If you've ever wanted to care less about all the things that really don't matter — and, honestly, don't we all — then you've probably read Mark Manson's The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck. If you're really devoted to the idea, you're probably keen to get stuck into the author's latest book as well, aka Everything is F*cked: A Book About Hope. When the first book hit, it was everywhere. Approachable, brutally honest, not-quite self-help advice will have that effect. It's not about not giving any f*cks. It's about giving the right number of f*cks about the right things. After all, there are only so many one has time to give. You should obviously give a f*ck about Manson's upcoming Australian tour, of course, with the author coming to Melbourne on Monday, July 15. See the blogger-turned-bestselling writer share his thoughts and insights at the Forum — and leave giving the number of f*cks that you need to. Tickets go on sale at 12pm, Tuesday, May 21, with pre-sales from 10am on Monday, May 20.
There are two types of people in this world: people who need a coffee in the morning and the people who don't. We don't know too many people from the latter group, so we're going to say that there's a lot of us who rely on that first whizzbang hit of sweet, sweet caffeine either first thing in the morning or shortly thereafter. But, like the generation we are, we're always looking to get things faster, easier, and in a much cooler form. And we assume that's where the Go Cube came from. Go Cubes are chewy gummy lollies made with real cold brew coffee, and are supposed to give the same — if not an enhanced — effect as an actual cup of the stuff. Each cube is equivalent to half a cup of coffee, and is filled with nootropics, which are supplements and functional foods that help improve some aspects of mental function. In other words, they are supposed to do the same thing that a latte does: get the brain juices flowing. They come in three flavours — latte, pure drip and mocha — and yes, they're vegan. The cubes come from San Francisco-based company Nootrobox, who specialise in these types of 'brain' foods and compounds. At the moment Go Cubes are on pre-order, having raised all their funds through Indiegogo. This could be a good alternative for those who have a penchant for Red Bull or three double espressos in the morning. But for those who enjoy the ritual of getting a coffee — and actually like drinking the stuff — you'll probably get the same effect (and more deliciousness) by sticking to good old liquid form. Nevertheless, chewy coffee lollies are something we can get on board with. Via PSFK.
UPDATE: APRIL 7, 2020 — This Brunswick East joint is now selling boxes of locally sourced fresh fruit and veg and, of course, Texan-style smoked meats, as well as booze and ready-to-eat barbecue. They're all available to pick up from 12–9pm daily. Check out the menu on Instagram and call (03) 9972 1815 to order. If there has been a Bluebonnet Barbecue-shaped hole in your life since the cult meat eatery shut up shop in North Fitzroy in early 2018, then we're happy to tell you that is has been filled. The next iteration of Bluebonnet has opened its doors in Brunswick East. The Lygon Street venue is its new permanent home after a string of super-popular pop-ups — and a fiery short-term residency in Collingwood — and the original crew of 2014 are back together to mark the occasion: pitmaster Chris Terlikar, sous chef Eric Baird and bar manager Nate White. And they're throwing down their signature low 'n' slow Texan-style barbecue, with crafty cocktails to match. It's serving up a mix of old favourites and new creations, in a menu that matches expertly smoked meats with clever revamps of traditional sides. The famed beef brisket makes its return, along with the likes of porter-braised beef cheeks and pork ribs, while supporting acts include fried green tomatoes on whipped goats feta and a black garlic cornbread. And night owl carnivores will find plenty to love about the solid menu of late-night bar eats. The drinks offering has been amped up, now running to a three-part cocktail lineup — classics, lighter signature sips to complement the meat, and a produce-driven rotation of seasonal drinks — backed by a ten-strong Victorian tap list. The space itself is laid-back and rustic, with reclaimed railway sleepers, big retractable front windows and a separate pool room, for those after-dinner sessions.
Docklands is set to light up once again this winter for Firelight Festival, an annual celebration of flame-filled arts. Running from Friday, June 30–Sunday, July 2, the inner-city precinct is free to enter and will see Docklands come alive with a family-friendly, after-dark program of performance, entertainment, culinary delights and fire-inspired art. This year is set to be Firelight Fest's biggest edition yet, with over 125 talented flame-wielding artists and performers, 40 firepits and drums and 35 flame jets. No, you won't be cold. The lineup promises plenty of reasons to yank yourself off the couch and into the night, headlined by huge light installations including an interactive sound activation that will transform Docklands' Central Park with supersized, luminescent flowers. Other works set to dazzle crowds nightly include a giant, neon mushroom that will sit atop Victoria Promenade, and a five-metre-tall LED, archangel puppet which will roam along Harbour Esplanade. More than 125 performers will descend on the precinct across the three-day festival, ranging from musicians and fire-twirlers to circus acts and flaming trumpeters. And with a collection of fire sculptures, flame jets and fire pits, things are sure to be super toasty as you're exploring the festival's offerings. Of course, appetites are sorted, too, with festival vendors slinging a menu packed with wintry delights. Think, smoked meats, woodfired pizza and roasted marshmallows, washed down with hot chocolate and mulled wine. Firelight Festival will take over Docklands nightly from Friday, June 30–Sunday, July 2. For the full program, head to the festival's website. Images: supplied.
Ever tasted something that just whisks you away to a place? A memory, a feeling, a season? That's what Backwoods Distilling Co. and Scion Wine have achieved with their seasonal release of the small-batch 2022 Muscat Gin. Scion owner and winemaker Rowly Milhinch and Backwoods co-founder Leigh Attwood are part of a new wave of High Country producers making northeast Victoria one of the most exciting destinations for food, wine and spirits lovers right now. Many of Rutherglen's most well-known wineries are run by fifth-generation makers, and the area has long been regarded as one of the world's premiere muscat regions and home to some of Australia's best big reds. But there's a new crop of producers like Milhinch and Attwood who are championing new techniques and sustainable innovations. Indeed, Milhinch and Attwood's shared excitement for innovation and nostalgia saw these kindred spirits come together for a delicious — and collaborative — passion project in 2021. And the results were so impressive, they've come back for seconds this winter. As a winemaker, Milhinch's own practice is about taking the familiar in an unexpected direction. His wines offer a fresh twist on the traditional, with expected varieties from the region returning unexpected results and new expressions. "My approach is inspired by a love of exploring new ideas and learning through experimentation," he tells Concrete Playground. "People are always so surprised by what you can make from familiar grape varieties, I think because something familiar is so resolved on their palate and in their mind. This familiarity helps the experience of something unique really stand out." With the High Country's long history of winemaking, as well as the recent influx of craft breweries, Attwood saw Backwoods' inventive spirits as something of a natural progression for the region's drinks landscape when he launched the label in 2017 with his partner Bree Attwood. "We grew up in this region and have always been inspired by its local artisan producers," he says. "We have easy access to local grains, botanicals, casks — all the things we need to craft quality spirits." In just half a decade since launching, Backwoods has established a core gin range and also unveiled a number of special whisky releases. Attwood also sources bush food and native botanicals from ethical, respectful suppliers to create Backwood's signature (and award-winning) High Country Gin. "We wanted to capture the memory of walking through the High Country bushland, just after it's rained and the smells of the native trees are intensified," he says. "We are passionate about crafting distinctively Australian spirits and highlighting local grains and botanicals." That distilled nostalgia meets winemaking history in the Muscat Gin, in which handpicked Rutherglen brown muscat grapes, sourced by Milhinch, are steeped in Backwood's signature High Country Gin and then hand-basket pressed. "Muscat is the most famous grape variety grown in Rutherglen and occupies a special position on the global stage," Milhinch says. "It's known for being made into amazingly sweet fortified wines with unmatched levels of flavour." In the Muscat Gin, the distinct bush botanicals of strawberry gum, peppermint gum and wattleseed combine with the classic rose water and musk flavour of muscat (a mix, we're told, that resembles turkish delight and red fruit). "Our Muscat Gin represents a perfect harmony," Milhinch says. "It's a collaboration of the fruit we grow and gin distilled with local botanicals. It's a little piece of Rutherglen plus a little piece of Yackandandah, crafted for balance and expression of these places." One sip of the Muscat Gin can transport you to the rugged High Country, but there's no substitute for heading straight to the source. "Being able to taste a product in the place where it is made, with the people who made it, is an experience that people really value," Attwood says. "When people visit us at Backwoods, they can sip on a warming whisky or delicious gin right beside the beautiful copper stills. It is a complete sensory experience as we've always got something fermenting or distilling when people visit." You'll be able to cosy up to the Muscat Gin at both the Backwoods and Scion cellar doors when it's released this winter. Whether it's on the rocks or on a tasting paddle, over ice with tonic and dried orange or in a seasonal cocktail, there are plenty of ways to experience this limited-edition creation. After all, winter is the perfect time to swing by. And if there's one place that does winter well, it's Victoria's High Country. "It's all about open fires, cosy clothing, warming food and wine experiences," Milhinch says. For more great ways to experience the incredible food and drinks of Victoria's High Country this winter, head to the website.
What does it take to build the world’s tallest skyscraper? 19,000 workers, seven months, 92 elevators, and, in all likelihood, a competitive streak. This month, yet another challenge to rule supreme over the global skyline will begin when the Broad Group starts building the world’s tallest skyscraper in Changsha, China. Apart from demonstrating the latest in engineering miracles, the project aims to improve our chances of environmental sustainability, as it will serve as a ‘Sky City’. It’s a fully self-contained settlement, in which residents will have access to all the facilities expected in an urban area, only they’ll come with a view. 56 courtyards, each with ceilings at 30 foot, will provide scope for sporting activities, and 930,000 square feet will be committed to the cultivation of organic farms. Access to all 170 floors will be achievable via elevators, or a six-mile long ramp, which will run the vertical length of the building. According to the Broad Group, any resident of the world’s tallest skyscraper will use only 1% of the land occupied by a run-of-the-mill, ground bound city slicker. Moreover, energy efficiency will be maximised through triple glazing, serious insulation, shading and the use of a co-generation plant, which runs on waste heat, to achieve climate control. Could this be the face of cities of the future? [via PSFK]
One of Sydney Festival 2017's most Instagrammed events was The Beach, an enormous ball pit inside a human-made cave, as created by Brooklyn-based design studio Snarkitecture. Tonnes of the city's residents spent at least some part of January diving, cannonballing and floating about in a sea of plastic bliss. Understandably. If you've been fretting about whether this kind of fun would ever come to Melbourne, here's your answer. Another ball pit is on its way around the country. It was first slated for Sydney, but now Melbourne has been added to the agenda. Like The Beach, it'll be a behemoth, made up of one million balls. Rather than filling up just a single space, they'll be arranged across several, creating a kind of playground. There'll also be an on-site cocktail bar, to let you rest and refuel in between dips and dives. After a sold-out March run, the ball pit will pop up in North Melbourne on Friday, April 27 from 6pm till midnight and Saturday, April 28 from midday till midnight. Entry will be via ticket, which will entitle you to two hours of playtime. UPDATE, MARCH 10: Anyone keen to attend between 10am and 2pm can add some extra fun to their ball pit experience: an hour-long bottomless Champagne and brunch session. Tickets including food and drinks cost $55 + booking free, with only 200 available. A tip: you might want to go easy on the jumping around after getting your fill of eats and bubbles. Image: The Beach, Sydney Festival 2017 by Shannon Connellan.
This plush venture from Nick and Daniel Russian (founders of Eve Bar) has taken over the revered rock 'n roll site that once housed Cherry Bar. You can push aside all thoughts of the four-legged Disney character — the venue's in fact named after and inspired by a bar the duo's Nonno owned in Trieste, Italy, 80 years ago. Here on AC/DC Lane, they're paying homage to their heritage while delivering Melbourne a dazzling late-night party joint. It's a sumptuous lounge bar filled with glam vintage touches, nodding to the drinking dens of LA and Europe. Curved banquettes and staircases, and a healthy appreciation for the colour pink are the work of awarded designer David Hicks. Italian share plates rule the menu, with familiar favourites alongside some contemporary surprises — including a loaded carbonara toastie ($19) and a tiramisu cannoli ($12). Elsewhere, you'll find rigatoni done with wagyu bolognese ($29), a spicy vodka pasta ($32) and pork cotoletta on the bone ($38). A solid antipasti offering is primed for snacking, as is the dedicated bar menu, featuring the likes of lobster pizza ($65), wagyu bresaola ($24) and ice cream sandwiches ($18). A well-matched drinks offering favours spritzes and negronis, with options galore and large-format serves available for each. If you're game, try yours by the one-litre carafe or arrange your own negroni fountain ($2200). They're backed by a slew of other classic Euro cocktails, a spread of Italian and Aussie wines, and an after-dinner bottle service. Expect a diverse program of extra fun running into the wee hours, from DJs, to piano singers, to live performances gracing the front stage. [caption id="attachment_833180" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mark Roper[/caption] Images: Mark Roper
There is a lot of hype surrounding the remake of Stephen King's It, an adaptation of the 1986 novel (and 1990 Tim Curry-starring mini-series, of course) in which a murderous clown terrorises a group of Maine children, due on September 7. If you can't wait until then to get your Pennywise fix (if you're into terrifying clowns), and if you happen to be on the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street in Los Angeles, you'll find a two-storey replica of 'where IT lives' open to the public and totally free. Groups of seven will be guided by 'Georgie' through the 464 square-metre house, room by room, through immersive film-inspired scenes complete with authentic set props, "disorienting images", jump-scares and shit-your-pants terror, for what will probably be the longest 20 minutes of your life. What's the catch? There isn't one, really. But visitors are advised to "be prepared to be scared" and enter at their own risk. They also have to sign a waiver beforehand. "People with medical and emotional conditions should not enter The IT Experience: Neibolt House Hollywood including, without limitation, those with heart conditions, high blood pressure, anxiety or emotional disorders, fear of enclosed spaces, medical sensitivity to dizziness, movement or disorientation, and expectant mothers." You know those crappy haunted houses you get at run-down theme parks where the animatronics don't work and the scariest thing you might find is a used condom? We've got a feeling this will not be one of those things. From August 14 until September 10, 1–11pm. See 'The IT Experience' for more information.
One of the world's most iconic paintings has come to Australia, as part of a cultural exchange with the Musee d'Orsay in Paris. Painted by James McNeill Whistler in 1871, Portrait of the artist's mother, otherwise known as Arrangement in grey and black no. 1 or more commonly as Whistler's Mother, is on display at the National Gallery of Victoria, forming the centrepiece of an exhibition about the painting's social and historical impact. "Alongside Da Vinci's Mona Lisa and Munch's The Scream sits Whistler's Portrait of the artist's mother as one of a handful of artworks which enjoy universal recognition and admiration," said NGV Director Tony Ellwood in a statement that accompanied the announcement in January. The exhibition marks the first time the painting has travelled to Australia. In return, the NGV will loan the Musee d'Orsay Pierre Bonnard's 1900 work Siesta. The NGV exhibition, which will run until June 19, will aim to explore Whistler's iconic work from a number of different perspectives, chronicling its initially poor reception at the Royal Academy in London, its rise in popularity over the subsequent decades, and its influence on countless prominent artists including many here in Australia. It will also delve into the life of both the artist and his mother, Anna, who is depicted in the painting. The gallery has produced a short film about the significance of the work, and will also present a number of related public programs including a floor talk series and an illustrated panel discussion. Just whatever you do, when you're visiting the exhibition... try not to sneeze. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWqVoaYxgRs Image: Brooke Holm.
Start the car, we know a whoopee spot, where the gin is cold but the piano is certainly hot, and that place is the Roaring 20s and All That Jazz Festival. The festivities will take place throughout venues across the Katoomba area in the Blue Mountains, and will include 1920s-style balls in historic grand ballrooms, high teas and, of course, plenty of jazz and blues performances. Head to the famed Hydro Majestic Hotel to participate in the Charleston Challenge, where ladies and gents of all ages slip into their best flapper dresses and fedoras in a huge group performance of the Charleston. There will also be historical walks, a long lunch, dinner shows and more. Don your best Greta Garbo threads and grab yourself a Gatsby — this is certainly a weekend of feathers and frivolity.
Polish Easter is coming back to Melbourne for another year, thanks to Eat Pierogi Make Love. Head along to the East Brunswick eatery for a hearty set menu that'll transport you to the other side of the world. Head Chef Ola Gladysz's feast starts with a massive share platter crowded with herring tartare and devilled eggs layered with salmon – alongside a traditional veggie salad with pickles, eggs and mayo, plus house-made sourdough with horseradish butter. Next comes the rainbow trout pierogi doused in lemon butter sauce, followed by zurek soup. It's a classic Easter dish reminiscent of ramen – made with fermented rye flour, smoked meats and marjoram. On the side comes a boiled egg with cwikła (horseradish and beetroot dip) and house-made white sausage. Last but not least, tuck into a big slice of Polish honey cake based on Gladysz's mum's secret recipe. You'll have two chances to experience this extravaganza – Friday, April 18, and Saturday, April 19, at either midday or 2pm. Bookings can be made here.
One of the greatest actors in film history is on her way to Melbourne. Well, sort of. I See Me & Meryl Streep may not technically feature the three-time Oscar winner, but word is Alexandra Keddie does a damn good impression. With a soundtrack straight out of Mamma Mia, this adoring tribute show for the Melbourne Cabaret Festival combines the most memorable moments of Meryl's magnificent career. And if nothing else, Keddie should at least be able to manage a better Aussie accent than Streep did when she played Lindy Chamberlain.
No one likes leaving their pet at home when they go on holiday. No one loves moving interstate with them flying in the cargo hold, either. A solution might be on the way, however, with Virgin Australia announcing its intention to allow small dogs and cats in the cabins of its aircraft — as long as it gets the regulatory tick of approval to do so. At present, all pets except authorised service and assistance dogs can't join humans while they're soaring through the skies. Instead, they fly underneath amid the luggage. But everyone who shares their life with a pooch or mouser knows that they want to do everything that people can do. In fact, they think they're people. Here's one way they'll be able to, ideally within 12 months. If it is signed off by the aviation powers that be, this will be the first time that an airline in Australia has allowed pets in its cabins. There will be rules, of course, including the fact that only small dogs and cats will be permitted, that the option will only be available on selected domestic routes and that pets will have to stay in a Virgin Australia-approved pet carrier under the seat in front of you for the whole flight. There'll also be designated rows for folks travelling with pets — which mightn't suit your cat if it isn't fond of dogs, or vice versa. And, if you're dreaming of your pupper or feline sitting on your lap or walking around the cabin, that obviously won't be allowed either. On the ground before you hop on the plane, then once you disembark, your pet will need to stay in its carrier as well, other than at the relief areas that will be part of Virgin's terminals. There's no word yet which routes will soon allow four-legged friends for company, or how much bringing them onboard might cost — but there will be a fee. The current arrangement with service and assistance animals will continue, so they'll still be permitted to travel in the cabin without an extra cost. Virgin Australia also will still transport pets in the cargo hold. "We expect the pets in cabin concept will prove a popular offering and we look forward to working with Virgin Australia to make it a reality," said Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus. Tell your pet to pack their suitcase — and start asking them about their dream interstate holiday. Virgin Australia hopes to allow small dogs and cats in its cabins on select domestic flights within the next 12 months. We'll update you when more details are announced. For more information about Virgin Australia's current pet policies in the interim, head to the airline's website. Images: Alex Coppel.
As anyone who's seen the doco Amy knows, during Amy Winehouse's troubled final years, the media was excruciatingly obsessed with her drug and alcohol issues. But, a new exhibition, arriving in Melbourne later this year, is bringing us another perspective. Titled Amy Winehouse: A Family Portrait, the show covers four concepts: faith, fashion, music and London life. Expect to see loads of never-before-seen-in-public objects, such as family photos, dresses (including the dazzling Luella Bartley number that Winehouse wore at Glastonbury 2008), cookbooks, stories, records and musical instruments. Acting as soundtrack will be a mixtape Winehouse put together at the age of 13. The exhibition was conceived and curated by Amy's brother, Alex, and sister-in-law, Riva, in collaboration with the Jewish Museum of London. Since premiering in London in 2013, it's travelled to San Francisco, Vienna, Tel Aviv and Amsterdam, and, right now, it's at the London museum, Camden. Amy Winehouse: A Family Portrait arrives at the Jewish Museum of Australia, St Kilda, on October 22 and will show until March 22, 2018. Image: Rama via Wikimedia Commons.
15 years after the original, and 12 years after the first sequel, is anyone really clamouring for a third xXx? Probably not, but then again, there was also a time where nobody was all that interested in a new Fast and the Furious movie either, and now it's one of the most popular film series' in the world. xXx: Return of Xander Cage has a lot in common with the recent films in the automotive franchise, beyond the chrome dome and cocky attitude of their shared leading man. In an age where so many Hollywood action flicks are bogged down by pomposity and existential angst, these Vin Diesel vehicles offer dumb fun at its absolute finest. The major difference between the two franchises is that, while the Fast and Furious films play fast and loose with the laws of physics, Return of Xander Cage scarcely bothers with them at all. In reintroducing extreme athlete turn super spy Xander Cage (Diesel) by having him ski – yes, ski – through a Dominican rainforest, director D.J. Caruso and screenwriter F. Scott Frazier make it abundantly clear they have little interest in telling a story set in the real world. Frankly, that's fine by us. This isn't Jackie, damnit, this is xXx! It's hard to imagine anyone in the audience will actually care why a cabal of super crims want to steal a piece of hardware capable of turning satellites into projectiles. The important thing is that Cage is out to stop them, and he's going to look dope while he does it. Diesel is joined by an outstanding set of supporting players, each sexier and seemingly less suited to the world of international espionage than the last. Hong Kong and Thai martial art stars Donnie Yen and Tony Jaa, Bollywood icon Deepika Padukone, and Australia's own Ruby Rose are just a few of the names on the roster – and while their roles are thin and their dialogue often painfully cheesy, the cast never seems anything less than 100 per cent committed. The same can also be said for Toni Collette as a tough-as-nails CIA handler. Nothing the character does makes a modicum of sense, but we'll be damned if Collette doesn't make her entertaining to watch. If nothing else, Return of Xander Cage deserves considerable credit for the diversity of its cast. It's hard to think of a recent ensemble blockbuster that featured fewer white men – and while part of that probably has to do with the involvement of Chinese investors behind the scenes, it also fits in nicely with the film's political throughline. There's no flag waving here – indeed, an attempt by the CIA to appeal to our hero's sense of patriotism is met with a quip: "there are no more patriots, just rebels and tyrants." Outsiders all, Cage and his fellow daredevils have no time for authority, or the overreach of a system that puts security before civil liberty. And while it's a stretch to call the film a reaction to a Trump presidency, his ascension makes the film's rebellious spirit and multicultural flavour that much more appealing. Having said that, no one is buying a ticket to the new xXx movie to get a hot take on global politics. They're buying it to see things go boom – and go boom they certainly do. Caruso and co. deliver big time on the action, crafting set-pieces that (mostly) manage to toe the line between knowingly silly and genuinely exhilarating. It's hard to think too hard about the gaping holes in the plot when Vin Diesel is riding a motorbike underwater. And who said cinema was dead? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQEFmHsseaU
Prancing through fields laced with the charm of provincial France? Casual summer weekendery. The ever-popular So Frenchy So Chic in the Park is waltzing back to Melbourne's Werribee Park Mansion for its seventh year running, while in Sydney it will be return to the Glebe waterfront at Bicentennial Park for the second time. The event will also head to Adelaide for its debut. If you haven't been before, expect an entire afternoon of French-inspired niceties — think gourmet picnic hampers, tortes and terrines, offensively good wine, furious outdoor chess, casual gypsy beats. So Frenchy hinges around a solid lineup of eclectic artists you may be yet to meet. There's Nigerian-born French rapper Féfé, San Fran-based French jazz-funk soul guru Hervé Salters (aka General Elektriks) and dream-pop band Frànçois & the Atlas Mountains, who are sure to get your dancing barefoot around your cheese platter. If you're not the most organised of picnickers, So Frenchy is putting on the works again with their beloved picnic boxes and cheese plates from Ed Dixon in Melbourne and Simmone Logue in Sydney. Filled with buttery pastry quiches, salad jardinière and goose egg meringue, the picnic boxes are one to preorder if you don't want to miss out. But So Frenchy won't let you go hungry; there'll be a huge banquet of seafood, crepes, macarons and cheese available on the day, along with a menu from Bistrot Gavorche in Sydney and L'Hotel Gitan in Melbourne. And of course, there'll be plenty of Laurent Perrier Champagne, French beer, Provence rosé, Bordeaux reds and whites, and special cocktails at the SFSC vintage caravan. Don your best floral-headband-and-sundress-combo and gear up for un merveilleux après-midi. SO FRENCHY SO CHIC IN THE PARK 2018 Friday, January 12 — Pinky Flat, Adelaide Sunday, January 14 — Werribee Park, Melbourne Saturday, January 20 — Bicentennial Park, Sydney So Frenchy So Chic in the Park will head to Melbourne Sydney and Adelaide in January 2017. Early bird tickets are on sale now until October 10 for $79. From then on, tickets will be $89 online or $99 on the door. For more info, visit sofrenchysochic.com.au. Image: Simon Shiff.
Arguably the inner north's biggest annual celebration of live tunes, the famed Brunswick Music Festival is back to fill up your gig calendar, dishing up its next suburb-wide instalment from Sunday, March 5–Monday, March 13. And, off the back of a two-year hiatus, it's returning with an appropriately hefty program of musical goodness. Kicking things off across eight different stages at the Sydney Road Street Party on March 5, you'll catch a roll call of local favourites. Punk rockers Cable Ties, Ethio-jazz nine-piece Black Jesus Experience, pop darling Kira Puru and indie artists Pinch Points will be launching things with a bang, alongside June Jones, Ajak Kwai, Mindy Weng Wang and more. [caption id="attachment_888199" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Camp Cope by Kane Hibberd[/caption] And the sonic good times only keep rolling on from there. Melville Road's Estonian House is set to be re-energised as a thumping live music venue, with a five-night program featuring acts like alt-rock legends Camp Cope, US psych-pop outfit Crumb, Niger-based guitarist Mdou Moctar (Niger), Melbourne five-piece CIVIC and UK producer Leon Vynehall. Deeper in, you'll catch a whole swag of events celebrating International Women's Day on Wednesday, March 8, while Monday, March 13 sees a stellar lineup of first nations artists take over Gilpin Park for a free concert named Music For The Mob. And as always, the rest of the nine-day festival program will feature scores of gigs taking place in all sorts of iconic local venues, including Howler, The Retreat, Stay Gold, Brunswick Ballroom and even Sydney Road kebab joint Alasya. [caption id="attachment_844169" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Simon Fazio[/caption] Brunswick Music Festival takes over venues across Brunswick from Sunday, March 5–Monday, 13. Hit the website for the full program and to snap up tickets.
Earlier this month we rejoiced in vintage shopping for a cause, and we're happy to say it was a pretty great turn out on the day. But if you missed out, never fear! The Conscious Closet is here to ease your woes. Also in support of Fitted for Work, The Conscious Closet offers amazing deals on new and pre-loved designer clothing and accessories from brands such as Carla Zampatti, Jigsaw, Scanlan & Theodore, Perri Cutten, Alannah Hill and Veronika Maine just to name a few. Fitted For Work is an organisation which provides support and assistance to disadvantaged women seeking secure employment. They do so through mentoring, interview preparation, outfitting and support during the transition from unemployment to working life. Since 2005, they've helped a whopping 14,500 women secure employment. It's a great cause to get behind, and really, there's no excuse not to when prices at start off at just $2. On Friday August 29 and Saturday August 30, these charitable champions are holding a massive sale with nothing over $20. We'll say that again. None of this amazing designer clothing will be over $20. Open your hearts (and your wallets) and grab a cute outfit for a good cause.
With intrastate travel now allowed in NSW, Victoria and Queensland, many of us are already planning (a long list of) road trips. Those without a car have probably also been comparing car rental companies — and, now, there's a new player in the game: Uber. The global ride-sharing company is branching out and trialling car rental in Australia as a world first. Rolling out in Brisbane today, then in the Gold Coast, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Adelaide next week, Uber Rent will only be available to 50 percent of app users in its initial phase. So, you'll need to cross your fingers you get it. If you do land in the lucky half of users, this is how it'll work: update your app to the latest version, select the 'Rentals' option and you'll be able to choose from a selection of cars from Cartrawler and punch in your pick up date and location. Cartrawler is a global company that's connected to a heap car rental suppliers, as well airline companies and online travel retailers, that does just what it says on the packet: trawls through the existing sites to bring you what's available at the times and locations you want it — so you don't have to spend too long doing your own comparisons. The connection to Uber helps make it a little more convenient, with the ability to book through the one app — and score Uber Rewards, if that's something you do. [caption id="attachment_583987" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Great Ocean Road[/caption] Cars start from around $40 a day (for a small car) and $76 for an SUV, with prices getting a little cheaper the longer you book. A Hyundai Accent, for example, will cost around $150 for seven days, with pick up and drop off at Melbourne Airport. If the trial is a success, it'll be rolled out nationally as a permanent option on the app. So, you can plan more trips to dog-friendly pubs, beaches and parks. And get to the vet a little easier (don't tell your cat). Need some inspo when planning your first (second or third) road trip? Have a look at these ten country towns near Brissie worthy of a day trip, these towns outside of Sydney or these wintry Victorian day trips. To find out more about Uber Rent, head to the Uber website.
Raised, filled, cake or cruller, Shortstop explore the boundaries of doughnut experimentation, spanning the entire flavour spectrum and borrowing a few international influences along the way. The Earl Grey and Rose doughnut ($4.50) is not for purists — designed midway between a doughnut and tea cake, it's a bit drier and more delicate than your standard Krispy Kreme, and far less greasy. Decorated with a pretty scattering of petals, it's been the feature image of many a foodie blog in recent months. To snare one for yourself, arrive early in the morning — they're often sold out come midday.
Whether you've spent a few classy evenings at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, or a few hundred dirty ones at The Tote, everyone knows that Melbourne has a reputation for its music. Now, this latest exhibition at RMIT Gallery really is showing how diverse that reputation can be. Chronicling the busiest laneways, the latest nights and the loudest gigs over the last 40 years, Music, Melbourne and Me is a retrospective of local music and its memorabilia. The collection is centred upon the history of Melbourne's own Mushroom Records — the largest independent record label in Australia. Many of the items on display come from this label's historical collection, and others from the homes of local icons such as Ian 'Molly' Meldrum, Kylie Minogue, Skyhooks, Split Enz and Crowded House. However, another big drawcard of the exhibition is the free talks that will be continuing on into the new year. Get along to hear Mark Seymour from Hunters & Collectors talk about the downfalls of fame and the difficulties facing musicians today. Check out this talk about the intersection of music and fashion, or (our personal pick) book in for a special film screening of Autoluminescent followed by a critical talk about Rowland S. Howard and the punk scene in Melbourne during the 1970s. Founder of Mushroom Records, Michael Gudinski says, "Melbourne is certainly one of the greatest cities in the world to enjoy music and this exhibition is a great way to celebrate the past and preview the future." We totally agree.
People don't dance enough these days. It's a problem. To go out on the town increasingly involves people mashing their bodies together with a total lack of synchronicity while splashing waves of vodka raspberry on your white shoes. Melbourne nightlife needs a revamp, and this — the official dance party of Midsumma Festival — may be just the thing to do it. On January 12, the regal Palace Theatre will be fitted out in true technicolour Midsumma style to house some amazing dance music. The Presets head the top of the bill alongside New York act Cakes Da Killa and Melbourne's own World's End Press. These bands will then be joined by no less than nine DJ acts marking all the trappings of an epic night out. There could be no better way to kick off this fresh and exciting festival. Tickets are on sale here, or if you prefer your technicolour fun in daylight hours, check out the Carnival on the same day.
It may not feel like it, but it's been seven years since these iconic indie poppers first bopped onto the scene. In that time, tracks such as 'A-Punk' and 'Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa' have provided soundtrack to every sun-drenched house party and most feel-good hits at the movies; their self-titled debut album has been inducted as both a staple to your summer roadtrip playlist, and a classic in the indie hall of fame. Now, a few years and two albums later, Vampire Weekend are on their way down under to bring some infectious summer fun to both Falls Festival and Melbourne's Festival Hall. On tour for their latest album Modern Vampires of the City, the boys from NYC are showing off a slightly more grownup side — the songs are no longer about drearily walking to a class at college, but about the impending troubles of adulthood. But don't worry, there will no doubt be some throwbacks to their vibrant early days, and the songs still shine as bright as ever. This is a band that will always just sound like summer.
The idea behind this stage show is pretty straight forward — it's The Golden Girls, but with puppets. Like a zanier, later-life version of Sesame Street, these ladies have been slaying audiences in sold-out shows in Sydney and are now making their way south for crowds at Midsumma Festival. Since airing in 1985, The Golden Girls always had a bizarrely devoted following with gay men; Dorothy, Sophia, Rose and Blanche seemed to strike accord with many gay fans, either a result of the excellent life lessons or stinging one liners that they delivered regularly. One can only think that the comedic pleasures of the whole thing will be doubled by the presence of a creepy Betty White puppet, but time will tell. Tickets for Thank You For Being a Friend are available via Theatre Works.
It's a common feeling. Walking around the city streets one summer's evening you can't help but stare down at the busker yelling his guts out or the young guy clumsily playing 'Wonderwall' on his battered old acoustic; you can't help but stare down and think 'I could probably do better than that,' — 'If I was a busker, I would be awesome.' Well now it's time to prove it. From January 9 - 27, 24 decorated pianos will be tucked away in random locations across the city, waiting for you to play. Part of a worldwide art initiative, Play Me, I'm Yours comes from the mind of British artist Luke Jerram and has been on tour in 37 countries since its debut in 2008. There's no room for being humble here either — if you have the talent why not share it with your fellow pedestrians, and if you... don't, well why not treat them to a bit of laugh?
Walking around Sydney CBD over the last year or so, you might have noticed the amount of construction taking place, but even more so, the vibrant colours and art brightening up these building sites across town. These are works from the creative hoardings initiative, which saw ten artists chosen by the City of Sydney to have their designs adorn drab construction sites. Following a massively successful first round, the City of Sydney is once again inviting artists nationwide to submit their creations to be a part of the next group of hoarding designers. Encouraging both established and emerging artists to apply, another ten creatives will be selected by a panel of industry experts, and receive a tidy $11,400 for their hard work to boot. Whether you want to submit your own work or encourage a friend, don't delay as entries close 5pm, Friday, December 14. To give you a better idea of what the creative hoardings initiative is all about, we took a look at the original ten artists and found out how the project impacted their creative practices. [caption id="attachment_701053" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Katherine Griffiths.[/caption] THE TERMINAL FACE OF THE PERITO MORENO GLACIER BY TIM HARLAND For landscape photographer Tim Harland, the creative hoardings project was the perfect medium to express his elongated panoramic images. Having considered submitting many of his works, he eventually decided on his image of the famous Perito Moreno glacier in Patagonia. Created from more than 50 individual photographs, Harland captured the image while travelling in a boat parallel to the glacier. On the project, Harland explains: "it's been lovely to be walking through the city, turn a corner and be presented with my giant, icy blue photograph…I've never been able to print my work as big as I'd like, so to see it two metres high and 100 metres long was deeply satisfying." [caption id="attachment_632113" align="alignnone" width="1620"] Katje Ford.[/caption] BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA BY EGGPICNIC Promoting important dialogue around wildlife conservation, Camila De Gregorio and Christopher Macaluso of popular creative duo Eggpicnic have used their hoarding design, Birds of Australia, to reach out to others with their message. With their design popping up on construction sites across Pyrmont, Surry Hills and The Rocks, their work has proved popular even with bird watching groups that go on tours of the hoardings. Plus, Camila and Christopher are often told by strangers how admired their design is. "I was on the bus at Town Hall, and I see this email that our hoarding is up at Ken Street," De Gregorio says. "I told the bus driver to stop, I got off and then two blocks away, I could see this giant cockatoo. I started running; I get there and I completely lose my breath. I felt like I'd won an Oscar. I was standing alone in complete awe for ages, watching how others were taking selfies and videos of my bird." "People care; it's just a matter of inviting them to participate. We are privileged to have our work displayed throughout Sydney and we hope that this platform starts fundamental conversations," says De Gregorio. [caption id="attachment_632100" align="alignnone" width="1620"] Katje Ford.[/caption] DOUBLE-TAKE BY RACHEL HARRIS Creating playful images that challenge our perceptions, South Australian designer Rachel Harris worked alongside the City of Sydney's archives, taking historical photographs and photoshopping them in subtle and fun ways. For Harris, creating something that could be viewed multiple times was one of her primary concerns. And Double-Take achieves that by giving commuters something interesting to focus on during their journey to and from work. "The feedback has been great, seeing people engaging with the work and sharing it with each other is wonderful," says Harris. "It feels like I have contributed something meaningful and positive to the community." A SONG FROM NATURE BY DANLING XIAO Having built up a huge Instagram following thanks to her playful daily food-art creations with her Mundane Matters project, Danling Xiao once again used these cute artworks to communicate her philosophy on zero waste and sustainability. Xiao said it's "an honour" to be able to contribute her artwork to the city's landscape with A Song From Nature. "I am surprised that although friends see my work on Instagram on a regular basis, they are still surprised when they see them on the streets," says Xiao. "I think we must be doing something right here." SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE AT NIGHT BY EMILY CROCKFORD Emerging artist Emily Crockford took inspiration from perhaps Sydney's most iconic landmark with her interpretation of the Sydney Opera House. Depicting the sweeping structure's celebrated sails lit up by the New Years Eve fireworks, this work follows Crockford's colourful style, which you can also see in her paintings, sculpture and plush works of art. Supported by Studio A, a local social enterprise providing support for artists living with intellectual disabilities, Crockford has exhibited her work as part of the Cicada Press at UNSW Art & Design, Underbelly Arts Festival and numerous galleries across Sydney. CHILDREN VERY UPSET BY EDWIN BUDHI Spending time wandering the streets of Sydney, photographer and filmmaker Edwin Budhi was struck by the number of lost animals signs he came across tapped to signposts. With his bright, eye-catching portraits of missing animals and street scenes, Budhi wanted to convey the feeling of what it's like to live in a large metropolis such as Sydney. Through Children Very Upset, Budhi thoughtfully explores the nature of family, hope and loss within the context of the urban environment. [caption id="attachment_632099" align="alignnone" width="1620"] Katje Ford.[/caption] STONE JEWELS BY FIONA CURREY-BILLYARD Featuring glowing stone cutting tools used by Indigenous populations throughout past centuries, emerging filmmaker, photographer and painter Fiona Currey-Billyard makes the most of new media in her hoarding design, Stone Jewels. Astounded by the quality of these tools that were handcrafted hundreds of years ago, Currey-Billyard was inspired to showcase their excellence to a wider audience through her submission. Made from materials such as glass, basalt and greenstone, the vibrant stone cutting tools resemble precious jewellery, which Currey-Billyard conveys through her vibrant artwork. [caption id="attachment_632106" align="alignnone" width="1620"] Katje Ford.[/caption] REAL MYTH BY CAPTAIN PIPE Perhaps the most lively of all the hoarding designs selected for the initial creative hoardings project, Neil McCann, aka Captain Pipe, wanted to create something that passers-by simply wouldn't be able to ignore. Inspired by the eccentric works of 15th-century Dutch painter Hieronymus Bosch, Real Myth illustrates a scene that could be the party to end all parties. In addition, McCann's design considers the stories we tell ourselves and how artworks can have "co-created" meanings depending on your life's perspective. Putting his work on a scale that's made it virtually unmissable by anyone who comes near, McCann was proud to have such a towering and colourful work take over the city streets. POLY UBIQUITOUS BY CYNTHIA SCHWERTSIK Disturbed by the amount of plastic pollution taking over the environment today, Adelaide-based artist Cynthia Schwertsik decided to reimagine plastic bags with a slightly more positive connotation. It's easy to miss at first, but Poly Ubiquitous doesn't just display a bright and mysterious creation, but images of colourful plastic bags submerged underwater. On her artwork, Schwertsik explains, "I started to collect plastic bags and treat them as if they were precious. These bright, artificial colours were the entrance to an ambiguous appreciation for the material that is supposed to be useful." [caption id="attachment_632104" align="alignnone" width="1620"] Katje Ford.[/caption] OBSTACLE COURSE BY ELLIOTT BRYCE FOULKES Sydney native, art director and designer Elliot Bryce Foulkes has long been basing his bold creations around the use of typography, language, graphics and space. For his chosen Site Works hoarding, titled Obstacle Course, Foulkes delved into his knowledge of Sydney to develop an imaginative reinterpretation of ongoing building projects and future Sydney architectural landmarks. Exploring the concepts of design, art direction and identity through his creative practice, here, Obstacle Course depicts an artistic look at individuals searching the streets of Sydney and uncovering the many interesting shapes and designs that make up the urban environment. Keen to see your own art on a large scale? Answer the City of Sydney's call for artists to get a chance to be part of the initiative.
There are some things that remain universal truths in the realm of television: Early episodes of The Simpsons are much better than the later, 'The Contest' and 'The Soup Nazi' are hands down the greatest things to happen on Seinfeld, and Breaking Bad is the best thing that's been on TV in recent years. Though these claims usually land you in nerdy arguments over a pint of beer, they can now be statistically proven due to the help of one glorious person with too much time on their hands. Graph TV is an easy-to-use website made by Kevin Wu, data analyst extraordinaire, that charts the rating of every episode of every TV series rated on IMDb. Let's just take a second to compute that information. You can type in the name of any show and find out which is the best and worst episode, how the series tracked as it went on, and when it officially should have called it quits. The future is here, and it's incredibly nerdy. Wu claims he thought of the concept while watching the final episodes of Breaking Bad. "I thought the last half of season five was just amazing, and wondered if people thought the same,” he said. After a quick look at the chart, it's easy to tell the majority of people agreed with him. Yeah, science! Obviously, the ratings system is still incredibly subjective. It's just a collection of opinions after all. But if democracy has taught us anything it's that there's strength in numbers, and when nearly 2000 people vote to say that racist episode of How I've Met Your Mother was the worst thing to happen in the entire show, I'm inclined to believe them. The numbers get more convincing when you move to bigger shows like The Simpsons. Showing a gradual but steady decline in viewer ratings over the show's long run, your argument at the pub can finally be put to rest. The highest rating episodes are all old classics from seasons 4-8. The lowest rating, however, is not the horrible compilation shows they tacked together for the offseason, but the cameo of Lady Gaga in season 23. Ouch, that's gotta hurt. Via Wired.
Melbourne is a sucker for a good high tea, especially in winter when we'd rather be inside eating finger sandwiches than outside freezing to death. Throw in the Werribee Mansion and you've got one awfully elegant Sunday afternoon. If High Tea is your thing, The Refectory at Werribee Park has got you covered this winter. They're running a luxe high tea series on select Sundays throughout July and August. [caption id="attachment_791807" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Bob T via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] The menu is being handled by Bursaria Fine Foods, the same award-winning team that services the Abbotsford Convent, so expect the usual cakes, pastries, smoked salmon, muffins, crustless sandwiches and enough Earl Grey to sink a battleship. The cost is $75 for adults and $50 for kids under ten. You can book online over here. Got your diary out? There are only three dates remaining. You can pick from Sunday, July 9, Sunday, July 30, or Sunday, August 13. We'd advise snapping up your seat quick-smart. Images: Supplied
Australia's capital cities aren't the only places filled with music fans. That's one of the ideas behind Groovin the Moo, which rounds up a heap of huge names and takes them on the road to play regional locations. And, in 2023, those acts are indeed big — Fatboy Slim, Denzel Curry, Eliza Rose and Skepta-level big. They're four of the music stars on the just-announced lineup for the beloved large-scale touring music fest, which returns in 2023 after a pandemic-enforced break, then a smaller tour in 2022. This year, it's back with a full nationwide run, heading to six different states and territories across April and May. Along the way, it'll finally mark a comeback in Western Australia, South Australia and Queensland — and hit up New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory and Victoria as well. [caption id="attachment_878696" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Carlos Luna / Secretaría de Cultura CDMX[/caption] Also on the bill: everyone from Amy Shark, Ball Park Music and Barkaa through to Alt-J, Ocean Alley and Omar Apollo — plus Slayyyter and Sophie May as well. The full lineup spans an impressive mix of overseas and local talent, including Laurel and BBNO$ among the acts making the trip. The list goes on, meaning that folks in Wayville, Maitland, Canberra, Bendigo, the Sunshine Coast and Bunbury — or heading to them just for GTM — have plenty to look forward to. And yes, Queenslanders will note the already-revealed new Sunshine Coast location, after logistical challenges and increased financial pressures forced a move from Townsville. Already grabbing your gumboots? Getting ready to dance in a paddock to one helluva bill? Then you'll be keen to nab tickets from 12pm local time on Tuesday, February 7. And, GTM still has a few details to drop, such as the triple j Unearthed, Fresh Produce artists and Community programs. GROOVIN THE MOO 2023 LINEUP: Alt-J Amy Shark Ball Park Music Barkaa BBNO$ The Chats Choomba Confidence Man Denzel Curry Eliza Rose Fatboy Slim Laurel Luude Ocean Alley Omar Apollo Royel Otis Skegss Skepta Slayyyter Slowly Slowly Sophie May Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers Teenage Dads Teenage Joans Hosts: Lex and Pookie Plus triple j Unearthed, Fresh Produce artists and Community programs still to be announced. GROOVIN THE MOO 2023 DATES AND VENUES: Friday, April 21 — Adelaide Showground, Kaurna Country, Wayville, SA Saturday, April 22 — Maitland Showground, Wonnarua Country, Maitland, NSW Sunday, April 23 — Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC), Ngambri and Ngunnawal Country, Mitchell, ACT Saturday, April 29 — Bendigo's Prince of Wales Showgrounds, Dja Dja Wurrung Country, Bendigo, VIC Sunday, April 30 — Kawana Sports Western Precinct, Kabi Kabi and Jinibara Country, Warana, QLD Saturday, May 6 — Hay Park, Wardandi Noongar Country, Bunbury, WA Groovin the Moo will tour Australia in April and May 2023. For more information, or for tickets from 12pm local time on Tuesday, February 7, head to the festival's website. Top images: Ruby Boyland, Ash Caygill and Chloe Hall.
Beach vibes. Hot pizzas. And ice-cold jugs of Aperol Spritz. It may be giving Positano, but we're not talking about a summer on the Italian Riviera. Instead, Aperol is bringing something similar a little closer to home with an inspiring Sunshine State road trip. Inspired by the best offerings of the Amalfi Coast, the Aperol Queensland Kombi Tour will travel along the east coast of Australia — starting in Airlie Beach and ending in Port Douglas — bringing all the trimmings of a mid-year European escape with it. Want to get on board? While you may not personally be able to hop onto the Kombi van yourself (that spot's reserved for the rooftop DJ), you can certainly create your own road trip to chase the sun and enjoy an Aperol Spritz in the process. To get you started, prep your playlists, nominate a designated driver and drop the following suggestions into Google Maps. NOOSA Home to one of only two everglade systems on earth, the natural beauty of Noosa can be found 90 minutes north of Brisbane via the Bruce Highway. It's a location that feels far enough to count as a road trip, without the need to fork over half your week's rent to fill the tank to get there. There are a couple of things you need to know about Noosa. Number one: it's packed with excellent options for outdoor activities, like surfing, dolphin spotting, swimming in secluded beach spots or simply exploring the aforementioned everglades. And two: its iconic Main Beach is packed with places serving up perfectly made Aperol Spritzes just steps away from the sand. On that note, our suggestions are to check out Locale Noosa and Miss Moneypenny's. The former is a refined Italian restaurant on Hastings Street that does an excellent Calamarata pasta with Fremantle octopus, black olive, leek cream and fried capers. Meanwhile, the latter delivers high-end dining, including a seven-course degustation. [caption id="attachment_907330" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Steve Davison via Unsplash[/caption] TOWNSVILLE Being blessed with year-round sunny weather means outdoor activities — such as beach parties, barbecues and day trips to balmy Magnetic Island — are popular pastimes in Townsville, practically any time you visit. Ditto al fresco dining, with some of the best options in town including The Ville and Rockpool Pavilion. Part resort, part casino and part restaurant, The Ville is an excellent destination to tackle the trifecta of relaxation, roulette and revelry (including a refreshing Aperol Spritz or two). Rockpool, on the other hand, is all about enjoying a meal that fuses old-school coastal charm with a modern style. AIRLIE BEACH Work your way up to the Whitsundays and book a couple of days at Airlie Beach — generally considered the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. While its close proximity to one of the seven natural wonders of the world makes the options for outdoor ventures fairly obvious — snorkelling, island hopping, helicopter riding over the ocean, oh my — more obscure (though no less interesting) suggestions include exploring Airlie's social scene. If you're keen to extend your stay at Airlie Beach, Coral Sea Marina Resort is our suggestion, with the 76-room boutique hotel offering a wide range of accommodations alongside some brilliant in-house dining venues. Similarly, Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill is an excellent option if your long-weekend requirements include a place to play and stay. Insider hack: plan your stay for either of the first two weekends in July to coincide with the Aperol Kombi pit stop five, and enjoy the vintage van serving up icy Aperol specials (like rosemary-infused Rosy Cheeks) on Friday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons at Northerlies. CAIRNS A pit stop at Cairns comes highly recommended if you want your itinerary to include swimming in natural pools below gushing waterfalls, hiking through lush rainforests and white water rafting down steep ravines and raging rapids. Cairns is also home to some of the best places to dine and drink in Tropical North Queensland. The breezy, bustling beachfront Villa Romana is our pick for all-day, Italian-inspired fare. Standouts include the live black mussels served Sicilian-style, with cherry tomatoes, chilli, garlic white wine and charred ciabatta. The nearby Salt House serves up fresh, local and seasonal produce that perfectly pairs with amazing cocktails. And, although the Salt House never fails to deliver on the drinks front, come late July a visit by the Aperol Kombi Van will elevate the experience by way of an exclusive pop-up Aperol Lawn Bar. While the relaxing day beds and ocean views will still be on offer, they'll now include a side of funky DJ tunes. The van will then hang around for another week, making an appearance at the Food & Wine Festival '23 - Salt House Cairns, on Saturday, August 5. PORT DOUGLAS This palm-fringed, 3500-person town 70 kilometres north of Cairns makes it easier than you could ever imagine to access iconic World Heritage-listed marvels, specifically the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. However, it is also an excellent option if you're keen to sink your teeth into some world-class watering holes, such as the Court House Hotel and La Cucina. The Court House Hotel (AKA The Courty) is the oldest pub in town, so we're going to guess it knows a thing or two to keep customers coming back. Add it to your itinerary, if your road-trip non-negotiables include old-school pub grub that focuses on fresh, local produce. If, on the other hand, you really can't get a trip to Milan out of your mind, head to La Cucina. While the eatery may be a million miles away from The City of Love, its Italian-inspired menu and classy cocktails bar (including an excellent Aperol Spritz) make it our pick for those who want to experience la dolce vita, minus the long-haul flight. Keen to follow the Aperol Kombi Tour? Invite your friends, load up your own car and come along for the ride. For further details, visit the website.
It's the smash-hit musical that tells the tale behind The Wizard of Oz's witches. It's been a stage sensation for more than 20 years. From later in 2024, it's even getting the big-screen treatment. That'd be Wicked, of course — and, at the Regent Theatre, it's playing Melbourne right now. Even better: you can see it for the bank balance-friendly price of $45. TodayTix is doing another of its ticket lotteries. When a big musical heads to the Victorian capital, there are often two reasons to get excited: the fact that the particular stage show is reaching the city's stages, and possibly getting to catch it without defying your budget. Around the country, that cheap option has spanned everything from Hamilton and Moulin Rouge! to Mary Poppins and Tina — The Tina Turner Musical in recent years — and now for Melburnians, it's Wicked's turn. This is an enchanted opportunity to enjoy the show at a discount, with tickets costing just $45. To take part in the lottery, you will need to download the TodayTix app — which is available for iOS and Android — and submit your entry each week for the next week's performances. The lottery will go live at 12.01am AEST every Thursday morning, and is already up and running for its first week. Then, the winners are drawn after 1pm on the following Wednesday. If your name is selected, you'll have an hour to claim your tickets from when you receive the good news. If you need a reminder, you can also sign up for lottery alerts via TodayTix, too. Opening in Melbourne back in early March, and set to play until at least Sunday, June 30, Wicked is back in Australia two decades after composer Stephen Schwartz and playwright Winnie Holzman initially took a book that gleaned its influences from The Wizard of Oz, put it to music and turned it into one of Broadway's biggest hits of the 21st century. Even if you haven't seen the blockbuster show before, including on its past Aussie run from 2008–11, then you've likely heard of it. Following the Land of Oz's witches — telling their untold true tale is the musical's whole angle, in fact — Wicked has notched up more awards than you can fit in a hefty cauldron over the years. That includes three Tonys from ten nominations, a Grammy, an Olivier Award and six Drama Desk Awards. Story-wise, Wicked starts before The Wizard of Oz and continues its narrative after Dorothy Gale lands, adapting Gregory Maguire's 1995 novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West. The text itself has sold 5.5-million copies, including five million since the musical first opened. Here, before Dorothy blows in, two other women meet in the Land of Oz: Elphaba and Galinda. One will later be known as the Wicked Witch of the West, while the other will become Glinda the Good Witch. Exactly why that happens, and how, and the pair's relationship from rivals to unlikely friends to grappling with their new labels, fuels the show's tale. Wicked's Melbourne season is currently playing Regent Theatre, 191 Collins Street, Melbourne until Sunday, June 30, 2024. To enter the TodayTix $45 lottery, download the company's iOS or Android app, and head to the company's website for more information — and to set up an alert. Images: Jeff Busby.
One day, glowing plants might provide enough energy to light up entire buildings. At least, that's the hope of Antony Evans, Kyle Taylor and Omri Amirav-Drory. They have the science to justify it, and the support behind their Kickstarter campaign to attempt its realisation. Their plan has been made possible by developments in synthetic biology over the past 30 or so years. Back in 1986, scientists cultivated the very first radiant seeds but discovered that their effectiveness required the addition of luciferin (the pigment that illuminates fireflies). Three years later, the luciferase-luciferin gene was sequenced. However, it wasn't until 2010 that researchers at the State University of New York managed to add the gene to plants, giving them a dim glow. Around the same time, on the other side of the Atlantic, the University of Cambridge's iGem team was recycling luciferase to create bacteria that beamed with the ferocity of Kryptonite. Fast-forward three years, and the aforementioned trio of scientific talents is building on these developments to hatch a plan that has the dramatic reduction of CO2 at its heart. They've already raised the $65,000 necessary to achieving their initial aim — the cultivation of Arabidopsis plants. Now, they're on the cusp of reaching their first stretch goal — $400,000, which will enable the development of glowing roses. So far, 6,981 backers have committed funds, to the tune of $395,135. Supporters who pledge $40 or more are promised a batch of seeds, meaning they'll be able to grow their own glowing plants at home. $150 or more buys a bioluminescent rose. The project has received the backing of some of the highest fliers in the fields of Genetics, Biotechnology and Biochemistry, including George Church (Head of Genetics at Harvard Medical School), Andrew Hessel (Autodesk Distinguished Research Fellow) and Austen Heinz (Founder of Cambrian Genomics). [Via Inhabitat]
Folks, there's a flashy newcomer set to join Melbourne's food and drink scene in a matter of weeks, and it promises to take things to a whole new level — quite literally. Announced in December last year, the much-anticipated Sky Bar has revealed it'll officially launch on Thursday, June 30, finally welcoming guests into its show-stopping space perched 139 metres above Southbank. (For those playing along at home, that's slightly under where Vue de Monde sits up on the 55th floor of the Rialto.) Five years in the making, the game-changing venue will crown the new Oakwood Premier Melbourne building, with a five-star restaurant, lounge bar and private dining spread across its top two floors. [caption id="attachment_856212" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Render[/caption] Whiz on skyward in the lift to Level 40 and you'll find yourself in a grand foyer boasting views for days and with an immersive video projection artwork enveloping the floors and mirrored walls. The adjacent Sky Bar Lounge has space for 70, offering more sensational vistas from its seven-meter-tall windows and dedicated terrace. With an impressive stone bar taking pride of place, this sky-high haunt is set to sling a sophisticated offering of cocktails, vino, local craft beer and upscale snacks — including Kobe veal sliders and foie gras macarons. On the same floor, 60-seat restaurant Strato will be dishing up what's set to be one of Melbourne's most elevated dining experiences. The seasonal modern Australian menu is built around five elements — the atmosphere (air), the hydrosphere (water), the cryosphere (ice and permafrost), the lithosphere (earth's upper rocky layer) and the biosphere (living things). To that end, expect plenty of theatre to accompany a meal up here in the clouds; think, vapours, embers, nitrogen and even the odd spot of levitation. The menu's set to feature plates like grain-fed beef tartare, a salt and pepper macaron paired with scampi caviar, venison black pudding croquettes and a kingfish ceviche with heirloom tomato crust, along with a daily-changing caviar offering. Venture to the mezzanine above and you'll find a sumptuous VIP private dining space, complete with its own bar and more dazzling views. Celebrated bartender Charlie Ainsbury (This Must Be the Place, Proof & Company) has helmed a fittingly lofty venue-wide cocktail program, where the old world meets the new, and rare spirits and uncommon ingredients are brought to the forefront. Expect drops like a lychee martini misted with rosewater, a Davidson plum-infused bellini and a riff on the negroni garnished with blood plum. The rest of the drinks offering promises a hefty range of pouring wines from near and far, and a local-leaning beer list that includes a signature Sky Bar creation. And in case you were wondering, yes: boozy brunch is set to be a regular weekend occurrence up here, as is a high tea featuring homemade scones, petit fours and champagne. Find Sky Bar Melbourne at Level 41 & 42, 202 Normanby Street, Southbank, from Thursday, June 30. Opening hours to come. UPDATE: Since opening in July 2022, the sky-high venues at 202 Normanby Street, Southbank, have been rebranded as one all-encompassing bar and eatery named Strato Melbourne. Find out more at the website.
Outdoor cinema season has descended upon us once again. With Malteser's Moonlight Cinema in the Botanic Gardens, Ben & Jerry's OpenAir on the St Kilda Foreshore, and Rooftop Cinema hitting up the city skyline, the average movie-goer is spoilt for choice. But what if you're not so into the big hits? Do you have no interest in the latest Richard Curtis film? Are you already bored with the idea of seeing Sandra Bullock in space? Speakeasy might have just the thing for you. Though Rooftop Cinema has already launched for the year with The Great Gatsby on December 4, their separate program presented by Speakeasy Cinema is about to kick off this Tuesday, December 10. Known for being the cheeky underdog of the local film scene, Speakeasy will be taking over the Tuesday slots at Rooftop for the next month or so with six select screenings of indie hits. These include Lena Dunham's pre-Girls breakaway flick Tiny Furniture, Noah Baumbach's goofy coming of age story Frances Ha, and the controversial documentary about animals in captivity, Blackfish. For a full program with tickets and times, check out the Speakeasy website.
This may just be the most exciting part of the entire Midsumma festival. It's pretty distant from the art or the theatre or the important discussion-type events but it is an entire bar devoted to all things Kylie Minogue. It's going to be glitzy and kitsch and fabulous. Open for just four days in the middle of January this special bar, housed in The 86 on Smith Street, has a jam-packed lineup prepared for Kylie-lovers young and old. Wednesday, January 15 will kick off the festivities with free Gelato Messina from 6pm, special $10 Kylie Kocktails and a top secret act yet to be announced (everyone surely has their fingers crossed for the diva herself!); Thursday will bring with it a lip-synching competition; Friday night will host an entire ball devoted to Ms Minogue, and Saturday will be 'Kylie Nation' — an elaborate dance party featuring Brendan Maclean, Millie Minogue and a stage full of drag superstars. Already, it's being hailed as a place for "screaming queens, queers, butch bears, bis, femmes and confused straights," or in other words, the average Kylie fan. This show was one of our top picks for Midsumma 2014, see our full list here.
Huge news: Crown Street could soon be home to Australia's first ultra-exclusive Soho House Club, according to a report by the Australian Financial Review. The global private members club was originally set to open on Domain Road in Melbourne's South Yarra, but developers were forced to ditch plans at the direction of VCAT in late October, after strong opposition from local councils and a residents' group. Trenerry Property Group and Kanat Group will lead the transformation of the $20 million, three-storey space at 256 Crown Street in Darlinghurst. Plans for the 512-square-metre site are scarce at the moment, but we'll bring you more information as it drops. Soho House first opened in London in 1995 as a private members' club for clientele in the creative sphere. They've since opened over a dozen clubs across Europe and North America, as well as restaurants, cinemas, workspaces, spas and bedrooms. From New York to Istanbul, exclusivity is a common global denominator. We'll bring you more information as it becomes available. Top image: Jason Briscoe, Unsplashed
Future Music have popped the line-up piñata, revealing what they promised would be their "biggest festival lineup yet". 2013's Day of the Dead-Set Awesome will be headlined by English electronic dance commanders The Prodigy, grime MC Dizzee Rascal, indie rockers Bloc Party and reformed rockers The Stone Roses, making it more of a Brit-fest than a Mexican one. Other exciting acts joining the bill include Harlem femcee Azealia Banks, Rita Ora, electro house mainstay Steve Aoki and our own The Temper Trap. Having set the standard with 2012's hefty bill, the Future Music organisers have really confirmed the festival's pulling power this time around. And PSY will also be there, just in case you feel like contracting a South Korean virus without actually paying for a ticket to his own upcoming show. Future Music Festival 2013 dates: Brisbane – Saturday March 2Perth – Sunday March 3Sydney – Saturday March 9Melbourne – Sunday March 10Adelaide – Monday March 11 https://youtube.com/watch?v=i3Jv9fNPjgk
It's Easter. Time to stuff yourself with baby animal-shaped chocolates and cross-covered baked goods while feeling absolutely zero shame. To help you make the most of it, here are the best holiday treats making up your Easter hunt this year — from hot cross doughnuts to handmade chocolate eggs and Easter gelato. HOT CROSS BUN DOUGHNUT AT DOUGHBOYS DOUGHNUTS You can always count on Doughboys Doughnuts to drop epic dough-y delights to suit the season. These hot cross bun doughnuts are packed with mixed spices and dried fruits and finished with an injection of apricot jam. The shop is already slinging these doughies from its Bourke Street store and they're as sticky and indulgent as ever — form an orderly queue. [caption id="attachment_661703" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Holly Engelhardt[/caption] HOT CROSS BUN GELATO AT PICCOLINA GELATERIA Summer might be over, but we're of the school that it's always gelato weather. If you're more interested in licking your Easter treats than chewing them, Piccolina Gelateria's limited edition hot cross bun gelato will be right up your alley. The creamy gelato is layered with crunchy hot cross bun croutons, which are baked in-house. This year, Piccolina has also created a limited-edition Golden Egg gelato cake for $28. A dulce de leche-filled golden egg sits atop a salted caramel gelato base that's been layered with chocolate butter biscuit and a dark chocolate nest. Both desserts are available in store at all three Piccolina locations (Collingwood, Hawthorn, and St. Kilda), and online until Sunday, April 21. MULLED WINE HOT CROSS BUNS AT GONTRAN CHERRIER French baker and pastry chef Gontran Cherrier is bringing an extra special treat to Melburnians this year: his mulled wine hot cross buns. Meant to remind you of France's traditional vin chaud, the buns combine all the essentials in a mulled wine recipe — including the spices, cinnamon, raisins and candied orange peel — but leaves out the wine bit. It's available now at all three boulangerie locations (Richmond, Collingwood and Hawthorn). EASTER CAKES AT LUXBITE Already overdosed on chocolate eggs and it's not even Easter yet? LuxBite is the place to look for sweet treats of a different variety. This patisserie is known for its crazy flavour combinations and Easter is no different. Owners Bernard Chu and Yen Yee have whipped up these cute little creations, including The Chick (white chocolate sponge with mango and passion fruit mousse, coconut panna cotta and pineapple compote) and the Easter Bunny (baked cheesecake with strawberry mousse and a chocolate chip cookie base). They're $10 each and are only single serve, so don't plan on sharing. To get your paws on these treats, hop along to the South Yarra or CBD store, or order online. TRIPLE CHOCOLATE HOT X BUNS AT MÖRK Normally we'd be more inclined to stick to traditional fruit hot cross buns, but we'd be absolutely bonkers to turn down one of Mörk's more adventurous versions. These triple chocolate bad boys (pictured here straight from the oven) are made on a chocolate bread base, studded with Madagascan chocolate pieces, candied orange and sour cherries and are amped up with a soft chocolate ganache centre. Get yours at the North Melbourne store or order them here. Pick up a six-pack of Mörk's lavish chocolate eggs ($32) while you're at it — they're available in flavours like macadamia and native herbs, raspberry and juniper sherbet and smoked salt and almond praline. THE EASTER BOMBE AT STOKEHOUSE Beachside restaurant Stokehouse has been re-imagining its signature dessert The Bombe for Easter for a few years now, but this sounds like its best version yet. Pastry chef Lauren Eldridge has used the traditional flavours of Easter to make the dessert: a dome of chocolate parfait sitting atop mandarin sorbet and covered with toasted meringue and fresh raspberries. This twist on a cult favourite — the Bombe Alaska — is available for $21 at the St Kilda restaurant from April 15–24, including during Easter Sunday lunch. roy. VEGAN HOT CROSS BUNS AT SMITH & DELI Easter hasn't always been a fun time for treat-seeking vegans, but since the arrival of plant-based lifesaver Smith & Deli, it's now a whole lot easier to experience the joy of tucking into a hot cross bun. These beauties are already on sale and will be flying from the oven for the entire month of April — but they'll likely sell out fast, so get down to the Fitzroy store in the early hours or miss out for the day. EASTER DREAM EGGS BY TREAT DREAMS While you're at Smith & Deli snacking on your bun, make sure you pick up another vegan Easter treat from the deli. Treat Dreams has been creating decadent sweets since 2015 and the entire range of chocolates and tarts is cruelty-free. The classic Dream Eggs, with gooey creme filling, are available all year round. But you'll want to get your hands on the limited edition Easter flavours —this year, these are passion fruit, cherry coconut and orange cream. Encased in a shell made using fair trade European couverture chocolate, these eggs are the definition of naughty-but-nice. You can also pick these goodies up from Prahran Convenience and The Cruelty Free Shop in Fitzroy. HOT CROSS DOUGHNUTS AT SHORTSTOP These rings of spiced, doughy goodness are the Easter creations from the ever-baking doughnuteers at Shortstop Coffee and Donuts. Brandy-soaked dried fruit is mixed through a sweet and spiced yeast-raised dough, before being fried, dunked in a honey glaze and striped with a cinnamon sugar cross. You can pick one up at its CBD store or pre-order online up until Easter Monday. They'll set you back $5.50 each or $30 for six. If that's not an Easter miracle, what is? INBETWEEN EGGS AT KOKO BLACK Melbourne's premium chocolate shop Koko Black is ringing in the Easter season with its limited-edition bunnies, eggs and pralines. Head chocolatier Remco Brigou is bringing back his ever-popular Inbetween Eggs — a grown-up selection of big eggs that combine toasty, salty, crispy and creamy elements. This year, the flavours of the $22 eggs includes salty cashew brittle, cookies and cream, caramelised coconut flecks and passion fruit. The full range is available in-store and online straight through the season. Check out all the Melbourne locations here.
The masters of Argentinean food in Melbourne (that would be the good people behind San Telmo) are now branching out into Peruvian cuisine with their new restaurant, Pastuso. The restaurant will specialise in three areas of Peruvian food and drink culture to reflect different areas of the South American country. The Cevicheria represents coastal areas of Peru with delicate fresh seafood dishes. The Grill, where meats will be smoked and turned on the rotisserie, is more focused on traditional cooking methods and flavours favoured by those in the mountainous Andes. Finally, there is the Pisco bar, where the Latin-inspired drink menu will be much like the jungle of Peru — bursting with energy and excitement. (For those of you yet to try, pisco is a grape brandy distilled in copper pots, and is well worth a dabble.) An ambassador for Peruvian cuisine in Australia, head chef Alejandro Saravia will be ruling the roost here. He originally hails from Peru, but his career has lead him to work all over the world, including the Fat Duck (London), Les Ambassadeurs (Paris) and at many well-known Sydney establishments, most notably Morena in Surry Hills, which he opened in 2011. Saravia’s approach to Peruvian cuisine is described as “rustic with delicate and well-balanced flavours” as he makes traditional food from his home accessible and exciting to international audiences. The establishment is located on AC/DC Lane in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD. The Pisco bar opens out onto the laneway, where most of the dining will take place inside. There is a dining room, mezzanine and private function rooms for guests, and both the Cevicheria and the Grill are open kitchens so patrons can look on as their food is being prepared. The walls are adorned with traditional chicha posters — vibrant street art commonly found in Peru. So what is a Pastuso? It actually takes its name from Paddington Bear, which was originally an orphan bear from Lima who was eventually sent to England. Who knew? The story resonated with owners Dave and Micky Parker and Jason and Renee McConnell, in terms of how Peruvian food has adapted to international audiences and how it is received. Nawwwww. For now Pastuso is enjoying a soft opening and only serving dinner, but they will be open for full service as of Monday, July 28. Pastuso will be open seven days a week and licensed until 1am, which is time enough to sample plenty of pisco, as well as drops from the South American-focused wine list. Check it out at 19 AC/DC Lane.
It has been a busy year for Russian incompetence, on-screen at least. After Chernobyl so blisteringly explored 1986's devastating nuclear reactor explosion and its widespread fallout, Kursk jumps forward to 2000's submarine disaster, where 118 sailors lost their lives during the sinking of a nuclear-powered vessel. The arrival of both the HBO mini-series and now this film in such short succession is a clear sign of the times — as Russia's influence, especially of the covert kind, continues to loom over world affairs, interrogating the country's high-profile misfortunes is hardly an unexpected trend. Today's filmmakers can't force certain parties in power to take Russian election meddling seriously, but they can examine how the world's largest nation by area has dealt with its own catastrophes. Kursk, like Chernobyl, doesn't provide a flattering portrait. In August 2000, as part of the first major Russian naval exercise since the fall of the Soviet Union, Oscar-class K-141 submarine Kursk descended into the ocean's depths. Although it was merely participating in training, it carried live combat weapons, including practice torpedoes — and when one exploded onboard, it set off a chain reaction that would strand the vessel at the bottom of the Barents Sea. Those who survived the initial blast were stuck waiting. First, they waited for Russian authorities to realise what had happened, which took hours. Then, as water seeped in, and supplies and oxygen dwindled, they bided their time as repeated rescue efforts floundered. Ever-protective of their military technology, and just as determined to assert that they could take care of the problem themselves, the Russian Navy even refused international assistance, making the trapped men wait longer still. That's how Thomas Vinterberg tells the tale of the Kursk, with the Danish filmmaker teaming up with Saving Private Ryan screenwriter Robert Rodat to adapt Robert Moore's non-fiction book A Time to Die. For the sake of heightened drama, some facts and timelines have been massaged, however the overall premise — that a Russian submarine sank, the country was poorly equipped to handle it and people paid with their lives — remains. So too does the notion of a nation more concerned with perception than its population; one in which citizens are expected to prove their unflinching patriotism by paying the ultimate price, but where the government won't dare risk its reputation to save them in return. Understandably, this damning truth lingers over every moment of Kursk, making an already sombre story even more so. Indeed, it's as evident on-screen as the grey colour scheme, the oppressive pressure felt in the movie's submarine scenes, and the use of different aspect ratios to send an emotional message. While he's working with a budget far beyond anything he might've dreamed of, or wanted, back when he co-founded the fiercely independent Dogme 95 cinema movement with Lars von Trier, Vinterberg is in comfortable thematic territory. Boasting a resume littered with moral quandaries, including the recent The Hunt and Far from the Madding Crowd, the writer-director has always been a keen observer of folks in a bind. That's what captain-lieutenant Mikhail Averin (Matthias Schoenaerts) and his men find themselves in, to put it mildly, as the clock ticks down and the end we all know is coming inches closer. Meanwhile, Mikhail's wife Tanya (Léa Seydoux) fights for both action and answers back above sea level, numerous admirals (Max von Sydow and Peter Simonischek, primarily) either toe or flout the government line, and offers of British help by Commodore David Russell (Colin Firth) keep falling on stubborn ears. Kursk doesn't spend enough time with any one person to be called a character study, and its broad scope necessitates more than a few shortcuts and cliches. When the movie opens with the sound of gasping breaths, only to show Mikhail timing how long his pre-teen son Misha (Artemiy Spiridonov) can stay underwater in the bathtub, it's an obvious move, for example. Still, in serving up an overview of the disaster's affected parties, and cycling between them as they endeavour to weather the horrific situation, Vinterberg's film is never less than compelling and heartbreaking. While his cast helps considerably, especially Schoenaerts and Seydoux, the director paints a powerful picture of tragedy, courage and (on the part of the Russian officials) sheer arrogance. This is a story of sailors scrambling to wade through life-or-death terror, of their loved ones refusing to kowtow to the authorities, and of the conflict bubbling beneath the rescue attempts — and it's as moving and gripping as the real-life scenario and the men lost to it demands.
When late October rolls around in Australia, Monopoly will no longer just be a game: it'll be a theme park as well. Already open in Hong Kong, Monopoly Dreams is heading Down Under, setting up its second Monopoly attraction in Melbourne Central. On the agenda: feeling like you've just stepped into the board game IRL in a 1700-square-metre space filled with all things Monopoly. Expect to hear the word Monopoly a whole lot — right now while reading about this news, and in general at this Monopoly haven. Monopoly Dreams launching in the Victorian capital isn't a new development, but the official opening date is. If you're keen, mark Saturday, October 21 in your diary. Also, you can start buying tickets now, too. It's the game that's caused many a childhood dispute, and plenty more between adults as well. Thanks to its ever-growing range of themed versions, it has let players buy everything from Game of Thrones' King's Landing to AFC Richmond's Nelson Road Stadium from Ted Lasso. And, it's now going the IRL bricks-and-mortar route on Melbourne Central's lower ground level. If you're wondering what a Monopoly theme park entails, that's hardly surprising — and the answer isn't just a life-sized version of the game that everyone has played more than once. Rather, the venue is taking a chance on bringing Monopoly elements beyond the board, building a Monopoly city that includes water works, the electric company, the bank and Mr Monopoly's mansion. And yes, there's a jail. Presumably you don't go directly there upon entering, but you can get your mugshot taken within its walls. When you walk through the doors, you'll also find carnival games. It wouldn't be a theme park based on a board game if playing games wasn't a big part of the attraction, of course. Expect challenges as well — and, in the mansion, there'll also be a vault and gallery, alongside a 4D cinema screening a movie about Mr Monopoly and his dog Scottie touring Melbourne locations — plus the opportunity to create your own customised Monopoly title deed. [caption id="attachment_918250" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tony Gough[/caption] For bites to eat, patrons can hit up the Monopoly cafe. And if all this Monopoly talk has you wanting to play Monopoly or buy Monopoly merchandise, Monopoly Dreams will also feature Australia's first and only dedicated Monopoly store. Catering for audiences of all ages — so, you'll have kids for company, but it's open for adults without children in tow — Monopoly Dreams will take visitors around 60–90 minutes to enjoy the full experience. "Our team has worked tirelessly to create an immersive experience that captures the essence of Monopoly and transports guests into a magical world of excitement and imagination," said Monopoly Dreams General Manager Mark Connolly. "We are thrilled to announce that tickets are now available, giving fans the opportunity to be a part of this extraordinary adventure." Monopoly Dreams will open on Saturday, October 21 at Melbourne Central, Lonsdale Street, Melbourne. Head to the venue's website for tickets and further details. Top image: Tony Gough.
An undisputed rising star of the Australian comedy scene, Becky Lucas is one of the must-watch young acts at the festival this year, with a resume most comics would kill for. She's written for Josh Thomas' Please Like Me and Matt Okine's upcoming show on Stan, and opened for the likes of Wil Anderson, Joel Creasey and Jim Norton. (She's also one of the funniest people on Twitter, for what it's worth.) Her new Melbourne International Comedy Festival show Little Bitch is about, amongst other things, drunk emailing, sharehouse living and sex while wearing a backpack. Who can't relate to at least one of those things?
Throw on your winter coat and head out into the night as Glow Winter Arts Festival returns to Melbourne's southeast for a luminous 2022 edition. Hosted by the City of Stonnington over fourteen nights, the free after-dark arts fest celebrates the best that local creatives have to offer, with plenty of dazzling light projections to tempt you off the couch. And this year, it'll be spread across two main precincts, descending on Prahran Square from Friday, June 3–Sunday, June 12, before hitting Malvern East's Central Park from Thursday, June 16–Sunday, June 19. Working to the theme 'Metamorphosis', the festival first lights up Prahran Square with intricate new work Now Breathe, by Resolution X collaborators Jamie Russell, David Bartholomeusz and Kait Hall. Expect a giant living organism, crafted from a series of light tubes and backed by a calming soundtrack featuring more than 250 different recordings of human breaths. Then, from June 16, Central Park Gardens will come alive nightly with five eye-popping glowing installations from local artists. Take a wander through works like ENESS' renowned Sky Castle, with its interactive colour-changing archways inspired by a rainbow; or the vibrant, ever-morphing Monolith, by Skunk Control. There's also an over-water carpet of tiny glowing flowers (The Overbloom, by Mandylights), an exploration of the concept of immediacy in the form of a vibrant sculpture (Cautionary Note, by Michael Doolan), and a 3D hot air balloon experience by renowned light artist Carla O'Brien (Taking Flight). While you're there, you'll also find food trucks slinging wintry eats and drinks to warm your hands (and stomach). Catch Glow Winter Arts Festival from 6–10pm. [caption id="attachment_855852" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Skunk Control's 'Monolith'.[/caption] Top Images: 'Sky Castle' by ENESS, photographed by Zhu Rui. Glow Winter Arts Festival, supplied.
If you haven't been able to book a trip to Spain this year, this beachside dinner may be a very tasty consolation. Melbourne's Basque-inspired restaurant Sebastian is throwing a paella party by the water to celebrate Spanish Paella Day To mark the occasion on Wednesday, March 27, the Williamstown newcomer is getting into the paella spirit with a special dinner, running from 6pm. Guests will have the chance to see Head Chef Leigh Robbins in action, whipping up a big, communal version of his signature seafood and chistorra (a Basque-style sausage) paella out on the beachfront deck. Individual serves of paella will set you back $25, while shared portions — or portions for a very, very hungry one person — will be going for $36, until there's nothing left in that pan (also called a paella, if you didn't know). And of course, there's no chance of going thirsty on the night — the bar's lineup of top Spanish wines and jugs of sangria are a perfect match, both to the rice dish and to those balmy bay views.
A 19-year-old woman was found unconscious and convulsing at yesterday's Harbourlife festival at 4.40pm. After being assessed by paramedics, she was taken to St Vincent's Hospital where she was later pronounced dead of multiple organ failure. It's believed that drugs played a role in her death. Though an autopsy is yet to be carried out, friends of the deceased teenager have told police she had taken one-and-a-half pills during the day. The coroner will attempt to find out what was in the pills, but police are taking the opportunity to warn people of the general dangers of illegal drugs. "There's little to no quality control in the production," said Inspector Stewart Leggat in a statement this morning. "Quite simply, you don't know what you are getting — seeking a synthetic high could result in a serious injury or death." Of the 5,200 people in attendance yesterday, 78 were arrested for drug offences. Police are urging anyone with information about illegal substances to come forward. "We don't need to know who you are; all we need is the information you have," said Inspector Leggat. "The information you provide could save someone's life." Via NSW Police and SMH. If you have more information contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the online reporting page.
Blue and green should never be seen without a colour in between. Or was that red and green? I can’t remember and judging by the preview image for his bluntly titled upcoming exhibition, New Work, which opens at Foot-us-crazy's Bruce Gallery on Thursday night, neither can local artist Max Lawrence White. I think that’s pink and red I spy right next to each other there too — a middle finger to the rules of artistic practice according to schoolyard rhymes or is White just an adventurous colour blocker, like this donkey? Either way, his three-dimensional canvasses offer an uplifting ode to colour and its ability to invoke an immediate, almost primal response. New Work is White’s second show for 2013, following the also informatively titled Forced Collaboration, which saw White share Dud Space with fellow artist Cheralyn Lim earlier this year. Image credit Max Lawrence White
Following on from a killer season at Sydney Festival in 2014 and 2015 and sold-out shows in London, Edinburgh, Bogota, Auckland, Adelaide and Munich, LIMBO is making its Melbourne debut, taking up residence in the Spiegeltent during Melbourne Festival. With awe-inducing acrobatics, breathtaking manoeuvres and a serve of cheeky cabaret, LIMBO is circus with a grown-up and grungy twist. Presented by Strut & Fret (producers of La Soirée and Cantina), Underbelly Productions and Southbank Centre, LIMBO has all of the danger of — but much more sexiness than — your regular night at Cirque du Soleil. This is circus with grit, set against the funked-up, old-time jazz, oompah, rap and bossa nova of Sxip Shirey's electric live score. Look forward to performances from squirm-inducing fire eater Heather Holliday; "French gravity-defying Chinese pole master, beatboxer and clown" Mikael Bres; and a trio of acrobats whose routine has them hilariously swaying from poles into the audience. This event is one of our top ten picks of the Melbourne Festival. Check out the other nine.
