Right now, The Lume's multi-sensory exhibition is dedicated to Italian maestro Leonardo da Vinci. His most famous works are projected all over the digital art gallery, which punters can marvel at when visiting. But The Lume is more than just a space where you can wander around and admire art. It also plays host to immersive yoga classes and the occasional dinner. And its latest evening of food and art takes place on Thursday, June 20, when 400 Gradi's Johnny Di Francesco takes over the kitchen. For this one-night-only event, guests will eat some of Melbourne's best pizza while immersed in a room full of moving digital artworks and operatic melodies. But you're not just dropping by to down some pizza and leave. Di Francesco has designed an all-Italian, three-course set menu just for the evening, and the drinks team has selected vinos to be paired with each dish. It will cost a mean $295 per person, but we expect this to sell out fast — just like its previous Guy Grossi dinner. Diners will also get a first look at four new excerpts from da Vinci's Codex Atlanticus. Sketched by the man himself around 550 years ago, these original works will be on display at The Lume for three months, before returning to Milan for preservation. Combining a night of admiring Da Vinci's artworks with some of Melbourne's best pizza seems like a no-brainer to us. Just book as soon as you can to make sure you get a seat. Images: Griffin Simm
This is an adult and kid-friendly show, but just elbow the little tykes out of the way and you'll be privy to a magical little work that unfolds in the dimly lit little Fringe hub (specifically: The Lithuanian Club in North Melbourne). From New Zealand company Trick of the Light Theatre, The Bookbinder is an amalgamation of forms and DIY special effects — you'll find shadowplay, paper art, puppetry and musical interludes intertwined in a mystery and cautionary tale of what happened to the bookbinder's last, overly cocksure apprentice. This event was chosen as one of the top ten things to see at this year's Melbourne Fringe Festival. See the full list here.
There's the naturalism you know, and then there's the immersive, mythic, sensorial and heady naturalism of Abdellatif Kechiche's Blue Is the Warmest Colour (known in its native France as Adele: Chapters 1 & 2). The director boldly sticks his camera in the face of actor Adele Exarchopoulos and lets it linger there for three hours, watching intensely as the ingenue lives and loses her first love, while several years roll by. It's an extreme viewing experience that garnered high praise in Europe and won the most prestigious independent film award on the planet, the Palme d'Or. Yet as much as a Cannes-adored French coming-of-age movie (based on a graphic novel, by author Julia Maroh) appeals to my personal proclivities, I found Blue Is the Warmest Colour to be more of an interesting film than a great one. By far its biggest charm lies in the understated yet giving and uninhibited performances of its leads, Exarchopoulos as Adele and Lea Seydoux as her worldlier girlfriend, Emma. We see Adele as a whole person discovering the world, not just her sexuality. She waxes lyrical about her favourite classic novel, joins in song at a political demonstration, fools around with a sweet boy who only makes her depressed, and eats spag bol with her mouth open at an incommunicative family dinner table. She's from a plain, working-class household, and her world opens up when she meets art student Emma, who floors her from across the street with her blue-streaked hair and white-hot insouciance. Their love is explosive, total and immensely physical. But first loves don't often last, and that's probably a good thing. Captured in extreme close-up, Blue Is the Warmest Colour lets you feel the beauty and the pain of it, really feel it, for a few blessed minutes. However, not all of the three hours' worth of scenes deserve to be there, and Kechiche's execution seems haphazard and uncompromising. Since Cannes, there's been growing criticism of the hetero director's imaginings of a lesbian romance, and the camera's gaze does seem to cross a line from luscious into lascivious at times. Eschewing the usual press tour conventions, Exarchopoulos and Seydoux have been pretty frank in interviews about what it was like to work with the director — "horrible", uncomfortable, possibly exploitative and endlessly drawn out past schedule. It especially matters as the movie includes a hardcore seven-minute sex scene that took apparently ten days to shoot. The actors say they're happy with the results, but it doesn't seem like a methodology we should accept. Fortunately, Blue Is the Warmest Colour's Palme d'Or, for the first time in history, was jointly awarded to the director and the film's two stars. Their idiosyncratic performances are very worth seeing. https://youtube.com/watch?v=Y2OLRrocn3s
It's the intermission of the funniest play that currently exists on the planet, and the crowd is in shock. Why? Well, I'm not inclined to tell you. Suffice to say, One Man, Two Guvnors might be a hybrid of every classic style of British humour, but that doesn't mean it plays it safe. Based on the commedia dell'arte (read: old Italian panto) play Servant of Two Masters, this production has been adapted for the National Theatre of Great Britain by Mr Bean — that is to say, Richard Bean, prestigious playwright whose The Heretic divided Melbourne last year. One Man, Two Guvnors, set in '60s seaside Brighton, comes to the Arts Centre after stints on Broadway and the West End and several theatre awards. It's gargantuanly, uninhibitedly, divinely funny. A great leveller; you laugh, or you're not alive. It all rests largely in the hands of Owain Arthur, who plays poor fool Francis Henshall, a man who becomes the personal assistant to two seemingly unrelated parties, all because he's dying to buy lunch. Arthur was the understudy to James Corden in the original run of this show, though watching him, it's quite impossible to imagine anyone else in the part. The man goes red in the face every time he opens his mouth to speak. The amount of energy he puts into these two-and-a-half-hours is stunning. Add a pair of high pants and a sweet Welsh accent, and you have a comedic triple threat. He's not let down by the rest of the cast, either, with Edward Bennett in particular proving Arthur's match and counterpoint as toffy Stanley Stubbers, one of the guvnors. Where Arthur has to milk lines like "It tastes good for paper", Bennett fires off quick ripostes such as "I don't do first names; first names are for girls and Norwegians" with a flash of straight teeth and a brush of his blazer. They each stand at one end of the comedy spectrum from the slapsticky to the Wildean, with Amy Booth-Steel. Kellie Shirley, Leon Williams and Rosie Wyatt admirably filling the bits in between. Keeping the good times rolling is a (very handsome) beat combo, who provide live music and step on stage between scenes. It's a fun and refreshing way to add a musical aspect to the show. Indeed, even when the energy of the show starts to flag in the second half (why? Maybe the spell is broken, it's just a bit more predictable or people are nervous about the show's approach to audience participation), these interludes spike the levels right back up again. One Man, Two Guvnors may represent the least stuffy part of our British heritage. Eat it up. This review is based on the Sydney run of this production in April 2013.
You love Beyonce. You love a spot of gender critique. Then you are also most definitely the target audience for All the Single Lad(ie)s, a work that juxtaposes the music of proudly feminist Queen Bey with surreal scenes laying bare various conundrums of gender and sexuality. From experimental Perthians The Cutting Room Floor, All the Single Lad(ie)s premiered at the Perth Fringe World Festival, where it won much adoration but also prompted the West Australian to say, "We were warned that All the Single Lad(ie)s was 'grotesque', but that was probably not enough of a warning for what we witnessed." Sounds like perfect Fringe material. This event was chosen as one of the top ten things to see at this year's Melbourne Fringe Festival. See the full list here.
That moment when you don't know if a film franchise has become more juvenile, or whether it's you that's grown up. This was the uncomfortable experience of watching Kick-Ass 2, and after days of quiet contemplation, I've come to the conclusion: it's not me. Based on the comics by Mark Millar and brought to the screen by Matthew Vaughn (Layer Cake, Stardust), the first Kick-Ass film was a high point in the 'real superhero' wave — a funny counterpoint to the likes of Watchmen. Catching bits of it on TV recently, I thought it seemed only more razor-sharp. The new Kick-Ass 2 disappoints by pitching way too low. There is, for starters, an insane number of dick biting jokes. And it's not a running gag. It seems almost unbelievable that an objective party read the script and didn't think to say, 'hey, how about we stop at separate dick biting joke no.3'? Impotence, race and sexuality are also targets of choice. It seems new writer and director Jeff Wadlow has decided his audience is teenage boys, and no one else. Plot-wise, Kick-Ass 2 picks up about three years after its predecessor. Dave Lizewski (previously weedy, now hunky Aaron Taylor-Johnson) has hung up the Kick-Ass wetsuit, while the orphaned Mindy MacCready (Chloe Grace Moretz), aka Hit Girl, keeps her ongoing training a secret from her guardian, her dad's good friend, Sergeant Marcus Williams (Morris Chestnut). But when Dave gets restless and Mindy gets obedient, their crime-fighting status is reversed, and for camaraderie Dave instead joins the superhero team calling themselves 'Justice Forever' (led by a well prosthetised Jim Carrey as Colonel Stars and Stripes) to rid the streets of evil. The devoted amateurs are no match, however, for the coming storm from Dave's spoilt and abandoned schoolmate Chris D'Amico (Christopher Mintz-Plasse), who's graduated from being Red Mist to the moniker the Motherfucker and who has Kick-Ass obsessively in his sights. It's a unique mix of unimpressiveness at work in this film. On top of the lumpen humour, there's also extreme violence and schlock sentimentality that together are supremely weird. Kick-Ass 2's one redeemer is Hit Girl. If the whole film had been 'Hit Girl Goes to High School', it would have been great. She's always been a special character that challenges every idea we have of girlhood, and the Professional-meets-Mean Girls-like scenes of her dealing with dating, dance club, the popular crowd and bullying are smart, fresh and compelling. The film also deals well with her sexuality, now she's 15. Her costume remains fabulously unsexy and practical, so that's how we view her fights, but she's given room to explore some of her own sexual feelings. In what's possibly the film's best scene, a One Direction replica band plays, and we see that even the disciplined teen warrior is unable to resist their charms. Later, she has a quick perv at a shirtless Dave. This is a character whose impact will carry on, even if there's no Hit-Girl movie in multiplexes. https://youtube.com/watch?v=YWozxV3fsAU
Dishing up desserts across Sydney, Melbourne, Queensland the Australian Capital Territory, Gelato Messina obviously specialises in frosty sweet treats. But, because the chain has amassed quite the following, it also has a range of merchandise. Over the past couple of years, it has released gelato-scented candles and decked out a line of clothing with pictures of its towering ice cream cones — and now it's collaborating with Lanolips on a gelato-flavoured balm. You can't spend all day every day eating Messina's desserts (sorry); however, you can slather your lips in its new salted caramel and mango coconut lip balm. Presumably, like those aforementioned candles, this'll give you a constant craving for a few scoops — so if you start eating more gelato as a result, you'll know why. The Messina x Lanolips collab takes its cues from Messina's most popular coconut milk sorbet — a flavour that features Murray River salt and Australian Kensington Pride mango salsa. In balm form, it's made with lanolin from local sheep's wool, vitamin E, natural coconut oil and mango fruit extract. You'll find the lip-smacking new product in all Messina stores, Messina's online store, at Lanolips' website and at Mecca. Head to Messina to pick some up before Tuesday, November 2 — or buy one from Messina's website — and you'll also nab a free scoop while stocks last. For more information about Gelato Messina's new Lanolips balm — and to buy some — head to the chain's website.
This sushi bar/supermarket is the mysterious Japanese food repository you never knew you needed. If you're looking to make something yourself, the shelves are your friend. Find anything from koroke to katsu, gyoza to green tea Kit Kats, and a mammoth amount of bottled sauces and everything you need to make ramen. Oh, and sake and shochu. Over at the sushi counter, a range of 89 options will be available. There are more traditional varieties like your sashimi and nigiri platters, and then more unique creations like the salmon aioli with squid and egg salad.
The foundations of wine are relatively simple — find a fertile patch of land, plant extraordinary grapes, and make the best wine you possibly can. In Australia, we grow more than 100 different grape varieties scattered across the country, in 65 distinct wine regions, and in each region we celebrate our unique climate and landscape by crafting some of the most exceptional wines in the world. Knowing the differences between them all is not so simple, which is why we've pinned down the six varieties you should get to know better — from dry, crisp rieslings to that spicy shiraz you like to crack open at a summer barbie. Winemakers, grape growers and viticulturists all work with Australia's varied climates and our ancient soils to plant classics like riesling, chardonnay, pinot noir and shiraz alongside newer varieties like vermentino, fiano, nebbiolo and sangiovese. Unlike other winemaking countries in Europe, Australia's not beholden to any rules or boundaries, which means we've fostered a creative and innovative wine scene. Our winemakers are pushing boundaries by not only experimenting with new grape varieties and unusual blends but also by toying with new winemaking techniques, such as partial berry ferments, carbonic maceration and skin-contact wines. Start taste testing the classics and progress from there. [caption id="attachment_673382" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Manly Wine[/caption] RIESLING Riesling is one of the most exciting and elegant dry white wines in the world. The grapes produce aromatic light- to medium-bodied wines with high acid presence and Australian rieslings tend to lean on the drier, crisp end of the spectrum. They are generally unoaked to highlight the wines zippy, acid lines, and while it's drinkable when it's very young, some wines can mature for decades. Where it's grown: Clare Valley, Eden Valley, Tasmania, Great Southern (WA) and Canberra District. What it tastes like: It's got so many expressions: jasmine florals overlaid by lime cordial and lemon meringue pie with a backbone of acidity and structure that will complement dishes like pork dumplings or sweet-and-sour chicken. SAUVIGNON BLANC Even though it's a white varietal, sauvignon blanc is the parent grape to red grape cabernet sauvignon. Hailing from France's Loire Valley, the grape was first grown in Australia in the 1800s but didn't become popular until 160 years later when our friends across the ditch started generating buzz about this little aromatic variety from the Marlborough region. Sauvignon blanc suits a more 'hands-off' approach; it's often picked when ripe and then fermented in stainless steel tanks to maintain freshness and vibrancy. Where it's grown: Adelaide Hills, Margaret River, Tasmania and Orange. What it tastes like: Australian Savvy Bs tend to take on a more tropical fruit expression — think pineapple, mandarin and guava — with bright citrus notes that scream for a bucket of prawns or fish and chips by the beach. CHARDONNAY Chardonnay is an excellent representation of the vineyard in which its fruit was grown, and it allows for experimentation — winemakers can choose what barrel it's fermented in, for example. Australia makes lean and light-bodied wines in cooler climates up to fuller-bodied, rich and ripe versions in our warm climates. Where it's grown: Adelaide Hills, Yarra Valley, Tasmania, Margaret River, Hunter Valley and Mornington Peninsula. What it tastes like: Ripe stone fruits like white peach, balanced with fruits like pink grapefruit or apples and pears, rounded out with vanilla notes (from the oak it's fermented in). ROSÉ There are a few different ways to make rosé, but the most common is the practice of 'free run' juice. The grapes are crushed and all the liquid freely drains from the skins to the tank before the squeezing process begins. This process produces wines that are balanced in acidity and display high levels of purity in fruit aroma and flavour. Where it's grown: Yarra Valley, Tasmania, Langhorne Creek, plus most other wine regions. What it tastes like: Depending on the style of rosé, you could have florals, pomegranate and wild strawberry characters with fleshy savoury flavours (like dried herbs) on the other end of the spectrum. Dunk one in an ice bucket and enjoy with an antipasti platter for summer grazing. [caption id="attachment_731347" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] PINOT NOIR All over the world pinot noir is regarded as one of the hardest grapes to grow and requires extra attention in every step of its development. A common winemaking strategy when handling pinot noir is to do an 'early press'. Pressing is the process that separates the red juice from its skins. Flavour and structure are extracted during this process by pressing early, before fermentation is completed. Where it's grown: Adelaide Hills, Yarra Valley, Tasmania, Mornington Peninsula, Gippsland, Geelong and Macedon Ranges. What it tastes like: It runs the full gamut of flavours from raspberry and crushed blueberries to savoury expressions like hints of clove, cinnamon bark and wet earth. With its complexity and versatility, pinot noir is the ultimate team player — an all-rounder that can fit into any culinary occasion. SHIRAZ Shiraz thrives in the heat and requires a warm growing season (something we're not short on here in Australia). However, the most aromatic, elegant styles of shiraz are grown in regions with high diurnal temperature ranges (warm days/cool nights). In more temperate areas, shiraz shows jammy, dark berry and plummy fruit characters and less of the delicate aromas. Where it's grown will affect how shiraz is processed and fermented, allowing the winemaker to create a particular style and to build character and complexity into the wine. Where it's grown: Barossa, McLaren Vale, Langhorne Creek, Heathcote, Hunter Valley, Canberra District, McLaren Vale, Eden Valley and Mount Barker. What it tastes like: Punnets of berries dusted with black and green peppercorns, usually medium-bodied in style with drying tannins that call for barbecued meats. WHO'S DOING THINGS DIFFERENTLY? Australia's winemakers are always looking for new ways to develop, and even our more established wineries are open to experimentation in crafting new and exciting wines. The Wolf Blass Makers' Project range is all about celebrating the artistry of winemaking and showcasing the unique properties of each grape variety grown at a particular site. Experimental wines, like this range, are a way of developing and fostering new talent too, as the opportunity encourages the next generation of winemakers to think outside the box. The Wolf Blass Makers' Project wines showcase textures and freshness from the grapes to create fun and easy-to-drink styles like the pink pinot grigio, which is crafted with 'free run' juice, and the pinot noir, made using early pressing techniques to create a smooth and silky wine that's bursting with berry fruit characters. And then there's the reserve shiraz, which uses whole berry fermentation so that more full-fruit and robust flavours are extracted with gentle spicy characteristics. Explore the range that celebrates the processes of skilled winemakers, here. Love to wine and dine? Learn about your favourite flavour matches in our series Encyclopedia of Wine in collaboration with Wolf Blass. Top image: Hunter Valley, Destination NSW.
On the Mornington Peninsula, near the wild Bass Strait, you'll find Big Blue Backyard. This luxurious, secluded hideaway is surrounded by bush, yet just a five-minute walk from the beach, so you may even spot a few whales. On an elevated timber deck, you'll find a hot tub encircled by candles and trees, making for some romantic stargazing. And, to make your sleepover even more decadent, get the optional 'nourish' upgrades, which include grazing platters, brekkie boxes, massages and priority passes to nearby Peninsula Hot Springs.
One great turn inspires another in Monsieur Chocolat — and what stellar, standout turns they are. In this handsome showbiz biopic, a late 19th/early 20th century comedic pioneer inspires a film-stealing performance from a current acting talent. The former is Rafael Padilla, aka Chocolat, the first black clown to star in the French big top. The latter is actor Omar Sy, who previously impressed audiences in The Intouchables, Mood Indigo and X-Men: Days of Future Past. If you don't recognise Padilla's name, the film will soon help you understand why. Examining how he became one of France's forgotten comics is as much a part of Monsieur Chocolat as charting his humorous feats. When the movie introduces the former Afro-Cuban slave, he's playing a cannibal in a regional circus and considered a novelty amongst a cast of white performers. His fortunes seem to change after he joins forces with English clown George Foottit (James Thierrée), and yet much still stays the same. While their acclaimed double act takes them to Paris' prestigious Nouveau Cirque, amusing the masses and earning their respect are two very different things. Here, the leap from loincloth to top hat proves giant in perception but tiny in reality, with director Roschdy Zem unafraid of tackling the obvious factor that complicated Chocolat's career. Bigotry dogs the performer at every turn; kids scream at his teeth-gnashing savage routine, while envious rivals try to keep him down. Even at the height of his popularity, he finds himself arrested on the street. So too is the prejudice clear in the public's reaction when he sets out to become a serious actor. Monsieur Chocolat presents a rise-and-fall narrative, as well as a dissection of stereotypes and discrimination, that feels simultaneously familiar and fresh. This isn't the first time a film has offered a behind-the-scenes look at the less-than-glamorous reality of fame and fortune; nor is it the first time we've been made to face the entertainment industry's poor treatment of multicultural talents. And yet, while few truly original stories may rear their heads these days, previously untold true tales can still strike a chord — particularly when may of the same social issues remain a problem more than a century later. Accordingly, Monsieur Chocolat is a bittersweet affair. It's rightfully sombre in its contemplation of how its title character was treated, and yet absolutely jubilant in depicting him do what he did best. Sy is crucial to both – his clowning skills are a sight to behold, as is his rapport with real-life circus performer Thierrée. In a better world, their reenactments of Chocolat and Foottit's marvelous act would be the only thing this movie needed to focus on, but unfortunately that's not the one we live in. Come for the big top delights. Stay for the grim reality behind them. In tackling both, this film is a worthy tribute to Chocolat's remarkable legacy. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bgOVqeNNu58
It has been five years since Deliveroo started speeding through Australia's streets to bring takeaway meals to our doors. And, as we all like to when a birthday rolls around, it's celebrating. This is the kind of party that rewards everyone, too, with the company delivering $1 meals from more than 26 eateries across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide. Each day this week, between Tuesday, November 10–Friday, November 13, Deliveroo is picking a city and gifting its residents meals at $1 a pop. A different number of eateries will be taking part in each location, and they'll each be offering up 100 meals at the gold-coin price. So yes, that means getting in quickly is recommended. First up, from 1–5pm on Tuesday, November 10, is Adelaide. On the menu: dishes from Burgertec, Goodlife Modern Organic Pizza, Cheeky Chook, Blue & White Cafe and Lukoumades. Then, from 12–6pm on Wednesday, November 11, it's Melbourne's turn — with Chicken Episode Plus, Bistro Morgan (including in Collingwood), Tadka Hut, Gelato Messina in Richmond and Royal Stacks Brunswick among the eateries involved. [caption id="attachment_783738" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Royal Stacks[/caption] When Thursday, November 12 rolls around, Sydneysiders can get their cheap food fix between 1–4.30pm — from Little L, Fishmongers, BL Burgers, Manoosh Pizzeria, Johnny Bird, The Italian Bowl and Burger Patch. Finally, to close out the week of super-affordable eats, Brisbane's Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers in Paddington, Ginga Sushi Japanese at Emporium, Brooklyn Depot in South Brisbane and The Yiros Shop will get in on the action between 2–5pm on Friday, November 13. There are a few tricks to the $1 special, however. It will really only cost $1 — there's no delivery cost on top of that — but exactly what each restaurant will be offering for that price won't be revealed until the day. And, a new restaurant will appear on Deliveroo's Instagram every hour, which is where you'll find out what's on the menu. From there, you'll just need to search for '$1 deals' when you're ordering online or via the Deliveroo app. And yes, that's an easy way to decide what to eat on the relevant day in your city this week. For further details about Deliveroo's $1 fifth birthday specials — which are on offer in Adelaide from 1–5pm on Tuesday, November 10; Melbourne from 12–6pm on Wednesday, November 11; Sydney from 1–4.30pm on Thursday, November 12; and Brisbane from 2–5pm on Friday, November 13 — keep an eye on the company's Instagram feed. Top images: Johnny Bird, Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers.
Dust off your sombreros, amigos. The latest international excuse for a good time to reach our shores is Cinco de Mayo — a celebration of all things Mexican (which, if we’re being nit-picky, is really more of an Americanisation than anything but shh, let us party). In celebration, the folks at Corona and Beach Burrito Company West End are putting together a fiesta, complete with face painting by local street artists and the first ever Taco Time Trials Eating Contest. For the less competitively inclined but equally taco-happy, Cinco de Mayo falls conveniently on a Tuesday, and Beach Burrito Co’s regular $3 taco deal applies, so your pesos’ll stretch further. With what you’ve got left, you can sip salt-rimmed margaritas, down trays of tequila shots (not recommended) or share a bucket of ice-cold Coronas. And, of course, come prepared to smash and whack your way to glory, because they wouldn’t be doing Mexico right without pinatas.
As part of the flurry of new streaming services competing for our eyeballs, FanForce TV joined the online viewing fold during the COVID-19 pandemic — with the pay-per-view platform not only screening movies, but pairing them with virtual Q&A sessions as well. Now, between Wednesday, May 27–Tuesday, June 2, it's also hosting an online film fest: the first Virtual Indigenous Film Festival. The event coincides with National Reconciliation Week, and will showcase six Australian documentaries: In My Blood It Runs, The Australian Dream, Gurrumul, Undermined: Tales from the Kimberley, Zach's Ceremony and Namatjira Project. That means you can watch your way through an array of Indigenous stories, spanning everything from everyday tales to culturally significant figures in art, sport and music — and exploring race relations, tradition and the environment in the process. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXa3gw3g4C4 Sessions will also feature guest speakers and expert panelists, such as Gurrumul director Paul Williams, Undermined filmmaker Nic Wrathall, and Zach and Alec Doomadgee from Zach's Ceremony. Viewers can tune in on a film-by-film basis, with tickets starting at US$6.99, or buy an all-access pass to everything for US$19.99.
There are plenty of great dates for the end of the world. Archbishop James Ussher's infamous count ended on October 23, 1997, at midday. The year 2000 was a focus of millenialism, and had the luck to have its Millennium Bug as a weightier side show. Today's so-called end of the world is a similar, numbers thing. The Mayans reach an interesting date today, with rumours going around that their version of December 21, 2012 could be a pretty bad day indeed. So many rumours that NASA has set up a page on why we'll all still be around this time tomorrow. They expect no surprise interplanetary collisions, worldwide blackouts or 180 degree polar shifts arriving in the earth's near future. What is coming is a turned page on the Mayan calendar. The Mayans numbered their years with a calendar system called the Long Count, which started on August 13, 3114BC. For them, that year was 13.0.0.0.0 — 13 baktun (400 years) 0 katun (20 years) 0 years 0 months 0 days. Their creation date started at 13 baktun, but tocked straight from 13.0.0.0.0 back to 1.0.0.0.0, 400 years later. Today the calendar has completed about 5,125 years and is up to 13.0.0.0.0 again, though the evidence seems to suggest that the Maya had no particular plans to start the count again. 400 years from now baktun 14 should arrive, right on schedule. There are probably very few modern Mayans who think the world is coming to an end. If anything, a Mayan world ended centuries ago: when sixteenth century Conquistadors put an end to much of the mesoamerica's way of life. What's happening today is that we're ticking over from 13.0.0.0.0 to tomorrow's 13.0.0.0.1. The numbers are nice, but tomorrow is bound to look a lot like today. Leading image of the Aztec calendar stone by El Commandante.
At a time when Australia's craft spirits scene was yet to kick into gear, Griffin Blumer and Jesse Kennedy pulled their inspiration from overseas, spurred on by a desire to give locals a taste of something fresh and exciting. And that something was their debut creation, Poor Toms Sydney Dry Gin. It was back in their Enmore share house that the two mates — already keen gin-thusiasts — started exploring a whole new world of international gins. We talk to the gin duo about finding a core audience and ultimately staying true to yourself. "We discovered all these different gins from around the world that were doing new things, and I guess a light bulb went off," Blumer explains. "Each gin was bringing something new to the table based on its geography and the mentality of these small producers, and we were like, 'why isn't anyone doing that here?'" he says. "There are all these unique ingredients here. Australians have a good attitude towards experimenting with new products and flavours, and it just made sense that someone would be doing this in Sydney. That's when it all kind of clicked." A little dose of inspiration from sources closer to home helped to seal the deal. "Our house was really close to a couple of new breweries, and seeing how they were experimenting with new styles did inspire us somewhat — that there probably was a market for a smaller, more expressive style of gin that speaks to this city the way these beers were," reveals Kennedy. Now, with their distillery having cemented its status as one of Sydney's best-loved, the duo's creative process is driven by that same desire to give local gin lovers something great. They've always been big on feedback, their creative direction steered by the people enjoying their gin. It's why Poor Toms' strawberry gin went from an exclusive onsite pour to an upcoming major release. "We saw how much it's enjoyed at the tasting bar and how well it's sold there," says Kennedy. "That's all the feedback we needed to realise it was something worth making available to everyone. That's pretty much what inspires us anyway as a brand, just making enjoyable spirits." The boys are quick to tell you they're not out to please everyone, however. "If you're a tiny producer, you can make the product you want to make," explains Blumer. "You can cater to people in a unique way and find your hardcore audience, rather than being mildly pleasing to everybody. Being small is good for that." You could say it's an attitude that extends to the duo's style, staying true to their own relaxed selves, rather than worrying about what everyone else thinks. "I pretty much wear the same clothes every day," says Blumer. "Whether I'm doing something sweaty at the distillery, going to a tasting at a bar or even to a corporate event, I'll just wear my jeans. Jeans are a staple." For him, it's part and parcel of creating something decent. "People take you as you are, if you project that. Being relaxed and not up yourself is an important part of the process — and making good stuff," he muses. "If your job is to give people enjoyment, then you have to enjoy yourself. You're not enjoying yourself if you're always worrying about what other people think of you." Check out Poor Toms' distillery and bar, and find the denim that brings out the creative, innovator and gamechanger in you at The Iconic. Images: Trent van der Jagt.
One of the most strenuous undertakings of summer is deciding how best to allocate your funds to Sydney's music festival calendar. This year doing so has proved especially draining to both brain and bank balance what with all the excellent new boutique festivals cropping up alongside the mainstays, but hopefully you've remembered that the best lineup is often painstakingly kept on the d-low until well into spring. After weeks of teasing Twitter followers with inscrutable clues St Jerome's Laneway Festival has finally released its lineup and, duh, it's an indie-dense doozy. Headliners Bat for Lashes, Yeasayer and Nicolas Jaar help comprise the exciting international contingent, alongside plenty of budding artists you'll be hearing a lot more of before 2013. In alphabetical order, the St Jerome's Laneway Festival 2013 Lineup: ALPINE ALT-J# BAT FOR LASHES CHET FAKER CLOUD NOTHINGS DIVINE FITS EL-P FLUME HENRY WAGONS & THE UNWELCOME COMPANY HIGH HIGHS* HOLY OTHER JAPANDROIDS# JESSIE WARE JULIA HOLTER KINGS OF CONVENIENCE THE MEN MS MR THE NEIGHBOURHOOD NICOLAS JAAR## NITE JEWEL* OF MONSTERS AND MEN* PERFUME GENIUS POLICA POND REAL ESTATE# THE RUBENS SHLOHMO SNAKADAKTAL TWERPS YEASAYER St Jerome's Laneway Festival 2013 dates: Brisbane RNA Showgrounds Friday 1st February Sydney Sydney College of the Arts (Subject to Council approval) Saturday 2nd February Melbourne Footscray Community Arts Centre (Subject to Council approval) Sunday 3rd February Adelaide Fowler's Live and UniSA West Courtyards Friday 8th February Perth Perth Cultural Centre Saturday 9th February 2013 Presale tickets start 9AM, Wednesday 3 October. See full details on the Laneway website. https://youtube.com/watch?v=iqkLWlZx7A4
The Mid-Autumn Festival — one of the most-celebrated dates in the Chinese calendar — is coming up soon, on Tuesday, September 17. Known alternatively as the Moon Festival or the more mouth-watering Mooncake Festival, it's a global Chinese celebration inspired by — you guessed it — the moon. Yes, we know Australia is only in mid-spring, but it's mid-autumn in China, and stacks of Melbourne restaurants, bars and public spaces are celebrating across the week. If you're keen to join in on the fun, check out this guide to find Melbourne's best Mid-Autumn Festival events. Recommended reads: The Best Things to Do This Weekend in Melbourne The Best Things to Do This Week in Melbourne The Best Yum Cha in Melbourne [caption id="attachment_706670" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Victoria[/caption] Chinatown's Mid-Autumn Festival Celebration On Saturday, September 14, China Town's Golden Square Carpark will host one of Melbourne's best Mid-Autumn Festival events. Get around llion and dragon dances, Sichuan face-changing and dance performances, live music and heaps of food. Be sure to hit up some of the restaurants and bars in the area before or after checking out some of the shows. And come Sunday, September 15, the Museum of Chinese Australian History will be running a bunch of activities, including mooncake-making demonstrations, mooncake decorating workshops and lantern-making classes. Le Yeahllow's Moon-Inspired Cake For the Mid-Autumn Festival this year, Le Yeahllow has created a totally luxe Jade Ring Mooncake (玉轮) inspired by the moon. This $106 cake (yeah, this is for those wanting to really treat the fam with a bougie sweet treat) combines Genmaicha Bavarian cream with coconut dacquoise, salted egg yolk crèmeux and chocolate feuilletine. As it is with all Le Yeahllow desserts, these decadent cakes are made with great precision and care. It's also the kind of treat that your average at-home baker could never dream of recreating. The cake is said to feed five to eight people, but we're sure you can make it go further if you need to. Queen Vic Market's Mid-Autumn Moon Festival On Saturday, September 21 and Sunday, September 22, Queen Vic Market will once again celebrate the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival with two days of food, drinks and live entertainment. Across the weekend, Chinese street food stalls will pop up in the usual festival section of the market, alongside a few other traders selling international eats. You can also watch some obligator lion dances and live music, and participate in some cultural workshops. Melbourne Yum Cha Lunches Having a big yum cha lunch has got to be one of the best ways to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival in Melbourne, especially if you want to stay away from all the crowds and kids at your usual Moon Festival events. Simply book a seat with the fam — or your mates — and create your own feast with all kinds of dim sum dishes. Our favoruite yum cha spots in Melbourne include Crystal Jade Restaurant, David's (which is bottomless), Oriental Teahouse, Red Door Yum Cha, Shu (which is totally vegan), Secret Kitchen CBD, Moonhouse, Mahjong Restaurant, Shark Fin Inn and Mya Tiger. Any of these spots will satisfy your yum cha cravings, but you can also check out our Chinese restaurant guide for more Moon Festival dining spots. Fed Square's Chinese Traditional Cultural Festival Fed Square's annual Chinese Traditional Cultural Festival returns once again this year, bringing a stack of cultural performances and activities to the public space. On Saturday, September 21 and Sunday, September 22, Fed Square will be taken over by Chinese street food stalls, tea ceremonies, kid's activities (like creating paper lanterns), traditional games, stage performances, market stalls and, of course, mooncakes. There'll be two huge days of family-friendly fun. Decadent Mooncakes From Aurum Poultry Co. and Atelier Josun For this year's Mid-Autumn Festival, specialty poultry producer Aurum Poultry Co. has teamed up with Chef Jo Chan (Atelier Josun) to create limited-edition mooncakes that showcase the unique characteristics of of the producer's salted duck eggs. The $59 boxes come with six mooncakes (three of each of the two flavours), and are incredibly decadent. The first white lotus mooncake is a twist on the classic mooncake dessert, blending sweet lotus seed paste with the rich, savoury notes of salted egg yolk. The second option is a playful twist on the much-loved custard mooncake – a 1986 sensation that continues to captivate Hong Kong locals each Moon Festival. These aren't cheap but they have got to be some of the best mooncakes in Melbourne.
The hot cross bun and Easter egg specials are coming thick and fast as the long weekend creeps closer. Joining the fun is much-loved gelateria artigianale Pidapipo, with a brand new range of desserts to feast on. Plus, they're bringing back their admired single-origin Cioccolato range for the holiday, meaning there's something for everyone and every occasion, whether you're longing for baked buns, artisan Easter eggs or chocolate-focused gelato. Available in limited numbers for the first time in 2025, Pidapipo has invented what it's calling the hot cross doughnut. Here, hot cross bun dough is fried to perfection, then served hot with a scoop of fior di latte gelato and a drizzle of spiced salted caramel sauce. Made fresh to order, this decadent creation is available exclusively at Pidapipo's Fitzroy Laboratorio. For another sweet treat, Pidapipo is using its high-end Cioccolato range to produce a range of Easter eggs that will give your hunt an artisanal lift. Produced with single-origin Dominican Republic cacao, you can score bags of six mini eggs in milk and dark chocolate. Alternatively, the brand's larger Easter eggs come with a surprise inside — a wrapped mini chocolate egg and a cute Pidapipo pin. Also up for grabs are six-packs of assorted medium eggs and their bestselling praline-filled chocolate bundled in a carefully designed tin. Encasing a trio of flavours, the selection includes dark chocolate filled with white chocolate peppermint ganache; milk chocolate filled with caramel and malt crumble; and white chocolate with white chocolate and hazelnut ganache. Recalling traditional Italian design, Pidapipo teamed up with leading local outfit Studio Ongarato to develop the charming packaging. Pidapipo is still one of the best gelato spots in town. Churning out something special for Easter, visitors will find chocolate-focused gelato cones inspired by the flavour trio in Pidapipo's mini eggs tin. These indulgent options include: peppermint chocolate gelato with white chocolate fudge and dark chocolate shards; white chocolate bacio gelato with Nutella swirl and hazelnut merengue; and malted milk chocolate gelato with caramel swirl, dipped in milk chocolate. Growing from a Carlton pop-up to four locations across Melbourne – Fitzroy, Windsor, Melbourne CBD and Carlton – all but the hot cross doughnut are available at every store. You'll have to make your way to the Fitzroy Laboratorio to get your hands on that limited dessert. Pidapipo's Easter specials are available for a limited time at Carlton, Windsor, Fitzroy and Melbourne CBD locations. Head to the website for more information.
If St Kilda Foreshore is that suburb's ground zero for recreational activities when summer rolls around, Acland Street remains the neighbourhood's entertainment hub all year round. While the strip's fortunes have changed over the years, it's still home to some excellent bars, restaurants and cafes — some of which have truly stood the test of time — and remains a place to see and be seen. As with much of St Kilda, it's during summer that the strip really comes to life, with punters packing into venues and giving the street a constant buzz akin to a summer-long party. More recently, the commercial end of the strip (between Barkly and Carlisle Streets) has transformed into a tram and pedestrian mall, adding even more colour and vibrancy to this iconic Melbourne strip. Images: Julia Sansone
Europeans have this whole 'life' thing down, don't they? They spend a lot of their time eating cheese and drinking wine, they refuse to have any work-related correspondence after 6pm, and they invented a six-hour work day. Lunch Beat, a daytime lunch-hour dance party, undoubtedly hails from the same laissez-faire attitude. And now, in an Australian first, it's hitting The Toff in Town every Tuesday in May. Originating in Sweden in 2010, Lunch Beat has become a worldwide phenomenon. Currently held in 55 cities, the simple but ingenious event has people fist-pumping their way through lunch on every continent. Its latest incarnation in Melbourne is a mere 60 minutes long, features no alcohol or drugs, and provides its dancers with a healthy lunch before they make their way back to work. Though recent media coverage of the event has been both hilarious and dorky, you can't deny Lunch Beat looks like a lot of fun. Break that midday slump, lose your inhibitions and give in to the cardinal rule: 'If it’s your first lunch at Lunch Beat, you have to dance.' Lunch Beat returns to the Toff in Town on August 5 and 19, 2014, plus the Geddes Lounge ( Geddes Lane, Melbourne) on August 12 and 26.
Back in March, Victoria implemented a State of Emergency in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, a move it has extended monthly since. So, while originally due to expire at midnight on Monday, April 13, the State of Emergency has been prolonged until May 11, June 20, July 19, August 16 and September 13 — and, now, until October 11. With the state currently subject to strict restrictions — including stage-four lockdowns in the metropolitan Melbourne area, which will slowly start easing from 11.59pm tonight, Sunday, September 13, as part of a five-step process — this is hardly surprising news. Victoria is also in a declared State of Disaster, which gives police additional powers to ensure Victorians are complying with public health directions, and that has been prolonged until October 11 as well. Announcing the extensions on Sunday, September 13, Premier Daniel Andrews noted that "while the vast majority of Victorians are doing the right thing and following the directions, these measures give the Chief Health Officer and Victoria Police the powers they need to continue to respond rapidly to the pandemic — in line with the latest data and public health advice". 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 six months as the state responds to the coronavirus. It's worth noting, however, that extending both the State of Emergency and State of Disaster is separate to Victoria's current roadmap out of COVID-19 restrictions. So, it doesn't change those plans — with the first step still coming into effect in metro Melbourne tonight as outlined, and regional Victoria still moving to the second step. Fines continue to be handed out to folks who breach the restrictions — with the state's on-the-spot financial penalties spanning up to $4659 for individuals if you test positive for COVID-19 or have symptoms and are awaiting test results, but fail to isolate at home. People who repeatedly break the rules can also be sent to the Magistrates Court and fined up to $20,000. 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.
Art galleries often focus on making you think about what you are looking at, but not every exhibition makes you think about why you came to look at art in the first place. That's the idea behind The same crowd never gathers twice, a six-month exhibition program at Buxton Contemporary, a public art gallery on the Southbank Campus of the University of Melbourne. This exhibition, running until Sunday, October 13, uses moving images, sound, sculpture and performance to test the limits of the 'arena', i.e. the setting where humans gather to witness and participate in public life. Are you a passive spectator, watching from afar? Or do you prefer to take a more close-up and involved role? There's room for both in this program. [caption id="attachment_955100" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Installation view of The same crowd never gathers twice, Buxton Contemporary, the University of Melbourne, 2024. Featuring Cate Consandine, RINGER 2024. Courtesy of the artist and Sarah Scout Presents. Photography by Christian Capurro.[/caption] Said program includes the premiere of Ringer, a multi-channel film by Melbourne artist Cate Consandine; Assembled Audience, an Australian sound installation debut from NYC-based artist Taryn Simon; Body Loss, a performance piece from Sydney-based dancer and choreographer Angela Goh; and a site-specific commission for Buxton's heritage gallery by NZ-based artist Yona Lee and much more. 'The same crowd never gathers twice' is taking over Buxton Contemporary Gallery from Wednesdays to Sundays until Sunday, October 13. The exhibition is free to enter. For more information, visit the website. Top image: Installation view of 'The same crowd never gathers twice', Buxton Contemporary, the University of Melbourne, 2024. Featuring Riana Head-Toussaint, 'Animate Loading 1' 2022. Courtesy of the artist. Photography by Christian Capurro.
Left your Mother's Day plans until late? You can't go wrong with a delicate, irresistible dessert that captures the occasion. Crafted with immaculate precision, artisan cake shop and patisserie Le Yeahllow have gone above and beyond with a pair of limited-edition treats exploring the delightful Ispahan flavour profile, combining lychee, rose and raspberry. Perfect for a last-minute gift, both desserts are available now until Sunday, May 11. First up, the Blush Heart is an adorable heart-shaped petit gâteau that spoils Mum and conveys love with each bite. Finished with a Valrhona Raspberry Inspiration crumble and a touch of raspberry coulis, expect a precise balance of soft, crisp, floral and fruity flavours. Next up, the six-inch Blush Bloom is Le Yeahllow's take on a Saint Honoré — a French short-crust pastry adorned with choux pastry balls. Themed around love for Mother's Day, this playful interpretation features a ring of caramelised profiteroles, topped with rose cream to capture the essence of a floral bloom. A go-to flavour combination for Mother's Day, Ispahan is named after a blushing pink rose, offering a light and refreshing flavour imbued with Parisian class. You might be surprised to learn that this cherished pastry flavour was only invented in the 1990s by renowned French chef Pierre Hermé, who drew inspiration from the eponymous Persian city famed for its roses. As for Le Yeallow, they've quickly established themselves as one of Melbourne's most creative patisseries. Founded in 2021 by Samsky Yeung, the pandemic passion project is now beloved for its "elegantly playful" inventions, bringing a little irreverence to the high-end pastry scene. Now with three locations across Melbourne — Collins Street, Driver Lane and South Yarra — these limited-run Mother's Day treats are the ideal way to impress and delight this special day. With the day nearly upon us, place an order online to make sure you don't miss out. Le Yeahllow's Blush Heart and Blush Bloom are available for order until Sunday, May 11. Head to the website for more information.
Truffle hunts, hot spas, roaring fires, incredible sunsets and pinot noir — there are so many reasons to take a winter weekender that aren't skiing. And, although Australia is synonymous with sun and surf, we're not short on mountain villages, cool climate wine regions and indulgent retreats. If you're ready to embrace the cold (but not so ready to throw your body into the snow) here are ten getaways to try — from hiking around the Blue Mountains to visiting the mineral springs capital of Australia and visiting the Adelaide Hills, where you can count on days filled with excellent wine, long lunches and vineyard strolls. [caption id="attachment_685963" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lowe Wines, Destination NSW[/caption] WINE TASTE YOUR WAY AROUND MUDGEE, NEW SOUTH WALES This pretty country town, which lies a three-and-a-half-hour drive northwest of Sydney, is home to experimental wines, friendly cafes and cosy stays. Head to Huntington Estate for big reds, Lowe Wines for spectacular views and Heslop Wines for small-batch drops in a 100-year-old cottage. The best spot for a long lunch is Pipeclay Pumphouse at the Robert Stein Vineyard & Winery. But, if you're looking for casual cafe fare, there's Alby & Esthers or Artisan on Lewis, where you'll eat surrounded by local artworks. When the time comes to rest your weary head, check into Perry Street Hotel, which is built within the converted 19th-century Mechanics Institute building that takes its design cues from Berlin, or sink into luxury at Sierra Escape, a luxe glamping retreat just outside of town, with phenomenal rural views, fire pits and outdoor baths. [caption id="attachment_726006" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Evans Lookout Blackheath, Destination NSW[/caption] HIKE AND CAFE HOP IN BLACKHEATH, NEW SOUTH WALES Get stuck into some invigorating mountain air, epic views and decadent dishes in Blackheath. This 5000-person village is in the Blue Mountains, one hour-and-forty-five minutes' drive west of Sydney. At 1000 metres above sea level, it occasionally gets snow, so pack your parka. Start by heading to Evans Lookout, where you'll find spectacular vistas and the starting point for a three-kilometre clifftop walk to Govetts Leap. Then it's time to eat. You'll find Campos coffee, an extensive tea menu and tasty brekkies at Anonymous Cafe, plus Asian-inspired hatted fare at Fumo Restaurant. If you're looking for a luxe sleepover, check into Parklands, where you'll wake up to 28 acres of landscaped gardens. For more local tips, see our weekender's guide to the Upper Blue Mountains. [caption id="attachment_669808" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hepburn Bathhouse, Visit Victoria[/caption] SOAK IN MINERAL HOT SPRINGS IN DAYLESFORD, VICTORIA Swap skis for springs in Daylesford. Found a 90 minutes' drive northwest of Melbourne, in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range, this 2500-person town is home to the biggest concentration of mineral springs in Australia. That means there are plenty of places to kick back in a piping hot, nutrient rich bath and soak your winter worries away. Get started at the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, where Victorians have been blissing out since 1895, or the Japanese-inspired Shizuka Ryokan. Other adventures to add to your itinerary include hot chocolate at The Chocolate Mill, mulled cider beside the fire at Daylesford Cider Company, a multi-course feast at Lake House and a stay at Clifftop at Hepburn. [caption id="attachment_692634" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Keppel Lookout, Visit Victoria[/caption] WANDER THROUGH ELEVATED VILLAGES IN MOUNT DANDENONG, VICTORIA Dead keen to getaway, but not so keen on a long drive? Make Mount Dandenong — just one hour's drive east of Melbourne — your destination. You'll be out of the big smoke before you know it — and wandering through mountaintop villages, magical forests and frost-kissed gardens. To reset as quickly as possible, head to the Japanese Mountain Retreat in Montrose, for hot springs and spa treatments. When you're brave enough to face the great outdoors, make tracks to Olinda's RJ Hamer Arboretum, where there are more than 150 types of trees, or the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden. Meanwhile, there's a cracking Devonshire tea — beside a crackling fire — to be enjoyed on at Ripe Cafe, Sassafras, and craft brews galore at Oscar's Alehouse, Belgrave. Still more time to kill? Get more ideas over here. [caption id="attachment_619823" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Fortitude Brewing Co.[/caption] SAMPLE LOTS OF CRAFT BREWS IN MOUNT TAMBORINE, QUEENSLAND Queensland is best known as a destination to escape winter, but the state isn't all tropical climes. And, among its most scenic cool spots is Mount Tamborine, in the Gold Coast hinterland, around an hour's drive south of Brisbane. Launch into your weekend with a wine tasting at Cedar Creek Estate Vineyard & Winery or a beer sampling at Fortitude Brewing Co, before tucking into a comfort food feast at Three Little Pigs Bar and Bistro. In between eating and drinking, you'll be journeying through ancient rainforest, getting to know glow worms and snuggling up in a cottage or chalet. [caption id="attachment_726033" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ridgemill Estate[/caption] STROLL THROUGH IDYLLIC COUNTRYSIDE, WINE IN-HAND, IN STANTHORPE, QUEENSLAND If your favourite winter warm-up is a good glass of red, then you ought to head to Stanthorpe. This riverside town — located three hours' drive southwest of Brisbane — is in the heart of Queensland's Granite Belt, an area of the Great Dividing Range known for its idyllic countryside, striking granite formations and wines. Visit Ridgemill Estate for shiraz, Whiskey Gully for malbec and Colombard, and Savina Lane for single vineyard drops, plus the occasional snowfall. Cheery cabins and cottages abound. [caption id="attachment_619495" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dark Mofo's Winter Feast, shot by Rémi Chauvin.[/caption] IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE DARK ARTS IN HOBART, TASMANIA Ever since Dark Mofo — MONA's annual festival of darkness, death and change — launched in 2013, Hobart has been a firm favourite for winter weekenders. If you're in town in June, you should definitely immerse yourself in some dark arts. If not — or in addition — there are stacks more adventures to be had, from whisky tasting at Lark Distillery to lunch by the water at Aloft Restaurant to local art, objects and food at the Salamanca Market. Hobart's watery surrounds are magical in winter, so try to sleep with views — both The Henry Jones Art Hotel and MONA Pavilions have them. [caption id="attachment_717921" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Grindelwald Swiss Village.[/caption] TAKE A PRETEND TRIP TO SWITZERLAND IN TAMAR VALLEY, TASMANIA Take a mini-trip to Switzerland in Tasmania's Tamar Valley. Just 15 minutes' north of Launceston, you'll find Grindelwald, a village modelled on a Swiss one, complete with gable roofs, paddle boats and an 18-hole mini-golf course. Beyond that, Tamar Valley is a world of winding rivers, green valleys and rolling farmlands that produce a cornucopia of cheese, truffles, walnuts, cherries, ciders and beers. There are also plenty of wineries to hit up here, too. Don't miss brekkie surrounded by wetlands at Stonesthrow, dinner at Stillwater Restaurant or an evening in front of your own sandstone fireplace at the Red Feather Inn. [caption id="attachment_726040" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Karrawatta Wines[/caption] MEANDER THROUGH THE VINEYARDS IN ADELAIDE HILLS, SOUTH AUSTRALIA Every year, the Adelaide Hills welcomes winter with lazy lunches, wine-inspired events and festivals, including Winter Reds: a celebration of red wine, open fires and rustic fare, happening from July 26–28, 2019. Meanwhile, in Hahndorf, Australia's oldest surviving German settlement, you can do winter as the Deutsche do: with baked goodies, chocolates and craft beer. Other spots to visit include the quirky Uraidla Hotel, built in the 19th century; Karrawatta Wines, where wine tasting takes place beside an outdoor (or indoor) fire; and Hardy's Verandah Restaurant, for hearty fare with panoramic views. [caption id="attachment_726046" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Truffle Kerfuffle, Jessica Wyld Photography[/caption] GO TRUFFLE HUNTING (WITH ADORABLE DOGS) IN MARGARET RIVER, WESTERN AUSTRALIA Like Queensland, Western Australia is famous for its warm retreats. But, stick to the southern part of the state, and you'll discover charming wintry destinations a-plenty. For lovers of wine and good food, the Margaret River is the place to go. You'll avoid summer crowds, while making the most of winter festivals, like Truffle Kerfuffle, from June 21–23; Cabin Fever Festival, going down from July 19–28; and CinefestOZ, from August 28–September 1. Plus, even when there are no special events happening, there are bucketloads of drops to drink and, on the coast, whales to watch. Top images: Hepburn Bathhouse; Truffle Kerfuffle by Jessica Wyld Photography; Sierra Escape.
With a title that speaks of next generations, The Son is a film about second efforts, including off-screen. For writer/director Florian Zeller, it marks the French novelist and playwright's sophomore stint behind the camera, and notches the list of movies he's helmed based on his own stage works up to two as well. After dual Oscar-winner The Father, which earned Zeller and co-scribe Christopher Hampton the Best Adapted Screenplay award and Anthony Hopkins the much-deserved Best Actor prize, it's also his second feature with a family member in its title. And, it's his second largely confined to interior settings, focusing on mental illness, exploring complicated father-child relationships within that intimate domestic space and driven by intense dialogue spouted by a committed cast. Hopkins pops up once more in another psychodrama, too, as a dad again. Within its frames, The Son follows New York lawyer Peter Miller (Hugh Jackman, Reminiscence) as he's happily starting over with his second wife Beth (Vanessa Kirby, Pieces of a Woman) and their newborn Theo, his second son. Here's the thing about second chances, though: sometimes your first shots can't simply be forgotten, no matter how eager you are to move on. Peter confronts this truth when his ex-spouse Kate (Laura Dern, Jurassic World Dominion) unexpectedly knocks at his door one day, distraught about learning that their 17-year-old Nicholas (Zen McGrath, Red Dog: True Blue) has been ditching school long-term. The teen hasn't been a contented presence around her home since his dad left, either, with depression setting in after such a big upheaval to his status quo. So, Peter and Kate agree to a parental rekindling, with Peter giving being an active dad to Nicholas — having him come to live with him, Beth and Theo, in fact — a second go. Can lightning strike twice, for Zeller and for Peter? Once again co-writing with Hampton (who nabbed his first Oscar for adapting 1988's Dangerous Liaisons, and another nomination for his work on Atonement), The Son's creative force wants that to be a complicated question — and it is. In his layered narrative, Zeller keeps playing up doubles and playing with duality, including the varying ways that Peter treats his two boys, the push and pull of work and home as a new career opportunity arises, Nicholas' mood and attitude with two differing maternal figures, and the impact of Peter's own fraught relationship with his hard-nosed father (Hopkins, Armageddon Time). The latter is a dynamic that Peter doesn't have fond feelings about and is desperate not to reprise, but we all know what they say about history repeating. Accordingly, for The Son's increasingly exasperated patriarch, lightning striking twice is a double-edged sword. In all of the above, from the moment that it begins with Peter, Beth and Theo at home, then talks about Nicholas, his troubles and mental state before introducing him, The Son is firmly aligned with Peter. Consequently, it's also stressed by a big struggle: truly comprehending Nicholas. The Father, whose shadow the often-clinical The Son will always be under — yes, the connection between Zeller's first two movies mimics the connection between the characters in his second flick — was the masterpiece it was by bringing its namesake's mindset to the screen. Zeller surrounded Hopkins' brilliant performance with immersive cinematography that plunged his audience into the confusion, disruption and distress of experiencing dementia. With The Son, teen anxiety, truancy and the scarred arms that indicate suicidal ideation are things to talk about, brood over and saddle with Chekhovian logic rather than attempt to deeply understand. Set to a solemn score by Hans Zimmer (Prehistoric Planet), Zeller's latest film is filled with pain, hurt and devastation, clearly, but also distance from the person who's meant to be so pivotal that the picture is literally named after him. That said, the movie's moniker is revealing — because it's barely interested in fleshing out Nicholas as a person beyond being a son that Peter has to deal with due to the bonds of blood and the weight of regret. One of the feature's big emotional arcs charts Peter's growing realisation that being a parent is about genuinely seeing and accepting your child for who they are, and working to help them be the best version of themselves that they want to be instead of who you envision. It culminates in a stunning payoff sequence, but if only The Son paid more attention more often to who Nicholas is beyond his cutting anger, physical cuts, and Peter, Beth and Kate's reactions to him. If only The Son also spent more time showing rather than telling — indeed, with its talk-heavy screenplay always betraying the story's stage origins, it devotes almost all of its efforts to telling. Again, even with cinematographer Ben Smithard lensing both here and for The Father, his current work for Zeller peers on rather than dives in. It's a testament to Jackman and McGrath's performances that The Son is as engaging as it is, however, and as dripping with raw emotion. Both Australian talents, one famous for decades at home and abroad, the other an impressive up-and-comer to watch, their duel of words, heartache, expectations and internalised dismay is finely tuned and gripping. Alongside Jackman's one-scene face-off with Hopkins, their still-stagey but compelling one-on-ones are the film's showpieces. On the stage, The Father and The Son are the two parts of a thematic trilogy, completed by Zeller's The Mother — which, in its off-Broadway run in 2019, starred incomparable French icon Isabelle Huppert (an Oscar-nominee herself for 2016's Elle). Whether it too will make it to the movies is yet to be seen, but the two mums of The Son are sadly pushed aside. The always-great Dern and Kirby make the most they can of thin parts, though always deserving better, the two actors conveying a mother's and a stepmother's fears, anguish and hopes, respectively. They also share one of the film's key tussles: appreciating and unpacking its characters, Peter, Beth and Kate alike, and Nicholas especially, as more than their familial labels.
It's impossible to be tense when there are cute puppies around, which is as good a motto as any to live by. Are you the kind of person who gets stressed going about your regular routine, even if there's a public holiday the next day? Here's something that'll help: for one day only in Melbourne, you can add spending time with tiny guide dogs to your agenda. Guide Dogs Victoria has dubbed its pop-up a pup-up, and sipping a cuppa while patting labrador puppies is the aim of the morning. You'll need to make a date with Studley Grounds Cafe in Kew on Wednesday, April 24, however, and be around from 10.30am–12pm. If anything is worth rearranging your coffee break for to head somewhere other than your local, it's this. Tickets cost $30 for adults and are available online in advance. Expect to have company — who wouldn't want to add some adorable Guide Dogs pups, as well as ambassador Guide Dogs, to an otherwise ordinary Wednesday? The one-day-only, one-session-only event is in honour of International Guide Dog Day, and your attendance will help the cause, with all proceeds going to Guide Dogs Victoria's support programs. Alongside the puppy meet-and-greet session — cuddles included — there'll be a photo booth for snaps, a chance to watch the pups in training and a competition that'll let you aim to name a Guide Dog. The occasion will also be reflected in the decor and the menu items on offer. And, this isn't just about getting everyone saying "awwwww" to pooches. To inform attendees about the importance of the Guide Dogs program, there's also a panel and discussion on the itinerary. Find the Guide Dogs Victoria pop-up puppy cafe at Studley Grounds Cafe, 121 Studley Park Road, Kew on Wednesday, April 24, 2024 — running from 10.30am–12pm. For tickets, head to the event's website.
Have you ever wondered why the Mad Hatter is so mad? No, of course you haven't. One of the wonders of Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland is that it doesn't try to explain the headwear enthusiast's mental state — it just accepts him for who he is and lets him get on with his tea party. Movie adaptations have done the same to date, including Tim Burton's 2010 live-action effort Alice in Wonderland. Alas, Disney is intent on sharing the origin stories of every classic literary figure it can think of, leaving Alice Through the Looking Glass to explore Hatter's background. In fact, with Alice (Mia Wasikowska) out in the real world, sailing the seas and attempting to save her mother's house, it's the plight of Hatter (Johnny Depp) that actually brings her back to the fantastical Underland. This time he's the one who's lost much of his muchness, thanks to his newfound belief that his long-gone family might still be alive. To help her truest friend, Alice visits Time himself (Sacha Baron Cohen), then goes jumping back through Hatter's history. His past isn't his alone, with his tale intertwined with the feuding antics of Red Queen Iracebeth (Helena Bonham Carter) and her White Queen sister (Anne Hathaway). As such, Alice Through the Looking Glass is both a prequel and a sequel. Given that its predecessor made more than a billion dollars at the global box office, the reason for the film's existence is obvious — as is the determination of director James Bobin (The Muppets) to follow in Burton's footsteps wherever he can. More peculiar is the decision of writer Linda Woolverton to turn Alice into a little more than an observer in the story, making her character the least interesting part of the movie in the process. As a result, Wasikowska is left largely watching on, even if she does ensure Alice seems suitably older and wiser. And while Depp receives top billing, he's carefully deployed — a little of his all-too-familiar wackiness goes a long way. With Bonham-Carter cartoonish and Hathaway mostly placid, it's left to Baron Cohen to bring the liveliness the film so badly needs. Sadly, despite his best efforts and never-ending supply of time-based puns, Alice Through the Looking Glass is never the energetic adventure it so desperately wants to be. That said, Bobin's movie is never boring — only misguided. Trying to ape Burton's over-the-top sensibilities was always going to be difficult, but simply shifting focus to the kookiest figure, throwing together similar set-pieces and asking most of the cast to repeat their previous performances isn't the way to go about it. Even the candy-coloured visuals don't shine as brightly this time around. That the film's most striking imagery stems from scenes of decay says more than it probably should.
When news hit that Studley Park Boathouse was getting a $5.8-million revamp, including brand-new dining options and a multi-level riverside deck, we were understandably excited. Now, we have an opening date for the historic boathouse: Studley Park Boathouse will reopen to the public on Thursday, 31 August, unveiling a new cafe, restaurant, pizzeria, gelato cart and outdoor dining deck along the Yarra. Australian Venue Co. (Yarra Botanica, Fargo & Co, BrewDog Pentridge) has worked closely with Parks Victoria on the transformation to protect and enhance the heritage site. "Studley Park Boathouse is a beloved part of Melbourne's history, so it was important to us to preserve its character while revitalising it for the modern Melbourne community. We look forward to welcoming locals and visitors back to the revitalised space," Australian Venue Co. CEO Paul Waterson says. On the bill: a sun-filled dining room offering a leafy outlook overlooking the Yarra River and parkland. Boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, a sophisticated yet sensible interior is promised, with touches of rattan, white timber and natural hues to tie the space together. Small and large plates run to the likes of hiramasa kingfish tartare with apples and chives, Lilydale free-range chicken and a 'Tipsy Trifle' which combines baileys, fig leaf custard, cherries and strawberries. Image: Render, supplied The wine list leans local, championing an entirely Victorian menu sourced within 100km of Studley Park Boathouse. Sip through 16 wine-by-the-glass options, or opt for a seasonal tasting paddle that will showcase drops from the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula, Geelong, Heathcote and the Pyrenees in spring. Downstairs, residents familiar with the former kiosk will find it revamped as the Pavilion bar, which extends to a large, al fresco dining area and riverside dining deck. A pizzeria will serve eight different woodfired options, including a charred pumpkin and ricotta number, meatballs with blue cheese, or chorizo paired with n'duja and roasted peppers. Meanwhile, a redesigned cafe named The Perch will cater brunch on weekends. All food and bevvy options are available at any location throughout the revamped Studley Park, so you can pick your favourite spot to perch and spend the afternoon tasting through the offerings. Picnic packages complete with blanket hire and a new 'Row-sé' package bundles together boat hire, glasses of rosé, pizza and gelato. The team is also preparing to host a line-up of pop-up events and live entertainment throughout the year, including live music on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. To celebrate the opening, guests to Studley Park Boathouse on weekends between 2–4pm across 2–17 September will snag a complimentary welcome drink on arrival, free slices of roaming pizza and complimentary boat hire sessions. Kids can also score free ice-cream all day on weekends. [caption id="attachment_894549" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Render, supplied[/caption] Studley Park Boathouse is set to reopen on Thursday, August 31. Head along between 2–4pm, between 2–17 September, to score a complimentary welcome drink on arrival, free slices of roaming pizza and complimentary boat hire sessions. Kids can also score free ice-cream all day on weekends. Images: Flickr, Alpha, renders - supplied.
The circus is one of those things you either love or hate. Usually around age ten or eleven you fall in love with the spectacle of it — you become enamoured of the daring feats and the glittery costumes — either that, or you swear off it completely and the smell of hay or peanuts acts as a lifelong trigger for your intense phobia of clowns. Just like Vegemite, Bjork, or Miley Cyrus; the circus is just one of those things you can't feel indifferent about. Without the tent, without the fairy floss, and without the terrifying clowns, it's entirely different though. A fact that the National Institute of Circus Arts are proving with the talent on show at this year's final showcase. Featuring 21 students — handpicked all the way from Noumea, New Caledonia to Ulladulla, NSW — this 90-minute graduate show presents an entertaining vision of contemporary circus arts that knowingly leans on farce to create something that teeters nicely between carnival and cabaret. Translated to a stand-alone stage show like this however, the relationship between performer and audience can seem a little off. You never quite know when or how much to clap as the impressive feats come in such rapid-fire succession, and because of this audience expectations go through the roof — oh, that was only one backflip so I'll save my applause 'til the end I guess. The show is also pretty disjointed as it oscillates wildly between full-blown flamboyant celebration and moments of surprisingly dark introspection. There is both a rollicking musical number to the Scissor Sisters' 2012 hit 'Let's Have a Kiki!' and a vertical rope performance over a black mattress that has unsettling connotations of teen suicide. I'm not overstating it to say the same performer boogied down in a Hawaiian shirt in one scene then snarled through a leather gimp mask in another. All in all, if you're going in with any expectation for narrative, overall theme, or cohesion, you're going to be disappointed. But this isn't really what it's about, and the novelty and precision of the acts on display far outweigh any criticisms you may have of the show as a whole. Hanne Grant and Jonathan Campos were a great source of humour while being amazingly skilled with hula hoops and the Chinese pole respectively. Daniel Price gave the first dark yet impressive performance on the roue cyr — an apparatus I didn't even know existed. Then the drama ran through the acts with Kate Nelson's seamless work on double rope and Emily Collins' graceful contortions with tissu (aerial silk). Other performances included tightwire, cloudswing, vertical rope, juggling, adagio, swinging trapeze, clowning, hand balancing, roman rings, aerial hoop, and swinging pole. Once you forgive the stark contrasts between light and dark, the show is fantastic. Directors Megan Jones and Meredith Kitchen even say with the program, the showcase "truly reflects the diverse personalities that belong to [the] graduating third year students. Quirky, sassy, fun, intense, and dynamic..." And with this, the show succeeds. It's accessible, entrancing and easy to watch — a testament to the enduring appeal of spectacle. Image: Aaron Walker.
Whether you think you can dance or know for a fact that you can't, we have got a hell of an at-home activity for you. Groove Therapy has brought its judgement-free classes online and is charging just $8 a pop. The relaxed, 35-minute live streamed classes for the aspiring street dancer in all of us run most nights at 6 or 6.30pm AEST via Zoom. From Sunday–Thursday, you can partake in a Sweats in Sweats class — where you'll stretch it out and learn a mini-choreography — then on Friday the founder of Mission Stiletto Cassandra Merwood will run you through a playful class in stilettos (if you want, otherwise barefoot is just fine). Indeed, the classes are designed for beginner students who might feel intimidated by a more professional environment. Don't let that fool you though, because the instructors are legit, and will have you popping and locking in no time. It's perfect for those of us who dream of burning up the dance floor, but have never had the moves to back it up. If you'd like to sink your teeth into a longer dance program, Groove Therapy also offers four online dance courses, which you can progress through at your own rate. Kick things off with the 16-class Beginner 1: Grooves (for $69); level up with Party Dances ($89), which'll teach you everything from the moonwalk to the running man, then complete your education with House 1 ($89) and 11 ($69). You'll be ready to rip up the disco dance floor in no time. Images: Gracie Steindl
The Foreigner only opened its doors last year, but Sam Elmazi already has plenty of plans. "We've bought the store next door, so we're hoping to have the expanded cafe ready before Christmas," Elmazi says. "We're also thinking of extending our opening hours on Friday and Saturday nights." Even though he is the sole owner of The Foreigner, Elmazi has a tendency to talk about the cafe's future plans as a collaborative, team effort. And it's easy to understand why. His waitstaff are obviously a big part of the business; cheeky, genuine and attentive, they manage to keep business humming even during Ivanhoe's quietest suburban hours. Despite the name, The Foreigner isn't a reference to migration or multiculturalism. Keen to get Ivanhoe and quality coffee a little more acquainted — and give the area somewhere 'personable' to visit — Elmazi says the cafe's namesake is inspired by all the foreign coffee beans he plans to introduce. When pressed about the choice of suburb, Elmazi admits Ivanhoe wasn't always in the cards. It was a chance visit to the area that sparked his interest. "I was actually picking something up from eBay," he says. "Ivanhoe is such an interesting area. There's lots of food and coffee but there's no strong cafe scene." Inside, white chairs, inset shelves and a feature mirror make up the French provisional-feel of the cafe. European-styled antiques and old-fashioned pots are endearingly charming, a rarity outside of Melbourne's central hubs. Breakfast is straightforward. The locals don't seem to mind following the path well travelled and The Foreigner's brunch staples are homely and fresh, if a tad unimaginative. Jars filled with homemade sweets and in-demand muffins are displayed in a glass cabinet. Elmazi plans to change the menu seasonally. A world map covers the length of The Foreigner's undecorated wall, featuring the single origin of the week, permanent house blends and information on flavour profiles. The house blend is from Code Black, and single origins are from Industry Beans. While the coffee may be a little foreign, there are few locales in the northeast as inviting as The Foreigner.
There's no better way to brush off the many months spent at home than with a trip to Victoria's High Country. While you might think the state's alpine peaks are only worth a visit during winter, we're here to tell you that there are adventure activities, cultural experiences and all-round summertime beauty to be found when the weather is warm. This is particularly true of Falls Creek — so plan a summer trip and discover a different side to the popular winter destination. And with plush accommodation in the alpine village and beyond, there's no need to rush these excellent warm weather experiences. [caption id="attachment_833444" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Victoria's High Country[/caption] EXPLORE THE DEPTHS — AND HEIGHTS — OF ROCKY VALLEY LAKE Australia's mountainous regions are home to numerous alpine reservoirs, but few are as impressive as Rocky Valley Lake. At 1600 metres above sea level, this aquatic wonderland is the highest significant body of water in Australia, and can be easily explored thanks to a great variety of activities, including fishing, swimming, kayaking and more. While it's just a 10-minute drive from Falls Creek Village or the Pretty Valley campground, carting your own kayak or boat to the lake isn't required. Just see the team at Peak Adventure to rent kayaks and paddleboards for all your on-water needs. Plus, the company also hosts guided tours and private lessons, so you can get an inside perspective on this striking part of the world. [caption id="attachment_833921" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Victoria's High Country[/caption] VISIT HISTORIC CATTLEMEN'S HUTS Victoria's High Country has a long and storied past when it comes to cattlemen. Following the landmark Hume and Hovell expedition of 1824, these rugged landscapes became some of the country's prime pastoral terrain. Today, visitors to Falls Creek can still explore the historic cattlemen's huts that sheltered livestock farmers from the harsh conditions. These huts date back to the 1860s, with each one linked to a fascinating tale. To make the experience even more unique, head out on an e-bike tour with Falls Creek Guides and set your sights on existing monuments such as Wallace's Hut (pictured above) and Cope Hut. [caption id="attachment_833939" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lauren Bath[/caption] CHASE WATERFALLS Falls Creek's alpine location helps keep the temperature more bearable than the sweltering city, even on the hottest of summer days. To keep you even more refreshed, head to one of the area's several highland waterfalls that provide the perfect spot to keep cool. Fainter Falls is the most renowned in the region, situated just a short trip from Bogong Village. As you complete the easygoing trek through dense ferns, superb views stretch along the Kiewa River and its majestic falls. If you're in the mood for more sightseeing, the nearby Falls Creek Falls is also worth a visit. [caption id="attachment_833458" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Victoria's High Country[/caption] GO MOUNTAIN BIKING The snow might have melted away, but you can still get your downhill thrills by completing some of the mountain bike trails surrounding Falls Creek. If you consider yourself quite adept on two wheels, the Falls Creek Mountain Bike Park features 40 kilometres of top-notch gravity trails that highlight some incredible vistas. For a trip that'll test the heart rate and provide views of remarkable natural beauty, the Cope Hut Return loop is a breezy ride that takes travellers to some of the region's most scenic and historic spots. Meanwhile, the world-class Fainter Trail features a myriad of challenging obstacles en route from Falls Creek to Mount Beauty's township. [caption id="attachment_833448" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Victoria's High Country[/caption] HAVE A MEAL AT THE FRYING PAN INN Situated in Falls' Village Bowl, the Frying Pan Inn was one of the first eateries in the area when it was established in 1965. Having undergone several evolutions over its years as a bustling après-ski favourite, this spot is just as popular during summer thanks to a woodfired menu featuring sustainably sourced ingredients. There's a great selection of tasty burgers, ranging from soft-shell crab to miso-glazed vegan options. Plus, delectable barbecue dishes, including pork ribs, lamb shoulder and scotch fillet, make for a hearty American-style lunch. Alongside a seasonally rotating menu of local craft beers on tap, a meal at the Frying Pan Inn never disappoints. UNWIND IN STYLE AT DIANA ALPINE LODGE Set within Falls Creek Alpine Village, Diana Alpine Lodge is the ideal base for your holiday if you're exploring the region with pals. You can also relax in the cosy lounge with an ice-cold drink from the bar or crank up the barbecue on the balcony and take in sprawling mountain views. Heading to Falls Creek with your mountain bike? You can lock it securely inside the lodge's bike storage facility. Plus, bike wash facilities will no doubt be much appreciated if you're planning to conquer the area's epic trails. For more information on things to see and do at Falls Creek this summer, head to the Victoria's High Country website. Top image: Victoria's High Country
Kevin Spacey finally had his moment in the Cranston-less sun, Billy Bob Thornton nabbed gold for his terrifying, terrifying role in Fargo, Boyhood quite rightly cleaned up, Keira Knightley wore a dress it took 30 people to make and Emma Stone and Lorde wore pants to make every fashion magazine have a social media kitten about. PANTS?! EGADS. But apart from the red carpet scrutiny and award-giving, here are the bits from that made the 72nd Golden Globes worth it, having just wrapped up at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles. When Tina Fey and Amy Poehler Fired a Bill Cosby Joke Straight Off the Bat "We're gonna make it a party... what are they going to do fire us?" Cahmaaaahhhn, it's their third year presenting, all bets were off. When The New Yorker's Bob Eckstein Started Live Drawing the Event Even though no one really understood them, classic New Yorker. Check them out here. When Ricky Gervais Couldn't Help But Insult the Whole Audience (Again) "I wouldn't want to insult any of you rich, beautiful, overprivileged celebrities." Then does. When Prince Popped In Presenting this year's Best Original Song to John Legend and Common for 'Glory' from Selma, the legend himself dropped by with one of his fluffiest fros yet. When Everyone Freaked Out Over Jared Leto's Braid HuffPost called him 'a rockstar, award-winning actor and apparently, hairsyle maven'. FFS. When Benedict Cumberbatch Photobombed Meryl Streep and Margaret Cho Taken by Michael Keaton. Too good. When Kevin Spacey Dropped an F-Bomb Accepting Best Actor in a TV Drama "This is just the beginning of my revenge... I cannot believe I fucking won." When Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader Didn't Nail a De Niro Impersonation Remained flawless in everyone's eyes. When Wes Anderson Accepted his Globe for Best Picture (Comedy/Musical) in a Purple Velvet Bow Tie "Wes Anderson is here tonight for the movie Grand Budapest Hotel. Per usual, Wes arrived on a bike made of antique tuba parts." — Amy Poehler. When You Didn't See Any of This Because You Were Working or Eating or Something, Anything Happy Globes y'all. Forward march to the Oscars. Image credit: justingaynor via photopin cc.
Well really, who doesn’t love a good Sunday Session? Our pick of the bunch this summer would have to be Daydreams, for so, so many reasons. Now in its third year running, Daydreams has found a new home at Dr Morse where the festivities start at 4pm and go as long as you can on a school night. Melbourne’s best DJs and general party starters take over to fuel the good times with great tunes. The bar/beer garden/courtyard out the back of Dr Morse is the perfect place to plant yourself to enjoy the last dregs of your weekend. If you’re peckish, they’ve got you covered with everything from excellent bar snacks to more substantial meals. Oh, and did we mention the free fruit? Bonus. In fact, the whole event is free, and is running until the last weekend of March. Huzza!
On a vineyard in Moonambel, a picturesque town in the Victorian Pyrenees region, the Summerfield family grows grapes that are turned into richly hued, bold reds. In 1970, Ian Summerfield planted ten acres of mostly shiraz vines, and the wine has remained a family affair since, with the generations that followed taking over various parts of the vineyard's — and eventual winery's — operations. The family is now known for producing consistently delicious drops, while retaining a deep commitment to and respect for viticulture and winemaking practices. You can visit Summerfield Wines for world-class vino and woodfired pizzas — which is a truly delicious way to spend a day among The Great Dividing Range. Head to the website to make a booking at the cellar door. Image: Visit Victoria
There's something meta about attending an acutely authentic Spanish feast at a venue whose name doesn't allude to the fact that it does anything of the sort. That is, the Robert Burns Hotel. But, all apprehensions are left at old Robbie's door (guaranteed), because this place is possibly Melbourne's best Spanish restaurant. And the best time to go? Their monthly 'Dine the Spanish Regions' dinners. Held on the last Tuesday of every month, these dinners uncover one region at a time. Past events have taken diners into Extramadura, Andalucia and La Rioja. These feasts have somewhat of a cult following. Actual Spanish nationals come here to get a taste of home; we once attended a dinner where two of the guests were actually from the region. It's legit. This month, the culinary tour of Spain continues on to Asturias — one of the regions that make up the north coast of the country. For $79 you'll be plated up with four courses of traditional fare, matched with wines that come sourced (if possible) straight from the place in question; everything is considered and culturally specific to the region. So don't come expecting paella — come ready to try specialties you will scarcely find outside of the villages of Spain.
Catch legendary Israeli choreographer Hofesh Shechter's latest electrifying production, as he embraces the crazy times we live in by weaving a dark but comical apocalyptic tale about the end of time. Grand Finale combines elements of dance, theatre and live music gigs as a troupe of world-class performers elegantly move their way through an oncoming storm and a society in free-fall. Subtly optimistic about the downfall of the world, Grand Finale might leave you feeling slightly better about our state of affairs. Shechter's previous theatre productions — Uprising, Sun and In your rooms — have impressed Melbourne's audiences over recent years and Grand Finale looks to be no different, having already been nominated for two Helpmann Awards, which celebrate Australia's top performance artists. Across four special nights for Melbourne International Arts Festival, the show appears at Arts Centre Melbourne with tickets available from $39. Stick around after the show on Friday, October 11, for a Q&A with the creatives. Images: Rahi Rezvani.
If you're looking for some new local holidays to plan, consider this: the ever-so-elegant Campbell Point House has opened in the heart of the Bellarine Peninsula wine country, and it's enough to make some of the other luxury getaways feel like veritable hostel stints. Originally built as a family home, the new boutique hotel takes design cues from the majestic chateaux of the Loire Valley, now open to the public following a multi-million dollar spruce-up and makeover. Boasting eight opulent rooms, Campbell Point can host a maximum of just 30 people at once, with facilities reserved strictly for guest use — visit the sprawling property and you'll pretty much feel like you've got the whole place to yourself. And those facilities sure aren't shabby, with the hotel rocking its own championship grass tennis court, day spa, infinity pool and private jetty onto Lake Connewarre. Inside, you can kick back in style in the huge Provincial-inspired lounge, or perhaps the cigar salon, conservatory or billiards room. The food offering here is equally impressive, with the hotel's private restaurant helmed by Tobin Kent (formerly head chef at Gladioli). Organic produce grown in the onsite garden is used throughout the menus, starring alongside a huge array of other ingredients from across the Peninsula. Guests can sit down to a lavish eight-course degustation dinner included in the cost of their room, as well as an a la carte breakfast menu to rival all those inner-city brunch feeds. Of course, when that level of luxury awaits, you ditch the car and instead make use of the onsite helipad. If you fancy a stay, Campbell Point House will set you back a minimum of $1250 per couple per night. That includes dinner, breakfast, complimentary snacks from the mini bar and a Champagne and cheese platter on arrival. Campbell Point House is open from Monday, October 22, at Matthews Road, Leopold, Vic.
Spritzing season is in full swing — and to celebrate, Pilgrim is kicking off a series of summer sipping sessions centred around spritzes and all-Aussie snacks. The riverside bar's afternoon Spritz & Snack parties will run from 2–6pm, every second Saturday, launching on the long weekend on January 26. For $25, guests will enjoy a showcase of snacks crafted on top local produce and a signature spritz on arrival, with more boutique sips available to purchase at the bar. In the kitchen, Head Chef Mike Richard will be celebrating some of his favourite Aussie producers, through dishes like Meru Miso ranch barbecue chicken wings, Pacdon Park pulled pork mini-bites, peppered wallaby tartare and an outback curry bean dip. The matching drinks offering is set to feature a rotation of fruit-driven spritzes, heroing much-loved Australian distillers like Patient Wolf and Poor Toms, while local DJs spin tunes throughout the afternoon.
Calling all proud Melburnians: you're invited to explore the spirit of Melbourne's inner west in Perspectives of the Inner West— a three-week pop-up photography gallery showcasing the chosen entries of a local photography competition. The photographs could feature colourful street art, quiet alleys, charming cafes or even quirky characters that locals think make the inner west special. Amateurs and professionals were encouraged to enter and show what they love about the area. So, how did it work? Entrants were asked to take a picture that they felt captured the area's essence — the subject material beyond that was entirely open to their own interpretation. They uploaded their favourite to an online storage platform (like WeTransfer), and completed the entry form on the site. Entries are being judged by industry professionals, including Chris Cincotta (creator of Melbourne I Love You), portrait photographer Shane Nagle and Julian Hills — the owner (and hatted chef) of local restaurant Navi. Selected entries will take to the walls of Grazeland Melbourne from Friday, May 12 to Sunday, May 28. Not only will entrants have the chance to show their art to a broader audience, but they'll also get to partake in a celebration of Melbourne's cultural richness. Three snap-happy legends will walk away with prizes — including a $3500 Visa giftcard. The comp is supported by the historic Bradmill site, the Bradmill Yarraville development on Francis Street. Developed by Frasers Property Australia and partner Irongate, it's set to become a new hive of community and creativity in Melbourne's inner west. Entry to the competition has officially closed. The gallery begins on Friday, May 12 and runs until Sunday, May 28 at Grazeland Melbourne. For more information, visit the website. Top image: Shane Nagle
With a swag of Aussie outposts under its belt and over 1500 stores worldwide, Gong Cha is something of a bubble tea veteran. This one's named after an ancient Chinese phrase describing the act of offering tea to the Emperor — fitting, given its menu features a whole kingdom's worth of crafty tea drinks. Fruit fiends will find themselves tempted by fusions like the mango and fresh milk tea loaded with mango-flavoured pearls, or the passionfruit green tea sporting a thick crown of jellies and boba. Meanwhile, milk-based offerings might feature the likes of a unicorn-hued strawberry taro tea, a layered oat milk tea dense with toppings, or a sticky brown sugar milk blend starring a healthy serve of brown sugar tapioca pearls. Gong Cha also has nearby outposts in Sunshine and at Highpoint, as well as in the CBD, Richmond and all over the southeast suburbs.
Melbourne sugar fiends can finally prepare their tastebuds for the second coming of one of Australia's biggest doughnut chains. Since closing down its 30 stores last year during the well-documented collapse of then-owner Damien Griffith's hospitality empire, Doughnut Time has returned to Brisbane under new owners and managers. And it's finally heading for you, too, Melbourne. The brand made its comeback just before Christmas 2018 with the opening of four new Queensland stores — two in Brisbane and two on the Gold Coast. Now, the three Melbourne stores we were promised are finally taking shape. The Degraves Street and Hawthorn outposts opened in May and June, respectively. A third shop is planned to open in Fitzroy soon, bringing the brand to six stores all up. More are expected to open throughout the year, too, though none have been announced for Sydney as of yet. [caption id="attachment_619757" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Doughnut Time's original Surry Hills store.[/caption] With the chain now overseen by Queensland entrepreneur Peter Andros, Doughnut Time is eager to put the brand's past behind it — a situation that not only saw its previous stores shuttered without warning, but left many of its staff unpaid. "We think what happened to past employees is unacceptable," the company wrote on Facebook. Fans should expect a dose of the old and the new with this fresh batch of stores. The former includes the Love At First Bite (filled with Nutella and dusted with cinnamon sugar) and It's Always A Gaytime (a milk chocolate glazed doughy filled with honeycomb custard, topped with crushed biscuits and caramelised crepes). The brand has also promised a new focus on vegan, gluten free, high protein, low sugar and keto options. At the moment, the vegan Liam Hemsworthy sounds especially tasty — a red velvet doughnut frosted with cookies and cream, crushed chocolate ripple biscuits and a chocolate glaze drizzle. Doughnut Time is now open at 5 Degraves Street, Melbourne and 648 Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn. A third shop is set to open at 378 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy soon. Updated: July 17, 2019.
Across four nights this month, the newly revamped Collingwood Yards precinct will become the canvas for immersive multi-arts festival called A Strange Space. A collaboration between Midsumma Festival and the Centre for Projection Art, it'll present a dazzling showcase of projections, music, dance and performance — all courtesy of a sparkling lineup of LGBTQIA+ artists and allies. Each night from Thursday, April 22–Sunday, April 25, the northside precinct will come alive with a diverse curation of projects celebrating artistic connections and human interactions. After the sun dips, you'll be treated to a broad-ranging program of works from the likes of Megan Beckwith, Leisa Prowd, Drew Pettifer, Wendy Yu, Jonathan Homsey, Wesley Dowling, Jenna Eriksen and more. Each artist will dive into the theme of 'a strange space' and the feels it encapsulates. Sets by graduates of the Yarra Youth Services x Vinyl Vixens DJ program will soundtrack your after-dark art wanderings, while the bar slings beers and seltzers from Moon Dog. And if you're hungry, you'll find tasty fare from both the Hope Street Radio Restaurant and a lineup of food trucks. [caption id="attachment_801198" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Stefan Postles[/caption]
It was once a stereotype that all people from Melbourne wore black, now it's quickly turning the other way. The pastel prints of local design icon Obus have been lighting up our city for some time now, particularly spotted around the inner-north with stores in the CBD, Fitzroy and Northcote. Known for its kooky style, block colours, and big billowing dresses, Obus strikes the perfect balance between high fashion and high comfort. Stand out from the crowd without having to squeeze into some hideous cocktail dress or bejewelled stilettos. These clothes were made to be worn loud and proud. Obus is also located at 226 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy and 285 High Street, Northcote. Images: Tracey Ahkee.
Thanks to a combination of early summer weather, the relatively new 25-kilometre bubble and the Melbourne Cup public holiday, some of the Melbourne's beaches have hit capacity. The City of Port Phillip Council has this afternoon announced that its beaches are at capacity, as images of a packed St Kilda Beach hit social media. At 4pm on Tuesday, November 3, two hours after the winning horse crossed the finish line, a 9 News journalist posted a photo on Twitter showing what she says is "thousands" of people relaxing on St Kilda Beach, with "at best" half of them masked. https://twitter.com/LanaMurphy/status/1323490615347146752 The City of Pork Phillip, which has been posting hourly updates on its Facebook page, announced that its beaches were "heavily patronised" at 3pm, then that the beaches had reached capacity at 5pm. "As we near 5pm, the beaches remain full and parking at capacity. As families head home over the next few hours, space may open up." the Council wrote on Facebook at 5pm. "We will do a final hourly post at 6pm but will keep you updated throughout the night if there's anything you need to know about." As we near 5pm, the beaches remain full and parking at capacity. As families head home over the next few hours, space... Posted by City Of Port Phillip on Monday, November 2, 2020 The City of Port Phillip Council's beaches include St Kilda Beach, Elwood Beach, Port Melbourne Beach, South Melbourne Beach and Sandridge Beach, Today in Melbourne, the mercury rose to 30.4 degrees, which the Bureau of Meteorology has said is the warmest Melbourne Cup Day since 1969 — and the warmest day since March 19 this year. https://twitter.com/BOM_Vic/status/1323501578465271813 If you are hoping to make it to a beach or park — in your 25-kilometre bubble — for sunset, check out the relevant council's website so you're not turned away at arrival. For more information about the status of Melbourne's beaches and parks, head to the relevant council's website. Top image: Sagar Rathod via Flickr
What happens when two cousins played by Kieran Culkin (Succession) and Jesse Eisenberg (Fleishman Is in Trouble) honour their grandmother and explore their family's past by heading to Poland? Eisenberg himself asked that question, then turned the answer into the Sundance-premiering and now Jewish International Film Festival-bound A Real Pain. The actor not only co-stars but writes and directs the dramedy, his second feature behind the lens — and Australian audiences can see the results when JIFF returns for 2024. This year's festival is back to finish out the year, screening in seven cities — Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Hobart and Canberra — across various dates between Sunday, October 27–Sunday, December 22. Just like its fellow major cultural film fests, such as its French, Spanish, Italian, Scandinavian and Japanese counterparts, JIFF's 2024 slate is jam-packed. Movie lovers can choose between 41 features, two TV shows and a showcase of short films, with the festival's titles hailing from 17 countries. Eisenberg and Culkin aren't the only big names on the lineup. Closing night's Berlin-set The Performance, which is adapted from an Arthur Miller short story and tells of a Jewish American tap dancer, stars Jeremy Piven (Sweetwater). The fest's centrepiece pick Between the Temples features Jason Schwartzman (Megalopolis) as a cantor and Carol Kane (Dinner with Parents) as his former elementary school music teacher. And in White Bird, which hails from a book by the author of fellow page-to-screen effort Wonder, Helen Mirren (Barbie) and Gillian Anderson (Scoop) pop up. In Sydney and Melbourne only — it's playing the Brisbane International Film Festival in the Queensland capital instead — The Brutalist is on the JIFF bill as well. It shows Down Under after winning Venice's Silver Lion-winner for Best Director for actor-turned-filmmaker Brady Corbet (The Childhood of a Leader, Vox Lux). Starring on-screen: Adrien Brody (Asteroid City), Felicity Jones (Dead Shot) and Guy Pearce (Inside), in a flick that follows architect László Toth and his wife Erzsébet to America from Europe after the Second World War. Well-known folks are also in the spotlight in documentaries Janis Ian: Breaking Silence, Diane Warren: Relentless and How to Come Alive with Norman Mailer — and acclaimed director Michael Winterbottom (24 Hour Party People, The Trip movies) is on the lineup via British Mandatory Palestine-set historical thriller Shoshana. Then, there's TV series Kafka, arriving a century after the death of its namesake. Highlights across the rest of the program include documentary The Commandant's Shadow, about The Zone of Interest-featured Auschwitz commandant Rudolf Höss' son Hans Jürgen Höss meeting with survivor Anita Lasker-Wallfisch; Tatami, following a female Iranian judo athlete played by Arienne Mandi (The L Word: Generation Q), with Guy Nattiv (Golda) and Zar Amir Ebrahimi (last seen on-screen in Shayda, and also co-starring here) co-directing; television's Auckland-set Kid Sister; and Aussie doco Pita with Vegemite: An Israeli Australian Story. "Our 2024 program showcases stars and change makers, offering audiences a rich tapestry of stories that explore the depth and diversity of Jewish life," explains JIFF Artistic Director Eddie Tamir. "We are excited to present films that span thousands of years of history and culture, reflecting on both the ancient traditions that have shaped our world and the contemporary challenges we face today." Jewish International Film Festival 2024 Dates and Locations Sunday, October 27–Wednesday, December 4 — Classic Cinemas (full dates), Lido Cinemas (Monday, October 28–Tuesday, December 3) and Cameo Cinemas (Saturday, November 9–Wednesday, November 13), Melbourne Monday, October 28–Thursday, December 5 — Ritz Cinemas (full dates) and Roseville Cinemas (Thursday, November 7–Wednesday, November 20), Sydney Thursday, November 7–Sunday, November 17 — New Farm Cinemas, Brisbane Thursday, November 7–Sunday, November 17 — The Piccadilly, Adelaide Thursday, November 7–Sunday, November 17 — State Cinema, Hobart Saturday, December 7–Sunday, December 8 — Dendy Cinemas, Canberra Saturday, December 14–Sunday, December 22 — Luna Leederville, Perth The 2024 Jewish International Film Festival runs from October–December. For more information, or to buy tickets, head to the festival's website.
