8 to pick up from all NSW, Vic and Queensland Gelato Messina stores (except The Star and Coolangatta) from June 11–14.
Childhood snaps aplenty are filled with Australia's big things, including pictures with The Big Pineapple as a backdrop if you've ever visited the Sunshine Coast. As an adult, there's another way to make memories at the famous Woombye site: hitting up The Big Pineapple Festival, which is finally returning in 2024 after a three-year absence and has just dropped its jam-packed lineup. The Queensland fest announced its comeback earlier this year, and also its 2024 date: Saturday, October 19. Now comes who'll be taking to the stage while you dance in the shadow of a giant piece of tropical fruit. The Amity Affliction, Bliss n Eso and Peking Duk lead the bill, alongside Tones and I, Golden Features, Vera Blue, Thornhill and Dune Rats doing a DJ set. There's a heap more acts where they came from, too, on what's set to be a massive spring day in the Sunshine State. [caption id="attachment_964826" align="alignnone" width="1917"] Tom Barnes[/caption] 2024's event will also add a World Eats and Beats precinct, which is where you can grab a bite and listen to global tunes; the Lantern Parade lighting up the site, aka pineapple fields; the Skate Jam, where top Aussie skaters will on their decks; and Burlesque L'amour doing a festival stint. Or, you can enter the Best Dressed at the Fest contest, with prizes for both solo and team attire — and likely a range of pineapple-inspired outfits getting a workout — or try your stuff at The Great Australian Pineapple Toss competition. On the nation's list of big things, The Big Pineapple is among the most famous. It's big. It's a pineapple. It's heritage-listed Queensland icon. It's surrounded by those pineapple fields. It now has a new cafe and viewing platform. Basically, what's not to love? Since 2013, however, it's no longer merely a reason to go to Nambour to gawk at over-sized fruit — because that's when it also became home to a music festival, which ran annually until its current three-year break. As well as live music, the fest includes two days of camping. Accordingly, if you hadn't already, start looking forward to an event that'll take over its iconic location's natural amphitheatres, get folks pitching a tent at the 4000-person campground, and also span workshops and art installations in a relaxed setting, too. The Big Pineapple Festival's return is welcome news at a time when the Australian music scene has been seeing cancellations, rather than comebacks. Tasmania's Mona Foma said farewell forever after its 2024 event, both Splendour in the Grass and Groovin the Moo scrapped their 2024 festivals mere weeks after announcing their lineups, Falls Festival took summer 2023–24 off, Summergrounds Music Festival at Sydney Festival was cancelled and This That hasn't gone ahead for a couple of years now. The Big Pineapple Festival 2024 Lineup: The Amity Affliction Tones and I Bliss n Eso Golden Features Peking Duk Vera Blue Thornhill Dune Rats (DJ set) The Dreggs Drax Project SLUMBERJACK Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers Ocean Grove Kinder South Summit No Money Enterprise Day We Ran Betty Taylor Toby Hobart Hellcat Speedracer Raw Ordio Ishan Larynx Karlou Rhino Tess Fapani Earth Sign Unearthed winner [caption id="attachment_964825" align="alignnone" width="1917"] Billy Zammit[/caption] [caption id="attachment_944026" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Big Pineapple, Alpha via Flickr[/caption] The Big Pineapple Festival will return on Saturday, October 19, 2024. Ticket presale signups start from 8am on Monday, July 8, with presales beginning at 8am on Wednesday, July 10 and general sales from 8am on Thursday, July 11 — head to the fest's website for more information. Images: Claudia Ciapocha / Charlie Hardy.
One of the biggest IRL shopping nights returns to Melbourne in August, when 600 of your favourite high-street stores have one-night-only discounts on all the items you had saved to your wish list anyway — only this time you get to walk away with the jeans or jewellery you were eyeing up along with a freebie or two. Save the date for Vogue American Express Fashion's Night Out, which returns on Thursday, August 29. Because you'll want to make the most of all the free stuff and beauty bars, we've put together a hit list of the Melbourne CBD stores and events that you should head to first for the best in-store promotions. It all kicks off with an official launch party at 4.30pm — and you can shop from 10am till stores close at 10pm. Make sure you mingle with the fashion editors at the VIP Lounge, check out the on-stage action from Sydney pop star Cxloe and watch the latest covetable looks on the runway. START WITH A TIPPLE AT AN EXCLUSIVE POP-UP BAR Doors open from 5pm, and you'll want to be first in line (ready with your to gain entry) as the David Jones Card Member Lounge will have a complimentary drink to help you get into the swing of the evening. It's first come, first served until there are no more bubbles, so make sure to get in early. Fuel up on the canapés that'll be offered around the room. Take your bev to the beauty bar, where you can touch up your makeup, or over to the fragrance bar to spritz a new scent before you venture to the shops. There'll be plenty of tunes to get you in the party mood, including a jazzy DJ with saxophone skills — just to add a touch of class to the evening. To gain entry into the lounge, just flash your David Jones American Express Card. If you're not a member yet, you can register your spot in advance right here. GET FREE HAIR BRAIDING OR DRY STYLING Fashion's Night Out is all about kicking off spring with a fresh look –– and what better way to feel fresh than with a new hairdo. Revitalise your winter locks at The BLOW. Melbourne's premium blow dry boutique is all about giving women confidence through its signature styling. During Vogue Fashion's Night Out, the master of hot tools and hair combs is offering free dry styling and braiding all evening. There are seven signature styles to choose between, all catering to long or short hair, thick or thin locks. CATCH CXLOE AND 'VOGUE' EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ON STAGE Sneak out of work early to get a front row position at the official launch party. Head to Little Bourke Street from 4.30pm to join Australian fashion royalty when Vogue Australia editor-in-chief Edwina McCann and the Lord Mayor of Melbourne Sally Capp open the evening. Plus, homegrown pop singer Cxloe will be hitting the stage to perform tracks like 'Low Blow' and 'I Can't Have Nice Things' to get you in the mood to shop and socialise. SIP BUBBLES WHILE YOU SHOP A crucial part of a stellar outfit is how you pair it with killer accessories. And when it comes to personal expression, jewellery brand Pandora knows how to capture a sense of your personality through hand-finished charms, bracelets and necklaces. During Vogue's Fashion Night Out, browse the new collection at Melbourne's Bourke Street Mall store with a glass of sparkling wine in hand. As you sip on bubbles, try out the brand's latest rings, earrings and pendants and pick a piece to express yourself. SCORE A FREE REUSABLE COFFEE CUP For Vogue Fashion's Night Out, Mimco is giving away environmentally friendly reusable cups, as well as in-store promotions and chocolates that support social enterprises. If you've already had your eye on Mimco's latest collection, tonight's the night to grab a bargain – spend $199 in store and you'll receive a free Frank Green x MIMCO cup, plus 20 percent off full-priced items (some exclusions apply). You'll be peckish, so make the most of the free MIMCO x Hey Tiger chocolates on offer, too. The chocolates are made ethically in Melbourne, which means you'll be supporting social enterprise as you snack and shop. CUSTOMISE YOUR FAVOURITE PAIR OF JEANS There's no feeling quite like finding the perfect pair of jeans. Now, imagine that pair with your own customisation. At the Vogue Fashion's Night Out, you can take your favourite pair of denim threads to the Levi's Tailor Shop where the skilled team will help you stamp your own NYC-inspired emblem onto either new or preloved Levi's. Find the pop-up on level two at Melbourne Central. Plus, if you're hunting for new denim, take advantage of the 30 percent offer on the night. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF EXCLUSIVE STYLING TUTORIALS Planning an outfit for a big occasion can be overwhelming, and on a night such as Vogue Fashion's Night Out there will be countless dresses, pants and tops drawing your attention. If you're struggling with where to start, head into Scanlan Theodore where the head stylist will be on hand to offer exclusive styling advice. Head to the store in the Emporium Melbourne on Lonsdale Street where you can browse the latest, modern and chic collection while also getting first-hand tips on how to pull it all off. The store is also offering in-store refreshments, so you can linger longer and marvel at the threads. PICK UP A PERSONALISED LUGGAGE TAG Jetting off somewhere? You'll want to upgrade that carry-on before you fly. You might want to pop into Fossil for a gander at its stylish luggage collection to weigh up the options for your precious cargo. To make sure you don't lose any of your prized goods, Fossil is giving away free luggage tags with complimentary embossing when you sign up to the Fossil database. What better way to make something truly yours than by stamping your name on it. Claim this freebie at Fossil in the Emporium Melbourne and get ready to travel in personalised style. BE REWARDED FOR SHOPPING When you've finished shopping, take your receipts straight to the Vogue spin-to-win wheel in Little Bourke Street where you'll have the chance to take home even more than the discounted fashion buys and freebies already in your hot little hands. To take a spin, you'll need proof of purchase for a combined spend of $100 or more at Vogue American Express Fashion's Night Out. The Vogue team will verify your receipts and the wheel is all yours. Take a spin to potentially win one of the $70,000-worth of prizes up for grabs. Featured brands include Alice McCall, Witchery, Haigh's, Saba, Zara, American Express, Country Road, Vogue VIP and more. You need to lodge your interest to play; register here to spin the wheel. Melbourne's Vogue American Express Fashion's Night Out takes place on Thursday, August 29. Don't miss out on the VIP treatment, register your attendance for the VIP Lounge here. And to find out more about the exclusive benefits of being a David Jones American Express Cardholder, head over here.
To the delight of metropolitan Melbourne residents, the city's curfew, 25-kilometre rule and four permissible reasons to leave home have all been scrapped. So too has the 'ring of steel' separating Melbourne from regional parts of the state. As a result, you're probably hankering not only to get out of the house as often as possible, but to head as far away from your local neighbourhood as you can — on a seaside day trip, perhaps? If you'd like to visit either Queenscliff or Sorrento, Searoad Ferries will take you there — and, as part of a $1 million ticket giveaway, it'll take you for free. The transportation company is offering 38,484 tickets in total, all for day trips between November 23, 2020–July 31, 2021. And while there's a limit of one return ticket per person, you and all of your mates can grab one each. To nab a free ticket, you'll need to head to Searoad Ferries' free ticket website between Wednesday, November 18 and 5pm on Sunday, November 22 to register. Although you can book in your trip across an eight-month period, there are only limited tickets available for each day — and, obviously, you can expect plenty of other Melburnians to be jumping on the deal. There are caveats, of course. The freebies only apply to foot passenger tickets (not cars), you have to both travel there and return back on the same day — and on your selected date — and you can't change or transfer your ticket once it has been booked. But, you can upgrade it to a vehicle passenger ticket if you purchase a car and driver ticket. And, if you're currently wondering why Searoad Ferries is giving away such a hefty amount of tickets, the answer is as simple as you think it is. "We are a family-owned business, and we know how hard it has been for Victorians," said CEO Matt McDonald. "A free ticket, the beauty of the bay and some fresh air is something we would love Victorians to experience... we want them to remember how beautiful our state really is." [caption id="attachment_651721" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Mark Chew, Visit Victoria[/caption] To register for a free ferry ticket, visit www.freeferrytickets.com.au from Wednesday, November 18 until 5pm on Sunday, November 22. One free ticket is available per person, to travel between November 23, 2020–July 31, 2021. Top image: Visit Victoria.
Walking through stunning lights as far as the eye can see, moseying beneath a canopy of glowing multi-coloured trees, wandering between ribbons of flashing beams, taking the most luminous 2.2-kilometre stroll through nature that you can imagine — you'll be able to do all of this again when Lightscape returns to Melbourne in 2024. If you went to the 2022 and 2023 versions, this third Lightscape stint in the Victorian capital from Friday, June 14–Sunday, August 4, 2024 won't just include favourites that you've already been dazzled by. Along with comebacks for the Winter Cathedral made out of glowing bulbs and the vibrant Laser Garden, 2024's iteration will also feature all-new installations. Submergence will let you move through suspended — and colour-changing — lights by the thousands, for instance, while Lili is all about lit-up three-metre-tall flowers. Accordingly, prepare to see the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne illuminated by immersive and large-scale pieces scattered along that lengthy walking route, including sparkling trees, shimmering walkways and bursts of colour that look like fireworks. Prepare to feel like you're being bathed in radiance — and ample neon — as well. Lightscape first hit Australia in 2022 after first taking over gardens across the United Kingdom and the United States. Developed by Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in the UK, it has understandably proven a huge success — and more than two-million people wandered along its glowing trails in a season overseas. "We are thrilled to see Lightscape returning to Melbourne Gardens for its third year. The Gardens provide an exquisite canvas for us to create a magical world of light, nature and wonder," said David Harland, Director and Chief Executive, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria. "Everywhere I go in Victoria, people of all ages tell me what an overwhelmingly positive, heartwarming and joyful experience it is... so we've challenged ourselves to push the boundaries of creativity and excite everyone again this coming year." "In 2024, we have a few surprises up our sleeve as we build on the experience to make it exhilarating for both returning and first-time visitors," Harland continued. Pop-up food and drink stalls will be scattered throughout Lightscape in Melbourne again — selling, we hope, mulled wine to keep hands warm in the thick of winter. Lightscape will return to the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne, from Friday, June 14–Sunday, August 4, 2024. For more information or to buy tickets from Friday, December 8, head to the event's website.
Sydney hospitality giant Merivale announced its expansion into regional Victoria last May with the news it had purchased the historic Lorne Hotel. Since then, the group has stayed hush on its exact plans for the coastal site — until now. It's just been confirmed the Great Ocean Road pub will play host to a fifth outpost of Merivale's much-loved Italian eatery Totti's, slated to open this coming February. Launching as the group's first Victorian opening, the restaurant will be helmed by Merivale Executive Chef (and Totti's creator) Mike Eggert, along with Lorne Hotel Executive Chef and Surf Coast local Matt Germanchis. It'll take over the Ground Floor space formerly home to MoVida Lorne, where Germanchis was most recently on the pans. [caption id="attachment_879250" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] The venue's set to plate up a faithful interpretation of the Italian fare that's earned Totti's its cult status up north, though with a few twists and new creations courtesy of the local chef. Familiar favourites will be in strong supply, from the puffy wood-fired bread to the fresh house pasta; while the hotel's location will guide the menu's expansive seafood offering, showing off plenty of locally sourced ocean-fresh inclusions. Similarly, the drinks list is set to zero in on Victorian winemakers and producers, across a broad-ranging lineup of drops for all tastes. [caption id="attachment_879252" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Germanchis, by Hugh Davidson[/caption] As for the vibe, it'll also embrace the restaurant's coastal setting, the space just as well suited to long weekend lunches, as to thirsty walk-ins strolling fresh off the beach. And you can expect foreshore views from every seat in the house. Totti's has proved a winning concept in Sydney since the opening of its OG Bondi outpost. The stable has expanded to include venues in Rozelle, the Sydney CBD and, as of August, Allianz Stadium, where Merivale has taken over the entire food and drink offering. [caption id="attachment_879230" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hugh Davidson[/caption] [caption id="attachment_879251" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] [caption id="attachment_702662" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Totti's Sydney, by Nikki To[/caption] Find Totti's Lorne at 176 Mountjoy Pde, Great Ocean Rd, Lorne, from February, 2023. We'll share more details as they drop. Top Image: Steve Woodburn
"Attention players: you will now compete for our biggest cash prize in reality-show history." They're the first words spoken in the new teaser trailer for Squid Game: The Challenge, aka the competition series that was always going to happen when Squid Game became a massive Netflix success. Once more, 456 players come together. And, they will indeed compete to win $4.56 million. There's no murder this time, however — nor fictional thrills. 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 — and you thought that playing hopscotch, marbles, sugar honeycombs and tug of war sounds like fun, too — then you'll understand the concept at the heart of Squid Game: The Challenge. As seen in the just-dropped new sneak peek for the show, the whole pesky compete-to-the-death angle is missing, obviously, but everything about the series looks exactly like its inspiration otherwise. The red and green tracksuits, the games, the decor and, yes, the notorious Red Light, Green Light doll: they're all accounted for. 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. The service has now gone one better, locking in Wednesday, November 22 as the spinoff's launch date. How does it work? Again, you already know the details. Those 456 folks — all ordinary people, and not actors — will try to score $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. As for the second season the OG series, Squid Game's dramatised return doesn't yet boast a release date, but it does have a heap of cast members locked in. Lee Jung-jae (Deliver Us From Evil) returns as the show's protagonist Seong Gi-hun, while Lee Byung-hun (The Magnificent Seven) will be back as the masked Front Man as well. They'll be joined by Wi Ha-joon (Little Women) as detective Hwang Jun-ho, plus Gong Yoo (Train to Busan) as the man in the suit who got Gi-hun into the game in the first place. A show about a deadly competition that has folks competing for ridiculous riches comes with a hefty bodycount, which means that new faces were always going to be essential in Squid Game season two. Yim Si-wan (Emergency Declaration), Kang Ha-neul (Insider), Park Sung-hoon (The Glory) and Yang Dong-geun (Yaksha: Ruthless Operations) will all join the series, but Netflix is keeping quiet about their characters at the moment. Check out the latest teaser trailer for Squid Game: The Challenge: Squid Game: The Challenge will hit Netflix in on Wednesday, November 22, 2023. Squid Game's first season is available to stream via Netflix — we'll update you with a release date for season two when one is announced. Images: Netflix.
Combining the hypnotic works of M.C. Escher, one of the 20th century's most celebrated artists, with the design aesthetics of acclaimed present-day Japanese design studio Nendo, the National Gallery of Victoria's newest blockbuster exhibition Between Two Worlds discovers a stunning and unexpected middle ground. The first ever merging of these acclaimed creators, the exhibition features more than 150 of Escher's woodcuts, lithographs and sketches. Described as the NGV's most ambitious exhibition design to date, Nendo — led by renowned designer Oki Sato — was invited to produce the spectacular space that features several large-scale rooms and installations, and reflects upon the complex themes found within the surrounding Escher works. Running until April 7 2019, Between Two Worlds covers the full spectrum of Escher's artistic vision, which was largely ignored during his lifetime. Showcasing everything from Escher's early works as a student, his newfound inspiration while travelling across Italy, and his final creations in the lead up to his death in 1972, the exhibition showcases virtually all of his most famous works, including Drawing Hands, Relativity and Day and Night. Mirroring the optical illusions and mathematically inspired works of Escher, Nendo has contributed a variety of immersive spaces that will warp your perspective and bring a new light to the works displayed throughout the exhibition. Conveying Escher's theories through the studio's own motif, the rudimentary outline of a house, it appears in various shapes and forms throughout the exhibition and references Escher's unique perspective on space and patterns. With not one, but two creative geniuses on display at the NGV's newest exhibition, we've selected six works (three Escher, three Nendo) that you can't miss out on seeing at Between Two Worlds. [caption id="attachment_700134" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Eugene Hyland[/caption] DAY AND NIGHT (ESCHER) Perhaps the Dutch artist's most celebrated work, Day and Night perfectly illustrates Escher's uncanny ability to combine art and science with resounding impact. Uniting a complex understanding of mathematics and perspective with his undeniable creative talent, here, Escher depicts two Dutch towns attached by a series of rolling hills that melt away into a soaring flock of birds. At once day and night, real and unreal, this woodcut offers two simultaneous perspectives that remove the distinction between foreground and background. [caption id="attachment_700137" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Eugene Hyland[/caption] DRAWING HANDS (ESCHER) Another widely known artwork of Escher's that has been reproduced in various pop culture mediums since its creation in 1947, Drawing Hands is a clear example of Escher's obsession with paradoxes. Produced in a more photorealistic style than many of Escher's other works, this lithograph displays two hands conceiving each other into existence. While conveying Escher's interest in the concept of infinity, it also demonstrates his desire to produce two-dimensional drawings that leap off the page. [caption id="attachment_700274" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Eugene Hyland[/caption] SNAKES (ESCHER) Finished in 1969, Snakes was the last work that M.C. Escher would ever produce. But while he might have passed away just a few short years later, this piece demonstrates just how highly advanced his work became. Showcasing Escher's legendary understanding of symmetry and interlocking arrangements, the work features a rotational symmetry as snakes weave their way between an ever-shrinking pattern. Recognising the significance of this artwork, Nendo has produced a specially designed space, Snake House, where a brightly lit pathway serpentines through an otherwise dark room and ends with the work. [caption id="attachment_700126" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sean Fennessy[/caption] ZOOMING HOUSE (NENDO) Serving as a connecting corridor between two of the exhibition's distinct rooms, Zooming House is a vast architectural structure that once again recalls Escher's obsession with perspective and illusion. Following the same house motif seen throughout the exhibition, here the pathway starts as a wide four-metre chasm before gradually shrinking into a tight 55 centimetres. The contrasting black and white pattern amplifies this effect before you turn off into another hypnotic space. [caption id="attachment_700282" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Eugene Hyland[/caption] HOUSE IN PERSPECTIVE (NENDO) Both luminous and reflective, while the floor-to-ceiling rods in this room first appear to be simply an interesting way to display Escher's works, on closer inspection — when viewed from a specific spot in the room — the rods merge together and the form of Nendo's house motif appears. Here, you'll find a selection of Escher's most mind-bending drawings and prints. [caption id="attachment_700133" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sean Fennessy[/caption] GATHERED HOUSE (NENDO) While this grand circular space is dedicated to Escher's many works fixated on the concept of infinity, it's hard to ignore the massive Nendo installation featured in the centre of the room. Constructed from thousands of miniature house motifs, the dazzling installation echoes Escher's artworks presented throughout the space, which explore eclectic geometric loops and images of limitless tessellation. Escher x Nendo: Between Two Worlds is on display at NGV International, St Kilda Road, Melbourne until April 7, 2019. You can grab tickets here.
Since 2011, DJ Tom Loud's travelling dance party Hot Dub Time Machine has ripped up stages the world over, offering a rolling crossfade of the last six decades of pop-music. But seeing as you can't go out and party at a club or even a vineyard at the moment due to the Government's ban on mass gatherings, Hot Dub is bringing the good times to your living room instead. Expect everything from 50s rock 'n' roll tunes to disco hits like ABBA's 'Gimme Gimme Gimme' and Donna Summer's sultry 'I Feel Love'; ballads and some glam rock from the 80s; Alex Dyson cutting aerobics-style moves to 90s hit 'Steal My Sunshine'; Darude's epic 'Sandstorm'; and Britney's 'Toxic' — you get the idea. Sure enough, this online dance party will have you pushing your furniture aside and heating up a makeshift at-home dance floor in no time. To add to the vibe, there'll be disco lights and a live chat going so you can socialise with other partygoers, plus Loud's family dancing in the background, keeping things wholesome. Hot Dub at Home occurs every second Saturday, kicking off a 6pm, and can be viewed on Twitch. Hot Dub has also launched podcast Decades by Hot Dub Time Machine which will keep you grooving till the next online boogie fest rolls around. Top image: Pat Stevenson
Long gone are the days when fries meant, simply, fries. Now, that classic fast food side of golden shoestring chips is up against some pretty tough competition, as kitchens everywhere get a little crafty in the potato department. From fat sweet potato wedges to cheesy haloumi chips to those classic tater tots, piled high with toppings, we've embraced the humble spud in a whole bunch of delicious forms. But not all fries are made equally, so we've teamed up with Zeus Street Greek — makers of traditional Greek fare and exceptional haloumi chips — to find the best in your city. We've rounded up Sydney's best poutine, Melbourne's crunchiest sweet potato chips, Brisbane's favourite kimchi fries and, at the top of the proverbial chip pile, Zeus Street Greek's standout wintry loaded fries — topped with slow-cooked beef brisket, lashings of harissa aioli, feta and fresh — which are available in all three. Ditch the plain ol' shoestring for something a little more special — these fries are a whole lot more than just fries. [caption id="attachment_674236" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Zeus Street Greek, Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane[/caption] HALOUMI CHIPS It's safe to say that salty cheese sensation haloumi has become a staple of the Aussie brunch menu, as at home at your local cafe as the ubiquitous smashed avo or chilli scrambled eggs. But why stop there? We're here to tell you that haloumi's true culinary calling might just be in chip form, as the ultimate cheesy snack. Aussie favourite Zeus Street Greek is dishing up a winning example of haloumi fries, as part of a modern menu that mingles traditional Greek flavours with top local ingredients. A cult favourite at the group's stores nationwide, these haloumi chips are the kind you'll dream about — lengths of that Cypriot cheese are tossed in tapioca flour, lightly fried and teamed with a smoky house-made yoghurt. A few bites of these and you'll wonder why you ever wasted your time on cheese-free chips. [caption id="attachment_676400" align="alignnone" width="1280"] The Thirsty Wolf, Sydney[/caption] POUTINE Born in Quebec and often touted as Canada's national dish, poutine is that glorious mess of mess of french fries, cheese curds and gravy. And while the original concept has sometimes got lost in translation venturing to other parts of the world, we know of a few cracking interpretations to be found right here in your own backyard. For the real deal, pay a visit to Sydney bar and eatery The Thirsty Wolf, where the kitchen is doing those Canadians proud with its traditional offering of chips smothered in real curds and gravy. They'll even let you take things to the next level, loading up on bacon bits or extra cheese for a couple more dollars. Down south, Melbourne's Belleville is dishing up a menu of global-inspired street eats, where poutine sits happily alongside the likes of southern-fried cauliflower and miso-glazed chicken. This reworking of Canada's classic dish features a decadent assembly of beer battered fries, melty cheese and rich chicken gravy, finished with a kick of hot sauce. And while Brisbane's 5 Dogs is best known for its classic American-style hot dogs, you'll find it hard to pass up a go at the poutine chips — here, featuring hot, crisp fries, doused in both cheese and a house-made gravy. [caption id="attachment_676874" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Howler, Melbourne[/caption] SWEET POTATO FRIES As plenty of you will agree, those regular spuds ain't got nothing on sweet potato. Especially when they're cut into fries, salted and deep fried to perfection, with that crisp outer and soft potato middle just begging to be dipped and devoured. The fact they're supposedly a whole lot healthier than the other kind, full of beta-carotene and vitamins — well, that doesn't go astray at all. Luckily, food haunts across the country are coming to the sweet potato party, offering tasty creations that are sure to impress. Up in Sydney, inner west pub The Erko is whipping up fat sweet potato wedges that come drenched in sour cream and sweet chilli sauce — just try and find a better match to a few weekend arvo pints. Brisbane's Newstead Brewing Co is also embracing the humble sweet potato species at its Newstead headquarters, here served in fry form and teamed with a creamy aioli. And at Howler in Melbourne, the kitchen's beloved burger creations are made even better when devoured alongside a serve of their crisp sweet potato fries and chipotle mayo. [caption id="attachment_677570" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Zeus Greek Street (for a limited time only)[/caption] LOADED FRIES The overachievers of the chip family, loaded fries are the kind of dish you go for when only jazzed-up eats will do. And we love seeing just how creative people can get with their toppings. Zeus Street Greek's signature Yia Yia's Chips have a Grecian twist and come topped with oregano and crumbled feta. Until September, you can catch the tweaked version, too: Loaded Yia Yia's Chips. They're decked out with slow-cooked beef brisket, lashings of smoky yoghurt and harissa aioli, and a tumble of feta and fresh chilli to finish. In Melbourne, the Animal Fries at South Yarra burger joint Hello Sam certainly live up to its name, topped with grilled onion, bacon bits, spring onions, grated cheese and a good drizzle of the house McSam sauce. Meanwhile, the supercharged fries at Brisbane's Nom Nom Korean Eatery pays homage to the restaurants Asian roots, decked out with a cream cheese sauce that's cut through with a spicy kick of kimchi. And at the aptly named Loaded by BL in Sydney, a customisable menu means you're faced with a whole lot of choices when it comes to those loaded fries. From potato variety and cheese style to meat toppings and sauces, it's all up to you. But for a super nostalgic treat, take a swing at the porky tots — potato gems topped with liquid cheese, pulled pork, onion, barbecue sauce and a sprinkle of chilli flakes. To find more great traditional Greek fare in your city, head to zeusstreetgreek.com.au.
Houseboats are the aquatic equivalent of packing up a camper and taking yourself where the road leads. Rather than traversing the neverending highways that cut across our broad country, why not try cruising the rivers and waterways that trail like veins through some of the remarkable landscapes Australia has to offer? From fishing on the Ord River to skippering your own sailboat in the Whitsundays, sleeping on a boat opens up a whole new world of adventure holiday. For a cruisy vacation you haven't thought of yet, here are our top ten picks of houseboats around the land, and a couple that aren't technically houseboats, but provide an unmatchable experience on the water nonetheless. FIVE STAR SPA, WISEMAN'S FERRY, NSW Able Houseboats on the Hawkesbury River has a berth for 12 people, and as the name suggests, has a nice spa for soaking while boating. Wiseman's Ferry only takes an hour or so to reach by car from Sydney, so the boat is perfect for a cheeky weekend on the river. A weekend for 12 people on the stunning Hawkesbury River starts at $4820, which is starting to verge on the exxy side, but can you really put a price on happiness? Particularly happiness induced by houseboat? THE RIVERDREAM BOATEL, RENMARK, SA So, there's a luxury houseboat, then there's an insanely luxurious houseboat. Then there's the Riverdream. Boasting five king-sized bedrooms, a spiral staircase that leads you to the control room, a tinted ceiling, central heating, barbecue and everything short of its own helipad, this is the houseboat that Elton John would probably hire if he had any interest in houseboats. Operating along the Murray River, this boat shows off some of the most picturesque landscape that South Australia has to offer, all in the comfort of a floating five star resort. Prices start at $180 per night, per person. OCEAN SPIRIT, HOPE HARBOUR, QLD It's a general rule with boat-bound holidays that the stronger the pun, the better the boat. So Ocean Spirit (from Fantaseas) has to be one of the best boats out there. Ocean Spirit is moored at Hope Harbour, just north of Surfer's Paradise. It has four bedrooms, all lined with leather and panelled with polished wood, plus a barbecue on deck and what's that? A spa? Yep, there's one of those, too. Midweek prices in the normal season start at $3200 for four nights, and the boat can sleep you and 11 friends. CRUISE AWAY, WALPOLE-NORNALUP, WA A houseboat getaway doesn't mean you have to take a whole squad of mates. Instead, tear it up peacefully on the waterways with a romantic getaway for two. Cruise Away, a four-berth houseboat moored in the Walpole-Nornalup National Park on the southern tip of Western Australia, provides ample opportunity for exactly that. Cruise through the park, set off up the rivulets on the dinghy provided, try your hand at fishing for dinner, or simply sit on the deck and soak up the natural beauty of this less-explored landscape. Three nights in the peak season starts at $1225. LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT, KUNUNURRA, WA From the bottom of Australia's western edge to the top, Love At First Sight is a six-berth houseboat moored in Kununurra on the banks of the Ord River. This boat will take you away from the hubbub of urban living into the complete embrace of nature. Keep a line out for bream, catfish and even barramundi to catch yourself your very own dinner. Prices start at $1500 for three nights in peak season. PINK LADY, MILDURA, VIC It's all too often that a holiday house is a stark reminder that you've travelled far from the comforts of home. Pink Lady, however, aims to make this less and less obvious with an injection of what All Seasons Houseboats call the Platinum Indulgence. The boat has all the trimmings necessary for a fancy hotel, including a barbecue, spa, bar and a fitout worthy of a luxury hotel. Prices for a three-night sojourn on the Pink Lady start at $3200, but the upshot of this is that some of this coin goes towards the Breast Cancer Network Australia. HERO, ECHUCA MOAMA, SA Another entry on the list that isn't exactly a houseboat, but worth mentioning nonetheless. Echuca Moama sits on the banks of the Murray River, and has long been known as the paddle steamer capital of Australia, but only by those who knew Australia has a paddle steamer capital. Hero organises overnight stays in the floating hotel, where guests experience the luxury of 1874, the year that Hero was built. The crew do their best to maintain the beautiful interiors, which only accentuate the views of the countryside as they scroll past. The cost of staying on Hero varies, depending on your stay. SCALLYWAG, BLANCHETOWN, SA Although houseboats are an amazing idea for groups, it's always nice to spend a little time with just you and a special someone. In that case, the two-berth Scallywag has you covered. You can crew Scallywag, just the two of you, up the Murray River, soaking in the rugged scrub that lines the riverbanks. The queen bed sits below a panoramic window, so you can watch the moon and stars as you sleep. The roof is decked with timber, so there's plenty of space up there to soak in the sights. Scallywag is moored at Blanchetown, and prices start at $1050 for three nights in the normal period. LEOPARD 48, WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS, QLD Houseboats, given their general lack of the ability to brave any kind of surf, usually stick to rivers and canals. But what if you're feeling like an overnight holiday on the ocean? Bareboating uses the same principals as houseboating, where you acquire yourself a boat, a skipper and crew it yourself, and then return it when you're done. Whitsunday Escape provides everything from sailboats to powered yachts, including the very fancy catamaran, Leopard 48. Nightly rates for the five-star boat start at $1950 per night in the peak season, but when split between 11 mates, that's not too much to pay to captain your own sailboat around the Whitsunday Islands. SOLWAY LASS, WHITSUNDAYS, QLD While not exactly a houseboat, I think we can all agree that the Solway Lass definitely deserves to be on this list. I mean, look at it. It's a pirate ship. Tours start out at Airlie Beach, and the skipper takes you on a three-day voyage around the Whitsunday Islands, so you can cruise about on a 100-year-old pirate ship without worrying about having to steer the thing. The trip carries you to Whitehaven Beach, Hook Island, and through a whole heap of bushwalking opportunities. Prices start at $560 per person for three days with meals included, and accommodates groups of up to 30 people.
After boasting Australia's only run of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, then playing host to a natural history exhibition based on the Fantastic Beasts films, Victoria is set to enchant wannabe wizards and witches again — and muggles, too — with a new Harry Potter-themed experience in 2024. This time, you'll be walking around an illuminated woodland filled with nods to the Wizarding World, with Harry Potter — A Forbidden Forest Experience finally heading Down Under. Accio joy, clearly. Think: Lightscape, which is returning to Melbourne in 2024, but all about the world that's sprung up around the Boy Who Lived on the page, screen and stage. So, with Harry Potter — A Forbidden Forest Experience taking over The Briars, Mount Martha from Saturday, April 6, 2024, attendees will enjoy a nighttime stroll around a 230-hectare property an hour out of Melbourne. Entering the Forbidden Forest is clearly the big attraction, as lit up with dazzling lights, all while also spying creatures from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts movies. A hippogriff will feature, as will nifflers and unicorns, plus the chance to pose for a photo mid-wand duel — and to summon up a patronus spell as well. Accordingly, you won't just be surrounded by all things Wizarding World after dark in a forest; you'll be joining in like every aspiring Hogwarts student has always wanted to. Sounds and special effects will also help bring the experience to life, as aided by award-winning behind-the-scenes folks. Expect to spend around 90 minutes being immersed in the all-ages event — plus however long you need at the onsite shop afterwards buying merchandise. That's part of the village at the end of the trail, where you'll also be able to grab a bite and something to drink. Wands crossed for butterbeer, obviously. Harry Potter — A Forbidden Forest Experience comes to Australia after seasons in the UK, Europe and the US, and a current stint in Singapore, with Warner Bros behind it just like the films and upcoming Harry Potter TV series. Also helping conjure up the fun is events platform Fever, adding to a recent Australian slate spanning Banksy and NBA exhibitions, plus the Unko Museum: The Kawaii Poop Experience. Harry Potter — A Forbidden Forest Experience will take over The Briars, Mount Martha, from Saturday, April 6, 2024, with tickets on sale from 9am AEDT on Wednesday, December 202, 2023 and the waitlist open now. Head to the event's website for further details.
As a drama series, Squid Game might've been the 2021 success that no one knew was coming, but everything that's followed the Netflix hit's popularity doesn't fall into the same category. Of course a second season was greenlit. Of course a television show about 456 people competing to win big was going to spawn a reality TV version that riffed on the concept, but without the death. And of course that IRL take, aka Squid Game: The Challenge, was going to score a second go-around itself. Squid Game: The Challenge arrived for season one in mid-November, dropping its ten episodes in three batches. Ahead of the finale releasing, Netflix has revealed that more is on the way. Keen to take part next time? The streaming platform has also opened the signup process for green tracksuit aficionados. So, let the games begin for a second time, with Squid Game: The Challenge still getting its 456 players competing for a huge cash prize while wearing the appropriate attire, being overseen by red-clad figures, and playing hopscotch, marbles, sugar honeycombs and tug of war. Again, there's no murder, but much otherwise takes its cues, look and feel from 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 how Squid Game: The Challenge plays out even without the compete-to-the-death angle. 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, which will be the case again in season two. How does it work? Again, you already know the details. Those 456 folks — all ordinary people, and not actors — 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 are eliminated as the games go on, and forming strategies and alliances plays 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 overseen by a Front Man, too, because of course it is. Netflix has dubbed it "the biggest reality competition series ever" — and 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. Check out the trailer for the first season of Squid Game: The Challenge: Squid Game: The Challenge streams via Netflix. Season two doesn't yet have a release date, but we'll update you when it does. Squid Game's first season is available to stream via Netflix . Images: Netflix.
Nutella has a legion of fans. Peanut butter, too. But for those who are't so fond of nuts, or happen to be allergic to them, Lotus Biscoff cookie butter spread has emerged as a very worthy alternative. It's made from the crumbs of Lotus Biscoff caramelised biscuits, comes in creamy and crunchy varieties and, understandably, has picked up quite a following. Last year, Australians were also able to enjoy Lotus Biscoff cookie butter spread in their gelato, thanks to a limited-edition flavour at Gelatissimo. In 2021, another team up is bringing the spread to your tastebuds in a creative fashion — this time thanks to Krispy Kreme's new range of Lotus Biscoff doughnuts. If you've ever had trouble choosing between slathering Belgium's Lotus Biscoff cookie butter spread over bread or munching your way through a circular baked good or two, you no longer need to pick — at least while stocks last at Krispy Kreme stores around the country, and at 7-Elevens as well. Two types are available, with the 'Lotus Biscoff Ring' taking an original glazed doughnut, smothering it with Lotus Biscoff spread, and adding a swirl of Lotus Biscoff crème on top. As for the 'Lotus Biscoff Cheesecake' version, it's dipped in the spread, filled with cream cheese frosting, and then topped with Lotus Biscoff crumbs and chocolate ganache. The Lotus Biscoff doughnuts are also available via Krispy Kreme delivery, click and collect, Uber Eats, Menulog and Deliveroo. Krispy Kreme's Biscoff doughnuts are available from all stores nationwide while stocks last (including via Krispy Kreme delivery, click and collect, Uber Eats, Menulog and Deliveroo) and at 7-Eleven stores nationally.
Life became wildly unpredictable and messy for a moment there, but Collingwood's newly opened bathhouse and spa might be just what you need to give stress the flick and start the year off strong. In the bottom levels of a converted Easey Street warehouse, Mary Minas and Freya Berwick have opened the final stage of their wellness hub Sense of Self, with its massage and mindfulness studio opening in the warehouse's top levels in early February. The duo is out to flip the script on the usual wellness concept, with an unpretentious offering that's focused on connection, inclusivity and restoration. As Minas says: "Our vision is to strip the spa experience back to its roots, giving people a place to cultivate a better relationship with their bodies and themselves. Wellness without the BS, essentially." So, put the phone away, get off the 'Gram and give yourself some much-needed attention. Minas spent five months visiting the bathhouses of Europe, Africa and Japan, while botanist-turned-hotelier Berwick spent plenty of time sweating in Scandinavian saunas during her three years in Norway. So, expect influences pulled from all four locations at Sense of Self — and plenty of plants. [caption id="attachment_803436" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jess Tremp[/caption] The facilities at the bathhouse include a Finnish-style sauna at a hot 80 degrees, a large 39-degree mineral bath and a cold plunge pool. Passes give you access to all the facilities, and start at $49 for two hours. Bathing on the weekend will set you back $59 for two hours, or you can get discounted multi-packs from $140 for three. At the not-quite-as-new massage and mindfulness studio, you'll find a menu of body treatments for relaxation, remediation and pregnancy, backed by a soothing lounge area where naps are not just welcomed, but encouraged. Designed by an all-female collective from Set Square Studio, Chamberlain Architects and Hearth Studio, the space is filled with natural timbers, creamy hues, brass highlights, striking taps from Sussex Taps and foliage from the Plant Charmer. Find Sense of Self at 30–32 Easey Street, Collingwood. The bathhouse is open from 7am–9pm Tuesday–Friday and 9am–7pm Saturday–Sunday. The massage studio is open from 11am–8pm Tuesday–Friday and 10am–6pm Saturday–Sunday. Images: Jess Tremp
Finally having international travel back on the radar is one thing, but actually deciding where in the world to jet off to on these first long-awaited post-pandemic adventures? Well, that's been the tough bit. You want somewhere that scratches all those travel itches at once — from kicking back poolside with cocktails and devouring all the foods to exploring natural landscapes and wandering unknown cities. Luckily, we've found the perfect itinerary for all that and more: a road trip through the heart of Southern California, soaking up the best of Los Angeles, Greater Palm Springs and San Diego along the way. The ideal place to dip your toe back into travelling, this destination promises to tick off all those long-held holiday cravings in one neatly wrapped vacay. What's more, with carriers like United Airlines having dramatically increased their regular routes between Australia's east coast and the States, it's now easier than ever to get your travel-starved self over to the USA. Put in your leave request and start dreaming because this one's the full package. LOS ANGELES As a city, LA has big all-rounder energy, with just as much to tempt culture vultures as it does gourmands — and everyone in between, too. So you might as well do it all, right? To kick off your stay with fresh eyes and an illuminating history lesson, take a guided spin through the city with Architecture Tours LA. You'll hit a bunch of iconic architectural spots as you zip around Hollywood, taking a fascinating deep-dive into both its aesthetic and its history. Trust us when we say it'll colour everything else you see on your travels. If your attention's further piqued by the city's movie-making past, there are countless ways to get your kicks, but a trip through the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is a must. Here, you're in for an immersive exploration of LA film culture, guided by a collection of outstanding installations and exhibitions. A culture fix of a different kind lies high up at the famed Getty Center, where you could easily lose a whole weekend meandering through art-filled galleries, roaming the grounds and soaking up unmatched vistas across LA and beyond. Acquaint yourself with more primo views kicking back atop one of LA's countless rooftop bars. A newer addition to the scene is Grandmaster Recorders, brainchild of Icebergs alums Monty and Jaci Kulodrovic. They've transformed a historic recording studio into a wining, dining and partying playground; complete with a contemporary Italo-Aussie restaurant that's making waves, and a rooftop bar pairing standout cocktails with views of the Hollywood sign. Fancy a closer look? You can work off your gastronomic indulgences with a hike up to the famed letters with tour crew Bikes & Hikes LA. It runs both a 90-minute and three-hour experience, promising breathtaking views, top-notch photo opps and the chance to scope out some iconic filming locations. As for resting your head after your jam-packed LA days, you'll find a winner in the Thompson Hollywood. A downright dreamy aesthetic flush with foliage and gold-hued accents graces the lounge and lobby downstairs, while onsite cocktail haunt Bar Lis is a Hollywood party destination in its own right. [caption id="attachment_901177" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Greater Palm Springs[/caption] GREATER PALM SPRINGS Once you've had your fill of bright lights and urban energy, it's time to hit the road and venture a couple hours east to soak up the majestic, windmill-dotted landscape of Greater Palm Springs. To kick things off with a healthy dose of relaxation and a nature fix, get yourself to Desert Hot Springs, where the idyllic Two Bunch Palms resort will help de-stress body and mind — against a serene, leafy backdrop, no less. The property's scattered with mineral pools fed by waters from a 600-year-old natural spring, while the onsite spa serves a menu of healing treatments ranging from chakra-balancing massages to detoxifying adaptogen wraps. Book a night or two in one of the modern cabins to really lean into the experience. More breathtaking nature awaits you on the cruise up San Jacinto Peak, aboard the world's largest rotating aerial tramway. Offering eye-popping panoramas as you climb, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is your go-to for lofty thrills and a truly unique perspective. [caption id="attachment_901178" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Kimpton, Visit Greater Palm Springs[/caption] The buzz and colour of downtown Palm Springs proves equally infectious as you explore the sophisticated homewares stores and lively streetside dining spaces. For vibrant Southern Cali fare and guaranteed pup cuddles, make a date with Boozehounds — a sprawling indoor-outdoor venue that's filled with foliage, does a mean margarita and is about as dog-friendly as they come. Time your visit right and you can feast all your senses simultaneously at one of PS Underground's riotous themed dining experiences, which dish up live tunes, considered eats and a whole lotta fun. You might find yourself singing along through an Elvis-inspired dinner party, or perhaps feeling the love at a time-tripping Woodstock-themed gala. For a luxe sleepover — or simply just a few poolside cocktails matched with views from the highest point in town — head to the Kimpton Rowan Hotel. It's a plush, modern stay right in the heart of the action, boasting a collection of top-notch wining and dining offerings, including a stellar rooftop pool deck and bar. [caption id="attachment_901187" align="alignnone" width="1920"] San Diego Tourism Authority[/caption] SAN DIEGO Another two-hour road-trip south delivers you right into the beer-loving urban heart and soul of San Diego. The buzzing bayside city is a multifaceted one that's generous in a vast array of offerings — from the culinary to the cultural and plenty in between. Catch the city's coastal charms on full display with a session on the water with the San Diego Sailing Tours crew. With the wind whipping your hair, sun on your face and a bay full of gliding boats as your backdrop, you'll score an unmatched perspective of your holiday base. Then, you'll want to set aside at least a day to immerse yourself in the abundant offerings of famed cultural precinct Balboa Park. From the Institute of Contemporary Art and the Museum of Us, to the San Diego Natural History Museum and Fleet Science Center, the 1200-acre site is a treasure trove of cultural goodness. [caption id="attachment_901184" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Joanne DiBona for San Diego Tourism Authority[/caption] If you don't mind a queue, one spot to put on your breakfast radar is Morning Glory — a bold, high-energy eatery in the Little Italy district that takes no bookings but totally excels at creatively-charged brunch fare. Pancakes are a specialty here, including a supremely fluffy souffle version, while savoury fiends can look forward to the likes of a lobster omelette and the calzone-like khachapuri. Another culinary highlight sits 12 storeys up at Mr A's Restaurant — a fine-dining institution set atop the Manchester Building, where modern European flavours are heroed against sweeping views of the glittering city skyline. It's quite the show-stopper. [caption id="attachment_901188" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kimberly Motos for San Diego Tourism Authority[/caption] If you're a sucker for absolute ocean frontage, well-crafted drinks and food with some serious flair, make the trip up to La Jolla to be swept up in the elegant charms of The Marine Room. Perched right on the water, this iconic venue's restaurant is a must for special occasions — though watching the waves crash in from a front-row seat in the Lounge, enjoying small plates and memorable cocktails, makes for a pretty magical evening, too. And of course, if you've got a penchant for craft beer, consider this city your paradise, with a beer bar or brewery located on just about every corner of Downtown. From international names like Stone and Ballast, to smaller homegrown champions such as Pizza Port and Societe, there's enough here to keep even the fussiest beer fiend supremely satisfied. To base yourself in the heart of the action, try the chic home-away-from-home that is The Pendry San Diego — a Downtown gem with an aesthetic that deftly fuses modern luxury and old-world elegance. It also boasts a whole sparkling collection of hospitality venues located right onsite. Top image: Visit Greater Palm Springs Concrete Playground traveled as a guest of United Airlines, LA Tourism and Convention Board, Visit Greater Palm Springs and San Diego Tourism Authority.
Morning brown, morning brown, this bit of news is better than a cup of morning brown — because Aunty Donna is returning to your TV. After gifting your streaming queue one of the best new shows of 2020, aka Netflix's Aunty Donna's Big Ol' House of Fun, the Australian comedy group is teaming up with one of the country's national broadcasters on a new sitcom. Yes, Mark Samual Bonanno, Broden Kelly and Zachary Ruane are heading to the ABC. The fact that the network is also known as Aunty is obviously incredibly apt — and it isn't the first time that the two have joined forces, with Aunty Donna's Fresh Blood hitting iView back in 2014. This time, Bonanno, Kelly and Ruane are headed to the ABC for a show called Aunty Donna's Untitled Project, a half-hour series that'll see the trio star in a Melbourne-set comedy. The premise: three best mates run a cafe in one of Melbourne's laneways. Their coffee-slinging establishment is trendy, but the stretch of pavement it's in on isn't. You can expect cups of morning brown to be served. Hopefully, the song about them will get a whirl. Will the cafe be open on Christmas and serve up a little bit of pud, too? You'll have to watch to find out. As soon as Neighbours ended it opened a lot of doors for us. — Aunty Donna (@AuntyDonnaBoys) August 24, 2022 This new show will be replacing the highly rated ABC @BreakfastNews show — Aunty Donna (@AuntyDonnaBoys) August 24, 2022 Announcing the news, Aunty Donna said: "we make show, you will love." Hey, it worked with Aunty Donna's Big Ol' House of Fun. Fingers crossed that Aunty Donna's Untitled Project proves just as absurd — although Aunty Donna seem incapable of creating anything else, hilariously so. [caption id="attachment_791048" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Aunty Donna's Big Ol' House of Fun, Netflix[/caption] "ABC audiences first got a taste of Aunty Donna in 2014 in Fresh Blood, so we couldn't be more excited to have them back where they belong and to be the home of their first narrative comedy series. Strap yourselves in... this is going to be a wild ride," said ABC Head of Comedy Todd Abbott. Aunty Donna's Untitled Project is set to air on ABC TV and ABC iview sometime in 2023, with exact dates yet to be announced. In the interim, you can check out the announcement video for the series below: Aunty Donna's Untitled Project is set to hit ABC and ABC iView sometime in 2023 — we'll update you when an exact release date is announced.
The popularity of Harry Potter has proven as enduring as comparable world-beating IP like Star Wars, for which the audience's appetite for newness and further exploration of the world has no apparent ceiling. Case in point: the epic two-part production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child has enjoyed a huge run in Melbourne's Princess Theatre since debuting in February 2019. The production estimated 326,500 theatre-goers experienced the show in the first year alone — not bad for a play with a five-and-a-half hour run time. The two-parter finally wraps up its run this month with the final show on March 27. But, fortunately for theatre lovers and Potter stans alike: as one Cursed Child closes, another one opens! Tickets are now on sale for the new, condensed version of the play opening at the Princess Theatre from May 4, 2022 — a one-part iteration that's currently in the midst of a hugely successful Broadway run. The run time for the reimagined version comes in at far more manageable three-and-a-half hours (including one interval) and, while a third of the length has been removed, none of the magic has. It's the same story, just streamlined. And the brilliant Australian cast from the two-parter is almost entirely the same. So, what exactly is The Cursed Child about? The story picks up 19 years after Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Harry is now a Ministry of Magic employee, married to Ginny Weasley and the play focuses on his youngest son Albus Severus Potter coming of age at Hogwarts in the shadow of his famous father, as both father and son grapple with the past and the future. It's a fantastic production with plenty of heart, humour and incredibly well-executed magic, which is a credit to those pulling the literal and figurative strings (ropes?) behind the scenes. The new shorter format will mean a much wider audience can experience what is destination theatre-going. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is playing at Melbourne's Princess Theatre in its two-part form, running until Sunday, March 27, 2022. It switches to a one-session production from May 4, 2022, with tickets for the latter on sale now. For more information, head to the play's website. Top image: Tim Carrafa. Cast images by Dan Boud.
After eight years in business, Footscray's Hop Nation Brewing Co is giving its taproom a major makeover. The new space, which opens on Thursday, September 28, will feature a spacious open-plan brewhouse, room for events with up to 50 people and a new purpose-built kitchen helmed by ex-Figlia Pizzeria chef Alex Addams Williams. Called Good Pizza, the kitchen will focus on woodfired pizzas using a long-ferment dough process, with both thin and thick crust options available. Addams Williams and Hop Nation encourage you to get creative with your order, as they reckon that everyone has their own idea of a "good pizza" — so loading up with wild ingredients isn't frowned upon, but actually encouraged (just please leave the pineapple on pizza debate in 2012 where it belongs). Hop Nation closed its doors on Sunday, August 27 to allow for the renovation — but fans of the Hop needn't fret, as it is still around for takeaways in the interim. The revamp itself is being handled by Studio Y, with "Brooklyn warehouse-meets-Melbourne brewery" the ultimate vision. The made-over taproom will have 17 beers on tap, including seasonal brews such as Grapefruit West Coast IPA and Guava, Dragon Fruit & Toasted Coconut sour, as well as a few hard seltzers. Punters can also enjoy the newly released Footscray Draft, created to pay image to the brewery's home suburb. And of course, the full Hop Nation core range will also be available. Hop Nation's revamped taproom will also host a number of events, including a party on the AFL Grand Final (which falls nicely on opening weekend). Footy fans needn't worry about a subpar viewing experience either, as the game will be projected onto the walls. Other events to look forward to include a Oktoberfest-style shindig that will feature three European-style beers, such as a limited release Kellerbier and Czech pilsner. Regular events span new limited-release beers on tap every fortnight and "Hoppy Hour" drinks every Thursday and Friday from 3–6pm. "We can't wait to welcome our neighbours, beer lovers and pizza aficionados to the newly renovated Hop Nation Taproom for some good pizza, good times and obviously some damn good Hop Nation beer," says co-founder Sam Hambour. Hop Nation was founded by two former winemakers, Duncan Gibson and the aforementioned Hambour, with the pair releasing their first beer in 2015. When the brand took over a brewing site in Mornington in 2020, too, it created more room for renovations to occur in the Footscray taproom. Find Hop Nation Brewing Co at Unit 6/107–109 Whitehall Street, Footscray. It will reopen on Thursday, September 28, operating 3–9.30pm Thursday–Sunday
Get ready for "the Super Bowl of stripping", Channing Tatum's latest excuse to get shirtless and the culmination of a franchise about male dancers chasing the American dream — and endeavouring to bring women pleasure — one scantily clad routine at a time. Magic Mike is back for another ride, and another stint onstage, too, courtesy of the the series' third and final flick Magic Mike's Last Dance. Initially confirmed back in November 2021, this threequel brings Tatum (The Lost City) as Mike Lane, the saga's consistent source of smooth, sultry and sweaty moves while wearing very little. As the just-dropped first trailer shows, this time around he's bartending to get by, and hiding that six-pack under the required garb, until he shows his latest love interest (Salma Hayek, House of Gucci) what he's really good at — and she convinces him to get back to what he loves. No, Ginuwine's 90s banger 'Pony' doesn't get another workout in Magic Mike's Last Dance's first sneak peek. Yes, there's another dose of art imitating life here, which has always been the Magic Mike franchise's remit. The initial 2012 hit took its cues from Tatum's own time stripping in Tampa, Florida before becoming a famous actor, and this flick nods to the fact that that movie and its 2015 sequel Magic Mike XXL spawned their own Tatum-produced live show. If you somehow missed the first movie a decade ago, it became one of 2012's most perceptive flicks. The Matthew McConaughey, Matt Bomer, Joe Manganiello and Alex Pettyfer-starring film unsurprisingly became a box-office success, too, with its combination of blue collar struggles and gyrating on-stage antics striking a chord to the tune of $167.2 million in takings. It was then followed by Magic Mike XXL, which did indeed manage to live up to its name — not merely by doubling down on what made the first movie such a success, but by also shrewdly recognising the power of the female gaze. Filmmaker Steven Soderbergh (Kimi, No Sudden Move) directed, shot and edited the initial movie, then just shot and edited the second; however, he's sitting back in the helmer's chair for Magic Mike's Last Dance. Also returning is screenwriter Reid Carolin, who has done the honours all the entire franchise so far. As for when you can see the Magic Mike series' last go-around, the bumping and grinding will arrive in cinemas Down Under in February. Savvily, it's timed just before Valentine's Day. Check out the first trailer for Magic Mike's Last Dance below: Magic Mike's Last Dance will release in cinemas Down Under on February 9, 2023.
There's no doubt Melbourne's hospitality scene is one of those doing it particularly tough right now, with restrictions halting all dine-in trade since late March (apart from that brief window back in June) and the latest lockdown extended beyond what was originally anticipated. What's more, the Victorian Government's roadmap to reopening — which it unveiled on Sunday, September 6 — suggests that Melburnians are still over a month away from being able to sit down to a meal at an actual restaurant. According to the timeline, hospitality venues will be allowed to reopen from Monday, October 26 at the earliest. And, even then, it'll be for predominantly outdoor table service and with density limits in place. More recently, the government announced some good news: a $187 million in support packages to help boost outdoor dining across the city and the City of Melbourne shared some more details about what that might look like over the weekend. Here, we chat to the staff at six local venues about what the next few months (and years) could look like for them. ELLIE WOODRUFF, FUNCTIONS MANAGER, RICE PAPER SCISSORS (FITZROY) AND RICE PAPER SISTER (CBD) For Ellie Woodruff of modern Southeast Asian restaurants Rice Paper Scissors and Rice Paper Sister, the timeline spelt out on the roadmap was "a tough blow". "We miss serving our guests," Woodruff told Concrete Playground. And, while the team's keen to open as soon as it's safe to do so, it knows there'll be limitations to navigate. "It's still unclear whether the October date will mean anything for us," Woodruff says. "If the density quotient... is kept, and we are only allowed to seat diners in our outdoor areas, it would mean eight-to-ten guests per restaurant, which doesn't make it feasible for us to open." Plus, the costs involved in reopening — think, new contactless ordering systems, staff retraining, stock etc — leave little room for second chances. "Last time we did all this and only stayed open for four weeks before going back into lockdown," Woodruff explains. "It was crushing for morale. This time, it is absolutely critical that when we open, we remain open." Desperate to get their staff back into work and with these cash flow issues looming, that opening date can't come quick enough. "Our profitability is nothing compared to when we are open, so there's really only so long we can remain in this situation before we reach a breaking point," Woodruff says. In the meantime, like so many, Rice Paper Scissors has even extended free delivery on its new Weekender Boxes, which contain everything you need to whip up your choice of five signature dishes, plus a cheeky breakfast creation, for $50. GERRY NASS, OWNER, THE ROBERT BURNS HOTEL (COLLINGWOOD) Another owner who's concerned about the lack of clarity in the government's reopening timeline is the Robert Burns Hotel's Gerry Nass. "It's not a roadmap. It's a 'what if'," he says. As with most, the struggle to stay afloat has been tough for his venue and team. "We are open, but seeing only about ten percent of sales with home delivery and takeaway," explains Nass. "Everyone is working on limited hours and all our casuals are driving deliveries." He made the decision to steer clear of third-party services and has kept his operations local, right through Melbourne's latest stretch of restrictions. Looking ahead, Nass says he's happy to cop any necessary venue density limits as long as he gets to open those doors. "We are already good at managing a regulated industry. We can deal with opening at a limited capacity," he says, remembering the three brief, but busy weeks the pub enjoyed when restricted dine-ins were allowed back in June. "The seats were limited, yes, and everyone had to follow new rules, but it worked. We also only opened five days to keep the wages down so staff would only work four days a week. Everyone was taking less, but all were well rested which is something hospitality is not used to. And the mood was great and there was hope." While the pub is waiting to make a proper return to those days of old, it continues dishing up the goods for its regulars with a menu of home-delivered pub classics, bottled cocktails and tap beer. LUKE STEPSYS, OWNER, FEAST OF MERIT (RICHMOND) AND PANAMA DINING ROOM (FITZROY) As the owner of two very different venues, Feast of Merit and Panama Dining Room, Luke Stepsys admits the roadmap has made any planning difficult. "Like any business currently closed, it would be foolish to develop or implement any type of plan for reopening," he says, adding that the government's firm approach and strict timeline "gives us absolutely no certainty for the future." While Stepsys supports keeping lockdowns in place until the state starts clocking more manageable case numbers, he's also wary about the targets its required to meet. "I fear this benchmark will be the death of small businesses in Melbourne, including the hospitality industry," he explains. "I look towards NSW, and feel so much envy." When Concrete Playground talked to the venue owner prior to the Victorian Government unveiling its new outdoor hospitality support package this week, he was unsure about the viability of a move to predominantly outdoor service. "The outside dining plan sounds wonderful in theory, but reality says it won't work in Melbourne for most operators," Stepsys predicts, outlining issues like the city's sketchy weather and limiting contact between diners passing foot traffic. While he suggests that closing streets and creating pop-up outdoor dining precincts could work in certain areas, he's aware that some venues — like his own third-storey Fitzroy warehouse eatery — have very few options for al fresco service. So, Stepsys is holding tight and waiting for the government's green light. If that was pushed out to the end of November, both of Stepsys' venues would have been closed for 29 weeks this year, still racking up overheads of $10,000 to $15,000 per week. He admits he's lucky to be in a position to bounce back from this, with close to 100 weddings and events already booked for Panama Dining Room next year. "But I really feel for the state of my industry," he says. "I know of so many owners who are really struggling financially and mentally." FUMI TAMURA, CO-OWNER, TAMURA SAKE BAR (FITZROY) At Fitzroy's Tamura Sake Bar, owners Fumi and Takako Tamura had largely accepted there'd be a lengthy wait on the return of normal dine-in trade, but say they still feel the pinch of the roadmap and its targets. Fumi admits his initial reaction was simply, "shiiiiiiiiit". As a Japanese venue that usually operates with a large portion of Japanese staff, they're looking at some additional staffing challenges. "We'll be in the difficult situation [of finding] chefs and front staff who are aware of Japanese authenticity, with food and sake knowledge," explains Fumi. "Most Japanese students and working holiday visa holders left the country and they won't be able to come back in." Like many, Tamura has had to change its offerings, shifting from a craft sake bar to a takeaway eatery focused on sushi, sashimi and other Japanese deli-style fare that can be enjoyed fresh at home. But while the takeaway and delivery is working a treat during lockdown, and looks set to stick around even after reopening, Fumi admits he's itching to see the venue return to its true calling. "It will be hard to keep our motivation to work in this situation if we are only trading as a takeaway business. It is more about the culture and connection with our customers through our food, sake and music," he says. "We still feel love coming straight back from our customers during these lockdown takeaway trades, but we can easily lose the passion if we can't see our near future being back as it was, [with] happy customers around our bar counter." If an October 26 reopening gets the green light, Tamura Sake Bar fans can look forward to being greeted by all that passion, along with a new seasonal menu and a revamped dining concept making the most of outdoor service. DAVID BARTL, CO-OWNER, THE ASCOT LOT (ASCOT VALE) AND YET-TO-LAUNCH HOLMES HALL (MOONEE PONDS) Dave Bartl calls the government's roadmap "heartbreaking", as his food truck park sits shuttered since April and his new venture has waited over seven months to host its own grand opening. While Bartl and his co-owners are hoping that the largely outdoors Ascot Lot will be able to meet any density requirements and open up from October 26, there's likely to be a much bigger wait on the launch of the new 400-seat Holmes Hall, unless enough adjacent footpaths and car parks can be converted into dining spaces. "As much as we can't wait to start trading, it's really important to us that after almost two years of dreaming, we don't settle for something that isn't anywhere near what we've been working towards," Bartl explains. "So we'll be patient." Bartl predicts the challenges after reopening will be similar for many: "finding the balance between a COVID-safe environment that is also financially viable." There are plenty of extra costs involved in simultaneously delivering table service and meeting new health requirements, too — and then there's Melbourne's sketchy weather. "The outdoor dining option, whilst sending a ray of hope, is always a little scary as we've found from operating The Ascot Lot," he explains. "It is often hard to build a stable and consistent trade in a very weather dependent venue. Hopefully Melburnians just remember that we need their support and they brave the slightly colder days to get out and about anyway. I'm confident they will after being locked up inside for months this year." [caption id="attachment_783653" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brad Hammond by Simon Shiff[/caption] BRAD HAMMOND, GENERAL MANAGER, THE ALBERT PARK HOTEL (ALBERT PARK) The pandemic's timing has been especially unfortunate for owners of the newly revamped Albert Park Hotel, which had barely opened its doors before the industry started to shut down back in autumn. General Manager Brad Hammond says that while he knows the timeline is necessary, it's disappointing after so much time already spent locked down. And he suspects things will be even tougher should venues be restricted to only outside dining at the start. "There is another six weeks before we can trade and even then to not have anyone through the doors [would be] a hard pill to swallow," admits Hammond. "That said, we are lucky to have a decent outside space to make the most of the restrictions thereafter." The pub's main challenges have been retaining its staff, many of whom are on visas and have little other support during lockdown. "We were particularly unlucky with the timing of our launch and it means only a fraction of our team were eligible for Jobkeeper," he says. "The longer it goes, the more fallout we see." A takeaway and delivery service has helped keep some of the staff in work, though there'll still be plenty of rebuilding required when things pick up again. While Hammond knows the financial implications of these extended lockdowns are grim, the venue's also fortunate to be in a position to bounce back when the time comes. "We're lucky to be a part of a great community and the people of Albert Park and the surrounding areas have really been behind us," he says. "Whenever we do come out the other side it's going to be one hell of a party." Top image: Tamura Sake Bar by Kate Shanasy
If you're feeling stressed, but the standard 'sit still' meditation practice just isn't for you, try embracing some meditative movement instead with a little help from dance studio Moving Essence. The group has been running its popular 5Rhythms dance classes for years, but thanks to a certain pandemic, it has made the switch online and is now bringing the dance floor to your living room. Normally held at Abbotsford Convent, the Sunday Sweat edition is one that's been reimagined as a Zoom class, running for two hours from 10am, one Sunday a month. Sign up, clear a four-metre space in your house and prepare to sweat out all that extra tension. Participants will dive into a one-hour free-form dance session, guided by the music, followed by a second 60-minute experience that's usually shaped by a more specific intention or theme. The idea is that as you lose yourself in the tunes and let your body follow the rhythm, you'll give expression to your feelings and sink into a restorative moving meditation. And if ever there was a time for that, it's right now, during lockdown 2.0. Images: Mischa Baka
In an era rife with greenwashing, marketing buzzwords like 'sustainable' or 'eco-friendly' are readily thrown around (and rarely mean much). That makes Australia's first 1 Hotel special: an inside with a palpable connection to the outside. The 1 Hotels brand began in Miami in 2015 and was founded by Barry Sternlicht, the current chairman of Starwood Capital Group. Sternlicht's vision was a luxury hotel constructed from reclaimed materials and with nature-led design in mind — a place where comfort and sustainability walk hand-in-hand. A decade later, the franchise comprises 19 locations across North America, Europe and the Asia Pacific region — the latest addition being a heritage-listed site along Melbourne's Yarra River. "We've created a waterfront destination that immerses guests in nature while celebrating the city's rich legacy and forward-thinking spirit," says Sternlicht of the Melbourne site. "This hotel [is about] how travel can inspire a deeper commitment to the world around us. The water inspires calm and serenity, which is what our brand is meant to convey: an oasis for travellers to escape the rigours of travel." [caption id="attachment_1013298" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The facade of 1 Hotel Melbourne.[/caption] 1 Hotel Melbourne is housed inside (and on top of) the heritage-listed Goods Shed No.5, the last of the unrenovated 1800s goods sheds that once made up Melbourne's busiest port. The hotel's industrial elements — bluestone pavers, steel trusses, timber doors salvaged from the original build — are juxtaposed against natural materials used throughout. Wicker, wood and tactile textiles like bouclé and jute make up the furnishings on the riverfront deck outside and in the Crane Bar & Lounge, From Here by Mike restaurant and Upstairs bar. 4,500 square metres of reclaimed timber is used in the cladding and furnishings. Beyond the interior design choices, living elements breathe a sense of tranquillity into 1 Hotel Melbourne — the vaulted ceilings of the shed allow for indoor trees (already impressive in their infancy), while real moss adorns the frame of each of the hotel's room doors. There are more than 7,000 plants inside the venue, reinforcing the hotel's biophilic approach. [caption id="attachment_1013302" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Crane Bar & Lounge.[/caption] Inside the rooms, careful choices have been made to encourage, but not demand, that guests make sustainable choices. There's filtered water on tap, complete with a carafe and glasses made from recycled wine bottles, an hourglass timer in the shower, and a plaque for the 1 Hotel's 1 Less Thing program — simply place it on top of any unwanted items to ensure they're donated to a local charity store. Instead of a typical synthetic room key and a cardboard 'Do Not Disturb' sign, you'll instead receive a circular wooden token key and a rock to place outside your door if you'd like some privacy. [caption id="attachment_1013301" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The 1 Hotel pool, sauna and steam room.[/caption] The commitment to being eco-friendly extends to the Bamford (a sustainable skin and body care brand) products throughout the hotel, including in the Bamford Wellness Spa — a haven of wellness, tranquillity and self-care hidden on level three. In addition to the spa, all guests also have access to a full gym, pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room. Though you'll be within walking distance of some of Melbourne's best drinking and dining at 1 Hotel Melbourne, the hotel's From Here by Mike restaurant is a must-visit. Chef Mike McEnearney has constructed a seasonally rotating menu that champions ethically sourced, hyperlocal produce — complemented by a similarly intentional drinks list featuring over 40 Victorian winemakers. Expect an exciting fusion menu, spanning the full gamut of European to Asian culinary influences. [caption id="attachment_1013297" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The vintage five-year ribeye at From Here By Mike.[/caption] Images: 1 Hotel
One of the most controversial figures in the Australian political landscape will be the subject of a documentary that is currently seeking funding. The brainchild of AFTRS graduate Elizabeth McCarthy, I Dream of Gina aims to get up close and personal with everyone's favourite billionaire mining heiress, Gina Rinehart. While outspoken on topics like climate change (she's yet to be convinced) and the poor (they should stop sitting around the pub complaining), Rinehart is notoriously private when it comes to her personal life. McCarthys says this is what drew her to the subject in the first place. "I'm attracted to things that are challenging, and documenting a subject of this nature is kind of a David and Goliath tale," McCarthy tells us. "What can we really say about those that are so inaccessible? How do we tell a story about them? How do we find out information about them? How do we hold them to account?" Of course, with the latest federal budget taking a big chunk out of arts funding, burgeoning documentarians have to turn elsewhere to get their projects off the ground. Enter Pozible. "The beauty of crowdfunding for something like this is that she's a very controversial figure," says McCarthy. "Everyone has an opinion." With not long left until her Pozible campaign runs out, McCarthy needs ever dollar she can get to reach her $25,000 target. To see if it's a cause that you'd like to throw a few bucks to, we hashed it out with the filmmaker. Apart from the best name ever, what else can we expect from this project? Gina's Vision For Australia "The thing that really ignited my interest was when she wrote a poem in 2012," says McCarthy, referring to the now infamous work Rinehart had engraved on a 30-tonne iron-ore boulder that was described by one user on Wikipedia as "the universe's worst poem". In the sixteen line opus entitled Our Future, Rinehart bemoaned the "political hacks" that were "sending Australian investment, growth and jobs offshore," while making an impassioned plea for "special economic zones… before it is too late." "This poem outlined a vision for Australia," says McCarthy. "I was curious as to what this vision meant, how close it was to being realised, and what other kinds of strong visions there might be for Australia. She became a figure [through which] to look at where we're going as a country, through issues such as media ownership, renewable energy, climate [and] workers' rights." Personal Politics Naturally, any film about someone like Rinehart is going to be informed by a director's personal politics. "Personally I'm critical of the undue power and influence of the resource sector at a time when we're really at a crossroad in terms of climate," says McCarthy. "The latest budget is evidence of the way in which the government is making policy based on ideology. They're cutting renewable energy targets, yet the mining industry gets to keep their diesel subsidies." At the same time, McCarthy doesn't want the film to be one-sided. "I'm not necessarily suggesting with the film that there is only one answer, or that I know what the answer is," she explains. "I'm not out to demonise Gina Rinehart. She's very much a product of her father's politics, and a by-product of a very rich and privileged world. But then that begs the question, should she be in Abbott's ear saying welfare needs to be cut?" A Whole Heap of Public Support It certainly helps the McCarthy's project comes on the heels of such an unpopular federal budget. "It doesn't sit well with people when you have so many losers in this budget," says McCarthy. "The arts community, the young, the old, the sick, and then you see that mining is well protected from the pain that everyone is meant to be shouldering. It's definitely a provocative film in the sense that it's challenging that world view, that ideology." A peak in public interest makes the Pozible campaign well-timed. In order to incentivise people to contribute, McCarthy is offering various donor rewards, including digital and DVD copies of the finished film, Gina Rinehart stubby holders and, at $200, a tarot reading. "The tarot thing was something that we were playing around with in terms of Gina's vision for Australia, and what does your future entail," explains McCarthy with a laugh. "Because really one of the big themes of the film is pushing this idea of 'what kind of future do we want?'" To find out more about I Dream of Gina, including information on how to donate, visit the film's Pozible page here.
My my, how can you resist this? MAMMA MIA! The Musical is bringing its Greek-set onstage party back to Australia in 2023 — and if you're a musical fan, an ABBA devotee or perennially keen to indulge in 70s nostalgia, you'll want to be there. By now, the hit production is well-known around the world, including from previous Aussie runs. It has spawned not one but two movies, too. And, its tale of a young bride-to-be's quest to find her father before her wedding will liven up Sydney Lyric from next autumn. So far, only a Sydney season has been locked in for MAMMA MIA! The Musical's Australian return, starting in May 2023. For folks outside the Harbour City, cross your fingers that this restaging of the popular 2017 production will also take its romantic chaos and 22 ABBA tracks around the country — or, you'll need to take a chance on a Sydney trip. Here we go again with one of the biggest jukebox musical hits of the past quarter-century, as seen by over 65 million people worldwide so far. The story, as theatre audiences have enjoyed since 1999, follows 20-year-old Sophie, who is about to marry her fiancé Sky on the fictional Greek island of Kalokairi. It's her dream for her dad to walk her down the aisle, but courtesy of her mother Donna's old diary, she learns that her father could be one of three men: Sam Carmichael, Bill Austin or Harry Bright. Calling all dancing queens, obviously — with that track, the titular number, and everything from 'Money, Money, Money', 'Thank You for the Music', 'Super Trouper' and 'The Name of the Game' to 'SOS', 'Does Your Mother Know', 'Waterloo' and 'Knowing Me, Knowing You' featuring (and 'Take a Chance on Me', 'The Winner Takes It All' and, of course, 'I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do', too). The new Australian run hails from producers Michael Coppel, Louise Withers and Linda Bewick, plus Helpmann Award-winning director Gary Young, choreographer Tom Hodgson and musical supervisor Stephen Amos. Exactly who'll be playing Sophie, Donna, Sam, Bill and Harry hasn't yet been revealed — but if you already know and love the show and the soundtrack, that won't matter. MAMMA MIA! The Musical plays Sydney Lyric from May 2023, with tickets on sale from Thursday, November 24. For further details or to join the waitlist, head to the production's website. Images: James D Morgan.
What a difference two years can make. For all the reasons we all know and have lived through, that's been the theme during since March 2020. Jump back to January that year and no one would've even dreamed that Australia's international borders would close for almost two years, for instance — or that getting swabbed for a respiratory virus would become a requirement for entering the country. The nation reopened its international borders to double-vaccinated travellers back in February 2022, so that's one step back to normality. Come Sunday, April 17, the COVID-19 testing requirement will be scrapped, too. At a press conference today, Friday, March 25, Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt announced that the Commonwealth Government would no longer be renewing its biosecurity emergency determination — aka the legal implement that allows a number of our recent pandemic rules and restrictions to be put in place — which means that pre-departure testing for international travellers will cease. "The country is ready to move on from the emergency declaration made two years and one month ago. I will not be renewing the biosecurity emergency determination," said Hunt. "That's on strong advice from Professor Kelly [Professor Paul Kelly, Australia's Chief Medical Officer] and our other medical advisers; the unanimous advice that was given to me and discussed with the national security committee of cabinet," he advised. So, whether you're jetting off on an overseas getaway — perhaps to a spot like Bali that no longer has quarantine requirements for holidaying Aussies — or you've got friends and family who've been putting off visiting, it's all about to get easier. At the very least, it won't involved getting swabbed before you hop on a flight Down Under. Also, the prohibition on cruise lines operating out of Australia will lift as well — if that's the kind of trip you've been dreaming of. That said, testing requirements for other countries are obviously still up to them. As a result, wherever you're heading to — if international vacations now look much more enticing — may still have its own testing requirements. Proof of double-vaccination will still be required to enter Australia, and masks will remain mandatory on domestic and international flights. Australia will drop its pre-departure testing requirement for entering the country from overseas on Sunday, April 17. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website.
