Gin lovers, rejoice. Melbourne's CBD now has its first craft gin distillery, with Little Lon Distilling Co opening its doors to the public last Friday night. Steeped in history, the distillery is named after the infamous red light district that sat between Lonsdale, Spring, Exhibition and La Trobe Streets. The notorious area — that operated around 150 years ago and had bootleggers, prostitutes and sly grog aplenty — was divided by small laneways and cottages, most of which were destroyed in the 1950s. The distillery site, on Casselden Place, is one of the few historic spaces that remain. Little Lon owner and distiller Brad Wilson said the heritage-listed cottage from the 1800s was a passion project many years in the making. "After travelling to Europe, I thought it would be great to have my own spirit brand," Wilson said. "I was inspired by a 400-year-old distillery called Wynand Fockink in Amsterdam to start a project of my own." Drinks such as the mulled apple Ginger Mick are standouts on the menu, with each batch paying homage to the real-life characters that inspired the building's name. Using Victorian Police records, and the knowledge of a Melbourne tour guide Michael Sheldon who runs crime tours in the area, Wilson became familiar with the key figures of the time. "We wanted to personify the characters that used to live and kick around these laneways," said Wilson. Maude Compton, who ran a brothel and was jailed for stealing money out of customer's pockets, and Constable Hickling are some of the characters that feature on the distillery's menu. Little Lon Distilling Co, which has the capacity for around 200–300 litres of fermentation, is churning out batches on regular rotation, featuring local ingredients and fragrant notes such as rosemary, oranges and lemons — all things which have historically grown in the area. Find Little Lon Distilling Co at 17 Casselden Place, Melbourne. Throughout July, the distillery will be open every Friday from 5–9pm alongside Madame Brussels' European Night Market. From August, it hopes to open from Thursday–Saturday from 5–11pm, but check the Facebook page for updates. Images: Julia Sansone
Jane Miller's True Love Travels on a Gravel Road has been described as "a very funny riff on choice and broken dreams". Following the romantic adventures of Jake, a country boy who falls in love with Elvis-obsessed Maggie, the performance explores how far some people will (literally) go in their pursuit of happiness. Making Maggie's dream of escaping to Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee a reality becomes Jake's obsessive focus as he tries to shake off the label of town loser. Isolated country towns can be cruel, but then again, how many city girls choose cotton dress worlds when they could have satins and lace? Written by Jane Miller and directed by Beng Oh, True Love Travels on a Gravel Road is a quintessentially Australian play, complete with a cast of lovable undesirables and a stultifying, small town setting. Smooth streets may not be paved with gold but sometimes, true love might just travel on a plain old, gravel road. Image via truelovetravels.net
On the lookout for a dope new denim jacket? Or do want to be rid of that weird-looking lamp taking up space in the living room? Then, by golly, you're in luck. The Garage Sale Trail works with local council partners Australia wide to get as many trash-and-treasure troves happening on the same day as possible. Last year, over 7000 garages opened their doors to bargain hunters, and they're doing it for the fifth time on October 25. Aside from the retro goodies up for grabs, the Trail is all about sustainability. Instead of ending up in landfill, unwanted clutter becomes a fantastic find. So get that tight pair of sunnies for peanuts and help the environment at the same time. The Garage Sale Trail began humbly in Bondi in 2010 and is growing bigger every year, so register online to make a quick buck from your old junk and hang out with the friendly folks in your hood.
Give Melburnians an occasion, and they'll show their love for cheese in all of its creamy, gooey, rare and stinky forms. Add some delicious wine, beer and cider to the table and you've got one heck of an afternoon. Setting up shop at the magnificent Werribee Mansion once again, Fromage a Trois Cheese Festival is back to pair the former with the latter. Here, showcasing Australian artisan cheesemakers is on the agenda — and they'll be displaying their tasty wares for you to sample and inevitably take home by the wheel-load. For those after a filling array of dairy goodness, you'll want to head to the 'Build Your Own Picnic' pavilion — where you can stock up on wine, beer, cider, spirits and, of course, many, many cheeses. And if you're particularly interested in the process behind the practice, there'll be demonstrations and meet-the-maker sessions, so you can stock up on tips for your own cheesemaking adventures. Fromage a Trois Cheese Festival takes place on March 24, with early bird tickets currently available for $37 (plus booking fee). As well as entry and plenty of samples, attendees will receive their own festival glass to keep. Once the first batch of tix have been snapped up, this cheesy day (in the best possible way) will set you back $45. Fromage a Trois will run from 11am–6pm.
The portraits of Adelaide-based artist Joshua Miels take countless hours to come together, as he constantly adds and removes thick layers of oil paint to slowly shape his subjects' faces. Miels' work focuses on the mental health struggles many face in their day-to-day lives, specifically males, who he depicts throughout his abstract works. To do so, Miels creates large-scale paintings that see him digitally break his subjects down into shapes, before the intense detail is built in through endless layering and stripping back. Miels' work takes on a great depth — literally and figuratively — with his subjects looking emotionally detached, allowing the viewer to reflect on the difficult themes explored throughout his paintings and contemplate their own personal experiences. Exhibiting his latest canvas works at Armadale's Metro Gallery, Inner Thoughts is on display from Monday, August 7 until Saturday, September 2.
Celebrating its fifth birthday, Pause Fest is back and bigger than ever with a stellar line up of guest speakers and demonstrations of innovative technology that’s set to flip the digital world on its head. If you haven't heard about it before, Pause Fest is all about collaboration, bringing together the sharpest minds in the fields of advertising, design, animation, not-for-profit, commerce, web and post-production so they can work together and take their businesses to the next level. Some of the guest speakers you can expect to see at this year’s festival include Animal Logic (the animation studio behind The Lego Movie), Buzzfeed, Guardian Australia, MONA and Silicon Valley strategist Alexander Chung. As well as #inspirational speakers, there will be many interesting installations, meeting spots and workshops. The VFX Jam looks particularly interesting, where teams participate in a two-day competition to create a visual effects piece judged by industry leaders. Want to change the world for the better? Head to the Web For Good conference to learn more about the creative superheroes who are using technology to do great things. It's the perfect place to wise up and meet some interesting people along the way.
One of the most intriguing cabaret shows at this year's Melbourne Fringe comes courtesy of acclaimed performer Selina Jenkins. Best known as the creator of Beau Heartbreaker, Jenkins has a pair of Green Room Awards to her name as well as Best Show gongs from Melbourne and Adelaide Fringes gone by. This time around, she's concocted a dark comedy based on the true story of two women who were driven from their home in rural Victoria during the recent postal vote on marriage equality. Thy Neighbour will premiere at the Hare Hole before crossing over to the Fringe Festival Hub.
It has only been a year since Chris Lucas unveiled the last addition to his sprawling stable of eateries, with the three-storey Japanese Kisumé opening its doors on Flinders Lane last June. But the acclaimed restaurateur — behind hits like Chin Chin, Kong and Hawker Hall — is already gearing up to launch his next, announcing plans for a French bistro and wine bar to open on Bourke Street before the end of the year. Dubbed Bȃtard, the venue is set to make its home within a renovated Victorian terrace at the Spring Street end of the CBD, complete with a charming rooftop bar and basement cellar. Here, Lucas will pull inspiration from his many journeys across France, to deliver a homegrown destination for great steak, charcuterie and wine. "I've spent a great deal of my past visiting all corners of France and like many, dreamed of having my own little bistro," explains Lucas. "I'm somewhat of a nostalgic and want to bring some of that romance to Melbourne with my own touch at Bâtard. I mean, who doesn't love steak frites with a glass of Burgundy?" If Lucas's other venues are anything to go by, expect it to be big, bold and slightly crude — we're hoping for restaurant that rivals Sydney's much-loved Hubert. Bȃtard is set to open its doors at 19-21 Bourke St, Melbourne, later this year. We'll keep you posted when we get an opening date.
When you're leaving the office at 6.45pm with a head swimming with unread emails and a tummy rumbling like the number 109 on Collins, you really are in no state to make dinner plans. In that moment, it feels like you've eaten everywhere of note in the CBD — but that's likely not true. In the last few months, even more new restaurants have popped up within the grid, filling out the laneways with more delights than ever before. You can down bone marrow (and drink whisky from the bone when you're done) in a basement, eat top Korean nosh in a laneway and barbecue on a Bourke Street rooftop. Work through this post-work dinner list — but the time you're done, we'll no doubt have some more new CBD restaurants to add to it.
A former resident of Collingwood's Schoolhouse Studios that now lives entirely online, The Plant Exchange is only tiny, but it's working a downright hefty range of greenery. Amongst its curation, you'll find a diverse, oft-changing lineup of plants, with a special focus on rare, unusual and collector varieties. The online store is also stocked with an assortment of pretty pots, including colourful additions from the Melbourne-made Mr Kitly self-watering line. Local delivery is available to addresses within 10 kilometres of Collingwood, or you can arrange for express postage. And as an added bonus, owners Jane Lloyd and Michael Chester are both horticulturalists, so they're good to answer all of your burning plant queries and help you totally ace the whole plant parenthood gig.
It's been a tough year for music festivals down under. With plummeting ticket sales, cancellations and postponements, a growing number of festival favourites have bitten the dust. Peats Ridge, Harvest, Homebake and Pyramid Rock have all collapsed under economic strain. Not to mention, the mother of Australian festivals, the Big Day Out, was in hot water for quite awhile after Blur's cancellation. We might ask, is this just a slump, or the start of a steady decline in the demand for large-scale festivals? Are we seeing a necessary weeding out of the gimmicky blockbusters that have passed their use by date? Some 'boutique festivals' are still on the rise. Event organisers are innovating and reshaping the festival experience, rather than falling back on the well-worn formula of hooking ever-bigger 'white whales'. A trend towards restricting crowd numbers and progressive culture-making has illuminated a handful of remaining festivals, the unassuming gems with a loyal following. This summer has already produced some fantastic festivals in the shape of Paradise, Inca Roads, QMF and Meredith. Once your stomach has settled from all that Christmas ham, it will be time again to jump on the festival bandwagon, find some new festivals and return to the rituals of your old favourites. Here, we've got you sorted with the best picks from New Years Eve through to Easter weekend. Falls Festival One festival that certainly hasn't taken a hit in the popularity stakes is Falls Festival. This year the Falls team is also bringing the party closer to home, debuting in Byron Bay. One of the longest running, boutique music events in Australia, the three-day festival boasts camping, music and arts acts from all over the globe. This year's headliners include (the greatest house band in the world) The Roots, festival favourites The Wombats and the always-interesting Grizzly Bear, as well as some killer local acts such as Hermitude, Big Scary, Chet Faker and Horrorshow. December 28 to January 3; Byron Bay, Lorne and Marion Bay. NYE on the Hill If Falls seems a little too large for your liking, but you’re still looking for a sweet escape from the city, then NYE on the Hill might be just what you need. Brought to you by the legends behind the equally awesome The Hills Are Alive festival, this boutique NYE experience is small on scale but big on good vibes. 48 hours of freedom never looked so blissful, with the likes of Loon Lake, Wagons, Money for Rope, Playwrite and many more dropping in to help you welcome 2014. December 30 to January 1; 'The Farm' (95 min from Melbourne) Let Them Eat Cake Straight up: this is not your average electro festival. Let Them Eat Cake has three distinct elements working in their favour which include an exceptional line up of musical talent, visual and performance artists who will bend your mind (and bodies), and last but not least the Food Rave. Melbourne’s finest food and drink establishments such as Ladro, Storm in a Teacup, Captain Melville and Phat Brats will be providing the much needed sustenance to help you recover from the night before, and to keep you going all day long. Get excited for the likes of Julio Bashmore, James Holden, Soul Clap and Bicep as they kick off the first day of 2014 on the right foot. January 1; Werribee Park Midsumma Get ready for some incredible parties and cracking cabaret at this year’s Midsumma festival. Celebrating queer culture for two solid weeks, Midsumma will entertain and amaze with live music, performing and visual arts, community events and sport. Opening night party Confetti, featuring The Presets and World’s End Press, looks to be a smashing start to the festivities. Whether you’re heading to the larger events like Carnival or Miss Gay and Miss Transexual Australia, or checking out individual shows like The Vaudevillians starring Jinkx Monsoon, you’re bound to witness some stellar performances. January 12 to February 2; various Melbourne venues. Sugar Mountain Festival While the details are still a little thin on the ground at the moment (such as the date, venue and line up) we can happily confirm that Sugar Mountain will be back for another festival of sensory assault in 2014. The Sugar Mountain team have joined forces with the Mushroom Group to take this festival up a notch. It has also been confirmed that Sugar Mountain will not be held at The Forum in 2014, where it has been since it’s humble beginnings in 2011. Watch this space, we’ll let you know more the second we find out. 2014; Somewhere! St Jerome's Laneway Festival As we watch many other festivals fall by the wayside, St Jerome’s Laneway Festival just keeps on keeping on. In fact Laneway is going from strength to strength, with dates now being added in New Zealand and Singapore, as well as all the usual places. Organisers have also been said to have been adding in an impressive bunch of tweaks to individual venues, so that you can get from the mosh to a gozleme in record time, or grab a cider on the way back from the toilets without missing half the festival. Laneway 2014 will feature the likes of Chvrches, Cloud Control, Danny Brown, Jagwar Ma, The Jezabels,Haim and the Girl of the Moment, Lorde. February 1; Footscray Community Arts Centre St Kilda Festival Melbourne’s largest free street festival, which has been running for over 30 years, is back once more to celebrate all over the St Kilda precinct. While it is certainly worth checking out the festival over the nine days, the highlight is undisputedly Festival Sunday, where 5 stages will be set up and the streets will be closed down so punters can freely wander between venues. Some of the first acts to be announced include Tully on Tully, The Dandens, House of Laurence, and Lester the Fierce. The full line up will be announced on January 6. February 1-9; St Kilda Port Fairy Folk Festival Eandearingly known by those who love it as the Folkie, this is a great festival for the whole family in a relaxed coastal location. These guys have been putting on wonderful festival after festival since 1977, and all the kinks are well and truly ironed out to give you the best time imaginable. Local legends playing include The Stray Sisters (of The Waifs), Mama Kin, Ash Grunwald, Archie Roach, as well as a strong collection of international acts. If you want to chill out over the Labour Day Weekend, we reckon this is the festival for you. March 7-10; Port Fairy Golden Plains If Port Fairy Folkie is the festival to chill out to over the Labour Day Weekend, then Golden Plains is where you go for major party times. Golden Plains 8 is Meredith Music Festival’s little sister, so expect a similar no dickheads policy, pink flamingos, and excellent vibes radiating from every corner of the Supernatural Amphitheatre. The line up is once again the ultimate kaleidoscope of genres, with acts including You Am I, Public Enemy, Cut Copy, Flying Lotus and truckloads more. We’d raise a boot to that any day. March 8 – 10; Supernatural Amphitheatre, Meredith. Boogie Easter weekend will from this moment on be known as Boogie Weekend due to the outrageously good times this festival provides. Musical acts to look forward to at Boogie 8 include Gary Clark Jr, Pond, The Frowning Clouds, Bad//Dreems, the Day Ravies to name a few. But the fun doesn’t end when the bands stop playing. The Boxwars is sure to be an event of total destruction worth watching, and shaking yo ass at the Hillbilly Clubhouse will be going off like a frog in a sock as per usual. April 18 – 20; Bruzzy’s farm, Tallarook Written by Hannah Valmadre and Mairead Armstrong
This weekend, Congress' lockdown spin-off invites you on a culinary jaunt to the streets of Tokyo. Congress Canteen is swinging past sibling venue Future Future to host a one-off Japanese-inspired tuckshop, slinging inventive sweet treats, savoury bites and some top-notch vino to match. Drop by the Richmond pop-up on Saturday, September 11, to find crafty riffs on a bunch of Japanese canteen classics. We're talking quail karaage teamed with bergamot kewpie ($25), a vegan shokupan-inspired dish featuring curried cauliflower and crisp panko coating ($13), a katsu pork chop ($20), pickled cucumber bites with sourdough miso ($6), and the Nikuman sanga — a fluffy concoction starring house-made duck sausage ($15). Heading up the dessert offering will be a couple of Aussie takes on dorayaki (red bean pancakes), including one that matches a Milo crème patissiere with chocolate sauce and meringue ($12). You can wash it all down with one of the day's nostalgic shakes — perhaps levelled up with a shot of sake — or something from the selection of craft beer. Or, venture back to the courtyard where famed winemaker Mac Forbes will be serving up bottles of his most popular drops alongside a selection of cellar finds, all to-go. The pop-up will only be serving a limited number of each menu item on the day — jump online to pre-order. [caption id="attachment_825026" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Nikuman, by Jana Langhorst[/caption] Top Image: Jana Langhorst
Do you like the Melbourne Festival, but find you don’t fit in with the crowd? Are you a little too young and way too poor? Well, Mudfest may be the thing for you. Initiated in 1990 — where it basically consisted of a few drama geeks shouting Shakespeare across the quad — Mudfest has since grown into the largest student-run arts festival in the country. This year’s theme, Make it New!, has brought an impressive array of theatre, film, art, and music to the festival. Live art is an especially exciting feature of the lineup with interdisciplinary works such as Conjunct and Blindness exploring the experiential elements of performance and reception. Audiences can look forward to vibrant light shows in galleries, and engulfing darkness in underground carparks. The theatre on offer is equally as outlandish. The (very) original work Gaga & Assange will deliver an unexpected on-stage romance, and Man Zoo will tell the surreal story of a time when naked men are kept captive in enclosures. There may not be any actual mud at this festival, but there will be full-frontal nudity and cheap beer. When it comes to student arts festivals, what more could you want? Check out the full Mudfest program here. Image: Sarah Walker
This week, Narre Warren arts precinct Bunjil Place is showing off its night owl side, with the next instalment of its Night Mode series. Kicking off from 6pm on Thursday, April 7, Night Mode: Cycle of Life Edition is set to deliver a tasty after-hours program of food, drinks, music, art and talks. You'll score late-night access to the current exhibition One Foot on the Ground, One Foot in the Water, which offers a compelling exploration into the ways in which we hold onto or let go of death. From 6pm, you can unleash your inner creative at a jewellery workshop guided by designer Vivian Qiu, who'll show you how to craft sentimental pieces from rice fabric. Meanwhile, a live DJ set by Simona Castricum will have you grooving into the night; S.A Vandoort will showcase his surrealist portrait pieces in the Look Into My Eyes exhibition; and holistic funeral director Bonita Ralph sets out to break down taboos around talking about death with a reflective conversation pop-up, Death Cafe. Bunjil Place's cafe and bar will be serving until 9pm, but you can also pre-order a range of picnic packs and hampers to enjoy while kicking back in the plaza. Entry to Night Mode: Cycle of Life Edition is free, though you'll need to register online for a spot. Top Images: Paoli-Smith
Players, are... you... ready? We sure hope so, because this month, QV Melbourne is transforming into a full-blown, state-of-the-art esports gaming hub, and you're all invited along for the ride. Popping up from Friday, February 28, until Sunday, March 15, the QV Gaming Dome is set to become the ultimate esports playground, complete with 18 gaming stations and a main stage hosting a series of big spectator gaming events. It's being presented in collaboration with renowned Aussie-based esports team The Chiefs, so you can also expect a star-studded lineup of guest appearances. While you can swing by any day from 12–9pm for a free gaming session, you'll also have the chance to meet, challenge and pick the brains of some of your esports idols, from 1–4pm every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. We're talking, Brisbane Lions star Mitch Robinson and brother Leigh, Daryl 'Mayker' May and Brandon 'Juves' Defina. At 1pm there'll be fan signings, while 3pm sees the main stage battles erupt, with punters invited to go head-to-head with the professionals. Players will duke it out with games like League of Legends, Fortnite and Rocket League, while the GT Sport stations see speedsters competing to record the fastest hot lap. Not only will you get to flex your skills in front of the professionals and nab a few autographs, but there are plenty of huge prizes, instant wins and special offers up for grabs, from centre retailers including Harvey Norman, Chunky Town, Spudbar and more. And the best part? It's all free. QV's Gaming Dome is open from 12–9pm daily.
The Victorian Government will continue the strict enforcement of social distancing and isolation rules until at least midnight on Sunday, June 21, with the government announcing the extension of its COVID-19 State of Emergency. First made in March and due to expire at midnight on Monday, April 13, the State of Emergency was initially extended until Monday, May 11. With the new extension, current restrictions — which came into force today — are now in place for three weeks. The State of Emergency declaration allows the state's authorised officers to "act to eliminate or reduce a serious risk to public health" as directed by Victoria's Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton. That means restricting movement, preventing entry to premises and venues and detaining people — measures that have been in place over the past two months as the state responds to the coronavirus. Announcing the extension, Sutton noted that the continued restrictions are needed to continue to keep slowing the spread of COVID-19. "Victorians have done a great job sticking to the coronavirus restrictions – their actions have saved countless lives," he said. "We know restrictions can be frustrating, but they are working. It's vital we continue to follow these directions to keep our community transmission numbers low and protect more Victorians." https://www.facebook.com/healthgovau/photos/a.991516417558722/3176855505691458/?type=3&theater With new restrictions coming into force today, Monday, June 1, the message has changed from "stay home" to "stay safe". While Victorians can now visit restaurants and pubs, head on regional holidays and gather in groups of up to 20, they're encouraged to continue following social distancing measures, practising good hygiene and avoid crowds. They're also required to continue working from home if possible. You can find out more about what you can and can't do from today over here. Fines are being handed out to folks who breach the restrictions, with Victoria Police issuing 5957 fines since Saturday, March 28, according to The Age. The state's financial penalties span up to $1652 for individuals and up to $9913 for businesses. Under the State of Emergency, people who refuse to comply can also be taken to court, where the fine imposed could reach up to $20,000 for individuals and $100,000 for companies. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Victoria and how to protect yourself, head to the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services website.
There are a few different holy experiences you could choose to indulge in over the Easter break. But only one of them will find you getting good and weird with live tunes and party vibes in the central Victorian countryside. From March 31 to April 1, 2018, Boogie festival returns to its Tallarook farm digs for edition number 12, where it'll again deliver a three-day extravaganza of eats, drinks, music and shape-throwing. The just-dropped artist lineup is better than any Easter egg you'll unwrap, the one stage playing host to a truly mixed bag of musical goodies. There'll be sets from American alt-rockers Deer Tick, Melbourne punk outfit Clowns, local legends Cash Savage and The Last Drinks, and rising RnB star Thando, as well as a solo performance from iconic singer-songwriter Angel Olsen. Acts like Cable Ties, Good Boy, Fraser A Gorman and Indigenoise will add to the local flavour, with more artists set to be announced in the coming weeks. Of course, the tunes are just one part of the festival fun, backed by a tidy array of pop-up bars and food vendors to ensure your boogie games stays strong across the long weekend. BOOGIE 12 LINEUP Deer Tick Cash Savage and The Last Drinks Clowns Angel Olsen (solo) Cable Ties Frowning Clouds Fraser A Gorman PSsychedelic Porn Crumpets Michael Hurley Good Boy Thando Birdcloud Didirri Jess Ribeiro Indigenoise Crepes Hachiku Lowtide Luke Elliot Huge Magnet Bitch Diesel
The team from Pierogi Pierogi is taking over The Gasometer Hotel's kitchen to ring in International Workers' Day the only way it can: with lots of pierogi. As purveyors of Melbourne's finest handmade Polish dumplings, the market regulars will embrace the revolutionary spirit with parcels filled with kapusta (mushroom and sauerkraut), ruskie (potato and cheese), mieso (beef and veggies) and banan (deep-fried banana and coconut flakes). And pierogi isn't even all of it — hearty krupnik soup, pickled herring and goulash will be on offer too, as well as lots and lots of vodka. Best come with an empty stomach. Pierogi Pierogi promises to "put a tasty dumpling-shaped spanner into the machinations of an oppressive flavourless state". Plus, in addition to the Polish cuisine, the night will feature Turkish disco from DJ Baba Noir and French gypsy punk from Cyclo Timik. It all goes down from 5pm until late on Sunday, April 29.
Ironically enough, this year's been one gnarly ride for Urbnsurf Melbourne. After months of anticipation, Australia's first surf park finally made its grand debut in January, but was forced to take a hiatus from March thanks to the pandemic. The venue then managed to reopen for a few short weeks in June, before restrictions returned and shuttered operations again. Now, four quiet months on, Urbnsurf is gearing up for its long-awaited return, announcing it'll fire up the waves once more starting from this Wednesday, October 21. While the park won't be open in all its glory just yet, it's kicking things off by taking up to 30 surfing guests per hour, on each side of its two-hectare surfing lagoon. Spectator visits are on hold for a little while longer, as is the return of amenities like the kids' playground, lagoon-side hot tubs and that new eatery from the Three Blue Ducks crew. Of course, there'll be a few new rules to follow, in keeping with the Victorian Government's COVID-safe guidelines. Expect caps on numbers for lessons and surf sessions, boosted sanitation procedures, density limits on all indoor areas and enforced social distancing measures. Masks must be worn whenever you're not surfing and visitors need to live or work within 25 kilometres of the park. [caption id="attachment_756496" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Courtesy Urbnsurf and Ed Sloane[/caption] On the calendar, you'll find two new sessions joining the classic intermediate and advanced options of before. There's the Cruiser Sessions, aimed at novice riders looking for some pointbreak-style waves, and the Expert Sessions, serving up heavier barrels best tackled by experienced surfers. And if you're taking it easy, try the Play In The Bay whitewater sessions or sign up for a lesson. There'll be more events and surfing options to follow, as metropolitan Melbourne's restrictions continue to ease. Find Urbnsurf from Wednesday, October 21, near Melbourne Airport. It's open from 6am–10pm daily in spring, with slightly varied hours during the first week back. You can book in for surf sessions and surf lessons via the park's website. Images: Courtesy Urbnsurf, Ed Sloane and Adam Gibson.
The government may have ditched the $7 GP co-payment, but Australia’s current health care system still leaves a lot to be desired. In fact it’d almost be funny, if your life didn’t literally depend on it. But you should at least get some laughs out of satirical musical Grey’s Lobotomy, a cheesy but high energy production set in a grim public hospital that skewers patients, doctors and administrators alike. Opening at St Kilda’s Alex Theatre on Friday, July 10, this new show from local writer-director Xavier Brouwer follows Nurse Victoria Grey as she fights off penny-pinching bureaucrats, lascivious coworkers, uncooperative patients and The Grim Reaper himself. The show features 14 original songs including a show stopping number about bed shortages, an all-singing all-dancing cast featuring at least one actual doctor, and earned strong reviews during an early run at RMIT’s Kaleide Theatre. That being said, anyone currently battling illness should probably steer well clear. For more information, visit www.greyslobotomy.com
As part of ACMI’s Spectacle: The Music Video Exhibition and Melbourne Music Week this one-off event sees a panel of Gotye’s collaborators come together to dissect some of the video clips that have defined this artist’s rise from local talent to international star. In 2011, a video clip transformed Wally De Backer into a worldwide phenomenon and household name; two years later Somebody That I Used to Know has clocked up close to 500 million views online. Throughout his career these videos have played an important role in Gotye’s commercial success, but more importantly have offered representations of a visual diversity that reflects the scope of this artist’s own distinctive sonic palette. Like his songs themselves, each one manages to dream up a whole world — whether it’s the fragile wasteland of his early hit Heart’s a Mess or the frantic, full-blown animation of State of the Art. This event will focus on the journey that each video takes from initial concept all the way through to final production, with host Megan Spencer joined by filmmakers Natasha Pincus and Andrew Goldsmith, as well as Ivan Dixon and Greg Sharp from the animation studio Rubber House.
Nestled in the heart of Yarra Valley wine country in Healesville, Jayden Ong Winery & Cellar Bar (from the co-owner of Cumulus Inc of the same name) has been serving up the goods for two years now. And in honour of that fact, it's throwing a four-day birthday party, from January 26–29. The festivities will be kicking on from 12pm each day, with a lineup of live tunes and DJs headlined by Ennio Styles, bringing the groove to the flower-filled cellar door. A bumper drinks offering is set to pour locally-focused cocktails and brews alongside the winery's celebrated crop of vino. And, for an extra celebratory touch, there'll even be champagne available by the glass. Meanwhile, the weekend's food offering will centre around tasty things served hot off the charcoal grill — complete with a $75 two-course menu featuring plates like wood-grilled flank steak with café de Paris butter, and a freekeh salad with shanklish. Add-ons include grilled Skull Island prawns, fresh oysters and local cheeses courtesy of Stone & Crow.
It was a long time in lockdown, Melbourne, but, excitingly, events are starting to pop up on the cultural calendar for summer. One of the first is an immersive playground for kidults and children alike taking over The District Docklands from Thursday, November 26. It was initially set to end at the end of January 2021, but was extended till Sunday, May 23 due to popularity. Dubbed Imaginaria, the installation is made up of different structures each filled with lights, sounds, smells and even circus stars. You'll be able to wander through a futuristic light maze, a giant inflatable bubble, an echo cave, a secret garden and across a high beam in a NASA-inspired black hole simulator. The experience has been designed and produced by Loose Collective, which was also behind Fed Square's Sensory Underground. The hour-long experience is a shoes-off affair and open to all ages. It'll have capacity limits and strict hygiene measures — including mandatory face masks — as many events will this year. Tickets are $29.95 a pop for adults and go on sale from Friday, October 9 via Ticketmaster. Imaginaria is open from 10am–5pm Tuesday–Thursday and 10am–6pm Friday–Saturday. Images: William Hamilton-Coates
Chunky Monkey, Clusterfluff, New York Super Fudge Chunk. These are just some of the more popular flavours of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream, a leading cause of happiness around the world since 1978. While doctors in the future will no doubt tell me otherwise, I can’t think of many things better than gorging a giant tub of sweet, sweet ice-cream on a hot December day, except for maybe getting some friends together and going to the movies. Well, it turns out Ben & Jerry’s can help me there as well. Staring on December 1 and running until a few days before Christmas, Ben & Jerry’s Open Air Cinema, erected on St Kilda’s South Beach Reserve, will combine recent releases like Gravity, The Counselor and We Are The Millers with some more nostalgic picks, including Point Break, The Breakfast Club and sing-a-long screening of Grease. Festivities start daily at 6pm with live performances from local bands and DJs. The film program starts after dark, usually around 8.30pm, giving you plenty of time to suss out the bar and stock up on snacks. The exceptions are the Sunday ‘Sundae’ Sessions, which kicks off an hour earlier with additional music and free Ben & Jerry’s for all. For session times and more information, check out the website here.
The restaurant behind last year's legendary 29-cheese gnocchi creation, it's safe to say South Yarra's Cucinetta has a soft spot for pillowy potato dumplings. This cosy eatery specialises in generous pasta dishes, alongside a slew of other traditional Italian fare, its weekly-changing menu heroing top local produce and home-style cooking. In good news for true aficionados, a new handmade gnocchi dish appears with each Tuesday's new menu. These days, you might find yourself sitting down to a version made with rocket pesto and swordfish, a fusion of crab, clams and cherry tomatoes, or perhaps a seasonal concoction of Italian sausage, pumpkin cream and truffle oil. Plus, the kitchen also serves up cacio e pepe straight out of a pecorino wheel every day of the week.
It's official. Soft serve is a thing. No longer stuck in the realm of 50 cent cones at McDonald's, soft serve has well and truly made it to the Melbourne mainstream with the likes of Tuck Shop Take Away pumping out inventive flavours like Redskin, Froot Loops and jam doughnut and the just-gone Pierre's summer pop-up at Green Park. And now, a soft serve international heavyweight is getting in on the game. Meet Milkcow, Korea's all-organic, all-natural soft serve ice cream chain. With 60 stores worldwide, Milkcow has landed in Melbourne for their first ever Australian pop-up. Instead of committing to permanent digs straight-up, it's popping up for just two months in Driver Lane at The Strand in the space that once belonged to Cacao Lab. Get down there anytime between now and May 31 to try a bunch of exotic flavours and epic add-ons. You might want to start with one of Milkcow's three signature creations: the Milky Way, which is pure, milky ice-cream, without any extras; Milky Honey, swirled with 100% organic honey; or Milky Cube, laced with honey swirl and honeycomb wedges. All of their soft serve is made with locally-sourced, organic milk, which is churned on-site every morning. For something a little more decadent, try the sweet-yet-salty Black Pearl, the tropical-inspired Santorini or the affogato-like Avalanche, which is topped with coffee beans, fairy floss and a double espresso. And these are just the tip of the ice cream berg. You can top your soft serve with anything from fairy floss clouds and macarons to caramel popcorn and a shot of espresso. Milkcow has worked with BrandWorks and props atelier Amanda May Lee to turn the pop-up into a visual adventure. Look out for giant paper soft serve cones and a living, breathing forest. What's more, Naked Truth Chocolates and the Sensory Lab are also on-site, serving up addictive confectionery and quality coffee. The Milkcow pop-up will run from Friday, April 1 until Tuesday, May 31 at Driver Lane, The Strand in the CBD. It's open from 11.30am until 10pm daily. For more info, visit milkcow.com.au.
This March, Melbourne has been inundated with margarita specials, from discounted margs at Mamas Group to unlimited late-night margaritas at George's Social Club and bottomless margaritas and margheritas at Culprit. Whoever made margarita month a thing has well and truly succeeded in convincing local restaurants and bars to jump on the bandwagon. But we aren't complaining. Who doesn't love a discounted cocktail? The latest spot to join in the marg madness is Flour Child down in St Kilda. But instead of offering discounts or free-flowing drinks deals, the crew is giving the cocktails away for free. From Monday, March 18–Sunday, March 24, the Flour Child team is serving up free Patrón margaritas to the first 50 people who come in and have an F1 ticket each day. Yes, this is especially for the motor heads or new racing fans who were won over by the Drive to Survive doco and decided to attend this year's F1. Flour Child is just a 15-minute walk from the racecourse so it really isn't a bad spot for a Grand Prix pre-game. Particularly when it's free.
Over the last few years, we've seen a certain literary crime-solver follow the action-packed route with Robert Downey Jr, then stalk around modern-day London as Benedict Cumberbatch, and head to America in the guise of Jonny Lee Miller. We've seen Sherlock Holmes in his prime, puzzling over clues and cracking cases. We've seen him save the day, struggle against a nemesis or two and even shoulder a few rough patches. What we haven't seen is the famous "elementary!"-exclaiming figure later in life — well, until now that is. Enter Mr. Holmes, an effort that explores what comes next for the cantankerous detective with the brilliant analytical mind. Set in 1947 and adhering to the original timeline for Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's creation, the latest filmic take on the ace investigator sees him older, wiser and a little worse for wear. His deductive skills still put others to shame, but his 93-year-old memory is failing. After a trip to Japan, Sherlock (Ian McKellen) returns to his seaside farmhouse buoyed with hope that he's found the answer to his ailing state; yet even his great intellect can't conjure a solution to getting long in the tooth. As he attempts to gather his wits to write his own version of his last-ever case, he shares his knowhow with Roger (Milo Parker), the young son of his housekeeper (Laura Linney), with the boy eager to learn everything he can from his idol. Watson might be absent, and Baker Street isn't a primary place of interest, but no rendering of the legendary detective would be complete without a cryptic situation (or several) to unravel. Just don't expect a traditional whodunit, because that's what this film is not. Piecing together the tale Holmes is jotting down — as well as the secretive details of his recent overseas jaunt — actually prove the feature's least intriguing parts. In a film that's more character study than mystery, the real enigma in need of untangling is Sherlock himself. Other recent screen incarnations have fleshed out the person behind the reputation, though not in such a delicate and delightful fashion as McKellen's hobbling, grumbling curmudgeon. His super sleuth isn't just a formidable brain packaged with some unsociable traits; he's a fragile elderly man facing a short future while looking back on a life he's no longer all that certain about. It feels fitting, then, that director Bill Condon lets his star steal the show in their second collaboration after 1998's acclaimed Gods and Monsters. In adapting Mitch Cullin's novel A Slight Trick of the Mind and trawling through its driving theme of accepting mortality, the filmmaker hones in not just on matters of the busy head, but those of the unfulfilled heart — and he has the perfect lead for the job. Condon also boasts a fine eye for the warm hues needed to colour Mr. Holmes' interpretation of the icon's golden years, and a feel for the stately rhythm required for what amounts to a hero's last chapter. Yes, his film is old in its protagonist and old-fashioned in its nature, but it's also an elegant, enjoyable alternative to the recent spate of rousing revisionist takes. That dispelling myths about the fictional hero becomes the film's running joke speaks to the vibe he's going for — and when it comes to Sherlock on screen, it's a vibe that's more than welcome.
If you've already covered your dining table with jigsaw puzzles, spent hours live streaming koalas and are looking for something else to do with your house mate, why don't you organise a night of friendly competition and whip out some board games. Helping you do just that is Australia's newest subscription service. The Board Game Box, as it has fittingly been dubbed, delivers a new board game to your door each month. You can sign up for one ($20), three ($60), six ($120) or 12 ($220) months, with a $12.20 shipping fee. There's no word on exactly what games you'll be sent each month, but it's promising that boxes will contain "latest releases, as well as the classics board games" and images hint to the likes of Monopoly and chess. Board games not your thing? The same company also offers subscription puzzle boxes, Lego boxes and soap boxes. Check out all of the options over here. If you're sick of being on your screen — sliding down endless Twitter holes and glued to live streams — this may be the perfect antidote. If you can't get enough of your screen, however, check out our round up of the best virtual events. You can sign up to The Board Game Box over here.
When you've adapted one integral part of everyone's childhood for adults, what do you do next? Set your sights on another, naturally. After serving up some of Caulfield North's finest burgers for the last couple of years — and offering up the type of jaffles and shakes you definitely didn't get at school from inside its retro-styled, blackboard-adorned interior — the Tuck Shop Take Away crew have now opened their own milk bar. Setting up shop at 261 Hawthorn Road just down from their first joint, Karton Milk Bar keeps things old school with fridges filled with frosty drinks, a focus on signature frozen treats and an NBA Jam arcade game in the corner. Now that should bring back some memories. So will the kind of sweet deal you probably haven't seen in decades: $1 bags of mixed lollies. The idea is that hungry folks can grab a burg up the road, then wander down to pick up a house-made slushie, basic pantry supplies, a hot pie if you're still hungry — and flavoured milk, of course. As for those chilled desserts, expect icy poles, ice cream sandwiches and take-home tubs of ice cream. Yep, that's what milk bars are for. Find Karton Milk Bar at 261 Hawthorn Road, Caulfield North, open from 10am to 9pm Tuesday to Saturday. Check out their Facebook page or Instagram feed for more details.
This year's edition of the Melbourne Writers Festival is headed to a device near you. Taking place entirely online, MWF 2020 is set to hit screens from Friday, August 7 to Sunday, August 16, with a roll-call of literary greats in tow. And, thanks to a new pay-what-you-can format, this annual celebration of words is as accessible as ever. The program is packed full of virtual events, ranging from talks and conversations to workshops and podcasts, hosted by voices both familiar and new. The MFW Gala takes the form of a women-led meeting of minds, with words from the likes of actor and screenwriter Michelle Law, award-winning novelist Favel Parrett and 2020 Stella Prize-winner Jess Hill, hosted by author and commentator Jamila Rizvi. Renowned writers, including Christos Tsiolkas (The Slap, Barracuda) and Helen Garner (Monkey Grip, Joe Cinque's Consolation), reflect on their own experiences of the last few months for new conversation series Read All About It, while former Prime Ministers Julia Gillard and Malcolm Turnbull each host a talk discussing their respective new books. Elsewhere, you'll dive into some real-life lockdown love conundrums courtesy of the Take It From Me panel (and, yes, you can submit your own conundrum), reflect on the Uluru Statement with Torres Strait Islander writer Thomas Mayor, hear from Gamilaroi/Dunghutti writer Marlee Silva on her book showcasing the voices of First Nations women, and enjoy a lively sit down with Crazy Rich Asians author Kevin Kwan. To access each MWF event, you'll need to book a ticket online for $0, $5, $10, $20 or $50 — depending on what you can afford.
One for the bargain hunters: Northcote Social Club's NS-Flea Market is back on Sunday, October 23. After the success of the first iteration back in May, the market's are working with even more local creators and collectors for this second edition. From 12pm-4pm, creators will be slinging their wares — hoping to help the upcycling revolution. Plus, it's all indoors, so there's no need to fear the rain in the usual flea market carpark setting. Browse in peace. We recommend coming here to swap the online shopping life for something far more fun and fruitful. Expect all manners of items, ranging from jewellery and clothes, to art, plants and handmade goods. Who knows what you'll find at an event like this? There's even grub available in between shopping. Head to Northcote Social Club's pub to get a classic Sunday roast for $25, alongside all the beers and pub feeds you know and love.
Lock up your bowler hats and crack pipes, Babyshambles are coming to town! Already announced as part of a whopping Splendour in the Grass lineup, Pete Doherty and co have added a run of sideshows to take place in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Perth. Originally a side project for Doherty when he took some time off from his first band, The Libertines, Babyshambles have had a tumultuous existence, releasing two occasionally brilliant albums while on a rollercoaster of substance abuse, no shows and lineup changes. But when they are at the top of their game, there are few better writers of Britpop than Pete Doherty — just listen to 'Fuck Forever' or 'Albion' for proof. Who even knows if they'll be able to keep it together throughout the tour, but with a new album planned and Doherty seemingly in good health (maybe living with Macaulay Culkin helps?), these sideshows could be something special. Thurs 25 July – Palace Theatre – Melbourne Fri 26 July – Splendour In The Grass – Byron Bay - SOLD OUT Sun 28 July – Enmore - Sydney Mon 29 July – HQ - Adelaide Wed 31 July – Metro City – Perth https://youtube.com/watch?v=IpeJFVvwz6A
Arts Centre Melbourne will pay homage to the history, culture and country of First Nations artists and communities, with a jam-packed NAIDOC Week program from Sunday, July 3–Sunday, July 10. But you'll catch an extra big dose of creativity when it kicks things off with a special NAIDOC Week edition of its St Kilda Road Sunday market on July 3. From 10am, you'll be able to shop a curation of goodies from celebrated First Nations designers and businesses including Clothing The Gaps, Haus of Dizzy, The Koori Circle, Gammon Threads and more. Expect everything from art and fashion, to accessories and homewares. If that leaves you feeling inspired to create, you can try your hand at one of the day's free workshops — perhaps a songwriting session with composer and musician Allara, or a hip hop dance workshop led by the Indigenous Outreach Projects collective. There's even a lesson in feather-flower-making, guided by Taungurung and Dja Dja Wurrung artist Cassie Leatham, and matched with bush tucker. You can pre-register your interest and secure your spot for any class online. While you're there, be sure to check out Clothing The Gaps' eight new poster designs, which will be showcased across Arts Centre Melbourne's Hamer Hall and St Kilda Rd precincts on the day.
If you are feeling like your wardrobe needs a bit of an update, then you're in luck. Australian clothing brand Assembly Label is hosting an online warehouse sale for a limited time, so you can buy some new linen pants, simple tees and easy breezy button-ups without going too hard on the wallet. Known for its timeless, minimalist pieces, Assembly Label is a go-to for top-quality staples that'll take you from your morning coffee to working in your living room (aka the office), lounging around on weekends and going out for lunch with mates — really, you won't need much else. The online warehouse sale kicks off Monday, March 7 with a wide range of both men's and women's wear on offer. If you've not quite accepted that summer's over — or if you're planning ahead for a mid-year trip to the northern hemisphere — you can stock up on Assembly signature summery linen dresses, swimwear, skirts and shorts. Best of all, the selection will be on sale at up to 70 percent off for a limited time only with free shipping across Australia, too. Shipping to New Zealand costs $15. Assembly Label's online warehouse sale runs from March 7-9. To check what you can nab for up to 70 percent off, head here.
In the spirit of NAIDOC Week, which this year runs from Sunday, July 3–Sunday, July 10, Arts Centre Melbourne is set to deliver a jam-packed program of special events paying homage to the history, culture and country of First Nations artists and communities. The lineup launches on July 3 with a Sunday market showcasing goodies from First Nations businesses including Clothing The Gaps, Haus of Dizzy and The Koori Circle. It'll also host a series of free workshops diving into arts like songwriting, hip hop dance and feather-flower-making — you can secure your spot online. Right throughout NAIDOC Week, the Arts Centre building will be graced with artworks by First Nations artists like Bri Pengarte Apma Hayes, Jacinta Keefe and Tiffany Garvie. And you can catch Ancestral Memory — a compelling digital projection about the Spirit Eel by Maree Clarke (Mutti Mutti/Yorta Yorta/BoonWurrung/Wamba Wamba) and nephew Mitch Mahoney (BoonWurrung/Barkinji) — lighting up the facade of Hamer Hall for the month of July. Also on the NAIDOC Week bill are a slew of sonic treats, including MSO-backed concerts with Electric Fields (July 7) and Spinifex Gum (July 9). And on July 10, Songlines' concert Get Up, Stand Up, Show Up & Shake a Leg takes over the Fairfax Studio, assembling music legends like Alice Skye, Soju Gang, Yung Warriors, Aunty Zeta and Bart Willoughby. [caption id="attachment_859302" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Spinifex Gum[/caption] Top Image: Archie Roach, by Jacinta Keefe (whose work will be displayed across the Arts Centre facade during NAIDOC Week).
When blissed out, soon-to-be-married American couple Nica (Hani Furstenberg) and Alex (Gael Garcia Bernal), set off on a hiking adventure in Georgia's remote Caucasus Mountains, they have little idea that their seemingly idealistic world is about to be profoundly challenged. To all appearances, the two share an unshakeable connection — spiritually at ease yet sexually charged. Nica is spirited and independent, and Alex adores her. They toy with language games, compete playfully over who is fastest or strongest, and are in free pursuit of their mutual wanderlust. Local guide Dato (Georgian actor and real-life expert mountaineer Bidzina Gujabidze) leads them through one breathtaking scene after another. Then, halfway through the film, a single event (not to be delineated here, for fear of giving too much away), corrupts the couple's bond, raising questions of trust, betrayal, and guilt. Russian-born, American-raised director Julia Loktev's intention is to carry us into the film's mental and physical world, one in which time seems to stretch on forever and all conviction has been thrown into doubt. Thanks to Palace Films, we have 10 double passes to give away to see The Loneliest Planet. To be in the running, subscribe to Concrete Playground (if you haven't already) then email us with your name and postal address at hello@concreteplayground.com.au. Read our full review here. https://youtube.com/watch?v=SIIMFHcC1Fc
When the Australian Government announced on Sunday night that pubs, bars and nightclubs would be closing the following day to help contain COVID-19, it led to the mass-buying of booze across the country. Bottle shops are not impacted by the closures, but it didn't stop Aussies stocking up just in case. Booze is just the latest item to be targeted by panic-buying, with toilet paper going first, then essential food items. Supermarkets across the country have since introduced strict two-pack-per-person limits on coveted items, such as eggs, sugar, white milk, frozen desserts and canned tomatoes, and now bottle shops are following suit. BWS and Dan Murphy's, who are both owned by the Woolworths Group, introduced temporary limits on alcohol. A statement on the Dan Murphy's website reads, "these limits are in place to ensure everyone has access to the drinks they love". Thankfully, the limits aren't quite as strict as those on food. https://twitter.com/BellTowerTimes/status/1242662405701660672 At Dan Murphy's in NSW, Vic, ACT, Qld, NT, SA and Tas, the limit per customer per day is 18 bottles of wine, three casks of wine, six bottles of spirits and three cases of beer, cider and premix. BWS has implemented similar restrictions, with all states and territories (except for WA) having per customer, per shop limits of 12 bottles of wine, three casks of wine, four bottles of spirits and four cases of beer, spirits, premix and cider. WA has stricter limits, in-line with state regulations, with customers able to buy a maximum of two from the following categories: 11.25 litres of beer, cider or pre-mix spirits; 2.25 litres of wine; one litre of spirits; and one litre of fortified wine. Both chains are also encouraging social distancing, have introduced maximum capacities at their stores, and are offering pick-up and delivery services. The temporary alcohol limits are now in place at stores across the country. To order pick-up and delivery head to the BWS and Dan Murphy's websites. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website. Top image: Stephen Dann via Flickr.
American football fans have a heap of Melbourne sports bars to choose from when looking for a spot to watch the 2025 Superbowl, but we are all about Le Bon Ton's offerings. From 9.30am on Monday, February 10 (you might want to book this day off), the Collingwood diner is playing the game live and loud, plus running a bunch of food and bev deals. This will include a $65 (per person) grazing board packed with USA-inspired gameday bites like its chicken and waffles with hot honey and jalapeno mayo as well as a pit-smoked wing bucket. Those wanting to get on the beers in the morning cal also enjoy $8 budweiser stubbies or $20 buckets that come with four bottles. And whilethe game is playing throughout the day, the crew will also be giving away a bunch of Budweiser merch. It'll be a big morning full of football, food and bevs — as well as the opportunity to watch Kendrick Lamar's halftime show live.
Bayside burger-lovers, we've got some good news. Royal Stacks is heading to Brighton for a two-day pop-up, and its bringing its cheesy french fries, burger specials and Double Stacks with it. Taking over Church Street's Allegro on Friday, October 9 and Saturday, October 10, the Stacks menu will be available in-store and via Deliveroo for Melburnians within five kilometres. You can check if you make the cut right here. On the menu: fried chicken sandwiches, The King (which has a mac 'n' cheese croquette inside it), the cheesy chicken Kavorka, shakes and these fries topped with molten cheese. Ooft. Just look at this: You can pre-order your burgs and fries via Hungry Hungry for pick-up or head on over to Deliveroo if you want it to come to you.
The onset of those searing summer rays should remind us that skin cancer is Australia's biggest killer. But national awareness doesn't seem to mirror the scary statistics. In an attempt to rectify this, Pretty Shady is injecting some style into the skin cancer awareness campaign, with sun protection gear you can get your hands on for free — some of it rather covetable and limited edition. Included is a beautifully designed Basil Bangs beach umbrella (there are 50 of those) and a rad Lister-designed tee (just 40). There's also a stack of reversible bucket hats (800), some handcrafted sunnies (800), and a few hundred litres of sunscreen up for grabs. These items ought to help you kick the habit of poolside tanning. Pretty Shady is aiming to be the generation that stops the spread of skin cancer, one summer at a time. With high-profile ambassadors such as Nicole Warne, Anthony Lister and Gossling, they're packing a pretty powerful cool factor. Enter the competition to win Pretty Shady gear and you'll automatically go into the draw to win even more. The five limited edition items will be released one by one. So jump on in as soon as possible to increase your chances of securing a piece of the shady action. And even if you don't win, we encourage you to find a way to, in the words of a much daggier campaign, slip slop slap.
Electronic super duo Canyons is collaborating with celebrated visual artist Daniel Boyd to present 100 Million Nights, a multisensory performance making its way around the country. Boyd's digital artwork is presented as a three-panel video installation, in front of which Canyons perform live as a four-piece band. Ryan Grieve and Leo Thomson of Canyons have been friends with Boyd for a while. Recently, Boyd was preparing for an exhibition when he asked the duo to create some music to complement his video works. The project was a hit and the three decided to create a much larger-scale sight and sound work. The trio have worked closely together, sharing images and snippets of music to create a unique, multisensorial experience. "The big thing for all of us was wanting to make it one united piece in the sense of a true collaboration", explains Grieve. "We didn't want it to feel like Dan's visuals were just a backing track for us. He created the visuals in response to music we would give him as a starting point and vice versa. "It was quite different in the sense that if we were writing an album, it would be a much longer process. With this, we went with the initial feeling and thought and mood that came up and felt right. If something didn't work, it didn't work, but we tried not to question it too much when something came up and felt good." In Boyd's words, "100 Million Nights is an idea, an expanse. Looking at something that connects everyone and, to me, the birth of the universe is what this was about. Acknowledging the loss of memory and not being able to fully comprehend our past." Boyd has established himself as one of Australia's most talented artists. He was initially known for his paintings but recently has moved to digital works. He exhibits regularly both domestically and internationally. In 2007, Boyd was selected to participate in the first National Indigenous Art Triennial, Culture Warriors, at the National Gallery of Australia. In 2011, he was London's Natural History Museum's artist in residence. Boyd's work is held in pretty much every major collection of art in Australia: the National Gallery of Australia in Canberra, the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia in Sydney, the National Gallery of Victoria and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. Ryan Grieve and Leo Thomson released their first EP on the duo's own label Hole in the Sky (they've also released records by Tame Impala and Pond). They've achieved a great deal of success internationally. In 2011, the New York Times described their music as "a good exercise in categorical confusion — pre- and post- disco, analog-synth ambiance and noise, drones, 1970s German experimental rock, new wave. All that, and it doesn't feel over-thought". The music of 100 Million Nights is somewhat of a musical departure from Canyons' usual style with the pair understanding it as more of a "creative side-step". 100 Million Nights is on at The Residence in Melbourne on Thursday, November 21, and thanks to Modular, we have two double passes to give away. For your chance to win, subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter (if you haven't already), and email win.melbourne@concreteplayground.com.au with your name and address. Read our full feature on 100 Million Nights here. https://youtube.com/watch?v=P83821HGsqg
Tiny CBD drinks haven Yarra Falls is celebrating its first birthday this month — with not just one party, but a whole slew of celebrations. And next on the agenda is a special collaboration edition of its Silver Moon Sundays live music series. From 6pm on Sunday, February 26, it's teaming up with Fitzroy cocktail haunt Ends & Means for a tune-filled party that's heavy on 70s trash-country vibes. Which means you should bust out your finest tight denims and get set for sparkly disco balls aplenty. Catalonia-born guitarist Guillem Camós will be soundtracking the evening's fun, promising exactly the kind of danceable tunes you need to send out the final weekend of summer in style. Courtesy of Ends & Means, there'll be cocktail specials to match — including a rum slushie dubbed the Ocka Colada, a reworked Clover Club featuring strawberry gum, and a whisky highball pairing 78 Degrees with native curry herb. Entry is free — though, with space at Yarra Falls being tight, we recommend getting in early.
Rooftop bars are an integral part of Melbourne's nightlife culture. And we are fully supportive of that — sipping on some cold ones under the stars is a glorious way to spend an evening. Whether you're keen for a boogie or just want to hang out with some mates, rooftops bars are a must. The winter weather may be blowing strong, but with ample outdoor heating, no one can stop Melburnians from enjoying a night in the fresh open air. So, it's time to raise the roof and enjoy a drink from great heights. With help from our friends at Heineken, we've come up with a list of our favourite sky-high Melbourne establishments perfect for catching stars and savouring a beer.
Six businesses in Healesville — all on the same block — have joined forces to create the Healesville Makers Quarter. Whenever you fancy it, you can jump in your car, drive an hour from the city, and spend an afternoon tasting your way around their creations, from small-batch wines to award-winning gins. In the collection are Four Pillars Gin and Watts River Brewing, alongside four wineries: Jayden Ong, Payten & Jones, No. 7 Healesville and Giammarino. And, on top of teaming up, they've launched an event series called Sip & Stroll. The first happened on the Winter Solstice, and the second will take place on Saturday, September 13, to mark the coming of spring. Arrive anytime after midday for an afternoon of drinks, bites and stories. As you wander from venue to venue, you'll be treated to exceptional wines, limited-edition brews and experimental drops. In between sips, learn about the skill, experience and ideas that went into them — and kick back in the fresh air and rolling hills of the Yarra Valley. You're welcome to take your dog along with you.
Warm, cosy, rosy, charming, feel-good: typically when a film spins its story during The Troubles in Northern Ireland, none of these words apply. But with Belfast, Kenneth Branagh has made a movie set in its eponymous city when the Protestant-versus-Catholic violence was a constant sight, and also helmed a feature that's about a childhood spent with that conflict as a backdrop. It's an approach that only works because Branagh draws from his own experiences — the film isn't a play-by-play memoir, but it's also clearly personal. Here, it's 1969, when the actor-turned-filmmaker would've been nine years old. The movie's protagonist, Buddy (first-timer Jude Hill), is that exact age, in fact. And with the beginnings of a three-decade-long sectarian fracas bubbling and boiling around him, he navigates the usual age-appropriate antics, such as school, crushes, doting grandparents with ailing health and a potential big move. The Troubles are a constant sight in the largely monochrome-hued film, too, and the reason Buddy's that parents are contemplating relocating to England, something they wouldn't have dreamed of otherwise. Pa (Jamie Dornan, The Tourist) already spends most of his time working there as a joiner, leaving Ma (Caitríona Balfe, Outlander) at home with Buddy and his elder brother Will (Lewis McAskie, Here Before) — with assistance from the boys' Granny (Judi Dench, Six Minutes to Midnight) and Pop (Ciarán Hinds, The Man in the Hat) — and he's been offered a new job that comes with a house. The violence swirling through Belfast has already made it to the family's street, to their hounded Catholic neighbours and, when Pa refuses to join the fray, put them on their fellow Protestants' hit list. Shifting to London (or perhaps further, to Sydney or Vancouver) would provide a new start and a safer future, but leaving all they've ever known isn't a simple decision. Belfast's adult characters are only known as Buddy would know them, such is Branagh's commitment to seeing this story, time and place through a child's eyes as he once did. And, while there's much debate to be had between Pa and Ma about whether to go or stay, the film is filled with its young lead's joys and worries — with the prospect of never again seeing the Catholic classmate he swoons over high among the boy's concerns. Belfast isn't short on context, however, though there's zero chance that it could be mistaken for a meaty interrogation of The Troubles. Branagh weaves in examples of how the push-and-pull of the conflict that's inescapable in his neighbourhood every day, Molotov cocktails, broken windows, blazes, riots and all, puts Buddy and his family in the middle. Still, a magical view of childhood remains, including when Buddy gets thrust into the thick of the fray — where, after he returns home with looted supermarket wares, his mother marches him back to return the stolen products amid the chaos. Branagh also indulges in an origin story, perhaps inspired by his stint in the Marvel Cinematic Universe directing the first Thor film back in 2011 (Buddy is even seen reading a Thor comic). Escaping The Troubles as much as anyone can in Belfast, the writer/director's on-screen surrogate adores seeing Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and A Christmas Carol also features — scenes that come to life in colour, unlike the bulk of the picture around them. In the process, Branagh helps trace the early steps of his own desire to become a thespian and filmmaker, which has led to everything from Shakespeare adaptations such as Much Ado About Nothing and Hamlet, to doing double duty in front of and behind the lens with Hercule Poirot duo Murder on the Orient Express and Death on the Nile. He's played Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets' Gilderoy Lockhart, helmed Disney's live-action Cinderella, gotten villainous in Tenet, and of course, enjoyed an applauded on-stage career as well, all stemming from those first rapturous experiences watching when he was growing up. You could also call Belfast Branagh's Roma moment, after Alfonso Cuarón also gave cinema a black-and-white vision drawn from his own childhood, although that comparison fades quickly — even with Oscar love likely to come this film's way, in nominations at least, as it did for its predecessor. Here, the Dutch angles have it, with one of Branagh's go-to stylistic moves visually reinforcing Belfast's skewed perspective. Everything that viewers see is gorgeously lensed by his regular cinematographer Haris Zambarloukos (a mainstay on everything except All Is True since 2007's Sleuth), and also fondly nostalgic as cherished memories of formative years always are, with the lean firmly towards Buddy and his subjective view. As often set to a Van Morrison soundtrack, there's no doubting that this is a portrait of the big and small moments remembered and given a tender glow far more than it's about matters of politics and religion. As carefully and sentimentally conjured up and constructed as it is, Belfast's message remains timely as it gazes five-plus decades back. Horror and conflict stalk Buddy's working-class turf, his routine and life are shaken and upended, but hope — and the reality that life does go on — shines through. The opposing forces of comfort and change jostle around him, and this boy and his loved ones endeavour to make their way through it. Indeed, it should come as no surprise that this was Branagh's pandemic project, or that he peers back with such affection. In one of the movie's least successful touches, he even finds a way to convey that process on-screen, starting with a glossy shot of Ireland today, then literally peeking beyond a wall to venture into the past. Branagh's best choice: his magnificent cast, although an actor who also directs guiding marvellous performances out of his key players also doesn't surprise. What's especially glorious about Hill, Dornan, Balfe, Dench and Hinds is how much their portrayals tell us about their characters in the beats between dialogue, with wide-eyed enthusiasm radiating from wonderful newcomer Hill, and Dench and Hinds perfecting Granny and Pop's world-wise lived-in dynamic, for instance. Dornan and Balfe are also exceptional; whether bickering heatedly about tax debts and far-off places or taking to the dance floor — or, in Dornan's case, belting out a big-hearted rendition of 'Everlasting Love' to give his Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar crooning a companion — they're a picture of that unceasing emotion that Branagh infuses into every element of the film. Yes, as its showcase number trumpets, that's love, which leads to a sweet, neat and light but still vivid and soulful snapshot of growing up amid swelling uncertainty. Image: Rob Youngson / Focus Features.
It's well behind the eight ball, but Victoria could soon be stepping up its waste management game by (finally) introducing its own container refund scheme. Victoria and Tasmania are currently the only two Aussie states that haven't already committed to one – Queensland's Containers for Change program launched in late 2018, while South Australia led the charge by introducing its version way back in 1977. Following strong support from local councils including the City of Frankston, the City of Darebin, and the City of Port Phillip, the City of Melbourne has now thrown its weight behind the concept, backing a campaign from the Municipal Association of Victoria and calling for the Victorian Government to introduce container deposit legislation into parliament. It's hoped that a container deposit program would help quash the state's littering problem and encourage more recycling, by offering residents cash back for their unwanted single-use containers. There's no firm word yet on how it might operate, though it could involve manually operated or automated 'reverse vending machines' that would offer a money credit for each item deposited — rewarding you for your recycling efforts, while helping Victoria to drastically cut down on the amount of recyclable material being sent to landfill. At the moment, schemes in other states offer a ten-cent refund for each aluminium, glass, plastic, steel and liquid paperboard beverage container returned. If it is introduced, it won't be Victoria's first foray into a container refund scheme. The state had a short-lived Cash for Cans system in the 80s, which was promoted by famed tennis player Pat Cash (we're assuming his name had something to do with it). You can watch the slightly bizarre, extremely retro video here: https://youtu.be/2Tx0zGQS0ts With Ballarat recycling giant SKM no longer accepting recyclables from City of Melbourne, an extra 45 tonnes of recycling is being sent to landfill each day. The City of Melbourne is also promising it'll look into alternate uses for the state's recycled materials, potentially using them to create new roads, footpaths, bikeways and playground equipment. The Victorian Government has not yet responded to the City of Melbourne call for action or the Municipal Association of Victoria's campaign, we'll let you know if and when it does.
The Drones are one of those inexhaustible local classics that have come to characterise so many times in our lives. The grisly 14-hour road trip when you played Jezebel on repeat through barren farmlands, that summer house party that drenched you in Carlton Draught and got The Minotaur stuck in your head for a week. With their gritty rock sensibility and Gareth Liddiard's iconic Aussie twang, this is a band that always seem to sound like home. After touring internationally all year, this is the start of a home-run tour to launch their raucous second single, A Moat You Can Stand In off their sixth studio album, I See Seaweed. Like so many of their tracks, the brutal and unrelenting style of the garage-rock sound is offset by some surprisingly nuanced and finely-crafted lyrics. Surprising, only if you don't know the band, really. Liddiard has long been lauded as one of Australia's best storytellers, and this new album proves he hasn't lost his touch. Though it's been awhile between drinks — their last release was 2008's much-loved Havilah — it's great to see The Drones strike back with an album that takes their customary dark fables to a finessed and exciting new level. I See Seaweed is already nominated for the 2013 Australian Music Prize and the band's dance card is pretty full with this national tour followed by the Harvest Festival in November. Hype of the new album aside, when it comes down to it, The Drones are just an excellent band to see live. You should get a pint of the nastiest beer on tap, work your way to the front, and let Gareth Liddard's errant spit rain down on you as the band cements itself, once again, as one of the strongest forces in Australian rock.
If there's one thing we've all learned the hard way these past 18 months, it's that plans change. So it'll come as little surprise that there've been a few *ahem* major tweaks to the planned multimillion-dollar redevelopment of Sorrento's historic Continental Hotel since we last brought you up to speed in 2018. New owners Victor Smorgon Group, Kanat Group and Trenerry Property have just revealed the latest plans for the 145-year-old heritage building, which feature an expansive, multi-faceted hospitality offering headed up by renowned chef Scott Pickett and publican Craig Shearer. Set to commence opening in early 2022, the Continental Sorrento's dramatic transformation will include a slew of food and drink venues operated by the two hospitality veterans. You'll know Pickett as the mind behind culinary hits like Estelle, Matilda and Longrain, while Shearer counts the likes of North Fitzroy's Terminus and The Plough in South Brisbane in his stable. Here, in a buzzy pocket of the Mornington Peninsula, they'll join forces to deliver the Conti's main restaurant — named Audrey's, after Pickett's grandmother and cooking muse — along with a public bar and beer garden, a late-night venue, poolside and in-room dining, and a rooftop deck. The lineup of offerings will range from upscale degustation menus through to casual pub fare enjoyed straight off the sand, with an expected capacity of 5000 diners across the whole multi-venue site. [caption id="attachment_823638" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Parker Blain[/caption] As you can expect, the sprawling, high-profile hotel won't be short on additional function spaces either. There are plans to restore the building's original grand ballroom to its former glory, to sit alongside an assortment of other private, bookable rooms. The hillside precinct will also eventually be home to a new 108-room luxury InterContinental Resort Hotel and a wellness centre. The new consortium of owners took over the reins in April last year. The Continental Sorrento is located at 1/21 Ocean Beach Rd, Sorrento. The first stages of its new hospitality offering are set to open from early 2022.
