Gift giving can be stressful business. Finding that perfect gift that ticks all the boxes of convenience, affordability, and, most importantly, thoughtfulness can become a mission. Lucky for us that perfect gift is simply a click away thanks to the hundreds of boutiques popping up on the net. Here are eight of the most quirky, inspiring, and fun online boutiques for gift shopping. Prepare to waste many, many hours bookmarking from these sites. And while you're at it, go on buy yourself a little present, too. Bodega Deluxe Sometime in 2011 Bodega Deluxe popped onto the radar. Frustrated with Australian shopping and too impatient to wait weeks for items to deliver, the folks at Bodega Deluxe took matters into their own hands and set up shop. Inspired by New York's local neighbourhood convenience stores, 'bodegas', the boutique sources the most quirky and fantastically random gifts and titbits that won't break the bank. Think Japanese anime DVDs (Totoro, anyone?), paint-your-own babushka dolls, and cinnamon mint flavoured toothpaste sourced from Italy. Despite the relatively small range, Bodega Deluxe's mix of tongue-in-cheek gifts and spiffed-up everyday items makes it a fuss-free, stress-free shopping zone. http://www.bodegadeluxe.com/ Culture Label Hailing from the motherland, Culture Label should be your go-to site when you’re looking for a gift that's just a little bit fancy. The site describes itself as the "crossroads of the cultural world; where art, design, style, heritage and emerging talent meet". Or in other words, so trendy it hurts. If you're stuck for ideas of what to buy the guy/girl who has everything, Culture Label will sort you out. There are hundreds of luxury or unusual gifts that ooze quirky British humour, such as vintage posters (a la Attack of the 50 Foot Woman), a Shakespeare's Hamlet-inspired Kindle cover, and a lips telephone. Bonus features such as personalised currency converter, giftware guides, and limited edition items give Culture Label the tick of approval. As the site acts as a hub for individual vendors, keep in mind that different postal costs apply depending on what you order. http://www.culturelabel.com/ Hello Polly Well, Hello there Polly. This young gun may have only been established for a year, but it feels like home, sweet home. It’s no surprise that, coming from an art background, founder Sarah Kelk has filled this cute-as-a-button boutique with crafty knickknacks for the home, graphic artwork, and bright accessories. It's the perfect online shopping destination to source gifts for the hostesses, decorators, and little ones in your life. You’ll find offbeat products like a breadboard shaped as a button or cardboard convertible toys by Flatout Frankie that will certainly prompt a squeal of delight from the lucky gift receiver. https://hellopolly.com.au/ Lark Sorry boys, this one's for the ladies. Hailing from Daylesford, Australia to the worldwide web, Lark is all quirky, cute, and girly. Think an '80s chick-flick in web form. This family-run boutique certainly lives up to its motto, 'live a beautiful life'. You'll find smile-inducing items such as a classic Etch A Sketch, brightly coloured metal signs spelling 'don't worry be happy', and, just in time for the silly season, that neon Christmas tree you always dreamed off. You'll have to spend over $120 to get the free shipping deal, but frankly, your mum, best friend, and niece will thank you for bulk buying their presents. http://www.larkmade.com.au/ Pigeonhole In five short years Pigeonhole has gone from being a one-man show in an old arcade in Perth to a five-store-strong, cafe-touting, and online extravaganza. For those not living on the west side, Pigeonhole online brings the best of their fashion and gift ranges to the masses. As far as gift shops go, Pigeonhole sits nicely in the all-rounder corner with something for every family member or friend. Shopping for a keen photog? Buy them the Impossible Project From Polaroid to Impossible book. Your mum’s a caffeine fiend? Show her you care with a heart-shaped espresso cup. Is your boyfriend always running late? Give him a hint and a 100 percent natural wood watch. http://www.pigeonhole.com/ Society 6 One of the best parts about gift giving is that it doesn’t have to be something the recipient needs but something they want (or don't yet know they want). This is where Society 6 comes in. Society 6 sources artwork in the form of prints, iPhone cases, T-shirts, and more from thousands of artists worldwide. If you want to buy someone special something very personal and unique, you can't go past this site. Prepare to waste many hours agonising over whether to buy one of the dozens of Batman prints, a stormwalker (moonwalking stormtrooper) laptop case, or a skull sprouting flowers tote bag. http://society6.com/ Think Geek Whether it’s Star Wars or superheros, Think Geek takes your fandom seriously. This online shopping site wholeheartedly celebrates all things tech, sci-fi, and fantasy with its range of gadgets and pop culture memorabilia. You can even shop by category and, yes, as we go to print there are almost a hundred products in the Zombies & Bacon category. It's a great place to find a gift for your mate that shows you care but won't have you breaking open the piggy bank. How about Star Wars Chop Sabers ('eat sushi, defend the galaxy') ora cupcake-shaped stress ball? Keep in mind that shipping depends on what you are ordering, how much you are ordering, and where it is shipping. http://www.thinkgeek.com/ Top 3 by design Top 3 by design live by the motto less is more. This online boutique stocks up to three products per category. This thorough editing process means each product really lives up to its potential. The range of functional, original, and clever products has an industrial rather than handcrafted edge. You'll find classic designs that have withstood the test of time, such as Josef Hartwig for Naef's Bauhaus chess set and board alongside modern innovations such as Andreas Engevik's Menu Pin Table (an outdoor table that literally can be pushed into the grass like a pin). Be warned that designer gifts come with designer prices, so save this site for when gift-buying for a special occasion or pool in with others. http://www.top3.com.au/index.html Main image: Hello Polly.
When the 2020 Emmy Awards handed out its gongs, a big upset hit the Lead Actress in a Drama category. Zendaya got the nod, and became its youngest-ever winner in the process. Of course, anyone who has watched Euphoria wasn't shocked at all. Playing Rue Bennett, a high schooler who has long tried to self-medicate her way out of her struggles, she's fantastic. She's also a major reason that the show's eight-episode first season quickly proved such a hit — and that the series will not only return for a second season, but is also dropping two specials in the interim. A sex-, drug-, lust- and love-fuelled teen drama mightn't sound like HBO's usual wheelhouse; however, fans of the US network already know one key truth: that it rarely puts a foot wrong. Not only is Euphoria vivid, energetic and dazzling to look at, but it's unflinchingly honest, raw and authentic as it follows Rue and her friends as they navigate their turbulence of being teenagers.
Whether it's predatory behaviour, racial slurs or people being too pushy in a crowded space, there is always behaviour at music festivals that makes people — generally minorities or females — feel unsafe. Like day-to-day life, it's unfortunately part of the experience. But after five women reported being sexually assaulted at the Marion Bay leg of Falls Festival over the New Year period, Laneway Festival has announced it will instate a hotline that punters can call in real time to report harassment or disrespectful behaviour on its 2017 tour. It's the first time Laneway has provided such a service, but it's an extension of the boss ladies of Melbourne band Camp Cope's #ItTakesOne campaign, which they launched last year to call-out and end harassment at gigs. The idea is that it only takes one dickhead to do something to make someone feel unsafe, but it also only takes one person to call them out and stop it. In a video released this week — which also includes Julia Jacklin and Ella Thompson from GL — Camp Cope said they wanted "to ensure everyone at our shows feels valued and important — our music is for anyone to enjoy, and to feel safe and respected while they're enjoying it". If you've got a ticket to Laneway — which heads to Melbourne this weekend and Sydney the next — jot down the number 1800 LANEWAY (that's 1800 526 3929). If you see any shitty or disrespectful behaviour, give it a call. An on-the-ground operator will be able to help you and sort the situation out. Look after your mates and the people around you to make sure everyone has the opportunity to dance their heart out while feeling safe. Image: Andy Fraser.
Summer at the Mornington Peninsula just got a lot hotter (in a good way). Hotel Sorrento, a mainstay since 1872, reopened in December 2023 — revealing a luxurious transformation that's all about premium leisure and maximum relaxation. The renovation was announced early in 2022, and the team is ready to show off the new and improved Mornington fave. Let's start with the new digs. Thirteen new Sunset Suites have been constructed, starting from $550 per night. These suites feature expansive windows with lush views, outdoor marble baths, rooms filled with bespoke Jardan furniture and amenities from Hunter Lab. And they look gorgeous. The love isn't confined to the new suites — the existing rooms have also received a facelift. Meanwhile, the new Marlo Spa, hidden away in a private part of the hotel by a peaceful Japanese-inspired garden, is ready to pamper guests with massages, fire and ice therapies and more. And here's where it gets exciting: a 30-metre lap pool set in a travertine-walled terrace, surrounded by greenery and olive trees has been installed. Like swimming in the Mediterranean without the hassle of a 16-hour flight. Add a nice cocktail while relaxing on the new poolside custom-made sun lounges and you've got a recipe for the perfect sunset relaxation session. Bookings are now open at Hotel Sorrento, found at 5/15 Hotham Road, Sorrento.
You'll find big things in small packages at the St Kilda Film Festival this year. That's true every year, of course, even when Melbourne has been under lockdown. But in these pandemic-adjusted times, you'll also find bite-sized flicks gracing screens both big and small — because while Australia's oldest short film festival is very much happening in-person in 2022, physically descending upon St Kilda venues, there's also still an online option that screens to movie buffs at home and nationally. This hybrid version of the fest — the event's 39th outing, in fact — places the emphasis on the in-cinema experience, though. And, it's just as devoted as ever to showcasing works by some of the best up-and-coming filmmakers in the country. So, across ten days between Friday, May 27–Sunday, June 5, 13 out-of-the-house sessions will pop up all around St Kilda, kicking off with opening night at The Astor Theatre. As always, the backbone of the festival is Australia's Top Short Films, featuring filmmakers from every corner of the country competing for prizes. Also on the bill at ticketed screenings: programs dedicated to queer, documentary, student, horror-themed, family-friendly animation, Aussie animation, homegrown in general, Australian drama, female-directed, First Peoples' and Victorian-made shorts. And, for those playing along from their couches, online sessions include a couple of programs curated by the Scottish Documentary Institute, highlights from the Obu Short Film Festival in Japan (aka the City of Port Phillip's sister city) and the closing night awards. Plus, there's also a look at acclaimed Aussie filmmaker Warwick Thornton's (Sweet Country) early works as a cinematography student, and then cinematographer and director. [caption id="attachment_572561" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Jim Lee[/caption]
Getting to the Yarra Valley is half the experience; trailing through those straw-yellow hills is the closest thing to Tuscany Melburnians are going to get. But there's no use driving around aimlessly. You'll need to head to the Valley with a plan of where you are going to eat, otherwise you'll be totally overwhelmed by the number of tempting wineries that spring up every couple of hundred metres. All up, there's about 160. So let us introduce Meletos. A beautiful eatery brought to you by the founders of nearby estate and restaurant Stones, the Meletos estate features a 23-room boutique guesthouse and, beside it, a restaurant and cafe. Located on a dirt path just off the gloriously straight St Huberts Road — which makes you feel like you're driving to nowhere — the stunning eatery is open for lunch and dinner every night of the week. On the weekends, the place is buzzing. Chances are you'll have to endure a wait. But it's not that bad of a place to hang around — you could certainly do a lot worse. In the heart of the Yarra Valley, you can take a stroll around the grounds, to the church, the guesthouse and take in panoramic views of the surrounding area. When that's all done, enjoy a glass of your preferred drop on the communal concrete tables that line the entrance to the restaurant or perhaps in the weathered steel-framed glasshouse. But now for the important stuff: the food. You can go down the road of sharing or going solo — either should be satisfying. The menu is made up of an appetisers section, salumi, around six mains, knockout wood-fired pizza, a few sides and, of course, dessert. Starters include European-inspired dishes such as saffron and prosciutto arancini with salsa verde ($12), and a barbecued quail from nearby Wandin with skordalia (a Greek garlic dip), mixed cress and cracked wheat ($18). The pizza menu is almost torturous to choose from. All are $25 (so not even price can determine your decisions) and a few standouts include the cotechino sausage pizza with pickled zucchini and provolone cheese and the prawn-topped pizza with confit tomatoes and feta from the restaurant's neighbour, the Yarra Valley Dairy. The wine list is a combination of the region's highlights, some New South Wales and South Australian drops and others from New Zealand, France, Switzerland and Italy. All that's left to wish for is beautiful weather.
It took 45 years as an actress and 122 credits on her resume for Isabelle Huppert to receive an Oscar nomination, earning the long-overdue nod for her work in the rape-revenge thriller Elle. But the French star is just as deserving of awards and acclaim for her turn in the intimate drama Things to Come. The same matter-of-fact determination shines through in both performances, and yet you'd never mistake one for the other. Part of Huppert's genius is the way every character she plays feels united by a shared humanity, but still utterly distinctive in their traits, and in the way she brings them to life. That's Things to Come's Nathalie Chazeaux in a nutshell. Huppert's protagonist may well make you think of your mother — in fact, writer-director Mia Hansen-Løve wrote the role for Huppert with her own mum loosely in mind. Still, for every aspect that's recognisable, just as many remain unique. A philosophy professor, she's wading through a spate of familiar situations as the years pass by. Her husband decides to leave after a quarter of a century together; her mother requires more of her attention while her kids need less; a cat she doesn't want scampers around; and her professional dealings don't always go as planned. Even if you've never been a just-past-middle-age woman dealing with all of the above, Huppert will ensure you forget that for 102 minutes. Hers is such a fine-tuned and thoughtful performance, one that so effortlessly brings the film's universal themes to the fore, that you'll soon be doing just what her character is doing. No, you won't be quoting renowned thinkers and imparting wisdom to students. Rather, you'll be facing a stark truth about the future: it keeps coming, whether things are changing drastically, or seem to be staying the same. Hansen-Løve isn't one for big revelations and realisations, however. She gets to the heart of what it means to be happy and successful, or to try to be, without filling Things to Come with the kinds of huge moments, altercations and declarations that often find a place on screen. It's the same feat that she achieved with her last film, the Paris-set, electronic music-infused Eden. Daft Punk doesn't show up this time, but both movies convey more than you might expect about navigating the ups and downs of everyday existence by focusing on the minutiae that we all wade through. Indeed, the writer-director's sensitive observational style lends itself to lingering on the details — to building a picture from the smallest elements, rather than the broadest strokes. It's what makes Huppert such a perfect fit, and it's also what makes the filmmaker's patient approach so rewarding. Every close-up of Huppert's face tells a story. Every handheld camera movement does as well. They're small, unobtrusive and delicate ways of painting an involving portrait of life going on, and of all the things that will come.
If you've got a thing for contemporary jewellery, or just a general love of good design, prepare to be impressed by the works you're set to spy at the Koorie Heritage Trust's (KHT) latest free exhibition. Layers of Blak will be on show in the Fed Square space from Saturday, October 1–Sunday, February 19, 2023, weaving powerful storytelling together with contemporary jewellery design. Eleven Victorian First Nations artists and designers will showcase compelling pieces layered with meaning in the second annual instalment of this exhibition for Blak Design — the KHT's initiative to foster and support First Nations arts. [caption id="attachment_871005" align="alignnone" width="1920"] 'STOP KILLING COUNTRY' 2022, Nikki Browne (Bidjara). Photo by Fred Kroh.[/caption] Local artists involved in the group exhibition include Thelma Austin (Gunditjmara), Dominic White (Palawa), Lorraine Brigdale (Yorta Yorta/Barapa Barapa/Wemba Wemba), Elijah Money (Wiradjuri), Nikki Browne (Bidjara), Yasmin Silveira (Palawa), Mandi Barton (Yorta Yorta/Barapa Barapa/Wemba Wemba), Deanne Gilson (Wadawurrung), Tammy Gilson (Wadawurrung), Sammy Trist (Taungurung) and Tracy Wise (Barkindji Ngiyampaa Maligundidj). Working under the Blak Design program, participants worked with and were mentored by renowned jewellers Blanche Tilden and Laura Deakin, honing their skills while also scoring professional development guidance from various creative industry leaders. [caption id="attachment_871006" align="alignnone" width="1920"] 'Jahgany' 2022, Tracy Wise (Barkindji Ngiyampaa Maligundidj). Photo by Fred Kroh.[/caption] Top Image: 'Namesake' 2022, Elijah Money (Wiradjuri) — photo by Fred Kroh.
UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cockatoo Island—Wareamah—is set to be transformed into a world-class public destination, under a bold new vision put forward by the Harbour Trust this week. New precincts for Sydney's largest harbour island include a new arts quarter, dining pavilion, parklands and dedicated educational spaces. The proposal also outlines the importance of preserving the island's rich Indigenous cultural heritage, with a key focus on elevating First Nations voices and respecting Wareamah's significance as a sacred women's place. Plans for Bunggal grounds, permanent First Nations public artwork and the restoration of native fauna and flora have been put forward, in consultation with First Nations communities and cultural leaders. [caption id="attachment_810573" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Artist's impression of Cockatoo Island's Creative Precinct[/caption] "We heard that more needed to be done to respectfully acknowledge the Island's First Nations' past as a sacred women's place and in identifying Cockatoo Island as a place of cultural connection," Chair of The Harbour Trust, Joseph Carrozzi said in a statement. "From these conversations with the community, we have developed an early vision that considers the Island's potential while respecting and celebrating its important past." The 18-hectare area would encompass a new creative precinct hosting live performance, exhibitions and pop-up events, while a revitalised Fitzroy Dock is promised to host a bevvy of Sydney's best dining and retail options. Wareamah Tidal Terrace will become a sprawling new parkland on the island's edge, with transformed gardens, picnic areas and a harbour boardwalk. [caption id="attachment_810574" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Artist's impression of Cockatoo Island's Harbour Walk[/caption] A large adventure and water playground, new accommodation options including high-end glamping and improved campground facilities are also outlined within the Harbour Trust's proposal. "We want to create a truly special destination for both Sydneysiders and all visitors—a destination that acknowledges the historic significance of Cockatoo Island for First Nations Peoples, and its important role in the history of modern Australia," Carrozzi said. To deliver the sprawling transformation, Harbour Trust would seek funding from both state and federal governments as well as the private sector. The vision comes after an Independent Review of the Harbour Trust last year highlighted the need for a restoration plan for the island. The Harbour Trust will seek community consultation on its draft vision, with everyone in the community invited to provide feedback. You can visit harbourtrust.gov.au to view the Draft Concept now. The consultation period closes on Tuesday, June 11.
When Dr Jane Goodall volunteered to live among chimpanzees in Tanzania's Gombe Stream National Park, newspaper headlines were dismissive. Nearly 60 years later, the pioneering primatologist is world-renowned for her groundbreaking research — highlighting how closely connected humans are to our closest living relatives. Having dedicated the past six decades to her ongoing study, animal welfare in general and conservation, Goodall has lived a vastly fascinating life, which she'll be chatting about when she comes to Australia in May 2019. Goodall will appear at Jane Goodall: Rewind The Future event, which heads to the Sydney ICC on Thursday, May 8 and the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on Saturday, May 11. The session will feature a 40-minute lecture by Goodall about her work, followed by a conversation between Goodall and a host for the same duration. Topics certain to get a mention include just how revolutionary her findings were at the time — and the impact they still have now — as well as her connection with the resident primates of Gombe. You can also expect Goodall to discuss her subsequent efforts to fight against threats to African chimpanzee populations, such as deforestation, illegal trade and unethical mining operations. Indeed, wildlife and environmental conservation is the main aim of the Jane Goodall Institute, which she founded in 1977. The Jane Goodall Institute Australia and Think Inc. are behind her 2019 Aussie trip. Catch Jane Goodall: Rewind The Future at the Sydney ICC on Thursday, May 8 and the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on Saturday, May 11, with tickets on sale now.
Finding a designated driver on Christmas Day and New Year's Eve is not an easy feat — nan is stuck into the boozy pud, dad has pulled a dusty one out of the cellar and you don't really want to carpool with that weird uncle. Public Transport Victoria understands and is easing the pain of commuting on the two big days (slightly) by offering all public transport for free. Over Christmas Day, all trains, trams, buses and V/line services will be free from 3am on Wednesday, December 25, till 3am on Thursday, December 26. All public transport services will be running on the regular public holiday timetable with Night Network services running throughout the night. If you are planning to catch a reserved V/line service you still need to book ahead but you'll be provided your ticket free of charge. A few days later, over New Year's Eve, the same public transport services will be free from 6pm on Tuesday, December 31 until 6am on Wednesday, January 1. Although there are no fireworks this year, the CBD is still expected to be busy, with the New Year Street Feasts taking over the city. Metro trains will be running every 15 minutes from midnight till 1am, every 30 minutes between 1am and 2am and every hour after 2am. Most tram services will also be running every all night, 15–20 minutes from midnight to 2am and every 60 minutes from 2am. On both days, you won't need to touch on (or be carrying) your Myki — if you do, you won't be charged — but you will need to wear a face mask. Find more information on the free travel periods here and check for updates on the PTV website.
Prepare to cancel all your Wednesday night plans (i.e. laundry and Netflix) because we've got something much, much better. The Queen Victoria Market is bringing back its Summer Night Market for its 22nd season of balmy tomfoolery. This means that after a day of toiling in the diamond mines or hosiery department (whatever your poison) you can cool off with a free evening of international street food, vintage fashion and handcrafted homewares. This year, the 15-week season, kicking off on November 20, will see more than 130 stalls descend on the starlit market, as well as a rotating weekly lineup of free live tunes and street performers. This season, there'll also be a full-sized beach volleyball court and a pop-up Palm Springs-inspired bar, called Gin Springs, with pink flamingos, cacti, cocktails from the Melbourne Gin Company and cider from Coldstream. And don't even think about eating at home because it's got 55 food and drink vendors to suit every whim, including Portuguese tarts from Casa Nata, Filipino and Southeast Asian street snacks from Kuya's Simply Pinoy and Israeli pita pockets from Falafel Arayes. You'll also find The Cypriot Kitchen's extensive range of haloumi-heavy dishes (burgers, salads, pitas and souvla), El Rincon's paella and Tasty Suya's African barbecue. If you swing by on the Summer Night Markets' launch night — November 20 — you'll also be treated to a program of live tunes courtesy of artists from Melbourne Music Week. There'll be 80s acid house from Zeitgest Freedom Energy Exchange, jazz from Sunnyside and plenty of dance floor bangers from Melbourne's own Pjienné. The Summer Night Market will run every Wednesday night from November 20 to March 11 (excluding December 25 and January 1) from 5–10pm. Image 1–2: Simon Shiff Updated November 7, 2019.
Ever wondered what happens to a Playboy Bunny after she’s given an affectionate tap on the cottontail by Mr Hefner, and sent on her jolly way? No, neither did we. That is until we saw American photographer Robyn Twomey’s ‘Playboy’ collection. The fine art portrait photographer, who has shot the likes of Glenn Close, Bill Gates and Ashton Kutcher, photographed a number of former Bunnies after meeting the women at a recent Playboy reunion in Las Vegas. Beautifully shot and powerfully impartial, Twomey has captured each woman’s individuality – some choosing to play on their Playboy heritage, some not. The full portfolio is available on Twomey’s website, showing a fresh insight into life after Playboy. Photos by Robyn Twomey.
'Fresh' may be what we've been told to go for, with every other cafe and restaurant coaxing us in with the term, but not all things should be consumed according to a 'best by' date; some, dare we say, should have a 'better after' date instead. Really, some things are just better with age (see: wine, whisky, wisdom). So, in partnership with Coopers to celebrate their 2017 Vintage Ale release, we're exploring the lesser-known delicacies which can also improve with a bit of time — like beer. From increasing depth of flavour in drinks to the endless health benefits of ageing certain foods, time can sometimes be of the essence when it comes to the finest things in life. BEER While the idea of a wine cellar is pretty commonplace, far fewer have heard of a beer cellar. Like the ageing of a fine wine, beer too can get better with age. Whether preserved in a bottle or barrel-aged, saving your beer for a later date can often bring out complex characteristics that could not be achieved when freshly brewed. This is true of most darker, bigger beers, like stouts, porters and barley wines (which is actually just a style of ale). They hold deep malt flavours and high alcohol content that has yet to be unpacked when still fresh. Take the Coopers Limited Release 2017 Vintage Ale, for example, which is specifically brewed to be cellared, saved for a later date. This year's recipe balances caramalt with Denali and Calypso hops to bring out a fruity and delicate aroma that gives way to rich, sweet, caramel characters when aged. Many sour beers are also prime for saving, especially those brewed with brettanomyces yeast, notable for its rather funky character. While ageing dark beers generally intensifies flavours, ageing sours normally mellows out the brew, so if you're into a big funky beer, then cellaring it may not be the right choice. Now, not all beer is better when aged. Though Coopers ales have a 'best after' date due to the secondary fermentation that takes place in the bottle or keg, and while their pale ale is better with time and even an aged version of their sparkling ale is starting to pop up on tap at certain bars, IPAs and golden ales will struggle to last if stored away. These beers should be consumed fresh, or they'll lose their hop flavour and often go skunked. And whenever you are looking to save a special bottle of beer, the same rules apply as for cellaring wine — keep in a dark, cool place. Though, unlike wine, beer should be stored upright, or else it can lose its carbonation. TEA Not all teas are created equal. While some teas are meant to be consumed fresh and young, like white, yellow and most green teas, other teas are best consumed once they've been 'rested'. Rested teas are simply those that have been stored away to, well, rest for some time. Much like the contrast of storing dark and sour beers, rested teas can be stored to allow for any sharp flavours to soften, or conversely, to deepen flavours and bring out a richer character. Once a tea has been stored long enough, it can then fall into the 'aged tea' category. While there's no definitive timeframe for when a tea will be officially considered 'aged', generally teas that have been rested for at least five years can receive the title (and in turn a hefty price tag). And as with cellaring wine and beer, you shouldn't store any old tea. Deciding which teas to age depends on the type of tea, quality of the leaves and, most importantly, what will happen with the flavour profile as it ages. BEEF Old meat is spoilt meat, right? Wrong. Pretty much all of the beef you eat is aged because, as it turns out, it actually tastes better that way. Strangely enough, fresh beef actually tastes less like what we think beef is supposed to taste like. So, all fresh beef is aged for at least a few days and up to several weeks in order to allow the natural enzymes to break down the muscle tissue, making for a better texture and flavour. For optimal tenderness, dry ageing is most effective between 14–28 days, while some high-end restaurants age beef for up to 240 days to enhance flavour — they'll charge you a pretty penny for that 'old' meat, too. The general consensus is that 30–40 days of dry ageing will bring you some pretty tasty meat, though. Wet-aged beef is also popular, though less spoken about, and is when meat is aged in a vacuum-sealed bag to retain moisture. SOURDOUGH The pillowy addictiveness of sourdough bread is known far and wide, which is not so much the case for where the 'sour' comes from. This type of bread is made from an aged starter, which begins as nothing but flour and water and is then fermented over time with wild yeast and lactobacillus. That same starter is used time and again, for years and years, because generally the older your starter, the better tasting the bread. Some of the best are over 30 years old, with supposedly some that have even aged over 100 years. And as a bonus, this ageing process doesn't just help make the bread incredibly airy, but also makes it healthier for you. The slow fermentation and long preparation time of sourdough neutralises phytic acid, making it better for your gut to digest, even for those sensitive to gluten. [caption id="attachment_599287" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Steve Woodburn.[/caption] VEGETABLES The idea of aged veggies isn't a very pleasant one. Like meat, we're taught that fresh is the ultimate way to get your greens. Though, that fresh veg crunch is something we crave, and even some raw vegetables are best that way (lettuce), experimenting with the ageing process can enhance the flavours (and health benefits) of your vegetables. The world of fermented foods is pretty vast. You have your known — cabbage into sauerkraut, cucumbers into gherkins — and you have your lesser-known, which includes an extensive list of veg that you can age using various pickling techniques. Fermenting vegetables usually only requires some salt, water and, depending, maybe some whey. Plus, you can pickle almost anything, from the usual cabbage and cucumbers to root vegetables, radishes, string beans, garlic, cauliflower, ginger and even pineapple. Sometimes ageing can be a great thing. Get your hands on some Coopers Vintage Ale 2017 and try it yourself. Words: Marissa Ciampi and Quinn Connors.
Thrills, mystery, eeriness, feeling unsettled while sat inside a shipping container: that's all on the agenda in Melbourne again when Darkfield returns to the Victorian capital with two of its popular — and unnerving — installations. The Arts Centre Melbourne forecourt is welcoming the atmospheric Séance and Flight, which have earned a cult following on previous visits here, around the countries and overseas — and regularly sell out, with more than 300,000 Australians stepping inside to-date. Entering these metal boxes is one way to escape the summer sunshine, or whatever Melbourne's weather has in store for three months from mid-December 2024 onwards. Séance and Flight open on Friday, December 13, aka the perfect date for it — and consider them the perfect way to get a break from festive cheer, too. Séance plays on the concept of sensory deprivation, thrusting audiences on a journey into the supernatural realm as they join a medium in trying to contact the spirit world. Accordingly, unlike most shipping containers around the place, this one definitely isn't being used to transport furniture. Given that the word 'séance' is written on the side in black, it's more than a little ominous from before you even walk through the door. Participants will be able to take a seat inside, and then put on a headset. You'll next be told to put both hands on the table. The lights go out, leaving the place in absolute darkness — and, for 20 uneasy minutes, you'll be taken on an immersive journey led only by touch and sounds. Expect to feel confused, repulsed and struck with temporary claustrophobia. According to organisers, numerous participants have bailed halfway through sittings in the past. As the name suggests, Flight takes place on board an imagined plane, sending passengers tripping through dual worlds as they're forced to ponder the many possible outcomes if the cabin suddenly happened to lose pressure. This is a nerve-jangler, for sure, even for those who aren't afraid of flying. You won't actually be jetting anywhere, of course; however you will be strapping yourself into a section of a real commercial airliner. Created by Glen Neath and David Rosenberg, Flight draws upon the many-worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics while taking attendees on a multi-sensory journey. "We didn't think a return to Melbourne would be on the cards, but while Darkfield has been on tour, Melbournians have been all over our socials asking when it's their turn again. So we knew we had to bring fan-favourites Séance and Flight back to our home city for another season," said Realscape Productions Producer Amy Johnson. "The productions are ideal for anyone who loves the thrill of multi-sensory entertainment, and immersing themselves in the unknown. They are playing in the heart of Melbourne's entertainment precinct at the city's most lively time of the year, so they're the perfect option for a fun date night, pre-dinner experience or post-tennis thrill." Find Séance and Flight at the Arts Centre Melbourne forecourt, 100 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, from Friday, December 13, 2024. For further information and to buy tickets, head to the Darkfield website. Images: Realscape Productions, Axis Productions, Mihaela Bodlovic and Jack Rintoul.
Longtime fans will remember that happy day, years ago, when Lune Croissanterie and Belles Hot Chicken joined forces to create the Double Down: a classic Lune croissant stuffed with two chicken tenders, fennel slaw and green tomato jam. Well, excitingly, the two local legends are teaming up once again. This time, they're hosting a one-off party in celebration of Belles' fifth birthday. Taking over the Gertrude Street restaurant on Monday, August 5, will be a flavour-packed evening of wine, chicken and pastry. And yes, the Double Down will be making a glorious comeback. Tickets are $20, which'll get you into one of three sittings (5.30pm, 6pm or 6.30pm) and hook you up with one of the night's star pastries. A stack of natural wines and plenty more fried chicken will be available to purchase on the night, too, and if you're quick, you'll find limited-edition Belles x Lune t-shirts to buy at the ticket checkout. Unfortunately, this ain't one for those with dietary requirements — the Double Downs are being served as they come, with no alterations allowed. Images: Marcie Raw
It's been two years since a certain global pandemic came along and crashed the party, giving our realities the ultimate shake-up. A string of lockdowns began, routines were thrown off-script and a whole stack of everyday experiences were put on hiatus. It was earth-shattering and it sucked, hard. But it also gave me a new appreciation for my 12 years of memories in this city and all the quintessential Melbourne moments I'd — hopefully — soon enjoy once again. Here, we've teamed up with our mates at the AFL to pay tribute to all the classic bits we missed most — and what we're most excited about returning to now that life as we know it slowly creeps back. From a spirited footy match alongside thousands of fellow roaring fans at the 'G or Marvel Stadium, to a packed live gig — these are a few of our favourite things, Melbourne. Welcome back. [caption id="attachment_847588" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ben Fletcher for Aunty Meredith, via Flickr[/caption] A WEEKEND ENVELOPED IN MEREDITH MUSIC FESTIVAL Picture this: it's inconceivably early on a Friday morning in mid-December and you're travelling in convoy down the Princes Freeway, cars packed with camping gear and a tangible sense of excitement in the air. The annual pilgrimage to Meredith Music Festival has begun, and ahead of you is a weekend of open skies and live tunes. It's a warm, fuzzy memory for many locals, calling to mind blissful afternoon gigs in the 'Sup, communal sunset viewings atop Sunset Strip and long nights spent dancing in a happy crowd to sounds from a stellar lineup of acts. It's been an impossible two-year gap between visits; but that'll just make it all the more sweet when Aunty calls us up for the next edition of her wondrous summer musical escape. A SHOW-STOPPING AFL GAME — LIVE AND LOUD Your AFL team will always be your AFL team; whether they win or lose, and whether you cheer them on from the stadium or your couch. But oh boy, was it a shake-up not having the opportunity to see a game live for months on end. Now, after what feels like a lifetime, things are shifting back into balance and we've been gifted a whole new season of footy. And this time, we get to play spectator from wherever we fancy, be it the living room, the local pub, or right in the AFL heartland — the world-class stands at the MCG or Marvel Stadium, pie in hand and surrounded by fans. Give me a couple sessions of the latter and I'm betting the world will start feeling a whole lot closer to normal. MIDWEEK TRIVIA AT THE PUB When those temperatures start dipping and winter blues creep in, there's a surefire remedy to be found in a cosy night at the pub involving good company, a parma and a lively bout of trivia. And let's be honest — no amount of lockdown Zoom quiz sessions could ever come close to the real deal. Bring on some heated midweek fact-hurling as you and your (most competitive) mates battle it out at your local for trivial glory. And possibly a cheeky meat tray. For me, it'll be a Wednesday night Funky Bunch session at northside classic the Great Northern Hotel, where the prize is a bar tab, the parmas are generous and the beer list is always a winner. A LIVE, LOUD GIG Countless formative nights have been spent wedged among a mass of other music-lovers in front of a stage, reverberating to the sounds of a live act or DJ. And while restrictions hit pause on that beloved pastime for a hot minute, gigs are now, finally, back on the menu and many of the city's famed live music spots are back to doing what they do best. Bring on that next sweaty evening at the Corner Hotel (pictured above), sinking into some big, live sounds. And yes, it will be a late night complete with a post-show kebab, in honour of that long-forgotten lockdown curfew of yore. CELLAR DOOR-HOPPING THROUGH THE MORNINGTON PENINSULA Most Melburnians are lucky enough to live within a 90-minute drive from two celebrated wine regions, with both the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula on our doorstep. Which means it's totally doable to spend a solid day sipping your way between multiple cellar doors, enjoy a relaxed winery lunch and still be home in time for dinner. Last year, there was a point when a 'wine tour' involved shuffling from kitchen to living room — this year, I'm looking forward to hopping around the Peninsula between personal favourites like Kerri Greens, Montalto (pictured above) and Pt Leo Estate, and relegating that five-kilometre travel radius to a distant memory. A GROUP FEED TO REMEMBER Off the back of gathering restrictions, capacity limits and a whole lot of time spent not sharing meals with mates, the craving is real: I want a big group booking, a table full of folks I love and a night spent eating well while celebrating nothing in particular. After all, lively catch-ups over food are always the best kind. For a true Melbourne classic, opt for the loaded lazy susans and late-night vibe of Chinatown's Supper Inn, or lock in a date with Jim's Greek Tavern for its cacophonous dining room and waiters who won't let you leave until you're bursting. [caption id="attachment_793390" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Matthew Murphy[/caption] DINNER AND A SHOW The many couch-and-Netflix sessions of lockdown served us well, but there's just no comparing that setup to a night out on the town with dinner and a show. Luckily for us, the city's already switched on its theatrical charms once again, with runs of Hamilton, Moulin Rouge! The Musical and An American in Paris gracing our stages, and scores more to come. Of course, they're all best enjoyed with a pre-show bite or post-curtain feed at some fine establishment in Melbourne's theatre pocket — hit The European for its old-world charms and honest fare, or venture above street level for a seat on Siglo's famed terrace. [caption id="attachment_795370" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Installation view of Alicja Kwade's work WeltenLinie 2020 © Alicja Kwade, courtesy König Galerie, Berlin. Photo: Tom Ross[/caption] A PROPER CULTURE FIX It's safe to say that back-to-back lockdowns led to some very culture-starved Melburnians. Like most, getting extra familiar with the inside of my house left me with serious cravings for a proper art fix. Now, not only are our famed galleries and cultural spaces open once again, but we're lucky enough to have a calendar chock-full of blockbuster, buzzworthy new exhibitions heading our way. I'm more than ready for afternoons spent soaking up art while wandering the halls and grounds of the NGV, feeding my curious side with visits to Melbourne Museum and embracing the movie magic of ACMI. BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH For those who can cook eggs, brunch itself wasn't a true casualty of lockdown. But bottomless brunch? That, my friends, is a weekend tradition that can just never quite be replicated at home. You're already imagining it: a serve of smashed avo, a loaded brekkie roll, or maybe some chicken and waffles, paired with a few free-flowing espresso martinis or mimosas and a couple of your brunch-obsessed besties by your side. It's a mood, and when Melbourne is in fighting form, it does it oh so well. Make up for all those bottomless brunches that didn't happen last year and lock in a weekend date at the likes of Bodega Underground, Half Acre or Fargo & Co. The 2022 Toyota AFL Premiership season is finally here— and we couldn't be more excited. For more info, head to the website.
Google's just made life a whole lot easier for people across the world, this week launching a new wheelchair-friendly transit feature for its Maps app. While Google Maps has been helping users get around their cities on public transport for years, a lack of information about important things like wheelchair accessible trains and elevator locations has made the app way less user-friendly for those with limited mobility. But that's set to change, with Google Maps in Sydney, Tokyo, New York, London, Boston and Mexico City now featuring wheelchair accessible route options. When getting directions for public transport, users in these cities can simply hit 'options' and select 'wheelchair accessible' under 'routes' to access a list of suggested courses that take mobility needs into consideration. It's not only a huge (and overdue) win for travellers with physical disabilities, but it's also useful for those getting around on crutches or pushing prams. Google's been enlisting the help of people across the globe to improve this part of its services, gathering accessibility information from individuals and groups of Local Guides for over 12 million places. Plenty more cities are expected to add these wheelchair accessible routes in the coming months — let's hope Melbourne and Brisbane are among them.
Corporate cats of Docklands, unite! There's a now a healthy refuge for you during lunch hour. Located on the bridge between Southern Cross and Etihad Stadium, Home Juice is a bit out of place in its big building surroundings — which in turn, makes it the perfect place to set up shop. As the name suggests, Home is all about juice, and their organic cold pressed juices and alkaline waters come in custom tall glass bottles, which can be reused or repurposed. Rushing to the office in the morning? Grab a bowl of raw cacao pops or chocolate chia pudding. Ducking out for lunch? There are a mound of raw salads and some amazing raw desserts too — we recommend the raw black forest cake.
Film-loving Melburnians, prepare to start wishing you're in Italy. Yes, it's Italian Film Festival time again, and it's heading to Palace Balwyn, Palace Brighton Bay, Palace Cinema Como, Palace Westgarth, The Kino, Pentridge Cinema, The Astor and Cinema Nova with quite the lineup. On the bill from Thursday, September 15–Wednesday, October 12: everything from Italian box office hits and Sophia Loren-starring classics through to a documentary about a shoemaker to the stars helmed by Call Me By Your Name and Suspiria's Luca Guadagnino. This year's IFF will open with Belli Ciao, which did huge box office business in Italy. It both stars and is co-written by comic duo Pio D'Antini and Amedeo Grieco, who play once-inseparable friends who went their own ways after high school — Pio leaves for Milan, Amedeo stays in their hometown — and now reunite, complete with a north-versus-south culture clash. From there, highlights include The Hummingbird, an ensemble drama with Nanni Moretti (Three Floors) and Berenice Bejo (Final Cut), which hits IFF fresh from premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival; drama Lord of the Ants, about the controversial 1960s trial of intellectual Aldo Braibanti, which screens direct from its Venice Film Festival competition debut; and The King of Laughter, which features Toni Servillo (The Hand of God) as actor and playwright Eduardo Scarpetta. Among the documentary selection, two big titles stand out. The aforementioned Salvatore: Shoemaker of Dreams focuses on Salvatore Ferragamo, while Ennio — The Maestro sees director Giuseppe Tornatore (Cinema Paradiso) pay tribute to legendary Italian composer Ennio Morricone (The Hateful Eight). Elsewhere on the bill, there's rom-com Breaking Up in Rome, homecoming drama Nostalgia, play-to-screen adaptation The Great Silence, the fairground-set Swing Ride and prison The Inner Cage — the latter of which also features Servillo. In fact, he pops up again in Casanova's Return, as an acclaimed Italian director making his last movie about Casanova. More than 25 films grace the full lineup — including blasts from the past, such as closing night's Sophia Loren and Marcello Mastroianni-starring Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow. To celebrate the centenary of filmmaker Pier Paolo Pasolini's birth, three of his iconic movies — all adaptations of literary works — will screen as well, with The Canterbury Tales, Arabian Nights and The Decameron all getting big-screen showings.
However you spend the 9-to-5 grind, including singing Dolly Parton songs in your head, everyone's working hours are always better with a pet. Had an average meeting? Rover will always be there for you. Stressed about a deadline? Patch's purring will help soothe whatever ails you. Need to look at something other than a screen for a bit? Whatever kind of animal companion you have, they're perfect for exactly that. Most of the above situations lend themselves to working from home, as we've all enjoyed over the past few years — but if you're back in the office, or at least out of your house and away from Zoom calls, you mightn't have a furry, feathered or scaly friend on hand to help brighten up your day. Well, usually. Today, Friday, June 24, just happens to be National Take Your Dog To Work Day. Yes, there's a day for everything. Yes, you still have time to bring Fido with you today. And, to help — because wrangling an animal on public transport isn't necessarily easy — Uber is doing discounted rides for everyone taking their pets into the office. The half-price fare comes courtesy of Uber Pet, which launched in Australia back in 2020. To grab the deal, you'll need to travel between 7am–7pm today — and, if you do so with your pet for company, you'll nab 50-percent off your trip up to a total of $30 off. The discount is valid everywhere that Uber Pet is available in Australia, which covers Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, Gold Coast, Canberra, Newcastle, Hobart, Cairns, Sunshine Coast, Geelong, Wollongong and Darwin. There is a $6–7 'pet fee' on top of the standard ride fare, though. To get the discount, just go to the Uber app, click on your account in the bottom right corner, select 'wallet' and then scroll down till you hit 'add promo code'. That code: FURBABY. (What else would it be?) Each person can only use the code twice, but that'll get you and Max to work and back. And yes, your day just got better, obviously — for you and your fluffball. Uber Pet is doing half-price rides from 7am–7pm today, Friday, June 24. For more information, head to the Uber website.
One of the greatest actors in film history is on her way to Melbourne. Well, sort of. I See Me & Meryl Streep may not technically feature the three-time Oscar winner, but word is Alexandra Keddie does a damn good impression. With a soundtrack straight out of Mamma Mia, this adoring tribute show for the Melbourne Cabaret Festival combines the most memorable moments of Meryl's magnificent career. And if nothing else, Keddie should at least be able to manage a better Aussie accent than Streep did when she played Lindy Chamberlain.
Festivals have evolved. Nowadays, they're almost unrecognisable from the pits of despair we experienced in our teens — and there's a festival to suit almost everyone. If your bag is being terrified until you poop your pants, Horror Movie Campout is the festival for you. After debuting in Sydney and Melbourne in 2015, and spreading its scares to Brisbane and Adelaide in 2016, the event is back to embrace all things frightening once more Basically, it's the Meredith of monstrosity, the Splendour of spookiness…kind of exactly like Stereosonic in its current zombied state. So what goes on at a horror festival? Well, it's full of horrifying spectres and hair-raising scenes of horror (aka, your blood will literally curdle). We've had some clues from previous years: yep, survivors camped out overnight in the woods (first mistake right there, seriously). They reported roaming zombies, all the classic pop-culture murderers you can shake your pathetic choice of weapon at and of course, menacing clowns. Not only do the organisers hire actors to scare the bejesus out of you, but everyone comes to event dressed in costume. So get down to your local stuff shop before they sell out of 1920s nightgowns, fake blood and Kabuki masks. You can expect a horrifying 'death chamber' maze, as well as a main stage with live music (will it be horrifying? They haven't specified, but probably). Then, the main event is a series of curated horror shorts followed by two headliners, decided by you, the victims. The Melbourne campout is happening on December 2 and 3 (giving you just enough time to recover from Halloween) at the very remote and haunted Point Cook Homestead. Hint: old Point Cook has seen its fair share of murders.
An abandoned inner-city warehouse is about to get the royal treatment, as it plays host to a dramatic street art exhibition like you've never experienced before. Renowned UK artist Mysterious Al is returning to Melbourne to treat us to his first solo exhibition in three years, and he's chosen this top secret location as the setting. Blinking Into the Sunlight will take guests on an experiential journey from darkness to light, with over 30 new works pulled together to create one multi-sensory live art spectacular. Expect light installations, photo opportunities and a sprawling range of work, from small-framed designs through to large-format murals sprayed onto old barn doors. Hitting the spotlight in the UK's early 2000s street art scene, Mysterious Al's bold designs have earned him plenty of street cred, along with commissions from the likes of Vans, Yahoo!, Adidas, Volvo and Levi's. The show is running for just one weekend, kicking off Friday, May 24, when you'll even have the chance to snap up some of Mysterious Al's never-before-seen pieces for your own collection. If you're keen to check out the show, jump on the artist's Instagram to find out the warehouse location when it's released — 24 hours before opening night.
Whether you're a pro marathon runner or prefer to hit the pavement on a more casual basis, one thing is true: running is a lot more fun — and a whole lot easier — when you're soaking up some stunning views at the same time. It's what makes the Great Ocean Road Running Festival, which takes place along one of Australia's most scenic routes, such a treat. Returning to Victoria's southwest coast for its 2022 edition on Saturday, May 14 and Sunday, May 15, the long-running event offers races (and walks) for runners of all skill levels, along with a host of other happenings, including live music and yoga sessions. At one end, there's the 60-kilometre ultra marathon, which you'll need to be able to complete within 6.5 hours. At the other, there's the five- or 10-kilometre Great Ocean Road walk, looping through Lorne. Whichever race you join, your registration gets you free entry to everything else going on across the weekend. Head to the Apollo Bay Hotel to catch some live music, or Lorne Sea Baths for a post-run dip. Free yoga classes and pre-marathon warm-ups (for runners) will also be happening. And on May 14, you can catch the Pub to Pub Waiter's Race, to see local hospo staff battle it out for glory as they attempt to be the quickest carrying a tray of beer from the Apollo Bay Hotel to the Great Ocean Road Brewhouse and back.
If the phrase 'cheap beer' is music to your ears on a stinkin' hot day, then the bartenders at the Abbotts Hotel are about to become your favourite musicians in the city. The Waterloo pub has started offering beer prices based on the barometer or 'beer-o-meter' as they're calling it. When the temperature reaches 38 degrees — on the Bureau of Meteorology app, not your dodgy car thermometer — schooners are knocked down from $6 to $3.80. As the temperature continues to rise, the prices keep dropping until it hits 45 degrees (otherwise known as 'hell'). At this point, your beer is free. Yep, that's right, free. You'll never complain about the weather again. Abbotts will be honouring these discounts if anywhere in greater Sydney is sweltering, so keep an eye on your app and keep the bar accountable. The offer will run for the foreseeable future (with whispers of the beer-o-meter swapping in winter to sling cheap stouts when the temp drops) so we'll be crossing our fingers for a steamy March. Abbotts Hotel is located at 47 Botany Road, Waterloo. In the event of free beer, it will be limited to one per person, per day.
Wiggle your green thumbs and get among the vegetation at the Barkly Square Flower and Garden Market. On Sunday, October 9, the Sydney Road shopping centre will be in full bloom, as nature lovers and horticulturalists plant their roots firmly in the Brunswick soil. Running from 10am till 3pm, the market will take place around a pop-up nursery where visitors can pick up plants of every shape and size. There'll also be pot painting and terrarium workshops, a public seedling swap, as well as a special appearance from CERES plant doctor Ben Taylor. Need a diagnosis for a sickly green friend? Taylor's the man to talk to. Alternatively, you can see to your own health with the help of nutritionist Rasha Tayeh, who'll run a 'Spring Rhythm' masterclass about seasonal produce and medicinal herbs.
Richmond's National Hotel is going to the dogs. Well, at least on Sunday, April 18, it is. And in the best way possible, of course. After a COVID-19-related cancellation last year, the pub is finally hosting its inaugural Paws + Pours dog-friendly market party, transforming its much-loved beer garden into a playground of puppy cuddles and furry fun. Head down from noon to browse a collection of pet-focused market stalls, slinging everything from treats to dapper doggy threads and accessories. There'll be pet photography, health and wellness clinics, and a pop-up from First Paw Mobile Vet, as well as a raffle chock full of paw-some prizes for your pooch. Sounds from resident DJs will set the mood, while you tuck into some food specials from the kitchen and a few cheeky beer deals courtesy of local brewery Moon Dog. And to commemorate the occasion — and perhaps celebrate a certain furry friend in your life — the crew from Dark Essence Tattoo Parlour will be on hand inking dog-themed temporary tattoos throughout the day.
Over the past six years, Melbourne's famed floating bar has become a summer staple — because soaking up the warm weather and sipping cocktails on the Yarra go hand-in-hand. Thankfully, that won't change in 2021, with Arbory Afloat set to return once again. After its debut in 2015, Arbory Afloat is gearing up to reclaim its prime position in front of on-shore sister venue Arbory Bar & Eatery on the Yarra from Tuesday, October 26 — around the same time Victoria is expected to reach 70 percent vaccination coverage, which will allow venues to reopen for outdoor trade. As part of its annual revamp, the temporary bar and restaurant is taking inspiration from Turkey's Turquoise Coast. The space will be reimagined with a vision of olive trees, tasselled umbrellas, iconic Missoni prints and plenty of classic Aegean hues. To complete the picture, the 69-metre floating venue is set to boast two bars, an upper deck and an undercover dining area — read: lots of space to social distance. And, if that's not enough, the onboard swimming pool will also be making a triumphant return, with poolside daybeds and cabanas available to book. [caption id="attachment_828390" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Illustration by Jeffery Phillips[/caption] Chef Nick Bennett has again designed the menu, this time with a helping hand from Turkish-born chefs and siblings Nada Thomas (Cecconi's, Press Club) and Salim Gafayri (Bar Nacional, Cecconi's). The team's Mediterranean-inspired lineup is filled with Turkish flavours, both classic and contemporary. And would it be a visit to the floating bar without cocktails? We think not. Luckily, there'll be loads, including new house concoctions, cocktails on tap and the latest edition of the Four Pillars pink gin collaboration, along with plenty of craft beers and wines. Of course, despite the return of the annual summer pop-up bar, summer in Melbourne isn't going to be all business as usual. Capacities will be limited, bookings are recommended and there'll be plenty of ticketed events on the calendar — including Arbory Afloat's glitzy New Year's Eve party (early bird tickets are now available). Arbory Afloat is set to open at Flinders Landing from Tuesday, October 26, with opening hours from 11.30am–1am daily. It's taking bookings online, with limited space reserved for walk-ins. Images: Simon Shiff
Everyone knows novelty-sized things are infinitely better than their regular-sized counterparts. Fishbowl margaritas! The teeny tiny toys you get in Kinder Surprise eggs! The only drawback I can think of is 'fun-sized' chocolate bars. There's nothing 'fun' about teasing me with a Mars bar half as big as it should rightfully be. Now the ever-popular novelty trade is turing its sights to the post — can our love of adorably small things save a dying industry? The World's Smallest Post Service is a project run out of California by Leafcutter Designs and its founder Lea Redmond, though Redmond herself can't really tell you why it exists. Since launching a tiny letter transcription service in 2008, Redmond has been channeling her passion for miniature things and finessing the ultimate form of correspondence. Six years and one fully-funded Kickstarter project later, the tiny stationery service has hit the big time (pun unfortunately intended). The entire package — which includes enough materials to create 24 tiny letters, six tiny packages and one 3D mailbox — is only as wide as a regular pen and features a much-needed magnifying glass. Once the kit is purchased you can scribe the cutesiest of cutesy messages to your friends, pass notes in class without ever being caught, and your life will invariably be one step closer to that of a character in a Wes Anderson film. Of course, these novelties aren't wholly impractical. The deluxe kit features translucent regular-sized envelopes so you can send your tiny mail through the real-world post. It may be a little more hassle than the regular route, but at least the person receiving the letter will know that you battled the fiddly ordeal that is tiny envelope origami and microscopic stamp hell. How romantic. The Kickstarter campaign is still in full swing despite having already reached its goal (it seems people really, really want this). Get on board now if you're keen to nab some of the pledgers' perks. Remember: Twitter may be an easier means to sending tiny messages but it's nowhere near as darn cute.
Melbourne's tram network has been hit by a stack of stoppages over the last six months, as the Rail Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) takes regular strike action in response to failed negotiations with Yarra Trams. The two groups have been locked in an ongoing dispute as the RTBU tries to wrangle a better wage deal and improved working conditions for tram staff. But, it seems the two are no closer to reaching an agreement, with news the city can expect eight more tram strikes in the coming weeks. The RTBU yesterday announced plans to hold six new four-hour stoppages across March, with tram staff taking industrial action from 10am–2pm on Tuesday, March 3, Thursday, March 5, Thursday, March 12 and Friday, March 13, and between 12–4pm on Saturday, March 14, and Sunday, March 15. These new strikes are in addition to the two already planned for February 17 and 20 next week. https://www.facebook.com/publictransportvictoria/photos/a.963686763667384/2837241332978575/?type=3&theater According to the union, the newly announced industrial action comes in response to Yarra Trams' plans to up its part-time tram staff and reduce the number of full-timers, and, as a result, reducing how much overtime and penalty it pays. It's a move the RTBU says would slash staff take-home pay by up to $9.69 million per year, or an average of around $7000 for each full-time driver. This new round of tram stoppages is likely to cause some chaos for those travelling to and from the Formula One Australian Grand Prix, which runs from March 12 to 15. And it's not the first time Melbourne sports fans have had to deal with the fallout from the RTBU's strikes — last month saw two earlier tram stoppages coincide with the Australian Open finals. During the tram strikes, Public Transport Victoria suggests commuters defer all non-essential travel and consider alternative modes of public transport. Trains, buses and V/Lines will be running as normal during the industrial action, but may be extra busy. To plan your trip, check the PTV website. With negotiations still under way, it's possible none or some of the strikes will go ahead. We'll let you know either way. Tram strikes are expected to run from 10am–2pm on February 17 and 20, from 10am–2pm on Tuesday, March 3, Thursday, March 5, Thursday, March 12 and Friday, March 13, and from 12-4pm on Saturday, March 14, and Sunday, March 15. To plan alternative transport during these times, head to the PTV website. Image: Josie Withers for Visit Victoria
The Australian Shakespeare Company is back with another round of Shakespeare Under the Stars, bringing the Bard's famed works to your summer must-see list. And, Melburnians have two choices — including a light and lively comedy, plus a dark and brooding tragedy. In the first category sits A Midsummer Night's Dream, running from Friday, December 18–Sunday, January 24. Following an impending marriage, feuding lovers and an amateur acting troupe, it's set in a forest full of fairies — so the fact that you'll be watching in Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens is rather apt. The production stars Hugh Sexton as Theseus and Oberon, and Alison Whyte as Hipolyta and Titania. Then, from Saturday, January 30–Saturday, March 6 in the same place, you can settle in for one of the historic playwright's best-known and moodiest works: Macbeth. Get ready for a story of the conflict between morality and power, as the lead character as he becomes consumed by ambition, following a prophecy that he will become the King of Scotland. Patrons are encouraged to pack a picnic, nab a spot on the grass and enjoy the sunset before watching either show — or both. There'll also be an onsite bar, and you can pre-order catering, too. And, obviously, everything will be happening in a COVID-19-safe way.
Time flies when you're slurping up mussels and listening to the sounds of jazz, as the folks at South Melbourne Market well and truly know. The Coventry and Cecil corner mainstay has been celebrating both for seven years now at its annual festival. The latest will take place on March 7 and 8, with the Port Phillip Mussel & Jazz Festival returning to serve up a mollusc-focused street party. Oh, and more than six tonnes of mussels. It's free, it'll fill your stomach with locally sourced seafood, and it'll offer up a feast of other treats, including sweets, tipples and dance-worthy tunes. When it comes to enjoying the tasty sea creatures, Claypots, Köy, Paco y Lola, Simply Spanish and Bambu are just some of the eateries popping up — and whipping up an array of different mussel dishes. Seafood lovers will be able to dive into everything from mussel paella to wok-cooked drunken mussels. And you'll be eating for a good cause. The shells will be collected by Shuck Don't Chuck and used to help restore Port Phillip Bay's shellfish reefs. Taking care of the entertainment are local singer Loretta Miller, Alma Zygier, La Nuit Blanche, Margie Lou Dyer and a New Orleans-inspired seven-piece called the Horns of Leroy. Port Phillip Mussel & Jazz Festival runs from 12–10pm on Saturday and 12–8pm on Sunday. Image: Simon Shiff.
While horror has traditionally been the realm of the silver screen, The Walking Dead and newcomer Hannibal have brought all the magnificent gore, thrills and frights of the genre into our homes and onto our televisions. Part cop drama, part serial killer thriller, NBC's Hannibal is a somewhat-prequel to Silence of the Lambs starring Mads Mikkelsen and Hugh Dancy (you can guess which one's the conniving, cannibalistic title character). Recently renewed for a second season, it investigates the lives of Will Graham, an FBI agent, and Hannibal Lecter, forensic psychiatrist. The story is based loosely on the material of Thomas Harris's horrific novel Red Dragon but adds a few grotesque twists along the way. The A.V. Club's Todd VanDerWerff described the series as "an intricately twisted serial-killer thriller, but it's also a surprisingly deep series about psychiatry and the state of the human mind", adding that it "had every reason to be a cheap cash-in and has, instead, turned into one of TV's best shows." The Walking Dead, meanwhile, is more out-and-out horror — and, at this point, one of the most well-known and loved TV shows on the planet. Zombies, backstabbing, amputations: totally gross, and totally excellent. About to start its fourth season, it's packed with scream-out-loud scares, and brings a "film-quality drama series about zombies" to life on television. Season three picked up the story three months after season two ended, with both factions of the main characters attempting to keep their lives together whilst, of course, fighting off the infected zombies. Hannibal: Season One and The Walking Dead: Season Three are released on DVD in Australia on September 25. Thanks to Hopscotch Films, we've got 10 prize packs including copies of both series to give away. To be in the running, subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter (if you haven't already), 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
If you're partial to the kind of feast that tickles all of your senses at once, you'll want to make a date with Moonhouse this month. On Wednesday, September 21, the Balaclava restaurant is teaming up with experiential theatre crew Nonchalant to deliver a one-off dinner fusing food and drinks with a tantalising curation of art and live performance. You'll enjoy a cocktail on arrival, before diving into a four-course spread starring plates like Sichuan-spiced steak tartare, crispy skin chicken matched with lemon pepper and Moonhouse's sweet chilli, and a coconut soy pudding with mandarin. [caption id="attachment_868866" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Artwork by Jem Bray[/caption] Meanwhile, you'll find yourself simultaneously soaking up striking projections by visual artist Jem Bray, grooving to sounds from DJs Hans DC and Sasha Fern, and delighting in the hosting talents of Danny 'BamBam' Carter. Even more entertainment comes in the form of live tunes from the likes of singer-songwriter Lakyn, cello star Wilma and vocalist Amber Ferraro, and performances by dancer Bianca Dimattina, and burlesque artists Gina Stirling and Evana De Lune. If you fancy commemorating the occasion with some happy snaps, photographer Ray Rolla will be manning a pop-up photo studio from 7–8.30pm. Tickets to the experience clock in at $150, including food and all the evening's creative delights. Top Image: Parker Blain
Melbourne winter can be a drag — and not the fun, OTT kind. But if you're looking for a bright spark to liven things up in your life, you'll find it hitting the stage for YUMMY's high-camp variety show, ICONIC. The award-winning cabaret troupe is returning to Melbourne for a whirlwind visit, set to dazzle audiences at Meat Market with one of its best-loved shows, from Wednesday, June 22–Saturday, June 25. A powerhouse production that trips boldly between circus, drag, burlesque and comedy, ICONIC promises a feast for all the senses. And costumes to die for, of course. It's risqué, raunchy and a whole lotta fun. International drag cabaret superstar Valerie Hex is both the creator and emcee, joined by celebrated queer performance artists including Jarred Dewey, Karlee Misi, Bendy Ben, Velma Vouloir (Miss Burlesque Victoria) and Jandruze. Nab a ticket and strap yourself in for a wild, 70-minute ride. 'ICONIC' will run across six sessions — 7pm on June 22 and 23, and 7.30pm and 9pm June 24 and 25. [caption id="attachment_857728" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jacinta Oaten[/caption] Images: Jacinta Oaten, Brig Bee and Joel-Devereux.
Perhaps you're fond of crusty sourdough with your breakfast or brunch. Maybe you have a sweet tooth for cakes, muffins and brownies. Either way, with Melburnians presently spending more time at home — and zero time eating out at bakeries and cafes — we're betting that you've probably cranked up your oven and put your baking skills to the test in recent weeks. Next time you get creative in the kitchen, however, you don't just have to stick to a packet mix or try out the recipe on the back of your packet of flour. And if you've been craving treats from one of Melbourne's favourite dessert spots, you don't have to miss out. Adapting to the current situation, Piccolina has launched a 'bake at home' range, which'll let you whip up some of its wares yourself. Topping the menu: Piccolina's 'Better than Nutella' ravioli. A $28 kit features 12 large ravioli filled with the chain's own choc-hazelnut spread, or you can order a $43 version which includes one litre of gelato. Also on offer is cookie dough ($14/$30 with gelato) for 10–20 cookies, as well as chocolate self-saucing puddings ($16/$33 with gelato), apple crumbles ($22/$38 with gelato) and sticky date puddings ($22/$38 with gelato) that all serve four–six people — and you can add also some of Piccolina's version of Ice Magic to your order for $10. Ready to eat after 15–20 minutes in your home oven, the new hot dessert range is available both in-store and for delivery via UberEats — with pre-orders currently available from Piccolina's website. If you're planning to pick some up in-person from Collingwood, Hawthorn and St Kilda, remember that Melburnians can only visit places within five kilometres of their homes. For more information about Piccolina's 'bake at home' range — or to order something — visit the chain's website. Updated: August 7, 2020.
In excellent news for locals who care about their planet, Victoria's recycling systems are set to score a game-changing transformation. As announced this week by Minister for the Environment and Climate Action Lily D'Ambrosio, an Australian-first recycling reform is set to be rolled out across the state by 2030. As you might have guessed, those much-talked-about four household bins are set to play a starring role in the overhaul. They're still in the process of being rolled out statewide, but eventually every Victorian household will have these four separate units — used for general household waste (red lid), food and garden organics (green lid), glass (purple lid) and other mixed recycling (yellow lid). It's anticipated that once the four-bin system is in use throughout Victoria, it'll have a hugely positive impact on our recycling habits. What's more, in the coming years, households will also be able to use these bins to recycle soft plastics and soiled food containers. [caption id="attachment_807584" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nick Fewings via Unsplash[/caption] Also on the agenda: the Victorian Government has announced it's dropping $1 million to fund a new facility that will turn hard-to-recycle materials — like those pesky disposable coffee cups — into sustainable building products. It's also set to spend $175,000 on another facility that'll be used to process larger green waste into organic soil additives for the farming industry. The changes are part of the Government's plan to divert up to 80 percent of waste by 2030. Our incoming container deposit scheme will also help this effort, as will the state's ban on single-use plastics, which kicks off in February next year. Find out more about the Victorian Government's recycling reform and have your say on the four-bin system before October 26, 2022 over at the website.
The Finders Keepers Markets have become a staple in Melbourne for those who are into design, creativity and supporting local artists. Treat yourself to a stroll around the market – it has over 200 stalls featuring fashion, ceramics, jewellery and food – while drinking wine or sipping specialty coffee. Returning home to Carlton's Royal Exhibition Building for three days for the second time this year, you'll be able to nab some marvellous treats that are difficult to find anywhere else. The designer-centric, come-one-come-all mini-festival has managed to bridge the gap between local market and exclusive exhibition, creating a space for independent designers to engage with the wider community. This time around, keep an eye out for Nzuri and their organic body butter, body balms and cleansers, Kingston Jewellery for colourful accessories, Vege Threads for ethical clothes (there's a new yoga range), and Coral & Herb or Mr Fancy Plants for beautiful handcrafted homewares. As usual, there will be live music, a cafe, a bar and thousands of other people celebrating independent art and design. Food-wise, you've got three different brands of specialty coffee to try (including Seven Seeds), as well as delicious pastries from Ned's Pies and schnitzels from Von Crumb (we recommend). Finders Keepers will run over three days, from Friday, October 14 to Sunday, October 16. It will be open from 6 - 10pm on the Friday, 10am - 6pm on the Saturday, and 10am - 5pm on the Sunday. For more information and a full list of designers, visit their website.
Chances are you already know something about Tonya Harding. Even if you don't know her name off the top of your head, you've probably heard it used as a punchline. Oh yeah, Tonya. She's that figure skater who took a police baton to her arch-rival's leg, right? That Tonya? Well, yes. But also, not quite. The infamous incident that made headlines around the world almost 25 years ago has been the subject of more misinformation than whether or not you can actually swallow chewing gum. In I, Tonya, filmmaker Craig Gillespie does his best to unpack the myth while crafting a darkly humourous and ultimately tragic narrative about a brilliant skating career gone irreversibly awry. Gillespie and screenwriter Steven Rogers want you to know for certain that Tonya Harding is not a joke. Nor is she a violent bludgeoner who schemed to take out her main competition, fellow skater Nancy Kerrigan. The way they tell it – albeit in a film they admit up front is based on "wildly contradictory interviews" – Harding was a troubled skater who perhaps surrounded herself with the wrong type of person, and ended up caught in something she couldn't stop; a fateful scenario which could have been avoided had she made different choices, but which has defined her public image ever since. Margot Robbie offers up an incredible performance, playing Tonya right through from teenage years in all her redneck, tough girl, middle-fingers-up glory. The Australian learnt to skate specifically for the role, and the months she put in certainly paid off. Credit must also be given to stunt doubles Heidi Munger and Anna Malkova. Harding is one of the only female skaters to ever pull off the triple axel – and the editing, stunt work and special effects that go into recreating the notoriously difficult manoeuvre are likewise superb. Also clever is the format of the film itself: we are introduced to Tonya and her ex-husband Jeff Gillooly (Sebastian Stan) via documentary-style talking heads. It's years after the fact, and both parties tell a very different story of what happened and who was responsible (Jeff and his friend Shawn Eckhardt were ultimately accused of colluding to hire an assailant to attack Kerrigan; both men served time in prison). We then jump back to the 1970s as a three-year-old Harding is put into skating lessons by her abusive mother LaVona Golden (Allison Janney), and watch as she quickly makes a name for herself on the ice. It isn't long before Harding is a teenager and competing at a national level. But while her technical ability is close to flawless, her image soon proves to be a problem. Not ladylike or sweet enough for the world of skating, she constantly runs up against judges who she sees as not marking her how she deserves. Spectacular choreography sees Harding's routines recreated down to the very last detail. Just as spot on is the film's casting, with Allison Janney particularly brilliant as Golden – complete with fur coat, perpetual cigarette and a bird perched on her shoulder. Where the film stumbles is in its tonally inconsistent depiction of the physical abuse allegedly inflicted on Harding, first by her mother and later by her husband. In a number of stomach-churning scenes, we watch as she is slapped, punched, thrown against a wall and has her head smashed into a mirror. At one point Harding breaks the fourth wall, addressing the abuse as it is happening to her – she thought it was normal, she says rather glibly. But that's all that is said, and there needed to be more. Gillespie and Rogers simply don't give the brutality the time or the serious treatment it deserves, pushing past the shocking violence in order to keep the plot moving forward. In doing so, they fail to explore the way Harding was made to feel everything was her fault – by her mother, by her husband and ultimately by the entire country. I, Tonya seems intent on reversing the popular consensus around its title character. The real Harding appeared at premieres of the film in the US, standing alongside Margot Robbie on the red carpet. But while she might finally have gotten the chance to prove she's not just the butt of a joke, you can't help but feel that the filmmakers – intentionally or not – treat her abuse as exactly that. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OXZQ5DfSAAc
Got your New Year's Eve plans sorted? How about New Year's Day, then? Every year, on the first day of January, party-goers with stamina flock to Coburg Velodrome for Freedom Time, a one-day multi-stage festival filled with acts from both home and away. The organisers have teamed up with Wax'o Paradiso and Skylab Radio to curate a variety of genres, from progressive funk and '80s-influenced pop to ambient and future soul. Among the artists travelling from abroad to usher in 2019 are DJ Donna Leake (UK), who's done quite a bit of time at London's renowned sushi-meets-electronica venue Brilliant Corners; Dam-FUNK (US), whose devotion to progressive funk has been total since the 1990s; and DJ duo Alex Rita and Errol (UK), whose mixing visits jazz, soul and broken beat. From here in Australia, look out for future soul band Hiatus Kaiyote, who've scored two Grammy nominations; Sydney-based ambient duo Angophora; and, also hailing from Sydney, 80s pop god Donny Benet. Image: Duncographic.
Docklands is set to light up once again this winter for Firelight Festival, an annual celebration of flame-filled arts. Running from Friday, June 30–Sunday, July 2, the inner-city precinct is free to enter and will see Docklands come alive with a family-friendly, after-dark program of performance, entertainment, culinary delights and fire-inspired art. This year is set to be Firelight Fest's biggest edition yet, with over 125 talented flame-wielding artists and performers, 40 firepits and drums and 35 flame jets. No, you won't be cold. The lineup promises plenty of reasons to yank yourself off the couch and into the night, headlined by huge light installations including an interactive sound activation that will transform Docklands' Central Park with supersized, luminescent flowers. Other works set to dazzle crowds nightly include a giant, neon mushroom that will sit atop Victoria Promenade, and a five-metre-tall LED, archangel puppet which will roam along Harbour Esplanade. More than 125 performers will descend on the precinct across the three-day festival, ranging from musicians and fire-twirlers to circus acts and flaming trumpeters. And with a collection of fire sculptures, flame jets and fire pits, things are sure to be super toasty as you're exploring the festival's offerings. Of course, appetites are sorted, too, with festival vendors slinging a menu packed with wintry delights. Think, smoked meats, woodfired pizza and roasted marshmallows, washed down with hot chocolate and mulled wine. Firelight Festival will take over Docklands nightly from Friday, June 30–Sunday, July 2. For the full program, head to the festival's website. Images: supplied.
Channel your inner adventurer, and spend a weekend exploring a region full of bushwalking trails, untouched forests and waterfalls. Only a 75-minute drive from Melbourne, West Gippsland will inspire you to seek out the many potential adventures the region has to offer. Pack your walking shoes and discover the most photogenic spots on foot, or strap your bike to the roof and spend an afternoon pedalling along a local trail. After adventuring around, refuel with some of Victoria's best produce at one of the many spectacular dining options, before setting in to fall asleep to the sound of nature. This is Gippsland. [caption id="attachment_645713" align="alignnone" width="1980"] Noojee Trestle Bridge.[/caption] DO If it's a bike ride that tickles your fancy, you'll be spoiled for choice in West Gippsland. Arguably the most famous track around is the meandering Grand Ridge Rail Trail in the pristine Strzelecki Ranges. Soak up the scent of native plants and keep your eyes peeled for one of Gippsland's most vocal attractions — the lyrebird. Another option for bike riding is the Noojee Trestle Bridge Rail Trail. Cycle along the track, and you'll reach Victoria's tallest surviving wooden trestle bridge. Soak up views of the 100-metre-tall bridge and surrounding valley before enjoying a picnic lunch at the nearby reserve. [caption id="attachment_645714" align="alignnone" width="1980"] Toorongo Falls.[/caption] At the end of your walk, explore the Toorongo Falls Reserve to see the eponymous falls cascading down the cliff face. The Mushroom Rocks Trail is equally rewarding, ending with a maze of giant and extremely photogenic granite tors. If these tracks sound a little too tame for your inner adventurer, pack your mountain bike and book a shuttle to the summit of Mount Baw Baw. The recently launched shuttle offers thrill seekers the chance to power down the mountain at one of three difficulty levels. With a total descent of three kilometres, this ride is not for the faint of heart. And if extreme mountain biking is a bit too much for you, the Mount Baw Baw National Park by foot is pretty spectacular, too. [caption id="attachment_645715" align="alignnone" width="1980"] Walhalla Goldfields Railway.[/caption] Finally, head to the historic mining town of Walhalla to explore historic buildings, hike up to the old cricket pitch and venture into the area's (possibly) haunted ghost towns. Visitors can also embark on the Long Tunnel Gold Mine Tour through the old mines or, on the weekends, catch a ride on the historic Walhalla Goldfields Railway. [caption id="attachment_617431" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hogget Kitchen. Image: Tim Grey.[/caption] EAT AND DRINK In 2006, former truck driver Craig Robins set up a coffee business after being consistently disappointed with the standard of coffee available in the region. With help from wife Jenni, he gifted the region with Southern Addictions Coffee, which now supplies good coffee to cafes throughout the area, including the couple's first permanent outpost in Yarragon, The Shot House. It's a great stop for an early caffeine hit; grab a comfy stool at the espresso bar to try one of the daily single origins, or nab a table in the sun and order a sweet treat with your brew. Hogget Kitchen. Image: Tim Grey. Just a ten-minute drive up the road, you'll find Warragul. With no shortage of interesting eateries and a tangible Melbourne influence touching most venues in town, this lively country town will definitely keep you well fed. For a simple, produce-driven meal, head to Stella's Pantry, a cafe and retail store where you can pick up almost every kind of local product imaginable. Peruse the packed shelves for a little piece of Gippsland to take home with you, before plonking down on a comfy chair with some charcuterie, cheese and antipasto. Courthouse Restaurant and Garden Bar. For a meal with a more historic feel, head around the corner from Stella's to Courthouse Restaurant and Garden Bar. The gastropub's menu is full of local produce, but the real star is the local beef. Come for lunch, and order the Gippsland beef sirloin — char-grilled to your liking — and pair it with a full-bodied red wine for a decadent way to refuel after a massive hike. If you're looking to really treat yourself, though, plan a visit to Warragul's Hogget Kitchen. This famed rural restaurant serves some of Gippsland's best ethical produce, including berries, veg and herbs grown in the on-site garden. As expected from such a localised production, the menu changes daily, so you may find yourself here a few times during your trip so you can try several different dishes. [caption id="attachment_645440" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Vivere Retreat.[/caption] STAY For a centrally located getaway, book one of the three self-contained cottages at Vivere Retreat in Neerim South. The Retreat, Studio and Cottage each offer something a little different in terms of style and size, and each comes with a standout feature including fireplace, spa bath or a patio perfect for sunsets. Head a little further into the hills and you'll find Vue at Jindivick, an eco bed and breakfast tucked away in the forest. Set on 36 acres of land, a stay at Vue is ideal for those looking to embark on bushwalking, cycling and bird watching adventures throughout the region. If you visit from September through April, you'll also be able to take part in an on-site beekeeping workshop. Another option is to head to Poowong East to hidden gem Marge's Cottage. In a secluded spot, the handcrafted cottage includes an indoor fireplace, luxurious bathtub and, as a bonus, homemade snacks. Wake up to the soothing sound of the property's friendly milking sheep before making a gourmet brekkie with supplied local produce. For a Gippsland getaway with friends, book a stay at 100-year-old Fieldstone House. This rustic accommodation sleeps eight people and includes a private infinity pool and gorgeous English garden. It's equally ideal for that romantic weekend away you've been trying to plan for months now. Discover more of Gippsland here.
Between the strict lockdown rules and disappearance of any social life, it sure doesn't feel much like Christmas at the moment. But there is a little Yuletide tradition that might actually help inject a bit of happiness into this whole mess — a new iso-friendly advent calendar filled with locally made chocolates. Brainchild of pastry chef and chocolate-maker Kep Whitley, the idea for the product came about after a fortuitous phone discussion lamenting the latest lockdowns. The aptly named You've Got This chocolate box comes neatly packed with 42 different signature Kep Whitley bonbons and truffles, representing the exact number of days in Melbourne's latest stretch of stage four restrictions, from Sunday, August 2 to Sunday, September 13. Yep, you can reward yourself with one of these rich, velvety chocolates for every 24 hours of lockdown you survive. Perhaps a ceremonious choccy hit to pair with Premier Dan Andrews' daily press conference? The box's dreamy lineup of truffles includes the likes of salted caramel shrouded in a dark chocolate and crunchy cookie outer, and a blend of banana, rum and white choc. And then there's the delicate bonbons, each hand-painted in a unique splash of colours. Will you go for the combination of yuzu gel and matcha ganache? The coconut and strawberry number? Or perhaps the almond haze tahini praline with crisp feuilletine? Whatever your palate, you're sure to find more than a few winners in this lot. The Kep Whitley You've Got This lockdown chocolate box is available now to buy from the online store for $90. While you're there, you can browse the brand's full range of chocolate delights, including bars, brittle and lush spreads. But, you'll need to move quick — the box has already sold out twice. The You've Got This chocolate box is available to buy now for $90 via the Key Whitley website.
Melburnians, when spring rolls around this year, you can expect to welcome in the warm weather with yakitori. Just when you thought the CBD couldn't fit in any more deliciousness, chef Adam Liston has announced he'll be building and opening a two-storey eatery in collaboration with The Hotel Windsor, combining Japanese, Korean and Chinese influences. Named Honcho, the eatery will squeeze into the now-vacant block of land between Rosa's Kitchen and Longrain on Punch Lane. Liston hinted at this plan back in February, when he closed his Smith Street yakitori bar, Northern Light. But it's only just now that he's let spill some of the details. Honcho's menu will have two main focuses. The first is yakitori (a moreish Japanese dish, involving chicken being placed on a skewer and then grilled to mouthwatering perfection), which will be cooked on an epic, custom-made grill. The second is seafood, to be served at a dedicated bar. According to Good Food, we can look forward to ocean trout sashimi with pickled ginger and saltbush, among other delicacies. Served up with such creations will be a handpicked selection of Japanese beers, sake and shochu. Mercifully, for those already set up in the area, drilling and hammering over winter will be kept to a minimum. The new building, designed by architect Kerstin Thompson, will be creating the building elsewhere, and then slid into place at 18 Punch Lane. Honcho is set to open in September. If you can't wait to get your Adam Liston fix, swing by The Windsor, where he'll be heading up a pop-up noodle bar from the beginning of June till the end of August. Keep an eye on the hotel's website for more details on that one. Via Good Food.
Do you live in a dog-friendly house? Do you have some spare time on your hands? Do you fantasise about taking a pup to the pub with you? The good folk at Guide Dogs Victoria need you. They're always home to pups that'll grow into companions as part of the Guide Dog program, and they're in need of carers to raise them. In other words, they're giving away puppies to folks in Melbourne, Geelong, Ballarat and Bendigo — with the people in the latter three locations needed urgently. If you put up your hand, you'll get a puppy for about a year — from its eight-week birthday until it turns 14–16 months. During that time, you'll be responsible for introducing the sights, sounds and smells it'll meet when it starts working as a guide dog (and giving it heaps of cuddles). Of course, it's not all just fun, games — it's a lot of commitment and hard work. You'll have to be responsible enough to take care of regular grooming, house training and exercise, and be available to attend local training days, along with vet checks and Puppy Pre-School. A car and a fenced-in property are mandatory, too. And, you can't be away from home for more than four hours at a time. In return, the organisation provides a strong support network, food, vet care, and prevention of fleas and ticks. "The work we do at Guide Dogs Victoria wouldn't be sustainable without the assistance of our Puppy Raisers," says Guide Dogs Victoria's Puppy Development Team Leader Naomi Wallace. "By volunteering as Puppy Raisers, the community can help us to train and rase our beautiful dogs who go on to ensure Australians who are blind or have low vision lead independent lives." Guide dogs are provided free to those in need, but each costs around $50,000 to raise over two years. If you can't afford to sponsor a pup or donate to the charity, but you've got a bit of flexibility and time on your hands, this could be your calling. Keen? Apply online. And send pics, please. Guide Dogs Victoria is looking for puppy carers now. For more information and to volunteer, head to the organisation's website.
Over the past few years, Gelatissimo has whipped up a number of creative flavours, including frosé sorbet, gelato for dogs, and ginger beer, Weet-Bix, fairy bread, hot cross bun, cinnamon scroll, chocolate fudge and bubble tea gelato. Earlier this year, it made its own spin on Caramilk gelato, too. For its latest offering, the Australian dessert chain is getting festive, all while still turning something that everyone loves into gelato. The new source of inspiration: gingerbread — and it's mixing it with choc chip cookie dough. Can't choose between tucking into gingerbread or licking your way through a few scoops of choc chip cookie dough ice cream? Why not do both, because Gelatissimo now has the short-term solution. That very combination is on the menu all throughout December. 'Tis the season and all that. Whether you opt for a cone or a cup, you'll be tucking into gelato made with choc chip cookie dough, a ginger cookie crumble, ginger creme and ginger caramel. That ginger hails from Buderim Ginger on the Sunshine Coast — and apparently the limited-edition flavour goes mighty well with Christmas pudding. If your stomach is now rumbling, you can get gingerbread cookie dough gelato in stores Australia-wide. Or, Gelatissimo also delivers take-home packs via services such as Uber Eats, Deliveroo, Menulog and Doordash. Gelatissimo's gingerbread cookie dough gelato is available from all stores nationwide throughout December.
Gould Galleries is currently celebrating its 35th birthday by exhibiting works from some of Australia’s most influential artists. Robert Gould is regarded as one of Australia’s leading commercial gallerists and private art dealers; he's dealt with some bigwig buyers in the past (such as Rupert Murdoch and Elton John) but has been well known for his discretion when it comes to his clients. In the pas,t Gould Galleries has famously exhibited works by Australia’s most important 19th and 20th century artists, as well as a select group of Australia’s most dynamic contemporary artists. The Director’s Choice Anniversary Exhibition, currently on display at Gould Galleries, features five Australian modernist masterpieces. These include Sidney Nolan’s, Head (Ned Kelly), Charles Blackman’s The Friends, Robert Dickerson’s The Late Shopper, Brett Whiteley’s Galah, and Howard Arkley’s Actual Fractual. While these are certainly important pieces, the exhibition as a whole is a brilliant reflection of Australia’s artistic landscape, and should not be missed. Image: Charles Blackman, The Friends (1953) Gould Galleries.
