The national Flickerfest roadshow pulls into Melbourne on February 13 with its caravan of Australian and international short film hits. With their not-so-commercial prerogatives and YouTube-able length, short films are a very fun watch — and yet we rarely get to see them in public screenings. Flickerfest is one of the country's premier remedies for this. The festival is renowned for being Australia's only competition accredited by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Science and recognised by BAFTA, which means award winners here go on to be considered for Oscars. In 2013, this recognition has extended from the Best Short Film and Best Animation categories to cover the Best Australian Short, too. It's a huge badge of honour for Flickerfest, which had its humble beginnings 22 years ago at Balmain High School. Rock up to Kino Collins Street to see a 'best of' this year's competition, which ran in Sydney in January. Short films screening include Yardbird, winner of Best Australian Film at Flickerfest 2013; the Alexandra Schepisi-directed Lois, starring Jacki Weaver; and the newbie from former Tropfest winner Alethea Jones, Dave's Dead. International inclusions include Italian-made Tigerboy, winner of the Renault Award For Best Short.
Take a trip to the pictures with singer, pianist and cinephile Joe Stilgoe at this year's Melbourne Cabaret Festival. A smash hit at the Edinburgh Fringe where it has sold out the past two years, Songs on Film raids the soundtracks of some of the greatest movies ever made. Over the course of their hour-long show, Stilgoe and his band pay tribute to more than a century of Hollywood history, from golden age classics to Pixar and the jukebox of Mr. Quentin Tarantino. Two shows only.
Citywide First Nations festival YIRRAMBOI is back to dish up a hefty, thought-provoking program of Indigenous arts and culture, running from Thursday, May 4–Sunday, May 14. Named after the word for 'tomorrow' in local Boonwurrung and Woi-wurrung languages, YIRRAMBOI will cast its gaze forward, showcasing the work of more than 300 First Nations artists and creatives, with events spanning everything from contemporary music and traditional dance to installations and stunning drag performances. North Melbourne's Meat Market will be reimagined as this year's festival hub, named after the late Aboriginal actor and arts icon Uncle Jack Charles. Head along for a broad-ranging program of comedy, cabaret, contemporary dance, tunes and visual art. Among YIRRAMBOI's other highlights, you'll catch world premieres including singer-songwriter David Arden's powerful theatrical retelling of the story of his great-grandfather James Arden and the Gunditjmara People, and Alluvium by Stone Motherless Cold — a retro-futuristic drag cabaret show exploring a hopeful post-decolonlisation world. [caption id="attachment_899304" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Maylene Yinarr, by Jacinta Keefe[/caption] Music lovers are in for a busy ten days spent soaking up sonic treats from the likes of Maylene Yinarr, Philly, Crooked TP, Elijah Money, Brian Morley, Leonie Whyman and others. Renowned Gunai/Kurnai and Yorta Yorta artist DJ PGZ takes over the Melbourne Town Hall grand organ for a night of bass-heavy techno sounds, while queer celebration BLAKOUT will have Arts Centre Melbourne's State Theatre heaving with a dance-friendly serve of DJ tunes, cabaret and storytelling. Catch a post-apocalyptic fashion runway showcasing designs by the likes of Haus of Dizzy, Paola Balla and Gammin Threads; be dazzled at a bottomless drag brunch hosted by a lineup of First Nations queens; and immerse yourself in cross-cultural connections at an exhibition series held in collaboration with Dark Mofo. And on Saturday, May 13, Sorbaes — the much-loved club session born from the mind of DJ and designer Soju Gang — will hit the festival hub for a thumping closing party, complete with a lineup of special guests in tow. [caption id="attachment_899303" align="alignnone" width="1920"] BLAKOUT[/caption] Top image: Darren Gill.
Right now you're probably thinking about your next meal (we know we are). Will it be another Bon Appétit-inspired cook-up to impress everyone you're cooped up with in isolation, or have you earned yourself a night off from all that upskilling in the kitchen? If your enthusiasm for cooking has begun to wane, you may be reaching for your favourite takeaway app to start browsing the options for a quick fix. Before you do, check your booze stash. Trust us, there is a connection. At the moment, if you spend $50 or more on any Pernod Ricard products — such as vodka or gin for your quarantinis — you'll receive a $10 voucher to use on Deliveroo. [caption id="attachment_745926" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mary's Burgers by Nikki To[/caption] While we don't want to encourage excessive drinking during the COVID-19 lockdown, it's possible that you've already emptied your last bottle of wine and those cocktails you were shaking in week one have made your liquor cabinet look a tad dry. Pernod Ricard's range includes champagnes, cognac, gin, tequila, rum, whiskies and wines from brands like Absolut, Glenlivet, Jameson, Kahlua and Monkey 47, as well as Australian whites and reds from Jacob's Creek and St Hugo Wines. And the best part is that you can make your purchase from any online or bricks-and-mortar store, including BWS, Dan Murphy's, Liquorland, Porters Liquor, and a number of other participating stores. Just make sure you keep your receipt. Once you've made your purchase, it's easy to claim your Deliveroo voucher. Simply upload an image of your receipt to Pernod Ricard's website and, once validated, you'll be sent a discount code to your email address. You can then use the Deliveroo code for any food order — whether you're craving a hangover-busting burger, an icy Gelato Messina, or a comforting curry. Find out more about the Pernod Ricard offer here. The offer runs until the end of July, or until stocks last, and once you have your Deliveroo voucher you can use it immediately or until April 8, 2021. Find all the FAQs here.
Everyone has different priorities when it comes to planning a holiday. For some, it's a jam-packed itinerary of outdoor adventures. Others may be looking for a place to kick back and relax. But for you, it may be all about seeking out good food and drinks. Hey, we don't blame you. You've got to keep fuel in the tank for that sightseeing. Canberra is one city that delivers all of the above on a silver platter. A weekend here can be filled with wondrous epicurean delights, plus a hell of a lot of life-affirming tasty vino. You'll find everything from fine dining establishments and cosy wine bars to bustling markets and top-notch wineries. Throw in a few more unique food experiences that you're unlikely to find in your city and you've got yourself a pretty amazing food-filled weekend. If you're guilty of planning every single meal in advance, right down to the dishes you (and your travelling companion) will order, we've got you covered. Read on to discover five spots around the capital that you must make a stop at on your next trip. Please stay up to date with the latest ACT Government health advice regarding COVID-19.
The current true crime craze has filled our ears with acclaimed podcasts and packed our streaming queues with must-watch TV programs. Now, it's turning a former teen idol into a serial killer. After singing his way through high school, playing frat pranks at college and saving lives on California beaches, Zac Efron is swapping teen musicals, Bad Neighbours flicks and Baywatch remakes for a stint as notorious serial killer Ted Bundy. The end result is Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile, which focuses not only on the horrific string of killings that would eventually lead to Bundy's arrest and execution (he confessed to 30 homicides, but is suspected of committing more), but also on his relationship with single mother Liz Kloepfer (Lily Collins). How did the infamous figure charm his victims? How did Kloepfer fall in love with a psychopath? Both questions sit at this heart of this crime thriller. As the movie's first trailer (below) demonstrates, it's quite the change of pace for Efron, who has been garnering impressive reviews for his performance. Also starring John Malkovich and Haley Joel Osment, the film screened at the Sundance Film Festival over the past weekend, debuting 30 years after Bundy's execution on January 24, 1989 — almost to the day, a case of gruesome timing that obviously isn't a coincidence. Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile director Joe Berlinger is clearly steeped deep in all things Bundy at the moment, with the filmmaker's other project — Netflix documentary Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes — premiering just last week on the actual anniversary of the murderer's death. Berlinger created, wrote and directed the four-part series, and his name should be familiar to die-hard true crime fans beyond that. He was also behind the three Paradise Lost documentaries, about the Robin Hood Hills murders and subsequent West Memphis Three trials — movies that played an enormous part in bringing the case to broader attention. Outside of his usual genre, Berlinger also directed acclaimed music doco Metallica: Some Kind of Monster — and the band's James Hetfield also features in Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile. While you're waiting to Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile to hit local screens, check out the unsettling first trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-lW6Z38HHJw 'Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile' doesn't currently have an Australian release date. We'll update you if and when that changes.
The films we like to classify as big, dumb fun haven't had a great run of things so far in 2018. They've made money, definitely, but the balance has been out. Be they clangers like Pacific Rim: Uprising or mindless popcorn offerings like Rampage, there's been a lot of big and even more dumb, but the fun has been noticeably absent. The latest contender, Skyscraper, fares a little better, although ultimately its preposterous script and story render it little more than a passing diversion. Set in Hong Kong and starring Hollywood's most bankable star Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, Skyscraper is a thriller centred around The Pearl, the world's tallest and (supposedly) safest building. Johnson plays Will Sawyer, a former FBI agent turned high-rise security expert who finds himself in the midst of a convoluted terrorist plot to steal a valuable flash drive by setting fire to The Pearl in order to flush out its billionaire owner. Allusions to both Die Hard and Towering Inferno have been embraced by the film's distributor, so much so that they even created homage movie posters. Sadly, Skyscraper possesses neither the wit and gritty action of Die Hard nor the suspense of Inferno to see it come close to either. As always, Johnson does his level best to keep the film entertaining. But he's robbed of his usual charm-fuelled asides, left instead to deliver bizarre non-sequiturs like "if you can't fix it with Duct Tape, y'aint using enough Duct Tape" (this also ranking as perhaps cinema's most unexpected product placement). The movie's villain, too, is entirely forgettable – and whilst it might be unreasonable to hope for another Hans Gruber, writer-director Rawson Marshall Thurber could at least have endeavoured to give us something a little meatier than the generic hired gun he serves up. Refreshingly, Neve Campbell appears as Johnson's wife, who proves a far more capable action-movie heroine than the traditional spouse-in-distress. Multilingual, combat-trained and a surgeon, she's the first to clue in to the terrorists' plot and doesn't back down when the guns are pointed in her direction. And then there's that jump. Every poster, promo spot and trailer has focussed on Johnson's physics-defying leap from a towering crane into the blazing building. Every part of the sequence is ludicrous, from the impossibly short space of time it takes for Johnson to ascend the crane in a free-climb, to the Olympic gold medal everything a leap of that magnitude would win, to the police shooting at him from a helicopter despite him being unarmed and no threat to anyone. Of course, in the end he does land the jump and the crowds both on screen and off cheer in unison. It's an A+ example of big, dumb and fun existing in perfect harmony. The great shame is how few of these moments exist in Skyscraper despite a setting of such scale and design offering so many more possibilities. At the end of the day, there's not much of Skyscraper that holds up to any real level of scrutiny. Still, as a park your brain at the entrance type distraction, it mostly gets the job done. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9QePUT-Yt8
Part of the appeal of this big, buzzing, wonderful city of ours comes from the constant parade of activities, restaurant openings, festivals and cultural fun it's got on offer. But with only 24 hours in a day, how are we supposed to cram it all in and keep the #fomo to a minimum? No, the answer is not to stop sleeping. You can get out there and enjoy this fine city while still maintaining the routines of everyday life (like, y'know, sleeping eight hours a night and rocking up to work in the morning). Melbourne life can be pretty hectic, which is why we're here to help you harness the power of a coffee break — be it in the morning, at lunchtime of when you knock off work. Take the break you, as a hardworking human being, deserve. GET A MASSAGE (ON THE CHEAP) Suffering from that classic desk-hunch stiffness, but can't afford to shell out for a visit to some fancy-pants day spa? Victoria University's King Street Student Clinic will help relieve your tension, without relieving you of too much cash. Sessions are run by massage students, supervised by qualified therapists. An hour massage will cost you just $25 and you can rest easy knowing your tight muscles are in capable hands. Squeeze one into your lunch break and head back to the office feeling super fresh. BOOK A SESSION AT THE YOGA SOCIAL Avoid the after work peak hour at your yoga studio and get bendy in your lunch break instead. The Yoga Social is a sweet little space on King Street, with a class to suit every skill level and timetable options to fit even the most hectic of schedules. City workers will especially love their Express Flow Align classes — short and sweet 45-minute sessions, which kick off at either 12.15pm or 12.45pm. They've even got the equipment side of things covered, which means no lugging that awkward yoga mat around on your morning commute. Jump on the website to book your spot in advance. FIND YOUR INNER CALM WITH A FREE MEDITATION CLASS Amidst all of Melbourne's hustle, bustle and background noise, a little slice of peace can do you wonders. Especially if you've got the skills to conjure it up whenever you need. Learn all the tips and tricks of meditation, at Sahaja Yoga Victoria's free weekly lunchtime classes. From 1pm every Thursday, the Sue Healy Room at Ross House is transformed into an oasis of solitude, as experienced teachers guide you through an hour-long meditation session. They'll share simple techniques and load you up with take-home wisdom, so that you can learn to revisit that peaceful bubble of calm, any time you like. TAKE YOURSELF ON A STREET ART TOUR Melbourne's colourful, street art-laden laneways are right up there with its biggest tourist attractions, but you don't need to be a visitor to appreciate some kick-ass artwork. How about grabbing lunch to go and setting out on your own DIY midday art adventure? The folks at Walking Maps have created a four-kilometre Melbourne city street art tour which will guide you around 20 of the best street art hot-spots in town. GET CULTURED AT FORTYFIVEDOWNSTAIRS Art-lovers, there's no need to block out a whole Saturday to go gallery hopping. Embrace the art-spaces and exhibitions hidden in the city and squeeze a quick cultural fix into your lunch break. Whether you're a photography fan, a modern art aficionado or you dig a bit of thought-provoking sculpture, Melbourne will surely have an exhibition to float your boat. Throw your support behind some talented independent artists and spend a lunch hour soaking up some culture at fortyfivedownstairs. The not-for-profit theatre and gallery boasts a cracking program, with upcoming exhibitions including Marco Luccio's aerial glimpse of New York City, and a powerful series of interpretive portraits by Lisa Minogue.
A long time ago, in this very galaxy, brass instruments sounded, a text crawl started and the first Star Wars film burst onto the screen. Thanks to director George Lucas and composer John Williams, it's one of the most iconic movie openings in history — and, in all of its force-wielding, Death Star-destroying, orchestra-scored glory, the sci-fi classic is making a kriffing special return. Star Wars movies have been getting the concert treatment for years now, but that doesn't make their presence on the big screen with a live orchestral soundtrack any less special whenever it happens. In 2023, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra is doing the honours once more in the Victorian capital, starting with the flick that began the whole franchise. It's also busting out another Disney favourite — and something very different. First, the film that every jedi, wookiee, droid and even sith around the world has obsessed over for almost five decades now: Star Wars: Episode VI — A New Hope. It'll grace the silver screen on Saturday, January 28 as part of the movie's 45th-anniversary celebrations (with that milestone hit in 2022, but hey, what's an extra month?). The feature will roll in The Plenary at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre at 1pm and 7.30pm, MSO will perform Williams' Oscar-winning compositions and, if you're there, you'll burst with a Millennium Falcon's worth of happiness. Whether you're a huge Star Wars buff eager to ride a wave of excitement in-between Andor season one finishing and The Mandalorian season three arriving, just have a casual interest, or have no idea what the term R2-D2 means, this is the way to see A New Hope. Conductor Nicholas Buc will lead the charge, as the city's finest provide the soundtrack to Luke Skywalker meeting Obi-Wan Kenobi, Princess Leia sending a message for help, Han Solo oozing his usual attitude and Darth Vader just being a power-hungry jerk. If you just can't let any kind of pop-culture love go, then an in-concert session of Frozen might also be your dream come true. That's MSO's second big movie gig for 2023 — and, yes, it's happening in winter. Taking place on Saturday, June 17 at 1pm and 7pm, these screenings will celebrate ten years since the animated hit first built a snowman, and unveiled the tale of sisters Elsa and Anna. If you like big occasions, it'll also mark 100 years of the Mouse House. Jessica Gethin is on conducting duties for Frozen, and everyone already knows the story as well as the soundtrack. Here, Anna has to embark on a trek to find Elsa, who gets trapped the kingdom of Arendelle due to her icy powers. Yes, you now have 'Let It Go' stuck in your head. Star Wars: Episode IV — A New Hope will screen at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on Saturday, January 28, while Frozen will screen at the same venue on Saturday, June 17. Head to the MSO website for further details, and for tickets from 10am on Wednesday, November 16.
You probably recognise the above image of Daniel Kaluuya's terrified face, it's been floating around the internet in meme form over the past couple of weeks. It's also a still from Get Out—the highly anticipated new film from Universal Pictures released in cinemas on May 4. Watch the truly terrifying trailer if you haven't yet. The film has accrued a rare 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and critics around the world are biding time until they get the chance to see this gripping thriller, also a timely, provocative commentary on the world's current state of race relations. The story follows a young, African-American man (Daniel Kaluuya) as he meets his white girlfriend's (Allison Williams) parents at their family estate. At first, Chris believes that the family's welcoming behaviour is a nervous attempt to deal with their daughter's interracial relationship, but as the weekend progresses he discovers a number of disturbing things to make him think otherwise and becomes suspicious of the real reason behind his visit. Somewhat surprisingly, the gripping film is written and directed by Jordan Peele (one half of Key and Peele, the comedy duo known for classic skits such as Text Confusion and Continental Breakfast). We're hosting three advanced screenings of Get Out exclusive to Concrete Playground readers. The Melbourne screening will be at Village Cinemas, Jam Factory at 6.30pm on April 19. Fill in your details below to go into the draw to win one of 100 double passes. [competition]614566[/competition]
Melbourne, you'll feel it coming after all: in what's been a chaotic time for fans keen to see Abel 'The Weeknd' Tesfaye Down Under, the musician is finally bringing his After Hours Til Dawn tour this way. Come October 2024, the Canadian singer-songwriter and The Idol star will hit the city for two gigs — and also play two in Sydney. The details for your diary: The Weeknd is taking to the stage in the Victorian capital at Marvel Stadium on Saturday, October 5–Sunday, October 6, with Mike Dean, Chxrry22 and Anna Lunoe in support. An arena spectacular, The Weeknd's global tour began in 2022, notching up soldout shows far and wide. In the UK, The Weekend saw 160,000 folks head to London Stadium across two nights, smashing the venue's attendance record. And in Milan, he became the first artist to sell out the Ippodromo La Maura for two nights. It was in August last year that The Weeknd announced that his latest massive stadium tour was on its way to both Australia and New Zealand in November and December 2023 — even adding extra shows before general tickets went on sale — only for it to be postponed just two weeks out "due to unforeseen circumstances" without new dates being set. Then, in April 2024, the tour was cancelled for the time being, with ticketholders receiving refunds. Next, since August 2024, it's back on.
Brisbane's culinary scene is no stranger to big openings, but it's likely that only Settimo, the new restaurant that's set to settle into The Westin Brisbane, has been likened to Italian film icon Sophia Loren. The person making the comparison: Melbourne's superstar chef Guy Grossi, who is behind the soon-to-open eatery, and calls it "really light, fun and breezy" — but also vibrant and sophisticated. Grossi's first venture into Brisbane — and his second beyond his hometown, alongside Perth's Garum — Settimo is slated to open its doors in either spring or summer 2022. Given that it takes inspiration from the Amalfi Coast, that's fitting timing. Indeed, pairing coastal Italian dishes with Brissie's sunny, summery weather is a big motivation behind the restaurant. Another aim: whisking tastebuds away to Positano, courtesy of a menu that heroes the best of the Amalfi Coast. Exactly which dishes will be on offer hasn't yet been revealed, but they'll focus on seasonal produce from international and local producers, as paired with a considerable wine list. Settimo will join Grossi's stable of restaurants alongside Melbourne's Grossi Florentino, Ombra and Arlechin, and also the aforementioned Garum in Western Australia — which is located inside The Westin Perth. "I am truly delighted to be bringing a new Grossi restaurant what is already such an exciting market for hospitality in Brisbane, working with The Westin Brisbane to bring to life a playful, Amalfi-inspired restaurant, in the heart of the city," commented the chef, author and TV personality in a statement announcing Settimo. "We're thrilled to continue building on the wonderful partnership between The Westin and Guy Grossi. Garum at The Westin Perth has showcased incredible success and we're looking forward to bringing this collaboration to Brisbane's burgeoning world-class dining scene." said Brad Mercer, The Westin Brisbane's General Manager. The eatery is now recruiting — and if you're keen for a look at what's in store, check out the video featuring Grossi below: Settimo will open sometime in spring/summer 2022 in The Westin Brisbane, 111 Mary Street, Brisbane — we'll update you with an exact opening date when one is announced.
D.O.C has played a significant role in the development of Melbourne's contemporary Italian dining scene ever since it opened its first Carlton site back in 1997. It blends warm and friendly old-school Italian hospitality with modern interiors and less-than-traditional cooking techniques and flavours — creating a roadmap for other Melbourne Italian restaurants to follow. D.O.C. has since spread across Melbourne with sites in Southbank and Mornington Peninsula, as well as a location in Sydney's Surry Hills. And we've just learned that soon the crew will be pumping out woodfired pizzas and handmade pasta on The Esplanade in St Kilda. D.O.C St Kilda will set up shop across from Alfred Square and look out over St Kilda Beach making it a mighty fine spot for spritz sipping and sunset viewings. The 100-seat restaurant will have a heap of outdoor seating plus a few highly covetable seats by the open kitchen. The full menu hasn't been revealed yet, but D.O.C Director Michael Costanzo says that "the menu represents a glimpse into dining in Italy's present day. I hope guests are ready to enjoy a modern take on classic Italian hospitality." Plenty of signature dishes found across all the D.O.C restaurants will feature, but one of the new dishes exclusive to the St Kilda site will be the campanelle pasta served with duck and Montenegro ragu. Beachgoers can also easily pop in to nab some of the daily house-made gelatos that'll include flavours like balsamic and grilled peach and Frangelico and hazelnut. D.O.C St Kilda will be the seventh notch in the group's restaurant belt and the very first with seaside views. You'll soon find D.O.C St Kilda at 14–16 The Esplanade, St Kilda, open 5pm–late from Monday to Thursday and 12pm–late from Friday to Sunday. For more information, head to the restaurant group's website.
Loss, compassion, healing — these are all themes set to move audiences at the Melbourne Town Hall this month when several tours de force of the Australian classical music industry combine to bring us A Night of Compassion. Eight years after Australian composer Nigel Westlake and singer-songwriter Lior released their groundbreaking contemporary-meets-classical album Compassion, they're reuniting for a return to the stage. This time, they'll be accompanied by Melbourne's Symphony Orchestra for a night of musical extravagance not to be missed. You may have been lucky enough to see Compassion live the first time around in 2014: the seven-song cycle was a sensation, spending a cool ten weeks at #1 on the ARIA classical charts upon its release and even receiving the 2014 ARIA Award for Best Classical Album. Inspired by the tragic death of Westlake's son in 2008, Compassion was a means of healing for the acclaimed composer, who you may also know as the musical mind behind the scores for Babe and Miss Potter. After seeing Lior perform in Hebrew at a fundraiser event in his son's memory, the pair collaborated to create a musical selection drawing on ancient Hebrew and Arabic poems, proverbs and texts. The theme of the album was how compassion can provide relief in a world struggling with divisiveness — a concept that seems more pertinent now than ever. [caption id="attachment_868611" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Paul Grabowsky and Emma Donovan[/caption] Whether you're a long-standing fan or this is your first classical foray, this one-night-only show on Thursday, September 29 is set to be one to remember. Included in the lineup is MSO composer-in-residence Paul Grabowsky AO and acclaimed Indigenous soul vocalist Emma Donovan, who'll be performing in language as the pair share a selection of songs from their most recent country and gospel collaboration, The Old Rugged Cross. Also set to perform is a Ukrainian-Jewish-Australian duo, singer Billie Tumarkin and multi-instrumentalist Alex Burkoy. [caption id="attachment_868609" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Billie Tumarkin by Grace Hunder[/caption] Brought to you by the Festival of Jewish Arts and Music (FOJAM) and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO), A Night of Compassion is one for your spring calendar — just maybe bring some tissues. Tickets to A Night of Compassion can be purchased here.
Melbourne's northern suburb of Reservoir is now home to a brand new craft brewery — and it's doing things a little differently. Future Mountain Brewing and Blending is focused on creating farmhouse-style brews, inspired by the old world taprooms of Europe and a growing trend in the States. Expect wild fermentation ales and barrel-aged sours on offer in small batches here. Co-owners Ian Jones and Shane Ferguson have five years' experience in the field, having met at Boatrocker Brews — which is also known for its wild and sour ales. Their partners Elisa Jones and Kara Rasmanis (respectively) have joined them in this new venture, too. Apart from using wild yeast and bacterial strains, the team has also partnered with local Yarra Valley fruit growers, wineries and coffee roasters to create truly seasonal brews. At the moment, the venue's 12 taps are pouring apricot, cherry and peach sour beers, along with a white ale, a golden sour blend, two German-style pilsners and two farmhouse ales. Upcoming beers include a hoppy saison, raspberry barrel-aged sour and a bourbon barrel-aged oatmeal stout for the winter months. The taproom is set amid stainless steal tanks and oak barrels. For food, there are pides, flatbreads and pies available in house, along with delivery from neighbouring pizza joint Unique Gourmet Pizza Bar and all the Uber Eats you fancy. Wild ales and European-style farmhouse brews are becoming increasingly popular in Australia, with Sydney also home to Wildflower Brewing and Blending and plenty of breweries starting up barrel-aged programs around the country. Future Mountain Brewing and Blending is now open at 703–707 Plenty Road, Reservoir. Opening hours are Friday 4–11pm, Saturday noon–11pm and Sunday noon–8pm.
Whether you like them filled with jam and cream or prefer plain cake all the way, the lamington is a perfect dessert. It's a piece of sponge cake covered in chocolate sauce and desiccated coconut — what's not to love? And, as excellent as it is on its own, it also fares exceptionally well when it's combined with other foods. Everything from lamington gelato to lamington milkshakes have already proven this fact, as has lamington-flavoured vodka, too. One particularly creative and ace take on this Australian favourite? A lamington-cruffin hybrid — which turns one food mashup into a bigger food mashup like the baked-goods version of Inception. Sorry, lamington purists, this definitely isn't cube-shaped. But it exists thanks to Lune Croissanterie. The Kate Reid-founded bakery fills its Frankenstein's monster of a lamington-croissant-muffin with raspberry jam and whipped cream, then dips it in chocolate ganache and desiccated coconut. Without the latter, it just wouldn't be a lamington. And if that description has got your tastebuds in a tizzy, you can nab one — or several — in-store only at Fitzroy, Armadale, South Brisbane and Burnett Lane until Saturday, September 30. The lamington cruffins lead Lune's September specials menu, because the chain likes serving up a different mix of limited-edition treats each month. Some are returning favourites, like these coconut-topped numbers, while others are newcomers. Either way, your stomach will be thankful. Also on the list across the first month of spring: baklava ka, aka Lune's take on the Greek dish. Instead of filo, this version uses Lune's laminated pastry, then fills it with orange blossom, honey, walnut and pistachio. Or, depending on the store, you can tuck into Lune's carrot cake croissants, complete with carrot and walnut frangipane; Middle East-inspired beetroot goat's curd pastry, which is made with beetroot hummus, beetroot powder, goat's curd and za'atar; and The Turtle, aka a pain au chocolat that goes big on chocolate (frangipane), pecans (candied) and salted caramel (gooey). Lune's September specials are available until Saturday, September 30. Different stores — including Fitzroy, the CBD and Armadale in Melbourne, and South Brisbane and Burnett Lane in Brisbane — boast different specials. From Armadale, South Brisbane and Burnett Lane only, you can also order some online. Images: Peter Dillon.
If catching a wave as your favourite DJ drops his hit song seems like the stuff of your dreams, you may be in luck thanks to this new Tullamarine music and surfing event. Melbourne surf park Urbnsurf and the new touring event from the minds behind Beyond the Valley, For the Love, have come together for a mix of music, food and gnarly waves. After originally being scheduled for the weekend of Friday, February 19, the three-day event series was postponed due to Melbourne's snap five-day lockdown. The event will now take place over two weekends starting Saturday, March 20 — and has expanded to five days with a 15-strong act lineup. On the lineup you'll find the likes of Gold Coast DJ and former surfer Fisher, Sydney folk heartthrob Matt Corby and aviation-themed dance duo Flight Facilities, as well as Ocean Alley, Mallrat, Hayden James, Julia Stone and a whole bunch more. Australian clothing label Nana Judy will be hosting a VIP section to add some glam to the event, and of course on-site farm-to-table eatery Three Blue Ducks will be providing food out of its new Melbourne digs adjacent to Urbnsurf. For the Love will be using some of the profits to help clean up oceans and beaches through its Music for Oceans initiative. Tickets are available here.
What a time to be alive for gin lovers. Last month, we introduced you to a rainforest-infused gin from Byron Bay. Now, we're heading south, to Tasmania, where brand new distillery Southern Wild has just opened. Its first offering is a trio of gins known as Dasher + Fisher, named for two rivers that travel from Tassie's snowy mountains to its northwest coast. Each spirit represents a section of the rivers' journey, the first being 'Mountain', the second, 'Meadow' and the third, 'Coast'. What all three have in common is a trio of uniquely Tasmanian botanicals: pepperberry, lavender and wakame seaweed. Distiller George Burgess, who's been perfecting his recipes for a decade, then blends these base botanicals with additional native ingredients, sourced from local growers, to give each gin its distinctive profile. "My goal, right from the get-go, was to try and create a gin that would allow me a multi-layered experience," says Burgess. "It took a lot of experiments and a lot of work to try and get that layering to the point where it was achieving what I set out to do." 'Mountain' is a dry-style drop, which puts the pepperberry up front, surrounded by another ten botanicals, including eucalypt, rosemary and sage. 'Meadow', a modern gin, emphasises the lavender, which is combined with 14 other botanicals, including freshly-picked oranges. Meanwhile, 'Ocean' is all about powering up the wakame seaweed, made more complex thanks to 11 other botanicals. You can buy Dasher + Fisher online, via Southern Wild's website. To visit in person, get yourself to Devonport, on Tassie's north coast. The distillery is open Monday to Wednesday between 10am and 5pm, and Thursday to Sunday from 10am till late. There are live music events and, if you're keen to take a tour with George, it's a good idea to book in advance. Images: Jason Loucas.
Summer is all about long nights, lazy days, cold bevs and occasionally finding a fun competitive activity so intense it brings out your inner Lleyton Hewitt. Friendships have been broken, reformed and strengthened through the tried and true method of a tournament — and everyone's game faces are all the stronger when there are beers involved. This summer, it's not just about the beach. Challenge yourselves to playing something slightly unique (think trampoline dodgeball or Finska), and rediscover your inner competitive fiend. Grab your Hahn slab, nine of your best mates and give one of these competitive games a crack — time to blow into a conch shell and assemble your team. MINI GOLF Not necessarily groundbreaking, mini golf has been around for heaps of your childhood and teenage birthday parties. But it's gotten a whole lot more fun now that you can putt along, beer in hand. Gather some mates, head to Holey Moley and see who can stay on par — or go so over it's comical. A bit of putt-putt always makes you remember how playing tiny golf with tiny clubs is actually not that easy, but at Holey Moley you'll be distracted by beloved pop culture references — like The Simpsons' couch or an Iron Throne made of nine-irons. And when you're on your seventh hit over par, just remember it's the winner who should buy the next round of bevs. Where? Holey Moley Golf Club in Melbourne (CBD), Sydney (Newtown) or Brisbane (Fortitude Valley). [caption id="attachment_649153" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Finska.[/caption] FINSKA For something a bit different, look to the Scandinavians. Finska is a game modelled on the ancient game kyykkä, which the Finns created and still take very seriously to this day (there are world championships). A lighter, less serious version, Finska can be easily purchased online so you'll be playing a casual game with your mates in no time. With the tagline, "defeat friend and enemies with strategy, skill and a lump of wood", the game has you basically throwing a cylinder of wood at other numbered wooden things. Trickier than it might seem in the description, though, a game can quickly turn into a riot, so you'll need a large area in which to Finska. Winning is an exact science (50 points only, if you go over you lose points) so you'll also probably need a few beers to keep you and your mates hydrated until that happens for someone. Where? Buy online from Australian Geographic and then find a large park, such as Princes Park in Carlton North, Melbourne; Centennial Park in Sydney; or Robelle Domain in Springfield, Brisbane. TRAMPOLINE DODGEBALL It does sound like a Ben Stiller movie, but it's actually an excellent time. Trampoline parks are already a prime throwback to your childhood days, but you can up the stakes further by incorporating a game of dodgeball. Basically, it's dodgeball with soft balls with the added benefit of feeling like you're flying — you're also getting a huge workout at the same time without even realising it. Take your mates out one by one and/or deal with your recent break up in a healthy way. Patch up your skinned knees afterwards and head out for some bridge-mending beers. Where? Trampoline parks are popping up all over the place. Try BounceInc in Essendon Fields, Melbourne or Sky Zone in Alexandria, Sydney and in Macgregor, Brisbane. CROQUET Not just for the lords and ladies of yonder years, croquet is having its moment in the sun as a low impact/high fun sport (another one that involves hitting stuff with wooden things). To play the noble game, all you need is the ability to wrangle a mallet in one hand while sipping a drink in the other — as well as some medium level of hand-eye coordination to get the balls through the hoops. It's generally a very relaxed afternoon spent in nice grassy surroundings (no golf swings over here, everything is below the knee), so head along on a lazy Sunday. Where? Try Elwood Croquet Club in Melbourne, Coogee Croquet Club in Sydney or Stephens Croquet Club in Yeronga, Brisbane QUIDDITCH Yeah, you heard us. There are leagues across the nation (and the world) that have arisen from J.K. Rowling's famed series about children who do magic and use owls as postmen. If you've always fantasised about your letter from Hogwarts, read up about the rules of Quidditch IRL, then find a big park, a bunch of mates who are in for a good (if silly) time, a broom and off you go. The general gist of the thing here is that you're obviously not flying, you're running around on the ground (so it's a pretty good workout) and the snitch is an actual person with a ball in a sock attached to their pants. It sounds ridiculous, but as far as tournaments go, it's one of the most fun — beers only increase the helpless laughter. Where? BYO broom and find a park, such as Edinburgh Gardens in Fitzroy, Melbourne; Sydney Park in Newtown, Sydney; or Roma Street Parkland in Brisbane's CBD. [caption id="attachment_649152" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kan Jam.[/caption] KAN JAM Basically, a terrible name for a super fun time, Kan Jam (aka throwing Frisbees in garbage bins) is nothing if not a) utilitarian and b) cheap. All you need is a bin and a Frisbee and at least two people to play. The aim of the game is simply to throw a Frisbee and get it into the bin 50-feet (about 15 metres) away with the help of a 'deflector' teammate. Perfect for beaches, parks or any public space where the bins are mobile and clean enough, Kan Jam might just be your jam this summer. Where? Head to your favourite beach and either commandeer some of its bins or, if you want something a little more sanitised, buy the official Kan Jam online here. GIANT CHESS Much like physical tournaments, mental tournaments can intensify swiftly — especially when it's hot. Ever the game of strategy, chess can be less cerebral when there's an enormous chessboard and you can play as a team. Suddenly, the quiet, solo game becomes a rowdy whole crew activity. Wait for a warm day, find yourself a giant public chessboard and get pawning and rooking. You may want to save any bevs until after you've checkmated, though, so your strategic thinking skills remain on point. Where? Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney all have their own respective giant chessboards. Find chess in Melbourne at Swanston and Little Collins streets, in Sydney at Nagoya Gardens in Hyde Park and the Fortitude Valley Markets in Brisbane. Challenge your mates to a game of friendly competition and, no matter who wins, celebrate your successes with a round of Hahn.
Food, fashion, crafts and more — South Melbourne Market's got it all. For 150 years, 'the village market' has been a quintessential part of the Port Phillip community and a favourite market for locals and visitors alike. There are over 145 traders currently housed here, covering just about every cuisine, style and niche that you could possibly think of. There's also a year-long calendar of live music, exhibitions and family activities keeping the place feeling lively and full of surprises. While South Melbourne Market is definitely a market full of joy, one trader, in particular, is the happiest. That'd be Happy Place, which when opened by popular nutritionist Lola Berry in 2014, caused a bit of a stir with its commitment to delicious seasonal food and juices. Specialising in healthy on-the-go meals and fruit and veg smoothies, everything tastes just as good as it looks.
Hip Hop Hooray, it's nearly 2015 and to celebrate another year of trials, tribulations and triumph, the Prince is throwing a block party. Performing on the night will be a mix of up-and-coming as well as established hip hop acts from all over Australia, including The Funkoars, Briggs, Vents, Joelistics, K21, Daily Meds, Mathas and hosted by Reason. At $44.90 it's one of the cheaper NYE options, and perfect if you prefer live entertainment over DJs spitting out the latest club banger.
Forbidden love — so much more appealing than ordinary, feasible love. Centuries ago a Frenchman called Racine adapted a play by Euripides which British poet laureate Ted Hughes later spent the last few months of his life translating, perhaps as a sort of self imposed penitentiary act for not protecting his partner in poetry, Sylvia Plath, from her own passionately wrought fantasies. Hughes' highly regarded free verse translation of Phèdre has been adapted for the stage by the Bell Shakespeare Company. The plot is a psychologically compelling, proper Greek tragedy complete with pathos, jealousy and screaming frustration. The character Phèdre is a cursed, cougar-esque queen afflicted with an all-consuming passion for her stepson Hippolytus — ignore the name, he's a handsome if diffident 'objet d'adoration'. Fatefully, Phèdre's husband Theseus is missing, presumed dead. At the encouragement of her well-meaning nursemaid Oenone, Phèdre decides to confess her dangerous and libidinous obsession to the boy in the hopes that he will respond with equal passion. Instead, Hippolytus backs away from the raving madwoman in her stilettos and tight pants in horror, as his pursuer stumbles across the stage, half-crippled by her unrequited lust. It's an unfortunate time for Theseus to return unexpectedly home – literally from Hell – and hell hath no fury like a woman forced to think on the spot of how she became so visibly distressed. Phèdre accuses Hippolytus of rape and Theseus promptly invokes the power of Neptune to curse his son, who retreats quite understandably to the blonde and bare-footed Aricia with a view to intertangling limbs and lives. Director Peter Evans highlights how our lives can become defined by destructive relationships – both with ourselves and with others – if we allow them to. From the scratchy heartbeat of the fitful soundscape to the frenzied intensity of an apparently powerful woman seeking control in a world where female control just isn't possible, it's easy to identify with her quest and subsequent failure to achieve fulfillment. Her powerlessness turns love into mania and passion into a destructive force. The male characters are victims, too; Theseus too readily believes his son is a rapist, perhaps because of his own philandering history. His realisation that he’s got it fatally wrong comes much, much too late. Some stories transcend space and time and Phèdre remains a remarkably compelling psychodrama in the context of contemporary life. Anna Cordingley's set is as damaged as the characters hearts and Hughes' translation is lean, mean and lyrical. The most tragic thing about Phèdre is that she realises how the contamination of her consciousness is self-induced: the foregone conclusion of forbidden love. Photo by Rush.
You might not ever learn all the secrets of the universe, but you sure will be inspired to try when Berlin-based contemporary artist Camille Henrot hits NGV International with her latest showcase of compelling works. Running from June 25–January 30, the free exhibition Camille Henrot: Is Today Tomorrow embraces the artist's signature playful approach to asking and answering life's big questions, centred on the idea of what it means to be a private individual and a global subject, simultaneously. Among the featured works, you'll find Henrot's large-scale installation The Pale Fox 2014 — an accompaniment to the artist's 2013 short film Grosse Fatigue, which won the Silver Lion at the 55th Venice Biennale. The room-sized work features a sprawling collection of over 500 artefacts, including photos, books, Henrot's own art projects, and bits and pieces from Ebay, as a reflection on how we use objects to help make sense of the world. Elsewhere, an interactive collection of telephone sculptures will have you answering quirky questions — be prepared for probing questions about your sex life — from an unknown caller. And you'll also discover a newer series of works on paper that have never been exhibited before. [caption id="attachment_763889" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Camille Henrot, The Pale Fox (2014). Collection of the artist, New York. Copyright Camille Henrot. Courtesy of the artist and kamel mennour, Paris/London; König Galerie, Berlin; Metro Pictures, New York. Photo by Andy Keate[/caption] Image one: Camille Henrot, Bad Dad & Beyond from the Interphone series (2015). Copyright Camille Henrot. Courtesy of the artist and Metro Pictures, New York. Image two: Camille Henrot, The Pale Fox (2014). Collection of the artist, New York. Copyright Camille Henrot. Courtesy of the artist and kamel mennour, Paris/London; König Galerie, Berlin; Metro Pictures, New York. Photo by Andy Keate.
Exhibition 54, C3 Contemporary Art Space’s latest slew of group and solo exhibitions, makes for pleasant lazy weekend afternoon meandering. In Gallery 1, Claire Davies’ Opposing Forces presents sculptural pieces that hang as awkward, static objects in loose coils, accompanied by intricate pastel-hued prints that are vaguely reminiscent of an almost dreamtime style. Exploring themes of separation, bodily function and magical thinking, Davies’ abstract, yet somewhat familiar works resemble re-imagined internal organs. You may leave with grand plans to take a paintbrush to your liver or string up those old intestines you've got lying around as an avant-garde spin on interior decoration. Nearby in Space A, Andre Tjaberings’ Battle Life examines the idea of cities as manifestations of the human psyche. The walls are lined with a combination of surreal, architectural paintings and complex digitally designed prints, resulting in something like a cross between The Jetson’s, Transformers and the world’s most frustrating game of Tetris. Tucked away in the Project Room, The Earth Bling Experiment by Deb K Williams is every bit as fun as it’s name suggests. A response to the question, “What kind of jewels will they take to the moon?” and the statement, “Arranging a room for conversation”, both of which Williams found in a 1960 Scientific American magazine, the installation is an assortment of textural, otherworldly objects your mum definitely wouldn’t have let you get your sticky paws on. You’re a grown up now, so you can do whatever you want (except touch the art). The group exhibition World In My Eyes, located in Space B, is a delicate, childlike tableau of ceramic works courtesy of Arts Project Australia. Dainty little ballet flats sit alongside a collection of handcrafted cameras and a coiled up snake takes up residence in the back corner of the exhibition — contemporary art can be frighteningly real sometimes. Along with The Earth Bling Experiment, the shiny pearl inside the C3 oyster is Al Ouchtomsky’s Purple Sunset For Orange Lexus in Gallery 2. The collage-based exploration showcases a series of imagined landscapes that straddle the divide between the digital and analogue realms. Alongside a number of the grooviest modern-day diorama’s you’ve ever seen, Ouchtomsky’s work is a seemingly random (yet undoubtedly considered) future-retro ode to the days of psychedelia. According to the exhibition copy, “One may contemplate a time when future creatures might one day unearth this civilization and it’s hordes of disparate detritus.” They’ll probably just throw a rave. Image credit Deb K Williams, The Earth Bling Experiment
Comedians held up as the voice of Generation Y tend to make us a little bit sceptical. Still, after winning the Best Newcomer Award at last year’s Edinburgh Fringe, we’re willing to give New Yorker Alex Edelman the benefit of the doubt. Millennial marks the 25-year-old Edelman’s first trip to Australia, although we suspect it’ll be the first of many. Get in on the ground floor so you can brag about seeing him first.
On February 24, 2010, Florida SeaWorld employee Dawn Brancheau drowned after being pulled underwater by the park's star attraction, a five-and-a-half tonne orca named Tilikum. Her death was the third in 20 years to involve the massive killer whale, who has spent most of his life in captivity. Troubled by reports of the marine park's unethical treatment of its animals and spurred on by conflicting stories about how Brancheau's tragic death occurred, documentary filmmaker Gabriela Cowperthwaite decided to investigate further. The result is Blackfish, a troubling if not particularly revelatory doco about the dangers of keeping predators in captivity. It's obvious that Blackfish is pushing an agenda, albeit one that most viewers will probably agree with. Convinced that SeaWorld's treatment of animals like Tilikum is morally wrong and may have played a key role in the death of Brancheau and others, Cowperthwaite's primary aim is to appal and incite outrage. Her interview subjects consist of marine biologists, animal activists and disillusioned former SeaWorld workers. Through the testimony of the latter in particular, Blackfish paints a damning portrait of physically and emotionally neglected animals along with subpar safety conditions for their trainers. Despite this, the trainers maintain they felt connected to their animals, like a parent does to a child. Footage of Brancheau at work — focused, professional but full of energy and laughter — is Cowperthwaite's emotional trump card. In contrast, the marine park chain is depicted as a faceless corporate entity, whose primary concerns seem to be dodging culpability and maximising profit (an end credits title card pointedly informs viewers that SeaWorld representatives refused to appear on camera). At the same time, Cowperthwaite never really breaks with documentary convention. Most of her major talking points, from the intelligent and social nature of marine mammals to the shady practices of the animals-in-captivity industry, have already been covered in earlier exposes, like Louie Psihoyos's shocking, emotionally devastating Oscar winner The Cove, to which Blackfish can't quite compare. Still, there's no denying the director's noble intentions, or the fact that her film is effective. While viewers may not be presented with much information that they didn't already know (or at least, assume to be true), there's certainly no harm in being reminded. Sickening footage of trainers barely escaping with their lives begs the question: when will the next fatality occur? If Blackfish causes even a few members of the public to reconsider where they go on holiday, then the project will have been a success. https://youtube.com/watch?v=G93beiYiE74
It's the absolute last thing Melbourne needs right now, but just after 9am this morning, Wednesday, September 22, the city was hit by what's reported to be an earthquake. Yep — we're out here deep into Lockdown 6.0, having clocked up over 200 days of stay-at-home orders, and the universe goes and dials up the drama with the literal shifting of tectonic plates. Just who exactly Melbourne pissed off so badly, is yet to be revealed. The experts over at the Seismology Centre shared details of the quake on Twitter, confirming a magnitude 5.3 earthquake hit Gippsland and was felt right across Melbourne, a good 100 kilometres away. The earth shakes lasted about 20 seconds, which proved pretty exciting stuff for this particular writer who hadn't even had their morning coffee yet. The preliminary magnitude 5.3 estimation is yet to be officially confirmed and may be revised. As you can imagine, Twitter fired up instantly following the quake, as people rushed to swap notes on Melbourne's 843576th bad news event of the year. There'll be more information to come as the experts recover from this sneak environmental attack. But in the meantime, here are some winning reactions from the Twitterverse. We'll bring you more information as details unfold on the earthquake event from this morning. Sounds like Melbourne's going to be in need of a good construction industry — Josh Withers (@JoshuaWithers) September 21, 2021 im pretty sure an earthquake is the sixth seal opened during the apocalypse. good news melbourne, just one to go! — Jim Malo (@thejimmalo) September 21, 2021 Statewide earthquake in Vic, 5.6. Whoever is writing this script of the impending apocalypse is getting ridiculously heavy-handed, I mean just fucking introduce a fun love interest or something and give us a breakhttps://t.co/erVIIzC7Ny — Marieke Hardy (@mariekehardy) September 21, 2021 pic.twitter.com/appe69o1u5 — fungbunger (@parsfarce) September 21, 2021 At what point do we accept that God hates Melbourne? — James Colley (@JamColley) September 21, 2021 FACT: Melbourne are 0-1 in VFL/AFL Grand Finals that immediately followed magnitude 6.0+ earthquakes in Victoria pic.twitter.com/7cGOgsMfUY — Michael (@HiReception) September 22, 2021
Rocco's Bologna Discoteca was one of the silver linings during Melbourne's lockdown last year, popping up for just a couple of short stints in the Gertrude Street space that normally houses Poodle. But now, the much-loved sandwich joint is making a cameo appearance for one festive night as part of Good Food Month. Swing past on Tuesday, June 22, to indulge in an Italo-accented feast that trips from the likes of rice-stuffed mussels and mini pine mushroom pizza pockets, to braised rabbit with cannellini beans and serves of handmade pasta caccio e pepe. There'll be mini versions of Rocco's legendary meatball sub doing the rounds, too, alongside a forward-thinking curation of vino from award-winning sommelier Giorgio De Maria (121BC, Rootstock Sydney). And you'd best bring your dancing shoes since the evening's lineup of Italo-disco DJs will be spinning tunes until late. The night's food and festivities clock in at $69, with wines available to purchase as you go. [caption id="attachment_774766" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Poodle[/caption]
If you've been looking for an excuse to hit the d-floor, we've found one that's hard to beat. Digital music platform and legendary dance floor filler Boiler Room is descending on Melbourne for what's set to be a huge Aussie event. On Saturday, October 28, Boiler Room: Melbourne (Naarm) will make dreams come true as it takes over a warehouse space at Port Melbourne Industrial Centre For The Arts and dishes up an all-day dance party to remember. Expect huge energy from this hefty lineup of talented dance music legends, including none other than UK-based artists Bakey B2B Breaka. They'll be joined on the bill by homegrown heroes including genre-bending producer Surusinghe, SWIM, SOVBLKPSSY and DJ CaucasianOpportunities, who will make her Boiler Room debut. Bringing further international flavour, you've got Berlin heavyweight Marlon Hoffstadt (a.k.a. DJ Daddy Trance) and NYC-based electronica queen Miley Series. [caption id="attachment_878334" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Boiler Room x Sugar Mountain, 2022 by Mushroom Creative House[/caption] Top Image: Sugar Mountain x Boiler Room 2018, by Mark Stanjo
From Friday, May 1, 2020 a maximum of two adult Sydneysiders can visit a second household, so you can start planning small dinner parties. Remember, though, that you need to continue to follow the rest of the social distancing and public gathering restrictions. If, like us, you've suddenly realised that you go to bed before 10pm, enjoy a fair slosh of milk in your tea and your ankles crack inexplicably when you stand up or sit down, you might be feeling like you're getting too old for places like 'the club'. Well, we say embrace it; start doing grown-up things like having dinner parties instead. Trust us, you're probably not the only one in your crew who'd much rather be at home on the couch, sipping G&Ts with mates and in bed by a wholesome hour. The days of nice cheese, top-shelf (or close to) alcohol, decent home cooking and adult conversations about the state of the world (you'll need the drinks for this) have arrived. So your dinner party is as successful as it can be, here are some tips. Start by buying some matching crockery, teach yourself to make a good roast and move on down this list. [caption id="attachment_731075" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Julia Sansone[/caption] THE APERITIF Luckily this one is easy. Well, it can be. You can throw together a refreshing G&T — this timeless combination of gin and tonic water isn't to be sneered at — whip up a spritz or get fancy with something slightly more complicated, like a negroni (which is just equal parts Campari, gin and sweet vermouth). If you want go even fancier, we've wrapped up some recipes for run tipples, such as sangria, a basil collins and le grand fizz — over here. [caption id="attachment_689382" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kitti Gould.[/caption] THE NIBBLES Proven over the centuries, the Italians know what to do with their savoury pre-dinner snacks. So, get your head, heart and stomach around the bellissimo antipasti game. Head to a proper Italian food store to stock up on the goods, because if there's something worth spending most of your week's pay on it's a really, really good pecorino and some deluxe salumi. Try the truly hallowed halls of Mediterranean Wholesalers in Melbourne's Brunswick, the storied Paesanella Food Emporium in Sydney's Marrickville or New Farm Deli in Brisbane's New Farm, which has been operating since 1975. You can also check out our Gin List for some recipe ideas for your pre-dinner eats — and what's more, each one comes with a gin cocktail pairing to try. You're welcome. THE TABLE SETTING Being an adult is all about putting in the effort — think making bread from scratch, remembering to send birthday cards or, you know, finally graduating from the sharehouse vibes and hanging art on the walls. The same thing goes for when you're hosting a dinner party: why not put in just a smidge more effort? Look up how to properly set a table, invest in some cloth serviettes (it's an eco-friendly decision, too) and make place cards for your guests. (Pinterest has approximately 200 million ideas to inspire you.) For the final touch, find every candle and candleholder you may own and scatter them across the table. Just no scented candles, please. You don't want those Glasshouse fragrances clashing with the meal you've thoughtfully prepared. THE LIGHTING Nothing can make a dinner party more uncomfortable than glaring fluorescent lights or the sun setting mid-meal making it almost impossible to see the food on your plate. Ease your way into the darkening evening with soft, warm lighting a la the candle collection above— or just throw a scarf over a lamp and call it décor. Whatever floats your lantern. If you're sitting outside for the evening, set up some candles early on to light once the sun dips beneath the horizon. Oh, and a string or two of fairy lights never goes amiss. THE MEAL It's the pièce de résistance of the evening, the opportunity to impress your friends with your cooking prowess (be it newly learned or well-honed). What you'll serve to eat should come with careful decision. Do any of your guests have dietary requirements? How much time do you have to prep and cook? Does your current salary afford a full roast to feed ten guests? When you've considered all these factors, then it's time to scour Google for the best-rated recipes. We've also delved into our archives to find you some past recipes we've scored from the likes of Sydney's Thievery, Porteño, Big Poppa's and Three Blue Ducks. THE PLAYLIST The first knock or ring of your doorbell may alert you of the fact that you have no music playing yet. Your mind has been kept busy prepping and cooking and primping that the evening's soundtrack hasn't even yet registered. Don't panic — we're here to help. Grab your phone and just chuck this smooth dinner party playlist on for the evening. Erykah Badu and Toto will help you chase away the nerves and comfortably settle into the evening (G&T in hand — you deserve it). https://open.spotify.com/user/concreteplayground/playlist/6SBK5b5pwaqhyGo8scJnQl
If you want to learn to dance, you may as well learn from the masters. And now the Australian Ballet can get you Nut-Cracking, even if you're not a trained dancer. The organisation is running drop-in classes at the Primrose Potter Australian Ballet Centre in Melbourne. And it's not just ballet that's on the agenda. Sure, you can don your tutu and get a-pirouetting if that's your calling. But there are lessons in pretty much every other genre too, including contemporary and Broadway-style dancing. Also on the program is Pilates and yoga, so you can keep yourself stretchy and calm in-between dance sessions. All classes are casual, cost $15 per pop and run the year through. So, you can turn up — or not — at your leisure. Right now, there's even an intro offer that scores you a week's worth of lessons for free too. Don't forget to send us a vid if you manage to master that curbside scene in Singin' in the Rain or score a role in La La Land Vol. II. The Australian Ballet runs casual classes Monday to Thursday at the Primrose Potter Australian Ballet Centre, 2 Kavanagh Street, Southbank. For more info or to book-in to a class, visit australianballet.com.au.
After the mild let down of last year's supermoon, you could be forgiven for not engaging in the hype of major celestial movements. But last night's total solar eclipse didn't disappoint astronomers, token stargazers and brazen US presidents alike. The eclipse wasn't visible from our part of the world, instead passing over the the US — starting over Oregon in the west and finishing over South Carolina on the east coast. As the name suggests, a total eclipse is when the sun is completely obscured by the moon. This is a pretty rare event — Time and Date says that, on average, it takes about 375 years for a total solar eclipse to happen again in the same place — so, naturally, everyone turned out to catch a glimpse. NASA live streamed the event, The Weather Channel live tweeted the lead-up to totality, and even Donald Trump stepped out of the White House to look directly at the sun. Yes, he did that. Someone: don't look into the ec- Donald trump: pic.twitter.com/71wpDiwPr1 — sarah (@sarahburhans_) August 21, 2017 So while we wait for a solar eclipse to pass over Australia — the ABC reports that the next one will take place in 2028 and will pass directly over Sydney — here's some of the most epic images from last night's total solar eclipse. Only 11 years to go. A post shared by Getty Images (@gettyimages) on Aug 21, 2017 at 11:51am PDT A post shared by Reuters (@reuters) on Aug 21, 2017 at 1:44pm PDT A post shared by NASA (@nasa) on Aug 21, 2017 at 2:03pm PDT Amazing composite images capture the moon during a previous total solar eclipse, shot by Czech photographer Miloslav Druckmüller #Eclipse pic.twitter.com/LAHenYm2Qi — sobore (@sobore) August 21, 2017 PHOTO: TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE 2017 from Green River Lake, WY. I truly think I had the most beautiful spot in the whole path. More photos soon. pic.twitter.com/jLDBMHJJU4 — Ben Cooper (@LaunchPhoto) August 21, 2017 Timelapse: Total solar eclipse brings darkness to Oregon. https://t.co/q3jBRYgob2 pic.twitter.com/MgESS6odoW — ABC News (@ABC) August 21, 2017 A post shared by NASA (@nasa) on Aug 21, 2017 at 3:57pm PDT Top image: Wikimedia Commons.
Two of Melbourne's best-loved Asian barbecue joints are joining forces for a night of chargrilled goodness and boozy karaoke. Heroes, the CBD's rooftop and karaoke bar in the CBD will play host to the late-night collaboration with Richmond's Kong, as chefs from both venue work their magic over the coals. For $50 per person, punters will be ushered up to the venue's rooftop and left to enjoy a selection of drinks and one of two Kong x Heroes barbecue platters. The meat tray includes bulgogi barbecue chicken wings, smoked pork shoulder, crispy pork belly, Japanese slaw and fried mantou buns. Alternatively, you can opt for a vegan feed, which replaces the meat with Korean fried cauliflower and ember-roasted butternut pumpkin with miso dressing. When you've finished with that, the real fun begins. Head down to the basement where the karaoke will be free and flowing all night. Make a booking through Heroes website, stat.
As we gear up for longer days and balmier temperatures, now's the perfect time to nurture that green thumb. On October 21 and 22, The Diggers Club again teams up with Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria for its second annual Botanic and Rare Plant Fair, taking over the Southern Cross and Observatory Lawns at Melbourne Gardens. Load up on inspiration, expert knowledge and lush new leafy mates, with this lineup of over 40 specialist stalls, programs and demonstrations. There'll also be eats from the likes of Benny Burger and Jardin Tan, and even a plant creche, to save you from lugging around all your new purchases.
Bar Romantica's recent closure after many years serving late-night pizza and pasta was met with more than a few teary goodbyes. However, the good news is that Etta's acclaimed restaurateur, Hannah Green, is moving into the same cherished Brunswick East space. And the wait is finally over, with news just in that Daphne will open on Monday, 10 November. Bringing a similarly communal vibe, Green wants guests to feel like they're stepping into her home. To make everyone feel welcome, expect early-bird sittings, happy meals for the little ones, and weekly events where snacks and drinks flow until the early hours. Green says, "It's a restaurateur's answer to a pub. The mood is fun and easygoing, the food is highly delicious but not too fancy. Our rules are that my dad should be able to read and understand everything on the menu, and it should be as accessible for after-school snacks and casual catch-ups as it is for milestone celebrations and midnight martinis." Stepping inside, guests will encounter a venue divided into two distinct sections, with the front offering a dedicated bar space and casual counter service, primed for a walk-in feed or quick drink. In the back, the mood becomes a little more refined, featuring Green's signature elevated service and tables graced with crisp linen. Meanwhile, a semi-private dining room presents a fancy spot to celebrate a milestone with up to 30 of your closest pals. "This site has meant so much to Brunswick East over the years, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be its next custodian," says Green. "What I hope to create with Daphne is a welcoming space where everyone feels comfortable, and that isn't just for special occasions. Somewhere friends can drop in for an impromptu cocktail a couple of times a week, and parents can take the kids for an early meal before heading home for bathtime." In the kitchen, the main focus is a custom woodfire grill and oven, designed and built by Samuel Frarracio, aka The Brick Chef. This unique bit of kit will help respected Head Chef Diana Desensi — previously behind acclaimed spots like Montalto, Pt Leo Estate and Saint George — make the European-leaning plates shine even brighter, aided further with seasonal produce sourced from a bevy of local farms and friends. "I've admired Diana's food for years," says Green. "There's real heart and generosity in everything she puts on the plate. When I started dreaming up Daphne, she was the first person I thought of. She understands what it means to cook for a community." A concise menu of approachable snacks, such as grilled potato flatbread with mussels, and Bloody Mary tomatoes with pickles and olives, complements one glass after the next. Larger dishes include the likes of ricotta tortellini with artichoke and milk sauce, roast chicken with blistered grapes, pork cotoletta with 'Caesar' leaves, and a fresh Cobb salad. Shaped by childhood memories of family meals centred around what grew in the garden at home, Desensi's ethos is renowned for being nostalgic and highly seasonal. Diners can also expect daily tarts, cakes and crostatas to showcase the best farm-fresh fruit, served simply with a dollop of cream. As for the drinks, Sommelier Ashley Boburka (Etta, Rockpool Bar & Grill) has pulled together on-tap drops from Yarra Valley winemaker Dom Valentine. There's no shortage of choice as you're welcome to delve into Etta's 400-plus bottles — after all, it's just a couple of doors down. Sam Peasnell (Etta, Dom's Social Club) has also developed a curated cocktail program, with light spins on classic drinks. Get down on Monday evenings for Martini Club, complete with Nah-tinis for non-drinkers. Catering to 125 guests across the bar and restaurant, a cosy design led by IF Architecture will mix and match tactile materials, from walnut timber and stainless steel to glass brick and coffee-coloured upholstery. Fans of Bar Romantica will also instantly recognise the terrazzo floors, along with the custom-built sound system. Where Etta was Green's warmly sophisticated original, expect Daphne to bring a little more quirky fun to the local neighbourhood dining scene. [caption id="attachment_695349" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bar Romantica by Kate Shanasy[/caption] Daphne is slated to open on Monday, 10 November, at 52-54 Lygon Street, Brunswick East. Bookings will be open from Wednesday, 29 October. Head to Instagram for more information. Images: Kristoffer Paulsen.
It's not every day you come across a robot movie that stars swashbuckler Hugh Jackman and weirdos Die Antwoord, but that's exactly what's happening right now. The South African hip hop group step onto the silver screen for the new movie from their fellow countryman Neill Blomkamp, the filmmaker behind two of the most interesting and well-received sci-fi films of recent times, District 9 and Elysium. Jackman? He's the bad guy for once. Chappie begins when a robot created for law enforcement (to help bring down Johannesburg's notoriously high crime rate) is programmed with a brand new piece of AI software that allows it to develop feelings and opinions. To start with, he's as innocent and curious as a child, though even more quick to learn. Under the care of Yolandi and Ninja (the Die Antwoord duo play gangsters but keep their names) but exposed to the conflicts of the world, the lessons he gets are sometimes good, sometimes bad. Whatever happens, you know you're in for an original two hours of cinema. As Tom Huddleston writes in the Time Out London review, "This hugely entertaining oddity could never be mistaken for the work of any other filmmaker." Chappie (© 2015 Columbia TriStar Marketing Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved) is in cinemas on March 12, and thanks to Sony Pictures Releasing Australia, we have 20 double in-season passes to give away in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. To be in the running, subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter and then email us with your name and address. Sydney: win.sydney@concreteplayground.com.au Melbourne: win.melbourne@concreteplayground.com.au Brisbane: win.brisbane@concreteplayground.com.au
As the federal government continues to drag its feet resettling refugees fleeing the Syrian conflict (Australia had managed about 6000 by last November — Canada by comparison, was at well over 30,000), it falls once more to the non-political professions to show the government where the hands go on the 1humanitarian clock. This time, it's hospitality's turn. On March 6, UNICEF Australia will partner with 11 of the country's best chefs for a charity dinner celebrating Syria's strong culinary tradition. The Point Albert Park will host the posse of gastronomers as they prepare a banquet comprising their signature dishes with a few Syrian flourishes. If you've never been at the mercy of za'atar, pomegranate, Aleppo pepper or tamarind, this could well be a revelation. Tickets are a steep $329 per person (plus booking fee), but 75 percent of the proceed will go to UNICEF's Syria Crisis Appeal. The price includes canapés, cocktails on arrival, a shared Syrian-inspired feast and wine. It may seem on the surface like you're paying for the food, but ten professional chefs jammed into a single kitchen also suggests a night of great theatre. Movida's Frank Camorra and Lee Ho Fook's Victor Liong will be in the fray, with David Thompson of the newly opened Long Chim and Anchovy's Thi Le contending for next use of the colander with equal ferocity. If you've ever wanted to see Karen Martini trying to slice potato with steel wool or fighting a pitched battle for the top shelf of the oven, this could well be your chance. Other chefs rounding out the impressive lineup include Lûmé's Shaun Quade, Maha's Shane Delia, Embla's Dave Verheul, The Point's Andy Harmer, Jacques Reymond and David Moyle of Hobart's Franklin and soon-to-open Melbourne restaurant Longsong. While the top guns will have their turn on March 6, UNICEF Australia is encouraging anyone with passing knowledge of an oven to contribute. Restaurants and cafes can produce a limited edition 'Syria' version of a favourite dish throughout the month, of which a portion of the proceeds will go to UNICEF. For those who deal in culinary delight on a slightly smaller scale, bake sales are your recommended course. While you're waiting for the oven to pre-heat, there's more information here.
With Australia banning non-essential events with more than 500 people due to COVID-19 — and mandating that everyone arriving from overseas self-isolate for 14 days, too — Melbourne's arts and cultural scene has started to go into shutdown mode. The city's major institutions have already announced temporary closures, and now the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra is joining them. But musicians at the latter won't be putting down their instruments just yet. While MSO has announced that it's suspending all concerts with audiences in attendance from Monday, March 16–Monday, April 13, it's planning to still play some gigs behind closed doors. And, it'll live-stream them for free — because, even if audiences can only watch and listen online from their couches, the music must go on. Kicking off the series is tonight's (Monday, March 16) performance of Russian composer Rimsky-Korsakov's Scheherazade at Hamer Hall. Other live-streams are slated for MSO's Beethoven & Mendelssohn gig on Thursday, March 19 and To Bach and Back on Thursday, March 26 at this stage. It's also planning to live-stream Melbourne Ensemble and its school-focused Curriculum Concert, with dates still to be advised. Music lovers can check out the performances via MSO's YouTube channel, with Scheherazade streaming from 7pm AEDT. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCBYvd5LKa4 MSO has cancelled some concerts that it won't live-stream, and plans to reschedule a number of gigs — check out the full list below: LIVE-STREAMED MSO CONCERTS Scheherazade, 16 March — streaming on March 16 at 7pm Beethoven & Mendelssohn, March 19–20 — streaming at 7.30pm on Thursday, March 19 Melbourne Ensemble, March 22 — streaming date and time TBC Curriculum Concert, March 26 — streaming date and time TBC To Bach and Back, March 26–27 — streaming on 26 March, time TBC CANCELLED MSO CONCERTS Jams for Juniors, March 21 Peer Gynt, April 6 Metropolis, April 8 RESCHEDULED MSO CONCERTS Ben Folds, March 22 — replacement dates TBC Skyfall in Concert, April 2–4 — replacement dates TBC Melbourne Symphony Orchestra has cancelled all public performances between Monday, March 16–Monday, April 13, but will start live-streaming select concerts from Monday, March 16. For more information — or to find out about refunds if you're a ticket holder — visit the MSO website. 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.
Bangarra Dance Theatre is celebrating its 25th anniversary with another masterful fusion of storytelling and contemporary dance. Building on one of the earliest collaborations between Aboriginal people and the new settlers, Patyegarang traces the relationship between a spirited young indigenous woman and an English astronomer. It's a little bit like Australia's own Pocahontas adaptation but with cutting edge choreography. As the colonial fleet arrived on Eora country in the late eighteenth century, Patyegarang befriended Lieutenant William Dawes and in a courageous display of trust, began teaching him her local language. Lifted from the pages of Dawes' notebooks and modelled into an endearing portrait of friendship and cultural exchange, this production encourages a more nuanced understanding of 'first contact.' It also enlivens the legacy of Patyegarang as a striking visionary and educator. Assured by the experienced hand (or foot) of artistic director Stephen Page, along with a deeply moving soundscape by David Page, this is Bangarra's first full-length Sydney story. Imbued with a spirit of optimism and collaboration, Patyegarang promises an electric tribute to our first people, excavating an overlooked historical tale and providing an opportunity to reflect on Australia's future as a new nation.
All art is arguably an exploration of the artist’s ego, but performance artist Nicola Gunn seems determined to take this to a new level with her Melbourne Festival show, In Spite of Myself. It is framed as a show within an exhibition. The exhibition is a fictional retrospective about Gunn herself, entitled Exercises in Hopelessness: Nicola Gunn (1979 – present). The audience are free to peruse it as if at a gallery for an hour or so before the performance begins, setting the stage for a surreal self-referential parody of the arts world. Gunn, a veteran of the festival circuit, won a Best Experimental Performance Award at the 2012 Melbourne Fringe Festival for Hello my name is…, a show which left a slew of reviewers saying they couldn’t really describe what it was other than amazing. Featuring video art, live performance, a parody lecture and accompanied by an arts forum picnic on October 12, In Spite of Myself looks set to garner a similar response.
When it comes to Melbourne's sacred coffee culture, Salvatore Malatesta's your man. He's the mastermind behind famed St Ali (South) and now, north-siders, we suggest you listen up because you ain't going to travel no more. Salvatore and his team have just opened St Ali North in Carlton North, nestled next to the Capital City Trail bike path where 5,500 keen bikes pass through everyday. With 16 bike riders sipping lattes at 7.30am on day two of opening, we think they might be onto something. Malatesta, his own harshest critique, was waiting for the perfect space before opening the second St Ali in Melbourne. "St Ali South is eight years old in March and I have been too reluctant to open the second St Ali in Australia until we found the right site. There are lots of cool buildings but this is irreplaceable. I always look to create experiences that are irreplaceable," he told Concrete Playground. The St Ali North gang feels a little like the who's who of hot restaurants right now. Jesse Gerner (ex The Aylesbury) is co-owner and menu 'curator'. Chris Hamburger (ex Anada and The Aylesbury) who will be head chef at both St Alis, will be the kitchen's head honcho. Then there's those delicious pastries that will be pumped out by pastry chef Shaun Quade (ex Dushess of Spotswood, The Brix, Royal Mail Hotel). The menu, while currently 50 percent the same as St Ali South will eventually be 90 percent the same with 10 percent leeway to play around and create dishes specifically for the area. Last but certainly not least is Matt Perger (2012 World Brewer's Cup Champion), who will be heading up the team of baristas. "He is pioneering; doing things people have never done before", says Malatesta. In-house roasting and more gadgets than we can truly understand will ensure this coffee offering is unique. $4 for a coffee might feel a little steep these days, but when you taste it, it's a little hard to argue with. Food wise, you'll see some unique offerings like the Heirloom tomato salad with buffalo burrata and olive oil dust ($19.50), or the savoury ancient grain granola with cardomom milk and confit yolk ($14). If pastries are your thing, go for an old school Garibaldi, yes that is a squashed fly biscuit to some. "I want it to be synonymous with the best food, best coffee and best service. The food is just as important as the coffee," said Malatesta. And Malatesta's venues certainly are unique. Teaming up with Velo Cycles, there will be free air for flat tires and a roving bike mechanic on hand for repairs. St Ali North's unique offering goes further, bringing a long time dream of Malatesta's into reality with exciting and mysterious Post Boxes. While Malatesta initially wanted a place where people could read their mail while drinking their morning coffee, the idea morphed into a personal coffee Post Box. Every Monday fresh St Ali coffee will be placed in 70 lucky Melbournians mailboxes on the café site, where they can pick it up any time of day and night with their personal key. "They are my personal fetish, my favourite thing about the venue," said Malatesta. Yep, we want one too. Malatesta wants his venues to be a holistic cafe experience, where food and coffee and the venue are all as good as each other. We have to say, we think his latest venture is bang on. And judging by the crowds that flock to the place everyday, we reckon we're not the only ones. St Ali North 815 Nicholson Street, Carlton North Mon - Sun 6am - 6pm 0408 448 816
Gird your livers, beer lovers, for Melbourne's annual celebration of all things hoppy and gold is back for 2016. The program for this year's Good Beer Week features more than 270 free and ticketed events across Melbourne and Victoria, from workshops to tastings to food and brew degustations, and even an honest to God fashion show. In fact, there's so much happening that they've tacked on three extra days, bringing the grand total to ten. Hardly a traditional week — not that we're complaining. Running from Friday, May 13 to Sunday, May 22, the sixth annual Good Beer Week is split into various different streams. For those who like a drink with their dinner, the Foodie section features a number of enticing events, including a Vietnamese degustation at Uncle and a four-course Louisiana beer dinner at Ding Dong Lounge. The party-packed Good Times section, meanwhile, includes the opening and closing night shindigs, both of which will be held at Beer Deluxe. Other standout events include a showcase of female brewing talent at The Fox Hotel and an afternoon of beer, Reuben sandwiches and 90s hip-hop at 5 Points Deli. The remaining sections are divided based on your level of beer expertise. Beer 101 features various workshops and presentations, including a hands-on cider making class at Arbory and an 'Australian tour' held at Pilgrim in Fed Square, featuring six different beers from six different states. The Beer Geek and Beer Lover sections, on the other hand, are best suited to beer-swilling veterans. Learn the ins and outs of nano-brewing courtesy of the folk at Henry Street Brewhouse in Kensington, or throw yourself into the annual Pint of Origin showdown at bars and pubs all over the state.
The first of Harvest's headline shows has now been announced, following the festival's cancellation last week. Black Rebel Motorcycle Club will tour in November, playing Billboard in Melbourne, The Hi-Fi in Brisbane and Sydney and the Metro Fremantle. After weeks of speculation, AJ Maddah announced the official cancellation of Harvest 2013 on September 16. "I am very sad to confirm that Harvest 2013 is cancelled. All tickets will be 100% refunded (incl. all charges) by Oztix in the next week," the promoter tweeted. Later he mentioned that his partner, Jo Ward, had had "a nervous breakdown" over it. The event was scheduled to happen in mid-November in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. With Massive Attack and Franz Ferdinand already established as headliners, the festival announced the addition of Volcano Choir just a fortnight ago. Maddah did manage to offer some relief to devastated ticket holders when he stated that most of the (now ex-) Harvest artists would perform their own headline shows. "Will be announcing headline shows by most of the Harvest artists in the next 10 days," he tweeted. "Those who have purchased Harvest tickets will be given priority access to these headline shows. Please stay tuned for details." According to theMusic.com.au, "industry sources have confirmed" that the outspoken promoter, who was named the most powerful person in the music industry earlier this year, has purchased Ken West's sizeable share of the Big Day Out (the rest of which is owned by US promoters C3 Presents). Watch this space for more news of Harvest artists' headline shows. Black Rebel Motorcycle Club Wednesday, November 13 – Metro Fremantle, Perth Friday, November 15 – Billboard, Melbourne Saturday, November 16 – The Hi-Fi, Sydney Sunday, November 17 – The Hi-Fi, Brisbane
If you've been hit with a serious case of post-summer blues, consider Sunset Sounds your autumn saviour. Come Easter, if you're looking for an excuse to escape the city, this huge day of live music stacked with Aussie music legends will descend on Torquay. Presented by Here Comes The Sun and Empire Touring, ten artists will perform non-stop classic hits at the idyllic beachside Torquay Common on Saturday, April 8. The musical talent lineup includes ARIA Hall of Fame recipient Daryl Braithwaite, blues singer-songwriter Russell Morris, vocalist Wendy Matthews, guitarist Jack Jones, pop group The Chantoozies and rock band Matt Finish. Pre-sale tickets for Sunset Sounds go on sale at 10am local time on Thursday, March 9. Then, general public tickets will go on sale at 10am local time on Friday, March 10. Visit the Sunset Sounds Facebook page for further details. Images: supplied.
With summer waiting just around the corner, it's time to start plotting how to cram those warmer months with as many openair live music experiences as possible. And here's some more musical goodness to add to your hit-list: the return of Arts Centre Melbourne's concert series Live at the Bowl. Returning to the iconic Sidney Myer Music Bowl from Wednesday, January 4–Saturday, March 11, the sonic celebration is set to deliver a hefty lineup of local and international talent to start your year off right. And it all kicks off with a couple of huge gigs from UK rockers Arctic Monkeys. Other international stars set to grace the stage include indie-folk legends Bon Iver, German DJ Boris Brejcha, New Zealand's Lorde and US singer-songwriter Kehlani, while Savage Garden's Darren Hayes is descending on the Bowl for a special solo show. [caption id="attachment_875625" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kehlani[/caption] The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra's signature free concert series will also return, this time delivering a celebration of Tchaikovsky, a dedicated showcase of Melbourne artists and a performance of Prokofiev's Carmina Burana. The much-loved dance tunes-meets-classical music mash-up that is Synthony is back with a new show on February 17, paying homage to the past three decades of club sounds with tracks by Disclosure, Eric Prydz, Flume, Calvin Harris and more. [caption id="attachment_875626" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Midsumma Extravaganza, by Suzanne Balding[/caption] And on January 21, comedian Joel Creasey and RuPaul's Drag Race Down Under legend Kween Kong will host the star-studded queer fiesta known as Midsumma Extravaganza. Taking the stage for this huge night of fun, you'll catch comedians including Nina Oyama, Rhys Nicholson and Scout Boxall, as well as a sparkling cast of musical talent such as Courtney Act, Tina Del Twist, Kira Puru and Dolly Diamond. There'll also be a riotous tribute to the late drag icon Miss Candee, featuring an ensemble of 22 drag artists recreating the star's best-loved moments and songs. [caption id="attachment_875627" align="alignnone" width="1920"] MSO's 'Carmina Burana', by Mark Gambino[/caption] Live at the Bowl returns to the Sidney Myer Music Bowl from Wednesday, January 4–Saturday, March 11. To check out the full program of events and nab tickets, head to the Arts Centre Melbourne website. Top Image: Ian Laidlaw
Spending more time at home is much easier to stomach with a hefty rage of desserts on hand, or at least that seems to be Gelato Messina's pandemic motto. Over the past year, the gelato chain has served up plenty of tasty specials, including cookie pies in choc chip, red velvet, choc-hazelnut, and peanut butter and jelly varieties; 40 of its best flavours; and full tubs of Iced VoVo gelato. It also whipped up its own take on that vanilla and chocolate-layered ice cream cake everyone considered the height of extravagance as a child — and now it's bringing its version of Viennetta back for another round. If you've been indulging your sweet tooth as a coping mechanism — frozen desserts were subject to strict item limits last March, so plenty of folks clearly went big on sugary comfort food — then consider your tastebuds primed for this super-fancy take on the nostalgic favouritte. It's another of Messina's limited releases, with tubs of the rippled gelato creation available at all its stores for a very short period. Wondering what exactly Messina's Viennetta — or Messinetta, as it has been dubbed — entails? It combines fior di latte gelato with choc chips and chocolate fudge, then covers it all with piped vanilla chantilly as well as a chocolate velvet spray. And yes, the end result looks like the dessert you know and love. If it didn't, it just wouldn't be as exciting. The latest release in Messina's new 'Hot Tub' series, Messinetta gelato can only be ordered online on Monday, February 22, with a one-litre tub setting you back $30. You can then go into your chosen Messina store to pick up your tub between Friday, February 26–Sunday, February 28. Gelato Messina's Messinetta gelato tubs will be available to order on Monday, February 22, for pick up between Friday, February 26–Sunday, February 28 — keep an eye on the Messina website for further details.
Margaret River's Colonial Brewing Co. is coming for the east coast. And while Sydneysiders have been treated to a mini tap takeover at the Newtown Hotel, Melburnians have been lucky enough to score an entire brewery. The WA brewers have opened their second outpost in Port Melbourne — complete with a new, state-of-the-art canning machine that spits out 100 tinnies a minute. This tinnie-only brewery's motto, "brewed small, lived big", may be on the sentimental side, but it is a good way to describe Colonial's ethos. The Margaret River brewery is situated on a farm and the brand encapsulates Aussie country living. Colonial doesn't make beer for craft snobs alone — instead, they're dedicated to creating sessionable brews, geared toward the everyday drinker and craft converts, and their core range includes pale, IPA and Kölsch classics. The beer to keep an eye out for is their Small Ale. A mid-strength beer in name only, the flavour profile and hop aroma successfully (and surprisingly) mimic a big West Coast IPA. For the cider heads out there, the newly released Bertie is refreshingly dry, though, we have to say, no match for the brews. This 'average Aussie'-meets-craft beer drinker mentality is reinforced by their 360 tinnie lids — the lids peel off completely, allowing for great aroma and airation, while still allowing consumers to enjoy the satisfaction of a good ol' beer in a can. As beer nerds ourselves, we wouldn't say it's a true replacement for pouring into a glass, but you have to appreciate the thought. If you're lucky, they may even give you a tinnie straight off the line during a brewery tour — truly fresh as. While the brewery is now officially launching its small town WA vibe into the east coast market, it isn't doing it without some self-awareness. When it comes to the Port Melbourne brewery, the fit-out is, well, much more Melbourne than its Margaret River counterpart. Think a lush indoor beer garden fitted out with hanging greenery, a graffiti wall and space for Food Truck Fridays, along with ping pong and beer pong tables (which utilises their 360 cans as cups, of course). On Thursday nights they're also doing a very reasonably priced pizza and pot deal for $10. The eight-tap wooden bar also has a makeshift feel, and it's all tucked inside of a small entryway that you'd never expect to expand into this massive warehouse. You certainly couldn't mistake Colonial's brews for anything but Aussie beers, and we bet, as they expand, this WA brewery will go far in converting mainstream beer drinkers to craft — even those who swear they'll never go off VB.
For decades, if you wanted to eat a burger patty topped with cheese, there was only one way to do it. Then a number of hybrid culinary creations started popping up — like cheeseburger spring rolls, that now-popular pub menu inclusion, as well as cheeseburger dumplings and even cheeseburger soup. Or, at Banjo's Bakery Cafe, you can opt for a double cheeseburger pie. Part of the Aussie chain's signature range, it's back on offer to help simultaneously satisfy your cheeseburger and your pie cravings. Yes, the double cheeseburger pie is exactly what it sounds like. Encased in pastry, you'll find layers of burger patty, cheese, onion, tomato sauce and mustard. And, if you're wondering about that most controversial of cheeseburger fillings — yep, that'd be pickles — they're sandwiched inside as well. This isn't the first time that Banjo's, which has stores in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania, has served up this foodie mashup. But when it does offer up items from its signature range — such Tasmanian scallop, bangers and mash, and chicken parmigiana pies — they're only available for a limited time. That's the case here, too, so you'll want to get in quick if you're suddenly, unsurprisingly feeling hungry. In NSW, you'll need to head north to Glendale to get your fix. In Victoria, stores are located in Mornington, Traralgon and Mildura. Queenslanders can pick from ten spots, including Darra, Cleveland, Park Ridge and Redcliffe, while pie-loving SA residents can hit up Glenelg — and there's 29 stores in Tasmania. Banjo's Bakery Cafe's double cheeseburger pie is currently on the menu for a limited time at the chain's store's nationally. To find your nearest location, visit the company's website.
Okay, we don't like to get preachy but if you haven't been to the Bendigo region yet, you've been missing out. Over the past few years, the region, which includes Heathcote, Castlemaine, Maldon, Maryborough, Talbot, Inglewood and Wedderburn, has further established itself as an incredible destination for all things arts, crafts and culture — not to mention its emerging foodie scene. But it's not just the urban aspects that are drawing people to the area. The region is a treasure trove of exciting outdoor activities that demand to be explored — from getting your hands dirty and (hopefully) striking gold to uncovering strange wonders like Heathcote's powdery Pink Cliffs and specially built mountain bike trails amid the foothills of Mount Alexander. With that in mind, here are nine that should add to your list right away. [caption id="attachment_730704" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David Mitchener.[/caption] CONQUER (SOME OF) THE 210-KILOMETRE GOLDFIELDS TRACK The Goldfields Track links the two cities of Bendigo and Ballarat — but you don't have to complete the whole length of the 210-kilometre trail to experience its beauty. Whether you're on a bike or just on foot, the pathway is broken into three smaller sections to make it easier to tackle. And, the Leanganook Track, between Bendigo and Castlemaine, via Harcourt, is a real knock-out. Throughout spring and summer, colourful wildflowers and orchids line the route, which passes by the historic, still-operating Coliban Water Main Channel and the ever-imposing Garfield Water Wheel. The natural wonders are just as interesting, with highlights including lush pine plantations, tempting apple orchards, Australia's first National Heritage Park and Mount Alexander's huge, picture-ready rock formations. Be sure to stop at Harcourt for lunch, cider and wine tasting. [caption id="attachment_730703" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Michelle Jarni.[/caption] RACE AGAINST AN OLD STEAM TRAIN ON A TRAIL Opened in 2017, the Castlemaine to Maldon Trail is one of the newer kids on the block. From the dry forests of Maldon Historic Reserve and the open farmland of Muckleford to the historic Beehive Gold Mine and its impressive 30-metre-high chimney, there's so much to see and explore along this 17.7-kilometre trail, which can be completed as either a good hike or a beginner-friendly bike ride. Time your visit right (on a Wednesday or Sunday) and you can even have a race a heritage steam train operated by Victorian Goldfields Railway. Too tired to ride back? You can always ride the train back. WANDER OR RIDE ALONG THE O'KEEFE RAIL TRAIL The gold rush may be a legendary part of Australian history, but it may not have happened at all without construction engineer Andrew O'Keefe. The Irish migrant is considered a pioneer of the Victorian railway, and this line — which connects Bendigo to Heathcote, and is now a cycling hotspot — is named for him. The O'Keefe Rail Trail provides you with the perfect opportunity to uncover the stunning native bushland and wildlife — here's looking at you, adorable platypuses. If you're game, you can walk or ride the whole stretch. Be sure to pack a picnic for a riverside break at the Campaspe River Reserve or Lake Eppalock, before arriving in Heathcote and exploring some wineries or tucking into a well-earned pub feed. PADDLE DOWN THIS FIVE-KILOMETRE CREEK Give your legs a rest from all the walking and cycling, and let your arms take over with a canoe tour along Serpentine Creek. Canoe hire is readily available at Boort Lakes Holiday Park from just $10 an hour or $40 for a full day. You'll set off on your journey from Whytcross Road, Durham Ox and throughout the five-kilometre paddle, you'll see the historic red-brick inn, trees scarred from traditional practices of the Dja Dja Wurrung people and a diverse range of birds. You'll also find a bunch more canoe trails, plus training opportunities, over here. ZOOM AROUND A MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK Set amid the foothills of Mount Alexander, the La Larr Ba Gauwa Mountain Bike Park is a 34-kilometre network of purpose-built mountain bike trails. The tracks have been specially designed to take advantage of the area's tough granite-filled countryside. The 11 exciting trails feature jaw-dropping views of the surrounding rolling hills, boulder drop-offs and English-style oak forest. Plus, riders visiting the park won't just be treated to an incredible physical challenge. They'll also have a chance to take in some art along the way as the trail builders have created a few interesting installations along the tracks. Word of warning: if you're a beginner, stick to the green loop. The rest of the trails are all geared toward intermediate and experienced mountain bikers and feature a lot of drops, jumps and other technical features. DISCOVER THESE NATURALLY FORMED PINK PEAKS The gold rush era shaped the town of Heathcote in more ways than one. But, it was the introduction of sluicing in the 1880s that revealed one of the area's most notable sites. Known as the Pink Cliffs and located a short walk from town, the strange mini gorges rise and fall in a sporadic undulation and, like some kind of natural mood ring, change colour depending on the time of day you visit. As you wander through the geological reserve, you'll realise that these stone-like formations are actually made up of a pink clay that feels a lot like talcum powder — so watch where you sit or you'll find yourself covered with the stuff. [caption id="attachment_730707" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Michelle Jarni.[/caption] WALK OR RIDE THROUGH A EUCALYPT FOREST ON THIS HERITAGE TRAIL If you're hoping to immerse yourself in the history of the area while taking in the beauty of Victoria's countryside, then the Ballarat–Maryborough Heritage Trail is a great choice. The 91-kilometre trail is broken into four sections that flow through tall eucalypt forests, grand homesteads from times gone by and sprawling vineyards. Quick dips into quaint towns like Clunes — made famous by Ned Kelly — and Talbot will break up the journey, as do the unbeatable views of Mount Beckworth's imposing volcanic mound. The trail ends with a short journey through open grazing land and through box ironbark forest before you arrive in Maryborough. VENTURE INSIDE THE MELVILLE CAVES If you're searching for a great weekend hideout, then look no further than the Melville Caves at Kooyoora State Park. The rocky outcrop is not the dark and bat-filled cave system you might imagine, but rather a collection of granite boulders that notorious bushranger Captain Melville apparently used as a hiding place and a lookout in the 1800s — hence the name. The hike to reach the cave area takes about 20 minutes (or can be accessed more conveniently by driving to the top of the park) and winds its way through lush trees and shrubs while offering sweeping views of the park below. While you're wandering beneath the rocks, keep an eye out for something shiny. Rumour has it that Captain Melville left some treasure behind. [caption id="attachment_730705" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ewen Bell.[/caption] GO PROSPECTING ACROSS THE BENDIGO REGION Although the Bendigo region is now brimming with art galleries, cultural institutions and a calendar packed with exciting contemporary events, it's still one of the key places people visit hoping to strike gold — and for good reason. Its vast gold rush history has proven time and time again that the area is rich in the shiny mineral that has had people seeing dollar signs for decades. But you don't have to be a serious miner to have a taste of glory. The Coiltek Gold Centre runs tours for those interested in learning how to unearth a natural gold nugget or two — all you need to bring is your lunch (and a bit of luck). To start planning your trip to Bendigo — and to discover more of what's happening in the region — head to the Bendigo Regional Tourism website.
