It's that time again, film and television fans: awards season. Shiny trophies are given to deserving actors, directors, writers, producers and more, and the best and brightest movies and TV shows get the recognition that they deserve. Each year, it all starts with the Emmys in September — aka Hollywood's night of nights for everything that airs on a screen that's small, rather than big. If you really love your TV, then you probably react to the annual gongs like Leslie Jones when Regina King won Best Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie at today's ceremony. Or, maybe you're as joyous and shocked as Jen Svendsen, the girlfriend of Glenn Weiss, when the latter proposed to her during his acceptance speech for Outstanding Directing for a Variety Special for his work directing the Oscars. Hosted by Saturday Night Live's Colin Jost and Michael Che, the night saw Che give out reparation Emmys to black talents who were overlooked in previous years, Maya Rudolph and Fred Armisen took everyone through the history of the awards, and #MeToo earned more than a few mentions. Trophy-wise, a number of long-term hits picked up gongs — yes, Game of Thrones won Best Outstanding Drama — while newcomers and overlooked favourites did, too. Of course, some series were cheated. We'll never forget the fact that the third season of Twin Peaks barely received any nominations, or that David Lynch didn't win best director. But, regardless, we've all still got plenty to add to our must-see list. Hope your couch is comfy. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qkxxnqStVbk BARRY What it's about: Assassins are people too in Barry. Actually, the eponymous post-traumatic stress-afflicted sniper turned hitman-for-hire is also an aspiring actor trying to take classes in Los Angeles, after stumbling upon his new calling during a job. He's also attempting to cope with his disorder, and hoping to get out of the murdering game. Bill Hader has never been better than in this dark comedy, which he also co-created, co-wrote and directed episodes of — with Henry Winkler also memorable as Barry's acting coach. Won: Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series (Bill Hader), Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series (Henry Winkler). Where to watch it: Foxtel Now. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOmwkTrW4OQ THE MARVELOUS MRS. MAISEL What it's about: In New York City in 1958, Miriam 'Midge' Maisel (Rachel Brosnahan) has become accustomed to waiting in the wings while her husband tries his hand at stand-up comedy. Then she takes to the stage herself, and this blend of comedy and drama follows the revolutionary aftermath. Picking up best comedy or musical TV series and best lead actress in a comedy or musical TV series at the Golden Globes, too, it's the latest show from Gilmore Girls and Bunheads mastermind Amy Sherman-Palladino. Won: Outstanding Comedy Series, Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series (Rachel Brosnahan), Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series (Alex Borstein), Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series (Amy Sherman-Palladino), Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series (Amy Sherman-Palladino). Where to watch it: Amazon Prime. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qgTtyfgzGc0 BLACK MIRROR What it's about: What isn't Black Mirror about, really? Dreaming up creepily dystopian futures based on society's ever-increasing dependence on technology, the Charlie Brooker-created anthology series has touched upon everything from social media to drones to political scandals to bringing back the dead, and that's just a handful of topics. In its fourth season, it specifically explored toxic fandom in Emmy-winning episode U.S.S. Callister, which looks like a comic take on Star Trek but delves into much darker — and also funnier — territory. Won: Outstanding Writing for a Limited Series, Movie or a Dramatic Special (William Bridges, Charlie Brooker). Where to watch it: Netflix. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7vrC95RwB8 AMERICAN CRIME STORY: THE ASSASSINATION OF GIANNI VERSACE What it's about: It's all there in the name with the second series of anthology effort American Crime Story, which turns real-life crimes into on-screen dramas under the guidance of Glee and American Horror Story executive producer Ryan Murphy. Where the first season covered the OJ Simpson case and won a heap of Emmys, this time around it's the 1997 shooting of fashion designer Gianni Versace that's in the spotlight, with a cast that includes Édgar Ramírez as Versace, Ricky Martin as his long-term boyfriend, Penélope Cruz as his sister Donatella and Darren Criss as the man responsible for a tragic killing spree. Won: Outstanding Limited Series, Outstanding Directing for a Limited Series, Movie or a Dramatic Special (Ryan Murphy), Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie (Darren Criss). Where to watch it: Foxtel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMUiRYoc76A GODLESS What it's about: In the town of La Belle, New Mexico, most of the men have been killed in a mining accident, leaving the women to hold the fort, hold firearms and just generally hold their own. Downton Abbey's Michelle Dockery and Nurse Jackie's Merritt Weaver do just that, while Jeff Daniels plays a gun-toting outlaw and Skins' Jack O'Connell co-stars as the partner he's trying to hunt down. Set in the 1880s, and produced by Steven Soderbergh, clearly this is a western — and a seven-episode mini-series as well. Won: Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie (Jeff Daniels), Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie (Merritt Wever). Where to watch it: Netflix https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIn_MH8_2ig THE AMERICANS What it's about: Spanning six seasons and finishing up earlier in 2018, The Americans takes viewers into the thick of the Cold War during the early 1980s. Elizabeth (Keri Russell) and Philip Jennings (Matthew Rhys) seem like the perfect ordinary couple, with two kids to match and a life in suburbia, but they're actually KGB officers living undercover and spying on the US for Russia. Drama ensues, clearly, in a period-set series that was a critical hit across its entire run. Spy twists, turns and thrills aren't relegated to the big screen, after all. Won: Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series (Matthew Rhys), Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series (Joel Fields, Joseph Weisberg). Where to watch it: Foxtel Now. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLRcgftdh3w WESTWORLD What it's about: Imagine a theme park that takes you to another world (and no, regular amusement parks don't count). At Westworld, attendees feel like they've stepped back to America's wild west, all thanks to a completely immersive park filled with human-like androids that talk, shoot, drink and do plenty of other things as well. It's a fantastic premise, which proved the case when author Michael Crichton turned it into a movie back in 1973, and still remains true now. And with Evan Rachel Wood, Ed Harris, Thandie Newton and James Marsden among the robots — or 'hosts' — wandering around, HBO's take on Westworld also comes with a stacked cast. Won: Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series (Thandie Newton). Where to watch it: Foxtel Now. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ME2umFQ_xBA THE CROWN What it's about: It's the biographical show that made everyone interested in the royal family again, not only thanks to its behind-the-scenes dramas, but courtesy of its stellar cast. Across the first two seasons of this period drama, Claire Foy transforms into a young Queen Elizabeth II and Matt Smith into her husband, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, starting with their marriage in 1947 and covering their lives until the early 1960s. Foy dedicated her award to her fellow actors, who have all been replaced for the series third and fourth seasons, with Olivia Colman and Tobias Menzies taking on the central roles. Won: Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series (Claire Foy). Where to watch it: Netflix.
New voices, same interdimensional chaos: that's what Rick and Morty will start beaming in October. The sci-fi animated sitcom has locked in its return date for season seven, hitting on Sunday, October 15 in America. That's Monday, October 16 Down Under, where it gets schwifty in your streaming queue via Netflix. If you're wondering what kinds of chaos are in store this time around, Adult Swim — which airs the series in the US — isn't giving much away as yet. "We ride together. We die together. We're buried in the backyard together," it teased in a first poster for the new season. And if you're also wondering how the show's titular chaotic scientist and his grandson will sound the new episodes, that hasn't yet been announced. Earlier in the year, the network dropped Justin Roiland due to domestic violence charges. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rick and Morty (@rickandmorty) Anything can happen in Rick and Morty, with a change of vocal tones for Rick Sanchez and Morty Smith one of the least out-there developments within the show's narrative. Given that the show clearly gleaned inspiration from Back to the Future, there's some obvious dream casting right there just waiting to happen — but whoever gets the gigs will be lending their tones to a genius scientist going on wild adventures with a high schooler. Viewers can still expect the show's eponymous pair to keep wreaking havoc, and the series to keep zipping between as many universes as it can. And, for Rick and Morty's hijinks to still draw in Morty's mother Beth (Sarah Chalke, Firefly Lane), father Jerry (Chris Parnell, Archer) and sister Summer (Spencer Grammer, Tell Me a Story). Spanning ten episodes, season seven will hit everywhere that it can in this dimension — in more than 134 countries, and also in 38 languages. If you're keen to rejoin the smartest Rick and Morty-est Morty in the universe, start getting excited. There's no trailer for Rick and Morty's seventh season yet — we'll update you when one arrives. Rick and Morty's seventh season will premiere globally on Monday, October 16 Down Under. It streams via Netflix in Australia and New Zealand.
If 2020 has reminded us of anything, it's that some surprises are truly terrible. But at least there's plenty of the other, nicer kind of surprise to even things out. Like the brand-new Quiet XPA from emerging brewery Heaps Normal, which just happens to be both full-flavoured and surprisingly alcohol-free. Now gracing bottle shop shelves across the country, the unfiltered booze-free ale is Heaps Normal's debut creation, with more non-alcoholic releases planned for the not-too-distant future. It has been carefully brewed to stand up against its more traditional indie craft counterparts, while also promising the glorious gift of zero hangovers. As far as the beery stuff goes, it's got tropical, citrus aromas, backed by a balanced bitterness and just a hint of sweetness from the malt. And, in another win for the health-conscious, the XPA is rocking less calories than the average full-strength beer, plus it's made with less sugar than many alcohol-free alternatives. [caption id="attachment_782993" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Heaps Normal co-founders Andy Miller, Ben Holdstock and Peter Brennan[/caption] Heaps Normal is the brainchild of four mates — Andy Miller, Ben Holdstock, Peter Brennan and Jordy Smith — who each had various reasons for wanting to cut down the booze and are now on a mission to help normalise mindful drinking. And it's clear they're not alone, with results from last year's Australia Talks National Survey suggesting 90 percent of Aussies see drug and alcohol abuse as one of the biggest issues facing our country. In fact, according to a recent Neilsen survey, around two-thirds of Australian drinkers between the ages of 21 and 34 are making an effort to minimise their alcohol consumption. And that's data from before a global pandemic swooped in, cooped us all up at home and saw many folks quaffing a little more than usual. Now, expect to see plenty more booze-free options on offer at bars and bottle shops, as brands like Heaps Normal respond to a growing call for non-alcoholic drinks that taste legit. If you indulged a little more than usual over lockdown and are looking to cut down, you might just be surprised with what guilt-free goodies are out there. Find out more and order your Quiet XPA at the Heaps Normal website.
Did Hollywood have a disagreement with its past, get a fortune cookie predicting the future, feel an earthquake shudder, then wake up back in the 80s and 00s? Based on two new flicks heading to cinemas, yes, it must've. Because everything old is always new again in Tinseltown — a trend that's bringing Cruel Intentions, Twilight and Harry Potter back, too — both Freaky Friday and Beetlejuice are scoring sequels. Unlike those big-screen sagas and their upcoming TV versions, this pair of films is getting movie follow-ups — and they're set to feature members of their original casts as well. For Freaky Friday 2: Freak Harder (which won't be its actual name), that means reuniting Everything Everywhere All At Once Oscar-winner Jamie Lee Curtis with Lindsay Lohan (Falling for Christmas) two decades later. With Beetlejuice 2: Electric Boogaloo (again, not its actual name), Michael Keaton (Morbius) and Winona Ryder (Stranger Things) are back with the poltergeists. The Hollywood Reporter confirmed the Freaky Friday news, noting that Elyse Hollander will pen the script. Story details haven't been revealed, but body-swapping is bound to feature given that's what Freaky Friday has always been about. Drinking, dancing, getting angry that your mum won't let you go to your band's big audition, eating those enchanted cookies — perhaps that'll all get worked in as well. For this franchise, it all started with 1972 book by Mary Rodgers, then the 1976 Jodie Foster (The Mauritanian)-starring first movie adaptation, and also a 1995 remake with Gaby Hoffman (C'mon C'mon). After 2003's beloved Curtis- and Lohan-led take, horror flick Freaky gave the idea a spin in 2020. Freaky Friday 2 doesn't have a release date yet, but Beetlejuice 2 does: September 6, 2024 in the US. It'll continue the story started in Tim Burton's 1988 hit Beetlejuice, with Wednesday favourite Jenna Ortega playing the daughter of Ryder's Lydia Deetz. As Variety reports, Justin Theroux (White House Plumbers) is also among the cast. You don't need a Handbook for the Recently Deceased in your ghostly hands to get excited, but you might spend time with folks with one, which is what happened with the original flick's Barbara and Adam Maitland (GLOW's Geena Davis and Dr Death's Alec Baldwin). In the first film, viewers also saw what happened when that pair started to suspect that they're no longer alive, a new family moved into their house (including Schitt's Creek's Catherine O'Hara) and they decided they needed a 'bio-exorcist'. The Freaky Friday sequel doesn't yet have a release date, while Beetlejuice 2 will release in September 2024 — we'll keep you updated as more details are announced. Via The Hollywood Reporter / Variety.
With a soft spot for the greener things in life, Folia House is a much-loved destination for plant-aholics, stocked with a hefty range of seasonal and indoor varieties. Inside, you'll find a lush assortment of hanging plants, cacti, succulents, ferns and other potted greenery, as well as all the bits and pieces you'll need to knock together your own terrarium. There's also a neat collection of pots and planters to help keep those plant babies looking schmick. Keep an eye on the Folia House Facebook page to see when new goodies land in store — and to catch the store's regular indoor plant sales.
Melbourne-born furniture label Jardan now has a new space in which to showcase its covetable designs, this week opening the doors to its stunning Sydney flagship store on Paddington's Oxford Street. IF Architecture — the Melbourne firm responsible for the likes of wine bar Marion, Cutler & Co's recent makeover and Jardan's Melbourne and Brisbane stores — has transformed the two-storey art deco building once home to Ariel Booksellers into a seriously good-looking showroom, where colour reigns supreme. Reflecting Jardan's own 30-year connection with Australian home life, the interiors of the new store pay homage to the country's most influential art and design families, inspired by their iconic interpretations of Sydney's ever-changing colour palette. To that end, expect tones that speak to the vivid blues of Brett Whiteley's Sydney Harbour painting, the oranges, blues and greens synonymous with Louise Olsen and Stephen Ormandy's Dinosaur Designs, and the bold colours favoured by celebrated interior designer Marion Hall Best. The store — which is their first in Sydney — will leave design buffs with their jaw on the floor. Even if you're not in the market for some expensive new designer furniture, if you're in Sydney, it's well worth dropping in for a peek. Jardan's new Sydney flagship store is located at 42 Oxford Street, Paddington. For more info, visit jardan.com.au.
Having worked with a who's who of actors, athletes and entertainers, American photographer David LaChapelle is known as one of the forefront fashion photographers of our time. Never before seen in Australia, the Art Gallery of Ballarat will host a major exhibition of LaChapelle's most famous portraits, fashion shoots, and fine art projects. Getting his start for Andy Warhol's Interview Magazine at just the age of 17, throughout a hugely successful career, LaChapelle has photographed the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio, Pamela Anderson, David Beckham and Madonna. Having retired from the fashion industry in 2006, LaChapelle underwent a period of self-discovery, emerging inspired to return to fine art and commentate on social issues facing the world today. This period has seen LaChapelle produce cutting-edge photography that explores consumerism, atonement and salvation, while highlighting themes around contemporary art practice and history. Showcasing more than 90 of his works, David LaChapelle headlines the Ballarat International Foto Biennale and runs from Saturday, August 19 until Sunday, September 17. Image: David LaChapelle, Last Supper (2003).
You will feel incredibly safe with award-winning industry expert Charlene Fernandez looking after your locks. If Fernandez can be trusted with Gigi Hadid's golden tresses at New York Fashion Week, there's a high chance she can be trusted with your luscious locks, too. Just last year Ferdandez took home the 'Independent Stylist of the Year' award at the Australian Hairdressing Industry Awards. And, you can access some of that award-winning hair styling right in the heart of Armadale. Need help deciding what to do with your hair? Charlene will start your service with a thorough consultation to ensure you leave with gorgeous hair and practical stying tips to maintain that good-hair-day feeling everyday.
This time each year, for close to three decades, the Singapore Food Festival has dished up one of Southeast Asia's best-known culinary celebrations. But for those who can't jump on a plane to catch the real deal, Windsor's Hawker Hall is serving up a local fix, with its own Singapore Food Festival running from Wednesday, August 24–Sunday, September 11. Across the two-and-a-half weeks, you'll be able to sate your travel cravings with riffs on classic Singaporean dishes, such as spicy seafood laksa, chilli lobster with fluffy mantou steamed buns, hawker-style barbecue wings and rojak fruit salad. [caption id="attachment_843531" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hawker Hall[/caption] Meanwhile, the bar has created two festival-exclusive cocktails to pair with your hawker feast, including the tequila- and umeshu-infused Cala Chameleon, and a tweaked Singapore Sling featuring gin, pineapple, cherry brandy, benedictine and curacao. And on Saturday, September 10, Hawker Hall Head Chef Andrea Kok leads a yum cha cooking class for those keen to learn how to recreate the magic at home. Tickets are $99 (available online), which includes a hefty post-class hawker feast.
BTS ARMY unite: you've got a new must-visit getaway spot, and Airbnb wants to make your dreams a reality. Fancy getting a dream glow because you're holidaying in the dynamite South Korean estate where BTS filmed season two of their reality show In the Soop? Of course you do — and, if you nab the overnight stay, you obviously have permission to dance. The series' second season dropped back in 2021, so if you always have 'Butter', 'Heartbeat' or 'Fake Love' on rotation in your head, you've probably been eyeing off a stay in PyeongChang for a while. Your chance now comes via Airbnb, with the accommodation service adding to its lengthy list of pop culture-themed one-off experiences — which also includes the Bluey house, the Moulin Rouge!, the Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine and The Godfather mansion in the past few months. The idea with this listing: letting two BTS fans relax in the South Korean countryside like their idols did. Even if you're not a diehard devotee, it looks like a mighty luxe place to stay. Clearly, you'll get more out of it if you live, breathe and worship the band, given that it's largely decked out as it was during their time there. That includes some of the furniture seen on the show, so you can kick back with a book like RM, float on a unicorn in the pool like Jin and hit the trampoline like Jung Kook. Also included: a karaoke machine, sound system and all of BTS' songs and albums, right up to their latest record Proof; and a specially catered menu, including charcoal grilled Korean beef and tteokbokki. And, because there's seven BTS members, the one-night stay costs just US$7 — which is just over AU$10 / around NZ$11. Sadly, if you score the booking, you'll just miss out on the best spring day ever, with the trip taking place on August 29. If you're keen to make it right all night and stay gold in the scenic estate, you'll need to try to nab the reservation at 12pm AEST on Tuesday, August 2. As with all Airbnb special listings like this, you need to take care of your own travel costs there and back, including airfares — although this one does cover the round trip by car from KTX PyeongChang station to the BTS In the Soop property. For more information about the BTS In the Soop estate listing on Airbnb, or to apply to book at 12pm AEST on Tuesday, August 2, head to the Airbnb website. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy. Images: Time of Blue.
If you've been walking around Sydney in the last week, you may have noticed the fancy new plaques at most street crossings. But what you probably didn't know is that these signs now make up the most comprehensive network of braille and tactile signs in the world. That's right: the entire world. Thanks to the major effort by Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore, the signs were officially launched on Monday, July 4, with more than 2100 braille and raised-letter signs installed at pedestrian crossings in the city. The aluminium panels, which denote street names and building numbers, have been placed next to push buttons at crossing areas. These plaques improve signage and accessibility for the blind and vision impaired, and will allow them to navigate the city streets much more easily. A champion for the vision impaired, Moore is aiming to make Sydney more accessible for both locals and tourists. "The signs make it easier and safer for people who are blind or have low vision to use their city — to have the freedom and the independence of movement that most of us can take for granted," she told Concrete Playground. Basically, she rules. Both Vision Australia and Guide Dogs NSW/ACT are giving this act two thumbs way up and were integral in the program launch. "The design and installation arose from extensive consultation with the community and on-site testing with Guide Dogs NSW/ACT and Vision Australia," says Moore. "My sincere thanks to them for their help in this significant step towards an even more open and inclusive city." Making sure Sydney is accessible to the vision impaired is becoming increasingly important by the year — it is estimated that around 100,000 people suffer from non-correctable vision loss in NSW alone, and that number is predicted to increase by more than 20 percent by 2020. We've been truly impressed with Sydney's initiatives of late – like the fact that we're getting our own entrepreneur school and a permanent School of Life. This new braille network is a massive leap forward for the city's planning and an overall ace move. Nice one, Sydney. Image: Clover Moore via Instagram.
If you're lucky enough to score tickets to Meredith Music Festival in any year via the event's ballot, one of Australia's best fests awaits no matter the lineup. 2025's roster of acts is characteristically impressive, however. On the just-dropped bill: TV on the Radio, Atarashii Gakko! and Perfume Genius, for starters, as well as Thee Sacred Souls, Pa Salieu, HAAi, Bar Italia, Colin Hay and Mildlife. And, there's still more where the came from. Folk Bitch Trio, Saya Gray, RONA. and Omar Souleyman are on the lineup, too. So are Dames Brown, Radio Free Alice, Sam Austins RP Boo, Wax'o Paradiso, Florist and Jack J. Add in Drifting Clouds, Dr Sure's Unusual Practice, Central Australian Aboriginal Women's Choir, Mouseatouille, Brown Spirits and Lazy Susan on MC duties, and expect a jam-packed three days across Friday, December 5–Sunday, December 7, 2025. [caption id="attachment_1017126" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sumner Dilworth[/caption] How is the fest crew describing this year's event? "One of the best places on earth to spend a weekend, the Meredith Supernatural Amphitheatre has been natured and nurtured and then natured again, for the singular purpose of hosting the time of your life," organisers advise. So, expect "a permanent and purpose-built underground wunderland that provides optimal conditions for rarefied reverie", as well as to get "lost in music, lost in one another, for three days and two nights of Sup'ed up saucery". 2025 marks the beloved festival's 33rd year, with this three-decade-plus tradition taking over its namesake Victorian locale to kick off summer. The first round of the ticket ballot for the three-day BYO camping festival opened in July and ended on Monday, August 11, 2025, but you still have a chance to enter. The second round is now open, and you've got until 10.33pm AEST on Tuesday, August 19, 2025 to put your name in. So, book that long weekend, go in the running for tickets, then cross your fingers that you'll be spending a trio of days at The Sup with Tunde Adebimpe and company. [caption id="attachment_1017128" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cody Critcheloe[/caption] Meredith Music Festival 2025 Lineup TV on the Radio Atarashii Gakko! Perfume Genius Thee Sacred Souls Pa Salieu HAAi Bar Italia Colin Hay Mildlife Folk Bitch Trio Saya Gray RONA. Omar Souleyman Dames Brown Radio Free Alice Sam Austins RP Boo Wax'o Paradiso Florist Jack J Drifting Clouds Dr Sure's Unusual Practice Central Australian Aboriginal Women's Choir Mouseatouille Brown Spirits Lazy Susan Meredith Music Festival returns to Meredith from Friday, December 5–Sunday, December 7, 2025. To put your name in the second round of the ballot to get your hands on tickets, head to the festival's website before 10.33pm AEST on Tuesday, August 19. Meredith Music Festival images: Chip Mooney, Leah Hulst, Ben Fletcher, Chelsea King and Steve Benn.
Melburnians get the best of both worlds — city and country. Within just two hours from our buzzing metropolis lies magnificent waterfalls, towering peaks, tranquil bays and ancient rainforests. Next time you need a breath of fresh air and some spectacular scenery, jump in the car and drive yourself to one of the nearby hiking trails. To help you decide on a location, we've whipped up a list of the best scenic hikes in regional Victoria. The best part is, they can all be achieved in a day — from the Mornington Peninsula's sparkling Two Bays adventure to the Otway's many enchanting cascades. These walks are all both beautiful and doable. ERSKINE RIVER TRACK, GREAT OTWAY NATIONAL PARK The Great Otway National Park scores more rainfall than most other parts of Victoria, so, it's a waterfall chaser's gold mine (sorry, TLC). Among the most popular are Erskine Falls, whose 30 metres of water tumbles into a lush gully along Erskine River. The falls mark the beginning of the Erskine River Track, an adventurous 7.5-kilometre trail that involves several river crossings and log bridges. Along the way, you'll pass through the natural amphitheatre of the Sanctuary, as well as two other waterfalls — Straw and Spitter — before reaching the river mouth at Lorne. Shorter strolls include the one-kilometre walk to Hopetoun Falls, the one-kilometre trail to Carisbrook Falls and the three-kilometre hike to Beauchamp Falls. To cap off the day, stop by the Great Ocean Road Brewhouse and sample one of the 100 beers on offer while enjoying ocean views. The Great Otway National Park is two hours' drive southwest of Melbourne. TOORONGO FALLS, MOUNT BAW BAW You might've seen Toorongo Falls in photos but it's not until you're standing underneath the two waterfalls that you can appreciate the full breadth of their beauty. Encircled by tall gum trees and rainforest ferns, the falls tumble down several rocky cascades into Toorongo River. The easy 750-metre walk passes through thriving bushland where you can expect to meet brushtail possums, sugar gliders and an array of bats. The drive is pretty, too, following Toorongo River much of the way. To make this trip extra special, stop by Stella's Pantry in Warragul, pick up fromage and cured meats and have a post-hike picnic. Or, if you prefer someone else to prepare your fare, head to Frankies in Warragul for delicious cakes and pastries. Toorongo Falls is situated on Mount Baw Baw, around 90 minutes' drive east of Melbourne. TWO BAYS, MORNINGTON PENINSULA As the name suggests, this walk transports you to two of Mornington Peninsula's most picturesque bays but that's far from its only attraction. Along the way, you'll also take in Arthurs Seat's panoramic vistas, dreamy Kings Falls and Greens Bush — a haven for native plants and animals. Keep your eyes peeled for wedge-tailed eagles, honeyeaters, black wallabies and sugar gliders. At 26 kilometres, the Two Bays trek is the longest walk on the Mornington Peninsula. While the trail is relatively close to the city, it's a good idea to leave early so you have plenty of time to explore. And, after you've sweat it out, finish up with a well-earned drink and pub lunch at Jetty Road Brewery. Two Bays is an hour's drive from Melbourne. KEPPEL LOOKOUT, DANDENONGS From Keppel Lookout, you can see half of Victoria. Well, not quite, but it certainly seems that way when you're gazing over the Cathedral Range State Park, Marysville and Steavenson Falls (which, at 84 metres, are the highest falls in Victoria). It's undoubtedly one of the most scenic spots in the state, however, getting there isn't easy. The 11-kilometre loop trail covers quite a bit of steep, uneven terrain, so it's for confident walkers only. If you're looking for a more relaxing escapade stick to Tree Fern Gully Trail, it's a gentle 3.4-kilometre stroll (or cycle) through mountain ash, manna gum and, you guessed it, tree ferns. If you're keen for some tucker after your trek, drop by Kelly's Bar and Kitchen in Olinda and order the Kelly's Notorious Wagyu Burger — it'll sort you out. Keppel Lookout is around two hours' drive east of Melbourne. [caption id="attachment_668784" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Andrew Harvey.[/caption] CATHEDRAL RANGE STATE PARK Cathedral Range State Park gives you 3577 hectares of rugged wilderness to explore. If you need to gain some height and clear your head, this is the place to do it. There are a variety of walks but for varied terrain and stunning scenery, conquer the Cathedral Range Southern Circuit. This 10.5-kilometre journey ascends Sugarloaf, the Cathedrals' highest peak, before following a scenic ridgeline. Fair warning, the trail is pretty steep and sparsely signposted, so you'll need some hiking experience under your belt. Alternatively, you can settle for a shorter and easier jaunt — such as the two-kilometre Friends Nature Trail or the three-kilometre Little River Track —there are plenty of possibilities for all manner of hiker. Take a slight detour on the way home and drop by the Yarra Valley to check out the wineries; you deserve a nice tipple after all that walking. The Cathedral Range State Park, about a two hours' drive northeast of Melbourne. For more spring places, spaces and events to discover in regional Victoria visit Your Happy Space. Top Image: Toorongo Falls.
If you've got a penchant for being pampered, bathing in thermal waters and booking in a bit of spa time to take the weight off your shoulders (literally) — what a time to be alive. The Mornington Peninsula's Alba Thermal Springs and Spa is mere weeks from opening, the long-awaited Metung Hot Springs is now taking bookings and — what's this? We're getting yet another wellness destination, with Aurora Spa & Bathhouse set to open its doors within The Continental Sorrento next month. Slated to launch in late October, the new flagship venue from Aurora Spa Group takes the form of a luxe thermal bathhouse, spa and wellness centre, offering a contemporary take on ancient European water therapies. Here, award-winning design studio Woods Baggot (W Melbourne, Barlow) have created a stylish coastal-inspired sanctuary filled with neutral tones, sandy terrazzo tile and oak panelling, aligning to their design notes in the adjacent hotel. A one-stop-shop for healing, soothing and regeneration, Aurora Spa & Bathhouse boasts a suite of cutting-edge facilities, including a Nordic-style sauna space featuring one of the largest saunas in the southern hemisphere. Clocking in at 1000 square metres and with space for 60 visitors at a time, the bathhouse will be home to four interconnecting hydro-therapy pools, as well as an aromatherapy steam room, a halotherapy (a treatment that involves breathing in salty air) suite, a glacial mist chamber and sensory showers. Alternatively, make a date with Aurora's spa to enjoy features like a magnesium float room, an apothecary station for whipping up custom salt blends, and eight dedicated treatment rooms offering a wide range of rituals and therapies. Find Aurora Spa & Bathhouse in The Continental Sorrento, 23 Constitution Hill Road, Sorrento, from late October. We'll share more details as they drop.
As part of the City of Yarra’s annual Leaps and Bounds music festival, Ali Bird and Richard Stanley of Aarght Records are making Sundays a little more tune-filled for everyone. Kicking off at midday for three Sundays in July, a solid lineup of bands, top notch vinyl record market and smorgasbord of treats await to round off your weekend . Let’s be honest, cheap Bloody Marys, Uncle Dougie’s BBQ and vegan cupcakes from Sweetie Pie & Cuddle Cakes is just what the doctor ordered for a Sunday recovery session. We have to admit, Copacabana on Smith St is an unexpected venue choice, but the daggy and unpretentious 'so bad it’s good' vibe might just be the ticket. Musical goodness to look forward to includes Dick Diver, Scott and Charlene’s Wedding, The Galaxy Folk, Total Giovanni and Misty Nights DJs on July 13. Then it's Harmony, Bitch Prefect and Empat Lima on July 20. The Independent Record Fair, which will also be held on July 13, will see local labels such as Two Bright Lakes, Mistletone, It Records, Bedroom Suck and Chapter Music selling records from their own artist catalogues. Sounds like a pretty good way to spend a chilly winter Sunday to us.
From high speed car chases across the post-apocalyptic outback to heartbreaking tales of love and loss, 2015 was a pretty great year for Australian cinema. Films like Mad Max and The Dressmaker hit it big at the box-office, while Holding the Man and Last Cab to Darwin had people reaching for their handkerchiefs. Throw in a couple of strong documentaries in the form of Gayby Baby and That Sugar Film, along with crowd-pleasing family fare like Oddball and Paper Planes, and it seems like local audiences are finally coming around to the idea that movies made in Australia can be every bit as good as those made overseas. Of course, in order to keep up that positive perception, the local film industry needs to keep making great films. Luckily, it looks like they're up to the challenge. We've already given you our list of our most anticipated international efforts, but now, here are the ten Australian films you need to see in 2016. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pSse2RIapEA THE DAUGHTER The debut film from theatre director Simon Stone (adapted from his own critically acclaimed stage play), The Daughter arrives in cinemas following great reviews at a number of local and international film festivals last year. A reworking of Henrik Ibsen's The Wild Duck, this nuanced family drama concerns a man, played by Paul Schneider, who returns to the small logging town where he grew up, only to uncover a secret that could tear the lives of his friends and family apart. With Geoffrey Rush, Ewen Leslie, Miranda Otto and Sam Neill, it might have the best cast of any Australian film this year. The Daughter is due in cinemas on March 17. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dn2vfS6bbK0 SHERPA Anyone who saw Everest might think they have an idea of what it's like to climb the world's tallest mountain. But as this eye-opening documentary from filmmaker Jennifer Peedom reveals, you only know a fraction of the story. Sherpa shows the efforts of the native mountain guides, who risk life and limb in order to get foreign visitors to the summit. Over the course of a season, tension begins to brew between the locals, the tourists and the companies that facilitate the climbs, before finally boiling over in the wake of a deadly avalanche. A powerful, troubling film — it's of the best things we caught at last year's Sydney Film Festival, and an absolute must see in 2016. Sherpa is due in cinemas on March 24. DOWN UNDER A comedy about the Cronulla race riots? It's safe to say Down Under could either be brilliant or a total disaster. Director Abe Forsythe appears to be deliberately courting controversy — not that there's anything wrong with that, per se. With racism and Islamophobia still major issues in this country, a dark comedy that tears into good old Aussie jingoism could be exactly what the doctor ordered. Of course, satire is a tricky thing — and easy to muck up. Guess we'll just have to wait and see. Down Under is due in cinemas on August 4. 2:22 Between Predestination, The Infinite Man and the recent remake of Patrick, it's been a good few years for homegrown science fiction. Continuing this trend (we hope) is Paul Currie's 2:22, an American-Australian co-production in which a man is forced to relive the same day over and over, always ending when the clock hits — you guessed it — 2.22pm. Game of Thrones actor Michiel Huisman stars alongside Australia's own Teresa Palmer. Imagine Groundhog Day remade as a psychological thriller, and you'd be roughly on the right track. 2:22 is due in cinemas in 2016. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-98kUEnkxHM DOWNRIVER Writer-director Grant Scicluna's feature film debut was one of the most buzzed about local films at last year's Melbourne Film Festival. Reef Ireland (Puberty Blues) plays James, a young man recently released from prison after serving time for his involvement in the drowning of a small boy. Looking for redemption, James sets out to recover the boy's body, only to find himself in danger when it becomes clear that his accomplices would rather the past remain buried. Downriver looks grim and compelling in equal measure, and could well mark the emergence of a promising new Australian film talent. Downriver is due in cinemas in 2016. THE FAMILY This upcoming documentary, from director Rosie Jones, promises to pull back the curtain on Australia's most notorious cult. For three decades between the 1960s and 1990s, Anne Hamilton-Byrne led a group of devoted followers as the head of a sect known as The Family. Controlling her disciples, including a host of "adopted" children, through a mix of physical abuse and mind-altering drugs, Hamilton-Byrne convinced cult members she was the reincarnation of Jesus, before their compound was eventually raided by police. It's a story made all the more troubling for having taken place in our own backyard. The Family is due in cinemas in 2016. GOLDSTONE Actor Aaron Pedersen and filmmaker Ivan Sen are reuniting for a sequel/spin-off to their masterful outback thriller Mystery Road. Pederson returns as Indigenous detective Jay Swan, who finds himself in the eponymous town of Goldstone while investigating a missing persons case, only to find himself caught up in a web of crime and corruption. He'll be joined in front of the camera by two-time Oscar nominee Jacki Weaver, veteran Indigenous actors David Gulpilil and Tom E. Lewis, and Hong Kong martial arts star Cheng Pei-pei. If it's half as good as Mystery Road it'll be a contender for best film of the year. Goldstone is due in cinemas in 2016. JASPER JONES The new film from Bran Nue Dae director Rachel Perkins, Jasper Jones is an adaptation of Craig Silvey's award winning novel, described by at least one reviewer as Australia's To Kill a Mockingbird. Set in the fictional WA town of Corrigan in the mid 1960s, the film tells the story of 13-year-old Charlie Bucktin who befriends the eponymous Jasper Jones, a half-white, half-indigenous boy from the wrong side of the tracks. Toni Collette, Hugo Weaving and Dan Wyllie are set to co-star, although it's the younger cast members who will ultimately make or break the film. Jasper Jones is due in cinemas in 2016. LION Adapted from Hobart man Saroo Brierley's best-selling memoir, Lion stars Dev Patel as a young man who was adopted by an Australian couple (Nicole Kidman and David Wenham) as a child, who travels to India to try and track down his biological family. Rooney Mara co-stars, along with a number of high-profile Indian actors, giving this cross-cultural drama a real shot at international success. The film marks director Garth Davis' first feature film, following on from strong work on Top of the Lake. Lion is due in cinemas in 2016. NEST We've got two words for anyone who thinks Australian films are serious and boring: giant bloody spiders. Okay, so that's technically three words, but you get what we're trying to say. A Chinese-Australian co-production directed by Kimble Rendall — the same guy behind the wonderfully schlocky sharks in a supermarket movie Bait — this 3D creature feature stars Kellan Lutz, Kelsey Grammar, Shane Jacobson and Li Bingbing as a group of scientists who become lost in a labyrinth full of enormous, man-eating funnel web spiders. Leave your scaredy-cat friends at home. Nest is due in cinemas in 2016.
Those hobbits will go on. In JRR Tolkien's pages, they went on perilous Middle-earth adventures. On screens big and small for decades so far (and into the future, with more movies on the way), they've trekked, ate second breakfasts and attempted to project precious jewellery. Onstage in Australia in 2025, they're also marking an eleventy-first birthday, receiving a gold ring, taking a quest to Mordor and attempting to fight evil, all in The Lord of the Rings — A Musical Tale. Dating back to 2006, just after the original live-action movie trilogy, this stage musical was revived in the UK in 2023, opened in the US in July 2024 and hit New Zealand in November 2024. After that, it's taking the hobbits to Australia, including to Melbourne's Comedy Theatre. The Exhibition Street venue's season kicks off on Saturday, April 26. Lord of the Rings fans, take note: you'll want to go there and back again to discover what happens when Middle-earth gets melodic. Your guides for the show are the hobbits, of course, as Frodo and company celebrate Bilbo Baggins, then depart The Shire upon a life-changing journey. Thanks to Tolkien, what occurs from there has enthralled audiences for 70 years now, with The Fellowship of the Ring and The Two Towers initially hitting bookshelves in 1954. There's been no shortage of ways to indulge your Lord of the Rings love since Peter Jackson's features — including his Hobbit trilogy — helped fan the flames of pop culture's affection for Frodo, Samwise, Pippin, Merry and the franchise's many non-underground-dwelling characters. Cinema marathons, visiting the Hobbiton movie set, staying there overnight, hitting up pop-up hobbit houses, sipping hobbit-themed beer: they've all been on the agenda. Only The Lord of the Rings — A Musical Tale is combining all things LoTR with tunes and dancing, however, in a show that sports a book and lyrics by from Shaun McKenna (Maddie, La Cava) and Matthew Warchus (Matilda the Musical, Groundhog Day the Musical), plus original music by Slumdog Millionaire Oscar-winner AR Rahman, folk band Värttinä from Finland and Matilda the Musical alum Christopher Nightingale. Images: Liz Lauren.
Everyone needs a holiday to look forward to. With 2025 now officially into its second month, and everyone's Christmas breaks feeling like a lifetime ago, planning your next getaway is a self-care essential. Fancy heading overseas, but not too far, to either laze around on a beach or see some mountainous sights? Enter Virgin's latest sale, which focuses on short-haul international flights. Trips to Bali, Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu and New Zealand this year just got cheaper — and you've got five days to grab a bargain. So, get your suitcases ready and book that annual leave. Fares start at $439 return, and are available until midnight AEST on Friday, February 7, 2025, unless sold out earlier. The cheapest option is Melbourne–Queenstown return, but you can also head there and back from Sydney for $469. Next comes Brisbane to Port Vila in Vanuatu from $479, while trips to Bali from Melbourne start at $499 and kick off at $509 from the Gold Coast. Or, get to Queenstown and back from Brisbane from $549 — or to Fiji from Sydney for $569, from Brisbane for $589 and from Melbourne for $599. Other deals include Sydney–Bali from $619, Brisbane–Bali from $659 and Brisbane–Samoa from $689. This sale began at 12.01am AEST on Monday, February 3, 2025, with prices covering Virgin's Economy Lite option. If you're wondering when you'll need to travel, these deals are for periods between Monday, February 17, 2025–Friday, December 12, 2025, with all dates varying per route. As always, inclusions also differ depending on your ticket — and, as usual when it comes to flight sales, you'll need to get in quick. Virgin's February 2025 international flight sale runs until midnight AEST on Friday, February 7, 2025 — unless sold out earlier. 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.
Fancy scoring some new Aussie-made threads at the price of your choosing — and earning some much-needed funds for an eco charity in the process? Well, for the next few days, you can, thanks to a clever new initiative by local brand Assembly Label. The Sydney-based brand is best known for its minimalist aesthetic, but now it's also hoping to help minimise ocean pollution by adding a 'choose what you pay' option to its online store between June 20 and 23. It works like this. A range of Assembly's designs (both womens and mens) are currently available at up to 50 percent off. When you go to add something to your cart, you have the option of adding on a donation — you can pay what's on the pricetag, or add on $5, $10 or $15 more. Any extra amount is then donated to the Australian Marine Conservation Society (AMCS), with each customer donation matched equally by Assembly Label. So, if you fork out an extra $15 for those linen pants, $30 will go to the charity. View this post on Instagram Beachside essentials, our Crossover Pool Slide will be included in our Choose What You Pay promotion alongside a selection of men's and women's apparel and accessories. Online tomorrow from 9am and proudly supporting @marineconservation.au A post shared by Assembly Label (@assemblylabel) on Jun 19, 2019 at 12:21am PDT AMCS is an independent charity focused on the big issues affecting the sea, from improving the sustainability of Australia's fisheries, to protecting threatened species. The extra funds raised through the 'choose what you pay' program will go towards supporting its campaign against plastic pollution in the ocean. The sale is the latest in a number of moves Assembly Label is making to reduce its environmental impact and encourage others to jump on board. It's now using 100 percent biodegradable material for its packaging, has cut down on plastic waste wherever possible, and is working towards full transparency with all of its manufacturing processes. Assembly's also aiming to become a certified B Corporation, which'll require hitting the highest standards of ethical measurement across all aspects of its business. Needless to say, if you're in need of some new basic tees or a labelled sweater, now is the time to grab them. Assembly Label's Choose What You Pay sale will run from June 20–23 through its online store.
When an Australian series becomes the Foxtel Group's most-watched original scripted show of all time, it's bound to keep bounding back for more seasons. That program is Colin From Accounts — and after 2022's gem of a first season saw it renewed for a second, the latter has sparked a third as well. Harriet Dyer and Patrick Brammall will be back on-screen, and also writing and executive producing, as the Aussie rom-com follows what comes next for their characters Ashley and Gordon. "We're very excited to bring you season three of our show. To be honest, with the way we ended season two it would have been weird not to make a third, so here we are. We promise we won't leave you hanging like that again. Probably," said Dyer and Brammall, confirming Colin From Accounts' third run. "We couldn't pass up the opportunity for fans to see what's next for Ash and Gordon (and Colin!). Colin From Accounts has delighted fans the world over and we're proud to commission a third season of this hilarious, chaotic and relatable series that has stolen our hearts," added Foxtel Group's Head of Scripted Lana Greenhalgh. When the series began, Dyer's (American Auto) Ashley and Brammall's (Evil) Gordon first crossed paths thanks to a flashed nipple and an injured dog, then an agreement to co-parent the pooch as it recovered. As a relationship blossomed beyond more than just taking care of the titular canine, little has gone smoothly — with the adorable Colin, and also with the pair's romance. As well as proving an Australian hit — complete with AACTAs and Logies to prove it — for real-life couple and No Activity stars Dyer and Brammall, the show has earned fans overseas, with Foxtel Group licensing it to 150 territories globally. There's no word yet as to exactly when Colin From Accounts will return, what the narrative will follow, and who among the rest of the cast and past guest stars will be back, but renewing the series comes at a crucial time for Binge. With Max launching in Australia at the end of March 2025, the latter has lost its initial big selling point: HBO's content. Here's hoping that more homegrown shows like this charming hit will get the green light to help fill the gap. There's no trailer for season three of Colin From Accounts yet, but check out the trailers for seasons one and two below: Colin From Accounts streams via Binge — we'll update you with a release date for season three when one is announced. Read our review of season one and our review of season two, plus our interview with Harriet Dyer and Patrick Brammall. Images: Lisa Tomasetti / Tony Mott / Brook Rushton.
Across its stable of renowned Italian eateries, mozzarella bars and delis, the DOC Group (including DOC Pizza & Mozzarella Bar Carlton and Sydney, plus DOC Espresso Carlton) has earned a solid reputation for many things. That includes its signature pizzas and top-quality salumi selection; however, those classics are taking a backseat at the team's latest addition — a new restaurant dedicated to food that is entirely vegetarian, vegan and gluten free. Bio by DOC has taken over the Carlton site once home to The Town Mouse, where long-time collaborators Studio Strom have added a refresh. Think: locally made custom furniture, a new green-coloured bar, a leafy back courtyard and some clever splashes of neon. In the kitchen, veteran DOC Group chef Tomaso Bartoli is steering the new culinary concept, carefully intertwining the brand's trademark Italian sensibilities, but with all vegan and vegetarian ingredients. Not only is it a reminder that meat needn't be the cornerstone of a great food offering, but impressively, the entire menu is also gluten free. Snacks include the likes of mini eggplant parmigiana ($12) matched with burrata and a black cabbage pesto, plus a vegan-friendly tartare of grilled vegetables ($15) finished with capers, mustard and truffle paste. You can get your pasta fix with plates like the charcoal spaghetti ($26); a beetroot casarecce finished with mushrooms and truffle paste ($31); and a vegan lasagne layered with spinach pasta sheets, lentil ragu and bechamel ($27). There's more plant-based fun to be had over on the dessert list, too — expect dishes like a classic tiramisu reworked with cashew cream ($14), and sweet potato pancakes with popcorn ice cream ($16). From the drinks lineup, the vegan cocktail offering features sips like a Japanese twist on the negroni, plus the Oasis — which uses rum, coconut water and a pineapple shrub. There's also a considered wine selection, showcasing both Italian vino and locally-grown varietals from the likes of Merli and Heathcote's Vinea Marson.
Melbourne has entered yet another snap lockdown, which is set to run until at least 8pm on Thursday, August 12. It means the city's hospitality venues must keep their dine-in services closed, switching the focus to takeaway and delivery. Luckily, this isn't their first rodeo, so many of them have been able to pivot and pivot fast. The result of this head-spinning feat is that bars, cafes and restaurants across the city are already offering takeaway food and delivery meals. So, you can put down that fifth can of tuna — or give up on your most recent attempt at making sourdough — and pick up the phone, knowing you'll be doing a local business a solid while also getting to eat a tasty, fancy, succulent meal. Here are all the restaurant-quality eats where you can order takeaway or have it delivered to your doorstep. To find out exactly what you can and can't do during lockdown 6.0, head to the DHHS website. Remember, if you live in Melbourne — the five reasons to leave the house apply. Exercise is still limited to two hours a day with your household members, your intimate partner or one other person who is not from your household or your partner, but you can venture up to five kilometres from your house while you're working out or shopping. [caption id="attachment_683821" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Capitano by Kate Shanasy[/caption] VENUES OFFERING TAKEAWAY AND DELIVERY Babajan (Carlton North) This Middle Eastern spot is offering takeaway, for pick up and delivery, including the likes of moussaka, borek, bottles of wine and gift hampers. You can order online — there's a $15 fee for deliveries within 15 kilometres, with a minimum order of $100. Baby Pizza (Richmond) Pizzas, pastas, desserts and wine are all available daily for pick up and delivery from this Richmond restaurant. Order here and enjoy free delivery if you live within five kilometres. Burch & Purchese (South Yarra) Need a sugar fix? You'll find this sweet studio's usual lineup of dreamy dessert creations available for in-store pick-up, as well as delivery to select suburbs. What's more, from August 8–15, it's hosting Cheesecake Week, with a limited-edition menu of mouthwatering cheesecake varieties also on offer. Shop online here. Cannoleria by That's Amore (various locations) You can now get Cannoleria's small, large and gluten-free cannoli, as well as DIY cannoli kits delivered across most of metro Melbourne for a $5 fee (on purchases over $23). Order here. Capitano (Carlton) This corner pizza joint is offering takeaway and delivery once again, with vodka sauce tortiglioni, square pizzas, tiramisu and bottled cocktails all available to order. To nab yours, call 9134 8555 or head to the website. Chin Chin (CBD and Richmond) The Flinders Lane restaurant is again offering takeaway and delivery of its signature dishes, such as massaman curry and twice-cooked beef short rib. Also on the menu: beers, wine and a coconut panna cotta dessert. Order over here and enjoy free delivery within five kilometres of Chin Chin, or of its sibling kitchen in Richmond. As a bonus, Chin Chin's also slinging batched cocktail packs and finish-at-home dinner kits, with the latter available for delivery only this Friday, August 13 and Saturday, August 14. [caption id="attachment_729226" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dari Korean Cafe by Julia Sansone[/caption] Dari Korean Cafe (CBD) This Korean cafe is doing bulgogi burgers, fat toasties, pumpkin pie shakes and fusion cocktails (plus much more) for takeaway and delivery — with a cheeky 10 percent discount, no less. You can order over here. David's (CBD) Hot pot at home? Yep, you can order it from David's. The CBD restaurant has two different set menus available for delivery, with zero delivery fees for those within 20 kilometres of the CBD. Order by shooting them an Instagram DM, or calling 0404 960 196. Estelle (Northcote) You can pick up meals — such as chicken and coriander spring rolls, a two-person fish pie and strawberry gum profiteroles — nightly from 4.45–8pm. Or, try Estelle's selection of finish-at-home dishes, delivered via Providoor. Green Acre (Brunswick) This low-waste pizzeria is whipping up its much-loved pies for pick up, as well as delivering locally via Mr Yum. Jump online to place an order and you might even spy some weekly specials. Hanoi Hannah Vol. II (Elsternwick) and Express Lane (Windsor) Jump online to order vermicelli bowls, rice paper rolls and warming bowls of pho for pick-up from either of these Hanoi Hannah stores. Deliveroo and UberEats delivery is also available. And for something new, try the deliciously messy Drip Drop Banh Mi, loaded with chicken and lemongrass sauce, and served with a side of warm pho-inspired gravy. Hawker Hall (Windsor) This hawker-style eatery has chicken and potato curry puffs, dumplings aplenty, noods, vino and beer available for pick up and delivery daily. You can order over at the website. Horn Please (Fitzroy North) Available from 4.30pm daily, Horn Please's takeaway menu of curries and rice is 30 percent off the usual price if you order direct and pick it up. You can order via the website or by calling (03) 9497 8101. Otherwise, get the full offering of non-traditional Indian fare delivered straight to your door via Deliveroo or Uber Eats. Ichi Ni Nana (Fitzroy) and Ichi Ni Izakaya (St Kilda) A menu of Japanese classics and loaded bento boxes are now being whipped up for takeaway by the Ichi Ni kitchen in St Kilda from 5–9pm. You can pick up in-store, or have your meal dropped to your door by one of five delivery partners. Order here. Indu (CBD) This modern Sri Lankan restaurant has finish-at-home dinner boxes for two — as well as add-ons like a slow-cooked lamb raan — available to order via the website for both pick up and delivery. Find them here. For this week (August 9–15), $10 jugs of takeaway sangria are also on offer until sold out each day. Kickin'Inn (Port Melbourne) Fancy diving into a deliciously messy mixed seafood feast at home? Well, you're in luck, because this Port Melbourne newcomer is offering its Cajun-inspired menu of ocean-fresh goodies for takeaway and (free) delivery via Menulog. Right now, you'll also score 10 percent off mixed bags and Kickin'Licious products if you mention the deal upon ordering — place your order here. King and Godfree (Carlton) Offering delivery to a hefty list of Melbourne suburbs, King and Godfree's menu features everything from vacuum-sealed pizzas and loaded antipasto boxes, to pasta night packs and giant eggplant parmigianas. And plenty of vino, of course. Order online. Lagoon Dining (Carlton) You can enjoy a range of clever mod-Chinese eats from this Lygon Street diner, available for pick up (Wednesday to Saturday), as well as for delivery via Providoor (Wednesday to Sunday). Place your Providoor order here, or jump over here to pre-order for in-store collection. Little Prince Wine (St Kilda) The Prince Hotel's Euro-inspired wine bar, food store and bottle shop have lots of goodies available daily for takeaway — including coffees, sandwiches and salads, cheese, charcuterie, ready-to-eat meals and top-notch wines. You'll also find a selection of snack platters, deli goods and booze offered via Providoor. Maker & Monger (South Yarra) One word: cheese. Maker & Monger is selling the stuff to-go, delivering cheese in both 150-gram and 250-gram wedges, along with other cheese platter essentials and four of its cult-favourite cheese toasties, which you can finish off at home (so they're extra hot, not soggy). Order delivery over here. [caption id="attachment_728071" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Maker & Monger[/caption] Mejico (CBD) Hankering for some Mexican eats? This CBD spot is slinging plates like brisket empanadas, salt-baked trout tacos and margarita cheesecakes, for pick up six days a week. Order here, or jump to the website to organise a finish-at-home dinner kit for delivery instead. Mister Bianco (Kew) This Kew restaurant is back to offering its Italian Job finish-at-home meal boxes for pick up and delivery (August 11–14 — check here for details). It's also got a menu of ready-to-eat fare, including dishes like the famed duck pappardelle and gnocchi osso buco — order from that lineup here, Thursday–Saturday. New Shanghai (various locations) Get your dumpling fix courtesy of this legendary restaurant group's impressive take-home and delivery menu. Order everything from xiao long bao, to kung pao chicken and wonton soup, by calling either the Emporium or Chadstone store. Panda Hot Pot (Carlton) This Carlton spot's signature Sichuan hot pot is now available to enjoy at home. Choose your spice level, then order here for pick-up or delivery. Minimum order varies depending on your delivery location. Palermo (CBD) Palermo might be closed, but it's still offering finish-at-home meals including empanadas, beef short ribs and loaded date night dinner boxes for delivery via Providoor. Order over here. [caption id="attachment_753574" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Patient Wolf Distilling Co by Dean Schmideg[/caption] Patient Wolf Distilling Co (Southbank) This inner city distillery's bottle shop will remain open on select days for takeaways, but you can also get cocktail packs, batched drinks and signature G&T cans delivered to your door by heading over here. Red Sparrow (Collingwood and Prahran) Collingwood's plant-based pizzeria is delivering its vegan slices, sides and desserts to your door via Doordash, Tuesday to Saturday. Or, you can pick up your feed from either store. For the latter, order here. Rice Paper Scissors (Fitzroy) Right now, the Rice Paper Scissors kitchen is serving up Southeast Asian banquets, signature sauces and popular dishes — like the sticky soy tofu and the sugar cane prawns — for takeaway and delivery. Jump online to see the menu and order. Also available for Lockdown 6.0 is an indulgent boozy brunch box, complete with curated playlist, clocking in at $45 per person — order yours here by 4pm for next-day delivery or pick up. Scoopy Milk Bar (CBD) Just because you're in lockdown, doesn't mean you need to forgo dessert. Scoopy Milk bar is offering its bingsu — a colourful Korean shaved ice dessert — for pick up and delivery, doing drop-offs to a different suburb area each day. Check out full details and order here. Spring Street Grocer (CBD) Shop an impressive selection of vino, cheese, hampers, platters, pantry items and chef-made ready-to-heat meals over at Spring Street Grocer's online store. Both click-and-collect and delivery are available — see the range here. Tahina (Northcote and Fitzroy) If you're keen to get your mitts on some top-notch vegetarian Middle Eastern eats, Tahina's two stores are currently open daily for pick up and local delivery. Head here to order dishes like falafel-stuffed pita and plump sabich, plus feasting options like a $39 date night feed and the $89 family spread. That's Amore (Thomastown) Get your lockdown cheese fix dropped straight to your door, courtesy of That's Amore's expansive online store selection. Delivery is available for orders over $20 — place yours here. The onsite Cheesery is also open for takeaway. The B.East (Brunswick East) and The B.East of Brunswick Street (Fitzroy) You'll find The B.East's next-level burgers, sides and vegan eats available both for local delivery and takeaway — order online. Or, swing by either store from 12–2pm daily to grab brekkie burgers and Espresso Quarantinis from the Brettfast Club pop-up. The Happy Mexican (Abbotsford) Abbotsford's colourful Mexican spot is offering both delivery (free if you spend over $45) and pick up during lockdown, with a menu of favourites including tortas, burrito bowls and taco platters. The popular Taco Tuesday specials continue to run as well. Order here. The Left-Handed Chef (South Melbourne) This Israeli eatery is slinging a menu of hummus bowls, challah schnitzel sandwiches, traditional salads and feasting packs, available to pick up or to have delivered to your door. Check out the lineup and order here. Tipico (Windsor) Through its website, Tipico is serving hot dishes like beef pappardelle, eggplant parmigiana and veal cotoletta for pick up and delivery. But you'll also find a great selection of finish-at-home options for delivery via Providoor, including a romantic feed for two. [caption id="attachment_793263" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mejico by Arianna Leggiero[/caption] VENUES OFFERING PICK-UP ONLY Bar Romantica (Brunswick East) This popular late-night joint is whipping up pizzas, cannoli and other Italian delights for pick up. Along with a range of wine, they're available Wednesday to Saturday — order here. Plus, from 12–3pm each Saturday, the venue's doubling as a pop-up pizzetta shop, slinging a tidy lineup of limited-edition creations to-go. Bellboy (Brunswick East) Not only is Bellboy's full brunch menu available to take away during lockdown, the cafe's also serving a special-edition brunch box for two. Each one comes stocked with a couple of loaded bagels, sourdough crumpets, coffees, chia pudding and crispy potato hash for $49. Pre-order from the full lineup here. Penny for Pound (Richmond) You can get some of the city's finest croissants to-go at Penny for Pound. Pop in, or be extra organised and pre-order over here the day prior to collection. Pretzel (CBD, South Yarra and Doncaster) Your go-to pretzel slingers are now offering click-and-collect orders from three of their Melbourne stores. Jump online to grab some sweet and savoury versions of the signature twisty treats, and maybe even a drink to wash it down. Rustica (South Yarra) The bakery's legendary bread, coffee and pastries are available to take away from the South Yarra outpost from 8am daily. Check out the menu in advance over here. Stray Neighbour (Preston) This popular Preston spot is keeping busy putting together breakfast boxes, aperitivo kits and two-person dinner packs, which you can pre-order for pick up by calling (03) 9471 1420. The venue's also open for takeaway — swing past to grab house-made breads, sourdough pizza slices, sweet treats and more. Tulum (Balaclava) During lockdown, Tulum is serving up a range of Turkish street food to-go. Think, Bosphorus-style fish sandwiches, house-made vegetarian boreks and simit (a Turkish riff on the bagel). Swing past the Carlisle Street site to see what's on today — the kitchen's cooking from 10am until sold out. Top image: Babajan by Arianna Leggiero. Have you come across one we've missed? Let us know at hello@concreteplayground.com
Devised in residence at The Australian Tapestry Workshop, Yarn is an evocative, site-specific piece of theatre that combines physical performance with poetic language. The work was created by Lily Fish (Inside A Mime's Compact, Alone, Isobel and Installation A), a member of the award-winning Fringe favourites The Dig Collective, who tease apart the mythology of the past to ground old stories in the here and now. Read the rest of our top ten picks of the Melbourne Fringe Festival here.
The long weekend is finally here and we've been wholeheartedly embracing all the Easter treats. But if you're looking to fill yourself up with something other than sweets, here's an extensive list of top-notch bars, cafes and restaurants that'll be open and serving up the goods this long weekend in Melbourne. Settle in with a drink atop Johnny's Green Room, head to Eat Pierogi Make Love for a long Polish Easter feast or get some late-night CBD cocktails from Bar Ampere and Bar Margaux. Recommended reads: The Best Restaurants in Melbourne The Best Bars in Melbourne The Best Pubs in Melbourne The Best Cafes in Melbourne [caption id="attachment_706132" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Good Times[/caption] RESTAURANTS AKAIITO: Friday: 12–10.30pm, Saturday–Sunday: 6–11pm BABY PIZZA Friday–Monday: as normal CHIN CHIN Friday–Monday: as normal DAVID'S Friday: 6–9pm, Saturday: 12–2pm and 6–9pm, Sunday: seatings at 11.30pm and 1.30pm EAT PIEROGI MAKE LOVE Friday–Saturday: 12–11pm ENTRECOTE: Friday–Monday: 12pm–late ETTA Friday–Saturday: 5pm–late FIREBIRD Friday–Saturday: 5.30–11pm GOOD TIMES Friday–Saturday: as normal GRAZELAND Friday: 5–10pm, Saturday: 12–10pm, Sunday: 12–9pm GRILL AMERICANO Friday–Monday: as normal HAZEL Friday–Saturday: 5pm–late HAWKER HALL Friday–Monday: as normal with Easter Yum Cha from 12–4pm daily HELLA GOOD — CHADSTONE Friday–Monday: 11am–9pm HELLA GOOD — EMPORIUM Friday–Monday: 11am–8pm ICHI NI NANA IZAKAYA Friday–Monday: 5–11pm KISUME Friday–Monday: 5–11pm LAGOON DINING Friday and Sunday: 12–2.30pm and 5.30–10pm, Saturday: 5.30pm10pm MARAMEO Friday: 5.30pm–late, Saturday: 12–3pm and 5pm–late MOONHOUSE Friday: 6-10pm, Saturday: 12–4.30pm and 5.30pm–10pm NEIGHBOURHOOD WINE Friday–Monday: 12pm–12am NEW QUARTER Friday–Saturday: 5–11pm NOMAD Friday: 5pm–late, Saturday–Sunday: 12–2.30pm and 5–10.30pm ORIENTAL TEAHOUSE CBD Friday, Saturday and Monday: 5.30–9pm PIPI'S KIOSK Friday–Saturday: 12–3pm and 6–10.30pm ROBATA Friday: 5–11pm, Saturday: 12–11pm, Sunday: 12–10pm ROSSI Friday–Sunday: 12pm–late SMALL PRINT PIZZA BAR Friday: 4–10pm, Saturday: 4–9.30pm, Sunday: 4–9pm, Monday: 5–9pm SOCIETY Friday and Saturday: 5–late STALACTITES Friday–Monday: 11am–late STOKEHOUSE Friday–Monday: 12pm–late STOKEHOUSE PASTA & BAR Friday–Monday: 12pm–late SUPERNORMAL Friday–Sunday: 12pm–late TOKEN: Friday–Monday: 5pm–late TOKYO TINA Friday–Saturday: 5–10pm VICTORIA BY FARMER'S DAUGHTERS Friday–Saturday: 5pm–late YAKIMONO Friday–Monday: as normal [caption id="attachment_889058" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lilac Wine Bar by John Benedict Ryan[/caption] BARS AND PUBS BAR AMPERE Friday: 4pm–1am, Saturday–Sunday: 4pm–3am BAR CAROLINA Friday: 5.30pm–late, Saturday: 12pm–3pm and 6pm–late, Sunday: 1–9pm, Monday: 12–4pm BAR MARGAUX Friday: 5pm–1am, Saturday: 5pm–3am CASTLEROSE Friday–Saturday: 4pm–late BUILDER'S ARMS HOTEL Friday–Monday: 12–11pm DOM'S SOCIAL CLUB Friday: 4–11.30pm, Saturday: 4pm–1am EMBLA Friday–Saturday: 3pm–12am, Sunday: 12–5pm HEARTBREAKER Friday–Saturday: 3pm–3am HOP NATION Friday–Saturday: 12–10pm, Sunday: 12–9pm JAYDA Friday–Saturday: 5pm–12am JOHNNY'S GREEN ROOM Friday–Monday: 12–111pm LILAC WINE BAR Friday–Saturday: 12pm–late MAHA NORTH Friday 5–11pm, Saturday–Monday: as normal MOON DOG WORLD Saturday–Sunday: 11.30am–late, Monday: 3pm–late NEPTUNE Friday–Saturday: as normal ODD CULTURE Saturday: 12pm–12am, Sunday: 12–10pm OLD PALM LIQUOR Friday–Monday: 12pm–12am PIRATE LIFE SOUTH MELBOURNE: Friday–Sunday: 11am–8pm STUDIO AMARO Friday–Saturday: 5pm–12am THE CLARE CASTLE Friday—Monday: as normal THE GREAT NORTHERN HOTEL Friday: 12–11pm, Saturday: 11am–1am, Sunday: 11am–11pm, Sunday: 11am–12am THE KEYS Friday, Sunday and Monday: 12–10pm, Saturday: 12pm–12am THE LINCOLN Friday: 12–10pm, Saturday: 12–11pm THE LOCAL TAPHOUSE Friday–Monday: 12pm–late [caption id="attachment_922237" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ima Asa Yoru[/caption] CAFES BAKER BLEU — CAULFIELD NORTH Friday–Monday: 7.30am–2pm BAKER BLEU — HAWKSBURN Friday–Monday: 8am–2pm COMMON GROUND PROJECT CAFE Friday–Sunday: 8am–4pm CONVOY Friday–Monday: 8am–4pm HARERUYA PANTRY Friday–Monday: 3–10pm IMA ASA YORU Friday: 11am–2pm and 5.30–9pm, Saturday: 10am–2pm and 5.30–9pm INDUSTRY BEANS (FITZROY & LITTLE COLLINS) Friday–Monday: 8am–3.30pm LE BAJO MILKBAR Friday–Sunday: 10am–2.30pm PIDAPIPO GELATERIA — CARLTON, WINDSOR AND CBD Friday–Monday: as normal SECOND HOME: Friday–Monday: 8am–3pm ST ALI — SOUTH MELBOURNE Friday–Monday: as normal SEVEN SEEDS Saturday–Monday: 8am–4pm [caption id="attachment_801858" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Queen Victoria Market[/caption] MARKETS PRAHRAN MARKET Saturday: 7am–5pm, Sunday: 10am–3pm PRESTON MARKET Saturday: 8am–3pm QUEEN VICTORIA MARKET Saturday: 6am–4pm, Sunday: 9am–4pm SOUTH MELBOURNE MARKET Saturday and Sunday: 8am–4pm Top images: Johnny's Green Room by Arianna Leggiero
Bread and butter pudding has been a go-to treat for hundreds of years, with some food historians tracing this British classic back to the 11th century. Now, you're invited to experience a brand-new version that even the most imaginative Middle Ager couldn't begin to fathom. Available until Sunday, August 3, the ever-creative team at Pidapipo have teamed up with North Melbourne's Bread Club to create this sweet winter comfort. Think a classic bread and butter recipe made even better with Bread Club's cult-favourite saffron and vanilla scrolls. Featuring a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth centre and topped with crispy, golden edges, this original take on an ancient favourite is finished with a scoop of Pidapipo's silky saffron gelato, created just for the collaboration. "Our saffron and vanilla scrolls have a bit of a cult following, so reimagining them as the heart of a winter bread and butter pudding felt so right — especially with the brilliant team at Pidapipo," says Bread Club co-owner Tim Beylie. Best of all, there are two ways to enjoy this dessert. Family-sized trays, serving up to four, are bundled with a 500ml tub of saffron gelato ($39). Slide the tray into a preheated oven for 30 minutes, finish with gelato, and you're ready to feast. Single-serve portions ($15) are also available exclusively at Pidapipo's Fitzroy Laboratorio for dine-in customers. "Working with Tim and Brice from Bread Club has been a privilege as they are true artisans," says Lisa Valmorbida, Pidapipo co-owner. "Bread and butter pudding is one of my favourite desserts and just what winter needs." Pidapipo and Bread Club's bread and butter pudding is on offer until Sunday, August 3. Family take-home portions are available at all Pidapipo locations, while single-serve dine-in portions are served exclusively at Fitzroy Laboratorio. Head to the website for more information.
If it's ethereal indie folk you're after, Dustin Tebbutt is your man. His music is described by his record label as "the music for your autumns and winters" which, in our opinion, couldn't be more accurate. The haunting isolation that comes through his high echoey vocals and crisp acoustic guitar certainly create feelings of isolation and introspection. Well, it's a good thing he's coming to town as the temperature is starting to drop. Tebbutt's latest national tour is for his latest EP, Bones, and it's gorgeous. First single 'Bones' is much like what we saw on debut EP The Breach; incredibly entrancing music that has the ability to transport its listeners far away from anyone or anything. If you enjoy the thoughtful sounds of Bon Iver or Sigur Rós, then Dustin Tebbutt is a local boy you definitely shouldn't miss. https://youtube.com/watch?v=OysNiYXWga0
Winter is over, which means you don't have any excuses for sitting at home and watch Netflix every night. Instead, set your sights on one of Melbourne's rooftops. We know, given the nights are still a little chilly, that this suggestion might sound like a death wish, but there are a few Melbourne rooftop bars that have upped their game to keep you especially cosy when the temperature drops. We're talking warming drinks, blankets and some supremely decadent hot snacks. If you're still hesitant to leave your blanket cave, make it easy for yourself and order a ride to get you there and back. Affordable ridesharing platform DiDi will help you out — and you'll probably still have some spare cash for something delicious at the bar. So, lap up the nicer nights — these four awesome rooftop bars will have you making the most of spring.
Hip-hop heads and rap enthusiasts, this one’s for you. Boney are starting up weekly parties featuring local and touring DJs who will be spinning the finest hip hop from ’79 to now. Resident DJs include the likes of Rob Steezy (Hoodpass Radio/Re-Up), Thaddeus Doe (Shiftee/Un-Funk), Stephelles (Favella Rocke/Re-Up), and Low-Key (Shiftee). To celebrate the launch of MVP there will be FREE BEER courtesy of Miller so we suggest arriving early. MVP will begin on Wednesday, June 18 and it’s free entry — you just need to RSVP on their Facebook page and you’re good to go. A hip-hop hump day is music to our ears.
Did you know that there are around 60 young artists, designers and students who work at ACCA as volunteers and casual staff? As well as working for an excellent artistic institution, they have the opportunity present their own work in ACCA’s Startups program. Startups runs for five weeks out of a shipping container in the ACCA Forecourt, with a different artist inhabiting the space for a week at a time. Each artist will work with the ACCA team to develop their artwork and week-long exhibit. This is the fifth year this program has run at ACCA, and the artwork presented will include video, sculpture and multimedia works. Contemporary modes of communication, modern beauty standards, how constant stimulation and heightened stress are affecting development, as well as the influence that digital technology has on our perceptions on the world will all be thematically explored during Startups. Artists featured in this year’s Startups include Dalton Stewart, Jacqueline Stojanovic, Lucinda Florence, Jesse Dyer and Jacqui Shelton.
For those of us unable to hang about at Splendour this year, sideshows are the next best thing. Thankfully, Foster The People are among the Splendour acts making their way to Melbourne and boy, are we excited for some indie dance pop to lift our Splendourless spirits. FTP's debut album Torches sold nearly two million copies worldwide, and their sophomore effort Supermodel has already produced some incredibly catchy singles, such as 'Best Friend' and 'Coming of Age'. We can't deny we're looking forward to a sneaky singalong to super singles 'Pumped up Kicks' and 'Call it What You Want' — and just generally leaving all our worries at the door (the unashamed blessing of indie dance pop). This Palais Theatre show is going to be a metric bucketload of fun. https://youtube.com/watch?v=Ndzln1UEyf0
It mightn't be the perfect time to open up a restaurant, but one Melbourne chef has done it anyway, launching a brand-spanking-new sandwich shop and deli on Gertrude Street. Chef Josh Fry (Marion and Cumulus Inc) was originally meant to be the head chef at a new dine-in restaurant and bar set to open in the Fitzroy space over the Easter long weekend, but plans swiftly shifted when restaurants, bars and cafes had to close their doors in a bid to contain COVID-19. So, instead, Fry opened the unapologetically kitsch pop-up, Rocco's Bologna Discoteca. The Italian-inspired menu features an epic lineup of sangas. There's a saucy NY-style meatball sub; Rocco's Originario Bologna with fried bologna (a mortadella-like meat), green olives and plenty of cheese; the spicy Picante, featuring fried bologna, pickles and provolone; a vegetarian crumbed eggplant one; and the Bobby Baccala, which is a salted cod melt. Other dishes include bone marrow garlic bread, antipasto platters, pine mushroom lasagne, a Chook Foot cacciatore and ricotta cavatelli with chicken, sugo and peppers. There's also Rocco's Dinner Box, which includes one sandwich per person, salumi, olives, Sardinian-style flatbread, salad, fries and tiramisu and is available for two ($65) or four ($85) people. As Rocco's is also a deli, you can pick up freshly baked bread, eggs, house-made pastas, Nonna's red sauce, Mt Zero olives, cured meats, tins of sardines and, of course, heaps of cheese, too. Plus, you can buy a Rocco's t-shirt, should you need some new WFH threads. You can either pop down to pick up the goods in person or, if you're an inner north local, you can get them delivered for free. You can check out the full menu and order via Rocco's website. Otherwise, you can get it delivered through DoorDash. Rocco's Bologna Discoteca is located at 81–83 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy and is open from 5–10pm Wednesday–Friday, 12–10.30pm Saturday and 1–7pm on Sunday.
Awarded Unearthed Artist of the Year at the 10th annual J Awards last night, Meg Mac — or Megan McInerney to her folks — is the Melbourne-based soul-pop artist making a serious name for herself in the indie music scene. The 23-year-old singer songwriter has come a long way from recording lyrics on her phone while still in high school. If her fast-growing fan-base, sell-out performances and distinctive, soulful sound are anything to go by, McInerney is definitely one to watch. Here are the top five things you should know about her. She's no one-hit wonder Though you may have already heard her powerful first single 'Known Better' played on triple j in the lead-up to the J Awards, don't overlook McInerney's more recent tracks. These songs showcase her bold, rich vocals – think 'Roll Up Your Sleeves' – as well as her talent for raw, personal lyrics — check out 'Every Lie'. 'Turning' also highlights the soul-meets-electronica sound she's developing, a unique style that has already captivated audiences. She takes cues from Motown, Irish folk and French chansons McInerney recently admitted to triple j Unearthed that, when she was nine, "I could not get enough of Vanessa Amorosi… please don't judge me. 'Absolutely Everybody' was my favourite." Lucky, then, that her dad introduced her to soul, primarily Motown, while her mum would sing her Irish folk ballads from an early age. It wasn't until she was 17 that she started writing her own songs and working on a personal style, inspired by her love of "big voices and a bit of that drama — [artists who] sing because they have to or they would die sort of thing, like Edith Piaf". She also counts Ray Charles and Sam Cooke among her primary influences, and more recently, James Blake and Frank Ocean. She's going from strength to strength It's an understatement to say 2014 has been a big year for the up-and-coming artist. In September she released her first EP, the self-titled MEGMAC, featuring four original tracks plus an impressive cover of a classic Bill Wither's song, 'Grandma's Hands'. The EP launch kicked off a national tour, with Melbourne and Sydney shows selling out in days, and Brisbane and Perth following soon after. Later nominated as Breakthrough Independent Artist of the Year, McInerney opened the Australian Indie Music Awards in October. #dogswearinghats A photo posted by MEGMAC (@megmacmusic) on Oct 10, 2014 at 12:11am PDT Her second favourite thing to do is dress up animals in human clothing When she isn't performing or making music, McInerney likes nothing better than to play dress ups with her dog. She told Music Feeds that she and her sister sent a photo of their pet to the Facebook page Dogs Wearing Hats, where "she got more Facebook likes than my whole music page in one hour." Following her knock-out live performances, its safe to say this is about to change. . @megmacmusic @kcrw So very welcome — Jason Kramer (KCRW) (@kcrwkramer) August 13, 2014 An international career is on the horizon While McInerney is gaining a serious fan base here, she's also making waves internationally, with 'Roll Up Your Sleeves' recently played on independent US radio station KCRW. The singer is already considering a trip to the US, where, she told Music Feeds, she'll "catch up with some label type people [who] want to meet me. It is exciting to think I can reach people away from my home." You can catch her at Falls Festival for NYE But before she jets off, McInerney will be taking on her first major festival as winner of the Falls Festival competition. Next to the likes of John Butler Trio, La Roux, Vance Joy and Empire of the Sun, she'll be performing some newly written songs with her sister as backing vocalist. Expect more bold piano sounds, big vocals and electronic elements from this promising young artist with a big future ahead of her.
The legendary Stones Throw Records is home to a metric bucket-tonne of vinyl. The LA-based hip hop label is known for their left-of-centre artists, avant garde nature and ability to break artists well before dinner table fame. Feature length documentary Our Vinyl Weighs a Ton takes a close look at the label and its master, commander and founder Chris Manak, aka Peanut Butter Wolf — an exceptional DJ and producer in his own right. Sometime home to Aloe Blacc, Mayer Hawthorne, The Stepkids, James Pants, J Rocc, Madlib and more (including the J Dilla back catalogue) Stones Throw Records' reputation within the hip hop, beats and funk/soul community is strong and has commanded a loyal following over the years. Kanye West, Talib Kweli, Mike D, Common, Tyler the Creator and Questlove all throw in their two cents on Peanut Butter Wolf and Stones Throw in the documentary, and how they have been influenced by the underground record label themselves. Manak is in the country for Splendour in the Grass later this month, but will be hanging at Howler for the screening and a special Q&A on the night. This is a pretty rare chance for hip hop heads to hear the stories behind this legendary producer's work and beloved label straight from the horse's mouth. Seats are not allocated for the event so it's best to arrive a little early for a good spot. https://youtube.com/watch?v=rwZVV_77MhM
Two sets of unsavoury characters meet in a Boston warehouse in the dead of night to exchange a suitcase full of money for a truck full of guns. It should be a simple swap, but inevitably the deal goes pear-shaped and bullets begin to fly. As premises go, the one at the heart of Free Fire could hardly be any simpler. But it's that simplicity, in part, that makes this pitch-black action comedy work as well as it does. Taking the glamour, if not the glee, out of violent big-screen gun battles, Free Fire draws more on slapstick comedies than it does Hollywood shoot 'em ups. No one here is a particularly good shot, with the characters spending the bulk of their time huddled behind makeshift barriers nursing flesh wounds and screaming obscenities. Every injury is another punch line, as foot chases slow to a stumble and eventually a crawl. At times, you may wish director Ben Wheatley did a better job maintaining a sense of visual geography – it's not always clear which character is where or who it is they're shooting at. Then again, the film is fundamentally about confusion, so perhaps that's the point. A percussion heavy jazz score accentuates the sense of chaos, while driving home the fact that the shooters are making things up as they go. But more important than being able to keep track of who did the shooting is whether you actually care about the people getting shot. The script is a little thin when it comes to character development, but a strong cast helps flesh out what's on the page. Armie Hammer as a smooth talking sales rep, Brie Larson as an inscrutable mediator, Cillian Murphy as a soulful IRA lieutenant and Michael Smiley as his uptight comrade lead an ensemble that also includes Sam Riley, Jack Reynor and Noah Taylor. Only Sharlto Copley, as an ostentatious arms dealer, crosses the line into caricature, although thankfully he's funny more often than he's annoying. Ultimately though, how entertaining you find Free Fire will largely depend on how much you can laugh at people getting killed and/or maimed. Although considerably less nasty than some of Wheatley's earlier films such as Sightseers and A Field in England, this is still a decidedly dark affair. It's probably for the best than it only runs for an hour and a half. You can only go so long with a concept like this before the laughs are replaced with a sense of unease that's not anywhere near as fun. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oDD3I0uOlqY
Hawthorn has some good foodie finds. Ocha, Axil and Porgie & Mr Jones all come to mind, and now the inner-east suburb can add healthy seafood to that list with the arrival of the newest Hooked location. Located on a bustling Glenferrie Road where school uniforms and expensive yoga pants are a plenty, we think the wholesome, fresh and seriously tasty seafood offering is going to go down a treat. Ray Good is the man behind the three Hooked locations – Brunswick, Windsor, and now Hawthorn — and he hasn't always been a man of the kitchen. He used to spin records as DJ Sugarray before turning his love of traditional British fish and chips into something we can all enjoy. The venue is going hard into the maritime theme with woods, white paints, neon anchors and sea creatures painted on the walls. It fits with the menu, of which a majority is seafood — damn good seafood, at that. Don't be surprised if it's some of the freshest tasting fish you've had in a while. You can go for house fish, with a light tempura batter with chips or rice and Asian greens ($12.95), or for something a little lighter go for the grilled calamari with salad — either Asian slaw, house salad or a superfood salad ($15.95). Although, we'd be lying if we said the salt and pepper calamari is anything but wonderful. For something a little different try the seared tuna burger with black and white sesame seeds, Roma tomato, iceberg lettuce, sweet pickled onion and wasabi mayo ($12.95), or the grilled prawn taco soft with slaw, pico de gallo, guacamole and Hooked's secret sauce ($5.95). For the whole hog, so to speak, get the Box for Two — two pieces of house fish, eight pieces of calamari, two king prawns, and chips ($35.95). The chips are impressive in their own right: twice cooked, crispy and salty, fresh little bites of joy. Don't expect any frozen shenanigans here. For an affordable, fun and fresh seafood offering, we can't really fault what Hooked are doing.
The end of winter means warming temperatures, blooming flowers and summer inching closer. In 2024, it also means looking up. To close out August, a blue supermoon will take to the sky — or a super blue moon, if you prefer. Both terms fit, because the Earth's only natural satellite will serve up both a supermoon and a blue moon. The date to point your eyes to the heavens: the morning of Tuesday, August 20. Stare upwards with your own two eyes at 4.25am AEST and you'll see a noteworthy sight at its peak. Of course, if you train your peepers towards the sky the evening before or afterwards, you'll still be in for a glowing show. While super full moons aren't particularly rare — several usually happen each year — blue moons only tend to occur every few years. Wondering why else you should check this one out? We've run through the details below. What Is It? If you're more familiar with The Mighty Boosh's take on the moon than actual lunar terms, here's what you need to know. As we all learned back in November 2016, a supermoon is a new moon or full moon that occurs when the moon reaches the closest point to Earth in its elliptical orbit, making it particularly bright. Again, they're not all that uncommon — and because the supermoon on Tuesday, August 20 is a full moon (and not a new moon), it's called a super full moon. A blue moon refers to either the second full moon occurring within a calendar month, or the third in an astronomical season with four full moons. August 2024's moon falls into the second category. Despite the name, it isn't blue in colour. Also, despite the saying, they happen more often than you might think, but still only ever few years. The last monthly blue moon occurred in August 2023, and the next blue moon of either type isn't set to happen until the end of May in 2026. The August moon is also a sturgeon moon. The name doesn't refer to its shape or any other physical characteristics, but to the time of year. In the northern hemisphere, August is around the time that sturgeon fish start to show up in big numbers in North America's lakes. Of course, that doesn't apply in the southern hemisphere, but the name still sticks. When Can I See It? As mentioned above, the blue supermoon will officially be at its peak at 4.25am AEST on Tuesday, August 20, Down Under — but thankfully it will be visible from Monday night Australian time. The moon does usually appear full for a few days each month, so you should find the night sky looking a little brighter this week anyway. That 4.25am AEST time applies in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, with folks in Perth needing to look at 2.25am local time and people in Adelaide at 3.55am local time. Where Can I See It? You can take a gander from your backyard or balcony, but the standard advice regarding looking at glowing sights in the sky always applies — so city-dwellers will want to get as far away from light pollution as possible to get the absolute best view. Fancy checking it out online? The Virtual Telescope Project is set to stream the view from Rome at 5.30am AEST on Tuesday, August 20, too. For more information about the blue supermoon on Tuesday, August 20, 2024 in Australia, head to timeanddate.com. Top image: NASA/Joel Kowsky.
Uber apparently just wants Australians to be effortlessly happy and righteously lazy, and nothing says bliss like enjoying a few cheeky brews in your underwear. If last year's introduction of UberEATS hasn't already made us lazy enough, the company has just announced that, as of today, March 23, they'll be delivering booze too, starting with Melbourne. As part of the launch, UberEATS has partnered with Carlton Draught to release their alcohol delivery service just in time for the start of AFL season tomorrow. On Friday, March 24 from 12pm, the general alcohol service kicks off, and from 5pm, Melbournian's can choose one of the nineteen $30 plus meal deals on their app and receive a free four pack of the specially brewed Carltons to enjoy with (or without) the game. After supplies run out, normal hours of alcohol service are midday to 9pm. Thirty liquor license holding restaurants across Melbourne's city and inner city suburbs are participating so far, and we're pretty confident the service will quickly spread to the rest of metropolitan Australia as well. There are a few things to note before rushing to your app — alcohol will only be delivered with a food order and only a bottle of wine or six pack of beer is permitted per order. The drivers won't deliver to intoxicated folk either, so if you answer the door looking like a hot mess you'll be denied your booze. Under 18s shouldn't be cheering either — you'll need proof of ID to accept the delivery. Obviously the service isn't meant to completely replace bottle shop runs, but is more about bringing a 'complete restaurant experience' into your home — something existing booze delivery services will need to consider. It comes well timed with the turn of the season as well, as the Melbourne winter sure doesn't promote outdoor activity. So go ahead and order from your favourite dumpling joint, pop open that delivered brew, turn on Netflix and let the pants-off binge-watching commence.
Have you ever wondered if there was a way to salvage the flavour of burnt rice, how to test if an egg is still fresh, how to prevent cheese from going off, or bread from going stale? Unorthodox but incredibly helpful kitchen and cooking tips are a great way to make the cooking experience much quicker and easier, and can be employed in your everyday cooking routine. Here are ten of the most helpful cooking tips that you may not know, but should. 1. Make Garlic Easier to Peel How? By microwaving it for 20 seconds. Zapping garlic in the microwave for a short amount of time is believed to heat the water in the garlic and cause the cells to rupture thus breaking the bond between skin and flesh and causing the skin to slip straight off. It is thought to make the garlic slightly less pungent but apparently doesn't alter it's flavour or texture. 2. Keep Delicate Dishes Warm How? By placing the saucepan on top of a fry pan. Whilst placing a saucepan over a stove on low may suffice for some dishes, delicate sauces or mashed potatoes can easily be burnt and ruin a perfectly good meal. A great trick is to put a cast-iron skillet over a low flame and then place the saucepan on top of this to ensure the heat is evenly spread throughout the meal. 3. Absorb Excess Fat from Soup How? By placing a lettuce leaf on top of it. Placing a lettuce leaf on the surface of a soup is an organic and effective way to defat the liquid, and it is a much easier and cheaper alternative than using gravy separators. The leaf can then easily be thrown away it has absorbed the unwanted fat. 4. Test the Freshness of an Egg How? By placing it in cold water. You can determine the age of an egg (while still encased in it's shell) through the amount of air in it's air pocket simply by placing it inside glass or bowl of cold water and seeing if it floats. If the egg sinks it is fresh, if it tilts slightly up or moves to a semi-horizontal position it is about a week old, but if it moves to a vertical position or floats to the surface of the water it is stale. It's that easy! 5. Avoid Curdled Cream How? By adding baking soda. Have you ever wondered how the age old quandary of cream curdling when you place it over fruit can be avoided? Well wonder no longer, because the solution is as easy as adding a pinch of baking soda to the cream before serving. 6. Keep Cheese Longer How? By wrapping it in a paper towel that's been moistened with vinegar. To avoid losing your cheese to mould, all you have to do is place a paper towel that's been soaked in white wine vinegar at the bottom of an air-tight container and put the cheese on top then keep the container in the fridge. 7. Eradicate Bacon Curling How? By soaking it in cold water before frying. In order to avoid the dreaded bacon curling that occurs when frying it, soak it in cold water for two minutes before frying it and dry well with paper towel. If that doesn't work simply sprinkle some flour over it, and if you still have no luck then try poking some holes in it. 8. Remove the Bitter Taste of Burnt Rice How? By placing a piece of white bread over it. Burnt your rice? Never fear, because all you need to do is place a slice of white bread on top of the rice, close the lid and let it sit for 15 minutes, then vualah, take the bread out and enjoy your non-bitter tasting rice. The bread will apparently absorb the bitter flavour of the rice you burned and restored it's taste back to normal. 9. Tenderize Meat and Speed up Defrosting How? By pouring vinegar over frozen meat. If defrosting meat has always been one of those processes that has baffled you, make life easier for yourself just by adding some vinegar. Pouring a cup of vinegar over the frozen meat lowers it's freezing temperature, making it thaw more quickly, and the acid in the vinegar breaks down connective tissue to increase it's tenderness. 10. Prevent Bread from Going Stale How? By adding a celery stick to the bread bag. By simply adding a piece of celery to a sealed bread bag overnight, you can refresh your bread and make it taste as good as when you first bought it. The bread is supposed to absorb the humidity of the celery, but it's flavour shouldn't change due to the bland taste of the celery.
With music festivals popping up in every corner of the country with frequency, especially in these post-COVID-restrictions times, an event has to be mighty special to warrant travelling intrastate or interstate. Riverboats Music Festival is one such event, and the reason is right there in its name. A mainstay of Victoria's Echuca-Moama region that'll celebrate its 11th instalment in 2023, it usually hosts its fest on the banks of the Murray River — and includes intimate sideshows on the PS Pevensey paddlesteamer. Due to 2022's flooding of the event's usual home at Aquatic Reserve, the 2023 fest is actually moving to Echuca's Victoria Park Reserve when it returns from Friday, February 17–Sunday, February 19. But the music on a riverboat part still remains, as ticketed separately. So, you can head to the region for three days of tunes as part of the broader event, spend your time on the river, or mix and match both. Heading the on-land lineup: Marlon Williams, Spiderbait, CW Stoneking & His Primitive Horn Orchestra and The Whitlams, plus The Rolling Stones Revue featuring Adalita, Phil Jamieson and Tex Perkins. That's a whole heap of big-name talent from across Australia and New Zealand right there, and it's just the beginning of the 2023 bill. Also on the roster, and playing the paddlesteamer as well, are Alice Skye, Felix Riebl, Andy Golledge, WILSN, Bones & Jones and Watty Thompson. If you go for the boat option, you'll hear their sets while cruising down the river, in the kind of fest experience you truly don't get at every event. "Echuca-Moama has gone through an incredibly challenging period over the last few weeks, and our hearts go out to all those affected by the recent floods," said Festival Director Dave Frazer, announcing the lineup. "Riverboats has been part of the Echuca-Moama community for over tehn years now, and whilst we're sad to be leaving Aquatic Reserve next year, we can't wait to put on a spectacular show at Victoria Park in a few months time," he continued. If you're keen, the last festival sold out in just six days, so nabbing tickets ASAP is recommended. RIVERBOATS MUSIC FESTIVAL 2023 LINEUP: Marlon Williams Spiderbait CW Stoneking & His Primitive Horn Orchestra The Rolling Stones Revue featuring Adalita Phil Jamieson and Tex Perkins The Whitlams Felix Riebl Alice Skye Tami Neilson Thornbird Katy Steele Andy Golledge Band WILSN Bones & Jones Watty Thompson Bud Rokesky MC Brian Nankervis The 2023 Riverboats Music Festival will take place from Friday, February 17–Sunday, February 19 at Echuca's Victoria Park Reserve, with tickets on sale now.
If you're a fan of caramelised white chocolate, then you're a fan of all the different types of food that've sprung up featuring Caramilk. You've sipped the cocktails. You've eaten the ice creams. You've had the dessert jaffles. If it features the famed Cadbury flavour, you've tried it. And now, you have something new to add to that list: Caramilk Krispy Kreme doughnuts. Krispy Kreme is still in the process of letting Australians catch all the Pokémon-themed doughnuts; however, it has also just dropped another new limited-edition special. Teaming up with Cadbury, the doughnut franchise has whipped up two new must-try sweet treats — and yes, they both come dipped in Caramilk. If you opt for the Caramilk Shell, you'll be munching into a full doughnut — sans that centre hole — that comes filled with crème, then covered in the coveted type of chocolate and sprinkled with Caramilk flakes. Or, if you need that gap in the middle, the Caramilk Ring takes one of Krispy Kreme's original glazed doughnuts, dips it in Caramilk, adds the Caramilk flakes and then splashes some white truffle drizzle over the top. You'll find the two Caramilk doughnuts at 7-Eleven stores only from Tuesday, September 28, but there's more than 700 spots to choose from — and they're also available via 7-Eleven Delivery where it's on offer. Krispy Kreme's Caramilk range is available from Tuesday, September 28 for $3.75 each at 7-Eleven stores and via 7-Eleven Delivery.
Don't let Melbourne's winter gloom keep you stuck indoors. Instead, put a little more pep in your weekend step, as Hawker's Boozy Feast takes over every Friday, Saturday and Sunday afternoon throughout the entire cold season. Serving as an exciting twist on Hawker Hall's usual bottomless lunch series, this much-loved Windsor venue has got an extra-special lineup to share. Kicking off from 12pm, expect highly shareable dim sum-inspired plates paired with 90 minutes of free-flowing drinks. Think crispy beef dumplings and numbing chilli, Dan Dan noodles, and salt and pepper flathead. Meanwhile, the free-flowing beverage pairing doesn't miss a beat, featuring pandan coconut slings and pink hibiscus spritzes alongside prosecco, pinot gris, craft beer and more. For the ultimate experience, each Saturday sessions take things up a notch from 1–3pm with live entertainment, as renowned artist Jarrad Lees amps up the atmosphere with his unique combo of saxophone and DJ sounds. When you've clued in your pals and you're ready to book, the basic 90-minute session is priced at $66 per person. However, those looking to take their weekend to the next level can extend their fun with the two-hour Boozy Feast session for $88 per person.
St Kilda's pubs and clubs have a long history of staging some of the best local and international gigs. Yet since its debut edition at the start of 2025, the Palace Foreshore has become a thriving outdoor live music venue. Seasonal in nature, this openair destination turns up the tunes from February to March, with the first instalment featuring the likes of Honey Dijon, Fontaines D.C. and Denzel Curry. Now the seaside precinct is back for round two, having just announced a stellar lineup of headline acts descending on St Kilda in early 2026. Securing its growing reputation as a premier summertime port of call for live music, the forthcoming season is marked by hip hop legends, pop icons, electronic superstars and trailblazing art rock acts from around the globe. First up on Thursday, February 26, is Black Country, New Road, an acclaimed British band renowned for their distinctive blend of baroque-infused chamber pop and experimental post-punk. Arriving on our shores for the first time since the release of their most recent album, Forever Howlong, expect free-wheeling crescendoes that resonate with community spirit and feel-good friendship. Next, on Friday, February 27, the Palace Foreshore hosts Droppin' Science, a deep dive into all things hip hop. Topping the bill, essential New York hip hop trio De La Soul perform on the back of a long-awaited album release, Cabin in the Sky, showcasing their credentials as one of jazz rap's most influential names. On support, independent Brooklyn-based Oddisee & Good Compny and fast-rising Aboriginal R&B artist Miss Kaninna ramp up the conscious lyrical content. You've also got MARINA to look forward to on Saturday, February 28, making her first return to Australian soil since 2011. Following the release of her new album, Princess of Power, the Welsh star will deliver a euphoric disco-lit experience, filled with electro pop anthems. Next, on Sunday, March 1, Aussie legends King Stingray continue their huge wave of national momentum, bringing their unmistakable Yolŋu surf-rock energy to Palace Foreshore for what's bound to be an explosive set. The following night on Monday, March 2, it's time for a true global icon to take the stage — the one and only Grace Jones. Back in Melbourne for the first time since 2018, this is a rare chance to experience Jones' magnetic presence and genre-bending performance. A boundary-breaker and cultural disruptor like few others, her almost unparalleled career has seen her reshape music, fashion and performance, all with incredible glamour and emotional depth. Looking ahead to Thursday, March 5, one of the UK's most original voices in The Streets brings the sound of post-industrial Britain to St Kilda. Performing his landmark album, A Grand Don't Come For Free, in its entirety for the first time on Thursday, March 5, vocalist Mike Skinner delivers raw honesty and wit in droves. Then, it's time for Pendulum on Friday, March 6, as the Perth-born drum and bass pioneers light up the stage with their electrifying live show. Returning home following sold-out dates around the globe, Australian pop sensation Peach PRC elevates the evening atmosphere with her magnetic personality on Thursday, March 12. Featuring special guests Maude, Latour and Salty, expect an explosive stage presence and mesmerising live concept. With more attention-grabbing names announced in the near future, Palace Foreshore's 2026 lineup is stacked with musical talent ripe for making the most of the sun and sea this summer. Palace Foreshow's 2026 season is taking place across various dates in February and March. Head to the website for more information.
One of Australia's all-time great comedies, an Oscar-winner for Best Costume Design and a film that's made the leap from the screen to the stage as well, The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert turns 30 in 2024. But that isn't the only reason to celebrate the movie right now. The Guy Pearce (The Clearing)-, Hugo Weaving (The Royal Hotel)- and Terence Stamp (Last Night in Soho)-starring flick is receiving a follow-up, with writer/director Stephan Elliott announcing a sequel. The filmmaker with Welcome to Woop Woop, A Few Best Men and Swinging Safari similarly on his resume has confirmed that a second Priscilla, Queen of the Desert picture is on the way — with Pearce, Weaving and Stamp all returning. They'll reprise their roles as Adam aka Felicia Jollygoodfellow, Tick aka Mitzi Del Bra and Bernadette Bassenger, respectively, with starting shooting in Australia this year the plan. Elliott, who is writing and directing again, revealed the news to Deadline. "I'm not repeating myself, we'll start the new film in Australia, but by god, we're going on one helluva journey," he advised the publication. "The original cast is on board, I've got a script that everybody likes, we're still working out deals... It's happening," he continued. Alongside stepping back into the lives of the three drag queens who drove a bus across the outback in the 1994 movie, the as-yet-unnamed sequel will introduce new characters. Elliott flagged that Weaving's Tick had a seven-year-old son in the OG film; "he's grown up now," he said. Soundtrack-wise, after the initial flick featured ABBA, Gloria Gaynor's 'I Will Survive' and Alicia Bridges' 'I Love the Nightlife', viewers can expect "old disco classics, but we'll be moving into contemporary as well," Elliott also noted. There's no word yet of a release date, or other cast members — or where in Australia the film will take place, after the first movie journeyed from Sydney to Alice Springs via Broken Hill and Coober Pedy. But it's certainly a big time for Aussie cinema greats with links to Broken Hill scoring new instalments right now, given that the Mad Max franchise is about to drop Furiosa. There's obviously no sneak peek at the sequel to The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert yet, but check out the trailer for the original movie below: There's no release date yet for sequel to The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert — we'll update you when more details are announced. Via Deadline.
Throwing open the doors after spending more than three months in lockdown is a rather huge deal, both for Melburnians keen to venture out of the house for whatever reason they like and for venues eager to welcome patrons back in. So, the National Gallery of Victoria is marking the occasion in a big way — and reopening with seven exhibitions. While cultural venues have been permitted to reopen since the last set of eased restrictions kicked in at 6pm on Friday, October 29, both the NGV International on St Kilda Road and The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia at Federation Square will welcome back art lovers from Wednesday, November 3. And, it'll do so with a mix of returning and new art, ahead of a few huge additions when summer hits. Didn't get the chance to see NGV Australia's world-premiere Maree Clarke: Ancestral Memories exhibition before lockdown? The first retrospective dedicated to the Melbourne-based artist and designer, it's returning until February 6, 2022, and covers more than three decades of the Yorta Yorta/Wamba Wamba/Mutti Mutti/Boonwurrung woman's art. Also at Fed Square, you can check out Big Weather if you missed it earlier in the year. Exploring the appreciation of weather systems within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural knowledge, it's sticking around until the same February date. And, NGV Australia is also bringing back its newly acquired Naomi Hobson painting and photographic series, which focuses on Hobson's cultural identity, connection to Country and love for her community. [caption id="attachment_830893" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Installation view of Big Weather at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, Melbourne on display from 12 March 2021 – 6 February 2022. Photo: Tom Ross.[/caption] Plus, over at the NGV International, Camille Henrot: Is Today Tomorrow and Reko Rennie's newest work Initiation OA_RR will be on display upon reopening. The former is the first Australian showcase of the French-born, Berlin-based contemporary artist's work, while the latter features a pink Holden Monaro in a striking video piece — and both will display until January 30, 2022. That's what you'll be able to peruse the moment the NGV opens its doors across both its sites, and they'll be joined by two more exhibitions at NGV Australia before the week is out. From Friday, November 5, Sampling the Future will highlight design items with a futuristic feel (think: 3D-printed coral and hand-knitted architecture). Then, on Saturday, November 6, Found and Gathered: Rosalie Gascoigne | Lorraine Connelly-Northey will examine pieces by both artists — more than 75 wall-based and freestanding sculptural works, in fact. From late November till mid-December, NGV International will just keep adding new exhibitions, too, starting with Golden Shells and the Gentle Mastery of Japanese Lacquer on Thursday, November 25. It's all about kai-awase, the Japanese historical 'shell matching' game, and features two large lacquerware shell boxes alongside 360 matching pairs of gold-gilded and hand-painted shells. [caption id="attachment_811494" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Artists' impression of pond[er].[/caption]As already announced earlier in 2021, the Australian-exclusive Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto exhibition will launch on Saturday, December 4 — and with more than 230 garments, accessories and jewellery on display, it's clearly a fashion must-see. Next comes this year's NGV Architecture Commission, pond[er], on Monday, December 6, adding a pink wading pool to the NGV Garden. Finally, both Bark Ladies: Eleven Artists from Yirrkala and The Gecko and the Mermaid will open on Friday, December 17 — celebrating bark paintings and larrakitj (painted hollow poles) made by women artists working out of Yolngu-run art centre Buku Larrngay Mulka Centre, and also exploring the Yolngu people's culture in an all-ages exhibition. The NGV International on St Kilda Road and The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia at Federation Square reopen on Wednesday, November 3. For further details, visit the NGV's website. Top image: Visitors at the NGV Waterwall, NGV International, Melbourne. Photo: Eugene Hyland.
After years of international border closures, and also the shutting down of overseas travel from Australia except for specific approved purposes, seeing the world open back up to tourism country by country is a far more pleasing trend. And, with that in mind, you can now add another destination to your next overseas holiday — yes, that one you've probably spent two years dreaming about now thanks to the pandemic. That location: Bali, which will start welcoming back Australian tourists from Friday, February 4. The Indonesian island will reopen to all international travellers, coinciding with a move to shorten the quarantine period for vaccinated visitors from seven to five days upon arrival. So, if you're now raring for a getaway, you'll still need to factor a stay in isolation into your travels — which likely means spending that time in a bubble hotel. Discussing the reopening, Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan said that Bali's quarantine options for international traveler include "bubble quarantine at five hotels for now with a total of 447 rooms, and on live-on-board ships". The move follows an earlier reopening, back in mid-October, but just to some countries — with opening Bali to all tourists now happening to help boost the holiday hotspot's economy. Late in 2021, Virgin started selling flights from Australia to Bali for travel from late March, while Qantas signalled an April date to restart its Bali routes. Australians will obviously need to factor in the various state rules around international travel, too — some helpful, such as Queensland's recent scrapping of quarantine for double-vaccinated international travellers, and some that'll still delay your plans, like Western Australia's decision to indefinitely delay its border reopening. For more information about Bali's reopening plan, head to the Indonesian Government's website.
First, her milkshake brought all the boys to the yard. Now, a couple of Brisbane events — BIGSOUND and Sweet Relief! — are bringing Kelis to Brisbane in 2024. The thinking: why get the R&B talent to hit up one festival in the Sunshine State capital when she can take to the stage at two? Damn right, this plan is better than yours. At BIGSOUND, Kelis joins the conference lineup at the huge music event, which combines plenty of discussions with live gigs in Fortitude Valley, and returns to Brisbane from Tuesday, September 3–Friday, September 6 for its 23rd year. Then, on Saturday, September 7, Kelis will be part of Sweet Relief!'s 2024 bill. Accordingly, BIGSOUND attendees can expect to hear about her experiences in music — and maybe as a fashion icon, muse for designers, and a Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef with her own Netflix several cooking specials and cookbook My Life on a Plate to her name. At Sweet Relief!, in an exclusive show, Kelis will bust out not just 'Milkshake' and 'Bossy' but more tunes from her catalogue at the fest's second year. For company at the event, which moves to Ballymore Stadium for 2024 after debuting at Northshore Brisbane in 2023, she'll be joined by The Presets, 2024 Eurovision contestants Electric Fields, Haiku Hands, Dameeeela and Juno so far, with more to be announced. 2024 marks a quarter century since Kelis' first record Kaleidoscope and also 21 years since Tasty — featuring 'Milkshake', 'Trick Me' and 'Millionaire' — became such a hit. The singer's spot on both the BIGSOUND and Sweet Relief! is the result of a partnership between BIGSOUND and QLD Music Trails, the latter of which Sweet Relief! forms part of. [caption id="attachment_959285" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The James Adams[/caption] [caption id="attachment_861894" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lachlan Douglas[/caption] [caption id="attachment_959282" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The James Adams[/caption] [caption id="attachment_851424" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lachlan Douglas[/caption] BIGSOUND 2024 will take place between Tuesday, September 3–Friday, September 6 in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane. For more information, visit the event's website. Sweet Relief! 2024 will take place at Ballymore Stadium, 91 Clyde Road, Herston, on Saturday, September 7, with presales from 11am local time on Tuesday, June 4 and general sales from 11am local time on Friday, June 7 — head to the event's website for more details.
For No Vacancy’s latest exhibition, 25 writers, poets and songwriters, including Ali Barter, Bertie Blackman, Lior and Marieke Hardy, have contributed a sentence, a scribble or a song lyric to Duality. These contributions were then randomly paired with local visual artists, who were each given a blank archival rag and seven days to create an artwork inspired by the words. It’s not exactly a typical collaborative project, as the writers and visual artists don’t necessarily interact with one another, however the artist's subjective interpretation of the words given to them allows for the creation of new meaning. It's a genuinely great experiment. Freelance photographer Shannyn Higgins is the brains behind Duality, and this is the second time she has brought writers and visual artists together for this project. The first Duality exhibition was in Vancouver, and Higgins is looking to continue the project in other countries. Don’t miss the Melbourne instalment of Duality, a wonderful example of this city’s creative minds influencing each other’s work.
Welcome to the joys of major film festivals in spring, Sydney. Getting holed up in a cinema for a week or so is usually a winter activity in the Harbour City, because that's when Sydney Film Festival takes place; however, the first-ever SXSW Down Under is arriving in 2023 with its very own celebration of peering at screens. So, for eight October days, movie lovers can wander in and out of darkened rooms while the weather is pleasant outside, not frosty — and see everything from Saltburn, the new Jacob Elordi (Euphoria)-starring thriller from Promising Young Woman director Emerald Fennell, to the freshly remastered 4K version of iconic Talking Heads concert flick Stop Making Sense. After dropping a number of screening highlights over the past few months, SXSW Sydney's debut Screen Festival has unveiled the full 75-plus session bill that'll get projectors a-flickering from Sunday, October 15–Sunday, October 22. So, opening night's Australian thriller The Royal Hotel from Casting JonBenet and The Assistant director Kitty Green (and starring the latter's Julia Garner) now has more company than just the world premiere of documentary Hot Potato: The Story of The Wiggles, plus nine other titles announced back in July that span everything from features starring Indonesian rappers and docos about Tokyo Uber Eats riders. Saltburn will enjoy its Australian premiere at SXSW Sydney, while Stop Making Sense will get The ICC's Darling Harbour Theatre echoing in glorious 7.1 surround sound. The venue will be home to the fest's biggest titles, which also includes opening night and The Wiggles doco; ONEFOUR: Against All Odds about the eponymous drill rap band; and Ryuichi Sakamoto|Opus, which covers the recorded concert by the late, great The Revenant composer, who passed away in March 2023. Also on the bill: supervillain parody The People's Joker, which gives the caped-crusader realm a queer coming-of-age spin; TLC documentary TLC Forever; Sleep, a Korean horror-comedy by Bong Joon-ho's former assistant; the Hugo Weaving (Love Me)-starring The Rooster, which follows a hermit and a cop who form a bond during a crisis; and a retro session of Aussie classic Lake Mungo. Or, SXSW Sydney's film fans can see Black Barbie, a Barbie flick that isn't filled affection; the Indian Australian Sahela, which tells a queer tale set in Western Sydney; Satranic Panic, a homegrown road movie and a creature feature; Milli Vanilli, another of the event's music docos; and Uproar, as starring Hunt for the Wilderpeople's Julian Dennison, Our Flag Means Death's Rhys Darby and Starstruck's Minnie Driver. As part of the fest's First Nations program, Fancy Dance explores being pushed to the margins with star Lily Gladstone just as she'll also be in cinemas in Killers of the Flower Moon — and, from the main program strand that heroes pushing boundaries and serving up surprises, attendees can see This Is Going to Be Big, about Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School in Bullengarook staging a John Farnham-themed musical. For fans of cult fare in the making, the SXSW Sydney Midnighters lineup includes the 16mm-shot Riddle of Fire and the Steven Soderbergh (Full Circle)-produced thriller Divinity, while the music selection will also celebrate Cyndi Lauper via Let the Canary Sing. Among a feast of screen content that also encompasses 40 shorts, plus 20 music videos and 13 XR projects, TV will get some love — that's why the event is called a Screen Festival, not a film fest. Standouts span Night Bloomers, a horror anthology from both Korea and Australia; Erotic Stories, another anthology that'll deliver exactly what it sounds like; and Doona!, a Korean rom-com led by Suzy Bae. If you recall hearing about SXSW winners from its Austin fests, Sydney's version is doing the same, with ten movies competing in its feature competition, another ten vying in the shorts field and eight XR works also seeking some extra love. Alongside indoor sessions at Darling Harbour Theatre and Palace Cinemas Central, free outdoor screenings are also on the bill at the SXSW Sydney 2023 hub in Tumbalong Park. The complete lineup there is still to come, but the program will survey the OG fest's best and brightest, starting with Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement's What We Do in the Shadows — the movie, not the also-ace TV show — as well as classic anime masterpiece Ghost in the Shell and Richard Linklater's Dazed & Confused. "The first ever SXSW Sydney Screen Festival aims to platform the most exciting new voices, new forms and new ways of creating on screen. We hope to inspire our audiences and industry, by unwrapping the future of Screen innovation as it emerges," said Ghita Loebenstein, the event's Head of Screen, announcing the 2023 program. "Like our Austin counterparts, our festival presents global programming from leading creators, and our unique offer is this distinctive Asia Pacific lens. We also thematically lean into our sister pillars across music, games and tech, celebrating where our forms and communities converge. Most of all, SXSW Sydney is a festival which earnestly centres vision, irreverence and fun." Can't wait to watch your way through the everything that you can? SXSW Sydney Screen Festival wristbands are on sale now and will get you into unlimited screenings. [caption id="attachment_917938" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Netflix[/caption] As well as viewing movies and TV shows aplenty, the 2023 SXSW Sydney Screen Festival also features an array of speakers. Black Mirror's Charlie Brooker is one of the headliners — not just of the screen component, but of SXSW Sydney overall. Similarly getting chatting: Indigenous filmmakers Leah Purcell (The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson), Kodie Bedford (Mystery Road: Origin) and Jub Clerc (Sweet As); Osher Günsberg recording an episode of his podcast Better Than Yesterday with a yet-to-be-announced special guest; and Gone Girl, The Nightingale, The Dry, Big Little Lies and Nine Perfect Strangers producer Bruna Papandrea and Binge's Executive Director Alison Hurbert-Burns. Queer Eye star Tan France was also slated to attend, but has had to drop out due to scheduling conflicts. SXSW Sydney will run from Sunday, October 15–Sunday, October 22 at various Sydney venues, with the SXSW Sydney Screen Festival running from Sunday, October 15–Saturday, October 21 at The ICC's Darling Theatre and Palace Cinemas Central. Head to the SXSW Sydney website for further details. If you're keen to make the most of Australia's first SXSW, take advantage of our special reader offer. Purchase your SXSW Sydney 2023 Official Badge via Concrete Playground Trips and you'll score a $150 credit to use on your choice of Sydney accommodation. Book now via the website.
The perfect breakfast dish is a thing of beauty. Before noon a just-right poached egg is like a beacon of light and reassurance, just as biting into a crispy piece of fried brioche becomes an almost religious experience. Alone, these standout dishes gain momentum on food blogs and get a mention in 'Melbourne’s Best Breakfasts' lists, but it's rare for a cafe to have a whole menu of pre-midday dishes each worthy of a return visit. Reading the breakfast menu at Arcadia, each item is as good as the last. It's a can't choose situation. As you make your way down the 15+ menu items, you realise you're going to have to make a choice glazed with uncertainty. Working with Melburnian favourites as the base for dishes before adding a genius component, they've got their customer base catered for. The Middle Eastern poached eggs on rye with red pepper pesto, spinach and hazelnut dukkah ($17.50) is definitely worthy of the shortlist, as is the smashed avocado with feta, slow cooked balsamic tomatoes and preserved lemon salsa ($15). For something sweeter, the 'Goodness Bircher' ($12.50) is packed with seeds and topped with maple pears and the twice-baked brioche French toast is a masterpiece in itself ($16.50). Before you've even ordered you know you'll be coming back. Having been around since before Gertrude Street was even a thing, Arcadia remains a go-to fixture of Fitzroy’s cafescene. Even with bigger, better and more modern venues popping up around them, their dependable breakfasts, fresh lunches and Campos coffee is common knowledge to both locals and those not situated in the inner north and has kept them as a popular weekend destination. The simple layout is supplemented with a food display and small courtyard, as well as a window table looking out onto one of the more interesting streets in the city. As well as their all-day breakfast, as midday approaches the food cabinet is stocked with a culinary rainbow of hunger-inducing offerings. The options change daily (and are posted on their Facebook page each morning) and, as well as salads, can include anything from lasagne, curry, zucchini fritters, a baguette or a burrito. Also made daily are the sweet and savoury muffins that sit smugly next to the coffee machine, as well as cakes, slices and a mammoth brownie that is way too big for even the biggest chocolate fiend to single-handedly devour. At a place like Arcadia, where breakfast reigns supreme, it's hard to do any wrong. With a coffee and a seat at the window, you can have your eggs and eat your cake afterwards too.
