Calling all Baby Yoda fans: the cutest little Jedi in a galaxy far, far away will be back on your screens come autumn. After streaming its second season back in 2020, The Mandalorian has been absent for a couple of years — and its adorable Grogu with it — but that'll finally change come Wednesday, March 1. As part of a spate of big announcements at Brazil Comic Con, including dropping trailers for Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, Disney has revealed the pivotal news that Star Wars devotees have been waiting for. With Andor wrapping up its first season, Disney+ viewers currently have a gap in their streaming schedules, but only for a couple of months. If you've somehow missed it before now, the Emmy-nominated show follows the titular bounty hunter (Pedro Pascal, The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent); however, it's his encounter with a fuzzy little creature first known as The Child, affectionately named Baby Yoda by everyone watching, and officially called Grogu, that's always had everyone talking. So, it comes as zero surprise that one of the Star Wars universe's best-ever double acts keeps being pushed into the spotlight — including when The Mandalorian dropped its first season-three trailer a few months back. That sneak peek confirmed Din Djarin and Grogu's big reunion, picking up where The Book of Boba Fett left off. But the events of the pair's past streaming adventures have consequences, including seeing The Mandalorian disowned by his fellow Mandalorians. It wouldn't be a Star Wars series if everyone got along — the 'wars' part is right there in the franchise name, after all. Accordingly, the first teaser nods to the obligatory battles, as well as the fallout when its namesake doesn't actually have that title any more. Oh, and plenty of Grogu, naturally. The Mandalorian and Grogu return March 1 only on @DisneyPlus. pic.twitter.com/h0NrVMIT4V — The Mandalorian (@themandalorian) December 1, 2022 Yes, the Star Wars universe certainly does sprawl far and wide these days, both within its tales and in its many different movies, shows, books and games. When this one first arrived in 2019, it started its story five years after Star Wars: Episode VI — Return of the Jedi. Also on offer across its run so far: a cast that's included everyone from Giancarlo Esposito (Better Call Saul), Carl Weathers (Toy Story 4), Taika Waititi and iconic filmmaker Werner Herzog through to Timothy Olyphant (Once Upon a Time in Hollywood), Rosario Dawson (DMZ), Katee Sackhoff (Another Life) and Temuera Morrison as Boba Fett. Check out the first trailer for The Mandalorian season three below: The Mandalorian's third season will hit Disney+ on Wednesday, March 1. Images: ©2022 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
There aren’t many cinemas in Melbourne where you can go to a Hairspray sing-a-long one day and the see The Thin Red Line the next. Actually there aren’t many cinemas where you can go to a sing-a-long full stop. The Astor Theatre in St Kilda really is one of a kind. Known and loved for playing classics and cult films with the random new release here and there, it’s a Melbourne institution. A true altar at which we can celebrate film. What better way to do this than by dressing up in your utility belt fineries and watching the 1966 Batman with Adam West? Yep, that’s right. It’s a dress up kind of affair. There are even prizes for the best costume. There can’t be many better ways to spend a Monday night. Grab your costume, your snacks, and an obliging friend to play Robin. This is happening.
Have you ever had one of those Sliding Doors moments? You miss the train by one second and spend an extra 20 minutes on the platform. How would your life have been different? What if you decide to go to that party you were dreading, only to meet someone who would later change your life forever? How can we know how our every day decisions will change the path of our lives? Generations, an interactive story telling game from Pop-Up Playground, explores just that. How will your decisions today affect your family, and their family and the many generations to follow? Hosted at The Owl and Pussycat, this game is going to make you question your next decision, or five.
If you consider yourself a Lord of the Rings fan — of JRR Tolkien's books, Peter Jackson's movies or both — then one TV series has sat at the top of your most-anticipated list for the past few years. That'd be Amazon Studios' new LOTR show, bringing the beloved property from the page to the cinema to your TV. A five-season series was first announced in 2017, then received the official go-ahead in mid-2018. In case anyone thought that the new program would just be a simple rehash, it was revealed back in 2019 that it wouldn't simply be remaking events already covered by the movies, with show's official Twitter account hinting at spending time in Middle-earth's Second Age. If you're a little rusty on your LOTR lore, the Second Age lasted for 3441 years, and saw the initial rise and fall of Sauron, as well as a spate of wars over the coveted rings. Elves feature prominently, and there's plenty to cover, even if Tolkien's works didn't spend that much time on the period — largely outlining the main events in an appendix to the popular trilogy. Knowing when the new series will be set is all well and good, but that description is still rather scarce on details. Thankfully, Amazon has now dropped an official synopsis for the show that provides more information. "Amazon Studios' forthcoming series brings to screens for the very first time the heroic legends of the fabled Second Age of Middle-earth's history," it confirms. "This epic drama is set thousands of years before the events of JRR Tolkien's The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, and will take viewers back to an era in which great powers were forged, kingdoms rose to glory and fell to ruin, unlikely heroes were tested, hope hung by the finest of threads, and the greatest villain that ever flowed from Tolkien's pen threatened to cover all the world in darkness." https://twitter.com/LOTRonPrime/status/1349519737655611392 Yes, you can expect Sauron to feature, and to give the show's main figures some trouble. "Beginning in a time of relative peace, the series follows an ensemble cast of characters, both familiar and new, as they confront the long-feared re-emergence of evil to Middle-earth," the official synopsis continues. "From the darkest depths of the Misty Mountains, to the majestic forests of the elf-capital of Lindon, to the breathtaking island kingdom of Númenor, to the furthest reaches of the map, these kingdoms and characters will carve out legacies that live on long after they are gone," it also advises. Exactly when Amazon's series will arrive on screens hasn't yet been revealed but, pre-pandemic, it was originally expected to drop sometime in 2021. It is currently in production, though — in New Zealand, of course. A huge number of cast members have been announced, however — plus some talent behind the scenes. Among the actors traversing Middle-earth are Tom Budge (Judy & Punch), Morfydd Clark (Saint Maud), Ismael Cruz Córdova (The Undoing), Joseph Mawle (Game of Thrones), Cynthia Addai-Robinson (The Accountant), Maxim Baldry (Years and Years), Peter Mullan (Westworld), Benjamin Walker (Jessica Jones) and comedian Lenny Henry. And, the series is being overseen by showrunners and executive producers JD Payne and Patrick McKay, while filmmaker JA Bayona (A Monster Calls, Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom) directs the first two episodes. Amazon's new Lord of the Rings series will hit screens sometime in the future — we'll update you with release details when they come to hand.
Celebrated American concept artist Joseph Kosuth heads to our shores this year as one of the featured artists for Melbourne Festival 2017. After emerging during the 1960s, Kosuth has been examining the nature of art with large-scale installations and text-based neon artworks for more than 50 years. Interested in the ideas behind art itself, Kosuth's work is held in virtually every major gallery in the world and has created site-specific installations for Musée du Louvre, The Hague and presented work at four editions of the Venice Biennale. Taking place at Anna Schwartz Gallery, A Short History of My Thought continues Kosuth's lifelong investigation of art's ability to provide insights into questions of existence, and how we art can better help understand how meaning is constructed and interpreted in our lives. Joseph Kosuth: A Short History of My Thought is on display now as part of Melbourne Festival 2017, showing until Saturday, November 25. Image: Neon, Joseph Kosuth (1965), white neon mounted directly on the wall, 12x40cm.
2019 is shaping up to be a mighty big year for Elton John. Biopic Rocketman launches into cinemas in May, starring Kingsman's Taron Egerton as the singer and covering his wild 70s antics. The live-action version of The Lion King hits screens come July, featuring the musician's iconic tunes from the original, as well as new songs. And to cap it all off, the star himself is headed our way at the end of the year for a huge farewell tour. Bringing his 300-stop Farewell Yellow Brick Road shows to Australia and New Zealand between November 2019 and February 2020, John has announced 18 concerts across more than two months — including gigs in capital cities, a number of regional dates, and shows at A Day on the Green. More concerts, including shows in north Queensland, will be announced later this year. He kicked off the extensive tour last September, embarking on a three-year global goodbye trip. When it comes to an end, he'll retire from touring after five decades on the road. If that all sounds rather massive, that's John's career in a nutshell. He's played more than 4000 shows across his career, has sold more than 300 million records worldwide and holds the record for the biggest-selling single of all time thanks to the 1997 version of 'Candle in the Wind'. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DtVBCG6ThDk Fans can expect to feel the love through all of his hits, including 'Rocket Man', 'Tiny Dancer' 'Bennie and the Jets', 'Crocodile Rock', 'I'm Still Standing' and 'Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting' — especially the latter, you'd expect, on his six Saturday shows. The concerts will also feature never-before-seen images and videos show from John's 50-year career, which'll be displayed throughout the show, as well as a new tour wardrobe designed by Gucci. ELTON JOHN 'FAREWELL YELLOW BRICK ROAD' 2019 TOUR DATES Perth — Saturday, November 30, 2019 and Sunday, December 1, 2019 at HBF Park Adelaide — Wednesday, December 4, 2019 at Botanic Park Melbourne — Tuesday, December 10, 2019 and Wednesday, December 11, 2019 at Rod Laver Arena Brisbane — Wednesday, December 18, 2019 at Brisbane Entertainment Centre Sydney — Saturday, December 21, 2019 and Monday, December 23, 2019 at ICC Sydney Theatre, plus Tuesday, January 7, 2020 at Qudos Bank Arena Hunter Valley — Saturday, January 11, 2020 at Hope Estate Mount Cotton — Saturday, January 18, 2020 at Sirromet Wines Bathurst — Wednesday, January 22, 2020 at Carrington Park Woodend — Saturday, January 25, 2020 at Hanging Rock Rutherglen — Wednesday, January 29, 2020 at All Saints Estate Yarra Valley — Friday, January 31, 2020 at Rochford Wines Dunedin — Tuesday, February 4, 2020 at Forsyth Barr Stadium Hawke's Bay — Saturday, February 8, 2020 at Mission Estate Winery Auckland — Sunday, February 9, 2020 at Mt Smart Stadium Tickets for Elton John's Australian capital city and New Zealand shows are available from 9am (local time) on Thursday, February 14, 2019, with all other concerts available from 9am (local time) on Friday, February 15, 2019. Visit oznz.eltonjohn.com for further details, as well as information about pre-sales. Image: Ben Gibson.
Missing your regular trips to the cinema? Not only hankering for a big-screen movie, but the snacks that go along with it? You can order some direct to your door — or, if you feel like combining your choc tops and popcorn with a trip out of the house, you can head down to Cinema Nova from 12–3pm on Saturday, May 9. For three hours, the Carlton picture palace is opening its doors to sell ice creams and salty popped kernels of corn — with choc tops on offer for $2 a pop, and popcorn at regular prices. You'll also score a free movie poster with your purchase, although you might want to get in quick as they're only available while stocks last. https://www.facebook.com/CinemaNova/photos/a.302990409758427/3006126462778128/?type=3&theater Cinema Nova will be operating under social-distancing requirements — so you can pick up some snacks and stay safe. You'll only be able to collect your choc tops and popcorn from the candy bar, for takeaway only, with card payments requested. Expect to queue up at social-distancing markers, and to find plenty of hand sanitiser on hand. If you're choosing to go out and support local businesses, have a look at the latest COVID-19 advice and social-distancing guidelines from the Department of Health.
Feel like you already need a vacation to get over your yet-to-start Christmas vacation? As merry and jolly as the festive season is, all that fun, shopping, eating, drinking and partying in such a short space of time can have that impact. So, if that's your current vibe, you're not alone. And thanks to Jetstar, you can now make cheap post-Christmas holiday plans — as in $39 for domestic fares and $175 for international flights cheap, and to The Whitsundays, Byron Bay, the Gold Coast, Japan, Hawaii, Thailand, Bali and more. The Australian airline has just launched its 'post-Chrissy recovery' sale — and yes, technically it's a pre-Christmas post-Chrissy recovery' sale given the timing. Whatever you want to call it, it's an excuse to grab that suitcase and get excited about the getaway that'll help you recover from Christmas. Running from 12am AEDT on Thursday, December 8 till 11.59pm AEDT on Monday, December 12— or until sold out, if everything gets snapped up earlier — the sale's list of destinations is impressive just like the supremely affordable prices. Those starting fares cover Sydney to Byron Bay (from $39) and Sydney to Auckland (from $175), but the full list includes Brisbane to Proserpine from $59, Melbourne to the Gold Coast from $49, Cairns to Osaka from $259 and the Gold Coast to Tokyo from $299. Also on offer: Melbourne to Bali from $199, Melbourne to Phuket from $219, Sydney to Ho Chi Minh City from $195 and Sydney to Honolulu from $229. Yes, the list goes on. You will need to be happy to wait till around mid-2023 for your post-Christmas vacation, however. Dates for sale flights vary depending on the departure and arrival points, but expect to travel between early May and mid-September. There are a few rules, as is always the case. All sale fares are one-way, and they don't include checked baggage — so you'll need to travel super light or pay extra to take a suitcase. But, if you're a Club Jetstar member, you'll get the jump on the sale — with access from 12pm AEDT on Wednesday, December 7 until midnight. Jetstar's 'post-Chrissy recovery' sale runs from 12am AEDT on Thursday, December 8 till 11.59pm AEDT on Monday, December 12— or until sold out, if snapped up earlier. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
Each year we anticipate the arrival of December 25. Because of the day off, the promise of an afternoon spent dozing in a hammock — and the arrival of Messina's annual Christmas cake. And while the gelato gods last year went for a huge edible Christmas bauble-shaped creation, they've decided to make 2016's cake slightly more political. Enter The Lockout Claus. This epic ice cream cake — shaped like a round Santa Clause trying to fit down a chimney, if you didn't completely see it the first time — is Messina's delicious festive response to Sydney's lockout laws. The Sydney-founded gelato chain have been vocal supporters of the Keep Sydney Open campaign this year, and even though slight changes to the laws were announced last week, they evidently still think Santa's at risk of getting locked out on Christmas Eve. So what's in the cake? Well, cutting open Santa's jolly belly will reveal layers of salted caramel gelato with cherry sorbet, chewy caramel, chocolate mousse and chocolate sponge. Plus, it comes with a jug of vanilla brandy custard to pour over the hefty slice of cake you'll serve yourself up. The cake, which serves 12-14 (or less if you really commit), costs $90 and can be ordered for pickup between December 21 and Christmas Eve. In Sydney you can pick one up from their Rosebery, Darlinghurst, Bondi, Miranda and Parramatta stores. If you're in Melbourne you can get one from their Fitzroy or Windsor outposts — and, sweeter still, you can eat it knowing you can still go out and party all night too. The Lockout Claus is available to order at gelatomessina.com.
This part of the multiverse mightn't boast chefs controlled by raccoons, talking rocks and hot dog fingers, but it has turned a mind-bending movie spanning all of the above into one of the year's big awards contenders. Everything Everywhere All At Once is one 2022's very best movies, too, and it might soon have some shining trophies for its troubles from the 2023 Golden Globes. Awards season is upon us again, because the end of the year doesn't just mean all things jolly and merry — and the beginning of the new year isn't just about fresh starts and resolutions you likely won't keep, either. The Golden Globes will unveil its latest batch of winners on Wednesday, January 11 Australian and New Zealand time, but its just-announced list of nominees features plenty to get excited about, including a heap of 2022's must-see movies and TV shows. While the Oscars cover films and the Emmys focus on television, the Golden Globes spread its gongs across both formats, meaning that big-screen hits like Elvis and Top Gun: Maverick have scored some love, and so have small-screen favourites such as Severance and Wednesday. Topping the nominations on the movie side is standout Irish comedy The Banshees of Inisherin, including nods for stars Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson. School-set sitcom Abbott Elementary — think Parks and Recreation, but in a Philadelphia public school — leads the TV contenders. Reuniting Farrell, Gleeson and their In Bruges director Martin McDonagh, The Banshees of Inisherin nabbed eight noms, with Everything Everywhere All at Once picking up five, including for actors Michelle Yeoh, Ke Huy Quan and Jamie Lee Curtis. Next on the list, Damien Chazelle's Babylon and Steven Spielberg's The Fabelmans each turned their love letters to cinema into five nominations. On the small screen, Abbott Elementary picked up five nods, followed by The White Lotus, DAHMER — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, The Crown, Pam & Tommy and Only Murders in the Building with four each. Other highlights include Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery scoring a nomination for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, and Daniel Craig for Best Actor in the same category; Emma Thompson's Best Actress nod in the same genre for Good Luck to You, Leo Grande; both Decision to Leave and RRR among the non-English language picks; and Angela Bassett receiving some Best Supporting Actress love for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. And, there's The Bear picking up two noms (including for lead Jeremy Allen White) in the TV fields, Diego Luna's Andor nomination, Zendaya's Euphoria nod and Better Call Saul's final season being recognised, too. Although there's plenty to celebrate among this year's contenders — including a hefty showing for Australians, including Baz Luhrmann's Best Director nom for Elvis, and Cate Blanchett, Margot Robbie, Hugh Jackman and Elizabeth Debicki all picking up acting nominations (for Tár, Bablyon, The Son and The Crown, respectively) — the Globes are sadly back to ignoring women directors. If you're wondering what else is in the running, here's the full list of nominations: GOLDEN GLOBE NOMINEES: BEST MOTION PICTURE — DRAMA Avatar: The Way of Water Elvis The Fabelmans Tár Top Gun: Maverick BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE — DRAMA Cate Blanchett, Tár Olivia Colman, Empire of Light Viola Davis, The Woman King Ana de Armas, Blonde Michelle Williams, The Fabelmans BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE — DRAMA Austin Butler, Elvis Brendan Fraser, The Whale Hugh Jackman, The Son Bill Nighy, Living Jeremy Pope, The Inspection BEST MOTION PICTURE — MUSICAL OR COMEDY Babylon The Banshees of Inisherin Everything Everywhere All at Once Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery Triangle of Sadness BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE — MUSICAL OR COMEDY Lesley Manville, Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris Margot Robbie, Babylon Anya Taylor-Joy, The Menu Emma Thompson, Good Luck to You, Leo Grande Michelle Yeoh, Everything Everywhere All at Once BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE — MUSICAL OR COMEDY Diego Calva, Babylon Daniel Craig, Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery Adam Driver, White Noise Colin Farrell, The Banshees of Inisherin Ralph Fiennes, The Menu BEST MOTION PICTURE — ANIMATED Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio Inu-Oh Marcel the Shell With Shoes On Puss in Boots: The Last Wish Turning Red BEST MOTION PICTURE — NON-ENGLISH LANGUAGE All Quiet on the Western Front Argentina, 1985 Close Decision to Leave RRR BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN ANY MOTION PICTURE Angela Bassett, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Kerry Condon, The Banshees of Inisherin Jamie Lee Curtis, Everything Everywhere All at Once Dolly De Leon, Triangle of Sadness Carey Mulligan, She Said BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN ANY MOTION PICTURE Brendan Gleeson, The Banshees of Inisherin Barry Keoghan, The Banshees of Inisherin Brad Pitt, Babylon Ke Huy Quan, Everything Everywhere All at Once Eddie Redmayne, The Good Nurse BEST DIRECTOR — MOTION PICTURE James Cameron, Avatar: The Way of Water Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, Everything Everywhere All at Once Baz Luhrmann, Elvis Martin McDonagh, The Banshees of Inisherin Steven Spielberg, The Fabelmans BEST SCREENPLAY — MOTION PICTURE Todd Field, Tár Daniel Kwan, Daniel Scheinert, Everything Everywhere All at Once Martin McDonagh, The Banshees of Inisherin Sarah Polley, Women Talking Steven Spielberg, Tony Kushner, The Fabelmans BEST ORIGINAL SCORE — MOTION PICTURE Carter Burwell, The Banshees of Inisherin Alexandre Desplat, Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio Hildur Guðnadóttir, Women Talking Justin Hurwitz, Babylon John Williams, The Fabelmans BEST ORIGINAL SONG — MOTION PICTURE 'Carolina' by Taylor Swift, Where the Crawdads Sing 'Ciao Papa' by Alexandre Desplat, Guillermo del Toro, Roeban Katz, Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio 'Hold My Hand' by Lady Gaga, BloodPop, Benjamin Rice, Top Gun: Maverick 'Lift Me Up' by Tems, Rihanna, Ryan Coogler, Ludwig Göransson, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever 'Naatu Naatu' by Kala Bhairava, M.M. Keeravani, Kala Bhairava, Rahul Sipligunj, RRR BEST TELEVISION SERIES — DRAMA Better Call Saul The Crown House of the Dragon Ozark Severance BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION SERIES — DRAMA Emma D'Arcy, House of the Dragon Laura Linney, Ozark Imelda Staunton, The Crown Hilary Swank, Alaska Daily Zendaya, Euphoria BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES — DRAMA Jeff Bridges, The Old Man Kevin Costner, Yellowstone Diego Luna, Andor Bob Odenkirk, Better Call Saul Adam Scott, Severance BEST TELEVISION SERIES — MUSICAL OR COMEDY Abbott Elementary The Bear Hacks Only Murders in the Building Wednesday BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION SERIES — MUSICAL OR COMEDY Quinta Brunson, Abbott Elementary Kaley Cuoco, The Flight Attendant Selena Gomez, Only Murders in the Building Jenna Ortega, Wednesday Jean Smart, Hacks BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES — MUSICAL OR COMEDY Donald Glover, Atlanta Bill Hader, Barry Steve Martin, Only Murders in the Building Martin Short, Only Murders in the Building Jeremy Allen White, The Bear BEST TELEVISION LIMITED SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION Black Bird DAHMER — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story The Dropout Pam & Tommy The White Lotus BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A LIMITED SERIES OR A MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION Jessica Chastain, George and Tammy Julia Garner, Inventing Anna Lily James, Pam & Tommy Julia Roberts, Gaslit Amanda Seyfried, The Dropout BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A LIMITED SERIES OR A MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION Taron Egerton, Black Bird Colin Firth, The Staircase Andrew Garfield, Under the Banner of Heaven Evan Peters, Dahmer — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story Sebastian Stan, Pam & Tommy BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A LIMITED SERIES, ANTHOLOGY SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION Jennifer Coolidge, The White Lotus Claire Danes, Fleishman Is in Trouble Daisy Edgar-Jones, Under the Banner of Heaven Niecy Nash, Dahmer — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story Aubrey Plaza, The White Lotus BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A LIMITED SERIES, ANTHOLOGY SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION F. Murray Abraham, The White Lotus Domhnall Gleeson, The Patient Paul Walter Hauser, Black Bird Richard Jenkins, Dahmer — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story Seth Rogen, Pam & Tommy BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A MUSICAL-COMEDY OR DRAMA TELEVISION SERIES Elizabeth Debicki, The Crown Hannah Einbinder, Hacks Julia Garner, Ozark Janelle James, Abbott Elementary Sheryl Lee Ralph, Abbott Elementary BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A MUSICAL-COMEDY OR DRAMA TELEVISION SERIES John Lithgow, The Old Man Jonathan Pryce, The Crown John Turturro, Severance Tyler James Williams, Abbott Elementary Henry Winkler, Barry The 2023 Golden Globes will be announced on Wednesday, January 11 Australian and New Zealand time. For further details, head to the awards' website.
There's nothing like a big, outdoor screen and a sky full of stars to get you feeling all nostalgic. Movie night is on the cards this week — take it alfresco and get your film fix at Coburg Drive-In. This suburban icon is the stuff of old-school movie magic, so load up the car like it's the 1950s and get going. Of course, no film-watching experience is complete without some killer snacks on hand, which means a pre-movie pit-stop at the suburb's ever-popular Half Moon Cafe is a must. Trust us, the Egyptian-style falafels that fly from this kitchen are a revelation. If that fails, the drive-in's on-site retro diner-candy bar is a great option. Images: Brook James.
Remember a time when holidays used to feel endless and the nagging anxiety of an overflowing inbox was a foreign concept? If you're struggling to recover this feeling of unhindered expectation and excitement, wind the clock back to simpler times by charting out a holiday that chases the kind of unbridled joy you used to feel as a kid. Because being an adult doesn't mean you have to stop having fun. Seek out spectral encounters on a ghost tour, conquer the wildest waterpark rides, cuddle rare animals or hit the waves at surf school. Whatever kind of youthful magic you're looking to revive, one of these trip ideas is sure to speak to your inner kid.
The transfixing terrain of Mads Mikkelsen's face has been cast against formidably frosty and inhospitable climes before, weathering mirroring weathering. Sporting a piercing and determined glint in his eye, the Danish acting great has previously surveyed the Scandinavian landscape, too, seeing possibility where others spot peril. It was true in Arctic, in Valhalla Rising and now in The Promised Land: there's no stare as mesmerisingly resolute as his. When Ludvig Kahlen, Mikkelsen's latest character, insists that he can do what no one else has done — to begin with: settling the heath on the heather-covered Jutland moorland and building a colony for the king, a feat considered virtually impossible in the mid-18th century — doubting him isn't a possibility for anyone in the movie's audience. The BAFTA-nominated Another Round star has danced in historical drama territory for his countryman director Nikolaj Arcel in the past as well, with the pair reteaming after 2012's Oscar-nominated A Royal Affair. A different king sits on the throne in this film, Frederick V instead of Christian VII; however, the regal shadow remains inescapable. This time, Mikkelsen and Arcel tell not of a doctor influencing a monarch and a country, but of a soldier aligning his quest for a better future with a sovereign's wish, and learning what it means to chase a dream only to realise that you need something less tangible. Kahlen's attempt to farm land considered barren is equally a battle against entitlement and arrogance thanks to his clash with Frederik de Schinkel (Simon Bennebjerg, Borgen), a cruel local magistrate who contends that the king's land is his own — and feels far enough away from Copenhagen for there not to be any consequences for his claim. A survivalist story, an underdog tale, an eat-the-rich narrative, a fierce repudiation of ill-earned senses of superiority, a journey of discovery: they all fertilise this potent Nordic picture, as do all of the hallmarks of a western. Jutland provides the plains. Kahlen and de Schinkel tussle over their conquering — one with what's best for the community in mind, the other only seeking their own power and glory. Based on Ida Jessen's 2020 book The Captain and Ann Barbara, The Promised Land isn't so simplistic as to make Kahlen the portrait of selflessness. Indeed, this isn't a naive film for a second. Instead, even with renown also on the line for its protagonist, it spies the vast chasm between the illegitimate son of a landowner and a servant who toiled in the military for 25 years to receive the title of captain and is now willing to keep scrapping to secure his lot in life, and the born-to-money and -means pomposity lorded over everyone in reach by someone that knows nothing of hard work, struggle and duty, and only of selfishly getting their own way. (Bastarden aka The Bastard is the movie's original Danish-language moniker.) The year is 1755 when Kahlen petitions Frederick V for the right to make what he can of the moors, a request only granted by the royal underlings because they think that the task is unattainable but it'll appease the king that an effort is being made. On the land itself, doubt also reigns supreme. Only the resident clergyman (Gustav Lindh, The Northman) shows any faith in Kahlen's mission. Finding workers to assist is also virtually impossible due to de Schinkel, who has the county cloaked in fear and its peasants indentured on his own turf. It's illegal for anyone to take on those who have fled the tyrant, but in the married Johannes (Morten Hee Andersen, Carmen Curlers) and Ann Barbara (Amanda Collin, Raised by Wolves), Kahlen takes a chance anyway. While it's also forbidden to enlist the Romani people, who first send the young Anmai Mus (debutant Melina Hagberg) to get pilfering on Kahlen's patch, that's another gambit soon made. Arcel has much to dig through in Anders Thomas Jensen's latest screenplay to star Mikkelsen — see also: Flickering Lights, Adam's Apples, After the Wedding, The Salvation, Men & Chicken and Riders of Justice — especially as de Schinkel keeps throwing his weight around as egotistical manchildren do, and as the ways in which exploitation, classism and racism shape the societal status quo push to the fore. With Kahlen, including as he gets caught between his new nemesis and the latter's Norwegian cousin Edel Helene (Kristine Kujath Thorp, Sick of Myself), the filmmaker makes a crucial storytelling choice, though: rarely peering far away from either Mikkelsen or the Danish scenery. Westerns fix their eyes on faces and frontiers because they're each sights that can unfurl an entire history in a mere look; in this feature's majestic imagery, which spans sweeping vistas and soulful close-ups alike, nothing says more than intently scrutinising its star and his surroundings. As classical as The Promised Land feels in an old-school, they-don't-often-make-them-like-this-anymore fashion — and with the route there proving more of a surprise than the destination as well — there's a slipperiness to Mikkelsen's involvement, too, thanks to a career spent playing everything from Bond antagonists and Hannibal Lecter to The Hunt's persecuted teacher. Even in a film with a clear villain that isn't his character, he isn't in the business of painting solely in black and white. In fact, nor should he when Kahlen can be stubborn, stern, beyond stoic, and quick to cast others aside in the name of settling the hearth and taking potato farming nearly as seriously as in The Martian at almost any cost. Absolutely nothing is formulaic about the feeling and complexity that Mikkelsen brings to a role, including this, one of his best performances — and again and again, he gives the screen the epitome of what a layered and complicated portrayal should be. With Collin and scene-stealing first-timer Hagberg especially, The Promised Land's lead has excellent on-screen company. In smaller but no less pivotal parts, each conveys perseverance and strength to match Kahlen's, as tinted with the added weight of being women, peasants and Romani in a time and place with no care for any of the above. This film's main trio, its makeshift family, inhabit an existence where little sprouts for those beyond the one percent that isn't tended to fastidiously, furiously and like their very being depended upon it. Among its many highlights, stepping reflecting the present bears plenty of fruit for this grand and gripping picture.
For most of us, films are synonymous with food and drink. Okay, so we're talking about popcorn and paper cups of watery Diet Coke — but sometimes we do like to also dine out at some of Melbourne's fine establishments for a much needed pre-film feed or a post-movie nightcap and plot deconstruction. With the Melbourne International Film Festival kicking off on July 28, it's time to start planning your eating schedule as well as your screening times. And to make things easier in the mad rush from cinema to cinema, we've put together a list of the best eats and drinks conveniently close to the festival's main venues: The Forum, ACMI, Kino and Melbourne Central Hoyts. So whether you need sustenance in the 45 minute gap between your third and fourth screenings for the day or you want to sit down for dinner and cocktails before a 9pm screening, here's where you can drink and dine and still get there before the opening credits start rolling. DRINK LOOP ROOF MIFF time isn't traditionally rooftop season, but, luckily, Loop Roof has been fitted with gas heaters and a large awning shielding the seats from possible downpours, making it the perfect rooftop bar in-between films. Succulents line the edges of the rooftop oasis, perfectly framing the magnificent view over busy Meyers Place. Elbow your way into one of the tight booth seats with a group of friends or pounce on one of the many garden tables for a few drinks before making your way to Kino. MARY FORTUNE If you're dragging yourself out of the house to see a film in the cold, you may as well indulge in a cocktail or two too. Flinders Lane bar Mary Fortune has teamed up with Grey Goose to create a film-themed cocktail list especially for MIFF. Bibulous film lovers can swing by the upstairs bar any time after 5pm throughout the festival, where they'll find a number of cinema-themed cocktails, including the beef bacon and thyme-infused Dick Tracy, the Bloody Pulp Fiction (with spiced tomato juice, no less), a hazelnut and butter martini named The Man with the Golden Goose, and classy A Streetcar Named Desire, which stars the Amarena cherry. If you want the full fancy film-goers' experience though, order the classic Grey Goose Le Grand Fizz, which is a simple concoction of vodka and St Germain. UNION ELECTRIC Before (or after) you enter a dark room for two to three hours, tuck yourself away in one of Melbourne's cuddly little alcoholic concaves at Union Electric. Behind the mossy green door, Huw Griffiths runs a bar rich in charm and quirky ambiance. What makes Union Electric so great is that you can actually buy a few drinks without draining your wallet. Select from the creative cocktail menu or choose one of the local and imported wines, ciders and beers. Sip them all in the outdoor smoke-free courtyard, which, shielded by a mammoth four-storey brick wall on one side and the undercover bar on the other, is cosy day and night. EAU DE VIE If you can find it, Eau de Vie is one of the best cocktail bars in Melbourne. Down Malthouse Lane, next to a hotel car park, slip through the large wooden door and enter a new world. An intimate cosy space, it's the kind of world where you feel as though you could find yourself sitting next to Jay Gatsby or Mr Fitzgerald himself. Choose a spot at the bar, or perhaps retire to one of the more private booths towards the back. Just don't forget about your film — both The Forum and Kino Cinemas are nearby. MADAME BRUSSELS Everything at Madame Brussels, from the pink walls to the fabric flowers which line the white wooden arches of the bar, will have you turning your lips up in joy — even if you've been here a million times. And that's without even tasting one of their cocktails. Nab a seat in one of the curled iron chairs in the hedged bar, or brave the elements out on the AstroTurfed terrace. It's really the best place to do it. But while you're downing a teapot of cocktails, just remember you'll have to descend the stairs to make it to your movie in one piece. EAT SAKE FLINDERS LANE Because the walk from Hamer Hall to The Forum was just a few steps too far, we're real happy Sake have opened up shop on Flinders Lane. This latest incarnation takes over the former digs of the short-lived Woody P, and offers a good alternative to Chin Chin when their waitlist almost certainly means missing the movie (which is most of the time). The space boasts that trademark Saké wow-factor, incorporating a chic designer fit-out and sleek open kitchen, but it also a basement cocktail lounge perfect for a drink and some quick dins. Plus, you can grab a great bowl of ramen up until 2am, so you can drop in for a feed even after a super late screening. FONDA FLINDERS LANE If you're looking for something fun, fast, bright and loud, then Fonda fits the bill. While their 200-seat Flinders Lane restaurant is a little overwhelming, you'll be fed delicious tacos, guacamole and cheesy corn cobs and served up frozen margaritas at lightning speed. It's the perfect precursor to popcorn. LONGRAIN This one's for when you want to make a night of it. You've got a 9.30pm session? Book at a table for 6pm and take your time eating your way through the dynamite Thai menu. Despite the big windows, this place is cosy (especially on a rainy night) and only a short laneway walk from your table to the cinema. SHANDONG MAMA MINI Dumplings and a movie is a guaranteed ride to good time town. Especially when its ShanDong Mama dumplings and a MIFF film. These guys do some of the best vegan dumplings in the city. Unfortunately everyone knows this and the place is tiny, so getting a seat is highly contested. But worth it. So, so worth it. Only open until 8pm though — so you'll have to go before the movie. SUPERNORMAL If you're planning on coming for a full three-course meal, making a booking in advance. But if you find yourself on Flinders Lane looking for a snack (like, say, a lobster roll), a drink (some sake?) or dessert (peanut butter parfait, no doubt about it), try your luck for a seat at the bar pre- or post- film. To celebrate the 65th Melbourne International Film Festival, the generous guys at Grey Goose are giving away two double passes to the MIFF Opening Night Gala on Thursday, July 28. The event will kick off with a premiere screening of Melbourne director Cris Jones' The Death and Life of Otto Bloom, followed by a party at Hamer Hall. To enter, head over here. By the Concrete Playground team.
At the age of 22, Billie Eilish has nine Grammys, two Oscars, a couple of huge albums with a third set to hit in May 2024 and, ever since her first record When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? proved such a huge success, all-round music sensation status. She also has a brand-new just-announced world tour about to do the rounds, including to Australia in 2025 — with the 'Bad Guy' and 'Happier Than Ever' singer heading Down Under for three huge weeks. Eilish will spend close to a week in each of Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, playing four shows apiece in all three cities. She's spreading out her gigs on each leg, doing two nights back to back, then taking an evening off, then doing two more consecutively. [caption id="attachment_952889" align="alignnone" width="1920"] William Drumm[/caption] The dates: from Tuesday, February 18–Wednesday, February 19 and then Friday, February 21–Saturday, February 22 in Brisbane; Monday, February 24–Tuesday, February 25 and then Thursday, February 27–Friday, February 28 in Sydney; and Tuesday, March 4—Wednesday, March 5 and then Friday, March 7–Saturday, March 8 in Melbourne. This is an arena tour, with Eilish heading to Brisbane Entertainment Centre when she's in the Sunshine State capital, Qudos Bank Arena in the Harbour City and Rod Laver Arena for her Victorian stint. [caption id="attachment_827919" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Crommelincklars via Flickr[/caption] Eilish toured Australia in 2019 and 2022, and her fame has only gotten bigger since the latter — hence the 12 Aussie shows announced off the bat. These are the only gigs that she'll be playing on her Aussie visit, with no others set to be added, so getting in ASAP when tickets go on sale is recommended. Pre-sales start from Wednesday, May 1, with general sales from Friday, May 3 at 1pm AEST for Sydney shows, 2pm AEST for Brisbane and 3pm AEST for Melbourne. Since her last tour for her second album Happier Than Ever, Eilish has acted in TV series Swarm and seen her track 'What Was I Made For?' from the Barbie soundtrack become one of the songs of 2023. Her third record Hit Me Hard and Soft, which her new tour is in support of, releases on Friday, May 17. Billie Eilish Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour Australian Dates 2025: Tuesday, February 18–Wednesday, February 19 + Friday, February 21–Saturday, February 22 — Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane Monday, February 24–Tuesday, February 25 + Thursday, February 27–Friday, February 28 — Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney Tuesday, March 4—Wednesday, March 5 + Friday, March 7–Saturday, March 8 — Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Billie Eilish's Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour will come to Australia in February and March 2025, with ticket pre-sales from Wednesday, May 1 and general sales from Friday, May 3 (at 1pm AEST for Sydney shows, 2pm AEST for Brisbane and 3pm AEST for Melbourne). Head to the tour website for further details. Top image: Raph_PH via Flickr.
When The Simpsons first found its way into viewers' hearts, it also made its way to the top of the charts. Yes, back in 1991, 'Do the Bartman' hit number one in Australia. Both before and since, the hit animated sitcom hasn't shied away from crooning a tune or two — and if you've now got "Dr Zaius, Dr Zaius, ohhhhh Dr Zaius" or "Who holds back the electric car? Who made Steve Guttenburg a star?" stuck in your head, then you know what we're talking about. The show has sung many a song, and also released many an album — and it's 1997's Songs in The Key of Springfield that's in the spotlight at this Melbourne show of the same name. One night. One huge record. So many catchy songs. That's what's on the agenda from 8pm on Wednesday, April 24. Sing along to everything from 'Can I Borrow a Feeling?' to 'See My Vest' to 'We Put The Spring in Springfield' as they're performed live by Boadz. Tickets cost $15 in advance and $20 on the night, with the tunes going down at The Toff in Town.
`Get your best frocks, glitter eye shadow and party shoes ready as the biggest celebration of the year is about to go down: New Year's Eve. Now, Melburnians, don't fret if you won't be up north on a beach or in front of the Eiffel Tower when all the clocks tick over to start the new year — plenty is going on right here in your home city (the best city, in our humble opinion). From hidden bars to masquerade and garden parties, Melbourne has it all, complete with endless flowing booze, of course. Whatever your vibe is for the night, there's an event to cater to it, so we've teamed up with Australian Venue Co. to bring you ten stellar options. Say goodbye to 2019 and bring in 2020 surrounded by bright-eyed partygoers and a few of your nearest and dearest.
As sibling to esteemed fine diner Vue de Monde, Lui Bar holds a reputation for serving up innovative, artful eats and drinks. But for the next few weeks, it's dialling that celebration of creativity up a few notches, teaming up with the Victorian College of the Arts for new weekend series, Creative Sundays. From 4pm each Sunday, until June 12, the Level 55 bar will be dishing up a special weekly curation of music and libations from an exciting cast of emerging talent. Firstly, a cocktail menu takeover by Head Bartender Elisabetta Luppi and her crew will see you sipping your way through an exclusive lineup of inventive, never-before-seen concoctions. Then, from 7pm, you're in for an intimate live set by one of the talented up-and-comers from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music. The gigs are set to showcase a different artist each week, with a host of musical genres featured throughout the series. Lui Bar's usual menu of primo snacks will also be on offer, including the cult-favourite sausage rolls, and fried chicken with caviar. Walk-ins are welcome, though if you've got four or more, you can book a table online. There's also a minimum spend of $50 per person. [caption id="attachment_826339" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lui Bar[/caption]
Need somewhere to let loose on your next night out? LKF Bar might just become your new go-to spot. Inspired by Hong Kong's legendary Lan Kwai Fong nightlife district, this bustling bar features a vibrant mix of karaoke, cocktails and late-night energy, tucked above 1960s-inspired Asian diner Yum Sing House. The real Lan Kwai Fong has long been one of Asia's best-known party districts, known for the bustling bars that line its streets and alleyways. LKF Bar looks to bring a similar energy to its upstairs space on Sutherland Street, with its sleek late-night bar and private karaoke lounges, each of which is named after a Hong Kong neighbourhood. Of course, a karaoke experience to rival Hong Kong's best needs the audio and lighting systems to match. Fortunately, LKF Bar is equipped with state-of-the-art tech and a massive song selection, which will have you singing until the early hours. Plus, if you're heading down with a crowd, the largest karaoke room — named Happy Valley — accommodates up to 29. The karaoke rooms also double as private dining spaces, where you can tuck into a curated set menu or luxe a la carte selections including fresh crab, caviar, and lobster. Once the feast is over you can get the party started straight away, as the room transforms from a dining room into a karaoke den. If you work up a hunger from belting out so many tunes, you can also order dishes to your karaoke room throughout the night. On the menu you'll find appropriately Cantonese-leaning dishes like salt and pepper squid with kewpie mayo and lemon; crumbed pork bao with cabbage and yuzu mayo; and crispy chicken bites with chipotle mayo. Drinks also take their inspiration from Hong Kong — the oolong-infused Jefferson Bourbon with bitters, smoke and an orange garnish is a sophisticated ode to the jugs of green tea and whisky that you'll find at most karaoke bars in the 852. "For those ready to cut loose and have a great time, LKF Bar is the place to be," says Yum Sing House director, Kiet Diep. "We wanted to create a space where every brand has its own personality — Yum Sing House is all about exceptional food and wine, while upstairs at LKF, it's all about the energy, the music, and the party atmosphere." LKF Bar is open Wednesday–Thursday from 7pm and Friday–Saturday from 5.30pm at 22 Sutherland Street, Melbourne. Head to the venue's website for more information.
Instragram has launched their first official account dedicated to music and musicians. The new, internally-run @music account will post on a variety of music-related content, and feature profiles of emerging and established musicians from all around the world. The move marks an interesting new direction for the photo-sharing service, which for the first time appears to be actively cultivating a community based on the specific interests of its users. Operated by Instagram music editor Alex Suskind, the newly-minted account will post six times a week, with content divided between a series of designated hashtags. #LocallySourced will shine the spotlight on unsigned acts, #DoubleTrack will cover musician’s interests outside of music, and #15SecondLessons will feature video tutorials on "everything from riffs to drumbeats". Posts so far include brief interviews with social media-fiend DJ Questlove and up-and-coming Japanese rock band Tricot. The account will also feature the work of music photographers, album illustrators, instrument makers and fans. An official music account does seem like a good fit for the service, with many of its most popular accounts belonging to famous musicians. According to a statement by Instagram founder and CEO Kevin Systrom, "For the past four years, we have become the home for artists big and small — a place where people across the musical spectrum come to share stories, reveal their creativity and connect directly with fans." Assuming the account is successful — and 27,000 followers in less than a day suggests that it might be — it could potentially open the door for a whole range of official channels covering things like food, movies, fashion and of course, cat photos. It also seems like a smart way for the service to attract targeted advertising — although according to coverage at TechCrunch, there are currently no plans to include ads in the @music account.
If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature, then it's time to pack the car, cruise through Anglesea and Lorne and head to the Otways. Not only does the National Park have rugged coastland, beaches, rainforest and mountains, but it's also home to Otway Fly Treetop Adventures where you can walk in the treetops, climb to the canopy and zip through lush greenery. Located just 20 minutes from the Great Ocean Road, the adventure park features a stunning 600-metre treetop walk ($25). The elevated track is 25 metres from the ground (acrophobics beware), putting you right among the branches so you can observe the flora and fauna more closely. There's also a cantilevered lookout above Young's Creek and, for those wanting to scale to new heights, the 45-metre tall Spiral Tower provides unparalleled views. For those seeking thrills, Otway Treetops Fly Adventures has a forest zipline tour ($120), where you'll be flying through the trees at 30 metres above the forest floor. The guided tour lasts about 2.5 hours and you'll learn all about the forest's history. Your ticket also includes access to the Treetop Walk. Otway Fly Treetop Adventures is open from 10am–5pm every Thursday–Monday, with last entry at 3.30pm. Prices range from $20–120.
In Stay of the Week, we explore some of the world's best and most unique accommodations — giving you a little inspiration for your next trip. In this instalment, we take you to the multi-award-winning Saffire Freycinet on Tasmania's East Coast. We've also teamed up with Saffire Freycinet to offer an unforgettable two-night stay in one of its Luxury Suites. The exclusive deal includes three meals at the private restaurants, complimentary lounge and minibar beverages and a $100 voucher to use on the hotel's spa treatments and signature experiences. This is peak treat-yourself stuff. WHAT'S SO SPECIAL? This Tassie hotel is like no other — from the panoramic views across the Hazards Mountains, Freycinet Peninsula and pristine waters of Great Oyster Bay to the hyper-personalised service, sleek design of the rooms and the long list of bespoke travel experiences. You'll pay handsomely to stay here, but it is totally worth it. Earmark Saffire Freycinet for the next time you're looking to spoil yourself silly. THE ROOMS This vast property has just 20 suites. Plus, the restaurant, bar and luxe spa are only accessible to hotel guests, so it often feels like you have the whole place to yourself. Each of the rooms looks out over the surrounding bay and mountains — seen through the floor-to-ceiling windows and private decks. Design-wise, the large suites are made up of an eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary fittings, with locally made timber pieces sitting alongside mid-century classics such as chairs designed by Charles and Ray Eames and Herman Miller. Super king beds (yes, they've super-sized the beds), double walk-in showers and deep baths, extensive complimentary mini-bars, bluetooth music systems, retractable LCD TVs, private courtyards and fast wifi are also on the menu at each accommodation. FOOD AND DRINK All things local are celebrated at Saffire Freycinet's two dining rooms. Palate Restaurant is home to an elegant degustation menu that changes every day depending on what's coming out of the nearby paddocks and waters. You always have the option to pair each course with a sustainably made Tassie wine, too. The Lounge is a little more laidback, offering up a space to chill with a book or quietly hang with your travel buddies. During the day, you can enjoy fresh local produce from the barbeque and outside terrace. And at night, the lounge livens up a little as guests mingle with evening canapes and pre-dinner drinks in hand. It's serving The White Lotus realness. THE LOCAL AREA This lavish hotel is set within Tasmania's Freycinet National Park, home to stunning vistas and a thriving local ecosystem — think koalas, roos and colourful birds rummaging around lush green forests. It is also home to some of the state's most famous beaches, mostly notably Wineglass Bay. The Saffire Freycinet team will help organise scenic flights over the area, guided hikes to some of the greatest vistas and boat trips for those wanting to sneak in some snorkelling and boat-side swimming. You can arrive at the hotel by air or via the Great Eastern Drive. During this road trip, you'll pass by several wineries with cellar doors and eateries such as Devil's Corner, Spring Vale, Craigie Knowe, Milton, and the famous Kate's Berry Farm in Swansea. Hobart is also just a 2.5-hour drive away, so you can easily stop by the city for a couple of days before or after your stay. THE EXTRAS Saffire Freycinet has won award after award for its extensive list of luxury travel experiences — easily added to any stay. Each of the 14 unique activities focuses on connecting guests to place through nature, culture and produce. You can do some beekeeping on the property, taste fresh oysters at its own oyster farm (with sparkling wine in hand, of course), join one of the small group (or private) cruises of the area, quad bike around the mountains with a guide and learn how to fly-fish in the Currawong Lakes. Follow these food, culture and adventure tours with a late afternoon spa sesh. Get a massage, scrub or facial before soaking in a bath overlooking the natural surroundings. This is an unbelievably dreamy place. Feeling inspired to book a truly unique getaway? Head to Concrete Playground Trips to explore a range of holidays curated by our editorial team. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips to destinations all over the world.
A festival with Christina Aguilera doing her first Australian show since 2007 is quite the big deal. The same event spanning 165 artists at 60-plus events — all in Victoria — is positively massive. That's Always Live, which returns for 2023 for 17 days from Friday, November 24–Sunday, December 10. This year's feast of shows also includes Swedish DJ and producer Eric Prydz bringing his HOLO set our way in an Australia–New Zealand exclusive; songwriter and producer Jai Paul also playing his only shows in this neck of the woods; Jessie Ware putting on two intimate evenings outside her Summer Camp headlining stint; and Zach Bryan's first-ever Australian concert. Already on the Meredith bill, Caroline Polachek has added a solo gig at Melbourne's Forum Theatre. Also a huge highlight: BLAKTIVISM at Hamer Hall, with King Stingray, Tasman Keith, Emma Donovan, Uncle Bart Willoughby, Deline Briscoe, Sorong Samarai and Suga Cane Mamas. For Swifties, tribute gig Taylor Made will see Alex The Astronaut, Charley, Clare Bowditch, Emily Wurramurra, Kate Miller-Heidke, Lisa Mitchell and Sophia J Smith shaking off their best Taylor Swift covers. Returning from last year, Emma Donovan and Friends will again hero acoustic tunes from First Nations artists, while purpose-built pop-up studio SOUNDBOX will be back at the Arts Centre Melbourne forecourt. The jam-packed program also boasts the Tones and I-curated Music In the Park in Mornington, featuring The Cat Empire, The Veronicas, Budjerah, KAIIT and The Pierce Brothers; the Gonna Be Good series, with everyone from Holy Holy, Aleksiah, ILLY and The Temper Trap to Northeast Party House, Casey Barnes and Ruby Fields; Summer Camp, as already announced; and SOULTRAINS, which is getting Lee Fields & The Expressions, plus Surprise Chef, playing four venues along four Metro train lines. Still on a railway theme, there's End of the Line, a festival popping ip at the end of the train lines in Sandringham and Williamstown. Clare Bowditch headlines the former, and Alex Lahey the latter. And, music lovers can look forward to the Jamaican Food and Music Festival at Seaworks, the Ballroom Mix Tapes series at Brunswick Ballroom — which will launch brand-new releases — and a regional tour by Amyl and the Sniffers. Throw in Peter Garrett and The Alter Egos hitting Wangarratta Arts Centre, Cosmic Psychos marking their 40th anniversary and A.B. Original headlining a free show at Victoria Park Lake, and clearly the list well and truly goes on. [caption id="attachment_899478" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Raph_PH via Wikimedia Commons.[/caption]
A dose of retail therapy is always great (especially when Mercury is in retrograde), but it can burn a bit of a hole in your pocket. This is when sales come in handy. Luckily, there are a few of those happening this weekend. Whether you're looking to pad out your winter wardrobe, give your ceramics collection a spruce up or do a solid for the environment and snag a reusable cup, there's a sale that's got you covered. So, BYO bag or box and go bag a bargain at one of these four sales.
There's something unexplainably alluring about Melbourne in spring, a palpable vibration underfoot as the city shakes off the chill of winter and shudders in anticipation. Spring is here, bringing with it an energy that makes Melbourne the place to be. Melbourne in spring is not just a season; it's a wild ride through a tapestry of endless days and nights of fun and wonder, good food and better coffee, great wine and nights you won't forget. Melbourne in spring doesn't just open its doors; it unhinges them. And, as with all things beautiful, it can seem overwhelming at first glance. That's where we come in, with this handy guide on what to do, eat, drink — and where to rest your weary head by the end. So when Melbourne calls you, you can make the most of its embrace. Let's dive in. DO This is the department where Melbourne shines. Spring in Melbourne is a cascade of colours, sounds and styles, providing something for all tastes and types. Imagine strolling through the city's iconic laneways and hearing the electrifying beats of the Melbourne International Jazz Festival. Picture yourself following that sound through the city until you arrive at a vibrant parade headed by the Hot 8 Brass Band gracing Southbank for one hell of a street party. Enticed yet? After you're done with all that jazz, be transported into the chic, cool world of Melbourne Fashion Week, where, from pool decks to abandoned garages, the city transforms into a sprawling runway. Or head to the inner north, where The Eighty-Six festival sweeps you along the iconic 86 tram route, where pasta parties, dog fashion shows and free live performances await. EAT You could spend 30 years living in Melbourne and still not have scratched the surface of the deep culinary labyrinth that is ever-evolving and ever-enticing. But in spring, if you simply had to pick, you really cannot go wrong basking in the welcoming embrace of Reine & La Rue, a fine-dining palace carved from the historic Stock Exchange. With its unapologetically opulent stained-glass backdrop, it serves up some of the best French food in town. It's one you won't want to miss. But do not forget Morris House. The revamp of this icon — with its plush leather, marble bars and breezy rooftop — takes comedy pubs to new heights. It's a testament to Melbourne's timeless blend of class and comfort in one chill, multi-leveled space. Or why not swing by Kafeneion? The crusty bread, the hearty Greek meatballs and the whiff of portokalopita will transport you straight to the lively streets of Athens. It's traditional Greek, but not as you know it. If you want to finish your evening in style, head to Amphlett House. With its cool retro vibes and cocktail offerings from a world-class bartender, it's a cheeky wink to the 80s and an overt nod to good taste. It's playful yet polished; it's a must for the itinerary. DRINK Springtime in Melbourne means Arbory Afloat time, as it is in spring when it emerges from its slumber for another glorious season. If you head to Melbourne and don't spend a sunny afternoon sipping cocktails and munching on tasty snacks at the seasonal floating bar and cantina on the Yarra River, did you even go to Melbourne? When the charm of the river wears (it won't, but you can't stay there forever), head to No.100 Flinders Lane. It's a wine bar, it's a deli, it's a cosy bistro — it's your next stop. Indulge in to-die-for Euro-Australian bites or linger over a Martini 100, with tastes of eucalypt and vermouth. Or, for a sensory journey, let Black Kite Commune's cocktails transport you back to 20th century Melbourne, where supper clubs were the places to be. Melbourne in spring means pastel sunsets and rooftop bars, and for the best view in town, head to Blossom Rooftop — Melbourne's highest rooftop bar. Imagine a slice of wood fire pizza in one hand, a cocktail in the other, and one of the most beautiful cities in the world at your feet. What could be better? STAY Melbourne has a lush array of sleepover spots to provide a comfortable home base for your spring escapades. Slide into Dorsett Hotel, our new kid on the block, perched delightfully in the heart of leisure and luxury at West Side Place. Or why not treat yourself at the Ritz-Carlton? You haven't enjoyed a cocktail until you've sipped it while inhaling the 80-story-high panoramic views of its world-class Atria restaurant. Meanwhile, Le Méridien is where you pause, breathe, and immerse yourself in Melbourne's cultural delights, all while sipping an espresso under an art deco backdrop, or enjoying the never-gets-old view of Parliament from its stunning pool deck. Finally, Rydges Melbourne throws in a dash of theatrical flair — literally, as it is nestled in the happening heart of the city's theatre district. It's also mere moments away from Melbourne Central, Emporium, Chinatown and Bourke Street Mall. With all these options, it's quite a tough call. You might just have to try them all. Head to Visit Melbourne for the full rundown of everything happening in Melbourne this spring.
Need an extra sweet escape? To celebrate National Donut Day, held on Friday, June 6, Donut King has teamed up with luxury hotel brand Ovolo Hotels to create the 'Hot Cinni Hotel'. This collaboration is perhaps not what you'd normally expect for such an occasion. However, it quickly becomes obvious that this promotion hasn't cut any corners when it comes to fostering suite dreams. In an immersive hotel takeover, the heritage-listed Ovolo Woolloomooloo will see two of its elegant suites transformed into cinnamon doughnut-filled luxury stays. Decked out with shimmering pink accents, cinnamon-painted walls, colourful pop art and a Donut King-inspired bed adorned with plush fabrics, the 'Hot Cinni Suite' experience is like no other. Yet this doughnut-led experience goes beyond mere design. Guests will also see the suite filled with cinnamon doughnut-inspired scents and services, from aromatic diffusers and bathroom amenities to pink art-deco glassware and deluxe towels. Best of all, an exclusive room service offering means hot cinnamon doughnuts will arrive at your door with just the push of a button. That all sounds a little bonkers, but don't think the hotel is finished yet. Donut King and Ovolo Hotels have extended the fun to other areas of the hotel, with every guest invited to get amongst the celebration. In the lobby, pink and cinnamon lighting pay homage to the humble cinnamon doughnut, while the hotel's resident mixologist has created the Cinnitini — a spice-forward cocktail. Also in the bar, discover special nibbles like Donut King cinnamon doughnuts with dulce de leche; cauliflower bites with cinnamon-laced mayo; and chicken skewers with cinnamon barbecue sauce. As for other guests who happen to book a stay at Ovolo Woolloomooloo during this limited-time activation, they're welcome to order room service doughnuts for free. Just know, bookable stays for the Hot Cinni Hotel are only available from Friday, June 6–Sunday, June 9. "Partnering with Donut King to offer our guests an undeniably exhilarating and unexpected culinary experience during their stay is a sweet deal," says James Clark, General Manager at Ovolo Sydney. "We're constantly exploring new experiences for our guests to enhance their stay, and we believe they will absolutely crave and love this limited yet delightfully sweet addition." Bookings for the Hot Cinni Hotel open from Thursday, May 29 at 9am, with stays available from Friday, June 6–Sunday, June 9. Head to the website for more information.
Every gig should be its own distinctive experience, even if a band is hitting city after city on a massive national or international tour. But there's unique concerts and then there's Sigur Rós' latest run of shows. While there's nothing quite like seeing the Icelandic band live in general, they'll be doing something different on their next trip to Australia: taking to the stage with live orchestras. Jónsi Birgisson, Georg Hólm and Kjartan Sveinsson will play with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra when Sigur Rós' current orchestral tour makes its way to the Victorian capital. Across the rest of 2024, fans across the US and Nordic countries can catch the group joining forces with a 41-piece orchestra. Then, come Monday, May 19–Tuesday, May 20 at Hamer Hall, it's Melbourne's turn to witness quite a few new members temporarily join the band. ÁTTA, their 2023 album, will be in the spotlight, as the last time they toured Down Under was in 2022, before it was released — and it was was recorded with arrangements featuring a 32-piece orchestra. [caption id="attachment_974240" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kathryn Parson Photography via Flickr.[/caption] Fans can expect tracks from their 1997 debut Von onwards, however, spanning tunes from fellow records Ágætis byrjun, ( ), Takk..., Með suð í eyrum við spilum endalaust, Valtari and Kveikur. That last — and soldout — trip this way was part of the group's first tour in five years, but clearly they haven't left the same gap go by between then and their next tour. Sigur Rós first started doing the rounds with an orchestra in 2023, playing a limited number of gigs, before expanding the experience further. Next stop: Australia. [caption id="attachment_974235" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Alive87 via Wikimedia Commons.[/caption] Top image: Goatling via Flickr.
Missed your shot at landing a seat at one of Yakimono's three sold-out MFWF dinners? Well, you've scored a second (and third) chance because the Japanese diner is bringing back its smash-hit seafood feast for two more rounds next month. Cray Cray will deliver another crustacean celebration on Tuesday, May 2, and Tuesday, May 30, as chef Daniel Wilson plates up a five-course homage to the not-so-humble freshwater crayfish. With tickets coming in at $145, you'll dive into dishes like crispy charcoal crayfish karaage, barbecued crustacean skewers paired with yuzu togarashi butter, and for the main event, half a cray cooked on the Josper, then matched with a spicy bisque and slaw. Yakimono's usual drinks lineup will be available to add on from, or you can leave your evening's beverage adventure to the experts and go for the $65 cocktail and sake pairing. The menu includes gems like Asahi Shuzo's Dassai 45 Junmai Daiginjo, and the passionfruit, white chocolate and shochu cocktail they call the Shibuya. [caption id="attachment_883543" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Yakimono[/caption]
Chicken-devouring people of Melbourne, a Chargrill Charlie's is coming your way. As of Saturday, April 6, Camberwell will be home to Melbourne's first — and Australia's twelfth — incarnation of the 30-year-old Sydney institution. And, to celebrate, the Charlie's team is giving away free food. Get there between midday and 1pm on opening day to score a free quarter barbecue chicken with chips, then make a return between 5pm and 6pm to tuck into half a chook and a salad, also gratis. Merch fans will be happy to know that the store will also be slinging free Chargrilled Charlie's Ts on the day — until sold out. There should be plenty of room — Charlie's is transforming a huge shop in Camberwell Shopping Centre into a huge open-plan space. In keeping with the eatery's usual look, you can expect a modern industrial feel, with recycled timber and splashes of black metal. As well as burgers, chicken and chips, the menu will offer all the other goodness for which Charlie's has become legendary. That includes up to 15 types of salad on any one day, chicken schnitzel, creamed potato, rolls, DIY dinner plates and desserts, including apple pie. The Camberwell store will be only the first of many Melbourne Chargrill Charlie's, so keep an eye on this space for more updates.
In the shadows of Luna Park, Veg Out is a volunteer-run community garden set on a former bowling green. The space is home to over 140 plots allowing members, friends and community groups to roll up their sleeves and get their hands in the soil. The community gardens also host regular farmers markets, open days and working bees, all of which showcase the sense of community and conservation that runs through this outdoor space. Want to get involved? Become a Friend of Veg Out for $15, which is the first step towards getting a plot of your own to tinker around in. Image: Elaine Casap
Returning for its second year, The Little Food Market will take over the Royal Exhibition Building for three delicious days in July, spotlighting over 200 of Australia's top tastemakers. The celebration of bold flavours, passionate producers and culinary creativity will kick off on Friday, July 18 and run until Sunday, July 20. Drop in to find producers showcasing their wine, cheese, beer and spirits, alongside stalls run by some of the state's best makers. This year's event features a refreshed design and a new $10 general entry ticket, with every guest receiving a reusable Bettercup to use for tastings throughout the day. There will also be limited-edition wine glasses and tote bags designed by Alice Oehr up for grabs, included in the entry fee, which will have different tiers at $10, $15 and $35. If you're a wine lover or beer fan, you can sip, sample and shop directly from the producers. This year's lineup features names like Zonzo Estate and St Hubert's, alongside emerging stars like NON and Departed Spirits. For cheese lovers, there will be a dedicated cheese precinct to sample a curated lineup, including Milawa Cheese Company, Stone & Crow, Long Paddock, Grandvewe, That's Amore Cheese, and Giorgio's Artisan Cheese. Expanding its regional offering in 2025, there will also be regional hubs offering immersive showcases celebrating the rich food and drink culture of three standout Victorian regions, including Bendigo, Gippsland and the Mornington Peninsula. If all the browsing gets you hungry, head to the feasting precinct to find some of Melbourne's most beloved kitchens serving up full-sized signature meals to enjoy on the spot. Think woodfired pizza from D.O.C Gastronomia Italiana, crispy banh mi from Ca Com Banh Mi, and handmade pies from Wonder Pies, just to name a few. There will also be live cooking demonstrations where chefs, producers and flavour-makers share their skills and recipes, from fresh pasta techniques to creating the ultimate cheeseboard. Whether you're a home cook, seasoned foodie, or just looking for something fun to do, head to The Little Food Market to experience some of Melbourne's thriving culinary culture and standout Aussie producers. The event will run from 12–8pm on Friday, July 18; 10am–7pm on Saturday, July 19; and 10am–5pm on Sunday, July 20. Tickets start from $10 and are now on sale at the website. Images: Supplied.
With its hot-ticket pairing of bubbles and crustacean-stuffed rolls, Pinchy's has spawned a few popular pop-ups over the of years. But, thankfully, its latest venue is sticking around for a bit longer than usual. Pinchy's has opened a (very permanent) snappy first-floor eatery and sun-drenched terrace perched above Bourke Street. The newly hatched Pinchy's Champagne and Lobster Bar comes decked out in a rainbow of candy pinks and loud neon, with 75 seats inside and room for another 60 out on the balcony. It's fun and playful, with pops of greenery and splashes of terrazzo, and a very suitable set-up for those balmy evenings to come. The kitchen is whipping up a menu where seafood reigns supreme, but it's not just about the signature lobster rolls, loaded with buttery lobster sourced from over in Maine. You'll also find a tapas-style lineup with the likes of fat scallops served in the shell with cauliflower puree ($10), Alaskan crab tacos ($7) and snapper croquettes ($9). Meanwhile, a newly launched menu of vegan fare is also causing a splash, featuring crafty plant-based bites like spiced tofu tacos with avocado mousse ($8); vegan 'oysters' made with rice crisps, sea lettuce cream and black garlic ($4); and dainty carrot cornettes filled with a jalapeno salsa and wasabi mayo ($8). If you're craving red meat, best venture elsewhere. [caption id="attachment_809985" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Pinchy's new vegan menu[/caption] Here, seafood's perfect match is a bubbly one — so you'll find plenty of fizz on the drinks list. A hefty Champagne selection sits alongside brews from Colonial Brewing Co, Bodriggy's speccy juice and a spread of classic and champagne-based cocktails; such as the grapefruit & elderflower blush with yuzu and white grapefruit ($20). Images: Jana Longhurst and Jake Roden
UPDATE, December 11, 2020: The Prom is screening in select cinemas in Melbourne, and is available to stream via Netflix. A word of warning to filmmakers eager to make the next big on-screen musical: cast James Corden at your peril. It may now seem like a lifetime ago that Cats proved a gobsmacking catastrophe, but that 2019 movie's horrors are impossible to shake — and while Corden's latest, The Prom, thankfully doesn't resort to repeating the word 'jellicle' over and over again to try to convince the world that it means something, it still follows in the feline-focused flick's paw prints as this year's all-singing, all-dancing misfire. The two films' common star is grating and relies upon gratuitous overacting in both features. He's hardly alone in bombing and flailing, though. In The Prom's case, a 2018 Broadway success with an important message about acceptance and being true to one's self has been transformed into an over-long star vehicle, as well as a movie that can't see past its sequin-studded pageantry and smug attitude to actually practise what it preaches. Miscast from the get-go, Corden plays Barry, a Broadway veteran playing second fiddle to multi-Tony-winning drama diva Dee Dee (Meryl Streep, Little Women) in Eleanor!, a new production about former US First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. Initially, the pair is on top of the world after the show's opening night — but then the reviews start piling in and piling on. Distraught from the critical savaging as they drown their sorrows with perennial chorus girl Angie (Nicole Kidman, The Undoing) and Juilliard-trained actor-turned-sitcom lead-turned bartender Trent (Andrew Rannells, The Boys in the Band), they concoct a plan to get back in the showbiz industry's good graces. Scrolling through Twitter, Angie spies a news story about Indiana teenager Emma (feature debutant Jo Ellen Pellman), whose high school has just completely cancelled the prom because she wanted to bring her girlfriend. As quick as a burst of confetti, Barry, Dee Dee, Trent and Angie are on a Godspell tour bus to America's midwest to rally against this injustice and whip themselves up some flattering publicity. In the screenplay written by Bob Martin and Chad Beguelin, both of whom worked on the original stage production, this is all meant to be a joke: that fading, has-been and never-were celebrities shallowly and calculatingly try to use one young woman's horrific plight for their own gain, that is. But The Prom likes the gag so much that it misguidedly decides that favouring stars over substance is the best approach in general. No one is disparaging Streep, Kidman, Rannells or Corden's fame or status, or that of their fellow well-known costars Keegan-Michael Key (Playing with Fire) and Kerry Washington (Little Fires Everywhere). While Corden is terrible, some of his high-profile colleagues have their moments — a flame-haired Streep eats the often neon-hued scenery and loves every bite, for example. When there's a tale to be told about an ostracised queer teen who is cruelly rejected by her school's Parents and Teachers' Association and her peers, and who sees her quest to simply be treated like everyone else become a national scandal, though, that story is far more interesting than the arrival of a self-centred quartet of blow-ins from New York. Perhaps balancing the two parts of The Prom's narrative works on the stage; on the screen, Emma seems as much of an afterthought to director Ryan Murphy (Eat Pray Love, plus TV's Pose and American Horror Story) as she is to Dee Dee and company. Both the movie and the characters it chooses to focus on have their own senses of worth pumped up by even feigning to care about something else, but the fact that the film and its main players can all convince themselves they're great doesn't mean they can do the same with those watching. Again, this terrain is designed to fuel the feature's main gags. Case in point: we're supposed to laugh heartily and knowingly when Dee Dee interrupts the latest PTA meeting — where Key, as a caring principal, is battling Washington, who plays the conservative parent leading the charge against Emma — with a song called 'It's Not About Me'. Alas, almost everything about The Prom constantly falls so flat that its attempt at self-referential humour is as hackneyed as the concept that a bunch of celebs can solve homophobia with a few ditties, a splash of dancing, and some fabulous outfits and decor. When Rannells' Trent heads to the local mall and attempts to do just that on one occasion — pointing out that Emma's schoolmates are picking and choosing which parts of the bible they're faithful about upholding, all via singing and breaking out fancy footwork on an escalator — it does give The Prom one of its best moments. The scene in question also emphasises how far the film is from many better, smarter, savvier-executed musicals on-screen and on-stage, however. Rannells has sung about faith and its contradictions before as an original Broadway cast member in the brutally clever The Book of Mormon, a comparison The Prom really shouldn't be trying to conjure up in viewers' heads. With Glee, Murphy made an entire teen-centric TV show that nodded to pop culture influences it could never live up to, so The Prom really just sees the filmmaker do more of the same but worse. That said, when the film actually spends time with Emma, her secret girlfriend Alyssa (Hamilton's Ariana DeBose) and even their anti-LGBTQIA+ classmates — following in Glee's footsteps in another way — it's a better movie. But the temptation to value flash over meaning, and to think that simply saying 'discrimination is bad, here's some glitter', never subsidies. Although it's shot by the acclaimed Matthew Libatique (an Oscar-nominee for Black Swan and A Star Is Born), the film's continually, needlessly and irritatingly circling cinematography captures The Prom's struggles perfectly, because it's too caught up in shiny things, recognisable faces and disposable songs to let everything that should matter, including its message, have any real impact. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJ0jBNa6JUQ
Opinions may be divided on what is truly the best medium of entertainment, but there's no denying the simple pleasure of going to a musical. The feeling of being swept off your feet by a particularly memorable tune, doubled over laughing or drenched in your own tears, its a stagecraft that's captured the love of millions around the world. This year is is no exception for killer musicals, so we partnered with Destination NSW to curate a guide to the biggest musicals coming to stages in Sydney in 2023. Whether you want to laugh, sing or cry, there's a stage show below for you.
If you haven't yet discovered the charms of the humble pisco sour, you've really been missing out. But it's okay because Brunswick's new Latin American haunt Tino is here to help you get acquainted. World Pisco Sour Day is coming in hot on Saturday, February 4 — and this Sydney Road bar and eatery is getting into the spirit with a whole week of pisco-infused celebrations. It has created a trio of bespoke riffs on the classic cocktail, which it'll be serving at the very reasonable happy hour price of $15 a pop from Tuesday, January 31–Sunday, February 5. Choose from a tropical-leaning sip made on melon liqueur and a mango shrub, then garnished with a melon ball; or a spicy number spiked with rocoto chilli paste and finished with Tajin seasoning. Or, there's the lovechild of the pisco sour and the espresso martini — a fusion of Pisco Quebranta, cold-drip coffee, and bush honey and wattleseed coffee liqueur, with a milo crumb. Of course, it'd be a shame not to pair your pisco with some of Tino's top-notch eats, including crisp empanadas, house-made chorizo and classic Peruvian ceviche.
2021 gave the world many great things to watch, whether you like movies or TV shows — or direct-to-streaming flicks and specials, too. But only one summed up exactly how the last few years have felt as life as we all knew it changed due to the pandemic, spending all of our time at home became the norm, and everything was more than a little uncanny. That'd be Bo Burnham's sublime Inside. Watching along, a stunning fact became evident — a life-changing realisation, really. During a period when most people tried to make sourdough, pieced together jigsaws and spent too much time on Zoom, Burnham created a comedy masterpiece. And, he managed to capture the entire planet's feelings in some of the smartest and catchiest songs that'll ever echo from a screen. If you've seen it, even just thinking about it while reading this at the moment will mean that you currently have 'White Woman's Instagram', 'Welcome to the Internet' or 'That Funny Feeling' stuck in your head (or any of the special's other earworm tunes). Well, well, look who's inside again now — because Burnham isn't done with Inside yet. To mark exactly a year since the special was originally released on Netflix, the comedian has gifted the world with more. This time, he's dropped 63 minutes of outtakes that didn't initially make the cut. Yep, that's your viewing plans for this evening sorted. a year ago today, i released a special called inside. i've spent the last two months editing together material that i shot for the special but didn't end up using. it will be on my youtube channel in one hour. i hope you enjoy it. — Bo Burnham (@boburnham) May 31, 2022 To head back into Inside again — tiny pumpkins and avocados optional, and odes to Jeffrey Bezos as well — you'll need to hit up Burnham's YouTube channel, which is where the extra footage is now available. And yes, while wondering how the comedian — or anyone — could ever top a special this raw, insightful, funny, clever and of the moment has been a big part of the past year, more of anything to do with Inside and its 90-minute musical-comedy whirlwind is always going to be a good thing. The Promising Young Woman star and Eighth Grade filmmaker won Emmys for Outstanding Directing for a Variety Special, Outstanding Writing for a Variety Special, and Outstanding Music Direction for his efforts — plus a Grammy Award for Best Song Written for Visual Media for 'All Eyes On Me'. Check out the trailer for Bo Burnham: Inside below: To watch The Inside Outtakes, head to Bo Burnham's YouTube channel. Bo Burnham: Inside is available to stream via Netflix. Images: courtesy of Netflix.
For a vibrant dose of Mexican-meets-Californian flavour this summer, you don't need to jump on a plane. Instead, simply head coastward to Sorrento, where chef Paul Wilson is taking over beachfront restaurant Morgan's for his lively new Mexi-Cali pop-up, Fiesta en La Playa. From Thursday, December 15–mid-March, your tastebuds are invited on a colourful jaunt through Mexico, California and Latin America. You'll tuck into fare like nixtamal tortillas (made using a special corn preparation method), Sonoran-style hot dogs with achiote mustard and chipotle adobo, a slew of punchy ceviche dishes, lamb barbacoa tacos finished with a tamarind chilli mole, and more. There's a guacamole bar for those after an avo fix, and Wilson's even nodding to an old mate via the Bourdain's Bone Marrow Taco — a meeting of slow-cooked beef tongue, cheek and brisket done Puebla-style, paired with salsa verde. Dessert is also sorted with options like a coffee tequila flan and chilli-salted mango salad. And thirsty punters can enjoy icy brews, local wines and a stack of Mexi-Cali sips — including palomas aplenty and six different styles of margarita.
Carnegie might be a bit of a hike away, at 12km from the CBD, but think of it as a pilgrimage, or another couple of steps along the path you're taking on the necessary journey that is your ramen life. Shyun Ramen Bar — named for the word "shyun" which means "season" in Japanese — follows its own instructions carefully and uses only fresh and seasonal ingredients in its bowls. The broth is simmered for the hours necessary to refine really good soup and the umami score is off the charts — we suggest you try the chef's pick pork ramen with your choice of shoyu or miso. It's also an incredibly reasonable $12.40 — another reason for you to make the ramen trek.
Relax and re-centre your mind at Grass Roots Yoga in the heart of St Kilda. Recently under new management, this studio offers a range of classes that aim to make yoga accessible to everyone regardless of age, level or mindset. Whether you're looking for a class at sunrise, a mid-morning flow or an after-work session, Grass Roots has you covered. If you like to get your sweat on while in warrior pose, the yoga studio's core offering is a 35-degree hot yoga flow with a mindful twist. For those who don't want to hack the heat, there's a cooler 27-degree classic Vinyāsa flow class too. There are also restorative Nidra, yin yoga and an extensive program of workshops and events. Not only does the studio provide a large schedule of classes, but it also hosts local and international yoga retreats — there are day retreats to Sorrento (in the Mornington Peninsula, not Italy), weekend retreats to the coast and country and even Ibiza (in the works). Check out the website to learn about upcoming retreats.
UPDATE, April 16, 2021: Crawl is available to stream via Netflix, Foxtel Now, Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Amazon Video. Part creature feature and part disaster movie, Crawl is a gleeful ripper of a thriller. Not only unleashing a ferocious hurricane upon its father-daughter duo, but a congregation of snapping alligators as well, its premise is simple — what the film lacks in narrative surprises, however, it makes up for in suspense and tension. That's the holy grail of fear-inducing flicks. Regardless of the concept, if a movie can make the audience feel as if they're in the same space as the characters they're watching, enduring every bump and jump, and sharing their life-or-death terror, then it has done its job. By playing it straight, serious and scary, Crawl manages to exceed its Sharknado rip-off status to craft a highly effective battle between humans, animals and the elements. The film introduces aspiring swimming star Haley Keller (Kaya Scodelario) on a wet and windy day, although she initially misses the wild weather warnings while she's doing laps at training. A panicked call from her sister (Moryfydd Clark) doesn't rattle the no-nonsense young woman, and nor does the news that her divorced father Dave (Barry Pepper) isn't answering his phone. Still, thanks to a few unresolved daddy-daughter issues nagging at her conscience, Haley is quickly driving down the blustery highway, flagrantly ignoring police instructions and heading to their old family home. It's no spoiler to say that she discovers more than she bargained for down in their basement, with Haley soon trying to save the injured Dave, stay alive herself, fend off ravenous gators and stay ahead of rising flood waters. In telling this tale, writers Michael and Shawn Rasmussen (The Ward) haven't met a cliche they didn't love, an emotional beat they didn't want to hit, or a convenient twist of the narrative screws that they didn't want to turn. It can't be overstated just how much of Crawl, in a story sense, plays out exactly as expected. Plot developments and character decisions all stick to the usual formula, as does animal behaviour and storm surges (if you're a screenwriter, it's possible to control the very forces that your protagonists can't). But it's worth thanking the cinema gods that Alexandre Aja is sitting in the director's chair — and that he knows a thing or two about creature features and horror movies. While the French filmmaker has both hits and misses to his name (including Haute Tension, remakes of The Hills Have Eyes and Piranha, and the devilish Daniel Radcliffe flick Horns), here he masters the art of conveying an alligator's menace. Of course, it could be argued that much of Crawl's work is easy. Along with sharks, gators already rank among the most frightening beasts on the planet. Courtesy of their teeth, speed, size and power, just thinking about them gives plenty of people the shivers — so, on paper, all that an unsettling film need do is place the scaly critters front and centre. And yet, as too many Jaws wannabes have shown since Steven Spielberg's massive hit created the concept of the blockbuster as we know it, it's not enough just to throw a bunch of attacking animals at some clueless folks. As more comic takes have demonstrated in Sharknado, Snakes on a Plane and the Birdemic movies, it's not enough to write off the whole scenario as simple silliness either. There's an existential basis to the genre's underlying idea, unpacking how humanity truly copes when it's made to face nature. As a species, much of our sense of collective worth stems from our ability to shape and control our world, and yet we can't stop weather systems from morphing into destructive hurricanes, or hungry reptiles from doing what they're designed to do. Mainly lurking in the Kellers' dank, dark, rat-infested crawlspace, Crawl leans into the primal side of pitting people against the environment. Aja takes every chance to emphasise the scampering threats eager to gobble up Haley and Dave. With assistance from his regular cinematographer Maxime Alexandre, he ramps up the unease, deploying tried and tested filmmaking techniques such as low shots, quick cuts, point-of-view perspectives, dim lighting, and ample movement and shadow. A couple of gory kill sequences add to the mood, as does the movie's approach to its swirling winds and rushing water. Indeed, amid the rampant CGI, there's a sense of awe for the havoc that alligators and hurricanes can each wreak, which only heightens the stressful atmosphere. Unsurprisingly, fear and tension radiates through the film as a result — and through its key duo, too. Although Scodelario and Pepper are given about as much room for character development as their cold-blooded foes, they still bring a naturalistic air to their performances, portraying anxious everyday folks just fighting to survive by doing whatever it takes. No matter what's thrown at us, or how, or where, that's what making humanity grapple with our surroundings boils down to, after all. In fact, given the state of the planet, Crawl's central theme not only proves frightening and fuels an effective thriller, but also feels unnervingly prescient. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q4WuVXo_XAM
A much-loved Melbourne legend is set to have his legacy memorialised, with a fitting permanent tribute set to be unveiled early next year. The City of Melbourne has today announced that a memorial table and plaque created in honour of the late Pellegrini's co-owner Sisto Malaspina will be installed out the front of his famed Bourke Street Italian restaurant. The news comes one year after the Melbourne hospitality pioneer was killed in the Bourke Street terrorist attack in November, 2018. The table will be engraved with a portrait of Malaspina by acclaimed Melbourne illustrator Oslo Davis and the words "Sisto loved Melbourne – and Melbourne loved him back". It'll be placed streetside, where the Pellegrini's mainstay would often be found sitting, chatting and watching the world go by. [caption id="attachment_749741" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Some of the tributes left outside Pellegrini's after Malspina's death in November 2018.[/caption] Malaspina arrived in Melbourne from Italy in the 1960s, purchased Pellegrini's with his business partner Nino Pangrazio in 1974 and operated it together right up until Malaspina passed away last year. He was a familiar face for scores of locals and visitors, renowned for his generous personality and welcoming nature. And for decades, the venue he helped create has been one of the CBD's go-to Italian coffee bars and eateries, famed for its classic pasta and friendly vibe. Malaspina's son David, who's in negotiations to purchase Pangrazio's half of the business, said in a statement that the family is proud of the memorial and he "look[s] forward to looking out of the window of Pellegrini's and watching people learn about Dad while enjoying a coffee at his table". Find Pellegrini's Espresso Bar at 66 Bourke Street, Melbourne. It's open from Monday–Saturday 8am–11pm and Sunday 12–8pm.
Located in the heart of Victoria Street — affectionately known as Melbourne's Little Vietnam — Thuy Lu and Thy Vo's new casual mod-Viet restaurant has quite the family history. The sisters' parents Trang Le and Van Ho opened both the original Thy Thy and Thy Thy 2 on Victoria Street in the 80s, and Thy Thy Counter and Canteen now sits in the very same corner site that once housed their third venture, Tho Tho. This new incarnation celebrates the family's South Vietnamese heritage, while also embracing other regional flavours encountered on more recent trips through the country's north. In the role of head chef, Mum Le is deftly blending the traditional with the modern, with plenty of long-held family recipes getting a spin. It's all being plated up in a light-filled, minimalist space, featuring a contemporary mix of polished concrete floors and generous pops of colour. Classics are in strong supply on the menu, with options like bo bop thau (wagyu beef salad) ($22), banh hoi (rice vermicelli cake) ($18–20), Vietnamese-style slaws and a range of goi cuon (rice paper rolls) ($12). You'll find a swag of stir-frys, vermicelli bowls and signature rice dishes, while a special beef pho ($14) heads the selection of noodle soups. Wash down your feed with a Vietnamese 333 Beer ($9), a local wine, or perhaps a sweet Viet-style coffee ($6). Keep an eye out for a weekly-changing lineup of specials, too — think, bun bo hue (Hue-style spicy beef noodle soup), traditional broths and a rotation of banh mi rolls. [caption id="attachment_830385" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Pete Dillon[/caption] Images: Pete Dillon
Paying tribute to great authors and writers is easy. Libraries beckon, as do whatever happens to be on your own bookshelf or Kindle. Getting the chance to celebrate the talents behind some of the greatest works of literature ever committed to paper in a stunning exhibition is far more rare, however. Indeed, Writers Revealed: Treasures From the British Library and National Portrait Gallery, London is a world-first. Clearly, it's a special treat for word nerds — especially if you're a fan of Jane Austen, William Shakespeare, JRR Tolkien, Bram Stoker, the Brontë sisters, Virginia Woolf, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and more. What goes on display at a showcase dedicated to wordsmiths? Featuring at HOTA, Home of the Arts on the Gold Coast from Saturday, April 12–Sunday, August 3, 2025, Writers Revealed spans author portraits, plus rare handwritten manuscripts and first editions. Over 70 pieces of art include the likenesses of the writers responsible for Pride and Prejudice, Romeo and Juliet, The Lord of the Rings, Dracula, Wuthering Heights, Sherlock Holmes and other masterpieces. More than 100 texts are on the lineup, too, with six centuries of literature covered. [caption id="attachment_987065" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jane Austen by Cassandra Austen, pencil and watercolour, circa 1810. © National Portrait Gallery, London[/caption] As the exhibition's full name states, this is a collaboration between the British Library and the National Portrait Gallery, London. If you're wondering why the two institutions are pairing portraits with texts, one of the showcase's aims to explore how literature and visual expression are linked. Also in the spotlight: the legacy of influential writers, plus digging into their creative processes. Oscar Wilde, Harold Pinter, William Blake, Charles Dickens, Lewis Carroll, Lord Byron, TS Eliot, Thomas Hardy, James Joyce, DH Lawrence, John Keats, William Wordsworth and Rudyard Kipling are some of the other greats earning Writers Revealed's attention, as are AA Milne, Beatrix Potter, Dylan Thomas, Sir Kazuo Ishiguro and Zadie Smith. Among the highlights that's filling 1000 square metres in HOTA's Gallery 1 for 16 weeks: Austen's writing desk, what's thought to be the only Shakespeare portrait to be painted while he was alive, illustrated letters from Tolkien to his grandson, Lewis Carroll's diary entry about Alice in Wonderland and Virginia Woolf's handwritten Mrs Dalloway manuscript. [caption id="attachment_987063" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Charles Dickens by Daniel Maclise, oil on canvas, 1839. © National Portrait Gallery, London[/caption] Top images: William Shakespeare, associated with John Taylor, oil on canvas, feigned oval, circa 1610. © National Portrait Gallery, London. Beatrix Potter by Delmar Harmood Banner, oil on canvas, 1938. © National Portrait Gallery, London. Harold Pinter by Justin Mortimer, oil on canvas, 1992. © National Portrait Gallery, London.
If you can't wait to get out and make the most of Melbourne's nightlife once again, then make tracks to Bourke Street karaoke and rooftop bar Heroes. The fun-loving spot will play host to a bottomless cocktails session that'll pull you out of any post-iso funk. Starting from Friday, October 30, the socially distanced parties will be happening every Friday and Saturday up until Christmas. For $42 per person, punters will get to enjoy two hours of catching up with friends over unlimited beer, wine and cocktails. The drinks lineup promises to have you spoilt for choice, featuring sips like tap beer and cider, sparkling by Zilzie Wines, Mr Mick tempranillo and a riff on the espresso martini Heroes is calling the Kopi-Kabana. As a 25-kilometre travel bubble is still in place until Monday, November 9, bookings are limited to those who live within a 25-kilometre radius of the bar. From there on out, though, all are invited. Book online now to secure your spot as sessions are limited due to COVID-19 restrictions. Images: Eugene Hyland
Digital art is taking over the Australian Centre for the Moving Image in a huge way in 2024. The Melbourne venue might be known for its cinemas, as well as past exhibitions about Martin Scorsese, David Bowie, Disney animation and women in Hollywood, but it doesn't just celebrate movies and television. If it can grace screens, it can feature here — including at the Marshmallow Laser Feast: Works of Nature showcase that displayed until April, and then at fellow world-premiere Beings from Wednesday, May 22–Sunday, September 29. Interactive pieces using innovative technology firmly fit ACMI's remit, which is exactly what its big winter exhibition is about. The playful event explores the work of art and design collective Universal Everything, featuring 13 pieces from its 20-year career. And the experience that you have while walking through Beings won't be the same as anyone else's. This new reason to head to ACMI wants attendees to not merely look at, but also move and dance in front of its large-scale screens and projected artworks. Beings' pieces respond differently to each visitor, using evolving algorithms and generative technology. That makes you part of the art as well. [caption id="attachment_944198" align="alignnone" width="1920"] 'Into the Sun' by Universal Everything, installation view, Lifeforms exhibition, 180 Studios, photo by Jack Hems.[/caption] Founded in 2004, Universal Everything began in a garden studio in Sheffield, England, which is where Creative Director Matt Pyke initially set up shop. Now, the collective — which includes animators, architects, cinematographers, designers, developers, engineers and musicians — works globally. Its creations display around the world, too, with stints in London, Seoul, Paris, Istanbul and New York before its upcoming Melbourne exhibition. Beings' pieces — four of which will be brand-new world-premiere artworks themselves — frequently use the kind of tech that Hollywood studios and video-game makers deploy. Expect to peer at and play with an assortment of characters, and to feel like you've stepped into a movie or a game as well. The exhibition unravels Universal Everything's creative process, including via hand-drawn sketches that'll be seen by the public for the first time. Top image: Future You' by Universal Everything, installation view, Digital Impact, Barcelona, Spain, photo by Eva Caraso.
Victoria's strict rules surrounding social distancing and public gatherings have been extended until at least midnight on Monday, May 11, Premier Daniel Andrews announced this morning, Sunday, April 12. The Premier has prolonged Victoria's COVID-19 State of Emergency declaration, which was first made in March and was due to expire at midnight on Monday, April 13. With the new extension, current restrictions are now in place for another four weeks. The State of Emergency declaration allows the state's authorised officers to "act to eliminate or reduce a serious risk to public health" as directed by Victoria's Chief Health Officer. That means restricting movement, preventing entry to premises and venues and detaining people — measures that have been in place over the past month as the state responds to the coronavirus. Announcing the extension, the Premier noted that the continued restrictions are needed to continue to keep slowing the spread of COVID-19. "There are positive signs our efforts are working — but if we relax now, our hard-won gains will evaporate and people will die," he explained. "This is an unprecedented crisis — we need to extend the State of Emergency to help slow the spread of the virus, protect our health system and save lives." [caption id="attachment_651722" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] St Kilda Beach, Josie Withers, Visit Victoria[/caption] At present, there are only four allowable reasons for Victorians to leave their homes: to obtain food and supplies, to receive medical care or provide care yourself, for exercise while adhering to social-distancing requirements, and to attend work or education if you cannot do so from home. Fines are being handed out to folks who breach the restrictions, with Victoria Police issuing more than 900 since Saturday, March 28. The state's financial penalties span up to $1652 for individuals and up to $9913 for businesses. Under the State of Emergency, people who refuse to comply can also be taken to court, where the fine imposed could reach up to $20,000 for individuals and $100,000 for companies. As of 3pm on Saturday, April 11, 1265 Victorians have tested positive for COVID-19. 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: Federation Square, Robert Blackburn, Visit Victoria
Footy's biggest day is here, and as you might expect, it's taking over the entire city. If you're looking to do more than kick around at home, just about every pub, bar and restaurant puts on a game-day screening with the perks to match. From catching the action in the shadow of the 'G to refined encounters fit for the prawn sandwich brigade, these Grand Final experiences will see you through from siren-to-siren and beyond, whether you're a Cat, a Lion or someone without a dog in this fight. The Posty, Cremorne The Posty has a simple formula: pizza, margs and good times. But for the Grand Final, the crew is switching things up, hosting a laneway party decked out with the only megascreen on Swan Street. Taking over from 10am–late, this live and loud experience will keep rocking long after the siren sounds, with this hallowed strip often the go-to spot for post-match revellers. [caption id="attachment_1021356" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Zennieshia Butts[/caption] Hickens Hotel, CBD Hickens Hotel is a new addition to the CBD pub scene, but it's undoubtedly primed for the last Saturday in September. On Level 2, Abe's Athletic Hall offers wall-to-wall screens, made even better with booth packages, a pair of private viewing rooms and post-game bands. Meanwhile, the ultra-retro Carlton Lounge is ripe for waxing lyrical about the sport's greatest moments. Quarterhouse, Docklands Quarterhouse is another new arrival, offering three levels of top-notch drinking and dining opposite Southern Cross Station. The venue is going sky-high for the Grand Final, presenting an exclusive Rooftop Viewing Party. Featuring a four-metre screen, roaming canapés, bottomless drinks and live entertainment before and after the siren, you're invited to score the basic package for $110 per person. Post Office Club Hotel, St Kilda Sorry, Saints fans, the Premiership drought continues. But at least the Post Office Club Hotel, a much-loved local, ensures those in and around St Kilda catch all the action. Stacked with pre-game specials and elevated pub cuisine for the big occasion, The Posty has Coopers pale ale pints for $10 and schooners for $8 from 12pm until it's time for the first bounce. Marmont, Southbank Punters will flock to Crown on Grand Final day. However, you might skip the gaming floors for the restaurants, as Marmont is complementing its screening with limited-edition bar snacks. Renowned for its Cali-inspired flavours, this is your chance to bypass frozen pies and sausage rolls for slightly more refined options, like buffalo wings with blue cheese dressing and Marmont-style hot dogs. Le Méridien Melbourne, CBD With the MCG within walking distance of Le Méridien, there's a good chance the sounds of footy fever will reach the five-star stay come Saturday. From inside the hotel's luxe Intermission Bar, you'll catch every second of the game on multiple screens, while enjoying $10 beers all day alongside a special siren-to-siren beer, pie and salad combo for $20. Harvey's Sports Bar & Grill, St Kilda Harvey's Sports Bar & Grill is hard to beat when it comes to catching live sports. Yet it's taking things to the next level for the match with Harvey's AFL Grand Party Final. Priced at $110 per person, this four-hour experience features bottomless canapes and drinks. Plus, live DJs, bands and drink specials kick off from the final siren until 3am, making for an all-in final's footy event. Beverly, South Yarra Melbourne goes more than a little mad for the AFL Grand Final. However, not everyone cares about who can kick it through the big sticks best. With this in mind, Beverly is hosting Ladies Lunch — an elevated experience on the 24th floor offering a two-course shared set menu highlighting the venue's most beloved dishes. This way, you can relish the citywide atmosphere without feigning interest in who wins out. Want even more options for catching the game? Check out these beer gardens and bottomless banquets screening the AFL's biggest day.
Whether you love a good treasure hunt or you're just after a fresh way to explore Melbourne's inner north, we've found an interactive new offering you'll want to get clicking on ASAP. The local government area known as Merri-bek — that part that stretches from Brunswick up to the Metropolitan Ring Road — has created two trail maps designed to get you out and about, enjoying the best of its food, drink and lifestyle scene. The work of Merri-bek City Council, the two downloadable maps each spotlight an array of local venues and businesses, also offering suggested public transport routes and bike paths to help you plot your journey. [caption id="attachment_878194" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Noisy Ritual[/caption] The first map is a sipper's dream, highlighting Merri-bek's growing collection of breweries and distilleries. It covers 12 destinations, including the likes of Temple Brewing Company, Co-Conspirators Brewpub, Welcome to Brunswick, Noisy Ritual Winery, BrewDog Pentridge and even the famed purveyors of booze-free drops at Brunswick Aces. The handy map key also tells you which spots are pet-friendly, which have live tunes and what kind of food offering you can expect at each. The other map is a veritable treasure trove for music lovers, spotlighting some of the area's best live music destinations and record stores. In the mix, you've got venues like The Retreat, Brunswick Ballroom, Howler, Small Time and The Moldy Fig, along with shops such as Coburg's Feminista Vinyl, Coburg North's Round Again, and Ringo Barr and Record Paradise in Brunswick. [caption id="attachment_809993" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Howler[/caption] Not just a way to highlight and celebrate Merri-bek businesses, the trail maps also feature design work, illustrations and copywriting from local creatives. "We want our hidden gems to be discovered, and known and loved across Melbourne," explained Merri-bek Mayor, Councillor Angelica Panopoulos. The two new maps are available to download for free over at the Love Merri-bek website, with more themed trails to be released in the future. [caption id="attachment_802253" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brunswick Ballroom by Nicole Cleary[/caption] Find the Merri-bek Trail Maps on the website, along with a full area directory. Top image: Welcome to Brunswick
