A garden may not be the first place you'd think to head on a hot day, but that's about to change. Across three days in December, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria's Melbourne Gardens will present an installation that'll keep you cool, while also delving into some big questions on the future of water. Designed by Castlemaine-based live arts organisation Punctum, Public Cooling House is a temporary structure that offers shade and airflow. Ancient evaporative techniques and a range of soothing cooling pools also help to keep temperatures low. Through a series of 30-minute guided sessions, an attendant will usher visitors through a special cooling experience. Some sessions will also be accompanied by musical performances featuring the likes of electro-pop trio Earworm, cellist Nikki Edgar and musicians Justin Marshall and Michiko Ogawa. There's also an engaging program of free talks that'll see experts from the Gardens offer their perspective on the environment's natural cooling systems and how heat waves, water scarcity and heat-induced blackouts might affect you in a hot future. Public Cooling House is located on the Perennial Border of the Melbourne Gardens and will run 12–4pm, from Saturday, December 1 to Monday, December 3. For more information and to see the full schedule, head to the website. Images: Morwenna Schenck and Diana Domonkos.
It's summertime, which means plenty of days hanging at the beach, or in the park, and relaxing in the sun. And while summer reads are an essential part of any good trip outside, some days we're left either squinting against the glare or fighting that inevitable sunglasses tan. On those days, reach for your headphones and check out one of these podcasts instead. From true tales of murderous doctors to mind-boggling stories of viral Reddit threads, these podcasts will keep you entertained and informed this summer — whether you're relaxing at the beach or commuting on a train. SERIAL SEASON THREE The cult-favourite podcast Serial returned for its third season in September 2018, having been silent since season two aired back in 2015. Season three focuses on the entire criminal justice system in the US — and, more specifically, on the inconsistencies and failures of the courts in Cleveland, Ohio. Host Sarah Koenig (This American Life) and her crew spent one year in the Cleveland courts, where they recorded not only in courtrooms but also in judge's chambers, prosecutors' offices and back hallways, plus outside the courthouse in family members' houses, streets and prisons. Koenig witnessed an onslaught of court offences, including extra charges, pressure to plead guilty, shabby police work, "eleventh hour" evidence and dozing jurors and a judge — all ending with outsized prison sentences. Again, the story unfolds week-by-week, but this time follows different cases each time in the nine-episode season. Listen to Serial Season Three here. SLOW BURN SEASON TWO A Slate Plus production, Slow Burn explores "subplots, strange details, and forgotten characters" of contemporary political history in the United States. While season one focused on Nixon's Watergate scandal of the 1970s, season two (released in August 2018) investigates the 1998 impeachment of President Bill Clinton — during which Clinton was accused of having sexual relations with his intern Monica Lewinksy, and was charged with perjury and obstruction of justice for lying about it under oath. Host Leon Neyfakh explores this story of political and sexual scandal in depth, finding modern-day parallels, including similarities to the #MeToo movement. Whether you remember the scandal or not, the podcast explores it in a new, 2019-appropriate, light. Listen to Slow Burn here. DR. DEATH Dr. Death follows the deeply disturbing true story of Christopher Duntsch, a Texas neurosurgeon who was convicted of gross malpractice and sentenced to life in prison in 2017. A whopping 33 of his patients were left seriously injured from his operations — two of which died on the operating table. Created by Wondery — the network behind another wildly popular podcast, Dirty John — and hosted by the award-winning health and science reporter Laura Beil, the ten-episode season finished this December. It explores a medical system that fails to protect patients and the horrors that can await in the operating room because of it. Listen to Dr. Death here. NO MAN'S LAND No Man's Land dives into stories of some of the most trailblazing and game-changing, yet lesser known, women of history. The first season aired in November, with five episodes out so far. Some of the women featured include mid-1900s poet Sylvia Plath; investigative journalist and civil rights activist from the late 1800s, Ida B Wells; and Cuban-American artist Ana Mendieta. The latest episode examines the originators of women's social clubs, and the resulting groups' power and influence. Host Alexis Coe is also the in-house historian for the podcast's creators, The Wing — a networking company that runs community spaces for women. Listen to No Man's Land here. THE TEACHER'S PET A must-listen for fans of murder-mystery, The Australian-created podcast The Teacher's Pet looks into the 1982 disappearance of Lynette Dawson — the wife of rugby league player and teacher Chris Dawson. The podcast unveils large amounts of evidence that had not been previously collected or examined by police, including details of the couple's marriage, Lynette's disappearance and Chris Dawson's affair with a 16-year-old student. Late last year, the podcast was awarded the 2018 Gold Walkley Award, one of Australia's most prestigious journalism awards. Hosted by award-winning Australian journalist Hedley Thomas, the 14-episode podcast aired in May, with two additional episodes added at the end of December following Chris's arrest and release after being granted bail. More episodes are also expected to air as new leads are unearthed, so this is the ideal time to get into this podcast. Listen to Teacher's Pet here. THE WITCH HUNT SEASON TWO As the title indicates, The Witch Hunt investigates famous witch hunts in history, both "literal and metaphorical" — starting, of course, with Salem, Massachusetts in season one. In season two, which aired back in April 2017, the focus is on the 'satanic panic' of the late-1900s, when the imagined existence of satanic ritual abuse in the States led to a pandemic of fear and paranoia. The eight episodes feature interviews with the likes of award-winning investigative journalist Jordan Smith (The Intercept) and Historical Blindness podcast host Nathan Lloyd. The Witch Hunt explores scapegoating of all kinds, too, including topics like child abuse allegations and Dungeons and Dragons (yes, the board game). Listen to The Witch Hunt here. CALIPHATE The New York Times' podcast Caliphate follows reporter Rukmini Callimachi, whose career focuses on Islamic extremism. The investigative podcast centres around the fall of Mosul — when the Iraqi Army was defeated by the Islamic State in 2014. The ten-chapter season asks questions like "who is it that ISIS appeals to, and how?" and "who are we really fighting"? Callimachi speaks with recruits, former and returned ISIS members, and detainees, as well as enslaved victims of the Islamic State. Released in April 2018, the powerful series unveils the reality of being a terrorism reporter on the front line and sheds light on the nature of ISIS violence. Listen to Caliphate here. ENDLESS THREAD While some people like to focus on internet's ability to isolate, WBUR and Reddit have combined forces to explore the ways in which it creates shared experiences and connections between people — on all sides of the globe. Endless Thread digs through Reddit communities to uncover stories that reveal the true potential of the internet, and some of them are fascinating, hilarious and horrifying. The podcast is hosted by Ben Brock Johnson (Marketplace Tech, Codebreaker) and WBUR's producer Amory Sivertson (Modern Love: The Podcast). It launched in January 2018 and continues to air every Friday. It promises to be more than cat videos, but also full of cat videos, and covers everything from miraculous near-misses (including a pilot landing a plane sans windshield) to a viral flyer selling a Soylent sculpture. Whether you love or hate Reddit, this one is worth the listen. Listen to Endless Thread here. LADIES, WE NEED TO TALK Exploring topics of work, health and sexuality, Ladies, We Need To Talk is created by women for women. It's an ABC Radio Podcasts production and was the winner of the 2018 Australian Podcast Awards for Best Lifestyle and Heath Podcast. Hosted by Australian TV presenter Yumi Stynes, the ongoing episodes delve into topics like anxiety, hormones, being judged by looks instead of intelligence and society's obsession with youth. Styne — who's joined on the show by a lineup of influential female Aussies — shares personal stories and discusses the struggle for women to balance work and private life. Ladies, We Need To Talk also encourages listeners to call in and share their own stories. Listen to Ladies We Need To Talk here. HEAVYWEIGHT The award-winning podcast Heavyweight just completed it's third season in December and continues to be a firm favourite amongst audiences and critics alike. It's hosted by comedian and author Jonathan Goldstein (This American Life, WireTap), who considers himself something of a "therapist with a time machine". He presents an usual podcast that tells the stories of ordinary people who have a major regret in life. In each episode, Goldstein guides a different person back to a pivotal crossroad in their life and helps them confront and, hopefully, overcome it. For example, in the first episode, Goldstein attempts to reunite his 80-year-old dad, Buzz, with his older brother. Heavyweight also encourages email submissions for the show. So, if you have a moment in time you want to get back or change, might as well try your luck — who knows, we might be hearing you in a future episode. Listen to Heavyweight here.
We know entertaining the kids on the weekends can be tough. Luckily, an exciting annual event is returning this year to provide some educational fun for the whole family. Chadstone – The Fashion Capital will look a little different come Saturday, August 19 and Sunday, August, 20. The venue will be transformed yet again into the Teddy Bear Hospital. Bring the kids and their favourite teddy bears for a check-up to ensure every fluffy companion is in tip-top shape. Teddy Bear Hospital is run by the University of Melbourne, with volunteer medical students set to captivate young hearts and educate children about the ins and outs of healthcare. You'll find the hospital outside David Jones on the Lower Ground Level at Chadstone. Expect exciting activity stations to spark any child's curiosity, from X-rays, the art of optometry, a peek at radiology, speech pathology and even a thrilling ride in the Teddy ambulance. Kids can bring their own cuddly patients from home if they are in need of some TLC. Or, they can purchase a new best friend from the Teddy Bear Shop, where a collection of adorable companions await new owners. A visit to the hospital will cost you $20 for one adult and one child, or $30 for two adults and two children (additional children receive free entry). Proceeds benefit the Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal, so you know all that family fun is going to a great cause. The Teddy Bear Hospital will run at Chadstone – The Fashion Capital from August 19–20. Visit costs $20 for one adult and one child, or $30 for two adults and two children — additional children will have free entry. All proceeds go towards Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal. Due to popular demand, all sessions are now sold out. Please check back on the website intermittently for available sessions as cancellations may occur. Walk-ups are limited, subject to availability. Images: Chadstone – The Fashion Capital
If your 2021 plans could use a little colour and liveliness from one of the best artists that ever lived, you're in luck — because the Art Gallery of NSW is delivering exactly that as part of its newly announced 2021 program. For four months from November 2021–March 2022, the Sydney venue will host the huge Matisse: Life & Spirit, Masterpieces from the Centre Pompidou, Paris exhibition. It'll feature more than 100 of Henri Matisse's pieces spanning six decades of his artistry, it's only heading to Sydney and it'll mark the greatest single exhibition of his masterworks that's ever graced the NSW capital. Whether you're keen on Matisse's early efforts, including from his Fauvist phase, or you're more fascinated with how his talents progressed over his considerable career, you'll see something suiting your interests on display — with the exhibition running from November 22, 2021–March 13, 2022. Standouts include Le Luxe I 1907, if you're after one of his first pieces; Decorative figure on an ornamental ground 1925, from the middle of his career; and The sorrow of the king 1952, a self-portrait. If it all sounds a bit familiar, that's because it was originally due to happen in 2020 as part of AGNSW's Sydney International Art Series, but was postponed for obvious reasons. 2021 is now shaping up to be a great year for Australians to see European masterpieces, with Brisbane's Gallery of Modern Art and the National Gallery of Australia in Canberra also showcasing works from the region — but only AGNSW will solely focus on Matisse. As well as Matisse's paintings, sculptures and cut-outs — all from the Centre Pompidou in Paris, which boasts quite the collection — AGNSW will also be hosting Matisse Alive, which'll reflect upon Matisse in a modern context. The gallery-wide event will kick off in October 2021, letting art lovers indulge in a free festival of Matisse. Think: art, music, performances and dance, all delving into his life, his creations and how his works have inspired artists today. Textile environments, huge paintings and video works are all on the lineup, including by artists such as Nina Chanel Abney, Sally Smart, Angela Tiatia and Robin White. [caption id="attachment_794669" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Henri Matisse. 'Blue nude II (Nu bleu II)' 1952. Gouache on paper, cut and pasted, on white paper, mounted on canvas, 116.2 x 88.9 cmCentre Pompidou. Musée national d'art moderne AM1984-276. Photo © Service de la documentation photographique du MNAM Centre Pompidou, MNAM-CCI /Dist RMN-GP. © Succession H Matisse/Copyright Agency.[/caption] Obviously, AGNSW won't be empty for the rest of the year, before all things Matisse hit. Back in mid-2020, it revealed its blockbuster summer 2020–21 exhibitions, so you might already be familiar with Streeton, Pat Larter: Get Axed, Archie Plus, Khaled Sabsabi: A Promise, Real Worlds: Dobell Australian Drawing Biennale 2020 and Joy. Joining them on the full 2021 agenda: the also previously postponed Margel Hinder and The Purple House exhibitions; the food focused The Way We Eat; and Brett Whiteley: Printmaker, featuring Whiteley's lithographs, etchings, linocuts and silkscreen prints. Or, you can scope out Longing for Home, which'll feature works by six Aboriginal artists; and The National 2021: New Australian Art, which will hero pieces from 39 emerging, mid-career and established Australian artists. [caption id="attachment_789423" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Installation view of the 'Streeton' exhibition at Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney. Photo: Jenni Carter, AGNSW.[/caption] And yes, after 2020's delays, the Archibald, Wynne and Suleman Prizes are back as well, with the corresponding exhibition displaying from June–September 2021. There's an added bonus, too, with AGNSW also hosting a 100-year-anniversary look at the Archibald. Matisse: Life & Spirit, Masterpieces from the Centre Pompidou, Paris will display at the Art Gallery of NSW, in Sydney, from November 22, 2021–March 13, 2022. Matisse Alive will run from October 2021–2. For more information — including about AGNSW's full 2021 lineup — visit the Art Gallery of NSW website. Top images: Sally Smart. 'The choreography of cutting' 2017. © Sally Smart. Photo: Fajar Riyanto, installation view OFCA, Yogyakarta. Henri Matisse. 'The sorrow of the king (La tristesse du roi)' 1952. Gouache on paper, cut and pasted, mounted on canvas, 292 x 386 cm. Centre Pompidou. Musée national d'art moderne AM3279P. Photo © Philippe Migeat - Centre Pompidou, MNAM-CCI /Dist RMN-GP. © Succession H Matisse/Copyright Agency. Nina Chanel Abney. 'Seized the Imagination', Jack Shainman Gallery, New York, New York, 9 November 9 – 20 December 20, 2017. © Nina Chanel Abney. Courtesy of the artist and Jack Shainman Gallery, New York.
Chances are that you've sipped a few brews within the historic Pentridge Prison precinct since Scotland's BrewDog opened the doors to its first Melbourne venue there in November. Well, now you've got an excuse to return to the heritage Coburg site for a spot of wine appreciation, with the launch of its newest drinking destination Olivine. Opening on Friday, April 14, this elegant wine bar marks the latest phase of the precinct's multimillion-dollar redevelopment, having carved out a chic home within the one-time cells of the prison's B Division. Boasting room for 100, Olivine is a dapper affair, complete with its own walk-in cellar door. The iconic bluestone walls lend a moodiness to the space, while a plush fitout by CHADA pulls together pops of turquoise and gold with deep green marble and a splash of velvet. Primed to be a serious wine-sipping destination, it's pouring a lineup of more than 500 bottles assembled by celebrated sommelier Liinaa Berry. The hard-copy list, dubbed The Book of Wine, is a hefty tome that's split handily into chapters, broken up by watercolour illustrations by local artist Elizabeth Nicholls. Olivine's vinous curation spans old-world and new-world styles alike, paying equal respect to emerging talent and established legends, and tripping right across the globe in the process. You'll find small-batch gems, unearth unsung heroes and get acquainted with some stellar international drops. And you'd best be prepared to walk away with some fresh knowledge and a few stories, too. Meanwhile, the bar's pouring a strong crop of craft spirits and a range of signature cocktails to round out the boozy fun. Olivine's food menu ensures some high-quality grazing to match your tipple of choice, running to plates like chicken liver parfait with brown butter tuille, pork fritters sided with a ravigote dressing, and tins of caviar served with smoked cream cheese. Scallop tarts are finished with dried tomato and dotted with a yuzu emulsion, while taramasalata and salmon roe accompany the potato rosti. And of course, you can bank on plenty of expert guidance when it comes to nailing that food and wine pairing. Find Olivine at 1 Pentridge Boulevard, Coburg, from Friday April 14. It'll open daily from 4pm–late.
Alex Chinneck carved up the road today, and not in a Top Gear way. Literally ripped it up. The Hackney-based installation artist, who recently made a section of Covent Garden 'levitate', has today unveiled his latest work at London's Southbank Centre, Pick Yourself Up and Pull Yourself Together. Sitting in the Hungerford Car Park of the Southbank Centre, the work sees a sizeable bit of tarmac pulled up in a wave, casually suspending a Vauxhall Corsa 4.5 metres above the ground. Using cars in installation art is no mean feat; if you caught Cai Guo Qiang's Inopportune at the 2010 Biennale of Sydney you'll know what we're saying. Commissioned by Vauxhall as a made-you-look type of spectacle activation, Chinneck's installation uses hidden steel to keep the car in place — the work involved a whole bunch of metal workers, carpenters, tarmac layers, structural engineers, steel benders and road painters. Best bit? The team installed the artwork overnight. Crafty devils. Via Dezeen.
After putting on a spectacular footballing show as the host of the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup — and the Matildas making history in the process — Australia will next roll out the green carpet for the 2026 Women's Asian Cup. The Asian Football Federation has given the Aussie bid for the event the go-ahead, meaning that the country will host two major women's soccer tournaments in the space of just three years. Get ready for a sea of green and gold again. Australia has welcomed the Women's Asian Cup to our shores before, back in 2006, with the tournament taking place in Adelaide. In 2026, you'll be able to check out the football action in New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia. All three states were put forward as locations during the bidding process. And yes, that means that the tournament won't head to other parts of the nation — so there'll be no games in either Victoria or South Australia, notably. Twelve countries will compete in the 2026 Women's Asian Cup — including Australia, of course, with the hosts automatically qualifying. So, the Matildas will get another moment to shine on home soil in a major contest. China will also compete, defending their title from the last edition in 2022, which took place in India. The Tillies were knocked out in the quarter finals — and were runners up in 2014 and 2018. Back in 2010, we won the competition, our only time as champions so far. "Securing the AFC Women's Asian Cup is a testament to our nation's dedication to football. It is not only a victory for the sport but for every Australian, offering significant economic and cultural benefits," said Anter Isaac, Chairman of Football Australia, about hosting the 2026 tournament in a statement. "We are profoundly honoured to host the 2026 edition of the AFC Women's Asian Cup™. This decision reflects the global football community's confidence in our capability to deliver outstanding events. Following the resounding success of last year's FIFA Women's World Cup™, we are eager to create another tournament that celebrates women's football and inspires a new generation," added James Johnson, CEO of Football Australia. Exactly when the in 2026 the Women's Asian Cup will take place hasn't been locked in as yet, so you can't mark your calendar just yet. The Matildas next play in Australia at the end of May and beginning of June, hosting two games against China in the lead-up to the 2024 Paris Olympics. At the latter, in July and August, they're in the same group as Germany, Zambia and the US. During the team's next Aussie leg, goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold and Mackenzie Arnold and coach Tony Gustavsson will also hit the stage at Vivid Sydney 2024 to talk all things Tillies. [caption id="attachment_912895" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Matildas: The World at Our Feet[/caption] The 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup hasn't yet announced its exact dates — we'll update you when they're revealed. Head to the AFC website for more details in the interim. Images: Tiffany Williams / Football Australia.
Need a little fantasy in your life? You'll find a healthy serve of it at Melbourne's Storyville — a bar inspired by fables, fairytales and all the fantastical things that captured your imagination as a little tacker. The Lonsdale Street spot is the brainchild of Steve and Keti Thomas, who've previously helped you escape reality at iconic themed drinking spots 29th Apartment and Pawn & Co. To bring the Storyville concept to life, they've tapped into the creativity of Josh Lefers (East 9th Brewing, Pawn & Co) for a fitout that includes a lofty gold birdcage, a novel-filled library, a Narnia-inspired lounge and a magical toadstool bar decked out with giant glowing funghi. The signature cocktail list comes sprinkled with literary nostalgia as well, with each crafty drink paying homage to a timeless favourite. Through The Looking Glass, featuring a boozy vanilla cream tea and served in a teapot with dry ice, is a nod to Lewis Carroll's iconic story, while Mr Pilkington's Neighbour, a combination of apple liqueur, candied bacon and pork fat-washed bourbon combine to transport you to the pages of George Orwell's Animal Farm. Harry Potter, Hunter S. Thompson, A Clockwork Orange and more also get a nod — and you might even find yourself face-to-face with a garnish of real insects. Meanwhile, the food situation runs from cheese to charcuterie and a selection of jaffles, inspired by stories like The Three Blind Mice and that Dr Seuss favourite, Green Eggs and Ham. Head in for a sip of polyjuice and a tumble down the rabbit hole. Images: Jean-Louis Carvalho.
Your flirtation with the humble crumpet might not have graduated much beyond the odd Golden-branded supermarket packet, but that's all set to change with the arrival of one new, very dedicated cafe. Holy Crumpets has landed in Melbourne's CBD and it's a full-blown celebration of the old-school brekkie favourite. The brainchild of local crumpet aficionado Joshua Clements, the cafe's premise is simple, yet genius: cracking house-made crumpets paired with top-quality Melbourne coffee. Locally sourced ingredients star throughout the menu of crumpets, which are all baked in-house daily and all $5 (apart from a couple of 'Fancy Bois' for $7). They're not your standard crumpets either — they're made using naturally fermented sourdough with freshly milled wholewheat flour, for a snack that's a little more nutritious than its supermarket cousin. As well as six-packs of untoasted crumpets to stock your pantry, you'll find a rotation of single-serve, ready-to-scoff options, featuring crafty toppings alongside more traditional options. Think Vegemite, jam and cinnamon, passionfruit curd with ricotta, and even a seasonal concoction of truffle butter, blackberry honey and finely grated pecorino. A trio of peanut butter varieties runs from a rich, dark roast to one with macadamia and wattle, and there's currently over half a dozen honey options you can have slathered on your crumpet. The perfect match? Top-notch coffee from Melbourne's own Wood & Co. Espressos and batch brews star alongside a slew of Assembly teas and Chai Boi chai to round out your oh-so-cosy crumpet feast. Images: Tracey Ah-kee.
In a world of pay-to-own content, companies like Spotify run to the sound of a different tune. Now, they're giving you the chance to quite literally do the same. The music streaming service today announced the introduction of Spotify Running, a new feature that automatically detects your running pace and plays tracks to match your tempo. Spotify Running will select music based on your listening history, incorporating different playlists as well as original compositions from DJs and composers around the world. Sensors in your phone will then detect how fast you're moving, with the music changing as you speed up or slow down. The feature will also be integrated into the Nike+ and Runkeeper apps later in the year. Of course, this isn't a new idea. There are already a number of third-party apps for both iOs and Android that will match music to your running pace, including Pace DJ and RockMyRun. However, Spotify is also working with musicians to develop customisable music, where the composition actually changes and rearranges itself depending on your speed. The new feature is one of several announced by Spotify at a recent New York media event. The Now page will better allow users to select playlists based on their personal preferences, mood and even the time of day. They’re also (finally) incorporating other forms of media such as video clips and podcasts (podcasts!), announcing partnerships with the likes of the BBC, Comedy Central, ESPN, TED, Adult Swim, Vice Media and NBC. The company will also launch Spotify Originals, shows and content that will be exclusive to the service. Turntable will pair musicians and chefs for a performance and a meal, while Incoming will cover the latest music trends. Artists including Icona Pop and Tyler the Creator will also be getting their own radio shows, while Dance Move of the Day, from Amy Poehler's Smart Girls, is exactly what it sounds like. No word yet on when exactly this content will be available for users in Australia, although Spotify Running is — pun very much intended — already up and running. The new features should add fuel to the competition between Spotify and its rivals, including Jay Z's Tidal, which already streams video content. Likewise, Apple is expected to launch a new music streaming service later this year, incorporating the recently acquired Beats Music. One of that service’s major selling points is its ability to deliver a personalised playlists based on user preferences and input, territory that the Spotify Now page appears to be cutting into. Game on. Spotify Running will be rolling out to all users globally from today.
Four years ago, legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Fleetwood Mac toured Australia with Christine McVie, who'd just rejoined the band after a 16-year absence. This year, when the British-American group tours the country, the lineup will look a little different. Mick Fleetwood, Stevie Nicks, John McVie and Christine McVie will be joined on stage in August by Crowded House frontman Neil Finn and Mike Campbell, from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, with Lindsey Buckingham controversially axed from the band early last year. Despite the switch-up — it's not the band's first personnel change, and probably won't be its last — the band will be performing all its biggest hits, from 'Dreams' to 'The Chain' and 'Go Your Own Way'. The six will head to Australia's west coast first, hitting up Perth on August 9, before flying east to perform shows across the east coast — with one show in Brissie, and two in Sydney and Melbourne. Fleetwood Mac is one of the world's best-selling bands, selling in excess of 100 million albums worldwide, with the album Rumours one of the best-selling of all time. Their Aussie tour follows the band's 50-show tour of the US. FLEETWOOD MAC 2019 TOUR DATES Perth — RAC Arena, August 9 Brisbane — Brisbane Entertainment Centre, August 20 Sydney — Qudos Bank Arena, August 27 and 29 Melbourne — Rod Laver Arena, September 2 and 4 Fleetwood Mac pre-sale tickets are available from midday (local time) on Thursday, January 24, 2019, with general on-sale is at midday (local time) in Sydney and Perth, and 1pm in Melbourne and Brisbane, on Friday, January 25, through Live Nation.
Since Australia started easing out of COVID-19 lockdown, the country's internal border restrictions have earned plenty of attention. With tactics to stop the spread of the coronavirus implemented at a state-by-state level — and case numbers in each state varying — different parts of the country have navigated the situation in different ways when it comes to letting non-residents visit. In Western Australia, that meant a hard border and strict quarantine requirements for most of the year. For folks who didn't normally reside in WA, you could only visit the state if you were classified as an exempt traveller, applied for a G2G Pass and, if approved, then self-isolated for 14 days — or went into a mandatory state quarantine facility for the same period. That changed for most of the country in mid-November, however, and now it'll change for New South Wales and Victorian residents from 12.01am on Tuesday, December 8 as well. As announced today, Tuesday, December 1 by WA Premier Mark McGowan, the state will relax its border restrictions with the two eastern states as part of the system that's been dubbed a 'controlled interstate border'. WA currently allows travellers from very low-risk states and territories to enter under eased conditions — people from places that haven't had any community transmission of COVID-19 for 28 days, who can now head to WA without isolating — which'll be updated to include NSW and Victoria from next week. https://twitter.com/MarkMcGowanMP/status/1333570927590719488 That means that, along with folks from Queensland, Tasmania, the Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory, residents from NSW and Victoria will be able to venture west without quarantining. You do still have to complete a G2G Pass declaration, and you'll undergo a temperature test and health screening upon arrival — and you're advised to be prepared to take a COVID-19 test if necessary as well. That's a hefty shift from the current situation, where NSW and Victoria are considered low-risk states — which, for travellers, presently means still self-quarantining for 14 days, then taking a COVID-19 test on the 11th day. WA has always said it would likely only consider downgrading NSW and Victoria to very low-risk once they'd chalked up 28 days without community transmission, which the latter has hit and the former is due to reach on Friday, December 4. Announcing the change, Premier McGowan said "we can take this next step, safely and cautiously, thanks to the recent success of our friends over east getting the spread of the virus under control". He continued: "Victoria's success is something all Australians should be proud of. I want to thank everyone for their understanding and co-operation — it's because of their commitment we are now able to take this next step." Folks from South Australia are currently classified as hailing from a medium-risk jurisdiction, however. That means they currently need to apply for an exemption to enter WA, and then quarantine — but that'll be reviewed on Friday, December 11. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Western Australia, and the state's corresponding restrictions, visit its online COVID-19 hub.
With Campari as your host, this year's Negroni Week launch party is set to be a big one. In 2022, the yearly event — which sees the best bars and restaurants around the world put an imaginative twist on the iconic drink while giving back to charity — is holding a glass to 10 big, aperitivo-loving years. On Sunday, September 11, Campari — that essential ingredient of a classic negroni — is inviting fans to spend an afternoon exploring the bitter orange cocktail and celebrate its history. A bespoke negroni menu will be accompanied by free canapés and giveaways on the style-heavy Rooftop at QT. And that's just the beginning. After you've secured your posi at the al fresco venue, you'll be able to sip your way around four imaginative iterations of negroni. The tipples start at $16, with $1 from each sale going to Slow Food. DJ Kitty Kat will be kicking off the festivities at 2pm, with Paris Wells taking over the decks at 6pm. With good vibes aplenty, the tone will be set for the week of nationwide festivities to follow. Keeping you fuelled, the canapés will circulate the space from 5–7pm, and Campari will be giving away merch aplenty. The party will be running on a first come, first serve basis, so mark your diary now. Campari's Negroni Week launch party will hit Rooftop at QT on Sunday, September 11. Head to the website for more details.
Are sick of waiting in line for the bar? Maybe you don't want drunk strangers spilling drinks on you? Does the idea of queuing for a port-a-loo make you feel queasy? Eau de Vie have your back. This NYE you could be sampling a carefully curated degustation menu of cocktails, all delivered to your table with matching food created by head chef John-Paul Fiechtner. Known for their impeccable service, Eau de Vie are sure to deliver a New Years to remember (and brag about to everyone that missed out).
Between the missed birthdays and array of postponed parties, chances are you've got a lot of catching up to do on the celebrations front. And the folks at renowned accomodation brand QT are here to help you do so in style. Five of their plush hotels and resorts are now hosting an indulgent new experience called Floor'd, which allows guests to book out an entire floor for one wild night in with their nearest and dearest. Available at QT's Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, Gold Coast and Perth sites, Floor'd is on offer to groups of between 16 and 41 punters keen for an exclusive rockstar-style soiree. And it's pretty much only limited by your own imagination, with three packages and a multitude of luxe add-ons to choose from. Starting from $620 per couple, the experience includes exclusive use of a whole hotel floor for the evening, with a dedicated team of hosts on hand to cater to your every whim. You and your mates will sit down to a special hallway dinner of seasonal dishes matched with brand-new signature cocktails like the Floor'd negroni and the Summer Affair. Then, after your chosen post-dinner kick-ons, you'll all spend the night sleeping like kings in your luxury hotel rooms, before waking to breakfast in bed. Of course, after the year that's been, you've got a solid excuse to splurge on a few extra additions. Mix and match your ultimate soiree with the likes of VIP drinks, pop-up bars, private DJ sets, pamper packages, late-checkout and maybe even a live performance from your favourite artist. Floor'd is available now at QT Sydney, QT Melbourne, QT Auckland, QT Gold Coast and QT Perth, running until the end of 2021. Learn more and make a booking over at the website.
Melbourne, we know you've got a voracious appetite for burgers, but it doesn't look like you'll be going hungry any time soon. There are more burger joints in this city than there are people, just about. Now one of your faves – the beloved Mr Burger – has launched a brand new concept store in Bentleigh in the city's southeast. Chances are you've already sampled Mr Burger's wares in one place or another, with the brand manifesting all across Melbourne in the form of trucks, shops and outlandish competitions. Recently they brought a new head chef jumped on board, and it's none other than Belle's Hot Chicken founder Morgan McGlone. "I loved what the Mr Burger guys were already doing," said McGlone. "I just tried to take their formula to a whole other level." So far McGlone has added a bunch of tasty ideas, including an Oreo shake, handmade onion rings, homemade hot sauce and a new burger seasoning, as well as a take on the Maccas McFeast called The Deluxe. His menu changes will be rolled out to the rest of the Mr Burger locations around the country in the coming months. The Bentleigh store will also be offering a selection craft beers on tap, including Melbourne Bitter and Goose Island IPA. It'll also feature an outdoor area, so you can soak up some sun on hot days, and a new app called 100 Orders, which lets you order through your smartphone. Find the Mr Burger concept store at 416 Centre Rd, Bentleigh.
Melbourne winters mightn't be known for their ice and snow (just yet, anyway), but that doesn't mean you can't slide across a frozen surface in the centre of the city. From June 21 to July 14, the corner of Acland and Barkly streets will become a winter wonderland thanks to the return of the Skating At St Kilda Festival. With the event back for another year, all of the frosty fabulousness Melburnians know and love is back, too: ice skating, obviously, but also music, food and more. It's the next best thing to heading to Europe when Melbourne's at its iciest. Entry to the area is free, but you'll have to pay for all of the fun stuff, with the fest open from 10am–9pm Monday to Sunday. The lineup of events includes not only regular ice skating, but a romance-themed 'date and skate' night each Tuesday, plus a 90s and 00s-themed 'Ice Ice Baby' disco evening every Thursday.
Before anywhere else in Australia, Melbourne became home to a major annual celebration of movies. That was over 70 years ago, when MIFF debuted. Then in 1991, the Victorian capital made flick-watching history again, this time in the queer cinema space. Now, Melbourne Queer Film Festival is the nation's oldest such fest, and it too keeps delighting audiences, this year with the theme of Searching for Queer Utopia. Running from Thursday, November 13 to Sunday, November 23, this year's festival celebrates 35 years of joy, creativity and liberation in queer filmmaking, with more than 130 films and 100 sessions screening at Cinema Nova, Collins Place, Melbourne Town Hall and The Capitol Theatre. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_gUjCvASN4[/embed] Everything kicks off with an opening night extravaganza around the Victorian premiere of Queens of the Dead, directed by Tina Romero, daughter of the late pioneer of zombie filmmaking, George Romero. Lead actress Dominique Jackson will be in attendance, too, before leading a keynote discussion with FlexMami the following night. There's another keynote and Victorian premiere on Saturday, November 15 with Sophie Hyde, director of the Olivia Colman and John Lithgow-starring Jimpa, leading a keynote address ahead of the film's screening. [caption id="attachment_1034825" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] 'Jimpa', directed by Sophie Hyde[/caption] Other screenings include the Tehran-shot guerrilla-style film The Crowd (directed by Sahand Kabiri) about a queer youth-led resistance against patriarchal norms; Hot Milk, a Greek Island-set story of intergenerational desire starring Emma Mackey (Sex Education) and Fiona Shaw (Killing Eve); a documentary portrait of paralympian and veteran Angela Madsen in Row of Life and The Serpent's Skin, a blend of magic, romance and dark humour in goth-trans cinema from Australian director Alice Maio Mackay. There's also a tale of post-breakup chaos in Departures; a dive into the lives of young queer women in Greece in Bearcave; a trans-led reimagining of our favourite 90s movies in She's The He; a regional India-set, multi-award-winning story of grief and love in Cactus Pears, and Heightened Scrutiny, a documentary about the ongoing fight for transgender rights in the United States. [caption id="attachment_1034824" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] 'Hot Milk', directed by Rebecca Lenkiewicz[/caption] Like other film festivals, the Melbourne Queer Film Festival will also host awards shows and retrospectives for films that have passed their premieres, celebrating not just the new but also the endearing favourites and shining stars in queer cinema from around the world. Melbourne Queer Film Festival runs from Thursday, November 13 to Sunday, November 23. Discover the full program or get tickets via the website.
Our phones have a lot of uses these days. While they were once merely a means of communication, they are now a great way to fill time or catch up on current events as well as the perfect crutch in an awkward situation. Need to fill an unbearably long silence or look like you're doing something while alone at a party? Just whip out an iPhone. But all of these new uses seem to defeat the original purpose of the device. With a smartphone glued to the palm of our hand, can we still maintain any meaningful communication face-to-face? A new photo series entitled 'The Death of Conversation' suggests not. Picturing friends, couples and dinner dates entranced with the screens of their phones but ignoring each other, these works by London photographer Babycakes Romero are all too familiar. It's something you see everyday. Don't feel too embarrassed. We're all guilty of it. This is what inspired the photographer to create the series. "I saw that smartphones were becoming a barrier to communication in person," he told Buzzfeed. "I saw how people used it as a social prop to hide their awkwardness, to fill the silence, but as I continued to observe and document this modern phenomenon I felt that the devices were actually causing the awkwardness and the silence." There's been a growing awareness of this problem over the past few years especially. Many musicians including the Yeah Yeah Yeahs and Prince now ask their audiences to put their phones away and "be in the moment"; some restaurants even ban their customers from taking photos of their food. "[Using your phone] is a form of rejection and lowers the self-worth of the person superseded for a device," said the artist. "I have nothing against technology at all but I feel it is starting to affect social cohesion, and we need to know when to switch it off or we will become permanently switched off from each other." Though this behaviour is now common all over the world, it may not be as bad as it first appears. Many theorists think this kind of criticism is unfounded. With this kind of constant digital companionship, aren't we in fact being more social than ever? It's for you to decide. But, at first glance, the evidence is pretty damning. Via Buzzfeed. All photos via Babycakes Romero.
If all you wanted for an early Christmas gift this year was for the Matildas to put on a spectacular show at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, Australia's national women's soccer team didn't disappoint. If all you're now hoping for this actual festive season is to hear three of the squad's stars chat about their experiences — and their careers in general, as well as what's brought them to this point — then the first-ever Open Air Live event is going to deliver there, too. Taking place at 5pm on Thursday, December 21 at Sydney's Commbank Stadium, Open Air Live will feature Matildas goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold, forward Mary Fowler and defender Alanna Kennedy, who'll be back in Australia to get talking. All three impressed on the pitch in July and August, and cemented their place as Aussie sporting heroes, even if the semi-final loss to England meant that the Matildas didn't end up with the ultimate prize. On offer as well: a live masterclass where Arnold, Fowler and Kennedy will show off their skills; and a match-day vibe thanks to four stages and ample use of the stadium screens. "I'm excited to be part of the Open Air Live event in Sydney this December. Mackenzie, Alanna and I will be taking the field at CommBank stadium for a huge night of entertainment; you won't want to miss this!" said Fowler. "I can't wait to join Mackenzie and Mary on the pitch for an incredible night of entertainment. Everyone is welcome, and we look forward to putting on a great show," added Kennedy. "Bring your families along and join Alanna, Mary and I in sharing our stories. It will be a great night of entertainment. We can't wait to see you there," advised Arnold. There's obviously plenty for the three Matildas players to discuss. Their Women's World Cup efforts enraptured the entire nation, including breaking viewing records to become the most-watched program on Aussie TV since 2001 when current records began, and likely ever. They had Nikki Webster sing to them in Brisbane afterwards, and are getting a team statue in the Queensland capital. And, of course, the campaign was the result of years of hard work both as a squad and on the individual level to get the Tillies to this point. Arnold, Fowler and Kennedy will be back in Australia for the event from the UK, where all the trio play in the Women's Super League. Arnold is West Ham United's captain, while Fowler and Kennedy remain on the same team at Manchester City. The full Matildas squad will also return to home turf for three games at the end of October and beginning of November, for Olympic qualifying matches in Perth. They play Iran on Thursday, October 26; The Philippines on Sunday, October 29; and Chinese Taipei on Wednesday, November 1. Open Air Live with Mackenzie Arnold, Mary Fowler and Alanna Kennedy will take place at 5pm on Thursday, December 21 at Sydney's Commbank Stadium, 11–13 O'Connell St, Parramatta — head to the ticketing website for more details and tickets.
Vivid Ideas festival director Jess Scully knows how to get psyched about winter (it ain't all wet feet and friendless Call of Duty marathons). From pickling workshops to no-holds-barred pampering sessions, DIY crafternoons to steamy hot chocolate-Robert Pattinson combos, Scully knows how to embrace winter with a big ol' hug. So throw on your favourite chunky knits and welcome the chilly season with Jess's tried and tested gear-ups. To take advantage of these and even more great Sydney winter experiences, go to lastminute.com.au and line up your fun-filled days and even cooler nights. Get pickled That used to mean something different in my twenties... how times have changed. This year my friends and I are taking a winter pickling workshop at Cornersmith in Marrickville; we're going to learn to do it ourselves, in the hopes of constructing the perfect Ploughman's Lunch down the line. Get pampered I tend to take better care of my skin and hair in winter; in summer I let the sun and sea take over, and I feel healthier just by virtue of being outdoors. But in winter, I go to the experts. My go-to place is Brad Ngata at The Ivy, where I will get a pro-keratin treatment to hydrate my hair (winter actually dries it out) and a gloss to cheat a little and get some all-over shine. Get cosy At the end of Vivid there is nothing I like better than getting a big hot chocolate, getting cosy in a cinema chair and soaking up beautiful images at Sydney Film Festival. This year I'm particularly excited about seeing The Rover — not least because I'll also be able to sit in on a chat with director David Michod and actors Guy Pearce and Robert Pattinson, on Sunday June 8... Get hearty For breakfast I'll be trying out every one of the Top Five Porridges in Sydney (as selected by Concrete Playground: expect my rankings shortly!) and then I'll be hunting down the best pub roasts for lunch and dinner. I've also been dreaming of a giant schnitzel and beer from the amazing Concordia Club in Tempe; 'tis the season for mash and gravy! Get crafty After a few months of exhausting mental work, crafting and presenting the Vivid Ideas program, I always feel like doing something with my hands. So I love the workshops at Koskela, giving me a chance to get messy and tactile and hands-on. I took Gemma Patford's rope basket workshop last year, and this year I've got my eyes on a Shibori indigo dyeing workshop. Vivid Ideas runs until June 9. Check out the events still to come over here.
Pizza lovers of Melbourne, this is all the news you need to justify tucking into a slice today. Fans of the Italian staple elsewhere around Australia, here's a reminder to add a delicious destination to your next Victorian trip. For the third year in a row, 48h Pizza e Gnocchi Bar has been recognised as one of the Asia Pacific region's best pizzerias — and Australia's number-one standout — as decided by the experts at the 2023 50 Top Pizza awards. The Melbourne pizzeria with outposts in South Yarra, Elsternwick and Spotswood is no stranger to international praise, having claimed the title of Best Pizzeria in Oceania in 2021's 50 Top Pizza awards, then coming out on top in the entire Asia Pacific in 2022. It was also crowned #1 Pizza in Australia at the Pizza World Championships in 2019. For the 2023 50 Top Pizza accolades, it placed fourth in the Asia Pacific, which also means that it also came first in Australia for the third year in a row. This year's best pizzerias were named at a ceremony at the Italian Institute of Culture in Tokyo, ahead of worldwide rankings being unveiled in September. Last year, 48h Pizza e Gnocchi Bar came in 13th globally, a placing that it's hoping to beat in 2023. Running for the last six years, the 50 Top Pizza awards are chosen by around 1000 experts across the globe, who visit the pizzerias anonymously to judge and rank their offerings. The annual international pizzeria guide names its top 50 Asia Pacific picks based not just on the merit of their slices, but on each pizzeria as a whole, rating the food, drinks, service and overall ambiance. In top spot in the Asia Pacific this year: The Pizza Bar on 38th in Tokyo. In second came Bottega in Beijing, then another Tokyo eatery, Pizzeria Peppe – Napoli sta' ca", ranked third. And, Hong Kong's Fiata by Salvatore Fiata rounded out the top five. A handful of other Aussie venues were also named in this year's Asia Pacific top 50 best pizzerias, including Sydney's Al Taglio (11), Pizza Madre (24), Lil Franki Pizzeria (28), Queen Margherita of Savoy (32) and Gigi's Pizza in Balmain (33); fellow Melburnians +39 Pizzeria (34), Shop225 (37) and Il Caminetto (41); and Maestro Sourdough Pizza in Perth (46). Find 48h Pizza e Gnocchi Bar at 373 Malvern Road, South Yarra; 15 Gordon Street, Elsternwick; and Grazeland, Spotswood. For the full 50 Top Pizza Asia Pacific awards list, jump over to the website. Craving a slice, Melburnians? Check out our top picks for pizza in Melbourne. Top image: Hi Sylvia.
Get a head start on the inevitable Christmas Day food coma, with a special festive breakfast feast at one of Melbourne's most legendary cafe haunts. Over in South Melbourne, the long-running St Ali is serving up a strong start to the day for Friday, December 25, with an $80 brekkie menu available from 7am until noon. This one will see you tucking into a parade of shared entrees — think, virgin mary oysters, and a dish of 64-degree duck egg with whipped ricotta and asparagus — before moving onto brunch-style mains like the pork belly with apple, eggs and a bone marrow crumb. Dessert options including an eton mess and a brandy sauce-drenched Christmas pudding round out the morning's fun. To match, you'll be able to add on drinks from St Ali's regular lineup — there's that famed coffee, some fresh juices and a range of cocktails, including an elderflower and lemon bellini. To make a booking, head over to the St Ali.
As you may well know by now, museums aren't just for 19th century historical artefacts and giant dinosaur models anymore. They're also for food. Last year New York got a permanent Museum of Food and Drink, which joins a whole slew of weird and wonderful food museums, like Japan's instant ramen museum and the Kimchi Field Museum in Seoul. So it's surprising that, considering our total obsession with food, Australia does not have its own. But that's all set to change, with plans for a brand new institution dedicated to our food culture to be set up in Adelaide. The proposal comes from Adelaide City Council, who believe a culinary cultural centre could help both locals and international visitors learn about and experience Australia's multicultural food culture. Considering the city's proximity to world-class wineries and its own burgeoning food and bar scene, Adelaide — while nowhere near as big as Sydney or Melbourne — makes a good case for being the new centre's home. The project has the support of the State Government and other local cultural institutions, but discussions on what the centre would actually include and who would establish it are still taking place. We'll keep an eye on this one to see where it goes. Via ABC News.
Back in 2006, 11-part documentary series Planet Earth combined stunning high-definition images of this place we all call home with David Attenborough's inimitable narration. Then, in 2016, the show's six-part sequel Planet Earth II arrived, doing the same thing as well. A third program, Planet Earth III, is slated to join them soon — reportedly in 2023, in fact — because no one can ever get enough of the iconic broadcaster and natural historian. But that isn't the only one of his projects that's returning to screens in the near future, and neither is Prehistoric Planet's previously announced second season. The other: Our Planet II, a followup to 2019's Our Planet, which also explores our pale blue dot. Despite the name, it isn't related to BBC's Planet shows — which also include The Blue Planet and Frozen Planet — but it does still feature Attenborough's informative tones. In its first go-around, Our Planet tasked Attenborough with talking viewers through the planet's remaining wilderness areas and their animal inhabitants. The series was made in partnership with the World Wildlife Fund, which meant plenty of astonishing and majestic critters scurrying across the screen. It was filmed in 50 countries across all the continents of the world, heading everywhere from the remote Arctic wilderness to the South American jungles — and to sprawling African landscapes and the depths of the ocean as well. Expect a heap more jaw-dropping imagery — and amazing animals as well — in Our Planet II, which will make its way to Netflix on Wednesday, June 14. This time around, it'll unfurl its wonders across four episodes, highlighting everything from penguins and polar bears to lions and elephants. The just-dropped first teaser trailer also features birds, turtles, seals, whales, fish and insects, because our planet boasts quite the range of species. Fans can also look forward to more nature shows hitting Netflix in the future, as part of a broader series that includes 2022's Morgan Freeman-narrated Our Universe. Also set to arrive in 2023, Life on Our Planet heads back in time, also features Freeman's voiceover and shows dinosaurs just as Attenborough's Prehistoric Planet (which streams via Apple TV+) does. Then, in 2024, Our Oceans will dive into the deep blue sea, while Our Living World is all about earth's life-sustaining natural networks. And, come 2025, Our Water World will hone in on freshwater systems. Check out the first Our Planet II trailer below: Our Planet II streams via on Netflix from Wednesday, June 14. Images: Ed Charles / John Haskew / Netflix
How are you planning to spend gravy day in 2023? If you'll be listening to Paul Kelly sing about making gravy when it's the 21st of December, that's understandable. How are you planning to spend gravy day in 2024? Here's our suggestion: watching the movie How to Make Gravy, which is indeed adapted from Kelly's Christmas classic tune 'How to Make Gravy'. News that the flick was coming first dropped in 2022, with musician Meg Washington and writer/director Nick Waterman announcing that they'd locked in the rights to make the song into a film. Now, Australian streaming platform Binge has revealed that it's behind the movie, which will mark its first-ever original feature. Production has also started head of a planned 2024 release. Set to star: The Royal Hotel co-stars Daniel Henshall and Hugo Weaving, as well as Brenton Thwaites (Titans), Damon Herriman (now that he's no longer playing Charles Manson in both Mindhunter and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood) and Kate Mulvany (The Clearing) among the homegrown talents. Joining them is French actor Agathe Rousselle from Titane, who'll be making her first English-language film. Will Kelly feature? More cast members are still to be revealed, but cameos by Adam Briggs and Dallas Woods have been announced so far. Filming is currently underway on the Gold Coast. The exact story that the movie will tell hasn't been unveiled as yet; however, as anyone who knows the words to 'How to Make Gravy' by heart and is currently singing them right now while they're reading this is well aware, Kelly's tune tells a tale itself, starting with a prisoner called Joe who writes to his brother Dan. Presumably, Stella, Frank and Dolly will all also feature, and Rita, Roger, Mary and her new boyfriend. Junior Murvin will have to pop up on the soundtrack, of course. Also, the words "and give my love to Angus" better get uttered — or would it really be a How to Make Gravy movie? Although Binge hasn't advised exactly when in 2024 the film will release, either, you could probably put money on it hitting screens on or around December 21 to start a new gravy day tradition. (And, given the character of Joe also pops up in other Kelly songs such as 'To Her Door' and 'Love Never Runs On Time', cross your fingers that we're about to get a PKCU — Paul Kelly cinematic universe — too.) "It's a dream to be working with such an incredible cast and crew on our debut feature film. It's testament to Paul's songwriting that the world and characters within the song are so vivid, and we are proud to have the honour of bringing it to life," said Waterman and Washington. "It's a uniquely Australian story, made for film lovers and music fans alike. We can't wait to share our adaptation of 'How to Make Gravy' with the world." There's no trailer for the movie yet, of course, but here's the music video for the song. How to Make Gravy, the movie, doesn't yet have a release date — we'll update you when further details are announced. Via Variety.
It's arguably the biggest international sporting event on Melbourne's calendar, pulling the world's greatest tennis players to our city each summer. And while the 2021 Australian Open is set to look a little different to that of previous years, it's stirring up just as much excitement as ever before. But you don't need to nab courtside seats and battle the crowds in order to soak up the Grand Slam action. With onsite crowd numbers limited, there are stacks of local venues that'll be breaking out the big screens, bubbly and food specials, serving up some ace tennis-watching parties of their own. We've rounded up six bars, pubs and pop-ups where you can watch the 2021 Australian Open in style. Here's where to get your tennis fix this February.
Whether you're a Queenslander hoping to hop over the border for a mid-year holiday, or a resident of the rest of the country eager to soak in the Sunshine State's splendours once winter hits, don't go making plans anytime soon — with Queensland's borders possibly remaining closed until September. While the state has been relaxing its COVID-19 restrictions in recent weeks — including allowing non-essential trips out of the house, then permitting small in-home gatherings and letting restaurants, cafes and pubs reopen — Queensland hasn't changed its stance on its locked-down border. And, as Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk revealed this morning, that's not likely to happen in the short term. Speaking to ABC News Breakfast, the Premier said "we want to welcome as many domestic tourists as possible to Queensland", but that isn't on the cards as yet because "there is still community transmission in Victoria and New South Wales". The Premier also explained that the border situation will be reviewed at the end of each month, and that she's aware that people are starting to ponder their plans for the June–July school holidays; however she noted that it's likely "things will look more positive towards September". Asked about opening up travel to other states without community transmission — that is, allowing Queenslanders to visit Northern Territory, Western Australia and South Australia, and permitting residents of those regions to visit Queensland — the Premier advised that she "could see that happening before New South Wales and Victoria, but that's a matter for the premiers there as well". https://twitter.com/BreakfastNews/status/1262137356460539904 The Queensland Premier's comments come a few days after her New South Wales counterpart Gladys Berejiklian called for borders between Australian states to be reopened — and just a day after the NSW Premier singled out Queensland specifically, saying "I don't want to be able to say to people I'm allowed to go to Auckland before I can go to Brisbane". As part of the national three-step roadmap out of COVID-19 lockdown announced by Prime Minister Scott Morrison earlier this month, some interstate travel is earmarked to return in step two, while all interstate travel would be allowed in step three — however, while it's the Federal Government's aim to implement all three stages by July, each step has to be put in place by every state individually. Over the past week, Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria each moved to the first stage of eased coronavirus restrictions in different ways, with the same approach likely to apply to interstate travel. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website. Top image: Tourism and Events Queensland
UPDATE: SEPTEMBER 26, 2019 — With the first strike set to kick off at 10am today, Yarra Trams has recommended passengers avoid non-essential travel and expect trains and buses to be busier today. There will be a replacement bus service running that will cover some of the tram network, but not all of it. A shuttle will run between Melbourne Central and Melbourne Showgrounds for the Royal Melbourne Show. It's been a tumultuous couple of months for Melbourne's public transport system — and it's far from over. Today, it was announced that the entire tram network will shut down for four hours on Thursday, September 26 and again two weeks later on Thursday, October 10. The strikes follow a successful four-hour stoppage on Friday, August 30, and are in response to ongoing failed negotiations with Yarra Trams. While the strikes will happen in off-peak times and, thankfully, not on Fridays, they're still expected to cause some public transport havoc — so, best dust off that ol' bike and get set for some two-wheeled travel. https://www.facebook.com/RTBUVic/posts/2580073232057110?__xts__[0]=68.ARDQP4lmuO0I9HbGcPPulrf9BN_mOC6ogVDpcermBaR8-C3XLZCjekdxh1ag_WpjoVnOw62tSZIRH5P1qyhIKFVz-JM8oTFro3iAXoJnV-3vJgFsL6ERfte144EYEMf7wU1wPKTQRFtU5cz8nKRwREFglzZh6UoGGwVEI4sC5uyT4E2cLIO0V87yOThOY3QZ0nDM0EnKi-PHz6oj1GjcRcXoOFSNT_FG9uZLVa2afsNCBk1UfW3CnS2Odqs-VESzqCO0mId99ze90n1ZXzgcScIxF-QjQb63asCePTkUdMuYmJjdO3GtQEe3eUCvq4hc8MKcBEgVEjRHAAtxTMpk8P9sMg&__tn__=-R The Rail Tram and Bus Union has been negotiating a new wage deal and improved working conditions with Yarra Trams for months, with the existing agreement expiring on June 30. According to the RTBU, Yarra Trams' new agreement includes increased part-time workers and rosters that are "completely unsuitable for workers with child care and caring responsibilities". The off-peak strikes are designed to "minimise the impact on commuters", but industrial action could continue to escalate if negotiations are not unresolved. With negotiations still under way, it's possible neither strike will go ahead. We'll let you know either way. Image: Josie Withers for Visit Victoria
Back in early September, Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews flagged how the metropolitan Melbourne area will gradually ease out of its stage four COVID-19 lockdowns, announcing a five-step plan to bring the region to a stage called 'COVID normal'. But like most things this year, that roadmap has been forced to adjust several times since — including lifting the curfew earlier than expected, advising that other restrictions might relax earlier than planned, then noting that future steps might actually be smaller than hoped. Now, on Sunday, October 18, just what'll change over the coming weeks has been announced. In his latest daily press conference, Premier Andrews outlined two stages of new steps — one coming into effect at 11.59pm tonight, and the second kicking off at the same time on Sunday, November 1. Both feature good news for metro Melbourne residents and, if case numbers continue to remain low, it's even possible that the eased restrictions earmarked to start in a fortnight could be moved forward. In the first step, effective from this evening, the five-kilometre rule will be scrapped and replaced with a 25-kilometre rule. That means that you can exercise and shop in a much bigger area. Also, the two-hour cap on exercising will be lifted — and the same time limit on socialising, too. While you're spending all that time outside, you'll be able to head to tennis courts, golf courses and skateparks, which are now allowed to reopen. Outdoor pools can have 30 swimmers, while indoor pools can reopen for one-on-one hydrotherapy. And, if you're just eager to hang out with your nearest and dearest out of the house, groups of up to ten people from two households will permitted be able to gather in outdoor public places. That applies not only to exercise, but to picnics. https://twitter.com/DanielAndrewsMP/status/1317619488779481089 In terms of businesses, hairdressers can reopen in the first step, but retail, other personal and beauty services, and hospitality will have to wait two weeks. Relaunching shops, restaurants, cafes and pubs comes as part of the next stage, from the evening of Sunday, November 1. From that date, hospitality venues will be allowed to operate with 20 people seated inside and 50 outside, with ten-person group maximums indoors. Outdoor seated entertainment will also be able to recommence, with limits of either 50 people or 25 percent of the space's seated capacity. And drive-ins can reopen, but indoor theatres, cinemas, galleries, museums and other entertainment venues will remain closed. The second step will also completely scrap the four reasons for leaving home, and scrap the 25-kilometre rule too — so you'll be able to head out wherever you feel like for whatever you feel like. Ten people from any number of households can meet outdoors, and two people and their dependents can visit another house once a day. The latter won't form part of a bubble or need to be exclusive, so you won't be limited to just visiting the same one house day after day. Across all of the above steps, fitted face masks are still required. Also, if you can work from home, you must keep working from home. The new plan for easing restrictions comes as Victoria's COVID-19 case numbers have remained under ten since October 14, including just two cases on Friday, one yesterday and two today. Announcing the latest steps forward, Premier Andrews noted that he knows "these changes can't be absolutely everything everyone wants. But they are the steps we can safely take that will make life a little bit easier". He explained that "if we could do more today safely, of course we would. No rules, no restrictions will be on longer than they need to be". And, with the AFL Grand Final being played next weekend — in Brisbane, but with Melburnians still receiving a public holiday the day prior — he stressed the need for everyone to stick to the outlined plans. "No barbecue with friends on that day or any day is worth giving everything we have built back and making sure that it counts for nothing," he advised. For more information about the status of COVID-19 and the current restrictions, head over to the Department of Health and Human Services website. For further details about Victoria's steps for reopening, head to the roadmap itself — or to Premier Andrews' latest statement, which links through to a table of the new changes. Top image: Visit Victoria.
Flight Facilities has announced its one and only Melbourne gig for 2015. And it’s looking like a whizz-bang affair. On Saturday, 17 October, as part of the Melbourne Festival, the Sydney-based duo will perform with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra in the Sidney Myer Music Bowl. That’s right; fans are to be treated to a classical-infused retake on Flight Facilities’ debut album Down To Earth under the stars, complete with soaring flute lines and harmonising strings. “Long before making ‘Clair de Lune’, we both shared a love for classical music,” said Hugo Gruzman and James Lyell this morning. "Playing alongside an orchestra was almost inconceivable when we started Flight Facilities, but now we've been given the chance to collaborate and perform with one of Australia's greatest." In addition to tunes from Down to Earth, you can expect a bunch of Flight Facilities’ singles and remixes, as well as some new bits and pieces, composed specifically for the MSO. And a dazzling videoscape will provide the backdrop. “We're taking on the challenge of reinventing, not only the way we approach our live show, but our original pieces of music, too. For us, the opportunity to have Melbourne Symphony Orchestra reinterpret the contemporary as classical can only be described as 'a dream come true',” said Hugo and James. During the past five years, Flight Facilities has featured in triple j’s Hottest 100 annually. At the same time, the pair has been making international incursions, with performances at Glastonbury and Coachella, as well as sold-out US and European tours, under their belt. Flight Facilities’ 2013 Melbourne Festival performance took place in the Foxtel Festival Hub, and involved the duo taking its audience on a forty-year journey through its various musical influences. Expect a similarly epic escapade for this year's show. Tickets will go on sale on Wednesday 6 May at 9am. Undercover seating will cost you $69 a pop, while standing room/grass seating is going for $49. Nab yourself a spot right here. Meanwhile, you’ll have to wait until 4 August to find out what else will be happening at this year’s Melbourne Festival. Watch Sam Rockwell dance his way through Flight Facilities latest video for 'Down to Earth' right here.
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.
Cannoleria dreams up a fun new flavour every week, but the team is taking it to the next level later this month, teaming up with the legendary American Doughnut Kitchen to create a hot jam doughnut-inspired connolo. Both Cannoleria and American Dougut Kitchen sell their sweet treats at Queen Vic Market, but lining up for both cannoli and doughnuts can be a real chore — especially as the American Doughnut Kitchen has long-ass lines down the road every weekend. Too often, punters have to choose one or the other. Thankfully, from Friday, September 20–Thursday, October 3, you can get a mash-up of both iconic eats from any of Cannoleria's stories — at Queen Vic Market, South Melbourne Market, Preston Market and Lygon Street. For the collaboration, a doughnut- and jam-infused ricotta is piped into a crunchy pastry shell, and then garnished with crumbled doughnuts. These bad boys will go for $6 each, three for $15, and then any additional cannolo on top of that costs $5 a pop. "We can't wait for everyone to try this Flavour of the Fortnight," shares Co-Owner and Chef at Cannoleria Dario Di Clerico. "The Cannoleria team have wanted to work with the iconic American Doughnut Kitchen for a while, and we are so excited that the collaboration is nearly here. "When we were planning the flavours, we all thought about how doughnuts are perfect for the [AFL] Grand Final and that people will love the cannoli, and so we decided to make it a Flavour of the Fortnight that covers the big game." You can pick up these hot jam doughnut-inspired cannoli from any of the Cannoleria stores from Friday, September 20–Thursday, October 3 (unless sold out prior). For more information, visit Cannoleria website.
Feast on great Mexican while picking up everything you need to recreate the same flavours at home. A one-stop restaurant and store, La Tortilleria in Kensington specialises in authentic, fresh-baked tortillas, which you can purchase in person or from their online shop. Their food menu is packed with typically mouth-watering Mexican fare, including guacamole with house-made totopos (tortilla chips) and quesadillas at five bucks a pop. They also offer traditional Mexican coffee and hot chocolate, infused with citrus and chilli.
Across November, New South Wales is hosting 1000 gigs at more than 300 venues, all thanks to the State Government-run Great Southern Nights. The event is helping to restart the state's live music scene after this year's lockdowns and restrictions, and it has just gained a huge new addition — especially in terms of crowd size. While you might've already filled your calendar with smaller shows both in Sydney and across the rest of NSW, make room for The Great Southern Nights series, which'll take place on Saturday, November 28 and Saturday, December 5. Not only will the two gigs hit up Qudos Bank Arena — marking the first big indoor arena shows in Australia since the beginning of the pandemic — but they'll host just over 5000 punters at each gig. That's just a fraction of the venue's 21,000 total capacity, but it still covers a hefty number of music lovers in a year that's been mostly devoid of listening to live tunes en masse. It'll all be held in a COVID-19-safe manner, of course — and, across the two shows, it's expected that crowd numbers will near 12,000 in total. As for the lineup, the first evening will see Ocean Alley, Jack River, Ruby Fields and Jack Botts doing their thing on stage — while the second gig will feature Bernard Fanning, Matt Corby and Merci Mercy. The Great Southern Nights series will take place as NSW's events calendar is slowly filling up, and as venues are being given the go-ahead to welcome in bigger crowds. The state's outdoor stadiums can have up to 10,000 fans in the stands; theatres, concert halls and cinemas can host events of up to 1000 people, and country shows of up to 5000 people will be allowed to happen this summer. The Great Southern Nights takes place on Saturday, November 28 and Saturday, December 5 at Qudos Bank Arena. For more information, or to buy tickets — from 10am ADST on Monday, November 9 for the first gig and at the same time on Tuesday, November 10 for the second — head to the Ticketek website. Top image: Ocean Alley, Neegzistuoja via Wikimedia Commons.
If you want a trip to remember full of endless sunshine, tuk tuk rides and temples (but you don't fancy the idea of going within sniffing distance of Denpasar) then Cambodia might be the place for you. The Kingdom of Cambodia is home to a generous and open people, incredible and fragrant food, staggering temples, and a truly incredibly history. When you combine all of this with 24-hour action, scooters piled high with chooks and kids, and a country still in recovery from recent turmoil, you get a formidable destination for the fearless. Cambodia has been steadily building a reputation as both a place to immerse yourself in history and culture — and, more recently, as a place to party. It's a place of highs and lows. Your first glimpse of the formidable Angkor Wat will leave you in no doubt as to its status as one of the most incredible feats of ancient architecture on the face of the Earth; your last glimpse of the party beaches of Koh Rong Island will remind you of why your liver is hurting. But when you've had your fill of temples and you're sick of the endless party scene in Sihanoukville, you should make for the peaceful riverside town of Kampot. Steeped in French Colonial history — but without the big-names of Siem Reap and Phnom Penh — this beautiful and fascinating spot in southwest Cambodia is well worth a stay, especially when some R&R from constant travel is required. Need some help on how to fill your days? Here's ten things to do while kicking it in Kampot. [caption id="attachment_578323" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Aram Visser via Flickr.[/caption] VISIT AN ABANDONED LUXURY RESORT This remote and once-grandiose luxury resort was dreamed up by colonial French settlers in 1922. Now abandoned, Bokor Hill Station's buildings are still standing (no mean feat, given that this spot was one of the last strongholds of the Khmer Rouge in the 1990s) and make for an eerie day trip. The best way to get out there is to jump on a scooter and ride out yourself — but if you're not confident on a bike, there will be a tour or ten being spruiked in town. Cap your visit off with a drink in the creepy and almost completely patronless, brand spanking new casino which has been curiously constructed on a very out-of-the-way hilltop. Not weirded out enough? Check out the abandoned Catholic church, which is complete with a still-standing altar. WATCH A FILM AT A ROOM SERVICE BED CINEMA So we know you can do this anywhere in the world, but sometimes you just want to take five and watch a film in a foreign country. Watching a film on your laptop will suffice — but watching one in a private bed cinema is approximately one million times better. At Ecran Movie House, you get to splay out over a massive bed in your own private viewing room with air-conditioning, room service drinks and on-demand dumplings from the adjoining noodle joint. Can Hoyts take cues from this? EAT VEGO NOSH BY THE RIVER AT BANTEAY SREY SPA Travelling around Cambodia is tough. Reward yourself with a soothing oil massage or a facial. Banteay Srey Spa is women-only — with the exception of yoga in the morning — and is a great place to enjoy a spa treatment, as well as a swim in the river and some vegetarian and vegan food afterwards. Didn't bring your swimmers? No problem. The spa provides traditional Khmer wraps, which perfect for taking a dip. [caption id="attachment_578321" align="alignnone" width="1280"] James Antrobus via Flickr.[/caption] VISIT THE GIANT DURIAN Surely this one needs no more explanation. The giant fruit sits in the middle of a roundabout in the centre of town and is something of a spiky statue sister to our own Big Pineapple. Plus, there's no smell. [caption id="attachment_578349" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Blake Wheeler.[/caption] ROPE SWING INTO THE RIVER Like swinging off ropes into the river? Great. Get thee to Arcadia Backpackers for the highest of rope swings, the best tower jumps and one of the busiest backpackers in Kampot. If you're looking for a travel buddy as well as a bit of adrenalin, you'll find one here. [caption id="attachment_578333" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Oliver Townend via Flickr.[/caption] EAT PEPPER CRAB AT KEP Unless you're on a secluded romantic vacation (or don't mind everything being a bit of a drive away), don't bother staying in Kep. Head there on a day trip instead. You'll be able to feast on the famous pepper crab, which is local Kep crab served with Kampot green pepper. It's only forty-five minutes away by tuk tuk, so you can be back at your riverside bungalow in Kampot by sundown. EXPLORE KAMPOT'S CAVES Craving caving? Visit the guys at Climbodia. They'll lead you into a dark abyss of limestone caves, and then lead you back out again into the light. No experience needed — just a willingness to explore Kampot and enter dark spaces. [caption id="attachment_578337" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Marie via Flickr.[/caption] TASTE THE BEST PEPPER IN THE WORLD Fun fact: Kampot is the pepper capital of the world. Khmer people have been cultivating the spice in the area from as early as the 13th century — and up until the Khmer Rouge occupation from 1975, there wasn't a hatted restaurant in Paris worth their salt that wasn't using this piquant spice. If you want to try the best pepper in the world, straight from the source, head to one of Kampot's pepper farms for an insight into the industry. [caption id="attachment_578339" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Marie via Flickr.[/caption] WATCH THE FISHING BOATS ON KAMPOT RIVER This massive gulf of water is home to an abundance of fish, and is basically life for the Khmer people in Kampot. Sit by the river at sunset and watch the stream of green fishing boats puttering out to sea for the night. [caption id="attachment_578340" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Ruben I via Flickr.[/caption] HAGGLE AT THE NIGHT MARKETS These markets start from about 4pm down near the durian roundabout and are worth a look — although, be warned, they're super dense and truly packed. Haggle hard, people. Top image: P W via Flickr.
There are few things in life that are better than pizza. That's an indisputable fact — but, as fantastic as pizza in general is, free pizza has it beat. And that's just what Small Print Pizza Bar is handing out at its Pizza in the Park Party. Taking place in Windsor's Victoria Gardens between 3–6pm on Sunday, October 28, the event will include free sourdough pizzas — including both vegan-friendly and meat-topped options — plus free house-made soft drinks and free games. Get cosy on a picnic blanket, try your hand at Finska or bocce, and, of course, eat pizza. The event will launch the return of Small Print Pizza Bar's pizza in the park delivery service, which is really exactly what it sounds like. If you're keen on having a picnic in Victoria Gardens over summer, you can order a pizza and the store will deliver it to you. It'll also loan you games or a frisbee for some added fun. Image: Small Print Pizza Bar.
Serving up homely yet modern takes on Indonesian fare on Franklin Street, Yoi is a family-run affair. It's helmed by Ibu Lie Tjoa along with her two sons Dion and Michael Sanusi who are together hoping to share a part of their culture, history and family traditions through their meals. On the menu, you'll find popular Indonesian dishes like mie tek tek ($10), a Hawker-style stir fried noodles; spicy beef rendang ($10.90); soto betawi (a coconut beef soup served with rice, $12.90); and fried chicken covered in Yoi's signature salted egg sauce ($12.90), which is best paired with a thick avocado smoothie ($4.50) or an iced teler ($5) made with avocado, jackfruit and coconut gel in a mix of coconut milk and sweetened condensed milk. Looking for something sweet? Martabak ($11.50), a thick stuffed pancake popular on the streets of Jakarta, comes with your choice of sweet and savoury fillings. The Indonesian classic and Yoi recommendation, however, is a combination of condensed milk, chocolate and cheese. Open for lunch or dinner on the bustling Franklin Street, Yoi is not only serving up a tasty feed, but it's doing so for cheap with everything on the menu under $20.
Mona Foma, MONA's wild and weird summer music and arts festival, is back for 2018. And it's set to eclipse all previous incarnations, with the festival adding a series of Launceston events to the usual Hobart lineup. The supercharged twin-city program will feature 11 days of thought-provoking performances, celebrating creativity in forms that defy categorisation. The expansion to Launceston offers a little taste of the festival's future — in 2019, Mofo will relocate to Launnie entirely. If you've never visited Launceston, Mofo is the perfect excuse to make a weekend trip to this gem of a town. While the festival will obviously keep your schedule pretty packed, you should definitely make some time to explore Mofo's future home. To guide you in the right direction, we've teamed up with Mazda3 to round-up the best places to eat, drink and lay your weary head. Go on, take a detour from the humdrum of daily existence and inject a little adventure into your life. [caption id="attachment_642025" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Harvest Market.[/caption] EAT AND DRINK Launceston is steadily gaining a reputation as a food destination. Visit some of the city's cafes and restaurants and you'll soon understand why. No visit to Launnie would be complete without a Saturday morning trip to the Harvest Market. This outdoor market, which blossoms in the summer months, features stall upon stall of fresh produce, baked goods and coffee. Get there early to nab a pastry from Sandy's Sourdough before they sell out and keep an eye out for the retro caravan, Wanderlust, which dishes up innovative vego meals. In need of a caffeine hit? Make your way to nearby Sweetbrew, a quaint cafe serving up some of the city's best coffee. If you're looking for a more substantial morning meal (you'll need the energy for all the Mofo craziness), Cuccina has you covered. And you'll fall hard for its legendary sweet chilli eggs. Cafe Mondello, with its all-day brekkie menu, is another great choice. In the evenings, the food trucks lined up along High Street are the perfect place for no-fuss dining — and you can take full advantage of the warm summer nights. Track down Turkish Tukka, for incredible kofte and gozleme, and The Crepe Caravan for its moreish Nutella pancakes. If you're after casual eats but prefer sitting at a table, make a beeline for Burger Got Soul. This insanely popular burger joint is famous for its veggie and chicken burgers — for very good reason. If you have a bigger budget, book in for a meal at Stillwater, one of Tassie's most lauded restaurants. Set in a historic mill, this Launceston stalwart dishes up impeccable fare year in, year out. Meat fanatic? Try Stillwater's sister restaurant, Black Cow Bistro, a local favourite known for its great steaks. DO Running from January 12 to 14, Mofo's first Launceston program features cutting-edge performances that are bound to set your mind on fire. Watch as Gotye join forces with the Ondioline Orchestra to pay homage to renowned French electronic composer, Jean-Jacques Perrey. This vibrant performance will be presented in a double bill with Skin Migration by Tannery, the Tasmanian Taiko and Leather Orchestra that makes mind-blowing sounds out of Japanese drums and leather instruments. Also hitting town is Monumental, a riotous dance performance by Canadian dance company, The Holy Body Tattoo, accompanied by music from post-rockers, Godspeed You! Black Emperor. Expect a raucous score, light sculptures and eclectic film projections. Rounding out the Launceston events is a massive free Block Party on January 14 (you'll just need to register on the website). There'll be music, art, drinks and wood-fired meats by MONA's Heavy Metal Kitchen. [caption id="attachment_642027" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Peppers Seaport Hotel.[/caption] STAY If you're in Launnie for Mofo, you'll probably want your accommodation to be right in the thick of things — to maximise the festive and adventurous atmosphere. For a comfortable stay that won't break the bank, the centrally-located Batman Fawkner Inn is a winner. The historic building was converted into a 40-room hotel with all the trimmings — air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and ensuite bathrooms. Prefer something fancier? Try the Areca Boutique Hotel. It has spacious rooms, comfy beds, stunning views over the city and Tamar Valley and it's still fairly affordable. If you're looking to splurge, book into the heritage Auldington Hotel. A convent in its previous life, this charming hotel boasts spacious rooms with contemporary furnishings and local art on the walls. Peppers Seaport Hotel, located on the waterfront, is another good choice. The rooms here have sweeping river views and are decorated — fittingly — with a nautical theme. Mona Foma 2018 will take place at venues across Launceston from January 12 to 14, at MONA from January 19 to 21 and across Hobart from January 15 to 22. Personalise your next adventure via The Playmaker, driven by Mazda3.
Leave a message for your family or roommate without having to scramble for a pen on your way out the door. Luc van Hoeckel's 'Record me' allows you to leave a personalised voice message as opposed to a haphazardly scribbled note. 'Record me' is wall-mountable and can save up to 12 messages at a time. To use, simply turn the dial to a free 'station', press the button, record your message, and press it once more. Messages may be deleted by holding down the same button. Leaving voice messages gives you the chance to be both fun and informative, allowing a quick 'I love you' to a significant other, or a reminder to your roommate get dinner started. 'Record me' ensures that you never have to ask "Did you get my note?" again. [via PSFK]
It's the most frightening time of the year — and one of the most fun. Whether Halloween means scares, silliness or both is up to you. Yep, you can choose your own spooky adventure. That certainly rings true this year, with Melbourne offering up plenty of options. Basically, however you choose to celebrate, somewhere around the city has you covered. From dead celeb dress up parties to haunting VR experiences, here's four Halloween events that'll get you into the spirit of the occasion.
Currently on display in Melbourne, the National Gallery of Victoria's world-first exhibition Keith Haring | Jean-Michel Basquiat: Crossing Lines is pegged to be one of the hot-ticket cultural events of this summer. But if browsing the two iconic artists' works on a wall just isn't enough, you're going to want to check out the latest line of threads from clothing retailer and sponsor Uniqlo. The Japanese brand has just unveiled its new Crossing Lines collection of t-shirts, inspired by key pieces from both Haring and Basquiat's own repertoires. Launching overseas this month before dropping in Australian stores in January — all as part of Uniqlo's UT range — the mens' and womens' collection is the result of a collaboration with the Basquiat Estate and creative consultants Artestar. And it's filled with famous designs from the two late art legends, translating a number of Haring and Basquiat's works into t-shirt form. You'll spy Haring's famed crawling baby figure, Basquiat's recognisable scrawl from his piece Untitled (World Famous) 1983, and the tribute crown symbol painted by Haring after Basquiat's death. The horseshoe sketch makes an appearance, as do the familiar wiggling outline figures, just like the ones Haring famously painted on a Collingwood wall back in 1984. It's not the first time Uniqlo has gotten behind a major art event with some fresh designs. The label's collaboration t-shirts with acclaimed American artist Kaws proved a sell-out success when they launched earlier this year, coinciding with NGV exhibition Kaws: Companionship in the Age of Loneliness. Uniqlo's Crossing Lines collection will hit Australian stores in January 2020. Keith Haring | Jean-Michel Basquiat: Crossing Lines is on display at the National Gallery of Victoria until April 13, 2020.
Screening at Melbourne's Classic Cinemas in Elsternwick and Lido Cinemas in Hawthorn between Thursday, February 16–Tuesday, March 7, Europa! Europa Film Festival is back for its second year, after debuting in 2022 with an impressive lineup. This time around, there's 29 movies on the bill from 24 different countries, covering everything from awards contenders to beloved masterpieces. Hailing from France, eco-thriller The Blaze will kick things off, while Europa! Europa 2023 will come to a close with the Judi Dench- and Jennifer Saunders-starring British drama Allelujah. In-between, the range of flicks includes fare from Italy, Estonia, Ukraine and Croatia, plus Georgia, Spain, Germany and Romania. The list goes on, with France particularly well-represented. Gallic cinema buffs, consider this your warm up for the upcoming Alliance Française French Film Festival. An absolute must-see, especially if you've never had the pleasure before on a big screen, is Krzysztof Kieślowski's Three Colours Trilogy. With Three Colours: Blue starring Juliette Binoche (The Staircase), Three Colours: Red led by Irène Jacob (The OA) and Three Colours: White focusing on Julie Delpy (the Before trilogy), this trio of masterpieces are among the most influential international films of the past three decades. Each one will show as a 4K restoration, too. Among the new titles, eight movies on Europa! Europa's bill were submitted as their country's entries for this year's Best International Feature Film Oscar. Highlights include Armenian documentary Aurora's Sunrise, which tells a 14-year-old genocide survivor's story; Safe Place from Croatia, which unfurls its story over 24 hours; and Moldova's dark comedy Carbon, about the effects of war. Or, there's Il Boemo from Czech Republic, which steps through opera composer Josef 'Il Boemo' Myslivecek's tale — and road-trip effort Orchestra from Slovenia. Elsewhere, illness drama More Than Ever stars Vicky Krieps (Bergman Island), alongside Gaspard Ulliel (Moon Knight) in his last role; La Vie En Rose director Olivier Dahan is still in biopic mode, with Simone: Woman of the Century telling French feminist icon Simone Veil's tale; Wunderschön, about five women in Germany, was the country's highest-grossing local film of the 2022 box office; and the Charlotte Gainsbourg (Sundown)-starring The Accusation heads Down Under after premiering at the Venice Film Festival.
They're taking the hobbits to Isengard at The Astor Theatre, the Lido Cinema and Cameo Cinemas this March and the Classic Cinema this April, with one movie marathon to rule them all. Round up the Fellowship, stock up on lembas bread for sustenance and hide your finest pipe-weed from the Southfarthing for one sitting of all three of Peter Jackson's beloved OG Tolkien film adaptations. Kicking off with The Fellowship of the Ring and ending with The Return of the King, this cave troll of a marathon clocks in at over nine hours plus intermissions — with the journey starting at 11am on Saturday, March 6 at The Astor, at 10.30am on Saturday, March 13 at the Lido and Cameo, and at the latter time on Saturday, April 3 at the Classic. If you make it through breakfast and second breakfast to the final handful of endings, you can pat yourself on the back and smash a ringwraith screech at the nearest person on your way home (note: do not actually screech at people). Tickets are the precious and come in at $25–30 for the whole ordeal. And, you'll be watching all three films in remastered 4K versions — so expect to see Middle Earth in more detail than you've seen in before. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_WZxJpHzEE
Are you sick of that friend in Docklands talking about their amazing balcony view of the fireworks? Well go one better on them and witness the show from the highest vantage point in the Southern Hemisphere. The Eureka Skydeck is usually the spot to take your out of town relatives but on NYE they will be holding an appropriately named party: Elevation. There will be DJs, roving entertainment, food and arguably the best fireworks view in Melbourne. Canapés and drinks are included with your ticket too, because when you’re up that high you shouldn’t have to worry about a thing.
It’s been 50 years since “I have a dream”, but Martin Luther King Jr’s legacy lives on in the Australian premiere of The Mountaintop. Katori Hall’s award-winning play blew away London and New York, with Samuel L. Jackson making his Broadway debut. Hall’s play is a vision of King’s last night before his assassination, set in a claustrophobic Memphis hotel room, where Camae — the bold young woman who brings his room service — forces him to confront his own fears and desires. King might be one of the most famous figures of the past century, but the work offers a rare, if imagined, insight into the private character behind his martyrdom and soaring rhetoric. In the Melbourne Theatre Company’s production Bert La Bonte and Zarah Newman take on this taut two-hander under the direction of Alkinos Tsilimidos, best known for his work in indie Australian cinema.
Did you get a new Pokémon onesie for Christmas? Well you are in luck because this NYE all Melbourne cosplayers will be converging on notoriously loose club Brown Alley for Cosparty 2013. The night will be full of interesting costumes and with a tag line of “rock out with your cosplay out” you know it doesn't take its self too seriously. For those unsure about what to wear, you are advised to dress up as your favourite character from anything – the more elaborate the better. Maybe you'll find your own Nurse Joy or Sailor Moon; a Hermione Granger to your Ron Weasley or some new Adventure Time comrades. Cosparty will be one of the few places (only place?) you'll have a chance of making out with Princess Peach at midnight.
The State Library's new café, dubbed Guild, has gained an operator, with the announcement that local business Almond Milk Co. will helm the space. Part of the library's $88m 2020 Vision redevelopment, Guild will open its doors on Friday, September 21. It will sit inside the Library's new Russell Street entrance space, Welcome Zone, a collaborative area that will also contain an expanded Readings bookshop. On the menu at Guild will be lunch staples: salads, sandwiches, Sensory Lab coffee and – of course – almond milk, both plain and flavoured. The cafe will also have coffee "day passes" for those ensconced in the Library, giving them the important lifeblood of caffeine via filter coffee — all day. As well as being Melbourne's largest distributor of almond milk, Almond Milk Co. has two cafes already running in Melbourne: one in Country Road, Brighton, and another in Husk, Toorak. This will be its first CBD digs and non-retail based outlet. And, that's not all for the State Library's facelift. In addition to Guild, the Library will also see two new entrances, new reading rooms and an event space with a kitchen. One of the redone entrances will be on Russell Street and the other will be an accessible entrance, on La Trobe. Both will be the main access points, upon opening, as the Swanston Street entrance will close temporarily for the second phase of the redevelopment – due to be finished by spring 2019. Guild will open its doors from 10am, Friday, September 21 at 285 Russell Street, Melbourne. Images: Lisa Crooke
It's time to put Dunkeld's Royal Mail Hotel back on your weekend getaway radar, as it has a new fine dining offering: Wickens at Royal Mail Hotel. Taking over a standalone space on the property, the remote restaurant is accessible by a bush trail the winds down from the hotel. It's been designed by Melbourne-based Byrne Architects to highlight its connection to its natural surroundings, with floor-to-ceiling windows capturing striking views of Mount Sturgeon and Mount Abrupt. Inside it's a luxe fusion of sheepskin leather, sandstone and Australian hardwood. This respect for the land is mirrored in Executive Chef Robin Wickens' hyper-local menu, which'll change up regularly, dictated by the daily haul from the on-site olive groves, orchard and 1.2-hectare organic kitchen garden. The garden-fresh goodies inspire textural plate additions like soils, foams, purées and vegetable infusions. Diners can enjoy the spoils via an ever-changing chef's tasting menu ($220), with a special chef's table in the kitchen available to groups of up to four. Unsurprising, given the Royal Mail's award-winning 25,000-bottle cellar, the booze side of things sure isn't lacking, with three expertly curated wine matches on offer as well. Get a taste of the largest privately-owned collection of Bordeaux and Burgundy in the southern hemisphere with the French match ($200), celebrate locality with the all-Australian wine match, or mix things up with the cellar wine match ($130). The restaurant is a replacement of sorts for the two-hatted Royal Mail Hotel dining room, which closed in early 2017. The hotel's casual diner Parker Street Project — which is a good spot for lunch if you're staying the night — has now taken over the space, which is connected to the hotel.
