School holidays might've long stopped being relevant to plenty of our schedules, but they're still worth paying attention to for one reason. When students get a reprieve from class, plenty of places want to help fill their time — and, when something like lakeside glamping pops up for a two-week stint, it's not just for families. From September 22 to October 8, Gypset Glamping is setting up camp at Lake Lyell in New South Wales' central west, about a two-and-a-half hour drive from Sydney. Their pop-up site will let attendees soak in the natural serenity and splendour at Lake Lyell Recreation Park, and enjoy a section of the lake that hasn't been previously used by campers. Facilities-wise, visitors can expect luxe tents for two t0 four people, complete with double beds, silk cushions and solar phone charging ports; however, going glamping isn't just about lazing around in your own home away from home. The camp will also feature a shaded communal area with Bavarian beer hall tables, perfect for post-swim hangouts. Tents start at $150 per night for a two-person setup, and $210 per night for four people, with a two-night minimum stay required. And if the timing isn't right, Gypset have other camps in the works too, with the company largely focusing on the Blue Mountains and central west region — just keep an eye on their website. Gypset Glamping will pop up at Lake Lyell from September 22 to October 8. To book, visit their website. For more glamping options, check out our list for the ten best glamping spots near Sydney.
Got a passion for bacon that can't be tamed? Well, this weekend you'll finally have the chance to show that breakfast bae of yours just how much you care, at Welcome To Thornbury's inaugural Bacon Appreciation Day. Taking over the food truck park from noon on Saturday, June 24, is the porcine party of your dreams — that is, an ode to all things bacon, in all of its mouthwatering forms, as imagined by some of your favourite food slingers. Nem N'Nem's crisp bacon banh mi, triple-decker bacon creations from Mr Burger, and maple bacon sticks from Billy Van Creamy are just some of the bacony treats on offer, alongside inventive dishes from the likes of Donald & Tuck, Ostrich & Egg and YOMG. To back up its usual offerings, the bar will be working magic with a range of bacon-themed cocktails, and has even lined up a bunch of bacon-inspired beers for the occasion.
Next year, the force is coming to Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World in Florida — and now the booze is as well. When Disney opens its new Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge zones at the two parks by the end of 2019, it won't just add two 14-acre sites to the respective locations, representing the biggest single-themed expansions each has ever seen. In addition to all of that, Galaxy's Edge will also feature a Star Wars-style cantina. And, at Disneyland, it'll also mark the first time that alcohol has ever been sold on the premises. Yes, we've definitely got a good feeling about Oga's Cantina, which'll serve up boozy tipples at both of its locales. It'll also offer non-alcoholic drinks for younger visitors, including blue milk, plus music to complete the hangout vibe. The cantina forms part of Black Spire Outpost, the village within the Star Wars zone, and comes with a backstory. It's "run by an intriguing alien proprietor, Oga Garra," according to the Disney Theme Parks Blog, and boasts "a history of being a smugglers' safe haven and a popular stopping point for those seeking to avoid the authorities". As for the rest of Galaxy's Edge, it's designed to "transport guests to a never-before-seen planet, a remote trading port and one of the last stops before wild space where Star Wars characters and their stories come to life." To be specific, fans will be able hop onto a star destroyer, fly the Millennium Falcon and just generally wander around like they're part of George Lucas' space-opera world. Expect more details to be unveiled as Galaxy's Edge's opening inches nearer — and for the attractions to tie into all ten Star Wars movies to date, and feature an array of beloved characters making an appearance. Eventually, visitors to Disney World will also be able to stay in an immersive Star Wars-themed hotel too, although construction hasn't started yet and an opening date hasn't been announced either. Via Disney Theme Parks Blog.
Summer is all about long nights, lazy days, cold bevs and occasionally finding a fun competitive activity so intense it brings out your inner Lleyton Hewitt. Friendships have been broken, reformed and strengthened through the tried and true method of a tournament — and everyone's game faces are all the stronger when there are beers involved. This summer, it's not just about the beach. Challenge yourselves to playing something slightly unique (think trampoline dodgeball or Finska), and rediscover your inner competitive fiend. Grab your Hahn slab, nine of your best mates and give one of these competitive games a crack — time to blow into a conch shell and assemble your team. MINI GOLF Not necessarily groundbreaking, mini golf has been around for heaps of your childhood and teenage birthday parties. But it's gotten a whole lot more fun now that you can putt along, beer in hand. Gather some mates, head to Holey Moley and see who can stay on par — or go so over it's comical. A bit of putt-putt always makes you remember how playing tiny golf with tiny clubs is actually not that easy, but at Holey Moley you'll be distracted by beloved pop culture references — like The Simpsons' couch or an Iron Throne made of nine-irons. And when you're on your seventh hit over par, just remember it's the winner who should buy the next round of bevs. Where? Holey Moley Golf Club in Melbourne (CBD), Sydney (Newtown) or Brisbane (Fortitude Valley). [caption id="attachment_649153" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Finska.[/caption] FINSKA For something a bit different, look to the Scandinavians. Finska is a game modelled on the ancient game kyykkä, which the Finns created and still take very seriously to this day (there are world championships). A lighter, less serious version, Finska can be easily purchased online so you'll be playing a casual game with your mates in no time. With the tagline, "defeat friend and enemies with strategy, skill and a lump of wood", the game has you basically throwing a cylinder of wood at other numbered wooden things. Trickier than it might seem in the description, though, a game can quickly turn into a riot, so you'll need a large area in which to Finska. Winning is an exact science (50 points only, if you go over you lose points) so you'll also probably need a few beers to keep you and your mates hydrated until that happens for someone. Where? Buy online from Australian Geographic and then find a large park, such as Princes Park in Carlton North, Melbourne; Centennial Park in Sydney; or Robelle Domain in Springfield, Brisbane. TRAMPOLINE DODGEBALL It does sound like a Ben Stiller movie, but it's actually an excellent time. Trampoline parks are already a prime throwback to your childhood days, but you can up the stakes further by incorporating a game of dodgeball. Basically, it's dodgeball with soft balls with the added benefit of feeling like you're flying — you're also getting a huge workout at the same time without even realising it. Take your mates out one by one and/or deal with your recent break up in a healthy way. Patch up your skinned knees afterwards and head out for some bridge-mending beers. Where? Trampoline parks are popping up all over the place. Try BounceInc in Essendon Fields, Melbourne or Sky Zone in Alexandria, Sydney and in Macgregor, Brisbane. CROQUET Not just for the lords and ladies of yonder years, croquet is having its moment in the sun as a low impact/high fun sport (another one that involves hitting stuff with wooden things). To play the noble game, all you need is the ability to wrangle a mallet in one hand while sipping a drink in the other — as well as some medium level of hand-eye coordination to get the balls through the hoops. It's generally a very relaxed afternoon spent in nice grassy surroundings (no golf swings over here, everything is below the knee), so head along on a lazy Sunday. Where? Try Elwood Croquet Club in Melbourne, Coogee Croquet Club in Sydney or Stephens Croquet Club in Yeronga, Brisbane QUIDDITCH Yeah, you heard us. There are leagues across the nation (and the world) that have arisen from J.K. Rowling's famed series about children who do magic and use owls as postmen. If you've always fantasised about your letter from Hogwarts, read up about the rules of Quidditch IRL, then find a big park, a bunch of mates who are in for a good (if silly) time, a broom and off you go. The general gist of the thing here is that you're obviously not flying, you're running around on the ground (so it's a pretty good workout) and the snitch is an actual person with a ball in a sock attached to their pants. It sounds ridiculous, but as far as tournaments go, it's one of the most fun — beers only increase the helpless laughter. Where? BYO broom and find a park, such as Edinburgh Gardens in Fitzroy, Melbourne; Sydney Park in Newtown, Sydney; or Roma Street Parkland in Brisbane's CBD. [caption id="attachment_649152" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kan Jam.[/caption] KAN JAM Basically, a terrible name for a super fun time, Kan Jam (aka throwing Frisbees in garbage bins) is nothing if not a) utilitarian and b) cheap. All you need is a bin and a Frisbee and at least two people to play. The aim of the game is simply to throw a Frisbee and get it into the bin 50-feet (about 15 metres) away with the help of a 'deflector' teammate. Perfect for beaches, parks or any public space where the bins are mobile and clean enough, Kan Jam might just be your jam this summer. Where? Head to your favourite beach and either commandeer some of its bins or, if you want something a little more sanitised, buy the official Kan Jam online here. GIANT CHESS Much like physical tournaments, mental tournaments can intensify swiftly — especially when it's hot. Ever the game of strategy, chess can be less cerebral when there's an enormous chessboard and you can play as a team. Suddenly, the quiet, solo game becomes a rowdy whole crew activity. Wait for a warm day, find yourself a giant public chessboard and get pawning and rooking. You may want to save any bevs until after you've checkmated, though, so your strategic thinking skills remain on point. Where? Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney all have their own respective giant chessboards. Find chess in Melbourne at Swanston and Little Collins streets, in Sydney at Nagoya Gardens in Hyde Park and the Fortitude Valley Markets in Brisbane. Challenge your mates to a game of friendly competition and, no matter who wins, celebrate your successes with a round of Hahn.
Audrey Hepburn. Federico Fellini. Woody Allen. Names and faces synonymous with film history, they'll now be the subject of a series of free Sunday night screenings at the National Gallery of Victoria, presented by academics from the University of Melbourne. The six-week program includes a combination of classic and contemporary films designed to tie in with the NGV's Italian Masterpieces season, on display until the end of August. Split into two parts, the series begins with images of the region as shot by foreigners, starting with William Wyler's Roman Holiday followed by a pair of Woody Allen films in To Rome with Love and Vicki Christina Barcelona. Then in mid August, Federico Fellini's La Dolce Vita will kick off a trio of critically acclaimed Italian films. Fellini will be followed by Giuseppe Tornatore's love letter to cinema in Cinema Paradiso, before the series concludes with the most recent winner of the Best Foreign Language Oscar, Paolo Sorrentino's The Great Beauty. https://youtube.com/watch?v=fJfvX6zPAuQ
Spring, the season when anything feels possible, has arrived. Flowers are blooming, temperatures are warming up and getaway vibes are buzzing — big get-out-of-the-house energy, too. So, your mind has probably turned to your next holiday. Of course, there's never a bad time to plan a vacation, but knowing that the cold is behind us for another year is mighty great motivation. Here's one way to proceed: making a date with anywhere from the Gold Coast up to Cairns, because this is a glorious time to be in the Sunshine State. Yes, Virgin Australia has just dropped a huge Queensland flight sale, teaming up with the Queensland Government on a big tourism push, and covering trips from October 2023–June 2024. Running now, from Monday, September 4 until 11.59AEST on Sunday, September 10 — or sold out, whichever arrives first — this is another of the airline's sales that's completely dedicated to hitting up everything north of Coolangatta. And, it's slinging a heap of fares: 300,000 of them, in fact. It might be focused on one part of the country, but you still have options in terms of departure points and destinations. Within Queensland, you can leave or arrive in Brisbane, Hamilton Island, the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, Cairns, Townsville, Rockhampton, Emerald, Gladstone, Mackay, Mt Isa and Proserpine. And, around the rest of the nation, flights to and from Adelaide, Alice Springs, Canberra, Darwin, Hobart, Launceston, Melbourne, Newcastle, Perth and Sydney are all covered. One-way fares start at $49, which'll get you from Sydney to the Gold Coast and vice versa. Other sale flights include Sydney–Sunshine Coast from $55, Brisbane–Proserpine from $59, Newcastle–Brisbane and Canberra–Gold Coast from $65, and Melbourne–Gold Coast and Brisbane–Cairns from $69. Also, Hamilton Island fares start at $79 from Brisbane, $95 from Sydney and $99 from Melbourne. If you're wondering when you'll need to travel within that October–June period, the exact dates depend on the leg. Only select fares cover seat choice and checked baggage, however, with the airline announcing back in 2021 that it now splits its economy flights into three types. Economy Lite doesn't include checking any baggage or picking your seat, but Economy Choice does — and Economy Flex gives you extra flexibility (hence the name) if you have to change your plans later. Virgin's latest Queensland Is Calling sale runs from Monday, September 4–Sunday, September 10 (ending at 11.59AEST) — or until sold out. Top image: Internet2014 via Wikimedia Commons. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
In an effort to further reduce the spread of COVID-19 across Australia, Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced that everyone arriving in the country from overseas will need to self-isolate for 14 days, effective from 12am on Monday, March 16. Announced at the first meeting of Australia's new coronavirus national cabinet, the mandatory self-isolation requirement applies to everyone — no matter where you're entering the country from, and regardless of whether you're an Aussie citizen or permanent resident coming home, or a tourist arriving for a holiday. "Its legal enforcement, that will be the change. If your mate has been to Bali and they come back and they turn up at work and they are sitting next to you, they will be committing an offence — so I think it's up to all of us that we are ensuring it is in place. Australians will exercise commonsense. This provides the backstop of a legal enforcement," said Morrison. The self-isolation requirement only applies to overseas arrivals. At this stage, domestic flights are not affected. The government will also ban international cruise ships from docking in Australia for 30 days, with that decision due to be reviewed on a rolling basis. Australians have also been advised to take social distancing measures, including refraining from shaking hands. The current moves come a day after New Zealand implemented the same measures, and two days after Morris announced an indefinite ban on non-essential organised gatherings of more than 500 people from Monday, March 16. He confirmed that ban in today's press conference, and advised that state and territory governments will legislate to officially put it into effect. As was the case on Friday, schools, universities and public transport will not be impacted by the mass gatherings ban at present, Morrison also confirmed — nor will shopping centres or airports themselves. [caption id="attachment_721751" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Vivid Sydney. Image: Yaya Stempler.[/caption] Since Friday, many large-scale Australian events have revealed their cancellations and postponements for 2020. The AFL, AFLW and NRL football leagues announced that they'll play in empty stadiums, with fans locked out. Big events such as the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, the Sydney Royal Easter Show, Vivid Sydney and World Science Festival Brisbane have all been scrapped for the year — and many more smaller events, too, including the Gold Coast Film Festival, Melbourne Queer Film Festival, Ability Fest, Sweetstock, Wine Machine, Comedy Steps Up for Bushfire Relief and Cirque du Soleil's Melbourne season of Kurios. Australia's tactics are in line with global moves, too. Over the past days, weeks and months, large swathes of cinemas have shut across Asia, the Middle East and Europe, and theme parks have been doing the same in Asia, Europe and the US as well. We've also seen the cancellation of Texan music and film festival South by Southwest and postponement of Coachella. And, before Friday's ban was announced, the Grand Prix in Melbourne, Tasmania's Dark Mofo and Brisbane's Paniyiri Greek Festival all announced their cancellations as well. The World Health Organisation (WHO) announced early this week that COVID-19 is a pandemic. As at 3pm AEST on Sunday, March 15, Australia has 249 cases confirmed cases of COVID-19. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website.
In Europe, it's called the Night of Museums: an annual evening when leading cultural institutions across the continent stay open long after they'd normally shut their doors, welcoming in patrons for after-dark art activities. In Melbourne, a new event is taking that idea, running with it and rolling it out across the city — with everything from gigs and movies to immersive dome projections and after-hours exhibition access on offer. That's all on the just-dropped program for Art After Dark, which was initially announced back in March. Back then, Melburnians heard the basics — that the city would be scoring an after-hours extravaganza in May, with State Library Victoria, the NGV, Federation Square, Arts Centre Melbourne, ACMI and Melbourne Museum all involved. That was all well and good and exciting, of course, but the actual lineup is even more dazzling. Set to run from 6pm–1am on both Friday, May 13 and Saturday, May 14, Art After Dark will feature limited-time-only experiences — both free and ticketed — that span live music, visual and performing arts, and food and drink. The Social Crew is producing the inaugural event, which is presented by Visit Victoria. And the aim, unsurprisingly, is to get both locals and visitors to the city to play tourist at Melbourne's cultural venues. At State Library Victoria, things will be particularly bright, all thanks to Midnight at Pink Lake. It's a 360-degree immersive projection that'll light up the La Trobe Reading Room — so yes, looking up is well and truly in order. And, it'll be paired with a themed program called Dream State, which features mindful workshops, music, roving performers, giant chess, and food and drinks. Basically, the venue is going all out on a visual and aural experience, calling it "part guided meditation, part poem, part chant, part song". Next, at NGV Australia, Ron Mueck's Mass from the 2017 Triennial will return — giant skulls and all — accompanied by pop-up poetry readings, choirs and DJs. And, at NGV International, light projections will transform its bluestone exterior thanks to QUEER: Stories from the NGV Collection. Also on the bill: Hannah Brontë's video installation EYE HEAR U MAGIK 2020, as well as access to the whole venue itself, with everything free to access across all levels. Over at Fed Square, BRIGGS is headlining Fed Square Live on the Friday night, with Kee'ahn, Soju Gang and Izy in support. And, that's where you'll be able to peer up at Aussie-first art installation Constellations — which'll see artist Joanie Lemercier's monochrome, vector-based aesthetics paired with an electronic soundscape by producer Paul Jebanasam. Also, for something sweet, Fed Square will also be doing free takeaway hot chocolates, coffees, s'mores and glow-in-the-dark fairy floss. Arts Centre Melbourne is also hosting live performances, going nostalgic with Human Nature on the Saturday night. DJs will play from the balcony, food trucks will pop up and the Australian Music Vault will stay open, complete with curators and tour guides diving into the local music scene. At ACMI, drop-in showings of Soda Jerk's phenomenal Terror Nullius will be a big highlight, as will free Oskar Fischinger exhibition Raumlichtkunst — featuring one of the first multimedia projections ever made. The screen-focused museum is teaming up with Collingwood's beloved Bar SK, too, for a room of innovative and interactive entertainment that's all about Aussie game developers. And, it's collaborating with PHOTO 2022 International Festival of Photography on Gillian Wearing: Editing Life, with the British artist in focus. [caption id="attachment_852016" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Triceratops at Melbourne Muserum. Photo by Eugene Hyland[/caption] Last but by no means least, Melbourne Museum is letting folks see its triceratops after dark, and doing projections, hosting food trucks, setting up pop-up bars and inviting DJs to spin tunes. Or, over at IMAX, you'll be able to dive into the Marvel Cinematic Universe with late sessions of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. Art After Dark is expected to see thousands of punters descend on the city for a late-night culture fix — a move that's sure to be welcomed by Melbourne's hard-hit creative industries as they continue through their post-COVID recovery phase. Art After Dark takes place at State Library Victoria, the NGV, Federation Square, Arts Centre Melbourne, ACMI and Melbourne Museum from Friday, May 13–Saturday, May 14. Head to the event's website for further details and tickets. Top image: Performers sing with Mass by Ron Mueck, 2017 on display at NGV Triennial 2017 at NGV International, Melbourne. Photo: Eugene Hyland.
New restaurants and takeaway joints open every week in Melbourne — so much so that it's hard to keep up, let alone determine which ones to visit. But you know what gets our attention? Free stuff. That's why we're pleased to tell you that, to celebrate the opening of their first Melbourne store, in Moonee Ponds, Zeus Street Greek will be giving out free souvas to anyone who visits the new location on Saturday March 17. All you have to do is walk into the Hall Street store between noon and 3pm on Saturday and you'll score yourself a free pita. These are ZSG's version of a souvlaki, which you can get filled with chicken, pork, lamb, falafel, haloumi or soft shell crab. Only chicken and lamb varieties will be available for free on the day, but for each pita given away, ZSG will donate $2 to TLC for Kids, a charity that supports provides assistance for sick children and their families. In case you haven't heard of ZSG, they've been taking over the rest of the country at a steady rate. Melbourne marks their 20th digs, with the chain boasting 14 stores in New South Wales, three in Brisbane, and others in Canberra and Perth. Zeus Street Greek Moonee Ponds is now open at 21-31 Hall Street, Moonee Ponds. To celebrate the opening, they will will be giving away free pitas on Saturday, March 17 from 12–3pm. For more info visit zeusstreetgreek.com.au. Images: Zeus Street Greek / Dominic Loneragan.
A dinner party filled with AI versions of famous figures? Or a meal enhanced by virtual reality? Restrictive diets that focus on fasting over feasting? Eating dishes purely because they'll help you sleep? Over the next 12 months, all of the above might come to fruition. Also on the 2018 hit list: African cuisines, creative genetic modification in food and beer, and getting paid to have strangers over for dinner. At least, they're the trends that culinary artists Bompas & Parr are predicting for the year ahead, with Sam Bompas and Harry Parr releasing their first-ever foodie forecast. After ten years in the business, evolving from making jelly to catering to a food-focused experience design agency, their report draws upon their own experience, as well as the psychology behind human behaviour. If technologically enhancements pique your interest, Bompas & Barr expect bots based on celebrities to become the next dinning partners, and mixed reality dining to adorn diners with wearable technology to create a more immersive eating experience — including "embedded microelectronics in crockery and glassware, projection technologies, responsive sound environments and more broadly digital content that's coupled to the taste and aroma of the food and drink on the table". For those keen on making a buck from making dinner for folks you don't know, think Airbnb and Uber, but for the simple act of hosting a meal. That's how you share food in 2018's sharing economy. Elsewhere, watching what you eat might be taken to a fasting extreme, though its hardly new — and it comes with health repercussions. African cooking styles are expected to rise in popularity, exploring the cuisines of the continent's 54 countries. So is food that'll help you get a good night's rest (and no, a nightcap doesn't count), plus biological tinkering with edible substances. You can peruse the full report for further details, and if you're wondering why you should, Bompas & Parr's past culinary exploits should provide all the convincing you need. They've made bespoke cocktails catered to each drinker's DNA, hosted anatomical whisky tastings where spirits were sipped from actual people, served a beating pig's heart as a starter and made London diners kill their next meal. In addition, they've made edible fireworks, a molten lava barbecue and held a 200-course dinner party. Expect them to play with their seven outlined trends next, as part of their continued and creative interrogation of our eating and drinking habits. Via Dezeen. Image: Bompas & Parr.
In the same week that Aussie supermarket giant Woolworths finally banned single-use plastic bags, Melbourne's Crown Complex has also dished up some good news for the future of our planet, announcing it has started cutting down on single-use plastics. Coming from the largest casino complex in the Southern Hemisphere, that's no small feat. Crown Melbourne is kicking things off by joining the global Plastic Free July initiative, which sets out to raise awareness about the impact of pesky, single-use plastics and challenges people to do something about it. For the whole month, the entire Crown Casino Complex will crack down on disposable plastics, promising to remove all single-use plastic "where possible" and to "encourage consumers to change their attitudes and behaviours". Straws will only be available on request, plastic bags have been replaced with paper alternatives in all Crown outlets, and various biodegradable and compostable products are currently being tested, with the aim of phasing out plastic cutlery as well. A spokeswoman for Crown told Concrete Playground, "Crown recognises that the process to phase out single use plastics will take several years, and that we are at the start of our journey." The intention is to continue the plastic crack-down long after the month of July, as more testing's carried out and better alternative products are found.
If soaring down a snowy mountain is your idea of fun, then Switzerland's icy peaks have long been on your bucket list. And if you've always wanted to zip down the country's famous frosty alps but don't all have the coordination and dexterity to ski or snowboard — which is perfectly acceptable — then you can now enjoy the trip via train on one of the world's steepest railways. Opening in mid-December after a 14-year construction period — and 52 million Swiss francs (AU$68 million) in funds — the Stoos Bahn journeys from the town of Schwyz to the nearby village of Stoos, carrying 34 people at a time in less than five minutes. Replacing an older funicular railway, aka a cable-attached railway used near cliffs and on inclined surfaces, it not only spans a distance of 1738 metres, but a height difference of 744 metres. Overall, it boasts a maximum gradient of 110 percent. That makes the Stoos Bahn the steepest funicular railway in Europe, the steepest in the world that regularly ferries passengers and second on the planet overall. If you're wondering which other dizzy-inducing train track pips it for the top spot, that honour goes to an Australian tourist attraction. First created for mining purposes in 1878 and now operating as part of Katoomba Scenic World, the Katoomba Scenic Railway in the Blue Mountains holds the Guinness World Record for the steepest railway gradient, clocking in at 128 percent over its 310-metre expanse. Via Lonely Planet. Image: Stoos-Muotatal
Will Dune movies just keep getting better and better? Here's hoping that's as natural an outcome as spying sand as far as the eye can see across Arrakis. When Denis Villeneuve (Blade Runner 2049) followed in David Lynch's footsteps with 2021's Dune, he made a new version of one of the most unfairly maligned sci-fi films ever crafted, and managed what Alejandro Jodorowsky sadly couldn't (see: excellent documentary Jodorowsky's Dune) — and a new science-fiction cinema classic arrived and stunned. Villeneuve's picture, which scored ten Oscar nominations and six wins, only told part of Dune's story. Cue Dune: Part Two to keep the tale going. War has arrived on the franchise's spice-laden planet, and Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet, Bones and All) and the Fremen are ready to fight. The former doesn't just want to face off against the folks who destroyed his family, but for the sandy celestial body, with Zendaya's (Euphoria) Chani at his side. That's the tale teased in not one but two trailers for the Dune sequel, with the second just dropping and filled with swirling tension. "This world is beyond cruelty," says Paul in the latest sneak peek, surveying the grim status quo. But he has a plan: "he who can destroy a thing has the real control of it." The first film had Paul head to Arrakis because his dad Duke Leto Atreides (Oscar Isaac, Moon Knight) had just been given stewardship of the planet and its abundance of 'the spice' — aka the most valuable substance in the universe — and then get caught up in a bitter battle with malicious forces over the substance. It also saw Paul meet the population of people known as the Fremen, including Chani, plus Javier Bardem's (Lyle, Lyle Crocodile) Stilgar, which is who he and his mother Lady Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson, Silo) are with in Dune: Part Two. Expansive desert landscape, golden and orange hues (again, Villeneuve helmed Blade Runner 2049), sandworms, the director's reliable eye for a spectacle and Hans Zimmer's (The Son) latest likely Oscar-winning score: they've all shown up in the new film's two glimpses so far. So have some of the franchise's new players, with Austin Butler ditching his Elvis locks as Feyd Rautha Harkonnen, the nephew of Stellan Skarsgard's (Andor) Baron Harkonnen. Christopher Walken (Severance) and Florence Pugh (The Wonder) also join the saga as Emperor Shaddam IV and his daughter Princess Irulen. From the first film, Josh Brolin (Outer Range), Dave Bautista (Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3), Stephen McKinley Henderson (Beau Is Afraid) and Charlotte Rampling (Benedetta) return, while Léa Seydoux (Crimes of the Future) also joins the cast. Off-screen, Villeneuve has brought back not just Zimmer, but Oscar-winning Australian director of photography Greig Fraser (The Batman), Oscar-winning production designer Patrice Vermett (Vice), Oscar-winning editor Joe Walker (The Unforgivable), Oscar-winning visual effects supervisor Paul Lambert (First Man) and Oscar-nominated costume designer Jacqueline West (Song to Song). Check out the latest Dune: Part Two trailer below: Dune: Part Two will release in cinemas Down Under on November 2, 2023.
Every kid dreamed about stepping inside their favourite TV show or movie, whether you were an 80s child who wanted to dance magic, dance through Labyrinth, a 90s teen saying "as if!" to life outside of Clueless — or keen to stake vampires with Buffy — or a 00s Gossip Girl wannabe. Now that we're all adults, those kinds of fantasies keep becoming a reality, in a way, thanks to the seemingly non-stop array of immersive pop culture-themed installations and experiences that love popping up around Australia. So if you've recently been wishing that you could step into the twisted superhero realm shared by Gen V and The Boys, for instance, you'll soon be able to. Prime Video is taking Sydneysiders and everyone who happens to be in the Harbour City for the first-ever SXSW Sydney into the franchise's world from Tuesday, October 17–Saturday, October 21. How? Via Primeville, a small town-themed activation that's taking over Fratelli Fresh Darling and taking its cues from some of the streaming platform's popular shows — and one documentary. Primeville's spin on the Vought Cinematic Universe will involve a trip to Godolkin University, where you'll be shrinking down — well, pretending to — for games of Supe Shot. You can stay your regular size to give the prize wheel a spin to score freebies. If you're more fond of Reacher, there'll be a diner inspired by the series. For The Summer I Turned Pretty devotees, expect ice creams at Cousins Beach. And if you just like bites to eat themed around television shows, there'll be a milk bar serving up exactly that. In the town square: celebrating all things The Wiggles in the lead up to Hot Potato: The Story of the Wiggles debuting as part of the SXSW Sydney Screen Festival, before streaming via Prime Video from Tuesday, October 24. And yes, the Big Red Car will be in attendance, ready for plenty of snaps. If this all sounds a bit familiar, that's because Prime Video set up something similar at PAX Aus in Melbourne in 2022. In this case, the pop-ups aren't just open to SXSW Sydney badge holders, but to everyone. Entry is free, and you'll also score some Primeville dollars to go towards an ice cream, snack or drink. Primeville will pop up during SXSW Sydney at Fratelli Fresh Darling Harbour, 2/14 Darling Drive, Sydney from Tuesday, October 17–Saturday, October 21 — open from 12–6pm on the Tuesday and Saturday, and 12–8pm Wednesday–Friday.
From Houseparty birthday bashes to Zoom weddings, celebrations have been looking a little different lately. But one thing is clear: not even a pandemic can stand between us and a good ol' party. And that includes marking World Whisky Day on May 16. We may not be able to head to a cosy bar and celebrate the legendary amber liquor in style, so Glenmorangie has partnered with Boozebud to bring the festivities to your living room via a virtual whisky masterclass. At 6pm on Boozebud's Facebook page, Glenmorangie's Director of Distilling, Whisky Creation and Whisky Stocks Dr Bill Lumsden will be guiding you through a tasting from the Scottish distillery's core range of single malts. You'll start with the classic Glenmorangie Original Aged 10 Years, then move through the Lasanta Sherry Cask Aged 12 Years, Quinta Ruban Port Cask Aged 12 Years and Nectar d'Or Sauternes Cask Aged 12 Years. The masterclass is free to stream but, to make the most of it, you'll want to snag one of the taster packs from Boozebud beforehand, which has the four smooth spirits in 100-millilitre measures — enough for you and a housemate to have a nip each. The pack costs $64.99 and first-time Boozebud customers will score 10-percent off and free shipping by using the code BESTBUD (terms and conditions apply). Purchase your Glenmorangie Scotch Whisky Taster Pack here, then head to Boozebud's Facebook page at 6pm on May 16 to take part in the virtual masterclass.
Great movies live on forever, garnering acclaim and accolades, earning eager rewatches and retrospective screenings, and getting discovered afresh by new audiences. Terrible flicks can also keep drawing in fans, becoming cult hits and having spoons thrown at them — and films don't get much worse-but-glorious than the one and only The Room. In the near future, Tommy Wiseau's disasterpiece won't be a one-off, however. Twenty years after it first hit screens, it's being remade. No, Wiseau isn't behind the do-over, although that does sound like a very Wiseau thing to do. Instead, the new The Room stars Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul favourite Bob Odenkirk. This is a greenscreen remake, which Slashfilm first reported — and then Odenkirk confirmed. "This is real. This is true. And let me tell you, I tried my best to SELL every line, as honestly as I could... and I had a BLAST," the actor tweeted. If this news is tearing you apart, that's understandable. This is real. This is true. And let me tell you, I tried my best to SELL every line, as honestly as I could...and I had a BLAST https://t.co/v261E1DKnG — Mr. Bob Odenkirk (@mrbobodenkirk) March 9, 2023 If you're wondering why — and you want more than the obvious answer: why not? — The Room 2.0 is coming to life for Acting for a Cause, which raises money for charity. And if you're wondering about The Room's storyline because you've missed this whole film phenomenon over the past two decades, it tells the tale of a banker, his adulterous fiancée, his conflicted best friend, a local teen caught up in a drug deal, a mother with cancer, a particularly tense party, a bunch of guys playing football in tuxedos and the worst apartment decorating scheme you've ever seen. View this post on Instagram A post shared by B̸R̸A̸N̸D̸O̸ ̸C̸R̸A̸W̸F̸O̸R̸D̸ (@professorbrando) The Room truly is the vampire of bad movies. It's been living on via event screenings, Greg Sestero's memoir The Disaster Artist, the the star-studded film that book spawned and Sestero's frequent tours. For a while, Wiseau even put it online for free in high-definition. There's no word yet as to when it'll be time to say "oh hi Bob", or where. There's also no sneak peek at the end result, either. But, to tide you over, you can check out the OG film's trailer below: The Bob Odenkirk-starring remake of The Room doesn't yet have a release date — we'll update you when further details are announced. Via Slashfilm. Top image: Better Call Saul.
In the months since hell decided to casually freeze over and see Donald J. Trump installed on the Iron Throne, things have seemed bleak for the future of American tourism. And they probably are! Now to add insult to injury: Canada has been voted as this year's best travel destination by not only Lonely Planet, but NY Times and Conde Nast too. America's northern neighbour is finally getting the recognition it deserves for being, well, mostly stable while Canada's Pants goes off the rails. No seriously. Canada's comparable safety and stability have been cited as big contributing factors to why the maple syrup capital of the world has won the prestigious title. The Great White North really does have all the tasty stuff you may once have sought out in the US: vast, punishing wilderness, vibrant capital cities (from big ol' Toronto and Ottawa to film-loving Vancouver and French havens Montréal and Québec City), Grammy-winning artists and ridiculously decadent national cuisines (wassup, poutine) — with a relatively much less controversial leader. Colombia, Chile and Croatia all feature in the top lists too, as well as oft overlooked but bountiful Scandinavian countries Finland, Sweden and Norway. Look, if the US election outcome has given us anything (other than a golden era of SNL) it's the chance to temporarily give up on the American road trip dream for four years and set our holiday sights on neighbouring, Drake-raising destinations. Via AFR.
From fine dining to boozy brunches, the past 18 months have seen plenty of classic culinary experiences turned on their heads and swiftly reimagined to suit the eating-at-home schtick. While hot and smoky Korean barbecue (fondly known as KBBQ) might seem like an ambitious couch experience at first, thanks to new local venture Kravin Korean — you can now enjoy this culinary endeavour with a click of a button. Just remember to open a window. Kravin Korean is the work of civil engineer David Le; and Korean restaurant owner and head chef Dong Hyuck Kim. The niche food delivery service was born out of nostalgia for the inimitable smoky KBBQ experience during last year's lockdown. "I remember talking to a friend during lockdown and we were asking each other, 'what is the first thing you would go [out to] eat when lockdown lifts?' — and we both said Korean BBQ," explains Le. "It was at that point I was thinking: 'Why can't we just bring KBBQ to [the people]?'" Since launching in February this year, Kravin Korean has been busy sating barbecue cravings by delivering its signature meal kits across Melbourne. The kits are designed to feed two or four diners, each stocked with four 'banchan' (side dishes), three different meat cuts, a trio of sauces and loads of veggies. If needed, you can even rent out a portable gas stove and grill, which you simply leave on your doorstep the next day for contactless collection. [caption id="attachment_824034" align="alignnone" width="1920"] By Jess Moses[/caption] On the menu, expect a curation of Korean classics; from ready-to-grill meats like pork belly and soy beef bulgogi, to sides including spicy fish cake and corn salad. House-made dipping sauces include a traditional ssamjang, sesame oil and a special soy creation. But of course, as fans will know, the KBBQ experience goes beyond just the food — and Le and Kim are keen to help diners recreate all those other key aspects, too. Each kit comes with a QR code that scans through to a series of how-to guides and videos showing you how to set up and prepare your Korean feast authentically. You'll get access to a curated K-Pop playlist to groove to while you eat, mirroring the bold tunes that would normally soundtrack a meal out at your local KBBQ restaurant. And those keen to really bump up the party vibes will find fun, easy-to-follow tutorials for a selection of popular Korean drinking games — stock up on some soju and make a night of it. There's an extra win here for the planet, too. Mindful of the mountains of waste and packaging that can often go hand-in-hand with food delivery services these days, Kravin Korean's owners have opted to use only sustainable biocompostable and reusable products to package their kits. Kravin Korean is delivering at-home KBBQ kits to a (growing) range of suburbs every weekend, with order cut-offs at 5pm each Thursday. Head to the website to learn more and place an order. Images: Jess Moses and Levi Andrew Momo
This article is sponsored by our partners, Wotif.com. You might know that Adelaide is the original home of the pie floater. But did you also know that it boasts more restaurants per head than any other city in Australia? For way too long, the South Australian capital has been Australia’s beleaguered middle child, struggling to get the attention of which it’s worthy, and defending itself against the nation’s collective jokes. But, earlier this year, things changed. When Lonely Planet published its 2014 Top 10 Cities of the World, the “city of churches, festivals and homicides” burst into the international spotlight at number nine. “Adelaide is effortlessly chic,” commented Lonely Planet media and communications manager Adam Bennett, “and like a perfectly cellared red, it’s ready to be uncorked and sampled.” And the especially good news? Wotif.com wants you to do the sampling. So, they’re giving away a holiday of epic proportions. One creative reader and their guest will score return economy flights to Adelaide from their nearest capital city, four days’ car hire and three nights’ accommodation. The first two will be spent in king-beds and deep baths at the luxurious Majestic Roof Garden Hotel, situated just 50 metres from the cultural epicentre of Rundle Street. On the third, the winners will find themselves at Mount Lofty House, a 160-year-old manor in the Adelaide Hills, where they’ll be treated to a five-course degustation with matching wines and wake up to a buffet breakfast. What’s more, to ensure a comprehensive experience of the food and wine adventures that so impressed Lonely Planet, there’s a Penfolds Magill Estate Tour, a Top Food and Wine Choco-latte Tour and an Adelaide Central Market Morning Tour thrown in. All you’ve got to do is give your creative fruit a squeeze and tell Wotif.com why they should send you to Adelaide, in 25 words or less. The video below might help you to get thinking left of centre.
ANZAC Day might be more than a month away, but it's still being affected by efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19. With non-essential events with over 500 people now banned indefinitely, services around the country are being cancelled and reduced in size. The situation differs state by state, with each respective branch of the RSL making a call on their usual commemorations. Of paramount concern nationwide isn't just protecting the general public, but protecting veterans, especially those of an older age who are particularly at risk from the coronavirus. In New South Wales, that means scrapping all public services entirely. The same is the case in Queensland, although it'll look into options to mark the occasion "without placing veterans and the general public at risk". Western Australia and Tasmania are also completely scrapping their plans. [caption id="attachment_665411" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Shrine of Remembrance Flickr[/caption] In Victoria, events will go ahead — but the public won't be able to attend. There'll be a single dawn service at the Melbourne Shrine of Remembrance, which will be conducted "with a small number of official guests and modified to minimise COVID-19 risk"; however, the midday service at the same spot won't go ahead, and neither will the ANZAC Day march. RSL sub branches across Victoria will also be allowed to conduct one commemorative service only, but these will not be open to the public either. If the mass gatherings ban is still in place on April 25, it's likely another major part of ANZAC Day in Australia won't go ahead either: the annual games of two-up. ANZAC Day services will no longer go ahead on Saturday, April 25 in New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia and Tasmania. In Victoria, all services have been cancelled except a dawn service at the Melbourne Shrine of Remembrance, but it will not be open to the public. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website. Top image: ANZAC Day at Dee Why RSL.
Following up on his contribution to the Venice Biennale earlier this year, internationally renowned Chinese artist and activist Ai Weiwei has crafted a visually immersive structure made entirely of bicycles. The unveiling of the impressive centrepiece, titled Forever Bicycles for this year's Scotiabank Nuit Blanche has been met with widespread enthusiasm, quickly becoming a crowd favourite. The Toronto initiative, otherwise known as the 'Sleepless Night' festival, is a celebration of contemporary art in public places. Installed at Nathan Phillip Square, the spectacular installation consists of 3144 interconnected stainless steel bicycles. The visual effect of the artwork is mesmerising — it's as if it were designed for slow exposure photography, especially when bathed in pink and blue lights during the evening. The multitude of different viewing positions also means that the work is constantly changing. In this way, it evokes a sense of the fast-paced social transformation that China is currently undergoing. Viewers will be able to walk through the colossal labyrinth-like structure until it is dismantled in late October. Ai Weiwei has been known for his innovative and architectural use of everyday objects. His practice also frequently blurs the boundaries between art and politics, notably speaking out against China's social policies, human rights record and strict censorship laws. Via My Modern Met.
Artist Hannah Brontë presents a bold new vision of Australia in this politically-charged feminist music video for Next Wave 2016. Through the language and aesthetics of hip hop, Still I Rise portrays a government with an Indigenous female Prime Minister, fluent in her people's traditional language, leading a parliament made up of women of all different ethnicities, ages and backgrounds. Crazy, huh? The video will be visible at Blak Dot Gallery in Brunswick East Wednesdays through Sundays, and is one of a number of works on the Next Wave program exploring Indigenous issues in contemporary Australia. Brontë will also curate a night of female MCs and DJs at Howler on Sunday, May 15 as part of the festival.
One of Melbourne's most famous tourist attractions has been given an unauthorised makeover — and it's left plenty of people fuming. A group of masked artists descended on the street art-filled stretch of Hosier Lane over the weekend, dousing the walls with paint and covering up a good chunk of its existing artworks. Bystanders caught Saturday night's incident on camera and have shared it across social media. Footage shows a crew of people with their faces covered spraying the legendary laneway using paint-filled fire extinguishers. Their efforts look to have been concentrated up the northern end of Hosier Lane, destroying recent murals like the one of comedian Celeste Barber and another featuring Lizzo outside the Culture Kings store. https://twitter.com/Isk137/status/1226634797914542080 Lord Mayor Sally Capp confirmed the City of Melbourne was aware of the incident and has reported it to Victoria Police, saying in a statement, "this is unacceptable and is not in keeping with the spirit of Hosier Lane". As well as covering artworks, the "vandals" left significant paint mess on the pavement and cobblestones, which had to be cleaned today by council contractors. https://twitter.com/LordMayorMelb/status/1226701430460841984 While Mayor Capp condemned the group's actions, she also went on to say that "the very nature of street art is that it is temporary, ephemeral and forever changing." It's a sentiment that seems to be shared by supporters of the unknown artists and many in the wider street art community, who are questioning the growing commercialisation of Hosier Lane's art precinct. Advocates have taken to social media to give this recent refresh a thumbs up, reminding punters that essentially, no street art is ever meant to stick around forever. https://twitter.com/BknSocContract/status/1226668247585476610
COOKED — the series of barbecuing events taking over Fed Square — is one of the main highlights of this year's Melbourne Fringe Festival, which is centred around food and art. From Tuesday, October 1–Sunday, October 20, the public square will be transformed with the installation of a temporary amphitheatre centred around a communal grill. Here, you can cook along with a bunch of chefs, artists and comedians who will be performing a mixture of paid and free performances. It kicks off on Tuesday, October 1, with the free event Seasoning the Grill. For this one, First Nations artists light up the public barbecue for an evening of smoke, dance, DJs, art and great eats. Traditional and contemporary practices of food and art come together for this one-off performance. Then COOKED: Grill Prive draws the curtains and sets the table for an absurd season of dinners hosted by dancer, choreographer and filmmaker Harrison Ritchie Jones. For more details on all the different COOKED performances, check out the festival's website.
Fresh from hosting the Foo Fighters at Geelong's GMHBA Stadium, Victoria's new statewide contemporary music celebration Always Live has just added two new gigs to its lineup: the first stops in the Australian leg of Nick Cave and Warren Ellis' Carnage tour. Mark Friday, November 25 and Saturday, November 26 in your diaries and prepare to head to the Macedon Ranges, because the two Aussie music legends and their must-attend 2022 shows are heading to Hanging Rock. The pair are hitting the stage to support the 2021 album that shares the tour's name, which actually marks Cave and Ellis' first studio album as a duo. Bandmates across several projects since the 90s — including Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, and Grinderman — Cave and Ellis are Aussie icons, with careers spanning back decades. Together, they also boast more than a few phenomenal film scores to their names as well, including for The Proposition, The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford, The Road, West of Memphis, Far From Men, Hell or High Water and Wind River. Cave and Ellis will head home after an American Carnage tour, and following Cave's subsequent tour with the Bad Seeds in Europe. Yes, this is some news to come sail your ships around — although, given that Cave announced that the tour was in the works back in early February via his The Red Hand Files email list, you might've already started getting excited last month. [caption id="attachment_845538" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Laurine Payet[/caption] The Hanging Rock shows will have a limited capacity, with getting in quickly when tickets go on sale — at 12pm AEDT on Tuesday, March 15, with general sales available from 12pm local time on Thursday, March 17 — highly recommended. Courtney Barnett will join the duo for the two gigs — and details of shows in other cities around the country is expected soon, so keep watching this space. Fans of the pair have something else to look forward to, too: film This Much I Know to Be True, directed by Chopper, The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford and Killing Them Softly filmmaker Andrew Dominik, about Cave and Ellis' creative relationship. Dominik also made 2016 Cave doco One More Time with Feeling, and his latest flick will hit Aussie cinemas on Wednesday, May 11. Nick Cave and Warren Ellis' Australian Carnage tour will kick off at Hanging Rock in the Macedon Ranges on Friday, November 25 and Saturday, November 26, then continue throughout November and December 2022 — with other cities, dates and venues still to be announced. Pre-sale tickets for the Hanging Rock shows go on sale at 12pm AEDT on Tuesday, March 15, with general sales available from 12pm local time on Thursday, March 17. For more information or to register for pre-sales, head to the tour website. Top images: Laurine Payet, Palma Sabina.
For Australian TV viewers, your familiarity with various US cable networks will depend upon which of their television shows you happen to watch. HBO has become a household name thanks to everything from The Sopranos and The Wire to Game of Thrones and Succession, for instance — and if you're a fan of Mad Men, Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul and The Walking Dead, you'll have noticed AMC's moniker more than once or twice. Get ready to watch more of AMC's shows, actually, as the American network has just brought its AMC+ streaming bundle to Australia. Rather than existing as a separate platform, it's an add-on that's available via the Apple TV channels on the Apple TV app and, also for Prime members thanks to its Prime Video channels. You'll need to pay extra to access it — to the tune of $8.99 per month — but that'll add both new and classic AMC shows to your streaming queue. So, you'll be able to watch six-part series The Beast Must Die, which stars Chernobyl's Jared Harris and follows the aftermath of a hit and run; Swedish series The Restaurant, which kicks off with a kiss amid end-of-WWII celebrations; and Dutch miniseries The Swell, about the most powerful storm in history heading towards The Netherlands and Belgium. There's also stop-motion comedy Ultra City Smiths, which uses animated baby dolls to stand in for a grown-up cast of characters — and a heap of true-crime titles, including docuseries Cold Blooded: The Clutter Family Murders, about the chilling killings that Truman Capote turned into the acclaimed book In Cold Blood. In terms of new arrivals, the South Australian-shot Firebite might just be the most exciting show on AMC+'s lineup. It won't start dropping episodes until Thursday, December 16; however, it's created by Aussie Samson and Delilah, Sweet Country and The Beach filmmaker Warwick Thornton. Following two Indigenous Australian hunters who battle the last colony of vampires in the middle of the SA desert, it stars Rob Collins (The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson) and newcomer Shantae Barnes-Cowan (Total Control), as well as Yael Stone (Orange is the New Black) and Callan Mulvey (Shadow in the Cloud). Also set to hit in the coming weeks: dystopian drama series Anna, about a world plagued by a virus which kills adults but spares children; the first three seasons of documentary mockumentary series Documentary Now!; and sketch comedy Sherman's Showcase. Subscribers to AMC+ also get access to the network's two other forays into local streaming, horror platform Shudder and the British TV-focused Acorn TV — all at no extra cost. Plus, the streaming bundle will gain a heap of AMC's high-profile existing shows throughout November, such as Mad Men, Riviera, Portlandia, Comedy Bang! Bang! and Eli Roth's History of Horror, as well as of a number of indie movies from IFC Films and horror flicks from Shudder. If you're keen — and your streaming queue has a few gaps in it — AMC+ is doing seven-day free trials for Prime members, too. The AMC+ streaming bundle is now available via the Apple TV channels on the Apple TV app and, also for Prime members thanks to its Prime Video channels. For more information, head to the AMC+ Facebook page. Top image: Ian Routledge/AMC+.
Boozy brunches in Melbourne are hugely popular. But the later-in-the-day bottomless lunch is on the up and up. These are for those of us who don't necessarily want to down a heap of mimosas with breakfast while surrounded by hen's parties. Sometimes we just prefer to eat a more grown-up meal paired with a good wine, beer or spritz. Enter NOMAD, one of the best restaurants in Melbourne. Here, the crew is showing us exactly what the boozy lunch should look like with its latest Lunch & Linger experience. Every Saturday and Sunday, from 12.30–2.30pm, starting Saturday, April 6, lunchtime diners in the CBD can get a selection of mezzes and a dessert paired with 90 minutes of free-flowing booze for $110. The exact dishes will change each week, but it will include a loaded platter of the restaurant's famed Middle Eastern snacks — think dips, falafels, stuffed zucchini flowers, its signature woodfired flatbread and a bunch of meats. Prefer to pass on the alcohol? All good. The option remains to simply get the mezze platter for $65 per person and order non-alcoholic bevs throughout the arvo. But those who do get on the booze will be treated to unlimited house red, rose and white wine as well as beer and spritzes. We all know bottomless drinks can get messy, but at a place like NOMAD we expect patrons will be fairly well-behaved…
Hobart's long-running showcase of winemakers, Bottle Tops, is finally making its debut in Melbourne. Held at Hope St Radio, the event will feature 65 of innovative winemakers from across Australia and parts of New Zealand, Chile and Georgia, alongside a small selection of beer, cider and spirit producers. From 12–4pm on Sunday, June 9, ticket-holders can get four hours of tastings, a snack and glassware. Unusual and rare beverages will be offered by the glass throughout the day for those who want to experience something unique. For those who want to extend their weekend celebrations, you can also head along to the afterparty at Hope St Radio, which will have food, wine and DJs until late into the night. The initial lineup of exhibitors has been announced, featuring both established names and new participants, such as Lucy Margaux, Momento Mori, Chateau Acid, Fallow, LATTA, High Hopes, Jamsheed, North Wine, and many more. Tickets are priced at $75, which you can now purchase online.
Were Picasso's Cubist portraits of women true to life? It would suggest there were a lot of chicks with displaced eye sockets hanging round Paris in the 1900s. Now a Spanish fashion photographer, Eugenio Recuenco, has reimagined Picasso's Cubist muses as live beings, styling his models in the same surrealist manner that Picasso painted them. Recuenco's portraits are weird, emotional and lovely in their own right. His women subjects mirror the poses of the originals, with elegant silhouettes, painted skin and outlandish costumery all projecting a moody atmosphere. Post-production by Recuenco gave the photographs the same feel as the paintings via color manipulation, while the mysterious spaces he used amp up the dreamlike quality. Recuenco has a large dossier of equally stylised art and fashion projects. Beside this project, which was published in the Spanish weekly SMODA, his website shows fairytale scenes and tableaux vivants that suggest their own narrative worlds channelling the work of artists Goya, El Greco and Zurbaran. Check out a selection of the Picasso-inspired portraits below. Via Flavorwire.
Most superheroes don't boast the same skills; however, in making the leap from comics to the screen and beyond, they can follow similar paths. Yes, the fact that great power means great responsibility should apply to all caped crusaders. Yes, many often segue from ordinary folks to suddenly super-powered saviours. And yes, in Black Panther and now the Spider-Man franchise's cases, one of their best are returning to cinemas a couple of years later as a spectacular movie-and-music event. Film fans can see Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse in cinemas right now, and should. It's exceptional, and already one of the best flicks of 2023. Keen to revisit Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, the title that started everyone's favourite friendly neighbourhood webslinger's current animated movie series? That's coming to Australia via Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse Live in Concert. Five years after Into the Spider-Verse debuted on the silver screen, it's swinging back onto one, this time at The Plenary at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on Saturday, October 21. Making its Australian premiere as a concert, the animated masterpiece will be accompanied by a 32-piece orchestra, plus DJ Total Eclipse from The X-Ecutioners on the turntables. Everything from The Lion King to Star Wars and Harry Potter, plus The Princess Bride, Home Alone and Toy Story as well, have scored or are about to score the orchestral treatment — but that approach alone wouldn't suit Into the Spider-Verse and its Brooklyn-based Spidey Miles Morales (Shameik Moore, Wu-Tang: An American Saga). Hence the fusion with DJ-spun tracks, to truly do not only Daniel Pemberton's (an Oscar-nominee for The Trial of the Chicago 7) score justice, but also the soundtrack featuring Post Malone, Lil Wayne, Jaden Smith and Nicki Minaj, too. "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is one of my favourite scores I've ever written. Utilising a full orchestra, crazy electronics and unbelievable turntable scratching techniques amongst a million other things, it is so technically complex I never thought we'd ever be able to actually reproduce it in a live concert, but somehow, we have," said Pemberton about the project. The concert version heads Down Under after premiering in New York in March 2023, and with fellow stops around the US currently taking place, as well as shows in the UK planned after its Australian run. Fingers crossed that this dazzling mix of sound and vision will do whatever the Spider-Verse can in other Australian cities, although only a Melbourne date has been announced so far. Check out the trailers for Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse in Concert and Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse itself below: Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse Live in Concert is playing The Plenary, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, Melbourne on Saturday, October 21, with tickets on sale via Ticketmaster from Friday, July 28. Images: Adela Loconte.
With 1654 stores to its name worldwide, Five Guys' burger joints have become a common sight across America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia — and soon, they'll also be opening in Australia and New Zealand. That news was announced in 2020, but 2021 brings further details, including the fact that it'll be launching its first eatery Down Under this year. Once the middle of 2021 rolls around, Five Guys will be serving up burgers, fries and shakes in Penrith — making Sydney the first Aussie city to taste the chain's wares. Originally, the debut store Down Under was slated for Sydney's CBD, but those plans changed due to COVID-19. An exact mid-year opening date hasn't been revealed; however, Sydneysiders will find restaurant next to Krispy Kreme and the Panthers League Club on Mulgoa Road in the western Sydney suburb when it launches. Construction on the store is due to start in the coming weeks. The cult-favourite chain is making the leap to Australia and New Zealand as part of a master franchise agreement with Seagrass Boutique Hospitality Group, aka the folks behind The Meat & Wine Co, Hunter & Barrel, 6 Head, Ribs & Burgers, Italian Street Kitchen and Butcher and the Farmer. Around 20 stores are due to launch in Australia alone, plus more in NZ — although exactly where else and when Five Guys will be popping up is yet to be revealed. In Sydney, additional sites are currently under consideration, including in the CBD around Circular Quay, Darling Harbour and Broadway. Overseas, Five Guys has amassed quite the reputation — and, even given the number of big-name US burger chains with hefty followings, such as Shake Shack and In-N-Out, it stands out. Its made-to-order burgers skew in the classic rather than oversized, jam-packed direction. They come with two hand-formed patties on toasted buns with your choice of toppings (including pickles, grilled mushrooms and jalapeños), plus bacon cheeseburgers that add two strips of bacon and two slices of Kraft American cheese as well. Five Guys also serves up hotdogs, sandwiches, hand-cut fries (with or without Cajun spices) and vanilla milkshakes. Don't go thinking the latter are boring, though — you can add bacon, bananas, peanut butter, salted caramel and even Oreo pieces to your design-your-own beverage. The chain started back in 1986 in the Washington, DC area and, as anyone with allergies should note, only cooks its fries in peanut oil. Five Guys will launch its first Australian store on Mulgoa Road in Penrith sometime in the middle of 2021, with stores in other Australian states — and in New Zealand — to follow. No exact opening dates have been revealed as yet — we'll update you when more information comes to hand.
Grab your guitar and a boot-scootin' babe, and saddle up for the biggest event on the Australian country music calendar. The Tamworth Country Music Festival is now in its 46th year and is back, bigger than ever. There will be over 700 artists performing across 120 venues around the city over the course of the ten-day festival, with both ticketed and free events on offer. Tamworth will be alive with the coos of country music, from street corners to pubs to backyards, and everything in between. Spot the next Troy Cassar-Daley at the Australian Country Music Busking Championships and marvel at the Toyota Cavalcade, which features over 100 floats, bands and magnificent groups of horses marching through town. And let's not forget Australian country music's night of nights, the 46th Country Music Awards of Australia, where the best country artists will be named and get to take home golden guitar statues.
Since 1983, a bestselling book about a young boy, his grandmother and a powerful witch with an evil plan has been delighting readers of all ages. And since 1990, fans have not only been rifling through the pages of Roald Dahl's The Witches, but watching the Anjelica Huston and Rowan Atkinson-starring film based on the novel. Because just about everything gets remade these days, viewers will soon have another screen version of the book to watch, too. Yes, a new film is on its way, this time featuring Anne Hathaway as the Grand High Witch. If you can't remember the story or you just need a refresher, The Witches focuses on a boy who finds himself in the same hotel as a convention of witches — who happen to seriously, strongly and viciously hate children. This time around, the tale is set in 1960s-era Alabama, where its protagonist (Jahzir Kadeem Bruno, Atlanta) and his gran (Octavia Spencer) face off against Hathaway's seemingly glamorous villain and her coven of similarly child-despising followers. Directed by Robert Zemeckis (Back to the Future, Who Framed Roger Rabbit) from a script cowritten by the filmmaker with Kenya Barris (Girls Trip) and Guillermo del Toro (The Shape of Water), The Witches also stars Stanley Tucci — and features the voice of Chris Rock as the film's narrator. And, based on the just-released first trailer, the above cast and crew have combined for quite the dark and funny all-ages-friendly battle between humans and the occult. Roald Dahl's work is rarely far from our screens for long — it has only been a few years since The BFG hit cinemas, plus Netflix is currently making a heap of animated series based on the author's books, including several Charlie and the Chocolate Factory-related shows by Taika Waititi — but just when The Witches will be available Down Under is yet to be announced. In the US, it was just revealed overnight that the movie will no longer release in cinemas, and will be heading to streaming service HBO Max instead; however, the movie's Australian distributor Roadshow also tweeted afterwards that it'll release in cinemas here soon. Check out the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9nlhmJF5FNI The Witches doesn't yet have a release date Down Under — we'll update you when one is announced.
Spinning origin stories might be one of Hollywood's favourite trends at the moment — and for years, in fact — but few characters have screamed for an entire movie dedicated to their backstory like Furiosa. In Mad Max: Fury Road, Mad Max's moniker was right there in the title; however, it was as much Charlize Theron's (Fast X) film as Furiosa as it was Tom Hardy's (Venom: Let There Be Carnage) as the picture's eponymous figure. Cue Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, which will dive into her history from May. As the just-dropped second trailer for the feature shows — following an initial sneak peek in late 2023 — there's no shortage of details to explore. The new footage starts with Furiosa being robbed of her family as a child, then beginning her quest for vengeance. Australian director George Miller knows to name his characters fittingly, clearly. Shaving her head, vehicular chaos in the wasteland, Anya Taylor-Joy (The Super Mario Bros Movie) looking fierce in the part, Chris Hemsworth (Thor: Love and Thunder) co-starring: that's all also covered. Shot in Australia, arriving nine years since Mad Max: Fury Road reached cinemas and became the best action movie of this century so far — and the best Australian flick of the same period — Furiosa marks the fifth instalment in Miller's dystopian Mad Max franchise. That delay means nothing given that there was a 30-gap between 1985's not-so-great Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome and Fury Road's triumphant arrival in 2015, however. More Miller extending his passion project is always worth waiting for. Furiosa's storyline follows the younger Furiosa as she's taken from the Green Place of Many Mothers, ends up with a biker horde led by Warlord Dementus, and then gets caught in the middle of a war being waged with the Citadel's Immortan Joe — all while trying to escape and get back home. And, as the both glimpses of the movie illustrate so far, the look and feel is all classic Mad Max. Miller not only directs but co-writes with Mad Max: Fury Road co-scribe Nico Lathouris, while Alyla Browne (The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart) and Tom Burke (Living) are also among the movie's stars. A heap of Miller's other behind-the-scenes collaborators are back, including production designer Colin Gibson, editor Margaret Sixel, sound mixer Ben Osmo, costume designer Jenny Beavan and makeup designer Lesley Vanderwalt, all Fury Road Oscar-winners. Check out the second trailer for Furiosa below: Furiosa releases in cinemas Down Under on May 23, 2024.
Melbourne Place has been in the works for a few years now, but the team behind this boutique hotel has finally announced that it will open in October 2024. The new hotel on Russell Street will be 14 stories high, have 191 luxury rooms, and house a basement bar and rooftop restaurant that are set to become destinations in their own right. When it comes to places to rest their heads, guests can choose from a number of room formations, from simple rooms to a totally lavish penthouse. The team isn't shying away from colour or multiple textures throughout the rooms, and is adding luxury elements with bespoke finishes and furnishings. Melbourne Place is also taking its drinking and dining destinations very seriously. Hatted Young Chef of the Year Nicholas Deligiannis (ex-Audrey's) has been enlisted to run the hotel's culinary program, giving particular attention to its rooftop restaurant Mid Air. When it comes to the ground-floor dining room and basement bar, Ross and Sunny Lusted (Sydney's Woodcut and Aman Resorts) are in charge. They haven't shared their concepts for these spaces yet, but we expect them to be totally luxe — like each of the other venues they've worked on. "Neighbouring the city's best restaurants, bars, nightlife and retail, [Melbourne Place] will be the place to be, providing guests with a unique lifestyle and cultural experience situated among the best offerings in the city. It is the ultimate location to experience the pinnacle of Melbourne's life and spirit," says Executive General Manager Tracy Atherton. Melbourne Place is slated to open in October 2024 at 130 Russell Street, Melbourne. For more information, visit the venue's website.
When MPavilion hits Melbourne each year, it gives the city two gifts in one: a stunning new temporary structure built in the Queen Victoria Gardens, and a jam-packed lineup of events in and around the freshly erected space. Perfect for summer hangouts, the specially commissioned spot arrives when the weather is warm to add workshops, talks, performances and more to everyone's diaries. For its 2022–23 run, the time for all of the above is now. This year's winning MPavilion design is a vibrant canopied structure driven by celebrated architect Rachaporn Choochuey. Now open in its short-term inner-city home, the venue designed by Bangkok-based architecture and design practice all(zone) marks the ninth MPavilion in the series. After a couple of years spent indoors due to Melbourne's pandemic lockdowns, it also aims to offer a celebration of outdoor living. MPavilion 2022 will sit at Queen Victoria Gardens to host a season of events, before being relocated to a permanent home elsewhere in Melbourne after this year's lineup wraps up on Thursday, April 6. That gives the space four huge months to host an impressive array of festivities, starting with a dance party featuring John Gomez, Nick the Record and Dita, as well as a Thai Festival that includes a lantern-making workshop and Thai dances — all on this year's opening weekend from Friday, December 9. The venue's events program changes its theme regularly — like its hues — starting with 'Under One Roof' in December, which is all about championing shared experiences. From there, January and February turns the space into a 'Material Lab', focusing on humanity's use of different materials, while March and April have 'Unseen Design' in mind, aka spotlighting how the best design can be invisible. Across a lineup that includes more than 250 free events and spans the involvement of 500-plus creatives, that means specific sessions celebrating Indigenous voices in architecture, getting Cheated Hearts to unleash its party tunes, and screening ten short films about the experiences of individuals of African ancestry living in Melbourne. Also on the bill: DJs aplenty, pilates in the park, a chat-heavy summer salon, talks about concrete's afterlife and recycled plastics, and a Strictly Vinyl party to close things out. Also, in a first, the MPavilion Food Truck will make Queen Victoria Gardens its home all summer. Yes, that's your leafy picnics taken care of, complete with an MPavilion Pale Ale by Preston brewery Tall Boy & Moose. Across two sets of dates — from December 15–18 and March 30–April 2 — the food setup will collaborate with Parcs, too, with chef Dennis Yong creating a 'bootleg fish & chip'-themed menu that's all about sustainability. Images: Casey Horsfield and John Gollings.
When the French city of Toulouse gets its first skyscraper in 2022, it won't just see 40 floors of of shining glass, concrete and steel join its skyline. It'll also gain its tallest garden — and one of the world's as well. A "continuous vertical landscape" will spiral around the outside of the building like a ribbon of greenery, lined with trees and reaching all of the way up to the top level. Called the Occitanie Tower after the administrative region of France that Toulouse falls within, the structure will measure 150 metres in height and boast 11,000 square metres of offices, as well as a Hilton hotel, up to 120 apartments, plus space for retail and hospitality outlets. The latter will feature a restaurant with panoramic views, including towards the Pyrenees mountain range less than 100 kilometres away; however there's no mistaking it's eye-catching vertical garden that'll be the centre of attention. Designed by the New York and Zurich-based Studio Liebskind — aka the folks behind everything from Berlin's zigzag-shaped Jewish Museum to the World Trade Centre Master Plan development to a Swarovski chess set modelled after iconic buildings — the Occitanie Tower is slated to start construction in 2018. While it'll certainly give the area a new landmark, and weave in nicely with the vertical garden trend that just keeps growing, it won't be quite as tall as Australia's addition to the lofty fold. That'd be 166-metre-high, 250-species-filled One Central Park in Sydney's Chippendale. Via dezeen. Images via Morph / Luxigon.
If a hefty stack of pancakes is your brunch of choice, there's a new Saturday session in town that's guaranteed to be right up your alley. From April 7, Saturdays will see Carlton's Prince Alfred Hotel — which has just reopened all shiny and new — host a weekly session of bottomless pancakes and booze on its newly minted rooftop. From 11.30am each week, head up to the top of the Carlton pub for unlimited stacks of pancakes, loaded up with your choice of toppings for just $25. But why stop there? The pub's also offering a bottomless booze package to complement those fancy-pants stacks, priced at $65 for unlimited eats and drinks. Sip bloody marys, mimosas and pints of Hoegaarden to your heart's content, up until the session wraps up at 2.30pm. Live tunes each week will round it all out. Images: Giulia Morlando.
When the new Hilton hotel opened in Melbourne's heritage 1930s Equity Chambers last year, it needed a swanky destination eatery to seal the deal. You can't open a luxury hotel these days without a big-name chef downstairs cooking eggs. That restaurant turned out to be Luci: a contemporary Australian fine diner with an Italian-Euro twist, named after the Roman leader and famous gourmet, Lucias Lucullus. The chef is Sam Moore (Pier in Rose Bay, Becasse, No.35 at Sofitel Melbourne), who has just released a sharp new menu across three services – brekkie, lunch and dinner. [caption id="attachment_845602" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kristoffer Paulsen[/caption] "Striking a balance between classic and modern sensibilities, my produce-driven food highlights quality ingredients prepared with an elegant simplicity at the fore. From ocean-fresh seafood, or vegetables just out of the soil, I am proud to deliver this menu to our diners," says Moore. Luci isn't really trying to appeal to the W Melbourne or QT crowd. This isn't where you come for DJs and pool parties. Set inside the vaulted ceilings of the Equity Chambers, and positioned in the heart of Melbourne's legal district, it's a deliberately old-world set-up. Think, original wood panelling, restored heritage elevators, timber banisters and stonework galore. The menu is upscale too. There's a wicked crab benedict for breakfast, topped with umami-packed bonito hollandaise; Hiramasa kingfish crudo for lunch, with celery, horseradish and orchard apples; or maybe Wimmera duck breast for dinner, served with radicchio and creamy celeriac. The wine list is fully stocked, as you'd expect, with a broad mix of local Victorian drops and low-intervention stuff. Plenty of options to keep things interesting. [caption id="attachment_845598" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kristoffer Paulsen[/caption] Speaking of drinks, if you want a cocktail before dinner, check out the 1930s-style Douglas Club bar, just next door to Luci. It's in the fully-restored front bit of the Equity Building, and Hilton have even snagged bar manager Gee Shanmugam (from Windsor's Galah Bar and Mya Tiger at The Espy). Our tip: try the mini parmesan donuts from the bar menu. As part of their takeover-refurbishment of the Equity Chambers, Hilton has also installed some pretty eye-catching new suites upstairs. The entire building has had a massive glow-up. If you're looking for a romantic night away in the CBD, with killer food and a 1930s cocktail bar downstairs, the Hilton on Little Queen Street is now a serious contender. Find Luci within the Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street (entry via 472 Bourke Street, Melbourne). Images: Food and interiors by Kristoffer Paulsen; Hilton entrance by Paul Gosney
It's officially summer Melburnites, and the city is heating up. The best way to cool off? Running away to your local beaches and lakes for a cheeky dip. Now, you may already have a go-to swim spot, but together with Sheridan — the expert purveyor of luxe beach towels — we've rounded up six spots for you to get aquatic. So, whether you're heading down with a bunch of mates or are going solo with a book and rolled-up beach towel in hand, why not check out this list to find something a bit different. Let's change things up as we elevate our summer game. [caption id="attachment_880835" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Catherine A Campbell (Unsplash)[/caption] MOTHERS BEACH, MORNINGTON PENINSULA The Mornington Peninsula is brimming with great beaches, but Mothers Beach ticks all the boxes for those wanting a chill and easy swim spot where you can really relax. The shallow waters and gentle waves are made for lazily paddling about — you can even hire a kayak or paddle board on the shores to explore the area at your own pace. A decent sized car park, nearby toilets, water taps, outdoor showers and picnic tables all help make this a super accessible, easy beach to hang out at all day long. The verdict? You could take your mother to this stretch of sand and there shouldn't be any complaints. [caption id="attachment_798021" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dave Kim (Unsplash)[/caption] BRIGHTON BEACH, BRIGHTON This spot for a dip may be best known for its brightly coloured and highly coveted beach boxes, but there's a lot more going on here. First off, it's super easy to get to: jump on a train at Flinders Street Station and you'll be throwing your towel down within 25 minutes. In the height of summer, you'll also get breezy, sunshine-soaked vibes — there'll be crowds, but it's far from heaving. Brighton Beach is perfect for those looking to hang with mates, dipping in and out of the water, before eventually running away to local bars and restaurants to keep the fun going. [caption id="attachment_651724" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ian Cochrane via Flickr[/caption] HALF MOON BAY, BLACK ROCK This popular Melbourne beach is that perfect distance from the city — far enough out (and difficult enough to reach with public transport) that it won't be too busy. But only a 30-minute drive from Melbourne's CBD, it's also fairly easy to get to with a car. Park up top and take the leisurely walk down to the white sandy beach below. You'll find the necessary beach infrastructure here — loos, outdoor showers and a couple of spots to grab hot food. It's also great for snorkelling, with crystal clear water and stacks of friendly sea creatures lurking beneath the surface. Above water, there's the wreck of the HMVS Cerberus, built in the 1860s and scuttled in 1926. [caption id="attachment_879774" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Luisa Denu (Unsplash)[/caption] THE PILLARS, MOUNT MARTHA You could easily forget you're only a 45-minute drive out of Melbourne when you're swimming off The Pillars in Mount Martha — it feels more like a tropical paradise or hidden cove in The Med. But, prepare to work for your day of splashing. This isn't a beach, it's a rock formation that juts out into the sea. So, you'll need to scale the rocks to get in and out of the water — or join all the young guns who come here for cliff jumping. It's a great off-the-beaten-path swimming spot, which means going without the usual beach amenities. Come with everything you need for the day — sunscreen, towel, snacks and a bottle of water. [caption id="attachment_879776" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jacob Dyer (Unsplash)[/caption] LAKE DAYLESFORD, DAYLESFORD Most people go to Daylesford for the luxury spas, leisurely hikes and mushroom foraging — but Lake Daylesford is also a perfect spot for wild swimming. Jump off the jetty and float about with some mates before hitting the barbecue area or local waterside restaurants. And, if some of you don't want to get wet, you can hire paddleboats or stroll around the circumference of the tree-lined lake. Be aware that this spot is a bit of a trek — nearly two hours by car out of the city, but well worth it for a proper day of countryside swimming. [caption id="attachment_879781" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Arnaud Mesureur (Unsplash)[/caption] JAN JUC BEACH, JAN JUC Located at the start of the Great Ocean Road, Jan Juc Beach is a hugely popular spot for surfers. Expect big waves and boards cutting wide arching shapes, so if you're not a strong swimmer, stay within the flags during summer for some safe water fun. This dramatic part of the coast is made up of a long stretch of golden sand sitting below rocky cliffs. And at low tide, there are rock pools aplenty — walk towards Torquay's Surf Beach to find massive ones to take a dip in. Once you find your new favourite swim spot, elevate your summer game even further with a Sheridan beach towel. To make your pick, head to the website. Top image: Brighton Beach by Titus Aparici (Unsplash)
There's no one way to choose which airline to fly with, or what time to take to the skies. Pure and simple necessity might leave you without options anyway. But if you're the kind of traveller who loves saying cheers to your flight with a wine or beer in your hand, Qantas has poured out some great news just as the holidays are about to hit. That free drink that everyone usually scores from 4pm in economy on the carrier's routes? It's now kicking in at midday. So, effective immediately, travellers flying with Qantas on all domestic and regional flights from 12pm onwards will be offered a complimentary beverage. Your options: a red or white wine, with Aussie drops getting the nod, or a One Fifty Lashes Premium Pale Ale. This is the first time that the Australian airline is bringing forward the opening time for its onboard economy wine bar — which, of course, isn't a part of the plane where everyone hangs out with a drink in their hand, but the name that Qantas has given its vino-slinging offering. Your drink will come with either lunch or snacks, depending on the time that you're flying — or even dinner, because the free beverage still applies after 4pm. Fancy a quiet sip by yourself? Remember that Qantas also now lets you pay for neighbour-free seating, purchasing the middle seat so you have a gap between you and the next person. For more information about Qantas' onboard dining options, head to the airline's website.
Today, Tuesday, February 22, 2022, the twos clearly have it — on your calendar and, thanks to Jetstar, in your wallet as well. To celebrate 22.02.2022 like only a low-cost airline would, the Australian carrier has dropped 22,000 $22 flights. You shouldn't need to be told twice that that's a bargain. The Twosday sale is a one-day-only affair, running until 11.59pm AEDT today — so, obviously, getting in quick is a must. In fact, by the time you're reading this, you might find a number of routes already sold out. Thankfully, Jetstar is slinging cheap tickets across a hefty range of flights, so you you should find a cheap holiday option on offer. Destinations include everywhere from Cairns and Hamilton Island to Hobart and Uluru, depending where you're departing from. You can head from Sydney to Melbourne and the Sunshine Coast, Melbourne to Hamilton Island and Launceston, and Brisbane to Mackay and Adelaide, for instance. Other spots covered span Townsville, Byron Bay, the Gold Coast and Darwin. And if this is the inspiration you need for a weekend somewhere you wouldn't have planned a getaway to otherwise, consider that a bonus. Tickets in the sale are for trips this coming spring, between various dates in October and November, with exact days varying in each region. And there are a few caveats, as is always the case. The discounted flights are one way, and they don't include checked baggage — so you'll need to travel super light, or pay extra to take a suitcase. Jetstar's Twosday sale runs until 11.59pm AEDT on Tuesday, February 22, or until sold out.
Whether you're zipping from Sydney to Melbourne, or settling in for the long haul on the mammoth Perth–to–London flights, travelling by air comes with a significant environmental cost. As well as fuel usage and the considerable carbon footprint, planes are a hotbed for disposable items. Those plastic utensils you're using to tuck into your breakfast? The cup you're sipping your in-flight wine from? The wrapping around your blanket? All single-use plastics. To help counteract the hefty amount of environmental waste created by soaring through the sky, airlines have started changing their ways — such as Portuguese charter outfit Hi Fly, which has pledged to become the world's first plastics-free carrier within the next 12 months. Now Australia's own Qantas is following suit, announcing a plan to cut its waste by 70 percent by the end of 2021, including eradicating 100 million single-use plastic items from its flights and lounges each year from 2020 onwards. On their way out: 45 million plastic cups, 30 million cutlery sets, 21 million coffee cups and four million headrest covers each year, which'll all be replaced by sustainable alternatives. In the case of coffee cups, for example, they'll be swapped for versions that can be recycled or composted. Qantas has already ditched plastic wrapping on its pyjamas and headsets, and gotten rid of plastic straws altogether. It's also scrapping unnecessary paper, so that means using digital boarding passes rather than physical versions as well. The changes will come into effect across Qantas, QantasLink and Jetstar, and while the company recognises that some single-use plastic objects don't have a ready-made substitution (highlighting some wrappings used for hygiene purposes, as well as heat-resistant containers deployed in meal preparation), it's endeavouring to find solutions there as well. It has a history in the eco-conscious space, at least where fuel is concerned — using mustard seeds to fuel its Melbourne–to–LA flights, and dabbling with fuel derived from cooking oil before that. As part of the new waste reduction move, Qantas aims to become the world's first airline to reuse, recycle and compost at least three-quarters of its general refuse. "In the process of carrying 50 million people each year, we deal with more than 30,000 tonnes of waste," said Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce in a statement. "That's the same weight as about 80 747 jumbos."
You may know Kieren Spiteri, Ben Argentino and Bec Moore as the names behind Northcote's Tinker, Collingwood's Terror Twilight and Smith Street sandwich spot Hi Fi. Well, from Wednesday, August 10, this little convoy of culinary favourites will have gained another addition, as the team unveils its latest venture in the heart of Moonee Ponds. A good 18 months in the making and built off the back of popular demand from regulars, Convoy has finally arrived — a bright daytime diner overlooking Queens Park. It's showing off a retro-leaning, timber-filled fitout by female-led practices Studio Esteta and My Friend Tom, with a spacious streetside deck and garden, and plenty of natural materials used throughout. [caption id="attachment_864355" align="alignnone" width="1920"] My Friend Tom[/caption] Executive Chef of Convoy's sibling venues, Dale Kemp, is also steering the food offering here on Pascoe Vale Road, plating up both familiar favourites and a crop of exclusive new creations. It's as creative and considered as you'd expect — mushrooms on toast with a Calabrian chilli butter and 'corn crackle'; a brekkie muffin sandwiching curried scrambled eggs and grandma ham; the steak frites roll and kewpie-topped prawn roll; and cinnamon scroll-inspired pancakes made with sweet potato. The kitchen's take on eggs benedict features fried milk bread and smoked pastrami with a pickled daikon and apple salad; the Turkish eggs are elevated with black pudding and a lemon yoghurt; and there's an okonomiyaki finished with miso mayo and a kimchi crisp. Along with your usual coffee options, you'll find a boba-style drink with sweetened coconut cream and tapioca pearls that have been soaked in cold brew. Or you can amp things up with a sip from the cocktail list, where classics like mimosas and bloody marias sit alongside a breakfast martini and the Melbourne Mai Tai — a blend of orange, pineapple, Amaretto and dark rum. [caption id="attachment_864358" align="alignnone" width="1920"] My Friend Tom[/caption] Find Convoy at 109 Pascoe Vale Road, Moonee Ponds, from August 10. It'll be open daily from 7am–4pm. Images: My Friend Tom.
It's a common peeve for many Melburnians: the fact that catching the train to another part of town often means hauling all the way into the CBD before you can switch routes and travel back out. Well, that headache could potentially be removed, if the Victorian Government's ambitious plan for a huge underground suburban rail network comes to fruition. In August last year (before he ran for and won the state election), Premier Daniel Andrews released a proposal for a brand new 90-kilometre Suburban Rail Loop, which would link all of the city's major radial rail lines with an intersecting orbital one, from the southeast in Cheltenham all the way to the west in Werribee. So how will it all work? Last year, Premier Daniel Andrews posted this video that details how and where the project will operate. The proposed new line would run a loop around Melbourne's outer suburbs, connecting the existing train lines at a point outside of the CBD. The current plans have it starting at Cheltenham on the Frankston line, connecting to the Cranbourne/Pakenham line at Clayton before running through Glen Waverley and to Box Hill on the Lilydale/Belgrave line. From there it will go underground to connect to Heidelberg on the Hurstbridge line, Reservoir on the South Morang, Fawkner on the Upfield and Broadmeadows on the Craigieburn before heading to the new Melbourne Airport station that we'll supposedly have by then. From there it will head down to Sunshine, which is on the Sunbury line, before finishing up at Werribee. Here's a new version of the map Daniel Andrews posted last week. All this work could include up to 12 new underground stations and would provide train services to suburbs that don't currently have them, like Monash, Burwood and Doncaster. If all goes as planned, the new network would carry 400,000 people a day, which the government hopes will reduce congestion on both roads and existing train lines. It's a huge undertaking, and one that's largely unfunded at the moment. Although the Andrews Government was re-elected in November, the project now has to find funding and be passed by parliament to begin on the proposed start date of 2022.. The State Government has only committed $300 million to it so far — but if a Shorten Labor Government gets elected at this year's federal election, it has pledged to match that amount. That takes the total to a potential $600 million, but, at the moment, the government only has $300 million to put towards a business case, design and pre-construction work. The Age has reported that, all up, the thing will cost around $50 billion; for comparison, the current Metro Tunnel project has been estimated at costing around $11 billion. So there is still a lot of work to go to prove that the project is viable (and that's not to mention finding the extra $49,700,000,000). It's not something you want to hold your breath for. That said, the Andrews Government has been the administration to actually make the Metro Tunnel happen, remove multiple level crossings in the city's east and commit to an Airport Rail Link (although that one's not quite confirmed yet), so we'll wait to see what happens in next 18 months. We'll keep you updated.
Sitting quietly on the Parliament end of the city inside Spring Street Grocer, Gelateria Primavera has held down a reputation as one of the best artisanal gelaterias in Melbourne for some time now. Similarly to Pidapipo, it uses the pozzetti storage tubs to house the gelato out of sight and ready to be eaten at the best possible temperature. The menu changes daily, though you can be sure to always find something to suit your tastes. Past favourites include the salted caramel and chilli, watermelon and fresh mint, goats' curd with walnut and honey and young coconut and ginger. Image: Julian Kingma/Visit Victoria.
Calling all gamers, dungeon masters, arcade enthusiasts, cosplayers and anyone who's simply not got any plans on the evening of Thursday, October 9 — Fed Square is being taken over by one of Melbourne's biggest gaming events of the year, Big Games Night Out. From 3.30 to 10.30pm, a huge lineup of Australian made games and gaming-adjacent activities are popping up, games of both the video and tabletop varieties. On the video games front, the star act is the playable debut of Mixtape, the new nostalgia-laden project from local developers Beethoven & Dinosaur (The Artful Escape) that sees teen friends enjoy an introspective, magical last night before school is out forever. [caption id="attachment_1028103" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Eugene Hyland[/caption] Beyond that, two teams of content creators, streamers and online personalities will take the main stage to compete for esports glory in the Marvel Rivals All Star Showdown, a whole range of Australian-made games (Jupiter Junkworks, Bones: Wandering Soul, Pro Jank Footy, My Arms Are Longer Now, Bravecart, Enter the Chronosphere and more) in a vintage setup at Electric Arcadia. Tabletop gamers can enjoy a live Stranger Things D&D one shot stage show, or head inside the Edge Theatre for the Tabletop & Roleplay Revolution — a showcase of board games and tabletop rpgs, and for any young gamers, the Little Games Night Out will run from 3.30–6pm with live music, Crossy Road, Just Dance and more, while the Atrium games zone will play host to Tekken, Fortnite, Foosball, Mario Kart, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance and other classics. [caption id="attachment_1028104" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] James Adams[/caption] There's still more. You'll find musical experiences, live demos, markets, food and drinks and much more until late. It's free entry, but you can find out more on the event website.
