Deerhoof's members are evidence that it pays to take risks. In a post-modern world, where it can sometimes feel as though everything that can be said has been said, they continue to come up with arrestingly original ideas. Every album reveals another sonic surprise. Their twelfth self-produced release, Breakup Song, is no exception. This time around, Cuban rhythms fuel the San Francisco noise group's unpredictable melodic adventures. According to drummer Greg Saunier, the album is about "just turning around a sort of bad mood and finding a way to turn it into a good mood." As much as a Deerhoof record can definitely beat back the blues in the comfort of your lounge room, it doesn't match up to the experience of seeing them live. Their edgy creativity takes on a whole new dimension in front of a crowd. https://youtube.com/watch?v=u7DpLne1abo
Gin lovers, rejoice. Melbourne's CBD now has its first craft gin distillery, with Little Lon Distilling Co opening its doors to the public last Friday night. Steeped in history, the distillery is named after the infamous red light district that sat between Lonsdale, Spring, Exhibition and La Trobe Streets. The notorious area — that operated around 150 years ago and had bootleggers, prostitutes and sly grog aplenty — was divided by small laneways and cottages, most of which were destroyed in the 1950s. The distillery site, on Casselden Place, is one of the few historic spaces that remain. Little Lon owner and distiller Brad Wilson said the heritage-listed cottage from the 1800s was a passion project many years in the making. "After travelling to Europe, I thought it would be great to have my own spirit brand," Wilson said. "I was inspired by a 400-year-old distillery called Wynand Fockink in Amsterdam to start a project of my own." Drinks such as the mulled apple Ginger Mick are standouts on the menu, with each batch paying homage to the real-life characters that inspired the building's name. Using Victorian Police records, and the knowledge of a Melbourne tour guide Michael Sheldon who runs crime tours in the area, Wilson became familiar with the key figures of the time. "We wanted to personify the characters that used to live and kick around these laneways," said Wilson. Maude Compton, who ran a brothel and was jailed for stealing money out of customer's pockets, and Constable Hickling are some of the characters that feature on the distillery's menu. Little Lon Distilling Co, which has the capacity for around 200–300 litres of fermentation, is churning out batches on regular rotation, featuring local ingredients and fragrant notes such as rosemary, oranges and lemons — all things which have historically grown in the area. Find Little Lon Distilling Co at 17 Casselden Place, Melbourne. Throughout July, the distillery will be open every Friday from 5–9pm alongside Madame Brussels' European Night Market. From August, it hopes to open from Thursday–Saturday from 5–11pm, but check the Facebook page for updates. Images: Julia Sansone
One of Melbourne’s newest destination clubs is showing off what it can do with a massive NYE party. Open over three exapansive levels with luxurious bars, a big dance area and one of the best rooftops south of the river this will be a perfect spot to bring in the New Year. Each level of the complex has something going for it though our pick is to make your way to the rooftop well in advance for a great view of the midnight firework show over the city skyline. Tickets include cocktails, drinks, and canapés so the only thing you have to worry about is which cocktail to choose.
Australia's cities are lighting up this winter thanks to a slew of dazzling arts festivals — and if you're planning to spend the middle of the year hopping between them, you've now got another destination. While Melbourne's Rising festival, Sydney's Vivid, and Hobart 's Dark Mofo will all unleash their delights in June (with Vivid even starting in late May), Illuminate Adelaide is set to brighten up the South Australian capital throughout July. And, based on its just-dropped lineup, there's plenty to tempt both locals and interstate visitors alike. Returning for its second year, Illuminate Adelaide is all about creativity, art, music and light, and will unfurl all of the above from Friday, July 1–Sunday, July 31. Topping the bill: Gorillaz, with Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett's chart-topping act adding an Adelaide show to their Australian tour, which already includes headlining this year's Splendour in the Grass, plus sideshows elsewhere. Also set to be huge: Ouchhh Studio's Wisdom of AI Light, a major exhibition that's all about art and artificial intelligence. A multisensory experience, it'll take up a specially designed pop-up exhibition space in the East End of the Adelaide CBD, with quite a wonder inspired by renaissance painters as its centrepiece. Here, AI has been trained to analyse billions of brushstrokes by some of the best artists who've ever lived — with a particular focus on Leonardo da Vinci — and create its own new moving image work. [caption id="attachment_850982" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ouchhh Studio[/caption] The exhibition also includes a number of other pieces by the Istanbul-based Ouchhh Studio, such as art made in conjunction with the Machine Learning Scientists at CERN in Switzerland and with NASA. In the former, called Dark Machine, you'll peer at AI-processed data from subatomic particle collisions — while the latter, Data Gate, sees AI play with data from the Kepler Space Telescope, drawing upon its nearly ten years in space observing 2500-plus planets, more than 530,000 stars and over 61 supernovae. Still on all things radiant, 2022's festival will welcome back some of last year's big light installations (because peering at shiny sights never gets old). Making a comeback is Light Cycles, which'll once again transform the Adelaide Botanic Gardens with light projections, lasers, sound and special effects, all thanks to Montreal's Moment Factory. And, the Adelaide Zoo will host the return of Light Creatures, so there'll be another round of enchanting interactive animal installations — think: giant tiger lantern puppets, huge rainbow skinks, giant pandas and giraffe lanterns — giving the place an enormous glow. The City Lights program is returning as well, once again featuring a range of acclaimed artists — and turning the CBD into an after-dark art trail in the process. 2022's version will notch up more 40 free site-specific works over 17 days, spanning creative photobooths, illuminated laundry, 15 giant glowing seesaws and a chandelier harp in various spots around town. There'll also be a 50-metre-long walkway of moving light and mirrors, an interactive geometric LED cube, bouncing glowing orbs, and Vincent Namatjira's Going Out Bush turned into animation and projected onto the Art Gallery of South Australia's facade. [caption id="attachment_850978" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Chandelier Harp, Jen Lewin. Photo by Aaron Rogosin.[/caption] Other standouts from the hefty full Illuminate Adelaide program include the Australian premiere of seven-channel video piece We Will Slam You With Our Wings by Joanna Dudley, which takes notoriously sexist speeches from throughout history and reframes them as feminist war cries; the Aussie debut of concert series KLASSIK underground, which pairs classical music with live visuals; and experimental and electronic music celebration Unsound Adelaide. And if you're already starting to make plans to head along, expect to have a heap of company — last year's fest was impacted by COVID-19 lockdowns and wild weather, but still attracted more than 500,000 attendees. Illuminate Adelaide 2022 runs from Friday, July 1–Sunday, July 31. Check out the festival's website for the full program and to grab tickets. Top images: Light Creatures, Adelaide-Zoo. Credit: Frankie the Creative. // Futures, part of City Lights // Submergence, part of City Lights. Credit: Rikard Osterlund.
There's a party coming to the Northcote Town Hall this summer. And honestly, it's about damn time. Curated by a team of Melbourne music lovers with their fingers in everything from Inner Varnika to Strawberry Fields, Something Unlimited is a brand new one-day music event, and the first of its kind to be held at the historic building on High Street. The homegrown lineup includes the likes of Wax'o Paradiso, Mildlife, Allysha Joy and Gregor, as well as international acts in Lady Blacktronika, Mori Ra and Urulu. In addition to the tunes, there'll be immersive visual art courtesy of Mikaela Stafford, and an array of food and drink options by Northcote traders. It all kicks off at high noon on Saturday, February 16, and wraps up just before midnight.
It isn't every day that Australia busts out a pop-metal tune to compete on the world stage. No, just at Eurovision 2023. Apologies to whatever's been getting a workout on your playlist over the past few weeks, but May is here, which means that Eurovision is here. And, so are a whole bunch of synth-heavy Europop tunes — plus that Aussie riff on a on Europop tune — that'll worm their way into your head. This is Christmas for pop songs belted out competitively in a glitzy ceremony filled with eye-catching outfits, with the the 67th Eurovision Song Contest kicking off at 5am AEST on Wednesday, May 10. Doing the honours for Australia, starting in the second semi final at 5am AEST on Friday, May 12, is Perth synth-metal band Voyager. Their track: earworm 'Promise', which'll have "it's gonna be alright" lodged in plenty of brains from the moment that the band take to the stage. For newcomers, Eurovision started back in 1956 as a competition between a mere seven nations. Now, more than six decades later, it's a glitter-strewn and spandex-fuelled global musical phenomenon. Thirty-seven countries not only in Europe but from elsewhere will compete in 2023 — hello Australia — and viewers tune in en masse to watch, sing along and add new pop tunes to their queues. This year's host city is Liverpool in the United Kingdom, in a break from Eurovision tradition. The song contest usually unleashes each year's contenders in the country responsible for the past year's winner — and in 2022, Ukraine's Kalush Orchestra won for 'Stefania'. But due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, Eurovision will be held in the UK for the first time in a quarter-century. Thanks to duo TVORCHI, a huge hit on their homegrown charts, Ukraine will still defend its title with the song 'Heart of Steel'. Australians keen to tune in will be directing their eyeballs to SBS, with the broadcaster's usual annual celebration of all things Europop returning for another round. 2023 marks 40 years of the network showing Eurovision, in fact. When Voyager play their track, they'll be up against performers from 15 other countries, including Brunette from Armenia, Belgium's Gustaph, Diljá from Iceland, Joker Out from Slovenia, and Austria's Teya & Salena. Also in the same show: Aussie Andrew Lambrou, who is competing for Cyprus, his parents' homeland, with 'Break a Broken Heart'. If Voyager makes their way through to the grand final — with only 21 acts making the cut, and France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom and Ukraine automatically guaranteed spots — you'll also want to get up early on Sunday, May 14. Or, even if they don't, that's when this year's winner will be anointed. Of course, for those who can't tear themselves out of bed before it's light and can somehow manage to avoid the internet and social media, both semis and the grand final will also screen in primetime on the same dates. Wondering who Voyager are? And why you didn't get a say in their Eurovision selection? Unlike past years, there was no Eurovision — Australia Decides event and public vote to choose who'd score the Aussie berth; however, the five-piece band featuring Danny Estrin on vocals and keytar, Simone Dow and Scott Kay on guitar, Alex Vanion on bass and Ash Doodkorte on drums has been vying to represent the country since 2015. In 2022's Australian vote, they came in second to Sheldon Riley, who took the country to 15th spot in last year's Eurovision grand final. Now that it's time to watch along, SBS' usual local hosts Myf Warhurst and Joel Creasey are once again overseeing the Australian coverage. And if you can't decide whether to beat the sun or wait and host a party at sensible hour, it's worth remembering that Australians can indeed vote for Eurovision, but only until around 15 minutes after the last song is performed in each live semi-final broadcast and about 40 minutes after the last track ends in the grand final. In a big change to past years, voting is open to everyone in all finals — whether you're from a country participating in that final or not — and the artists who get through from the two semi finals to the grand final will be solely chosen by the audience at home. Still remaining the same: the rule that says Australians can't actually vote for Voyager, because no one can vote for the country they represent. EUROVISION 2023 BROADCASTS: LIVE BROADCASTS: Semi final one: 5am AEST on Wednesday, May 10 on SBS and SBS on Demand Semi final two: 5am AEST on Friday, May 12 on SBS and SBS on Demand — featuring Voyager Grand final: 5am AEST on Sunday, May 14 on SBS and SBS on Demand STREAMING REPLAYS: Semi final one: 12pm AEST on Wednesday, May 10 on SBS on Demand Semi final two: 12pm AEST on Friday, May 12 on SBS on Demand — featuring Voyager Grand final: 3pm AEST on Sunday, May 14 on SBS on Demand TV REPLAYS: Semi final one: 7.30pm AEST on Friday, May 12 on SBS Semi final two: 7.30pm AEST on Saturday, May 13 on SBS — featuring Voyager Grand final: 7.30pm AEST on Sunday, May 14 on SBS SBS' Eurovision 2023 coverage runs from Wednesday, May 10–Sunday, May 14. For more information, head to the broadcaster's website. Images: Sarah Louise Bennett / Corinne Cumming.
Are you still, still recovering from The Red Viper versus The Mountain? Are you feeling a little nostalgic for the days when Tyrion could lay around boozing on vino? Perhaps you should be drinking your sorrows away with some like-minded Thrones fanatics. Confused? We’ll lay it down for you. Game of Rhones is a wine-tasting event that's been touring Australia since 2014. Featuring over 40 producers and 100 wines, it's a one-day, all-out trial by combat to determine the best offering of the grape varieties from the Rhone Valley in France — Shiraz, Grenache, and Viognier among others. But this isn't just a run-of-the-mill wine tasting set-up. To keep that theme solid, the Rhone Bar is where you can taste wines from ‘Beyond the Wall’ (ie: the Rhone Valley). Then, you can sign up for a blindfolded tasting in the 'torture chamber' (a highlight of previous Game of Rhones events). Suffice to say, after a few of these Rhone Valley wines, we'd probably confess to a secret or two. Of course, it wouldn't be Thrones-worthy if there weren't a few extra kickers. To accompany your wine, there will be a selection of feast-able treats available such as suckling pig and venison pie — if you’re a vego or a vegan, you've probably already guessed this is a highly meaty affair.
Steak is one of those meals that, no matter what state you might be in, will leave you feeling just a little bit better. Responsible for sating hunger, dealing with low iron issues and just generally making meat-eaters feel like they're in their happy place, a good steak can be just the fix for a cold winter's night (or any other night — or day). Not just the fare of fancy, upmarket places with lush wagyu offerings, steak is more accessible than you think. Many pubs around town do decent steak specials, with trimmings and sides thrown in, too. Luckily for us, our pub food cravings are easily dealt with in Melbourne, with myriad venues cooking up fresh, tasty and non-pretentious pub grub from north to south. If you've a hankering for pub food in the way of hot hunks of meat, we feel you. Along with our mates over at American Express, we've put together a bit of a nightly guide to realise your carnivorous dreams throughout the week. And what's more, you can tap that American Express® Card and reap those points benefits later on, post-beef coma. Got yourself in another dining situation and need some guidance? Whatever it is, we know a place. Visit The Shortlist and we'll sort you out.
Best known as the voice of US cable network Comedy Central, American comedian Kyle Kinane returns to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival with a show called Terrestrial Woes. It's a fitting title for a comic whose humour tends to stem from observations about everyday misfortunes. He's a gruff but immensely likeable storyteller with a talent for making the mundane seem funny and occasionally profound. A definite standout on this year's program, he's only in town for a week, so make sure you check him out while you can.
We usually picture Tasmania as Australia's sleepiest state — but when they go and pull off a weekend rager in a remote meadow, you've really got to question why we think this. We probably should have realised when they upped festival standards by giving us MONA FOMA. Set in White Hills, a beautiful, forested area about 20 minutes from Launceston, Party in the Paddock brings a punchy list of international and local artists to the island state. When not at the stage, Party in the Paddock's Vibestown is the place to head for gourmet Tassie nosh, comedy, art, yoga, glitter and skateboarding. And, for its sixth year, PITP has stuck an extra day onto the festival — on Thursday night there's a Funk in the Forest psychedelic rave that will continue over to Friday and Saturday nights. PARTY IN THE PADDOCK 2018 LINEUP Gang of Youths GROUPLOVE The Avalanches (DJ Set) Meg Mac Ball Park Music Client Liaison The Preatures Tkay Maidza Holy Holy Aunty Donna Crooked Colours Tired Lion
Wednesday nights haven't been the same these past two years, without the Queen Victoria Market's usual midweek offering to boost that Hump Day vibe. Thanks to the pandemic, the precinct's much-loved winter night market series was canned two years in a row, with the most recent summer edition also scrapped. But now, Melbourne, the wait is over, with the glorious news that the QVM Summer Night Market will kick off a huge comeback season this January 2022. Back to fire up your Wednesday nights from January 5 to April 6 next year, the night market's return marks the precinct's first major nighttime event since April 2020. And yes, it's going to be a big one. Each week, the Summer Night Market will feature a mouthwatering lineup of food vendors slinging street eats from every corner of the globe. We're talking melty raclette from Frencheese, meaty US-style barbecue fare courtesy of Bigger Than Texas, The Cypriot Kitchen's famed halloumi chips, and all sorts of spherical sweet treats from the doughnut masters at Taki's Balls. To wash it all down and quench your summer thirst, you'll find no less than five dedicated festival bars, along with drinks stalls from the likes of Antagonist Spirits — did someone say apple-strawberry mojitos? As always, there'll be a program of live, local tunes to soundtrack your food-focused wanderings, with one stage dedicated to DJ sets and another serving up a primo rotation of acoustic acts. For a little midweek shopping action, see the diverse range of artisan maker stalls, brimming with an array of handmade gifts, homewares, fashion and more. Over in The Book Nook, you can treat your inner bibliophile to a selection of new and pre-loved books, along with local author chats and stalls filled with second-hand records. There's even a pop-up space dedicated to serving up future insights from a lineup of leading clairvoyants, fortune tellers and psychics, dubbed The Spirit Zone. The Queen Victoria Market 2022 Summer Night Market will run from 5–10pm every Wednesday, from January 5–April 6 (excluding January 26). Find it at the Queen Victoria Market, corner of Queen and Therry Streets, Melbourne.
We all know and love chewy sourdough pizzas. US-style versions sold by the slice are also everywhere these days. And dirty Aussie pizzas with strings of processed ham will always hold a special place in our food-loving hearts. But Flour Child in St Kilda has popularised another kind of pizza: pinsa romana. This Roman-style pizza's dough is made with a combination of soy, rice and wheat flour, and is left to prove for at least 48 hours. What you get is a healthier (sort of) dough that's a whole lot airier and crispier than your usual variety. Usually, you'd have to travel out to St Kilda to sample this Roman treat. But now, as of Thursday, August 29, you can get it from Flour Child's new Richmond pizzeria and cocktail bar. Naples-born Executive Chef Alessandro Bellomunno is overseeing the new site's pinsa romana-making, and is adding plenty of other contemporary Italian eats to the menu. The sip and snack crowd can get around the stacked antipasti menu, often served with plain pinsa romana bread, while the burrata bar sees the beloved cheese transformed into several different versions of itself. You can bite into a deep-fried and battered burrata ball, try it with a few different purees, have it atop a caponata tartare, or pair it with beef bresaola and confit cherry tomatoes. Gnocchi, porchetta, salads and meatballs round out the offerings at Flour Child Richmond, but the pizzas really are the stars of the show — with about 22 different flavour combos on the cards. The team also considers the site to be a cocktail destination, with Bar Manager Lachlan Grant designing a stacked menu for spring and summer. It includes Italian favourites like negronis and americanos, plus a few signature sips which feature theatrics like bubblegum clouds and wonderfoam. Looking at the space lined with cabinets full of over 10,000 bottles of liquor, it should be no surprise that you can also sample stacks of digestifs and aperitifs. The new spot also boasts a large terrace with a retractable roof, making Flour Child Richmond a pretty stellar spritz spot during the warmer months. You'll find the new Flour Child Richmond at 432 Church Street, Richmond. For more details, check out the venue's website. Images: Arianna Leggiero.
Air. As the planet warms, there's likely to be less of it — or, at any rate, less of the healthy, breathable, life-giving kind. This is just one of the issues that RMIT Gallery's latest exhibition, Dynamics of Air, takes into its hands. Comprised of works by 25 designers, artists and researchers, the show immerses you in climate change, explores the possibility of sharing air in over-crowded cities and delves into cutting-edge research. Both Australian and international artists are involved. Look out for the four-metre-high Gradierwerk (salt breathing tower) by Austria's Breathe Earth Collective, and prepare to be carried through constantly changing microclimates via Outside In, a piece by German climate engineer Thomas Auer and Wagenfeld. Meanwhile, New York-based Natasha Johns-Messenger, has joined forces with Melbourne's Leslie Eastman to create a viewing room, where you'll experience optical illusions caused by a mechanism similar to an aeroplane propeller. To really get a literal experience of it all, Berlin's Edith Kollath will invite you to share air with fellow gallery-goers inside a glass vessel. The gallery is open from 11am till 5pm Monday to Saturday, except for Thursday, when it's open until 7pm. Image: Phil Ayres, Petras Vestartas, Danica Pistekova and Maria Teudt, 'Inflated Restraint' (2016).
Melbourne is fond of a good light show, particularly when the temperatures drop and the nights start to get a little darker. Here to add to the city's illuminated winter calendar is newly-announced Rialto Aglow. The free, after-dark lights festival will take over the Rialto Piazza, nestled in an intersection of Collins, Flinders and King Streets in the CBD. Head down from 5pm between 19 July–29 July to see the public precinct transformed with interactive light installations, large-scale projection artwork and appropriately themed food and bevvies. Highlights include Amigo & Amigo studio's Accordion, comprised of six interactive, oversized archways inspired by the instrument of the same. The same studio will pay tribute to the cycles of the moon with Lunar Lamp Posts, a brand-new large-scale installation with over 40 different sounds and illuminated animations. Beloved Melbourne-based neon light artist Carla O'Brien, whose previous works appeared at Burning Man and White Night, will also pop-up throughout the ten-day festival. Rialto Aglow will host works including Neon Play The Music, a fun and playful live instrument installation, and Double Rainbow Love Heart Archway, set to be an irresistible social media snapping opportunity. The Rialto Aglow Winter Lights Festival is part of the Melbourne City Revitalisation Fund, granting funding for after-dark activities to all to give the night-time economy a hefty boost. [caption id="attachment_897494" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Amigo & Amigo's Affinity at Illuminate Adelaide[/caption]
If you're someone who loves chocolate and hazelnuts, and doesn't have an allergy to either, the odds are that you're rather fond of Nutella. Most folks fall into that category, which is why the world has seen everything from Nutella food trucks and dessert bars to Nutella hotels and festivals pop up — and plenty of eateries slathering the spread on and in other food stuffs, too. Your new way to get your Nutella fix? In bar form. Until now, you might've thought of Nutella bars as places that you can visit — because, as outlined above, they have definitely existed over the years. From Monday, January 4 at Australian supermarkets and convenience stores, however, Nutella bars are also something that you can buy and eat (and carry around with you in multi-packs for a Nutella-on-the-go situation). Nutella's new product is called B-ready, and it squeezes the spread into a wafer shell — with some wheat puffs as well. So, when you bite into one, you'll taste some Nutella, and get quite a crunch in the process. The Nutella B-ready bars are now available either individually, or in packs of six — if you can never seem to stop yourself when it comes to the choc-hazelnut spread. They'll cost you $2 for one, or $4.99 for a six-pack. Nutella B-ready bars are now on sale at Australian supermarkets and convenience stores.
When you need a holiday, but don't have the time, look to a staycation to get your relax on. Don't spend a night in any old hotel though, spend it in a Notel, the trailer park, boutique hotel hybrid. The speakeasy-style hotel hides atop a multi-storey car park on Flinders Lane, featuring six airstream trailers with a playful, spaceship-meets-vintage-campervan aesthetic. Brain behind the hotel, entrepreneur James Fry sought to create a space that didn't yet exist in Melbourne, so he hired architects Edwards Moore to execute his vision. Each fit-out features a bed, mini bar and ensuite with proper plumbing — plus one trailer, the 'Airstream with Benefits', even has it's own private, outdoor spa complete with hot pink underwater lighting.
Feel the grass beneath your feet and the breeze on your face, as the silver screen lights up at this multi-venue outdoor cinema. After springing to life in Portsea in 2016, Barefoot Cinema now also screens films in Mount Martha and Elsternwick over summer. It all kicks off on Boxing Day. First stop is Point Nepean National Park in Portsea from December 26 through until January 8. Films on offer include some of 2018's biggest hits, including Crazy Rich Asians and Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, along with older fare such as Pulp Fiction Next it's off to the Mount Martha on the Peninsula, where movies like Grease and The Lion King will be paired with more recent films like Spike Lee's BlacKkKlansman will screen from January January 11–27. Finally, Barefoot Cinema will arrive at Elsternwick's Rippon Lea Estate with a lineup of yet to be determined titles from January 31 until February 16. In addition to movies, Barefoot Cinema will feature live music, food trucks, a candy bar, local wines, and craft beers from Gage Roads. For more information about Barefoot Cinema, go here.
Whether it's half a capsicum or a few slightly withered mushrooms, we're probably all guilty of throwing away perfectly good food. But collectively, food waste costs Australians up to $10 billion each year. To put that in perspective, about one third of what is produced ends up in landfill. Given 2 million people still rely on food relief, this is pretty baffling. Think.Eat.Save. will see Oz Harvest team up with the United Nations Environment Program to tackle the problem and advocate more sustainable solutions. On July 21, some of the nation's top chefs, politicians and celebrities will be donning aprons and dishing up a delicious free meal to thousands of members of the public. Made from surplus food, it should inspire you to switch on socially and get creative with those odds and ends at the back of the fridge. With an increasing global population and the effects of climate change expected to reduce agricultural yield by up to 5 percent in some areas, it's time to start thinking collectively and enhance efficiency. Check the website to find out where your city's free food hotspot will be.
What's better than watching a heap of top Australian talent sit around and talk about music? Watching them do all of the above while answering questions, competing for points and just generally being funny, too. That's the concept behind ABC TV show Spicks and Specks, which took a few cues from the UK's Never Mind the Buzzcocks, pit Aussie musos and comedians against each other, and has proven a hit several times over. A weekly favourite when it first aired between 2005–2011, it just keeps coming back — including its current series of new specials. When the program was first revived back in 2014, it returned with a new host and team captains. This time, it's back with its original lineup. That means that Adam Hills, Myf Warhurst and Alan Brough have all stepped back into the quiz show realm yet again. When the trio did just that back in 2018, for a one-off reunion special, it became the ABC's most-watched show of the year. Unsurprisingly, that huge response played more than a small part in inspiring this new comeback. If you're already eager to show your own music trivia knowledge and play along — we all know that's as much a part of the Spicks and Specks fun as seeing the on-screen stars unleash their own skills (or lack thereof) — then you probably lapped up the show's Ausmusic Month special last year. And, back in February this year, you probably enjoyed its 90s episode as well. Next, in April, comes a whole episode dedicated to early 00s tunes, naturally focusing on all the tracks, bangers, one hit wonders and more that released right up until 2010. Airing at 7.40pm AEST on Sunday, April 19, expect questions about the period that made Guy Sebastian, Lady Gaga, Kanye West and the Black Eyed Peas stars — and expect not just Adam, Myf and Alan, but Killing Heidi's Ella Hooper, Nic Cester from Jet, and comedians Joel Creasy and Sarah Kendall as well. The Katering Show and Get Krack!n's Kate McLennan and Kate McCartney will be on hand to take part in one of the episodes' games, old Nokia mobiles will find a new lease of life and Thirsty Merc perform as well. The 00s episode marks the third of Spicks and Specks' specials, with a fourth one still to come at a yet-to-be-revealed date. Its focus: the ten-year period we've all just lived through. And, if you need a refresher in the interim, this comedic chat about a Star Wars Christmas album will do the trick: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KNMtDu7TAY Spicks and Specks: 00s Special will air on ABC TV on Sunday, April 19 at 7.40pm. The show's Ausmusic Special and 90s Special are both currently available to stream via ABC iView.
As the arts and entertainment industry continues to climb back to its previous heights following the devastation brought by COVID-19, a welcome addition of $125 million is set to be injected into the Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) fund. The extra funding was announced today, Thursday, March 25, and is aimed at supporting "around 230 projects and up to 90,000 jobs". While a further $10 million will be added to the charity Support Act, aimed at providing crisis support to artists and other workers across the creative sector. The $125 million will be available until Friday, December 31, 2021, and will effectively triple the size of the original commitment of $75 million from the government, raising the total amount of funding available to $200 million. The initial funding has already been put to good use, with Sydney's Hamilton, Melbourne's Harry Potter stage show, Tasmania's Dark Mofo and Byron's Bluesfest all scoring $1 million each. RISE has also helped fund a slew of COVID-safe music events including Next Exit, Fresh Produce and Summer Sounds. [caption id="attachment_789711" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hamilton. Image: Joan Marcus via Destination NSW[/caption] Federal Arts Minister Paul Fletcher names RISE as a driving force behind the creative industry's economic resurgence as venues re-open and shows are booked in. "Our focus has turned to stimulating activity so the work opportunities can flow," Minister Fletcher said in a statement. "This new funding comes at an important stage in the resurgence of Australia's arts and entertainment sector. The purpose of the RISE program is to get shows put on, bringing employment to performers, crews and front-of-house staff." The government has also updated RISE's program guidelines to make it easier for businesses and organisations to access the funding, and to encourage projects from as low as $25,000 to apply (the bar was previously set at a minimum of $75,000 for funding applications). Find out more about the RISE fund here. Top image: Frankies by Katje Ford.
If paying hundreds of dollars seems a bit excessive for one night of antics or you have already blown that Christmas money at Boxing Day sales then check out the very affordable Ding Dong Lounge NYE party. Ding Dong know their live music so rest assured that seven piece psychedelic group with the best name in town, King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard will bring in the New Year properly. Hearty support will be coming from other Melbourne kids The Murlocs who have made some big splashes lately on the festival scene at Meredith and Harvest. Coming all the way from Adelaide and Perth respectively, Bad//Dreems and The Love Junkies are set to warm the night up too.
After a little something to brighten your mood? How does a vibrant bouquet of bright yellow blooms sound? This year, Cancer Council Victoria's Daffodil Day celebrations will spreading lots more of that brightly-hued cheer as they once again transform the Rialto Melbourne's Piazza into a sea of 20,000 flowers. For its 36th annual edition, the famed fundraising appeal is set to sell thousands of daffodils at this CBD pop-up on Thursday, August 25. To jump aboard an excellent cause and buy a bouquet for yourself or someone else in need of some bright blooms, head along from 7.30am. Both small and large bunches are available, with prices starting from $7.50. If you can't make it in person, Cancer Council Victoria is also doing a daffodil delivery service, dropping small, large and extra large bunches to homes across the state this week. You can order online, up until August 25. Proceeds from all flowers sold will go to support Cancer Council Victoria's life-saving work in the field of cancer research.
It's the ultimate 90s Christmas movie. It's the film that's made every kid since 1990 wish to get stranded home alone. It made Macaulay Culkin a star, features Schitt's Creek legend Catherine O'Hara and turned "keep the change, ya filthy animal!" into a festive catchphrase. And, it's never far from screens when the end of the year hits, a tradition that the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra is continuing in 2024. The entire seasonal cinematic treat that is Home Alone will echo through Hamer Hall come December — again. Here's one way to relive the movie: watching it play in the hefty venue with a live soundtrack. As it did back in 2019 and also in 2022, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra is bringing the film back to the big screen in the best possible way, aka in concert, and welcoming the merriest time of the year in the most appropriate fashion. Home Alone truly is the best movie there is about an eight-year-old who outsmarts two burglars while living it up without his parents and siblings — and while it charts Kevin McCallister's antics, it also boasts a rousing Oscar-nominated score by iconic composer John Williams. That's what the MSO will bust out at 7.30pm on Thursday, December 5–Friday, December 6 and at 1pm on Saturday, December 7 — and there's your essential end-of-year viewing taken care of. If your response to the above news is to hold your hands to your cheeks and exclaim, then you'll want to nab a seat. There's no need to set traps or play pranks to grab a ticket, though — they go on sale at 10am on Thursday, May 23.
When the end of the year hits, do you get 'Christmas is All Around', as sung by Bill Nighy, stuck in your head? Have you ever held up a piece of cardboard to tell the object of your affection that, to you, they're perfect? Does your idea of getting festive involve watching Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, Colin Firth, Laura Linney, Alan Rickman, Emma Thompson, Keira Knightley, Rowan Atkinson and Martin Freeman, all in the same movie? If you answered yes to any of the above questions, then you clearly adore everyone's favourite Christmas-themed British rom-com, its high-profile cast and its seasonal humour. And, you've probably watched the beloved flick every December since it was first released in cinemas back in 2003. That's a perfectly acceptable routine, and one that's shared by many. But this year, you can do one better — again. A huge success during its past tours of the UK and Australia (to the surprise of absolutely no one), Love Actually in Concert is returning in 2023 to make this festive season extra merry. It's exactly what it sounds like: a screening of the film accompanied by a live orchestra performing the soundtrack as the movie plays. To the jolly delight of Melburnians, it's heading to Hamer Hall at 3.30pm and 7pm on Saturday, December 23. Here, you'll revisit the Richard Curtis-written and -directed film you already know and treasure, step through its interweaved Yuletide stories of romance, and hear a live orchestra play the movie's soundtrack. And, yes, Christmas (and love) will be all around you.
Next time you sip a G&T, or whichever other gin cocktail takes your fancy, you could be drinking a new Australian label that puts homegrown ingredients to great use. That'd be Taka Gin, a brand that's just hit the market thanks to Melbourne's Niyoka Bundle — who has branched out into the world of spirits from her Indigenous-fusion catering company Pawa Catering. Like plenty of recent new businesses, the idea behind Taka Gin came about in lockdown, with Indigenous woman Bundle and her husband Vincent Manning inspired to take on a new project — and to continue to highlight First Nations people's native foods in the process. That's why their tipple heroes lemon-scented gum leaf and native lemongrass, two plants that the duo consider underutilised. They're paired with a base of seven other botanicals: juniper, coriander, angelica root, cassia chips, finger lime, orris root and desert lime. Taka Gin's key ingredients have been foraged from around Melbourne, and sourced from Indigenous wild harvesters, including via Natif Super Foods and Warndu. The gin is then distilled by Gypsy Hub at Collingwood's Craft & Co, and sold online via the brand's website, with a 700-millilitre bottle costing $90. In terms of taste, this is a smooth gin. Expect soft citrus flavours, as well as a fragrance that helps bring out the tipple's flavour. The brand takes its name from the Gunditjmara language, which hails from southwest Victoria, with 'taka' meaning taste. And, its eye-catching labels are designed by Bundle's mother and Gunditjmara Keerray Woorroong artist Vicki Couzens. Against a white background, the minimalistic images represent the phytochemical molecular components that comprise Taka Gin's flavours. Handily, Taka Gin is doing free shipping Australia-wide, too, if you need another reason to expand your gin shelf. For more information about Taka Gin, or to buy a bottle, head to the brand's website. Images: Marcie Raw Studio.
UPDATE, April 7, 2021: Weathering with You is available to stream via Netflix, Google Play, YouTube Movies, Amazon Video and iTunes. To watch as Weathering with You roams around Tokyo, wandering through its alleys and roving beyond its well-known tourist spots, is to almost feel like you're walking through the sprawling city yourself. That's an uncanny achievement for an animated film, however it speaks volumes about the level of detail evident in Makoto Shinkai's first movie since his huge 2016 hit Your Name. The luminous lights, towering structures and Shibuya's famous scramble crossing all feature, rendered as vividly as they demand. Also present: the rows of nondescript buildings that stretch across the Japanese capital, its maze of laneways, the blue vending machines on every block, and everything from everyday cafes to love hotels to small markets. While Weathering with You serves up a mix of romance, fantasy and drama in its narrative, it is fiercely determined to steep even its most fanciful narrative leaps in a realistic setting — and that choice has an impact not just visually, but emotionally. Three years after Your Name became the second-highest-grossing Japanese animated release ever around the globe — a feat that places it behind only Studio Ghibli's beloved Spirited Away — Shinkai's latest film once more ponders love, disaster and whether some things are just meant to be. Like the director's last movie, it also pits star-crossed teenagers against forces outside of their control, and aims for something offbeat yet insightful in the process. Themes of identity and self-exploration bubble to the fore again, albeit without Your Name's body-swap gimmick this time around. Instead, Weathering with You ponders societal and environmental changes, placing its high school-aged protagonists in the middle of both figurative and literal storms. If Hirokazu Kore-eda's Palme d'Or winner Shoplifters swapped actors for anime, added teen relationships and otherworldly elements, and examined global warming as well as life on the Japanese margins, it might actually look like this. Introduced on a boat approaching Tokyo just as a typhoon hits (and just as he's saved from a grim watery end by a stranger), 16-year-old runaway Hodaka (Kotaro Daigo) is a fresh-faced arrival in the big city. He has nowhere to stay, no job and no way to scrape by, failing to even find work in seedy bars or to get a moment's rest behind bins in an alleyway. When he first crosses paths with the orphaned Hina (Nana Mori), she's a fast food employee who gives him a free burger. When they meet again, he saves her from an exploitative new gig. A connection springs, but it's Hodaka's new place of employment that intertwines their fate. Hired as a live-in assistant to the jaunty Suga (Shun Oguri), who runs an occult-focused magazine out of his house, the teen is charged with tracking down people who can reportedly control the weather — and, following an eventful visit to a rooftop shrine during a time of trauma, that's a skill that Hina happens to possess. Writing as well as directing, Shinkai soon tasks his central duo with starting their own business to make the most of Hina's gift. As Tokyo's prolonged spell of unseasonable rain just keeps falling day after day, she brings sunshine to folks needing a reprieve — in small spots, only for short periods and for a fee. Of course, as many a movie has stressed, with great power not only comes great responsibility, but considerable consequences. It's here that Weathering with You starts weaving its various threads together — and although they don't all shine as brightly as the rays that Hina commands, the film still offers a smart and moving contemplation of one's place in, and impact upon, the world. That's true when it's poking into life at street-level and taking the planet's changing weather systems in a drastic direction, and remains the case when it's exploring individual decisions and influential relationships, too. As he did with Your Name, Shinkai packages his tale with an upbeat pace, expressive character animation, delicate voice work and music from Japanese pop band Radwimps, with the group's songs given pride of place across the picture's many montages. Indeed, while the filmmaker helms his sixth movie (with Children Who Chase Lost Voices and The Garden of Words also among his credits), Weathering with You often feels like it's following closely in its immediate predecessor's footsteps. That's where the film's finessed use of detail not only proves pivotal, but makes an immense difference. Its gorgeous frames serve up more than just something vibrant to look at, although they easily tick that box. A strikingly lifelike, never-romanticised vision of Tokyo anchors the narrative's Shinto-inspired spiritual and supernatural leanings. More importantly, it gives weight to both Hodaka and Hina's sizeable struggles, and to the movie's musing on where massive weather events could take today's society. Embracing fantasy, yet always ensuring that it remains equally enchanting and grounded, the result is a dynamic, stunningly animated outsider story with a heart and a conscience. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ouLO5iPc1yo
This year's Night Noodle Markets are getting a shake-up, with the food festival reimagined in a new At Home format that's set to bring all the usual flavour and fun straight to your house. Every night from Tuesday, June 1–Wednesday, June 30, the revamped event will see a lineup of eight Asian-inspired eateries offering their cult dishes — and some new hits — for home delivery. At a pop-up kitchen in the CBD, festival favourites including Puffle, Wonderbao and Hokkaido Baked Cheese Tart will be cooking up their finest eats and sending them to your door, so you can recreate the Night Noodle Market magic at home. You'll be able to pick and mix food from multiple menus in the one order, with everything delivered via Doordash. Choose from the likes of Hoy Pinoy's glazed pork belly and chicken skewers, Mi Goreng-crumbed chicken ribs from Indomie and Kariton Sorbetes' boozy trifle. There'll be two weekly rotating banquets, too — a vegetarian feed for two named 'Broc 'n Roll' and the 'I Love You Soy Much' date-night feast. Night Noodle Markets At Home will service a range of inner suburbs — check here to see if yours is one of them. [caption id="attachment_745518" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Puffle is making an appearance as part of the Night Noodle Markets At Home.[/caption]
"And now you want to be my friend on Facebook? Are you fucking kidding me?" The gal who brought us the anthem to sing at exes attempting to Facebook stalk us is releasing her latest album (album number four) on March 14 and heading on tour. She'll be singing 'Lose my shit', 'Ghost' (featuring Megan Washington) and other new tunes and hitting notes that most of us could only ever dream of. O Vertigo is Kate Miller-Heidke's first independently released album. And how did she make it happen? Crowdfunding. That's one way of getting around it. She hit her target three days after launching the campaign, and some of the lucky donators will be getting a Happy Birthday phone call from Ms Triple-Octave Pipes. The rest of us will attempt to suppress our jealousy. This is one worth heading to. https://youtube.com/watch?v=X0FdR7dEAYU
Whether they riff on fairy bread or turn lamingtons into something cold and creamy, plenty of Gelato Messina's popular desserts transform other foods into a frosty sweet treat. Who doesn't love a culinary mashup? Not this chain and its devotees, clearly. And, since 2021, the brand has been taking that process a step further by whipping up a chocolates based on its already-inventive gelato flavours. With 2022 now here, Messina is kicking off the new year the way it always goes on — with a fresh batch of one-off specials, starting with a return to its gelato-inspired choccies. This time, there's four varieties available, all in one box. So yes, you'll get to try them all without having to choose which one you'd prefer. Love Messina's take on Iced Vovos, Coco Pops, lamingtons and fairy bread? They're all accounted for here. And they all look the part, because of course they do. They all look delicious, too. The Vovovroom bar comes filled with layers of raspberry cream, raspberry jam, desiccated coconut and sablé biscuit, then coated in raspberry chocolate. With the Just Like a Chocolate Milkshake bar, you're getting chocolate malt cream, milk chocolate-panned rice bubbles and chocolate sablé biscuit, all coated in milk chocolate. Obviously, the fairy bread bar is coated with 100s and 1000s — and includes layers of toasted breadcrumb cream and sablé biscuit coated in white chocolate as well. Or, for the lamington, you'll get chocolate cream, raspberry jam, chocolate-dusted desiccated coconut and chocolate sablé biscuit, as wrapped in dark chocolate. Boxes cost $40 each and you'll need to place your order on Monday, January 17, with times varying depending on your state. You can then pick up the choccies between Saturday, January 22–Sunday, January 23. Gelato Messina's chocolate box will be available to order from on Monday, January 17, from 9am local time in Queensland and the ACT, 9.30am in Victoria and between 10am–11am in New South Wales.
You love Beyonce. You love a spot of gender critique. Then you are also most definitely the target audience for All the Single Lad(ie)s, a work that juxtaposes the music of proudly feminist Queen Bey with surreal scenes laying bare various conundrums of gender and sexuality. From experimental Perthians The Cutting Room Floor, All the Single Lad(ie)s premiered at the Perth Fringe World Festival, where it won much adoration but also prompted the West Australian to say, "We were warned that All the Single Lad(ie)s was 'grotesque', but that was probably not enough of a warning for what we witnessed." Sounds like perfect Fringe material. This event was chosen as one of the top ten things to see at this year's Melbourne Fringe Festival. See the full list here.
There were short-lived rumours that Melbourne's art and hospitality scene had reached peak saturation, but the city quickly put those to bed when its cultural ecosystem grew and flourished once again. It was a year of innovative new restaurants and they're not all from the big players — independent ventures are flourishing. As we continue to attempt to define Australian cuisine, chefs continue to push the boundaries. We've seen (and tasted) fermented calamari noodles and cod roe in choux pastry, we've climbed three levels to find some of the city's finest Japanese fare and we've tasted duck smoked by our favourite pasta experts. At Concrete Playground we encourage exploration and showcase innovation in our city every day, so we thought it fitting to reward those most talented whippersnappers pushing Melbourne to be a better, braver city. And so, these six restaurants — nominated in Concrete Playground's Best of 2017 Awards — are the Best New Restaurants of 2017.
We all like gelato, but sometimes the occasion calls for something other than everyone's favourite creamy dessert. Maybe it's too cold? Maybe you already have an ice cream headache? Maybe Gelato Messina is closed, or just not in the immediate vicinity? Enter the food mashup that had to happen, really — and a concoction straight out of every gelato and biscuit lover's dreams. In 2017, Gelato Messina Tim Tams became the Aussie sweet treat hybrid everyone wanted to taste. Now, in inevitable news, a second batch is on its way from February. Due in stores around the country from February 5, the new Gelato Messina Tim Tam range will come in three styles: choc cherry coconut, iced coffee and Turkish delight. "We've delved deep into our gelato flavour bank," said Gelato Messina co-founder Declan Lee, with the company coming up with the new selection after the popularity of last year's lineup. Making this tastebud-tempting news even better is the fact that, like all Tim Tams, they'll be sold in supermarkets everywhere. Yes, that means more Messina goodness more often. The biscuits are expected to set hungry shoppers back $3.65 per packet. Come on, you know you're going to buy more than one.
What begins in Milan, then heads to Puglia and the Italian Alps, plus Naples, Sicily, Tuscany and Rome, too? An impressive getaway, and also the 2023 Italian Film Festival. What dives into history, includes love and treasures, and also soul-searching journeys, stunning threads, labyrinths and great art? Again, a dream holiday, and also Australia's annual celebration of Italy's best and brightest on the big screen. This year, the latest of the nation's Europe-set film fests — see also: this event's French, Spanish, German and Scandinavian counterparts — will arrive from Tuesday, September 19, running until Wednesday, October 25 on its seven-stop tour of the country. Yes, the festival goes on a trip itself, hitting up Sydney, Canberra, Adelaide, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Byron Bay. 2023's IFF will open with The Last Night of Amore, which is where the fest's jaunt to Milan comes in, and one of its thrillers as well. Making its Australian premiere after a successful stint at the Italian box office, writer/director Andrea Di Stefano's (The Informer) police flick stars Pierfrancesco Favino (The Hummingbird) as it tells of an about-to-retire honest cop facing a chaotic, crime-riddled, corruption-fuelled situation. Also among the event's spotlight flicks, Kidnapped sits in the centrepiece slot, recreating the tale of the Vatican's abduction of a young Jewish boy in the 19th century, plus as the scandal that unsurprisingly followed. As part of a focus on actor, filmmaker and screenwriter Massimo Troisi, 1994's The Postman, the talent's two-time Oscar-nominated final film, will close out the fest with a 50s-set whirlwind of love and friendship. There's more where they both came from — more special-presentation and special-event movies, and more of Troisi's work. First, the features getting some extra IFF love. Starring Josh O'Connor (Mothering Sunday) and directed by Alice Rohrwacher (Futura), La Chimera heads to 80s-era Tuscany as a British archaeologist gets caught up in ring selling stolen Italian wares — while Beautiful Boy's Felix van Groeningen shares directing duties with his The Broken Circle Breakdown co-screenwriter Charlotte Vandermeersch on The Eight Mountains, which stars Luca Marinelli (Martin Eden) and Alessandro Borghi (Devils), and won 2022's Cannes Jury Prize. Also, Burning Hearts dives into crime and revenge in black and white, Carravagio's Shadow features Riccardo Scamarcio (John Wick: Chapter 2) as the eponymous painter, and documentary The Genius of Gianni Versace Alive unravels its namesake fashion designer's career. With IFF's Troisi retrospective, viewers can see three more of his films: 1981 comedy I'm Starting From Three, his debut as both a big-screen actor and director; Nothing Left to Do But Cry, where he acts opposite and travels back in time with Roberto Benigni (Pinocchio); and the cinema-adoring Splendour, also featuring the late, great Marcello Mastroianni. And, there's also Mario Martone's (Nostalgia) doco Somebody Down There Likes Me, about his exploration of Troisi's movies. Elsewhere on the bill, Nanni Moretti (Three Floors) directs himself playing a director grappling with today's streaming reality in A Brighter Tomorrow; Strangeness enlists Toni Servillo (The Hand of God) as Literature Nobel Prize-winning playwright Luigi Pirandello; The First Day of My Life also features the prolific actor, this time in the latest effort from Perfect Strangers' helmer Paolo Genovese; and both Like Sheep Among Wolves and Prophets sit among the fest's thrillers. The list goes on, including the family-friendly Supernova and The Properties of Metals, plus comedies Orlando and My Shadow Is Your Shadow. And, there's the music-focused My Soul Summer featuring Italian X Factor-winner Casadilego. ITALIAN FILM FESTIVAL 2023 DATES: Tuesday, September 19–Wednesday, October 18 — Palace Central, Palace Norton St, Palace Verona and Chauvel Cinema, Sydney Wednesday, September 20–Wednesday, October 18 — Palace Electric Cinema, Canberra Wednesday, September 20–Sunday, October 15 — Palace Nova Eastend Cinemas and Palace Nova Prospect Cinemas, Adelaide Thursday, September 21–Wednesday, October 18 — Palace Balwyn, Palace Brighton Bay, Palace Cinema Como, Palace Westgarth, The Kino, Pentridge Cinema, The Astor Theatre and Cinema Nova, Melbourne Wednesday, September 27–Wednesday, October 25 — Palace Barracks and Palace James Street, Brisbane Thursday, September 28–Wednesday, October 25 — Palace Raine Square, Luna Leederville, Luna on SX and Windsor Cinema, Perth Thursday, September 28–Wednesday, October 18 — Palace Byron Bay, Byron Bay The 2023 Italian Film Festival tours Australia in September and October. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the festival website.
Attention all aesthetes, athletes and aspiring Olympians: the annual Tan Ultra is back on August 11. The Tan is a familiar track to most Melbournites, and there will be 100km, 50km, 42km, 30km, 12km and 4km distances in 2013. Still need motivation to lace up your running shoes? It's a trailplus event, which supports Canteen and raises awareness of young people living with cancer. Take a look back at your own carefree childhood and think about how you can contribute to someone else's. The Tan Ultra is a great event to support and every participant will receive a certificate or a medal. Yay! Registrations close on August 6 and you'll probably experience a combination of rain, hail and shine while training, what with Melbourne's crazy weather. Remember, you don't have to bust any records — just keep the 'steady' in between 'ready' and 'go'.
The dazzling sights and insane aromas of Nepal are returning to the Coburg Velodrome for the third time this autumn. On Sunday, March 17, Momo Fest will celebrate Nepalese culture, Nepalese music and — perhaps most importantly — Nepalese food. The free event will feature more than 30 different varieties of momo (that is, Nepalese dumpling), with momo competitions, vegan momos, goat momos and even brunch momos. There'll also be live music across two different stages, including a bands DJS, roving performers and dancers. And, you can bring your pooch, too — the event is dog-friendly. Entry into the event won't cost you a penny, but you're encouraged to bring along a gold coin donation for the MIT Group Foundation's projects in Nepal, building schools and establishing hospitals in remote areas. Momo Fest will run from midday–10pm.
Arlechin has had a pretty rough road to success, struggling to get back on its feet following a few COVID-19-enforced closures. But the Grossi family (Grossi Florentino, Puttanesca, Cellar Bar, Ombra) hasn't given up on this little late-night bar in the CBD, having decided to reopen on Friday, May 24 with a new food and drinks lineup. Guy Grossi and his team have kept the wines as they were — focusing on Italian and Aussie drops — and have enlisted Arlechin's new Bar Venue Manager Russell Branford (ex-Lakehouse Daylesford) to dream up a whole new cocktail menu. He's had some fun with these, especially when creating the puttanesca martinez. This cocktail is inspired by the classic pasta sauce, and is made with chilli-infused gin, red vermouth, a black olive reduction and Bittermens Hellfire bitters. There's no tomato in this bad boy, but the savoury notes will definitely play tricks with your tastebuds. Branford has made another five signature drinks for Arlechin, alongside a few classic Italian cocktails that have each had little upgrades — think barrel-aged negroni or a champagne cocktail finished with a Campari-soaked sugar cube. It wouldn't be a true Grossi venue without the chef's signature style of contemporary Italian cuisine. At Arlechin, you can pair your bevs with salumi boards and generous bowls of pasta (including Grossi's beloved midnight spaghetti), as well as fun bites like bolognese jaffles and crumpets topped with whipped baccala. "The beauty of Arlechin is its location and offering," says Grossi. "If you're dining at one of our sibling restaurants and looking for a nightcap to continue your evening it's just a short walk around the corner. If you're after a pre-dinner snack, there is a selection of smaller share plates but if you want to stay put, we have plenty of substantial dinner options too. Our menu truly embraces the essence of Italian simplicity and sophistication whilst complementing the drinks list.". Arlechin will relaunch on Friday, May 24 and be open 5pm–1am, Wednesday to Saturday. For more information, you can visit the venue's website.
Demi Lardner's comedy, in one word? Strange. The young South Australian comic has a bucketload of awards to her name, including Best Newcomer at Sydney Comedy Festival and the So You Think You're Funny? Award at Edinburgh Fringe. The listing for her latest show, I Love Skeleton, doesn't offer too many clues as to what we can expect — other than "Demi Lardner is the primary source of nutrition for infant mammals...A good serve of Demi Lardner can make your bones strong and handsome" — but if you want to get a feel for her work check out her baffling performance during last year's Melbourne International Comedy Festival gala.
Two new platforms are about to join Australia and New Zealand's ever-growing streaming landscape: dedicated horror service Shudder and prestige film and TV outlet Sundance Now. Both are run by AMC Networks, the American company that's also responsible for producing and airing shows such as Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul, Mad Men and The Walking Dead. While Shudder focuses on all things suspenseful and spooky, Sundance Now — which, as you would've spotted, shares its name with a certain high-profile US film festival — focuses on award-winning movies, including documentaries and foreign-language flicks, plus drama, comedy and true crime television series. Exactly when they'll launch is yet to be announced, although both will be up and running in Australia and New Zealand by the end of this year. If you like paying for things upfront rather than monthly, you'll be happy to know that they're available in other countries, such as the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Germany and Austria, for an annual fee. Local pricing is yet to be revealed, but Shudder costs US$4.99 per month and $49.99 per year elsewhere, and Sundance Now costs US$6.99 per month and $59.99 per year. If you already have a Netflix or Stan subscription and you're wondering whether you really need to add another, perhaps the platforms' specific programming will tempt you — including new additions such as 80s-set horror Summer of 84, gory French effort Revenge and Indonesian supernatural thriller Satan's Slaves on Shudder, plus true crime docuseries Cold Blooded and Jonestown: Terror in the Jungle on Sundance Now. Shudder's classic horror game is also strong, should you like watching old scary movies, while Sundance Now boasts plenty of top international TV series. Given that some of the respective platforms' content already makes its way to our shores anyway — a selection of shows on Sundance Now air in Australia on SBS, for example — how existing rights deals might affect their Aussie and New Zealand lineup hasn't been revealed. For more information about the two platforms, and to keep an eye out for local launch dates, head to the Facebook pages for Shudder and Sundance Now. We'll keep you updated with news as it comes to hand.
Red Hill Brewery doesn't just invite you to stop on by for a beer, it invites you to stay the night too. The Brewer's Cottage is a three-bedroom house located on the grounds, the self-contained unit features an open fire, barbecue area and even a trampoline. You can join the brewers for Friday arvo brews and really get the full Red Hill experience. The brewery focuses on European styles and the farmhouse-like cellar door has the entire range, including the Wee Heavy scotch ale and Belgian Blonde that we especially recommend. If you're hungry, you can also tuck into some great bar snacks and burgers from the kitchen. Images: Peter Tarasiuk/Visit Victoria.
The monster team from Kaiju will be matching their full-flavoured ales to a British inspired five-course degustation menu. Just think, their IPAs could be washing down your beef Wellingtons while David Bowie is spinning out on the vinyl. It's enough to get you as heady as the brews. Let's dance, Kaiju. This event is part of Good Beer Week's 2015 program, running from May 16-24. For more festival picks, click here.
Batman Market is celebrating the Year of the Pig with its annual Chinese New Year night market. Taking place on Saturday, February 9 from 3.30–9.30pm, the usual market lineup will be replaced by Chinese-inspired eats, tunes and entertainment. Expect the likes of xiao long bao, pan-fried dumplings, wok-fried dishes and Chinese-style barbecue to be on offer. Plus local acoustic acts will take the stage throughout the day, with a special focus on traditional Chinese music and other cultural entertainment. Batman Market favourites will also be in tow — think stalls selling crepes, gelato and plenty of Chinese fare to snack on, along with a full stocked bar. And the usual local makers will sell art, cosmetics and boutique fashion items, too. All ages and doggos are welcome and entry is free, as always.
No-frills warehouse bar Lulie Tavern has joined the list of venues getting involved in bushfire relief efforts. The neighbourhood joint has teamed up with natural wine bottle-o Act of Wine to host a wine tasting for the cause. The wine afternoon will take place on Saturday, January 18 from 2–6pm. Tickets cost $30, with 100 percent of sales being donated to selected charities. Apart from doing some much needed good, the event will also put you in front of a range of Australia's best drops. Expect 19 producers and distributors all up, including Konpira Maru, Momento Mori, Jamsheed, Puncheon Bottles, Lo-Fi Wines, Good Intentions Wine Co. and Chateau Acid — to name a very few. Then, from 6pm, a selection of bottles will be go behind the bar — and if you buy a glass, that money will be donates, too. Raffle tickets and a silent auction are also on the docket that evening, and a portion of food sales will go toward bushfire relief, too. The funds raised will be split between several charity groups, including Fire Relief for First Nations Communities, NSW Rural Fire Service, WIRES, Country Fire Authority and Red Cross. This is another easy (and worthy) excuse to donate, so grab your tickets here.
Melbourne's wintry temperatures are in full force right now, but we know one place where you can revel in some balmy summer heat whenever you feel like it. What's more, it's thought to have a whole swag of benefits for your body, not just your mood. Nestled within Swanston Street's Century Building, Pure Wellness Studio is thought to be the CBD's first dedicated infrared sauna studio. These aren't your standard saunas, either — rather, state-of-the-art Sunlighten pods that use direct infrared heat to penetrate deep into your body's tissues, unlocking a range of health benefits in the process. Infrared therapy offers the same kind of warmth you get from natural sunlight, only minus those damaging UV rays. It's also a much more bearable heat than the kind you get from regular saunas, meaning you can comfortably kick back in that little room for up to 45 minutes — none of that getting instantly hot and bothered, and looking for an immediate escape. The increasingly popular therapy is earning a big name for its detoxification powers — able to remove up to more than six times as many toxins from the body as a regular sauna — as well as its effectiveness at burning calories. It's also thought to be great for boosting collagen production, reducing inflammation, and improving blood flow and circulation. Pure Wellness boasts three different styles of infrared sauna rooms, including one with a cushy bed that envelops you with full surround heat while you're lying down, relaxed to the max. Prices start from $55 for a 45-minute session, with membership options available. For those looking to treat those muscles even further, the studio also offers relaxation, deep-tissue and hot stone massages, and a menu of facial treatments. You can even combine therapies for an indulgent two-, three- or four-hour pamper session. Find Pure Wellness Studio at Suite 604, Level 6, 125 Swanston Street, Melbourne. It's open from 3–7pm Tuesday, 10am–7pm Wednesday to Friday, and 10am–5pm Saturday.
When season five of The Crown arrives in 2022, it'll continue to explore a part of royal history that's been talked about for decades: the difficult marriage between Princess Diana and Prince Charles. As part of the show's latest change of cast, Tenet's Elizabeth Debicki will play the former, The Pursuit of Love's Dominic West will step into the latter's shoes, and the acclaimed Netflix series will tease out the details — but, on the big screen, the Kristen Stewart-starring Spencer will get there first. This isn't quite a twin films situation — where two movies about the same or similar topics appear around the same time, like Armageddon and Deep Impact in the 90s, Finding Nemo and Shark Tale in the animation space, and the two Fyre Festival documentaries in 2019 — but only because The Crown is a TV show and Spencer is a feature. Otherwise, there will indeed be two different takes on the tale hitting screens small and large in short succession. In Spencer's case, it hails from Pablo Larraín, the Chilean filmmaker who has never made a bad film — see: his recent masterpiece Ema — and also directed Natalie Portman to an Oscar nomination in Jackie. In both of these movies, he's honed in on complex women in difficult situations, one fictional and one factual, and shown a stunning eye for emotion and detail. And, based on the just-dropped teaser trailer for Spencer, that isn't going away in his next feature. After last appearing in films as varied as Underwater, Charlie's Angels, Seberg and Happiest Season, Stewart plays Diana in 1991, at a time where her relationship with Prince Charles (Jack Farthing, Official Secrets) is struggling, but the royal family has gathered together for Christmas. Spencer focuses on a few specific days, as rumours swirl about affairs and divorce, and Diana attempts to navigate the obviously complicated situation. Timothy Spall (The Party), Sally Hawkins (The Shape of Water) and Sean Harris (Mission: Impossible — Fallout) also co-star, and the film will premiere at the Venice Film Festival in September ahead of its US release in November. When it'll hit Down Under hasn't yet been announced. Check out the trailer below: Spencer releases in US cinemas on November 5, and doesn't currently have a release date Down Under — we'll update you when one is announced.
Bondi is the unofficial capital city of the early birds. While most other Australians are snoozing their alarms or negotiating with their bus schedules, Bondi locals have already seen friends, exercised and devoured a healthy breakfast. It's honestly enviable. If you've got a Sydney trip planned soon (or are a local looking to shift your lifestyle to the early hours), we asked residents what the best sunrise activities in Bondi are. Before sunrise To get into the Bondi spirit, your alarm should go off at least an hour before the sun rises. Once you've woken up and are dressed in your best activewear, head to Bondi's premier pilates studio, Body by Berner. Founder Bernadette Sukkar has created a cult following for her tough (yet effective) pilates classes. Located on Campbell Parade, classes start from 5am, so you can get a head start on your day. Book in a Signature Bern class to really see what all of the hype is about. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bernadette Sukkar (@mrsbernadettesukkar) Once you've worked those muscles, walk down the street to the newly opened Common Supply for a quick coffee or smoothie. You can get one whipped up fresh or grab a pre-made option from the handy convenience-store-style fridges. The grab-and-go drinks and snacks are perfect for keeping your body fuelled ahead of the sunrise. View this post on Instagram A post shared by common supply (@commonsupplyau) During sunrise It's not a trip to Sydney without witnessing the sunrise over the famous beach. Plant yourself on a nearby grassy spot or on the sand and drink in a brand new day — Bondi style. When the sun rises, and the surfers begin to paddle into the water, embark on a walk down the coastline. The Bondi to Bronte walk is popular for a reason. Head down solo for some peace before the crowds descend, or meet a friend to catch up as the day begins. It takes roughly 30 minutes each way, making it an ideal activity before the morning gets too hot. If you're dressed for it, you could even enjoy a quick dip at Bronte to cool down on the other side. [caption id="attachment_1060961" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Peter Pesta Photography[/caption] After sunrise Between the pilates class and walking, you've most likely worked up an appetite. Luckily, Bondi is a mecca for fresh and delicious food options. Set just back from Bondi's shoreline, Kazzi Beach Greek serves healthy breakfast options. Select from its menu of fresh fruit bowls, breakfast wraps stacked with eggs, bacon and haloumi, and even Greek pastries. You can choose to dine in and rest those legs post-Bondi to Bronte walk, or grab another takeaway and enjoy Greek delicacies on the beach post-morning swim. Kazzi Beach Greek is also open for lunch and dinner if you're looking for a dining option when you're by the beach for sunset. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kazzi Beach Greek (@kazzibeachgreek) It's been a stacked morning of health and wellness so far. To wind down your post-sunrise Bondi experience, head to 38° The Bathouse. Also located on Campbell Parade, 38° The Bathouse is a wellness destination featuring magnesium spa pools, traditional and infrared saunas, a cold plunge, silent and sound sessions, and a lounge area to rest up. If you're really feeling luxe (when in Bondi, of course), 38° The Bathouse also offers massages. It's the ultimate way to round out a dreamy, health-focused morning in Sydney's Bondi. View this post on Instagram A post shared by 38° The Bathhouse (@slowhousebondi) Image credit: Oliver Strewe/ Getty Images
With The Big Short and Nightcrawler still fresh in moviegoer's memories, Money Monster isn't the first film to ponder the impact of the global financial crisis, or peer into the television business in times of trouble. Nor is the best, boldest or even most star-studded contemplation of either topic. Instead, it's a solid thriller that may repeat a few statements we've already heard, but does so with a stellar command of tension and tone. If the pressure-fuelled dramas of the '70s combined with the beat-the-clock action efforts of the '90s, something like Money Monster would be the end result. Lee Gates (George Clooney), the host of the financial TV program that gives the movie its name, certainly seems like a remnant from another decade. His show would've been huge in the late '00s, and his exaggerated on-screen persona, loud proclamations, cheesy costumes and skimpily clad back-up dancers along with it. But a week after one of Gates' hot stock tips crashes, Money Monster's live broadcast is hijacked by the gun-wielding Kyle Budwell (Jack O'Connell). The Queens delivery guy has lost all his savings, wants answers, and is willing to strap a bomb to Gates' chest to get them — while the world, and the show's director Patty Fenn (Julia Roberts), watch on. Screenwriters Jamie Linden, Alan DiFiore and Jim Kouf are content to litter their script with more than a few convenient, predictable developments: Gates knows the failing company's head honcho (Dominic West), Budwell has a pregnant girlfriend at home, and Fenn is about to jump ship for a job at a rival network. However director Jodie Foster (The Beaver) proves determined to let the unease of the situation, and the performances it inspires, drive the film. The result is a film that's stressed and enraged from beginning to end, content in the knowledge that its audience feels the same. Foster endeavours to capture the incredulous, furious reaction the bulk of the population had to recent economic circumstances, channeling it into one heightened scenario and bearing witness to the fiery results. Every technical choice, be it the grey sheen of the film's visuals, the swift speed of its editing or the terse beats of its score, is calculated to promote a very precise mood. Even when the formula behind the film is obvious – and even with Foster offering a few humorous moments to lighten things up – Money Monster still delivers an urgent, edge-of-your-seat experience. She's aided in her efforts by the top work of her cast. Playing charismatic and controlled, Clooney and Roberts demonstrate why they've stayed at the top of the acting game for so long, though it's O'Connell that commands attention. Against his high-profile co-stars, he proves a bundle of raw, restless energy perfectly suited to the film's tone.
Part of feeling cosy is dressing the part, and Bungalow Trading Co. has got you covered in that department. The shop's selection of cable knit jumpers, coatigans (yes, they're a thing), flowing skirts and snuggly scarves are perfect for preparing for winter. A visit to the Brighton store alone is enough to make you feel more sleek, but if you're looking to take things to the next level, you can organise an interior update of your home with owner and designer Anna Chisholm.
After a top-secret operation goes horribly wrong, James Bond (Daniel Craig) is declared missing and assumed dead. As the identity of every active MI6 undercover agent is leaked onto the internet, M’s (Judy Dench) ability as leader is called into question, and she is put under the investigation of a government review. Soon, the fears of many become reality, and the secret service itself is attacked. Bond reappears, and M uses the opportunity to seek out a dangerous villain with connections to both of them, Raoul Silva (Javier Barden). 007’s search takes him from London to the South China Sea, a trail that sees his loyalty to M tested, as secrets from her past begin to emerge. Skyfall is, along with The Dark Night Rises and The Avengers, is surely one of the most anticipated movie's of 2012. It has been breaking box-office records overseas and will continue to be a hit once it is released this week. The twenty-third Bond film, and the third to feature Daniel Craig as the moody and rugged agent, marks just over fifty years since the release of Dr No and, because of that alone, it's bound to be amazing.
Back in 2015, when word arrived that the Flinders Street Station Ballroom would be brought back to life after three decades of sitting dormant, no one could've imagined the wonders that it has gone on to hold. Skywhale artist Patricia Piccinini filled it with twisted flowers and otherworldly creatures. Street-art legend Rone decked it out with a new immersive artwork. For RISING 2025, now an art exhibition that's also a nine-hole mini-golf course is temporarily moving in. When it takes over Melbourne each winter, RISING is always all about giving the Victorian capital — and Australia — brand-new experiences. As popular as putt putt is around the country, Swingers: The Art of Mini Golf is definitely a unique addition to the major annual arts festival's 2025 lineup. The event has enlisted female-identifying and gender-diverse artists to design mini-golf holes at the Flinders Street Station Ballroom, and is inviting RISING attendees — plus anyone in Melbourne for a couple of months after the festival — to get swinging at the three-month-long pop-up. While RISING itself will run from Wednesday, June 4–Sunday, June 15 in 2025, Swingers: The Art of Mini Golf will kick off on the fest's opening day but keep letting folks get putting until Sunday, August 31. When you're tap, tap, tapping, you'll be navigating greens designed by Kajillionaire filmmaker and All Fours writer Miranda July, Australian artists Kaylene Whiskey and Nabilah Nordin, Japan's Saeborg, the United Kingdom's Delaine Le Bas, and Indonesia's Natasha Tontey. Expect surreal, mindbending creations — whether July is riffing on her latest book's name with an 'all fores' setup, Whiskey is merging pop culture and Anangu traditions, latex creatures are a feature courtesy of Saeborg or Le Bas is working in embroidery, to name just a few of the details set to star. Swingers: The Art of Mini Golf is RISING 2025's first program announcement — and if you're keen to find out what else is in store, the full roster arrives in March. For this certain highlight of the fest, as well as a mini golf-meets-art mashup, there'll also be a Swingers Clubhouse, aka a pop-up Archie Rose Distilling Co bar, for when you're done swinging. As for what inspired the piece, "the history of mini golf is surprisingly subversive and sits at the heart of this project," explains RISING Senior Curator Grace Herbert, who developed Swingers: The Art of Mini Golf. "It's been incredible to see how each artist has taken this on. Alongside playing mini golf and experiencing the artworks, you might have your fortune told, travel to desert country, become a human-animal hybrid or even find yourself singing along to Dolly Parton." "RISING is about creating collective experiences and Swingers continues that tradition. Bringing such unique artistic minds into the creation of a nine-hole course is a literal game-changer. I can't wait to see audiences step up and take their shot," added RISING Co-Artistic Directors Hannah Fox and Gideon Obarzanek. RISING 2025 runs from Wednesday, June 4–Sunday, June 15 across Melbourne — and Swingers: The Art of Mini Golf will run from Wednesday, June 4–Sunday, August 31, extending past the festival. Head to the event's website for further information. Images: Eugene Hyland.
