Can't stop losing your drink bottle? Frank Green's brand-new Glow in the Dark collection can help you keep track of it, day and night. Available for a limited time in three neon pastel colours, this illuminating drop is more than bright enough to see during the day, and transforms with a gentle glow in the dark. Playing on a trio of nostalgic colours that wouldn't look out of place in a 80s workout video, these design-led bottles are available in yellow, green and orange, aka Star Glow, Aurora Glow and Solar Glow. Soaking up daylight to radiate at night in ever-changing patterns, no two bottles glow the same. Made with Frank Green's premium ceramic reusable bottle design, crafted from at least 90% recycled stainless steel, there's two sizes to consider — 595ml and 1 litre. For those keen to treat their glowing bottle right, you can also purchase Frank Green Bottle Bumper Guards in the same colours, helping to protect it from dings and scratches. You'll also be happy to know these bottles are triple-wall vacuum-insulated to keep your beverage icy cold or steaming hot. Meanwhile, they feature a ceramic lining that doesn't impact taste, while the spill-proof lid makes it easy to sip on the move without having to stress about leaks soaking your bag. If you're keen to stock up on the new range, you'll get the brightest, most luminous results by placing your bottle in direct sunlight for at least 30 minutes to help it charge. While indoor light also works, sunlight is the way to go, if possible. In return, your bottle will glow vividly for about 30 minutes before gradually softening over the next few hours. Ready to sip and glow? Visit the official website to browse the new collection. Melbourne-based fans can head to Frank Green's Chadstone flagship to get an in-person glimpse. You'll also discover adorable glow-in-the-dark sticker sheets to customise your bottle, alongside reusable party cups, perfect for cocktails with a difference at your next late-night event. Frank Green's Glow in the Dark collection is available now online and in-store at Chadstone. Head to the website for more information.
Kew's Skinny Dog Hotel has been kicking around in one form or another for over 150 years. In that time, it has passed through the hands of several owners and gone through a series of makeovers. Nowadays, the pub has settled into having two distinct spaces. Downstairs, you'll find the classic gastropub, serving up steak, pizza and parma deals and sporting plenty of beers and wines to locals. It still has that old-school boozer feel to it. But upstairs is altogether more sleek and refined. The rooftop was renovated in 2023, making it one of the area's must-visit spots in summer. The 400-capacity rooftop bar at Skinny Dog Hotel includes a light-filled atrium full of hanging plants and an openair terrace where you can soak up all the sun during a long day of drinking and eating. Dishes are somewhat more refined compared to the downstairs pub as well. Coconut chilli prawns, tofu chips and charcuterie tasting boards kick things off. A selection of gourmet pizzas, house-made pasta, a few roasts and plenty of seafood dishes round out the savoury dining options. The drinks on the Skinny Dog Hotel's new rooftop are also a step above those found downstairs. The extensive wine list features stacks of Aussie and New Zealand drops, and the team has dreamt up a few new signature cocktails. Beers, ciders and ginger beer are all on tap, plus plenty of fruity seltzers come in can form. It's ticking all the right boxes. From Friday to Sunday, the team hosts live music gigs and DJs up on the roof, transforming the space into more of a party destination as the sun goes down.
The Waterside Hotel, standing tall and proud on the corner of Flinders Street and King Street, is set to open before the end of the year following a massive transformation. Come November, the revitalised venue will showcase a new beer garden, multi-level South-East Asian restaurant, rooftop bar, outdoor terrace, ground-floor pub and additional event spaces. While a huge undertaking, the project was in the safe and experienced hands of Sand Hill Road, a group known for redeveloping some of Melbourne's most notable and loved pubs. Their previous renovations include The Espy in St Kilda, the Richmond Club Hotel on Swan Street, and the Garden State Hotel on Flinders Lane. "The Waterside Hotel is the culmination of decades revitalising pubs across Melbourne. We're deeply passionate about breathing new life into treasured venues, and we felt that now was the perfect time to revive The Waterside Hotel — restoring this iconic landmark while offering something truly unique for Melbourne, that is on a global scale," says Matt Mullins, co-owner of Sand Hill Road. This project has been in the works for an eye-watering eight years. While the heritage-listed 1925 facade has been preserved, the interior was entirely redone to modernise the venue and create a new destination for Melburnians to head to for a night out in the CBD. The ground floor pub and beer garden will keep with traditions, offering up modern pub fare. At the same time, the new PAST/PORT restaurant, which spans three levels, will serve a Southeast Asian menu, all under the watchful eye of executive chef Sarah Chan (from the Espy's Mya Tiger). Sand Hill Road has led the project with their signature 'Melbourne-first approach', which seeks to honour the legacy of historic venues, while revitalising them for future success and longevity. Mullins says, "The Waterside Hotel is not just about grand design — it's about how people connect to the rooms, the mood, and each other. We've strived to create something that carries the soul of a Melbourne pub, but on a scale and ambition that feels truly world-class." Images: Michael Pham. The Waterside Hotel is set to reopen in November at 508 Flinders Street, Melbourne. Subscribe now to keep up to date with the latest information. In the meantime, check out the best restaurants in Melbourne's CBD.
Melbourne added to its ever-growing collection of basement drinking dens with the arrival of The Mulberry Group's Dessous. Gracing the Flinders Lane space beneath newly launched sibling Hazel in the T&G Building and joining a stable of venues that also includes Liminal and Geelong's Common Ground Project, this hideaway wine bar is one of the city's best. The same minds that first brought us The Kettle Black, Top Paddock and Higher Ground, The Mulberry Group has here created yet another inviting hospitality destination with plenty of attention to detail. Like both its recent siblings, Dessous is sporting interiors by award-winning design firm The Stella Collective. It's a warm and moody assembly of deep greens, plush velvet and dark timber — a comfy, subterranean escape you'll be in no rush to leave. Chef Dan Sawasak (Movida, Higher Ground) has pulled together a menu focused on snacking and sharing. Settle in over the likes of a pork belly sandwich with Bull-Dog sauce (a popular Japanese brand of tonkatsu sauce), a savoury comté panna cotta teamed with almonds, nettle and asparagus, or perhaps a main of skate dressed with crushed hazelnuts, jamón and warm grapes. Potatoes are done with fennel, 'nduja and crisp chicken skin, while a magical-sounding 'unicorn' doughnut stars corn custard, sea urchin (uni) and salmon roe. The drinks lineup is an extensive one, with an international wine list that caters to just about every mood and taste. A strong contingent of by-the-glass options is sure to prove a hit with the after-work crowd, while the signature cocktails are crafty and refined. Images: Jana Langhorst.
Mornington Peninsula's Red Hill Estate has opened its new outdoor dining and drinking offering in time for the summer months. Gigi's Piazza, set on the lawns of the estate, invites guests to enjoy the Italian way of life, featuring a share-style Italian menu and crowd-favourite wines by the glass. The new casual hang-out spot is suitable for everything from first dates to family days out. The picnic-style menu, served from the nearby cottage kitchen, showcases casual Italian fare. Think arancini, antipasto, focaccia, pastas, salads, tiramisu and more. Red Hill Estate's General Manager, Dominic Fabrizio says, "No one does long lunches better than the Italians — everybody together, unrushed, enjoying the outdoors and appreciating good food. Gigi's Piazza was designed for visitors to slow down, unwind, and sip and savour every moment." The estate's renowned wines, including the rosé, pinot noir, chardonnay and newly released Blanc de Blancs sparkling, are poured by the glass, perfect for roaming the lawns and playing a game. There's giant Jenga and Hoopla, and your pooches are also welcome to enjoy the outdoor setting. Fabrizio says Gigi's Piazza offers the ultimate "dolce vita" experience, where guests can relax and enjoy life's simple pleasures. "We want our guests to feel right at home — enjoy a glass of wine, a bite to eat and take in the stunning surroundings of Red Hill Estate while you pause from the hustle of everyday life." Images: C McConville.
Death and destruction are no strangers to our screens at the moment. When Avengers: Endgame isn't pondering the decimation of half of humanity, then Game of Thrones is getting kill-happy with dragons — and then there's John Wick: Chapter 3 — Parabellum's astonishingly staged action and ample body count, plus Godzilla: King of the Monsters' world-destroying mayhem as well. But when it comes to sheer horror of the bone-chilling kind, not to mention the kind of soul-crushing dismay that can only stem from the bleakest of tales, they all pale in comparison to HBO's hit new mini-series Chernobyl. Currently streaming on Foxtel Now in Australia and Soho in New Zealand, the five-part show explores the aftermath of the 1986 nuclear disaster, which saw the reactor inside the Ukrainian facility explode. The fallout, unsurprisingly, was catastrophic, with the incident considered the worst nuclear power plant accident in history as well one of the worst man-made events ever. Releasing approximately 400 times more radioactive material than the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki will do that, as will the disaster's significant environmental and human toll. While the dramatisation begins with the fiery explosion, it's what happens next that earns the show's focus — the initial salvage attempts by workers condemned to suffer and die just for doing their jobs; the arrogant cover-ups, including by stubborn plant supervisors who refuse to believe what's happened; the clean-up and rescue missions, sacrificing more lives to the incident; and the inevitable investigation. Every aspect of the series is detailed, thorough, and even more relentless and unnerving than you'd expect given the real-life situation, with creator and writer Craig Mazin drawing upon meticulous research, interviews with nuclear scientists, chats with former Soviet residents and first-person accounts from those who were there. Expect a grim tone, grey imagery, the galvanising feeling that comes from watching such an enormous disaster unfold, and a slew of great performances as well. Mad Men's Jared Harris leads the cast as the Soviet nuclear physicist who first grasps the full scope of the accident, Stellan Skarsgård pops up as the Soviet Deputy Prime Minister assigned by the Kremlin to lead the government commission into the incident, and Emily Watson plays another physicist determined to work out what caused the disaster. Other familiar faces among the hefty cast include Beast's Jessie Buckley, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows' Adrian Rawlins and American Animals' Barry Keoghan. A word of warning: Chernobyl isn't easy viewing. If you're not fond of constantly feeling tense, terrified and panicked, don't fare well with body horror, and have no time for cruel and clueless political machinations from inept folks cowering in the face of catastrophe, this isn't for you. But the US-UK series, a co-production between HBO and British broadcaster Sky, is as masterful as it is haunting and shocking — which is exactly what a show about such a dark chapter of recent history should be. Check out the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s9APLXM9Ei8 Chernobyl's first four episodes are currently available to stream via Foxtel Now and Soho, with the fifth and final episode arriving on Monday, June 3. It'll also air weekly on Foxtel Showcase from Wednesday, June 12. Images: Liam Daniel/HBO.
Second Wife is sleek and beautiful in its fitout, with an industrial style and a big portrait of, supposedly, the wife in question on one wall. The cafe is the owners Semir Elamazi and Reiji Honour's second venture as a team, which has inspired the name and also means the pair already know what they are doing, and it shows. You'll find touches on the menu inspired by both Elamazi's Middle Eastern background, and Honour's Japanese heritage. There's a focus on healthy, vibrant dishes, and everything is halal. For breakfast, try the okonomiyaki or Moroccan eggs, or for lunch, get around a bowl made your way — select a base, some toppings, a sauce and a protein. Images: Tracey Ah-kee.
These days, we're all on the hunt for cheap eats in Melbourne. And Brunswick East is already home to plenty of good spots — CDMX, Wild Life Bakery, Mankoushe, Nico's Sandwich Deli and Thaila Thai are all affordable faves. But there's always room for more. Enter Tawooq, the casual Lebanese spot on the buzzy Brunswick East end of Lygon Street. The tight menu consists of just nine items — spanning wraps, baguettes and burgers — and the most you'll pay for one is $14. The wraps come stuffed with either falafel, beef shawarma, fries or the signature chicken tawooq (grilled chicken covered in a creamy yogurt-based marinade), while baguettes are loaded with either spicy sausage (makanek or sujuk), tomatoes, pickles and sauces, or succulent asbe (grilled chicken liver). Pair your lunch or late-night meal (Tawooq is open till 2am on Friday and Saturday nights) with a soft drink or something a little more substantial from Tawooq's sister brand Laiimoon, located within the same space. Try a traditional Lebanese sahlab (milk pudding) or a smoothie packed with fresh fruit. It's a small selection of food and drink, but you've only got to master a few to become a true food destination in Melbourne.
Bring a little more colour to your winter, as acclaimed New York-based Australian artist CJ Hendry presents her Lost & Found exhibition at Chadstone. Spanning three sites, original artwork, large-scale interactive installations and kid-friendly activations ensure this playful experience transforms the shopping centre into a veritable creative wonderland. Running until Sunday, July 20, expect Hendry's trademark designs, where luxury and everyday objects are shaped with a hyper-realistic, meticulously crafted edge. Stepping into this experiential world, the foremost encounter at Lost & Found is The Maze — a sprawling block-coloured labyrinth that asks guests to rummage through the padlocks searching for one that matches their key. Keeping with the theme, The Vault is a dedicated luxury installation, featuring an exclusive presentation of CJ Hendry artworks inspired by locks. For those who want to adorn their own space with a colourful design, this is the place to purchase original works alongside special collectible merch, like leather key chains, canvas totes, caps and colouring books. "I'm so excited to be bringing an exhibition to Australia after so many years — it's a place that has always fueled my creativity and inspired my work. Art should be for everyone, and I love pushing the boundaries to make it more engaging in fresh and unexpected ways," says Hendry. "It's all about breaking down barriers, inviting people into the world of art, and letting them curate pieces that truly speak to them." For those unfamiliar with Hendry's work, trust that Lost & Found will be popular. Over the years, her interactive art projects have drawn massive crowds, with the NYPD abruptly shutting down her Flower Market exhibition in 2024 due to its mega turnout. A self-proclaimed natural marketer, Hendry's HOOPS sculpture at Art Basel Miami also captured widespread attention, with a $1 million USD prize offered to anyone who could sink 34 baskets in a row. "CJ Hendry's art is bold, thought-provoking and impossible to ignore — it challenges perspectives and sparks conversation," says Daniel Boyle, Chadstone Centre Manager. "We're thrilled to bring such a dynamic and immersive experience to our visitors, giving them a chance to engage with art in a way that's both inspiring and accessible." CJ Hendry's Lost & Found is happening at Chadstone Shopping Centre until Sunday, July 20. Head to the website for more information.
Prahran's High St Hotel has reopened with a fresh new direction and energised spirit just in time for the silly season. At its heart, it maintains its strong sense of community, with a quality hospitality offering, inclusive atmosphere and approachable space. The pub is led by Nic and Bianca Gordon (former owners of Blue Tongue Wine Bar), who have transformed the venue into a contemporary, multi-purpose space to create a place where people can truly connect. "Our vision is to reimagine a once iconic venue into a vibrant and multi-space destination, catering for all that work, live and play in our community — and beyond our dynamic postcode." On the menu, you'll find tried and tested pub classics such as fish and chips, hand-crumbed chicken parmas, Victorian grass-fed steaks, and cheeseburgers with seasoned fries. There are plenty of snacky small plates to get you through an afternoon of bevvies, such as deep-fried lasagne bites, crab and prawn toasts, bresaola crumpets, and haloumi with apple and honey. Bianca says, "Every dish is designed to strike the right balance between quality and approachability, creating a dining experience that feels both familiar and special." With a mega screen and multiple other large televisions, the beer garden is set to become the local go-to for match day. It's just as friendly to families, with a dedicated kids' menu and a welcoming atmosphere. And a strong sense of family and community is what sets the place apart. The venue manager and assistant are Nic's nephew and cousin; Bianca's mum helped redesign the interiors; and as part of a program to give back, the pub will launch an annual $10,000 community grant for local sporting clubs in the area. Images: Supplied.
It's the end of an era for a St Kilda beachside favourite, though its next phase of existence is already looking very promising, indeed. After it was announced last month that Pontoon, the downstairs beach club component of the Stokehouse precinct, would be reborn with a fresh look and a new name, that next incarnation has officially opened its doors. Introducing, Stokehouse Pasta & Bar — the suburb's new laidback, all-day spot for Mediterranean eats and beachside sips. Hugh and Pete van Haandel, sons of Stokehouse precinct owner Frank van Haandel, are steering the venue's latest guise, built around a pasta-heavy food offering that fuses European flavours with Aussie flair. The space is showing off a fresh makeover, now with breezier coastal-inspired interiors and timber finishes played against the backdrop of sand and sea. There's been a strong focus on sustainability, too, in keeping with the precinct's 5-Star 'Australian Excellence' Green Star Design & As Built Rating, as awarded earlier this year. Food is led by Stokehouse Executive Chef Jason Staudt and Stokehouse Pasta & Bar's newly appointed Head Chef Brendan Anderson, bearing similar DNA to the restaurant above, yet with a much more casual lean. It's primed for seaside snacking sessions, with the likes of white anchovy and olive gildas, king prawns with nduja, cod croquettes, and a mixed salumi plate kicking off the menu. Move into pasta territory for plates like cacio e pepe gnocchi, a crab and chilli spaghetti, and orecchiette spiked with anchovy and broccoli; or dive into mains like the classic fish and chips, or a veal schnitty. Groups are sorted with a couple of hefty shared options, too — think, a 600-gram whole Murray cod with peperonata, or a giant rib-eye paired with gremolata. And star Group Pastry Chef Ash Smith is putting on a show for dessert, with the likes of lemon and coconut panna cotta, and a tiramisu reimagined as a bombe alaska. Weekly specials are set to encourage many a return visit, from the $30 weekday express lunch menu, to $24 seafood dishes for Fish Night Tuesdays. Also out to save you some coin is Stokehouse Pasta & Bar's wine list, where all bottles clock in at $79 a pop. The lineup trips from Australia to Europe, with pours to suit palates both simple and adventurous; while a tidy list of cocktails spans from the classics to signature offerings like the Stokehouse Spritz — a delicate blend of Amaro, orange, white peach and jasmine soda. Find Stokehouse Pasta & Bar at 30 Jacka Boulevard, St Kilda. It's open daily from 12pm till late. Images: Interiors by Tom Blachford, Food and Drink by Arianna Leggiero.
No one spent a winter weekend dancing in a North Byron Bay Parklands field at Splendour in the Grass in 2024. No one will do that in 2025, either. After 2024's festival was cancelled just weeks after unveiling its Kylie Minogue-, Future- and Arcade Fire-led lineup, the Splendour crew has advised that there'll also be no fest this year. "Hey gang, sorry it's been so quiet, but we had a little holiday ... finally. The rest of the festival team have still been busy cooking up some awesome new things for music lovers in Australia, but Splendour needs a little more time to recharge and we won't be back this year," said organisers in a statement on social media. "Think of it as a breather so we can come back even bigger and better when the time is right. Lots of other huge events on the horizon so keep an ear to the ground in the coming months — we can't wait to share what we've been working on!" View this post on Instagram A post shared by Splendour in the Grass (@splendourinthegrass) Notably, the statement about 2025's event doesn't confirm that the festival will return in 2026, but rather says that it'll be back "when the time is right". For now, put those glittery gumboots away for at least this year, in what proves another heartbreaking piece of news for Australia's live music industry. When Splendour scrapped its 2024 plans, it did so after revealing its roster of acts, and also followed on from a heap of other cancellations across the Aussie festival scene. Groovin the Moo ditched its 2024 events just a fortnight after announcing its lineup. Also, Falls Festival took summer 2023–24 off, Summergrounds Music Festival at Sydney Festival was cancelled and This That hasn't gone ahead for a couple of years. Since Splendour cancelled, Yours and Owls ditched its 2024 fest, as did Spilt Milk and Adelaide's Harvest Rock. Dark Mofo took a breather, too, while Mona Foma called time forever after its 2024 event. Bluesfest also revealed that it would say farewell after its 2025 fest, but it has been reported that that might no longer be the case. "With a heavy heart, we're announcing the cancellation of Splendour in the Grass 2024," said the Splendour team in a statement last year. "We know there were many fans excited for this year's lineup and all the great artists planning to join us, but due to unexpected events we'll be taking the year off. Ticketholders will be refunded automatically by Moshtix. We thank you for your understanding and will be working hard to be back in future years." "We're heartbroken to be missing a year, especially after more than two decades in operation. This festival has always been a huge community effort, and we'd like to thank everyone for their support and overall faith. We hope to be back in the future," added Jessica Ducrou and Paul Piticco, co-CEOs of Secret Sounds. 2024's event would've marked the festival's 22nd birthday — and its third COVID-19-era fest, following the supremely muddy 2022 iteration (which was delayed for the two years due to the pandemic's early days) and 2023's go-around. Splendour in the Grass won't take place in 2025. For more information, head to the festival website. Images: Charlie Hardy, Bianca Holderness and Claudia Ciapocha.
Renowned Melbourne bakery, Baker Bleu, has opened its fourth location, expanding to Domain Road, South Yarra. Locals are thrilled to welcome back a bakery to the site where Baker D Chirico stood for many years so that they can once again get their hands on early morning pastries. Baker Bleu is known and adored for its award-winning sourdough breads, including their famous country wheel rolls, seasonal fougasse, chewy bagels, pillowy challah and crusty ficelles. Baker Bleu's signature flaky croissants are known for being taken to the crisp edge in the oven, and their creamy custard tarts have become a crowd favourite for good reason. The popular kouign amanns with salted caramel are so crunchy you could crack a tooth (in the best way possible), and the almond and yuzu croissant has become a menu mainstay due to its enduring popularity. Depending on when you visit, specials may include a vanilla rhubarb crumble danish, a thick slab of shortbread topped with soft caramel and candied pecans, or a strawberry, almond and white chocolate tart, just to name a few. The takeaway-only site offers the full range of Baker Bleu goodies, alongside Market Lane coffee and a small range of premium pantry staples. The South Yarra outpost is also exclusively offering Baker Bleu's first foray into soft serve. First up is backyard honey soft serve topped with olive oil, caramelised croissant crumbs and sea salt. Or make it adult, and enjoy a shot of espresso poured over the top. The perfect treat to enjoy across the road at the Botanical Gardens on a warm summer's day, after a picnic of Baker Bleu pizzas and sandwiches. Mike and Mia Russell started their now widely loved bakery in 2016, seeking to create a place focused on both ethical and delicious sourdough bread. The undeniable success of the venture, owing to its truly outstanding product, saw the brand expand not only to shopfronts in Hawksburn Village, Caulfield North and Cremorne, but also across the border to Double Bay in Sydney. "We're so excited to bring Baker Bleu to South Yarra — this is a new neighbourhood for us, and we love how close we are to the Gardens," says Russell. "It's a smaller space, but it's packed with everything our customers know and love: fresh bread, great coffee, and now, soft serve." Loyal customers of each store are still willing to wait in line every weekend (and even during the week around lunchtime), because the bread and baked goods are just so consistently excellent. And here's an insider tip: did you know you can pre-order online from any Baker Bleu store and avoid the queue? You're welcome. Images: Supplied.
The meat's in the oven, the pavlova's ready to decorate and the Christmas carols are cranked. All that's left to do is take a load off with a drink of choice. This year, that might be Four Pillars' Australian Christmas Gin, with the much-loved distillery bringing back this limited-edition release for another festive season. Conceived as holiday spirit distilled in a bottle, this tipple combines all flavours and notes you'd normally taste in a classic Christmas pudding. That means warm spices and dried fruit like nutmeg, sultanas and citrus peel alongside pine-like juniper, cassia and star anise. The result? Gin that has that familiar botanical scent, but tastes like Christmas. Now on its tenth annual release, the inspiration for Four Pillars' Christmas Gin involves more than just the mere arrival of the holiday season. Instead, Co-Founder Cameron Mackenzie wanted to replicate his late mother Wilma's Derby Day tradition. With the family listening to the races, she'd whip up a Christmas pudding, with its warming scent taking over the entire house. To make each release even more special, Four Pillars teams up with a different artist every year, asking them to produce a brand-new label that reflects what an Aussie Christmas means to them. For this merry season, 2021 label artist and 2023 Archibald Packing Room prize winner, Andrea Huelin, has composed a piece incorporating elements from every past release. "Who would've thought ten years ago that Australian Christmas Gin would still be the gift that keeps on giving? This recipe is one we'll be passing down for generations to come, and all thanks to Wilma and Cam," says Four Pillars Head Distiller Sarah Prowse. Alongside complementary stocking stuffers like jars of gin and orange relish and Christmas gin puddings, Four Pillars has also revealed four jolly cocktails in collaboration with award-winning bartender Nick Tesar. From Gin & Ginger to Strawberry Smash, these easy-to-make concoctions will make listening to your odd uncle's ravings a little more bearable. Four Pillars' Australian Christmas Gin is now available online and from select bottle shops. Head to the website for more information.
Nestled in the terrace-lined backstreets of Prahran, this southside pub and bistro is a dependable local that no doubt gives its neighbours some grief over the weekend. In addition to the main bar, dining area, public bar, and bottle shop, the large astroturf-lined beer garden can house hundreds on hot summer days and conveniently has an outside bar to cater for it. While it can be hard to get a table during the infamous Sunday Sessions, during the week this place is a relaxed little hideaway from the hustle and bustle of Chapel Street and offers great specials on pub grub including a $12 locals' night on Mondays.
If Neighbours wasn't already famously taken as a title of an Australian TV series, it could've also fit Last Days of the Space Age. Set in the 70s in Perth, the eight-part Disney+ show incorporates everything from US space station Skylab and workers striking for their rights to the battle for gender equality, the nation's treatment of Indigenous Australians, grappling with trauma and the immigrant experience — plus Miss Universe and the Cold War as well. Navigating all of the above: three neighbouring families in the Western Australian capital's suburbs. Judy (Radha Mitchell, Troppo) and Tony Bissett (Jesse Spencer, Chicago Fire), Sandy (Linh-Dan Pham, Blue Bayou) and Lam Bui (Vico Thai, Total Control), and Eileen Wilberforce (Deborah Mailman, Boy Swallows Universe) are all good neighbours and good friends. The teenagers in the three households — aspiring astronaut Tilly Bissett (Mackenzie Mazur, Moja Vesna), her surf-loving sister Mia (Emily Grant, RFDS), her best friend Jono Bui (debutant Aidan Du Chiem) and new arrival Bilya Wilberforce (Thomas Weatherall, Heartbreak High) — also all go to school together. Those connections sit at the heart of the series — and, as almost everything that the Bissetts, Buis and Wilberforces know starts to change, their neighbourly ties couldn't be more pivotal. Mitchell and Spencer are more than a bit familiar with this type of situation on-screen. While their careers have taken them overseas for decades — Mitchell has Phone Booth, The Crazies, two Silent Hill films, Olympus Has Fallen and London Has Fallen on her resume; Spencer featured in 173 episodes of House before his Chicago Fire stint; both also co-starred with a 00s-era Dakota Fanning in Man on Fire and Uptown Girls, respectively — they share a past on Neighbours. Last Days of the Space Age is Spencer's big return to homegrown TV, in fact, and his first major Australian small-screen role since playing Billy Kennedy. Ramsay Street's antics aren't set in 1979, of course. Spencer can see the symmetry with the Aussie television role that brought him to fame in the 90s and his latest show, however, he tells Concrete Playground. "The writing quality is a little bit more involved, but that's up to you to decide," adds Mitchell. As Last Days of the Space Age's Judy and Tony, the pair play not just a married couple but also colleagues at the Doull Power Plant, where Tony has been leading the worker strike for six months. When Judy is promoted and tasked with negotiating an end to the union action, their family dynamic is unsurprisingly shaken up. Aided by directors Bharat Nalluri (Boy Swallows Universe), Rachel Ward (Rachel's Farm) and Kriv Stenders (Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan), creator David Chidlow (Hidden, Moving On) unfurls the Bissetts' upheaval alongside the Bui family's efforts to build a new life after arriving from Vietnam. With the Wilberforces — and with 1979 marking 150 years since Perth was founded — the series also confronts the impact of colonisation. Game of Thrones fans will spot Iain Glen (Silo) among the cast as well, as Judy's father Bob. Also included in the clearly ambitious series, which enthusiastically embraces its era and its tonal rollercoaster: Tony's journalist brother Mick (George Mason, Exposure) covering the beauty pageant, where USSR contestant Svetlana (Ines English, Dead Lucky) is a frontrunner under close watch by her KGB minder Yvgeny (Jacek Koman, Prosper). With Last Days of the Space Age available to stream via Disney+ since Wednesday, October 2, we chatted with Mitchell, Spencer and and French Vietnamese actor Pham about what excited them about the show's bold mix of elements, the fight to be treated fairly that thrums through the series, balancing its tones, Mitchell and Spencer's homecoming, Pham connecting to her roots, Neighbours and more. On What Excited Mitchell, Spencer and Pham About Starring in Last Days of the Space Age Jesse: "I was in the States, I just had my first child and this script came across my desk — and I love period dramas. It was my first chance to play a father with two daughters, so I felt like I was looking into my future a little bit. I knew nothing really about unions or the history of unions, but my character's a very passionate union leader, so I researched that — and there's a whole pretty awful history of treatment of workers back in the day, and workers' rights. But the whole project felt like a really interesting ensemble. It was quite quirky, but it was ultimately about families, and families fighting for each other — and societal change and how they coped with that. And it was really well-written. Then I got to Australia and it was a great cast, and it was a great experience to bring it off the page and bring it to life on the screen." Linh-Dan: "I think when I choose projects, there's always something personal, somehow, unconsciously. And this one was very clear: it was about reconnecting with my roots, basically. Even though my parents didn't go through what the Bui family has gone through, I managed to talk to some of my relatives about it, and it reopened the conversation — and also discovering the hidden pain, the trauma, was my way to get into Sandy. The script was actually so amazing anyway, and period pieces are so interesting. To go back: first of all, Australia, I love traveling; 70s outfits, hello disco. So it was a no-brainer for me." Radha: "There's so much in all of the storylines, and this sense of community, and all different parts of the fabric of the Australian identity being reviewed, in a way, because we have an opportunity to have a bit of distance between now and 1979. I thought that was really an interesting mirror to history, how we've constructed our sense of identity and where we're going to go with it now. Looking through the lens of that period, I thought was really interesting. And I liked all the characters. I felt it was written with a really compassionate, kind perspective. There's so much snarky nastiness in the media lately, that it was nice to just be involved in a story that was trying to put something positive into the world. So I felt very aligned to all those aspects of the script." On Mitchell and Spencer's Homecoming — and the Joy of Not Needing to Imitate US Culture Radha: "It was a little bit of a sense of coming back home, maybe, for me and Jesse — that we were able to bring some of where we've come from to where we are now. It felt like a bit of a contribution for me, being able to come home and do something that I felt aligned to." Jesse: "Every Australian actor I know — because a lot of work is international, and for a lot of actors too — but every actor I know always loves to go home and try to do a project. Because you spend a lot of time learning about throwing yourself into other cultures, and more or less trying to imitate authentically who they are, and where they are in certain points in time and stuff. So to bring it back to something that's much more familiar is just a pleasure. Things are much, much more tangible. It's accessible. There's still challenges, but it makes it very, very fun. And especially when there's good writing and good casting — I know a lot of actors who are always trying to go back to their home countries and do it. And this was an opportunity to do that. So I grabbed it." Radha: "It's interesting — an imitation. That is true when you're working in the US." Jesse: "I mean, you don't think about it. You don't want to think about that." Radha: "Yeah, but you're imitating the culture, whereas here, I feel like this is our culture, talking about things that we're part of." On Whether Making a Show About Neighbours After Acting on Neighbours Feels Like a Full-Circle Moment Radha: "I think Jesse would say so." Jesse: "Yeah, a little bit. There was a little bit of that. Although, yes and no, because the dynamics, the themes that run through the show, the dynamics between the characters, is just a little different to Neighbours, but there is a similarity there." Radha: "We are neighbours in the show." Jesse: "I mean, we're next door to each other." On the Series' Resonant and Repeated Focus on Fighting to Be Treated Fairly Jesse: "I think it's a human trope. Everyone's fighting a hard battle against themselves and in society. It's something everyone can relate to. And it's enjoyable to watch, I think, characters have obstacles — to come up against them, sometimes fail, but sometimes find a way around that and breakthrough for a transformation. That's what this show is all about. It's about transformation, courage and ultimately hope." Radha: "But it's subverted, I guess, in a great way by this crazy stuff that's going on in history, and the crazy costumes. And all this stuff, there's a sincerity to it, but there's also an irreverence about the storytelling, which I think attracted me to it." On Balancing the Mix of Warmth, Tragedy, Humour and History Radha: "That's the challenge in the discovery. I think we were on set thinking 'what is this? Is this a comedy?'." Jesse: "Right. Right." Radha: "'Look at your outfit, man. I can't even look at you without laughing' — but here we are, we're doing this very serious scene." Jesse: "But that's life as well, when it's this tragedy but it's also kind of funny — a bit of black humour or quirky sort of humour. There's always a million shades of grey, which is better than just one colour. And yeah, that was a challenge. And we were always trying to figure out what the tone is in the scene and where you were with the character." Radha: "Even Bharat [Nalluri], who was the first director for the series, was like 'wow, okay, we're really going to create this together, the tone'. And we felt comfortable that he had recognised that that was part of what we were doing — that it couldn't be just taken for granted. I think that's what makes the series unique, that it's got its own tone, its own voice — and I think that was what we created." On How Pham Approached Playing a Character Caught Between Making a New Life and Grappling with Trauma Lin-Danh: "Well, you go deep. I think somehow what your parents instil in you, your family, your surroundings, you feed yourself from all of that, and it's the mystery also of acting, sometimes. Actually, my aunt had written a story about her side of the family, a book she self-published. I did read about that. And it was ups and down all the time, her first few years in France where she lost everything and she refused to go back to Vietnam, and had to fend for herself with her three kids. They were boat people, met some pirates. So, you just talk to these people and you feed off it. It feels a bit selfish and sometimes like I'm forcing a little bit. But they were very generous and we had great conversations with my family that I had not really had kept in touch with. So that's how I got through Sandy." On Mitchell's Take on Judy Being Pulled in Every Direction Both at Work and at Home — and Finding Herself in the Chaos Radha: "I just wanted to keep her really real. And I felt maybe what was charming about her is that she didn't want to do all these things. They were just happening and she was discovering her talents in action, but she wasn't ambitious at all. It was just happening, it was her nightmare that she was going to be doing all these things, and yet she was discovering herself in them. I thought that was really interesting about her. She wasn't this empowered woman — she was somebody discovering her power. And the conflict around that at home, and the challenges of having teenage daughters that just don't want to listen to you, I think it sort of played itself out. And maybe even my own personal bias against it — just feeling that I like these emancipated female characters, so to cut my own wings in the role was really interesting for me. I think those were the challenges, and I was lucky enough to be working with great actors, and we created this wacky little family together. And then the friendships around that, I think layered it with this — I think Linh-Dan was saying it was a feminist show in a way, and I don't think it is only, but it certainly celebrates the relationships between women and the details of women's lives in a kind of intimate way. I think that's one of the beautiful parts of the storytelling." Last Days of the Space Age streams via Disney+ from Wednesday, October 2, 2024. Images: Joel Pratley, Tony Mott and Mark Rogers.
Update Wednesday, July 12: Bookings are now open for the W Hotel's huge Darling Harbour development. You can lock in a stay for dates from Wednesday, November 1. Five years in the making, W Hotel's luxury Darling Harbour development will finally bring the global hotel chain back to Sydney in October this year. Originally scheduled to open in 2020, the unmistakable harbourfront hotel has faced several delays and setbacks, but has now revealed key details in the lead-up to its official opening in seven months' time. Located within The Ribbon, the sleek multimillion-dollar development is designed by HASSEL architects and sits on the former IMAX theatre site — which is scheduled to also reopen this year. W Sydney is promising not just a hotel, but a luxury hideaway with this inner-city accommodation. As with every W Hotel, you can expect impeccably-designed futuristic spaces, eateries overseen by expert chefs, cocktails created by top-notch bartenders and collaborations with local artists, musicians and designers. Partnering with HASSEL is Bowler James Brindley who is handling the interior design of the luxury building. "The freedom to create an entirely new cultural space for Sydney was incredibly exciting, and we were inspired by the idea of 'the larrikin' the non-conformist spirit of the city that makes it irresistible," a Bowler James Brindley spokesperson said. "We love to design spaces that embrace the individuality and even eccentricity of their locations, and to create interiors that engage their buildings and neighbourhoods in conversations, rather than treating spaces as blank canvases." One of W Sydney's drawcards — apart from its 585 next-level rooms and suites — is the exuberant shared spaces throughout the hotel including a heated rooftop infinity pool overlooking the water, a two-storey rooftop bar, an all-day dining restaurant, a luxury spa and a gym. The meticulously designed restaurant on level three can be seen from the adjacent highway, acting as a living, breathing billboard for the hotel. Inside, the diner boasts urban design hallmarks that celebrate its place in the heart of the city, as well as concrete columns and unique ceiling lighting that combine to create a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Other notable touches include jellyfish mosaic artwork that you can discover at the bottom of the impressive 30-metre pool, silicone petals resembling those of the waratah decorating the entrance sign, a future noir-themed lobby inspired by Fritz Lang's Metropolis and graphic designs from renowned multidisciplinary artist Bradley Eastman (aka Beastman) throughout the hotel's spa. W Sydney will open its doors in October 2023 at 31 Wheat Road, Darling Harbour. You can find out more about it on the Darling Harbour website.
Renowned Aussie gin distillery Four Pillars is at it again, with a brand-new creation headed soon to our bottle shop shelves. You're familiar with the label's cult favourite Bloody Shiraz Gin, which sells out like fire with each new year's release, right? Well, the team's calling this newcomer their finest creation since that purple-hued icon first launched back in 2016. So, break out some martini glasses and let the excitement begin. The soon-to-launch Olive Leaf Gin has already earned itself some hype, having nabbed a gold medal from the 2020 World Spirits Competition held in San Francisco in March. Now, it's gearing up for a proper Aussie debut, with a fitting early September release date happening just in time for your spring cocktail quaffing sessions. This one's an all-natural savoury gin, crafted using cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil and three different varieties of olive leaf, all harvested from the legendary Cobram Estate. There are plenty of classic Australian botanicals in there to round out the fun, too, including lemon myrtle, macadamia, fresh lemon and grapefruit. [caption id="attachment_780046" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Benito Martin[/caption] Four Pillars' experts reckon the Olive Leaf Gin goes alright alongside some rosemary and lemon in a Spanish-style gin and tonic. But of course, with all that savoury, olive-infused goodness, this drop's true calling is in a nice, cold martini. Co-Founder and Distiller Cam Mackenzie recommends putting 60 millilitres of it to work in a gibson, stirred down with ten millilitres of both dry vermouth and dry sherry, and garnished with a couple of cocktail onions. Four Pillars Olive Leaf Gin will be available across Australia from early September. You can nab a 700-millilitre bottle for $85. Images: Benito Martin
Few cocktails have the staying power of the negroni. It's bitter, bold and perfectly balanced. Made with equal parts Campari, gin, and vermouth, the apéritif is a fixture on many Melbourne menus. While some bartenders swear by keeping it classic, in true Melbourne style, there are several spin-offs across the city that shake up the Italian icon. This September marks Negroni Month. It's four weeks of national celebrations (because there's no negroni without Campari), featuring rooftop parties, bar takeovers, and negroni-obsessed menus. From a $105 tableside service to the stalwart served in CBD restaurants, ahead of Negroni Month, we've rounded up the city's best negronis. Above Board Above Board Hidden one floor above Smith Street, this tiny cocktail bar has earned numerous awards and accolades, including Concrete Playground's Best Bars in Melbourne in 2023. It's no surprise then that its negroni is a must-try. The intimate 12-seater bar offers an elevated experience and world-class service. Its classic negroni is poured with precision and served in solid glassware with a giant ice cube to create a perfectly cool cocktail. [caption id="attachment_936276" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Johnny's Green Room[/caption] Johnny's Green Room Described as a southern twist on the Italian icon, the Arancia Rossa Negroni at Johnny's Green Room is worth the hype. Crafted with blood orange gin and Campari, this negroni is perfect for sipping on a spring afternoon as you watch the sun set over the city. On Sunday, September 14, Johnny's Green Room is hosting a Negroni Month event titled 'Johnny's Sunday Service' where you can dance to Kuzco, who'll be spinning decks, enjoy food by chef Mischa Tropp (of The Toddy Shop) and peruse the Campari-inspired menu. [caption id="attachment_819113" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Tom Blachford[/caption] Society Lounge Chris Lucas' Society Lounge bar on Collins Street sports timeless and dramatic aesthetics. The theatre doesn't just stop at the interiors. Society Lounge bar is home to one of Melbourne's most decadent negronis: the Vintage Bianco Negroni. Featuring 1960s Campari cordial, 19502 Suze, 1970s Gordons Dry Gin and Carpano Bianco, this negroni is made tableside and will set you back $105. The reason for the high price tag is the use of a rare (and now discontinued) raspberry distillate liqueur. If you're a negroni fan, it's a must-try bucket list experience. [caption id="attachment_921864" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Frederic[/caption] Fred's Bar Cremorne's Frederic is all about French classics, but head next door to Fred's Bar, and you'll find an Italian negroni—the ultimate after-work pick-me-up. The team rotate the menu seasonally, but you can guarantee that whether summer or winter-inspired, the negroni will be strong and stiff. Crafted with Campari and gin, Fred's negroni is the perfect apéritif to sip alone at the bar or with friends on the sunshine-drenched footpath. [caption id="attachment_854879" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Heartbreaker[/caption] Heartbreaker If you love a strong and bitter Campari, this is the bar for you. American-style dive bar Heartbreaker serves rock 'n'roll energy until late into the night (or, morning). This high-octane energy is felt in its drinks menu. Heartbreaker has four pre-batched cocktails to choose from, one of which is the negroni. Don't let the 'pre-batched' label scare you off though. The cocktails are still packing a punch and don't compromise taste for time. [caption id="attachment_1020308" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Grossi Florentino[/caption] Grossi Florentino This Italian institution is a 'must try' for negroni lovers. Made with Barolo Chinato, Malfy gin and Campari, the house negroni at Bourke Street stalwart, Grossi Florentino, is sure to scratch your bitter-loving itch. The restaurant has been setting the standard for Italian dining in Melbourne for close to a century, which means that the timeless menu pairs perfectly with a classic apéritif. [caption id="attachment_1019843" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Black Pearl[/caption] Black Pearl A Fitzroy favourite, Black Pearl is a bartender's bar. This means they can make a mean negroni. The Merri Negroni is mixed with Campari, gin, Americano vermouth and curacao, creating a cocktail that doesn't disappoint. For Negroni Month, the team is flexing their bartending skills with a curated negroni menu that pushes the classic's boundaries while keeping Campari front and centre. Head to the Brunswick Street bar this September to try it for yourself. [caption id="attachment_1020309" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Code Black Coffee[/caption] Code Black Flinders Lane What's a Melbourne recommendation without some coffee? At Code Black in Flinders Lane, they serve a negroni with a caffeinated twist. Aptly named the Coffee Negroni, it features coffee-infused Campari (yes, it's a thing), gin, and vermouth. If you love beans and bitters, this Melbourne cafe should go to the top of your list this Negroni Month. Whether you're a hardcore bitters lover or are dabbling in the Italian apéritif, Negroni Month is your excuse to round up the crew and cheers to the classic cocktail. See which Melbourne venues are serving curated negroni menus this September here. Please remember to drinkwise.
Come November, a whole heap of Aussies will be stripping off on a beach in the Whitsundays as acclaimed New York artist Spencer Tunick returns to Australia to stage the next of his famed mass nude photographs. It's been 18 years since Australia's first taste of the internationally famed artist's work, when 4500 naked volunteers posed for a snap near Federation Square as part of the 2001 Fringe Festival. Tunick then photographed around 5000 nude people in front of the Sydney Opera House during the 2010 Mardi Gras and returned to Australia just last year to shoot over 800 Melburnians in the rooftop carpark of a Prahran Woolworths. Elsewhere, he's photographed the public painted red and gold outside Munich's Bavarian State Opera, covered in veils in the Nevada desert and covered in blue in Hull in the UK. Now, the artist is set to return to our shores and his sights are set on the white sands and sparkling blue waters of Whitsundays' Whitehaven Beach. Tunick will assemble another contingent of naked folk this November, for a work titled Sea Earth Change. Interestingly, the shoot is part of The Iconic's (yes, that online clothing store) upcoming summer campaign We Are Human. [caption id="attachment_671796" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Spencer Tunick, Sydney (2010)[/caption] Anyone over the age of 18 can get their kit off and get involved — Tunick hopes to have a diverse mix of bodies in the shoot, which will be held on Saturday, November 23. Participants each get a print of the photograph, and, we're sure, a big boost of body confidence. They'll also be invited to the unveiling of the artwork at The Calile Hotel, Brisbane, a few days later. Successful candidates will be notified about a week before the shoot. The catch here is, of course, the location. If you're not usually located on the tropical Queensland archipelago, you will need to travel there. From Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, you can fly into the Hamilton Island or Whitsunday Coast airports, then take a 60-minute ferry or 30-minute drive, respectively, to Airlie Port Marina. The team will look after your transport from here. It'll be a worthwhile journey, though — as well as being involved in a once-in-a-lifetime photoshoot, you'll also get to visit the second best beach in the world. Sea Earth Change will be shot on Saturday, November 23 on Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays. You can register to take part here before Thursday, November 14. Images: Spencer Tunick, Miami (2007) and Burgundy (2009).
After several months of renovations and $4 million, the much-anticipated Morris House opened to the public back in July 2023. The Exhibition Street site, formerly home to sticky-floored comedy icon, The European Bier Café, has been transformed into a modern architecturally designed hospo space, boasting a ground floor dining room and bar, a sunny terrace on Level 1, and a leafy rooftop for 180 guests complete with resident DJs. All the ingredients you expect these days from multi-million-dollar CBD refurbishments. The only thing missing is the obligatory 'listening room'. Still, as an honour to its former life they've wisely kept the European Bier Café's comedy club downstairs. In fact, Morris House has tried to improve it, drawing inspiration from the New York underground comedy scene. You guessed it: lots of exposed brick. The space will host local and international comedy acts every Friday and Saturday night. Arj Barker is even taking up residence from July 18. Morris House Venue Manager Dylan Hewlett says the renovation brings the old venue up to Melbourne's modern pub standard — plush leather booths, a marble bar and all. "We're bringing all the best parts of Melbourne together in one place, which means there will always be something to come and enjoy. Start your night with a meal in the dining room, before heading down to the Basement Comedy Club for a show and end the evening on the rooftop with a signature cocktail."
If there's one way to forget that you're still in your own city, staycationing within a short drive from home rather than heading further afield, it's splashing around up high while peering down on familiar sights from a completely different angle. Sydneysiders, another place to do just that is in your future, with TFE Hotels set to launch its first Collection property in the Harbour City in early 2024 — complete with a rooftop infinity pool. The new Collection by TFE Hotels property will be a big feature of the in-development Surry Hills Village, sitting on Baptist Street as part of a precinct that'll also include shops, apartments, event spaces, work spaces and dining. The Sydney spot joins the brand's Savoy Hotel on Little Collins in Melbourne, Hotel Kurrajong in Canberra, Calile Hotel in Brisbane and Hotel Britomart in Auckland. That's impressive company, and the new boutique hotel will continue the same design-led, individual-focused approach. When it comes to slumbering, there'll be 102 rooms. While exactly what they'll feature, and what other amenities guests can expect, hasn't yet been revealed, the hotel will boast curved brickwork and stone pathways as part of its design — and greenery aplenty. Also set to be a highlight: the Cloister, the hotel's restaurant and bar space. And, yes, that sky-high pool with scenic views, of course. "Surry Hills is home to one of the city's premier restaurant, dining, and boutique precincts," said TFE Hotels CEO Antony Ritch, announcing the new hotel. "This Collection property will become a destination in its own right." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Surry Hills Village By TOGA (@surryhillsvillage) Within the 1.2-hectare mixed-use development that is Surry Hills Village itself, Sydneysiders can also look forward to a new 517-square-metre public park, plus up to 12,000 square metres of retail and commercial tenants. There'll also be a new public pedestrian thoroughfare linking Marriott Street and Baptist Street — and, as part of the hospitality offering, a new restaurant from Fink Group, the team behind Quay, Bennelong, Otto and newly anointed third-best steak restaurant in the world Firedoor. And yes, new hotels are sprouting up thick and fast around Sydney, with the new Collection by TFE Hotels site joining the soon-to-launch Porter House Hotel; the just-launched Ace Hotel, Australia's first outpost from the chain; and none other than the Waldorf Astoria, which'll also opening its first-ever Australian hotel in Sydney in 2025. That's obviously excellent news not just for staycationers, but for folks visiting the city from interstate as well. TFE Hotels' new Collection property at Surry Hills Village, on Baptist Street in Surry Hills, is due to open in 2024. Head to the Collection by TFE Hotels and Surry Hills Village websites to keep an eye out for further information.
The multi-level CBD space once home to Cheek and Peaches has been reborn post-pandemic as Dom's Social Club — a casual three-storey haunt championing classic drinks, top-notch charcuterie and handmade pizza. As sibling to Preston's Dexter and Takeaway Pizza, it's no surprise the venue is doing the latter exceptionally well, with an offering of light, puffy woodfired pizzas crafted using a three-day slow fermented sourdough. Choose from toppings like mortadella with fermented honey and thyme, a cured pork cheek and pumpkin number, and veg-packed combinations like the one with green pea and snow pea tendrils. On the second floor, a warm RSL-style space features plenty of nostalgic memorabilia and a free-to-play pool table, with a fridge full of dry-aged meats showing off the owners' penchant for quality charcuterie. And upstairs, a cheery, modern rooftop bar proves the perfect setting to enjoy a few gems from the venue's expert curation of local spirits and classic cocktails. For example, try the Slowgroni — a blend of Brookies slow gin, Campari and Punt e Mes vermouth. The Dom's Social Club team is also set on spreading some love for lambrusco, with an entire page of the drinks list dedicated to reviving the infamous sparkling red wine. Apparently, the drop is an absolute winner when paired with pizza — head on in and try it out for yourself. Images: Julia Sansone Appears in: The Best Bars in Melbourne for 2023
Anyone who has experienced the joys of travelling through South East Asia, and the huge variety of delicious flavours found in hawker markets, will share the excitement of returning to those tastes here in Melbourne upon a visit to Rice Paper Scissors. Fitzroy is the locale for the restaurant's second venue, with the first having been open for a while now in the CBD. It's safe to say that the team has not dropped the ball in the duplicate — the food and atmosphere are just as great as the original. The atmosphere is very relaxed, a welcome difference from the chaos and noise of true hawker markets. For people like us who don't just want one dish, but want all the food, there is cause for celebration. The style here is all about sharing plates and multiple mini meals. The friendly staff will explain how to get to grips, quite literally, with the perfectly presented food — you are encouraged to eat with your hands for most dishes, and a lemon water basin is provided to refresh those sticky fingers between delicious bites. We found the amount of attention given to the menu for those with dietary restrictions exceptional and truly reflects that this team understand the Fitzroy area. The majority of meals can be altered for vegetarians and vegans. Expertly treated tofu replaces the meat component of these dishes in an exceptional way — even your meat-loving companions will adore them. Having said that, those carnivorously inclined will definitely find a lot on the menu to sink their teeth into. Leaving the difficult task of what to pick from the menu in the capable hands of our waiter, we were excited about each new and impressively presented meal to arrive. The crispy coconut cups ($16.50) are filled with caramelised pork with prawn and smoked salmon caviar. The vegetarian adaption is equally as explosive. Yam pla foo — or tapioca-dusted barramundi ($17) — with a green apple and roast cashew salad was a standout dish, full of zesty, fresh flavours matched perfectly with the flawlessly cooked fish. Or there's suckling pug steamed buns ($17) enhanced by pickled cucumber and hoisin sauce. You can order five different dishes for $45 per person, which is easily enough to fill two hungry bellies. If you're after something with a little kick, then look no further than the Thai influenced cocktails. The Rice Paper Spritzer ($19) is made with plum wine, gin, rose syrup and prosecco, and an interesting version of an espresso martini ($17) using condensed milk is available for those with a sweet tooth. Our pick for a refreshing summer drink over some spicy food would be the Lemongrass Tom Collins ($22): lemongrass infused gin with cucumber and sparkling soda. If you can't make it to Fitzroy, Rice Paper Scissors also has a second location in the city, at 15 Hardware Lane, Melbourne. Updated Monday, April 11 Appears in: The Best Vegan Restaurants in Melbourne for 2023
If you're keen to surround yourself with art in the most-immersive fashion on offer and you haven't yet visited The Lume, Australia's digital art gallery, then you'd better get organised: the Melbourne venue will close up on Sunday, June 1, 2025. News that the site was set to say farewell was first revealed in 2024, but with a January 2026 end date; however, those plans have now moved forward. Accordingly, The Lume will shut up shop when its present Vincent van Gogh showcase finishes. Art exhibitions are fleeting, of course, gracing walls and halls for just days, weeks or months at a time, then moving elsewhere or never being seen again. But when The Lume opened in 2021, you can be forgiven for thinking that it wouldn't be such a brief addition to Australia's cultural scene. The closure comes after Grande Experiences, the company behind it, decided not to extend its lease at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Whether you're an art lover based in the Victorian capital or elsewhere around the country, a last trip to the site means enjoying van Gogh delights, complete with The Starry Night projected large, taking over an entire room; the immersive Sunflower room, where golden petals stretch as far as the eye can see; VR experience Finding Vincent; a cafe inspired by the artist's Café Terrace at Night; and more. The Lume actually launched with the same exhibition. Also wowing audiences at the gallery since its opening: a celebration of Monet and his contemporaries, a huge showcase dedicated to First Nations artists and all things Leonardo da Vinci. Across its four-year run, The Lume has unsurprisingly proven popular, with 1.5-million visitors heading by to-date. "The Lume Melbourne has been a defining chapter in Australia's cultural landscape — a place where art, innovation and imagination came to life for millions of visitors. We are deeply grateful to our team, our partners and every guest who stepped through our doors," said Grande Experiences Founder and Chair, and The Lume Melbourne CEO, Bruce Peterson. "As we look to the future, we see an opportunity to once again redefine immersive storytelling. Rather than simply continuing, we are choosing to evolve — embracing new technologies that will take cultural experiences to even greater heights." "This was not a decision we made lightly, but one rooted in our ambition to push the boundaries of cultural storytelling even further. The landscape of immersive experiences is evolving rapidly, and we are seizing this moment to lead that evolution on a global scale. Our focus is now on creating even more groundbreaking, transformative stories through innovative new technology," Peterson continued. Melbourne's The Lume is one of two worldwide, with the other in Indianapolis in US, which is remaining open. Even as its only Australian site confirms its farewell, Grande Experiences hasn't ruled out more Aussie venues, advising that other states have flagged their interest in hosting the gallery — but nothing has been locked in so far. The Lume Melbourne will close at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, 5 Convention Centre Place, South Wharf, Melbourne on Sunday, June 1, 2025. Van Gogh at The Lume displays until then. Head to the venue's website for tickets and further information. Images: Grande Experiences.
One of Melbourne's most recognisable rooftop addresses is getting ready to reveal a dramatic new look. This spring, MAMAS Dining Group — the crew behind Hochi Mama, Suzie Q and Winsdor Wine Room — will unveil its seventh venue: a Japanese izakaya-inspired rooftop set in the former home of Madame Brussels. The third-floor space at 59–63 Bourke Street will swap pastel garden party vibes for a low-lit, disco-drenched homage to 1980s Tokyo. Expect smooth disco and old-school hip hop spinning on vinyl, a drinks list that flows well into the night, and panoramic views of the city skyline — all wrapped in a retro-modern fit-out by hospitality architects Directitude. In the kitchen, MAMAS' Culinary Creative Director Michael Stolley will oversee a menu of share-style Japanese fare. Sushi from master chefs will sit alongside smoky, chargrilled yakitori and other snacky izakaya classics, paired with an extensive sake list, Japanese-inspired cocktails and top-shelf craft beers from Japan. With seating for up to 150, the venue aims to channel "the soul of Shibuya nights and the heart of Harajuku days". For MAMAS Dining Group CEO and Director Thai Ho, the upcoming opening is a moment worthy of the group's tenth anniversary: "We're so excited to open our seventh venue in the heart of Melbourne's CBD, a huge milestone to mark MAMAS' 10 years of operation in Australia's most renowned city for hospitality. To open in one of the city's most iconic locations is a fantastic opportunity." When the doors of the yet-to-be-named venue swing open this spring, expect a rooftop that swaps Pimm's jugs for sake carafes, cucumber sandwiches for smoky yakitori, and prim garden parties for moody Tokyo nights — and a whole new chapter for one of Melbourne's most coveted rooftops. MAMAS Dining Group's as-yet-unnamed seventh venue will open in the former Madame Brussels site this spring. For more information, head to the group's website.
Perched aloft Collingwood Yards, Runner Up is a rooftop bar with stunning views of its surrounds. The vibe is a fun and playful blend of old and new with bold colours, 70s fitting and fixtures, and velvet curtains. The rooftop — suitable for whatever weather Melbourne throws at it with its retractable awning — can accommodate up to 70 people, and there's often a rotating list of DJs from Thursdays to Sundays. Drop by between 5 and 7pm on weekdays for 'golden hour specials' that range from $7 shandy to $15 Tommy's Tap Marg. Cheekily, '$9.99 all the time' is a price-tag attached to lager and the second-best red, white, orange and prosecco on the menu. The wine list spotlights Victorian natural wine producers as well as a smattering from France, Italy and other parts of Australia. Cocktails are classic with a twist, like the espresso martini that features Biscoff-spiced vodka or the vodka martini that incorporates fresh tomato-infused vodka. Snacks are limited to Chappy's, mixed olives, dolmades, and the choice of either duck terrine or mushroom pate for something decadent to spread across pita crisps. If you're hankering for something more substantial, order pizza from the nearby Thin Slizzy anytime from 5pm.
UK-born Michael Lambie (ex-Stokehouse, Circa, The Prince and Taxi Kitchen) has been a big player in Melbourne's restaurant scene ever since he landed here back in the late 90s. He's worked at some of the city's top restaurants and even co-founded Lucy Liu — before selling it in 2020 and running off to Queensland for a short break. But now he has returned and is ready to take on the CBD with a new venture: Juni. Opening on Thursday, November 28, you can now drop by Juni to find a menu full of contemporary twists on Southeast Asian fare — designed by both Lambie and Head Chef Hendri Budiman (ex-Coda). The menu is built around the concept of 'Fire and Spice', so you can expect all kinds of heat. Kick things off with snacks like the seared tuna tataki with ginger and wasabi dressing; half-shell scallops with spicy tom yum brown butter; crayfish dumplings with ginger and green onion, and togarashi-spiced cauliflower with sesame and tofu and walnut furikake. You've then got more substantial dishes like Juni's dry-aged Chinese duck with cucumber, pickled daikon, spicy hoi sin and pancakes; steamed barramundi fillets with black beans, ginger flower and leeks; and vegan Japanese pumpkin and eggplant red curry with lychee and hot mint. The full menu is available across the main dining room, front bar and mezzanine-level events space — although the bar is expected to have more of a sip-and-snack feel (for after-work or pre-theatre sessions). And when it comes to the sipping side of things, you can expect a playful cocktail menu, a decent wine list, and an all-important sake selection. Carlton-based studio Techne has designed the 140-person venue, which features a bright colour palette that blends bold reds and pinks with soft green and maroon hues. Glass, metal and concrete finishes are also used throughout, softened by a smattering of cushioned leather banquettes. Lambie shared, "I'm thrilled to be back cooking in Melbourne – it's become my hometown – and I've wanted to open up a restaurant here again for a long time." You'll find Juni at 136 Exhibition Street, Melbourne, open every day of the week from 12pm–late. For more details, you can check out the venue's website. Images: Dylan Kindermann.
Bottomless gnocchi and bottomless garlic bread, it might sound like a dream, but no. You read correctly. It's real. Every Thursday night from 5pm at The Provincial Hotel in Fitzroy, you can expect a pasta-filled and garlic bread-fueled evening for just $30 per person. Because who said weeknights have to be boring? In case you're not yet aware of what you're in for (and how loose-fitting your clothing choices should be), you can expect an endless feast of hand-rolled gnocchi and warm, delicious garlic bread. Pick from a trio of flavours, including hearty bolognese, spicy vodka cream and fresh green pesto cream. When you're ready for more, you can also order additional servings by calling the Gnocchi Hotline at the phone booth in the Atrium. You can also order from the main menu—the new menu is all about Italian comfort food with a cheeky twist, and features plenty of plant-based options, too. Perfect for groups or dates, say goodbye to the usual portion-controlled dining experience and say hello to a flavoursome new experience, just bring stretchy pants. Gather your mates and dial up the fun with Gnocchi Hotline at Provincial Hotel. Bottomless gnocchi and garlic bread await every Thursday. Book your table now at the Provincial Hotel website. Images: Supplied.
Whether you ever got to venture inside, or just heard tales about the goings on, Carlton's long-standing theatre restaurant Dracula's was one of the city's true institutions. But now, the sprawling corner building at 100 Victoria Street has enjoyed a complete about-face, reborn as the first Aussie outpost for China's famed Panda Hot Pot. The chain — known for its sichuan-style hot pot — already has 400 international outlets under its belt in China, Malaysia, Japan and the US. But, keen to spread even more love for the traditional Chinese dining experience — this will be its Down Under debut. At the palatial 228-seat Carlton site — which sold for $10.3 million last year — 37 years of outlandish costumes and vampire-themed cabaret have been replaced with a new kind of theatre. Heavy screen partitions divide the two-level dining room, which is now decorated with glowing red lanterns and a custom-made, 1.5-tonne steel dragon taking centre stage. It even offers its own themed experience in the form of live cultural performances unfolding from 7pm each night. Decked out like a scene from ancient China, it's a fitting backdrop for Panda's authentic Sichuan hot pot offering, where big groups congregate over giant bowls of bubbling soup. For the uninitiated, the cuisine sees diners choose a soup base and various additions, then cook it all DIY-style in a large pot in the middle of the the table by dunking ingredients into the simmering stock. At Panda Hot Pot, you'll choose from soup base options like a rich tomato broth, or the signature Sichuan spicy soup, crafted on spices imported from China and simmered together for over 12 hours. Pick a spice level, then make it your own, ordering add-ins from a hefty selection of meat cuts, seafood, offal, fresh veggies and noodles, each item listed on the menu with its own suggested cooking time. A self-serve dipping sauce station allows you to add another level of flavour to your bowl. If you find yourself overwhelmed — and, considering everything going on, you might — a crew of Panda's hot pot experts are on hand to ensure it all runs smoothly. Find Panda Hot Pot at 100 Victoria Street, Carlton. It's open daily for lunch from 11.30am to 3pm, and for dinner from 5pm to midnight, with sittings at 5pm, 7pm and 9pm.
Right on the foreshore of Elwood Beach, Elwood Bathers has one of the best beachfront spots in Melbourne. The venue is open from breakfast until dinner each day — so you can pop in whether it's for a post-swim coffee or a sit-down meal. With classic beachside fare — think fish and chips and fried calamari — and hearty mains including burgers, lamb rump and steaks. Plus, there are a few vegan and gluten-free options, including the cherry tomato pappardelle. Formerly home to seafood restaurant Sails on the Bay for two decades, the renovated venue boasts ocean views that can be enjoyed while tucking into your meal or simply sipping on a glass of wine from the extensive drinks list.
European holidays are back on the cards once more, though pretty soon you won't even need a passport to embark on an authentic Italian culinary adventure. Italy's famed artisan marketplace concept Mercato Centrale is heading Down Under, opening its first-ever outpost outside of the homeland right here in Melbourne. With sites in Rome, Turin and Milan, along with the original Florence location, the brand now has its sights set on Australia's food capital. It's in the process of transforming the three-storey, 3500-square-metre McPherson's building on Collins Street into a grand Italian homage to artisanal food, set to launch late-2022. Founder Umberto Montano launched the first of these sites back in 2014, setting out to deliver an artisan-led marketplace that works as a shared platform, shifting the focus away from any individual branding and onto the producers and their craft. Artisans are handpicked and work as solo operators within the market, with just one representative for each food product. And it gives smaller or emerging producers a shot at showcasing their wares without the huge overheads of opening a traditional shopfront. "Instead of trying to just profit from it all, Umberto developed this platform that creates opportunities and exposure for artisans who just love their food, that love what they're producing," explains Eddie Muto, the local hospitality expert who's spearheading Mercato Centrale's expansion into Australia. Muto knew Montano's concept would be the perfect fit for Melbourne and he's spent the past six years driving a local iteration. "People will come along and have an urban picnic if you like," Muto tells Concrete Playground, explaining how the ground floor market space will work. "They'll go and get a little bit of salumi, a little pasta, some bread. In the morning, they've got the bakery, they can have croissants and Italian pastries. And then they can order at their table for drinks." Visitors will be able to see the artisans at work making everything from fresh mozzarella to hamburgers, lending an interactive element to the experience. Mercato Centrale's lower level will also be home to the main bar, in addition to a dedicated cocktail bar and an artisan bottle shop. Of course, there'll be an espresso bar, too, with cheaper coffees for those who stand and sip their caffeine at the bar, European-style. [caption id="attachment_856980" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mercato Centrale Milan[/caption] Meanwhile, Level Two is set to play host to a sit-down Italian restaurant filled with timber and marble; designed "to feel like home", as Muto explains. And the third floor is earmarked for an event and function space. Mercato Centrale is also positioning itself as a hub for arts and culture, so expect a jam-packed calendar of social and creative activities to come. And there'll always be live tunes to soundtrack your market adventures, from acoustic gigs to weekend DJ sets. "What we're hoping to achieve is that as soon as you step in the door, it'll be like stepping into Florence or Milan or Rome," muses Muto. "So you might walk up and ask for a panino in English and they'll respond to you in Italian!" Find Mercato Centrale Melbourne at 546 Collins Street, Melbourne, from late 2022. We'll share more info as it lands. Top Images: Mercato Centrale Rome, Milan, Turin and Florence.
Fancy a stylish beachside escape where you can unwind with the help of salty air and stunning views? A trip to NSW's stunning Central Coast will tick all those boxes, no long-haul flight required. Located just over an hour north of Sydney, the region is peppered with designer beachfront abodes and charming coastal resorts promising holiday vibes on tap. We've done the hard work for you and pulled together 11 of the Central Coast's finest places to stay, each of which can be found on Concrete Playground Trips. Book your spot, pack a bag and get set for an indulgent weekend by the water. MANTRA ETTALONG BEACH Each and every one of the apartment-style accommodations (including studios, one and two-bedroom apartments and penthouses) look out over the Central Coast's picturesque Broken Bay, Brisbane Water and Lion Island. Expect large light-filled living spaces, fully equipped kitchenettes, an outdoor pool, heated spa, day spa and gymnasium all within the property's confines. This spot's got the lot. BOOK IT NOW. BLUE LAGOON BEACH RESORT You'll struggle to find a location as good as this one. Blue Lagoon Beach Resort is right on the water — just walk down a short path to find the Central Coast's Shelly Beach. Either opt for some of the large cabins — big enough to fit a large family or bunch of mates or bring your own camping gear to enjoy the area on a budget. Then all you have to do is enjoy this quiet area, spending days swimming at the beach or hiking up around the surrounding bushland. BOOK IT NOW. RAFFERTYS RESORT Raffertys Resort lies within a 38-acre parcel of land right on the shores of Lake Macquarie, just a 90-minute drive from Sydney (or 30 minutes south of Newcastle). Accompanying the various styles of self-contained accommodation (large houses, apartments and cottages) are four tennis courts, four pools, a boat ramp and resort jetty and access to a number of dining options on-site. It won't be hard to carve out your own personal patch of paradise. BOOK IT NOW. BEACHCOMBER HOTEL & RESORT The Beachcomber Hotel & Resort is an iconic waterfront destination located in the heart of the Central Coast, Toukley. With sweeping waterfront views, Hamptons-inspired ambience, boutique-style accommodation, an exclusive pool club and multiple eateries and bars, it's a damn good place to switch into holiday mode. Be sure to also check out its list of weekly events for live gigs, DJ sets and food and drink deals — taco and tequila Tuesdays are not to be missed. BOOK IT NOW. AVOCA BEACH HOTEL Avoca Beach Hotel is a small family-owned property that lies within 15 spacious acres of land nestled into the tree-covered hillside. Only 2km off Avoca Beach and the rockpool, and five minutes from some of the Central Coast's much-loved national parks, it's great for those looking to explore the region. And when you need some downtime, simply dip into one of the two onsite pools, grab some food on the newly renovated terrace, play a few sets on the tennis court and cook up some dinner at one of the barbecues — beer or spritz in hand. BOOK IT NOW. FORRESTERS BEACH RESORT This coastal property has recently had a big makeover and has now been transformed into a contemporary Hamptons-style retreat. The 34 guest rooms come with king-size beds, large two-person spas and private balconies, which either look out over the property's swimming pool with heated spa, waterfall, tropical native gardens or one of the lush courtyards. While here, you should also check out the rolling series of events taking place in the entertainment space and hit up the restaurant, bar and salon — it's treat yourself time. BOOK IT NOW. CROWNE PLAZA TERRIGAL Terrigal is a popular spot during summer, filling with out-of-towners seeking to escape the city without going deep into the wilderness — you've got great surf, plenty of restaurants and cafes, a few really good rooftop bars and streets filled with boutique stores for when you feel like a little late afternoon shopping. And Crowne Plaza is one of the most sought-after places to stay in town. The 4.5-star hotel has 199 guestrooms and boasts a bunch of luxe amenities, including an outdoor pool overlooking the beach, a day spa, two restaurants and its own cocktail bar. BOOK IT NOW. NRMA OCEAN BEACH HOLIDAY RESORT You've heard of glamping in safari tents, but have you heard about glamtainers? Now, this might just be a totally made-up word only used by NRMA, but we are all for it. The team here has turned shipping containers into small holiday homes, decked out with all the essentials — guests will have aircon, a kitchenette with a connected lounge and dining area, their own private bathroom and an outdoor deck with barbecue. But if that's not your vibe, these guys do have a bunch of cottages available, too. BOOK IT NOW. LASCALA HOLIDAY HOUSE This seven-bedroom home is made for big groups of mates or a couple of families who are looking for a glam getaway on the Central Coast. You can squeeze up to 22 people on beds. And it still doesn't feel cramped. That's thanks to the large rooms, plenty of common areas and the stunning pool that overlooks the water. It even has its own bar, billiards room, squash court and tennis court. This is the kind of place you'll remember staying at forever. BOOK IT NOW. GLENWORTH VALLEY ADVENTURES This huge property, set a few kilometres back from the beach, is known for being the place to go for horse-riding, quad biking, kayaking, abseiling and just about any other adventure activity. But there are also a whole host of accommodations — in the form of glamping tents and eco villas. Our favourites are the villas, especially the deluxe version that has its own woodfired hot tub. Escape to the country (even though you're just an hour or so out of Sydney) and either join in on the activities available or simply relax and enjoy nature. Choose your own adventure here. BOOK IT NOW. CAVES COASTAL BAR AND BUNGALOWS Stay at these bungalows, villas or the four-bedroom beach house to get direct access to the famous Caves Beach. It is but a few steps from the property. You can also wander in the opposite direction to find Lake Macquarie. Some of the best parts of the Central Coast are right here. And the accommodations are a bit alright, too. Expect contemporary Hamptons-style rooms with luxe amenities and access to the outdoor pool. Plus, if you book one of the bungalows, you'll get access to the adults-only part of the property. That means you'll be totally free from noisy kids. BOOK IT NOW. 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. Top image: Bouddi National Park, Destination NSW
Unofficial Bridgerton balls have already popped up in Australia, but now it's time for the real thing: The Queen's Ball: A Bridgerton Experience, which comes with the backing of Netflix and Shondaland. After bringing regency-era vibes to Los Angeles, Washington DC, Chicago, Atlanta, Minneapolis, Denver and New York in the US, and also to Toronto and Montreal in Canada, the event is finally letting Down Under fans unleash their inner duke and duchess. For a month between Friday, May 24–Sunday, June 23, Melbourne will be doubling for London high society in the early 1800s, in The Queen's Ball: A Bridgerton Experience's exclusive Aussie stop. Step inside Fever Exhibitions Hall on Dawson Street in Brunswick and you'll feel like you're stepping back in time — or into the huge Netflix hit series, at least. Lady Whistledown aficionados will be able to head along every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening to promenade around an immersive setup where a string quartet will be playing live tunes inspired by the show, dancers will accompany the music and live theatrical performances will keep you entertained. You'll also go for a spin in the ballroom yourself at the afterparty. Before then, you'll also hit up Madame Delacroix's modiste and an underground painting studio, then visit with the queen. Actors in period costumes will be wandering around, helping to set the mood — and yes, if you'd like to dress to fit the occasion, and the series, that's obviously heartily encouraged. The drinks list, including cocktails, will be Bridgerton-themed. While your sips aren't included in your ticket, a full bar will be available, as will snacks such as chips and lollies to purchase. The Queen's Ball: A Bridgerton Experience will unleash its lavishness just after the show's third season arrives, with the first four episodes dropping on Thursday, May 16, then the next four on Thursday, June 13. It also pops up after the New South Wales town of Bowral just scored a week-long Bridgerton-themed makeover, complete with stars Nicola Coughlan (Barbie) and Luke Newton (The Shape of Things) — aka Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton — in attendance. The Queen's Ball: A Bridgerton Experience runs from Friday, May 24–Sunday, June 23 at Fever Exhibitions Hall, 62 Dawson Street, Brunswick, Melbourne. For more information or to join the waitlist for tickets — with presales from 6pm AEST on Monday, April 29 and general sales from 6pm AEST on Tuesday, April 30 — head to the event website. To watch Bridgerton in the interim, head to Netflix.
If your travel plans for 2025 include a Japanese or South Korean holiday, trips to both destinations just got cheaper. Jetstar is helping you lock in your vacations for this year by bringing back the airline's popular 'return for free' deal, this time focusing specifically on both Asian nations. Whether you're heading to Tokyo, Osaka or Seoul, a discount awaits. Whichever of the three cities that you decide to fly into, the Australian carrier's latest special will bring you home without making you spend a cent. One caveat: you've got just 72 hours to snap up tickets, with the sale running for three days from 12am AEDT on Wednesday, January 28, 2025–11.59pm AEDT on Friday, January 31, 2025, unless sold out earlier. This deal really is as straightforward as it sounds. No matter which flights you opt for as part of the sale — to Tokyo, Osaka or Seoul only, though, through Narita, Kansai and Incheon airports — you'll get the return fare for nothing. You do need to nab one of Jetstar's starter fares, and you'll then get a free return starter fare for zilch. Also, you'll have to fly in and out of the same arrival and departure port — so factor that in if you're planning to use either of the two Japanese cities or the South Korean destination as a starting point for heading to other places. Also, as is usually the case with Jetstar, checked baggage is not included. Still, expect the flights to get snapped up quickly when they go on sale. If you're a Club Jetstar member, you can get the jump on the special via access from 12pm AEDT on Tuesday, January 28 until midnight. Wondering when you'll be travelling? Dates vary per route, but the windows cover from early-May through to late-November 2025. Jetstar's Japan and South Korea 'return for free' sale runs from 12am AEDT on Wednesday, January 28, 2025–11.59pm AEDT on Friday, January 31, 2025 — unless it's sold out 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.
Enter one of Yayoi Kusama's infinity rooms, including the Japanese icon's brand-new Infinity Mirrored Room–My Heart is Filled to the Brim with Sparkling Light at the National Gallery of Victoria, and it appears as if the artist's work goes on forever. A great exhibition dedicated to Kusama evokes the same sensation. Accordingly, when you're not staring at a seemingly endless celestial universe while enjoying a world-premiere piece from the talent that's been unveiled for the first time ever in Melbourne, you'll still feel as if Kusama's touches are everywhere around you. Simply titled Yayoi Kusama, NGV International's big summer 2024–25 showcase features 200 works, so there really is enough Kusama art to envelop attendees in dots, mirrors, balls, tentacles, pumpkins, flowers, rainbow hues and her other beloved flourishes. With ten immersive installations, the exhibition breaks the world record for the number of such pieces by the artist assembled in one spot. The showcase is also the largest-ever Kusama retrospective that Australia has ever seen. Open since Sunday, December 15, 2024 and running until Monday, April 21, 2025, Yayoi Kusama has taken over the St Kilda Road gallery's entire ground floor with a childhood-to-now survey of its subject's creative output. With the artist reaching 95 years of age in March 2024, there's eight decades of art on display. Some pieces have never been seen Down Under until now. Some are sourced from private collections, and others from Kusama's own personal stash. In advance of the exhibition's launch, Melbourne welcomed Kusama's five-metre-tall dot-covered Dancing Pumpkin sculpture in NGV International's Federation Court. Outside the gallery, Kusama's Ascension of Polka Dots on the Trees wrapped the trunks of more than 60 trees in pink-and-white polka-dotted material before Yayoi Kusama opened its doors, too. Now comes the chance to explore the complete showcase, which is also one of the most-comprehensive retrospectives devoted to the artist to be staged globally. Forget booking in a trip to Kusama's Tokyo museum for the next few months, then — all that Melburnians need to do is stay local, and Australians elsewhere just need to head to the Victorian capital. Other highlights include NGV International's glass waterwall going pink, but with black rather than white dots; Kusama's new version of Narcissus Garden, which dates back to 1966 and features 1400 30-centimetre-diameter silver balls this time around, sitting in front of the waterwall and in parts of Federation Court; and the yellow-and-black spheres of Dots Obsession hanging over the Great Hall. Then there's the artist's sticker-fuelled, all-ages-friendly The Obliteration Room, where audiences young and old pop coloured dots everywhere — 'obliterating', as Kusama calls it — to cover an apartment interior that's completely white otherwise. Flower Obsession is another participatory piece, returning from the 2017 NGV Triennial. Again, you're asked to add to the work. Here, red flowers are applied to a domestic space — and again, obliterating it is the mission. If you adore the artist's way with mirrors, you'll want to see 2016's Chandelier of Grief, which features baroque-style chandelier spinning within a hexagon of mirrors; 2013's Love Is Calling, where tentacles in different colours spring from both the floor and the ceiling; and 2017's The Spirits of the Pumpkins Descended into the Heavens, which gets viewers peering at glowing pumpkins as far as the eye can see through a small peephole. In Invisible Life, convex mirrors line a twisting and multi-hued corridor. With its six-metre-tall tendrils — which are covered in polka dots, naturally — the yellow-and-black The Hope of the Polka Dots Buried in Infinity Will Eternally Cover the Universe from 2019 is striking without using a looking glass (or several), and makes its Australian premiere. Prefer flowers instead? Set within a dotted space, All My Love for the Tulips, I Pray Forever from 2013 sees a trio of giant tulips loom over audiences. Overall, Yayoi Kusama steps through the artist's 80-plus years of making art via a thematic chronology. While a number of pieces hail from her childhood, others are far more recent. Her output in her hometown of Matsumoto from the late 30s–50s; the results of relocating to America in 1957; archival materials covering her performances and activities in her studios, especially with a political charge, in the 60s and 70s; plenty from the past four decades: they all appear. Any chance to see Yayoi Kusama's work in Australia is huge news, and reason to make a date — including travel plans, if needed. Here's another drawcard: the NGV has also added Friday-night parties to the mix, kicking off on Friday, December 20, 2024 for some pre-Christmas fun, then running for 18 weeks until Friday, April 18, 2025. Yayoi Kusama displays at NGV International, St Kilda Road, Melbourne until Monday, April 21, 2025 — and NGV Friday Nights: Yayoi Kusama runs each Friday night from 6–10pm between Friday, December 20, 2024–Friday, April 18, 2025. Head to the NGV website for more details and tickets. Images: Visitors and artworks in the Yayoi Kusama exhibition at NGV International, Melbourne until 21 April 2025. © YAYOI KUSAMA. Photos: Danielle Castano, Sean Fennessy, Tobias Titz and Kate Shannassy.
Come October 2025 around Australia, Tomato Day will be back on the big screen, all thanks to Looking for Alibrandi's inclusion in this year's Italian Film Festival lineup. A quarter of a century has passed since the Pia Miranda (Invisible Boys)-starring Australian page-to-screen classic reached cinemas, so the nation's annual celebration of Italian movies has programmed the beloved picture based on Melina Marchetta's 1992 book in its closing-night slot. Audiences will get a particular filmic treat, too, given that the 4K restoration of the film will be gracing the screen. So, as well as surveying the latest in Italian cinema — as IFF does every year, 2025 being no exception — there's an Aussie flavour to the festival this time around. Another example: the Greta Scacchi (Darby and Joan)-narrated Signorinella: Little Miss, with the team responsible for Lygon St — Si Parla Italiano turning their attention to Italian women who helped make the Italian Australian community what it is. 2025's Italian Film Festival kicks off in mid-September, starting in Canberra and Adelaide, then heading to Sydney, Melbourne, Ballarat, Brisbane, Byron Bay and Ballina, and Perth across a countrywide tour between Wednesday, September 17–Wednesday, October 22 (with dates varying depending on the location). While Looking for Alibrandi is on closing duties, romantic comedy Somebody to Love will get IFF 2024 started, as hailing from Perfect Strangers filmmaker Paolo Genovese. In the festival's centrepiece slot is La Grazia, the latest from Paolo Sorrentino (Parthenope) — and, like The Hand of God, Loro and The Great Beauty, starring Toni Servillo. Its inclusion is quite the get for IFF, given that the movie will head to Australia direct from having its world premiere opening the 2025 Venice International Film Festival. Servillo is a significant feature of IFF's lineup this year, too, thanks to also appearing in Sicilian Letters and The Illusion, with the first focusing on Cosa Nostra boss Matteo Messina Denaro's time as a fugitive and the second heading back to Giuseppe Garibaldi's efforts in 1860 to unify Italy. In another highlight, Napoli — New York sees Gabriele Salvatores (Cassanova's Return) chart the path of two Neapolitan children to New York in 1949 — and continue, as also evident courtesy of Looking for Alibrandi and Signorinella: Little Miss, the festival's celebration of migrant stories. The must-sees keep coming from there, with IFF also screening 2024 Venice Film Festival Grand Jury Prize-winner The Mountain Bride — Vermiglio; Diamonds by Ferzan Özpetek; The Great Ambition, which won Elio Germano (Trust) the Best Actor Award at the David di Donatello Awards for portraying former Italian Communist Party leader Enrico Berlinguer; Italian box-office hit The Boy with the Pink Trousers; and the Valeria Golino (Maria)-led Fuori, a biopic about Italian feminist writer Goliarda Sapienza. Or, attendees can catch post-WWII-set drama My Place Is Here, as based on the novel by Daniela Porto; The Life Apart, which sports Vicenza as a backdrop; and Gianni Versace — Emperor of Dreams, as focused on the fashion icon. And, for its blast from the pasts for 2025, the fest is embracing giallo, to the delight of horror and thriller fans. Think: a new 4K restoration of Dario Argento's Deep Red, alongside Lucio Fulci's A Lizard in a Woman's Skin, Mario Bava's Blood and Black Lace, Pupi Avati's The House with Laughing Windows and Sergio Martino's All the Colours of the Dark. Italian Film Festival 2025 Dates and Venues Wednesday, September 17–Wednesday, October 15 — Palace Electric Cinema, Canberra Wednesday, September 17–Tuesday, October 15 — Palace Nova Eastend Cinemas and Palace Nova Prospect Cinemas, Adelaide Thursday, September 18–Wednesday, October 15 — Palace Moore Park, Palace Norton St, Palace Central and Chauvel Cinema, Sydney Friday, September 19–Thursday, October 16 — The Astor Theatre, Palace Balwyn, Palace Brighton Bay, Palace Church St, Palace Cinema Como, Palace Penny Lane, Palace Westgarth, The Kino, Pentridge Cinema and Cinema Nova, Melbourne Saturday, September 20–Thursday, October 16 — Palace Regent Cinemas, Ballarat Saturday, September 24–Wednesday, October 22 — Palace Barracks and Palace James Street, Brisbane Thursday, September 25–Wednesday, October 15 — Palace Byron Bay and Ballina Fair Cinemas, Byron Bay and Ballina Thursday, September 25–Wednesday, October 22 — Palace Raine Square, Luna Leederville, Luna on SX and Windsor Cinema, Perth The 2025 Italian Film Festival tours Australia in September and October. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the festival website.
Royal Stacks has officially unveiled its brand-new froyo bar, serving up a nostalgic slice of classic American dessert culture with a distinctly Melbourne twist. Available now at all Royal Stacks locations, from Collins Street to Craigieburn, the new froyo menu leans hard into customisation, colour, and throwback fun. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Royal Stacks (@royalstacksau) Expect a lineup of top-tions (yes, topping options…) that spans everything from Twizzlers and Cinnamon Toast Crunch to Mini Reese's Pieces, Mini Oreos, and more sugar-coated favourites you'd find in a classic U.S. froyo shop. At the centre of it all is Blue Mango, Royal Stacks' signature flavour that's quickly building a following thanks to its bright colour, tropical tang and soft-serve creaminess. The menu also includes vanilla, chocolate, cookies and cream, salted caramel, and a vegan coconut option for dairy-free dessert lovers. But if you want to make the experience even sweeter, head to their Crown Melbourne venue — sitting right on the Yarra, it's currently the only place in the city where you can enjoy frozen yoghurt with a waterfront view Royal Stacks will be offering a two-for-one froyo deal at the Crown Casino venue — 6–7 December only. Find out more via the Royal Stacks Instagram.
Square burger patties are now on the menu Down Under, with American chain Wendy's launching in Australia. After initially starting making moves to hit our shores in 2022, then confirming in 2023 that a heap of Aussie stores are on the way, the burger-slinging joint has opened its first-ever Australian outpost on the Gold Coast, in Surfers Paradise's Paradise Centre. In terms of big US fast-food franchise making the leap to this part of the world, Taco Bell did it, plus Mark Wahlberg's Wahlburgers and fellow burger joint Five Guys, too — and now Wendy's has officially followed suit. The Australian venues fall under The Wendy's Company's master franchise agreement with Flynn Restaurant Group to set up a huge number of Aussie shops. And we do mean a big figure: at least 200 stores, in fact, as slated to open by 2034. Wendy's already knew there was an Aussie appetite for its burgers thanks to a 2021 Wendy's pop-up in Sydney, where it gave out free burgs and desserts. Indeed, when it confirmed the massive expansion to Australia, the company mentioned the one-day pop-up's success among the reasons for giving Australia a couple of hundred places to nab its burgers within the next decade. Back then, it was expected that the stores would largely start launching from 2025 — and with the Gold Coast flagship, that's exactly what has happened. Exactly where Wendy's will set up shop from here, and when, hasn't been revealed. Open since Wednesday, January 15, 2025, Wendy's Gold Coast store features the brand's signature dishes, such as its Classic Double, Baconmator and Spicy Chicken Sandwich — as well as the Wendy's Frosty in chocolate or vanilla flavours for dessert. The menu also spans double hand-breaded chicken tenders (which are served by themselves, and in burgers and wraps), plus sea-salted fries with loaded options (cheese, chilli and cheese, and bacon and cheese). Flynn Restaurant Group and Wendy's have history, with the former already running nearly 200 of the latter's outposts across five US states. Similarly on Flynn Restaurant Group's plate in America: operating Applebee's, Taco Bell, Panera, Arby's and Pizza Hut restaurants. In Australia, Wendy's isn't the only food joint with that name. Across the country, that moniker also graces a South Australian-born ice cream chain which is now known as Wendy's Milk Bar. With more than 7000 stores worldwide, the American Wendy's is one of the globe's biggest and most-recognisable burger chains. While most of its outposts are scattered across the US, the chain also has over 1000 international locations in countries like New Zealand, Canada and the UK. The first Wendy's was opened by Dave Thomas in Columbus, Ohio in 1969. It quickly expanded due to the popularity of its burgers and iconic Frostys, growing to over 1000 restaurants in its first nine years of operations. Find Wendy's at Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise — open from 10am–10pm Thursday–Tuesday and 11am–9pm Wednesday. Head to the chain's website for more details.
In the coming years, the Gold Coast is set to welcome a new man-made surf wave pool, as well as a hotel and resort at Dreamworld. Later in 2021, it'll also boast a cabana-filled oceanside precinct on a rooftop. But before all of that comes to fruition, the popular southeast Queensland tourist destination is set to score another new attraction — with its new $60.5 million, six-level art gallery opening its doors on Saturday, May 8. First announced back in 2018, and given a launch date earlier this year, the new addition is part of HOTA, Home of the Arts in Surfers Paradise. Simply called the HOTA Gallery, it has been built at the top of the site's concert lawn, overlooking HOTA's outdoor stage. It's now the country's largest art gallery outside of a capital city and, obviously, it's giving art lovers both locally and Australia-wide plenty to get excited about. Designed by Melbourne-based architects ARM, the multi-floor gallery spans more than 2000 square metres of exhibition space. That includes a main area for touring exhibitions, a permanent collection space across three levels and a children's gallery. There's also an area for storing works that aren't on display, which is pivotal given that the site houses the Gold Coast's $32 million, 4400-piece City Collection. [caption id="attachment_811097" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Back wall: Nicola Moss Local Air 2021; Kirsty Bruce Wonderwall 2021; Aaron Chapman The Towers Project 2021; Back right: Michael Candy, Steal the Sunshine 2021; Front: Ali Bezer I Can Hear Water 2021; SOLID GOLD: Artists from Paradise, HOTA Gallery. Photo by Paul Harris Photography.[/caption] View-wise, there's much to look at already if you're keen on gazing at creative pieces. Running until July 4, Solid Gold: Artists from Paradise, showcases new works by Gold Coast artists, while Lyrical Landscapes: The Art of William Robinson pays tribute to one of Australia's greatest landscape painters until October 3. There's also Contemporary Masters from New York: Art from the Mugrabi Collection, which makes its world premiere until February 27 – and features 70 works from the likes of Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring, Richard Prince and Jeff Koons. In the children's gallery, World Upside Down runs until October 10, and is designed to be interactive for audiences of all ages. Visitors can also peer at more than just the art gracing the walls. The building's windows offer a stellar view of Surfers Paradise — and, outside, sculptural installations await. Queensland Waanyi artist Judy Watson's addition to the site heroes Indigenous native plants, and includes a pathway that forms a topographical map of Nerang prior to European settlement. It also spans Piccabeen basket and dilly bag sculptures designed with Quandamooka artists Libby Harward and Elisa Jane Carmichael, and features a two-metre-tall feather canopy and snippets of local language sandblasted onto the bleachers. And Sri-Lankan born, Sydney based artist Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran has crafted a six-metre-high, double-sided sculpture made out of bronze, concrete, neon and fibreglass that's designed to reflect the vibrancy of the new building. [caption id="attachment_811082" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Brett Boardman[/caption] Back inside the building, a rooftop bar and restaurant is also opening its doors. Called The Exhibitionist Bar, it takes over 233 square metres, and pairs panoramic views with tapas, share plates, cocktails, wine, beer and house-made sodas. Both indoor and outdoor terrace seating are a feature, and you'll get a vantage that sprawls over the Goldie's waterways, Surfers' Paradise skyline and the hinterland. Plus, in terms of decor, the venue takes its cues from rainforests — as does the immensely colourful building itself, which is inspired by William Robinson's 'The Rainforest'. HOTA Gallery and The Exhibitionist Bar will both open at HOTA, Home of the Arts, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise on Saturday, May 8. For more information, visit the HOTA website. Top images: Brett Boardman
Kangaroo Island is known for its spectacular coastal views, wildlife, wineries and pristine beaches. It's clear to see how it got on the New York Times list of the best places to visit in 2023 and our own list of the best islands to visit in Australia. To help travellers get the most out of a trip to Kangaroo Island, we decided to create this complete guide. It highlights the best places to stay, where to eat and drink and what special activities to book ahead of time — whether you're looking for adventure or a little bit of luxury. All you have to do is get yourselves there, either by ferry or plane from Adelaide. [caption id="attachment_759309" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bay of Shoals Wine by Meaghan Coles[/caption] EAT AND DRINK Straight off the ferry? Head to Millie Mae's Pantry for a full brunch made with ingredients from the kitchen garden, or pick up something to take with you for lunch while you adventure through the island. If you've stayed in Kingscote, start the day off with coffee from Cactus. It's well worth coming back later in the day for dumplings, tacos or whatever is on the menu that night. A winery tour is a must while you're in town, so make sure to hit Bay of Shoals Wines, which boasts the closest vines to the sea in the southern hemisphere. Nearby, there's also The Islander Estate Vineyards for vino made by a renowned Bordeaux winemaker and, for balance, Kangaroo Island Brewery where you can stop for lunch and try a few local cold ones. Also worth checking out on the far east side of the island is False Cape Wines — known for its minimal intervention drops — and Dudley Wines, which has incredible views and live music on the first Sunday of the month. But if organising this alone seems like too much hassle or you'd rather someone else drive you around, then wine tours are the way to go. This full-day wine and nature tour starts from Kangaroo Island and this alternative food and wine tasting safari starts from Adelaide. On each of these Kangaroo Island day trips, you'll taste great local vinos, eat some tasty local produce and get up and close with friendly Aussie wildlife. [caption id="attachment_759308" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Penneshaw Hotel by Adam Bruzzone[/caption] For the island's best fish and chips, we have to recommend KI Fresh Seafood in Kingscote. It's attached to a petrol station, but don't let that put you off — take away and enjoy on the water's edge. For a finer affair, head to dinner at Sunset Food and Wine. The modern bistro looks out over American Beach and is owned by Jack Ingram, former executive chef of Southern Ocean Lodge, a Kangaroo Island favourite that was sadly destroyed in the bushfires of 2020. The menu is stacked with fresh local seafood and produce, including rock lobster, kingfish sashimi and Kangaroo Island honeycomb. Otherwise, the Penneshaw Hotel is perched on a clifftop and offers a decent pub feed overlooking the wide open sea. And lastly, you should check out the monthly farmers and community market day at Penneshaw Oval, which also happens on the first Sunday of the month (between October and April). [caption id="attachment_759315" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Chapman River[/caption] DO If you're arriving by ferry, you'll get into Penneshaw — and from there you can head straight to Kangaroo Island Ocean Safari to swim with dolphins. In Lashmar Conservation Park, you can also watch out for wildlife as you kayak along the Chapman River to Antechamber Bay, where you'll find a lovely private beach perfect for a dip. Making your way west, seafood lovers should spend an afternoon at American River, where The Oyster Farm Shop will sort you out with fresh local oysters, marron, abalone and King George whiting, before you explore the protected wetlands of Pelican Lagoon. Of course, one of the best things about Kangaroo Island is the beaches: crystal clear, blue waters, long stretches of glittery white sand and lazy days spent soaking it all in. The best ones? Emu Bay on the island's north coast, where you can drive your car right onto the four-kilometre stretch of white sand and spend a day in the tranquil waters, or — a little further west — Snelling Beach for an epic sunset. Spend a day exploring the shops and sights of Kingscote, the island's largest town, just south of Emu Bay. Stop in at the Spinners and Weavers Shop for handmade natural fibre treasures, take a tour of Island Beehive and pick up some local honey, shop art at Shep's Studio and Fine Art Kangaroo Island, and visit Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Oil distillery. Be sure to make time for a two-hour blend-your-own-gin experience at Kangaroo Island Spirits. Next, you should head southwest to Vivonne Bay for surf and to sandboard down Little Sahara with the help of Little Sahara Adventure Centre. Alternatively, you cab join a quad bike tour to explore the grass and bushland before heading to the Seal Bay Conservation Park for a guided tour of the sea lion colony. [caption id="attachment_759307" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ecopia Retreat by Stirling West[/caption] STAY Kangaroo Island has lots of luxury accommodation and you can go off-grid in style at Stowaway Kangaroo Island. Imagine curling up in the window seat of a luxurious private cabin on the edge of Lathami Conservation Park and a privately owned sheep farm, soaking in views of the bush and ocean in the distance. Both of the cabins, aptly named The Nest and The Sleepy Hollow, come with a huge soaker bath with sweeping views, a hot tub out on the deck, a sauna and a local produce hamper. Otherwise, make yourself at home at Ecopia Villas on a vast property in the middle of the island, complete with exclusive access to the Eleanor River and hundreds of acres of wilderness. Or you can book an all-inclusive package with bespoke 4WD tours at the Sea Dragon Lodge and Villas, or fall asleep to the sound of waves crashing against the cliffs of the island's eastern-most point at Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge within the Cape Willoughby Conservation Park. If you'd rather keep it simple (and cheap), pitch a tent at one of these gorgeous camping spots that are all mere steps from the beach and have their own toilets, barbecues and picnic facilities. These stunning sites help place Kangaroo Island on our list of the best camping spots in Australia, as voted by our readers. We aren't the only ones who love Kangaroo Island — you guys do, too. 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 in destinations all over the world. All images courtesy of the South Australia Tourism Commission.
Did you know every time you leave the house your little dog's heart breaks in two? Well, it certainly feels like that. To stop feeling like an absent parent, it's time to start including your loveable fur baby in your weekend getaways. Fortunately for you, regional Victoria is just the place to make that happen with a throng of pup-friendly activities on offer. Make yourself the most popular owner at the dog park by planning a weekend trip to one of these great spots — from wild walking adventures to puppuccino-packed pampering, there's something for all puppers, great and small. From pristine beaches and bountiful wine regions to alpine hideaways and bustling country towns, Australia has a wealth of places to explore at any time of year. We've partnered with Tourism Australia to help you plan your road trips, weekend detours and summer getaways so that when you're ready to hit the road you can Holiday Here This Year. Some of the places mentioned below may be operating differently due to COVID-19 restrictions. Please check the relevant websites before making any plans. TAKE YOUR HOUND ON A HIKE We all know dogs love nothing more than bones, pats, running about, sniffing and exploring; they're a bit like the Energizer Bunny, they could go on forever. So, when it comes to getting out of town and into the great outdoors, remember, it isn't all about you. Make sure to give your pup ample time to explore. We suggest spending the day traversing the amazing boulders and rock formations at the You Yangs — the scent of kangaroos and other wildlife will send Snowy absolutely loco. Climb Big Rock, have a picnic at Yellow Gum and lose yourself in this incredible park. If you're lucky, you might even spot a koala or echidna (which is why it's super important to keep your dog on a leash). Once you and pup are pooped, drive northwest through serene Stieglitz and up to Meredith for a bite to eat. Use the Moorabool Valley Taste Trail as your guide to a wonderful selection of local produce. Where? You Yangs Regional Park. How Far? One hour from Melbourne. DRINK LATTES AND PUPPUCCINOS IN BENDIGO Bendigo might just be the most dog-friendly town in Victoria — there are countless cafes, parks and trails all suitable for Spot, as well as some fabulous accommodation options where dogs aren't just allowed, they're loved. Set off early in the morning and arrive in time for brekkie or brunch at Percy and Percy, Bendigo Gallery Cafe or Old Green Bean. Then, take your pick from a scenic stroll around Rosalind Park — a leafy oasis in the heart of the CBD — or the Bendigo Botanic Gardens; if you're keen to push yourself and pup a little harder, try the O'Keefe Rail Trail or Bendigo Creek Trail. You can also pay a visit to Bendigo's off-leash dog park where, if you're there on a good day, you can pick up a human coffee for yourself and a doggy lamington and puppuccino for your pooch at the mobile Wally's Dog Cafe — it's like a food truck for your pup. If you or your pup tire of walking, jump on a tram, all trams are dog-friendly as long as your pooch is on a leash. Where? Bendigo. How Far? One hour and 45 minutes from Melbourne. HEAD FOR BUSHWALKS, BEERS AND BELLY RUBS Ferns, waterfalls, gumtrees and the songs of native birds make Toolangi State Forest the perfect dog (and human) oasis. Just 20 minutes' drive from Healesville, this forest is a worthwhile trip from Melbourne, and your dog is welcome at heel as long as it's on a leash. Tanglefoot Loop is a ten-kilometre loop hike which will take about two-to-three hours to complete. In the cooler months, your pup can run amok in the snow, and, in the warmer months, they can take a dip in the forest's dog-sized waterholes. After you've worked up a hunger, stop in for a bite at the Healesville Hotel. Every weekend, the Healesville fires up the barbie offering Texas-style barbecue chicken and slaw sangas — the weekend tradition is currently run in a socially distanced way in the establishment's laneway. Otherwise, Innocent Bystander allows dogs on the deck if there's room, and you can treat yourself to a moscato slushie while you pat your puppy. Where? Toolangi State Forest and Healesville. How Far? 1.5 hours from Melbourne. [caption id="attachment_773119" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Artem Beliaikin[/caption] GET SOME OUT-OF-TOWN POOCH PAMPERING If you're less about lengthy treks and more about the finer things in life, we've found the spot for you. Wagtime in Belgrave Heights lets you pamper your pup to the nth degree. You can relax and peruse some puppy products, gifts and homewares, while your woofer gets her nails done — it's win-win. Appointments range from a one-hour bath and blowdry to a two-hour full groom. Where? Belgrave Heights. How Far? An hour from Melbourne. [caption id="attachment_715572" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Victoria; Josie Withers[/caption] SIP CRAFT BEERS ALONGSIDE YOUR FAVOURITE CANINE There's only one thing better than going on a trip out of town with your tail-wagger and that's getting together with all your friends and their dogs and doing a brewery tour. If you've ever taken Pongo to a brewery or pub, you know it's nothing but pats-ahoy. A relaxed atmosphere plus adorable dogs equals many happy people and a happy dog. If you're planning a brewery tour in regional Victoria, one of the best dog-friendly options has to be Bright Brewery — it even has an Instagram account called Dogs of Bright Brewery. Otherwise, Black Dog Brewery, Blackman's Brewery and Ocean Reach Brewing all allow dogs and have some tip-top beers to boot. Given Blackman's Brewery is located 500 metres from the beach in Torquay, you can also take your mate for a swim in the ocean to cap off the day. Whether you're planning to travel for a couple of nights or a couple of weeks, Holiday Here This Year and you'll be supporting Australian businesses while you explore the best of our country's diverse landscapes and attractions.
Taking a large-scale event to the next level just got easier, as The Timber Yard has just completed a top-to-bottom $3 million makeover. Tucked away in the backstreets of Port Melbourne, this sprawling warehouse venue is designed for versatility, with its sleek, blackout aesthetic providing event hosts an ultra-modern blank canvas to shape an attention-grabbing showcase. But don't think the venue's upgrade begins and ends with mere design. It now features a state-of-the-art audiovisual setup and full-scale climate control, making larger and more ambitious events a reality. Already a choice destination for automotive launches, charity galas and premium expos, expect The Timber Yard's event schedule to get even more high-end. While Melbourne is no stranger to massive events, finding a suitable venue to host can be a challenging prospect. Yet the improved Timber Yard offers an unlikely combo of scale, character and versatility, making its expansive industrial site an appealing choice. Now with upgraded architectural lighting and customisable layouts, the venue is ripe for just about any brief. Delving into the details, the audiovisual advancements shouldn't be underestimated. Priced at an eye-watering $1.5 million, events are elevated with 100 moving spot and wash fixtures, primed for larger-than-life lighting. Meanwhile, there's a nine-metre-wide high-res adjustable LED screen, d&b Audiotechnik distributed audio and plug-and-play technical infrastructure. "We are constantly striving to improve every aspect of the venue so that our clients and their guests have impactful and unique experiences, whether they are coming to the venue for the first or tenth time," says The Timber Yard owner and director, Adam McKenzie. Conceived as a multi-functional landmark, The Timber Yard has hosted its fair share of memorable moments in recent years. Even before the renovation, iconic carmakers like Ferrari and Lamborghini had launched full-throttle supercars at the venue, while contrasting events, such as the Wine & Cheese Fest and Ministry of Sound, proved its flexible credentials. The Timber Yard is now open at 351 Plummer St, Port Melbourne. Head to the website for more information.
The owners of Hawthorn's Nevermind Bar really outdid themselves when they opened a sophisticated wine bar around the block. Gone are the dive bar-esque stylings of the former — in their place is a classed-up affair of polished cement, hanging greenery and high ceilings, all of which centre on a wrap-around marble bar. Luton Lane is a European-style wine bar through and through. Behind that bar (and in the fully stocked wine fridge) there are over 100 bottles of wine, with a whopping 17 by the glass ($10–14). Those focus on natural drops and span labels from France, Spain and Argentina, along with quite a few from Victoria's wine regions. At the moment, the must-try is the natural fermentation sparkling by French winemaker Varichon & Clerc. Other than wine, there are two beer taps and batched classic cocktails by Melbourne's Everleigh Bottling Co. — including the martini, negroni, manhattan and old-fashioned. Grab a seat at that bar or in the leafy outdoor balcony and get to sipping. The kitchen does Spanish-style bar snacks that change regularly. Think crumbed and fried cherry bocconcini with rosemary ($12), and dutch carrots and chick peas topped with a buckwheat crumble ($10). There's also a trio of charred skewers on offer, including aged wagyu rump with green sauce, shallot and cider chorizo and paprika and oregano chicken ($18 each). As with any great wine bar, the cheese and charcuterie game is strong — the latter includes specialties like chicken and black truffle terrine ($16) and Spanish tinned stuffed squid in ink ($12). If you've gathered a big group, you can nab the four-course tasting menu for $39 per person, with matched natural wines for an additional $40.
Two Spanish couples on holiday, the tale of a real-life Barcelona bus driver and a crime thriller set in the Basque Country: if you're looking to swap Australia's winter for Euro vibes from your cinema seat, they're some of the highlights in store. When the middle of the year hits Down Under each year, the Spanish Film Festival brightens up Aussie picture palaces with a lineup of movies from its namesake country. Exploring the breadth of Spanish-language cinema, it also showcases flicks from Latin America. Thirty films are on the fest's program for 2025, including across Friday, June 13–Wednesday, July 2 at The Astor Theatre, Palace Cinema Como, Palace Brighton Bay, Palace Penny Lane, Palace Westgarth, The Kino, Palace Balwyn and Pentridge Cinema in Melbourne. Audiences can enjoy a roster of picks that features a Sliding Doors-style opener, this year's two Goya Best Film winners and a celebration of the 25th anniversary of Nine Queens. Among the films mentioned above, Samana Sunrise is kicking of the festival with 20-year pals on a beachside getaway to the Dominican Republic when what might've been becomes the focus. Then, both El 47 and Undercover have prime slots fresh from their shared victory at Spain's version of the Oscars. The first heads back to the 70s to tell of bus driver Eduard Fernández's peaceful act of dissidence, while the second also unfurls a true tale, this time about the only police officer in Spain's history that has worked their way into terrorist organisation ETA. If you've been watching Ricardo Darín in recent Netflix hit The Eternaut, then you'll want to head back a quarter-century to see the Argentinian star's stellar work in heist flick Nine Queens — or revisit it if you're already a fan. It's closing out this year's Spanish Film Festival, screening in 4K. Other highlights across the program include The Quiet Maid, which was completely funded by NFTs, boasts Steven Soderbergh (Presence, Black Bag) as an executive producer, and follows a Colombian maid who discovers how to enjoy her summer while working on the Costa Brava; Ocho, charting a relationship over 90 years; the page-to-screen The Goldsmith's Secret; and Spanish box-office hit Wolfgang, a comedy a nine-year-old boy being set to live with his father. Or, there's Argentinian crime-thriller A Silent Death, which heads Patagonia in the 80s; El Jockey, with Money Heist and The Day of the Jackal's Úrsula Corberó among the Buenos Aires-set film's cast; and Peru's Through Rocks and Clouds, where an eight-year-old alpaca herder gets excited about the World Cup. With Marco, The Invented Truth, another slice of reality graces the lineup, this time honing in on the man who acted as the speaker of the Spanish association of Holocaust victims. The same is the case with I Am Nevenka, Nevenka Fernández's report of harassment by her employer in the 90s. Two documentaries also demonstrate how fact is frequently more fascinating than fiction, with Mugaritz. No Bread, No Dessert all about its eponymous Michelin-starred restaurant and The Flamenco Guitar of Yerai Cortés celebrating a rising star of its titular genre.
Japan has continued to grow in popularity as a holiday destination. A (relatively) short flight away, it offers nature, cities, unbeatable food, cultural experiences, and a famous public transport system that makes getting around a breeze. But if you want to see the real Japan, you need to explore its culture a little deeper. In collaboration with the Japan National Tourism Organization, we've selected eight traditional events that will allow you to dive head-first into the country's lesser-known regional culture. [caption id="attachment_916162" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Mu Mu via iStock[/caption] Yuki Matsuri — Sapporo Snow Festival People may know Japan for its fantastic skiing, but fewer are up to speed with this fascinating winter festival, which showcases some of the most inventive culture that Sapporo has to offer. What began in 1950 as a festival with 50,000 attendees organised by a local high school in a park is now an eight-day artistic winter extravaganza that attracts over two million visitors every year. The February 2025 incarnation takes place across three separate sites and features snow sculptures from world-renowned artists, plus winter sports exhibitions and a range of family-friendly sub-zero activities. [caption id="attachment_972213" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Japan National Tourism Organization[/caption] Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri — Osaka Harvest Festival Danjiri matsuri are "float" or "cart-pulling" festivals that are held across Japan, and while the coastal town of Kishiwada may be small in stature, it hosts one of the largest such events in the whole country, all to kick off the harvest season. A tradition that dates back three centuries, crowds come from afar to witness teams pull their elaborately decorated danjiri festival floats — which can weigh up to four tons — through the city streets. This important historic festival is held every September in the quaint locale in southern Osaka Prefecture. [caption id="attachment_972214" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] RnDmS via iStock[/caption] Nada Kenka Matsuri — Dynamic Hyogo City Festival Nada Kenka Matsuri is a "fighting festival" where teams of local men carry intricately carved floats through Himeji City before smashing them into one another to assert dominance and claim the honour of a blessing at the local shrine. Over 100,000 people every year come to witness this traditional, not to mention dangerous, ritual. It's believed the winners will be blessed with a bountiful harvest. So, if you're keen to experience something that ties organised choreography, all-out carnage, and traditional beliefs together, head to Hyogo Prefecture in October — Nada Kenka Matsuri could be exactly what you're looking for. [caption id="attachment_972223" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Subajogu via iStock[/caption] Eisa Matsuri — Okinawa Dance Festival Eisa is a form of folk dancing that originated in Okinawa and every year, the region pays homage to its heritage with this festival. Over three days, hundreds of thousands of visitors watch the people of Okinawa honour their ancestors and traditions. On the final day, spectators get the opportunity to join the eisa dancers in a celebratory denouement. As if that wasn't enough, there's a dramatic climax, during which a technicolour fireworks display closes out this unique part of Okinawa culture during summer. Chichibu Yomatsuri — Saitama Winter Night Festival You'll have realised by now that if the word "matsuri" is somewhere in the title, there will be a float parade involved. Chichibu Yomatsuri is no exception. This festival, held annually at the start of December, features floats on which kabuki (traditional Japanese dance theatre) is performed. What sets this apart from some of the other similarly-sized festivals is its two-and-a-half-hour fireworks display — a highlight for attendees enjoying the sights and sounds of the area. Don't forget to make the most of the musical performances and street food stalls that have been set up to mark the occasion. [caption id="attachment_972236" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Grandspy707 via iStock[/caption] Usuki Takeyoi — Oita Bamboo Festival In case you're wondering what a bamboo festival might entail, the answer is over 20,000 bamboo lanterns lining the streets of eight different towns. This beautifully illuminated spectacle is held to retell the legend of Princess Hannya, who, legend says, needs the lights to light the path for her soul to return to its rightful place. Oita Prefecture is famous for its bamboo, so it's only natural that it's the material celebrated at Usuki Takeyoi. The lanterns are lit around sunset, providing a warm, otherworldly experience that has to be seen to be believed. [caption id="attachment_972241" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] RealdWorld8 via iStock[/caption] Nachi no Ogi Matsuri — Wakayama Shinto Festival Wakayama is home to a picturesque waterfall known for its beauty and tranquillity. However, once a year, the peace is shattered thanks to Nachi no Ogi Matsuri, a festival of fire where roaring flames and religious chanting combine. This is a sacred rite where heavy torches are carried along the staircase to the local shrine, transforming the waterfall into a thrilling collision of water and flame. It's held every year on July 14 and is a popular event, so make sure you arrive early to get a good vantage point for the festivities, which kick off at 2pm sharp. [caption id="attachment_972243" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Kuremo via iStock[/caption] Oga no Namahage — Akita Demon Festival How did you spend NYE last year? Did you brave the eye-watering prices to go to an event in the city, or did you just spend it with friends? Whatever you did, chances are you didn't have an evening like the people of Oga. Every December 31, local men in demonic masks roam the streets, searching for young children to scare. The demons can be satiated with rice cakes and sake, before leaving the house with a blessing for the year ahead. No one is entirely sure where this tradition originated, but in 2018, UNESCO awarded it the classification of Intangible Cultural Heritage. It'll certainly be a New Year's you'll never forget. Discover more and start planning your trip to Japan at the Japan National Tourism Organization website.
No longer confined to children's birthday parties, bouncy castles, inflatable obstacle sources and blow-up labyrinths have become hot property for adults (and their inner kids, of course). And the next blow-up event to return to Australia is big. Really big. Dubbed 'The Big Bounce Australia', it's an inflatable theme park made up of the world's biggest bouncy castle — as certified by the Guinness World Records — plus a 300-metre long obstacle course, a three-part space-themed wonderland and a sports slam arena. You're going to need a lot of red cordial to bounce your way through all of this. Set to tour the country in 2022, The Big Bounce is open to both littl'uns and big'uns, but there are a heap of adults-only sessions — so you don't have to worry about dodging toddlers on your way through. Tickets for adults will set you back $59, which gives you a whole three hours in the park. Yes, you'll need it. Inside, you'll encounter the aforementioned bouncy castle — aptly named The World's Biggest Bounce House — covering a whopping 1500 square metres and, in some spots, reaching ten metres off the ground. In this house, you'll encounter a heap of slides, ball pits, climbing towers, basketball hoops and (if you can believe it) a stage with DJs, confetti cannons and beach balls. Then, there's The Giant, with 50 inflatable obstacles, including giant red balls and a monster slide. [caption id="attachment_825374" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Sarasota Experience[/caption] Before you hit the next, three-part section of the extremely OTT theme park, you may need to pause, down some red frogs and maybe even have a nap. Or not, as you do only have three hours to explore it all. Either way, at Airspace, aliens, spaceships and moon craters collide with a five-lane slide, some more ball pits and an 18-metre-tall maze. After that, you'll certainly need a nap. And, new for 2022, there's also the Sport Slam, which is rather self-explanatory — and will be a must of you're keen to add a competitive spin to all that bouncing. THE BIG BOUNCE AUSTRALIA 2022 TOUR DATES: January 14–16: Eagles Sports Complex, Brisbane January 28–30 and February 4–6: Flemington Racecourse, Melbourne February 18–20: Ellis Park, Adelaide March 4–6: Canberra, venue TBC March 11–13: St Ives Showground, Sydney April 8–10: Newcastle, venue TBC May 6–8: Claremont Showgrounds, Perth The Big Bounce tours Australia from January–May, 2022. For more information, or to buy tickets, head to the event's website.
