When you hear the word 'aurora', there are two possible things that pop into your mind. A lot of people will be reminded of fantastical images of the Northern Lights that colour the skies of Scandinavia — they're actually making their way over the UK right now. Then again, many of us will think of nothing other than Superintendent Chalmers yelling 'aurora borealis'. And, in our books, both are satisfactory responses. But what may not cross your mind is the lesser talked about aurora australis — the Southern Lights. Equally as magical and much closer to home, this phenomenal feat of nature may be visible from Australia and New Zealand this week. This Wednesday, NASA reported a huge sun flare that is currently hurtling its way towards Earth. As the ABC report, "the blast has sheared off a few billion tons of the sun's outer layer ... [it's] heading towards Earth at a speed of about 4 million kilometres per hour". And, while this sounds completely terrifying to anyone not well-versed in science, it's apparently a pretty good thing for those watching the skies. Once they arrive at Earth, the remnants of the blast could manifest themselves as beautiful auroras. NASA's already getting a preview of the show: The hot tip so far is to head to Tasmania, and locals are on high alert. Boasting over 14,000 members, the Aurora Australis Tasmania Facebook group is in constant chatter about the best place to see the magical lights and at what time they might strike. Though no definite auroras have been reported so far, the views aren't bad at all. Magaret Sonnemann, founder of the group and published author on the topic, is showing particular faith in the light's arrival. "We haven't seen an event like this for several years and we have no idea when it might occur again," she said. Though the event is incredibly difficult to predict, it's definitely worth keeping your eyes on the sky this week. Views like this would set the bar really high for next year's Dark Mofo. Via ABC. Images: Seabird NZ, 'J', Image Editor, Jonathan Esling Photography via photopin cc.
Australia, you will feel it coming after all: in what's been a chaotic time for fans keen to see Abel 'The Weeknd' Tesfaye Down Under, the musician is finally bringing his After Hours Til Dawn tour this way. Come October 2024, the Canadian singer-songwriter and The Idol star will hit the country for four gigs, playing two in Melbourne, then another two in Sydney. The details for your diary: The Weeknd will take to the stage at Marvel Stadium in the Victorian capital across Saturday, October 5–Sunday, October 6, then do the same at Accor Stadium in the New South Wales capital on Tuesday, October 22–Wednesday, October 23. Missing from the rescheduled tour dates is a Brisbane stop, which is no longer happening "due to schedule and logistical constraints", tour promoter Live Nation has advised. [caption id="attachment_970220" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hyghly Allene[/caption] It was this time last year that The Weeknd announced that his latest massive stadium tour was on its way to both Australia and New Zealand in November and December 2023 — even adding extra shows before general tickets went on sale — only for it to be postponed just two weeks out "due to unforeseen circumstances" without new dates being set. Then, in April 2024, the tour was cancelled for the time being, with ticketholders receiving refunds. "The Weeknd After Hours Til Dawn Tour for Australia and New Zealand is still in process of being rescheduled," said a statement on the Ticketek website earlier in the year, leaving hope then that the tour might be announced again in the future. "Whilst we continue to work through the rescheduling process with the artist, tickets for the existing 2023 tour will be cancelled. All purchased tickets will receive a full refund," the message continued. Revealing the new Aussie shows now, The Weekend said that he feels "a strong pull to perform in Australia before moving on to the next chapter" and that he wanted "to make sure you all know I hadn't forgotten about you". "When I return now, it will be the right time, and I promise it will be such a special experience. I can't wait to see you all!" his announcement about the new dates continued. Mike Dean, Chxrry22 and Anna Lunoe will join The Weeknd Down Under. And if you've spotted that there's no New Zealand gigs this time around as well, his stop in Aotearoa is no longer on the schedule, just like Brisbane. An arena spectacular, The Weeknd's global tour began in 2022, notching up soldout shows far and wide. In the UK, The Weekend saw 160,000 folks head to London Stadium across two nights, smashing the venue's attendance record. And in Milan, he became the first artist to sell out the Ippodromo La Maura for two nights. Those feats are just the beginning. In Paris, the 'Starboy', 'I Feel It Coming', 'Can't Feel My Face', 'The Hills' and 'Blinding Lights' artist scored Stade de France's biggest sales this year — and in Nice, the 70,000 tickets sold across his two shows are the most in the city's history. The reason for the whole tour, other than just because, is celebrate The Weeknd's 2020 record After Hours and its 2022 followup Dawn FM. Obviously, he has been playing tracks from 2013's Kiss Land, 2015's Beauty Behind the Madness and 2016's Starboy as well. The Weeknd's 'After Hours Til Dawn' Tour 2024 Dates: Saturday, October 5–Sunday, October 6 — Marvel Stadium, Melbourne Tuesday, October 22–Wednesday, October 23 — Accor Stadium, Sydney The Weeknd is touring Australia in October 2024 — and if you had tickets to his cancelled 2023 dates, you can nab new tickets via the past purchaser presale from 12pm in Melbourne and 1pm in Sydney on Wednesday, August 21. Other presales start from Thursday, August 22, with general sales from Monday, August 26. Head to the tour website for more information. Top image: Rafael Deprost.
D.O.C Espresso has sat in the same spot on Lygon Street for 20 years, playing a big part in Melbourne's contemporary Italian restaurant renaissance — which saw a more modern style of Italian dining take over the city. After so many years of business, the crew thought the space needed a little love, and so shut up shop for renovations back in August this year. But the team didn't just redo the interiors during this break. The chefs also redesigned the menu and the owners renamed the venue D.O.C Osteria. It reopened on Thursday, October 24, and is already welcoming old regulars back to see what they think of the changes. The new fitout sees the space gain a little more glamour — while still holding onto its semi-casual charm — with the inclusion of gold finishes, luxe red marble countertops and banquette seating. The weatherproof streetside dining area and courtyard out back also got a little revamp, plus the team expanded the kitchen to help the chefs make more fresh pasta onsite. As it was with D.O.C Espresso, Osteria has a strong focus on pasta — keeping a few dishes from the previous menu while reworking others and creating a smattering of new creations. Regulars will be glad to see that the famed lasagne remains — as does the funghi pasta, but in a slightly different form. We will admit that we preferred the original version, but this porcini and portobello number is still worth ordering. The mixed seafood linguine, though, is an absolute banger. Packed with calamari, prawns, mussels and rockling, and dowsed in garlic and chilli, it is more or less a must-order. The small bites have also been given a heap of love, helping D.O.C become a great destination for sipping and snacking — either alone, on a date or with a few mates. Get around the trio of cicchetti, its succulent marbled Rangers Vallery black Angus skewer, and a moreish crochetta — a crumbed and deep-fried cube of bucatini pasta, guanciale (cured pork cheek), pecorino cheese and black pepper. The playful take on a classic panzanella salad is also a huge win, made with ox heart tomatoes, grilled focaccia, cucumber sauce and a balsamic crunch. There's a really good blend of simple comfort food and more elevated interpretations of classics — letting diners choose their own kind of Italian dining adventure. There are also plans to renovate the D.O.C Delicatessen & Espresso next door soon, helping it transition into a specialty grocer, paninoteca and cafe. D.O.C Osteria is open from 12pm every day of the week, and is located at 326 Lygon Street, Carlton. For more details, you can check out the venue's website.
Always dreamed of a relaxing dip in Iceland's Blue Lagoon? How about bunkering down for the night next to the man-made series of geothermal pools, which happen to be in the middle of a lava field? Soon visitors to one of the Nordic nation's biggest attractions will be able to do just that when the Moss Hotel opens its doors. Expected to launch later in 2017, the luxurious Moss Hotel will feature 62 rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over its steamy setting, plus terraces allowing quick access into the warm waters, and balconies with views over the volcanic vista. A new subterranean day spa, Lava Cove, will boast a lagoon and waterfall sourced from the same seawater aquifer as the Blue Lagoon, and will be designed to take advantage of other natural aspects such as lava corridors. A viewing deck, a cold air well and the usual massages and other relaxation-inducing services, all with a killer vantage over the scenic surroundings, will also feature. Those keen on eating with quite the backdrop can head to the Moss Restaurant, complete with a wine cellar in centuries-old lava, and a seven-course chef's table experience. Basically, there's plenty of soaking, sleeping, steaming, sipping and eating in or near lagoons created on a bed of lava on the agenda. For anyone that hadn't already added a trip to the top of the globe to their bucket list — and therefore isn't up to speed on all things Blue Lagoon — the site has quite the history. The moss-covered lava flow dates back to 1226, but the mineral-rich pool itself was formed in 1976 as a result of the nearby geothermal power plant. People started having a dip in the silica- and sulphur-laden waters, which became popular for their supposed healing abilities. Come the late '80s and early '90s, the Blue Lagoon was officially established as a public spa and bathing facility. And no, for anyone who loves '80s cinema, or just thought the name sounded familiar, it has nothing to do with the 1980 movie that helped make Brooke Shields famous. Via inhabitat. Images: Blue Lagoon.
Legos: the colourful building blocks that adults pretend they don't miss. They began as toys for children to use their imagination to create miniature houses and spaceships, but have become tools for the construction of life-size sculptures across the world. Who claims the glory of building the largest Lego masterpiece? Brazil, as of April 10, has triumphed over cities across the world in building the tallest Lego tower. In a shopping centre parking lot in San Paulo, Brazil, over 6000 children and parents spent four days putting together the tower, which now stands at 102 feet and three inches, breaking Chile's latest record set in 2008 by 9.8 inches. Children assembled over 500,000 individual Lego pieces which were later stacked together by a crane and held together with wire supports for stability against strong winds. The World's Tallest Lego Tower has come a long way since London's first attempt in 1988, which resulted in a 50 foot structure. Since then, Toronto, Moscow, Tokyo, Munich and our very own Sydney have held the coveted title. https://youtube.com/watch?v=qvRIcASivqQ [via Nerdist]
Heading to the snow is an experience many of us spend the long winter days at work daydreaming about. But a trip to the snow-covered mountains should be about so much more than just clipping on your skis or snowboard. With a multi-day trip to Victoria's Alpine Resorts, you can take your snow trip to new heights — literally and figuratively — with an array of elevated adventures. Whether you're a snow-sport aficionado, want to soak up the picturesque scenery from lush, on-mountain accommodation, or are hankering to see the sights from above, Victoria's alpine region has you covered. From Mt Hotham to Falls Creek, Mt Buller to Dinner Plain and Mt Stirling, here are our picks for turning your mid-year winter break into a bucket-list trip to remember. See the Sights on a Snowshoeing Adventure While shredding your heart out on the slopes is a staple for most snow trips, there are some other incredible (and somewhat underrated) ways to get up close and personal with Mother Nature, like snowshoeing. If you want something that's low impact on your body but high impact on views, snowshoeing could be your new favourite alpine activity. Dinner Plain has a bunch of trails to suit a range of fitness levels, including shorter walks on the edge of town through to longer treks over mountain ridges for the more intrepid travellers. You can take a guided snowshoe tour in Mt Stirling or Mt Buller, or DIY on a self-guided stroll in Falls Creek. To take things even further, you can have the time of your life on a Snowshoe to Cheese Fondue experience in Mt Hotham. Here, you'll wind through breathtaking snow gums at sunset before tucking into an unforgettable three-course dinner, complete with gooey cheese fondue and Glühwein in a hidden eco-village. Hit the Slopes for Some Skiing or Snowboarding Okay, so we said a snow trip is about more than clipping on your snow-sport gear, but that doesn't mean you should skip it altogether. Classics are classics for a reason, right? If you've only ever stuck to either skiing or snowboarding, consider this your sign to step out of your comfort zone and try the alternative sport. There are amazing runs at Mt Hotham, Falls Creek, Mt Buller and Dinner Plain to suit all levels. You'll just need to let go of your ego when you have to return to the green runs. Never skied or snowboarded before? You're in for a real treat. With expert guidance from knowledgeable instructors, you'll be carving up the slopes in no time. Take Flight to See the Sights Soaring above the rugged alpine peaks really is an experience like no other. With a bird's-eye view, you can soak in the spectacular sights of Victoria's High Country from new heights and zoom out from the world for a moment in time. Take a scenic helicopter flight between Falls Creek and Mt Hotham and be captivated by the breathtaking panoramic views as you glide above the snowy summits. Or take the opportunity to see the region from above with a helicopter ride over the ridges and valleys of Mt Stirling and Mt Buller to tick off this bucket-list experience. Hang Out with Huskies A husky sled tour might seem like something you only see in the movies, but in Mt Buller, Mt Hotham and Dinner Plain, you can live out your Hollywood fantasy in real life. Let a team of alpine huskies whisk you away into the magical scenery of Mt Hotham's and Dinner Plain's backcountry trails with Howling Huskys, or let Australian Sled Dog Tours take you on a trip of a lifetime in Mt Buller. Try Out a New Angle with Cross-Country Skiing If you're a seasoned skier and want to level up your on-slope action, adding a cross-country skiing session to your trip is a must. If you're feeling super adventurous, try exploring the wild and sprawling cross-country trails on Mt Stirling, where there are over 60 kilometres of trails to discover. Falls Creek has loads of patrolled tracks ideal for newcomers, while Dinner Plain has paths that snake around the Alpine Village so you can get a taste of the action without venturing too far from home. Refuel at Incredible On-Mountain Food and Drink Venues After all that time on the slopes, you're guaranteed to work up an appetite. And thankfully, the food and drink scene in Victoria's Alpine Resorts delivers, no matter where you choose to base yourself. From ambient wine bars in Dinner Plain to new great counter meals in Falls Creek, there's an eating and drinking option to please all palates. If you head to Mt Buller, make sure you grab some fresh waffles for breakfast or low-and-slow smoked goodies for lunch at the on-mountain restaurant Spurs Smokehouse. In Mt Hotham, it's the raclette lunch that has us salivating. Here, you'll scrape melted French cheese onto baked potatoes and enjoy them alongside a spread of charcuterie, smoked meats and a selection of curated booze. Rest Your Head at Spectacular On-Mountain Accommodation In Victoria's High Country, you really are spoilt for choice when it comes to stellar accommodation. As far as choosing where to stay, we recommend going all in on your snow trip and cosying up in some on-mountain accommodation if you really want your trip to soar. That way, you get to be close to all the action without having to faff about with draining logistics. There's alpine accommodation to suit a range of group sizes and budgets. For a touch of luxury, Mt Buller's Breathtaker Hotel will hit the spot after a long day on the slopes. If you're after something a little more adventurous, glamping in the snow might be more your style. There are also charming lodges, chalets and resorts to recharge in — many with sweeping views of the pristine mountains. Get away from it all with an adventure at Victoria's Alpine Resorts. For more information and to start planning, visit the website.
Smirnoff takes on a Brazilian spirit speciality with the introduction of a new flavour of vodka, Caipiroska. The Caipiroska mixed drink is typically made by combining vodka with lime wedges and sugar, but Smirnoff has created three different versions of the sweet liquor: lime, mango and passion fruit. The unique flavours deserved to be encased in something more exceptional than the average glass bottles, so Smirnoff wrapped them up in style. The promotional bottles of Smirnoff Caipiroska come in colourful skins that can be peeled off like the fruits they represent. The opaque skins conceal the traditional Smirnoff packaging and give consumers an idea of just how fruity the new concoction is. If you think your taste buds can handle the tangy twist of the Caipiroska mixed drink, here are the simple ingredients: 35 ML Smirnoff vodka, 1/2 lime cut into wedges, 2 small spoons of brown sugar, and 15 ML simple sugar. Enjoy! [via Comunicadores]
Get diggin' on Australia and New Zealand's latest big gig news: TLC are touring Down Under in 2024. The best-selling American female group in history aren't just heading our way for any old reason, either. Next year marks the 30th anniversary of their smash-hit second studio album CrazySexyCool, so they're taking to the stage to celebrate. The band might advise against chasing waterfalls, but chasing these concert dates is highly recommended. TLC's 2024 visit comes two years after Tionne 'T-Boz' Watkins and Rozonda 'Chilli' Thomas headlined Fridayz Live in Australia, and were meant to do the same at Friday Jams in Aotearoa before dropping out of the NZ gig due to a COVID-19 case among their touring party. Those shows didn't just feature TLC, but saw other nostalgic acts behind the microphone — as will the group's next dates. On supporting duties: Busta Rhymes and En Vogue. CrazySexyCool gave the world 'Creep', 'Waterfalls', 'Diggin' on You' and 'Red Light Special', among other tracks, but the 1994 diamond-certified album won't the only source of songs for their 2024 shows. Expect hits from across TLC's career, so the likes of 'No Scrubs' and 'Unpretty' as well. Get excited about a 90s-themed party as well. Going all in on the decade that brought TLC to fame will include 90s fashion, fan interaction and a few surprises. Whatever the latter turns out to be, attendees will find out in February in NZ and March in Australia. TLC will start their tour on Thursday, February 29 at Trusts Arena Auckland, before hopping across the ditch to kick off the Aussie leg on Saturday, March 2 at Melbourne's Rod Laver Arena. From there, T-Boz, Chilli, Busta Rhymes and En Vogue will play the Adelaide Entertainment Centre on Sunday, March 3; Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney on Tuesday, March 5; and the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Thursday, March 7. Their final stop: on Saturday, March 9 at RAC Arena in Perth. "I'm so excited to return to Australia!" said Chilli, announcing the tour. "This is the album that put us on the map with Aussie fans and showed the world who we really are. And to mark 30 years, this will be quite the celebration!" TLC 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF 'CRAZYSEXYCOOL' AUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND TOUR 2024 DATES: Thursday, February 29 — Trusts Arena, Auckland Saturday, March 2 — Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Sunday, March 3 — Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Adelaide Tuesday, March 5 — Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney Thursday, March 7 — Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane Saturday, March 9 — RAC Arena, Perth TLC's 30th anniversary CrazySexyCool tour will head Down Under in February and March 2024. Pre-sale tickets are available from 11am local time on Monday, December 4, with general sales from 1pm local time Thursday, December 7 — head to the tour website for more information. Read our interview with Chilli.
Although it's tempting to live in your swim shorts all season, it's not socially acceptable unless you live on the beach. But with warmer days and nights, we don’t blame you for wanting to keep things cool and casual. This summer, there are plenty of modern styles that can be easily added to any wardrobe. We've also got a style guide for women. Here it is over here. Classic For the style-conscious man who knows what he likes: this season, be on the lookout for well-tailored and timeless pieces. Tailored shorts, short-sleeved shirts and anything in beige, white or tan are your signature summer go-to's. But classic doesn't have to mean boring, so don't be afraid to roll up your (pant) cuffs and get a little creative. Blue Suits Have to wear a suit for work? You don't have to stick to your banal black and greys. Nobody wants to be caught sweltering in the sun on their lunch break. Instead, opt for lighter-coloured suites in tans and blues. The spring and summer has seen all fifty shades of cool, from nautical navies to pale pigeons. Wear a crisp white or striped collared shirt underneath, throw on a fedora and voila: instant update. Images: Milan street style by Lee Oliveira Look from Shipley & Halmos’ SS 14 collection shot by Yannis Vlamos for GoRunway.com Suit from Dolce & Gabbana’s SS 14 men’s collection Nautical Stripes Ah, sailor stripes, a pattern that faithfully returns every season. When worn outside of the summer months, you look like a Frenchman. But once the season begins those black/navy and white stripes become the universal flag of leisure time. Whether you own a sailboat, yacht or (k)not, these laidback lines give the appearance that you know your way around a dock. Pair a tee with some Nantucket Red chinos and deck shoes, and you're ready to go. Or, if you're not exactly on holiday, throw one of those equally stylish blue blazers over for a smarter look. Striped shorts are also popping up this season, but please, limit the lines to one piece. You’re going for the seaman look, not inmate. Images: Jumper from J.Crew shot by Yannis Vlamos Jumper from Burberry Prorsum's SS 14 men’s collection Sydney Streetsyle shot by Carolina Falk for Style Creeper Cuffed Hem and No Socks Ok, this look might seem a little trendy, but if you think about it, those Italians have been doing it for years. Envision the mod Roman gentleman, propped up against a wall in a perfectly tailored suit, smoking his cigarette. Yep, his cuffs are rolled. Socks? No way. It's summer, too hot for that. The look is a no-brainer to pull off, and it's definitely not limited to suits or any type of shoe. Keep it casual by rolling up anything you like, from khakis to jeans. (Extra bonus points if you're wearing a striped tee and navy sport coat.) Images from Pinterest. Trendy When it comes to staying with-it, the trendy guy knows what's up. He's probably been rolling his pants and going sockless for years. Mixing prints and and implementing bright colours are standard. There is, however, a sexy simplicity in going monochromatic. Whichever look you prefer, you're not afraid to mix things up. Florals Once restricted to Mediterranean and Polynesian holidays, the floral print is taking spring and summerwear to the next level. Blooms are sprouting up everywhere on shirts, suit detailing, hats, jackets, shoes and, for those brave enough, pants. Think of this as the new 'real men wear pink'. Mixing other small prints such as polka dots or stripes with florals is being popularised by those who are extra adventurous. But if that's literally too bold for you, pair your piece of choice with something basic like a chambray button-up or chino shorts. We swear, you'll feel like every day is Friday. Images: Shirt from Burberry Prorsum’s SS 14 men’s collection Shorts by D’Marge Look from Marcs’ SS14 mens collection Denim on Denim (aka the Canadian Tuxedo) This has been a look sported by our North American friends for a while. Traditionally worn with flannels and work boots, the quintessential lumberjack vibe is a favourite of hipsters. Pair this tux with the three Bs (Beanie, Beard and cheap Beer), and you're pretty for the party. But the Canadian tuxedo is a little too cosy for an Aussie summer. More realistically, you'd ditch the jacket and wear a chambray over jeans or jorts. Beer is still an appreciated accessory. Images: Street style snap by Romeo Style Denim look from Calvin Klein’s SS 13 collection at men’s Fashion Week in New York Sydney street style snap by Carolina Falk for Style Creeper Neon There is nothing new about neon. Everyone has a bright thing or two, but it's probably limited to sports wear. Nike and other companies have been incorporating electric colours into their shoes and clothes for ages. Now, neon has spread outside the gym for men. Making its way onto chinos, shoes, windbreakers and even suits, neon is a huge trend for men this season. We're not expecting the execs of the CBDs to start running around in hot pink suits; rather, the gym junkies, beach bums and trendily bold will enjoy this craze. It's most sensible to limit your exposure to a pair of shorts, tee shirt or light windbreaker. You don't want to go about blinding anyone. Images: Shorts from Ben Sherman Suit from Salvatore Ferragamo’s SS 13/14 collection Milan Vukmirovic at Men’s Fashion Week 2013 in Milan shot by Lee Oliveira Maverick The true maverick isn’t afraid of to go out on a limb. You probably already own a neon suit and are about to buy ones in floral and camo prints after seeing the spring/summer runway photos. You’re also not afraid to steal ideas from the girls. Hey, they adopt men’s looks all the time (hello, blue suits), so why shouldn’t you? Hot items such as studded slipper/loafers and clutches are being revamped on such a masculine level, you'd think they'd been yours all along. The true maverick knows how to own even the craziest trends. The Man Clutch Although a man carrying a bag has been a stigmatic subject in the past, I think we can all agree that the times are a-changin'. In an age where men have increasingly more things to lug around — tech devices, work papers, gym essentials, etc — a guy needs a place to stash his stuff. If you think satchels and messenger bags are overdone, then consider this your new and lighter briefcase. But fear not, for the male clutch is nothing like its female counterpart. Depending on the size, they look more like document holders, tablet covers or big leather/suede pouches than the feminine envelope-styles. Tucked under your arm as you dash about town, an oversized pouch will make you look like man on a mission. Images: Look from Paul Joe’s SS 14 collection shot by Yannis Vlamos for GoRunway.com MBFWA street style by Style Creeper Parisian street style shot by Lee Oliveira Camouflage Suits Camouflage print was one of the biggest trends for men this past European summer. Popping up on clothes, shoes and accessories (clutch included), the print is best limited to one item per outfit. However, with the monochrome/print sensation taking off for both women and men this season, it's only natural that camo pieces have grown together to create the ultimate organic ensemble. And this G.I. Joe-inspired look is a very real thing. Directly interpreted from the New York runways by the likes of American designer Mark McNairy (who is infamous for his crazy combos), the camo combination has been seen on carpets both concrete and red. Lucky for you, it's been modified for warmer weather with shorts options. So if you're feeling like a real rebel, feel free to try out this oxymoron of army-inspired fashion. Images: Camo street style by The Sartorialist Look from Mark McNairy’s SS 14 collection shot by Yannis Vlamos Singer Pharrell Williams in a Moncler Bleu Camo Tux at the 60th Art Basel Miami Party by Getty Images Studded Loafers Leave it to the rappers and basketball players to take a female trend and make it rock star-worthy. Stars like Kanye West, Pharrell Williams and Dwyane Wade have been seen sporting spiked slippers at fashion shows and NBA finals. Somehow the trend has made it all the way down here, with sightings of the studded loafers at this year's MBFWA and on the streets of Melbourne. It's a bold look, since these kicks quite literally have an edge to them. They take any outfit, from a tux to a tee and jeans, to the next level. Images from Pinterest
Been spending the first few months of 2022 pondering the future? That's only natural whenever a new year hits, especially a couple of years into a pandemic. Over the coming weeks, however, you might want to look to the skies as well — and feast your eyes on the night sky. Across the second half of April each year, the Lyrids Meteor Shower sets the sky ablaze. This year, it's doing just that from April 14–30. It might not be as famous as Halley's Comet, but it's still very impressive. Plus, rather than only being visible every 75 years (the next Halley's Comet sighting is in 2061), you can catch the Lyrids annually. In 2022, the Lyrids will be at its most spectacular over Friday, April 22 and Saturday, April 23. For folks located Down Under, you'll want to peer upwards early on the Saturday morning. Here's how to catch a glimpse from your backyard. [caption id="attachment_767783" align="alignnone" width="1920"] jpstanley via Flickr.[/caption] WHAT IS IT The Lyrids Meteor Shower is named after constellation Lyra, which is where the meteor shower appears to come from near star Vega, and is created by debris from comet Thatcher. While the comet, which takes about 415 years to orbit around the sun, won't be visible from Earth again until 2276, the Lyrids can be seen every autumn between around April 14–30. So, you can even pencil it in for next year. It's also the oldest recorded meteor shower, so there's that, too. On average, you can see up to 18 meteors per hour, but the Lyrids are also known to have outbursts of nearly 100 meteors per hour. So, while no outburst is predicted for 2022, you could get lucky. WHEN TO SEE IT In Australia, the shower will reach a peak in the early morning of Saturday, April 23 according to Time and Date, but will still able to be seen either side of those dates between Thursday, April 14–Saturday, April 30. The best time to catch an eyeful is just before dawn after the moon has set, so around 4am. At that time, you'll be in the running to see meteors moving at about 177,000 kilometres per hour, shining extraordinarily brightly and leaving a long wake. The shower's cause is, essentially, the Earth getting in the comet's way, causing stardust to fry up in the atmosphere. HOW TO SEE IT When a meteor shower lights up the sky, getting as far away from light pollution as possible is the best way to get a prime view. If you can't do that, you can still take a gander from your backyard or balcony. To help locate the Lyrids, we recommend downloading the Sky Map app — it's the easiest way to navigate the night sky (and is a lot of fun to use even on a non-meteor shower night). If you're more into specifics, Time and Date also have a table that shows the direction and altitude of the Lyrids. The site updates these details daily. The one caveat: the weather. If showers or cloud pop up, they could present problems in terms of visibility. So, keep an eye on the forecast if you're making plans to head to a prime viewing location. Top image: Mike Lewinski via Flickr.
Deck your halls with holly, then leave them immediately for a nice holiday. If there's one festive season motto that stands out to us, it's celebrating with family and friends and being thankful for the company. If there's another one, to be honest, it's leaving all that behind and escaping on a holiday on your own, or with a single loved one instead of your entire extended family. Nothing beats the sounds of silence, a cold dip in a pool, and the knowledge that you'll be able to remove your pants immediately after eating a huge Christmas-time meal and nobody will be there to mind. In partnership with Mr & Mrs Smith, here are ten getaway options for the Christmas / New Year period — and if you're stuck for present ideas, you can use the suggestions below (or 1000 more boutique hotels) on a Get a Room! gift card. Strongly suggest they take a you-shaped friend. COMO THE TREASURY, PERTH Como the Treasury was voted the second best hotel worldwide by the Condé Nast Traveler's Reader's Choice Awards this year, and its palatial rooms and incredible views of Perth clearly show why. The building may be 140 years old but the facilities aren't — there's a swimming pool, spa, and full fitness centre including yoga and pilates studios to really wave bye-bye to life stress. The top-floor restaurant Wildflower presides over the eating side of things, touting a menu infused with indigenous ingredients. Can't shake the kids while you're dining and yoga-ing? There are even babysitting facilities available. EMPIRE RETREAT AND SPA, MARGARET RIVER The Margaret River isn't a well-kept secret of a holiday destination, but it's a worthwhile Christmas drive just to stay at Empire Retreat and Spa. A lovely old stone farmhouse, it'll be like going back in time while simultaneously hitting an 11 on the luxury scale: the rustically modern rooms have everything you could need, and there's an on-site vineyard as well as the spa, so you should really consider kicking Christmas on for a few weeks more. Stay in a Luxury Villa, complete with sunken lounge and fireplace, or a Deluxe Balcony Suite – attached to the main lodge by a timber boardwalk. SAL SALIS, NINGALOO REEF Sal Salis is the type of place you evacuate to when your cat has knocked down the Christmas tree for the sixth time and you've lost your car in the car park again. A bush camp by the beach in Cape Range National Park, it's a safari by the sea but not without the trimmings: you might be sleeping in a tent but they're moored on timber platforms with own ensuite and deck, 30 metres from the sea. Sal Salis concentrates on eco-friendliness so expect composting loos and solar power — and unforgettable manta ray hangs when snorkelling. PRETTY BEACH HOUSE, CENTRAL COAST If eucalyptus is your calming scent of choice, consider coming to Pretty Beach House on the Central Coast to get your fix. Beautiful wood-panelled lodges make up this ideal holiday escape – a home away from home among the gumtrees, throwing in a private terrace and plunge pool for an extra warm welcome. There's a resident bar and an Italian restaurant by Stefano Manfredi complete with pizza oven so you'll be well fed and watered, too. For even more serenity there's a spa on premises and no children under 15 allowed — this is one for couples. ALILA MANGGIS, BALI If the options are "go to Bali or don't go to Bali" you should always pick "go to Bali". Find yourself surrounded by coconut groves at the Alila Manggis — a beachside resort located next to the sacred Mount Agung. There's a beautiful pool, a spa, and even the chance to be a mature age student: there's a cooking school on-site. The Alila Manggis also has its own organic veggie garden for extra goodness, so your body and mind will both say "thanks for taking me to Bali". BISMA EIGHT, BALI Another reason to up and get yourselves to Bali, if you needed more incentive, is the Bisma Eight resort in Ubud. A concrete oasis, the modern design isn't what you'd expect from a jungle paradise in Indonesia — but paradise it is. Aussie chef Duncan McCance run the restaurant on-site that puts to good use the hotel's organic garden. There's a pretty fancy pool and all rooms come with a Japanese soaking tub; plus, there's a fiery hot cocktail menu in the bar, so what are you even waiting for? THE CHEDI CLUB, UBUD Excuse us, but there's a butler service over here and also a 35m Balinese water palace pool. "Where do I book", you ask? If you're a guest at The Chedi Club Tanah Gajah in Ubud, you can stay in a Spa Villa, which has your own private spa room and massage beds. There is some mighty interesting culinary goodness happening over here with Singaporean chef Dean Nor working with "Mama Bali" and her local bumbu spices. All the rice comes from the nearby rice paddy fields; tours of these also run, as does the occasional Balinese dance performance. Off you trot, then. SALA, PHUKET Who says you can't relax in Phuket? Sala Phuket is making this a very valid reality for you in your time of need over Christmas and New Year, simply by providing you with a haven featuring multiple pools and much relaxation. Sala Pool Villas have enormous "merman sized" bathtubs, private pools and tropical gardens of their own; you're located near the beach and there's a spa, too, so the beautiful bodies of water never end. The champion of Sala might very well be the bar, with daybeds big enough to sprawl on while drinking a burnt lemon and vanilla margarita. Mmm. THE SAROJIN, THAILAND For a more secluded yet equally as tropical getaway, The Sarojin is a boutique hotel on the coastline of Phang Na set on 10 acres of garden. There's an infinity pool that is infinity types of inviting and has it's own pavilions at its edges. With a cosy seafood shack as well as a restaurant nestled under the huge fig tree that is the centerpiece of the gardens, you'll eat well — or can even charter a cruise to a private island for a romantic dinner for two. A seven-night minimum stay is required over Christmas, so we guess you guys will just have to suck it up. ZABORIN, JAPAN Japan — land of the best things in the world (sushi, good public transport, an island full of cats). It's also home to Zaborin Hotel in the Hanazano woods in Hokkaido, a 15-villa wonderland. Each villa has it's own indoor and outdoor onsen (bath) filled with volcanic water, and once you've soaked to your heart's content head along to the restaurant for a traditional kita kaiseki meal — an 11-course set menu differing with the harvest. Ski slopes are nearby, but we wouldn't be surprised if you lounged around at Zaborin forevermore (or as long as you can get off work). Grab someone you love a Mr and Mrs Smith Get a Room! gift card and send them on a summer holiday — available from $50.
In the 22 years since they formed out of Melbourne's underground scene, Eddy Current Suppression Ring haven't ever played a free headlining show — until September 2025 rolls around, that is. Whether you're a fan of Aussie Rules football or you just like an excuse for a public holiday, here's one way to spend this year's AFL Grand Final eve: catching the iconic band taking to the stage in Federation Square, putting on their first gig in nine years and doing so without punters needing to pay a cent. Over the years, Melbourne's Fed Square has hosted free concerts by the eclectic likes of Robbie Williams, Kneecap, Caribou, Glass Beams and more. Now, Eddy Current Suppression Ring are jumping onto that list. They'll take to the stage for their first major appearance since the garage-punk group's last-minute Dark Mofo set in 2016, and for their first headlining Melbourne show since playing The Palace in 2010. Word of the Friday, September 26, 2025 gig follows Eddy Current Suppression Ring's release of their new split 7-inch Shapes and Forms — and sees the group, aka Brendan Suppression, Eddy Current, Danny Current and Rob Solid, keep adding to a career that started after a jam session at a Melbourne vinyl pressing plant's Christmas shindig back in 2003. For company in Fed Square, the Australian Music Prize-winning and ARIA Award-nominated band will be joined by New York's EDAN and the Melbourne-based Wrong Way Up. "Eddy Current Suppression Ring is a band woven into the fabric of Melbourne's music history. Raw, fearless and utterly electrifying live," said Fed Square Director of Programming Sarah Tutton. "We're delighted to welcome them back to the city for what promises to be a truly unforgettable night at Fed Square, continuing our commitment to creating unmissable free, all-ages events that celebrate the best of local and international music, right in the heart of Melbourne." Eddy Current Suppression Ring are playing Federation Square, Melbourne, on Friday, September 26, 2025 — head to the Fed Square website for more details.
The man knows how to rock a hat: Timothy Olyphant (Full Circle), that is. He knows how to play a determined lawman with a piercing stare and an unassailable sense of honour, too, and television has been all the better for it for nearing two decades. Pop culture's revival culture has benefited as well — first with HBO's 2004–06 western masterpiece Deadwood returning as 2019's Deadwood: The Movie, and now with 2010–15's US Marshal drama Justified making a comeback as miniseries Justified: City Primeval. Olyphant was perfect in both the first time around, and proves the same the second. Indeed, Deadwood: The Movie's only problem was that it was just a made-for-TV film, not a another season; Justified: City Primeval's sole issue is that it spans only eight episodes, and that a next date with the Stetson-wearing Raylan Givens hasn't yet been locked in Streaming Down Under via Disney+, this continuation of Justified's initial six seasons arrives eight years after the show ended for viewers, but also finds Raylan with a 15-year-old daughter. It's with Willa (Vivian Olyphant, Timothy Olyphant's real-life offspring) that he's hitting the road when a couple of criminals reroute their plans. Now based in Miami, Florida rather than Justified's Harlan, Kentucky, Raylan is meant to be taking Willa to camp, only to be forced to detour to Detroit, Michigan to testify. It isn't a brief stop, after the Deputy US Marshal makes the wrong impression on Judge Alvin Guy (Keith David, Nope), then is personally requested to investigate an assassination attempt against the same jurist — teaming up with local detectives who are adamant about Detroit's particular ways, including Maureen Downey (Marin Ireland, The Boogeyman), Norbert Beryl (Norbert Leo Butz, The Girl From Plainville) and Wendell Robinson (Victor Williams, The Righteous Gemstones). You can take Raylan out of rural America and into the Motor City, as Justified: City Primeval does, but even with silver hair atop his calm glare he's still Raylan. So, he'll always stride around like a lone gunslinger who has seen it all, will confront anything, and is perennially valiant and resolute — and silently exasperated about humanity's worst impulses, too — as Justified: City Primeval welcomes. New location, passing years, the responsibilities of fatherhood, more and more lowlife crooks: they haven't changed this character, and audiences wouldn't have wanted that to happen. One of Justified: City Primeval's chief joys is how comfortably that Raylan, and Olyphant playing him, steps straight back onto the screen like the figure, thespian and franchise never left. In Detroit, the Deputy US Marshal meets his latest lawbreaking adversary in Clement Mansell (Boyd Holbrook, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny), aka the Oklahoma Wildman, whose love of singing The White Stripes and Beach Boys songs is only matched by his penchant for wreaking illicit havoc. Mansell is ruthless, including in committing murder, and also enlisting reluctant past acquaintance Marcus "Sweety" Sweeton (Vondie Curtis-Hall, Blue Bayou) — a musician who almost made it onto George Clinton's 'Atomic Dog' and now owns a dive bar — in his violent rampages. He's equally calculating in using his girlfriend Sandy Stanton (Adelaide Clemens, Under the Banner of Heaven) to conjure up a shakedown scam with ties to the Albanian mob, all while promising her that they'll get a big payday and get away. Even his attorney Carolyn Wilder (Aunjanue Ellis, an Oscar-nominee for King Richard), who has seen more than her fair share of dirtbags because that's the gig, knows that he's a sociopath. Seasoned Justified viewers will spy Justified: City Primeval's overarching narrative path going in. As long as they've seen a crime drama before, newcomers will as well. Raylan has a villain to take down in a deeply corrupt world — but, taking over from the OG series' creator Graham Yost (Silo, and an executive producer here), fellow Justified veterans Dave Andron (Snowfall) and Michael Dinner (Electric Dreams) can't be accused of connecting easy dots or making obvious choices. Both before and now, Justified has always been as much about painting rich portraits of its characters, good and bad, as it has been about its righteous-versus-evil face-offs. So, Justified: City Primeval delivers ample intriguing new additions, most of which pair up with Raylan so winningly that they could earn their own spinoffs. A series about Raylan and Willa, her teen rebelliousness bouncing off his perpetually wearied mood? The younger Olyphant makes a memorable impression, and adds seeing more of that dynamic to the wishlist. An odd-couple cop setup with Raylan and Robinson? That'd also work. Raylan's pursuit of the unhinged Mansell, and the latter's eagerness to keep it going, give Justified: City Primeval a compelling duel — and plenty of mirroring; they both drip charm, are whip-smart and canny, just on opposite sides of the law-and-order divide — but Raylan and Wilder are the show's meatiest duo. Sharing a sense of exhaustion, the Marshal and the lawyer each understand what it's like to ride through a murky and compromised world, endeavour to try to find a way to cope, and have to live with the costs. (That Ellis is as phenomenal as the older Olyphant assists.) 2023 marks 30 years since Raylan first appeared in print, in the pages of iconic crime writer Elmore Leonard's 1993 novel Pronto. While he returned in 1995 sequel Riding the Rap, it was 2001 short story Fire in the Hole that inspired Justified. Once the show became a hit, Leonard wrote 2012's Raylan, in what'd become his last published tome before his death in 2013. To revisit the character with Justified: City Primeval, however, Andron and Dinner dive into the author's back catalogue elsewhere, adapting and reworking 1980's City Primeval: High Noon in Detroit. The text's full title virtually screams for Raylan. On the screen, he slides in so seamlessly that it feels like he's always been in this tale. That's a testament to a series that doesn't just know its protagonist, but the work of the man who created him. Raylan might be Leonard's best character, but his bibliography is a wealth of riches — complete with Out of Sight, which became Steven Soderbergh's sparkling crime caper and shares a connection to Justified: City Primeval; and Rum Punch, which Quentin Tarantino turned into the sublime Jackie Brown. Justified: City Primeval excels at bringing Raylan Givens back to the screen, and Timothy Olyphant in the part. It's fantastic as a Leonard adaptation. And, although visually filled with thematically appropriate shadows, it's as shiny as Raylan's badge as a revival. The widespread trend keeps embracing beloved programs from years gone by, but the difference between the very best — see: Twin Peaks, aka the most stunning example there is and likely ever will be, and also Deadwood: The Movie, Veronica Mars, and the recent Party Down and Futurama — and the rest is considerable. Justified was a superb modern western from the get-go. Now Justified: City Primeval is a first-rate city-set neo-western that knows how to feature its familiar ingredients expertly, evolve them, and use them to comment on what changes and doesn't about humanity. Check out the trailer for Justified: City Primeval below: Justified: City Primeval streams via Disney+. Images: FX.
Honestly, where would Melbourne be without its baristas and single origin beans? Setting up at the Melbourne Showgrounds in Ascot Vale, the Melbourne International Coffee Expo 2015 will be open to the public over the weekend — and the Friday is especially for those in the coffee trade. There'll be 100 exhibitors, including speciality coffee and tea brands from all over the globe, as well as machine manufacturers and equipment suppliers for those who take their caffeinated brew very seriously. If you enjoy watching the masters at work, the Australian Coffee Championships will be on for all to see, where you can see Australia’s best baristas and latte art mavericks battle it out. While we love a good cuppa, it’s nice to know tea and coffee aren't the only things on the menu. MICE15 will also see a Food Village set up on the grounds, with food trucks from Hammer and Tong, Sliders on Tyres, OoOdle Lishious and Crepes Cart. If you’re a firm believer that coffee and cake are a match made in heaven (and really, who would turn that combination down?) there are special Cake and Coffee Tickets available to punters that allow you to also visit the Melbourne Cake Expo as well, which conveniently happens to be on in Melbourne at the same time.
Someone else's dream job might just inspire your next dream vacation, after Tourism Australia's Beach Ambassador (how do we apply?) just announced a handy list of the top 20 Australian beaches for 2022. The enviable gig sees beach expert Brad Farmer AM survey the nation's sandy spots and draw upon his almost 40 years of writing about beaches — and this year, he's picked Misery Beach in Albany in Western Australia as his best. There's obviously a lot to consider when anointing one of the country's 11,761 beaches as the cream of the crop — and naming the next-best 19, too. If you were to do it, or even just to try to pick somewhere to hit up over summer, you might wonder which ones aren't too busy or seaweed-y, which have the whitest sand and bluest water, and where's best for beach cricket. But Farmer's 2022 list heroes "nature-based locations, many quirky spots within easy reach of cities, and also celebrates the significant cultural value of the coast to Australia's First Nations people," according to Tourism Australia's announcement. Home of the Menang Noongar First Nations peoples, Misery Beach sits 15 minutes south of Albany and five hours southeast of Perth, and is small — sitting in a bay spanning 200 metres. Farmer describes the picturesque place as coming "straight from the pages of a beachscape artist's sketchbook", and that it provides "a dramatic feast for the senses with the look and feel of a perfectly framed filmset". That includes "crystal clear, turquoise water, virgin white sand, bounded by spectacular granite outcrops," and "only a handful of beachcombers, swimmers or kayakers availing themselves of its sublime surrounds", plus "seals, dolphins and returning migratory whales, seeking its calm shelter". It wasn't always this scenic, however, as the location's moniker makes plain. Farmer explains that Australia's last active whaling station sat nearby until it closed in 1978, "and for decades, this shoreline was often awash with whale offal, staining the beach blood red". Now, thankfully, he says that Misery Beach "belies its grim name". [caption id="attachment_712446" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Loch Ard Gorge, Visit Victoria[/caption] Misery Beach claimed top position after Cabarita Beach in New South Wales did the honours in 2020, Nudey Beach on Fitzroy island in Far North Queensland did the same in 2018, and Cossies Beach in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, in the Indian Ocean, earned the title in 2017. Among the 2022 list's highest-ranked spots, Misery Beach is joined by Horseshoe Bay in South West Rocks in New South Wales' mid-north, which took second place; The Spit at the Gold Coast's northern end in third; four-place getter Flaherty's Beach, on South Australia's Yorke Peninsula; and Loch Ard Gorge, in Port Campbell in Victoria, in fifth. The full list of 20 beaches covers every Australian state and territory, including Christmas Island in the Indian Ocean Territories. Other notable inclusions span Lake Wabby on K'Gari (formerly named Fraser Island), Mots Beach at the mouth of the Snowy River, Murrays Beach in Jervis Bay Territory and Jellybean Pool in the Blue Mountains. So pack your togs, round up some mates and start ticking these off. We see many road trips in your future — not that anyone ever needs an excuse to head to the beach. [caption id="attachment_710496" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jellybean Pool, Lauren Vadnjal[/caption] THE TOP 20 BEST AUSTRALIAN BEACHES FOR 2022 1. Misery Beach, Albany (Western Australia) 2. Horseshoe Bay, South West Rocks (New South Wales) 3. The Spit, Gold Coast (Queensland) 4. Flaherty's Beach, Yorke Peninsula (South Australia) 5. Loch Ard Gorge, Port Campbell (Victoria) 6. The Neck, Bruny Island (Tasmania) 7. Blue Pearl Bay, Whitsundays (Queensland) 8. Depot Beach, South Coast (New South Wales) 9. Murrays Beach, Jervis Bay Territory (Australian Capital Territory/New South Wales) 10. Dundee Beach, Darwin (Northern Territory) 11. Dudley Beach, Newcastle (New South Wales) 12. Thompsons Beach, Cobram (Victoria) 13. Coogee Beach, Perth (Western Australia) 14. Mots Beach, Marlo (Victoria) 15. Alexandria Bay, Noosa (Queensland) 16. Emu Bay, Kangaroo Island (South Australia) 17. Lake Wabby, K'Gari (Fraser Island) (Queensland) 18. Congwong Beach, Sydney (New South Wales) 19. Jellybean Pool, Blue Mountains (New South Wales) 20. Ethel Beach, Christmas Island (Indian Ocean Territories) Top image: @merrwatson.
UPDATE, December 1, 2021: The Power of the Dog is screening in select cinemas, and also streams via Netflix from Wednesday, December 1. Don't call it a comeback: Jane Campion's films have been absent from cinemas for 12 years but, due to miniseries Top of the Lake, she hasn't been biding her time in that gap. And don't call it simply returning to familiar territory, even if the New Zealand director's new movie features an ivory-tinkling woman caught between cruel and sensitive men, as her Cannes Palme d'Or-winner The Piano did three decades ago. Campion isn't rallying after a dip, just as she isn't repeating herself. She's never helmed anything less than stellar, and she's immensely capable of unearthing rich new pastures in well-ploughed terrain. With The Power of the Dog, Campion is at the height of her skills trotting into her latest mesmerising musing on strength, desire and isolation — this time via a venomous western that's as perilously bewitching as its mountainous backdrop. That setting is Montana, circa 1925. Campion's homeland stands in for America nearly a century ago, making a magnificent sight — with cinematographer Ari Wegner (Zola, True History of the Kelly Gang) perceptively spying danger in its craggy peaks and dusty plains even before the film introduces Rose and Peter Gordon (On Becoming a God in Central Florida's Kirsten Dunst and 2067's Kodi Smit-McPhee). When the widowed innkeeper and her teenage son serve rancher brothers Phil and George Burbank (The Courier's Benedict Cumberbatch and Antlers' Jesse Plemons) during a cattle-run stop, the encounter seesaws from callousness to kindness, a dynamic that continues after Rose marries George and decamps to the Burbank mansion against that stunning backdrop. Brutal to the lanky, lisping Peter from the outset, Phil responds to the nuptials with malice. He isn't fond of change, and won't accommodate anything that fails his bristling definition of masculinity and power, either. In a career-best, awards-worthy, downright phenomenal turn by Cumberbatch, Phil is all hawkish menace and bravado; he viciously calls his brother 'Fatso', his initial taunting of Peter over paper flowers and effete mannerisms is all the more ferocious for its dinner-table audience, and he's effusive in his admiration for Bronco Henry, the man's man who taught him everything he knows. Indeed, Phil's hyper-masculine air, complete with threatening and mocking banjo-plucking, soon drives Rose to drink. He'd rather still be bunking in with George, as they have for the quarter-century they've run their inherited ranch. He'd rather scare everyone away by failing to bathe, unless he's stealing off to a secret water hole — and by mixing his Yale classics degree into his sneering, too. The key to Cumberbatch's commanding performance isn't softening Phil or playing up his charisma, but conveying the battle of repression and self-resentment raging within; the cattleman has long tanned his own public persona, but he's as complex as rawhide. Adapting Thomas Savage's 1967 novel of the same name, Campion gives Phil's chomping misery ample company: in the sauced Rose, in the intimidating attitude that rolls around the ranch like a stubborn tumbleweed, and in Peter when he returns from his medical studies for the summer. The Power of the Dog lets this unhappy stew fester, adding grit to its brew with each passing scene and deepening its rich character studies in the process. The film's only misstep is pushing George aside, although the fact that his passivity — his main trait alongside tenderness — earns him less attention is an incisive touch. Rose becomes a supporting player as Phil and Peter's initially antagonistic relationship finds deeper dimensions but, in Dunst's hands, this is still an intense portrait of a woman heartbreakingly accustomed to being at others' whims. As a raw-boned young man who proves exacting and steely inside, Smit-McPhee isn't just similarly exceptional — he's revelatory. So much of The Power of the Dog hinges upon loaded moments where little appears to occur beyond interpersonal manoeuvring — where observing Phil, Rose and Peter's fraught dance is the most gripping thing in the film's frames. And while that back-and-forth is compulsively captivating, especially thanks to the feature's tremendous performances, the movie springs an unforgettable kicker that makes everything preceding its final scenes blister anew. Campion hasn't helmed a mystery, but she's masterful at lacing her feature with careful clues. She's meticulous with her unfurling, and with the herd of emotions it unleashes. From the get-go, she's also painstaking in her handling of tone and tension — so much so that there's never a second of The Power of the Dog that isn't on edge, particularly when Jonny Greenwood's ominous score grinds, twangs and bounces, the Radiohead guitarist setting the mood as firmly as he did with There Will Be Blood 14 years back. Westerns frequently canter through conflict, finding quarrels baked into the rough countryside. They also gallop into overt clashes about who's permitted to roam over, control and truly exist upon all that land. The Power of the Dog is a domestic melodrama as well as a western, but it's still a tale of dominance, yearning and survival in a remote place — and of people fighting for space, be it by oozing the macho toxicity expected of powerful white men, seeking safety in a sturdy marriage or extracting one's own path through the muck. Handsomely lensed and hauntingly patient, Campion's film is both classic and subversive, the two extremes that recent examples of the genre tend to oscillate between. Like Ang Lee's Brokeback Mountain and Kelly Reichardt's Meek's Cutoff — both soaring modern westerns — it's aware of its past and also firmly of the moment, too. Viewers should expect nothing less of Campion, the first woman to win the Palme d'Or back in 1993 with The Piano — only this year did Julia Ducournau become the second thanks to Titane — and also the second-ever female Best Director Oscar nominee. She's already won Venice Film Festival's equivalent of the latter for her efforts here, and deserves at least another Academy Award nomination as well. Campion approaches filmmaking like she's stitching together a delicate tapestry layered with feeling, texture and insight, and the results are exquisite and immaculate. In this case, she's braided The Power of the Dog as intricately and determinedly as Phil plaits the rawhide lasso he becomes obsessed with — and ensures that it also cuts as sharply and devastatingly as the bull castrations he undertakes with his bare hands. Top image: Kirsty Griffin/Netflix.
When you consider the lush green streets of Albert Park, it's only appropriate that there's a stellar nursery on-hand to freshen up your garden or indoor space. Located in the old Albert Park Railway Station, The Garden of Eden Nursery has been around for more than 20 years, welcoming visitors into its green haven of gardening inspiration. From fruit trees to cacti and terrariums, everything at The Garden of Eden Nursery is handpicked from reputable growers so you can be sure you're buying the best quality plant life available.
Well, we don't know what kind of high-flying career goals you're reaching for this year, but here's one you might want to pop on your list. Domino's is offering one hard-working food-lover the chance to come on board as its new Chief Garlic Bread Taste Tester. Now there's a gem for the ol' resume, if ever we saw one. While the thought of being paid to scoff hot, buttery, garlic-infused carbs sounds like some sort of fantasy, Domino's ain't joking. The company has posted a real-deal job listing for the role on Linked In and is already taking applications. So what's involved in this dream gig, you ask? Unfortunately, it's just a one-day role, but the lucky employee will spend a tasty 7.5-hour work day at Domino's Brisbane HQ, sampling the company's various garlic breads and other products, scoring a sneak peek at future menu items and offering feedback to the team. Here's one of the garlicky dishes you could be getting paid to eat: https://www.facebook.com/DominosAustralia/photos/a.220268216411/10157998133836412/?type=3&theater You'll earn a tidy $30 an hour for your efforts, too. And return domestic flights will be provided if you live outside of Brisbane, as will one night's accommodation if a same day return flight isn't available. A lunchtime pizza feast is also included, so leave the packed lunch at home. Domino's has thrown down a few key qualifications you'll want to have if you're applying for the job, including "a detailed understanding of the pizza and garlic bread relationship", "a history of reviewing other people's food choices" and "working tastebuds". It's also after someone with at least five years' experience in garlic bread consumption — which is peanuts compared to what most of you seasoned garlic bread fiends would have under your belts. If you're ticking all of Domino's boxes for the gig, you'll probably want to have some degree of carb obsession and a solid grasp of the perfect 'crunch to softness' ratio. Oh, and vampire-identifying folk need not apply. To apply for the Chief Garlic Bread Taste Taster role, you'll need to complete the Domino's survey and apply via a 30-second video or 200-word essay, before Monday, October 7.
In a surprising move that contradicts their usually pricey products, German sporting giant Adidas are set to launch a US$1 shoe under their subsidiary brand, Reebok. A similar project was undertaken by Adidas in 2010 in Bangladesh, but was abandoned after an initial run of 5000 pairs. This was due to production and import costs of US$6.50 exceeding the shoe's low price point. Adidas has now looked to neighbouring India as its new major growth market. With its booming population and high levels of poverty, the nation is an ideal market for durable and affordable clothing. Adidas CEO Herbert Hainer said that Adidas' surprisingly high sales have allowed them to undertake this venture. Furthermore, he told German newspaper Die Welt am Sonntag that "the shoe will be sold in villages through a distribution network... We want the product to be self-funding." Standing at US$1, or 52 rupees, this is a hard offer to turn down. [Via PSFK]
As part of Craft Victoria's new Emerging Makers and Curators Program, Slice of Life is a group exhibition that sees everyday objects and still life works reimagined with modern craft-based vitality. Eight up-and-coming artists will showcase their light-hearted works inventively across ceramics, textiles and jewellery. Curated by contemporary artist Sophia Cai, the works depict commonplace experiences and objects seen daily, highlighting the resourceful nature of the exhibition's artists who use unlikely materials and mediums to reinvigorate the still life genre of art. The exhibition features some of Australia's most exciting newcomers, including Mechelle Bounpraseuth, Phil Ferguson (aka Chili Philly, the maker of wearable crochet art), Julie Burleigh, Scott Duncan, Katie Jacobs, Josephine Mead, Tricia Page, and Cat Rabbit. Slice of Life is on now at Craft Victoria and runs until May 27. Image: Christo Crocker.
Back in 2021, Four Pillars and QT Hotels and Resorts joined forces to celebrate one of life's small joys. Whether you're spending a night far from home or you're staycationing in your own neck of the woods, enjoying a drink at the hotel bar is always a highlight after check-in. There's just something about being able to duck downstairs for a cocktail — or dropping in on your way back up to your room, too — that screams vacation, so the gin distillers and the hotel chain created the perfect tipple for the occasion. For folks looking for a new reason to ditch your own bed for an evening — or simply fond of sipping drinks in hotel bars and pretending you're on holidays — Ordered Chaos Gin was that beverage. It featured coconut milk, raw almonds and bamboo leaves as part of its flavour profile, and it was only available at QT Hotels' bars, plus to order by the bottle for your own gin shrine. And, at the time, it was a once-off — until now. Meet Gilded Chaos Gin, sibling to 2021's drop, and the newest limited-edition tipple trying to tempt you out of the house. Once more, Four Pillars and QT have collaborated on a new gin with an inventive array of flavours. This time, expect to taste wild fennel, sage and vetiver. Clearly, this isn't the type of tipple even the most dedicated gin fans are used to knocking back. The sage will hit your nose, while you'll also taste macadamia and cardamom — and get a burst of citrus thanks to lemon leaves. "A couple of trials and taste tests with sage, vetiver and wild fennel led us to our new Gilded Chaos Gin, a fantastic blend that hits all the right notes," explains Four Pillars co-founder Cameron Mackenzie. Again, you'll only find Gilded Chaos Gin being poured at QT Hotels' bars, where it'll be served in two kinds of cocktails: the Gilded Chaos Luxe Martini, which also features lemon peel, extra-virgin olive oil and anise-flavoured spirit pastis; and the Gilded Gibson, which uses Cocchi Vermouth di Torino Dry, plus kaffir lime leaf that's been nitro-flashed with cocktail onion brine. The places to hit up: QT Sydney, QT Melbourne, QT Canberra, QT Newcastle, QT Gold Coast, QT Perth, QT Auckland, QT Wellington and QT Queenstown. And if your gin collection needs a new addition, Gilded Chaos Gin will set you back $110 a bottle, but only while stocks last. Four Pillars x QT Hotels Gilded Chaos Gin is available at the hotel chain's bars, and to buy by the bottle via the brand's website.
There's no doubt we're a bunch of fierce lovers of the whole fabulous RuPaul's Drag Race franchise — you only need to look at the success of Drag Race Down Under to know just how much. Well, Drag Race fans across Australia and Aotearoa, we've got great news: your 2023 plans just got better — and brighter, bolder and sassier, too. Several of the biggest names from past US seasons are heading for our shores for a new, aptly named Legends tour in May 2023. Icons Trinity The Tuck (Drag Race season 9, All Stars season 4 and All Stars season 7), Monét X Change (Drag Race season 10, All Stars season 4 and All Stars season 7) and double winner Jinkx Monsoon (Drag Race season 5 and All Stars season 7) will be travelling across Australia and New Zealand in May 2023, treating fans to their one-hour show filled with all the dazzling high jinks and cabaret campery we've come to know and love through our screens. Across nine Australasian cities, the trio will be performing a mammoth 11 shows — including a one-hour performance during the opening night of Sydney's Drag Expo. They'll also have their own expo booths so fans can get autographs, photos and merchandise. The Legends tour kicks off in New Zealand with an all-ages show at Christchurch's Isaac Theatre Royal on May 3, before the queens make their way up to Auckland and Wellington for a couple of R18 performances. They'll then head across the ditch to Hobart for an all-ages show on May 9, before delighting fans with shows in Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide. Lucky Sydneysiders get several opportunities to see the queens — including an hour's R18 performance at the Drag Expo opening concert, before two all-ages shows that weekend. Finally, they'll finish things off with an R18 show in Perth before making their way home. If you're a true fan you'll probably want to save your pennies and fork out for one of the extremely limited VIP ticks — these include an extended meet and greet with Trinity, Monét, and Jinkx, and a personal photo moment. Start planning those photo 'fits now. It's a huge tour but if the hunger fans down under have for the show is anything to go by, we'd recommend getting in early for tickets — they're on sale now at itdevents.com. The full Legends 2023 schedule: Wednesday, May 3, 2023: Isaac Theatre Royal, Christchurch, NZ All ages, seated Friday, May 5, 2023: Studio, Auckland, NZ Restricted 18+, standing Saturday, May 6, 2023: The Hunger Lounge, Wellington, NZ Restricted 18+, standing Tuesday, May 9, 2023: Odeon Theatre, Hobart, TAS All ages, seated Friday, May 12, 2023: Plenary 2 (MCEC), Melbourne, VIC All ages, seated Saturday, May 13, 2023: The Princess Theatre, Brisbane, QLD All ages, seated/standing Wednesday, May 17, 2023: The Great hall, Adelaide, SA All ages, seated/standing Friday, May 19, 2023: Drag Expo opening concert at Home The Venue, Sydney, NSW Restricted 18, standing Saturday, May 20, and Sunday, May 21 2023: Drag Expo, Sydney All Ages Tuesday, May 23, 2023: The Rechabite, Perth Restricted 18+, standing The Legends tour starring Trinity The Tuck, Monét X Change and Jinkx Monsoon will be touring Australia and New Zealand in May 2023. Tickets are on sale now.
The Esplanade Hotel Queenscliff has officially reopened with a fresh feel, a reimagined look, and a new name, following a major renovation. The venue embodies the true character of a coastal pub with warm timber decor and an inviting atmosphere for locals, visitors, families and kids. The pub, previously called the Queenscliff Brewhouse, was established in 1879, and has been an integral part of the Queenscliff community ever since. As part of this community engagement, the team spent time with locals to understand what they considered important about the venue. Turns out that locals felt strongly about the original name being reinstated, so what was going to be dubbed The Bellarine Hotel, became The Esplanade Hotel Queenscliff, once again. This is just a small example of how the pub pays respect to the community and its history. ''We are so excited to have reopened the doors of this beautiful pub," says venue manager Mitch Kovacic, "Our local legend has gotten a new lease on life, and we know our locals will love it — the buzz in the area has been awesome in the lead up to today." The extensive transformation included a revamp of the beer garden — with native landscaping, picnic-style tables and umbrellas — and of the kids' play area, making the pub even more family-friendly than it was before. Of course, the sports bar with TV screen-lined walls, a pool table and a fireplace is the ultimate spot to catch all the rowdy game-day action. The seasonal menu showcases fresh produce and pub classics. There's a chicken (or eggplant) parma, classic cheeseburger (or a plant-based version), schnitzels, fish and chips, steak with Diane sauce and seafood pasta. There are also harissa lamb skewers, crab and corn croquettes, spring gnocchi and tomato salad with peach and pickled onions. Check out the considerate kids' and seniors' menus too. To celebrate the reopening of the beloved pub, The Esplanade Hotel Queenscliff will play host to Locals Weekend, from Friday, tenth, to Sunday, October 12. The huge weekend kicks off with a free first drink, followed by live music, charity raffles, giveaways and kids' entertainment. Images: Supplied.
Are you ready to get out and about and make the most of everything summer has to offer? Us, too. For some, that may mean reading by the pool and for others, it's going on week-long hikes in the wilderness. Whatever your cup of tea (or cocktail), there's plenty to do this steamy season. Naturally, when you're enjoying the season with outdoor activities and spontaneous adventures, it's good to have a top-notch drink in hand. So, we've teamed up with Whitley Neill Gin to bring you seven Aussie summer scenarios with the perfect drink to match. CAMPING TRIP Hit the highway with the windows down as you head off for a weekend camping adventure to one of Australia's many diverse and beautiful nature spots. Come summertime, there are plenty of beaches, headlands, national parks and spots in the wilderness that are calling your name. But before you jump in the car, whip up a batch of Fizzy Berry Lemonade, made with Whitley Neill Raspberry Gin and lemonade (plus a few other cheeky ingredients) to enjoy when you arrive. It's a no-fuss cocktail that's sweet, refreshing and perfect for sipping while soaking in the sun around a campsite. BEACH CRICKET Is it really summer in Australia without a hit of beach cricket? Head down to your local salty spot with the bat and ball in tow. Pairing perfectly with this game is the Royalty Gin Spritz, which you'll only need four ingredients to stir up: Whitley Neill Rhubarb & Ginger Gin, soda water, lime wheels and sprigs of mint. It's a faultless, sessionable drink that's simple, sweet and a little bit spicy. You may even try to get bowled out just so you can have a drinks break. BACKYARD BARBECUE Fire up the grill, marinate the chicken (or tofu) and get the corn prepped and ready because barbecue season is back. This year, turn it up a notch and impress your friends by pairing the feast with a Queen's High Tea. Instead of getting yet another slab, this number will bring elegant vibes. As it's made in a jug, it's perfect for sharing. It's packed with fruitiness — fresh apple, rhubarb and sprigs of mint — and has notes of peppery and sweet gingery spice thanks to Whitley Neill Rhubarb and Ginger Gin. Plus, it's topped up with prosecco and we've never known a bubbly drink that hasn't been a hit around the barbecue. [caption id="attachment_796998" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Angelo Pantazis; Unsplash[/caption] BOAT PARTY Did someone say boat party? Slap on the sunscreen, fish out your best swimsuit from the back of the wardrobe and get out on the water to enjoy the breezy air with a drink in hand. To help you refresh from the inside out is the Spring Break Gin Spritz. It's just the drink to be sipping in the sun with mates after a swim. It's light and boasts fun notes of orange, rosemary and lime that complement the Whitley Neill London Dry Gin. It's incredibly simple to make, so the real challenge with this one will be sipping it slowly. CHASING WATERFALLS Despite what TLC says, chasing waterfalls can be a great summer pastime. There's nothing like getting out of the city for a weekend to escape the hustle and bustle for an adventure in nature. There are plenty of waterfalls, both to look at and to swim under, all around Australia. Once you've found the spot, and maybe taken a dip, enjoy a Raspberry Rose Gin Spritz. There's just one thing to say: it's refreshing AF. Made with Whitley Neill Raspberry Gin, the sweet, summery cocktail is topped with raspberry and rose soda, strawberries and basil. COASTAL SWIMS Bring some romance to a summer outing by heading to the seaside for a coastal swim, then sipping a Honeymoon in Sicily. Grab a SO or mate and take to the salty water for a refreshing dip before enjoying this Aperol spritz cocktail. The drink will do the heavy lifting by transporting you to Mediterranean sweet orange orchards with the inclusion of Whitley Neill Blood Orange Gin. Plus, the grapefruit and basil will make you feel like you're on the Italian coast. DAY HIKE A day hike always goes down well in summer. No matter where you are in Australia, there are plenty of places to get out in the wilderness, clear your head, reconnect with nature and get the blood flowing with a long explorative walk. Then, after you've enjoyed the great outdoors and earned some rest, kick back with a glass of Aperitivo Sunsets. This afternoon cocktail is the refreshing hit you'll be after. It's a fruity combination, made with dry gin, orange, grapefruit and cranberry juice and slices of fruit and mint, that tastes and looks like a sunset itself. For more information on Whitley Neill's innovative gin range, head to the website.
Daylesford and its surrounding villages will once again transform into a musical haven as Winter Sounds returns to the foothills of the Great Dividing Range. More than your average music festival, Winter Sounds will see a host of celebrated Australian musicians present their tunes in a series of intimate, unusual and atmospheric spaces. Taking place in the region's storied country halls, bush schools, historic churches and even aboard vintage trains from Thursday, August 14–Sunday, August 17, these weird and wonderful locations make the festival's lineup a unique experience for all attendees. For the third edition of the festival, expect a mix of legendary acts and rising names. For instance, Sarah Blasko will take over St Peter's Church, while rock 'n' roll icon Tim Rogers is one of many to perform at Bullarto Hall — be sure to catch a chartered train through the Wombat State Forest before the show. Then, you've got the likes of Cash Savage and The Last Drinks, Bad//Dreems, Maple Glider, Quality Used Cars and many more lighting up various venues across town. With individual tickets or three- and four-show packages available, tailor your ideal Winter Sounds festival and make the most of your time in the hills.
There's nothing quite like a Sunday spent quaffing top-notch wine and gorging on cheese. Throw the spotlight on local produce, too, and you've got something even better. In its eighth year, the locally focused Wine and Cheese Fest is taking over a new venue on Sunday, March 8, setting up at The Timber Yard in Port Melbourne for a day of celebrating some of the state's finest cheese, wine and artisanal goodies. Chat to producers as you enjoy in a parade of free tastings, learn how to make mozzarella at a That's Amore-run masterclass or even hone your squishing skills in the day's grape stomping comp. And there'll be DJ sets and live music providing the soundtrack to your epicurean adventures. Up for some extra indulgence? Splash out on a VIP ticket ($157) to score a bottle of boutique wine to take home and an exclusive masterclass with Mount Avoca's winemaker Matthew Barry, where you'll get to taste 100-year-old vino. [caption id="attachment_762878" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nino Photography[/caption] The Wine and Cheese Fest will run from 12–7pm, followed by an after party on the lawn until 11pm.
Watching television and subscribing to a streaming platform are both cheaper than going to the cinema. Should watching Netflix on your phone be even cheaper still? That's something that the international streaming behemoth is testing out, offering cut-price mobile-only plans — in Malaysia at present, although it has also flagged lower-price subscription options throughout Asia. Malaysia's The Star reports that the mobile-only option is currently available for 17 Malaysian ringgit (approximately AU$5.58) per month, offering unlimited viewing on one handheld device only — be it a phone or a tablet. The content is only available in standard definition, which is good news for anyone with a low data plan but bad news for anyone who loves high-definition viewing. Malaysian residents can only access the new plan by signing up via the Netflix mobile app, or by accessing the Netflix website on a smartphone. Still, it's cheaper than Australia's three tiers, with the basic $9.99 per month package allowing viewing on one screen at a time, including a laptop, tablet or mobile; the standard $13.99 tier upping the simultaneous screens to two and including HD; and the premium $17.99 option including ultra-HD and four screens. Variety notes that the tests are designed to appeal to smartphone-centric users in Asia — so if you do all of your film and television viewing on the smallest of screens (that is, your mobile), then you'll be hoping that Netflix expands its trial Down Under. The company hasn't given any indication that that's the case, but it does love to toy with new options — including, at the other end of the scale, possibly getting into the bricks-and-mortar cinema game. Via The Star / Variety.
The ability to shop online, in-between emails and before we drift off to sleep, is a thing of beautiful convenience. But despite international brands like Zara, H&M and COS launching a string of retail stores in Australia, we've been largely left in the cold (or in long fitting room lines in shopping centres) when it comes to buying these clothes online — which, in a world where we can order same-day deliveries from The Iconic, seems a little behind. But today — Wednesday, March 14 — Spanish fashion chain Zara has officially launched its Australian online store, seven years after its first bricks and mortar store opened on our shores. The site is now live, with the brand's extensive women's, men's, kids and TRF collections all available to peruse and — most importantly — get your hands on without having to enter the chaos that is the Pitt Street/Bourke Street/Queen Street store. Delivery is the game-changer for Zara fans here. Next-day delivery is free on orders over $75 (or $7.95 if you're spending under that) as long as you're in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra or Brisbane and order before 4pm. Sydneysiders can get same-day delivery for $12.95 if they order before 2pm — the goods will arrive between 6 and 9pm that evening. Importantly, there are no charges for exchanges and returns, which you can do in-store or via a drop-off point. Zara's Australian online store is now live. You can spend all your money at zara.com/au.
Like your old primary school fair, only way more interesting (and with way, way more hipsters) The Village Festival is returning to North Fitzroy for four days of fun and frivolity. Setting up in the Edinburgh Garden, this annual event will once again showcase a bunch of local music acts, as well as magicians, circus performers, cooks, craftspeople and artists. Assuming the weather holds out, it seems like the perfect way to spend your lazy weekend. In addition to the lineup of musical performances, shows worth checking out include The Famous Village Dog Show and So You Think You Can Interpretative Dance, as well as an actual wedding to which all of us are apparently invited. You could also get a live portrait done, attend a 10-minute dance party, or sit down for a hearty meal at the Sunday long table lunch. For a full list of what's on, visit the Village Festival website.
Hayao Miyazaki is back to spirit audiences away — again. Ten years ago, the Studio Ghibli great released The Wind Rises, which was expected to be his last film. The movie maestro even announced his retirement. Thankfully, however, he changed his mind quickly. Now, more than half a decade after that welcome news, his next film exists, has hit cinemas in Japan, is doing the rounds of the film festival circuit and just dropped its first trailer. Prepare to be enchanted: this sneak peek at The Boy and the Heron is pure Miyazaki magic. The My Neighbour Totoro, Spirited Away and Howl's Moving Castle icon's latest was confirmed back in late 2022 for a 2023 release, at least overseas. Back then, it was known as How Do You Live, but has changed its title since. In what's described as "a semi-autobiographical fantasy about life, death and creation" in the official synopsis, The Boy and the Heron follows a boy called Mahito. Pining for his mother, he experiences the realm where the living and the dead converge — and yes, plenty of Miyazaki's trademarks already exist in that short synopsis. While The Boy and the Heron hit the big screen in July in Miyazaki's homeland, it did so without the usual promotional campaign, which is why a trailer is only dropping now. Indeed, the subtitled teaser is part of the movie's US release, which is slated for December. At the time of writing, the feature doesn't have a release date Down Under — but it'll obviously get one. There's nothing quite like a Miyazaki movie. While Studio Ghibli isn't short on gorgeous on-screen wonders hailing from a range of filmmakers, the Japanese animation house's best-known co-founder truly does make films like no one else. The Boy and the Heron already looks stunning — unsurprisingly — in its debut glimpse, complete with lush greenery, mysterious spaces and floating critters. And, of course, with Mahito and the picture's titular bird making appearances. The trailer opens with a city on fire, too, then includes beckoning frogs and a figure made of flames. A traditional Japanese home, a lit-up corridor, swords and arrows, a blazing sky: they all pop up as well. The Boy and the Heron marks Ghibli's fifth film since Miyazaki's last movie, following Isao Takahata's The Tale of the Princess Kaguya, page-to-screen treat When Marnie Was There, gorgeous French co-production The Red Turtle and the CGI-animated Earwig and the Witch. Check out the first trailer for The Boy and the Heron below: The Boy and the Heron is already open in Japan, and will release in the US on Friday, December 8, 2023. The film doesn't yet have a release date Down Under — we'll update you when one is announced. Images: © 2023 Studio Ghibli.
At Brunswick Street's Indian restaurant Mukka, Kabir Singh means to pack a punch — and put new life into Indian food in Australia while he's at it. The passion and vitality is obvious from the moment you step through the door. The space features jaunty colours, greenery hanging from slatted frames on the ceiling and a specials board that revels in its chalky colourfully illustrated invitation: 'Hey, will you share a cocktail jug with me?' How could you refuse an offer like that? Or the slow-cooked goat curry and homemade dosas for that matter? But if goat and cocktails don't rock your boat, there's plenty of other goodness to choose from across the menu. A selection of street eats from Singh's home of New Delhi forms the basis for Mukka's starters. Either go for classic samosas and onion bhajis or change it up with some damn delicious fish pakoras and papdi chaat — think of it as an Indian nachos dish consisting of flour crackers topped with spiced potatoes, chickpeas, cold yoghurt and a few different homemade chutneys. Amongst the curries from the tandoori grill is a chicken tikka marinated in spices and yoghurt overnight, then cooked in the tandoor oven — it's succulent and full of flavour. The saucier curries feature a modest selection of vegetarian, seafood and meat options. Our very favourite? The Bombay prawn masala. This thick curry isn't too spicy, but is full of garlic, ginger and desiccated coconut. It's a flavour bomb packed with prawns. And even though this Indian restaurant is all about serving up authentic curries, it also serves up one of the best butter chickens in Melbourne — not overly sweet or creamy like so many others out there. If you're a lassi fan, Mukka has a smooth mango classic, the original spiced-up minty version or a rose and cinnamon creation. And depending on how the day is unfolding, you can make your lassi that little bit more edgy with a dash of vodka or coconut rum. Cocktails have also been given plenty of love, with the bar team serving up classic tipples and Indian-inspired creations like the whisky sour spiced with cardamom, cloves and black pepper — vegans can even get a version made with aquafaba instead of egg whites. Head here for inventive cocktails and authentic Indian eats from regions all over the subcontinent. And if you're down south, check out Mukka's much larger St Kilda location that's serving up all the same bites. Images: Jo Rittey
Winemakers of Rutherglen have been doing good things with grapes for a while now out in northeast Victoria. But, luckily for us, they've decided to come city-side again this October for a two-day wine event, Rutherglen in the City. The pop-up cellar door will situate itself inside The Atrium at Federation Square. Sixteen winemakers will take over the high-ceilinged space, transforming it into an inner city 'winery' with over 100 different drops — so you can forget you're sandwiched between Flinders Street and the MCG and dream of open plains and vineyards. For $10, you'll get a free glass and be able to sample the best of the region's wine varieties — including durif and muscat — and a few different wine-heavy cocktails at the bar. The winemakers themselves will also be on-hand for a chat, and, if something takes your fancy, you can even order a few bottles from them direct. There'll be a range of masterclasses you can partake in, too. Full glasses of wine and other drinks can be purchased from the bar, and some nosh will be on sale. The best thing about it is you won't even have to drive home — thanks to trams and trains, you can have as many wines as you like. Rutherglen in the City will run from 12–5pm.
In a few years, when someone hands you an Australian $5 note, that cold hard cash in your hand will look more than a little different. The nation's banknotes have undergone a makeover in the past few years, with a revamped $5 note doing the rounds since 2016 — but that same denomination is about to get another redesign to replace Queen Elizabeth II. Whether you pay for your coffees with actual money or you barely handle physical coins and notes, every Aussie knows that the late monarch's likeness adorns some of our legal tender, including our $5 note. Accordingly, with the Queen's passing in 2022, we all started wondering two things: whether we'd get a day off (answer: yes) and what's happening to our currency. Now, the Reserve Bank of Australia has announced that the $5 note will replace the portrait of the Queen, but not with King Charles III. Instead, in welcome news, one side of the note will feature "a new design that honours the culture and history of the First Australians". "This decision by the Reserve Bank Board follows consultation with the Australian Government, which supports this change," the organisation said in a statement. "The Bank will consult with First Australians in designing the $5 banknote. The new banknote will take a number of years to be designed and printed. In the meantime, the current $5 banknote will continue to be issued. It will be able to be used even after the new banknote is issued." The other side of the $5 note will remain unchanged, so it'll still boast an image of the Australian Parliament. That design features the Forecourt Mosaic, which is based on Michael Nelson Jagamara's Central Desert dot-style painting Possum and Wallaby Dreaming. As the Reserve Bank's statement makes plain, exactly how the new $5 note design will pay tribute to Australia's Indigenous culture and history hasn't yet been finalised. In the past, Australia's currency has featured imagery of Aboriginal rock paintings and carvings, and designs based on a bark painting by David Malangi Daymirringu, thanks to the original $1 banknote from 1966 — before that denomination was replaced with a gold coin. The Reserve Bank also issued a one-off $10 note as the nation's first-ever polymer banknote in 1988, which highlighted examples of ancient and contemporary Aboriginal art. And, the $50 banknote currently in circulation pays tribute to author, activist, inventor, musician, preacher and Ngarrindjeri man David Unaipon. For more information about Australia's currency and any changes, head to the Reserve Bank of Australia's website.
Between the cheesy margherita pizzas, parmesan-doused tagliatelle and ricotta-stuffed cannoli, you'd be forgiven for assuming Italian cuisine is forever doomed to be a vegan no-go zone. But Hardware Lane's newest resident is here to remind you that's not true. Introducing, Funghi e Tartufo — a laneway Italian restaurant with an entirely plant-based menu and wine list. Named after the Italian words for 'mushrooms and truffle' in a nod to the kitchen's signature dish, Funghi e Tartufo comes from the minds behind Clifton Hill's Osteria Italiano. And it's a dream for vegans, coeliacs and FODMAP folks alike. Following in the footsteps of dietary-friendly local Italian eateries like Farro and gluten-free pizzeria Shop 225, the newcomer is taking an inclusive approach to a cuisine that's traditionally not so vegan-friendly. On the menu, you'll find all the Italian classics, with a plant-based makeover. Kick off with antipasto bites like bolognese arancini, lemon pepper 'calamari', vegan meatballs and a Sicilian-style caponata paired with toasted bread. Pasta fiends can get their kicks with the likes of fresh pappardelle in rich truffle and mushroom sauce, a spicy penne puttanesca, and even a creamy carbonara situation. Or, try Funghi e Tartufo's take on the classic cotoletta, here matched with vegan cheese and a tomato sauce. Dessert's sorted, too, thanks to sweet creations like panna cotta and a silky chocolate cheesecake. But that's not all. The menu abounds in gluten-free options, and even the wine and cocktail list is an all-vegan affair. Pop by for aperitivo hour, and enjoy your Sicilian snacks and vegan cheese board matched with drops like a negroni or a 2018 chianti out of Tuscany. Find Funghi e Tartufo at 60 Hardware Lane, Melbourne CBD. It's open 5–10pm Wednesday and Thursday, and 5–11pm Friday and Saturday.
This state of ours boasts some top-notch wining and dining — and on Sunday, November 17, a taste of it is set to descend on an inner-city patch of parkland for one big day of gustatory goodness. That's when the East Malvern Food & Wine Festival returns for its seventh outing, taking over Central Park once again. Head in for free, or nab yourself a $37.50 ticket that gives you a branded glass and five tasting tickets — so you can sample top local drops from producers including Sutherland Estate, Noble Red Wines and Wolf & Co. You can mosey through the dedicated craft beer zone, tasting sips from the likes of Hop Hen Brewing and Grand Ridge Brewery, and stocking up on your favourites as you go. And once you've worked up an appetite, hit up the abundant food offering courtesy of vendors like Bao Melbourne, Nepal Dining, Flaming Skewers and Solo Arancini. Market stalls will be slinging an array of artisanal goodies, including quality cheese and food products, which you can assemble for a lazy picnic in front of the live music stage. Elsewhere, swing by the chablis and oyster bar for a luxe food pairing; taste spirits from labels like Hobson Distillery, Original Spirit Co and Gippsland Distillery; and grab yourself one of Luvlee's handmade ice creams.
Twenty-five years after a Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox and David Arquette-starring film about small-town murders thoroughly revitalised the slasher genre, the Scream franchise is back to take another stab at cinema glory. Because some things just won't die in the horror realm (see also: the Halloween, Saw, The Grudge, The Ring and Child's Play sagas), the Ghostface killer will once again be stalking Woodsboro, and also terrorising a scary movie that mixes slasher thrills with self-aware laughs. An instant classic ever since the first movie became a box office smash back in 1996, the franchise has already delivered three sequels so far courtesy of 1997's Scream 2, 2000's Scream 3 and 2011's Scream 4 — plus TV spinoff Scream: The TV Series. Now, as announced back in 2020, it's returning with a flick that blends the old and the new. While a different bunch of teenagers are in Ghostface's sights this time, Campell's initial target Sidney Prescott, Cox's reporter Gale Weathers and Arquette's former deputy-turned-sheriff Dewey Riley all feature in this new version of Scream, too. The series' latest flick is keeping things simple with its title, and betting on bringing back original cast members — both of which turned out rather nicely for fellow horror effort Halloween back in 2018. Yes, this series has always had a thing for Sid, and it still does. However, the new Scream is also putting The Boys' Jack Quaid, In the Heights' Melissa Barrera and You's Jenna Ortega in Ghostface's path, as well as Dylan Minnette (13 Reasons Why), Jasmin Savoy Brown (Love), Mikey Madison (Once Upon a Time in Hollywood), Mason Gooding (Love, Victor) and Kyle Gallner (Interrogation). With filmmaker Wes Craven — who directed all four original Scream films — passing away in 2015, Ready or Not's Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett have taken the helm. Based on the just-dropped first trailer for Scream circa 2022, they've also taken more than a few cues from Craven. No one asks if someone likes scary movies in the initial sneak peek, but answering the phone while you're home alone definitely proves perilous. Rules for surviving are also mentioned, and it won't come as a surprise to anyone if the new killer is linked to either one of the past culprits or victims, or to the feature's new characters. Story-wise, this iteration Ghostface brings Sid, Gale and Dewey back together to both confront the mask-wearing murderer and their past. As for where the film goes from there, that'll be revealed when it hits cinemas Down Under on January 13 next year. Check out the Scream trailer below: Scream releases in Australian cinemas on January 13, 2022.
Gin lovers, rejoice. Melbourne's CBD now has its first craft gin distillery, with Little Lon Distilling Co opening its doors. Steeped in history, the distillery is named after the infamous red light district that sat between Lonsdale, Spring, Exhibition and La Trobe Streets. The notorious area — that operated around 150 years ago and had bootleggers, prostitutes and sly grog aplenty — was divided by small laneways and cottages, most of which were destroyed in the 1950s. The distillery site, on Casselden Place, is one of the few historic spaces that remain. Little Lon owner and distiller Brad Wilson said the heritage-listed cottage from the 1800s was a passion project many years in the making. "After travelling to Europe, I thought it would be great to have my own spirit brand," Wilson said. "I was inspired by a 400-year-old distillery called Wynand Fockink in Amsterdam to start a project of my own." Drinks such as the mulled apple Ginger Mick are standouts on the menu, with each batch paying homage to the real-life characters that inspired the building's name. Using Victorian Police records, and the knowledge of a Melbourne tour guide Michael Sheldon who runs crime tours in the area, Wilson became familiar with the key figures of the time. "We wanted to personify the characters that used to live and kick around these laneways," said Wilson. Maude Compton, who ran a brothel and was jailed for stealing money out of customer's pockets, and Constable Hickling are some of the characters that feature on the distillery's menu. Little Lon Distilling Co, which has the capacity for around 200–300 litres of fermentation, is churning out batches on regular rotation, featuring local ingredients and fragrant notes such as rosemary, oranges and lemons — all things which have historically grown in the area. Images: Julia Sansone
Messina fans have jaws on the floor; Sydney's Cow and Moon has been declared the world's best gelato maker at one of the world's most prestigious ice cream events. Enmore's family-run Cow and Moon trumped the globe's ice creameries and gelato masters on Sunday, seizing the blue ribbon spot at the Gelato World Tour in Italy. Taking out the top spot for their kickass almond affogato flavour dubbed 'Mandorla Affogato', Cow and Moon's Wendy and John Crowl can now call themselves the world's best gelato makers. Beating 23 international finalists (including Gelato Messina) with their prized confection, John Crown told Good Food the key is balance. "It's about trying to understand the flavour, working on the salt, sweet and sour. You have to marry the flavours so that they blend well together." After public voting and panelist judging, Italy took out the two runner up spots, with second place going to Il Cantagalli, third to Gelateria Fiore. Messina's Donato Toce and Simone Panetta must be pretty bummed having gone in salted caramel guns blazing. They nailed the Oceania round and came out in first place with their Cremino flavour — that salted caramel, joined by house made gianduia fudge, fresh meringue and crushed amaretti biscuits. Australia had a total of three reps (all from Sydney) in the finalists after the hardcore Melbourne selections last October, with Cronulla's Frangipani Gelato nabbing a special accolade for her pavlova-inspired gelato (meringue-flavoured base, meringue pieces and passionfruit puree). Cow and Moon had better get cracking on bucketloads of almond affogato, that's some prize-winning, line-forming gold right there. Via Good Food. Images: Cow and Moon.
2022 has been a great time to be a fan of Mexican filmmaker Guillermo del Toro, thanks to not one, not two, but three new projects hitting Australian screens — aka Nightmare Alley, Cabinet of Curiosities and Pinocchio. But if you adore the director's stunning Pan's Labyrinth, as everyone should, then 2023 is going to be even better in Melbourne. The reason? The wondrous film is getting the Hear My Eyes treatment Remixing cinematic masterpieces with a brand-new live score is Hear My Eyes' big thing, as seen in its take on Chopper in 2022 in Melbourne, plus past versions of Drive, Girlhood, Suspiria and Two Hands — and more. It hasn't ever done the same with Pan's Labyrinth before, however, so this performance at 6pm on Saturday, March 18 at The Astor is part of a premiere season. Sleep D and artists Hektor and RBI (Ruby Willis) are writing and performing the new score, giving a hypnotic and resonant picture matching sounds. The end result is set to be one of the most transporting examples of movies meeting music you'll ever go to; think of it as a cinema session and a concert in one. Need a refresher on the film? Released in 2006 and winning three Oscars for its efforts — including Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction and Best Makeup — Pan's Labyrinth takes audiences to Spain during the Franco regime, specifically in the summer of 1944. That when and where ten-year-old Ofelia (Ivana Baquero) gets drawn into a stone maze, with the lines between her reality and this dreamworld colliding — and creating powerful, moving and dazzling movie magic.
The world is an incredible and enigmatic place that holds many secrets and wonders that we humans sometimes struggle to explain. There are places that many of us would find difficult to even dream about or conjure up in our imaginations, yet they actually exist. Ranging from popular tourist destinations to awe-inspiring sights, here are a handful to add to the bucket list of amazing ones to visit before you kick it. 1. Wisteria Tunnel [Map] This stunning and mesmerising array of purple, cream and lilac flowering trees appears as though it has sprung from the pages of a childhood fairytale. This Japanese garden contains three massive wisteria trellises that are at the height of their beauty in May and is just a four hour drive out of Tokyo. 2. Cinque Terre [Map] Located on the rugged coastline of the Italian Riviera, Cinque Terre is an historical and unfathomable sight to behold. With the almost non-existent corporate development or public transport infrastructure surrounding the area, these majestic hillside terraces are a magnet for tourists searching for an authentic taste of Italy’s most spectacular cultural destination. 3. Hotel La Montana Magica [Map] A Lord of the Rings-esque four star lodge, Hotel La Montana Magica is a breathtaking establishment in the biological reserve of Huilo, Chile. The hotel is set in the middle of a 120,000 hectare native forest and built inside a man made volcano, which actually spurts water from its peak and then flows down the side of the mountain past the windows of the thirteen rooms inside. With moss and vines wrapping their way around the structure it would be hard not to feel part of a fantasyland whilst bunking here. 4. Crooked Forest [Map] If you thought trees could only grow straight up in a linear direction, then you obviously have never been to Nowe Czarnowo in West Pomerania, Poland. The grove, known as the Crooked Forest, contains approximately 400 slanting pine trees, which were planted in the 1930s. Seemingly defying gravity, these wonder trees will be sure to awe, and quite possibly confound you, as though you were living in perpetual state of ‘opposite day’. The reason for their planting is to this day still unknown, but plain beauty is good enough for us. 5. The Tunnel of Love [Map] Dubbed the Tunnel of Love, this old train tunnel surrounded by giant trees is located in Kleven, Ukraine. In true love story fashion, it is believed that if couples visiting the tunnel share genuine love then kiss and make a wish, their wish will come true. 6. The Blue Lagoon [Map] The mystic and mesmerising geothermal spa, the Blue Lagoon is one of the most visited places in Iceland, and for good reason. With temperatures ranging from 37-39°C and having therapeutic powers to help sufferers of skin diseases such as psoriasis, this relaxing and soothing oasis would be a tough one to miss. 7. Ice Canyon [Map] The sheer beauty of the Ice Canyon in Greenland speaks for itself, as is visible in the innumerable images of this icy wonder. One of the most photographed spots in Greenland, it is also (quite literally) one of the coolest places on Earth. The canyons were carved by meltwater and can measure to be a near whopping 50m deep. The area is home to lush mountains, stunning icebergs and various flora and fauna unlike anywhere else on the planet and is also a popular sporting and recreation spot. 8. Ball's Pyramid [Map] Measuring at 562m high, Ball Pyramid is the tallest volcanic stack in the world, which formed around 7 million years ago. It is an erosional remnant of a shield volcano 20km south of Australia’s idyllic and secluded Lord Howe Island. The pyramid was discovered in 1788 but after failed attempts wasn’t successfully climbed to the summit until 1965. The ancient wonder is also home to a number of rare insect and plant species, which were previously thought to be extinct. 9. The Great Barrier Reef [Map] Australia’s own natural wonder, – only one of seven in the world – the Great Barrier Reef is the only living thing on Earth visible space. Boasting of breathtaking beauty and incredibly diverse and vibrant marine species, it contains over 3000 individual reef systems and coral cays as well as thousands of dream-like tropical islands. The marine park extends over 300km along the Queensland coast, entailing one of the most spectacular underwater experiences the globe has to offer. 10. Plitvice Lakes National Park [Map] The Plitvice Lakes National Park really demonstrates nature at its best, both in terms of beauty and natural marvels. 16 lakes can be seen from the surface of the largest national park in Croatia, which are all interconnected and arranged in cascades, yet separated by natural dams of travertine. These travertine barriers are created by the accumulation of moss, algae and bacteria and serve to retain the flow of water, causing the height of the dams to continuously grow. The luscious greens, greys and blue of the lake clusters alter depending on the minerals in the water, making this unpredictable spectacle all the more fascinating. [Via Buzzfeed]
Remember when going on holiday meant asking your travel agent for impartial advice on where to stay, play or party? And though you suspected that Gladys Hamby had never actually stayed in that beachfront cabana soaking up cosmopolitan Broadbeach and throwing back stiff Long Islands, she scored you a free daily continental breakfast so you booked it anyway? These days you’re more likely to do your own research when planning an escape, but even better than scanning through an acquaintance’s holiday snaps on Facebook is new social travel website Hooroo. Enticing pictures are accompanied by untold stories, inside tips and destination inspiration, all from real people who really want to share their travel adventures. Once you’ve decided where to go and what to do once you’re there you can choose from thousands of discounted accommodation options all over Australia, from Melbourne and the Gold Coast to Kangaroo Island and the Fleurieu Peninsula. Get your name on their list before the site goes live on July 18 and those deals will be even sweeter. Go here and start hoarding annual leave. Sponsored post
A love of Woody Allen courses through Fading Gigolo, his influence evident in his inclusion amongst the film's cast but his distinctive footprint also felt in its themes and moods. Though John Turturro is the feature's guiding force as its lead actor, writer and director, the inspiration he has taken from his co-star is obvious. His fifth effort as a filmmaker offers a light homage to the type of easy and breezy New York comedies Allen is synonymous with. To saddle Turturro's protagonist with the waning prostitute descriptor of the film's title is to overstate his enthusiasm for his new-found line of work; for Fioravante — also known by his gigolo pseudonym of Virgil Howard — making money making love is a reluctant sideline to his floristry job. His friend, failed bookseller Murray (Allen), convinces him to test out the world's oldest profession with dermatologist Dr Parker (Sharon Stone). Positive reports from their first satisfied customer motivate Murray to start actively scouring for other clients, including Hasidic widow Avigal (Vanessa Paradis). The relaxed attitude that marks Fioravante's take-it-or-leave-it approach to benefiting from his bedroom skills also flavours the entire film. It's a movie that saunters with fondness rather than marches with purpose. Affection is its primary motivation — for its New York setting, for eclectic characters that careen through eccentric circumstances, for the brand of emotional sweetness and slapstick silliness too rarely offered with any intelligence, and for the continual mysteries of life and love. If it all seems familiar in that warm and witty way of Allen's directorial efforts, that's because it is, especially with the auteur in the thick of the amiable ensemble antics. In his best acting role in many years (and in a part obviously written for him), he relishes the expected affable neuroses of his accepted screen presence. And yet, his biggest feat and the feature's biggest surprise is his double act with Turturro. Where Allen provides the anticipated patter, Turturro is an engaging, alluring enigma. He sells the facade of Fioravante's sexual appeal and sensitive outlook but leaves audiences ever intrigued and always wanting more. The duo fit in perfectly in the caper-like creation that Fading Gigolo becomes, as do their well-cast supporting players; however, the hijinks-laden atmosphere stems as much from a persistent jazz score and a storyline that sees Murray tailed by a jealous neighbourhood watch cop (Liev Schreiber) and Fioravante pursued for a menage a trois with Dr Parker and her friend Selima (Sofia Vergara). Following such comic paths proves purposely frivolous and recognisable but also pointedly earnest. With a slightness of touch, Turturro whips his Allen-esque meanderings into a modest but melodious tapestry of offbeat observations and off-kilter charm. https://youtube.com/watch?v=_pdlbI4TuGY
Warhol, Chagall, de Kooning, Gauguin, Matisse, Rembrandt, Renoir — what a bunch of big fat fakes. You'll need to look a little closer at the latest exhibition in New York City's Center Gallery, because every last work is 100% sham. Until this August, the FBI had these frauds locked away, never to see the light of day again. In a rare moment of public awesomeness from the Feds, Fordham University's Center Gallery plays host to a collection of seized forgeries from the evidence stores of the FBI Art Crimes department. From a Warhol Brillo Box to De Kooning's seminal work Woman, I, each work in the aptly named Caveat Emptor (let the buyer beware) exhibition has been certified by the FBI as a genuine forgery. Many have been classified and reclassified over the years, with the FBI fine-tuning their art crime detection techniques and nailing some big-time fraudsters. Art forgery has been around for thousands of years, from ancient Roman copies of Greek marbles to Michelangelo allegedly “borrowing” master works, copying them and returning the imitations to their owners (so Vasari says). Forgeries still plague the FBI today; this exhibition is running at a rather testy time for New York's art world, with the recent accusations against an NYC art dealer who allegedly scammed two big-time Manhattan galleries out of up to US$33 million with counterfeit Rothkos, Pollocks and De Koonings. So how do you tell a genuine fake? Luckily for this forgery noob, an NYC conservator casually inhabiting the gallery noted the tell-tale subtleties in the works, tiny details you really have to be looking for to notice. Warhol's 1972 Mao for instance, can be dethroned by the painted staples (Warhol mass-produced his works, stapling the dried canvases afterward). Boom! Fake. The forged Matisse work sports an identical style to the French master; however, the lifeless colour palette may have pricked the suspicion of the buyers. Voila! Faux. So, not dissimilar to RSVPing to a tacky nightclub launch, why would you knowingly head along to a room full of fakes? Caveat Emptor inevitably makes you question the value of a 'real' work of art, as the works on the walls are technically not works at all; they're all evidence in art crime, as damning as a fingerprint-mottled pistol or balaclava left at the bank. It's a staggering thought that an unknown artist could have the gumption to recreate Rembrandt or photocopy Gauguin. With a few minuscule muck-ups, the works are almost carbon copies of the original masterpieces. It's hard to tell whether the exhibition is a celebration of the brilliance of the FBI, the works sitting like mounted trophies, or the genuine skill of the 'artists' themselves. The works are even faux-signed by the forgers, with as much attention paid to a spot-on signature as the work itself. For legal reasons, we can't meet all the makers of these bonafide recreations. Unfortunately, that's often classified. One of the greatest art forger's in history, Ken Perenyi, wrote his own salacious story in a book not so coincidentally called Caveat Emptor: The Secret Life of an American Art Forger. Luckily enough, one of Perenyi's favourite masters to copy was English maritime painter James E. Buttersworth, a fraudulent copy of whose is included in the exhibition. Though the novelty of sort-of-seeing Warhol's Mao next to a tiny Renoir study is undeniably fun, there's something about the hand of the master artist that's missing. That being said, these phonies sure can paint. Images by Shannon Connellan.
When any city becomes home to a brand-new art gallery, it's big news. Thanks to the NGV Contemporary, that's about to be the case in Melbourne. First announced back in 2018, and unveiling how it'll look just last month, the new 30,000-square-metre site at Southbank is set to be huge — adding a new landmark to the Victorian capital, complete with over 13,000 square metres of display space, plus a rooftop terrace and sculpture garden. Also hefty: the cash donation the in-the-works gallery has just received, as gifted by trucking magnates Lindsay and Paula Fox. Building up almost 20 years of supporting the National Gallery of Victoria, the pair has pledged $100 million to the NGV Contemporary. Yes, that's an enormous sum — the largest cash donation ever made to an Australian art museum by a living donor, in fact. As a result, the gallery now has a new name: The Fox: NGV Contemporary. When it opens its doors at 77 Southbank Boulevard in the coming years — with an exact launch date yet to be announced — that's what you'll see gracing the walls. Well, that and a whole heap of eye-catching modern art, of course. "We are truly astonished by this extraordinary act of giving from the Fox family and we are overwhelmed by the incredible generosity and support of Lindsay and Paula Fox. The Fox family should be commended on their leadership in this sector and for the real, tangible impact that their giving has, and will continue to have, on the lives of so many," said NGV director Tony Ellwood, announcing the news. "This awe-inspiring donation will ensure that Victoria remains a centre of artistic excellence for many generations to come and that The Fox: NGV Contemporary will be a source of community pride for all Victorians, as well as a meaningful cultural legacy for the Fox family," he continued. The Fox family's donation comes after the Ian Potter Foundation also committed $20 million to the NGV Contemporary — and it is hoped that both gifts will encourage more philanthropic support. "Philanthropy can transform cities and NGV Contemporary will be a true game-changer — one of the largest galleries dedicated to contemporary art and design in the world and a global architectural icon," said Victorian Minister for Creative Industries Danny Pearson. That money will go towards giving Melbourne a new must-visit gallery filled with the best and brightest in creative works, and a space that doubles as quite the spectacular site itself. Thanks to a multidisciplinary team led by Australian architect Angelo Candalepas and Associates, the NGV Contemporary will feature stunning arched entryways, as well as a spherical hall that reaches more than 40 metres in height. That arresting-looking hall, dubbed 'omphalos' (the Ancient Greek word for the centre of the earth), will spiral upwards through all levels on the building, too. So, visitors will then be able to walk around it to scope out art — like New York's Guggenheim Museum — and get up to the rooftop. Outside on that sky-high terrace, in addition to perusing the sculpture garden, patrons will be scoping out vistas over the CBD, parklands and the Yarra Ranges — views never seen by the general public before. Also among the highlights: a large cafe that'll connect to an expanded public parkland, a multi-level veranda on the building's eastern side, a new NGV design store, a restaurant and member's lounge, and educational spaces, studios and laboratories focused on conserving artwork. And, of course, there'll be large and flexible exhibition spaces that'll allow the NGV to host international blockbuster exhibitions — although with Chanel and Picasso showcases at NGV International in 2022, it hasn't been doing too badly in that department. Also, the new gallery spaces will also enable the NGV to present programs drawing upon its permanent collection of Australian and international contemporary art and design as well. The Fox: NGV Contemporary will be located at 77 Southbank Boulevard, Melbourne. For more information, head to the NGV website. Images: Renders of winning concept design for NGV Contemporary by Angelo Candalepas and Associates, by Darcstudio and Secchi Smith.
Hip hop culture, graffiti and architecture combine as one. The Hive apartment, the coolest apartment around, is graffiti inspired and located in Melbourne, the city renowned for its funky, impressive street-art. Designed by the architect Zvi Belling of ITN Architects, the Hive is the first in a series of Hip Hop buildings. Made mostly of concrete, this building symbolises the tumultuous relationship between architecture and graffiti. Whether it appeals to you or disgusts you, graffiti exists and is a common form of art around the world. Belling teamed up with old schoolgraffiti artist, Prowla RDC, to make this unusual, radical and not-so-humble looking abode. Not only is the house inovative and cool, but it is environmentally friendly, too. Fully equipped with solar panels lining the roof, the Hive is a green hip-hop home. Arrows, swooshes, and drips have been incorporated into the concrete walls but the biggest statement of all is the four meters high concrete letters spelling 'hive' across the building. Watch out for ITN's next unconventional design as it is bound to be interesting.
If you're heading to the tropical north, chances are you're going for nature. Whether it's the spectacular reefs, the captivating wildlife or the towering rainforest, if you love nature, you'll want to keep it as pristine and protected as possible during your stay. From immersive rainforest education experiences to luxury eco-stays, there are plenty of ways to lighten your footprint while on holiday in Tropical North Queensland.
After spending the last few years in the grasp of tweens and sexless Mormons, it's good to see the vampire movie finally biting back. From the ingenious goofiness of What We Do in the Shadows to the eerie urban decay of Only Lovers Left Alive, it's been a banner year for big screen bloodsuckers, a trend that continues at ACMI this month with the most fascinating shakeup to the genre yet. Sexy, scary and fearlessly subversive, A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night is a last minute contender for one of the best films of 2014. Billed as the world's first Iranian Vampire Western, the debut film from writer-director Ana Lily Amirpour takes place on the outskirts of an industrial ghost town, ominously named Bad City. It's here that an aloof young vampire in heavy eye makeup and billowing chador (Sheila Vand) stalks the streets in search of victims to devour. What she doesn't count on, however, is the romantic attention of a handsome local drug dealer (Arash Marandi), who unwittingly presents her with a difficult choice: pursue a relationship or eat him for dinner. If the plot sounds thin, that's probably because it is. A spiritual descendent of David Lynch and Jim Jarmusch, the California-based Amirpour is far less concerned with narrative than she is with style and atmosphere. The moody black and white cinematography further enhances the film's already palpable sense of menace, while also calling to mind prototypical vampire movies such as Vampyr and the original Dracula. The eclectic soundtrack is equally evocative, Amirpour spinning a Tarantino-esque blend of European and Iranian pop music combined with the rousing strains of an old school Spaghetti Western. Yet despite her aesthetic self-consciousness, Amirpour's film is in no way lacking in substance. While vampire stories are traditionally about sexuality, A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night reframes the discussion to focus more on gender. It's obviously not a coincidence that Vand's vigilante vamp feeds exclusively on misogynistic men. Likewise the pointed choice of costume: her traditional head-to-toe black garb, so often viewed as a sign of oppression, re-appropriated as a symbol of her power. Even the film's title is misleading. Amirpour sets us up to expect a helpless victim, only to deliver something very different indeed. Bold and surprising, this is a truly stunning debut. Do everything you can to seek it out.
It's summer, or close enough to it. The temperature is warm, hot or scorching, or somewhere in-between. You can hear the sounds of someone splashing around in a cool, refreshing pool — but those noises aren't coming from your own swimming spot, because you don't have one. Many Australians can relate to this scenario each and every year (and, depending on where you live, maybe even most of the year round). Thankfully, it's a situation that Swimply is designed to counter. Even better: the pool-sharing service is relaunching Down Under at exactly the right time of year. Swimply first debuted locally in 2019, after getting up and running in the US and Canada before that; however, we all know what's happened in the world since then. Now, with Australians facing a summer without restrictions, the service is here to help you out if you don't have a mate with a pool, don't know your neighbours well enough to just pop by for a dip or live too far away from your local waterhole is too far away — and you're stuck trying to chill out in the bath or under the fan in the sweltering heat. Operating in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Perth, Adelaide and select regional areas, Swimply is a fairly typical sharing economy-style platform. One person rents out something they have and don't use all the time, while another person with a short-term need reaps the benefits. In this case, the service lets folks with pools lease out their backyard swimming spots when they're not in use, and helps people without pools find a place for a splash, all via an iOS and Android app. If you fall into the latter category, you can hire a spot by the hour. You can also look for pools with specific facilities and inclusions — such as chairs, lounges, towels, wifi, a changing area, access to a bathroom, a barbecue, a shady spot to sit under, night lighting, pool toys and heated waters. Some allow pets, while others are fine with parties and alcohol. Before booking, you can also scope out just how many guests you can bring (and whether kids are allowed), as well as how private the pool is from the neighbours. That said, it proves most cost-effective if you're splashing around with mates, with the cost set by the owner. Prices start at $25 per hour, but those fees vary. Some hit $100, and there's plenty around the $50–70 mark. Still, if you're keen to hop in a pool — and a private one, rather than your local public spot — Swimply gives you options. Swimply is now available to download on iOS and Android.
One of 2022's absolute best movies explored loss, time, childhood and mother-daughter bonds, and did so with playfulness and empathy. Another pondered a fraught reality for women mere decades ago, exploring a situation that sadly isn't confined to the annals of history. Both hailed from France from female filmmakers. Both wowed the international film festival circuit. Both Petite Maman and Happening also share something else in common: they were highlights of 2022's Alliance Française French Film Festival program. It's worth remembering last year's standouts now that 2023's full lineup is here — because this new batch of flicks, some freshly announced and some revealed back in January as a sneak peek, will also contain some of this year's very best titles. In total, Australia's annual celebration of French cinema will screen 39 movies throughout March and April in its whopping 34th year, taking its selection on the road to Aussie capitals and a number of regional locations. AFFFF's 2023 opening-night pick sits among the previously unveiled films, with Masquerade spinning a tale of glitz, glamour and the Côte d'Azur's far-less-glossy underbelly under La Belle Époque's director Nicolas Bedos' guidance — and with Pierre Niney (Yves Saint Laurent) and Isabelle Adjani (The World Is Yours) among his stars. As a bookend, it's now joined by Freestyle, which takes to the road with Benjamin Voisin (Lost Illusions) and Marina Foïs (Stella in Love), and promises to end the fest as memorably as it begins. In-between, must-sees include AFFFF's big picks teased in its first program announcement: Saint Omer, with documentarian Alice Diop drawing from true events to craft a drama about a young Parisian journalist and novelist attending murder trial, then wading through the complexities it surfaces within her own family history; One Fine Morning, the latest film by Bergman Island's Mia Hansen-Løve, this time a family drama starring Léa Seydoux (Crimes of the Future); and The Innocent, as written by, directed by and starring Louis Garrel (A Faithful Man), based on his own experiences, and also featuring Noémie Merlant (Tár). There's also Final Cut, a French remake of Japanese cult hit One Cut of the Dead from The Artist director Michel Hazanavicius, starring Romain Duris (Eiffel); Winter Boy, the new film from Sorry Angel's Christophe Honoré, an autobiographical drama focusing on 17-year-old Lucas (newcomer Paul Kircher); Brother and Sister, with Marion Cotillard (Annette) playing a stage actor and sibling to Melvil Poupaud (Summer of 85); and Other People's Children, a Virginie Efira (Benedetta)-led effort about being a stepmother that's also inspired by director Rebecca Zlotowski's (Planetarium) own life. That's not the end of highlights, either already revealed or just-dropped — with the latter spanning two Quentin Dupieux films. The director of Rubber and Deerskin adds both Incredible but True and Smoking Causes Coughing to the fest's lineup, as well as a sense of humour that only he possesses, anchoring AFFFF's comedy selection. Plus, there's award-winner Playground, which focuses on a seven-year-old girl; On the Wandering Paths, which brings Sylvain Tesson's novel to the screen so swiftly after The Velvet Queen also turned his work into cinema (including at AFFFF 2022); and The Origin of Evil, an account of a dysfunctional family that's one of three AFFFF 2023 movies to star Full Time's Laure Calamy. Or, viewers can look forward to Country Cabaret, which is based on a true story about a bold move to save a family farm; Sugar and Stars, adapting pastry chef Yazid Ichemrahem's autobiography to the screen; the Christmas-set A Good Doctor; and Jack Mimoun and the Secrets of Val Verde, the fest's dose of action, adventure and laughs all in one. This year's focus is firmly on the new over the classic, but when it comes to looking backwards, 1988 French box-office smash The Big Blue does the honours. The full list of 2023 AFFFF titles goes on, as cinephiles have come to not just expect but thoroughly enjoy from a fest that's the largest celebration of French film outside of France. ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL 2023 DATES: Tuesday, March 7–Wednesday, April 5: Palace Central, Palace Verona, Palace Norton St, Chauvel Cinema and Hayden Orpheum Cremorne in Sydney Wednesday, March 8–Wednesday, April 5: Palace Cinema Como, Palace Balwyn, Palace Brighton Bay, Palace Westgarth, The Astor Theatre, The Kino and Pentridge Cinema in Melbourne Wednesday, March 8–Wednesday, April 5: Luna Leederville, Luna on SX, Windsor Cinema, Palace Raine Square and Camelot Outdoor Cinema in Perth Thursday, March 9–Sunday, March 19: State Cinema, Hobart Thursday, March 9–Wednesday, April 5: Palace Electric Cinema, Canberra Wednesday, March 15–Wednesday, April 12: Palace James Street and Palace Barracks in Brisbane Thursday, March 16–Wednesday, April 5: Palace Byron Bay Thursday, March 23–Wednesday, April 19: Palace Nova Eastend Cinemas and Palace Nova Prospect Cinemas in Adelaide Friday, March 24–Sunday, March 26: Northern Festival, Chaffey Theatre, Middleback Arts Centre and Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre in Port Pirie, Renmark, Whyalla and Mount Gambier Wednesday, March 29–Sunday, April 2: Riverside Theatre Parramatta Wednesday, March 29–Sunday, April 16: Dendy Southport on the Gold Coast Monday, April 3 and Monday, April 10: Victa Cinema, Victor Harbour Friday, April 21–Sunday, April 23: Star Cinema, Bendigo + encore dates in some cities The Alliance Française French Film Festival tours Australia from Tuesday, March 7–Tuesday, April 25, 2023. For more information, or to buy tickets from 9am on Thursday, February 9, visit the AFFFF website.
