It's only taken a few short years for the British Film Festival to become a highlight of Australia's busy festival calendar, and their first titles for their fourth year demonstrate why. Fancy seeing this year's Cannes Palme d'Or winner? Or a host of high-profile titles direct from their premieres at the Venice and Toronto film festivals? Or a restored version of the David Bowie-starring sci-fi classic The Man Who Fell to Earth? Well, they're all on the bill. Ken Loach's I, Daniel Blake — which took top honours in Cannes back in May — takes a look at the British welfare system through the filmmaker's usual social realist lens, and ranks among the most highly anticipated of the bunch. It's joined by the high-profile likes of opening night's A United Kingdom and closing night's A Monster Calls. The former tells the true tale of a Botswana prince (Selma's David Oyelowo) who caused a scandal when he married a white Englishwoman (Gone Girl's Rosamund Pike), and is also slated to open the London Film Festival. Directed by The Impossible's Juan Antonio Bayona, A Monster Calls adapts a fantasy novel about a young boy coping with his mother's terminal illness, and features Liam Neeson as the voice of the titular creature. Audiences will also get the chance to see crime-drama Trespass Against Us, which not only stars Michael Fassbender and Brendan Gleeson, but marks the film debut of the Chemical Brothers' long-term visual collaborator Adam Smith. For cinephiles looking for something completely different, rom-com fans can get their fix watching Gemma Arterton and Sam Claflin in Their Finest, from An Education helmer Lone Scherfig. And because all good film fests don't just look forward to future hits but also peer back to the greats of years gone by, this year's British Film Festival has curated a ten-movie tribute to some of the country's enduring cinematic heroes. As well as Bowie proving his out-of-this-world acting abilities, catch Gary Oldman getting his punk on in Sid and Nancy and feast on the epic action adventure that is Highlander. The full program will be released in late September, so expect more ace titles to come. The BBC First British Film Festival tours the country from October 25, screening at Sydney's Palace Verona and Palace Norton Street from October 25 to November 16, Melbourne's Palace Cinema Como, Palace Balwyn, Palace Brighton Bay and The Astor from October 26 to November 16, and Brisbane's Palace Barracks from October 27 to November 16. For more information, visit the festival website.
In this very time, in this very galaxy, someone is usually on a screen somewhere talking about the force. It might've been three years now since a Star Wars movie hit cinemas — 2019's Star Wars: Episode IX — The Rise of Skywalker, to be exact — but Disney+ has been filling the gap with The Mandalorian and The Book of Boba Fett. And if you still need more intergalactic drama in your streaming queue, Obi-Wan Kenobi will soon be here to help. Your new hope for another step into the Star Wars realm, the six-part series hits Disney+ from Friday, May 27, with Ewan McGregor (Halston) once again donning the iconic Jedi master's robes. As both the original Star Wars trilogy and the prequel films showed, however, it's impossible to tell Obi-Wan's story without also stepping into the tale of a certain padawan-turned-sith — and the latest Obi-Wan Kenobi trailer makes that plain in a big way. The fact that Anakin Skywalker-slash-Darth Vader (Hayden Christensen, The Last Man) is a part of the series isn't new news, but it's a key focus of this sneak peek anyway. Initially, Kenobi is reminded about his time training Anakin when he approaches Owen Lars (Joel Edgerton, The Green Knight) about trying to do the same with young Luke. Before the trailer is out, though, the familiar suit and sounds of Darth Vader take centre stage. Disney+ dropped the new sneak peek as part of May the Fourth celebrations. Yes, the force is clearly still with this franchise. It's been 45 years since a little movie called Star Wars — now known as Star Wars: Episode IV — A New Hope — first hit screens, and the George Lucas-created space-opera franchise has been with us ever since, including through prequels, sequels, spinoffs, theme parks and, as of this week, meditation apps. Timeline-wise, Obi-Wan Kenobi is set ten years after Star Wars: Episode III — Revenge of the Sith, and bridges the gap in its namesake's narrative between the prequels and the OG Star Wars flicks. So, that means following the fallout after Anakin's turn to the dark side and reinvention as Darth Vader, and also chronicling the fact that Obi-Wan is now being pursued across the galaxy. Following on from the show's initial teaser back in March, the new trailer another glimpse at the Empire's search for Obi-Wan, and also includes Kumail Nanjiani (Eternals) — who, based on appearances here, could be playing a jedi. Also set to pop up in the series: Bonnie Piesse returning as Beru Lars, plus Moses Ingram (Ambulance), Indira Varma (This Way Up), Rupert Friend (The French Dispatch), O'Shea Jackson Jr (Just Mercy), Sung Kang (Fast and Furious 9), Simone Kessell (1%) and Benny Safdie (Licorice Pizza). Check out the full trailer for Obi-Wan Kenobi below: Obi-Wan Kenobi starts streaming via Disney+ on Friday, May 27. Top image: © 2022 Lucasfilm Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
Scienceworks' new exhibition Beyond Perception takes a look at the unseen: gravitational waves, invisible light, and the sound and aerodynamics that all surround us. While it's technically designed for teenagers, you'll still find it fun if you're into the cool stuff that science Even more adult-friendly is the accompanying Party Beyond event that will happen on Friday, June 22. With Scienceworks open late and the event only open to those over the age of 18, attendees can get a hit of adult science along with their glass of adult drinks (suck it, kids). Food and drinks will be available to purchase, and you won't be mulling over whatever you've just learnt about invisible light in silence — performances by Pillow Pro, Biscotti and Future Fosil will be featured throughout the six exhibition spaces. Plus, DJ Anton Motorik will be spinning everything from Italo-disco to proto-techno between acts. Image: Museums Victoria/Benjamin Healley.
A massive Gandhi exhibition is on its way to Melbourne's Immigration Museum. Curated from more than 1000 photos, over two hours of footage, an hour's worth of film clips and 20 audio recordings, the show focuses on Gandhi's role in leading India to independence, as well as his travels in England and South Africa. At the same time, it's a celebration of Indian diaspora all over the world. One of the reasons the exhibition is heading for Victoria is that the state is home to more people of Indian descent than any other place in Australia. "Mahatma Gandhi was an inspirational leader and I'm thrilled that Victorians will be able to enjoy this incredible exhibition," said Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews, who's in India this week checking out the show. It's been at Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra in Delhi since October 2016. "Victoria is home to Australia's largest Indian population and this exhibition is an important way to acknowledge their cultural heritage and build the cultural understanding of India among the wider Victorian community." You'll have until July to head along. The show is just one of many upcoming events celebrating Victoria's Indian connections, following the release of Victoria's India Strategy: Our Shared Future. The Mahatma Gandhi Exhibition will be at Melbourne's Immigration Museum from April to July, 2018.
Step into the strange and seductive world of Greek cinema as it lights up the screen at Palace Como and The Astor as well as cinemas around the country. Now in its 23rd year, the latest edition of the Greek Film Festival boasts an expectedly eclectic program, ranging from fiction features to documentaries and a couple of Australian productions as well. The festival will begin with an opening night screening of Worlds Apart, a romantic anthology film from writer-director-actor Christopher Papakaliatis co-starring Oscar winner J.K. Simmons. It's one of a number of critically acclaimed contemporary films on the bill, with skewering social satire Chevalier and darkly comic thriller Suntan both deserving of a look. Other highlights including a pair of local productions by Greek-Australian filmmakers, in bold religious drama Sacred Heart and medicinal marijuana documentary A Life of Its Own. There's a lot to see, but find our picks of the five must-see films at this year's Greek Film Festival below. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RfE7zzOXR3A CHEVALIER One of our very favourite films of this year's Melbourne International Film Festival, Chevalier offers of deadpan critique on male insecurity. Directed by Attenberg's Athina Rachel Tsangari, who also co-wrote the screenplay with regular Lanthimos collaborator Efthymis Filippouk, the film is about six men on a yacht as they compete to determine who is "the best in general". How quickly can you solve a Rubik's cube? How good are you at household chores? Everything — and we mean everything — becomes fodder for their ridiculous contest, in a film that is both hilarious and profoundly sad. In addition to sessions at this year's Greek Film Festival, Chevalier is screening in Melbourne at ACMI until October 20. Read our full review here. SUNTAN Where Chevalier offers a cringingly funny look into the middle-aged male psyche, Suntan provides a more sinister view of a similar subject. Makis Papadimitriou stars as Kostis, a doctor who takes a job as a GP on a small Greek island, only to fall hard for a beautiful young tourist. But infatuation soon gives way to misanthropic obsession, as director Argyris Papadimitropoulos leads viewers down a path they may not wish to tread. The sun-soaked cinematography belies the darkness at the heart of this picture, which proves an uncomfortably compelling watch. A LIFE OF ITS OWN As the Australian medical community continues to debate the potential benefits of medicinal marijuana, Greek-Australian journalist and broadcaster Helen Kapalos delves into the controversial subject for herself. Inspired by her encounter with cancer sufferer Dan Haslam, who used cannabis to relieve his excruciating pain, A Life Of Its Own: The Truth About Medical Marijuana explores the social and political factors that shape legislation around the drug, while chronicling groundbreaking research that could make a world of difference. Kapalos will be on hand for public Q&As following screenings in Sydney and Melbourne. SMAC Critically acclaimed in its native Greece, Elias Demetriou's SMAC won the audience awards at both the Athens Outview Film Festival and Cyprus Film Days International Film Festival, and shapes up as essential viewing at this year's GFF. Evangelia Andreadaki stars as Eleni, a middle-aged lesbian woman struggling with a cancer diagnosis. In order to quell her fears of dying alone, Eleni invites a homeless man to live with her, leading to an unlikely friendship. Whatever you do, don't forget to bring a pack of tissues. BENEATH THE OLIVE TREE Inspired by secret journals written by imprisoned female political dissidents during the Greek Civil War between 1946 and 1949, Beneath the Olive Tree is described in the GFF program as "an exposé of courage, ideals, forgiveness, healing, and the important role our past plays in our present and future". Using a mix of archival footage, contemporary interviewers and motion capture animation, young New York-based documentarian Stavroula Toska recounts the remarkable stories of incredible women accused of crimes they didn't commit. The Greek Film Festival will run at Palace Como and The Astor from Wednesday, October 12 until Sunday, October 23. For the full program, visit greekfilmfestival.com.au.
With the rise of the mp3 and the gathering of the cloud, the concept of physically owning your music has gradually begun to disappear. Yet for many music lovers, the tactile nature of analogue media still holds a powerful nostalgia. How else do you explain last year's record-breaking vinyl sales? But while the record may have experienced a bit of a resurgence as of late, what about the humble audio cassette? Well, it turns out there may be a market for that too. Inspired by the success of Record Store Day, Cassette Store Day is a celebration of all things magnetic tape and plastic. Its third iteration is set for October 17 — and for the first time, the southern hemisphere is getting in on the action. Australian label Rice Is Nice and New Zealanders Arch Hill Recordings will join Germany’s Mansions & Millions, America’s Burger Records and original UK founders Suplex Cassettes, Kissability, and Sexbeat in organising the 2015 edition, an international party marked by a slew of events, sales and releases. Last year saw such big name artists as Karen O and There Might Be Giants drop tapes for the occasion, among more than 300 others. Of course, not everyone is so enamoured with these chunky slabs of plastic. Last year Tone Deaf penned an article titled ‘Why International Cassette Store Day is Stupid’, arguing that the event is simply nostalgia taken too far. And look, the killjoys may have a point. Although vinyl fans insist that records sound ‘warmer,’ it’s a lot harder to make that argument for the compact cassette. Still, anything that gets people supporting local music stores is okay by us. Besides, who doesn’t secretly want an actual mixtape from their crush? CASSETTE STORE DAY AUSTRALIAN RELEASES Courtney Barnett — Sometimes I Sit And Think And Sometimes I Just Sit Summer Flake — Time Rolls By EP Bloods — Work It Out Ocean Party — Light Weight Step-Panther — Strange But Nice Dollar Bar — Paddington Workers Club Dollar Bar — Hot Ones Red Riders — Drown In Colour Demos The Finks — Lucklaster Fraser A. Gorman — Slow Gum Ouch My Face — Bunyip Raindrop — Crowded Brain EP Rice Is Nice Records — Vol. 3 Mixtape (various artists) Ft. Blank Realm (unreleased), Black Zeros, Tired Lion, Lowtide, The Living Eyes, Pearls, Love of Diagrams, Day Ravies, Us The Band, Zeahorse, White Dog, Weak Boys Wonrowe Vision — Triple Cassette Mortification — Scrolls Of The Megaloth Double Cassette Barrow-man — Dog Tales Betty & Oswald — King Of Bohemia Tutu and the Bodyrockets — The Ballad of Bonnie Bigfish Hills Hoist / Piqué — Cool Change / Kitty Image: Dollar Photo Club.
Do you know what us Melburnians can't get enough of? Little pick-me-ups to make the days a bit sunnier. It may be as small as turning a new corner on your daily walk to discover lesser-known street art in the area, or getting satisfaction from finishing off a DIY project you've had on hold. It's the little things that matter most right now. So, to help give you some ideas for your working week ahead, we've teamed up with Oporto to bring you five easy pick-me-ups to make your week a little bit better. Plus, they'll speed up the days until the weekend rolls around again. MONDAY: SEND A GREEN BABY TO YOUR FRIENDS Know a mate who's feeling a little blue? Pick them up with a present delivered right to their door. And choose one that has lasting benefits. We know of ten plant stores across the city that have the green goods to do just the trick to lift your friend's spirits — and help give them a smile every time a fresh leaf sprouts. Choose them a bestseller from Vine Boy, such as a monstera, or opt for a seasonal indoor variety from Folia House. Alternatively, Botanicah's online store has cute cacti if that's more your mate's style. It also stocks cute ceramic plant hangers, locally made pots and an assortment of accessories to throw in, too. With spring in the air, a new pop of green is just what the doctor ordered. [caption id="attachment_781727" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Matt Adnate[/caption] TUESDAY: DISCOVER A HIDDEN GEM IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD There are always under appreciated spots in every neighbourhood to uncover and explore. So why not take a new path on your walk today and discover a hidden gem in your hood? While sticking to the lockdown guidelines, of course, you could find some street art by local artists, try a new takeaway coffee place and maybe even order a new type of drink to shake things up. You could visit a new-to-you local grocer or try out a different bakery and grab some pastries and pies. Getting the blood flowing always helps the mood, too. [caption id="attachment_783396" align="alignnone" width="1920"] St Kilda, Visit Victoria[/caption] WEDNESDAY: BEAT THE MIDWEEK BLUES Get over the hump that is Wednesday and beat any midweek blues that may have crept into your week by ordering Oporto's new Halloumi and Chicken Rappa. Protein, dairy and carbs. Need we say more? It has grilled halloumi side by side with grilled chicken breast fillets, crisp lettuce, slaw mix and avocado doused in creamy mayo accompanied with a tomato and capsicum relish. The best part is: this scrumptious package wrapped in a warm pita bread wrap can be ordered online and delivered to your door. Eat this feast while watching the sunset over the city (from a park near you) and if you are able to, why not meet with a friend for a socially distanced picnic (within the current guidelines, of course). [caption id="attachment_768047" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cornersmith[/caption] THURSDAY: COMPLETE THAT DIY PROJECT You know that home project you've been meaning to start since March? Maybe it's time to finally give it a good crack — or find a completely new crafty new idea to try your hand at. With spring in the air, it's a perfect time to get your hands dirty creating a veggie garden or box. The Little Veggie Patch Co has beginner seed kits, guidebooks for growing food at home and plenty of pots and planters to get your started. Jump on board the sourdough train with a sourdough starting kit from Ballarat Home Brew or Simply No Knead. Or, wow your housemates by taking an online pickling course with Cornersmith. Now's the time to start or finish something worth talking about. FRIDAY: THROW YOUR DREAM PARTY Who says that just because you can't go out (much), you can't have a party? Get out the disco ball, put on your finest or wildest outfit and throw the party of your dreams. Start by trying a new cocktail recipe to get you in the mood. Enjoy beach vibes with a coconut margarita or pretend you're in a smoky bar with a tequila old fashioned. Then, tune into an online set, such as Room 2 Radio, which will transport you into a virtual dance party with local DJs. Join in on the live chat too to mingle with the other partygoers and enjoy some solid Melbourne nightlife – just, at home. Check out Oporto's full Rappa Range here, then make tracks to your closest store — or order online. Top image: Yarra River sunset, Visit Victoria
As COVID-19 continues to affect daily life in Australia, a whole host of regular activities have come to a pause. For Melburnians, heading to the Australian Centre for the Moving Image's home away from home at The Capitol for Melbourne Cinémathèque's weekly sessions is one such shuttered event, with screenings suspended for the time being — so ACMI and Melbourne Cinémathèque are going virtual. Available to movie buffs everywhere — not just in Melbourne — Virtual Cinémathèque will host weekly sessions from Wednesday, March 25. Cinephiles, folks looking for something to watch in self-isolation and everyone who has exhausted their Netflix queue can expect double bills showcasing both new and old movies, as linked by a common director, performer or theme. The folks at ACMI and Melbourne Cinémathèque will be on curation duty and, where possible, they'll be accompanying each week's lineup with introductions and further information about the films showing — just as Melbourne Cinémathèque usually does at its in-person events. They'll also do their best to pick flicks available on free and easily accessible platforms, so getting your movie fix won't cost you a cent. For details of what's on each week, keep an eye on ACMI and Melbourne Cinémathèque's social media channels. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website.
Alia Shawkat, star of Arrested Development, Search Party and this year's indie flicks Duck Butter and Blaze, is in town already, here for a MIFF Talks: In Conversation event taking place this Saturday at The Comedy Theatre. She's also put her hand up again for another one-off MIFF event: a screening of film Duck Butter, which Shawkat both appears in and co-wrote. The premise of the film is a 24-hour sex marathon undertaken by Shawkat's character, Naima, and Sergio (Laia Costa). The two meeting at a bar and heading home together, they decide to wield an experiment – having sex every hour on the hour for a whole day. "Bruising" and "sweaty" are two words that have been used to describe Duck Butter and though it does make you tired just thinking about it, Shawkat took home the Tribeca Best Actress (US Narrative Feature) award for her role. She'll present the film at the screening as well as hosting a Q&A after it screens. We're sure there'll be some pearlers revealed, and not just about the film — she's been popping up everywhere from Broad City to Whip It as well as the Ethan Hawke-directed Blaze.
Since 2012, Melburnians have been honouring the age old tradition of making salami by throwing their hat in the ring and showing off their product at the Melbourne Salami Festa. For those who are just being introduced to The Salami Army, salami-making is by no means restricted to your elderly Italian neighbours, as every year their salami-tasting competition sees more and more entrants. Making salami is a nose-to-tail approach where every piece is appreciated and nothing is wasted. The process that goes into creating this delicious treat takes skill and patience, and we’re salivating just thinking about taste-testing the rewards. Northcote Town Hall will be set up as a salumi tasting hall, with some of Australia’s best artisan brands selling their product. On top of that, a few of Melbourne’s top restaurants will have pop-up stalls, and there'll be live music throughout the day. If you’re inspired to make your own salami, stick around for a demonstration or two, just don’t forget to make one for us.
Melbourne Fashion Week is back, and this year's instalment promises a week brimming with style, flair and a pinch of the unexpected. From Monday, October 23 to Sunday, October 29, the heart of Melbourne is set to pulse with the vibrant rhythm of 300 designers and retailers. There will be 100 events in both classic venues as well as some rather interesting settings, including the rooftop pool deck at Le Méridien and some abandoned industrial garages. This year's MFW theme, For Curious Hearts, is all about giving a nod to the unsung heroes backstage. The mavericks, the designers, the people who make the industry tick — both emerging and established. This year is for championing sustainability, inclusivity, and everything that makes Australia's fashion scene so vivaciously diverse. Speaking of sustainability, MFW is carbon neutral certified, with $1 from each ticket going to carbon offset efforts. So, while you enjoy the city's fashion fiesta, you're also doing your part to stave off the climate apocalypse. Fun! The MFW runway spectacle is set to grace various venues across the city, from transformed industrial locales to the majestic Regent Theatre. Spotlighting the event are names like Jason Grech, Bec + Bridge, Ngali, Blanca Studios, Leo Lin, Aje, J'Aton, Oroton, Mariam Seddiq, and Arnsdorf, among others. The crowd-favourite fashion capsules are back in full swing, revealing the craftsmanship of over 70 local creators. To add to the fun, there will be complimentary runway pop-ups, including at the newly launched MFW spots at Emporium and QV. For those keen on learning more about the industry, Creative Victoria is hosting the MFW Conversations program. The series, graced by iconic fashion editor Janice Breen Burns, delves into topics like circular fashion and the role of tech in the industry. Students will also get their moment in the limelight with the Student Collections Runway, crowning the MFW Student Award winner on October 27. So, if you're a fashion lover (or just keen on soaking up the vibes), grab your tickets, and we'll see you on the runway. Head to Visit Melbourne for the full rundown and to check out what else is happening in Melbourne this spring.
UberPool, the adventurous sequel to your well-used Uber app, launched in Melbourne earlier this month providing the city with the option to utilise the ride-sharing option in tandem with fellow passengers, car-pooling to cut down your fare. To celebrate, this week Uber is offering three free UberPool rides for users. Based on the US-based Uber Express Pool, the introduction of the service in Melbourne follows a Sydney trial and subsequent launch this year, and the trips are meant to wind up costing passengers around two thirds of a solo Uber trip – but drivers will still be able to earn around the same as they would for a regular service. The offer — announced in an email to Melbourne Uber users this morning — is valid until Friday, June 22 and lets passengers nab up to three free UberPool rides, as long as they're under $40 per ride and taken between 5am and 11:59pm. To redeem the offer, all you need to do is select "Pool" in your Uber app and the discount will be automatically applied, then follow the instructions regarding where to find your "dynamic pick-up spot" and meet your travel mates and driver. UberPool is currently only available in certain suburbs (bordered by Coburg, Hawthorn, Balaclava and Footscray), so those in further-flung regions of Melbourne may need to wait a little longer to live out your cheaper carpooling dreams.
I'm sure the guys behind the Young Guns dinner series don't mean to namedrop, but for this instalment, they kind of have to. Because this month it's The Town Mouse's George Tomlin and Miranda Campbell, co owner of Belles Hot Chicken and the brand new Bar Clarine, who will take their places at The National Hotel on Thursday 30 April — as chef and sommelier, respectively. The feast is the 17th of the highly successful Young Guns dinner series, an initiative that showcases the best of the up-and-coming hospitality pack. Each month a bright young chef and sommelier are chosen — by Jerry Mai, The National's menu creator and Pho Nom legend — to put together a dinner around a changing theme. On Thursday, George and Miranda will present an Australian-inspired banquet of dishes and matched wines. A seat at the table costs $99, and is all-inclusive of both food and drinks. With so much hype around both the Town Mouse and Belle's, it's hard to believe that both Miranda and George are just up-and-comers. So get a taste of what these young guns have in store for the future in this one-off, very special dinner. To book, contact Rani at The National Hotel on (03) 9429 8811 or email manager@thenationalhotel.com.au
Half a century ago, one of the greatest science-fiction films of all time made its cinematic debut. It might hail from a genre filled with plenty of excellent flicks — both then and now — but 2001: A Space Odyssey still remains one of sci-fi's best and most iconic efforts. And, one of the best and most iconic movies ever made, too. With Stanley Kubrick at the helm, adapting Arthur C. Clarke's short story The Sentinel with the author himself, it's easy to see why. Really, this isn't your usual jaunt into space. It was a mindblowing, groundbreaking feat at the time — and come June 7, Melbourne audiences will get the chance to watch the film in all of its original glory. While 2001: A Space Odyssey has remained a favourite pick for retrospective screenings around the city for years, the latest release will feature an 'unrestored' 70mm print of the movie — that is, it'll look just like it did 50 years ago. The version about to do the rounds was created using a true photochemical film recreation from the original camera negative without any digital tricks, remastered effects or new edits. After premiering at this year's Cannes Film Festival, it'll screen at the The Sun Theatre and The Astor Theatre for a limited run, so you'd best open the pod bay doors, HAL, and hurry along.
A much-loved Melbourne legend is set to have his legacy memorialised, with a fitting permanent tribute set to be unveiled early next year. The City of Melbourne has today announced that a memorial table and plaque created in honour of the late Pellegrini's co-owner Sisto Malaspina will be installed out the front of his famed Bourke Street Italian restaurant. The news comes one year after the Melbourne hospitality pioneer was killed in the Bourke Street terrorist attack in November, 2018. The table will be engraved with a portrait of Malaspina by acclaimed Melbourne illustrator Oslo Davis and the words "Sisto loved Melbourne – and Melbourne loved him back". It'll be placed streetside, where the Pellegrini's mainstay would often be found sitting, chatting and watching the world go by. [caption id="attachment_749741" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Some of the tributes left outside Pellegrini's after Malspina's death in November 2018.[/caption] Malaspina arrived in Melbourne from Italy in the 1960s, purchased Pellegrini's with his business partner Nino Pangrazio in 1974 and operated it together right up until Malaspina passed away last year. He was a familiar face for scores of locals and visitors, renowned for his generous personality and welcoming nature. And for decades, the venue he helped create has been one of the CBD's go-to Italian coffee bars and eateries, famed for its classic pasta and friendly vibe. Malaspina's son David, who's in negotiations to purchase Pangrazio's half of the business, said in a statement that the family is proud of the memorial and he "look[s] forward to looking out of the window of Pellegrini's and watching people learn about Dad while enjoying a coffee at his table". Find Pellegrini's Espresso Bar at 66 Bourke Street, Melbourne. It's open from Monday–Saturday 8am–11pm and Sunday 12–8pm.
Female-led food collective BABS has already earned plenty of fans in Sydney, thanks to the dining pop-ups the team has hosted at much-loved venues like Valentina's and Either/Or. Now, it's our turn for a slice of the culinary action. BABS (short for BadAssBitcheS) is heading south for its first-ever Melbourne pop-up, teaming up with Cam's Kiosk at the Abbotsford Convent for a four-course lunch on Sunday, April 16. Here, the mission is the same as always: to champion some kick-ass women of the Aussie hospitality scene and celebrate collaboration while serving up a standout feast. [caption id="attachment_876407" align="alignnone" width="1920"] BABS, by Haydon Fanning[/caption] This one will have a Mediterranean lean, running over two sittings (12pm, 2pm) and clocking in at $110 per person. Chefs Ellie Hayes O'Brien (BABS) and Julieanne Blum (Cam's) have dreamed up a seafood-heavy spread featuring plates like clams with fregola, saffron and fennel; scallop tartare paired with tomato oil and fried kipflers; and grilled flank steak served with greens sourced straight from the convent grounds. True to form, the wine situation will be equally impressive — a collaborative effort from BABS's Bec Shave and Anna Clifford and Alessia Augello (Cam's) that'll focus on lesser-known female winemakers from across the world. [caption id="attachment_895877" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Christopher Pearce[/caption] Top images: Christopher Pearce
Monarch Cakes in St Kilda have been making desserts on Acland Street since the 1930s. With more than 80 years of experience, it's fair to say this place knows a thing or two about making delicious treats. The continental custard vanilla slice is one of Monarch's most popular cakes and we can see why. It's made using milk from a small dairy in Gippsland and free range eggs from a local farm. All the ingredients used in the slice are natural and fresh, down to the light and fluffy pastry holding it all together and giving it a yummy – albeit messy – crunch. You can dive into this delightful custard pastry for just $6.50 a pop. Image: Tracey Ah Kee.
In the kind of punishment Cersei Lannister might dream up, the eighth and final season of Game of Thrones isn't due until mid-2018 at the earliest — and sometime in 2019 at the latest. However, one London cinema is offering fans an immersive way to pass at least some of that period. Taking the movie marathon idea to the extreme, they're showing the entire series' seven-season run to date in one massive sitting. Fans of Westerosi dramas, resilient Stark siblings, formidable dragons and more can expect to get comfy in The Prince Charles Cinema for four days, as they screen all 67 episodes between November 27 and 30. It all kicks off at 7pm on Monday and runs until just after 6pm on Thursday. And while that might seem like quite the commitment — in hours, in the willingness to sit in cinema seats for that long, and in sacrificing your normal life for your favourite show — if there's one thing that GoT fans love more than shipping Jon Snow and Daenerys, it's spending as much time in the Seven Kingdoms as possible. The event is designed to promote the DVD release of the seventh season, which just finished airing in August. For anyone who happens to have a spare week, it's free to attend. There'll also be a pop-up pizza bar onsite for sustenance. If you're in London, the Game of Thrones Marathon Screening runs from November 27 to 30. Visit the event Facebook page for further details, or to register for tickets.
Mondays are the blurst, we know. But that's not to say that they can't be improved with some yummy food, good wine and interesting conversation — at least, that's what two young Melbourne chefs are out to prove. Jordon Garcia and Daniel Sullivan are out to make Monday nights a thing with their pop-up dining series, The Assembly. Held on the first Monday of August, September and October, The Assembly will takeover the kitchens of Mister Jennings, Hobba and The Boatbuilders Yard to serve a six-course degustation matched with local Victorian wines. Cutting their teeth in the kitchens of Mister Jennings, Red Spice Road and Susie Wong, the guys have taken on an ambitious menu that's set to change each month with the produce available. And at $94 for six dishes and matched wines, it's one of the more affordable degustations out there. But it's not just Monday's potential that they're out to prove — both Jordon and Daniel are only in their early 20s, and as emerging chefs, they're here to prove you don't have to be established to show people a good food, and a good time.
Make the most of the summery Melbourne weather with a twilight visit to the Heide Museum of Modern Art. Giving you an after-hours to explore Jenny Watson's The Fabric of Fantasy exhibition, the gallery is extending its opening hours until 8pm and hosting a laidback shindig as the sun goes down. From 5pm, visitors will be able to scope out the exhibition, wander through Heide's beloved sculpture park, and enjoy music from gypsy jazz ensemble South of Samois. There'll also be food and wine available to purchase, because no jaunt through a gallery is truly complete with a glass of bubbly in hand. That's just a straight-up fact — and, if you're organised, you can also bring your own picnic. Entry in Art by Twilight starts at $10 for Heide members, $14 for concession holders and $18 for adults. Image: Jeremy Weihrauch.
2024 marks four years since Sydney and Melbourne welcomed a new film festival devoted to the weirder side of cinema. That event: Fantastic Film Festival Australia, which pops up in the first half of each year to showcase boundary-pushing flicks both new and old. It also features an annual nude screening, challenging what hitting the pictures means not just on the screen, but as an audience experience. For its fourth season, FFFA is going with an "if it ain't broke" approach. The festival's setup has worked a treat in 2021, 2022 and 2023 — and this is the type of event where a new batch of movies should always be the star of the show. In 2024, then, get ready for a Ryan Corr-starring monster movie, a 4K restoration of The Raid and a 15th-anniversary session of Enter the Void for starters. Sting, which is helmed by Australian director Kiah Roache-Turner (Wyrmwood: Apocalypse), and sees Corr (In Limbo) joined by Alyla Browne (The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart), Noni Hazelhurst (One Night), Penelope Mitchell (What You Wish For) and Silvia Colloca (Wellmania) — plus some eight-legged creatures — is opening Fantastic Film Festival Australia 2024 in both cities. The fest will run in Sydney from Wednesday, April 17–Friday, May 10 at the Ritz Cinemas in Randwick. In Melbourne, it'll span Thursday, April 18–Thursday, May 9 at Lido Cinemas in Hawthorn, plus from Thursday, April 25–Tuesday, April 30 at Thornbury Picture House. Fans of Gareth Evans' (Gangs of London) epic Indonesian action effort The Raid will scope out the shiny restoration for the first time in Australia during the festival. Also in the throwback category throughout the event: Australia's own Melbourne-set thriller Metal Skin from 1994. And Gaspar Noé's (Vortex) Enter the Void has the closing-night slot, with Sydney-based electronic artist Corin providing a new original live score. If catching a movie in the buff has been one of your big FFFA highlights previously, you'll be able to strip off again this year. If you haven't made it along in the past, you're getting another chance to redress that while undressing. The film you'll be watching: comedy classic The Naked Gun. Clearly it has the right title for it. From there, there's no shortage of other must-sees on a program that covers 24 features alongside 14 shorts. Luc Besson's (Anna) DogMan stars Caleb Landry Jones (Nitram), Steven Soderbergh (Full Circle)-produced thriller Divinity gets another Down Under run after playing SXSW Sydney 2023, and Cannibal Mukbang from first-time director Aimee Kuge combines romance and gore. Or, there's Krazy House with Shaun of the Dead favourite Nick Frost and Clueless great Alicia Silverstone — and also gothic horror The Vourdalak, which hails from the pages of AK Tolstoy's novel. From South Korea, The Childe follows an amateur boxer and an assassin. France's The Deep Dark gets trapped with cave miners a thousand metres below the earth's surface — and, also representing Gallic cinema, Hood Witch stars Golshifteh Farahani (Invasion) and Denis Lavant (Holy Motors), Mars Express heads into the future and off the planet in animation, Vincent Must Die sees random strangers attack its namesake and Pandemonium follows folks who suddenly find themselves on a remote mountain road. Or, there's Japan's One Percenter, which is a love letter to action cinema; a travelling knife salesman crossing paths with robbers in The Last Stop to Yuma County; and Mami Wata, which was Nigeria's Oscar entry — the nation's third ever. For those keen on shorts, some will play before the features, while Melbourne will also get a session focused on locally made efforts. 2024 Fantastic Film Festival Australia Dates: Melbourne: Thursday, April 18–Thursday, May 9 — Lido Cinemas, Hawthorn Thursday, April 25–Tuesday, April 30 — Thornbury Picture House, Thornbury Sydney: Wednesday, April 17–Friday, May 10 — Ritz Cinemas, Randwick Fantastic Film Festival Australia runs in April and May at Ritz Cinema, Randwick in Sydney, plus Lido Cinemas, Hawthorn and Thornbury Picture House, Thornbury in Melbourne. For more information or to buy tickets, head to the FFFA website.
What better way to celebrate the arrival of spring and congratulate yourself on surviving another winter than a free eight-day music festival. Stow your tents and thermals away, though, because Live N Local is providing the goods just a stone's throw away in the City of Port Phillip. It's close, a lot of it is free, and it's got some veritable bangers on the way to you via the just-released lineup. Beat At The Bowlo will unite Hexdebt, Househats, Psychobabel, Alice Skye and Kill The Darling for a Saturday arvo sesh complete with featuring lawn bowls, taking place at the Middle Park Bowls Club. Alternatively, you can follow along on a rock crawl through classic St Kilda music institutions to hear Fuck The Fitzroy Doom Scene, Bloody Rascals, The Dead Amigos, Batz and The Tarantinos as they noisily help you say "cya" to winter. There's a hip-hop/neo-soul/funk night with Chicken Wishbone and Moses Carr at the Lyrebird Lounge in Ripponlea, and an all-ages concert played by Woodes, Eilish Gilligan and Poppy Rose. And, staying true to Live N Local's focus of featuring emerging artists and fostering new talent, there'll also be an emerging artist program happening at Pontoon to shine a light on the up-and-comers making their way across the Australian music scene. And, maybe the most unique event on the program's lineup, UnderSCORE — an orchestral concert showcasing music from video games. Full details, locations and line-up here.
Winemakers of Rutherglen have been doing good things with grapes for a while now out in northeast Victoria. But, luckily for us, they've decided to come city-side this August for a three-day, one-off wine event, Rutherglen in the City. The pop-up bar will situate itself in Driver Lane, which is just off Little Bourke Street behind Emporium in Melbourne's CBD. Winemakers will take over the whole laneway, transforming it into a 'winter winery' — you can expect fairy lights, free wine tastings and live music. So you can forget you're sandwiched in between shopping centres and dream of open plains and vineyards. You'll be able to sample the wine varieties of the region (Muscat and Durif), meet the winemakers themselves, and maybe even order a few bottles from the cellar door. The best thing about it is you won't even have to drive home — thanks to trams and trains, you can have as many wines as you like. The pop-up cellar door will be open Friday from 5–10pm, Saturday from 12–11pm, and Sunday from 12–6pm.
It's no secret that Jerome Borazio is an ideas man, and a pretty good one at that. Not only is he the mind behind the 18-year-old Laneway Festival, he sold us all on the concept of camping in the CBD with his award-winning rooftop glamping set-up. The latter closed in April last year, but, that same sky-high space above Melbourne Central has been activated again — and is now home to a pop-up rooftop pool, bar and leisure club dubbed The Reunion Island Pool Club. Initially launching for private bookings only in October, Reunion Island will now be open to the public from Friday, January 25 — just in time for the long weekend — through till the end of May. It's kitted out with palm trees and design elements of a public pool-meets-Palm Springs resort. And while it's not the CBD's only rooftop pool bar (see: The Adelphi), it is the only one to offer classes, an infrared sauna and spa offerings. Plus, those rooftop parties will take place ten temperature-controlled plunge pools. Yes, ten. [caption id="attachment_705809" align="alignnone" width="1920"] One of the ten plunge pools by Albert Comper.[/caption] Opening from 12pm during the week (for a cheeky lunchtime dip) and 9am on weekends, it's not just the pools that are tempting punters — it's also hosting a lineup of rooftop yoga, pilates and boxing classes. They start from $20 and you can book in for an after-work session online now. If you prefer being relatively sedentary, you can stop by for a splash, or just some poolside socialising and a well-earned after-work rooftop tipple right up until 9.30pm. Prepare to spend many a steamy Melbourne evening up here. Price-wise, your sky-high waterside party will start from $10 for regular entry only. Pools are available for groups of four to 12 people, and start at $100 for an hour. You can extend your stay for $60 per hour, include a sauna session for $5 or nab a Turkish towel, visor or stubby holder. At the moment single-person swim passes aren't available (but we're promised they're coming soon) so you'll need to round up some friends if you'd like to splash around. The food and drink selection includes a five-month pop-up poolside snack kiosk from Collingwood's Easey's, who'll be slinging tacos, burgers and club sandwiches. You can pair them with Melbourne Gin Co G&Ts, cocktails, wine and Champagne and icy cold Kirin beers. The Reunion Island Pool Club will also feature a General Store, showcasing a heap of the venue's fashion partners. Find Reunion Island Pool Club at Level 3/271 Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne from Friday, January 25 until the end of May. It's open from midday–9.30pm weekdays and 9am–9.30pm on weekends. Images: Albert Comper.
When it comes to gastronomic experiences in regional Victoria, Heathcote is hard to top. And at just a 90-minute drive from Melbourne CBD, it's also one of the easiest to reach. Heathcote really comes to life for its annual food, wine and entertainment festival, Heathcote on Show, held across the Queen's Birthday long weekend, Saturday, June 8–Monday, June 10. Across 30 locations, the region's leading winemakers, chefs, brewers and musicians come together to offer locals and out-of-towners alike a vibrant selection of community activities and epicurean festivities. Celebrated as one of Australia's top winemaking destinations, Heathcote has more than 25 wineries and 70 vineyards dotted throughout its picturesque hillsides. During the festival, they'll be giving you the chance to get a behind-the-scenes look at their world-class productions through masterclasses and tastings. On top of that, other creative events in the schedule mix viticulture with barbecue, burlesque or Spanish paella. Below, we've picked out seven experiences that make Heathcote on Show one of the best ways to spend the upcoming long weekend. BEER & BEAST CRAFT BEER DINNER Winter in central Victoria might be a chilly affair, but there's no better way to overcome this than by indulging in the hearty feast called Beer & Beast. It's hosted by boutique family-run winery The Shiraz Republic and its microbrewery Cornella. Acclaimed chef Justin McPhail of Flight Bar in Bendigo will serve hungry attendees an extravagant dinner, where each course is paired with one of Cornella Brewery's beers. Shuttle buses running between the winery and Heathcote or Bendigo will be available for $20. Beer & Beast will take place at 6.30pm on Saturday, June 8, at The Shiraz Republic. Tickets cost $100 and can be purchased here. BURLESQUE DE VINE DINNER AND SHOW Wine appreciation doesn't always have to be so serious. The producers of Burlesque de Vine know this well — their event brings comedy, audience interaction and some of the best burlesque performers on the planet to the grounds of the Silver Spoon Estate. Headlined by Zelia Rose — who was voted the most influential burlesque performer worldwide in a recent poll run by industry mag 21st Century — this lively party is hosted by the ever-popular Poppy Cherry, who will be joined by fellow performers Iva Grande and duo Greene Megs & Ham. And, you get to enjoy a French-inspired three-course meal alongside, all in the surrounds of a 250-acre off-grid winery and cellar door. A shuttle bus service will run between the Heathcote Information Centre and the Silver Spoon Estate, located 15 minutes from Heathcote town. Burlesque de Vine will take place at 6.30pm on Saturday, June 8 and Sunday, June 9 at Silver Spoon Estate. Tickets cost $110 and can be purchased here. WEEKEND OF MASTERCLASSES AT SANGUINE ESTATE The Sanguine Estate has developed some masterful wines since starting production in 1997. For Heathcote on Show, it'll be showing off its knowhow with series of masterclasses. Sanguine Estate winemaker Mark Hunter leads a guided tasting on Saturday, June 8 ($55), where attendees can sample and compare a distinctive selection of back vintages. On Sunday, Goldfields Farmhouse Cheese's Nardia Keene will join Mark for a journey through the pairing of wine and cheese ($49, including four cheeses to take home). Finally, join Nardia once more on Monday for a cheese making class ($145), where you'll produce three types of cheese, then enjoy lunch and wine. All in all, three lessons that will undoubtedly take your next picnic up a notch. Sanguine Estate's masterclasses will take place across Saturday, June 8–Monday, June 10. To make a booking, head over here. [caption id="attachment_721964" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bendigo Tourism[/caption] DAN KELLY, SPANISH WINE LAUNCH & PAELLA PARTY Spain's wine regions are some of the best in Europe, but you won't have to travel that far to see what makes them so special. The Shiraz Republic planted its own Spanish-style tempranillo and grenache grapes in 2018 — and now they're ready to enjoy, with this event marking the official launch of the small batch. To help the winery celebrate, South Melbourne Market's Simply Spanish will be on hand to plate up its deliriously good take on paella. That's not hyperbole — it's twice won best paella outside of Spain at the International Paella Competition. Meanwhile, musician and frequent ARIA nominee Dan Kelly will perform a solo set promising drum machines, sound effects and stories. Sangria on tap completes this rousing launch party. This party will take place from 6.30pm on Sunday, June 9 at The Shiraz Republic. Tickets cost $60 and can be purchased here. TASTINGS FROM PEREGRINE RIDGE AT THE MECHANICS INSTITUTE Situated high on the eastern side of Mount Camel, Peregrine Ridge might appear to be a relatively low-key production, but it has made some spectacular bottles of vino in the past. Founded in 2001, the family business has built a reputation for its shiraz and sparkling shiraz, which have taken home a number of gold trophies over the years. Throughout the festival, Peregrine Ridge will be heading to Mechanics' Institute to host a series of feature tastings and lessons. Head along on Saturday to get a taste of the 2009 Limited Release 'French Oak' Heathcote Shiraz, plus take part in a lesson on the intricacies of how maturation and oxidation differ between screw caps and corks. Then, on Sunday, it's extending the tasting to six vintages from the range, starting at 2005. Across both days, drop in to find out the differences between winemaking with French and American oak — and hear why the brains behind Peregrine Ridge eventually decided to use both. Free tastings will be available at Mechanics' Institute between 10am–5pm across June 8–10. HEATHCOTE TOWN FESTIVAL Head into the serene Barrack Reserve for a true celebration of the long weekend at the Wine Food and Fun town festival on Saturday`. With live music, local cuisine, farmyard animals and artisanal market stalls, this community event is a great way to introduce yourself to the flavours and culture of Heathcote. If you're looking to sample the work of many of the best local winemakers all in one spot, the 'Taste of the Cellar Doors' showcase runs from 10am–1pm and features a variety of wonderful corks being popped. Heathcote Town Festival will run from 10am–3pm on Saturday, June 8. Entry is free. HEATHCOTE WINE HUB There's no better place to taste the local vino than at the Heathcote Wine Hub, the region's year-round tasting centre. Each day there are 24 different wines to sample, so you can compare and contrast a host of quaffable bottles. It'll also be serving up live music every Saturday and Sunday from 12-2pm, and the courtyard is a great spot to rest and enjoy a glass of wine with a pizza or a steaming hot toastie. If things get a little cold, there's an open fireplace with more than enough space for everyone to gather around. Heathcote Wine Hub is open 9am–5.30pm every day. Head to the Heathcote on Show website for full event and program details.
Peter Jo, better known in the industry as 'Kimchi Pete', boasts a resume from the likes of Sydney's Berta, Momofuku Seiobo and the now-closed 121BC and Melbourne's Belles Hot Chicken. While working as a sommelier at the aforementioned venues, the self-taught chef has also been in the kitchen for a host of pop-ups. Luckily, his latest venture is more permanent. This month, Jo opened the doors to his first solo venue Restaurant Shik. The new Korean diner along Niagara Lane is combining a family-style, ethically sourced menu with an expertly curated wine list. The restaurant is inspired by the food Jo grew up with, having started out at his parent's popular Korean barbecue joints, Madang and Danjee in Sydney's CBD. He has continued to expand his knowledge and love of the cuisine, with a keen interested in how it fits into the Australian dining culture. The restaurant offers casual dining for 65 guests — bar seating included. The concise menu uses traditional recipes and techniques like lacto-fermentation, salt-preservation, curing, pickling and drying. Jo has also worked closely with farmers, foragers, producers and suppliers to source ethical, sustainable and fresh Aussie ingredients. He aims to demonstrate the scope of Korean cuisine, splitting the family-style menu into four sections: entrée, grilled, braised and banchan (traditional side dishes). Think pig skin terrine with garlic chive dressing, kimchi-marinated grilled pork neck and braised blue mackerel with Korean radish and chrysanthemum leaf. The banchan includes seasonal kimchi along with jangajji (pickled veg) in perilla leaf, green tomato and Korean cucumber varieties. The wine list is an epic sommelier's collaboration between Jo, Liz Carey (ex-somm at Semi Permanent) and Josh Begbie (ex-Embla), who will act as the restaurant's sommelier going forward. Like the menu, the wines are similarly concise but diverse, focusing on eco-conscious vineyards. It is sure to have some extra special drops on there – as to be expected from this caliber of wine minds. Restaurant Shik is now open at 30 Niagara Lane, Melbourne. Opening hours are Monday through Saturday from 5pm to 11pm.
This month, we've partnered with Miller Genuine Draft to celebrate Melbourne's thriving art and design scene with a series of events dubbed the Miller Design Lab. Across six nights, we'll be showcasing a bunch of emerging creatives doing exceptional things in their respective areas of expertise. The parties are an opportunity for you to discover and experience upcoming trends and mingle with like-minded culture vultures, plus enjoy complimentary food, beer and live music. Chances are you'll be having such a good time, you'll want to kick on once the gallery shuts. So we've taken care of that, too. Across four of the six nights, when the main event wraps up at 10pm, the revelry will move to the rooftop bar at The Emerson — the official after-party venue — for more music, dancing and beers. And if you buy four bottles of Miller Genuine Draft, you'll score a piece of exclusive merchandise designed by Melbourne label Nana Judy. We've got CASSETTE playing on Thursday, March 28 after the Christie Morgan (Pitch Studios) showcase. And Meagan Streader's night on Friday, March 29 will be followed by DJ Sezzo. Everyone who attends one of the Miller Design Lab events is invited. Entry is free, but there are limited spots available so enter your details below to ensure you're on the guest list. And to check out the full program of Miller Design Lab events, head this way. [competition]712151[/competition] Follow @millergenuinedraftaus for more details.
Section 8, Melbourne's original shipping container bar, is celebrating Christmas with a proper knees-up, in the form of a free eight-day party. From December 18–25, the famed CBD beer garden will become celebration central, playing host to a huge lineup of 30 great musical acts. The bar will open at 12pm on the weekend, with live music acts kicking off at 5pm on Thursday and Friday. Entry is free across the whole week, and gets you you front row seats to Aussie favourites like Kieren Lee, Armin Payne, Mrs Wallace, Elliot Demarco and Jesse I. As well as live music, there'll be hoop shootouts and cocktails specials — and a portion of bar proceeds will go to Black Rainbow, a not-profit that works with LGBTQI+ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth. The eight days of festivities wrap up on Christmas Day with Section 8's annual Orphan's Xmas Party. There'll be a free barbecue, ice-cold beers and beats right up until 11pm that night.
A new steakhouse and bar dedicated to New York-style Italian American eats has opened in the heart of the city. The two venues — Pretty Boy Italian Steakhouse and Floyd's Bar — now take up level one and two of Little Lonsdale Street's joined Novotel and Ibis hotels, and they aim to pay homage to the location's past as a gangster haunt and serves up cuisine inspired by Manhattan's Little Italy. Executive chef Michael Smith — who used to run the kitchens at Tonka and Mamasita — is in charge of the food here, and he's turning out fresh pasta made in-house daily, along with premium Australian steaks. Aged onsite, cuts include the O'Connor scotch fillet and Cape Grim ribeye on the bone, which is aged for four-to-five weeks. The menu also focuses on local produce and uses traditional techniques for curing meat — think green olive mortadella and wagyu bresaola — and making sugo. Other specialties include gnocchi with black truffle, porcini and portobello ragout; spicy kingfish crudo with orange, fennel and purple basil; and zucchini flowers stuffed with ricotta, goat's curd and Vino Cotto wine. The restaurant is open for dinner from 6pm and breakfast until 10.30am, but closed for lunch. St Ali coffee is available all day, too, and desserts include tiramisu, New York cheesecake and vanilla panna cotta with amaretto jelly. In Floyd's Bar on level two, there's a spritz menu that starts with the classic Aperol and extends to the Sloe Spritz (Sloe gin, brandy, peach liqueur, pineapple, passionfruit and prosecco). Multiple negronis also make the menu, including a Breakfast Negroni — made with orange marmalade, orange bitter, Four Pillars gin and Cinzano — and the Four Pillars Spiced Negroni. On the wine list, Australian drops using Italian grapes are the focus. Pretty Boy Italian Steakhouse is located on level one and Floyd's Bar is on level two of Novotel Melbourne Central, 399 Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne. Both are open seven days a week — the former for breakfast and dinner, and the latter from 2–11pm.
Australia and Germany aren't so different, you know. We both have a rich history of meat-eating — we take our sausages very seriously — and we wear our beer bellies with a possibly misplaced sense of pride. While we usually just celebrate both these pastimes with a piss up on Australia Day, the Germans make a whole festival out of it. Jealous? Us too. That's why Munich Brauhaus has everything you need to bring the celebrations down under. The 900-seater, authentically styled German beerhall, just a short walk from the CBD, has an enormous list of beers on tap, enough schnapps to get your Bavarian grandmother excited, and most things on the menu are in some way related to seasoned pork. Here are a few of the events they have in store for you this Oktoberfest. Get into tradition with a keg tapping First off, despite what the name may suggest, Oktoberfest officially starts in September. Get kitted out in proper lederhosen from September 19 and embrace the full experience of a Bavarian beerhall at Munich Brauhaus. Here, you can spill half your drink while participating in a bier stein carrying competition, and get it filled up again with the traditional tapping of the keg. The venue is also playing host to an array of German games. Our favourite is hammerschlagen (nail hammering) — because what could be better than copious amounts of beer and untrained people swinging hand tools? September 19 Don't even think about not drinking beer Usually we're up for a full taste test of everything on the menu, but Oktoberfest is all about the beer. Don't be the person who orders a chardonnay or a single malt scotch. Your drink is going to look strange and miniature next to the 1L steins everyone else is swaying above their heads. But, if you really have no idea what to order — especially when everything on tap is invariably spelled with an umlaut — try a traditional bier flight. You can taste a little bit of all the rare German offerings and look like a real connoisseur of the craft to all the diehard bierheads out there. Bier flights throughout Oktoberfest. Go Pro in The Oktoberfest Hunt Not only are lederhosen good at keeping your pants up and fun to obnoxiously pull at, in this case they could also win you a prize! This year, Oktoberfest venues across the country are on The Hunt for the Prince and Princess of Oktoberfest. Deck yourself out in festival garb, head down to the Brauhaus and get set to compete in basic Bavarian trivia, some traditional games, stein drinking competitions and more. For your trouble, you could be looking at $5,000 worth of prize money when the national finals are held here on October 12. Do you have any idea how many hot pretzels you can buy with that kind of money? Melbourne finals September 28, national finals October 12. Pace yourself for the Oktoberfest Long Weekend Though traditional festivities kick off in late September, be mindful not to drink yourself into a Deutsch stuper too early on; the real party hits from October 3-6. Jägermeister are teaming up with the Munich Brauhaus to start the party on Friday, and thing are bound to step up a notch. See the season off in style, while singing with an elderly oom-pah band, downing a couple of schnapps of Jäger, and swaying your free stein of freshly tapped weissbier above your head. If at all possible, please drink responsibly/stay alive. October 3-6 For more Oktoberfest shenanigans, see the Munich Brauhaus website.
2017 is proving to be a huge year for fans of horror master Stephen King. It has been creeping out coulrophobics and creeping its way to box office glory, The Dark Tower finally made it to the screen (even if it didn't come anywhere near close to doing the source material justice), and new TV series based on The Mist, Castle Rock and Mr. Mercedes have either premiered in the US, or are slated to later this year. There's even yet another Children of the Corn sequel — the tenth film in the series — headed straight to DVD. Add to that Netflix's new flick, 1922. It's the first movie adaptation of King's novella of the same name from his 2010 collection Full Dark, No Stars. Starring King veteran Thomas Jane, who also featured in the film version of The Mist as well as the terrible Dreamcatcher, it tells the tale of a Nebraska farmer unhappy with his wife's (Molly Parker) desire to move to the city. Things get gruesome and then also spooky, in a movie scripted and directed by Australian These Final Hours filmmaker Zak Hilditch. 1922 premiered at Fantastic Fest in the US overnight, and will pop up on Netflix on October 20. In the interim, the streaming platform has dropped a trailer for the suitably moody effort. Check it out below — and if you need something else to scratch your King-loving itch while you wait for the complete movie, they're also releasing the psychological horror effort Gerald's Game, based on the author's 1992 novel, on September 29. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3E_fT0aTsjI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=twbGU2CqqQU
Not one to miss a party, Gelato Messina is joining this winter's black fungus craze by rolling out a country-wide truffle service. Launching across its Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane stores on Monday, July 1, it'll cost just $6 extra. For that six bucks, you can get a full three grams of the fancy fungi freshly grated onto any and all gelato flavours. Choose from classic flavour combinations like dulce de leche, salted caramel, hazelnut and chocolate — or add truffle to one of the more out-there combos. Truffled blood orange, pear and rhubarb gelato? Check. Rum and raisin topped with this decadent fungus? Sure. Fairy bread and truffle gelato? Why not. And, if you missed out on this year's fully sold out truffle degustations, this is a good budget way to still get your fix — the Messina way, of course. The truffle special will be available in limited stores and only while supplies last. Gelato Messina's truffle service will be available from July 1 at Messina in Melbourne's Fitzroy, Brisbane's Fortitude Valley and Circular Quay, Rosebery and Darlinghurst in Sydney. For other places to hunt down decadent treats this winter, check out our truffle guides for Sydney and Melbourne.
The unofficial breakfast capital of Australia, Melbourne seemed to reach peak cafe saturation years ago. But that hasn't stopped the city's hottest talent from opening dozens of new and inventive breakfast spots this year. That said, we're certainly not complaining. This year, we've revived our love for crumpets at a CBD hole-in-the-wall, relived our childhood at a Footscray pie shop, stepped 130 years back in time at a revived Carlton icon and road tripped to a socially conscious cafe and community farm. That's just for starters. Giant cheese shops, solar-powered spots and venues helping to stop youth homelessness opened this year, too. It's been a big one. To help, we've rounded up our favourite ten new cafes to swing open their doors this year. Make a list, start checking it off (twice).
Gather your spoons and prepare to start throwing them at a screen: The Disaster Artist is nearly here. A behind-the-scenes recreation of the making of Tommy Wiseau's The Room, it's shaping up to be the best movie ever made about the worst movie ever made. Oh hi, instant cult classic (and Mark, Greg, Claudette and doggy). Based on the non-fiction book of the same name by the original flick's star Greg Sestero, and directed, produced and starring James Franco as Wiseau, the film takes almost every actor you can think of (Dave Franco, Seth Rogen, Alison Brie, Zac Efron, Hannibal Buress, Sharon Stone, Melanie Griffith, Megan Mullally, Josh Hutcherson and Jackie Weaver, for starters) on a tour of Wiseau's now infamous late-night favourite — and, in quite the change from The Room, it's garnering a massive amount of buzz and critical love. After premiering as a work in progress at this year's SXSW, it just screened at the Toronto International Film Festival, and will hit Australian cinemas on November 30. A first teaser was first released back in July, absolutely perfecting the shooting of one of The Room's many, many memorable moments, with a full trailer now providing an even bigger glimpse into Franco's take on Wiseau's world. The awkward dialogue, the odd game of catch, Wiseau's greasy locks, a sex scene that defies human anatomy, "you're tearing me apart, Lisa!!!" — they're all there, in the expected so-bad-it's-hilarious fashion. Wiseau himself has given the whole thing his 99.9 percent approval, and pops up in the movie, of course. And if you need more convincing or you've never hurled a spoon in your life, we'll let Franco's version of Wiseau say everything else that needs to be said about The Room — and why you should be interested in The Disaster Artist. "So there's this guy Johnny. A true American hero — to be played by me. He has it all. Good looks, many friends. And also maybe Johnny is vampire. We'll see." Check out the new trailer below — and the original teaser too, because more The Disaster Artist is only a good thing. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMKX2tE5Luk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIXYaCWc2EM
Melbourne's CBD might be getting an overhaul to make it easier and safer to get around on foot, but that could mean saying goodbye to a few very familiar faces. As part of its Draft Transport Strategy unveiled last week, it turns out the City of Melbourne has plans to ditch a bunch of the CBD's long-standing footpath kiosks. Two are already on their way out and seven more will be decommissioned at the end of November this year. The kiosks that'll be removed are the rectangular 'street-trading' kiosks (that sell the likes of newspaper, gum and cigarettes), not the cylinder kiosks. Which, thankfully, means that Swanson Street's La Petite Crêperie kiosk is safe. The moves comes as part of the council's plan to tackle congestion and free up more space for pedestrians — it's estimated close to one million people walk around the CBD every day, and that this number will grow to 1.4 million in 17 years. It has identified the main footpath obstructions as being motorbikes, bicycle racks, construction hoardings and cafe equipment. While kiosks account for just a small portion of overall obstructions, they've been deemed unnecessary additions and are being given the boot. City of Melbourne Transport Portfolio Chair Councillor Nicolas Frances-Gilley said the kiosks simply take up too much space, and that declining cigarette and newspaper sales meant it was becoming tougher to find tenants for the streetside structures. "People have told us they feel overcrowded while navigating footpaths around the central city," Cr Frances-Gilley said in a statement. "The data backs up what we're hearing from pedestrians, so we're responding." The familiar kiosks won't be disappearing entirely, though. The council is looking to re-home them, with one heading to Collingwood Children's Farm and another gaining a second life as a ticket booth at Scoresby's Chesterfield Farm. The Draft Transport Strategy 2030 scored an unanimous thumbs up at the Future Melbourne Committee meeting earlier this week, and will be up for public consultation until Wednesday, June 19. CORRECTION: May 10, 2019 — This article previously stated that Swanson Street's La Petite Crêperie could be one of the kiosks closing. The City of Melbourne has since confirmed that the nine kiosks being removed are the rectangular street-trading kiosks, not the cylinder kiosks (which the crêperie is). The above article has been updated to reflect this.
There is something truly mesmerising about watching bands with many members coordinate themselves on stage to sonically blow your mind. Whether you’re after some feel-good folk classics like 'Home', or if you’re more interested in their newer tunes like 'Better Days', the whole experience is bound to be nothing short of delightful. Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros' self-titled album that they released last year is all about the L.O.V.E. They've captured the jangly nursery rhyme pop reminiscent of The Beatles’ ‘Yellow Submarine’ days, and as a result produced a perfect hazy summertime record. If you’re unable to see this loveable hippy band in Byron at this year’s Bluesfest, get down to the Palace and get there early; Mt Warning are the support act. If you’re longing for the sunshine and chill times of summer, this concert will be your closest substitute.
There's an antidote to winter and it's pubs with roaring fires, cosy whisky bars, experimental art galleries and winter dishes whipped up by brilliant chefs. You'll find all these in high concentration in the creative, inner-city Sydney neighbourhoods of Surry Hills, Redfern and Chippendale, just beyond the CBD. With a short break revolving around their famous galleries, bars and restaurants — and a night or two in one of the nearby AccorHotels properties — you'll be welcoming the cold weather rather than wishing it away. Here's your guide to a winter weekender in urban Surry Hills, Redfern and Chippendale. EAT AND DRINK Getting out of bed on a frosty morning is much, much easier when you know that good coffee awaits. You'll get just that – and, on a cloud-free day, a generous dose of sunlight – among the high ceilings of Surry Hills' Paramount Coffee Project. Another cheery spot is nearby Suzie Q, where the morning menu includes Wintertime Love: a brekkie bowl loaded with quinoa, almond hummus, fermented pumpkin, pickled cauliflower, kale, avocado, poached egg and toasted nuts. Alternatively, to warm up with freshly baked goods, swing by Chippendale's Brickfields Bakery or Redfern's extremely popular Donut Papi. Yes, a doughnut for breakfast is the definitive answer to the wintertime blues. Among the area's most tempting lunchtime offerings is fried chicken ramen, which you'll find at Butter, a hybrid eatery-retail space with an impressive rare sneaker collection. The dish was such a hit in 2017 that head chef Julian Cincotta brought it back for another round. Burger fiends, The O.G from Eve's Bar is one to tick off your burger bucket list: a classic beef, cheese, lettuce, tomato and mustard mayo combo topped with a mini cheese burger on top (because one is never enough). Another option is a Japanese-inspired burger at Ume — think crumbed chicken katsu with yuzu kosho mayo and tonkatsu sauce. That's pretty much enough fuel to get you through to spring. If you're ready to indulge at dinnertime, then head to the newish Kensington Street Precinct. The quintessential dining experience here is Automata, a 2015 opening that was named one of the Diners Club World's 50 Best Restaurants and whose head chef, Clayton Wells, has been showered with awards. This is a degustation-only deal where contemporary Australian flavours like romanesco, broccolini, sour cucumber, dory roe emulsion combine in one dish. The cluster of more casual restaurants and stalls around Spice Alley are Jason Atherton's Kensington Street Social also vie for your attention here. Other cosy dinner spots are double-hatted Ester, LP's Quality Meats for smoked and cured delights, Melbourne transplant Chin Chin for spicy Asian, Spice I Am for authentic Thai and Happy D's for dumplings. All wintry evenings should end with a beverage in front of a crackling open fire. In Surry Hills alone, there are three pubs with just that: The Dolphin, the Cricketers Arms and Harpoon Harry. Alternatively, for a cocktail, go to Mjolner, a labyrinthine bar filled with cavernous rooms inspired by Thor, or, for a whisky, the Wild Rover. DO With the lure of beach-going reduced, winter is a great time to catch up on art. And Surry Hills, Redfern and Chippendale are perfect places for it, being absolutely packed with galleries. Get started at Brett Whiteley Studio, where the famous avant-garde artist lived and worked, before heading to White Rabbit, to peruse one of the biggest collections of 21st-century Chinese art in the world. Afterwards, take a wander around Chippendale's back streets, to stumble across stacks of independent and experimental galleries. Look out for Galerie Pompom for shows by emerging artists, Tiny Tailor for designer creations and Goodspace, where, with the support of local pub the Lord Gladstone, artists exhibit commission-free. Come evening, swap art for live performance. There's jazz, blues and funk at Venue 505, rock bands at the Lansdowne Hotel, DJs and various live acts at Freda's and all kinds of sexy – and not-so-sexy – stuff at the Bearded Tit. Meanwhile, for theatre, comedy and talks, check out the Old 505, Giant Dwarf and the Seymour Centre. You'll be so busy, you won't have time to think about the cold. SLEEP To keep up with so many adventures, a super-sound sleep is crucial. The good news is there are a few nearby hotels where you can count on being cosy and warm. To go 4.5-star, book at the Novotel Sydney Central. The sunny, colour-splashed rooms feel happy — on even the chilliest of days. All come with lovely king-sized beds (or two queens, if you so choose) and the Superior rooms with private balconies. Wherever you sleep, you'll be welcome to swim in the heated rooftop pool and hang out in the garden terrace. Also be sure to make a stop at the Field House Bar during happy hour from 5–7pm and enjoy $5 house drinks and two-for-one cocktails, accompanied by live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights. An alternative is the 4-star Mercure Sydney, right near Central Station and a short walk from the sizzle of Spice Alley and Kensington Street. Keen to splurge? Reserve a city-view room, with panoramas of the Sydney CBD skyline. There's also a rooftop gym, sauna and indoor heated pool (winter dip, anyone?). For a fortifying meal before you hit the road home, stop by the in-house diner Eve's Bar for an OG Burger — not only does it have the works, it comes skewered with a mini cheeseburger. If you're looking for bang for your buck, then the Ibis Sydney World Square is for you. Located within a stone's throw of Surry Hills, Chippendale, Redfern and the CBD, it's spacious, clean and close to the wildly praised new bars and restaurants you came this way to see. Go to the AccorHotels website to book your stay in Sydney, and to discover more of NSW, check out Visit NSW.
Preston has been on the up for several years now, and as a sign of the times, the recently opened Northside Grocer has the provisions locals need. From fancy jams and pickled goods to epicurean cheeses, this High Street hub has effortlessly slotted into the community in more ways than one. Led by chef Greg Snelders (France-Soir) and his partner Emma Thomson, there's a host of locally produced and imported goods ready to level up your next get-together or at-home feast. Decked out with goods gathered from far and wide, visitors can expect jams from Jam Haus, pickles from Acide, cheeses from Milawa and chilli oil from Six-Eyed Scorpion. Plus, other products go beyond the pantry, from fresh flowers and greeting cards to crunchy sourdough bread ready to be sliced and spread. However, perhaps the main focus of Northside Grocer is its ready-made meals, prepared in-house on the daily by Snelders. While it'd be nice to have the time to toil over each and every meal, life often gets in the way. Instead, Northside Grocer offers a range of gastronomic creations, from Freddy's Lasagne – featuring slow-braised beef bolognese and house-made tomato sugo – to massaman beef curry, chargrilled harissa free-range chicken, and Thai chicken satay skewers. Available in single or family-sized servings, there's no excuse not to eat well. "The community have been so welcoming and so ready for an offering like ours, the feedback has been wonderful and we're so chuffed to now call lots of customers 'regulars' and even friends," says Thomson. Yet these ready-made meals aren't just aimed at Prestonians or even those in the inner north. Northside Grocer delivers to over 450 suburbs across Victoria, with a recently expanded menu supporting Home Care Package (HCP) recipients. That means older people with complex needs can access delicious, carefully produced meals for a fraction of the total cost. With Mother's Day around the corner, Snelders and Thomson are also gearing up with a limited-run hamper filled with gourmet wares. Expect a curated selection of the Grocer's goods presented thoughtfully with a card designed by Melbourne-based artist and gifting aficionado, The Nonsense Maker. You'll also find vibrant blooms from micro flower farm, The Posy Yard, alongside cakes and chocolates from Monsieur Truffe. Northside Grocer is open Tuesday–Friday from 8am–6pm and Saturday from 8am–3pm at 106 High Street, Preston. Head to the website for more information. Images: Caitlin May.
If you're looking for a city break with a difference, head to a place where urban creativity meets Indigenous bush-tucker gardens meets a riverside retreat. That place is Parramatta, Sydney's city outside of the city, just 25 kilometres west of the CBD. In winter, a weekend in these parts means wandering along the Parramatta riverfront, feasting on authentic international food, strolling the Aboriginal Landscape Trail and drinking creative cocktails. Skip the traffic by catching a train or ferry — or better yet, book yourself into one of the AccorHotels nearby, and get stuck into the soul-nourishing activities below. EAT AND DRINK For one of the best brekkies in town, claim a table on Circa Espresso's sunny terrace — or the lamp-lit, book-filled back room. Among the Middle Eastern-inspired offerings are Ottoman eggs with crumbed eggplant, garlic labneh, burnt chilli, sage butter and seeded sourdough. The coffee is roasted in small batches: choose from Three Ropes — a buttery, chocolatey blend of Colombian, Guatemalan and Peruvian beans — or a single origin. Other spots for a good morning brew and bite are White Henry Espresso, tucked away in Fire Horse Lane, and country farmhouse-esque Paper Plane, which serves up Little Marionette coffee. Come lunch or dinner time, head to hybrid eatery-retail space Butter. Yep, this is the sibling of the Surry Hills original, but it's twice the size. Stay downstairs for fried chicken, Champagne and hip-hop; head upstairs for sneakers, hoodies, caps, socks and bags. Another couple of inner-city favourites to have set up digs in Parramatta are BL Burgers and Neil Perry's Burger Project. For a more local experience, try dining at Temasek. Prepare to queue for a table: foodies pack out this friendly, no-frills eatery for excellent Malaysian and Singaporean dishes, from laksa to nasi goreng. Meanwhile, just one train station — or five minutes' drive — away is Harris Park's cornucopia of Indian restaurants, where Chatkazz does tasty, affordable, vegetarian street food and Not Just Curries an array of regional dishes from all over India. Or, for something fancier, head to 350 Restaurant and Bar, the refined offering within the Novotel Parramatta Sydney, for a three-parter of blue swimmer crab with sweet corn veloute, Cape Grim beef cheeks and Frangelico panna cotta. It's recently nabbed a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, which goes to the spots with the top user reviewers. A couple of sweet spots for pre-dinner bevvies are ALEX&Co., whose cocktail bar overlooks Parramatta River, and the Riverside Brewing Company, which offers an ideal winter beer in the chocolatey Eighty-Eight Robust Porter. Note that the cellar door is only open Friday and Saturday, 2pm—6pm. After dinner, swing by Uncle Kurt's, a street-art-plastered small bar hidden away in a car park that feels as though it's straight out of Brooklyn and where head bartender Alex Colman makes every cocktail from scratch. Among his winter-friendly signature creations is the Westside, a heartening concoction of kaffir lime leaf-infused gin, yellow chartreuse, citrus, sugar snap peas, honey and ginger. DO Parramatta knows how to throw a festival just as well as the Sydney CBD. Coming up from October 9–12 is Parramatta Lanes, which takes over the area's laneways, plazas and hidden nooks. Roam the night and you might stumble across bands, street eats, pop-up bars, projections, glowing sculptures and interactive art installations. Before or after, book a ticket to a show at Riverside Theatres — the diverse program features everything from political satire to orchestral performances. During the day, Parramatta's surprisingly bushy outdoors offer stacks of escapades. To immerse yourself in Indigenous culture, head to Parramatta Park, where the Burramatta Aboriginal Landscape Trail travels through terrain that's been regenerated to reflect its state before European arrival. Meanwhile, among Parramatta Lake's 73 hectares of bushland, you'll find the Arrunga Bardo Bush Food Garden, crowded with edible and medicinal plants. Need to get warm? Jump on your bike and conquer one of Parramatta's many and varied cycle paths. The Heritage Ride takes in 27 historical spots; the Parramatta Park Ride is an easy, 3.5-kilometre loop through greenery; and the riverside route travels (mostly) along the waterfront to Sydney Olympic Park. If you have more of a lazy winter weekender in mind, then head to the Wentworth Atelier, a revamped Victorian terrace, for a blow dry or hot towel shave — with a top-shelf whiskey — at Dapper & Doll or to get measured up for a shirt or suit at the old-school Tailor & Co. SLEEP When you're on a wintry break, sleeping over in a snug spot is half the fun. For a stay right on the river — and just a minute's walk from the CBD — check into the Novotel Sydney Parramatta. The 4.5-star digs vary from Standard Rooms with queen or twin beds to Spa Suites with jacuzzis, but all come with massive windows that let in buckets of winter sunshine and splashes of earthy colours. There's an on-site gym, steam room, outdoor pool, restaurant and bar. For a more affordable option, book a room at the Mercure Sydney Parramatta, right near Rosehill Gardens Racecourse. You can count on a spacious, peaceful room, plus there's a tennis court, outdoor pool and the M Restaurant and Bar, serving contemporary Australian cuisine from head chef Roshni Bista. The new winter menu includes macadamia-encrusted barramundi with New York cheesecake for dessert. It's located near the M4, meaning getting back to Sydney or journeying on to the Blue Mountains is easy as pie. Go to the AccorHotels website to book your stay in Parramatta, and to discover more of NSW, swing by Visit NSW.
Whether you're planning a fun day out with mum, or you just fancy spending a Sunday admiring flowers, stocking up on plants and scoffing freshly-baked scones, this one's for you. The National Trust of Victoria's annual Botanica Festival descends on the gorgeous Rippon Lea Estate with a jam-packed program on Sunday, May 14. A lush celebration of nature and gardening, the fest has something for all kinds of punter. There's the openair market where you'll be able to shop a huge range of locally-made wares, as well as roving entertainment running right through the day and an exhibition courtesy of the Bonsai Society of Victoria. Meanwhile, green thumbs can get their kicks browsing the very affordable pre-loved gardening book sale, scoping out stunning floral displays and adding to their foliage collection with a spin through the plant sale. The latter will feature greenery propagated by the estate's own gardeners. Once you've worked up an appetite, you'll find a globe-trotting array of food trucks to tickle your fancy, while Edenvale pours tastings of its alcohol-removed vino. And of course, you can't leave without dropping by the verandah to tuck into some classic CWA scones with lashings of jam and cream.
Any obsessive crate digger or vinyl junkie will tell you that collecting records is part artform, part obsession. In 9000 Vinyl Records Stephen Williams presents his personal collection of original, first pressing soul records. Rather than simply sifting through his impressive collection, Williams will exhibit the records and record sleeves along with a complete indexed catalogue, text, video and recorded music. The exhibition asks us to consider our own practice of collecting, whatever our object of desire may be. As well as questioning what we choose to surround ourselves with and why, the exhibition also examines the obsessive compulsive nature of cataloguing and archiving, and how we make decisions when it comes to creating order. And of course, it’s not just about how many records you have, it’s about creating a quality collection — and how your own taste, aesthetic and judgment is reflected in your archive. Whether you’re a lover of records, soul music, or have ever collected any item, no matter how obscure, 9000 Vinyl Records will speak to you and your obsessions.
When you think about Melbourne hamburger joints, odds are that Huxtaburger is one of the first to spring to mind. Originally a spin-off of Huxtable Diner, this no-frills American-style hamburger grill got its start in Collingwood and now boasts four additional venues in Prahran, Hawthorn, Ringwood and the CBD. As a rule, the team behind the counter like to keep things simple: sweet brioche buns wrapped around a wagyu beef patty with tomato, cheese, lettuce and pickles, or southern fried chicken with jalapeño mayo and slaw. Round out your meal with crinkle cut chips and an ice cold can of beer, and try not to think too hard about the fact that your lunch is named after a character from The Cosby Show.
His video collection is filled with 80s and 90s educational films. When we chat, he's staring at a Teddy Ruxpin doll. If anyone was destined to make Brigsby Bear, a delightful, insightful comedy about a fictional television show and its number one fan, it's Saturday Night Live star Kyle Mooney. With Mooney in the lead, his childhood pal Kevin Costello with him on co-screenwriting duties, and another of their friends, Dave McCary, in the directors chair, Brigsby Bear feels like it has been ripped not just from Mooney's mind, but from his heart. It's the most earnest and genuine film you could imagine about an adult discovering that his favourite show isn't quite what he thinks — one that isn't afraid to give nostalgia a hearty embrace while wading through dark terrain. It's also a perfect addition to a career that started with web sketches with his friends in comedy troupe Good Neighbour and segued into the most famous late night comedy show there is. Along the way, he's also racked up parts on Parks and Recreation, the US version of Wilfred and Hello Ladies. With Brigbsy Bear currently screening in Australian cinemas, we spoke with Mooney about turning his VHS obsession into a movie, getting the confidence to make the leap to film, and doing so with his best friends. ON FINDING INSPIRATION IN GREEK CINEMA AND 80s VHS TAPES "I don't know how it came to me — if I was just hanging around the house or in some sort of dream state or what, but I became really obsessed with this idea of a guy who watches a TV show that's being produced just for him," explains Mooney. "And I kept on thinking about that concept until eventually the story became not just that, but more about the world he explores after that, and outside of that." "There was a movie that came out a few years ago called Dogtooth. It has some similar qualities, with a family being raised in seclusion, so maybe that played a part. But generally I couldn't tell you where it came from, except from me being that obsessive myself, and watching these shows — I have a big VHS collection of kids shows, and I watch them over and over again." "It's mostly stuff that's made for kids, and mostly stuff from the 80s and 90s. I especially really like stuff that was released straight-to-video, and was produced regionally. And where there's maybe only 200 copies made. Educational films, religious videos, stuff like that. What I really like is when it has a low budget, and low production values, but you can tell that whoever's in charge of this thing is trying to do their best impression of Jim Henson or Walt Disney — and it's totally not working." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sgs81IOU0m4 ON MAKING THE LEAP FROM SHORTS, TO SNL, TO HIS FIRST FEATURE FILM "I started working on videos with Dave, our director, in my early 20s — right out of college. And with every video you learn something. And then, after a few of them you start trying new things, and you add people to the crew, or maybe start to put a little more money into the production. So it was kind of a gradual build where the stakes rise a little more each time." "By the time we got SNL — I went there with Dave and with Beck Bennett, who's a cast member who is also in our movie — again, there is a little more pressure at it, but you get used to it. And now you're working with a huge celebrity host each week! And you do that for a few years, and it has been building so that, by the time we were on set last summer shooting the movie, I felt pretty prepared." ON MAKING A MOVIE WITH HIS CHILDHOOD BEST FRIENDS "We had all of these shared experiences. With Dave and I, like, there was this very specific kid who went to middle school with us. And I can just be like, 'Jim said this in science class in 1998', or whatever it is, and we can get a laugh out of it. And there's just a level of trust that's there, I think, when Dave is directing me. He knows what I'm capable of. We have the same sensibilities, pretty much." "So it's easy for me, and I think it relieves a lot of the pressure of working on something and not knowing how it is going to turn out. We're also all in it together — and we fail together and we succeed together. But yeah, certainly like having so much history and sharing a sensibility helped." "And I had enough fun on that set that I felt like, 'if this is all we get out of it, I feel pretty good'. Even if the movie didn't turn out well, I would've just considered it a rad summer where we got to work on something together. When we weren't shooting, we would hang out in our hotel rooms or get beers or sing karaoke. It was truly a wonderful crew and cast, and it's nice that what comes through on screen is true to what the experience was like." ON THE FILM'S EARNESTNESS AND OPTIMISM "We have so much genuine love for the things we were trying to recreate. The Brigsby show that's in the movie — I love children's entertainment, and we never wanted to poke fun. I think we always really wanted to pay tribute to it." "And also, the film's underlying theme of creativity, or storytelling, or finding something that you love — we never felt like we wanted to make fun of that. We just wanted to embrace it. We just really liked the idea of playing everything earnest and honest, and hoped the laughs would come along naturally along the way." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1MdrGM27yQ8 Read our Brigbsy Bear review.
Since opening late last year, all-day venue Citizen has been serving up cold beers and Japanese-influenced bar snacks to South Wharf dwellers. If you haven't been past yet, the fact that the cafe-bar is offering $1 coffees all February might be enough to get you there. Yep, one-buck coffee — all month. All you have to do is bring in your reusable coffee cup. Misplaced yours? Citizen will have HuskeeCups for sale if you need a newbie — they're made from old coffee husks, which help to close the loop on coffee production. Best part is that the cafe is open from 7am (and 8am on weekends) until late, so you can get your gold coin cup before, during or even after work. It does breakfast and lunch and, if you're there for happy hour (4–8pm weekdays), you can even get a rice or noodle bowl and a beer for a tight $20.
Australians all let us rejoice, for the public holiday is here and we plan on making the most of it. As happens every year, our calendar is full to bursting, loaded with events and parties that celebrate our multicultural country and our shared exaltation of the humble snag. Whether you’re looking to take in a live performance, satisfy your tastebuds or just want to go for a dip in the sea, this list will make sure you have yourself a cracker of a day. And yes, we've included plenty of places where you can listen to the Hottest 100. Of course, it's a day of great contention in Australia, often called ‘Invasion Day’, ‘Day of Mourning’, ‘Survival Day’ or ‘Aboriginal Sovereignty Day’ (since 2006). There's a huge protest happening on the steps of Parliament House if you're interested.
Unless you've been hiding under a rock, you'll know that the local booze scene is busier than ever right now. And this Saturday, Thornbury's Out of Sundaland will showcase five of our finest drops as part of a gin-matched lunch degustation for World Gin Day. The all-Aussie gin lineup will reveal some of the country's most exciting forays into botanical booze, including Brookie's Rainforest Gin out of Byron Bay, the hot-ticket Bloody Shiraz Gin from Healesville's Four Pillars (who are also hosting World Gin Day festivities), Adelaide Hills' Green Ant Gin, Brunswick newcomers Patient Wolf and Byron\'s colour-changing, pea flower-tinted Ink Gin. Each of the five courses will be carefully matched to a signature cocktail crafted around one of these homegrown heroes; the drinks will be served deconstructed to give you a chance to sample the gin solo first. True to form, the restaurant will be revving up tastebuds with punchy, produce-led Aus-Asian plates to work alongside the likes of a Salty Gin cocktail from the bar. Food will set you back $60, with an extra $50 for the matched gins. If this sounds like your ultimate Saturday arvo sitch, there are still a few tickets left — snap them up here.
Gay hip hop party collective Swagger is throwing the mother of all Halloween bashes this Friday night at The Bottom End in town. Kicking off at 11pm and running deep into the early hours, the Swagger DJs will be spinning beats by all your hip hop and R&B faves so you can get your creep on all night long. Of course, this being a spooky affair, costumes are an absolute necessity. Swagger suggestions include zombie Beyonce and vampire Nicki Minaj — we'd like to throw in Frankenstein Drake or the entire lineup of the Wu-Tang clan dressed as werewolves. Really though, the possibilities are endless. Whatever you're wearing, jus make sure you can still dance. It's not easy busting a move when you're dressed like a mummy.
There's something rather cool about being ahead of the curve when it comes to cinema, watching the latest and greatest flicks unfold on the silver screen before the rest of the world gets to see them. Well, at Flickerfest Short Film Festival you can do just that. Yep, break out the popcorn, the internationally acclaimed festival is touring in Melbourne on Wednesday, February 12 — and there's a swag of homegrown talent on the bill. This year, the folks at Flickerfest received a record 3500 entries from more than 100 countries around the world, making the 2020 program a real doozy. More than 200 handpicked creative and inspiring shorts screened at the festival's ten-day stint in Sydney earlier this summer. Now, at The Kino cinema, you'll catch the cream of the crop, with a focus on the best Australian — and more specifically Melbourne-based — shorts. Highlights include Elders, directed by writer director Tony Briggs and recently selected for the Berlin Film Festival; animated short Rebooted about a movie star who also happens to be a skeleton; thrilling drama The Widow; and Blackwood, which won best cinematography at this year's Flickerfest Awards. [caption id="attachment_759070" align="alignnone" width="1920"] 'Rebooted'[/caption] After seeing a bunch of Melbourne-produced shorts, you can head to the after party. There you'll find Vietnamese snacks — think rice paper rolls, skewers and dumplings — as well as beer, wine and non-alcoholic bevvies. Tickets for the evening cost $25 and include access to the after party. To see the full program and grab tickets, head here. Top images (in order): The Widow by Brendan Young and Catherine McQuade and Elders by Tony Briggs.
Fitzroy has welcomed a new haven of 70s disco dazzle, as The Lame Duck arrives to heat things up this summer. Behind a glittering gold door and up a flight of stairs on the corner of Gertrude and Smith Streets, this newbie's rocking a retro pool room aesthetic with a definite disco edge. Cementing those old-school party vibes, expect a healthy dose of wood panelling, a shrine to the one and only Cher, a working photo booth for late-night happy snaps, and a Billy Bass presiding happily over the room. A vintage purple pool table snookers all the others in town, and enormous booths — decked out in hot pink palm trees, no less — are primed for group festivities. With a nifty 4am licence, and a couple of hospitality veterans at the helm, it's a place where letting your hair down is most certainly encouraged. The cocktail offering is embracing the very best of eras past, slinging new-school takes on some of the 70s' best-known daggy drinks. There's the daring Mezcal Sunrise ($18) with pink grapefruit juice, a piña colada-margarita mash-up ($18) and the signature Lame Fluffy Duck ($18) — a gin and Aperol sour. More retro classics pepper the snacks menu; you'll find yourself stepping back in time with bites like pickled onions, hot dogs and an oozy baked camembert fondue. Meanwhile, the DJ tunes will be spinning nightly, with residents like JNETT and Capt'n Shergz throwing down a hearty mix of disco, funk and soul jams. Be sure to bring your party shoes — dancing on the tables is a-ok at The Lame Duck. At least for the time being. Find The Lame Duck at 1/247 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy. It's open 4pm–late Tuesday–Thursday, 3pm-late Friday, and 2pm–late Saturday and Sunday. Images: Jess Middleton.
Whenever the words "we made a terrible mistake" are uttered in a movie, nothing good can follow. When they're said early in the just-dropped new trailer for Jurassic World Dominion, they simply state the obvious — because having dinosaurs rampaging around the globe was always going to result in chaos. Yes, the franchise started back in 1993, with director Steven Spielberg adapting Michael Crichton's novel of the same name to box office glory, is returning for its sixth film — the third entry in its second trilogy, in fact. The initial mega-hit flick spawned sequels in 1997 and 2001, which then led to the Jurassic World saga — aka 2015's Jurassic World, 2018's Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom and now 2022's Jurassic World Dominion — because humanity just won't stop messing with ancient predators. Where the initial Dominion trailer back in February went heavy on two things — stressing that the movie will wrap up the story for now, and also reuniting OG cast members Jeff Goldblum, Laura Dern and Sam Neill — this new sneak peek emphasises the enormous stakes. If you've always wanted to hear Goldblum chat about genetic power being unleashed and doomsday clocks running out of time, and also sounding as wryly bewildered as he can while asking Chris Pratt why he made a promise to a dinosaur, you're in luck: they're all accounted for. Also looming large over the new trailer: "the biggest carnivore the world has ever seen", as Neill's paleontologist Alan Grant explains, because Dominion is going big with its terrifying creatures. Or, as Goldblum's mathematician Dr Ian Malcolm would put it — although he doesn't in the clips so far — "life... finds a way". Directed by Colin Trevorrow, who also helmed the first Jurassic World film, Dominion jumps back into this dino-filled vision of earth four years after the last flick — which saw Isla Nublar destroyed. The franchise's pivotal critters now live alongside humans, which is obviously a tenuous, tense and terrifying situation. Understandably, co-existing with dinosaurs threatens life as everyone knows it, not to mention humanity's future. Chris Pratt (The Tomorrow War) and Bryce Dallas Howard (Rocketman) return for Dominion, after starring in the past two Jurassic World movies. Also featuring: DeWanda Wise (The Harder They Fall), Emmy nominee Mamoudou Athie (Archive 81), Dichen Lachman (Animal Kingdom), Scott Haze (Minari) and Campbell Scott (The Amazing Spider-Man 2), plus returning cast members BD Wong (another original Jurassic Park star, and part of all three Jurassic World films), Justice Smith (Pokemon: Detective Pikachu), Daniella Pineda (Cowboy Bebop) and Omar Sy (Lupin). Movie-goers will be able to see how this whole humans-and-dinosaurs mayhem all pans out in full when Dominion hits cinemas Down Under on June 9. It'll arrive in what's shaping up to be a big month or so for on-screen dinos, after the unrelated documentary series Prehistoric Planet — narrated by David Attenborough, brother to original Jurassic Park franchise star Richard Attenborough — hits streaming in late May. Check out the trailer for Jurassic World Dominion below: Jurassic World Dominion releases in cinemas Down Under on June 9, 2022.
