When it comes to must-watch movies, Australian cinema has gifted audiences with plenty in recent times. The outback noir of Mystery Road and Goldstone, the chills of The Babadook, the high-octane glory that was Mad Max: Fury Road, the mountainous terror captured in Sherpa, the race riots comedy of Down Under: they're just some of the great local fare our talented filmmakers have been serving up. That was then, this is now — and don't worry, this year looks set to deliver too. So which homegrown flicks should you put on your 2017 viewing list? A hint: a heart-wrenching true tale, serial killer thrills and a long-awaited reunion are just the beginning. LION The 2017 slate of Australian-made films really couldn't kick off with a bigger title. At the time of writing, Lion has already been nominated for four Golden Globes, five BAFTAs, two Screen Actors Guild awards and two Directors Guild of America gongs — and expect that list to keep growing. Recounting the real-life story of the Indian-born, Tasmanian-raised Saroo Brierley (played by charming newcomer Sunny Pawar as a child, and Dev Patel with a spot-on Aussie accent as an adult), the first feature directed by Top of the Lake's Garth Davis will earn your tears and then some. Rounding out the cast for this rousing take on a tale 60 Minutes viewers will be familiar with is Nicole Kidman, David Wenham and Rooney Mara. JASPER JONES One of the nation's favourite novels makes its way to the big screen with Jasper Jones, and it's in great hands. Bran Nue Dae's Rachel Perkins directs the adaptation of Craig Silvey's best-selling book, with local treasures Hugo Weaving and Toni Collette, and young up-and-comers Angourie Rice (The Nice Guys), Levi Miller (Red Dog: True Blue) and Aaron L. McGrath (TV's Glitch) among the onscreen talent. For those that haven't read the source material, it tells the '60s-set, racially charged tale of the titular teen, the 14-year-old who becomes his new friend and the mystery that brings them together. HOUNDS OF LOVE Prepare to be unnerved — and to be surprised and a little shocked by Stephen Curry of The Castle fame. He was once best known for playing hole-digging Dale Kerrigan, however the actor's performance in Hounds of Love will make you see him in a completely new light. That isn't just an indication of the different realm he's in, with the first film from director Ben Young taking inspiration from real-life true-crime cases dating back to Perth in the '80s, but also a sign of just how effective Curry is. The unsettling effort has been compared to Snowtown and Animal Kingdom for a very good reason. JUNGLE How far will Daniel Radcliffe go to escape a certain boy wizard? Playing a farting corpse in last year's polarising Swiss Army Man helped, and heading to the Bolivian rainforest in Jungle might too. Directed by Wolf Creek's Greg McLean, the Queensland-shot feature charts four backpackers in the thick of the Amazon wilderness. Yes, that means that it is a survivalist tale — but given that it's from the filmmaker that made outback Australia oh-so menacing, expect plenty of thrills. SWEET COUNTRY Did you think that David Wenham and Hugo Weaving were only going to pop up on this list once? Not a chance. Two of Australia's hardest-working actors feature in Sweet Country, as do Bryan Brown, Sam Neill and Last Cab to Darwin's Ningali Lawford-Wolf, however it's the director behind the movie that should grab your attention. Making a drama about the killing of a station owner by an Aboriginal stockman, and the corresponding fallout in 1920s Australia, the film marks the long-awaited next effort from Samson & Delilah's Warwick Thornton (pictured). CARGO He's already played Tim from The Office, Bilbo Baggins and John Watson — and now, Martin Freeman will take on the guise of a father trying to save his baby during the apocalypse. Based on Ben Howling and Yolanda Ramke's Tropfest short of the same name, the South Australian-made film plunges into dystopian sci-fi territory, and takes a host of local talent along for the ride, including Susie Porter, Anthony Hayes and David Gulpilil. Oh, and for added fun, there's zombies as well. BERLIN SYNDROME It has been five years since Cate Shortland's Lore became Australia's best German-language film, and 13 since her debut Somersault won an astounding 13 Australian Film Institute awards (the gongs they gave out before the AACTAs). For her third effort, she opts for psychological thrills — and for the titular European city. Here, Hacksaw Ridge's Teresa Palmer plays an Aussie photographer who has a fling with a local teacher, only to find herself unable to escape from his apartment. Expect to hear a whole lot more about Berlin Syndrome very soon, given that the movie premieres at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival in mid-to-late January. FLAMMABLE CHILDREN If we had to summarise Flammable Children in just a few words, it'd be this: Kylie Minogue and Guy Pearce's post-Neighbours reunion. You're already sold, right? The former Charlene and Mike turned internationally successful pop star and actor, respectively, will once again share the screen — and The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert's Stephan Elliott is the person responsible. His latest flick ventures back to the '70s, when Aussie teens flocked to the beach, and their parents got up to some swinging fun, with Radha Mitchell and Julian McMahon also starring. [caption id="attachment_606189" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Lion.[/caption] HOTEL MUMBAI In 2008, Mumbai's Taj Mahal Palace Hotel was attacked by terrorists, with at least 167 people killed. Australian writer/director Anthony Maras recreates the horrific incident, which proved harrowing for locals and tourists alike. Because 2017 seems to be all about familiar faces gracing local flicks more than once, Dev Patel (pictured, from Lion) helps lead an international cast that also includes Red Dog: True Blue's Jason Isaacs, 52 Tuesdays' Tilda Cobham-Hervey and The Man from U.N.C.L.E.'s Armie Hammer. ALI'S WEDDING Australia doesn't make all that many romantic comedies. Australia doesn't make many films focusing on the country's Muslim community either. Combine the two, and Ali's Wedding is the end result. Starring Iraqi-born Aussie actor and comedian Osamah Sami as the eponymous character, there's no prizes for guessing that marriage sits at the centre of the film as the son of a Muslim cleric tries to remain true to both his family and his heart. Top image: Lion.
Nothing leaves you feeling quite as accomplished as greeting the world early on a weekend morning, especially if it's for an activity that's way more fun and more delicious than your usual Saturday snooze session. To find yourself simply fizzing with Saturday morning good vibes, haul yourself out of bed nice and early so you can beat even the most eager crowds to the Queen Victoria Market. Behind the storied yellow facade of Melbourne's largest 19th century market, the produce sections open as early as 6am, with the specialty shopping stalls following suit at 8am. Hit the deli hall for a strong latte from the masters at Market Lane Coffee (who are also on Collins Street), teamed with a breakfast of warm borek (a pie-like pastry from the Balkans, Middle East and Central Asia), courtesy of market favourite, The Borek Shop. That should leave you sufficiently fuelled for a morning spent perusing Queen Vic's many varied treasures. Its menu includes delights such as spicy lamb boreks, lamb kofta wraps and turkey, salami is egg pides if you're a meat eater. And if you're not, you are especially covered with an array of options including chickpea roundabouts, zucchini fritters, spicy vegetable gozlemes, bean salads, cheese boreks, falafel wraps and egg, cheese and spinach pides.
Eleven years ago, Taika Waititi was a writer for hire, working on an adaptation of a beloved New Zealand book. Today, he's about to leap into the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the director of the forthcoming Thor: Ragnarok. Progressing from the former to the latter hasn't been easy; however as Waititi's career has continually proven, he likes to stray off the beaten path. Indeed, before he embraces the superhero realm, he's bringing a dose of adventurous anarchy to cinema screens courtesy of his fourth feature, Hunt for the Wilderpeople. After exploring unconventional family dynamics with Eagle vs Shark, Boy and What We Do in the Shadows, Waititi ponders similar territory again. But this time, he's telling the tale of city kid Ricky Baker (Julian Dennison), his cranky foster uncle Hec (Sam Neill), and their attempts to escape an over-enthusiastic child services officer (Rachel House) by trampling through the New Zealand wilderness. And, he's actually returning to that project he started scripting more than a decade ago. Expect plenty of humour and heart, Terminator references, a dog named Tupac and Rhys Darby as an eccentric conspiracy theorist — all in a movie that has "synthesizers and a score from the '80s, and car chases and flipped police cars and all that stupid stuff," as Waititi puts it. There's a reason Hunt for the Wilderpeople has become New Zealand's biggest homegrown box office success of all time (knocking the filmmaker's own Boy off the top spot, actually). With the film's Australian release under way, we spoke with Waititi about great buddy comedies, getting annoyed at New Zealand's landscape and not being able to connect with bank robbers, and about the movie of the moment, of course. ON WHAT ATTRACTED HIM TO THE WILDERPEOPLE "I think it was just that I loved the idea of this character being on the run, sort of like Thelma and Louise or The Fugitive or Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. All those kind of buddy flicks that, even films like Up, have two mismatched characters who are thrown together and stuck together. It's always been a winning combination in cinema. Paper Moon, 48 Hours, the list goes on. So I love that style and I thought it'd be a cool thing to see." ON WORKING WITH NEW ZEALAND'S UNPREDICTABLE WILDERNESS "We were shooting on locations, and we didn't really have much of an idea where we were going to shoot things, and what the weather was going to be like. We ended up in a whole lot of really remote places in New Zealand. At one of them ... we had a huge dump of snow. We had to kind of regroup that morning as the snow was falling on us, and we were like an hour from the main road, we had just driven deep inland. It was too expensive and it would lose the whole day moving everyone out of there. So we just basically decided to shoot and to set a part of the film in the snow. And that's when we got that cool 780-degree shot that turns around and around — we shot that, and spent a few hours shooting that ... While we were doing that, I was trying to figure out what we were going to do for the rest of the day. Now the film has this whole breadth of seasonal change through it. And it makes it even more epic, the fact that it has snow and it spans months and months." ON CELEBRATING THE FILM'S NEW ZEALAND HERITAGE "I'm very proud of where I come from, and I think [New Zealand's] a very beautiful place. Sometimes we take it for granted, how beautiful the land is. I think we get pissed off with it. It's like 'god you can't look anywhere without seeing some beautiful landscape'. And you forget that no one in the world has seen stuff like that. I think that's it's not often nowadays that we make films that celebrate what New Zealand looks like or like, the culture, the people, and how crazy we are. I wanted to do that. I wanted to use so much of that in there. So many parts of the film are inspired by '80s New Zealand films and Australian films. We used to make so many car chase films with people trying to drive from one end of the country to the other, and we stopped doing all that stuff. I think we started taking ourselves too seriously, and I don't do that." ON MAKING FILMS ABOUT UNCONVENTIONAL FAMILIES "Well, my family is crazy. I'm from a very crazy family — but I actually think every family is crazy. I think every single person has some insane part to their family. Every family, there's a criminal somewhere in there, there's a crazy person, there's someone who has just found religion, there's someone who's just left religion, there's someone who's been divorced, there's someone who has just fallen in love. Families are just really messed up, and they're a macro representation of earth, really. All parts of humanity all crammed into a couple of households. And it is the one thing I've found that everyone relates to the most: family dynamics. I don't relate to bank robbers. I've seen a lot of those films, and I get really bored. I don't care about the stakes, and I don't care about what they're trying to do, and I don't care about bank robbery, so I lose interest. But if you set it around a bank robber who's trying to get together with his ex-wife, at least there's something to hold on to there." ON JUMPING FROM INDIE FILMS TO DIRECTING MARVEL'S FORTHCOMING THOR MOVIE "There's not a huge difference really, to be honest. There's just a little bit more time, and you get a few more opportunities to do things that, in the normal indie world, you'd have to find cheaper ways of doing or you'd just have to have a character talk about rather than actually showing something blow up. So parts of your imagination, you actually get to shoot — and that's quite cool. It also could be dangerous to give people that much freedom, creatively. But it is very similar to the indie world in terms of it is still a bunch of people wanting to make a really good story and to make a good film." Hunt for the Wilderpeople opens in Australian cinemas on May 26.
Come summertime, there's no better way to see Australia's east coast than through the flaps in your tent. The 1600-kilometre drive between the sunny paradise of Byron Bay and the cosy bars and laneways of Melbourne is dotted with unspoiled beaches, spectacular headlands, national parks and hiking trails. Many of these places are home to campsites — from the fancy, drive-in grounds with hot showers and barbecues to the remote, walk-in pitches where you have entire stretches of sand to yourself. Except for your fellow kangaroos, that is. So grab your sleeping bag, stock up on tucker and get ready for a sun-drenched, star-speckled adventure. Here's our top ten camping spots along the way. REFLECTIONS HOLIDAYS, BYRON BAY Start (or end) your journey with a stay on the water's edge in Byron Bay. If you were in bricks-and-mortar you'd be paying hundreds of bucks a night for this stuff. But, at Reflections Holidays — Byron Bay, it's all yours for next to nothing. Byron's famously warm water and dolphins are just a stumble away, but should you feel the need for good coffee or a feast, you're close to town, too. Facilities are laid-on: you'll get toilets, showers, a camp kitchen, barbecues, a shop and free wifi. Does this even count as camping? PEBBLY BEACH CAMPGROUND, YURAYGIR NATIONAL PARK Getting to Pebbly Beach Campground is half the fun. Found about 50 kilometres north of Coffs Harbour, it's accessible by sand only. In other words, you have to drive over the beach, then cross a saltwater estuary to get there. To avoid sinking, be sure to travel at low tide. You'll be pitching just a few metres from the shore, surrounded by she-oaks and with loads of walking tails nearby. There are pitches for 60, but facilities consist of toilets only. If you're keen to light a fire, then head to the Station Creek turnoff where you'll find a stack of free firewood. Getting to Pebbly Beach is fun, but it's probably best left to the camping experts — if you have access to a decent 4wd and some genuine adventure skills (like the ability to let down your tyres and re-inflate when you get off the sand), you'll be sweet. TRIAL BAY GAOL CAMPGROUND, SOUTH WEST ROCKS Your tent gives you million dollar views when you sleep over at Trial Bay Gaol Campground, which is perched on the water at South West Rocks. End your day with a watery sunset and wake up to an immediate swim. If you're a keen diver, then you'll want to explore nearby Fish Rock Cave, considered one of the planet's best cave dives. The 116-pitch campsite gives you toilets, showers, drinking water, picnic tables, barbecues, an onsite cafe and, just in case you have your boat with you, a launching ramp. All these bonuses mean that bookings are essential. THE RUINS, BOOTI BOOTI NATIONAL PARK This open, grassy area behind Seven Mile Beach is encircled with cabbage palms and has plenty of space for campers of all shapes and sizes. Find a secluded corner for your two-person tent or peg your party kingdom smack bang in the middle of the action. When you feel like a break from surf and sand, wander to Wallis Lake for a dip or paddle in still water, or conquer scenic Booti Hill track, which takes you to Elizabeth Beach via a couple of lookouts. Then there's the rest of Booti Booti National Park to explore, as well as cafes and shops in nearby Pacific Palms and Forster. The Ruins offers toilets, showers, drinking water, picnic tables and barbecues. Bookings aren't available — you get your pitch on a first come, first served basis. TALLOW BEACH, BOUDDI NATIONAL PARK, CENTRAL COAST You'll need a bit of strength and stamina for this one — it's a 1.2 kilometre walk from the car park. The effort is 100 per cent worth it, though. With just six pitches available, Tallow Beach is one of the most peaceful camping experiences on this list. If you're serious about Bear Grylls-ing it, then bring a fishing rod and catch your own dinner off the rocks. Otherwise, there's swimming, surfing and bush walking to do — try Box Head track for red gums or Flannel Flower track for coastal views. Facilities are minimal, consisting of toilets only, and there might or might not be mobile phone coverage depending on your carrier. While you're on the Central Coast, do some exploring with our local guide. NORTH ERA CAMPGROUND, ROYAL NATIONAL PARK Like Tallow Beach, North Era Campground is only accessible on foot, so pack light. In fact, if you're a keen hiker, then you can make it an overnight stop on the 26-kilometre long Coast Track. Otherwise, drive to Garie Beach Picnic Area and walk from there. Either way, you're in for a magical escape from urban life. Welcome to the bliss of the land beyond mobile phone coverage, mind-blowing ocean views and a maximum of 11 other tents in your vicinity. All this means that facilities are limited to toilets. Make a booking before you leave home. GREEN PATCH, JERVIS BAY This is your chance to park your tent within a few metres of Australia's deepest and, many would argue, most beautiful, bay. Located with Booderee National Park, Green Patch is dotted with trees and you can expect to meet 'roos, wallabies and possums. Spend your time relaxing on Jervis Bay's fine white sand, dolphin spotting, snorkelling, paddling or bush walking. There's a bunch more local tips in our weekender's guide. Campsite facilities include access to fresh water, hot showers, toilets and barbecues. It's important to book your pitch online in advance. ARAGUNNU, MIMOSA ROCKS NATIONAL PARK Mimosa Rocks National Park — where the forest meets the sea for miles and miles — is dotted with stunning, pristine beaches. And one of the loveliest is 500-metre long Aragunnu, found half an hour's drive south of Bermagui. The campground is separated into four areas, so choose the environment that suits you best, be that right near the waves, in the shade of towering mahogany trees or up high, overlooking the beach. Leave yourself time for the Mimosa Rocks walk, which takes in an excellent lookout. The campground comes with toilets, barbecues and a car park, so you don't have to lug in your gear. However, bookings aren't possible — turn up and try your luck. WINGAN INLET, CROAJINGALONG NATIONAL PARK Croajingalong National Park hugs Victoria's eastern coastline for over 100 kilometres, protecting heathlands, rainforests and eucalypt forests. There's a bunch of tranquil camping grounds to choose from and Wingan Inlet is one of the prettiest. It's set in a tall bloodwood forest, 36 kilometres from the Princes Highway, on the inlet's western shore. There are several day walks to keep you busy, covering river rapids, a fresh water lake, windswept headlands and fur seal colonies representing both Australia and New Zealand. Take your pick of 23 pitches, but keep in mind facilities are quite basic, offering non-flush toilets, picnic tables and fireplaces. TIDAL RIVER, WILSONS PROMONTORY Any road trip between Byron Bay and Melbourne should include a diversion to Wilsons Promontory, the most southern point of the Australian mainland. Its 50,460 hectares encompass empty beaches, swathes of rainforest and rugged mountains. For access to both river and sea, take your tent to Tidal River Campground. The facilities are pretty posh, including toilets, hot showers, free gas barbecues, dishwashing stations, washing machines and device charging stations. So, if you can't bear the ol' digital detox, then you won't have to. There are 484 sites, including 20 powered ones, but bookings are essential.
He's the person responsible for the original iterations of Three Bags Full, Top Paddock, and Higher Ground, as well as well-loved wine-focused bars and eateries like Hazel and Dessous. Now, Nathan Toleman and his Mulberry Group team have spread their wings to Cremorne, taking over a converted warehouse for their wine bar Lilac — a sure-fire smash hit for sips, snacks and lazy feasts alike. The building's concrete and steel bones remain, warmed with the help of mellow lighting and a snug corner fireplace. It's lofty and open, yet full of character. Borrowing the same relaxed approach, Lilac's oft-changing food offering doesn't zero its focus too heavily on any one genre, instead pulling together a melange of Aussie nostalgia, Euro sensibilities and French bistro flair. [caption id="attachment_889058" align="alignnone" width="1920"] John Benedict Ryan[/caption] Group Head Chef Kyle Nicol (Rascal, Supernormal) has worked plenty of his own foraged ingredients and aged meats into the menu, alongside wood-fired dishes and house-fermented goodies galore. Think, crafty and creative, with a warm, generous edge. An instant hit has emerged in the two-bite chicken mousse eclairs with black garlic glaze, while other highlights in the smalls department might include savoury mince toasts and curds finished with fermented honey. Be sure to spread some of the latter onto the puffy wood-fired flatbread that everyone's been raving about. The house charcuterie is a standout, as are the duck far potatoes with kefir cream. The matching wine list proves just as exciting, especially if you've got a thing for organic and biodynamic varieties. Trend-bucking small-scale producers get plenty of airtime here, though quality reigns supreme throughout. And you'll find a solid spread of sake, spirits and craft beer to round it out — all up, leaning overwhelmingly local. [caption id="attachment_889064" align="alignnone" width="1920"] John Benedict Ryan[/caption] [caption id="attachment_897456" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tania Lee[/caption] [caption id="attachment_897453" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kayla May Photography[/caption] Top image: Sean McDonald Photography Appears in: The Best Wine Bars in Melbourne for 2023
Named for the famous Tsukiji seafood market in Japan, Tsukiji is unlike your typical sushi and sashimi joint. Instead of just ordering off a menu or choosing from pre-made sushi scuttling along a sushi train, here you head to the deli fridge, select your fish, and they carve it for you fresh in the kitchen. In the fridge, you'll find delicious servings of tuna, salmon, octopus and scallops among other cuts, which the chefs will prepare for you on a delightful sashimi platter. The place itself is quite small and is basically always busy, which gives off the bustling feeling of the genuine Tsukiji market. Along the walls are colourful photographs of Japan, which, along with expertly prepared dishes, create a fest for the eyes. If you're not after an entire sashimi platter — best shared between two — take a look at its selection of carpaccio. Our favourite is the octopus carpaccio drizzled with a lightly tangy house-made sauce. For an entree, start out with the tempura taster, which includes two prawns and four slices of vegetables, as well as a side of pan-fried pork gyozas or chicken popcorn served with mayo. The selection of bento boxes includes chicken, beef, sashimi or sushi, and all are served with fresh, fluffy rice which Tsukiji does expertly well. The chef's recommendations include the kaisen don with sliced sashimi on rice and the sake clam cooked with sake butter. For dessert they've made it easy for you — ice cream. If you love your Japanese eats and are a seafood stan, be sure to add Tsukiji Restaurant to your dining bucket list. Images: Tran Nguyen
Sushi is great. Burritos are great. Frankly, it was only a matter of time before some genius combined the two. Now, the gastronomic phenomenon that has been filling bellies in the US is on its way to Melbourne. Opening soon on Little Collins Street in the CBD, Josie Jo is the brainchild of entrepreneur Jessica Tse, and sushi burritos are her specialty. "Basically I just really wanted to eat one," she explains when we ask what inspired her to open her to open a sushi burrito bar. "I love sushi myself, and I think it's a great concept." For those of you who are still unsure about what's certain to be the country's next big food trend (with an unrelated sushi burrito place also slated to pop up in Brisbane in November), the culinary combo is exactly what it sounds like. "It's a massive sushi roll, the size of a burrito," says Tse. "Everyone who has tried it says that it's really yummy." Diners at Josie Jo will be able to choose from a number of different varieties, served either in burrito form or as a rice bowl or salad. Think fresh salmon with spinach, avocado, cucumber, furikake, flying fish roe, pickled seaweed and wasabi mayo, or king prawn with roquette, cherry tomato, coriander leaves, red onion, avocado, grated cheddar, cumin, paprika, sour cream and chilli flakes. There's also a vegan option with marinated tofu, baby spinach, avocado, sweet corn, edamame, pickled radish, roasted sesame sauce and crispy onion. Alternatively, you can ditch the menu and mix-and-match your own. Josie Jo will also stock a "refined collection of drinks," including coconut water, ginger beer, poke green tea and organic cola. Although it's her first restaurant, Tse comes well prepared, having grown up in a family of chefs. "My father was a restaurateur, my brother is also a restaurateur, and I've cooked since I was five," she says. "I just love cooking for people." In any case, she will have a little bit of assistance from the restaurant's namesake, her cat, muse and fellow CEO. "She says she loves the food," quips Tse with a laugh, before quickly reassuring us that she's not actually taking business advice from her pet. "I'm not crazy." Look for Josie Jo at Shop 10, 318 Little Collins Street, Melbourne in the coming months. For more information visit their website, Facebook and Instagram.
There's a reason why fine dining is reserved for something other than just the everyday. The element of occasion, the gathering of your best company, and the wearing of your finest attire calls for extravagant surrounds; equally important, a food experience that lingers longer in your mind than the food in your belly. Frequently acclaimed as one of the best restaurants in the country, Cutler & Co. does exactly that. In a city saturated by endless food trends, Cutler & Co. at once remains innovative and traditional. Housed within an old metalworks factory, the industrial interior is softened by wicker lighting and luxe fabrics, meeting a crossroads between the minimal and the opulent. With the open plan kitchen placed at the front of the restaurant, diners are greeted upon entry by the busy kitchen staff. If the story of Cutler & Co. is all about chef Andrew McConnell's passion for produce, this is where it begins. The highly flexible dining room makes the ideal location for business dining, drinks at the bar, long lunches and truly extensive degustation experiences. A carefully considered space means diners are privy to each other, yet can remain secluded in their own experience. Highly attentive wait staff contribute to the affair, knowing everything you need before you know it yourself, be it a dietary requirement or the return of your coat on the way out. This is food to admire, and then food to love. Each dish is plated to supreme ornateness. The visual deconstruction continues as you unpick the myriad of flavours, including that of a shaved fennel and cabbage salad which sounds simpler than it appears. With an extensive menu of variable tastes designed for sharing, we recommend the Sunday lunch: a seasonal selection of dishes that demonstrates Cutler & Co. in its best light. The set menu means you're free to enjoy a truly leisurely afternoon, and at $75 (pair a wine selection for an extra $50), is extremely good value. Reservations are highly recommended. Faultless, indulgent and majestic, the Cutler & Co. experience can't be given justice simply through words. This is one restaurant that needs to be experienced to be believed.
Beyond the freeway, hidden behind that thick shrub, off that back street — that's where a secret garden is waiting. With no shortage of blissful spring days on the horizon, there's no better time to be a little adventurous and explore one of these lesser known gardens. Why wouldn't you want to swap the cement jungle for a green oasis and breathe in the heavenly scent of eucalyptus trees? Sit back, slip off your shoes, feel the grass between your toes and chase a frisbee around one of these top secret spots. MARANOA GARDENS Tucked away off the main strip of Balwyn, this impressive garden of lush green lawns, sweet-smelling wattle, ancient trees and native plants has everything you need to escape the daily grind. Take a stroll and you will discover an Arid Zone, Indigenous Garden, Rainforest and Cottage Gardens. With all plants labelled, it's an educational experience for keen or wannabe botanists. For those searching for peace and quiet, there's ample park benches for book-reading or for quiet reflection, but you'll have to leave your doggies and skateboards at home. Yarrbat Avenue, Balwyn ORGAN PIPES NATIONAL PARK There's a well-kept secret phenomenon just past Airport West, off the Calder Highway. Hidden beyond the electricity poles and the busy road are naturally formed prehistoric basalt columns shaped like (you guessed it) organ pipes. Formed about 400 million years ago by molten lava, the Organ Pipes are now home to wedge-tailed eagles, cockatoos, wrens and shrubs such as the beautiful spring wattle blossom. There are a few walking tracks along the creek, but mostly it's a great place to polish up your high school geography. What are sedimentary rocks again? Calder Highway, Keilor North. Image by Nick Carson via CC licence. GUILFOYLE'S VOLCANO Melbourne's Botanical Gardens are marvellously huge — so huge that Guilfoyle's Volcano can nestle within it as a secret gardens not hugely frequented by tourists. Built in 1876 for water storage, it is now part of a wetlands project, showcasing spectacular water flowers and plants. The boardwalk and viewing platforms make the garden easy to explore and also provide an amazing view of the city's skyline. Guilfoyle's Volcano is in the south-east corner of the gardens and is easily accessible via C Gate (enter via Anderson Street) and D Gate (enter via Birdwood Avenue). CANTERBURY GARDENS Transformed from a snake-infested swampland to English-styled grounds in 1896, this old-school garden is the proud centre of Canterbury. Long-standing majestic trees drape their wide branches across the rolling green slopes. These are perfect hills for some good old-fashioned rolling. For those who don't like being itchy, there is a luxurious amount of picnic space near rose gardens and hedges, or you can take a seat in the 100-year-old rotunda. Canterbury train station is close by, but perhaps a little too close if the sound of trains slicing through metallic tracks isn't your idea of tranquility. Canterbury Road, Canterbury HEIDE MUSEUM OF MODERN ART, SCULPTURE PARK It's easy to hide and slip away in the Heide Museum of Modern Art's Sculpture Park. Spread across 15 acres of garden are 30 sculptures to admire. Day-trippers may like to throw a picnic mat down or just meander across the old dairy farm and stop and smell the unusual roses in the garden beds, many of which have heritage status. For those more social types, there's a cafe nearby as well as the art gallery. 7 Templestowe Road, Bulleen SCHWERKOLT COTTAGE AND GARDEN How's the serenity? It's pretty good in the outer eastern suburb of Mitcham, where a historic stone cottage sits on beautiful Yarran Dheran bushland park. The fragrance of lilies will greet you as you enter the gardens, and also a sense of stepping back to a simpler and quieter time. There's also an old wine cellar, smoke house and museum to explore as you learn more about the German family who lived on the property in 1884. Take a wander down to the creek and you can watch the tadpoles, spot colourful parrots and perhaps, if you're lucky, even see a koala. Deep Creek Road, Mitcham GEORGE TINDALE MEMORIAL GARDENS If you don't believe in fairies, you'll reconsider after visiting the George Tindale Memorial Garden. Flowers of all colours are thriving in the cool temperature of the Dandenong Ranges. Follow the winding track around and spot magnolias, camellias, fuchsias and more. With no green-thumbed gardeners in sight, you can't help but think that this well-nurtured garden must be the work of some type of magic. 33 Sherbrooke Road, Sherbrooke. Open 10am – 5pm every day. POP-UP PATCH An unused car park be transformed into a community garden? How perfectly Melbourne. This urban garden located on Russell Court car park rooftop combines 140 veggie crates rented by the public with amazing 360-degree views of the city skyline. Even if you're not looking to rent a little plot, you can still enjoy the green space as a nice, quiet spot to have lunch. For something a little less introverted, attend one of their events; BBQs, movie nights and table tennis comps are all on the program. Russell Court (the continuation of Russell Street after crossing Flinders Street) behind Fed Square CRANBOURNE BOTANICAL GARDENS Rock garden fans (holla!) will appreciate this garden where red earth and desert flowers come alive. In the outer suburbs of Cranbourne, Australian native plants are cultivated over 363 hectares and grown in a contemporary style. Not to be missed is the impressive and award-winning 'Australian Garden', which celebrates the beauty of native plants through sculptures and garden displays. There are 10km of walking trails in the nearby bushland to get lost in and creeks to dip your toes in. Corner of Ballarto Road & Botanic Drive, Cranbourne ALFRED NICHOLAS MEMORIAL GARDENS If you'd prefer to sit under the cool canopies of mountain ash trees than slog over the nearby infamous (and overpopulated) 1000 Steps, this is the spot to sit back and hear the birds chirp. Flowering cherry trees are vibrant and the air is fresh and sweet-tasting. Walk down to the little lake and cute boathouse, where a certain romantic The Notebook scene would be perfectly re-enacted. If that fails, it's still a great spot to have your lunch. 1A Sherbrooke Road, Sherbrooke Top image: Dollar Photo Club.
Inspired by the grand old brasseries of New York's Meat Packing District, the Atlantic, located within Crown, oozes sophistication, class, and excellent dining. With a stylish interior, decked out with artistic flourishes, dim lighting and old world furniture, it's the kind of place to come for a special occasion or an important lunch. There are over 300 seats here and yet it always books out. Thankfully, with an 80-seat oyster bar and another cocktail bar downstairs, they'll always find a way to squeeze you in. Just make sure you wear the right shoes. The Atlantic dining room menu has a philosophy of ocean to plate and everything here is sourced in a sustainable fashion. From the starters, enjoy a Milawa duck and smoke paprika croquette served with aged manchego cheese and fermented romesco, or the Yurrita anchovy and chicken liver toast. If there's just two of you, the cold or hot seafood platters make an excellent choice and come loaded with delights such as Moreton Bay bugs, Cloudy Bay diamond clams, king prawns and Pacific oysters. Speaking of oysters, the Oyster Bar & Grill is modelled on New York's Grand Central Station's Oyster Bar has an unparalleled selection of Australian oysters. It also features caviar bumps with Herradura tequila, Hoya anchovies, Mooloolaba prawn rolls and fried calamari. Back in the dining room, mains include a 1000 Guineas eye fillet, a wood fired baby chicken, Western Australian crayfish at market price and a wild mushroom risotto with celeriac and black truffle. Luxury ingredients are clearly scattered throughout the entire menu. When it comes down to wine, let the expert team of sommeliers guide you through their extensive list, that has a heavy focus on local Australian producers. Dessert-wise, dig into a 'Snickers Bar' parfait with roasted peanuts and salted caramel and call it a day. This sweet treat is next-level indulgent. And goes down well with a fine dessert wine from the Atlantic cellar.
Nestled away in Collins Place, Kenzan has been one of Melbourne's favourite Japanese eateries for going on 35 years, and with damn good reason too. The tastefully decorated main dining room includes a side sushi bar where you can enjoy simple, tasty platters of thinly sliced sushi that rivals any upstart outfit in town. Indeed, several of Melbourne's best Japanese chefs owe a debt of gratitude to this particular restaurant, with Kappo's Kentaro Usami and Minamishima's Koichi Minamishima both honing their craft in the Kenzan kitchens. If that's not pedigree, then we don't know what is. For the full experience, we recommend getting a group together and booking a private room. Start with a misoshuri soup with soya bean and bean curd, seaweed and spring onions and a cold entree of sugaki, which is a serving of fresh oysters with citrus-flavoured ponzu vinegar. The hot entrees include delicately deep-fried prawns, fish and vegetables as well as fresh shiitake mushrooms stuffed with fried minced prawns. If you're after sushi, then look no further than the chirashi platter of assorted raw fish served on a bed of sushi rice or the California maki with avocado and prawn. Mains include a deliciously succulent pan-grilled chicken with teriyaki sauce and grilled eel in sweet soya sauce on a bed of rice. There is also the nabe ryori menu, which is for a minimum of two and cooked at the table by the chefs or yourselves. Kenzan has been around since 1981, a time when there were so few Japanese restaurants in Melbourne. And it has lasted the test of time, consistently serving up some of the best Japanese food in the city. If you love your Japanese eats, Kenzan really should be on your hit list.
We sadly bade farewell to Ferdydurke in 2024, one of our favourite bars in Melbourne's CBD. Since opening in 2012, it stood out among the sleek and highly polished bars of the city, deciding instead to embrace its rougher edges and provide an unpretentious space for both chill hangs and live music-fuelled parties. But even though it's now gone, the Office of Public Works group (Section 8, The Beast and formerly Ferdydurke) has teamed up with some of the hospo legends who originally helped set up Ferdydurke to create its replacement: Aster. Thankfully, not too much has changed. The loft's exposed brickwork and beams remain, as does the roaring fireplace and outdoor terrace. What you will notice though, is that it all feels a little more grown-up, from the contemporary wine list and refined snacks to the team replacing live gigs with DJs. Aster also has some serious date-night vibes — its design lends itself to being a playfully romantic spot that's less about big parties (you can still head downstairs to Section 8 for this) and more about intimate hangs. Nonetheless, the crew still promises dancefloor energy on weekends. We've been told to expect anything from jazzy house and cumbia rhythms to northern soul and smooth amapiano. While listening to these tunes, you'll be sipping on a range of classic and modern styles of wine, specialty beers, signature cocktails and artisanal spirits, with a particular focus on local producers. Food has also been given a big makeover, as Executive Chef Jarrod Moore has created a playfully decadent assortment of bites. You can expect dishes like saison black truffle and squid ink salami with guindillas; dark chocolate and rye whiskey marquise, fire-roasted peppers with smoked tomato and goat's cheese; and a poached prawn roll with pickled celery and burnt butter aioli. Images: Arianna Leggiero.
One might say Fitzroy needs not another cafe from the same old mould, that Stagger Lee's doesn't offer anything revolutionary, but still that hasn't stopped the hordes from filling this place every day of the week. Because this is Melbourne; we're fickle with our cafes, and if you throw us something shiny and new, with great coffee, a solid menu and some delicious menu surprises. Truffled cream corn with king mushrooms and asparagus on toast is one of the heroes. We also can't stop thinking about the roasted nectarines served with a big ball of burrata, pickled beets and hazelnuts. From the people responsible for popular Collingwood coffee haunt, Proud Mary, Stagger Lee's sits on a section of Brunswick Street in which stalwart Atomica has held a coffee monopoly for some time. And rivalling its neighbour in the latte stakes, it does. With single origin espresso, filter and cold drip varieties on offer, you're assured a good-tasting brew — just as the Proud Mary faithful would expect from this experienced crew. Situated on a sunny corner, with outdoor seating and large retractable glass walls that open the space up and drench the large communal table with fresh air and sunshine when fully opened, the layout is smart and highly conducive to whiling away a few hours of a warm morning. A brief but appealing menu features muesli, eggs and a couple of gourmet surprises for brunch, along with baguettes, a mammoth fried buttermilk chicken burger and healthier dishes — think seasonal vege and grain bowls and granola — served all day. A short wine, beer and cocktail list for 'those' Friday lunches adds to the well-rounded offering. The baked goods are interesting too: peanut butter and jelly tarts, cold drip and chocolate doughnuts and lavender and passionfruit lamingtons are among the treats you may spy sitting innocently at the counter. While it's all served on of-the-moment turquoise and white ceramics and in an atmosphere of wooden bench seats, exposed brick walls and industrial pendant lights, there is enough of the good stuff here to excuse the trite. Actually, substitute 'good' with 'great' and there's no denying that Stagger Lee's significantly bolsters Fitzroy's impressive dining landscape. Updated May, 2023. Appears in: The 13 Best Cafes in Melbourne for 2023
Walking into Conservatory in Melbourne's Southbank is almost akin to walking into the famous dining rooms at the grand railway stations of Paris. It's luxurious. It's intimidating. And you'll be left wondering what the hell you did to deserve being there. If opulence isn't your thing, dig your heels into the lavish white carpet, spin yourself around and head right on out before you catch a glimpse of the chocolate fountains. But if it does, you've found your place. Conservatory opens its marble archways for breakfast, lunch and dinner, serving up an all-you-can-eat buffet throughout. And it isn't just your average cheap, all-you-can-eat kind of experience. This Melbourne buffet is luxe. For lunch, look towards wild-caught Queensland tiger prawns, Sydney rock oysters and blue swimmer crabs marinated in a sweet chilli dressing. Yes, you can pile your plate high with as much fresh seafood as you can manage. Alternatively from the land, you'll find dishes like grilled beef rump with lemon olive oil, roast chicken with field mushrooms and penne with pork fennel sausage and chunky tomato sauce. Pair it with a curried mussel and potato salad and you've got yourself a feast to suit your surroundings. From the dinner menu, expect to see dishes akin to crispy roasted pork loin, lamb leg roasted with honey mustard, thyme and parsley roasted pasture-fed beef rib eye or a selection of assorted sushi. Move around the buffet to also find a heap of curries and naan bread that comes straight out of the tandoor oven — be sure to watch on as the chefs make this fresh to order. For sweets, head straight to the dessert bar which is always manned by one of the chefs. Here, you'll find chocolate cheesecakes, custard vanilla and rum chouquettes, coffee opera cakes and those famous chocolate fountains. If you're lucky, the chefs will also be toasting creme brulees to order. It can be mighty difficult to pace yourself when hitting a buffet like this, but these desserts are definitely worth saving room for. You've also got an impressive (but still accessible) wine list that best be perused after you've made it over to the buffet for your first round of nibbles. Cocktails include house inventions such as a Rusty Toolbox with scotch, Grand Marnier, apricot brandy and sprite as well as all your classics. Crown's Conservatory is a classy joint (with a strict dress code), but it is also an all-you-can-eat buffet where you can truly pig out, working hard to get your money's worth.
Ever since coming to Australia decades ago, Alejandro Saravia has been on a mission to bring his own unique take on contemporary Peruvian cuisine (and Latin American food in general) to Australian diners. This kicked off when he opened the first Morena in Sydney's Surry Hills back in 2011, which sadly closed in 2013. It didn't seem as if Aussies were quite ready for Peruvian food like this, and so Saravia went on to launch Farmer's Daughters and Victoria by Farmer's Daughters, which both champion produce from Gippsland. Once these were up and running for a while, Saravia returned to the Morena plan and spent many years educating local diners on Latin American food, and finding out exactly how he could successfully bring the restaurant back. He bit the bullet in 2024, opening Morena Sydney within the city's historic GPO. It was an instant hit, serving up contemporary fine-dining twists on classic Latin American cuisine. Months later, Morena Melbourne popped up — the fully realised version of the Morena brand. Located within the 80 Collins precinct, Morena Melbourne is comprised of two distinct but still clearly related neighbouring venues. First off, you have Barra. This all-day diner is the more laidback and playful venue with strong wine bar vibes. You can roll on in for after-work sip-and-snack sessions over cocktails, Latin American wines (far from the old world varietals we Aussies are familiar with) and street food-style bites like ox tongue skewers, squash tostadas and cheese-packed arepas. [caption id="attachment_971280" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Barra[/caption] Larger dishes like steaks, lamb neck with green mole and swordfish loin milanesa are also available for those wanting a proper feed, plus a couple of chef's selection menus. All in all, Saravia and his team don't hold back with the bold flavours, especially when it comes to packing on the chillies. It's also likely that you won't recognise a lot of the ingredients or kinds of sauces used on the menu, but trust these guys know what they're doing, and just go with it. If fine-dining is more your vibe, you can always pop next door to Morena Restaurant, which sits across two levels. Here, Saravia is having the most fun, playing with even more Latin American ingredients you might not know, and complementing them with stacks of local produce. A standout has got to be the coral trout tiradito that's brightly paired with aji amarillo kosho and fermented mandarin emulsion. We also highly recommend the grilled grouper loin that sits on a squid and octopus stew, and the suckling goat served with a 90-plus-ingredient aged mole and corn tortillas. You can pair this all with old world wines, but Morena is all about the new. You've got to get around the natty numbers and less-than-common native Latin American varietals and blends which we doubt you'll find elsewhere in Melbourne. If you've dined at Morena Sydney, you'll notice the Melbourne version is considerably more innovative. Flavours are bigger, and Saravia feels more comfortable to stray from tradition. Finally, Saravia gets to make his dream of bringing his take on contemporary Latin American dining to Australia, and we are absolutely stoked that he's done it. Morena Melbourne is the culmination of his life's work as a chef and restaurateur, and it's clearly a great labour of love. If it's not already on it, make sure you add this one to your Melbourne restaurant bucket list. Images: Arianna Leggiero.
Tucked away from the mayhem that is Chapel Street, is David's — a Melbourne BYO restaurant with seriously good Chinese food. Shanghai-born David Zhou set up the restaurant, creating a menu using recipes favoured by his ancestors. The dishes are inspired by those of Zhouzhuang — a town about 85 kilometres west of Shanghai famous for its many canals. The menu is monstrous — we're not going to lie, it's overwhelming. So we'll break it down for you. It's made up of six sections; starters, something more, dumplings, greens, side staples and something sweet. Sharing is an integral part of Chinese cuisine, and before you freak out at having to go with other people's options, know that it's hard to go wrong with any of the choices at David's. What makes the food so spectacular is its preservation of authenticity. No lemon chicken in sight here. We suggest starting with some barbecue pork buns or some oysters with soy and finger lime caviar. Chase it up with some steamed whole barramundi with ginseng soy. And if there's one thing the Chinese do incredibly well, it's eggplant. Try the sweet and chunky sweet vinegar eggplant with sliced garlic. You'll also need some rice. Chinese eating tip: eat rice at the end of the meal to wash down the rest of the food consumed, and to rejuvenate your palate. This advice is imperative if you're planning on having dessert. To drink, there's everything from spirits and wine to premium green and jasmine lychee tea. The restaurant is housed in a beautiful, high-ceilinged building completed with white timber and white walls. It's tricky to guess that it's a Chinese restaurant just from walking in, until you see the navy blue flashes from the Chinese crockery when you take a seat.
Au79 is the symbol (and atomic number) for gold on the periodic table, and it's the name of Abbotsford's much-loved cafe. When you name your cafe after such a covetable metal, you're making quite the statement — and the team behind this ambitious eatery have certainly gone for gold in every aspect of its production. It makes sense; owners Maggie Li and Julia Hou have a trail of café experience between them, with a pedigree that includes Addict Food and Coffee, Sir Charles, Liar Liar and Prospect Espresso. Au79 is bigger than Ben Hur. You walk in the door and it just goes back and back, and then it goes back some more. Previously an auto mechanic's garage, the 200-seat space has been radically transformed by Mim Design and now feels more like a large-scale conservatory or botanical garden fern house — it's loft and bright and filled with greenery. Despite its size, it isn't overly loud, and conversation doesn't compete with the excellent playlist coming from the well-placed Sonos sound system. The menu reflects an imaginative approach to food. Au79's take on the classic eggs royale strays from tradition, swapping out smoked salmon for butter poached prawns. You still get the classic poached eggs and a rich and creamy hollandaise, but the classic muffins are replaced with a charcoal brioche bun and a side of kipfler potato chips. Other standout dishes include the mango waffle with lime jelly, mango mousse, passionfruit curd, fresh blueberries and a big scoop of vanilla ice cream and the super rich seafood linguine with seafood bisque, scallops, clams, mussel, prawns, cherry tomatoes, zucchini and basil. In addition to the kitchen there's also a bakery and patisserie run by ex-Rustica head baker Isaac Kane, and a roastery that looks after all their Au79 coffee. So, you know that the cakes, tarts and breads are made in-house, as is the 24K house blend of beans from Brazil, Colombia and Guatemala. The team behind AU79 has clearly planned every detail of this mini village cafe. Neighbourhood cafes — and, more pertinently, good neighbourhood cafes — require an essential gold ingredient to survive, and that is damn good hospitality (with all that that the term encompasses). From a true welcome as you walk in, through to the setting, the produce and the food, Au79 has that substance in spades. Appears in: The Best Cafes in Melbourne Where to Find the Best Coffee in Melbourne
You may bear the daily grind of 9-5 working life and deal with the responsibilities that come with being a fully-fledged adult, but your inner-child, however hidden, still remains inside you. They're always in there, just waiting for a jumping castle or an ice cream cake or a big green hill to roll down. So let them out for a while. Reunite with that childish enthusiasm and joy of life by treating yourself to the awesomeness of theme parks, novelty games and creative curiosity — this time without Mum and Dad in tow to limit your sugar consumption. Now, who said being an adult doesn't have its perks? DO SWEET FLIPS AT BOUNCE Remember the hours and hours spent jumping on the backyard trampoline doing sweet flips and tricks? Bounce sure hasn't forgotten, and offers a colourful urban playground to reunite with the joy of anti-gravity and the rush of being airborne. With over 100 springy trampolines, enjoy aerial manoeuvres, slam dunking, wall-running, jumping into a foam pit and dodgeball — and create enough static electricity to zap your nearest and dearest and create an '80s electrified up-do. You'll find Bounce in Blackburn North, Glen Iris and Essendon Fields. DO SOME COLOURING AT CRAFTERNOON CAFE Lose yourself in your own world without teachers telling you to colour within the lines at Carlton North's Crafternoon Cafe — with the added bonus of treating yourself to coffee and cake. For only $10, you can get your hands stuck into some play dough, pasting or finger painting and create to your little heart's content. CUDDLE LAMBIES AT COLLINGWOOD CHILDREN'S FARM Set on seven hectares of lush green paddocks and gardens, escape the city surrounds and reconnect with the rustic joy of simple farm life at this urban farm. For $10 entry you can play farmer for a few hours by taking part in milking the cows, feeding chooks, bottle-feeding lambs, stroking guinea pigs, donkeys and horses. For fresh farm-grown goodies, check out the farmers' market on every second Saturday of the month, and make sure you stop by The Farm Cafe for lunch. GO ROCK CLIMBING AT HARDROCK While some climb Everest, others conquer the tough vertical wall at Hardrock. Challenge your upper body strength and test your Spidey talents by tackling the six- or 16-metre climb. Donning safety harnesses and climbing shoes, grip and twist your body like a pretzel to get to the top. Your reward will be bragging rights and abs of steel. Hardrock have locations in the city and Nunawading. LEARN A THING OR TWO AT SCIENCEWORKS Who said museums were boring? Sure, it's an educational activity — but with a planetarium, a lightning room and a race against Cathy Freeman, it's a lot of good, clean fun. You may not have paid the Spotswood museum a visit since you were in primary school, but it's well worth a re-visit. The culturally rich experience will be good for your brain — and useful for excelling at pub trivia. GO ICE SKATING IN DOCKLANDS Find bliss while gliding in this Olympic-sized rink while singing "ice, ice, baby" — or attempt to beat your mates in a skate-off without comically slipping over. Docklands' Medibank Icehouse is now the O'Brien Group Arena, and free lessons are offered most days to help skating novices transform from stumbling Bambi into the next Bradbury. It's a chilly environment at 16 degrees, so rugging up is highly advised. GO NUTS ON THE FAIRY FLOSS AT LUNA PARK The big-toothed giant of St Kilda has been freakishly smiling since 1912 — and while many things have changed over the century, the love of sticky pink fairy floss and the thrilling obsession with rollercoasters remains strong. Thrill seekers should aboard Pharaoh's Curse or the Great Scenic Railway while classics like the dodgem cars and the mighty Ferris wheel are still going strong as theme park favourites. PLAY LASER SKIRMISH AT TECH ASSAULT Is there anything more enjoyable than hunting down your friends with a laser gun? It's humans vs. humans in this urban battleground, where the only thing that can save you is skill, your plastic laser gun and good eyesight. Located in Thornbury, Tech Assault offers a perfect indoor-outdoor landscape for shooting your mates (and strangers) with lasers and saving the world. Plus, the experience has been designed by gamers — so you know it's going to be legit. WATERSLIDES! AT FUNFIELDS Ah, this is where childhood dreams truly come true. More than just a water park, Funfields, located 40-minutes out of Melbourne, has alpine tobogganing, go karting and more amusement rides than you can poke a stick at. Once you've had enough of being on dry land, try the Blackout, with its 120m drop into darkness, and the Wipeout, a mix of rapids which may or may not result in losing your togs. Or just go up and down the good old-fashioned waterslides. Top image: Dollar Photo Club
Lighthouses have been the guiding beacon of lonely seas for centuries. Although nowadays we are blessed with GPS technology and automated glowing lights, these romantic towers guided fisherman, shabby sailors and new migrants safely to the rocky shores around Melbourne, a city that was then only just finding its feet. Visiting and climbing the steep spiralling staircases of these historical lighthouses is a romantic and windy experience that is best combined with a picnic or some quality local fish and chips on the lookout or a nearby beach. Here are ten of the best to visit near Melbourne. Recommended reads: The Best Summer Day Trips From Melbourne The Best Coastal Walks Near Melbourne The Best Beaches in Melbourne The Snorkel Spots in and Around Melbourne [caption id="attachment_564228" align="alignnone" width="1280"] bryce.muchow via Flickr[/caption] Cape Otway Lightstation, Great Ocean Road Need a little bit of light in your life? How about a beacon of hope? Sending glowing rays out into the ocean off the Great Ocean Road, the Cape Otway Lightstation was the first thing migrants saw when arriving in Australia. The oldest lighthouse on the grizzly-looking cliffs on the mainland, the lighthouse is also a choice whale watching spot, conveniently located on the migration path of 20 types of whales. Koalas are also known to roam these parts. [caption id="attachment_564247" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Paul Carmona via Flickr[/caption] Queenscliff High Light, Bellarine Peninsula What's this? A black lighthouse? Yes, they exist — but only as a minority. The Queenscliff High Light is one of only three black lighthouses in the world. It stands together with the white Queenscliff Low Light to guide ships into the entrance of Port Phillip Bay. After having fish and chips in town, take a squiz at these majestic constructions at Fort Queenscliff. [caption id="attachment_564220" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Jorge Láscar via Flickr[/caption] Cape Liptrap Lighthouse, South Gippsland Navigating the turbulent washing machine on high-speed seas over the Bass Strait was made easier in the 1800s by this joyous octagonal structure. Close to Wilsons Prom and nestled between Waratah and Venus Bays, visiting Cape Liptrap Lighthouse also means you can take a stroll along the sandy beaches, swim in the ocean or stay for a few nights at one of the nice little bush camps. Eastern Lighthouse, Mornington Peninsula Behold the tallest lighthouse on mainland Victoria. This 34-metre steel tower of a beast with 120 spiral steps lives on the foreshore reserve at McRae, between Dromana and Rosebud. No longer operating (but forever in our hearts as one of the best of its time), the Eastern Lighthouse guided ships on the South Channel on the eastern side of Port Phillip Bay. These days, you can stay at the McCrae Lighthouse Retreat and take in its magnificence from your dwelling. Split Point Lighthouse, Great Ocean Road Have you ever, ever felt like this? Yes, finally, here is the lighthouse of our childhoods. Known to some as Spilt Point, but to many others as the 'White Queen', this popular tourist mecca in Aireys Inlet is the lighthouse from every '90s kid's favourite show, Round the Twist. Prior to its TV fame, the lighthouse prevented shipwrecks along the coast, where ten occurred. Now, it's great for 360-degree views of the Great Ocean Road area and offers tours for Round the Twist fans. [caption id="attachment_564235" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Jorge Láscar via Flickr[/caption] Lady Bay Lighthouses, Warrnambool These two red and white lighthouses, still in working order, sit side by side atop of the historic Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village in Warrnambool. As well as directing ships, these twin lighthouses have overlooked the building of the Garrison and cannons — a response to the perceived threat of foreign forces to the British Empire in 1880. Although the cannons still work, these days, the lighthouses are more of a relaxing lookout spot for tourists. [caption id="attachment_564236" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Robyn Cox via Flickr[/caption] Cape Schanck Lightstation, Mornington Peninsula They say good things come to those who wait. And Cape Schanck knows that better than anyone — they waited a good long 18 years before this limestone baby was built. Praised by lighthouse enthusiasts as one of the best original lighthouses, it's a beaut history lesson and glimpse into the life of a keeper with the on-site museum. Look at old relics and abandon the wistful dream of light keeping — the poor sap had to rewind the lamp every hour on the hour, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. [caption id="attachment_564237" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Ian Cochrane via Flickr[/caption] Wilsons Promontory Lightstation, Wilsons Prom If you fancy strapping on all your food and camping gear for a steep stroll from Tidal River and heading into the native wilderness for 18 kilometres, you'll discover the most southerly (and most remote) lighthouse in Australia. The Wilsons Promontory Lightstation is a granite tower with three keeper's cottages (which can be booked for accommodation) close by. The spectacular view over the coastline is ideal for spotting seals. [caption id="attachment_564244" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Stevage via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] Point Hicks Lighthouse, East Gippsland In 1770, Captain Cook wrote in his diary: "With the first daylight this morn the land was seen, it made in sloping hill covered in part with trees and bushes, but interspersed with large tracts of sand." He was writing of Point Hicks, which, located in the rugged beauty of Crajingolong National Park, is now known historically as Cook's first landfall in Australia. The Point Hicks Lighthouse marks the spot where the Endeavour came to shore. The surrounding land is untouched and unchanged, and looks as it did hundreds of years ago. Isolation and ancient beauty doesn't come easy though — it's over four hours drive to the national park from Melbourne and some bush bashing in your car may be involved. [caption id="attachment_564245" align="alignnone" width="1280"] trilia2013 via Flickr[/caption] Timeball Tower, Williamstown What exactly is a timeball? Is it a futuristic device created by our ancestors to predict the apocalypse? This doomsday-esque tower sits in the southwestern Melbourne pocket of Williamstown. Originally built for use as a lighthouse in 1849, the structure was later used as a timeball tower from 1861 to 1926, where the ball dropped every day at 1pm to allow shipmasters anchored offshore to correct their chronometers. What is a shipmaster? And what is a chronometer? It's all very mysterious. Top image: Cameron Murray for Visit Victoria.
Chef Yong Hyun heads up the kitchen at Kew's Sushi On, bringing his twenty years of experience in Tokyo and his time at Melbourne's Komeyui and Kisume to the rolling mat. His philosophy is all about the beauty of balance — with creativity, appearance, consistency, taste, innovation and heritage all concepts given equal footing. Yong's skills are applied at Sushi On in the form of omakase. If you don't know what omakase is then you must have been living under a Mount Fuji-sized rock for the last few years. It translates roughly as "I leave it up to you," and it's a Japanese dining experience that is guided by the masterful hands of a sushi chef. The gastronomic journey involves entrusting the chef's expertise to craft a memorable, multi-course meal. The ingredients tend to reflect the season's freshest offerings, aiming to create a harmony of flavours, textures, and aesthetics. Each dish is a surprise, showcasing the chef's creativity and the essence of Japanese cuisine. At Sushi On, it offers a twenty-two-course meal, which includes sixteen pieces of sushi for dinner, while the lunch offering is sixteen courses with twelve pieces of sushi. The courses change every night, so it's impossible to know what you're in for, but think scampis with bento butter, sardines with pickled kombu, King George whiting nigiri and Tasmanian oysters. With so many unique flavours all wrestling for a place on your palate, finding the right drink to pair with your omakase experience can be challenging. Suitably, the wine list here is heavy on white and sparkling, which pair better with the flavours you'll experience. Whites include a Clare Valley resiling and a Gippsland chardonnay by the glass or bottle, as well as a stunning French chablis by bottle only. There is a large range of prestige sparkling, too, as well as more affordable options for those who just want to give it a try.
Windsor watering hole Galah might have flown off on its merry way, but the lofty High Street space it called home is being brought back to life by the mind behind one of the suburb's other beloved bars. For his next project, Neptune Food & Wine's Nic Coulter is reviving the second-floor site with plans to create a place for wining, dining, music and art that's built on ever-rotating offerings. Slated to open in April just a couple of doors up from Neptune, Young Hearts is set to be a multi-faceted venue that promises to deliver something fresh each time you visit. Master of change, it'll serve up an evolving arts program, championing local creatives across its vinyl-led DJ booth, the gallery space that graces its walls and its central circular stage. [caption id="attachment_655181" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Galah[/caption] Meanwhile, the bar will be stocked with a top-quality curation of favourites, the wine list centred on natural drops and locally made creations, and a fuss-free offering of beers and spirits also heroing homegrown tipples. There'll be a lineup of both signature and classic cocktails, too. As for the food side of things, that'll be getting a regular shake-up of its own. Expect a fresh kitchen residency taking the reins every six months, with the rotation set to span chefs both new and emerging, across a slew of different dining genres and cuisines. "I saw an opportunity to re-inject some new energy into the street," explains Coulter, describing Young Hearts as "a venue that lives at the cross-section of great drinks, music, food and culture. A destination for anybody, any time." Find Young Hearts at 216 High Street, Windsor, from April. We'll share more details as they drop.
Mary Eats Cake is serving up decadent high teas on two sides of Melbourne: Brunswick and Montrose. With an enticing selection of sandwiches, raspberry mousse cakes, apple teacakes and scones — and, of course, tea — it's one of Melbourne's best high tea options. You can choose from the Mary Package, the Bottomless Brunch Package, or the Fancy Package with unlimited French sparkling (and unlimited scones). There is also a senior's high tea which includes a drink on arrival; a children's high tea with sausage rolls, sliders, doughnuts and lemonade; a gin high tea available for functions with specialty gin cocktails and birthday, bridal and baby packages. If you'd prefer your high tea from the comfort of your home or a local park, there are takeaway packages available, too. With antipasti varieties, as well as assorted cakes, savoury boxes, and build-your-own options, the high tea of your dreams is just a click away.
Clear your calendars, art lovers. Melbourne's largest queer arts and culture bash, the Midsumma Festival has showcased the talents of local creatives from within the city's LGBTIQ community every year since 1988 — and its 2016 program is due to kick off this Sunday, January 17. Running for three straight weeks, the festival will be spread across more than 80 different venues, and will cover everything from visual art and performance to community events and parties. As has become tradition, the festival's centrepiece event will be the annual Pride March along Fitzroy Street in St Kilda. This year, the march will put an emphasis on the fight for marriage equality. Other flagship events include the Midsumma Carnival and T Dance, which will once again kick off the festival with a five-hour lineup of free live music and entertainment in Alexandra Gardens. But there are many more events to get your art-loving self to during Midsumma 2016. Here are our top picks.
If you're chronically online and/or partial to an Instagram photodump, you'll have noticed the quiet, yet decided, return of the vintage camera. Gen Z and millennials have been trawling Depop and eBay for point-and-shoots that bring back the joy (and chaos) of unfiltered photography, and those with more patience have rediscovered the magic of film. With the 24/7 convenience and technological sophistication of our pocket smartphones, this pull towards cumbersome (and often expensive) retro photography makes one thing clear — we're not looking for perfection, we want nostalgia, texture and fun. But as charming as those old cameras are, there's no avoiding the frustrations of outdated tech: short battery lives, low-resolution screens and the slow process of getting photos from an SD card to your library. Film, too, has its downsides — it's slower, pricier and less sustainable, and if you've ever experienced the heartbreak of a ruined roll, you'll know it's not always kind. Fujifilm's new X-T30 III promises the best of all worlds: the imperfection and spontaneity of early digital and film photography, paired with the reliability and ease of 2025 technology — and we got to test it out. [caption id="attachment_1037100" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The new Fujifilm X-T30 III in Silver.[/caption] Over the last few weeks, we swapped our phones for the X-T30 III — taking it to gigs, park hangs with friends and out for dinner — to see what it's like to shoot on a real camera again. The first thing we noticed was how different it feels to take photos without a phone. There's no rush to post, no automatic filters, no instant scroll. Just the act of noticing something, lifting the camera, and deciding what you want the photo to feel like. Learning simple things — such as how aperture affects depth and how exposure changes a mood — made us think more deliberately about what we were shooting. We started framing scenes with intention instead of snapping aimlessly. [caption id="attachment_1037071" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Shot on the Fujifilm X-T30 III.[/caption] And maybe best of all, we were more present. Without a phone in hand, we weren't bouncing between apps or notifications — we were actually in the moment, noticing the light, the colours, the details. Design-wise, the X-T30 III nails that balance between retro and modern. Compact but weighty, it feels like something from the early 00s — a brushed-metal body with tactile dials and a subtle vintage edge. It's intuitive enough for beginners but still gives you room to play. At just 378 grams, it's light enough to carry everywhere yet solid enough to feel serious. [caption id="attachment_1037070" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Shot on the Fujifilm X-T30 III.[/caption] Fujifilm has long been known for its colour science, and the X-T30 III feels like a love letter to that legacy. The new Film Simulation Dial, borrowed from Fujifilm's premium X Series models, makes it easy to switch between iconic looks — from the soft, creamy tones of 'Nostalgic Neg' to the crisp clarity of 'Reala Ace'. There are 20 film simulations in total, each with its own texture and tone, plus three customisable slots so you can save your own 'recipes' for different styles. It's like carrying a film lab in your pocket — but one that never runs out of rolls. With a 26.1-megapixel X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and Fujifilm's latest X-Processor 5 engine, it's quick, sharp and reliable. Autofocus tracks everything from faces to fast-moving subjects, while the 6.2K video option and new 9:16 movie mode make it simple to capture both cinematic clips and vertical social content. It also features a built-in flash, tilting LCD screen and Wi-Fi connectivity for instant sharing or printing straight to Fujifilm's Instax Link printers. [caption id="attachment_1037072" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Shot on the Fujifilm X-T30 III.[/caption] And while shooting on the X-T30 III felt like a welcome break from our phones, it's still built for the world we live in. Through the Fujifilm Camera Remote app, photos transfer wirelessly to your phone in seconds — ready to post, send or edit on the go. You can even use your phone as a remote control, perfect for self-portraits or group shots when you want to be both in front of and behind the lens at once. We're no photography experts, and that's what made this camera such a pleasant surprise. It's genuinely beginner-friendly — from the one-touch Auto Mode lever that takes the guesswork out of exposure, to subject-detection autofocus that quietly does the heavy lifting. Once we started experimenting, we realised how much more intentional (and creative) our shooting became. Instead of solely focusing on the subject or landscape we were shooting, there was the ability to customise the feeling we were trying to capture — a little blur, deliberate overexposure, a hint of movement. [caption id="attachment_1037081" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Shot on the Fujifilm X-T30 III.[/caption] And maybe that's the real appeal of the X-T30 III: it makes you fall back in love with taking photos. It's not about chasing perfection — it's about slowing down and seeing everyday moments differently. Not unlike the deliberately B-roll shots peppered through an IG dump, shooting on a camera with this much versatility allows you to tell a whole story. We loved the Fujifilm X-T30 III for its ability to speak to the nostalgia of the film and digicam revival, but modern enough to keep up with today's tech and creative demands. It delivers film-style warmth and depth straight out of camera, while staying light, fast and intuitive enough for spontaneous shooting. [caption id="attachment_1037080" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Shot on the Fujifilm X-T30 III.[/caption] For casual photographers or creative explorers, it's the perfect in-between: accessible without being basic, aesthetic without being gimmicky, and compact enough to live in your tote or handbag. In short, it might just replace your digi cam, your film camera — and (hopefully) your phone. The brand new Fujifilm X-T30 III will be available from late November 2025. Find out more. Images: Supplied | Eliza Campbell, shot on the Fujifilm X-T30 III.
The team behind such Melbourne hospitality favourites Welcome to Thornbury, Belles Hot Chicken and Mr Burger clearly aren't afraid of a bit of hard work, having extended the family with the launch of their mammoth, food court-like, app-fuelled, new concept venue, Hightail. Opening its doors within brand new dining precinct Collins Square, this is the 100 Burgers Group's grandest project to date. With a colourful, Technē-designed fit-out, this ambitious joint boasts room for more than 950 people. But it's the food and drink situation that's the real experiment, as the group debuts its new 100 Orders app, allowing punters to skip the queues and order everything straight to their table. On offer are dishes from Mr Burger, Belles Hot Chicken and Super Taco, alongside a 48-strong beer selection, an Aussie-led wine list and signature cocktails — all en route (and paid for) with just a few taps of your finger. They also have big screens playing all the biggest sporting action, and some pretty tidy weekday happy hour deals to tempt the nearby knock-off crowd. Images: Grace Petrou.
When someone spots a giant spider, they take notice, even when it's simply a tall metal piece of art. Seeing one of Louise Bourgeois' towering arachnids is indeed a stunning experience; however, so is watching people clock her lofty works. Her Maman sculptures demand attention. They're the type of public art that audiences just want to sit around, soak in and commune with. They're photo favourites, too, of course — and one has just arrived in Australia. This is the first time that Maman has displayed Down Under, with the world-famous piece arriving in Sydney as part of Sydney International Art Series. Bourgeois is one of three hero talents scoring a blockbuster exhibition during event, alongside Wassily Kandinsky and Tacita Dean. The nine-metre-high, ten-metre-wide sculpture that Bourgeois is best known for is currently on display on the forecourt of the Art Gallery of NSW, towering over the historic South Building. The sculpture hails back to 1999, and boasts its name because it's a tribute to Bourgeois' mother. The artist described her mum as "deliberate, clever, patient, soothing... and [as] useful as a spider". [caption id="attachment_927831" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Installation view of the Louise Bourgeois 'Has the Day Invaded the Night or Has the Night Invaded the Day?' exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Felicity Jenkins[/caption] If you're keen to see Maman on home soil, Louise Bourgeois: Has the Day Invaded the Night, or Has the Night Invaded the Day? is running at the gallery from Saturday, November 25, 2023–Sunday, April 28, 2024, boasting 120 different works — the most comprehensive exhibition of Bourgeois's work ever to grace a gallery in the Asia Pacific. The Bourgeois exhibition is on display 13 years after the Paris-born artist passed away in New York in 2010, and after she stamped her imprint upon the art of the 20th century. Visitors will see her Arch of Hysteria work down in the gallery's underground Tank, textile works of the 1990s and 2000s, and plenty in-between. Other highlights include The Destruction of the Father, which is among the pieces that've never been displayed in Australia before; Clouds and Caverns, which is rarely seen in general; and the mirrored piece Has the Day Invaded the Night, or Has the Night Invaded the Day?, which shares the exhibition's moniker. Alongside the display of art, there will be a free film series curated by the AGNSW's Ruby Arrowsmith-Todd. A heap of Louise Bourgeois' favourite flicks will be screened at the gallery's cinema, including 1958's Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, 1971's Harold and Maude, David Lynch's Eraserhead, John Waters' Pink Flamingos and The Wizard of Oz. [caption id="attachment_927828" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Installation view of the Louise Bourgeois 'Has the Day Invaded the Night or Has the Night Invaded the Day?' exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Felicity Jenkins[/caption] Top image: installation of Louise Bourgeois 'Maman' at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Felicity Jenkins.
Closer to the classic British pub than most, The Napier Hotel is a winner all year round — but it's the warm fire that makes this an excellent choice in the winter months. Pull up a pew at one of the big communal tables and settle in for a cosy night out with mates. Alternatively, grab a stool at the bar and chat with some Fitzroy characters or head to the covered terrace with industrial outdoor heaters. Get on the beers, making your way through the lengthy local draught options or get a glass of something nice from the surprisingly well curated list of wines. The pub grub is also a big win at The Napier. Try a bunch of kangaroo options – either in steak form, chucked in a salad or added to the classic chicken parma — or opt for the crispy swordfish tacos and the spaghetti marina that's stacked with fresh seafood. The Napier Hotel is well worn-in and tends to be full of more locals compared to other Fitzroy pubs — thanks to its small size and location down one of the side streets. Image credit: Rexness via Flickr Appears in: The Best Pubs in Melbourne for 2023
Exploring the meeting point between cafe culture and club culture, OnAir is a new music-led coffee shop that's opened its doors in Cremorne. Co-founded by Francesca Poci and Deyon Murphy of local events and artist management crew Selfless Events, this innovative space looks to redefine what it means to engage with culture and creativity in a distinctly Melburnian way. At a challenging time for live music venues and festivals, this spot is bound to be a welcome addition for electronic artists and fans alike seeking community and connection. But don't expect all-night parties and wide-eyed chats in the smoker's. This daytime cafe offers a more chilled-out experience, where patrons are invited to kick back with a coffee — brewed with beans by Mount Waverley roaster Inglewood — as a revolving line-up of local and international DJs provides the ideal soundtrack. "Over the past 18 months, we've noticed a lack of spaces in Melbourne that encourage creativity and connection and there is a need for different spaces to consume music," says Poci. "Australia is considered to stream the most amount of house music globally, and the growing number of DJs and producers in this country is exponential. However, club culture is dying and festivals are being cancelled, yet people are craving authentic and safe spaces to experience music." Upon arrival, it won't take you long to see the thought that has gone into fitting out the space. Crafted entirely from upcycled, recycled and sustainable materials, the loft-style space was designed to deliver pristine acoustics for an excellent listening experience. Complementing the bright and airy interior are warm textures and tones, including Tasmanian oak flooring, seating fashioned from upcycled Australian hardwood, Douglas Fir timber beams and the building's original exposed brick walls. It's all been designed to, as Murphy puts it, "bridge the gap between traditional music venues and everyday spaces". "Music is the driving force of OnAir," says Murphy. "From the bespoke Pitt + Giblin sound system to our curated in-house radio channels, we're providing a platform for artists to reach new audiences whilst championing diverse voices and artistic expression." Complementing the music program is a tight menu of classic cafe fare, available for eat-in or takeaway. Expect smoothies made to order, freshly baked pastries, seasonal salads and organic Dench panini, filled with the likes of chicken schnitzel with rocket, Mexican lime salt and mayo; spicy tuna, jalapeños and dill served with fresh basil pesto; and chicken with American-style cheese, avocado and jalapeño aioli. On your visit, you might just stumble into one of the venue's regular Espresso Sessions, featuring emerging and established DJs and producers from across Australia and overseas. Held after hours from 4pm, these curated events make the most of OnAir's limited capacity, with room for 60 people only. Every Espresso Session set will be recorded for OnAir's YouTube channel, so even if you don't make the list, you can still enjoy the tunes. Plus, with plans for a fully operational bar in the near future, OnAir will seek to push the boundaries of its music-driven space further. OnAir is open Monday–Friday from 7am–3pm, with extended hours for special events. Head to the venue's website for more information.
Flinders Lane is home to some of Melbourne's best restaurants, and the eastern end is always packed with punters hunting down a highly sought-after table. The Spencer Street side, on the other hand, is home to a whole lot more office buildings than dining destinations. But this is slowly changing. More and more stellar spots are popping up on this side of the Melbourne CBD, with Salted Egg adding a fresh dimension back in 2021. Situated on the first floor, diners have views down Flinders Lane, just above it all, while tucking into a far-reaching assortment of Southeast Asian dishes. Executive Chef Adam Woodfield (ex-Chin Chin and Jimmy Liks) is serving playful takes on curries, stir-fries and street food eats full of bold flavours. There's no need to reach for the salt or chilli when feasting at Salted Egg. You can go à la carte for lunch and dinner, choosing your own Southeast Asian adventure, or opt for one of the set menus — something we all love to do these days. The menu kicks off with a few one-bite snacks inspired by Vietnamese, Thai and Singaporean street food. The smoked duck betel leaf with jeaw, lemongrass, mint and coriander is an absolute banger. As are the fresh oysters that come with red nahm jim. This is followed up by some spicy curries and stir-fries, as well as fresh salads to cut through the rich flavours. One particular highlight here has got to be the soft-shell crab stir-fry. These generous portions of crab come slathered in lashings of curry powder, Asian celery and oyster mushrooms. There's no doubt you'll be licking this bowl clean. A couple of desserts round out the food lunch and dinner offerings, best paired with some Southeast Asian-inspired cocktails or Aussie wines from the bar. The spot is also open to the public for breakfast but is mostly filled with hotel guests at this time of day. The pandan waffles and Vietnamese rice cakes with fried eggs are there for those wanting some Asian-inspired brekkie options, but your classic avo on toast and chilli scrambled eggs remain as well. Vietnamese coffee is also on the cards for those wanting to change up their usual caffeine fix. Salted Egg is feeding its hotel guests differently (not just in-room burgers and steaks) while also going after the general public. If you work down this end of town, a trip to Salted Egg or The Q best be on your dining hit list.
Drive 90 minutes northwest of the city, and you'll find the suitably-named town of Hepburn Springs, home to Australia's largest and oldest concentration of rejuvenating mineral springs. Since 1895, Australians have been travelling here to immerse themselves in the rich, remedial waters. But, to properly experience what the area has to offer, your best bet is to head to the historic and luxurious Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa. Amble through this beautifully-restored bathhouse, built back in 1895. Ranging from 33–40 degrees, guests can wander through underwater spa couches, hydrotherapy pods, a mineral hammam, an aroma steam room and several kinds of pools, including one for salt therapy and another for outdoor bathing. There's a strong connection to nature and the outdoors throughout this dreamy spa, with all pools carefully constructed so the surrounding native bushland is visible everywhere. Plus, there's a pavilion cafe that has been serving up goodies to visitors since 1908 (the Devonshire Tea and scones is highly recommended). The original, heritage-listed bathhouse is now home to a day spa with private mineral baths, steam therapies and massage options. Once you've bathed, try drinking the water: four different springs are dotted around Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve along a gentle 30-minute loop. You can also extend your stay by booking into one of the newly-renovated wellness villas, a private sanctuary overlooking the surrounding bushland complete with plush furniture, oversized marble spa bath, king bed, yoga mats with guided videos and an indulgent fireplace. Updated July, 2023. Images: supplied.
Opening in a 2000-square-metre Preston warehouse back in 2021, The Keys was an instant hit. The 'all-in-one leisure centre' complete with a reimagined vintage bowling alley, arcade, bar, bistro and beer garden is the brainchild of school friends Tom Peasnell and Jon Rowatt (part of the crew behind venues including Dexter, Takeaway Pizza, Kenny Lover and Dom's Social Club). The Keys' main persona is a retro bowling alley reimagined for the modern-day bowler, boasting 12 maple timber bowling lanes that have been tricked out with upcycled parts from former bowling alleys, along with the latest tech and machinery. Meanwhile, a collection of retro arcade games, pool tables and a state-of-the-art sound system will keep you more than entertained between games. The space is also home to a fireside lounge area, dance floor, dining zone, bar and a roomy beer garden with capacity for 450 punters. [caption id="attachment_903499" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jack Lovel[/caption] Across three separate bars, a hefty 48 taps are largely championing local brewing mates, including fellow northsiders Moon Dog Brewing, Tallboy & Moose, La Sirene and Hawkers. In a fitting nod to one of history's most iconic bowling flicks, there'll also be Big Lebowski-style White Russians on the tap list. Head Chef Peasnell is fuelling nostalgia even further with a menu of revamped classics, starring bar snacks, pub favourites and New York-style pizzas. [caption id="attachment_903494" align="alignnone" width="1920"] CHawks[/caption] Appears in: The Best Bars in Melbourne for 2023
Think of the Gold Coast and your mind probably jumps straight to its picturesque beaches, beloved theme parks and the lively strip of Surfer's Paradise. While these can all make for a brilliant getaway, the Gold Coast has a number of year-round events that give the holiday destination a cultural edge. From world-class sporting spectacles to exciting festivals, Get Up and Gold Coast in 2026, and plan a trip around these exciting events. AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 This March, the Gold Coast is hosting one of the premier sporting events of the year: the AFC Women's Asia Cup 2026. Alongside Sydney and Perth, the Gold Coast will become a bucket list destination for football fans. The Gold Coast Stadium will host four group matches from Monday, March 2, until Sunday, March 8. This includes the Matildas' second group match, followed by two rounds of play-offs on Thursday, March 19. Whether you're a sports fan or not, there's no denying the buzz and atmosphere that comes from a major sporting event like this. There are still tickets available, so be sure to nab yours and book in a Gold Coast escape. Australian WPGA Championship The Australian Women's Professional Golfers' Association Championship brings the world's best female golfers to the Gold Coast. Players will compete for the Karrie Webb Cup (and $600,000 in prize money) at the Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club and the Palms Golf Course from Thursday, March 19, until Sunday, March 22. Outside of the championship, the Sanctuary Cove Marine Village is your destination for sport and entertainment with food and beverage options, music, pop-up bars, dedicated fan zones, interactive golf challenges, chill-out areas and shopping. At WPGA, witness the best in golf while enjoying the Gold Coast's picturesque weather and scenery. WSL Bonsoy Gold Coast Pro In May, the Bonsoy Gold Coast Pro (part of the World Surf League Championship Tour event) will be held on the Gold Coast's golden beaches from Friday, May 1, until Monday, May 11. This year, the event is taking place in Snapper Rocks and is set to deliver world-class surfing. Past winners include Kelly Slater, Stephanie Gilmore, Mick Fanning, Carissa Moore and Gabriel Medina, so you know that it'll be worth the journey to see this year's talent on show. The Bonsoy Gold Coast Pro is free to enter, so you and the family can witness the best surfers in the world compete up close and personal. Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show One of the Southern Hemisphere's largest boat shows, the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is an annual showcase of superyachts, sailboats, marine tech and waterfront appreciation. The event takes place over four action-packed days from Thursday, May 21, to Sunday, May 24. See superyachts up close and personal and revel in the luxurious waterfront lifestyle that the Gold Coast delivers in droves. Blues on Broadbeach Every May, the Gold Coast suburb of Broadbeach transforms into one of Australia's largest music festivals, Blues on Broadbeach. Across multiple indoor and outdoor stages, the four-day (and night) event is a celebration of soul, rhythm and blues music. It kicks off on Thursday, May 14, with a non-ticketed lineup that includes Charlie Musselwhite, Ruthie Foster, Robert Finley, The Lachy Doley Trio, and many more. While most of the festival is free, the Sunday Ticket offers exclusive access to a stellar lineup. On Sunday, May 17, ARIA Award-winning The Teskey Brothers and special guests Judith Hill and Ash Grunwald will perform to the crowd as the sun sets over Broadbeach. Alongside live performances, you can wander between beachfront parks, bars and pop-ups, making it the ultimate chilled Gold Coast experience for music lovers. Cooly Rocks On Coolangatta puts on its retro filter the first weekend in June with Cooly Rocks On. The nostalgia-fuelled street party is a celebration of the motors, music and lifestyle of the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s with classic car displays, a pin-up pageant, live gigs and vintage beachfront markets, all free to explore. From Wednesday, June 3, until Sunday, June 7, you can browse through a selection of retro treasures and memorabilia and listen to some of the finest rock 'n' roll, swing, rockabilly and tribute artists from around the world. There's also a preliminary round of the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artists Contest taking place. Cooly Rocks On is one of three festivals in the country to host this round, and the winner will secure a spot at Elvis Week in Memphis. Rock on. Pacific Airshow The Pacific Airshow Gold Coast transforms the city's famous beachfront into an open-air runway. From Friday, August 14, until Sunday, August 16, fighter jets, aerobatic teams and precision solo flyers will take to the skies for a weekend of high-octane airshows. Enjoy general admission, or take it up a notch with hospitality experiences at the Garden Bar or Beach Club. Ticket holders can enjoy a curated menu of food and drinks, a patio area with seating and shade, private restrooms, and live airshow commentary. It's a Gold Coast-style winter escape. Bleach* It's not just Melbourne and Sydney hosting the country's premier cultural events. Bleach* Festival is a contemporary arts festival running from Thursday, October 1, until Sunday, October 11. The spring festival brings dance, art, music, exhibitions, and panels across three vibrant festival hubs: Kurrawa Park, Emerald Lakes, and the Gold Coast's Home Of The Arts (HOTA). There's a range of free and ticketed events to choose from, with the full lineup released later in the year. Keep your eyes peeled and book in some cultural experiences. Groundwater Country Music Festival Is country music more your scene? Groundwater Country Music Festival is the Gold Coast's destination for all things boots, banjos and beachside twang. Taking over the streets of Broadbeach from Friday, October 16, until Sunday, October 18, the free three-day festival brings a stacked lineup of Australian and international acts. While the 2026 lineup is yet to be announced, the October festival is a must-do for music lovers on the Gold Coast. Expect line-dancing sessions, street food, pop-up bars and a laidback coastal atmosphere complete with cowboy hats. Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500 The Gold Coast 500 turns Surfers Paradise into a high-speed street circuit, bringing Supercars racing right into the heart of the city. For one adrenaline-fuelled weekend from Friday, October 23 until Sunday, October 25, the sound of engines echoes between skyscrapers as drivers battle it out just metres from the beach. Whether you're a die-hard motorsport fan or simply keen for a high-energy weekend by the beach, the event blends sun, speed and spectacle. Explore more events and accommodation options, and be ready to Get Up and Gold Coast. Image credit: Supplied
If you're spending a night in a hotel for a romantic evening away from your own sheets, W Brisbane wants to give your next visit to the riverside spot a buzz. Because it's that time of year where everyone's thinking about love and lust (like that's not happening everyday anyway), the inner-city hotel is transforming its suites into sexual wellness havens. And as well as nabbing access to an in-room lingerie selection, you'll also get to play with a mini bar filled with sex toys. Whether you're enjoying a Brissie staycation or you're in town from further afield, you you can book into the hotel chain's new 'love your buzz' package, which is on offer in partnership with Lovehoney Australia. It's available from Monday, February 14 (of course) up until Thursday, March 31 — and while it doesn't come cheap, with prices starting at $1569, hopefully you and your partner will be coming into quite the pleasurable stay. As well as that $800-plus mini bar filled with sex toys and the Lovehoney lingerie — both complimentary — the room includes access to a 'sexologist concierge' service, which lets you book in a free phone consultation through sexologist Chantelle Otten's clinic. You'll also be able to watch a dedicated on-demand streaming service filled with educational sexual wellness videos (so no one will be blushing over in-room movie rental charges), and listen to playlists that've been curated by sexologists and sex coaches to get you in the mood. The package features champagne on arrival as well, plus breakfast for two in your room and a bath soak — because you'll be staying in one of W Brisbane's luxury suites, which has a tub. If you do celebrate Valentine's Day, this is quite the way to do it. And if you're after something slightly less pricey, there's also a 'what the buzz' package from $969 (yes, we meant it when we said slightly cheaper) that comes with a night in a luxury suite, champers upon arrival, a bubble bath, in-room brekkie for two and a Lovehoney couples sex toy kit. For more information about W Brisbane's 'love your buzz' and 'what the buzz' packages, or to book a room before Thursday, March 31, head to the hotel's website.
Arbory Bar and Eatery is long — 150m long, to be exact. Stretching along the length of what was the Sandridge railway platform at Flinders Street Station, this is the perfect place for some old fashioned promenading before taking a seat at the long counter bench overlooking the Yarra to enjoy a tipple while you take in the riverfront views. Named for the leafy canopy, or arbor, that the plane trees create above, Arbory is a magical pocket of green goodness in the midst of a bustling city. It is even more enchanting as the sun goes down, and the container housing the kitchen, two bars and the bathrooms emit an enticing golden glow. Arbory is open from 11am for riverside drinks and eats until late with a concise and well-chosen menu from ex-Trocadero (now Fatto) chef Nicolas Bennett. The offering is somewhat refined but still a little cheeky, focusing on sandwiches and burgers, such as its New England Lobster Roll, with shoestring fries and truffle salt and its fan-favourite double cheeseburger. Word has it that the butcher makes the patties to Bennett's specifications to create the ultimate meat-to-fat ratio and — what's more — the perfect bread-to-beef proportions. While the beef patty is definitely the star of this gig, the bacon, brioche bun, mellow and creamy Monterey cheese, sundried tomato relish, a slip of lettuce, and pickles all work together to elevate this burger to superstar status. The accompanying crinkle-cut fries complete the dish. And, from experience, more than one napkin is required. With a state-of-the-art beer system, fancy Hoshizaki ice machine, wine on tap (as well as some lovely local and Spanish wines by the bottle) and a cocktail list with all your favourites, this is a well-thought-out bar and eatery.
In recent years, there's been a growing perception that Australian nightlife is in decline, as rising cost-of-living pressures push more people to stay in and "enjoy their rent." With social habits shifting, particularly among younger generations, more than a quarter of nightclubs have closed since the pandemic. At the same time, Gen Z is increasingly being described as the "sober curious" generation, with drinking rates continuing to fall. All of these factors have resulted in quieter streets, restaurants that close earlier, and fewer people spending money in bars and clubs. The Visa Vibe Economy report, commissioned by Visa and conducted by McCrindle, surveyed Australians to learn how we spend our evenings (and how much cash we splash on a night out). It turns out that there are still a number of Australians getting out and about after dark. [caption id="attachment_1032801" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Getty Images Maskot[/caption] What's prompting Australians to get out? It should come as no surprise that we are a nation of foodies, with the research revealing the main reason we leave our homes after dark is to go out for dinner. With our major cities having thousands of world-class restaurants to choose from, it's no wonder that seven in ten Australians put food at the top of the list when deciding on a night out. Next on the list was the quality of entertainment, and interestingly, whether or not you can grab a pint at a night-time venue is low on Aussies' priority list. Only 28 percent of people surveyed felt that alcohol availability was necessary when choosing where to spend a night out. Aussies are heading out after dark for more than just a good time with mates—though that's still a big part of it. Half say they're hitting the streets to unwind and shake off the day, while many are keen to break the routine and discover something new. The call for fresh nighttime experiences is loud and clear, with over 50 percent of people wanting more night markets, festivals and late-night culture in their neighbourhoods. Of course, the cost of living also plays a crucial role, with 52 percent of us looking for more affordable options for a night out. With restaurants charging premiums due to the price of produce and the cost of living not seeming to slow down anytime soon, people's leisure budgets are clearly taking a hit. On average, 81 percent of Australians spend up to $120 per person on a night out, and cost was the most significant barrier for people not getting out and about in the evening. Who's getting out of the house the most frequently? The Visa Australia Night-time Index 2025, a new in-depth analysis measuring data such as spending, vibrancy, and venues open after dark, found Melburnians are the cohort spending the most evenings away from the couch, with the city being crowned as the number one night-time hotspot in the country. From the city's CBD laneway restaurants to the pubs in Brunswick and Fitzroy, Chapel Street's nightlife strip and St Kilda's live music scene, Melburnians have a number of precincts to choose from, all with a high standard of food, drink, and atmosphere. After the Victorian capital, Sydney was next on the list of Australian nightlife hotspots. The city and Inner South, Eastern suburbs, Parramatta, Inner South West, Inner West and North Sydney were all locations that saw the most spending after dark. Although you may feel your friends are staying in more than usual, the report finds that almost half of Australians go out in the evening at least once a week. Not bad. And despite their sober curious nature, Gen Z is leading that charge with 73 percent of the cohort getting out once or more a week. On average, the generation is spending 9.4 nights out per month, and boosting the economy at the same time. [caption id="attachment_1032802" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Getty Images Klaus Vedfelt[/caption] Where to next? Australians clearly love a night out. While we might not be hitting the clubs at the same rate as a few decades ago, the night-time economy is still contributing a lot to our way of life. So, get out there and try new restaurants, head to a night market you've not been to, and cheers to enjoying your city after dark. Discover the vibe near you. Lead image: Getty Images Thomas Barwick
Good weather and good vibes are on the way, which means the adventure lovers are gearing up for sunshine escapades. If your gear is in dire need of a revamp, iconic sustainable lifestyle brand frank green is here with the solution of three prize packs now up for grabs. frank green aims to end single-use plastic waste by crafting stylish and functional solutions that are built to last. Each of the lucky winners will score two Ceramic Reusable Bottles (grip finish) with Grip Lids, two 3-in-1 Insulated Drink Holders and two Stainless Steel Bowls with Glass Lids. The one-litre Ceramic Reusable Bottle is made for adventures — in the wild and in the city — and for this prize pack, it comes with the newly launched easy-to-grab Grip Lid, which is compatible with all frank green cups and bottles. The bottles also have a durable powder coat for added grip — so no bottles slipping from sweaty hands here. If you want your cold drinks to stay cool or hot drinks to stay hot, the bottles are triple wall vacuum insulated to retain temperature. Plus, because the bottles have a ceramic lining inside, they don't take on any of the flavours of your beverages, whether it's tea, coffee, infused water or anything else. The 3-in-1 Insulated Drink Holder keeps your bevvy ice-cold for longer. You can use it as a stubby holder or a tumbler, or add the included splash-proof lid and stainless steel straw to use it as a next-level cold-brew cup while you are road-tripping to your next adventure. Keep yourself nourished on your adventures, and pack snacks or meals in plastic-free, reusable Stainless Steel Bowls with Glass Lid. They are airtight with a soft-touch silicone seal and lightweight enough to pack in your day pack or to use as your daily lunchbox — to the envy of the office. So, if you and a mate or your partner are keen on adventuring this summer, fill out the form below to be in with a shot of upgrading your gear. [competition]917837[/competition]
Many hospo veterans want to one day own their own space, and it doesn't always happen, except for cases like Una Una. This Box Hill spot is the passion project of owner Sam Hatherley, who spent 20 years working in hospo, including at Neil Perry's Rosetta Ristorante. Named after his daughter, it came about like so many great ideas, when Hatherley stepped back to play stay-at-home dad in the depths of Victoria's COVID lockdowns. Hatherley identified a missing niche in Box Hill, a step between work and home, where locals could settle in for good food and drink without having to trek it further into the city. Una Una fills that niche, initially as a cafe, now existing in a hybrid form, transitioning between a cafe and a bistro by day and night, respectively. During the daylight hours, the team stocks focaccia sandwiches, made fresh daily and toasted to order, alongside classic coffee and some specialty drinks too (think Italian whipped coffee cream, whipped orange coffee and house-made almond-lemon soda or walnut cola). Then from 5.30pm on Friday and Saturday, the space becomes an intimate neighbourhood bistro, serving a seasonal menu that uses fresh market fare alongside cocktails shaped by Hatherley's bartending experience. The spring dinner menu, crafted by an ex-chef of Bo Innovation, Juan Amado and Rosetta Ristorante, features tuna crudo, chargrilled calamari, lamb katsu, and signature roast duck breast. In terms of cocktails, you can sip classics and signatures like the Sunflower, Gin Fashion, Jasmine, Dirty Smoked Olive Martini, Tokyo Style Martini, Sgroppino, and Vanilla/Braulio Shakeado. No matter what time of day, there's a focus on quality over quantity, with just four tables for dining in and a one-pager menu that rotates every two or three months to keep things new for every visit. Images: supplied
It isn't every year that the Cannes Film Festival awards its coveted top prize to a movie about having sex with — yes, with — a car. That year was 2021, and that winner was French thriller Titane. Topping such a pick might seem difficult but, when it came time to hand out the 2022 Palme d'Or, the prestigious fest gave the gong to a brutal social satire with a queasy, hilarious, cringe-inducing and utterly impossible-to-look-away-from 15-minute-long projectile vomiting scene. Bodies don't just expel substances from their mouths in Triangle of Sadness' unforgettable and easily most talked-about sequence. Seasickness strikes, what's inside has to come out however it must (and ASAP) and, because that's a situation that strips away all class and power dynamics, there's no longer any hierarchy on the film's ultra-luxurious yacht setting. The scene just might be Swedish filmmaker Ruben Östlund's most awkward and stunning of his career — and that's saying something for a writer/director who actually topped himself by nabbing the Palme d'Or for Triangle of Sadness, given that he also won the same accolade for his art world-skewering previous film The Square. Getting the one-percent heaving up their dinner for a quarter-hour is only one part of Östlund's smart, scathing and supremely entertaining latest feature. Following two models and influencers, couple Carl (Harris Dickinson, See How They Run) and Yaya (Charlbi Dean, Black Lightning), Triangle of Sadness explores the world of fashion, the lavishness of extreme wealth and being stranded on a deserted island. In the process, it ponders beauty as a form of currency and actively tears down the rich — but it's equally savage towards everyone, bank balance be damned. Östlund is fascinated by human behaviour, after all, and the social contracts by which we all live. Indeed, his current sail through such loaded, complicated and comically ripe terrain not only follows 2018's The Square but 2014's exceptional marriage-in-crisis black comedy Force Majeure. [caption id="attachment_884231" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Olivier Vigerie[/caption] Östlund loves scratching away at how people react in heightened situations, and examining what that says about everyday life. He adores unpacking societal expectations, too. Indeed, for his next movie, he's heading to a long-haul 17-hour-plus flight, then taking away the passengers' main source of entertainment. The in-the-works flick is called The Entertainment System Is Down, in fact, and Östlund describes it as "once again a behaviouristic study, comical and tragic, about being a human being — and about contemporary times when we have become so addicted to these screens, and taking that away from us". Talking with Concrete Playground via Zoom, he's visibly excited about putting a new batch of characters through the wringer. That glee is palpable in Triangle of Sadness as well — including when everyone is vomiting. With the film now in Australian cinemas, Östlund also chatted through his fascination with alluring worlds, pop culture's present obsession with eating the rich, all that blowing chunks and shooting for a history-making third Palme d'Or. ON TEARING INTO SOCIETAL CONVENTIONS WITHIN ALLURING WORLDS "I think if I go back to my upbringing, my mother was a primary school teacher and she was talking a lot about sociology with me when I was a kid. And sociology is, if you are looking at what it actually is, it's very often with human beings trying to deal with social contracts that are broken in some way — or there's an expectation on you as an individual to fit into the herd or things like that, but there's always a broken social contract. For Triangle of Sadness, the reason that I got interested in the topic was I met my wife eight years ago and she worked as a fashion photographer. And I got very interested in the fashion industry and her profession, and I got interested in beauty as a currency and beauty as a possibility to climb higher in society. So, that was the starting point of the idea. Then I came up with looking at these hierarchies first in the fashion world, then in the luxury world, but then also on a deserted island — when you take away the old hierarchies, looking at our behaviour in that context. One thing that I decided when I made Force Majeure was that I wanted to let my films play out in an environment that we like to look upon. So I thought when I made Force Majeure: 'yeah I can spend one-and-a-half hours at a ski resort'. With The Square, I thought: 'yeah, I can watch and make a movie that takes place in the art world'. With Triangle of Sadness, then, it was one plus one plus one: 'yeah, I definitely wanted to watch a movie that takes in the fashion world, on a luxury yacht and on a deserted island." ON GIVING AUDIENCES A DILEMMA — AND DRAWING FROM EXPERIENCE "I always look for a dilemma, so I have a situation that the character is dealing with that has two or more options, but none of them are easy and all of them have consequences — that is basically what a dilemma is. And if you have a dilemma, it's very often easy for the audience to identify with the situation rather than with the character, so they put themselves in the situation. To go back to sociology, we have classical dilemmas that have been used in sociology, for example the Milgram experiment where they had a test person giving electrical shocks to another test person. We can identify with the dilemma, so we also get an understanding of what failure there means morally and ethically. I always look for that. I very often also look for things that I have been dealing with in my own life, because I think that these everyday life dilemmas — where you're maybe not risking anything physically, but were it comes down to the social contract — they tell us so much about ourselves. When it came to Triangle of Sadness, I was trying to find something that I have experienced that I felt was dealing with beauty as a currency, men, women, gender expectations and so on. Then I was reminded of this horrible fight that I had in the beginning of my relationship with my wife, where I could feel it was a minefield — you can step on a landmine any second — and I thought 'I have to include this, this is very, very painful, it has to be in the film'." ON EATING THE RICH — AND POP CULTURE'S FASCINATION WITH THE TOPIC "I have always been a socialist, so I think all of a sudden I'm trendy again — and that's fantastic! But I didn't have a plan of attacking that more now. When I was doing my first feature films, I was more of an arthouse director, I was a little subtle with my concepts, and I was not going straight for what I wanted to tell. But the more free I have become as a director, I have also dared to be more direct. And the setup in Triangle of Sadness lets me do that. But I think that one thing it is important for me to point out is that I have nothing against rich people. Rich people are nice — they just don't like to pay taxes! When I hear 'eat the rich', I see it as meaning attacking the rich. I don't consider myself attacking the rich. I wanted to make a very sympathetic image of rich people — or at least as sympathetic of the rich as everyone else. I want to be equally harsh on all of the different class groups." ON ALL THAT VOMIT — AND GIVING HIS CREW MOTION SICKNESS "I wanted to do a scene where we had a drunk Marxist captain reading from The Communist Manifesto to passengers on a luxury yacht that was dealing with seasickness. I was just fond of the idea — that they are playing around with the microphone system and through the speakers in the cabins, the guests are trying to deal with the vomiting but at the same time they have to listen to this political message. The scene actually started with that idea. When I was shooting it, I also decided that I wanted it to go ten steps further than the audience could expect. I wanted it to get to a point where they felt 'please save them, they have had enough!'. But you know, because I'm so interested in broken social contracts, I thought it was interesting if the captain's dinner on a luxury yacht where everyone knows how to behave, and the etiquette of how they should behave, was in conflict with the seasickness that becomes stronger and stronger. I just love setups like that. It took a long time to edit it. I was editing it for half a year almost before we found the right structure. When we shot it, we shot it in fragments — it was not 100-percent decided when I shot it which place the fragments should have in the whole scene, so that was something that I had to find out when I was editing, and that took a long time. The shooting took place on a gimbal that we could rock, so we could rock the set 20 degrees, which made it very chaotic to shoot. I'm used to being in full control and being able to shoot without having the slightest little sound or anything — being very concentrated — so for me that was a challenge. And actually also, parts of the crew got seasick from the shooting. They had seasickness pills because we were spending 13 days, eight hours every day, on this rocking set. As you can imagine, it was chaos." [caption id="attachment_884238" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cannes, France. 28th May, 2022. CANNES, FRANCE. May 17, 2022: Ruben Ostlund at the photocall for Palme d'Or Awards at the 75th Festival de Cannes. Picture Credit: Paul Smith/Alamy Live News[/caption] ON WINNING TWO PALME D'ORS — AND DREAMING OF A THIRD "I was definitely not thinking about [winning a second Palme d'Or] when we made the film. I felt pressure because I knew that everybody that put in money into the film expected the film to be in competition in Cannes. When we were accepted in competition in Cannes, I said 'okay, mission accomplished, I have given them what I have promised', so to speak. Then we had a fantastic screening in Cannes. And what happens then is you slowly start to hope for a prize. And when you're invited to the awards ceremony, and the prizes go to other films, and you realise 'wow there's only one prize left'. And then you realise we're going to win the Golden Palm again. The great thing with the second Golden Palm is that it takes away pressure from your shoulders, because then you have shown that the first Golden Palm was actually the right decision from that jury. And what happens after you win two Golden Palms is that slowly a dream is starting — maybe we can win a third one! — because then you would be the only one in the world. I'm sorry, this is what happens. I'm trying to be humble but this is what happens! So the first one, I never dreamt about the second one. When I received the second one, I started to dream about the third." Triangle of Sadness is now screening in Australian cinemas. Read our full review. Triangle of Sadness images: Fredrik Wenzel. © Plattform Produktion.
It's been 18 years since Australia's first taste of acclaimed New York artist Spencer Tunick's work, when 4500 naked volunteers posed for a snap near Federation Square as part of the 2001 Fringe Festival. He then photographed around 5000 nude people in front of the Sydney Opera House during the 2010 Mardi Gras, and came back to Australia just last year to shoot over 800 Melburnians in the rooftop carpark of a Prahran Woolworths. This month, Tunick made the trip to the shores again — and this time, he went tropical. On Saturday, November 23, a whole heap of Aussies stripped off on a beach in the Whitsundays, with the internationally famed artist returning to Australia to stage the newest of his famed mass nude photographs. In Tunick's latest visit to Australia, his sights were set on the white sands and sparkling blue waters of Haslewood Island — near Whitehaven Beach, aka the second best beach in the world. That's where Tunick assembled another contingent of naked folk for a work titled Sea Earth Change. Interestingly, the shoot was part of The Iconic's (yes, that online clothing store) summer campaign We Are Human. Naturally, the resulting images feature the sky, the ocean and the sand — and the nearly 100 nude participants — with Tunick making an artistic statement on the fragility of both the natural environment and humanity. "Using a pristine location like Haslewood Island in the Whitsundays to highlight the need for us to protect these areas, while exploring the vulnerability of the human form and importance of community is something I hope I've communicated with these images," he explained. Tunick captured a diverse mix of bodies in the shoot, with participants each receiving a print of the photograph and, we're sure, a big boost of body confidence. The artwork was unveiled at The Calile Hotel in Brisbane on Wednesday, November 27, marking the latest striking images in the artist's career. Elsewhere, he's photographed the public painted red and gold outside Munich's Bavarian State Opera, covered in veils in the Nevada desert and covered in blue in Hull in the UK. Images: Spencer Tunick's Sea Earth Change installation artworks.
Catching a blockbuster or indie flick beneath the stars is already pretty special. Yet part of the reason so many people love Moonlight Cinema is that you can bring your dog along for the ride. Good luck finding a conventional cinema with that perk — unless Yarraville's Sun Theatre and their doggy day sessions are within reach. Now the experience for your pooch is getting even better, as Moonlight Cinemas across the country (except Perth) are adding exclusive Lyka doggie bag meals to the menu for the first time. So, when it's time to hit up the kitchen and bar for your movie night snacks, pet parents can also grab some dog-friendly goodies to keep their pup occupied. While you get stuck into the popcorn and perhaps a wine or two, your dog could be munching on a tasty kangaroo meal. Served as part of a goodie bag for $17, it comes with a handy DOG by Dr Lisa Lick Mat and a Turkey Dental Jerky Treat, perfect for times when your dog grows a little restless. And with everything handed over inside a convenient Lyka cooler bag, it's easy to keep the doggy snacks chilled on a warm evening. Ready for a night out with the fam — pets and all? Moonlight Cinema's 30th season kicks off on Friday, November 21, in Sydney, with Adelaide, Brisbane and Melbourne soon to follow.
From futuristic Supertrees to idyllic beaches and tropical gardens, Singapore weaves leafy stretches of nature throughout its bustling urban landscape. But reconnecting with nature doesn't have to mean trekking through forests or sleeping in a tent — it can also be farm-to-table dining with local produce, urban parks and luxe hotels with verdant spaces. In partnership with Singapore Tourism, we've pulled together a few imaginative ways to eat, stay and play in nature around Singapore, without straying too far from the middle of the city. [caption id="attachment_976861" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Marklin Ang[/caption] Play Known as the Garden City, Singapore is home to both hidden pockets and wide expanses of greenery, even in the middle of the city. Take the iconic Gardens by the Bay, which boasts temperature-controlled conservatories filled with exotic plants and flowers from around the world, towering Supertrees, freshwater wetlands and a Japanese zen garden. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Singapore Botanic Gardens is equally impressive with a more classic slant — think elegant swans, a heritage museum and bandstand, and a national orchid garden with over 1000 species. [caption id="attachment_980992" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Danny Santos[/caption] For a dose of history on your outdoor adventure, head to Fort Canning Park to explore nine historical gardens, a spice garden dating back to 1822, two informative galleries and various colonial monuments. Fort Canning was home to the palatial resorts of Malay kings during the 14th century, before it was used by the British as military headquarters until WWII. As you exit to Penang Road near Dhoby Ghaut station, be sure to admire the sunlight and foliage streaming in from the top of the Fort Canning Park Tree Tunnel. If you're looking to get out of the city for a day, hop on a 15-minute ferry ride to Pulau Ubin from Changi Point Ferry Terminal. One of Singapore's former kampongs (villages), the island still retains some of the landmarks from its rich history, including a model kampong house, Fo Shan Ting Da Bo Gong Temple and the German Girl Shrine. For wildlife lovers, Pulau Ubin is home to a diverse range of native plants, birds and animals, many of which cannot be found on the mainland. Discover these critters at sites such as Butterfly Hill, Chek Jawa Wetlands and Sensory Trail Pond on foot or by bike. Eat and Drink You don't have to venture out to get a taste of the great outdoors. Sample fresh local produce while paying respect to the land at these sustainability-driven restaurants. Located a short distance from Orchard Road, Open Farm Community's menu focuses on produce sourced from its very own urban farm, along with local suppliers. Visitors are welcome to join in on a farm tour before enjoying farm-to-table fare with locally inspired flavours. Kaarla also boasts its own urban farm — at 51 stories high, the 1-Arden Food Forest is the tallest urban farm in the world. The restaurant prepares Australian cuisine on a wood-fired grill, with produce sourced from the surrounding farm, as well as Singaporean and Australian producers. Helmed by chef LG Han, Labyrinth's new Singaporean cuisine and sustainable efforts have been rewarded with a Michelin Star and the Flor de Caña Sustainable Restaurant Award. Han takes inspiration from hawker fare and traditional Singapore flavours to create his innovative dishes, using locally sourced ingredients and carefully utilising all parts of the produce. Influenced by Danish principles of sustainability, FURA is a sleek cocktail bar that uses environmentally friendly ingredients with a low carbon footprint, such as insect proteins, invasive species or produce that is widely available throughout Asia. For a picturesque dining experience among the trees, look no further than 1-Flowerhill. The elegant chateau houses three restaurants — Camille, Wildseed Cafe, and Wildseed Bar and Grill — and sits atop Sentosa's Imbiah Hill with views across the island. Stay Bring nature to you at one of these luxe hotels in the heart of Singapore, which champion sustainability and integrate greenery into their design. Aptly named, the ParkRoyal Collection hotels in Pickering and Marina Bay incorporate environmentally conscious processes, including solar panels, filtered water systems, biodegradable amenities and rooftop urban farms. Similarly, The Pan Pacific Orchard adopts sustainable practices throughout the hotel, such as energy-saving glass, motion sensors and integrated energy, water and waste systems. The hotel also features four nature-inspired terraces — the Forest, Beach, Garden and Cloud Terraces — with abundant tropical foliage. You can't miss Oasia Downtown amongst the Singapore skyline — the 27-storey building is wrapped in over 20 species of plants woven throughout the aluminium mesh exterior. As the plants continue to grow across the building, they provide shade and a cooling effect throughout the building. The greenery continues inside, with 33 species of plants in communal areas such as the lobby, rooftop pools and Sky Terrace. A short stroll from the Singapore Botanic Gardens, The Singapore Edition is a tranquil retreat with lush tropical plants, a rooftop pool and trendy bars. The hotel's eco-friendly initiatives include using carbon-neutral and biodegradable room keys, recycled materials and green cement. The hotel restaurant, Fysh, is also acclaimed Australian chef Josh Niland's first international foray, with an emphasis on sustainable seafood and responsibly sourced produce. Book your Singapore holiday now with Flight Centre. All images courtesy of Singapore Tourism Board.
Garden State Hotel, the reliable, always-bustling, fuss-free Flinders Lane pub, is set to get an upgrade with a new two-level rooftop bar coming soon. The massive, four-storey, sprawling venue will add to its huge digs, which already have space to host more than 800 people. Garden State is located at 101 Flinders Lane, inside a 130-year-old building that began its life as a sawmill before playing host to Rosati, one of Melbourne's top dining destinations in the '80s and '90s. In the centre of the building, punters gather at the multi-level beer garden built around several large ficus trees. Lush greenery and a seamless indoor-outdoor feeling help transport patrons away from the hustle and bustle of the CBD. The Public Bar is a favourite post-work hangout for many city workers who come here for a care-free, good time. Pub classics like chicken parmas, pizzas, burgers and fish and chips are complemented by elevated snacks such as grilled haloumi with capsicum relish and kingfish crudo with pickled zucchini, as well as dishes including oven-baked ricotta gnocchi and salmon Nicoise salad. On the basement level, you'll find The Rose Garden, a vibrant, late-night cocktail bar, accessible through AC/DC Lane and Duckboard Place. Find live music and DJs on the weekend, or consider hosting your next dynamic event here. The options really are endless at this sprawling pub. Step through the yellow-framed doorway to find Tippy-Tay, a love letter to the coastal cities of Italy. Tippy-Tay is a relaxed, eccentric and chaotically welcoming Italian restaurant that loves to see a celebration coming. Whether it's a midweek catch-up or a weekend hens party, you can't go wrong with the generous feed me menu, especially when you go for the matched wines options, which include three wines plus a Limoncello for just $50 per person. Now, Garden State Hotel is set to improve its already sprawling offering with a 300-seat, two-level Rooftop Garden to be unveiled later in 2026. With sweeping views of the CBD, the rooftop will be a natural extension of Garden State's signature upbeat, social energy. Easy-to-drink herb and floral-inspired cocktails, craft beers, approachable wines, and non-alcoholic drinks are set to draw even more post-work punters for relaxed city drinking at its best. Designed by Melbourne-based architect Telha Clarke, the new space will feature layered greenery, banquette seating and soft lighting. "The rooftop will be a true extension of what people already love about Garden State," says Garden State Venue Manager Scott Woods. "With a retractable roof, it will be the perfect place to gather all year round. Images: Supplied.
Bar Carlo is all about distinctive drinks and that tasty Italian tradition of cicchetti. This dimly-lit bar is tucked into Meyers Place in the CBD, and features a long bar for you to claim your spot on. Behind the bar you'll see the walls are lined with bottles upon bottles of Leone, an aperitif of North Italy rarely found outside of it. This exclusive aperitif is similar to Aperol and Campari — and, likewise, you can have it in a spritz or with a splash of tonic or soda water as a mixer. Whichever way you choose, this drink is perfect accompany to the panini, croissants and the topped crostini cicchetti available each day — think crostini topped with prosciutto, mushrooms, and tomato and mozzarella.
When it comes to decking out your home with impressive but affordable homewares, Kmart has been giving IKEA a run for its money in recent years. Indeed, if you're already a convert, you probably know just how popular the Aussie department store gets whenever it drops a new range — or, you've likely seen everyone else's Instagram snaps that prove it. Spent too much timing staring at your same old furniture this winter, thanks to the cold and the pandemic? Wish you were somewhere beachy? Always wanted to kit out your place with a bohemian vibe? Today, Thursday, July 28, Kmart has just unveiled its latest home-focused lineup, and it takes care of all of the above. Expect it to fly off the shelves as always. With prices starting at $1.75 — for bowls, should your kitchenware need a revamp — the August Living range goes heavy on pastel hues, natural materials and coloured glass. There are two main themes: timeless and urban. The former skews soft, delicate and homely, with curvy shapes, chambray fabrics and pops of block colour. The latter, which is still designed to mix-and-match with the rest of the range, is where bold silhouettes and gleaming surfaces come in. Covering items for the dining room, bathroom, bedroom and living room as well, Kmart's current drop spans everything from fringed cushions and swivelling single-seater couches through to coastal pics, palm tree-adorned bed linen and cane bathroom furniture. Yes, it's all very 70s chic, too, especially the pink, brown, mustard and other earthy colours. Among the standout pieces: two-packs of cute sea shell-shaped candles for $5, shaggy cushions for $14, cane chairs to pop them on for $149 each, and wicker lampshades and bases ranging from $39–59. If you'd like to throw in some marble, there's three different tables, all with metal bases, including a $49 side table, $69 hallway table and $89 coffee table. And white-panelled bathroom storage starts at $69. You know how they say that change is as good as a holiday? It isn't, obviously, but swapping your home decor to the kinds of items that you might find in a Byron Bay beachhouse should help lift the vibe at least. The August living range is on sale online and in-store from Thursday, July 28–Wednesday, August 17, and also includes wallpaper, flooring, curtains and blinds, as well as a new DIY line. Kmart's August Living range is on sale online and in-store from Thursday, July 28–Wednesday, August 17.
What does Brisbane have in common with music superstars Beyoncé, Björk, Lady Gaga and Rihanna, and also Oscar-winners Cate Blanchett and Tilda Swinton? An appreciation for fashion designer Iris van Herpen. The avant-garde Dutch talent has dressed them all, including creating the breathtaking Heliosphere dress that proved a showstopper on Beyoncé's Renaissance tour. The latter gigs haven't made it Down Under, but the Australian-exclusive Sculpting the Senses exhibition at the Queensland capital's Gallery of Modern Art will take you into the world of the haute couture figure who played a part in it. Fashion lovers have until Monday, October 7, 2024 to explore one of GOMA's big showcases for 2024, which continues to plunge the South Brisbane site into an enchanting and ethereal realm after Fairy Tales, its huge summer exhibition, did the same. Pieces by van Herpen can't be mistaken for designs by anyone else, sitting at the intersection of couture, art and design, while also exploring technological advancements such as 3D printing. In that field, she's widely considered the first to make a garment this way. [caption id="attachment_966401" align="alignnone" width="1917"] Installation view of 'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses' including Fractal Flows dress, from the 'Sensory Seas' collection 2020 by Iris van Herpen with collaborator Perry Hall; and Cosmica gown, from the 'Shift Souls' collection 2019 by Iris van Herpen with collaborator Kim Keever / © Iris van Herpen / Photograph: C Callistemon © QAGOMA.[/caption] From gowns to accessories, a massive 130 of van Herpen's pieces are now on display in the River City. Across nine chapters — some nodding to the dreamlike sheen that accompanies the designer's pieces, others focusing on skeletal structures, inspirations, and how the sea and the cosmos are an influence — Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses steps through the work of a creative who boasts stints alongside Alexander McQueen and Claudy Jongstra on her resume. It was almost two decades back, in 2007, that the Maison Iris van Herpen came to life in Amsterdam. Evoking her studio, complete with a cabinet of curiosities, is also part of GOMA's celebration. In this section of the exhibition, attendees will also see a space dedicated to fashion shows and unpack the various development stages of a dress. Hitting Brisbane after a run in Paris, co-organised by the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, and boasting the organisation's Dr Cloé Pitiot and Louise Curtis on curatorial duties alongside QAGOMA's Nina Miall and Jacinta Giles, Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses takes its name seriously. This is a feast for the eyes, clearly, but also comes paired with a soundscape by Dutch sound artist Salvador Breed — not just a collaborator of van Herpen's, but her partner — to enhance the experience. [caption id="attachment_966406" align="alignnone" width="1917"] Installation view of 'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses' at the Gallery of Modern Art, Brisbane / Photograph: C Callistemon © QAGOMA[/caption] Among the specific fashion gems featured, the exhibition draws from 2010's water-themed 'Crystallization' collection, which took its cues from water being splashed at models; 2020's 'Sensory Seas', with hydrozoa such as the bluebottle an influence; and 2012's 'Micro' and 'Hybrid Holism', each teeming with microscopic detail that mimics the natural world — just for starters. Elsewhere, van Herpen's designs use X-rays, MRIs, neuroscience, mythology, alchemy, biotech, NASA's James Webb space telescope and more as guides. In one clear highlight, 2019's cape-slash-dress Hypnosis, she deploys a kaleidoscopic pattern in inky black to touch upon the mind's movement between the conscious and unconscious — and, in the process, also fashions up an optical illusion. [caption id="attachment_966399" align="alignnone" width="1917"] Installation view of 'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses' including Iris van Herpen / Netherlands b.1984 / Philip Beesely (Collaborator) / Canada b.1956. Hypnosis cape-dress, from the 'Hypnosis' collection 2019 / Laser-cut duchesse satin, mylar, tulle. Radiography dress, from the 'Magnetic Motion' collection 2014 / Laser-cut and thermally expanded PETG, silicone, microfibre. Iris van Herpen / Netherlands b.1984 / Shift Souls dress, from the 'Shift Souls' collection 2019 / Laser-cut Komon Koubou, silk organza, mylar. Courtesy: Iris van Herpen atelier / © Iris van Herpen / Photograph: C Callistemon © QAGOMA[/caption] Visitors will equally spy a range of complementary pieces surrounding van Herpen's designs, weaving in Yayoi Kusama, Cai Guo-Qiang, Japanese art collective Mé and Kohei Nawa, for instance. Megan Cope, Philip Beesley, Anne Noble, Damien Jalet, Casey Curran, Rogan Brown, Ren Ri and Courtney Mattison also have works in Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses, as does the Living Architecture Systems Group. Natural history objects add yet another layer. The dramatic staging, especially when van Herpen's work is set against a black background, achieves the same. Similarly featuring: installations, videos and photographs. Designs by van Herpen are unsurprisingly no stranger to galleries and museums, with New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art, Paris' Palais Galliera and Melbourne's National Gallery of Victoria among the institutions to include her work in their collections. [caption id="attachment_966414" align="alignnone" width="1917"] Installation view of 'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses'. (l) Iris van Herpen / Netherlands b.1984 / Shelee Carruthers (Collaborator) / Australia b.1977 / Hydrozoa dress, from the 'Sensory Seas' collection 2020 / PETG, glass organza. (r) Iris van Herpen / Netherlands b.1984 / Hydromedusa dress, from the 'Sensory Seas' collection 2020 / Printed organza, laser-cut Komon Koubou, mylar, tulle. Courtesy: Iris van Herpen atelier / © Iris van Herpen / Photograph: C Callistemon © QAGOMA[/caption] [caption id="attachment_966412" align="alignnone" width="1917"] Installation view of the Cabinet of Curiosities in 'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses', Gallery of Modern Art, Brisbane / © Iris van Herpen / Photograph: J Ruckli © QAGOMA.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_966409" align="alignnone" width="1917"] Installation view of 'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses' including: Tim Walker (Photographer) / United Kingdom b.1970 / Iris van Herpen (Designer) / Netherlands b.1984 / David Altmejd (Sculptor) / Canada b.1974 / Duckie Thot (Model) / Australia b.1995 / Kiki Willems (Model) / Netherlands b.1996 / Fashion: Iris van Herpen 2018 / Exhibition print / Courtesy: Tim Walker Studio. Kohei Nawa / Japan b.197 / PixCell-Double Deer #4 2010 / Mixed media / Purchased 2010 with funds from the Josephine Ulrick and Win Schubert Diversity Foundation through the Queensland Art Gallery Foundation. Iris van Herpen / Netherlands b.1984 / Airborne dress, from the 'Aeriform' collection 2017 / Laser-cut crepe, mylar, tulle / Courtesy: Iris van Herpen atelier. © The artists / Photograph: C Callistemon © QAGOMA.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_966411" align="alignnone" width="1917"] Iris van Herpen: Runway films 2017-23 (installation view, 'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses') / Video, colour, sound, 57:51 minutes (total, looped) / Editor: Simona Gol / Music selection: Salvador Breed / Courtesy: Iris van Herpen Atelier / © Iris van Herpen / Photograph: C Callistemon © QAGOMA.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_966407" align="alignnone" width="1917"] Installation view of 'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses'. (l) Iris van Herpen / Netherlands b.1984 / Water dress, special project 2010 / Heat-moulded PETG / Collection: Groninger Museum, Netherlands / © Iris van Herpen. (r) David Spriggs / Canada b.1978 / Origins 2018 / PET film, acrylic Plexiglas, LED, acrylic paint, metal / Collection: Dr Pierre Miron / © David Spriggs. Photograph: C Callistemon © QAGOMA.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_966405" align="alignnone" width="1917"] Haruka Kojin / Japan b.1983 / Contact Lens (installation view, 'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses') 2023 / Acrylic lenses, wire / Courtesy: The artist and SCAI THE BATHHOUSE, Tokyo / © Haruka Kojin / Photograph: C Callistemon © QAGOMA.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_966400" align="alignnone" width="1917"] Installation view of 'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses' including: Iris van Herpen / Netherlands b.1984 / Kim Keever (Collaborator) / United States b. 1955 / Cosmica gown, from the 'Shift Souls' collection 2019 / Organza, tulle / Iris van Herpen / Netherlands b.1984 / Azari dress, from the 'Carte Blanche' collection 2023 / Laser-cut crepe de Chine, silk organza, tulle. Courtesy: Iris van Herpen atelier / © Iris van Herpen / Photograph: C Callistemon © QAGOMA.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_966396" align="alignnone" width="1917"] Installation view of 'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses' including (l-r) Foliage dress, from the 'Ludi Naturae' collection 2018 by Iris van Herpen with collaborators Delft University of Technology and Stratasys Ltd.; Gaia gown, from the 'Roots of Rebirth' collection 2021 and Ammonite dress, from the 'Seijaku' collection 2016 both by Iris van Herpen; and Explosion Process Drawing for Dragon or Rainbow Serpent: A Myth Glorified of Feared: Project for Extraterrestrials No.28 1996 by Cai Guo-Qiang / © The artists / Photograph: C Callistemon © QAGOMA.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_966410" align="alignnone" width="1917"] Installation view of 'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses' including (front) Cosmica gown, from the 'Shift Souls' collection 2019 by Iris van Herpen with collaborator Kim Keever / © Iris van Herpen / Photograph: C Callistemon © QAGOMA.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_966397" align="alignnone" width="1917"] Installation view of 'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses'. (l) Iris van Herpen / Netherlands b.1984 / Entangled Life gown, from the 'Roots of Rebirth' collection 2021 / Hand-pleated silk organza, embroider thread, tulle, wire / Worn by singer-songwriter Lorde performing at Radio City Music Hall, New York, 2022 / Courtesy: Iris van Herpen Atelier / © Iris van Herpen. (r) Yann Arthus-Bertrand (Director and photographer) / France b.1946 / Michael Pitiot (Director) / France b.1970 / Wim van Egmond (Photographer) / Netherlands b.1966 / Terra 2015 / Video, colour, Dolby Digital, 98 minutes, France, French, English subtitles / Music: Armand Amar / Voice: Vanessa Paradis / Production: Hope Production / Courtesy: Hope Production. Photograph: C Callistemon © QAGOMA[/caption] [caption id="attachment_966408" align="alignnone" width="1917"] Installation view of 'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses' including (l-r) Contact 2023 by 目[mé]; Hydrozoa dress, from the 'Sensory Seas' collection 2020 by Iris van Herpen with collaborator Shelee Carruthers; Mirror of the Mind dress, from the 'Micro' collection 2012 and Hydromedusa dress, from the 'Sensory Seas' collection 2020 both by Iris van Herpen / © The artists / Photograph: C Callistemon © QAGOMA.[/caption]Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses displays at the Gallery of Modern Art, Stanley Place, South Brisbane, from Saturday, June 29–Monday, October 7, 2024 — for more information, head to the venue's website. Top images: Iris van Herpen / Netherlands b.1984 / Daniel Widrig (Collaborator) / United Kingdom b.1977 / Materialise (Collaborator) / Belguim est.1990 / Crystallization top and skirt, from the 'Capriole' collection 2011 / 3D-printed polyamide using selective laser sintering, eco-leather, cotton, nylon thread / Purchased thanks to the patronage of Doctor and Madam Léon Crivain, 2018 / Collection: Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris. // Courtney Mattison / United States b.1985 / Malum Geminos 2019 / Glazed stoneware and porcelain / Courtesy: The artist. // Iris van Herpen / Netherlands b.1984 / Nicholas Koscinski (Collaborator)/ United States b.1992 / Futurama gown, from the 'Meta Morphism' collection 2022 / 3D-printed Bluesint (upcycled polyamide) using selective laser sintering, silver, silk, organza, tulle / Courtesy: Iris van Herpen atelier. // © The artists / Photograph: C Callistemon © QAGOMA Installation view of 'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses' including (front l-r) Symbiotic asymmetric dress, from the 'Shift Souls' collection 2019 by Iris van Herpen; Fractal Flows dress, from the 'Sensory Seas' collection 2020 by Iris van Herpen with collaborator Perry Hall; and Cosmica gown, from the 'Shift Souls' collection 2019 by Iris van Herpen with collaborator Kim Keever / © Iris van Herpen / Photograph: C Callistemon © QAGOMA. Installation view of 'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses'. (l) Iris van Herpen / Netherlands b.1984 / Holozoic dress, from the 'Hybrid Holism' collection 2012 / Eco-leather, Swarovski crystals / Courtesy: Iris van Herpen atelier / © Iris van Herpen. (r) Tim Walker (Photographer) / United Kingdom b.1970 / Iris van Herpen (Designer) / Netherlands b.1984 / David Altmejd (Sculptor) / Canada b.1974 / Duckie Thot (Model) / Australia b.1995 / Kiki Willems (Model) / Netherlands b.1996 / Fashion: Iris van Herpen 2018 / Exhibition print / Courtesy: Tim Walker Studio / © Tim Walker. Photograph: C Callistemon © QAGOMA. Installation view of 'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses'. (l)目[mé] / Japan est.2012 / Contact 2023 / Mixed media / Courtesy: The artists. (r) Iris van Herpen / Netherlands b.1984 / Shelee Carruthers (Collaborator) / Australia b.1977 / Hydrozoa dress, from the 'Sensory Seas' collection 2020 / PETG, glass organza / Courtesy: Iris van Herpen atelier. Photograph: C Callistemon © QAGOMA. Installation view of 'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses' including (front) Cosmica gown, from the 'Shift Souls' collection 2019 by Iris van Herpen with collaborator Kim Keever / © Iris van Herpen / Photograph: C Callistemon © QAGOMA.
You already know that drops by way of Central Otago, Marlborough and Hawke's Bay deliver the goods, but when was the last time you sought some vino from beyond the big three New Zealand wine regions? Believe it or not, Gisborne is actually the country's third largest plonk-producing region — perhaps that's because Kiwis have a profound love for the cheap and cheerful east coast native, Lindauer. Elsewhere, the winterless north is home to some of the country's first grape plantations, North Canterbury sets the scene for 90 vineyards and over 20 cellar doors, and a cluster of pioneering vineyards sit less than 30-minutes from Auckland's CBD. [caption id="attachment_782157" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Milton Vineyard.[/caption] GISBORNE You've likely sampled the goods of premier east coast wine region Hawke's Bay, but how about vino from 200 kilometres up the road in Gisborne? Like its east coast neighbour, the high and hot sunshine hours and fertile soil make Gizzy the ideal location for growing and making world-class wine. It's the country's third largest wine-producing region and is best known for bottling aromatic chardonnay, gewurztraminer, viognier, pinot gris and malbec. Big name bubbly label Lindauer was born here, but a visit to the region might also see you swirling drops from Milton, the country's first organic and biodynamic wine estate. Award-winning producer Matawhero Wines can also be found up the road and the single-vineyard wines of the family-owned Bushmere Estate. Wine (and RTD) lovers can even party between the vines at the largest music festival in the country, Rhythm and Vines. [caption id="attachment_721838" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Matakana Estate.[/caption] MATAKANA Wine lovers visiting New Zealand's biggest city are truly spoilt for choice. A cluster of award-winning and family-owned vineyards sit less than an hour's drive from the CBD. Dotted among the hillsides and bays of northern Auckland, Matakana has a warm climate that produces elegant reds — there are 28 varieties planted in the region, which makes it one of the most diverse wine growing areas in New Zealand. Here you'll find French-inspired creations and an elaborate 'if you build it, they will come' sculpture park. Heron's Flight is the only vineyard in New Zealand to specialise solely in Italian grapes, including sangiovese and dolcetto. Matakana Estate has been around since the boutique wine region first sprung to light more than 30 years ago, and Runner Duck Estate is a vineyard specialising in small quantities of French-inspired syrah, Bordeaux blends, pinot gris and rosé. [caption id="attachment_669900" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Marsden Estate.[/caption] NORTHLAND The winterless north is where the country's first grapes were planted over 200 years ago. The wine region spans nearly 300 kilometres from Karikari in the north to Mangawhai in the south, with its subtropical climate creating full-bodied and rich wines. It's here you'll discover tropical chardonnays, vibrant viogniers, merlot blends and peppery pinotages. If you have an afternoon to wile away, Marsden Estate is found a short trip from Kerikeri airport. At the winery you can enjoy an educational wine tasting before settling on your preferred varietal. Afterwards, take a stroll around the subtropical vineyard gardens with another glass of vino. Once off the car ferry en route to Russell, make a short detour for Paroa Bay Winery, a property set against the rolling hills and overlooking its namesake watery cove. The boutique vineyard has a big focus on sustainability, using techniques of dry-grown vines across chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, syrah, cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon, malbec and merlot. Go for a tasting flight and stay for the Mediterranean and European-inspired menu at the onsite restaurant. [caption id="attachment_782115" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Westbrook.[/caption] WEST AUCKLAND West Auckland is host to a range of first-rate wine producers — some of which have been pumping out the goods for more than 100 years. A short drive from the CBD in and around Kumeu Valley is where the historic grape-growing region lies and where most of the vineyards were founded by families of Dalmatian (Croatian) origin. In just one day you can hop between cellar door tastings, private wine tours and full pairing degustations. Best known for chardonnay and pinot noir, the region is also ushering in a new era of wine production with aromatic grapes like the Spanish albarino. Pioneering winemaker Babich Wines has been operating out of Henderson Valley since 1916, Coopers Creek is a family-owned winery in Huapai with a reputation for producing classic regional wines, and The Hunting Lodge is an 80-acre estate featuring a lawn bar and cuisine from celebrated chef Des Harris. Elsewhere, you can't beat the output of boutique Waikoukou Valley producer Westbrook, the chardonnay of the Brajkovich family's Kumeu River, and the personal wine tours of Soljans Estate. [caption id="attachment_782156" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Black Estate.[/caption] NORTH CANTERBURY Just outside of the South Island's largest city is a destination renowned for its wine and food. The North Canterbury wine region is home to some 90 vineyards and over 20 cellar doors where you can sample interesting and expressive wines. Drops range from chardonnay and riesling to the lesser-known varietals like albarino and saint laurent — the 'wild cousin' of pinot noir. Waipara family-run vineyard Black Estate is famous for its organic and biodynamic wines, and its restaurant is often considered one of the best winery offerings in New Zealand. Elsewhere, Terrace Edge is an award-winning organic vineyard and olive grove on the Waipara River, pioneering winery Pegasus Bay offers drinkable riesling and pinot noir, and Greystone Wines dishes up a menu of organic and foraged produce. Also worth noting is Theo Coles' The Hermit Ram label which produces unfiltered and unrefined natural wine out of Omihi. Top image: Black Estate.
In 2019, just one Australian bar made it into the World's 50 Best Bars list: Maybe Sammy. This year, not only has the innovative bar in The Rocks made the list again, it has jumped 32 places to number 11 — and it's joined by two more Sydney spots. Laneway mezcal bar — and one of Concrete Playground's favourite openings of 2019 — Cantina OK! came in at number 28, while Bulletin Place, which has made the list many times during its eight-year life, came in 39. If you've been looking for an excuse to spend a night drinking cocktails in the city, this is it. With many Sydneysiders WFH during the pandemic, CBD bars have done it tough, with some venues reporting drops in revenue of 40 percent and more. Now, it's more important than ever to go out and support them (in a COVID-safe way, of course). For those yet to be acquainted with Maybe Sammy, its luxurious styling nods to old-school Vegas glamour, all blush pink velvet banquettes and lush indoor greenery, while the list of theatrical signature drinks pays homage to the classics. Cocktails are served with the likes of scent-filled pillows, hand cream and rosemary bubbles. The latter, comes atop the much-Instagrammed Dunes cocktail, pictured below, which is a delicate balance of gin, fino sherry, watermelon and agave. [caption id="attachment_788842" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dunes cocktail at Maybe Sammy by DS Oficina[/caption] While Sydney cleaned up in the top 50, only Melbourne venues (from Australia) featured in the 51–100 list, which was announced late last week. Fitzroy bar The Everleigh snagged the 73 spot, while newer CBD haunt Byrdi came in at 80. Petite Collingwood bar Above Board followed not too far behind at number 84 and the long-running Black Pearl — which has scooped a spot in the Top 50 list numerous times throughout the award's 12-year history — was voted in at 98. The annual World's 50 Best Bars awards are voted on by over 540 bar industry experts from around the world, including bartenders, consultants, drinks writers and cocktail specialists. You can check out the full lineup of the World's 50 Best Bars 2020 here, and see 51–100 here. Top image: Cantina OK! by Kimberley Low
The Grace Darling has been a staple of Smith Street for a long, long time — built in 1854, it's apparently the second oldest pub in the city. Regulars will have clocked plenty of hours knocking back drinks in the footpath beer garden out front, but when it's cold, we'd rather be indoors near one of the two blazing fires. The food is classic pub fare on the fancy side, while the candlelit bar has a dozen local draughts on tap. Add to that an atrium restaurant out back plus two separate bandrooms, and it's clear why the Grace Darling Hotel is still standing after all this time. If you're swinging by for a feed, its menu is divided up into six sections. Snacks include the likes of smoked avo guac with vegetable crisps, fried vegan mozzarella sticks, a charcuterie board with house terrine, salami and pickles, as well as crispy chicken tenders and slow braised lamb ribs. There are two parmas on the menu — chicken and eggplant with vegan cheese. Elsewhere, you'll find burgers, salads and desserts, as well as mains, including everything from pan-fried potato gnocchi to 300-gram scotch fillets with red wine jus. For drinks, it's got 13 beers on tap and a good two dozen in cans, while the wine list is approachable and well-curated with a good selection of oranges thrown in, including the Margaret River Skin Contact Jumping Juice. If you're keen to rock out, there are regular gigs at the Grace Darling, as well as a monthly Soap Box comedy night featuring local talent and a life drawing session on Tuesday evenings from 7pm–9pm. Top image: Julia Sansone
Whether you love the olive garnish that comes with a classic martini, or opt for the dirty variety where brine goes straight in the drink, there's no doubt that olives play a big role in this enduring tipple's sharp, herbaceous appeal. To celebrate one of the world's most iconic cocktails, Four Pillars is bringing back its Martini Collective for the next month or so, teaming up with much-loved bars and restaurants across Sydney and Melbourne for an aperitif-style sip and snack pairing. Running until Sunday, June 22, at a host of stellar venues, the drink at each venue is the same wherever you decide to visit — a mini martini made with Four Pillars' bright and savoury Olive Leaf Gin. However, the snack that adorns your beverage changes up from place to place, ensuring you can explore the full spectrum of pairings to see which leaves the biggest impression on your palate. In Sydney, there are ten venues taking part in the third edition of the Martini Collective, with several returning favourites to explore. For instance, Shell House is serving up a cruller topped with whipped fish roe and white anchovy; The Charles is offering a white anchovy gilda; Le Foote is plating a tartine featuring smoked peppers, sheep's yogurt and sauce vert; and NOMAD is presenting a green olive and pumpkin seed tartlet. As for the Melbourne lineup, the series is back in town for its second year, with newcomers like Hazel, Society, Grill Americano and Bar Liberty joining previous hosts, including Bar Bellamy, LUI Bar and Reine. Head to Flinders Lane to see how Hazel's fish cake complements your mini martini, or wander up to Society on Collins Street to experience its smoked tomato sourdough crostini. Who knows — maybe this carefully balanced umami bomb will provide the dream pairing with your aperitif. With this first-class selection of venues getting in the mood for Four Pillars Martini Collective over the next month, there's plenty of time to sample each and every pairing. Plus, with the Martini Collective running through World Martini Day on Saturday, June 21, it's the perfect way to celebrate your love of this timeless cocktail. The Four Pillars Martini Collective is running now until Sunday, June 22 at various venues across Sydney and Melbourne. Head to the website for more information. Images: Declan Blackall / Chege Mbuthi.
