There's so much art in Melbourne, both inside and out, that getting around to see everything you should've by now is pretty much impossible. Frankly, as the days become increasingly wintery, it can be tempting to just hide away in bed. But instead, we're encouraging you to seize the chilly nights with the new Samsung Galaxy S9 or S9+ and make use of their brilliant low light camera — perfect for when the only lighting you have for your shot is but a single street light. Whether it's making up for lost time with NGV Friday Night's after-hours access or exploring the must-see street art of Melbourne's dimly lit alleyways, here's five artworks that you have to go out and capture for yourself. KEITH HARING'S MURAL ON JOHNSTON STREET, COLLINGWOOD Surrounded by trendy bars, cafes and restaurants, Keith Haring's Collingwood mural is one of the city's most well-known and loved examples of public art. Painted on the side of the former Collingwood Technical College right next to Circus Oz's quirky Melba Spiegeltent, the iconic figures appeared when the acclaimed New York artist arrived in Australia in 1984 to paint and speak on behalf of the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art. Snap some photos of this cherished mural and then find a warm bar nearby and grab yourself a drink. THIS SIDE IS THE OTHER SIDE BY SUBODH GUPTA AT NGV At first glance, This Side Is the Other Side by Indian artist Subodh Gupta can be viewed with all the wanderlust of a good ol' dusty road journey. And while travel is one of the key themes, the fact that Gupta was born and raised in India's poorest province of Bihar, it may not be the leisure travel your mind first jumped to. That said, his Hindu heritage places the divine in all objects, which explains the gold sheen over this humble, motor scooter hung with milk pails. This Side Is the Other Side is but one of the photogenic pieces in this thoughtful exhibition, aptly named Everyday Divine. INDIGENOUS BOY BY ADNATE ON HOSIER LANE, CBD Hosier Lane is famous for its graffiti and street art – and while most works get tagged and painted over with clockwork predictability, one piece stands out above all the others. Painted by admired Melbourne street artist Adnate, 'Indigenous Boy' is a 23-metre tall mural set against the rear of McDonald House. Drawing attention to the original Indigenous owners of the land that the Melbourne CBD is built upon, the photorealistic portrait is seen looking out towards Birrarung Marr. Head down after dark to photograph Adnate's massive artwork – and while you're there you might catch Melbourne's nocturnal graffiti artists hard at work. PIXCELL RED DEER BY KOHEI NAWA AT NGV Born in Kyoto in 1975, Japanese artist Kohei Nawa's work embodies numerous worldly influences. Drawing on everything from the symbolism of Buddhism and Japanese Shintoism, to the works of British and European sculptures he was exposed to while studying at London's Royal College of Art, Nawa is one of Japan's leading young artists. And lucky for us, the NGV was able to acquire one of Nawa's 'PixCell' works back in 2013. Coined by the artist himself, PixCell is the process of combining organic cells with minute digital pixels. With deer appearing throughout Nawa's work, this is a special piece in Nawa's collection and one you have to see in person to fully appreciate (but don't let that stop you taking a few snaps). FINTAN MAGEE'S MURAL ON AC/DC LANE, CBD Growing up in Brisbane, Fintan Magee has travelled the world painting massive murals and hosting exhibitions for his smaller-scale works. From London and Las Vegas to Tunisia and Turkey, Magee's brand of street art has earned him fans wherever he goes. Often creating work around the environment, climate change and the global refugee crisis, Magee's works make you reflect on the world around you. Tucked away down the end of the CBD's AC/DC Lane, hidden amongst the surviving dive bars and newcomer cafes, his Melbourne mural towers high above the streets, showing a man carrying a tree trunk through the densely urban landscape. It's a little less crowded than Hosier Lane too, so you'll be able to get plenty of snaps without the random strangers. Instead of spending your winter nights on the couch, discover all the after-dark happenings in your city here — and don't forget to document it all on the new Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+, designed especially for low light so you can capture your best moments no matter what. Images: Cole Bennetts.
Each year since 2014, Melbourne's Queen Victoria Gardens has scored an impressive new addition, all thanks to MPavilion. When the end of each year rolls around, a new, specially commissioned temporary structure has popped up to host a summer-long festival of free events — with the pavilion itself designed by a top architect, and the accompanying community-focused cultural program covering talks, workshops, performances and installations that highlight design as well. In 2020, however, something different is happening. Yes, that's an easy way to sum up this strange and chaotic year in general; however, for MPavilion, it means that a new structure hasn't been commissioned. Instead, in a decision made in direct response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event is activating the six pavilions from previous years rather than build something new. That was announced back in June but, in a new revelation, MPavilion has just advised that it'll also be taking up residency at the CBD's Parkade Car Park, too, in line with its 'adaptive reuse' focus for the year. Come January 2021 — with MPavilion running through until March — Melburnians will be able to head to 34 Little Collins Street for live music gigs, interactive installations, events focused on architecture and design, and school holiday workshops for kids and families. The Parkade Car Park will host MPavilion shenanigans seven days a week throughout the month, giving the Peter McIntyre-designed 60s and 70s-era site a new lease on life to start off the year. If the residency has you thinking about ways that existing spaces can be repurposed, that's a big part of the point. MPavilion focuses on a different theme each month, with January dedicated to 'Preservation: Propagating Knowledge' — and also featuring everything from circus architectural film screenings curated by architect and filmmaker Toby Reed to a roller disco. There's also a concert for dogs (and humans, of course), in collaboration with Melbourne Music Week. If you're still keen on checking out MPavilion's 2019 white lantern-like piece by Glenn Murcutt, its 2018s floating geometric building from Spanish architect Carme Pinós, 2017's inside-outside contemporary take on the ancient amphitheatre by Rem Koolhaas and David Gianotten, and 2016's huge bamboo structure from Indian architect Bijoy Jain — and Amanda Levete's forest-esque 2015 piece and Sean Godsell's 2014 creation as well — they're spread around different locations across the city until Sunday, March 21, 2021. And, as for what else is on the program, exploring both physical and virtual social spaces in December's spotlight — while February will highlight relationships of all kinds, and March will wrap things up with a month of temporal experimentation. MPavilion takes place around Melbourne until Sunday, March 21, 2021 — and will take up residency at the Parkade Car Park, 34 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, throughout January. For further details, head to the event's website. Images: Timothy Burgess.
Do you have a book that's gone neglected, gathering dust in a bedside drawer or on a coffee table? Bring it out of literary hibernation thanks to Reading Party Melbourne — a rare chance to mix some quality reading time with a night out on the town. The event will be hosted at Mr Mills for one night only this December. Descend the chartreuse spiral staircase to the perfect alcove to tear through a couple of chapters — a moody bar replete with warm timber, plush booths and little lamps. Order snacks like olives, almonds and even a charcuterie plate with guindillas and manchego, and you've got the perfect setup for a reading sesh. Starting at 6pm, you'll get to enjoy some silent reading time with your fellow attendees (no awkward icebreakers or aloud reading needed) before it's books down to and time to get your mingle on. It's not so much a book club, but an excuse to enjoy your page-turner of the moment somewhere other than your usual reading spots. No pre-reading, no homework, no worries. Of course, the books are right there to get the conversation started. Swap recommendations, or break down the events so far, if someone happens to be reading the same volume as you. Your ticket includes a beer or a glass from Mr Mill's wine list. Tickets come in at $23 and you can be in bed by 9. What's not to love? Find out more and get your tickets via the website. Images: Supplied
International sportswear label Adidas continues its efforts to save the world's oceans, unveiling a new range of running kicks crafted ingeniously from recycled plastic pulled from the beach. It's the latest in a series of collaborations with environmental organisation Parley for the Oceans, with the two groups teaming up to reduce ocean plastic by transforming it into sports gear. Set to drop on April 16, the planet-friendly range features two slick new shoe designs — the UltraBOOST and UltraBOOST X — in variations for both guys and girls. The colour palette of deep blues and greens takes its cues from "the urban harbour", and an integrated NFC chip in the right sole lets you access learning experiences about plastic pollution with a few taps of your phone. But even better than looking and feeling good, each pair means that approximately 11 plastic bottles will prevented from reaching the ocean. This new line follows the success of Adidas' previous Parley collaborations, which sold over one million products in 2017 alone. This year, the two companies have their sights set on cracking the five million mark, which you have to agree is no small drop in the ocean. The UltraBOOST and UltraBOOST X will only be available for a limited time, though keep your eyes peeled for new and updated Adidas X Parley products dropping regularly throughout the year. Adidas has also committed to phasing out the use of newly-manufactured plastic in its products, and to supporting Parley in a range of research and development, innovation and education initiatives. Find the latest collaborative ocean plastic range online and instore.
To some she was a caregiver. To others, a recluse. Now, the world knows her as an artist. Vivian Maier had a lot of faces, all of which are revealed in a problematic new documentary releasing in cinemas this week. Directed by John Maloof and Charlie Siskel, the film pulls back the curtain on the life of its titular subject, a woman who, in the years since her death, has gone from a total unknown to one of the most acclaimed street photographers in history. That's the premise of Finding Vivian Maier. The problem is that it appears she never wanted to be found. The documentary begins in 2007, when Maloof, an author and amateur historian, was doing research for a book about Chicago. On a whim, he purchased a box of old, undeveloped photographs at an auction — photographs that just so happened to have been taken by Vivian Maier. Blown away by her talent, Maloof stuck her name into Google, only for his search to turn up a blank. So over the next few years, he continued to look, slowly uncovering more about the artist while shining an ever brighter spotlight on her work. As it turns out, Maier spent most of her life working as a nanny. Interviews with the children she cared for, now adults, paint an eccentric portrait of a bold, opinionated woman with combat boots and a phoney French accent, who would take them on outings to the rough side of town just so she could get an interesting picture. She was also a prolific hoarder, collecting not just photographs, but letters, receipts and stacks and stacks of newspapers. She never married, never had kids and, despite her remarkable body of work, appears to have died penniless and alone. It's certainly an intriguing story, one that Maloof and Siskel milk for everything it's worth. But, as the documentary goes on, it also becomes increasingly clear that Maier herself would have been uncomfortable with the attention she's being given. She never made any significant attempts to showcase her work while she was alive, and appears to have gone to great lengths to keep her private life hidden. Throughout the film, various people speculate, often rather tastelessly, about her feelings and state of mind. Ultimately, without the participation of Maier herself, it's simply impossible to know. Maloof, meanwhile, comes across as extremely unlikable; a self-congratulatory little hipster poking his nose where it doesn't belong. There are obviously a whole stack of moral issues at play here, but whether or not you can justify viewing Maier's work without her consent, it's pretty clearly not okay to rummage through her personal life just to satisfy a tawdry curiosity. Finding Vivian Maier smacks of gossip and exploitation. Let the poor woman rest in peace. https://youtube.com/watch?v=2o2nBhQ67Zc
Being houseproud is the new social. Whether you're an avid viewer of Grand Designs and invest hours lusting over interior design accounts on Instagram, or you're just feeling ambivalent towards your living space after having spent so much time in it recently, there's one thing worth remembering: even the subtlest of changes can make a big difference to how a room looks and feels. In partnership with Samsung, we have curated eight effortlessly stylish objects from makers in Australia and further afield. These homewares and furniture pieces will seamlessly complement the room of your choice while elevating it to new design heights. PERCY FLOOR LAMP, MCMULLIN AND CO ($449) McMullin and Co has a focus on simplicity in its creations, as well as a love for elegant scalloped edges and serpentine lines. The Percy Floor Lamp's powder-coated black stem is an example of the meandering curve that's been admired throughout art history for what it signifies: liveliness, activity and something of interest for the eye. Complete with a linen shade, this floor lamp casts a beautiful light and is just one of the many striking pieces of furniture and design wares offered by the Sydney-based design studio. We love imagining it next to one of McMullin and Co's bed heads as a floor or table lamp, or placed in the corner of the living room to bring an unimposing glow — perfect for mood lighting during a late-night movie marathon. THE SERIF, SAMSUNG (FROM $1249) Gone are the days where you need to hide your eyesore TV set or find some way to make a large black screen (and its many cables) work with your living room aesthetic. Stylish from any angle, Samsung's The Serif is an innovative format for home televisions that harkens back to the days of freestanding TVs, but with a modern update. Celebrated industrial designers Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec are behind The Serif's unique design, and it is fast building a cult following. What we love most about The Serif is its versatility — its 360-degree design, with a unique 'I'-shaped profile and removable legs means it looks great no matter where in the room you place it. But it's not only for the interior aesthetes. The visual harmony of the Bouroullec brothers' design is complemented by Samsung's QLED picture quality. It includes features like smart connectivity and Ambient Mode, where you can display your own photos and images (or one of the exclusive patterns from the Bouroullec brothers) on the screen, which also auto-adjusts to surrounding light settings. Plus, through NFC technology, you can place your compatible phone on the top shelf and play tunes through the TV speakers*. ECLIPSE #2098 RUG, PAMPA ($3260) This year's long winter stuck indoors really brought rugs and floor coverings into focus. Now, as we head into summer, a flatweave wool rug is an appealing addition to the floor of nearly any room in your house — and it's perfect to layer with heavier rugs as the cooler months return. This hand-woven piece from Pampa is made using the traditional practice by Argentinian weavers, where the looms used are the arm span of the weaver. The textile panels are then joined together to create the finished rugs, giving a lovely handmade touch to this investment purchase. Pampa's interest in colour theory is evident in this rug: the creamy beige becomes almost pink next to its complementary moss green. ANNA VARENDORFF, SMALL 'EDGING OVER' THICK TUBE VASE, ACV STUDIO ($290) We've seen vases in cylindrical form popping up in designer feeds recently. But this one by award-winning Melbourne-based artist Anna Varendorff is a little different. Each vase is individually handmade and has a buffed matte finish, bringing interest and imperfection to the smooth stainless steel. No two are exactly the same. The tube is wide enough to hold medium- and thick-stemmed fresh foliage and dried flowers. As you can tell from the image above, it will be a unique focal point in any room for you (and guests) to marvel at. OLIO ARMCHAIR, DESIGN BY THEM (FROM $3658) This chair is the work of three designers: Sarah Gibson and Nicholas Karlovasitis (who work together under Gibson Karlo and are co-founders of Design by Them), and Melbourne School of Design lecturer, Christina Bricknell. The Olio Armchair brings together the talents and interests of the Australian design trio in sculptural form, material and tactility to create this modern addition to your furniture collection. The piece features curved and cylindrical elements to create an inviting seat in which to rest, read and watch. It's available in a variety of coverings including a beautiful ivory bouclé, lush navy velvet and several leather options. CUSHION, VEIKKANEN ($225) If you're looking for a beautiful, graphic-print cushion to bring some colour to your interior ensemble, look no further than Veikkanen. The Melbourne-based brand offers a series of one-of-a-kind cushions with patterns, graphics and colours informed by its founder's training in both textiles and graphic design. Veikannen chooses natural and recycled materials wherever possible, and custom-makes each cushion using the process of hand-tufting. Watch out for each drop of limited-edition products on Instagram — they sell out fast. And if you're interested in taking these funky vibrant visuals to your wall, art and hangings are also available in limited releases or by commission. DREAMWEAVER LIGHT, POP & SCOTT ($890) With a steel frame hand-woven with organic cotton yarn and dipped in colour at its base, this lamp shade beautifully demonstrates strong elements coming together in harmony with a focus on function and form. Choose from a colour palette of rust, oatmeal, chartreuse, blush and navy to design your ideal lighting to suit your space. Pop & Scott has a passion for contemporary Australian design, and places a focus on sourcing quality materials and using ethical means of production to create timeless pieces. These shades are made to order by the family business, and a tree is planted for each purchase via Carbon Neutral. J4 TABLES, JAMES HOWE (ENQUIRE) Furniture and lighting designer James Howe has created a table that invites us to pay attention to light and shadow, and how they interact. Crafted with timber and acrylic, the varied surfaces speak to Howe's interest in materials and minimalism. The J4 table's name is perhaps a nod to Danish designer Børge Mogensen's J39 chair that Howe cites as his inspiration to become a furniture designer. To find out more about The Serif, visit the Samsung website. * Only supported by Android OS-based smartphones that support Near Field Communication (NFC) wireless information sharing.
The National Gallery of Victoria has just announced its 2019-20 Spring/Summer program — and it's sure to get more than a few people excited. Last winter, the NGV saw over 200 works from New York's famed MoMA and over summer it housed the Escher x Nendo: Between Two Worlds — an exhibition showcasing the works of both Dutch artist M.C. Escher and Japanese design studio Nendo. So, it had some big shoes to fill. Its summer blockbuster, announced this morning, is Keith Haring | Jean-Michel Basquiat: Crossing Lines — and the NGV has succeeded in bringing yet another world-class exhibition to Australian shores. Similar to the Escher x Nendo and 2016's Andy Warhol | Ai Weiwei exhibitions, it will showcase an intersection between the two artists' lives, ideas and practices, delving into their radicalism, socio-political standings and distinctive imagery. A world-premiere retrospective exclusive to Melbourne, Crossing Lines will feature over 300 works, including Haring's iconic dancing figures and Basquiat's crown and head motifs throughout a collection of painting, sculpture, objects, drawings, photographs, notebooks and pieces in public spaces. The exhibition will also house the artists' collaborations with some of the world's most-celebrated pop culture icons, including Andy Warhol, Grace Jones and Madonna. [caption id="attachment_717213" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Untitled 1982, Keith Haring, copyright Keith Haring Foundation.[/caption] On top of this stellar exhibition, the NGV will also host a number of smaller (yet no less impressive) exhibitions over spring and summer, including a look at New Jersey artist Brian Donnelly (aka KAWS) in Companionship In The Age Of Loneliness, and a collection of hyperreal photographs by Sydney-based artist Petrina Hicks in Bleached Gothic. A photography exhibition featuring the works of over 100 contemporary photographers from around the world, and a solo show by Australian photographer Polixeni Papapetrou round out the list. Keith Haring | Jean-Michel Basquiat: Crossing Lines will run from December 1, 2019—April 13, 2020 at the National Gallery of Victoria International, Melbourne. Top images: Portrait of Keith Haring by William Coupon; Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat, copyright George Hirose; Untitled 1982, Jean-Michel Basquiat, copyright estate of Jean-Michel Basquiat.
How do you know that a new year is officially in full swing? If you're a movie lover, it's when Australia's film festivals start dropping their lineups. The Mardi Gras Film Festival jumped in first for 2023, and next to unveil its program is Sydney and Melbourne's Europa! Europa — aka the cinema celebration that's all about new and classic flicks from across the entire European continent, and will screen titles from 24 different countries in February and March. 2023 marks Europa! Europa's second year, after debuting in 2022 with an impressive lineup — a feat it aims to match in its sophomore run. This time around, there's 29 movies on the bill, showing at Sydney's Ritz Cinemas in Randwick, and Melbourne's Classic Cinemas in Elsternwick and Lido Cinemas in Hawthorn between Thursday, February 16–Tuesday, March 7, and covering everything from awards contenders to beloved masterpieces. Hailing from France, eco-thriller The Blaze will kick things off, while Europa! Europa 2023 will come to a close with the Judi Dench- and Jennifer Saunders-starring British drama Allelujah. In-between, the range of flicks includes fare from Italy, Estonia, Ukraine and Croatia, plus Georgia, Spain, Germany and Romania. The list goes on, with France particularly well-represented. Gallic cinema buffs, consider this your warm up for the upcoming Alliance Française French Film Festival. An absolute must-see, especially if you've never had the pleasure before on a big screen, is Krzysztof Kieślowski's Three Colours Trilogy. With Three Colours: Blue starring Juliette Binoche (The Staircase), Three Colours: Red led by Irène Jacob (The OA) and Three Colours: White focusing on Julie Delpy (the Before trilogy), this trio of masterpieces are among the most influential international films of the past three decades. Each one will show as a 4K restoration, too. Among the new titles, eight movies on Europa! Europa's bill were submitted as their country's entries for this year's Best International Feature Film Oscar. Highlights include Armenian documentary Aurora's Sunrise, which tells a 14-year-old genocide survivor's story; Safe Place from Croatia, which unfurls its story over 24 hours; and Moldova's dark comedy Carbon, about the effects of war. Or, there's Il Boemo from Czech Republic, which steps through opera composer Josef 'Il Boemo' Myslivecek's tale — and road-trip effort Orchestra from Slovenia. Elsewhere, illness drama More Than Ever stars Vicky Krieps (Bergman Island), alongside Gaspard Ulliel (Moon Knight) in his last role; La Vie En Rose director Olivier Dahan is still in biopic mode, with Simone: Woman of the Century telling French feminist icon Simone Veil's tale; Wunderschön, about five women in Germany, was the country's highest-grossing local film of the 2022 box office; and the Charlotte Gainsbourg (Sundown)-starring The Accusation heads Down Under after premiering at the Venice Film Festival. Europa! Europa will screen in Sydney and Melbourne between Thursday, February 16–Tuesday, March 7. For more information or to buy tickets, head to the festival's website.
Moon Dog's new 800-person wild west-themed bar in Footscray's former Franco Cozzo building has not had an easy run. The size and ambition of the new Melbourne bar led to a few delays in building, but the worst came when the Moon Dog team had to cancel the launch party mere minutes before it was meant to begin. They blamed the council. The council said it had nothing to do with it. It was chaotic. But the rogue fire hydrant that caused the main kerfuffle has now been sorted, and the huge new Moon Dog Wild West is officially open as at Friday, April 26. So, it's time to don your favourite pair of cowboy boots and start exploring the huge saloon. Guests will now find bars on each level pouring Moon Dog beers and seltzers from over 100 taps. Three-time Australian Bartender of the Year Chris Hysted-Adams has also been brought in to design the cocktail list and shots menu. This includes an old-school pickleback shot, a regularly changing old fashioned that'll be served in a barrel for four people and a layered tequila sunrise slushie. A mechanical bucking bull takes centre stage down on the ground floor, where people can compete in actual tournaments with prize money. There's also a secret little Pianola Bar, an arcade, pool tables, a private dining space, a barrel-ageing room, and a stunner of a dog-friendly rooftop that's littered with cacti and fake dessert rocks. The Moon Dog crew has completely packed this space out. Then you've got the food, which is all Tex-Mex-inspired. The team is pumping out sizzling fajitas, buffalo chicken ribs, double-decker tacos, Mexican twists on prawn cocktails and a big ol' one-kilogram t-bone steak. "We're so excited to join the vibrant Footscray community in such an iconic location; the support has been overwhelming, and we can't wait to finally throw open the doors and welcome everyone in for a cold beer," said Moon Dog co-founder Karl van Buuren. Everything at the new Moon Dog Wild West in Footscray just screams unabashed fun. It's one of the brand's three planned new venues for 2024, too, alongside upcoming Docklands and Frankston sites. Moon Dog Wild West is located at 54 Hopkins Street, Footscray, operating from 3pm–late Monday–Tuesday and 11.30am–late Wednesday–Sunday. For more information, head to the venue's website. Images: Arianna Leggiero.
When it comes to buzzy capital cities, Australia has no shortage of options — but Sydney really does have it all. From cutting-edge underground bars and classic pub fare to historic sights and iconic performances, Sydney is a rich tapestry of creativity, culture, and natural splendour. It's hard to go wrong here, but a little insider intel can help you get it just right. If you're planning a weekend in the Harbour City, Marriott Bonvoy is offering 10% off your stay across six hotels—all you need to do is sign up to become a member (for free). It's also the perfect excuse to extend your stay. To play the role of your well-informed mate on the ground, we've curated a short list of reasons why Sydney is always worth checking into. Descend Into Sydney's Awesome Subterranean Bars When it comes to vibey watering holes, Sydney's list just keeps growing. But when the lights dim and the city starts to wind down, the real magic begins underground. Scattered across the CBD and its surrounding boroughs, these hidden gems require a little insider knowledge — knowing which alley to turn down and which door to knock on. From Mucho Group's Herbs Taverne and Swillhouse's swanky new Caterpillar Club, to The Gidley and Double Deuce Lounge, Sydney's subterranean bar scene is constantly evolving. Check out our full guide here. Check Into a Cosy Hotel Choosing the right hotel can make or break your Sydney stay. While there are plenty of options, it's the city centre's stunning skyline, harbour backdrop, and expansive parklands that set it apart—so you'll want a base that captures all that charm. Marriott Bonvoy's collection of premium hotels promises a memorable stay, plus, with 10% off it's the perfect time to plan a quick trip or extended getaway. From luxury stays like The W Sydney, Pier One Sydney Harbour and the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park to stylish, family-friendly options like the Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel Circular Quay and Four Points By Sheraton Sydney in Central Park, you're spoilt for choice. Watch a Performance at The Sydney Opera House Sure, visiting the Opera House for a quick picture is a Sydney bucket list moment for locals and travellers alike — but catching a show inside? That's when the magic really takes place. Beyond the grandeur of the Concert Hall, this cultural icon also houses intimate spaces that host everything from indie gigs and theatre to symphonies and ballet. Visit in the coming months and you can expect atmospheric sets by the likes of early-thousands throwback Bachelor Girl, Lime Cordiale with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, and The Australian Ballet — plus a post-show drink with a view that's hard to top. If you're looking to stay within walking distance of the Sydney Opera House, check into the Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel Circular Quay for a stylish slice of convenience. Devour an Award-Winning Steak at Bistecca When it comes to must-try meals, few live up to the hype — but Bistecca delivers. Tucked down a CBD laneway, this moody, Tuscan-inspired spot has earned international acclaim, and a place on our list of Sydney's best steaks, for its signature bistecca alla Fiorentina, a thick-cut T-bone, prepared over ironbark and charcoal. You'll surrender your phone at the door, leaving you to focus solely on your steak, vino, and conversation. Equal parts speakeasy and Italian fine dining steakhouse, it's a must for meat lovers and experiential diners. Catch a Film at Sydney's Revamped IMAX Theatre After a seven-year hiatus, Sydney's IMAX theatre has roared back to life — and it's bigger and bolder than ever. Now home to the world's third-largest screen (a jaw-dropping 693 square metres), the high-tech space is tucked beneath the W Sydney and reserved for only the biggest blockbusters. Whether you're seeing Superman, F1 The Movie, or Fantastic Four, expect next-level visuals via a 4K laser projection, crystal-clear surround sound, and custom-designed lenses that'll make every explosion, car chase and close-up feel massive. Tickets are limited, so get in quick. Oh, and be sure to grab a pre-blockbuster cocktail at the W Sydney's rooftop bar, 29/30. Hook Into a Sunday Roast at The Lord Dudley When it comes to winter pub fare, few places are as beloved as The Lord Dudley in Woollahra. Established in 1895, this old-school charmer channels the ambience of a British country manor, with its open fireplaces, dark wooden interiors, and traditional English ales. The main event? It's legendary Sunday roast — chicken or pork — served with crispy roast potatoes, steamed greens, rich gravy, and a golden Yorkshire pudding. Just be warned: if it's cold outside, or there's a good game on, you might be fighting for a patch of carpet, let alone a table. Wander The Halls Of Sydney's Art Institutions Art galleries say a lot about a city — and if Sydney's gallery walls could talk, they'd speak of multiculturalism, a complex past and an enduring thirst for artistic ingenuity. The city is home to a broad stroke of galleries, and wandering through them on a chilly winter's day is the perfect antidote to a deep chill. From intimate spaces like China Heights, Roslyn Oxley9 Gallery, and White Rabbit Gallery to internationally revered institutions like the Art Gallery of NSW and the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, there's something to suit every creative appetite. Hot tip: The Art Gallery of NSW stays open late every Wednesday for Art After Hours, an enticing lineup of talks, art, and music, while White Rabbit Gallery is just a stone's throw from Four Points By Sheraton Central Park. Rug Up And Cheer On Your Team At Accor Stadium Another true Sydney bucket list moment? Watching your ride-or-die team go head-to-head at one of the country's largest and loudest stadiums. Whether you're into rugby league, rugby union, AFL, soccer or cricket, Accor Stadium creates an electrifying atmosphere—especially when 83,000 fellow fans surround you. This winter, the stadium will host a string of rugby league finals, plus the third and final State of Origin showdown. It's an easy trip by public transport, but if you're feeling fancy, split a limo with a few mates—it can cost about the same as a cab. Or better yet, check into the Moxy Sydney Airport Hotel and stay in style just a short drive from the action. Book your Sydney escape before September 30 to access 10% off your stay and dining with Marriott Bonvoy. All you have to do is sign up as a member—and it's completely free. Book 10% off your stay and rediscover Sydney. T&C's apply and vary by participating hotels including blackout dates, cancellation restrictions and more. Offer may not apply in properties not participating in the award and redemption of Marriott Bonvoy. By Elise Cullen
Situated on Wadawurrung/Wathaurong Country along the Surf Coast Highway, the Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre is a non-profit centre that offers a welcoming introduction to contemporary Indigenous culture. Enveloped by native trees and surrounded by walkways and gardens, the multi-purpose space hosts interactive cultural programs for all age groups, while an on-site gallery showcases traditional and contemporary works by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from all over Australia. The gift shop stocks an impressive range of handmade Indigenous items from arts and craft to tools and artifacts, as well as native herbs and spices, sauces and jams. You can sample some for yourself at the on-site cafe, too, which showcases Indigenous ingredients in a relaxed setting, complete with an open fire.
If you've had the words "bring on the Deadpool and Rob McElhеnney" stuck in your head since 2022, or "we've got Mullin, super Paul Mullin" instead — or as well — then you're either a fan of Welcome to Wrexham or Wrexham AFC, or both. It was back in 2020 that It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia and Mythic Quest's McElhenney bought the Welsh football club with Deadpool & Wolverine's Ryan Reynolds. Two years later, a documentary series about that huge move dropped its first season on Disney+. Success has followed both on the field and on the screen, including a run of promotions for the club and three more seasons of the series — the latest of which, the fourth, arrives on Friday, May 16, 2025. Thanks to a show that's not too far from an IRL Ted Lasso, Wrexham's fanbase has gone global. Hollywood's involvement will do that — but, as the series has chronicled to touching effect, Reynolds and McElhenney have always put revitalising the club, its stadium, and the town and community around it first. In 2025, Wrexham are heading Down Under, too, in a literal sense. The club has announced three games across Australia and New Zealand in July, visiting the two countries on its pre-season tour. "From the very beginning, we wanted to help make Wrexham a globally recognised team, town and brand," said McElhenney and Reynolds, announcing the Down Under trip, which will see the team play in Melbourne, Sydney and Wellington. "We could not be more excited to bring the Red Dragons to Australia and New Zealand, and we are particularly proud that this announcement features neither a Men at Work or Hugh Jackman joke. The latter of which took maturity and tremendous restraint. We're proud of Ryan. Of course, we make no promises going forward." Wrexham will face off against a trio of local squads: lining up against Melbourne Victory at Marvel Stadium on Friday, July 11; taking on Sydney FC at Allianz Stadium on Tuesday, July 15; and competing against Wellington Phoenix at Sky Stadium on Saturday, July 19. For their past two pre-season tours, Wrexham have unsurprisingly journeyed to the US, including playing games against fellow UK sides Manchester United and Chelsea. Now, they're hitting Australia and Aotearoa as part of their plans to ideally be in the same league as both of those powerhouse English teams come the 2026–27 season. Since the 2022–23 season, Wrexham has been promoted every year under manager Phil Parkinson, first from the National League to League Two, then from the latter to League One — and next, in the 2025–26 season, they'll play in the Championship League, aiming to get promoted to the top-tier Premier League from there. If you can't make it to Wrexham's two Australian matches or one NZ game, they're being streamed via Paramount+. And for something to watch in the interim, check out trailer for Welcome to Wrexham season four below: Wrexham Down Under 2025 Fixtures Friday, July 11 — Melbourne Victory vs Wrexham AFC at Marvel Stadium, Melbourne, from 7.30pm AEST Tuesday, July 15 — Sydney FC vs Wrexham AFC at Allianz Stadium, Melbourne, from 7.30pm AEST Saturday, July 19 — Wellington Phoenix vs Wrexham AFC at Sky Stadium, Wellington, from 5pm NZST [caption id="attachment_1003973" align="alignnone" width="1920"] John Lord via Flickr[/caption] Wrexham's Down Under tour is taking place in July 2025. For more information, head to the Wrexham website — and for tickets, visit Ticketek in Australia and New Zealand. Welcome to Wrexham streams via Disney+, with season four arriving from Friday, May 16, 2025.
Melbourne's craft brewing scene has been getting hotter by the day, between the big-name venue launches and all those planned beer projects set to drop in the coming months. And now, South Australia is bringing some heat to the game, with the news Adelaide-based brewery Pirate Life is gearing up to launch its first Victorian outpost next year. The renowned label has revealed it's setting up shop in a former mechanics garage in South Melbourne, with founders Michael Cameron, Jack Cameron and Jared Proudfoot hoping to open the doors by mid-2023. [caption id="attachment_881349" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Pirate Life founders: Michael, Jared and Jack[/caption] We don't know much about the space just yet, but that it'll be rocking a fitout courtesy of a fellow South Australian crew and long-time collaborator — award-winning architecture and design firm Studio Gram. Word is, it'll boast a healthy dose of grunge, with plenty of murals, foliage and bold accents nodding to the site's industrial past. Founded in 2014 and now with four breweries under its belt, Pirate Life unsurprisingly has some very grand, very beery plans for its new Melbourne site. That'll involve the full core range of brews showcased on tap alongside a tidy rotation of special releases, from fruity sours to nitro-charged goodies. Fresh kegs are set to be shipped in directly from Pirate Life's Port Adelaide brewery. [caption id="attachment_881352" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Pirate Life SA[/caption] The venue's proximity to South Melbourne Market will help guide the food offering and, while there's no menu as yet, Jack explains: "we love cooking over fire, so anticipate charred goodness." In between the regular programming, Pirate Life Melbourne will also play host to a calendar of live music and art, exhibitions and guest chef dinners. "As a brand, we've been long-time admirers of Melbourne's hospitality scene and Pirate Life's new venue in South Melbourne finally gives us a chance to be part of it," says Jack. "We can't wait to get amongst it and show locals what Pirate Life is all about." [caption id="attachment_881351" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Pirate Life SA[/caption] Pirate Life is set to open at an unknown South Melbourne location in mid-2023. Stay tuned and we'll share more details as they drop.
Making its home on Collingwood's bustling Smith Street, co-working space Worksmith is focused on what the area does best — food and bev. In fact, it's specifically designed for those working in the industry and is set up to empower talented Australians, allowing a creative space for their professional development in the hospitality scene. Co-founded by hospo heavy hitter Michael Bascetta (Bar Liberty, Attica, Capitano) and his childhood friend Roscoe Power (a property development and construction specialist), the duo wanted to create a space that "encourages collaboration without limitation." "We've seen [Growth Assembly] bring together amazing talent, nurture friendships and provide a platform to inspire, learn and support one another within the industry," says Bascetta. "Worksmith takes it one step further by putting those amazing values into practice, every day." Launched in February this year, Worksmith supports its members by creating a community of collaborative spaces, industry events and member projects. In addition to 65 desks, as well as meeting rooms and a podcasting studio, Worksmith boasts an eleven-metre bar pumping out craft beers by partner Moon Dog and an event space that caters for up to 100 people. It'll soon open a fully-equipped commercial kitchen with a La Marzocco espresso machine. Membership ranges from a 24-hour day pass ($40) to a 'resident' ($690 per month) — the latter of which includes a permanent desk, 24/7 access, unlimited internet, coffee by local partner Square One, Unico Zelo wine, brews from a beer vending machine, a locker, bike storage and invites to all social events. Bascetta is also backed by other big wig founding members, including three-time Sommelier of the Year Banjo Harris Plane (The Wine Gallery, Attica, Bar Liberty) and Dave Kerr (The Beaufort), along with international pickup Luke Whearty (Operation Dagger, Singapore). And, in terms of members, the space has already attracted the likes of drink companies Four Pillars, Marionette and Archie Rose, plus start-ups such as posBoss, Dish app, Feastively, HoppApp, The Humble Dumpling and Eighteen Thousand Islands. The team is also looking to expand — both within Melbourne, thanks to its popularity over the past six months, as well as interstate. Find Worksmith at 450 Smith Street, Collingwood. To learn more, visit its website.
Gracie's Wine Room is one of Melbourne's latest hospitality success stories. In an industry full of shuttered venues, price hikes, and quiet nights, at Gracie's Wine Room in South Yarra you can find bottles being popped, a bustling golden hour courtyard, and bread always being broken with friends. For owner Kelsie Gaffey, whose TikTok videos showing her process of opening a venue from scratch amassed hundreds of thousands of views, the current climate of people spending less and staying in more was one her concerned family warned her of. [caption id="attachment_1036436" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Gracie's Wine Room[/caption] "Before opening Gracie's, our more conservative relatives warned us that people are spending less. [Gracie's] hasn't experienced this." According to Kelsie, Gracie's Wine Room's main demographic of 23–33 year old women are actually spending more on nights out with their girlfriends than anyone else. New data from Visa backs Kelsie's observation up. Melbourne is Australia's Number One Night-Time Hot Spot The Visa Australia Night-time Economy Index 2025 is a new in-depth analysis that measures data such as spending, vibrancy, and venues open in cities across the country. According to the index, Melbourne has been crowned the number one night-time hot spot. This doesn't come as a surprise to Kelsie. "Melburnians really know how to have a good time," Kelsie tells Concrete Playground. "The city has such a vibrant culture around wine, food, and spending quality time with mates, and we're genuinely spoilt for choice. There's always something happening, and that energy makes working in hospitality here incredibly dynamic and inspiring." [caption id="attachment_1028074" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Gracie's Wine Room[/caption] The Visa Vibe Economy report, also commissioned by Visa and conducted by McCrindle, found that venues like Gracie's Wine Room have hit the sweet spot when it comes to the reasons Australians love to go out. The main motivation for getting off our couches post-work is to enjoy a meal, catch up with friends and unwind from our busy schedules. Gen Z in particular are factoring night-time activities into their budgets with over half of them considering this type of social spending "essential". In fact, Kelsie has already seen an increase in patrons on weeknights as the weather has begun to warm up as well as a jump in their average spend per head. Kelsie recognised this cultural sweet spot within her demographic and created a curated menu of share plates for friends to split over a bottle of wine. Customers can enjoy freshly shucked oysters, focaccia, and a snack plate of cured meats, cheese, and lavosh. [caption id="attachment_1036434" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Gracie's Wine Room[/caption] "I wanted Gracie's to be known as a place where you connect with mates, drink some good wine and eat some good bread. I didn't want the frills and price tags that come with fine dining, and I really do believe that staying true to this is what has kept people coming back," says Kelsie. With 73 percent of Gen Z's going out once or more a week, tapping into her own peers has helped to increase revenue and patrons through the door — even on weeknights. How to Spend A Night Out in Melbourne What does a dream night out in Melbourne look like for the 25-year-old founder? Kelsie shares that it always starts with a sunny afternoon. "I'm definitely starting at Gracie's and then making my way down to Republic Economica before ending the night at HER Rooftop in the CBD." Data from the Visa Vibe Economy Report found that of all the generations, Gen Z is the most adventurous, choosing to stray away from their local haunts and try new things, and just under half plan two activities in the one night to make the most of their city after dark. Half of Gen Z also believe that nights offer more new experiences than the daytime. Kelsie agrees. "I love being able to experience something new every single time I leave the house for a night out. It's so exciting, and has unlocked some of my greatest memories with friends." Gracie's Wine Room hasn't yet operated for a full calendar year, but Kelsie is feeling optimistic about the state of hospitality and business projection. At the heart of her success lies the Gen Z community that she built through TikTok. "I never imagined it would grow into what it is today, but the community that's formed around Gracie's has been the most rewarding and unexpected part of it all." Discover the vibe near you. Lead image: Gracie's Wine Room
Summer in Australia must've treated Kesha well at the beginning of 2025, because she has just confirmed a return visit in 2026. In January, the pop star ventured Down Under for two gigs, playing a House of Kesha show in Sydney and also the Australian Open's music lineup in Melbourne. Next year, she'll be taking to the stage at a series of headline concerts around the country, with stops in four cities confirmed so far. Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth are on the two-time Grammy-nominee's itinerary when she brings The Tits Out tour this way. The gigs are part of the biggest headline run of Kesha's career so far, which kicked off in July 2025 in the US and also has European shows locked in for March 2026. In Australia, Riverstage in the Queensland capital is the singer's first destination, hitting up the venue on Thursday, February 19. She'll also play Margaret Court Arena in Melbourne on Sunday, February 22; Adelaide's AEC Arena on Tuesday, February 24; and Perth HPC on Thursday, February 26. At the time of writing, there's no Sydney gig on the agenda to date — but if you want to start speculating about a Harbour City stop, it's worth noting that Kesha will be in the country during 2026's Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. It's taking place from Friday, February 13–Sunday, March 1, with the parade on Saturday, February 28. No lineup details have been announced as yet. [caption id="attachment_975223" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brendan Walter[/caption] With ten top-ten singles across her career so far, plus six albums under her belt — 2023's Gag Order and 2025's Period among them — Kesha has no shortage of tunes to draw upon live. 'JOYRIDE', 'TiK ToK', 'Only Love Can Save Us Now', 'Your Love Is My Drug', 'Take It Off' and 'We R Who We R' are among the tracks on her current setlist. Kesha is making the trip Down Under in what's already a big month for tours, with February 2026 also welcoming Lorde's Australian shows and seeing G Flip kick off their next national run of gigs. Kesha The Tits Out 2026 Australian Tour Dates Thursday, February 19 — Riverstage, Brisbane Sunday, February 22 — Margaret Court Arena, Melbourne Tuesday, February 24 — AEC Arena, Adelaide Thursday, February 26 — Perth HPC, Perth Kesha is touring Australia in February 2026, with ticket presales from 10am on Tuesday, August 5, 2025 and general sales from 10am on Friday, August 8, 2025 — head to the tour website for more details. Top image: Ryan Bakerink/FilmMagic.
Outdoor music festivals aren't solely synonymous with summer, but one event takes its winter setup to great heights in more ways than one. At Snow Machine, the weather won't just be a bit cooler. Wearing a jumper won't do, either. This is both a chance to enjoy live tunes and a ski trip — and it's returning to Queenstown in 2024. It's the hottest festival for the colder months, packed with five snow-filled days of music and adventure at two mountain-topping ski resorts. On the just-dropped lineup for this year sits a reliable list of must-see names, including Peking Duk, The Rubens, Angus & Julia Stone, Bag Raiders and Cub Sport, who all help to give Snow Machine's winter wonderland a thumping soundtrack. After launching in Japan in 2020 (and returning there this year), the festival was actually supposed to make its arrival in Aotearoa in September 2021 but was cancelled due to the pandemic. It finally debuted in September 2022, then returned in 2023. Next, it makes a comeback from Tuesday, September 3–Sunday, September 8, 2024. Attendees will be treated to action-packed days on the slopes, après ski events on both Coronet Peak and The Remarkables, and a hefty roster of talent against the idyllic backdrop of New Zealand's adventure capital. Also dropping in to share the stage will be Atomic Blonde, Danny Clayton, Jimi The Kween, Lee Mvthews and Matt Corby — and also Montell2099, Old Mervs, Sachi, SHOUSE, Sin & Brook, Snakehips, Teenage Dads, The Knocks and the Poof Doof Ski Club. Other than the wintry backdrop, one of the things that sets Snow Machine apart from other music fests is being able to book your entire getaway with your ticket. Packages span both five and seven nights of accommodation, and include access to all three evenings at the main arena, plus a five-day ski pass. If you'd rather make your own way or pass on the skiing, there are ticket-only options — and VIP packages if you really want to do it in style. Festival goers are also encouraged to immerse themselves in the adventure capital by adding on heli-skiing, jet boating, bungy jumping, canyon swinging and skydiving — and that's on top of Snow Machine's huge welcome party and other festivities. Another annual highlight: the Polar Bare, which endeavours to set a world record for the most amount of people heading down the slopes their swimwear. Snow Machine 2024 Lineup: Angus & Julia Stone Atomic Blonde Bag Raiders Cub Sport Danny Clayton Jimi The Kween Lee Mvthews Matt Corby Montell2099 Old Mervs Peking Duk Poof Doof Ski Club Sachi SHOUSE Sin & Brook Snakehips Teenage Dads The Knocks The Rubens Tom Tilley and Hugo Gruzman present First Base Snow Machine 2024 takes place from Tuesday, September 3–Sunday, September 8 in Queenstown, New Zealand. Presale tickets go on sale on from 12pm AEDT / 11am AEST / 2pm NZDT on Thursday, February 22, with general tickets available from 12pm AEDT / 11am AEST / 2pm NZDT on Friday, February 23. For more information, visit the festival's website. Images: Daniel Hildebrand/Pat Stevenson/Ben Lang. 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.
So if you're lonely, Franz Ferdinand will be here waiting for you across Australia before 2025 is out. Fresh from releasing their sixth album in January, the Scottish band have announced a visit Down Under in November and December, with five gigs on the itinerary. Their stops: Perth, Brisbane, Melbourne, Thirroul and Sydney. It's been more than two decades since the Alex Kapranos-led group made a helluva splash with the catchy second single from their self-titled debuted album. Even just reading the name 'Take Me Out' is enough to get the number-one tune in Triple J's 2004 Hottest 100 stuck in your head. The song was also nominated for two Grammys, while the record that it springs from won the Mercury Prize. Franz Ferdinand's latest trip to Australia kicks off in Perth at Red Hill Auditorium on Wednesday, November 26, before heading across the country to Brisbane's Riverstage on Saturday, November 29. Next destination: Melbourne, playing Live at the Gardens at the Royal Botanic Gardens on Friday, November 28. Then comes a Tuesday, December 2 date with Anita's Theatre in Thirroul in New South Wales, before wrapping up on Wednesday, December 3 at On the Steps at the Sydney Opera House Forecourt. On every stop, Melbourne's Delivery will be in support — and everywhere except Thirroul, so will the Mornington Peninsula-born Teenage Dads. Since the huge success of 'Take Me Out' and their 2004 Franz Ferdinand album, the band have dropped records in 2005 (You Could Have It So Much Better), 2009 (Tonight: Franz Ferdinand), 2013 (Right Thoughts, Right Words, Right Action), 2018 (Always Ascending) and this year (The Human Fear). Touring-wise, their past Aussie trips have included sets at Big Day Out, Splendour in the Grass and Falls Festival. Franz Ferdinand's 2025 Aussie visit comes just a few months after Bloc Party, who benefited from Kapranos' approval when they were starting out, do the same in August. Franz Ferdinand Australian Tour 2025 Wednesday, November 26 — Red Hill Auditorium, Perth Saturday, November 29 — Riverstage, Brisbane Friday, November 28 — Live at the Gardens, Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne Tuesday, December 2 — Anita's Theatre, Thirroul Wednesday, December 3 — On the Steps, Sydney Opera House Forecourt, Sydney Franz Ferdinand are touring Australia in November and December 2025, with ticket presales from 10am local time on Monday, May 12 and general sales from the same time on Wednesday, May 14. Head to the tour website for more details. Select images: Raph PH via Flickr.
Walking around Brisbane is a great way to enjoy your own backyard, see the local sights and get in some exercise. For a 17-day period between Friday, March 12–Sunday, March 28 in 2021, doing just that will also allow you to engage with a series interactive installations. They're called 'curiocities', and they're part of the returning Curiocity Brisbane festival, which focuses on the interaction of science, technology, innovation and the arts. Spread around town — across a 6.8-kilometre circuit that links the City Botanic Gardens, South Bank, the Cultural Precinct and the Brisbane CBD, in fact — these hubs will serve up both physical and virtual experiences. One, Platonic Volumes & Cosmologies by Bits to Atoms, is a large scale-translucent matrix of recycled plastic beams, while another, Evanescent by Chimera Atelier and Pineapple Design Studios, will use colour-changing film that'll make it look like a huge bubble. Or, you can check out two augmented reality works, either venturing back to Brisbane on the day prior to First Settlement or working with other folks to build a digital ecosystem. Also on the bill: a chat-fuelled program called Curious Conversations, where Benjamin Law will host a range of speakers to talk about the future; a giant vertical kaleidoscope in the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens; and The Party Button, an interactive artwork on the Goodwill Bridge that plays party tracks and turns on flashing lights when pressed. And, a number of other big events fall within the program also — such as World Science Festival Brisbane and GOMA's Up Late sessions as part of its new motorcycle-focused exhibition.
After unveiling a flashy new look just last month — courtesy of a new state-of-the-art LED lighting system, which forms part of the building's $100 million upgrade — Flinders Street Station is set to sport a flashy new shade, too. On Saturday, August 11, the building will be lit up in pink in support of breast cancer research. The change of hue ties in with Sunday's Melbourne vs Sydney AFL game, which will include the Breast Cancer Network's Field of Women event — and it's the first of many illuminated makeovers set for the station. Between Monday, September 3 and Friday, September 7, the building will also don a pink shade, this time for Women's Health Week. And, on Friday, August 31, it'll be bathed in purple for Wear It Purple Day, which is all about encouraging support and acceptance for the LGBTIQ community's youngest members. Featuring more than 20 kilometres of cable and 1100 lights, Flinders Street Station's new system is able to bathe the station in any colour of the rainbow, and will also be used for large-scale light shows at a range of major events. Completely automated and operated remotely, it's the first of its kind to be used on a heritage building in Australia. The lights themselves have been painstakingly colour-matched to the station's original flood lights and carefully placed to best show off the building's recently repainted exterior. They're also proving much a more budget-friendly option, using around a third of the energy of the originals. Images: HiVis Pictures
At first glance you might have thought, "Oh, this is obviously some kind of computer-generated building blueprint thing," when you saw the picture of Korean artist Do Ho Suh's latest artwork. These days we pretty much assume everything is Photoshopped. But in this case, the joke's totally on you. The walls are real, the windows are real. In fact, they're probably even more real than the people and cases on Judge Judy. So what is this ethereal blue structure? The whole thing's made of silk, and represents a 1:1-scale model of homes previously lived in by the artist, one nestled inside the other. Known for his zany, skewed-perspective manipulations of full-scale houses, walls and other exterior structures brought inside (you can check some of them out here, here and here, including earlier works constructed from nylon), Suh's latest installation is titled Home Within Home Within Home Within Home Within Home. Look closely and you'll see the distinction between the two homes: outside we have a modern Providence, Rhode Island apartment building — the artists' first US dwelling-place — and inside you'll glimpse, artfully suspended like a ghost, an exact copy of the traditional Korean house where Suh was raised. It's mind-blowing to conceive of the logistics of putting this project together, and the result is so big that visitors to the exhibition at Seoul's National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art are able to stroll through and study the work from every angle. Combining the intimately personal with replicated architecture carries a message about identity: according to the artists' bio, his installations explore "the relation between individuality, collectivity, and anonymity". Obviously the nesting of one cultural identity, represented by the physical house, within another — while both remain transparent — is a neat and direct metaphor for the artist's self. Memorialising familiar places through different media is a long-running theme for Suh — read his ideas about the sensuality of pencil-rubbings here. Via Colossal.
Self-described "Larry Bird of pubs", the Prince Alfred Hotel is committed to doing simple things really well by mastering the fundamentals of what makes a good pub experience. It promises a wide wine list with vinos that are interesting but not intimidating, crisp cold beer — there are 12 rotating taps of independent craft beer alongside Carlton Draft of course — and food that looks as good as it tastes served by a welcoming and efficient team. The kitchen is open every day of the week from 12–9pm and until midnight on Friday and Saturday. Like any good neighbourhood gastropub, they have a schedule of events to suit everyone. Join them for Happy Hour from Monday—Friday from 3–6pm. Tuesday is burger day, Wednesday is steak night, Thursday is Parma Disco with $20 parmas and disco tunes from 6–9pm, and Sunday is roast lunch day from 12–9pm (or until sold out) where you're served beautifully cooked roast (cut rotates weekly) served with seasonal sides and house-made gravy. Not to be outdone, there's also live acoustic music every Sunday from 3.30–6.30pm, line up a roast dinner and you've got an ideal Sunday arvo in Port Melbourne. During the winter months, Prince Alfred Hotel opening hours vary during winter: Monday–Thursday 12–10pm, Friday–Saturday 12–1am, Sunday 12–10pm
When news hit that Studley Park Boathouse was getting a $5.8-million revamp, including brand-new dining options and a multi-level riverside deck, we were understandably excited. Now, we have an opening date for the historic boathouse: Studley Park Boathouse will reopen to the public on Thursday, 31 August, unveiling a new cafe, restaurant, pizzeria, gelato cart and outdoor dining deck along the Yarra. Australian Venue Co. (Yarra Botanica, Fargo & Co, BrewDog Pentridge) has worked closely with Parks Victoria on the transformation to protect and enhance the heritage site. "Studley Park Boathouse is a beloved part of Melbourne's history, so it was important to us to preserve its character while revitalising it for the modern Melbourne community. We look forward to welcoming locals and visitors back to the revitalised space," Australian Venue Co. CEO Paul Waterson says. On the bill: a sun-filled dining room offering a leafy outlook overlooking the Yarra River and parkland. Boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, a sophisticated yet sensible interior is promised, with touches of rattan, white timber and natural hues to tie the space together. Small and large plates run to the likes of hiramasa kingfish tartare with apples and chives, Lilydale free-range chicken and a 'Tipsy Trifle' which combines baileys, fig leaf custard, cherries and strawberries. Image: Render, supplied The wine list leans local, championing an entirely Victorian menu sourced within 100km of Studley Park Boathouse. Sip through 16 wine-by-the-glass options, or opt for a seasonal tasting paddle that will showcase drops from the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula, Geelong, Heathcote and the Pyrenees in spring. Downstairs, residents familiar with the former kiosk will find it revamped as the Pavilion bar, which extends to a large, al fresco dining area and riverside dining deck. A pizzeria will serve eight different woodfired options, including a charred pumpkin and ricotta number, meatballs with blue cheese, or chorizo paired with n'duja and roasted peppers. Meanwhile, a redesigned cafe named The Perch will cater brunch on weekends. All food and bevvy options are available at any location throughout the revamped Studley Park, so you can pick your favourite spot to perch and spend the afternoon tasting through the offerings. Picnic packages complete with blanket hire and a new 'Row-sé' package bundles together boat hire, glasses of rosé, pizza and gelato. The team is also preparing to host a line-up of pop-up events and live entertainment throughout the year, including live music on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. To celebrate the opening, guests to Studley Park Boathouse on weekends between 2–4pm across 2–17 September will snag a complimentary welcome drink on arrival, free slices of roaming pizza and complimentary boat hire sessions. Kids can also score free ice-cream all day on weekends. [caption id="attachment_894549" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Render, supplied[/caption] Studley Park Boathouse is set to reopen on Thursday, August 31. Head along between 2–4pm, between 2–17 September, to score a complimentary welcome drink on arrival, free slices of roaming pizza and complimentary boat hire sessions. Kids can also score free ice-cream all day on weekends. Images: Flickr, Alpha, renders - supplied.
Carlton North's Babajan Eatery has become a local go-to over the past two years, and the cafe has even been given an international nod by The New York Times. Now, the Turkish and Middle Eastern restaurant is opening for weekend dinner service, too. Friday and Saturday will see the cafe reopen from 6pm with both a la carte and set menu options. The latter will cost just $40 per person and centres on barbecued dishes — think 12-hour braised lamb shoulder and crispy skinned snapper with tomato, kalamata olives and tahini. If you opt for a la carte, there's also the pickled and barbecued octopus ($15) and lamb kofte ($24) on mains. Or guests can go for small shared dishes, including barbecued sucuk (spicy dried sausage) and shaved pastrami snacks ($6 each), plus Turkish bread and olives ($8); or small plates like the pan-fried keflagraviera (hard Greek cheese) and oven-baked eggplant with garlic yoghurt ($14 each). To accompany your meal, Babajan offers booze from 11am each day. The drinks menu includes local and European wines by the glass and bottle, locally brewed beer from Moon Dog and Two Birds and a range of middle eastern-themed cocktails for $16 a piece — from the Lady Sultan (Turkish raki liquor, black raspberry liqueur, ruby red grapefruit, blueberry and rose) to the Grand Bazaar (gin, pomegranate molasses, cinnamon, ginger and lime). Of course, the brekkie everyone loves is still available, with a focus on Turkish pastries and egg dishes like the baked eggs with pistachio dukkah ($22), and the crab and halloumi omelette ($26). The cafe slings Brunswick's Code Black coffees and a specially-made tea blend from Tea Drop, too. Images: Ben Christensen.
Think about Broken Hill and movies, and one of three films likely comes to mind. Mad Max 2 is one of them. The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert is another. Wake in Fright should be the third. Before road warriors and drag queens helped bring the outback city to the big screen, this stone-cold classic got there first. It was back in 1971 that the iconic Australian page-to-screen thriller turned the remote patch of New South Wales — well, the fictional Bundanyabba in the narrative — into a hotbed of small-town small-mindedness, toxic masculinity and a dim view of outsiders. If you've never thought that ochre soil as far as the eye can see could be a vision of claustrophobia, then you haven't seen this, which sits on Canadian director Ted Kotcheff's extremely diverse resume alongside everything from First Blood to Weekend at Bernies. Here's your next change to redress that: a Hear My Eyes session at the 2024 Melbourne International Film Festival, where the movie-and-music series will give Wake in Fright a new soundtrack. For Hear My Eyes first-timers — so, those who've missed Hellraiser, Good Time, Pan's Labyrinth, Chopper, Two Hands, Drive, Girlhood and Suspiria sessions in the past, to name a few prior shows — the event brings a must-see flick back to the big screen accompanied by a live, all-new and completely original score that's played while film lovers sit, watch and listen. Doing the musical honours for Wake in Fright is Surprise Chef, who'll be playing to a freshly unveiled 4K restoration of the feature. Hitting up Hamer Hall at Arts Centre Melbourne on Friday, August 16, the MIFF Hear My Eyes screening will mark the world-premiere of the 4K version of the film. Whether they pop up as part of festivals or on their own — and no matter the movie, too — these events are always popular, so getting tickets quickly is recommended. There's no word yet if other cities outside Melbourne will get the chance to see Wake in Fright receive the Hear My Eyes treatment, so this is a prime excuse to head to the Victorian capital. So far, before it drops its full 2024 lineup on Thursday, July 11, MIFF has also announced Adam Elliot's new stop-motion animation Memoir of a Snail, which'll open the fest, alongside 23 other flicks — including Sundance sensation I Saw the TV Glow from We're All Going to the World's Fair's Jane Schoenbrun, Hunter Schafer (Euphoria)-starring thriller Cuckoo, the Sebastian Stan (Dumb Money)-led A Different Man and restaurant-set dramedy La Cocina featuring Rooney Mara (Women Talking), plus heaps more. [caption id="attachment_963205" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Simon Aubor[/caption] [caption id="attachment_963203" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Simon Aubor[/caption] [caption id="attachment_963204" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Simon Aubor[/caption] [caption id="attachment_963206" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Izzie Austin[/caption] Hear My Eyes' Wake in Fright screening with Surprise Chef will debut at Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne on Friday, August 16. Head to the Hear My Eyes website for tickets and further details. The 2024 Melbourne International Film Festival runs from Thursday, August 8–Sunday, August 25 at a variety of venues around Melbourne; from Friday, August 16–Sunday, August 18 and Friday, August 23–Sunday, August 25 in regional Victoria; and online nationwide from Friday, August 9–Sunday, August 25. For further details, including the full program from Thursday, July 11, visit the MIFF website.
For 89 years, Luna Park Sydney has been in the business of whisking attendees off to another world. Amusement parks do that. They cast away the daily grind, getting visitors enjoying rides and games instead — and, from Saturday, April 13, getting lit in a rave room-style immersive installation that's about to become the Harbour City tourist spot's latest attraction. At the end of 2023, Luna Park Sydney welcomed Dream Circus, which has been filling the Milsons Point site's big top with rollercoasters, hot air balloons, underwater creatures, fantastical critters, futuristic lights, skulls, eyes, spiders and geometric architecture ever since. The $15-million experience that uses 360-degree projections, holograms, motion-activated LED screens, lighting, surround sound and spatial audio mapping is just one of the park's new additions, though. Sonic Neon is the next, this time taking over the venue's Crystal Palace. Lasers, mirrors, 26,000-plus lights: they all await at this six-room attraction, as hailing from Luna Park Sydney itself and Mandylights — which is also behind Dark Spectrum, the soon-to-return one-kilometre labyrinth in Wynyard's railway tunnels that's part of Vivid Sydney's program again in 2024 after debuting in 2023. When Sonic Neon arrives before May hits, it'll also bust out neon galore, obviously, alongside UV lights, interactive elements and a fitting soundtrack. Expect to take up to half an hour to wander through the all-ages fun's 150-metre-long expanse, which will operate daily. By filling Crystal Palace, Sonic Neon will make a space that dates back to 1935 — and was constructed for Luna Park Sydney's grand opening, in fact — its home. The site has also featured dodgems, the penny arcade and a BMX track over the years. "Immersive experiences continue to dominate the global market, and Luna Park Sydney is committed to delivering world-class experiences to Sydneysiders and visitors to our beautiful harbour," said Luna Park Sydney CEO John Hughes. "Luna Park Sydney celebrates the best of the old and the best of the new. Housing Sonic Neon in our 1935-built Crystal Palace will be a spectacular collision of heritage and modern technology." "This immersive experience will offer the public a new way to enjoy Sydney's original, ever-evolving playground." Find Sonic Neon at Luna Park Sydney, 1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point, from Saturday, April 13, 2024, with tickets on sale from 6pm on Monday, April 8 — visit the park's website and the event's ticketing site for more information.
Shimmering glacial lakes, stunning wildflower meadows, enchanting snow gum forests and mountainous vistas that seem to go on forever — the Snowy Mountains is home to some of the most varied and magical scenery in Australia. And there's so much more to see outside of the chilly season. Spring, summer and autumn are ideal for exploring freely, unhindered by snow, ice and bitter winds. Whether you're a coffee cruiser who likes your hikes short and easy or a hardcore adventurer keen to conquer as many peaks as possible in a day, here are five spectacular hiking trails in the Snowy Mountains that you really should try before Jack Frost comes around again. MT KOSCIUSZKO SUMMIT WALK This exhilarating walk carries you to the highest point in Australia: the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, 2228 metres above sea level. Its eighteen kilometres start at Charlotte's Pass, then follow the Old Summit Road, surrounding you with epic views of the Australian Alps and the Bogong Peaks Wilderness much of the way. Stop by the Snowy River for a picnic, spend a moment in the Seaman's Hut (built in 1929) and leave yourself plenty of time to wander among wildflowers, rock formations and snow gums. For a more challenging adventure, take the alternative Main Range Walk, a 22-kilometre loop that passes some stunning glacial lakes. If you're looking for less of a challenge (but equally stunning valley views) take the Express Chairlift — it's a scenic 15-minute, two-kilometre ride from Thredbo almost all the way to Mount K. NICHOLS GORGE WALKING TRACK You'll need a torch to make the most of this wondrous, seven-kilometre loop. That's because within 500 metres of setting out, you'll come across Cooleman Cave — and it's pitch black inside. The next section — dotted with ancient fossils of brachiopods and sea lilies — journeys along Cave Creek before traversing plains covered in snow grass and backdropped by the rugged Gurrangorambla Range and Tom O'Rourkes Peak. Along the way, expect to pass numerous views of breathtaking Nichols Gorge, and look out for wedge-tailed eagles soaring overhead. The track starts at Blue Waterholes Campground in the High Plains area of Kosciuszko National Park. Fair warning: you'll be tempted to sleep over and visit Clarke Gorge the following day so plan ahead. DEAD HORSE GAP WALKING TRACK This spectacular five-kilometre track transports you 600 metres above Thredbo Valley and across part of the Australian Alps Walking Trail, a 655-kilometre adventure that crosses the country's highest peaks. Start at either end: Dead Horse Gap on the Alpine Way or at the top of the Kosciuszko Express chairlift in Thredbo. Whichever you choose, you'll spend your time immersed in snow gum forests, alpine heath and meadows dotted with native herbs, all the while surrounded by dramatic Ramshead Range. Alternatively, walk from Thredbo Village through the golf course and onto the Thredbo River Track. THREDBO VALLEY TRAIL While Dead Horse Gap Track puts you above Thredbo Valley, this 17-kilometre one-way trail allows you to explore its depths. What's more, it's shared, so you can jump on a bike for something different. Your escapade begins at Thredbo Village, follows Thredbo River and crisscrosses at several points via suspension bridges. Snow gum forests and tall mountain gum woods interweave with open grasslands, and if you're especially observant, you might spot a 400-year-old mountain plum pine or two. There is the option to catch your own lunch, so try your luck at catching a fish along the way. The trail ends at Bullocks Hut, but you can continue to Lake Crackenback Resort or shorten your adventure by using an access point, such as Thredbo Diggings Campground or Ngarigo Campground. [caption id="attachment_661587" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Tourism Snowy Mountains[/caption] YARRANGOBILLY CAVES WALK Most people associate Yarrangobilly Caves with strolls into dark caverns and along meandering rivers, but this two-kilometre walk gives you quite the opposite: grand, head-clearing views. Strap up your boots at Glory Hole carpark, from where you should follow the road leading into Yarrangobilly Valley, before turning off at the Bluff Lookout sign. Just 150 metres later, you'll find yourself staring out over Yarrangobilly Caves House, backdropped by dramatic limestone formations and wilderness. Do note that the trail gets steep in places, so you'll need some fitness, willpower and water on your side. The good news is that the return trip is an easy 500 metres, all downhill and ending up at a picnic area with free electric barbies. Discover all that the Snowy Mountains has to offer outside of winter months, from jam-packed adventures to culinary excursions and so much more.
If ever there was a wine bar you'd be happy to call home, Flatiron Side Door is it. Two years of careful restoration by owners Ben and Emma Bangay has transformed the space into a light, bright locals' oasis, complete with a hand-carved bar, artwork-covered walls, and a stunning, magnolia-lined (dog friendly) wine garden for those lazy afternoon sips. Created alongside the bar, is the wine list — which was carefully selected by Ben, with a personal story behind each drop. Homegrown favourites like the Mac Forbes' RS19 Riesling hang out alongside French Burgundies and Italian Soave. The list is backed up by rotation of specialty cocktails, many featuring herbs from the onsite garden. You might find yourself settling in with the Kew Gardens' blend of 666 vodka, rosemary, mint and cucumber, or getting a little adventurous with a round of coffee negronis. To match, the food menu is one that was made to be enjoyed with a tipple in hand — a concise, snack-happy lineup of salumi and cheese platters, breads and dips, and artisan pizzas. And those preferring the comfort of their actual home can opt for the Flatiron experience on the run, with a selection of both pizzas and wine available to takeaway. Image credit: Mandy Couzens
Recent months have seen a new crop of bars spring up in Thornbury. And spring so suddenly they have, it's as if the council had sent out subliminal messages promising hospitality folk good luck for life if they offered the fine people of Darebin a drinking destination. But as far as decent dining options go, there's still some room for improvement (we assume the next round of coaxing is awaiting broadcast). Northern Git, however, didn't wait for the promise of good fortune. They're making it happen on a sleepy corner just north of the village, and south of the aforementioned crop of bars on High Street. While for some the name might invoke thoughts of an old Geordie chav, you can rest assured the experience here is much more refined. Share plates abound — the asparagus dish ($16.50) was light, well-balanced and a fresh and tasty way to start, and the plate of pork crackling ($6) is pretty much the opposite, in the most decadently delicious way. Moving down the menu into the larger plates and heavier meals, the general theme here is something akin to 'sophisticated comfort food'. Calamari, corn-fed duck and slow-cooked pork cheek fit the bill nicely, and there's barely anything more comforting than a perfectly cooked steak from the 'beef' menu — particularly when it's ordered and priced by cut and size, and served with chilli and garlic sauteed spinach and a choice of red wine jus or peppercorn sauce. The 300gm porterhouse this writer tried ($13.50 per 100g) was presented sliced atop the bed of spinach, felt lighter than a 'chunk' of steak, and was closer to actually melting in my mouth than I previously thought possible for a porterhouse. So, what better to go with such a meal than a glass of red? Or, at Northern Git, a keg of red. Here the house wines (although a full-bodied shiraz from Heathcote is hardly the standard 'house' option) are stored in a keg, poured from a tap and offered in various sizes up to a litre. The rest of the list is wholly Victorian, the beers are all Australian, and while the food feels true to the suggested British-ness, is very seasonal to these parts. All up, Northern Git is doing casual sophistication well, in a pocket of Melbourne that needs and — if the full tables are anything to go by — already fully embraced it. Images: Wadette Thomson
Sustainability, eh? Everyone's talking about it, the hospitality industry is neck-deep in it, and it's scrutinised in everything from your stool to your salmon. Sustainability has never been more prevalent — or so necessary. We've seen the introduction of the Glacier 51 Toothfish (a regulated, safe way of farming the endangered Patagonian toothfish), free-range eggs from local farms such as Green Eggs become a regular on cafe menus and people like Joost Bakker start a new wave of sustainable design While it seems like every guy who can fry a fish is slapping the sustainable sticker on their offering, there are a few venues going past the first point of call and minimising their environmental impact in big ways. From inner-city rooftop worm gardens to laneway waste dehydrators, we have a look at five of the most sustainable venues in Melbourne. Silo by Joost This is the obvious one to top the list, but only because it's wildly in front of everyone else when it comes to waste minimisation. Eco-designer, entrepreneur and all-round sustainable guy Joost Bakker created Silo (as an offshoot of Perth's Greenhouse) with the intention of creating zero waste. And when he says zero waste, he actually means nothing. Suppliers deliver their goods in re-useable crates (the milk comes in a giant steel pail each morning), produce comes sans packaging and all food scraps are taken to the waste dehydrator that sits out in the back laneway. Silo also mill their own wheat (for fresh baked bread), hand roll their own oats (for maximum nutrition) and make their own yoghurt from scratch (for showing off, mainly). Delve into their processes and it's hard not to be impressed. Every element has been meticulously implemented and translates into one smooth (very sustainable) operation. 123 Hardware Lane, Melbourne, (03) 9600 0588, byjoost.com/silo Mesa Verde You might be familiar with Mesa Verde's tacos, but you probably weren't aware of their darling rooftop garden right next to Rooftop at Curtin House. But don't get too excited, because this garden (unfortunately) isn't for human social fun times — it's for the worms. As well as supplying the Mexican bar restaurant with the necessary herbs and special ingredients, the urban garden is also one of Melbourne's only rooftop worm farms. This ensures nothing goes to waste and you get some home grown coriander in your cocktail. Level 6, Curtain House, 252 Swanston Street, Melbourne, (03) 9654 4417, mesaverde.net Pope Joan Head out of the city to Brunswick East, where 'growing your own' is at the heigh of realisation. Pope Joan has been doing this for a while now, with chef Matt Wilkinson focussing on seasonal produce. Want to know what's going to be on the menu? Have a look at their on-site veggie patches, located in the sweet garden (which doubles as a outdoor dining area) and you can get a general idea. It's a 'paddock to plate' philosophy with a simplicity that makes Pope Joan one of the best. 75-79 Nicholson Street, Brunswick East, (03) 9388 8858, popejoan.com.au The Grain Store Another hidden urban garden can be found on the roof of The Grain Store. The Flinders Lane cafe has always placed emphasis on the importance of sustainable, locally-sourced produce, with much of theirs coming directly from Brunswick's CERES and other local providers. But chef Ingo Meissner also has his own private rooftop garden that he uses to grow cauliflower (for their cauliflower, quinoa and goji berry dish?), tomatoes and herbs. Apparently it's just a couple of vegetable boxes, but it's another notch on The Grain Store's impressive belt of wholesome success. 517 Flinders Lane, Melbourne, (03) 9972 6993, grainstore.com.au Taxi Kitchen They've undergone a re-branding and lost a bit of their fine dining finesse, but Taxi Kitchen (nee Dining Room) is still serving up sustainable food at the centre of town. Still located at the Transport Hotel, their green produce is picked straight from the green slopes of the Fed Square rooftop car park, which has been utilised as a pop up veggie patch for surrounding bars, restaurants and members of the public. So, there you go — even the most man-made thing in Melbourne can be environmentally sustainable. Level 1, Transport Hotel, Federation Square, cnr Swanston and Flinders Streets, (03) 9654 8808, taxikitchen.com.au
Travelling in our own backyard is one of the most sustainable and planet-friendly options we can make when planning a well-deserved getaway. If you're starting to pencil in some strategic long weekends for the latter half of this year, here's one to consider: Port Douglas, a tropical paradise conveniently located just an hour's drive from Cairns. Nestled perfectly between the Great Barrier Reef and the oldest tropical rainforest in the world, Port Douglas offers an alluring long weekend proposition for city travellers looking to put nature at the forefront of their next holiday. Port Douglas is home to a number of sustainable tours, accommodations, and opportunities for conscientious involvement, so here are five ways you can reduce the carbon footprint of your next getaway. [caption id="attachment_913642" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy[/caption] CHOOSE ECO-FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATION Consider camping if you're looking to keep your holiday footprint low. Douglas Shire Council coordinates powered and unpowered camping grounds, along with a range of caravan sites. In order to protect the unique environment, overnight stays are only permitted at licensed caravan parks and camping grounds, so make sure to plan and book ahead. If you're looking for luxury accommodation, The Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort boasts over two hectares of sparkling saltwater pools in Tropical North Queensland. Lagoons on-site include spots with sandy beaches, as well as serene private cabanas nestled on the waterfront. As part of your trip, all Sheraton guests are invited to participate in a conservation activity hosted by Marriott Bonvoy in partnership with Good Travel. The Four Mile Beach cleanup is hosted by a marine biologist, allowing travelers to meaningfully engage with the environment while giving back. [caption id="attachment_888046" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas[/caption] BOOK WITH ECO-CERTIFIED OPERATORS If you are keen to venture further during your stay, there are a variety of eco-friendly and sustainable tour options you can book. Locally-run and eco-certified Back Country Bliss run swimmable tours through the Daintree Rainforest, which includes a snorkel and float tour of Mossman Gorge. As part of the Mossman Gorge Back Country Bliss tour, guests can experience a Welcome to Country and smoke ceremony with a Kuku Yalanji guide. Acknowledging and paying respects to the Traditional Owners of the lands you are visiting is a great way to show deep respect for the place you're visiting. The Kuku Yalanji People are the Traditional Owners of this land. [caption id="attachment_844375" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Sailaway Reef Cruises - Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] CHOOSE EXPERIENCES THAT GIVE BACK Sailaway is a family business running half-day and full-day charters to Great Barrier Reef, including the Low Isles and Mackay Coral Cay on the Outer Reef. The business holds an advanced eco-certification, meaning they're recognised for their work in conserving and protecting the Great Barrier Reef. A qualified marine biologist attends cruises, so you can learn about the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef as the boats go out. The company also donates $20 from every ticket to its reforestation and carbon offsetting. [caption id="attachment_913718" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] LOOK FOR GREENER TOUR OPTIONS If you want to experience Four Mile Beach from a different angle, adventures with a twist can be booked with locally-operated Port Douglas Segway Tours. Segways use electric power to recharge but produce zero emissions and are extremely energy efficient. Cruise along a trail which features the spectacular Four Mile Beach, rainforest paths and sandy flats. [caption id="attachment_913719" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] SUPPORT FIRST NATIONS COMMUNITIES There are lots of ways you can support First Nations communities and creators during your stay in Port Douglas. Booking tours and experiences with First Nations-owned or operated businesses, purchasing locally-created art and wares or attending a Welcome to Country are all meaningful ways you can pay respect to the Traditional Owners of this land. Concrete Playground travelled to Port Douglas as a guest of The Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas. If you want to extend your Queensland getaway, check out our curated Whitsundays packages on CP Trips which includes a four-day stay, snorkel and sail adventure with a day cruise. Top image: Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy.
A good toastie is more Australian than Bob Hawke sculling beer at the cricket. The humble toastie may just be a simple sandwich that has been toasted (whether that's in a frying pan, a sandwich press or a jaffle iron), but a world of possibilities exists within those two slices of bread. While this is something you could make at home, why would you when so many venues do it so well? These five toasties are the toast of the town. BACON SANDWICH, WIDE OPEN ROAD One sandwich rules them all in Brunswick, and that's the bacon sanga at Wide Open Road. It has crispy bacon, oozy double cheese, sweet and slightly spicy relish framed in bread so golden you know it's been fried by some kind of magic (otherwise known as a frying pan). If you don't normally come to Brunswick, this is a toastie worth crossing rivers for — whether that's the Yarra, the Parramatta, the Danube, the Seine or the Nile. BANGERS AND MASH JAFFLE, BAD FRANKIE If you get out of bed on Saturdays for the sausage sizzle at Bunnings, we'd like to introduce you to the sausage sizzle's gourmet cousin: the bangers and mash jaffle at Bad Frankie. This small bar, just off Smith Street in Collingwood, specialises in Australian whisky and jaffles. On the menu, there are toasties stuffed with cheese, supreme pizza, vego butter chicken, and, of course, the bangers and mash. Pork sausages are served on wholemeal bread, topped with potato mash and served with gravy dipping sauce on the side. It's so delicious you'll never go to Bunnings again (well, not for the sausage sizzle). [caption id="attachment_640639" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brook James[/caption] LAMB JAFFLE, TUCK SHOP TAKE AWAY Tuck Shop Take Away is a corner store in Caulfield reinventing old classics that make a variety of 'best of' lists: best milkshakes, best burgers, best fries, best treats, and, most importantly, some of the best jaffles around. Tuck Shop has three jaffle options — baked beans, three cheese or slow-cooked lamb. The lamb is mixed with Vegemite and béchamel sauce and tightly sealed in a jaffle iron – it tastes like the best gourmet pie you've ever had. There's limited seating in the cafe, so head in early and grab a stool at the counter. CHICKEN AND CHORIZO BOLOGNESE TOASTIE, CHEERIO Cheerio lives up to its name — it's a small and cheerful cafe just off Swan Street in Richmond where you can order a cheerful toastie from a cheerful waiter. And if that's not enough for you, wait until you bite into the chicken and chorizo bolognese toastie. Mixing comfort foods from Spain and Italy, in an Australian toastie, it's unapologetically indulgent. [caption id="attachment_647658" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Letícia Almeida[/caption] JAFFLE BOLOGNESE, ARLECHIN Another bolognese toastie, in a completely different setting. Arlechin is a new bar in the CBD serving up snacks and drinks til 2am. So if you've ever craved a stellar toastie after midnight, but have, maybe, lacked the 'dexterity' to do so, Arlechin is here to save the day. The rich, piping hot bolognese is sealed between slices of crisp golden bread and topped with a healthy pile of grated parmesan. Your hangover will thank you tomorrow.
Barbers of Brunswick doesn't do things by halves. Many barbershops offer clients a tipple with their trim, and though this spot does that too, it also has a dedicated space out the back that doubles as a lounge bar. There are worse places to wait for your appointment, that's for sure. When your name is called, you'll settle in to one of the vintage barbers chairs, get your hair washed in one of the brushed concrete basins and have a chat to your friendly barber as they get to work. More importantly, Barbers of Brunswick is passionate about ensuring their patrons feel good both in and out of the chair. And we're not just talking about giving them a sexy haircut that'll make them feel good about themselves — although it does that, too. But it also puts its money where its mouth is by supporting a number of charitable organisations, including Movember, Encompass Care Vic and Beyond Blue, via financial donations and volunteering.
For viewers, much that occurs in Such Brave Girls inspires two words: "here's hoping". Here's hoping that no one IRL has ever been contractually obliged to slip their hand down the pants of the boyfriend that they despise twice a week and on special occasions, for instance. Here's hoping that no one has ever sat in a doctor's office caked in green wicked witch makeup waiting for an appointment about deeply intimate matters, either. The emotions that both situations capture in this brilliant new three-time BAFTA-nominated British sitcom— one digging into the feeling of being stuck on a path that's anything but your dream and dispiritedly going with it, the other surveying life's uncanny ability to put everyone in circumstances so absurd that they seem surreal — are that raw and resonant, however, that watching resembles looking in a mirror no matter your own experiences. If Such Brave Girls seems close to reality, that's because it is. In the A24 co-produced series — which joins the cult-favourite entertainment company's TV slate alongside other standouts such as Beef, Irma Vep, Mo and The Curse over the past two years, and streams via Stan in Australia — sisters Kat Sadler and Lizzie Davidson star as well as take cues from their lives and personalities. This isn't a play-by-play retelling, though. It doesn't claim to bring anyone faithfully and exactly to the screen. But it understands the truth of dealing with trauma, and its fallout and damage, making that plain vividly and with unflinching commitment. "Death, silence, hate" is this duo's personal spin on "live, laugh, love", they jest in a joking-but-not-joking way in-character; Such Brave Girls gets everyone giggling at the idea, but also backs it up. Making their TV acting debuts together — Sadler has previously written for Frankie Boyle's New World Order, Joe Lycett's Got Your Back and more — Sadler and Davidson also play siblings. Josie and Billie, their respective on-screen surrogates, are navigating life's lows not only when the show's six-episode first season begins, but as it goes on. The entire setup was sparked by a phone conversation between the duo IRL, when one had attempted to take her life twice and the other was £20,000 in debt. While for most, a sitcom wouldn't come next, laughing at and lampooning themselves, plus seeing the absurdity, is part of Such Brave Girls' cathartic purpose for its driving forces. If you've ever thought "what else can you do?" when finding yourself inexplicably chuckling at your own misfortune, that's this series — this sharp, unsparing, candid, complex and darkly comedic series — from start to finish. As well as creating the show and penning it, Sadler leads it as Josie, a bundle of nerves and uncertainty that's always earning Billie and their mother Deb's (Louise Brealey, Lockwood & Co) brutal honesty rather than sympathetic support. She's in her twenties, struggling with her mental health and aspiring to be an artist — but, above any firm sense of a career or a dream, she's largely working through a never-ending gap year as she tries to get through day after day. She receives a paycheque from a bookstore job that she abhors, usually while catching her colleagues off guard with her anecdotes. After hours, Josie's doting boyfriend Seb (Freddie Meredith, A Whole Lifetime with Jamie Demetriou) awaits — hovers at her side, pleads for sex and moves in without anyone telling her, to be precise — but she's certain that she's queer and only passionate about bartender Sid (Jude Mack, I Hate Suzie). Davidson's Billie is the eternally optimistic opposite of her sister — albeit really only about the fact that Nicky (Sam Buchanan, Back to Black), the guy that she's hooking up with, will stop cheating on her, fall in love and whisk her away to Manchester to open a vodka bar bearing her name. There's nothing that she won't do to make that happen, whether it means bleaching her hair to look identical to her competition (Carla Woodcock, Tell Me Everything) or agreeing to be Nicky's cover when he's busted at a nightclub for drugs. The other thing that Billie has an unwavering belief in, to a delusional degree: that their dad, who went out for teabags a decade ago and never came home, has just gotten lost at the shops because it rearranges its aisles all the time. Both girls live with the exasperated Deb, who also sees a relationship as the solution to her problems, setting her sights on the iPad-addicted Dev (Paul Bazely, Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves). She's saddled with debt thanks to Josie and Billie's father going AWOL, and has picked her latest paramour as a path to financial stability thanks to his sprawling house alone. So, when she's not sternly advising her daughters to settle for what's easiest — "I know it's hard, but as you get older, you learn to love with less of your heart — less and less until eventually there's nothing left anymore" is one such piece of guidance; "work isn't about fulfilment, it's just so you can buy stuff to make you feel fulfilled" is another — she's telling them not to do anything to jeopardise what she considers the best chance they've all got as a family for a solvent future. With actor-slash-director Simon Bird behind the lens — alongside first-timer Marco Alessi on one episode — if Such Brave Girls seems like it belongs in the same acerbically comedic realm as The Inbetweeners and Everyone Else Burns, there's clearly a reason for that, too. That said, in its mix of humour and bleakness, alongside its dedication to diving headfirst into the messy existences of its three key female characters, it's also in Fleabag's wheelhouse. Nothing is too grim to find guffaws in, though, whether it's depression, existential malaise, suicide, termination, abandonment, daddy issues, death, grief, narcissism, infidelity or realising how much about life is simply learning to stomach disappointment. Call it searing, call it ruthless, call it insightful, call it hilarious: each one applies. Here's another "here's hoping" for Such Brave Girls' audience to put out into the world: here's hoping that there's more to come. Actually, here's yet one more: here's hoping that this is the start of big on-screen comedy careers for the show's sisters, who bring such a layered rapport to Josie and Billie that viewers who don't know that they're genuinely related will guess quickly, and who deliver masterclasses in comic timing again and again in the process. Brealey, who has Sherlock, A Discovery of Witches and Back also to her name, might appear to have a hard task, then, playing a convincing mum to real-life siblings. But Such Brave Girls doesn't just feel blisteringly authentic, even at its most ridiculous, whenever Sadler and Davidson are in the spotlight; it's that unvarnished with everyone. Check out the trailer for Such Brave Girls below: Such Brave Girls streams via Stan.
There seems to exist this strange notion that things that are good for you can't be delicious. An extreme extension of this notion is the idea that vegan food is equally as unsatisfying and unfulfilling. Alexandra Pyke, however, disagrees with the perception that food being vegan and delicious are mutually exclusive, showing the greatest skills in culinary diplomacy since Mia asked why we can't have both soft and hard shell tacos in one packet. Pyke, fresh home in Melbourne after a lengthy stint in the US, has partnered in legendary eateries like The Fat Radish, Leadbelly and vego joint The Butcher's Daughter, and is chomping at the bit to bring her expertise to her hometown. The Alley, which is now open on St Kilda Road, provides clean, wholesome food made from sustainable and local ingredients that also punches you in the face with bold flavours. The idea is to cross the divide between vegans who won't even look at a picture of a cow and the everyday consumer who can't look at a picture of a cow without finding themselves drawn to a steak restaurant. The menu features playful dishes like the maple bacon burger with smoky paprika, and the gluten free Mac 'n' Cheese with coconut bacon and crispy kale, plus sides such as air-baked sweet potato fries, of course. It goes without saying that a vegan cafe has salads but, much like meatloaf, it's what you do with them – The Alley, for example, boasts a 'fiery' kelp noodle salad, which sounds both extremely dangerous and extremely tempting, like sky diving or downloading all the original Doctor Who serials. Cold craft beers and biodynamic raw wines are also on offer in abundance. Or, opt for a caffeinated brew courtesy of iced coffee with a choice of almond, soy or coconut milk, or an almond latte. Dessert-wise, The Alley has whipped up some plant-based soft-serve to satisfy those with a sweet tooth, as well as vegan chocolate brownies. Open 8am to 7pm Monday to Friday, The Alley caters for 35 bums on seats at any time, but also maintains a healthy focus on takeaway, given the demand for food on the go in the area. Find The Alley at 417 St Kilda Road, St Kilda. Visit their website and Facebook page for further information. By James Whitton and Sarah Ward.
As far as unnerving settings go, The Third Day's couldn't be better, with the HBO miniseries unfurling its story on Osea Island. The real-life locale boasts an intriguing history, including its purchase in 1903 by brewing company heir Frederick Nicholas Charrington, his passionate efforts to turn it into a treatment centre for addicts and alcoholics, and the fact that he was once apparently suspected of being Jack the Ripper. Osea also spans just 1.5 square kilometres, sits within an estuary along England's east coast and is connected to the mainland via a Roman-built causeway, which can only be accessed during low tide. Both within the show and in reality, that means that cars are limited to making the journey during two four-hour windows each day. At all other times, travellers can only get to and from the island by boat. So, if you venture over but don't time your return drive just right, you'll end up stuck there until the tide next subsides — whether you like it or not. That's exactly what happens to Sam (Jude Law, The Nest) and Helen (Naomie Harris, Spectre). The Third Day tells its main tale via two separate halves, with its three 'summer' episodes focusing on Sam and its trio of 'winter' segments switching to Helen. Their experiences have unmistakable parallels, but start out differently. Sam doesn't intend to visit the island, only making the trip after he rescues a teenage girl nearby. Helen books a holiday rental with her daughters Ellie (Nico Parker, Dumbo) and Talulah (debutant Charlotte Gairdner-Mihell), but those plans don't pan out. Accordingly, both Sam and Helen are forced to adjust to a sudden change in circumstance, and miss their initial windows to leave Osea in the process. The longer they stay — and the more they interact with the island's residents, such as pub proprietors Mr and Mrs Martin (The Outsider's Paddy Considine and Chernobyl's Emily Watson) — the harder it becomes to head home. Each of The Third Day's halves takes place over three days, as per the show's title. Each day proves even more chaotic than the last, too. And, each altercation that Sam and Helen has with Osea's inhabitants only plunges them both deeper into the small island's many big mysteries. Here, Osea is a place of distinctive traditions, beliefs and rituals. The locals are not only fighting among themselves to retain their way of life, but will do whatever it takes to preserve the customs they proudly claim date back to ancient times. So, when Sam notices that a bathroom floor is covered in salt, and Helen and her daughters keep spotting the same symbol graffitied on the island's buildings, that's just the start of their strange journeys. Both groups keep seeing dead animals, too — and they're hardly greeted warmly by the insular community, including those who do and don't wear masks. If you're already thinking about Midsommar, you won't stop while you're watching. As horror's creepy cabin subgenre has shown, good things rarely happen when someone finds themselves in a secluded spot on-screen. That idea proves just as true in tales of island trips gone awry — including shows that ran for too long such as Lost, terrible horror remakes of decades-old TV series like Fantasy Island and now The Third Day. The details vary (no one in Lost intended to end up on a beach, for instance), but the underlying concept is simple. Take a picturesque setting, fill it with folks eager to escape their troubles, then use those gorgeous surroundings and that bliss-seeking mentality to augment their underlying woes. When done well, however, the notion is far from straightforward. And, thanks to the exceptional work of its main screenwriter and co-creator Dennis Kelly (Utopia) and his colleague Felix Barrett (director of Britain's Punchdrunk theatre company), The Third Day takes to the idea in an instantly engaging and involving way. Plenty about the miniseries' storyline feels familiar at first, by design. An unsettling tone radiates from The Third Day's opening moments, though, working hard to push everyone out of their comfort zone. For Sam and then Helen, that happens easily as their trips to Osea just get weirder and weirder. For the show's viewers, the efforts of directors Mark Munden (The Secret Garden) and Philippa Lowthorpe (Misbehaviour) and their cinematographers Benjamin Kracun (Promising Young Woman) and David Chizallet (Mustang) couldn't be more crucial. The Third Day is a striking piece of folk-horror TV all round, but what often proves most staggering is its constant ability to immerse its audience so firmly in its characters' headspace. Roving visuals that feel cast adrift, toying with focus and perspective, placing the camera unnaturally close to Law's face, letting Harris's stare bore through the screen, colouring the island's forest with almost-otherworldly hues — they're all deployed here, and they all work a treat. Also excellent are Law and Harris, with the former turning Sam's swift unravelling into riveting viewing, and the latter as steely as she has ever been on-screen. The Third Day's entire supporting cast is terrific, too, which includes Katherine Waterston (Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald) as an American visitor obsessed with the island's history and the imposing John Dagleish (Farming) as a local who doesn't take kindly to strangers. It isn't streaming in Australia along with the show's six main parts, but The Third Day also boasts a third section. 'Autumn' screened overseas as a twelve-hour live event, and is set during the big festival that Osea's residents are preparing for during Sam's half of the story. You don't need to have seen it to get the full tale, but even just knowing it exists paints a picture — because this is a series that dives headfirst into its sea of eeriness. Check out the trailer for The Third Day below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T43V6z9wYyE The Third Day is available to stream via Binge. Images: Liam Daniel/HBO.
iAustralia's COVID-19 vaccination rollout has been unfurling at a snail's pace, and amid much confusion — especially regarding which jabs are available to Aussies under 40. They're not the only dilemmas when it comes to getting vaxed, however. Actually being able to access the vaccine is a big issue, obviously, but getting to and from appointments might also be causing you troubles if you don't drive and aren't too keen on catching public transport. To help make travelling to vaccination appointments easier, ridesharing service DiDi is offering discounted rides to hubs and clinics, and to GPs giving the jab — and back as well. The special will give you up to $10 off both trips, with each person getting access to two discounted fares. The discount is available in all areas that DiDi operates in, which includes plenty of places. Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and Canberra are all on the list, as are Cairns, Coffs Harbour, Geelong, both the Gold and Sunshine coasts, Newcastle, Ballarat, Bendigo, Townsville, Toowoomba and Wollongong. Also included: Bunbury, Bundaberg, Busselton, the Central Coast, Gladstone — Tannum Sands, Hervey Bay, Mackay, Port Macquarie, Rockhampton, Shepparton and Wagga Wagga. All up, DiDi is committing $1 million to the scheme, which'll equate to around 100,000 trips. Folks eager to take advantage of the discounted program — which the company is calling DiDi Vaccinate — just need to jump onto the company's app and complete a short questionnaire to get access. "The recent lockdowns across the country, particularly in Sydney, has shown that Australia's vaccination rollout needs to kick up a gear to avoid future snap lockdowns occurring," said DiDi Australia spokesperson Dan Jordan in a statement. "We're happy to be able to play our part in supporting the vaccination drive as we are aware that not everyone has easy access to a vaccination hub, so we're trying to make the process as easy as possible to support Australia's full recovery from the pandemic." DiDi Chuxing launched in China in 2012 and has quickly become a huge player in the global ridesharing game — it has since bought out Uber's Chinese operations and has stakes in numerous companies, including Ola, Taxify, Lyft and Grab. To get your two discounted DiDi Vaccinate trips, download the service's app (for iOS or Android).
If you've ever walked around a gallery eavesdropping on people discussing art, and felt that pang of intimidation, you'll know that talking about art is actually kind of hard. Sure there's the 'if I was rich would I hang it in my house?' test or the 'could I do that?' questioning session, but there's much more to art appreciation than that. In order to save you from awkwardly lurking behind a tour group, taking notes on the important-sounding things the guide says so you can later impress your friends, we've done the lurking for you. Here's our list of the top five talking points of this year's Archibald Prize so you can rest assured that those shifty weirdos who are listening in on your conversations will think you know what you're talking about — though we'd suggest you make no judgements because that was you not so long ago. [caption id="attachment_631052" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Archibald Prize 2017 winner Mitch Cairns: Agatha Gothe-Snape.[/caption] MITCH CAIRNS' PORTRAIT WIN It wouldn't be the Archibald without a little art world controversy, and this year is no exception. Prize winner Mitch Cairns, whose work has been hung in the prestigious prize on four occasions, even hinted at the potential throwdown saying, "I composed this portrait with love in the full knowledge of its inevitable and palpable quake." Cairns' work, a beguiling portrait of his partner and fellow artistic powerhouse, Agatha Gothe-Snape, has seen its audience divided and heads tilted, which begs the question: do the judges strive to make a choice every year that will incite debate and stir conversation? Gallery curator Anne Ryan said of the contentious decision, "It came down to two works in the end, but the judges voted for Cairns' work because of its success in revealing the character of its sitter, and its excellence as a contemporary painting." There's no doubt the work is striking, and the composition and finish are immaculate — and surely a painting that results in gallery-goers debating its merits long after they've departed counts for something? [caption id="attachment_636773" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Archibald Prize 2017 finalist what: Robert Forster.[/caption] THE ROBERT FORSTER PAINTING BY 'WHAT' Let's face it, standing in the corner of a crowded gallery googling "Australian artist what" or "identity of what" will result in you looking like the ultimate creeper. Spoiler alert: there are 12 million results and hardly any of them are remotely helpful, which is why we're here to help. The son of a truck driver, the mysterious artist what, was born in Queensland and grew up in Western Sydney, graduating from the National Art School in 1992. His practice spans sculpture, painting, installation and performance, drawing from his own life, politics, religion and culture. A portrait of Go Between's frontman Robert Forster, what's work is unlike the majority of the paintings in the gallery. With a light-hearted poem accompanying the portrait rather than paragraphs of explanation, his approach definitely incites some consideration of what it means to have your art speak for itself, without being tainted by an artist's identity. [caption id="attachment_637078" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Archibald Prize 2017 finalist Tjungkara Ken: Kungkarangkalpa tjukurpa (Seven Sisters dreaming), a self-portrait.[/caption] SELF PORTRAITS — THE CONFIDENCE TO PAINT YOURSELF FOR THE PRIZE According to the rules of the Archibald Prize, all entries must be "painted from life, with the subject known to the artist, aware of the artist's intentions and having at least one live sitting with the artist." And every year there are a handful of self portraits featured in the Archibald. So do these entries actually pass the criteria? AGNSW curator Anne Ryan suggests that they indeed do. "A self portrait gives an insight into the character of an artist that comes from deep within," explains Ryan. "It can lay bare their self-perception, presenting themselves to the world in a way that can sometimes be very brave, very raw or alternatively, how the artist wishes the world to see them." Another point in the entry criteria is that the subject should be, "of some man or woman distinguished in art, letters, science or politics". Often people will debate whether choosing to paint yourself is conceited, but there's something so bold about an artist who, casting off those pesky shackles of imposter syndrome, decides to say, "you know what? I've been doing this art thing for a while and I'm great at it, so I deserve to be here." [caption id="attachment_636775" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Archibald Prize 2017 finalist Vincent Namatjira: Self portrait on Friday.[/caption] GRANDSON OF A LEGEND, VINCENT NAMATJIRA Whether you're a fan or not, there's no doubt that Vincent Namatjira's work, Self portrait on Friday, is one of the few pieces in the Archibald that immediately makes people smile. The painterly style is bold and honest, the no nonsense title is self explanatory and the work elicits an immediate sense of warmth. Vincent Namatjira has developed his own unique artistic style, but it's worth noting that he is the grandson of Australian art master, Albert Namatjira. Albert Namatjira is no stranger to the Archibald. He's appeared in the prize a number of times both as an artist and a subject. In 1944, his work Gorge, MacDonnell Range was included in the Wynne Prize, and he has been depicted in either paint or sculpture in the exhibition by artists Rex Battarbee, Sylvia Connick and William Dargie. Most recently, Imants Tillers won the Wynne prize with an ode to Namatjira in 2013. Namatjira is now honoured in every major art institution in Australia, but that wasn't always the case. In the 1960s, he fell victim to a curator's 'funny' prank when the artist's work was hung next to the ladies' toilet with a vase of gladioli. Thankfully, curators have developed an actual sense of humour since then. [caption id="attachment_634781" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Archibald Prize 2017 finalist Andrew Lloyd Greensmith: The inner stillness of Eileen Kramer.[/caption] ANDREW LLOYD GREENSMITH'S PORTRAIT OF EILEEN KRAMER There's probably only one thing more impressive than the recent ex-chief of the Melbourne Royal Children's Hospital's Department of Craniofacial Surgery being accepted into the Archibald after he decided to "pursue painting seriously". And that more impressive thing is his subject, Eileen Kramer. At 102 years old, Eileen is the world's oldest working choreographer and dancer, as well as a costume designer, artist and poet. Born in 1914, she's seen the whole world, having lived in Paris, New York, London and India. She only returned to Australia recently — at the ripe age of 99 — to continue her artistic practice. The illustrious careers of both Eileen Kramer and plastic surgeon Andrew Lloyd Greensmith are pretty much all the proof you need that you can achieve pretty much anything you set your mind to — provided you're already incredibly talented and live for over 100 years. The 2017 Archibald Prize will wrap up soon, so if you haven't already, get yourself to AGNSW before Sunday, October 22. You can also catch the exhibition along with some mid-week laughs and live music at one of the Archibald After Hours events, every Wednesday until 10pm. Images: AGNSW.
You don't have to go to Tokyo to have an immersive Japanese experience. You can when borders reopen, and everyone should at some point — because there's really nowhere else in the world quite like it. But if you're eager to eat like you're already there, watch performances and browse market stalls, you can save yourself the airfare at the Yokoso Collingwood Fitzroy Japan Festival. A one-day celebration at Peel Street Park from 12.30–7pm on Sunday, January 17, it's Melbourne's own ode to the country that brought us sushi, katsu, yakitori, sake, matcha lattes and more. Expect to find more than a few things from that list on offer, and plenty to see and do as well — with admission free. In the park, live music will feature everything from harps and Japanese drums to rap and hip hop. Both in Peel Street and at the Chotto Motto Vintage Market, you'll be able to shop for new and retro goods either from Japan or made using traditional Japanese materials. But the big highlight is the Taste of Japan passport, which costs $36.50 and serves up six mini dishes from six restaurants in the area. You'll mosey to Aka Shiro for battered vegetable and octopus puffs, head to Chotto Motto for gyoza, and hit up Wabi Sabi Salon for smoked tofu katsu curry. And, you'll stop by Shimbashi Soba for chilled soba noodles, tuck into Neko Neko's tofu with spring onions, ginger, daikon and nori, and enjoy a tasting of sake or some yuzu soda at Tamura Sake Bar. Top image: Chotto Motto
Australia's much-loved cook, author, restaurateur and The Great Australian Bake Off host Maggie Beer is helping you become a culinary whiz while you're spending more time at home. So, next time you're reaching for the instant noodles, do yourself a favour and turn to Maggie. Dubbed Cooking with Maggie, the series features the cooking legend whipping up delicious dishes in her Barossa home. She'll be putting up a new video every day via Instagram or Facebook, showing you how to make an easy rustic-style dish in under 20 minutes. From eggplant and eggs to a caramelised onion and Persian feta side dish and Maggie's take on a panzanella salad, every recipe uses simple ingredients, which you probably already have most of sitting in your pantry. Otherwise, a quick trip to your local grocer — or your garden if you've a green thumb like Maggie — will sort you out. But perhaps best of all is watching Maggie in her own kitchen, offering up little wisdoms. Her enthusiasm and charm is undeniable and will warm your soul. So, even if you're not looking for dinner inspiration, you may want to watch the affable cook anyway. Because, we're all in need of a little comfort — food or otherwise — right now. https://www.facebook.com/OfficialMaggieBeer/videos/242070486919378/
Those lucky enough to have roamed the streets of Florence might just have come across Vivoli Gelato, a family-run coffee shop and ice-cream parlour that has stood the test of time since the 1930s. While the gelato is stellar, this bustling spot is best known for its square-cut affogato, with around 350 sold day in and day out. Now you can experience this renowned affogato without travelling to Italy, as ST. ALi has teamed up with Piccolina to serve its own version inspired by the original. With the collaboration recently extended to Friday, August 22, this square-cut affogato stays true to the classic recipe while adding a little of its own imagination. Featuring a careful balance of sweet, bitter, hot and cold notes, gelato is packed into a chilled cup before a neat square is carved into the centre. Then, a hot shot of freshly brewed ST. ALi espresso is poured into the middle, creating an eye-opening beverage. In fact, this might just be the first square-cut affogato sold in Australia. Going the extra mile, each location selling this tasty collab uses La Pavoni's timeless manual lever espresso machines to achieve a deep and clean espresso shot. Plus, you're welcome to choose any Piccolina gelato flavour to be flooded with coffee. Get one for $10 at ST. ALi South Melbourne and all Piccolina stores — or start booking your airfare to Italy.
While a dish similar to what we now know as tiramisu may have existed as far back as the 17th century, it wasn't until the 70s that it became widespread in Italy and then the 80s that the little Italian 'pick-me-up' went viral (before viral was a thing) and started appearing on menus all over the world. Now, in 2019, this coffee-soaked sponge topped with creamy mascarpone has had a resurgence in Melbourne's Little Italy (not that it ever, truly, went away). To check out three of the hottest new ones hitting red-and-white menus across the suburb, head to Carlton's Tiramisu Golden Mile (1.4-kilometres to be exact) to see what all the fuss is about. Start at Leonardo's Pizza Palace, then wander around the corner and onto Rathdowne Street to Capitano, and finish up at Giro D'Italia further down the road. [caption id="attachment_707894" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kate Shanasy[/caption] LEONARDO'S PIZZA PALACE In keeping with the retro Italo-American vibe at this dimly lit, 70s-arched den of possibility, the tiramisu is a no-frills affair. "It is what it is," was the description provided by waitstaff, and there is a certain glory in that. What it actually is, is a big wedge of tiramisu 'pie', with a layer of coffee soaked savoiardi and a thick layer of mascarpone cream dusted with cocoa. It's texturally satisfying and not overly rich or sweet — and is the perfect finale to an evening of pizza and pasta. How much? $10. [caption id="attachment_708707" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Parker Blain[/caption] GIRO D'ITALIA The tiramisu at Domenico De Marco's Giro D'Italia might look like any other tiramisu you have encountered, but De Marco follows his Nonna's recipe and makes everything from scratch. This includes the savoiardi biscuits and the mascarpone. And the trick to his lighter-than-usual version? He beats the egg whites with sugar syrup for 45 minutes. When this is then folded through the mascarpone, it creates a texture so light and fluffy it tastes as though you could be eating a cloud. It is served as Nonna would have served it, too, spooned out on a plate in one big dollop of deliciousness. How much? $14. [caption id="attachment_683824" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kate Shanasy[/caption] CAPITANO It is hardly surprising that exquisite local liqueur would feature in Capitano's take on tiramisu, given the owners also run Fitzroy wine bar Bar Liberty. Here the tiramisu is made to order, and features sponge cake soaked in coffee cream and Marionette orange curaçao (made from navel, Seville and blood oranges sourced directly from 'Glenn', a third-generation citrus farmer in Mildura). You'll find a splash of Rutherglen muscat in the mascarpone cream, too. The suggestion is to share and the dessert comes out in a wide, flat circular dish with several spoons. How much? $15.
In the beautiful chaos of Prahran Market, a familiar name is carving out a new chapter. G. McBean Family Butcher, formerly known as Gary's Meats, has not just expanded its space but also its legacy, reopening at the very spot where the founder originally set up shop back in 1984. Gary McBean, the man behind the cleaver, is not just a butcher; he's a craftsman with a story that begins when he was just a nine-year-old kid watching and working with his father, Ken, also a butcher. Gary would go on to climb the ranks from a young apprentice to the owner of his dad's shop on Bridge Road, before planting his own flag at Prahran Market. Fast forward to today, and he's flipping the script yet again, rebranding to G. McBean Family Butcher and passing the baton to his daughter, Ash, who seems to have inherited the family passion. The new space, a brainchild of designer Wendy Bergman (Orrong Hotel, Chancery Lane, Studio Amaro), promises more than your standard butcher experience. Think dark green tiles, brass trims and marble floors. As for the meat, it's the kind of fare you'd expect from five generations of butchers who supply some of the city's top dining spots, including Attica — there's just more space for them to do their thing now. It's not just meat, though. From dry-aged and smoked delights to in-house sandwiches that can compete with Melbourne's best cafes and delis, there's a lot going on. Sustainability is also front of mind, with branded jars filled with take-home meals that can be returned for reuse, to a nose-to-tail approach ensuring as much of the animal is used as possible, giving customers a range of options including bone broths, stocks and lard. Kangaroo, wallaby, deer and crocodile are also available, if you're game. And for those who fancy themselves with a cleaver, Gary's not just selling meat; he's sharing his craft. Regular masterclasses and steak nights are on the cards, where you can learn to break down a cow, pig or lamb, or pick your own steak cut and have it prepared for you to eat — cooked directly by the big man himself. Find G. McBean Family Butcher at Prahran Market, Stall 501 Commercial Rd, South Yarra. It's open 7am–5pm Tuesday and Thursday–Saturday, and 10am–3pm Sunday. Learn more at the butcher's website.
Carlton, coffee and cocktails. A fearsome combo that viral cafe Good Measure nails. During the daylight hours, this Lygon Street space plays host to those in search of the precious bean juice, but when the sun sets, it trades coffee for cocktails. The best news? There's no "best time" to see it firsthand, with both faces being equally strong. If you visit during the day, be prepared to face a line. Many patrons are likely to be lining up for one particular specialty treat: Mont Blanc. This coffee is filtered, iced, served in a tumbler, and a far cry from Melbourne's typically bougie coffee until it gets its ceiling of fresh cream and a dusting of orange zest and nutmeg on top. Grab that and a pastry, a spiced, sweet cinnamon babka, a slice of cheesecake or a thick sando to go. When darkness descends, the warm timber interiors trade sunlight for lamplight and flick into bar mode, with as many delicious menu entries as there are during the day. Instead of Mont Blanc, you could grab an Irish Coffee with Archie Rose Double Malt, ice-filter coffee, black sugar, cream and tonka bean. Not a coffee fan? Explore the seasonal cocktail menu instead, the range of sake or a simple glass of Guinness. The menu still includes sandwiches, but there are also bar snacks aplenty, including the extremely popular crispy chicken skins with chilli crisp mayo, kimchi fries with cheese sauce and chicken tenders with house ranch.
If you're itching to escape the city, look no further than the spectacular walks found in alpine Victoria. To inspire you to explore more natural wonders this summer, we've partnered with Victoria's High Country to showcase some of the top hikes around the expansive region. Whether you're looking for a guided multi-day adventure or a leisurely stroll, these treks offer the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature. There are incredible towns to explore along the way with award-winning wineries, paddock-to-plate dining and serene lodgings to ensure the active part of your trip is peppered with experiences where relaxation is at the core. So pack the car, lace up your walking boots and swap the city for mountainous peaks, glorious falls and rugged backcountry. MOUNT BEAUTY GORGE WALK If you head to Victoria's High Country on a particularly warm day, plan a stop at the Mount Beauty Gorge Walk. It has a relatively easy 2.8-kilometre track (or 5.6-kilometre round trip) that leads you through stunning vistas. More importantly, the eponymous gorge is perfect for a mid-walk splash. Cross the swing bridge that spans the West Kiewa River and you'll find the natural swimming hole another 100-metres up river where you can wade or swim through to a rock-walled canyon. Time your visit for a sunny day to make the most of the tranquil spot — and the perfect place to cool off. [caption id="attachment_837272" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Rob Blackburn/Visit Victoria[/caption] BENALLA STREET ART TRAIL Benalla is regarded as the gateway to the High Country — and it has a creative side that street art enthusiasts will love. If you aren't so much an outdoors type, ditch the mountainside trails and take part in a dynamic Benalla Street Art self-guided tour instead. On it, you'll explore the charming town's backstreets adorned with works from some of the best Australian street artists and muralists in the game. Tucked around almost every corner, there are huge works by the likes of Georgia Hill, Adnate and Rone. PARADISE FALLS Paradise Falls is a befitting name for this serene backcountry setting, situated deep within Alpine National Park. There are two ways to access the falls. The first offers a more challenging adventure where you will depart the tiny village of Cheshunt and reach the falls by completing the 6.6-kilometre McMillians Track Trailhead. The less taxing alternative is via the 500-metre Paradise Falls Waking Track, which takes you to the viewing platform just a few minutes' walk from the car park. The falls are at their most impressive in spring and early summer, so plan accordingly. MOUNT PILOT LOOKOUT WALK Another stroll belonging in the easy category is the Mount Pilot Lookout Walk, located a short drive from the historic town of Beechworth. Although the walk to the peak is just over 500-metres from the car park, the 360-degree views from the top will have you thinking otherwise. On a clear day you are treated to sweeping views over the Chiltern-Mount Pilot National Park and the sight of Mount Buffalo to the south. If you're willing to start your day early, the exceptional views makes for a spectacular sunrise. HOME & AWAY TRAIL Don't get caught out thinking a visit to Falls Creek is only worth it when snow's on the mountains. One fine summertime attraction is the Home & Away Trail: a moderate level, six-kilometre roam through the High Plains leading you right up to the Summit chair and views of rugged, rocky and beautiful wilderness. On the descent, you'll pass by craggy plateaus surrounded by bushland and wildlife. For keen hikers willing to make a two-kilometre detour, the Frying Pan Spur offers sweeping views of the Kiewa Valley and nearby mountains. [caption id="attachment_837277" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Rob Blackburn/Visit Victoria[/caption] KEPPEL LOOKOUT Marysville is known as one of the most gorgeous pit stops in Murrindindi — and visitors can experience its beauty from a lofty perspective at the scenic Keppel Lookout. Accessed via an 11-kilometre loop, the lookout rewards hikers with unmatched panoramas over the town, its lush surrounds and the distant peaks of the Cathedral Ranges. It can also be accessed by car if you are not up for the hike. There are plenty of other vantage points along the trail, too. The Oxley and De La Rue lookouts are stellar stops along the ridge, and you can also check out the roaring Steavenson Falls. 3 PEAKS HIKE Multi-day adventures through the Victorian alps don't come much better than the 3 Peaks Hike. Intended for hikers with tip-top fitness, the three-day tour sees walkers climb to the top of Mount Stirling and Mount Feathertop before culminating in the state's highest peak, Mount Bogong. Simply put, this trek is an outdoor enthusiast's dream journey, and you'll also get to rest up in comfortable overnight accommodation in Mansfield and Mount Beauty. With meals provided, all you have to focus on is taking in all the epic scenery and reaching the end of this epic 45-kilometre journey. MOUNT GRANYA WALKING TRACK Situated along the northern border of Victoria, Mount Granya State Park is renowned for its steep forested slopes and vibrant wildflowers. The Mount Granya Walking Track is the ideal half-day journey to experience the area by leading visitors to many of the park's most striking landscapes. The 10.4-kilometre track starts at Cotton Tree Campground before taking you to your first stop, Scout Hut — a log cabin built in 1937. Onwards towards the summit, the Granya Falls are an ideal place to take a brief respite. Then, after enjoying the views from the peak, you can mosey down to Georges Creek Lookout for even more views. AN EVENING AT CRAIG'S There aren't many landmarks in Victoria's High Country more famous than Craig's Hut. Perched atop Mount Stirling, this historic hut is known around the globe as the setting from iconic Australian film The Man From Snowy River. Visiting this attraction with the An Evening at Craig's experience means you won't have to beat around the bush to get there. Departing from luxe Mansfield accomodation BullerRoo — at which two nights' accommodation is included as part of the Evening at Craig's Hut experience — you'll ascend on a guided hike through an alpine ash forest to reach your stunning dining destination. After exploring the dramatic plateau, you'll sit down to a gourmet dinner at dusk. Then, it's back to BullerRoo for nightcaps by the fire. KING VALLEY GOURMET WALKING TOUR Situated in the foothills of the Alpine National Park, King Valley is abundant with remarkable hiking experiences and wine- and food-fuelled adventures. A guided seven-day pilgrimage, the King Valley and Victorian High Country Gourmet Walking Tour invites you to discover the region's top walks and foodie experiences. The cost of $3660 per person includes six nights in four-star accomodation on the edge of Milawa overlooking the surrounding vineyards; four guided walks through the stunning countryside; a day filled with wine and food; guided tours of the local towns, including Gold Rush era gems such as Beechworth and Yackandandah; and a private cooking classes to learn about the King Valley's celebrated Italian cuisine and heritage. Swap home for Victoria's High Country and tap into your adventurous side this summer. To discover more epic walks and outdoor adventures, check out the Victoria's High Country website. Top image: Keppel Lookout, Rob Blackburn/Visit Victoria
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a local playing tourist, Sydney's energy is magnetic. It's not the kind of city you can tick off in one weekend — just when you think you've done it all, there's a surprise new basement bar to check out, a pop-up art show in a back alley gallery, or an up-and-coming chef serving a dish that'll knock your socks off. Sydney always delivers — and then some. If you're planning a weekend in the Harbour City, Marriott Bonvoy is offering 10% off your stay across six hotels — all you need to do is sign up to become a member (for free). It's also the perfect excuse to extend your stay. Haven't explored Sydney in a while? We've pulled together a hit list of new buzzy restaurants and bars, bathhouses, cultural experiences, and citywide sights to make your next visit one to remember. Sweat, Soak and Reset 1Remedy, Potts Point Following in the footsteps of European bathhouses, this sleek new sauna house in Potts Point is all about the ancient trifecta: sweat, plunge, reset. Founded by Dave Darvill, Dave Veksler and Tina Cha, 1Remedy is built for physical recovery and mental clarity. Think hot rock saunas, multiple temperature-controlled ice baths, ambient beats, an electrolyte bar, and even sauna hats to dial up the comfort. It's guided, stylish and social — designed for those who like their wellness with a bit of vibe. Soak, Alexandria Spanning 700 square metres, Soak isn't your average day spa. This chic communal bathhouse invites conversation and connection, not whispers and robe-shuffling. You'll find warm magnesium pools, infrared and dry cedarwood saunas, cold plunges and aromatic steam rooms. The best part? It's designed to be social — come with friends, soak as a crew, and leave feeling restored and recharged. AWAY Spa, Sydney CBD Tucked away inside one of Sydney's most dazzling hotels, the AWAY Spa at W Sydney is as luxe as you'd expect. Found in the heart of the CBD, this five-room sanctuary offers everything from facials and body scrubs to couples massages and mani-pedis. Designed for solo escapes or social sessions, it's the perfect prelude to checking in upstairs and making a full night of it — because nothing says self-care like a treatment followed by room service and a robe. Shop Shiny, New Designer Stores Monclear, Sydney CBD Modern French outerwear label Moncler has expanded its Sydney presence with a new flagship boutique at Westfield Sydney, flaunting a luxurious monochromatic fit-out. Designed by renowned Parisian studio Gilles & Boissier, the 313-square-metre space is awash with dramatic marble finishes and punctuated by striking sculptural accents. Equal parts fashion destination and architectural marvel, it's a must-visit for the style-savvy and design-curious alike. LOEWE, Sydney CBD Part art gallery, part fashion boutique, LOEWE's second Sydney store in the CBD is a visual and tactile experience. Designed by Jonathan Anderson and LOEWE's in-house team in Madrid, the space evokes the feel of an art collector's Mediterranean home, complete with glistening emerald and cobalt tiles, textured tapestries, and sculptural ceramics. It's an idyllic setting to shop for one of fashion's most coveted labels. Hot tip: Sydney's best designer shopping is just a short stroll from Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park. [caption id="attachment_906009" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter[/caption] Explore Inspiring Exhibitions and Performances Sydney Modern, The Domain One of Sydney's most significant recent cultural openings, the Art Gallery of NSW's Sydney Modern, is a must for any Sydney itinerary. While it opened just over a year ago, its ever-evolving program of globally renowned contemporary art means there's always a reason to return. Designed for art and architecture aficionados alike, it's also Australia's first-ever public art museum to earn a six-star green rating. Don't miss The Tank — a repurposed World War II naval bunker reimagined into a 2,200 sqm subterranean gallery space dedicated to large-scale immersive installations. Keen to stay locally? Check into the Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel Circular Quay — just a short stroll from The Domain. 'Circle Mirror Transformation', Sydney Theatre Company Catch Circle Mirror Transformation, Pulitzer Prize-winner Annie Baker's acclaimed play at Sydney Theatre Company. Starring Aussie legends Rebecca Gibney and Cameron Daddo, the play tells the story of five strangers who sign up for an amateur acting class. What starts with awkward theatre games quickly unravels into something deeper — funny, raw, and painfully real. Directed by Dean Bryant (Dear Evan Hansen), this one-act gem playfully turns the ordinary into something quietly profound. Make a night of it with a stay at Pier One Sydney Harbour, only moments from the theatre. Phoenix, Chippendale Conceived by philanthropist and White Rabbit Gallery founder Judith Neilson, Phoenix Central Park is an architecturally striking, state-of-the-art performance space unlike anything else in Sydney. With a capacity of just 150, it delivers an intimate and immersive experience that breaks away from traditional theatre seating. Audiences spiral around the space, peering down on an eclectic lineup of performances spanning music, contemporary dance, spoken word and experimental sound. Tickets are free but allocated via an online ballot, adding a sense of exclusivity to this already elusive and enchanting venue. Head Outdoors And Soak Up The Sun Shark Beach, Neilson Park Sydney is brimming with glistening harbour beaches, but Shark Beach at Neilson Park might just take the cake as one of the city's most idyllic oases. Reopened in late 2024 after a three-year hiatus of seawall upgrades, this eastern suburbs gem boasts pristine parklands and a protected swimming area with calm water perfect for every level of swimmer. Nab a box of hot chips dusted with chicken salt from the newly revamped Kiosk, roll out a rug under the towering fig trees or hit the scenic Hermitage Walk that winds along the coastline back to the city. URBNSURF, Homebush Sure, Sydney has surf, but scoring a solid set, or even a spot on the sand, isn't always guaranteed. You might be circling for a park and bobbing around in your wetty for a while before the ultimate wave rolls in. URBNSURF, on the other hand, delivers perfect waves on demand. Set out west in Olympic Park, this high-tech surf park is a playground for surfers of all levels, offering consistent waves every single time. It's open seven days a week with eight types of surf lessons on offer, and is also home to RAFI — a coastal-inspired all-day restaurant with sweeping views of rolling, man-made swell. Dine and Dance 'Til Late Bar Freda's at The Abercrombie While Sydney's nightlife might have taken an unexpected hit a few years back (cheers to lockout laws and pandemics), it's bounced back bolder and better, thanks to a wave of hospitality heroes and community legends. Freda's at The Abercrombie is a shining example. Filling a gap in Sydney's late-night scene, Freda's serves a rotating menu of gourmet sandwiches, share plates, and pasta, all washed down with "fun drinks" like a fishbowl G&T, natty wines, and cold tinnies. And if you're partial to a dance floor? Freda's comes alive every Friday and Saturday night with DJs spinning tunes from 8pm 'til late. Ready to dance until dawn? Four Points by Sheraton Sydney at Central Park makes for a stylish base just around the corner. Book your Sydney escape before September 30 to access 10% off your stay and dining with Marriott Bonvoy. All you have to do is sign up as a member — and it's completely free. With access to exclusive member rates, your stay will also earn points towards free nights at over 30 hotel brands around the world. Find out more here. T&C's apply and vary by participating hotels including blackout dates, cancellation restrictions and more. Offer may not apply in properties not participating in the award and redemption of Marriott Bonvoy. By Elise Cullen
These days, it's not like you need much of an excuse to ditch your house, get out of town and do some exploring. But just in case, here's a great one: a luxurious overnight alpine hiking retreat has arrived in Victoria's high country. Combining a guided hiking tour with high-end glamping accommodation, the Get Outside Under The Stars experience is the latest premium offering from local tour crew Get Outside Melbourne. And, while the first run of dates this past March and April sold out quickly, bookings are now open for the next lot, kicking off in September — once the snow season wraps up. The new overnight retreat will see you spend two days hiking through stunning bushland near Mansfield, guided by seasoned experts and covering around 14 kilometres in total. The trails call for moderate fitness levels, with a few steep bits promising to get your pulse up. After the first day's hike, you'll head back to camp to enjoy a chef-prepared feast, matched local wines, and some down-time spent toasting marshmallows and mingling with your group around the fire pit. The rest of your evening is looking pretty luxurious, too, thanks to the plush glamping set-up featuring comfy queen-sized beds, roomy bell tents and proper bathroom facilities. The next morning, a sunrise yoga session will help fire up those muscles, and a fresh breakfast will fuel you up for the next hiking leg, which runs for about four hours. Groups for the Under The Stars experience are capped at a maximum of 14 guests, with prices starting from $539 per person twin share. Get Outside Melbourne started back in 2019, leading one-day hikes around the city — which are still on its agenda, should you feel like a wander without the overnight stay. The next edition of the Get Outside Under The Stars retreat will run from September 18–19. For more information, head over to the Get Outside Melbourne website.
From Tex-Mex eateries to underground mezcal bars, Melbourne has no shortage of Mexican spots. This temple of tacos and tequila, however, has opened in a historically Italian area: Carlton. Setting up shop on Drummond Street, Taquito is small. But small is the name of the game here — literally. "Taquita means little taco, but in an affectionate way," says owner and manager Alex Villareal. "It's a term of endearment." While Taquito's name and space are small, its food is big on flavour. Out the back of the quaint restaurant, you'll find an outdoor area filled with chilli plants and other spices — which, naturally, feature throughout their menu. "We have habanero and cayenne chillies that have been used in our drinks and salsas," says Villereal. "And the big nopal cactus in the dining room is looking like it will have a couple of prickly pears soon, too, which we'll use in our menu". Most menu elements are also prepared in-house, including the tortillas, which is a bit of a rarity in Australia. "Back home in Mexico you could always tell if a taqueria or a restaurant was good because its tortillas were fresh and handmade," says Villereal. "But it is one of the things we miss most about Mexico." According to Villereal, handmade tortillas help elevate the flavour and texture of the fillings. At Taquita, the corn flatbreads are hand-pressed and cooked on a custom charcoal grill, then topped with the likes of fire-roasted, peppery pumpkin matched with velvety avocado and tri-tip steak with fiery salsa and a heaping of rich cheese. You can match them with corn chips (also made in-house) drizzled in hot cheddar, chilli and peppers and radish, sorrel and whipped tofu dip. Still hungry? Look to the bar's cinnamon churros. They arrive with hot chocolate atole (a maize-based drink or dipping sauce), which will (most likely) be downed as quickly as a shot of tequila — another thing that Taquito brings to the table. Alongside a selection of wines and craft beers, Taquito has a lengthy lineup of tequila and mezcal, which feature in all five of its signature cocktails. Order the High Ball — with Trombo tequila, ginger, lemon and plum — if you're looking for something refreshing, or the charred jalapeño-spiked tommy's margarita if you want something with more of a kick. The bar itself has a homely feel — you'll be eating and drinking surrounded by cacti and Mexican trinkets — a vibe Villareal wanted to capture not just in the design, but also in the home-style food and drinks. "I'm originally from Mexico City and have been living in Melbourne for over twelve years," says Villareal. "I have always wanted to find a place that represented Mexican cuisine with food that reminded me of home." Villereal also has big plans for the future of Taquito, too — he's hoping to add on a small brewery, a bottle shop full of Mexican specialities and a margarita on tap. Images: Julia Sansone.
It's hard to get a true snapshot of a place you're holidaying in when you don't know a resident who can show you around. Sydney can be a particularly hard nut to crack — how do you balance seeing its famously show-offy coastal and harbour landmarks, with getting a peek at its less well-lit and polished contemporary underbelly? To help you explore more of the city, we've gathered up a few of the very best, and some lesser known, experiences around town. And to do it, we've enlisted the help of Pullman Hotels and Resorts bar manager Jason Song and executive chef Daniel Simpson, because nobody knows a good secret like someone who works in hospitality. Over at the Hacienda, the bar at the Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour, Song slings drinks with the best of them, having developed an interest in mixology after years of working in a bank. Simpson, meanwhile, has traversed the world, making a living from cooking, and climbing the ladder all the way to the Pullman Sydney Airport. With our combined mental capacity, we've pulled together some of Sydney's best experiences to be had in the realms of food and drink, leisure and wellbeing, and contemporary art and design. So get your Dora on and start exploring. Check out the rest of our Explore More content series to hone your itinerary for some of Australia's best holiday destinations. FOOD & DRINK ARCHIE ROSE While Sydney has a booming beer brewing history, Archie Rose was the first dedicated spirit distillery to operate in Sydney for a very long time. Far too long, some might say. In addition to the creation of unique Australian spirits, a fine cocktail bar is attached to the distillery, and they offer a number of masterclasses on distilling and blending beverages. And while it's a favourite for after-work drinks, the cozy nooks in the bar are also perfect for a date, a solo mission or a get-together with old buddies. Very worth the trip to the industrial area of Rosebery. Don't miss: The Archie Rose signature dry gin and fresh pear and ginger juice ($9) 678 SYDNEY With Sydney's cultural identity being as multifaceted as it is, it's no surprise that some of the best food to be had made its way to our plates from far-off shores. Located in Haymarket in the centre of Sydney, 678 Sydney prepares some of the most delectable Korean barbecue that you'll ever have the pleasure of supping on, and they'll overload you with all the traditional sides that you can handle. If you're a believer in the maxim that if you want something done right then you have to do it yourself, you're in luck, because the responsibility of manning the barbecue rests entirely on the customer. Don't miss: For the more adventurous, have the sliced beef tongue. For everyone else, the soy marinated pork ribs are pretty incredible. COFFEE ALCHEMY From time immemorial, a deep battle has waged between Australia's two largest cities, all about who can combine water, milk and ground coffee beans the best. Cafe and roastery Coffee Alchemy is one of Sydney's coffee heroes, with the product coming out of their Marrickville digs slaking the lust of many a coffee connoisseur with exceptional regularity. While there are more cafes in Sydney than one could poke a stick at, Coffee Alchemy is one of the few that illuminates just how seriously residents of the Emerald City take their coffee. Can't make it to Marrickville? Coffee Alchemy have a number of side projects, including Gumption in the CBD's Strand Arcade. Don't miss: On a hot day, order a Sparkler — carbonated brewed coffee poured from the tap and served in a beer glass. BODEGA As incredible as they are, there's more to the cuisine of South and Central America than tacos and nachos, and Bodega gives you the opportunity to have a crack at a whole lot of it. The menu is a contemporary take on Latin cuisine based around tapas and share plates, with the addition of a booze list that's got something awesome for everyone. The venue itself is an experience, with its '50s-inspired fittings and a playlist of music you'll actually want to listen to. Great for groups, dates and everything in between, Bodega's the perfect place to explore more of Latin America, in Sydney. Don't miss: The Porky Occy Gnocchi is a guiso (stew) of pork shoulder, chorizo and octopus, and is destined to blow your mind. WELLBEING & LEISURE WENDY'S SECRET GARDEN Despite the heaving metropolis that's at the heart of Sydney, it's not hard to find oneself pleasantly lost among a splash of greenery without venturing to the hinterlands. One of the finest examples of this is the stunning and, as the name suggests, secluded Wendy's Secret Garden. The garden was built under the design and direction of Wendy Whiteley, who has said that she knew nothing about horticulture when she started work on the grounds — located in front of the home she shared with her husband, artist Brett Whiteley — and instead built the garden with an emphasis on aesthetic appeal. The never-ending artwork creates a retreat from the urban jungle. Wendy Whiteley was awarded Australia's highest honour, the Order of Australia Medal, for her construction of the garden, and they don't just give those to anybody. Don't miss: Paths wind, diverge and converge within the garden, creating many quiet corners for picnics. SPIT BRIDGE TO MANLY COASTAL WALK Australia has a simply shocking abundance of stunning coastline — a perk of living on what is essentially a gigantic tropical island. One of the best ways to see this coastline is to hike alongside it — there are dozens of such walks in Sydney, each with their own unique character. The Spit Bridge to Manly walk is a great choice, as it not only lets you appreciate some of the most picturesque harbour scenery in the north, it also means you can take the Manly Ferry back to Circular Quay. Start out at the Spit Bridge, about 10 kilometres north of the CBD and trace the headlands all the way to Manly, wandering through bushland, along cliffs, and onto beaches. Don't miss: Take your swimming gear, because the you'll traipse through a number of hidden beaches that are perfect for cooling off from the walk. LA PEROUSE Although perhaps not as well known as some of Sydney famous beach suburbs, La Perouse offers a perfect snapshot of the city's coastal splendours. Snorkelling, scuba diving and stand-up paddleboarding all have their place along this stretch of coastline, which features sheltered, calm beaches like Frenchmans Bay, Congwong and Little Congwong (the latter sometimes trends nudist). La Perouse is located on the northern headland of Botany Bay, so there are also some landmarks of Australia's European colonial history, which you can see on the walk from the beaches to Bare Island. Don't miss: The tower at Bare Island, still functional and intact today, started life as a customs tower to guard against smugglers, then became a home for veterans of the First World War, and has even been a set in Mission: Impossible 2. ART & DESIGN WHITE RABBIT GALLERY Opened in 2009, Judith Neilson's White Rabbit Gallery is home to one of the world's biggest collections of contemporary Chinese art. Focusing solely on artworks created after 2000, the gallery constantly rotates the works on display, and its collection is constantly growing. Works come from some of the most important figures in the Chinese art world (including Ai Weiwei), and entry is free of charge. It'd be nice to leave a donation, though — White Rabbit is a registered charity. Don't miss: If all that culture has made you a touch peckish, the Teahouse in the gallery serves excellent dumplings and snacks, as well as a huge range of Chinese and Taiwanese teas. WE ARE HERE MURAL, FOLEY STREET Far from a raggedy bunch of graffiti, the We Are Here mural that runs for 75 metres parallel to Oxford Street on Foley Street is a coherent story of the vibrant history of the area. From its beginnings as humble track through the dense scrub to the thriving arts and entertainment precinct it is today, the work (a collaboration between artists Sarah Howell, Dylan Demarchi, byrd, The Dirt and Gui Andrade) describes the many and varied parades that have traipsed up Oxford Street over the millennia. Since the land's traditional owners trekked along the route from Botany Bay to Sydney Harbour, Oxford Street has remained an important symbol of Sydney's identity, no more so than every March when thousands march for Mardi Gras, and We Are Here paints this picture perfectly. Don't miss: A recurring motif runs through the mural, portraying the hands that built the area as we know it today, from the artist to the final V for Victory at the conclusion of the piece. CARRIAGEWORKS Converted from a decommissioned train workshop, this arts centre gathers together a little bit of everything that Australia and the world has to offer to the aesthetic appetite. As well as art exhibitions, Carriageworks also hosts regular performances, including some pretty big names in music and theatre. Be sure to grab a coffee or a cocktail and a bite to eat at the in-house bar and cafe, Cornerstone. Don't miss: Carriageworks is open every day, but every Saturday it holds a top-notch farmers' market with fresh produce and some killer breakfasts in the covered outdoor area. Explore more with Pullman. Book your next hotel stay with Pullman and enjoy a great breakfast for just $1.
When you scroll through Netflix's menu, everything from Stranger Things to Bridgerton might catch your eye. Over on Disney+, you could make a beeline to The Mandalorian and WandaVision, while Amazon Prime Video may pique your interest if you're keen on The Boys or Tales From the Loop. But, if you're fond of homegrown films and television programs, you might've noticed that the huge range of streaming platforms on offer Down Under don't typically fund, create and make available all that much new Australian content. The current situation is somewhat better than it was. When Netflix officially launched in Australia back in 2015, its buffet of streaming movies and TV shows noticeably lacked new original local content (indeed, it took more than two years for the popular platform to finally announce that it was making its first Aussie series, Tidelands). It still doesn't overflow with Aussie fare, although it did give Aunty Donna its own delightful comedy. Fellow streamer Stan has been beefing up its catalogue with Aussie movies and shows, though, with the likes of No Activity, Wolf Creek, Bloom, Bump, After the Night, A Sunburnt Christmas, Relic and True History of the Kelly Gang among the local titles joining its ranks. If a group of Australian creatives has anything to do with it, however, there'll be much more local content added to streaming platforms in the future. High Ground's Simon Baker, Hungry Ghosts' Bryan Brown and Justine Clarke, and Ellie and Abbie (and Ellie's Dead Aunt)'s Marta Dusseldorp are all part of the Make It Australian campaign, which is lobbying the Australian Government to implement quotas. The proposal: that all streaming services operating in Australia that have at least 500,000 subscribers are required to spend 20 percent of their local revenue on new Aussie dramas, documentaries and content for children. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8BVoYKwTc4E If the idea sounds familiar, that's because it has been under consideration before, and for some time — with a green paper on the topic published in late 2020, and a consultation period currently open — but nothing has come to fruition as yet. This time around, the group behind the move put forward their case at Parliament House in Canberra on Tuesday, March 16, particularly noting the importance of Australian audiences being able to watch local stories as streaming platforms grow in popularity. Similar quotas are in place regarding Australian programming on both commercial free-to-air television and pay TV — although requirements were altered in 2020 due to the pandemic. And if you're thinking that the Aussie screen industry seems to be in good shape at the moment considering that a huge number of Hollywood titles are being filmed here at present — including everything from Marvel's Thor: Love and Thunder to Nicole Kidman-starring TV series Nine Perfect Strangers, plus new movies directed by Ron Howard and starring George Clooney and Julia Roberts soon to shoot — the current situation isn't the norm. Big productions have been coming to our shores during the pandemic given that Australia's COVID-19 case numbers are low, protocols are in place and it's safe to film here as a result, but that isn't guaranteed to continue once life returns to normal in the US. For more information about the Make It Australian campaign, head to its website. For more information about the media reform green paper, head to the Australian Government website.
