Dromana's industrial estate is one step closer to becoming more of a drinking destination than anything else, as it has added yet another small-batch booze outlet to its ever-growing collection. Jimmy Rum has opened the doors to its huge distilling operations and tasting bar. Launching to the public about 18 months after the first bottle of Jimmy Rum was distilled, the digs are roomy and impressive, set across 500 square metres. It's the latest labour of love from founder and head distiller James McPhearson, who jumped into making craft rum after a decades-long career as a marine engineer. As the only distillery in Victoria dedicated to rum, it's currently whipping up four different types of booze: the Barbados, the Silver, the Oaked and the super strength Navy. They're being crafted in a 4.5-tonne, 1500-litre copper still named Matilda, though still have a way to go before they can technically be called rum — Australian classifications require the base spirit to be aged in wooden barrels for at least two years before it's allowed to be technically called as such. With its coastal home, Jimmy Rum is out to spread some serious rum knowledge and shift a few perceptions in the process. This is a spirit worth taking as seriously as the local gins and whiskies Australia's currently obsessed with and McPhearson is more than happy to show you why. You can take an educational tour of the distillery, let the experts guide you through a tasting and nab some take-home rum from the cellar door. At the bar, just metres from the still where they were made, you can sample the full range of Jimmy Rum spirits while nibbling on toasties or charcuterie. Staff will take you through the different ways to taste rum — like sipping neat, with a few drops of water or over hand-cut ice — and you can try out your newfound appreciation on the two distiller's specials available. There's also a tidy range of rum-fuelled classic cocktails, like the Espresso Rumtini and a riff on the old fashioned, while on Saturdays the place comes alive with food trucks and a lineup of live tunes. Jimmy Rum joins a host of drink-slinging neighbours within the Dromana industrial estate, including gluten-free brewery Twøbays, gin distillery Bass and Flinders, and Jetty Road Brewery. That totals four reasons to get in the car and road trip to Dromana this weekend (with a designated driver, of course). The bar is open Thursday–Sunday, but you can stop by the cellar door to buy some rum every day from 9am–5pm. Images: C. McConville.
Back in 2014, when Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi's vampire sharehouse mockumentary What We Do in the Shadows first reached cinemas, it had audiences around the globe in stitches over bloodsuckers. That was a wonderful feat, and so is everything that's followed — aka the What We Do in the Shadows Universe. If comic-book characters can have interconnected on-screen realms that spin multiple stories within the same fictional plane, then so can comedic vampires, of course. And, What We Do in the Shadows has kept delivering over the past few years. First came New Zealand-made TV series Wellington Paranormal, which stuck with the movie's cops (Mike Minogue and Karen O'Leary) as they keep investigating the supernatural. Also, there's the glorious What We Do in the Shadows television show. Turning a beloved film into a TV program doesn't always result in small-screen magic, but it worked for fellow movie-to-television vampire series Buffy the Vampire Slayer — and it works again here. In the Staten Island household where vamps Nandor (Kayvan Novak, Cruella), Laszlo (Matt Berry, Toast of London and Toast of Tinseltown) and Nadja (Natasia Demetriou, Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga) all live, plus energy vampire Colin Robinson (Mark Proksch, The Office) and Nandor's familiar Guillermo (Harvey Guillen, Werewolves Within), slayers have even staked a claim in the story. There's much, much more to the Shadows television spinoff than that — and plenty to laugh at as well. And, the just-dropped trailer for the show's fourth season promises plenty of giggles. Also, there's a vampire disco dance-off when the series' main figures hit the club. When the original film arrived in cinemas, we all instantly yearned for more, which this American spinoff has been delivering in just as smart, silly and hilarious a fashion as its big-screen predecessor. That's why it just keeps coming back again and again — as the undead tend to — with season four due to start in the US on Tuesday, July 12. Fingers crossed that What We Do in the Shadows' latest episodes show up Down Under around the same time, which they usually do. For now, here's the trailer — neon hues, Boney M's 'Rasputin' and Matt Berry being as Matt Berry as always all included: What We Do in the Shadows' fourth season starts streaming in the US on Tuesday, July 12. We'll update you with release dates Down Under when they're confirmed.
There's much to be said about heading off the well-trodden path, but what about the trails that are popular for a reason? Victoria's High Country offers some of the best outdoor adventures in the state. Sure, they may not be new or undiscovered, but with snow gum forests, historic huts, snow-covered mountains and winding cycling paths, there's so much to see and do in the region that boredom isn't an option. Planning a trip? We've teamed up with Victoria's High Country to come up with ten epic activities you should have on your bucket list. Whether you're after heart-racing whitewater kayaking, breathtaking hot air balloon rides or stimulating walks that celebrate First Nations cultures, we've got you covered. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Rail Trail, Visit Victoria/ Josie Withers[/caption] CYCLE ALONG THE MURRAY TO MOUNTAINS RAIL TRAIL Is it even a trip to the High Country if you don't go for a cycle? Okay, maybe we wouldn't go that far, but suffice to say that missing out on a two-wheeled adventure while in the mountainous region would be a real shame. From relaxed pedals between country towns to thrilling downhill tracks in remote backcountry, there really is something for everyone. For those who want to keep the level of difficulty relatively low while still experiencing the best the area has to offer, the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail has a bit of everything. The track is more than 100 kilometres, but it's easy to cruise along a smaller stretch of it, passing lush landscapes, rolling vineyards and plenty of places to stop in for a bite. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Falls Creek, Visit Victoria/Peter Dunphy[/caption] TRY YOUR HAND AT FLY FISHING If you've never tried fly fishing before then you're in for a treat. It goes a little something like this: you wade into water until you're about waist deep, then cast a line and hope for the best. Just kidding, it's a little more complicated than that — and certainly more fun. Riverdowns Retreat, located by the historic Howqua River, is in the centre of one of Australia's renowned freshwater fisheries. So, it offers the perfect opportunity for you to experience fly fishing in a stunning environment. For newbies, there are two-hour lessons for $150 (plus $75 per additional person), which includes an introductory casting class on the grass and, of course, some time in the water. It also has half- and full-day guides available for those looking to idle longer. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Victoria/Julian Kingma[/caption] UNWIND IN A JAPANESE-STYLE ONSEN Not all adventures have to make your heart pound. Sometimes, all you want during a trip away is a chance to kick back and relax. Enter: the Onsen Retreat and Spa at Dinner Plain. The alpine retreat is where you can truly indulge. Pick from a number of therapeutic spa treatments to help melt your stress away, including organic facials, herbal body exfoliations and volcanic hot stone massages. But the pièce de résistance is the Japanese-style, 38-degree outdoor onsen. Set amid the mountains, the steamy hot spring is the ideal spot to soak up your surroundings. [caption id="attachment_804961" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bright Adventure Company[/caption] TREAT YOURSELF TO A NEXT-LEVEL PICNIC ON A CLIFF There's something to be said about spending a sunny day lazing in the park with a picnic full of fresh produce, cheese and a few glasses of bubbly. But what if you could take such a staple pastime to great new heights, literally? We're talking about a casual snack while perched on a cliff face. Yes, you read that correctly. Set 300 metres above the valley floor, Bright's suspended picnics will see you hanging out on the side of Mount Buffalo as you tuck in to a gourmet hamper. The unique three-hour experience comes in at a cool $449 per couple — but, really you can't put a price on those views. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Victoria/Robert Blackburn[/caption] CHECK OUT THE IMPRESSIVE STEAVENSON FALLS There are many forests and national parks to explore throughout Victoria's High Country. While you could conquer great peaks or abseil down sheer cliffs (if that's your type of thing), seeking out some natural beauties is another way to get your outdoorsy kicks. So, why not venture to some of the area's awe-inspiring waterfalls? If we had to pick only one to visit, it's Steavenson Falls. With a drop of 84 metres, this attraction's impressive height is a sight to see, especially from the viewing platform located right at the base of the falls. And, if you're interested in a challenging five-hour hike while you're there, you can tackle the Keppel Lookout Trail. [caption id="attachment_804959" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sarah Maslan[/caption] SOAR ABOVE THE CLOUDS IN A HOT AIR BALLOON It doesn't get much dreamier than floating leisurely through clouds as the sun rises.Especially if you're doing it while overlooking the Great Dividing Range. Making fantasy a reality, Goldrush Ballooning's King Valley sunrise flights (from $385) take off at the famed Brown Brothers Winery and take you high above the Ovens River, Mount Buffalo and all the rugged countryside you could ask for. When you land back at the vineyard, you'll enjoy breakfast and glasses of prosecco, too. Or, you can opt to depart from Mansfield Coffee Merchant for stunning views of Lake Eildon, Mount Timbertop and Mount Buller for $340. [caption id="attachment_806272" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bright Adventure Company[/caption] GO KAYAKING ALONG THE OVENS RIVER Whitewater kayaking is incredibly fun, even if you've never paddled before. Of course, you'll want a professional guide to help keep your head above water. Bright Adventure Company is known for its first-timer-friendly kayaking tours along the mighty Ovens River. Its whitewater tours run for two to three hours, cost $139 per person and are sure bring out your inner daredevil. Or, if you prefer something more low-key, you can hire a kayak or paddleboard ($25 per hour) and enjoy a calmer cruise down the river. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Spring Spur[/caption] EXPLORE MOUNTAIN RIDGES ON HORSEBACK Thanks to its rugged mountain peaks, wide plains and rushing rivers, the region has big 'The Man from Snowy River' vibes. Sure, it may not be The Snowies, but if you wanted to ride horseback through these parts and impersonate Banjo Paterson's famed cattleman, you can. Spring Spur has a connection to the High Country that dates back to the gold rushes of the 1850s, the property's exceptional horseback expeditions will take you on a journey through Alpine National Park. On its multi-day pack tours (from $1870), you'll traverse brumby country, come across wild rivers, sprawling landscapes and heritage huts, and have the chance to stay in secluded camps under the stars. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Rural City of Wangaratta[/caption] WANDER ALONG THE BULLAWAH CULTURAL TRAIL The Bullawah Cultural Trail celebrates the traditional owners of the land in Wangaratta, the Pangerang people. As bulla means 'two' and wah means 'water', the trail's name signifies two things: the two suspension bridges crossing where the waters meet over the river as well as the coming together of Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. Set along 2.4 kilometres of the Ovens River, the track has sculptures, interpretive signage, the Marmungun Rock and the Bush Tucker Garden, all of which will help you understand more about the Pangerang people, their culture and their land. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Falls Creek, Visit Victoria/Chris Hocking[/caption] RACE DOWN THE SLOPES If you're a powder chaser in Victoria then you're heading to at least one of the Mount Buller, Falls Creek, Mount Hotham resorts over winter for a bit of fun on the mountain. Sure, it's one of the most popular activities to do in the High Country — and for good reason. Between the three locations, skiers and snowboarders can access 250 downhill runs across 50 lifts and ten terrain parks. It doesn't matter if you're a total beginner just learning how to stand up or a seasoned shredder blitzing your way through backcountry trails, there's a run suitable for every snow lover. And, at the end of the day, feast at one of the many cosy lodges and restaurants nearby. Discover more and plan your next adventure at Victoria's High Country. Top image: Spring Spur
Lazing on the couch. Wearing your comfiest clothes. Feeling very, very cosy. For folks trying to find something — anything — to be positive about from the past year or so, these benefits of spending so much time at home should rank highly. And, whatever the weather, they're also a recipe for blissful lounge sessions. Fancy feeling extra warm and fuzzy? Keen on some agreeable viewing options that'll not just make you feel cosy, but nostalgic too? Need a feel-good fix that only a nice animated blast from your past can rustle up? Jump into that groove you've got going on the sofa, put on your snuggest outfit and settle in to relive brighter, sunnier times — we've rounded up a whole heap of retro animated flicks that you can stream or watch on VOD right now. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92a7Hj0ijLs ALMOST EVERY STUDIO GHIBLI FILM Getting spirited away, spending time with Totoro and chasing a moving castle are now as easy as clicking a few buttons whenever you feel like it. So is revelling in the heartwarming delights of one of the best animation studios there is, too. Over the past four decades, Studio Ghibli's reputation and popularity have only grown with each new film, with the Japanese outfit beloved the world over — for a very good reason. Whether you're fond of the talents of the great Hayao Miyazaki, or you've fallen hard for gorgeous animation by fellow Ghibli co-founder Isao Takahata, Miyazaki's son Gorō Miyazaki, and other directors Yoshifumi Kondō, Hiroyuki Morita and Hiromasa Yonebayashi, you'll find them all available to stream on Netflix. In fact, from Kiki's Delivery Service and My Neighbour Totoro to Spirited Away and The Tale of The Princess Kaguya, every solely Studio Ghibli-produced animated feature except Grave of the Fireflies and the recent Earwig and the Witch is on offer, as well as made-for-TV movie Ocean Waves. Twenty-one Studio Ghibli films are available to stream via Netflix. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hgW6hUO2oyg FERNGULLY: THE LAST RAINFOREST Mention the words Robin Williams and animation in the same sentence, and one film springs to mind. Aladdin deserves the instant recognition; however the 1992 hit was actually the second movie released that year to feature Williams' vocal stylings, after FernGully: The Last Rainforest. In the latter, he voices Batty Koda, an unstable bat who says he's been experimented on by people. He's fantastic, obviously — and he raps. But that's just one of the highlights of this environmental musical fantasy, which follows a logger, Zak (voiced by Jonathan Ward), who is shrunk down to fairy size by the winged, magical Crysta (Samantha Mathis). Christian Slater, Tim Curry, Cheech Marin, Tommy Chong and Tone Loc also provide voices, and the movie's message against pollution and deforestation is a worthy one. Oh, and any Aussie 90s kid knows, the entire film is set in Australia. FernGully: The Last Rainforest is available to stream via Fetch TV. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZisWjdjs-gM PIXAR'S ENTIRE CATALOGUE Disney+, Disney's very own streaming platform, was always going to become the one-stop-shop for all of the entertainment behemoth's many famous brands, franchises and studios. That includes Pixar — and with the company spending the past quarter-century making lively, thoughtful, soul-lifting animated features, there are plenty of movies for fans to stream, re-stream and then stream yet again. In fact, all 25 Pixar features to-date are available on the platform, including last year's Onward and Soul, and this year's Luca as well. That means you can now spend, hours, days and weeks reliving the ups and downs of the Toy Story saga, enjoying the antics of Ratatouille's wannabe chef, being overwhelmed with emotion thanks to Inside Out and pondering the life of a dutiful robot left all alone in WALL-E. Pixar's entire feature catalogue is available to stream via Disney+. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-rpEUuxgmY THE LAND BEFORE TIME If The Land Before Time taught us anything, it's this: even in prehistoric times, when you're a cute baby dinosaur and your species rules the earth, life isn't just about roaring, eating and playing. For "longneck" Littlefoot (voiced by Gabriel Damon), his trek to find the Great Valley is filled with peril — but it also fuels one of the most beloved non-Disney, Pixar and Studio Ghibli animated films there is. Of course, Littlefoot's journey also involves life lessons, endearing adventures and plenty of other cute, tiny dinosaurs, all in a movie that sparked a whopping 13 direct-to-video sequels between 1994 and 2016 (as well as a TV series). It seems that a pre-Jurassic Park Steven Spielberg knew what he was talking about when he decided he wanted to produce a movie like Bambi, but with dinosaurs. Also a producer on this heartfelt flick: George Lucas. The Land Before Time is available to stream via Google Play, YouTube Movies and Amazon Prime. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1huZhKwhIQc A HEAP OF DREAMWORKS FLICKS When DreamWorks jumped into the animation game back in the 90s, it did so with a splash. In one year, 1998, it released both the computer-animated Antz and the traditionally animated The Prince of Egypt. Then, in 2001, it had audiences everywhere falling for a cranky, green, Mike Myers-voiced ogre in Shrek. Not every DreamWorks film has hit the mark, of course. For every franchise-starter such as Madagascar and Kung Fu Panda, there's been the less-successful likes of Shark Tale and Over the Hedge — and, more than many other animation studios, its flicks entertain actual kids far more than kidults. But if you're still keen for a DreamWorks-shaped trip down memory lane, both Netflix and Stan boast a sizeable array of the company's aforementioned movies, including everything from Bee Movie, Megamind and Monsters vs Aliens to How to Train Your Dragon and more. A variety of DreamWorks films are available to stream via Netflix and Stan. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fq2FZdvQXXg THE IRON GIANT What it means to be alive is one of humanity's oldest questions, and one of our most frequent literary and cinematic narratives as well. In The Iron Giant, a 100-foot-tall metal-eating alien robot voiced by Vin Diesel is doing the pondering, after the eponymous figure plummets from the sky and lands outside the town of Rockwell, Maine circa 1957. There, in a tale based on Ted Hughes' 1968 novel The Iron Man, he befriends a curious nine-year-old called Hogarth (voiced by Eli Marienthal), as they both try to hide from the Soviet-fearing Cold War-era US government. Marking the debut feature by director Brad Bird (The Incredibles and its sequel, Ratatouille, Mission: Impossible — Ghost Protocol and Tomorrowland), the result is one of the smartest, sweetest, most ambitious and astute all-ages animated films there is — which you'd expect from a movie that uses a towering space robot to contemplate not just human nature, but our ability to defy expectation and choose who we wish to be. The Iron Giant is available to stream via Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Amazon Video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMlIpQ5pbCk DISNEY'S CLASSICS For decades now, no childhood has been complete without a whole bunch of animated Disney movies. The Mouse House has been in the business of making feature-length animated flicks for 83 years — since Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs first released in 1937 — and it's still going strong. Obviously, everything from Pinocchio, Bambi and Cinderella to The Sword in the Stone, Robin Hood and The Rescuers are all on Disney+. More recent films, such as The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Pocahontas, Mulan, The Hunchback of Notre Dame and Atlantis: The Lost Empire, are too. And so is the movie that combined a cartoon mouse, eight pieces of classical music and over two hours of gorgeous animation into a masterpiece: the pioneering, imaginative and highly experimental hit Fantasia. Disney's animated films are available to stream via Disney+. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1v6-T52zLO0 FANTASTIC MR FOX Roald Dahl, Wes Anderson and stop-motion animation: that's a match made in cinematic heaven. Dahl wrote the acclaimed 1970 children's novel about the canny and cunning titular fox, of course, while Anderson brings it to life with a voice cast that includes George Clooney, Meryl Streep, Jason Schwartzman, Bill Murray, Willem Dafoe and Owen Wilson. While Fantastic Mr Fox is his first animated feature, the director behind Rushmore, The Royal Tenenbaums and The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou is a natural when it comes to witty comedy paired with playfulness, ample sight gags and a whole lot of visual symmetry. As for the story, it follows Mr Fox's (Clooney) efforts to outsmart a trio of mean farmers — and it's told here with energy, personality and Anderson's usual charm. Fantastic Mr Fox is available to stream via Netflix. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S1-0Fst-J08 WHO FRAMED ROGER RABBIT It's the part live-action, part animated film that's really not for kids, and it's still a delight more than three decades later. Who Framed Roger Rabbit steps back to 1947, plays with both neo-noir and comedy, and creates a world where humans and cartoons — or Toons as they're called — co-exist. A who's who of Hollywood's late-80s best and brightest were all considered for the part of private detective Eddie Valiant (Harrison Ford, Bill Murray and Eddie Murphy among them), but Bob Hoskins is pitch-perfect in the role. Also working a charm is the film's dark but funny tone, its exceptional special effects, and the reteaming of Robert Zemeckis and Christopher Lloyd after Back to the Future. Oh, and the fact that this always-entertaining PI tale is basically an oddball take on all-time classic Chinatown. Who Framed Roger Rabbit is available to stream via Disney+. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bmhXPNg3DZ8 THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS More than a quarter-century ago, Tim Burton and Henry Selick served up one of the most enchanting holiday films to hit the big screen — and one that doubles as both Halloween and Christmas viewing. It's Burton's name that everyone remembers; however a pre-Coraline Selick is actually in the director's chair on The Nightmare Before Christmas, which charms with both its offbeat story and its gorgeous stop-motion animation. Burton came up with the narrative though, because Jack Skellington only could've originated from the Beetlejuice and Edward Scissorhands filmmaker's brain. Imaginative, original and engaging (even as it nods to Dr Seuss a few times), it still remains a treat for all ages no matter the time of year. The Nightmare Before Christmas is available to stream on Disney+.
If there's a question that no employee wants to hear from the person setting company agendas, pulling strings and signing paycheques, it's "what do we do?". In The Consultant, Regus Patoff (Christoph Waltz, Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio) asks a variation of it early — "what do we make?" he queries at CompWare after he arrives amid grim circumstances. The mobile gaming outfit came to fame under wunderkind Sang (TV first-timer Brian Yoon), so much so that school groups tour the firm's office. Then, during the visit that opens this eight-part Prime Video thriller, a kid shoots and kills the company's founder. That doesn't stop Regus from showing up afterwards clutching a signed contract from Sang and spouting a mandate to do whatever it takes to maximise his legacy. Regus is as stern yet eccentric as Waltz has become known for — a suit- and tie-wearing kindred spirit to Inglourious Basterds' Hans Landa, plus Spectre and No Time to Die's Ernst Stavro Blofield. He first darkens CompWare's door in the thick of night, when only ambitious assistant Elaine Hayman (Brittany O'Grady, The White Lotus) and stoner coder Craig Horne (Nat Wolff, Joe vs Carole) are onsite, and he won't take no for an answer. There's no consultant job for him to have, Elaine tells him. There's no business to whip into shape, she stresses. By the next morning, he's corralling employees for an all-hands meeting and telling remote workers they'll be fired if they don't show up in-person within an hour, even if he proudly doesn't know what CompWare does — or care. Giving the small screen its latest moody and mysterious workplace nightmare, The Consultant adapts horror author Bentley Little's 2016 novel of the same name, but plays like Severance filtered through Servant. Similarities with the former come with the setting, tone and keep-'em-guessing setup, while commonalities with the latter arise from sharing creator Tony Basgallop. Both series kick off with a blow-in, unsettle a group already coping with tragedy and reorder their status quo with severe methods. Both lace the chaos that follows with nods towards the supernatural, and both ask what bargains we're willing to make — or not — to live the lives we're striving for. The Consultant hinges upon two ideas: the disdain all workers have for head honchos who slash and restructure without knowing the daily grind, bothering to understand it or even pretending to get to know their staff; and the lengths someone might be willing to go to, including what they may accept and overlook, to advance their own careers. Regus doesn't waste any time earning ire, whether through arbitrary firings — he claims one worker smells of "putrid fruit" — or by pitting his employees against each other to fight for a management office. But, as he sits in the top-floor suite still splattered with Sang's blood, he also accepts Elaine's self-given title bump to Creative Liaison and rushes Craig's new game into production. There's still plenty getting Elaine and Craig questioning, such as Regus' around-the-clock calls, the basement records room filled with invasive personal files that no one previously knew about, his sudden rule changes — one day, shoes are verboten — and how he whisks off Sang's visiting mother (Gloria John, Shifter), who actually now owns the company, but doesn't take her to her hotel or anywhere else she can be found. Elaine and Craig also have a romantic past to deal with, The Consultant's most obligatory narrative detail. Plus, Craig is preparing to marry the Catholic Patti (Aimee Carrero, Spirited), who isn't fond of his slacker vibe or his at-work friendships. And, there's a helluva mid-series night that involves a sky-high nightclub, a Russian model (Gena Heylock, Chicago Med) with prosthetic limbs and a wild car ride. The heavy splashes of red that colour The Consultant's opening titles and much of CompWare's office lighting aren't subtle. Neither is the "devil made me do it" excuse offered by Sang's boy killer or the soundtrack's use of Elvis Presley's '(You're the) Devil in Disguise'. But Basgallop excels at keeping viewers guessing about whether the diabolical events that come his characters' way have nefarious sources, or if they're as easily explainable via everyday details. His two currently streaming series are also masterclasses in using their confined settings — The Consultant steps beyond CompWare HQ rarely, like Servant and its Philadelphia brownstone — to bubble with unease. The Severance comparisons kick in again here, too, weaponising and satirising a tech company's look and feel, as well as its attitude and atmosphere. While O'Grady backs up her stellar turn opposite Euphoria's Sydney Sweeney in The White Lotus with another astute performance — and character — and Wolff conveys disaffected but driven with ease, The Consultant wouldn't be as quick a binge without Waltz. Quentin Tarantino has built two films around him, with both Inglourious Basterds and Django Unchained winning the actor Oscars, and he's perfectly cast here. There's also a slipperiness to Waltz's involvement that matches Basgallop's fondness for the same trait. Viewers know exactly how the series' biggest-name star will play Regus and he doesn't disappoint, but that alone doesn't explain everything about the sinister character. As Waltz gets menacing and malevolent, and O'Grady and Wolff flit from shock to acquiescence and back again and again, The Consultant makes expected points about corporate culture, its cut-throat dynamics and increasingly 24/7 demands; the 21st-century employment landscape and its ruthlessness towards employees; and the engrained mindset that has everyone dutifully complying with authority. Familiar but still topical, sly, smart and shrewd: that's the thematic terrain the series traverses, and well. Try not to think of recent social-media moves when Regus starts throwing his weight around, for instance. Try not to ponder your own horrible bosses — yes, Waltz has played one before in Horrible Bosses 2 — and career pressure points, too. There's no point trying not to get drawn into this tense, suspenseful and slickly made series, however, which boasts Destroyer and Yellowjackets' Karyn Kusama among its directors, and lures in viewers as easily as addictive mobile games. Check out the trailer for The Consultant below: The Consultant streams via Prime Video.
If your favourite Nutella recipe is to take a household tablespoon and dig straight in, then we don't blame you. The delicious hazelnut spread makes eating chocolate for breakfast an entirely acceptable concept. In fact, Nutella is so fondly-held across the globe that it's prompted its own dedicated festival, a toaster-shaped food truck and an honourary burger from the golden arches. Melbourne's obsession with the stuff even caused a country-wide shortage a few years ago. Nutella lovers now have 185 new ways to enjoy the spread as the brand launches its very own recipe book. The hardback, titled 'Delicious Creations with Nutella', showcases a selection of recipes for every occasion, covering everyday breakfast and afternoon options to celebratory moments like Christmas and Valentine's Day. The recipes inside were inspired by the creations of Aussie and Kiwi home cooks who have been making and sharing their ideas over the past 12 months. Within the book's 185 pages you can find simple no-frills recipes slathering the chocolatey spread on white bread through to more elaborate creations like three-layer cheesecakes, mille-feuille with chantilly mousse and choux pastries. So how do you get your hands on one? Just 2000 copies of 'Delicious Creations with Nutella' are up for grabs between Australian and New Zealand. Until June 28, those who buy a specially-marked jar of Nutella and then enter online will be in the running to score their own copy. Nutella is also bringing the recipes to life in a series of cooking classes around Australia. Cooking schools hosting classes in May and June include Sydney's VIVE Cooking School, Brisbane's Lumiere, Perth's The Little Italian School and Adelaide Chocolate School. For more information about 'Delicious Creations with Nutella' and the brand's series of cooking classes, visit, nutella.com.
Six businesses in Healesville — all on the same block — have joined forces to create the Healesville Makers Quarter. Whenever you fancy it, you can jump in your car, drive an hour from the city, and spend an afternoon tasting your way around their creations, from small-batch wines to award-winning gins. In the collection are Four Pillars Gin and Watts River Brewing, alongside four wineries: Jayden Ong, Payten & Jones, No. 7 Healesville and Giammarino. And, on top of teaming up, they've launched an event series called Sip & Stroll. The first happened on the Winter Solstice, and the second will take place on Saturday, September 13, to mark the coming of spring. Arrive anytime after midday for an afternoon of drinks, bites and stories. As you wander from venue to venue, you'll be treated to exceptional wines, limited-edition brews and experimental drops. In between sips, learn about the skill, experience and ideas that went into them — and kick back in the fresh air and rolling hills of the Yarra Valley. You're welcome to take your dog along with you.
Whether you have tickets to Bluesfest or you were just intending to head to Byron Bay for an Easter getaway, the latest COVID-19 developments in New South Wales might have you rethinking your plans. Today, Wednesday, March 31, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has announced that four shires in the north coast region will be placed back under gathering and venue restrictions in response to the recent community transmission cases linked to the area. From 5pm AEDT today until at least 11.59pm on Monday, April 5, the Byron, Ballina, Tweed and Lismore shires will revert back to 30-person caps for at-home gatherings, and will reinstate the one person per four-square-metres rule at all indoor public settings, including hospitality venues. You'll also have to sit, not stand, while you're having a drink. And, masks will be compulsory on public transport, in retail settings and whenever you're indoors in a public place. https://twitter.com/NSWHealth/status/1377061983447490560 The Premier also revealed today that one case has been identified in Byron Bay, linked to one of the venues visited by two positive cases from Brisbane who visited the area over the past weekend. The man in his 20s "sat in proximity to the travellers from Queensland who were infectious at the time," NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant advised at today's press conference. Due to this growing cluster, the Greater Brisbane area is currently in lockdown. Announcing the changed restrictions in the four shires, Premier Berejiklian said that "we know through this one case of community transmission that there could be others. Until the end of Easter, those four local government areas will be subject to some restrictions." She continued: "the positive news in all of this is we're not saying to businesses shut your doors, quite the opposite. We are saying you can keep your doors open but because of the risk that is there — we want you to be extra cautious." If you've seen NSW Health's COVID-19 figures for today, it lists no new cases in the 24 hours to 8pm yesterday, Tuesday, March 30 — but this new case in Byron Bay was identified after that period ended. Premier Berejiklian also advised that the government isn't locking down the identified areas, but folks who were planning to head there might want to re-evaluate their plans. "We won't tell people to stop going to those four regions over Easter but, given the new restrictions about the four-square-metre rule, venues which could previously take more people may have to take less people," she said. "We ask everybody who was attending those local government areas to reconsider their plans, although we're not saying it is compulsory not to go." Specifically regarding Bluesfest, which is due to kick off tomorrow, Thursday, April 1, the Premier said that a statement will be put out later today. Speaking about the festival, NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard also said discussions are ongoing with the event's organisers. "There is a high level of concern from our public health officials that, with these new cases that have come from Queensland and then the newest case that we have heard about just overnight, that we all need to be on high alert," he advised. "What I would say is that if it were absolutely safe, then we wouldn't be making this comment... To those who might be intending to come, just be alert to the messages that will come from the New South Wales Government in the next 12-24 hours as we look at the unfolding situation on the north coast," he continued. As always, Sydneysiders are asked to continue to frequently check NSW Health's long list of locations and venues that have been visited by positive coronavirus cases — and, if you've been to anywhere listed on the specific dates and times, to get tested immediately and self-isolate. You can also have a look at the venue alerts over at this interactive map. For more information about the status of COVID-19 in NSW, head to the NSW Health website.
Ice cream maker-turned-activist Ben & Jerry's is once again taking its frozen treats into the political realm. In the past, the much-loved ice cream (or lack thereof) was used to support marriage equality. Now, it'll become a platform for taking action on climate change with the new limited-edition flavour, Gimme S'More Renewables. The flavour's launch corresponds with the global Rise For Climate Day on Saturday, September 8, and will be available in Ben & Jerry's stores for just one day, and while supplies last. All proceeds will be donated to the company's long-term climate activism partners, 350.org Australia. On the day, fifty marches and picnics are scheduled to take place across Australia — you can find the closest event to you here. Ben & Jerry's has also sent personalised pints of Gimme S'More Renewables to federal and state politicians, acting as a direct call on Australian leaders to accelerate renewable energy and commit to a fossil-fuel-free world. In a show of good faith, the company has committed to being carbon positive and using only renewable resources by 2030. Plus, its 2020 deadline for using renewable electricity sources and eliminating coal from its energy mix is just around the corner. All Ben & Jerry's shops are currently powered by Powershop, an electricity provider that is 100 percent carbon neutral. If you need more than the drought and the bleaching of the Great Barrier Reef to convince you to get involved, the Gimme S'More Renewables sounds pretty damn tasty, too — a combination of marshmallow ice cream, chocolate cookies, Graham cracker swirls and fudge flakes. Ben & Jerry's limited-edition Gimme S'More Renewables will be available at all Ben & Jerry's Scoop Shops on Saturday, September 8. Find your closest one here.
As Victoria's COVID-19 cases have started to increase again over the past couple of weeks — with 233 new cases recorded since June 25, and 64 in the past 24 hours — the State Government has extended its State of Emergency for four more weeks, launched a suburban testing blitz and tightened some gathering restrictions for all Victorians. Now, it's reintroducing strict stay-at-home orders for ten Melbourne postcodes that are experiencing the worst community transmission of coronavirus. Coming into place at 11.59pm tomorrow, Wednesday, July 1 until least Wednesday, July 29, the new rules are very familiar. They're what were in place at stage three of the state's COVID-19 restrictions in late March. So, if you're in one of the "hot zones" postcodes, you'll only be able to leave your home for one of four reasons: for work or school, for care or care giving, for daily exercise or for food and other essentials. You won't be able to have friends and family visit either — unless it's for care — but the Victorian Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton said a decision about whether or not you can visit your partner will be announced tomorrow (before the rules come into force). Plus, businesses in these suburbs will need to revert back to stage three rules, too. Which means, restaurants and cafes must offer takeaway only, and gyms, galleries, beauty parlours, swimming pools, libraries and theatres will need to close. These rules will also effect all Victorians who usually go into these suburbs — you won't be able to enter an impacted suburb, unless it's for one of the four aforementioned reasons. The ten postcodes that will be required to return to stage three stay-at-home restrictions tomorrow are: 3012: Brooklyn, Kingsville, Maidstone, Tottenham and West Footscray 3021: Albanvale, Kealba, Kings Park, St Albans 3032: Ascot Vale, Highpoint City, Maribyrnong, Travancore 3038: Keilor Downs, Keilor Lodge, Taylors Lakes, Watergardens 3042: Airport West, Keilor Park, Niddrie 3046: Glenroy, Hadfield, Oak Park 3047: Broadmeadows, Dallas, Jacana 3055: Brunswick South, Brunswick West, Moonee Vale, Moreland West 3060: Fawkner 3064: Craigieburn, Donnybrook, Mickleham, Roxburgh Park and Kalkallo Premier Daniel Andrews said the restrictions were reintroduced as the recent COVID-19 figures are "unacceptably high" and "pose a real threat to all of us". "I know this will be terribly disruptive and difficult but if everyone sticks to the rules and we see transmission come down, then in four weeks the restrictions can lift," the Premier said in a statement released today, Tuesday, June 30. The Premier also said that Victorian Police will be actively enforcing the suburban lockdowns and on-the-spot fines, as in the initial lockdown, will apply. It's also possible, that if cases continue to rise, other Melbourne postcodes will also need to go back into lockdown, too. Stay-at-home restrictions will come into force in the above ten suburbs at 11.59pm on Wednesday, July 1. For more information, head to the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services website.
Sitting pretty on Little Malop Street, Geelong Cellar Door is a slick little bar that has amassed a loyal following since opening in 2016. And it's no wonder — the place is a g-darn delight. The interior is warmly-lit, intimate and cosy, with a working fireplace, plenty of seating and an impressive catalogue of wine showcasing the region's talented wineries and breweries. Their vast wine selection lines the walls like the booziest library in the world, for all tastes and budgets. You can choose to drink by the glass or buy from their retail list and pay a reasonable corkage. Feeling peckish? Vino is served alongside a tight menu of charcuterie boards piled with fresh fruit, creamy cheeses and quality deli meats. Sit yourself at the bar with your new favourite varietal and a cheeky cheese plate — they say the 'Le Grande' platter is for sharing, but we'll happily miss the memo.
Which film can boast besting a Yorgos Lanthimos and Emma Stone collaboration, a Silver Bear-winner at Berlinale, and the 2023-defining duo of Barbie and Oppenheimer? Only one: Italy's There's Still Tomorrow. First, the melodrama defied the Barbenheimer phenomenon to top the box office in its homeland last year. Now, the hit flick has beaten Kinds of Kindness — aka Lanthimos and Stone getting weird again after The Favourite and Poor Things — and ten other movies for 2024's coveted Sydney Film Festival Prize. Actor Paola Cortellesi (Petra, Don't Stop Me Now) both stars and makes her directorial debut with SFF's cream of the crop for 2024, earning the event's $60,000 cash prize for her efforts. Set in post-Second World War Rome, There's Still Tomorrow follows a wife and mother who dreams of a different future, with the feature no stranger to accolades. At the David di Donatello Awards, Italy's equivalent of the Oscars, it took home six gongs in May. (And if you missed it during's SFF official dates, it's among the fest's encore screenings between Monday, June 17–Thursday, June 20.) Tasked with rewarding "audacious, cutting-edge and courageous" filmmaking, the 2024 jury comprised of Bosnian writer and director Danis Tanović (The Hollow), Indonesian director Kamila Andini (Before, Now and Then), US producer Jay Van Hoy (The Lighthouse), Australian producer Sheila Jayadev (Here Out West) and Aussie director Tony Krawitz (Significant Others) picked There's Still Tomorrow for welcoming "audiences into one of the historic cradles of cinema". "Set in post-war Italy, Paola Cortellesi's debut feature C'è ancora domani (There's Still Tomorrow) feels intensely relevant today. We relive every woman's struggle for equality through Cortellesi's Delia, we face the brutal cycles of domestic violence with an immense empathy that ultimately proclaims and affirms the virtues of democracy," they continued in a statement. "C'è ancora domani deftly weaves humour, style and pop music into a dazzling black-and-white cinematic event, then it delivers an ending that will take your breath away." There's Still Tomorrow joins an impressive list of past SFF Prize-winners, including Moroccan documentary The Mother of All Lies in 2023, Lukas Dhont's Close in 2022, Mohammad Rasoulof's There Is No Evil in 2021 and Bong Joon-ho's Parasite in 2019. Before that, The Heiresses (2018), On Body and Soul (2017), Aquarius (2016), Arabian Nights (2015), Two Days, One Night (2014), Only God Forgives (2013), Alps (2012), A Separation (2011), Heartbeats (2010), Bronson (2009) and Hunger (2008) have all taken out the accolade since its inception. 2024's recipient was announced at this year's closing event, where body-horror The Substance made its Australian premiere and the rest of the film festival's annual prizes were handed out. Another big winner: 11-minute short film First Horse. Hailing from New Zealand filmmaker Awanui Simich-Pene, it received SFF's first-ever $35,0000 First Nations Award. "Members of the jury were thrilled with the quality and variety of the works programmed for the inaugural First Nations Competition, noting the power and beauty in the collection of these storytellers' films which represent all types of cinematic art. The jurors also celebrate the launch of this meaningful prize and congratulate the Festival for making it a reality," said producer and programmer Jason Ryle (Amplify), Australian First Nations producer Erica Glynn (True Colours) and Aussie producer Kath Shelper (The New Boy). "In awarding the winning work, the jury recognises its originality, elegance, and cinematic achievement in story and form. In a few short minutes, the talented creative team has crafted a deeply impactful film with a resonant emotional punch." The fest's annual shower of love also covers films focused on sustainability, Australian documentaries and shorts. SFF's fourth-ever Sustainable Future Award, which now hands out $40,000, went to documentary Black Snow about the Siberian eco-activist who has earned the nickname the "Erin Brockovich of Russia". The Feast and Wilding received high commendations. Welcome to Babel, which puts Chinese Australian artist Jiawei Shen at its centre, took out the $20,000 Documentary Australia Foundation Award for Australian Documentary. In the Dendy Short Film Awards, Die Bully Die won Best Australian Live Action, while the Yoram Gross Animation Award for Best Australian Animation went to Darwin Story. Say picked up two prizes, the AFTRS Craft Award for Best Practitioner for screenwriter Chloe Kemp and the Event Cinemas Rising Talent Award for lead actor Bridget Morrison. And the Rouben Mamoulian Award for Best Director went to Pernell Marsden for The Meaningless Daydreams of Augie & Celeste. The 2024 Sydney Film Festival ran from Wednesday, June 5–Sunday, June 16, with the festival screening four days of encores until Thursday, June 20.
Prepare to spend more time scrolling through streaming queues — Apple is following in Netflix's and Disney's footsteps and releasing its own streaming platform. Called Apple TV+ and set to launch in spring this year — in the southern hemisphere — the new subscription service will feature a heap of new original television shows, movies and documentaries. They'll all be available ad-free and on demand, with access via the company's existing Apple TV app. While the platform's exact release date hasn't been announced, nor has pricing or the regions that it'll be available in, the company has revealed a sizeable lineup of new series it hopes will attract your TV-loving eyeballs. Fancy watching Reese Witherspoon, Jennifer Aniston and Steve Carell navigate the world of morning television in the appropriately titled drama series The Morning Show? Jason Momoa in a new sci-fi show called See, which is set in a world where humans are born blind? A revival of Steven Spielberg's Amazing Stories anthology series? A new docu-series from Oprah — and the return of her book club? They're all on the way. So is Are You Sleeping?, which is based on a novel about true crime podcasts and featuring Octavia Spencer and Aaron Paul; crime thriller Defending Jacob, starring Chris Evans; and a TV remake of Terry Gilliam's film Time Bandits, with a pilot directed by Taika Waititi. The list goes on, and includes a comedy set in a video game development studio from the folks behind It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, a yet-to-be-named CIA undercover agent series starring Brie Larson, and new shows from both M. Night Shyamalan and La La Land director Damien Chazelle (separately, not together — although a collaboration between the two would certainly be interesting). In preparation for its new streaming service, Apple also announced an update to its existing Apple TV app, which'll be available from May. The app will also become available on Samsung Smart TVs in the second half of the year, and via Amazon Fire TV, LG, Roku, Sony and VIZIO platforms sometime in the future — meaning that you won't need an Apple device to watch Apple TV+. https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=15&v=Bt5k5Ix_wS8 Also on the cards: Apple Arcade, a paid gaming subscription service that'll feature more than 100 new and exclusive games on an all-you-can-play, ad-free basis — and, crucially, with no additional in-game purchases required. It's due to release in more than 150 countries around the same time as Apple TV+, and will be accessible via a new tab in the App Store. For news junkies, the company also launched Apple News+. Available now in the US and Canada, but not coming to Australia until later this year, it offers access to more than 300 magazines, newspapers and digital publishers in one spot. Titles included range from Vogue to National Geographic Magazine to The Wall Street Journal, for the US price of $9.99 per month. Apple TV+ is set to launch in spring 2019, Australian and New Zealand time. We'll keep you updated with further details when we have them.
Enjoying a few beverages but avoiding a hangover is everyone's dream; however soon, it might be more than that. As far as booze alternatives go, a synthetic alcohol dubbed "alcosynth" (what else?) could just be the holy grail, offering drinkers the same happy, sociable sensations but without the morning-after consequences. It's little wonder that British professor and researcher David Nutt, who discovered the new substance, is testing two versions for widespread use. He's claiming that his hangover-free drink could replace normal alcohol by 2050, making seedy weekends a distant memory. Say goodbye to feeling like garbage after a big Friday night. Nutt and his team studied substances that have a similar effect on the brain, then designed their own non-toxic, highly secret formula that mimics the positive aspects of being drunk — aka that warm, chatty feeling everyone's seeking after a busy week. In doing so, they've avoided any impact upon parts of the brain that are negatively influenced by booze. It all sounds pretty great, though it does also seem a little too good to be true. Time will tell if hangovers really will go the way of landlines, flip phones and other long-gone remnants of the past, but until then we'll live in hope. Via Travel and Leisure.
With Game of Thrones finishing its run a few months back, there's currently a huge fantasy-shaped hole in the TV and streaming landscape. Of course, the beloved show is set to go on thanks to its own prequel; however plenty of networks and platforms are trying their hands at the genre in the interim — and giving television buffs plenty to watch. Amazon is hoping to fill the gap with its forthcoming Lord of the Rings series, although it isn't due until 2021. HBO's next contender arrives this month, courtesy of its adaptation of His Dark Materials. And, while Netflix already has its Dark Crystal prequel, which launched back in August, it'll soon drop new series The Witcher as well. In fact, the Henry Cavill-starring show will arrive on Friday, December 20, just in time for some Christmas break binge-viewing. As seen in both the initial trailer and the just-released new sneak peek, the witcher of the title is Geralt of Rivia (Cavill, sporting long blonde locks), a monster hunter who prefers to work — aka slay beasts — alone in a realm called The Continent. But life has other plans for the lone wolf, forcing him to cross paths with powerful sorceress Yennefer of Vengerberg (Anya Chalotra, Netflix's Wanderlust) and young princess Ciri (newcomer Freya Allan). The latter harbours a secret, because of course she does, with the series blending plenty of fantasy staples such as magic, royalty, fighting factions, battling hordes, fearsome creatures, a heap of sword-swinging and many a scenic location. After stepping into Superman's shoes and facing off against Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible — Fallout, The Witcher marks Cavill's return to TV a decade after starring in regal period drama The Tudors. As well as Chalotra and Allan, it also features Jodhi May (Game of Thrones), MyAnna Buring (Kill List), Lars Mikkelsen (House of Cards) and Australian actor Eamon Farren (Twin Peaks). Behind-the-scenes, the show's eight-part first season is created, executive produced and co-scripted by Lauren Schmidt, who has everything from The West Wing, Parenthood and Power to Daredevil, The Defenders and The Umbrella Academy to her name. If the series' name sounds familiar, that's because The Witcher is based on the short stories and novels of writer Andrzej Sapkowski — and, as well as being turned into comics, it was adapted the video game series of the same name. A Polish film and TV show also reached screens back in the early 2000s, although they were poorly received. Check out the latest trailer for Netflix's The Witcher below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ndl1W4ltcmg The Witcher will hit Netflix on Friday, December 20. Image: Katalin Vermes.
After introducing its cookie pies to the world last month, followed by serving up an OTT red velvet one, Gelato Messina is bringing the decadent dessert back again. This time, though, it's filled with a gooey choc-hazelnut spread the gelato chain calls Messinatella. Hang on, a cookie pie? Yes, it's a pie, but a pie made of cookie dough. And it serves two–six people — or just you. You bake it yourself, too, so you get to enjoy that oh-so-amazing smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen. These pies are available for preorder from Monday, June 8 — so if you missed out last time, here's your chance to get yourself a piece of the pie. On its own, the indulgent choc chip pie will cost $20. But to sweeten the deal, the cult ice creamery has created a few bundle options, should you want some of its famed gelato atop it. You can add on a 500-millilitre tub for $28, a one-litre tub for $34 or a 1.5-litre tub for $39. To get your pie to your oven, you will have to peel yourself off the couch and head to your local Messina store between Thursday, June 11 and Sunday, June 14 to pick it up. Once you've got the pie safely home, you just need to whack it in the oven for 10-15 minutes and voila. You can preorder a Messina cookie pie from Monday, June 8 to pick up from all NSW, Vic and Queensland Gelato Messina stores (except The Star and Coolangatta) from June 11–14.
One of today's most exciting directors adapts one of the great novels of the past two centuries, all with a lineup of stars that should make all other movies envious. That's the new version of Little Women in a nutshell. Greta Gerwig writes, directs and takes inspiration from Louisa May Alcott's classic of the same name, while Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, Laura Dern, Meryl Streep, Timothée Chalamet and Bob Odenkirk all feature among the cast. After nabbing Oscar nominations and widespread acclaim for Lady Bird, her solo filmmaking debut, Gerwig once again turns her attention to the trials and tribulations of young women. It's clearly a topic of great interest to the actor-turned-writer/director. She co-wrote Frances Ha and Mistress America with Noah Baumbach (as well as starring in them both), and did the same with her first joint stint behind the camera, Nights and Weekends, which she co-directed with Joe Swanberg. If you haven't read the book, or perhaps you just need a refresher, Little Women steps into the lives of the March family in 1860s New England in the aftermath of the American Civil War. It's a time when gender roles are clearly demarcated, but that isn't going to stop the spirited Jo (Ronan) from chasing her dreams — while her sisters Meg (Watson), Amy (Pugh, worlds away from Midsommar) and Beth (Australian actress Eliza Scanlen, who started her career on Home and Away) all have their own plans for their futures. Dern plays their mother, Streep pops up as the girls' aunt, and Chalamet once again has his sights set on Ronan, as he did in Lady Bird. This marks the eighth big-screen adaptation of Little Women, with Gillian Armstrong's 1994 film — starring Winona Ryder, Kirsten Dunst, Claire Danes, Susan Sarandon and Christian Bale — the most recent version of note. Watch the first trailer for Gerwig's take on the tale below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AST2-4db4ic Little Women releases in Australian cinemas on January 1, 2020.
Last time Ben Caplan was in Australia, he was accompanied by a band called the Casual Smokers — a motley crew who helped their frontman spark a gnarly jamboree of pluck-and-twang folk ballads. But, after a stint at Sydney Festival, he's fired the band, kept their instruments and taken up acting (beard in-tow). Old Stock is being billed as a refugee love story and, with a multitude of instruments strewn about the stage, there's no chance this is going to be a spoken word gig. Seizing upon the Jewish musical tradition of the klezmer folk tale, Caplan will set about rattling off the tale of two Romanian Jews looking to make a new home in Canada in the early 20th century. If you're desperate for a seat in the front row, some sort of face-protector wouldn't go astray — Old Stock's won a bunch of plaudits and when Caplan dances, Edinburgh Fringe Awards tend to fall out of his trousers. Caplan will do just five shows at the Arts Centre between January 29 and February 2. Image: Stoo Metz Photography.
Hurdle Creek is typically known for its gins, such as the Powder Monkey Navy Strength Gin. It's a distinctive rye character crafted from triticale, malt and barley, and loaded with locally sourced botanicals, including pink peppercorns, cinnamon and eucalyptus leaves picked from the ribbon gum outside their Milawa-based stillhouse. But we'd predict most bougie dinner party guests would welcome its local take on the iconic French aniseed aperitif, pastis. Traditionally made with the root of liquorice, star anise and oh-la-la botanicals, Hurdle Creek has adapted the classic spirit starting with its own grain spirit, and have given it a true Australian character with the addition of native aniseed myrtle and mintbush. The cellar door is open on the Milawa property every day except Wednesday.
The world has witnessed pizza spinoffs aplenty since the first pizzeria supposedly opened in Naples back in 1738. But if there's one thing most pizza lovers can agree on, it's that cheese makes everything a whole lot better. So, you can imagine the cheesy grins all over Melbourne as 400 Gradi this week announced the addition of a 150-cheese pizza to its Melbourne menus for one glorious day. Don't go assuming that the number 150 is hyperbole — this pizza will have literally 150 cheeses of varying textures and tastes in both the cheese base and the extra cheeses on top. Created by 400 Gradi owner and winner of the world's best pizza title Johnny Di Francesco, the hallowed pizza will only be available from Wednesday, September 5, to Sunday, September 8 in celebration of America's National Cheese Pizza Day (apparently that's a thing). The current world record for the cheesiest pizza — well, officially, the Greatest Variety of Cheese on a Pizza — goes to one topped with 111 different varieties, and Di Francesco has smashed this record. It's not the first time Di Francesco has brought an over-the-top cheese pizza into reality — he's twice created a 99-cheese pizza, once in 2016, and once in 2014 to coincide with the release of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (the animals who dreamed up the idea of the 99-cheese pizza) movie. Since then, he's been hard at work, nipping, tucking and experimenting with cheese ratios to ensure this latest iteration is truly a cheese lover's dream personified. The 150-cheese pizza is $25 and will be gracing the menus at Gradi restaurants across Melbourne until Sunday, September 8, including the original 400 Gradi, Brunswick East; Gradi Crown, Southbank; Gradi Eastland, Eastland Shopping Centre, Ringwood; and 400 Gradi, Essendon. If you, like us, fancy yourself a bit of a cheese fanatic, you're probably curious as to what the 150 cheeses are. Well, here's the full list. Agour Ossau Iraty 12 month Alba Ricotta Ambrosi Grana Padano 18 month Aphrodite Feta Barrel-Aged Artemis Kefalotyri Asiago Pressata Berrys Creek Riverine Blue Berrys Creek Moss Blue Berrys Creek Tarwin Blue Will Studd Brillat Savarin Snow White Goat Cheddar Casa Madaio Canestrato Casa Madaio Il Cinerino Casa Madaio Paglierino Chabert Emmental Savoie NYD Coolea NYD Cornish Kern Cropwell Bishop Shropshire Chevrefeuille Crottin C/Grove Lamb Chopper C/Grove Midnight Moon Berthaut Epoisses AOP K/Swiss First Konig Kuh St Mamet Cantal Aop Cravero Parm Reggiano 24 month Haxaire Munster Petit Heidi Tilsit Il Fort Cacio Di Bosco Il Fort Pec. Toscano Dop Jacquin Pyramide De Chab. Jean Faup Chevre Fromager Des Clarines Perrin Secret De Scey Perrin St Vernier Kefalograviera Lartisan Fermier Portion Lartisan Fromage Blanc Lartisan Mountain Man Lartisan Petite Rouge Lartisan Tome Fraiche La Peral Blue Cheese Germain Langres Plateau Larrikins Bocconcini Le Conquerant Pont Leveq Le Conquerant Camembert Le Dauphin Double Creme Le Dauphin Soumaintrain Secret De Lys Monterey Jack Jalapeño Monterey Jack Plain Will Studd Comte La Couronne Mauri Gorgonzola Dolce Mauri Gorgonzola Piccante Mauri Fontina Meredith Chevre Meredith Curd Goat Meredith Feta Marinated Milawa Blue Milawa King River Gold Rnd Mimolette Aged Losfeld Occelli Testun Di Barolo Onetik Bleu Des Basque Onetik Bleuette Onetik Chabrin Onetik Chebris Onetik Ossau Iraty six month Papillon Roquefort AOP Pave Daffinois Pecorino Romano DOP Perenz Formajo Ciock Perenz Millefoglie Perenz Montasio 15 month Perenz Ubriaco Di Capral Valpad. Provo. Picc. Dop Pyengana Mature Cheddar Merco Mahon Curado 6mth Merco Iberico Merco Manchego six month Merco Murcia Al Vino Merco Valdeon Quickes Devonshire Red Quickes Smoked Cheddar Ricotta Salata Rouzaire Coulommiers Rouzaire Fougerus St Agur Blue Portion Schulz Quark Organic S&B Chevrot S&B Mothais Sur Feuille Shaw Rvr Annie Bax Shaw Rvr Buffalino Shaw Rvr Buffeta Shaw Rvr Buffalino Smk Swiss Gruyere K/Swiss Nufenen K/Swiss Blumenkase Tatura Cream Cheese T/Amore Scamorza Smoked T/Amore Scamorza Bianca Chabert Beaufort Alpage Capitoul Caprinelle Chevre Uplands Pleasant Ridge Vacherin Le Duc Nyd Wensleydale Will Studd Stilton W/Side Charleston Tiny Wbye Truffle Triple Brie Yvd White Savourine Log Yvd Black Sav Pyramid Yvd Fromage Frais Cow Yvd Le Jack Yvd Yering Yvd Persian Fetta Jar Heidi Raclette T/Amore Squacarone T/Amore Stracciatella Milawa Camembert Goat Merco San Simon Smoked Mauri Formaggella Capra Cabot Cheddar Clothbound W/Side Goat Hot Tin Roof Jacquin Rond Du Cher Cashel Blue Crozier Blue Garrotxa Pecorino Toscano Pecorino Romano Pec Roredepienzo Gorgonzola pricante Gorgonzola dolce Provola cheese Sovrano di bufala Grana Padano Parmigiana Fiordilatte Bufala Raspadura Toma Pecorino Siciliano Pecorino Emilia Goat cheese italiano sardegna Goat cheese spagna Stravevcchio friuli (cow's milk 30 months old) Cacioricotta Primo sale Stracchino Smoked bufala Buffola ricotta St Angel Triple Creme Blue Taleggio
There's always something happening in New South Wales, no matter what time of the year. So whether you're a local looking for extravagant summertime surf carnivals on the coast or an interstater on the hunt for cosy winter festivities, there's something for everyone. So why not get a weekend getaway on the books? We've scoured the calendar for festivities taking place across the state, and here's our round-up of the outdoor events. Depending on where you go, you'll need some sunscreen, a good jumper or a couple of napkins. Adventure awaits.
Hailing from hilly Tasmania, Melbourne-based architect Andrew Maynard welcomes the flat, 'blank canvas' that Melbourne's landscape provides. Allowing his design to dominate the landscape and tapping into his ingenuity, Maynard designed his incredible 'Hill House' incorporated into the side of - you guessed it - a hill. Intended to be a "celebration of the synthetic, the manufactured", the house features a modernistic interior within a "reoriented" layout design. Visitors are ushered into the kitchen, as opposed to a traditional living or sitting room, and the lucky kids get an entire little 'home' of their own. [Via Lost at E Minor]
When summer comes, it's important to get away. At least for a few days. Sometime between December and March there inevitably comes a time when your house is insufferably hot, your office is way too air conditioned or you just need a break from the sweaty tram commute. And because sometimes the Fitzroy Pool just doesn't cut it, here's our pick for the best summer getaways — from the Peninsula to the Twelve Apostles to inland waterfalls — all comfortably driveable from your pocket of the city. RYE See: At Rye, it's all about the beach. And being located in a central position on the Morning Peninsula, Rye is a sweet spot from which to explore all the best bits. Jump off the pillars into clear blue water at Mount Martha, indulge in lunch by the bay down at Portsea or head to the back beaches for a look at the surf. (Our pick is Bridgewater Bay.) Plus, this summer Uber are down the Peninsula too, so you can get around even without a set of wheels. Stay: They say once you go glamping, you never go back. It's easy to see how that would be true. Organise a week or a weekend with Happy Glamper, and all you have to do is book your camping site at the Tyrone Foreshore — they'll set up your luxe bell tent, complete with a real bed, chairs and bunting before you arrive. Drink: The one thing you do have to remember, however, is the alcohol. Especially if you want to be sipping on a Mary Pickford outside your tent when the sun goes down. This Havana-inspired cocktail blends pineapple, rum and sweetness into the perfect peninsula drink. Combine 60ml Appleton V/X, 45ml un-sweetened pineapple juice, 5ml Maraschino liqueur and 5ml grenadine into a cocktail shaker with ice, then shake and strain into an ice-filled glass and top with a Maraschino cherry. GIPPSLAND LAKES See: If you don't associate Gippsland with soft sand and crashing waves, that's okay, neither did we. But then we found that Gippsland's beautiful lake district is about so much more than green and marshy land — in fact, the three lakes are separated from the ocean by only a thin arm of coastal park. Sail along the calm waters of Lake Victoria, head to Ninety Mile Beach for some beach action, and be sure to stop at Paynesville for a coffee and some lunch on the water. Stay: Rent a boat and sail the days away like you're on the Whitsundays — and chances are, you'll be so relaxed you won't even notice the difference. None of your mates have a boat licence? Not even a problem. Because the lakes are free from tides, rocks and nasty ocean weather, anyone can hire a boat from Riviera Nautic. They'll teach you how to handle the boat, and will be on-call 24 hours a day in case you need any assistance when traversing the waters of Gippsland's calm lakes, rivers and waterways. Drink: Off land it seems only fitting to be swilling rum. After you've moored your vessel, it's time to break out the brown liquor and put together a traditional rum punch. Just as the British sailors did while travelling back through East India on their way home, you too can enjoy the Planters' Punch on the high sea. Combine 15ml of fresh lime juice, 30ml of sugar syrup (or 15ml of grenadine and 15ml of sugar syrup), 45ml of Appleton V/X, 60ml of water and a dash of Angostura bitters into a punch bowl, add your ice and garnish with slices of lime. BENDIGO See: Sometimes you need a beach holiday, and sometimes you just need to get out of Melbourne and your old terrace house that's holding the heat of four 35 degree days. For these times, Bendigo, less than two hours from the city, is a prime destination. You can get on the Calder for an easy drive, or take the air-conditioned V/Line. A weekend is the perfect amount of time to visit the Bendigo Art Gallery, brunch at Percy and Percy or go for dinner and a drink down View Street. Stay: You're coming to Bendigo for city comfort in a country setting, so there's really no better place to stay than the Schaller Studio: the Art Series Hotel that opened just last year. The rooms are called 'workspaces', the linen features positive affirmations and everything feels just right. Drink: You're in a hotel, you're feeling the high thread count sheets, and you're feeling a little fancy. All you need is a fancy cocktail. Try a Treacle. As a take on a traditional Old Fashioned, this drink is smooth, a little sweet and full-bodied. Add 60ml Appleton 8yr old, 10ml sugar syrup, two dashes of Angostura bitters and ice slowly to the serving glass a little at a time, constantly stirring. Float 15ml freshly pressed apple juice over the drink and add orange zest for garnish. Perfect for sipping while in-robe. JOHANNA See: Camping at Johanna — one of the lesser known beaches between Lorne and Warrnambool — allows you to wake up with the sound of waves crashing into shore and go to sleep with the smell of salt on your skin. If you're a surfer, this is the place for you. If not, take in your surroundings and walk to neighbouring beaches or explore the Great Otway National Park. Stay: The Johanna campsite sits up on the cliffs looking out over the beach. If you get in early, you might even be able to nab a spot with an ocean view. Even so, the beach is only a quick walk away — perfect for sunrise and sunset swims alike. You can book here. Drink: Camping at Johanna is simplicity at its best, and all drinks should be the same: easy to mix and smooth to drink. A Dark & Stormy will do the trick — with only three ingredients, you'll only need a glass and something to stir it with (note: can be your finger). Combine 60ml Appleton 8yr Old, 90ml ginger beer and 15ml lime juice into the glass with ice, stir and serve. Image credit: Rob Young via Flickr DAYLESFORD See: Summer isn't all about salty water and sandy skin — it's just as much about golden country landscapes, shady gum trees and cool earth. In Daylesford, there's a lot of this. You can find solitude in the hills, walk around the lake, read a book in Wombat Hill Gardens or grab a coffee at Larder. If you're looking for a body of water though, you don't have to go searching very hard — head to Hepburn Springs, Trentham Falls or even Turpins Falls just outside of Kyneton. Stay: For optimum solitude, rent a luxury tent in the Hepburn Hills. More like a B&B than a campsite, Cosy Tents supplies the tents, beds, 1200 thread count linen, lighting and outdoor seating. There's even hot water to shower and somewhere to charge your phone — although, we recommend skipping that last luxury. Drink: Feel like you're living in a novel? Sink even deeper into the fantasy with a literary classic, the Hemingway Daiquiri. Initially made for Hemingway while he was living in Havana during the early 1920s, this daiquiri was made sans-sugar at his request. It's full of citrus, and perfect as a pre-dinner cocktail at camp. Combine and shake 60ml Appleton V/X, 15ml maraschino liqueur, 20ml lime juice and 15ml grapefruit juice in a cocktail shaker with ice, strain into a cocktail glass and top with a Maraschino cherry. WILSONS PROMONTORY See: There's so much to see at the Promontory that you're going to have to accept that you won't see it all in a weekend. But if you only have a few days? Squeak on down to the stunning Squeaky Beach (pictured above) for a surf or swim, hike up Mount Oberon for some amazing views, get amongst some rainforest on the Lilly Pilly Gully walk, hope to see a wombat. Stay: The Prom's all about camping. Most people camp at the Tidal River campsite, and if you're looking for an easy spot to access the National Park, you'd be best to as well. They even offer cabins for up to six people if you're looking for a step up from slumming it. Grab a group of mates, take supplies for a cook up, and you've got a perfect weekend on the Prom. Drink: Warm nights sitting around a campsite call for one thing: rum. Or rum punch, more specifically. Fish House Punch was first created in 1732 in a Philadelphia fishing club, and for summer, this fruity punch is spot on for any time of the day. Mix up a batch for the team and settle in for the night. Shake 45ml Appleton 8yr, 15ml cognac, 5ml peach brandy, 20ml lemon juice, 45ml water and 10ml sugar syrup and strain over ice in a short glass. If you would like to make a punch bowl to share, simply multiply everything by 10, and adjust the lemon, water and sugar syrup to taste. Image credit: Colin J via Flickr. DUNKELD See: Without venturing in to camp in the Grampians National Park, Dunkeld is pretty much as close as you can get to this beauty of an area. If walking's your go, take the Picaninny trail up to the summit and look back over the town, or drive further north and trek to Mackenzie Falls or climb The Pinnacle. Don't feel like exerting yourself? The charming town has an art gallery, a cute bakery and views wherever you stand. Stay: Got some extra cash in your piggy bank from an over-generous relative at Christmas? Need some serious time out before you go back to work for a whole other year? If you want your piece of rural paradise this summer, stay in one of the Mt Sturgeon Cottages. Situated at the bottom of the mountain, you'll feel secluded as part of the landscape. Oh yeah, and the cottages are part of The Royal Mail Hotel, so save some of the dosh for a fancy meal while you're at it. Drink: When staying in a 19th-century cottage, you've got to drink the classics. The Hurricane was first concocted when New Orleans locals would take shelter from the impending hurricane in a bar, and while you probably (hopefully) aren't sheltering from any major weather threats, the Hurricane seems perfect for the setting. Combine 60ml Appleton V/X, 20ml passionfruit puree, 30ml orange juice, 15ml lime juice, 5ml grenadine and 5ml sugar syrup into a cocktail shaker with ice, then shake and strain straight into an ice-filled glass. TORQUAY See: The first stop along the Great Ocean Road, Torquay is one of those amazing spots that you don't even have to go searching for. Sure, it gets busy over summer, but there's plenty of good stuff to go round. The surf, for example — there's more of it than you know what to do with. Find a decent cup of coffee and brunch at Pond just on the Esplanade and fill up on supplies at Torquay Larder. They even have a mini Wholefoods. Stay: Getting a house with some friends should be no problem if you organise in advance, but if you're looking for something a little bit spesh, spend a few nights at The Woolshed. An old converted woolshed, this provincial place sleeps up to six — and there are hens outside who might just lay your eggs for breakfast. Drink: Nothing is quite as satisfying as a big ladle of punch after a day in the sea — particularly if someone else is mixing it up for you. So bring a blender and get a mate to whip this one up. There's a lot of components, but the end result is worth it. It'll keep you going all weekend. Put 30ml Appleton V/X, 30ml Appleton 8yr old, 25ml lime juice, 15ml grapefruit juice, 45ml unsweetened pineapple juice, 7.5ml Falernum, 10ml Maraschino, 5ml grenadine, 2 dashes Angostura bitters and 2.5ml Pernod into a blender with a cup of ice and blend at high speed until the ice is crushed. Pour into glasses, add extra ice cubes, and garnish with pineapple, orange, cherries and mint. Image credit: Michael Coghlan via Flickr PHILLIP ISLAND See: The penguins, duh. But when you're done with that take a walk along the magnificent boardwalks at The Nobbies and take a head down to Cape Woolamai for a swim in Phillip Island's loveliest beach. The island has so many nooks and crannies to explore, and the best part is, you can easily travel from corner to corner by car. Stay: Cape Paterson Caravan Park's Beach View Villas would probably have to be one of the best value ocean views in the state. Not only do you get a great view of the waves crashing below, there's a covered outdoor deck and a barbecue. Prawns at sunset? Yep. Drink: As it was born on the sands of Tahiti, this short and sharp rum sour is best digested with a killer ocean view. Hence, the Mai Tai is just the poison for picture perfect Phillip Island. Mix 30ml lime juice, 15ml orange Curacao, 7.5ml sugar syrup, 7.5ml orgeat, 30ml Appleton V/X and 30ml Coruba dark together, shake and strain into a short glass filled with ice. Garnish with lime and a sprig of mint. Image credit: Abir Anwar via Flickr ST ANDREWS See: St Andrews beach — across the other side of the Mornington Peninsula from Rye — is one of the less-frequented beaches of the area, affording a bit of seclusion and quiet. Similarly, neighbouring Gunnamatta Beach is much the same. Take the opportunity to go horse riding along the beach, while away the afternoon at lunch in Flinders or soak at the Peninsula Hot Springs. Stay: Find yourself at Big Blue Backyard and things have — unsurprisingly from the list of activities above — turned a little romantic. It's your own private cabin (seemingly) in the middle of nowhere, with an adorable courtyard and prime posi right next to the beach. Drink: The sun's going down, you're sitting in your romantic little yard — you need a drink that's easy to throw together but still completely classy at the same time. That's pretty much how the Daiquiri came to be, so enjoy this three-ingredient cocktail for its simplicity and sweetness. Add 60ml Appleton V/X, 40ml fresh lime juice and 20ml Sugar syrup into a cocktail shaker full of ice. Shake very hard and strain. Drink up.
Being a music fan frequently involves envy. That singer or band that you're obsessed with is touring elsewhere? Cue the green-eyed monster. So, you're a Swiftie and you didn't get tickets to Taylor Swift's February 2024 Eras tour in Melbourne and Sydney, aka her only gigs Down Under? You know all about jealousy and FOMO, then. Enter Taylor Swift: The 'Eras' Tour Concert Film. Look what the world made Swift do: turn her current smash-hit tour into a movie that's releasing in cinemas. That's the wonderful news, complete with a just-dropped trailer for the film; however, the announcement might still get you envious for now. At the moment, only North American screenings have been announced so far. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Taylor Swift (@taylorswift) Accordingly, yes, Taylor Swift: The 'Eras' Tour Concert Film exists, giving Swifties a cinematic view of the pop superstar's massive show. No, there's no news yet on when it will arrive in Australia or New Zealand. It wouldn't be surprising if the concert movie shakes off Down Under cinema stints until after February, when Swift has made it to our shores, played her shows, then headed elsewhere to do the same. Australia and NZ aren't the only places without big-screen dates locked in — nowhere other than North America has them, which coincides with the fact that that's the only place that the Eras tour had been to so far. In the US, the film will arrive on Friday, October 13. Whenever it does drop locally, fans will be in for a money-can't-buy view of the 'We Are Never Getting Back Together' and 'Bad Blood' musician's gig — working through her entire career so far, playing tracks from each of her studio albums in a three-hour, 44-song, ten-act spectacular. The Eras Tour kicked off in March in the US, ending that run in August. Swift also headed to Mexico last month. Brazil is her last stop in 2023, before playing Japan, Singapore, France, Sweden, Portugal, Spain, the UK, Ireland, The Netherlands, Poland, Austria and Australia until August 2024. She'll then return to the US, and then visit Canada next November. Check out the trailer for Taylor Swift: The 'Eras' Tour Concert Film below: Taylor Swift: The 'Eras' Tour Concert Film will hit cinemas in the US on Friday, October 13, but doesn't yet have a release date Down Under — we'll update you if and when one is announced.
When Moonlight Cinema returns for its 2019–20 season, the annual feast of outdoor movies will give film fans exactly what we all want. Sure, we're all keen to roll out our picnic blankets, sit under the stars and stare up at the big screen — but, given that this openair cinema launches at the end of each and every year, we also want Christmas movies. In the week leading up to the big festive day, Moonlight will screen Last Christmas, Die Hard, Home Alone, Love Actually and Elf. Yep, all the basics are covered. They're not the only highlights from the just-dropped November, December and January program, but they sure do twinkle brightly among a heap of other movie standouts. If you're wondering what else will tempt your inner cinephile from November 28 in Sydney and Melbourne, November 30 in Perth and December 14 in Brisbane, it's a lengthy list. With recently or newly released movies a big part of Moonlight's lineup, expect to watch Rocketman, Hustlers, Joker, Ford v Ferrari, Knives Out, Cats, Star Wars: Episode IX — The Rise of Skywalker and Charlie's Angels — and, in some cities, to see Brad Pitt twice thanks to Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and Ad Astra. Moonlight also showcases advanced screenings of upcoming films, so add the Nicole Kidman, Charlize Theron and Margot Robbie-starring Bombshell and Tom Hanks in It's A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood to your must-see pile. Going retro, the outdoor cinema will mark 20 years since Bring It On first waved its pom poms, step back into The Matrix in some cities, and revisit last year's A Star Is Born — as well as Bohemian Rhapsody in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. Dirty Dancing is also on the bill, like every year — it wouldn't be a Moonlight without it. The February and March lineup will be announced on January 15, so there are even more movies to come. As always, Moonlight will also boast its usual food truck and licensed bar offering, and its reserved bean beds. You can also BYO booze everywhere except Brisbane — and bring your dog everywhere but Perth. MOONLIGHT CINEMA 2019 DATES Sydney: Nov 28–Mar 29 (Centennial Park) Melbourne: Nov 28–Mar 29 (Central Lawn at Royal Botanic Gardens) Perth: Nov 30–Mar 29 (Kings Park and Botanic Garden) Adelaide: Dec 13–Feb 16 (Botanic Park) Brisbane: Dec 14–March 29 (Roma Street Parkland) The Moonlight Cinema kicks off on November 28. For more information and bookings, visit the website. Top image: Moonlight Cinema Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.
While Melbourne isn't known for its inner-city snow, there are plenty of ways you can embrace the wintry weather this year. You can spin around a pop-up ice skating rink, eat chocolate fondue inside 'igloos' and, now, go zooming down a giant ice slide. The District Docklands will once again play host to a 15-metre ice slide over the cooler months, which will pop up in The Square next to Uniqlo from June 29 till July 14. Each slide down the icy slope will cost you a gold coin donation, which will go straight to Kids Under Cover, a non-profit supporting young people at risk. As you're sliding for a good cause, you have a great excuse to go down again and again and again — your inner child will thank you for it. The ice slide is open daily from 11am–5pm, but there are two adults-only, after-dark sessions lined up, too. On Friday, July 5 and Friday, July 12, the pop-up will open from 6–8pm for sliding free of little 'uns. During these two hours, you'll also be able to buy hot chocolates, beers from Urban Alley and try free Spanish doughnuts from San Churro. These sessions are free, but numbers are limited, so you'll need to sign up here if you want to head along.
Brisbanites, you now have plans for 2032. Australians who reside elsewhere, you're going to want to make a trip to the Sunshine State that year, too. After first being named the preferred location back in February, and then earning the International Olympic Committee Executive Board's endorsement in June, Brisbane has just received the official tick of approval — and has been announced as the host of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Today, Wednesday, July 21, the full International Olympic Committee voted to choose the 2032 host, with Brissie emerging victorious. Given how the past few months have panned out, this result was expected; however, that doesn't make it any less exciting. The 2032 games will take place between July 23–August 8, 2032 at a range of venues not just in Brisbane itself, but around southeast Queensland. Brissie's bid included clusters of venues in the city, on the Gold Coast and on the Sunshine Coast. As revealed in April, the Gabba will also undergo a huge revamp in preparation for the games, which'll basically involve tearing the stadium down and rebuilding it again. https://twitter.com/iocmedia/status/1417763724291497989 It has been a big year for Brisbane, sports-wise, with the city making history last October by becoming the only place outside of Melbourne to ever host an AFL Grand Final. It's been a big few years for southeast Queensland, actually, given that the Gold Coast hosted the Commonwealth Games back in 2018. The 2032 games will be the first held in Oceania since 2000 — when Sydney did the honours, as every Australian remembers. It'll also mark just a 32-year gap between Australia's most recent hosting slots. The Olympics were first held on our shores back in 1956, in Melbourne. https://twitter.com/AnnastaciaMP/status/1417764096678653952 Brisbanites can expect fireworks lighting up the sky tonight in celebration, as the Premier revealed in the lead up to the announcement. They're being set off from river barges and CBD buildings, and Brisbane's buildings, bridges and City Hall are also being lit up in green and gold hues as well. The news comes as the 2020 Tokyo Olympics — delayed from last year due to the pandemic — kick off this week, running through until Sunday, August 8. Paris is on hosting duties in 2024, while Los Angeles will take the torch in 2028. Brisbane will host the 2032 Olympics from July 23–August 8, 2032. For further information, head to the Games' website. Top image: IOC/Christophe Moratal.
Erotica fans Australia-wide are celebrating the return of World Movies Channel's adults only program, Summer of Sin. Starting in December, it's a 62-night festival of all things intimate, with a sexually charged film screening at 9.30pm every single night until January 31. Before you ask, yes, Christmas Day's included. 2011 Spanish film The Sex of the Angels has that one covered. Moreover, New Year's Day will see a coital marathon kicking off at midnight, with 24 hours of films played back-to-back. In December 2012, the initiative saw a 49 percent increase in the channel's audience. This year, the formula that proved so irresistible to so many is being reapplied — a combination of classics and new international films, never-before-seen in Australia. In the words of the organisers, "We've scoured the darkest and dirtiest corners of the cinematic world for a line-up of the sexiest premiere films." Pretty much every fantasy or fetish gets a look-in, from swingers' parties to alien abduction. Here's our top 5. Young and Wild (Chile, 2012) When: Friday, 13 December 2013 (Australian television premiere) & Wednesday, 15 January 2014 This playful, raunchy, stylish film centres on 17-year-old Daniela (Alicia Rodriguez), who can't stop thinking about sex. Raised in a strict, wealthy, religious family, she expresses herself through her blog, Young and Wild, where she records her most outrageous desires and experiences. Call Girl (Sweden, 2012) When: Wednesday, 18 December 2013 (Australian television premiere) Inspired by true events involving Swedish politicians and prostitutes, this crime film is one of the more serious items on the Summer of Sin menu. A teenage girl's entry into prostitution exposes widespread hypocrisy at governmental level. Intimacy (France, 2000) When: Thursday, 26 December 2013 (Australian television premiere) & Saturday 18 January Every Wednesday afternoon, Jay (Mark Rylance), a failed-musician-turned-bar-tender, meets a woman (Kerry Fox) for brief, rough, wordless sex. One day he follows her home and discovers more than he bargained for. Kiss Me (With Every Heartbeat) (Sweden, 2011) When: Wednesday, 8 January 2014 Mia has always lived a straight life, and is about to enter an engagement with her partner, Tim, when she falls in love with her stepmother's gay daughter, Frida. An irrepressible mutual attraction develops between the two women, leading to a sensual affair. Elles (France, 2011) When: Friday, 31 January 2014 (Australian television premiere) Obsessive, middle-aged, unhappily married journalist, Anne (Juliette Binoche), receives an assignment that carries her into the risky yet seductive world of Parisian student prostitution. She gets to know two independent young women whose erotic adventures carry them into dangerous and unpredictable territory. Read our review here.
If you're looking for a way to extend your summer this year, there is no better place to escape to than the Great Barrier Reef. From first-time snorkellers to diehard divers, everyone will find an experience off the shores of Tropical North Queensland to get pumped about. You can meet green turtles and manta rays, peep an abundance of mesmerising coral and give a little wave to Nemo in his natural habitat. So, consider this your sign to finally tick off this bucket list trip to witness the magic of the reef this autumn. [caption id="attachment_830381" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] GO DEEP INTO THE SEA WITH FIRST NATIONS GUIDES If your idea of a perfect day in the ocean is seeing beautiful reefs and getting an insightful connection to the sea, put Dreamtime Dive and Snorkel on your itinerary. Offering a unique experience, this local team will invite you to step into the Great Barrier Reef's Dreamtime. Visiting an array of reefs unique to Tropical North Queensland, you'll be accompanied by First Nations sea rangers who are passionate marine lovers, prioritising reef preservation and sustainable tourism. With Dreamtime, you'll spend the day snorkelling in some of the world's best reefs and learning about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island traditions and cultural connections to the region. [caption id="attachment_829681" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] BLAST OFF TO VLASOFF CAY FOR AN EXCLUSIVE REEF ENCOUNTER An exclusive experience awaits with this lush trip to Vlasoff Cay — a jewel in the crown of the Great Barrier Reef. This sandy cay, with 360-degree views of the world famous reef, is also accessible via boat, but the luxe experience is from the air. To see the sights from above, book a full-day return helicopter trip with eco-certified reef lovers Nautilus Aviation. You'll get to spend hours with the sand between your toes, snorkelling and indulging in a gourmet picnic hamper as you drip-dry in the balmy tropical air. The cay is a popular destination, so take advantage of the off-peak months and beat the crowds. CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE WITH AROONA LUXURY BOAT CHARTERS Grab eight of your closest mates and jump aboard Aroona for a totally luxurious reef experience. Whether you're exploring the reef on a day trip, or escaping the mainland for a seven-day soiree, Aroona Luxury Boat Charters is the choose-your-own-adventure experience of your dreams. Want a jam-packed escape featuring fishing and kite-surfing, or a calmer pace with snorkelling and sipping cocktails on the top deck? Thankfully, Aroona boasts flexibility and an abundance of options that is synonymous with the area. And there's no better way to watch tropical rainfall over the rainforest than from the deck as you cruise towards Fitzroy Island. [caption id="attachment_830344" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] SET SAIL TO GREEN ISLAND Green Island is the quintessential destination for the rainforest and ocean combo for which Tropical North Queensland is famous. As the name suggests, it's the only cay in the Great Barrier Reef that boasts a rainforest as well as pristine sands. Plus, Ocean Free is the only tour operator in Cairns that offers a personal sailing reef and island tour. Ocean Free provide a tour with an exclusive reef mooring at the island. Taking a highly personalised approach, Ocean Free lets you decide how to spend your day. Snorkel straight off the boat, try your hand at an introductory dive or spend the day exploring the island's rainforest. Then, return aboard Ocean Free to relax and marvel at Green Island over a smorgasbord lunch. EXPLORE THE REEF FROM TROPICAL ISLAND SHORES A day tour on the Frankland Islands Reef Cruises will take you to more places in one day than you could visit in a week anywhere else in the world. And, its tour features the shortest open water crossing to the reef in Cairns — ideal for those who are prone to seasickness. Start the day with a quick coach trip from Cairns through UNESCO World Heritage-listed rainforest mountains to the Mulgrave River. Here, the luxurious riverboat will carry you downriver and across the sea to your base at Normanby Island. Then the day is yours to explore this secluded National Park island. You can snorkel right off the beach or explore the reef and marine life a little further afield on a guided snorkel safari experience. Be sure to take a walk around the island with the tour's marine biologist who'll help you discover the diverse wildlife that flourishes in the island's rainforest and rock pools. [caption id="attachment_829683" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] STAY DRY AT CAIRNS AQUARIUM If it's childhood wonder and extensive marine knowledge you're after, then the Cairns Aquarium is ideal. Home to more than 16,000 specimens and ten different ecosystems, the aquarium is a window into the flora and fauna that call the Great Barrier Reef home — and it's only a stroll from the bustling Cairns Esplanade. Get inspired by daily ecosystem talks, animal presentations, live diver feeds and marine touch 'n' talk shows. Or, if a day of underwater wonder sets your stomach rumbling, head to the aquarium's Dundee's Restaurant to enjoy a delicious meal on the Daintree Deck and watch the warm tropical rain fall in an afternoon shower. [caption id="attachment_830353" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] CATCH COLOURFUL SEA CREATURES OFF THE COAST OF PORT DOUGLAS If you're a diehard snorkelling fan, jump onboard Calypso Reef Cruises for an unforgettable and environmentally friendly experience off the coast of Port Douglas. Relax on Calypso's dedicated snorkelling vessel, offering comfortable day beds and spacious decks, before popping on your gear and meeting some of the most exquisite marine life in the world. The vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life at Opal Reef are visible within a couple of metres from the water surface making it accessible for most levels of swimming skill. The trickiest part will be keeping count of how many giant clams, stingrays, green turtles and clownfish you'll spot. SPLURGE ON A MULTI-DAY DIVING TRIP This multi-day live-aboard experience is the ideal ocean getaway for accredited open water divers. Offering three-, four- and seven-day trips, Spirit of Freedom will whisk you away to Cod Hole, Ribbon Reefs and Osprey Reef — some of the most impressive dive destinations in the world. Experience shark dives, sheer walls laced with soft corals, manta rays, and bright, abundant tropical reefs rich with biodiversity paired with hotel quality amenities and first-class meals on this lush escape. And, did we mention the boat's three decks you can relax on? They're perfect for an afternoon kip before heading out for a twilight dive. Ready to dive deep into the reef? For more information and to discover more about a holiday in Tropical North Queensland this autumn, visit the website. Top image: Tourism and Events Queensland
As part of her first headlining tour of Australia, Solange (also known as Solange Knowles, aka Beyoncé’s baby sister) has announced Falls Festival sideshows in Sydney and Melbourne. This will be the first time the Texan-born Knowles has ever treated fans Down Under to a live performance of her 2012 dance-friendly EP, True. This comes in the context of eager anticipation of her long-coming third studio album, on which she apparently collaborated with Aussie dudes Midnight Juggernauts. It's due for release sometime next year. Perhaps as famous for being the offspring of the fabulous Mrs. Carter as for her music, Solange has steadily been earning cred as a singer-songwriter in her own right. She certainly can churn out a catchy pop hit, as her successful single 'Losing You' proved last year. Recalling her elder sibling vocally, it managed to step away from her stylistically and embraced a much splashier, synthy '80s pop feel. The sideshows should be a fun choice for anyone craving a night of uncomplicated, playful, upbeat music. Pre-sale tickets for the Melbourne show go on sale at 10am on Wednesday, 9 October, at the Prince Band Room. Sydney tickets go on sale at 10am, Wednesday, 9 October, at Metro Theatre and Ticketek. Tour dates: Melbourne: January 7 – Prince Band Room Sydney: January 8 – Metro Theatre
To ring in the year of the tiger, dumpling master Din Tai Fung created cute chocolate and biscoff tiger buns, continuing its annual tradition of welcoming the Lunar New Year with an adorable addition to its menu (see also: ox buns from 2021 and pig bao from 2019). But creative dishes aren't just a once-a-year thing here. Now that Easter is almost upon us, the chain is serving up something else to tempt your tastebuds: hot cross bao. Yes, it's exactly what it sounds like — and the bao is only available for a limited time. On the outside, each one looks like a hot cross bun, but they're made with fluffy steamed bread. And, you won't find any raisins or sultanas inside — instead, they're filled with gooey molten Nutella. The hot cross bao are available at all Din Tai Fung restaurants and food court outlets in Sydney, so you'll want to hit up its World Square, Westfield Chatswood, Westfield Miranda, Westfield Sydney, Broadway Shopping Centre, Gateway Sydney, The Star, Greenwood Plaza and MLC Centre venues. In Melbourne, you have one spot to head to, with the bao on offer at Emporium Melbourne. If you'd rather have them brought to your door, they're also available for delivery in frozen form. If you're keen to stock your freezer and enjoy them once Easter passes, that's an option as well. The only problem we can foresee with this Easter hybrid dish? Wanting to devour as many as possible. They'll cost you $6.80 for two in-store, and $10 for a three-pack of frozen dumplings. Hot cross bun bao are available for $6.80 for two at all Din Tai Fung stores. They're also available for delivery, for $10 — plus a $10–20 delivery fee.
Film festival opening nights aren't just about red carpets, a jam-packed guest list, plenty of photo opportunities and oh-so-much buzz. They're also about launching a cinema celebration as the event means to go on. So, with SXSW heading Down Under for the first time in 2023, hosting SXSW Sydney from Sunday, October 15–Sunday, October 22, exactly which flick gets pride of place at the fest's Screen Festival is a particularly massive deal. The pick: The Royal Hotel, the latest film from Australian director Kitty Green. Green will bring her second fictional feature and fourth full-length effort to the Harbour City's first-ever SXSW, with the movie enjoying its Australian debut fresh from world-premiering at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival. The Royal Hotel also marks the second collaboration in a row between Green and star Julia Garner, who was as stunning in the filmmaker's The Assistant as she was in Ozark and Inventing Anna. This time, the Casting JonBenet helmer and her current go-to star are teaming up on a tale about US backpackers who get jobs at an outback Australian pub — and also stay there. Amid the heat, the lack of wifi and drinking wine out of a cask, Hanna (Garner) and Liv (Jessica Henwick, Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery) also cross paths with the town's male residents, including Hugo Weaving (Love Me) as the watering hole's owner, plus Toby Wallace (Babyteeth) playing charming and Daniel Henshall (Mystery Road: Origin) getting chilling. "Kitty Green's The Royal Hotel is a deft reworking of the Aussie outback thriller, reoriented with a female gaze, and we could not be more thrilled to open the inaugural SXSW Sydney Screen Festival with Kitty in attendance," said SXSW Sydney's Head of Screen Ghita Loebenstein, announcing the opening-night selection. "The film takes deliberate stabs at the more toxic shadows of the genre, and our culture, in sophisticated but ever entertaining ways. Kitty is a local luminary gaining international acclaim as a writer-director with a fearless vision for nuanced storytelling and this film is the perfect opener to the Screen Festival, which seeks to amplify and celebrate bold voices in film." The Royal Hotel joins ten previously announced titles on the SXSW Sydney Screen Festival lineup from Sunday, October 15–Saturday, October 21, with more to come. Also a big local title on the bill: documentary Hot Potato: The Story of The Wiggles, which will enjoy its world premiere at the fest. And, among nine flicks revealed in July, everything from flicks starring Indonesian rappers and documentaries about Tokyo Uber Eats rider to movies featuring viral Chinese dance crazes will pop up. Can't wait to watch your way through the fest? SXSW Sydney Screen Festival wristbands go on sale on Friday, August 25, starting at an early-bird price of $240 and getting people wearing one into unlimited screenings. [caption id="attachment_910715" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Netflix[/caption] The SXSW 2023 Sydney Screen Festival also features an array of speakers, with Queer Eye star Tan France set to hit Australia to get chatting. Indigenous filmmakers Leah Purcell (The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson), Kodie Bedford (Mystery Road: Origin) and Jub Clerc (Sweet As) will also take to the stage; Osher Günsberg is on the SXSW Sydney bill recording an episode of his podcast Better Than Yesterday with a yet-to-be-announced special guest; and Gone Girl, The Nightingale, The Dry, Big Little Lies and Nine Perfect Strangers producer Bruna Papandrea and Binge's Executive Director Alison Hurbert-Burns will also appear. As well as showering viewers with movies and TV shows, with more titles to come — including First Nations Screen Festival programming by Winda Film Festival founder Pauline Clague — SXSW Sydney's film- and TV-focused strand will feature red-carpet premieres; digital and social content; an XR showcase; Q&As and panel discussions; parties and mentoring; and a screen market for industry deals. Free outdoor screenings are also slated, alongside indoor sessions at The ICC's Darling Theatre, Palace Cinemas Central and other yet-to-be-advised venues. SXSW Sydney will run from Sunday, October 15–Sunday, October 22 at various Sydney venues, with the SXSW Sydney Screen Festival running from Sunday, October 15–Saturday, October 21 at The ICC's Darling Theatre, Palace Cinemas Central and more venues to be announced. Head to the SXSW Sydney website for further details. If you're keen to make the most of Australia's first SXSW, take advantage of our special reader offer. Purchase your SXSW Sydney 2023 Official Badge via Concrete Playground Trips and you'll score a $150 credit to use on your choice of Sydney accommodation. Book now via the website.
Over the past few years, Gelatissimo has whipped up a number of creative flavours, including frosé sorbet, gelato for dogs, and ginger beer, Weet-Bix, fairy bread, hot cross bun, cinnamon scroll, chocolate fudge and bubble tea gelato. Most recently, it made its own spin on Caramilk gelato, too. For its latest offering, the Australian dessert chain is taking inspiration from another beloved foodstuff — and from the current time of year. Can't choose between devouring Easter eggs or licking your way through a few scoops of ice cream? Gelatissimo has the solution. Yes, that very combination will be on the menu from Friday, March 26, with Easter egg-filled mint chocolate gelato earning the honours as Gelatissimo's next flavour of the month. Only available while stocks last until Thursday, April 22 — so for Easter, but not just until Easter — the flavour starts with mint-choc gelato, then adds in those round pieces of chocolate. It also features cookie crumbs, which add to the chunky texture. You can get it in stores Australia-wide, or via delivered take-home packs through services such as UberEats, Deliveroo and DoorDash. And yes, you can add it to your indulgent Easter list — alongside everything from boozy coffee liqueur-filled Easter eggs to hot cross bao (but you'll only be able to nab the latter if you're in Sydney or Melbourne). Gelatissimo's mint-choc Easter egg gelato is available from all stores nationwide from Friday, March 26–Thursday, March 22.
Forget been-there-done-that road trips — this is the year you start taking the road less travelled. You need something new. Something special. Something delicious worth making the turnoff and tracking down. With a little inspiration from Empty Esky and Canadian Club, we've got your next off-the-beaten-track road trip all planned — right down to the coffee stops, long lunches and one-of-a-kind gourmet country pies. Starting in Canberra, your foodie stops will take you to Braidwood, Batemans Bay and Ulladulla before finishing up in Milton. Along the way, you'll eat local, drink well and get cosy in some hidden country gems. Best of all, you'll help independent venues in communities still recovering from the bushfires — and, you know, everything else that happened in 2020. These pretty little places haven't had the easiest time lately, but still have so much good country hospitality to offer. [caption id="attachment_750222" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Canberra[/caption] BARRIO COLLECTIVE COFFEE, BRADDON We're kicking things off in Canberra, and you can't leave the capital without visiting Barrio Collective Coffee in Braddon. Industrial chic meets Japanese modernism in this friendly neighbourhood coffee shop, with an eclectic and ever-changing brunch menu. Regular additions include fancy tacos and tostadas, chazuke, gooey Spanish tortilla, big toasties and baguettes stuffed with the best seasonal produce. And there are always freshly baked sweet treats, like cardamom buns and jammy donuts, which make for excellent car snacks. There's in-house roasted coffee all day, plus fine wines in the afternoon (for your passengers). Love Barrio's brew? Grab an Aeropress and a bag of freshly roasted beans to keep you going all journey long. [caption id="attachment_802004" align="alignnone" width="1920"] crissouli, Flickr[/caption] THE ALBION CAFE, BRAIDWOOD Forget the drive-thru, go locavore. In the charming country town of Braidwood, The Albion Cafe offers healthy, seasonal specials based on the best local produce. A stylish but cosy set-up in the historic Albion Hotel building, this family business welcomes everyone with good old-fashioned country hospitality. It's wholesome through and through, and it caters for all dietary needs. That means you can expect nourishing soups and slow-cooked stews in cold weather, an abundance of salads in summer and toasties all year round. Grab some gourmet tidbits or fresh meals to-go from the little shop for a picnic later — artisanal sourdough and homemade hummus will hit the spot better than a packet of chips. CLUB CATALINA, BATEMANS BAY Congrats, you've made it to the Bay. Now, it's time to think outside the seagull-swooping chip shop. Catalina Country Club has a hundred-year history serving the folks of Batemans Bay. Don't worry, you can still hit that craving for a pub-style feed, but with a bit more refinement. Enjoy panko-crumbed chicken schnitzel and parmas, juicy wagyu burgers and artisanal pizza, served fresh from a woodfired oven, with a refreshing Canadian Club and Dry. Or, live the seaside high life and opt for the signature seafood platter and fresh oysters. [caption id="attachment_802671" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Emma Joyce[/caption] HAYDEN'S PIES, ULLADULLA What's better than a fast food cheeseburger? A gourmet cheeseburger pie. Turn off the Princes Highway for a pastry pit-stop at Hayden's Pies, which has been perfecting the pie since 2003. Choose from solid classics like chunky steak or hefty vego options like mushroom, spinach and goat's cheese — or take a chance on one of its intriguing specials. Give alpaca chilli con carne a go. Or, what about camel, chickpea and coriander? Even kangaroo, wallaby and the occasional croc make it into the oven. Stop by on Sunday for the roast-inspired pie, featuring pork or lamb with peas, potatoes and gravy. It even has dessert covered, with specials like vanilla slices and portuguese tarts. You owe it to yourself to make this epic pie pilgrimage. [caption id="attachment_801304" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Something's Wild Photography[/caption] SMALL TOWN, MILTON Celebrate the journey's end with a bit of Small Town charm. From the owners of former Milton fine diner St Isidore, this sleek bistro offers a prix fixe and a la carte menu, both designed to pair elegant snacks and share-style plates with (mainly) small-batch Aussie wines. Small Town spins clever twists on comforting classics, like yorkshire pudding with sea urchin and egg yolk sauce; delicate prawn, scallop and chicken skin dumplings; and sourdough pici pasta with corn, kale, manchego and sorrel. And, as always, it's hard to pass up a fresh lobster roll. After your meal, pop next door to Small Town Provisions, the restaurant's new deli and shop, which sells cheese, cured meat and fresh bread — basically, all the trappings for a next-level picnic. For more road trip inspiration, check out these guides from Canadian Club and Empty Esky. Top image: Barrio Collective Coffee, Visit Canberra
Releasing its latest film schedule last night, St Kilda's legendary Astor Theatre has sadly and quietly announced its impending closure. "The Astor Theatre regretfully announces that this is our second last calendar," a note at the top of the schedule reads. "Come and celebrate the best of the Astor Theatre 1982-2015." This monumental loss to Melbourne's film scene comes as a result of the end of their tenancy agreement with the building's landlord. Though the theatre has occupied the space since 1982, operators were unable to reach viable terms for a new lease and all cinema operations will cease as of early 2015. "We do not know what the landlord has planned for the future of the building, only that we are not included in those plans," read the back of the film calendar. This isn't the first time the legendary venue has weathered trouble either. In 2012, then owners St Michael's Grammar School faced enormous community backlash for considering the venue's closure. A petition spearheaded by dedicated community group, Friends of the Astor asked them to relinquish the site and garnered the support of 13,000 signatories. But troubles this year seemed too much to overcome. Feuds over the lease have been reported since April and, when speaking to The Herald Sun, current owner Ralph Taranto openly derided theatre operator George Florence. "We're gonna kick him out. He thinks he owns the place," he said. This morning the iconic venue posted this message on Twitter and the news has trended all over Melbourne. It is beyond difficult to deliver news that we will close our doors in 2015. We hope you will help us celebrate what the Astor is until then — Astor Theatre (@astor_theatre) August 23, 2014 Of course, reaction has been understandably gloomy: When the @astor_theatre closes it's doors in 2015, cinema in Melbourne will lose it's heart. — Luke Preston (@LukePrestonInk) August 23, 2014 Gutted by @astor_theatre news. First time there, saw THE GOOD, THE BAD & THE UGLY. Blew my 13 year old mind. Who else remembers their first? — Tom Clift (@tom_clift) August 22, 2014 @LordMayorMelb @Vic_Premier The last great picture house in Melbourne @astor_theatre is set to close it's doors. Can nothing be done? — James Matthews (@pomandaussie) August 23, 2014 Heartbreaking. MT @astor_theatre: It is beyond difficult to deliver news that we will close our doors in 2015. — Marieke Hardy (@mariekehardy) August 23, 2014 The Astor is one of Melbourne's few remaining independent theatres and the very last single-screen cinema in the city. Renowned for its dress-up screenings and penchant for classic film, it's undeniably both an Australian cultural institution and the best possible place to see a showing of the Rocky Horror Picture Show. It has graced the glossy digital pages of Concrete Playground a lot over the last few years and will be missed dearly. Make sure you catch a film before they call it quits. Our tip: keep it classic. Kick back and get weirdly sentimental over a screening of Pulp Fiction, The Blues Brothers or Texas Chainsaw Massacre. We know Jennifer Lawrence is great and all, but the new Hunger Games is hardly the best way to farewell this much-loved regal screen. Via The Age and Junkee.
At a time when every second movie seems to feature caped crusaders, you can be forgiven for thinking Gifted might fit the usual bill. Captain America aka Chris Evans leads the cast, The Amazing Spider-Man's Marc Webb sits in the director's chair, and, based on her off-screen interviews, Jenny Slate is the smart, spirited actress superhero we all need. Their collaboration doesn't involve spandex or fighting crime, however, but rather championing strengths and recognising truths of another kind. This precocious, kid-centric film makes no attempt to hide its efforts to tug at your heartstrings. But memorable performances and a refreshing perspective ensure that it's a winner nonetheless. In a tale of brains rather than brawn, seven-year-old Mary Adler (Mckenna Grace) is the smartest student in her new Florida school, and her teacher (Slate) wants to do something about it. But Mary's uncle Frank (Evans) disagrees, having seen her genius mathematician mother follow a similar path only to end up taking her own life due to the pressure. When the headmistress calls in Frank's own estranged mother (Lindsay Duncan), a tug-of-war ensues over the girl's future. He insists that Mary should have a normal childhood, while his mum wants her granddaughter prodigy to realise her potential as soon as possible — regardless of the consequences. What's the best option? With its allegiance firmly with the likeable Frank, Gifted plays up the contrasting parenting styles for drama, rather than delving too deeply into the question. And yet, as Mary gets stuck in the middle of a very predictable custody battle, the film makes a crucial case: that being normal and special aren't mutually exclusive. Don't underestimate this viewpoint, and the alternative it offers to almost every other message that movies thrust our way. Seeing a constant parade of superheroes on screen can cast everyday existence in a pretty dull light, but Gifted celebrates the idea that life and people can be both extraordinary and average, and that that is perfectly okay. Perhaps that's how Webb approached making the film as well — sometimes it's great, sometimes it's simply good, but it comes together nicely overall. It's easy enough to see where the by-the-book plot is going, although thankfully it's all engaging enough that viewers won't really mind. The score lays the sentiment on a little too thick sometimes, and the Florida setting is given quite the sunny hue, but ultimately the film never veers into territory that could be called grating or cloying. Still, blending all of the above together mightn't have worked as well if Gifted wasn't so superbly cast. Pay attention to young Grace, a veteran of 42 roles at the age of just 11, who makes Mary feel like the type of kid everyone can relate to — even if you don't share the same exceptional math skills. Elsewhere, Evans gives his conflicted character ample emotional range, while Slate makes her kindly teacher more than just a helpful love interest. As a feisty neighbour, Octavia Spencer mightn't have quite as much to do, but she's as warm and enjoyable as anything else the movie has to offer. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDgOnFH_KEo
It's nice to escape out of the big city sometimes. Just a hop, skip and a jump (90 minutes) from Sydney, the Pullman Magenta Shores Resort is a worthy way to exit hectic Sydney and get a little quality R&R in. Beachfront and with numerous, luxurious pools, the resort is nestled in between Tuggerah Lake and the sea, so swimming is probably #1 on your holiday priorities list. For those who can drag themselves away from their sunlounger, the resort is the perfect gateway to the New South Wales Central Coast. Around summer, this area is your go-to for outdoor adventures ranging from surfing and paddleboarding to quad biking and ziplining through the treetops. Take your pick from beaches like The Entrance, Bateau Bay, Shelly Beach, Copacabana or Macmaster's, enjoy your cold-drip coffee barefoot in the cafes of Avoca and Terrigal, and breathe in a big gulp of fresh air at Bouddi National Park. So you can further remind yourself that you're out of the city, all rooms at the Pullman Magenta Shores (choose from a studio apartment up to a three-bed villa) have relaxing nature views, just so you can remind yourself that you're out of the city. You can kick back in the Lagoon Pool, the heated lap pool indoors if it's a bit nippy, or even the beach rock pools if you want to go crab-watching. The Resort is also home to the Magenta Shores Golf & Country Club, designed by Ross Watson and 18-holes long to fully occupy your vacation days. You're only allowed on this private green if you're staying at Pullman Magenta Shores, or if you've invested in a pricey membership, so take advantage. If you're tuckered out from the activity time or golf isn't your bag, head to the on-site Vie Spa to pamper yourself in one of their five treatment rooms. Once you're hungry from all the relaxing, head over to the resort's fine-dining Barrett's Restaurant, or Shallows Bar – there's a tasting menu as well as a wood-fired pizza oven and a range of share plates on the menu, so your belly will be just as happy as your relaxed muscles.
Fancy Hank's is getting in the mood for International Brisket Day — that's Wednesday, May 28 — with a hearty giveaway that might just make your month. Celebrating the occasion with a one-day-only special from 12pm, the Bourke Street HQ is serving up free takeaway brisket sandwiches until they're all gone. Up for grabs is Fancy Hank's signature 12-hour smoked 'Wanderer' brisket — a low- and-slow-cooked creation made to be super rich and tender. Stacked high on an American-style Martin's potato roll, this wallet-friendly deal is bound to put a little more flavour in your lunch break. "As far as we're concerned, there's no better way to honour Brisket Day than with the thing we do best! We've been continuously smoking brisket for 13 years next month and we're immensely proud of the craft we've perfected," says Fancy Hank's co-owner Mike Patrick. "From the time and care that goes into every cut to the unmistakable flavour from our custom-built, two-tonne smoker 'Puffing Billie' — it's what keeps people coming back." Making this bargain even better, each free brisket sandwich also comes with a complimentary drink voucher redeemable right next door at sister venue, Springrock Public Bar. Meanwhile, those feeling extra famished are invited to order a side of Fancy Hank's fries for $5, with a thick coat of chicken salt taking their deliciousness to greater heights. "Brisket takes time, but the reward is in the patience," adds Fancy Hank's Head Chef Jarrod Di Blasi. "The secret starts with selecting a quality cut, which we source from an incredible, local Victorian producer, to ensure it's full of flavour. We season our brisket generously and then smoke it low and slow over Aussie hardwood, delivering meat that is melt-in-your-mouth tender with rich, deep flavours straight from the pit." If you're keen to dine on more brisket — and who could blame you — Fancy Hank's have also announced a new Bottomless Barbecue dining experience, launching on Monday, June 2. Running every week from 5pm on Monday–Wednesday, guests can indulge in a premium barbecue platter with unlimited top-ups from $69 per person, featuring buffalo wings, pulled pork shoulder, free-range chicken thighs and loads more. Fancy Hank's is serving free brisket sandwiches from 12pm on Wednesday, May 28, until sold out at 1/79 Bourke St, Melbourne. Head to the website for more information.
That moment when you don't know if a film franchise has become more juvenile, or whether it's you that's grown up. This was the uncomfortable experience of watching Kick-Ass 2, and after days of quiet contemplation, I've come to the conclusion: it's not me. Based on the comics by Mark Millar and brought to the screen by Matthew Vaughn (Layer Cake, Stardust), the first Kick-Ass film was a high point in the 'real superhero' wave — a funny counterpoint to the likes of Watchmen. Catching bits of it on TV recently, I thought it seemed only more razor-sharp. The new Kick-Ass 2 disappoints by pitching way too low. There is, for starters, an insane number of dick biting jokes. And it's not a running gag. It seems almost unbelievable that an objective party read the script and didn't think to say, 'hey, how about we stop at separate dick biting joke no.3'? Impotence, race and sexuality are also targets of choice. It seems new writer and director Jeff Wadlow has decided his audience is teenage boys, and no one else. Plot-wise, Kick-Ass 2 picks up about three years after its predecessor. Dave Lizewski (previously weedy, now hunky Aaron Taylor-Johnson) has hung up the Kick-Ass wetsuit, while the orphaned Mindy MacCready (Chloe Grace Moretz), aka Hit Girl, keeps her ongoing training a secret from her guardian, her dad's good friend, Sergeant Marcus Williams (Morris Chestnut). But when Dave gets restless and Mindy gets obedient, their crime-fighting status is reversed, and for camaraderie Dave instead joins the superhero team calling themselves 'Justice Forever' (led by a well prosthetised Jim Carrey as Colonel Stars and Stripes) to rid the streets of evil. The devoted amateurs are no match, however, for the coming storm from Dave's spoilt and abandoned schoolmate Chris D'Amico (Christopher Mintz-Plasse), who's graduated from being Red Mist to the moniker the Motherfucker and who has Kick-Ass obsessively in his sights. It's a unique mix of unimpressiveness at work in this film. On top of the lumpen humour, there's also extreme violence and schlock sentimentality that together are supremely weird. Kick-Ass 2's one redeemer is Hit Girl. If the whole film had been 'Hit Girl Goes to High School', it would have been great. She's always been a special character that challenges every idea we have of girlhood, and the Professional-meets-Mean Girls-like scenes of her dealing with dating, dance club, the popular crowd and bullying are smart, fresh and compelling. The film also deals well with her sexuality, now she's 15. Her costume remains fabulously unsexy and practical, so that's how we view her fights, but she's given room to explore some of her own sexual feelings. In what's possibly the film's best scene, a One Direction replica band plays, and we see that even the disciplined teen warrior is unable to resist their charms. Later, she has a quick perv at a shirtless Dave. This is a character whose impact will carry on, even if there's no Hit-Girl movie in multiplexes. https://youtube.com/watch?v=YWozxV3fsAU
Bored within the confines of your 4-wall bedroom? Embrace your bohemian desires by trading in your modern accommodations for a whimsical gypsy wagon. England's Gypsy Caravan Company creates wagons fit with a double bed, seating, a pull-out table, storage lockers, wardrobe, a secret den, and bookshelves. These miniature homes are also furnished with all the romantic decor appropriate for such a home design: birdcages, crocheted curtains and wood stoves. The company asserts a myriad of uses for such a structure, ranging from a child's playhouse to and artist's studio. These caravans are the perfect hideaway for those who want to unleash their inner romantic or who lead a gypsy-esque nomadic lifestyle--each wagon is equipped with a set of wheels. [via Flavorwire]
Francophiles know there's something inherently romantic about the Parisian lifestyle, shown to us Aussies through countless rom-coms and years of Instagram pics of proposals by the Eiffel Tower. Everyone knows at least one person who has spent their winter months chasing the European sun, coming home with tales of wandering the streets of Paris looking for the perfect croissant and weekenders in the French countryside. Alas, it's not that time of year right now and you're (presumably) not in that part of the world either. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to embrace the French lifestyle and make the most of the spectacular Australian summer in your own backyard. We've partnered with French vodka Grey Goose, to show you how to live like a Parisian in your own city this summer. [caption id="attachment_697085" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Marcie Raw[/caption] START THE DAY WITH CROISSANTS Of course, one of the best things about being in Paris is strolling down to a market in the morning and carefully selecting a fresh croissant made from an old family recipe. The flaky, buttery treats are perfect for an easy brekkie on the go before a day of sightseeing or shopping, or perched in a window table with an espresso accompaniment. Thankfully, we've got some truly talented pastry chefs down in this part of the world, too. In Melbourne, you'll find internationally renowned croissants at Lune in Fitzroy and on Collins Street in the CBD; head to Flour and Stone in Woolloomooloo for some of Sydney's best pastries; while in Brisbane you can find scrumptious croissants all around town at Le Bon Choix. [caption id="attachment_753173" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Flickr/Creative Commons/Tim Green[/caption] SIGN UP FOR A FRENCH LANGUAGE CLASS Parlez-vous francais? Non? True Parisians won't speak English if they don't have to, so why not sign up for a French language class this summer (or as your 2020 goal) and become a worldly bilingual? Alliance Francais — a network of not-for-profit organisations aimed at promoting French language and culture — has chapters in all capital cities and major regional hubs, which all run a bunch of different courses that will have you speaking like a Parisian in no time. If nightmares of your high school language classes still haunt you, it'll be comforting to know that Alliance Francais' classes are small and casual, and they run a variety of social events and workshops, such as Melbourne's weekly Vin and Fromage night. [caption id="attachment_737107" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Formaggi Ocello[/caption] GRAB LUNCH FROM A FROMAGERIE Cheese, but make it fancy. Surry Hills' Formaggi Ocello has Sydneysiders covered, with the cheese specialist stocking more than 200 varieties, from French classics to lesser-known imports, plus everything you need for a truly impressive cheese board. Pop in any time for a nibble and a tipple, sign up for one its monthly cheese and wine tasting nights or stop by from 4pm for an aperitif, where you get a free cheese tasting plate with your glass of wine. In Melbourne, La Parisienne Pates is a French deli that has been specialising in traditional smallgoods for more than 20 years. At its Carlton and South Yarra cafes, you'll find rare cheeses that you'd struggle to find elsewhere in Australia, plus gourmet charcuterie delicacies and French pastries made the old-fashioned way. Up in Brisbane, market favourite turned Morningside store Le Fromage Yard will help make all your cheese dreams come true. TAKE YOUR GREY GOOSE X MAISON LABICHE TOWEL TO THE BEACH In honour of the small celebrations we have in the summer, such as catching up with friends, and making the most of the outdoors, Grey Goose and French fashion label Maison Labiche have extended their annual Riviera collaboration into a collection of fashion and travel pieces to help you live in the moment this summer. There's also a limited-edition French Riviera-themed bottle of Grey Goose that you can buy. Our pick is the Maison Labiche beach towel. Take it to the beach or a park and (if permitted — check your local council websites) make a batched Grey Goose cocktail for a boozy afternoon in the sun. [caption id="attachment_742671" align="alignnone" width="1920"] So French So Chic[/caption] LISTEN TO THE LINEUP FOR SO FRENCHY SO CHIC There's nothing like a good soundtrack to get you in a particular mood, so cue up some French vibes by the stellar artists taking the stage at the upcoming So Frenchy So Chic festival in Melbourne and Sydney. Say hello to disco-electronica queen Corine, who channels the glamour artists of the Parisian nightclub scene of the 70s and 80s with an erotic spin that is all her own; bow down to French pop royalty Lou Doillon (the daughter of actor Jane Birkin and director Jacques Doillon) and her 2019 album Soliloquy; celebrate new wave cover band Nouvelle Vague's 15th year as a group; and fall in love with the soulful voice of Senegal-born French troubadour Tété. [caption id="attachment_753163" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Flickr/Erin Stevenson O'Connor[/caption] CHALLENGE YOUR MATES TO A GAME OF PETANQUE Make the most of a warm summer day with a little friendly competition and embrace petanque like you're holidaying in Provence. If you're wondering what the difference is between petanque and other boules games like bocce, it's all in the name. Derived from an old expression, pes tancats, meaning 'feet planted' — petanque is for the truly lazy, as you keep your feet firmly on the ground. The St Kilda Petanque Club welcomes curious visitors at its weekly social gathering on Fridays at 5pm. In Sydney, the Boules Artistes Petanque Club hosts weekly social games in Kirribilli and Coogee, while the Brisbane Petanque Club welcomes novices at Kalinga Park. Or you can borrow Nan's boules set and hit the local park or beach and make it up as you go along. [caption id="attachment_526669" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Incu[/caption] PICK UP A MAISON BALZAC CANDLE FOR A SENSORY THROWBACK French-born and Sydney-based Elise Pioch had the right idea when she created Maison Balzac — she wanted to develop a product that would take her right back to her childhood. Short of creating a time machine, she achieved that goal with her range of candles, or "signature objects that evoke olfactory memories or experiences". You can pick up one of her luxurious candles — with scents inspired by mornings in the Mediterranean, long summer days on the beach, roses from Pioch's grandmother's garden and spiritual havens in the villages of France — from Incu in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. MAKE YOURSELF A LE GRAND FIZZ To really make it feel like you're on holiday, you need a cocktail. Level up your beverage game with something ice cold with a refreshing taste, and just a little more sophisticated than your usual savvy b. Thankfully, you don't need to go out and buy a full bartending kit and a heap of ingredients. All you need for the Le Grand Fizz (find the recipe, and others, here) is Grey Goose vodka, elderflower liqueur, fresh limes and soda water. [caption id="attachment_751776" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Felix[/caption] TREAT YOURSELF TO A NIGHT OUT AT A FRENCH RESTAURANT Relive (or imagine) long afternoons that stretch into evenings, sipping wine and luxuriating over supper at a French bistro. There are plenty of spots around Australia serving authentic French food with all the trimmings — perfect for living like a Parisian on a night out this summer. Enjoy yellowfin tuna crudo at Felix or steak frites at Kittyhawk in Sydney, have oysters on the terrace at Entrecote or beetroot gazpacho Philippe in Melbourne, and sample the saucisson brioche at Montrachet or mille-feuille aux escargots at La Cache a Vin in Brisbane. Upgrade your summer by choosing premium vodka Grey Goose. Each bottle is distilled in France, and the high quality vodka has a 100-percent traceable production process, from crop to cork.
If you've been to Sydney, the Night Noodle Markets or spent some time on Instagram any time in the last few years, you've probably seen Black Star Pastry's strawberry watermelon cake floating around in the hands of hungry sweets fiends. You'll also know it's not just any cake — no, it's a thing of intense beauty that catches the eye (and heart) of anyone who as much as glances at the pink flower-topped cube of pastry. Just look at it. If your sweet tooth is aching just looking at that pretty hunk o' cake, you'll be delighted to know that the Sydney-based bakery is coming down south to Melbourne for a pop-up. They'll be setting up shop on University Street in Carlton from Monday, February 20 with a selection of their incredible cakes — and yes, their signature aforementioned strawberry watermelon doozy will be there. Other favourites include the lemon pistachio zen cake, the strawberry lychee cake and the vegan chocolate popcorn cake. They'll also open up online orders to Melbourne so you can order a huge one for an "occasion". Until now Black Star's goods have only been available at their three Sydney locations and, for the last two years, the Night Noodle Markets. The pop-up runs until June 30, so make the most of all that glorious, glorious cake while it's in town — although they're also hinting at the possibility for a permanent store to open here in the future. Don't worry, the hope of more dessert to come isn't their only goodbye gift, with all pre-order cakes receiving a 10% discount with the code 'byefornow', and a farewell party planned. At the latter, there'll be free skewers, cake and booze from noon until 6pm on July 2 at Hoy Pinoy. Parting is such sweet sorrow indeed.
Sydney's CBD has landed a major dose of the Tokyo-esque practical and compact, with the former Bar Century space reopening in May as The Capsule Hotel, a three-storey, luxury boutique stay. The George Street cheap drinks den, which closed in 2016, was taken over by developer Walter Guo, who invested a massive $5 million on a full interior refurb, carried out by interior design consultants Giant Design. The heritage building has somewhat retained its vintage fit-out but with more of a nod to the futuristic space-like capsules of The Fifth Element. The bar and hotel are running as separate entities, with the first two levels acting as The Century Bar, while the top three floors of the building are dedicated to the capsules. Each of the 70 capsules contains a large flatscreen TV and entertainment system, Wi-Fi, and a climate control panel. Guests can choose from single or deluxe beds with entry from either the side or the end of the capsule. The communal facilities include a kitchen space, breakfast bar, lounge area, rooftop terrace and individual bathrooms. If you're worried about security, don't be — each capsule is fitted with a secure lock and the security desk runs 24-hours. But let's set the record straight — The Century is not a hostel, and it's not aimed at overindulgent locals that can't seem to make it back home. "The accommodation, which is not quite hotel nor hostel, is aimed at solo travellers looking for something more private than a typical backpackers and those who want the designer hotel experience on a budget," says Christopher Wilks, an associate at Giant Design. It's set to sit well within your budget, with prices ranging from $50-90 a night. Which, depending on how far from the CBD you live, could be a lot cheaper than a cab home at 1am. Find The Capsule Hotel at Level 3, 640 George Street, Sydney. For bookings, head to the website or call (02) 8957 7763.
UPDATE: NOVEMBER 14, 2019 — Last month, Urbnsurf pumped out its first waves — and today, the first pro surfers rode them. That means the park is one step closer to its slated January 2020 opening. Memberships have also just gone on sale, if you're itching to get on the surf. Landlocked surfers of Melbourne, rejoice — Australia's first surf park is finally makin' waves and one big step closer to opening. It's also a whole lot closer to the city than Torquay or the Peninsula. Urbnsurf Melbourne will open in Tullamarine, near the airport, just 16-kilometres north of the CBD. Plans for the park first surfaced way back in 2016 and, while the team was initially hoping for a spring opening, Urbnsurf is set to open its doors to the public this summer. And today, the two-hectare space, has started to pump out its first waves. It's just testing things out at the moment, but when running at its full potential, it'll power up to 1000 waves per hour, day and night. And you'll get a choice of waves. Want to ride nothing but perfectly-formed right-handers for an hour? Or would you prefer a random selection, like what you'd experience in the ocean? You'll be able to take your pick. According to Urbnsurf founder Andrew Ross, "every wave has six different take-off spots", which equates to 3600 surfable positions every hour. The ability to create waves means that the park is built for both pros who are looking for steep, barrelling waves and novices looking for a safe place to get their start in the surf. At Urbnsurf, Ross predicts, most novices will stand on their board within an hour and ride across the green face within two. And not only will you get guaranteed waves — you won't be fighting for them. The park holds 84 riders per hour. And, should you get seriously hooked, you'll be able to enter amateur competitions, maybe with (or against) your mates. [caption id="attachment_750759" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Adam Gibson[/caption] To kick things off, Urbnsurf has started to test out a few different wave types, including the Malibu, which is perfect for beginners, the intermediate-appropriate Turns and the Tubos — steep, barrelling waves for all you expert surfers out there. Also on the testing lineup are Giros I and Giros II, described as "performance turn waves" perfect for those wanting to carve and cutback. So how does it manage to create all these waves? Basically, they come from an 85-metre pier that runs down the centre of the lagoon. A series of pistons located on the pier then push the water to the left, then to the right, to create the waves. Ross likens the movement to "moving your hand back and forward like a shark's tail". If you need a break between sessions on the water, Urbnsurf will also be home to hot tubs, beach cabanas and a new two-storey restaurant by the owners of Sydney's Three Blue Ducks. And it's hoping to host a heap of live gigs, art shows and cultural experiences, too. If you're not in Melbourne, you'll be happy to know that a second Urbnsurf is set to open at Sydney Olympic Park in 2021. Urbnsurf is due to open in January 2020 near Melbourne Airport. You can still sign up to test out the surf park before it opens on the website — but get in quick. Images: Courtesy Urbnsurf, Ed Sloane and Adam Gibson.
At last, we can take a peek at what's promised in epic new film Tracks, with the release of the first online trailer. It’s not only the panoramic desert shots and solitary-road-trip-by-foot concept that are garnering attention, but the undertaking by the lead actor, Mia Wasikowska. No doubt the experience of immersing herself in Tim Burton's weird and wild wonderland gave the Canberra-born 24-year-old a head start, but even that wasn’t sufficient preparation for the adventure of making Tracks. Based on Robyn Davidson’s memoir of the same title, the film depicts the intrepid writer’s 1977 journey from Alice Springs to the Indian Ocean — solo (well, except for three camels and a dog) and on foot. She covered 2700 kilometres in nine months. Upon publication, the book was a bestseller, turning Davidson into something of a celebrity. In making the film last year, director John Curran (The Painted Veil) shot Wasikowska and co-star Adam Driver at various sites in South Australia and around Uluru. The screenplay is an adaptation of Davidson’s story, put together by Marion Nelson, and the production team is the one that brought The King’s Speech to the big screen (winning an Oscar in the process:), Emile Sherman and Iain Canning. Having premiered at the Venice Film Festival in September, Tracks is due for release on 6 March 2014.
You know that feeling when you're loving an exquisite meal so much that you don't want it to end, and you're also content in the knowledge that there's still plenty more in store? That now applies to The Bear. Season one of the hit restaurant dramedy left everyone ravenous for season two, then that second effort did the same for the upcoming third instalment. Season three hasn't aired as yet — it's due in mid-2024 — but fans can rest assured that season four is reportedly also already in the works. As per The Hollywood Reporter, season three and season four of the series — which was one of the best new shows on television in 2022 and one of the best returning shows on TV in 2023 — are being filmed back to back. So, while there was no big announcement about The Bear getting a fourth season, it's being shot straight after season three. The reason? To ensure that new seasons can keep airing annually now that its cast and crew are in demand thanks to the series' massive success. Accordingly, after The Bear season three arrives this winter Down Under, season four will be dished up in 2025. As for where both seasons will take Carmen 'Carmy' Berzatto (Jeremy Allen White, The Iron Claw) on his quest for culinary perfection, you'll have to wait until they each make their way to your streaming queue to find out. Season three hasn't locked in its exact launch date as yet, other than June in America. Fingers crossed that the Golden Globe- and Emmy-winning series returns in Australia and New Zealand at the same time. In the past, there have been delays for Down Under viewers. Season one hit in June in America, then in August in Australia. With season two, US audiences still had a June date, while Aussies and New Zealanders had to wait till July. If you've missed The Bear so far, its first season jumped into the mayhem when Carmy took over the family diner in Chicago after his brother's (Jon Bernthal, We Own This City) death. Before returning home, the chef's resume featured Noma and The French Laundry, as well as awards and acclaim. In season two, Carmy worked towards turning the space into an upscale addition to his hometown's dining scene, with help from the restaurant's trusty team — including Ayo Edebiri (Bottoms) as fellow chef Sydney, plus Ebon Moss-Bachrach (No Hard Feelings) as Richie, aka Cousin, aka Carmy's brother's best friend. Also key to The Bear: truly conveying what it's like to work in the hospitality industry and weather a restaurant kitchen's non-stop pressures. In both of its seasons so far, The Bear's creator Christopher Storer (who also has Ramy, Dickinson and Bo Burnham: Make Happy on his resume) has expertly balanced drama and comedy — and, in season two, he also delivered spectacular self-contained episodes that featured everyone from Olivia Colman (Heartstopper) and Will Poulter (Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3) to Bob Odenkirk (Lucky Hank) and Jamie Lee Curtis (Haunted Mansion). Guest stars aside, The Bear's regular roster of talent also spans Abby Elliott (Indebted) as Carmy's sister Natalie, aka Sugar — plus Lionel Boyce (Hap and Leonard), Liza Colón-Zayas (In Treatment) and Edwin Lee Gibson (Fargo) among the other Original Beef staff. There's no sneak peek available for The Bear season three or four yet, but check out the trailer for season two below: The Bear streams via Disney+ in Australia and New Zealand. We'll update you with an exact season three release date when one is announced — and the same with season four. Read our review of season one and review of season two. Via The Hollywood Reporter.
Opposites attracting is a basic romantic-comedy staple. When it comes to folks from different worlds falling head over heels even though they're told they should stay apart, Romeo and Juliet and West Side Story have long been singing that tune, too. So, focusing two different elements — the fiery Ember (voiced by Leah Lewis, Nancy Drew) and go-with-the-flow Wade (Mamoudou Athie, Archive 81) — who cross paths and enjoy sparks flying, Pixar's upcoming Elemental obviously follows in some hefty footsteps. "Elements cannot mix," Ember is told sternly in the animated flick's just-dropped full trailer, which arrives after a first sneak peek back in late 2022. From there, of course Ember and Wade keep floating and sizzling in each other's orbit, all while living their daily lives as Captain Planet-like characters in the gorgeously rendered world that is Element City. The setup is classic Pixar, however, because the Disney-owned animation studio knows what it likes and what it does well — usually to heartfelt and delightful effect. So, add this to the pile of movies about whether toys, fish, monsters, feelings and more have feelings. The question this time: what if the elements, aka fire, water, land and air, had emotions? The film dubs its characters fire-, water-, land- and air-residents, but getting big Inside Out and Soul vibes comes with the territory. That said, the new full trailer plays up the romance angle, including walk-and-talks that could've jumped straight out of the Before franchise. So far, it all looks as adorable as you'd expect, too, even if you've ever just seen one frame of a Pixar picture. Big on pastel hues, that animation springs from director Peter Sohn (The Good Dinosaur), and hits cinemas on June 15. Literally a story of water and fire trying to get along — maybe Pixar is staffed by George RR Martin fans? — Elemental also features Ronnie del Carmen (Soul) as Ember's dad Bernie, Shila Ommi (Tehran) as her mother Cinder, Wendi McLendon-Covey (The Goldbergs) as Wade's boss Gale, Catherine O'Hara (Schitt's Creek) as his mum Brook, first-timer Mason Wertheimer as Ember's neighbour Clod and Joe Pera (Bob's Burgers) as city bureaucrat Fern. And, when it hits the big screen, it'll come with a Pixar short that links back to 2009's Up. In Carl's Date, it's time to catch up with Carl Fredricksen (the late Ed Asner) and his talking dog Dug (writer/director Bob Peterson) after the former reluctantly agrees to go on a date, but is out of practice and needs the latter's help. Check out the first trailer for Elemental below: Elemental releases in cinemas on June 15, 2023. Images: © 2023 Disney/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.
Melbourne may be the world's most liveable city, but according to travel website Babble, it doesn't even make the top ten when it comes to sustainability. The City of Melbourne Council is keen to change that, though. They're aiming to make Melbourne one of the world's most sustainable cities by 2020, and this exhibition might just give them some inspiration. The Liveable and Sustainable exhibition will feature artworks by University of Melbourne students and photojournalist Andrew Brownbill that were all inspired by the question, how would you depict a sustainable and liveable city and lifestyle? The artworks will consist of a range of photos, paintings, sculpture and mixed media works, and two winners will be selected by a panel of judges. There'll be cash prizes for the winners, and their works will be displayed at one of the galleries in Federation Square.
Matt Wilkinson's iconic cafe Pope Joan spent years as an inner-north culinary go-to, before a new building development forced a move and it settled into its current CBD digs in 2019. These days, the venue is continuing its original legacy in a Collins Street home, now steered by Danish Head Chef Bente Grysbæk. Her reinvigorated breakfast menu features a slew of familiar favourites alongside some creative newcomers. The popular rhubarb-topped rice pudding ($12) remains, as do the elevated boiled eggs with soldiers and bacon bits ($13). But you'll also find additions like a Danish-inspired breakfast hash starring Warialda beef rump, fried eggs and potato gems ($25), the Milawa chicken schnitzel sided with dashi-dressed cabbage salad ($28) and hero veg plates like the Romsey pumpkin with toasted seeds, hummus and spiced agave ($24). The sandwich game here is as strong as ever, with signatures like the Pope Joan brekkie roll ($14) and the reuben ($19) now joined by the likes of a roast cauliflower pita wrap ($16), and a Danish open rye sandwich featuring smoked salmon, crudités and a mustard sauce. The cake trolley has also made its return, loaded with sweet things you can match to an Allpress coffee or house chai. Come afternoon, you're in excellent hands with snacks like Port Phillip sardines and free-range chicken liver parfait, plus cheese and charcuterie platters, to enjoy alongside classic cocktails or a glass or two of vino. Images: Kristoffer Paulsen
Live music, good wine and food – what more could you ask for? At Innocent Bystander's Vegan Garden Party, the cellar door and restaurant will be debuting a new vegan menu curated by the establishment's very own head chef. The delicious spread will consist of charred broccolini with almond cream and mushroom ketchup, crispy Kipfler potatoes with mustard sauce, and salsa verde and pickles. Topping it off is a sweet vegan raspberry chocolate dessert. [caption id="attachment_876618" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Innocent Bystander - Supplied[/caption] But that's not all. Local musicians Malcura will be gracing the party with their signature acoustic flamenco sounds from 4-7pm. To complete the evening, a selection of vegan wine will be offered at Innocent Bystander's new Refillable Station. Simply save your empty wine bottles and get $5 off your next purchase when you're in need of a refill. Top images: Innocent Bystander — supplied.
