Whether you're a resident or a visitor — a lifelong local, a recent denizen of the city, a regular traveller, first-time tourist or anything in-between — walking around Melbourne, and also spending that time talking to friend, is one of the best ways to soak in the Victorian capital. Even if you're snapping photos and recording video along the way, most people aren't making a film while they amble and chatter, however. Fwends is about Em (Emmanuelle Mattana, Videoland) and Jessie (Melissa Gan) strolling through and around the inner city. Their journey is the movie's filmmaking journey, too. The feature debut of writer/director Sophie Somerville after shorts Peeps and Linda 4 Eva, both of which picked up awards at the Sydney Film Festival, this walk-and-talk comedy completely improvised its dialogue and also shot in order. Discovering a flick as it unfurls is usually just the audience's experience; for Fwends, which premiered at the 2025 Berlin International Film Festival, won the Caligari Film Prize for its innovation and had its Australian debut in the Harbour City on the way to the Melbourne International Film Festival, that applied as much to everyone making it. We've all had the kind of day, night and weekend — one at least, likely several — that Em and Jessie navigate in Fwends. The former is a junior lawyer in Sydney with a workaholic's dedication to her career, in no small part because of the effort it took to get there. The latter is an ex-stripper who spent time in Europe before returning to Melbourne, and is fresh from a breakup. They haven't seen each other for years when Jessie meets Em at Southern Cross Station, so catching up is built into their wanderings. Step by step, story by story, they mosey and meander and babble and banter, and it feels to them — and to viewers — that anything can happen. Lingering just as strongly: the sense that nothing, whether getting coffee or dinner, or repeatedly running into strangers, or making plans for the evening, will turn out as either Em and Jessie expects. Deep bonding happens on jaunts like these. Truths and secrets are shared. Revelations are gleaned — about each other and about where you're sauntering. Rambling happens in both senses of the word. Sleep is forgone. Only the moment matters. And the main event is the walking and talking and bonding and exploring, regardless of what else is supposed to be on the itinerary. For Em and Jessie, they're digging into how work-life balance, the cost-of-living crisis, climate change, mental health and sexual harassment touches their existence — alongside sifting through their hopes, dreams, yearnings, fears, failings and regrets. Somerville is diving into the ups of downs of friendship as well, and of life, plus the fact that we all simply just want to connect. Fwends' guiding force is certain that the chronological approach to making the film is a key to why it resonates with audiences as such a relatable slice of life. "Part of why it feels so real is because we shot the film in order. So normally when you shoot a film, all the scenes are out of order and you'll be like 'oh, we do that scene, and then we jump forward and we do that scene'. But for this one, we were just telling the story while we shot it," Somerville notes to Concrete Playground. "So we would go to one place and then be like 'okay, so we shot that part, and we're going to use that take. So we'll go to the next thing and we'll talk about these things'. So it was this very living process." [caption id="attachment_1018129" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Berlin International Film Festival[/caption] "And it's the kind of luxury that you can have in filmmaking when you have no money at all, or when you have millions and millions of dollars. But because we had no money at all, it meant that we could create that freedom. That's why it feels so relatable and so alive — because we were living it while we were shooting it," she continues. This is a film about anxiety and life's mess and existential dread, too — but, as Em and Jessie keep trekking, it's also literally about putting one foot in front of the other and keeping on going. "I didn't think of it that way, but that's really cool," Somerville says. Having the tiniest of budgets and relying on free filming permits meant not contemplating about where and how Fwends would makes its way to audiences when it was finished as well. 2025 from the Berlinale onwards has been "pretty up and down", then, Somerville reflects. "After we got back from Berlin, it was chill for a little while — and then we had Sydney Film Festival, and then it's just been film festivals and then overseas, and now I'm back in Melbourne and more film festival, and then more film festivals after that. So it's just — it's crazy." Fwends' Melbourne homecoming is a proud moment. "It is such a Melbourne film in the sense that all the crew are emerging young people, and there's such an amazing community of young filmmakers here who help each other out," Somerville shares. "And it's a real success story for that whole culture. So we're just super proud, and hopefully this means that people like me and people who are young and bold and making innovative, exciting films have more belief and money and time invested in them." We also spoke with Somerville about everything from improvisation as a filmmaking technique, the importance of having the right cast willing to go on this excursion with her, and being unafraid to get dark and reflective, to shooting Melbourne in a realistic but loving way, plus being another example of Australian filmmakers going the DIY route to features and international recognition (see also: kickstarting careers via YouTube, as Talk to Me and Bring Her Back's Danny and Michael Philippou and Together's Michael Shanks did). On the Fwends Experience So Far for Somerville — From Premiering in Berlin and Winning an Award to the International Embrace of the Film and Bringing It Home to Australian Festivals "I feel very lucky that it's not just me going through it on my own — it's been everyone who made Fwends with me. So we've been going through it together. We were all together in Berlin when it came out, and it was a very nice time. And then after that, when we played in the Opera House in Sydney, it was a very insane moment in our lives — because we just never imagined that was possible with our tiny film. So I feel very glad that our friends made our film and our friends have been supporting us through our film coming out." On Not Having Expectations for Fwends' Future While Somerville Was Walking Around Melbourne Shooting It "Because the film was made with so little money, we didn't really have any expectations of 'oh, this will set us up, this will ... '. We didn't really think of it that way. We were just being like 'here's our chance to experiment and try all these innovative techniques of filmmaking, like with improvisation and not having a script and being guerrilla-style and having that kind of freedom that you can't have when you have people with money riding on the film'. So the lack of expectation is the reason the film is the way it is — because we didn't set out having this very judgmental kind of feeling of like 'oh, this needs to make or break anything'." On Whether Somerville Anticipated That Fwends Would Resonate So Strongly with Audiences, Including Around the World "No, we were just wanting to be heard in whatever way we could be. When the film played so well in Berlin, we were all very amazed because we were like 'wow, they really connect with these Australian girls'. And then when we thought about it, we were like 'yeah, of course they do, because the problems they're having are the same ones that people in Berlin are having and that people in so many cities feel'. It's weird now, trying to think back to the headspace we were in when we were making the film, but I think really we were just trying to recreate the depth of the experiences of those two characters, and we were just absorbed in that journey, that process." On Improvisation as a Filmmaking Technique "Working with improvisation is a technique that me and some other filmmakers have been talking about for a little while and experimenting with. And I made a short film called Peeps with five teenage girls in it, which was my graduate film when I was at VCA. I did a bit of improvised filmmaking with those kids, because I knew that it would free them up and make them be quite funny and loose. And I became super interested in it as a way of working just because it just a really surprising, refreshing thing to watch — it feels more alive than a more-scripted thing. And so then I did another short film with Melissa Gan, which was also improvised. And I learned a lot about how to work with that as a filmmaking style. Then with Fwends, I was like 'let's just fully take the risk and improvise the whole thing. Let's see what happens'." [caption id="attachment_1018130" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Berlin International Film Festival[/caption] On How Important It Was to Find the Right Leads to Go on Fwends' Journey with Somerville "People have asked me 'oh, did you have an elaborate casting process?'. And the answer is actually no. I just messaged two really talented people on Instagram because we didn't have the money or the time to do a big complicated long casting process. But I was super lucky to connect with Emmanuelle through Melbourne filmmaking adventures — and they are one of the most-talented actors in the world and they're absolutely killing it at the moment. So it was really, really awesome to work with both Melissa and Emmanuelle, because they're so talented." On Ensuring That Fleshed Out, Recognisable, Everyday Characters Are at the Movie's Heart "I really wanted to have that feeling that there's this real depth to these two people, more so than a traditional film. And I also think just authenticity is a real buzzword these days, and it's something that younger audiences really want out of their entertainment. They want to see realness and they want to see honesty. And I think it's a really exciting way of making a film, because you challenge the actors to make themselves more vulnerable, which makes it a more interesting thing to watch." On How the Film's Tiny Budget, and Using Free Filming Permits, Helped Shape the End Result "You kind of have to adjust your mindset, because when you normally make a film, you'll have a script and then you'll be trying to find all the components after the fact, after the script's been written. But with the way we made this one, it was very much being adaptive and responsive to the things we had available, and then being completely willing to be like 'okay, we can't do that scene in this way, so we're going to do this scene using that over there instead'. So some of the best moments in the film weren't storyboarded or thought of beforehand, they were just decided in the moment. They were just like 'oh look'. Like that star scene, that was just there the night we were shooting and it looked amazing, so we were like 'okay, we have to go do something with that star'. But we didn't plan that." On Giving Voice to the Fact That Everyone Just Wants to Connect — But Doesn't Want to Admit It "I guess it's just a thing that was on my mind and something I feel about my relationships, where you just constantly want to tell them how much you love them, and it's always awkward and shit, and embarrassing and doesn't come across very well. I think their friendship is one that is like that. It's messy and they have moments of deep connection, and then they have to go away and we don't know when they'll see each other again. Love is important." On Fwends Being a Fast-Talking Buddy Comedy That's Also Unafraid to Get Deep, Dark and Existential "I think all my films gravitate towards this feeling of wanting to address real, dark stuff, but then somehow find a way to package it in a way that's entertaining — as a way of digesting your real experiences and being like 'but then this funny thing happened'. But I think that's how real life is. I think with Fwends, we were really trying to convey this feeling of realness and authenticity, and so to be like 'yeah, there's all this bullshit, there's bad shit happening, but there's also all this joy and all this life, and they're totally coexisting all at the same time'. And just to try to live with the complexity of that experience, rather than being sucked into 'everything sucks' or being all delusional and escapist — trying to just live with the complex dimensions of our experiences." On the Walk-and-Talk Genre and Fwends' Influences "I know Before Sunrise is the film it's being compared to a lot, but I intentionally didn't watch it before I made this one because I didn't want to feel like I was too absorbed by the Linklater-y thing. I think when I was making the film, I wasn't thinking about it in terms of 'where does this sit in the constellation of cinema?'. I try not to get too sucked in thinking about that kind of thing, because I think it distracts you from what you're really doing when you're making a film — which is 'how do I show this particular person's journey?'. I love all kinds of films and Fwends is definitely influenced by my own taste, which is a field of movies from the French New Wave and slacker films and all kinds of cinema, really." On Whether It's Rewarding Making an Improvised Film — and Taking an Inventive, Problem-Solving Approach to Budget and Resource Constraints "Yeah, for sure. Because filmmaking is so prohibitive. It can feel so out of reach to people who don't have access to a lot of money. And none of my films were ever made with lots of money because I didn't have any. My short films were made with really, really small budgets as well, where it was just a problem-solving thing of being like 'how do we make cinema out of nothing at all?'. So Fwends was a combination of all those skills, of being like 'how do we make this thing feel bigger than it is using the very limited resources that we have?'. I guess I'm very lucky because I'm in today's day and age, where it is possible to make a great movie on your laptop. And I really hope that we can — I don't think we should be ashamed of the fact that we're making a film with no money. I think it's a powerful thing and it can be used to your advantage." On Somerville's Approach to Showing a Realistic — But Still Affectionate — Version of Melbourne "I didn't want it to look too pretty and too ugly. I wanted to strike a middle ground between 'this is a real place' and also wanted to frame it quite lovingly. Because we were shooting the world out there, just regular people walking around, and so I think when you do that you owe the city a kind of respect. So I hope that it t does come across that way, because we do love living here. And I think I was just trying to just show it the way it is — and also find a romance and a beauty in the messiness of the real world." On Fwends' Journey Around Melbourne, Including Both Planned Stops and Surprises Along the Way "Some places were very planned. Carter [Looker, an alum of Peeps and Linda 4 Eva] and I, the cinematographer, we did a lot of walking around — and a lot of 'oh, we really want to do a shot there'. The shot in the rainforest where they walk around, that was always, very early on, something that we were going to do, because we were very excited about this idea of doing this long take where they weave around the whole place. So it's a real mixture. Some of the nicest shots in the film were not planned at all, and then others were totally imagined and planned out and storyboarded. I mean, that's the beauty of making a film — some of it is totally planned and it doesn't even work, and then some of it is fully improvised in the moment and it's the best thing ever." On How Shorts Helped Prepare Somervile for Making the Leap to Features "I wouldn't have been able to make Fwends if I hadn't made those two short films. It's so important that you experiment and try things. And those two short films, they're very different — really, really different aesthetically. But I think there is something about Fwends that they join in the middle a little bit. Then I hope with my next one, that it'll be even more of a joining together of all these different vibes. And I'm super lucky to have worked with some really generous, talented people for my short films." On How Somerville Plans to Build Upon Both Fwends and Her Shorts for Her Next Feature "Our next thing, we want to make with proper funding and all that stuff. So it's an interesting conversation now to try to bring all these methods that came out of working in the DIY space and bring them into a professionalised environment. But I think it's going to be so exciting. Because I think we've proved, because of how well Fwends has done, we've got real proof that filmmakers like me who are taking bold experiments deserve to be given trust. So I'm really excited to make the next one." On Being an Example of Australian Filmmakers Taking the DIY Path to Features and International Recognition "That's very, very cool. I hope that lots more films get made with no money — and I know how hard it is, but I think that it's super important that you have a space to experiment. And sometimes the only way you can find that space is by doing things yourself and taking those risks." Fwends screens at the 2025 Melbourne International Film Festival. MIFF 2025 runs from Thursday, August 7–Sunday, August 24 at a variety of venues around Melbourne; from Friday, August 15–Sunday, August 17 and Friday, August 22–Sunday, August 24 in regional Victoria; and online nationwide from Friday, August 15–Sunday, August 31. For further details, visit the MIFF website.
If a fresh bread roll, an expertly grilled patty and a slice of melted cheese is your idea of a perfect meal — or some variation of the above — then you probably have May 28 permanently marked in your diary. Each and every year, that's when the world's burger-lovers celebrate their favourite food. We're not saying that burgs will taste better on that date, but if you just can't get enough of the trusty dish, it's definitely time to celebrate. This year, to mark the occasion, 100 restaurants across Australia are offering up to 50 percent off burgers for two days via Deliveroo. On Wednesday, May 27 and Thursday, May 28, you can get burgs delivered straight to your home or office — or home office — for cheap. Lunch, sorted. Melburnians have 35 burger joints to choose from, including Royal Stacks, Hello Sam, Egg Fix's four locations, Chew Burger, LA Burgers and Carl's Jr, while Sydneysiders have 21, with the likes of Johnny Bird, Belly Bao, Moo Gourmet, Bondi Relish and Outback Steakhouse all getting on board. Brisbanites have eight options for their half-price burger fix: Hashtag, Moo Free, Big Roddy's in Fish Lane and The Valley, Brunchbox, The Burger Joint, Seoul Bistro and The Columbian Coffee Dealer. You can check out the full list here. To get your fix, all you need to do is jump on to Deliveroo and find your closest burg favourite and order. [caption id="attachment_556040" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Royal Stacks[/caption] Top image: Johnny Bird by Parker Blain
February 14 means different things to different people — but if you're a fan of Yellowjackets, that date in 2025 is now all about just one thing. Two years after its second season, the survivalist thriller will return on Valentine's Day to kick off its third round, again following the survivors of a plane crash both in the immediate aftermath and a quarter of a century later. As viewers discovered when it debuted in 2021 and became one of the best new shows of that year, the instantly intriguing (and excellent) series follows a New Jersey high school's girls soccer team in the 90s after their plane plummets into the forest, and also checks in with everyone that's left 25 years later. Across two seasons so far, life and friendship have proven complex for Yellowjackets' core quartet of Shauna (The Tattooist of Auschwitz's Melanie Lynskey as an adult, and also No Return's Sophie Nélisse as a teenager), Natalie (I'm a Virgo's Juliette Lewis, plus MaXXXine's Sophie Thatcher), Taissa (Law & Order's Tawny Cypress, and also Scream VI's Jasmin Savoy Brown) and Misty (Wednesday's Christina Ricci, as well as Atlas' Samantha Hanratty). The full setup: back in 1996, en route to a big match in Seattle on a private aircraft, Shauna, Natalie, Taissa, Misty and the rest of their teammates entered Lost territory. The accident saw everyone who walked away stranded in the wilderness — and those who then made it through that ordeal stuck out there for 19 months, living their worst Alive-meets-Lord of the Flies lives. As well as announcing the show's return date, Yellowjackets dropped a first teaser trailer for season three, although it's brief at just 15 seconds in length. In quick flashes, the sneak peek does feature violent altercations, screaming and mask-wearing figures among the 90s-era group, however. So, business as usual, then. [caption id="attachment_894499" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Colin Bentley/SHOWTIME.[/caption] After swiftly getting picked up for a second season because its first was that ace, Yellowjackets was then renewed for a third season before that second group of episodes even aired. In Australia, viewers will be heading to Paramount+ come Friday, February 14, 2025. In New Zealand, the series streams via Neon. In season three, the returning cast — which includes Simone Kessell (Muru) as the older Lottie and Lauren Ambrose (Servant) as the older Van, characters played in their younger guises by Australian actors Courtney Eaton (Mad Max: Fury Road) and Liv Hewson (Party Down) — will be joined by Hilary Swank (Ordinary Angels) and Joel McHale (The Bear). Check out the first teaser trailer for Yellowjackets season three below: Season three of Yellowjackets will start streaming from Friday, February 14, 2025 via Paramount+ in Australia — and streams via Neon in New Zealand. Read our review of season one and review of season two, plus our interview with Melanie Lynskey. Via Variety.
There's an air of inevitability about Escape Room. A strong feeling of familiarity, too. Hollywood was always going to turn the popular pastime into a scary movie — a matter of when, not if — but this first major attempt just rebadges a horror film staple. Long before people were paying to sleuth their way out of a locked space, audiences have been watching the same concept on the big screen. It's there in countless haunted house flicks, in 1997's stylish and twisty thriller Cube, and in the gore of the Saw franchise as well. All that Escape Room adds to the mix is an obvious moniker, and a clear desire to start a new Final Destination-style series. The setup is as straightforward as expected, with six strangers receiving mysterious invitations to visit a new Chicago space. If they can find their way out of the high-tech escape room, which no one has been able to manage so far, they'll win $10,000 for their troubles. But as shy college student Zoey (Taylor Russell), supermarket slacker Ben (Logan Miller) and finance whiz Jason (Jay Elis) wait to enter the puzzle alongside dedicated gamer Danny (Nik Dodani), the high-strung Amanda (Deborah Ann Woll) and the older Mike (Tyler Labine), it becomes apparent that this isn't any old immersive experience. From the moment that the lobby starts getting warmer than it should be, these competitors aren't just angling for a cash prize — they're endeavouring to stay alive. Thanks to an unrelated, barely seen 2017 film that's also called Escape Room, plus a 2018 TV movie called No Escape Room, director Adam Robitel (Insidious: The Last Key) and screenwriters Bragi Schut (Season of the Witch) and Maria Melnik (TV's Counterpart) aren't treading new filmic ground in any sense. Rather, they're merely jumping into territory that's recognisable in several ways, just with a bigger budget and audience reach. Still, while there's much that remains well-worn about 2019's Escape Room, Robitel and company don't always stick to painting by the numbers. Although their picture won't wow viewers with its twists, or surprise many with its tricks and riddles, it does succeed in the most crucial area: making its escape room sequences stand out. There's more than one literally killer space to flee here, and each proves inventive and clever — whether stranding Zoey, Ben and the gang in an upside-down pool bar, or thrusting them into a place that resembles a hellish acid trip. Indeed, watching the group navigate each complicated chamber never fails to entertain and impress, with full credit due to the movie's production designers. It's a strange sensation, to view characters fighting for their lives as their surroundings attempt to assassinate them, and to completely understand the appeal of the escape room craze. This isn't an ad for the real thing or an accurate representation of it, obviously, however by making its spaces so intriguing and engaging, the film aptly conveys why they've become so popular. Alas, at almost every other turn, Escape Room is a rare picture that could've benefited from fewer details, not more. When you're filling your film with stereotypical characters, giving them standard personality traits and cliched traumatic backstories doesn't add depth — it just highlights how paper-thin everyone is. Similarly, while witnessing the sextet's battle for survival is suitably unsettling and suspenseful, attempting to explain why they're stuck in this predicament feels overly contrived, even for such a high-concept premise. It also feels utterly unnecessary, and smacks of attempting to set up a sequel. When Escape Room lures audiences into its murderous maze, more of the same may sound like a treat. But when the movie is happily ticking boxes, it serves up a firm reminder that many horror flicks can barely sustain their own running time, let alone a franchise. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dSKUoV0SNI
CERES is set to score itself an innovative new urban farming space, thanks to funding from the Victorian Government's $1 million Social Impact Investment for Sustainability Program. The indoor vertical farm will breathe new life into a former cool room at the social enterprise's Preston property, producing organic microgreens and helping to train the public in aspects of urban farming. 12 new jobs will be created and CERES will be able to offer 27 work experience positions over the next three years. The rest of the $183,000 funding CERES receives will go towards building a new website and app, providing easier access to the group's organic grocery and carbon neutral food delivery service, Fair Food. Operating for the past two years, CERES Fair Food sells produce wholesale and through 12 local stores, as well as being delivered to around 1000 customers each week.
Last year, Rooftop at QT received a major revamp, scoring an new fitout, and an updated food and drink lineup. It then got a mini summertime makeover for the Australian Open, setting up its own pickleball court on the terrace. And now, for winter, it's transformed into a snow globe — sort of. The bar isn't exactly encased in a glass dome, and no one is shaking you around, but you will find fake snow falling down on you every hour. The regular snow show runs from 5pm–late every Thursday–Sunday. Visually it's a beaut, but just be sure to guard your drinks from rogue snow flakes. For more theatrics, the QT team has teamed up with Grey Goose to create a new cocktail menu filled with playful flourishes. The Frosted Martini is stirred with liquid nitrogen, so your drink will be surrounded by cascading clouds. And the Flaming Blazer — an intriguing mix of Grey Goose, Dewar's 12-year-old whisky, white peach, rosemary, caramel peach, bitters and nutmeg — is served with a dramatic gust of fire. (Watch the eyebrows.) Executive Chef Nic Wood has created special bites to be paired with these new cocktails, including braised duck croquettes with plum purée; spanner crab tartlets with chives, espellete and lemon aioli; Abrolhos Island half-shell scallops with orange and fermented chilli butter; and a classic Pacific oyster topped with oscietra caviar. Everything is on the luxury end of the rooftop bar spectrum, but what else would you expect from QT Melbourne — there's a reason we've named it one of Melbourne's top hotels, after all. The Snow Globe on Rooftop at QT is running until Sunday, September 2, with the snow shows taking place from Thursday–Sunday. For more information, visit the venue's website.
This bustling Irving Street eatery and its Collingwood sibling are both known for their traditional Ethiopan dinners. The Footscray outpost, however, is also immensely popular as a breakfast spot, knocking out steaming plates of silts (an Ethiopian version of scrambled eggs) and ful — a spiced broadbean stew served with sliced hard-boiled eggs, green peppers and crusty bread for mopping it all up. Both these dishes use a traditional Ethiopian-sourced berbere spice mix as a base, made up of 25 different spices, many of which are endemic to the region. Coffee lovers will rejoice at the availability of hand-roasted Ethiopian organic rainforest coffee, which takes a few moments to make but is a spectacle worth beholding. Beyond breakfast, diners flock for the extended menu of vegan, vegetarian and meat-based dishes served throughout the day, all paired with the classic injera flatbread that traditionally serves as a replacement for cutlery.
First, Grapevine Gathering locked in its 2022 dates and hosts. Now, the vino-fuelled Australian festival has announced exactly who'll you be watching when you're sipping plonk and dancing in a winery this October. Leading the bill: The Kooks, Peking Duk and The Veronicas, giving music and wine lovers plenty to say cheers to. Also hitting the stage: Ball Park Music, Gus Dapperton and Jack River, as well as Confidence Man, Alice Skye, Nyxen and Becca Hatch. And, as previously revealed, Aussie sketch comedians and Instagram celebrities The Inspired Unemployed are on hosting duties. As they did at the last Victorian Grapevine Gathering, they'll be charged with keeping the audience entertained between musos — and also hitting the decks as well. That's who you'll be seeing over one grape-filled day. As for where you'll be headed, the fest will return to Western Australia, Victoria and New South Wales, of course — hitting up Sandalford Wines in Swan Valley, Rochford Wines in the Yarra Valley and Roche Estate in the Hunter Valley, respectively. In 2022, for the first time ever, Grapevine Gathering is also debuting in Queensland and South Australia — at Sirromet Wines at Mount Cotton and Serafino Wines in McLaren Vale. Love heading to a scenic spot to dance to live tunes? Adore sipping wine, too? This is clearly the fest for you. Naturally, sipping vino is a huge part of the attraction. As always, attendees will have access to a heap of wine given the fest's locations, plus an array of yet-to-be-announced food options. GRAPEVINE GATHERING 2022 LINEUP: The Kooks Peking Duk Ball Park Music Gus Dapperton Jack River The Veronicas Confidence Man Alice Skye Nyxen Becca Hatch hosted by The Inspired Unemployed GRAPEVINE GATHERING 2022 DATES: Saturday, October 1 — Sandalford Wines, Swan Valley, Western Australia Sunday, October 2 — Serafino Wines, McLaren Vale, South Australia Saturday, October 8 — Rochford Wines, Yarra Valley, Victoria Saturday, October 15 — Roche Estate, Hunter Valley, New South Wales Sunday, October 16 — Sirromet Wines, Mount Cotton, Queensland Grapevine Gathering will tour Australia in October 2022. Tickets go on sale from 12pm AEST Thursday, May 26 — with presale registrations open now till 3pm AEST Wednesday, May 25, and presales starting at 6pm AEST that same day. For further information, head to the festival's website.
A long time ago in this very galaxy, a whole year passed by without a new Star Wars movie hitting cinemas. That year was 2014, with Disney delivering a fresh trilogy of flicks and two spinoffs to big screens for five years straight between 2015–19 — introducing the world to new lightsaber-wielding characters, farewelling old favourites and delving into stellar side stories. Alas, in 2020, that run is coming to an end. More Star Wars movies are planned, because of course they are; however, wannabe Jedis won't be watching them just yet. But that doesn't mean that the force won't be with us this year, with The Mandalorian's second season heading to Disney+ from Friday, October 30. For those that missed it or need a refresher — the Star Wars universe certainly does sprawl far and wide, both within its tales and in its many different movies, shows, books and games — the Emmy-nominated show follows the titular bounty hunter (Pedro Pascal). In the series' first season, which was set five years after Star Wars: Episode XI — Return of the Jedi and aired last year, that meant tracking his latest gigs. And, it also involved charting his encounter with a fuzzy little creature officially known as The Child, but affectionately named Baby Yoda by everyone watching. Also on offer the first time around: Breaking Bad's Giancarlo Esposito playing villain Moff Gideon, aka the ex-Galactic Empire security officer determined to capture The Child; everyone from Carl Weathers and Taika Waititi to Werner Herzog playing ex-magistrates, droids and enigmatic strangers; and plenty of planet-hopping. Yes, it was firmly a Star Wars TV series, and yes, it plans to continue in the same manner. As the just-dropped first trailer for The Mandalorian's second season shows, it also plans to once again focus on one of television's best pairings. Not only is Mando back, but so is the oh-so-adorable Baby Yoda. The duo's quest to return to The Child's home planet continues, and they aren't parting ways on the journey — "wherever I go, he goes," Mando advises. In addition to showering viewers in Baby Yoda's cuteness, the eight-episode new season will see Boba Fett (Temuera Morrison) pop up — it is a show about a bounty hunter, after all — plus Timothy Olyphant and Rosario Dawson join the cast. Behind the lens, directors include showrunner Jon Favreau, Jurassic World star Bryce Dallas Howard, Dope's Rick Famuyiwa, Ant-Man's Peyton Reed and Alita: Battle Angel's Robert Rodriguez, as well as Weathers doing double duty on-screen and off. Check out the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5LkkaL-y6Hc&feature=youtu.be The Mandalorian's second season hits Disney+ on Friday, October 30. 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. Top image: Disney+
Barunah Plains is nowhere near the Gold Coast, but a taste of the Glitter Strip will hit Hesse in Victoria to farewell 2024 and welcome in 2025. Beyond The Valley is back for another massive end-of-year party, with the music festival giving former pro surfer-turned-DJ Fisher — a Grammy-nominee for 'Losing It', too — its top slot. With multiple days to fill, taking place across Saturday, December 28, 2024–Wednesday, January 1, 2025, Beyond The Valley goes big with its lineups. This year's just-dropped full roster pinballs between nations, music genres and eras, resulting in a bill where Ice Spice sits alongside Tinashe, Sugababes and Natasha Bedingfield — and Chase & Status, Marlon Hoffstadt, Royel Otis, Sammy Virji, AJ Tracey and Denis Sulta, too. Just from those names alone — and there's plenty more — that gives festivalgoers 'Munch (Feelin' U)', 'Nasty', 'Push the Button', 'These Words', 'Backbone', 'Call Me', new versions of 'Murder on the Dancefloor' and 'Linger', 'If You Need It', 'Bringing It Back' and 'World of Flies' to look forward to. Also on the lineup: Confidence Man, BARKAA, Teenage Dads, NEIL FRANCES, Lola Young, Ghetts and The Rions, as well as Kita Alexander, The Grogans, Billie Marten, The Terrys and Sycco. And yes, the list still goes on from there. After supporting Fred again..'s whirlwind Australian tour earlier in 2024, JOY (Anonymous) is on the electronic side of the bill, alongside everyone from horsegiirL, KI/KI, DJ BORING, SG Lewis and Tinlicker through to Ben Hemsley, Avalon Emerson, Sam Alfred, Sally C, LB aka Labat, Chloé Caillet, and Flowdan & Neffa-T. Music is the main focus of and drawcard at Beyond The Valley, but this fest knows that tunes aren't all that its punters listen to — and that dancing to them isn't the only way to have a blast. First, enter the dedicated podcast stage, this time with Dan Does Footy, It's Layered, The Hook Up, No Hard Feelings and The Psychology of Your 20s getting chatting. Next, there'll also be drag bingo with Poof Doof, hidden parties popping up and swimming pools for a summer splash. The fest is also aiming to give back via donating $1 from each ticket to Igniting Change and offsetting emissions via Treecreds. Beyond the Valley 2024 Lineup: Fisher Ice Spice Chase & Status Marlon Hoffstadt Tinashe Royel Otis Sammy Virji Sugababes AJ Tracey Denis Sulta Natasha Bedingfield horsegiirL Confidence Man Teenage Dads KI/KI DJ BORING SG Lewis JOY (Anonymous) Tinlicker (DJ set) Ben Hemsley NEIL FRANCES Lola Young Ghetts Flowdan & Neffa-T Avalon Emerson The Rions BARKAA Kita Alexander The Grogans The Terrys Sycco Malugi Sam Alfred Hannah Laing Girls Don't Sync Oden & Fatzo (live) Fish56Octagon Sally C LB aka LABAT Franck Chloé Caillet Odd Mob Anna Lunoe Billie Marten Nick Ward Jersey Sarah Story Luke Alessi Nina Las Vegas Half Queen MESSIE Vv Pete Laura King Little Fritter Jimi The Kween Djanaba tiffi Ollie Lishman WOLTERS Marli Ned Bennett Stev Zar Denim Liz Cambage Jewel Owusu SOVBLKPSSY DIJOK Kimboclat Eva Brown Suga Princess Podcast stage: The Hook Up Dan Does Footy It's Layered Luke & Sassy Scott No Hard Feelings The Psychology of Your 20s Beyond The Valley will run from Saturday, December 28, 2024–Wednesday, January 1, 2025 at Barunah Plains, Wentworths Road, Hesse, Victoria. Ticket presale registrations are open now, closing at 3pm AEST on Tuesday, August 27 — with festival presales from 6pm on Wednesday, August 28. General sales kick off at 12pm AEST on Thursday, August 29. For more information, head to the fest's website. Beyond The Valley images: Alex Drewniak, Mitch Lowe, Duncographic, Ash Caygill, Josh Bainbridge, Chloe Hall.
A graffiti image of an enormous black bull stares down diners at the fittingly named The Black Toro. Mixing Spanish cuisine with Mexican street food, the menu here consists of share plates split into 'poco' (small) and 'grande' (large) serving sizes. Standout dishes include oysters with apple and tequila mignonette, mezcal cured salmon with coriander meringue, and soft shell tacos packed with crab or spicy pulled pork. You'll be tempted to stuff yourself with curly fries, which come with chipotle mayo, but whatever you do make sure you leave room for dessert. You can try caramel flan, coconut pannacotta, chocolate brownie with salted caramel and popcorn, or a deconstructed peanut butter cheesecake. Or, if making decisions isn't really your thing, combine a bit of everything with their dessert tasting plate.
The next time that you see Hannah Gadsby on your screen, they'll be in feel-good mode. There's a wedding to talk about — their own, to their producer Jenney Shamash — after all. And, you'll be seeing the Australian comedian share the details, and dive into the politics around nuptials, plus homophobic bakers, queer domesticity and bunnies, too, very soon: on Tuesday, May 9, in fact. Get ready for Something Special, Gadsby's new comedy special — and their third with Netflix following smash-hit Nanette and then Douglas. Based on their recent stand-up show Body of Work, announced in 2022 and filmed at the Sydney Opera House that same year, it's being pegged as "their first feel-good romantic comedy show" — but still with Gadsby's usual wit, insights and sense of humour. "I didn't say who it's a feel-good show for," noted Gadsby's in Netflix's announcement. "I feel real good." It's been a huge few years for the Tasmanian-born talent, and they keep going from strength to strength onstage — and on-screen. Indeed, when the time came for Gadsby to initially follow up international smash-hit show Nanette, that seemed a rather difficult task. After all, the one-performer stand-up set copped serious praise on its 18-month travels across Australia and the UK, even scooping the top honours at both the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and Edinburgh Festival Fringe — and, of course, spawning its very own Netflix special. But, then Douglas was born, with Gadsby returning to the stage with a performance named after a pet pooch. While Nanette pulled apart the concept of comedy itself, dishing up an insight into Gadsby's past, Douglas took comedy fans on a "tour from the dog park to the renaissance and back". It made its way across stages around Australia and New Zealand in late 2019 and early 2020, and then hit Netflix in 2020 as well. After that came Body of Work — first as a live show again, and now as Netflix special Something Special, too. It's the first release in Gadsby's new a multi-title deal with the streaming platform that is also set to span a new multi-comic special featuring gender-diverse performers. Something Special doesn't yet have a trailer, but you can check out Nanette and Douglas' sneak peeks in the interim below: Hannah Gadsby's Something Special Netflix special will be available to stream from Tuesday, May 9, 2023. Images: Jess Gleeson/Netflix © 2023.
When it comes to winter family getaways, Sydney is often overlooked in favour of snowier spots further south. But the Harbour City is full of unexpected wintry delights—both indoors and out. Think cosy corners, hearty pub fare, awe-inspiring exhibitions, and close-up wildlife encounters. Add kids into the mix, and it becomes even more magical. From spotting humpbacks along the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk and soaking up Harbour views aboard the iconic Manly Ferry to sampling global eats at Hay St Market, we've rounded up some of the best family-friendly activities to help you plan your next escape. Plus, if you're keen to stay in the city, Marriott Bonvoy is offering 10% off your stay across six hotels—all you need to do is sign up (for free). It's also the perfect excuse to extend your stay. Pack your puffer and rally the little ones—here are nine top family-friendly things to do in Sydney this winter. Wander Through Hay St Market If the weather turns grizzly or you're facing decision paralysis over what to eat, Hay St Market—Sydney's newest hawker-style foodie hub—is an ideal spot for the whole family to explore. Bringing together 48 traders and over 25 international cuisines under one roof, the market buzzes with lively, aromatic stalls serving everything from freshly-baked sourdough and creamy cannoli to juicy citrus, melt-in-your-mouth sashimi, and premium cuts of meat. To keep the food adventure going, walk across to Spice Alley in Chippendale—just a short stroll from Four Points By Sheraton Sydney, Central Park. Picnic In the Royal Botanic Gardens While many botanical gardens around Australia boast magnificent, manicured grounds, few compare to Sydney's historic Royal Botanic Garden. Home to more than 27,000 plant species and boasting uninterrupted views of Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, it's the ultimate spot to roll out a picnic rug and absorb some precious winter rays. There are plenty of things to keep the little ones entertained, too. Wander through the aromatic herb garden, the vibrant wildflower meadow, and the sun-drenched succulent garden—or book the kids into a nature-inspired craft workshop. Spot Whales Along Bondi To Coogee Coastal Walk Revered as one of the most picturesque walks along Australia's east coast, the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk is a year-round favourite—but it's especially popular from May to November during the annual humpback whale migration. The walk stretches about six kilometres one way, is suitable for all fitness levels, and offers vantage points aplenty, including Ben Buckler Point, Clovelly Beach, Waverley Cemetery, and Gordon's Bay. Mornings and late afternoons are the best times to spot whales, which often breach close to shore—but bring a pair of binoculars to get an even closer view of the action. Ride Sydney's Iconic Manly Ferry Keen to check out one of Sydney's iconic beaches? Jump aboard Sydney's historic Manly Ferry. Departing regularly from Circular Quay, the 30-minute journey is packed with spectacular Sydney Harbour views, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera House, and Kirribilli House. A must on any first-timer's Sydney itinerary, Manly offers plenty to explore once you arrive, with viral eateries like Norma's Deli, Butter Boy, and Chica Bonita regularly drawing crowds daily. Plus, the ferry terminal is just a quick stroll from Sydney Harbour Marriott, Circular Quay making it the perfect day-trip if you're staying close by (and scoring 10% off your stay). Run Amok at Luna Park Speaking of ferries, hop aboard the Milson's Point Wharf ferry at Circular Quay and spend a day exploring Luna Park—one of Sydney's most iconic amusement destinations. The heritage-listed theme park blends vintage carnival charm with modern thrills like the sky-high Coney Island Devil's Drop, the gravity-defying Rotor, the classic Ferris Wheel, and The Big Dipper—the world's first-ever double-launch single-rail rollercoaster. Get Up-Close with the Animals At Taronga Zoo Taronga Zoo is a playground for all ages that rolls education and fun into one, and has offered unforgettable wildlife encounters for over 100 years. Committed to wildlife conservation, the zoo is home to 4,000 animals across 350 species, including majestic African lions and Western Lowland gorillas, playful fairy penguins, and adorable pygmy hippopotamuses. To kick the adrenaline up a notch and see some wildlife from a new perspective, strap in for a climb on the zoo's thrilling high ropes course. Adventure Underwater at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium Home to over 4,000 animals across more than 300 species, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is a sample of the seven seas right in the heart of the city. With immersive themed zones like Jurassic Seas, Shark Valley and Penguin Expedition, it showcases the world's largest variety of Australian aquatic life—and has become a rite of passage for Sydneysiders and young visitors alike. Highlights include Pig, the resident rescue dugong, up-close shark scuba encounters, and a walk-through tunnel where rays and sharks glide overhead. Plus, it's just moments away from W Sydney, making it well within reach for an easy yet exciting day out. Tour Sydney's Historic Cockatoo Island Once a convict gaol and shipyard, Cockatoo Island is now a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site just nine minutes by ferry from Barangaroo Wharf. The largest island in Sydney Harbour, it offers a fascinating mix of historical tours suitable for all ages, plus regular cultural exhibitions and events. After exploring, pull up a seat at one of the family-friendly waterfront cafes and watch a flurry of boats glide past—and if you're staying at Pier One Sydney Harbour, take the scenic route back and wander through Barangaroo. Get Inspired at Sydney's Art Galleries The Art Gallery of NSW is a cultural cornerstone and arguably one of the most significant art galleries in the state — if not the country. While it's known for showcasing a program of both local and internationally acclaimed artists, it also offers a mix of compelling creative activities for the little ones, including Australia's first children's art library on lower level 3, weekly Storytime sessions, and interactive exhibitions. This winter, check out the annual Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prize (on display until August 17), and the Young Archie finalists. Down by the Harbour, The Museum of Contemporary Art Australia is the only public museum dedicated exclusively to contemporary art in the country. A must-visit for modern art lovers, it hosts a rotating lineup of globally acclaimed artists—including Cerith Wyn Evans' monumental light sculptures, on display from June until October. Families can also enjoy drop-in drawing classes, and unstructured creative art play for kids under five. Ready for a jam-packed family adventure? Book your Sydney escape before September 30 to access 10% off your stay and dining with Marriott Bonvoy. All you have to do is sign up as a member—and it's completely free. With access to exclusive member rates, your stay will also earn points towards free nights at over 30 hotel brands around the world. Book your stay here. T&C's apply and vary by participating hotels including blackout dates, cancellation restrictions and more. Offer may not apply in properties not participating in the award and redemption of Marriott Bonvoy.
When spring hits in the northern hemisphere, so does one of Japan's most famous annual periods: cherry blossom season. Trees start blooming with pastel pink flowers, and tourists start flocking to the Asian country. While there's no shortage of things to do in Japan, or bright and colourful attractions for that matter, there's nothing more disappointing than popping something on your holiday itinerary, looking forward to it for weeks or months, and then not being able to cross it off. And that's often a very real issue for folks hoping to immerse themselves in cherry blossom season. Nature, like the rest of life, doesn't always stick to a schedule. The Japan Meteorological Corporation has been doing its part with regular forecasts, which are updated frequently. Covering more than a thousand locations across the country — spanning from Hokkaido to Kagoshima — it tracks when the blossoms are expected to start to flowering, as well as when they should reach full bloom. But for those eager to take their planning to the next level, JMC has also released the Sakura Navi app, which updates flowering dates, sends notifications to users about their chosen spots, and helps you find the best viewing places in your vicinity. Running since 2016, the app costs 360 yen, or approximately AU$4.60. And while travelling overseas can spark a new app free-for-all, if you're visiting Japan during between March–May and you have your heart set on stepping into a pink floral wonderland, it'll help ensure you don't miss out on a blooming good time. Based on current forecasts — the sixth for this year — cherry blossoms are expected in Tokyo between March 21–29 and Osaka between March 25 and April 1, then move further north until May. And if you're wondering about the service's accuracy, it also highlights a deviation period for each location. At present, it notes that flowers might start blooming up to seven days before their predicated date, or a maximum of two days afterwards. For further cherry blossom forecasts, and more information about Sakura Navi, visit the JMC website.
Are you still, still recovering from The Red Viper versus The Mountain? Are you feeling a little nostalgic for the days when Tyrion could lay around boozing on vino? Perhaps you should be drinking your sorrows away with some like-minded Thrones fanatics. Confused? We’ll lay it down for you. Game of Rhones is a wine-tasting event that's been touring Australia since 2014. Featuring over 40 producers and 100 wines, it's a one-day, all-out trial by combat to determine the best offering of the grape varieties from the Rhone Valley in France — Shiraz, Grenache, and Viognier among others. But this isn't just a run-of-the-mill wine tasting set-up. To keep that theme solid, the Rhone Bar is where you can taste wines from ‘Beyond the Wall’ (ie: the Rhone Valley). Then, you can sign up for a blindfolded tasting in the 'torture chamber' (a highlight of previous Game of Rhones events). Suffice to say, after a few of these Rhone Valley wines, we'd probably confess to a secret or two. Of course, it wouldn't be Thrones-worthy if there weren't a few extra kickers. To accompany your wine, there will be a selection of feast-able treats available such as suckling pig and venison pie — if you’re a vego or a vegan, you've probably already guessed this is a highly meaty affair.
A huge 1908 entries were submitted for the the 2022 Archibald, Wynne and Sulman prizes. From that hefty number, 52 works were shortlisted for the Archibald, 34 for the Wynne and 29 for the Sulman. But only one artwork in each category can be named the winner of these three prestigious Australian art awards each year — and the Art Gallery of New South Wales, the prizes' hosts, has just unveiled the 2022 recipients today, Friday, May 13. All three decisions were unanimous, and they provide an impressive snapshot of the Aussie art scene right now. Taking the big gong, the Archibald Prize — which is Australia's most prestigious portrait award, has now reached its 101st year and hands out $100,000 to its annual winner — is Blak Douglas' Moby Dickens. The painting depicts Wiradjuri artist Karla Dickens, who lives on Bundjalung Country in Lismore, and is designed as a metaphor for northern NSW town's floods earlier in 2022. And yes, the title references Moby Dick. Douglas — a Sydney-based artist with Dhungatti heritage, who was born Adam Hill — made history, too, as the first New South Wales First Nations artist to win with a painting of a New South Wales First Nations artist. "I'm elated," he said, accepting the award. "It's a major historic win." Douglas has been an Archibald Prize finalist in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020, all with portraits of Aboriginal sitters. "I'm making up for lost ground in the failure to memorialise First Nations people," he said, accepting the 2022 award. 'In the past I've considered each entry to the Archibald Prize a memorial to that individual and that's why I only paint First Nations people." Measuring three metres by two metres, Moby Dickens stands out in another way, too: it's the largest Archibald painting in this year's exhibition. [caption id="attachment_853908" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Winner Archibald Prize 2022, Blak Douglas. Moby Dickens, synthetic polymer paint on linen, 300 x 200 cm © the artist, image © AGNSW, Mim Stirling. Sitter: Karla Dickens.[/caption] Also picking up some love from the Archibald's judges: Jude Rae, who was highly commended for The big switch, a portrait of scientist, engineer and inventor Dr Saul Griffith. For the Sir John Sulman Prize, 491 works were submitted, with Claire Healy and Sean Cordeiro winning for Raiko and Shuten-dōji. The first collaborative duo to do so to win the award — which is presented to the best mural, subject or genre painting — they nabbed the prize for their rendering of the battle between the warrior and the demon that gives the colourful piece its title. [caption id="attachment_853910" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Winner Sulman Prize 2022, Claire Healy and Sean Cordeiro. Raiko and Shuten-dōji, acrylic gouache, jute and tape on helicopter shell, 159.5 x 120 cm © the artist, image © AGNSW, Mim Stirling.[/caption] With the Wynne Prize — which recognises the best landscape painting of Australian scenery, or figure sculpture — Nicholas Harding emerged victorious from 601 entries with painting Eora. The artist has a long history with the awards, being shortlisted for the Wynne nine times, and also for the Archibald 19 times, including winning the latter in 2001. Two artists were highly commended among the Wynne Prize finalists, too: Lucy Culliton for painting Mooresprings, a good season, and Juz Kitson for sculpture An unwavering truth. She walks in beauty, of the night and all that's best of dark and bright. In memory of the wildfires. And, the Roberts Family Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Prize — an annual prize of $10,000 awarded to an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander artist who is a finalist in the Wynne Prize — went to Sally Scales for Wati Tjakura. [caption id="attachment_853909" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Winner Wynne Prize 2022, Nicholas Harding. Eora, oil on linen, 196.5 x 374.8 cm © the artist, image © AGNSW, Mim Stirling.[/caption] Also a winner, but announced last week, on Thursday, May 5: Sydney-based artist Claus Stangl, who picked up this year's Packing Room Prize. He won for a portrait of the one and only Taika Waititi, because there really is nothing that the Hunt for the Wilderpeople and Thor: Ragnarok filmmaker can't do. The winning portraits and finalists will now be on display at Sydney's Art Gallery of NSW from Saturday, May 14, up until Sunday, August 28. If you don't agree with the judges, you can cast your own vote for People's Choice, which will be announced on Wednesday, July 27. ARCHIBALD PRIZE 2022 DATES Art Gallery of NSW, Sydney, NSW — May 14–August 28, 2022 Bunjil Place, Melbourne, Victoria — September 2–October 16, 2022 Blue Mountains Cultural Centre, NSW — October 22—December 4, 2022 Grafton Regional Gallery, NSW — 17 December, 2022–29 January, 2023 Wagga Wagga Art Gallery, NSW — 10 February–26 March, 2023 Museum of Art and Culture Lake Macquarie, NSW — 8 April–21 May, 2023 Western Plains Cultural Centre, NSW — 3 June–30 July, 2023 If you can't make it to any of the above dates, you can check out the award winners and finalists of the Archibald, Wynne and Sulman prizes on the Art Gallery of NSW website. Top image: Excerpt of winner Archibald Prize 2022, Blak Douglas. Moby Dickens, synthetic polymer paint on linen, 300 x 200 cm © the artist, image © AGNSW, Mim Stirling. Sitter: Karla Dickens.
"The World Has Enough Superheroes". That's not our opinion, mind. Rather, it's literally the slogan for Venom, right there up on the posters. After watching the film, one wonders if it wasn't actually a studio note placed on the banners by accident. It's true, Venom is more antihero than superhero, but given he is still part of the wider Marvel universe (a Spider-Man spinoff owned by Sony Pictures), to call this anything other than a superhero movie is as laughable as Tom Hardy's attempt at bumbling comedy. Here he plays Eddie Brock, a VICE-like gritty street journalist whose video segments focus on taking down the rich, powerful and corrupt. Fixed firmly in his sights this time is the Elon Musk-esque tech mogul Carlton Drake (Rogue One's Riz Ahmed), whose determination to advance humankind routinely requires him to also sacrifice them in human trials. Drake's current focus is on four "symbiotes": amorphous sentient blobs from space who need to occupy a human host in order to survive our atmosphere. But Drake believes they also hold the key to humans being able to survive in space (which we'll need to do, because...global warming). In the course of his investigation, Eddie becomes entangled with one such symbiote (aka Venom), who wildly enhances Eddie's strength, speed and stamina, but also compels him to commit regular acts of extreme violence (mainly head eating) as they grapple to form some sort of symbiotic relationship. It's a device not entirely unlike the earlier Spider-Man villain Doctor Octopus, but even more so the recent Aussie film Upgrade, whose protagonist becomes infused with an AI that speaks to his subconscious and allows him to fight off hordes of villains whilst essentially watching on as a passenger in his own body. Directed by Ruben Fleischer (Zombieland), Venom flicks back and forth between violent battle scenes and mismatched buddy comedy, so much so that it never fully lands the vibe of either. It's almost as if Fleischer himself was possessed by a studio symbiote, one compelling him to make one type of film whilst he sought to make another. This incongruity is never clearer than in Hardy's misfiring performance as Brock, whose scratchy and stammering accent sounds like a half-baked Adam Sandler impression. Brock's presented as a hard-hitting journo one minute, then consistently called a loser the next – including by Venom. He's shown as principled and driven, then spends half the movie avoiding responsibility. He'll do whatever it takes, but often does nothing at all. The result is a character without an arc, ending the film – at best – somewhere in the ballpark of where he started. In all, Venom feels like an enormous squandered opportunity. Hardy is a juggernaut of charisma and physicality when given the right material, so to use him in this way is like using a prized stallion for birthday party pony rides. The same goes for his character's fiancée in the film, Anne, played by Michelle Williams. Decked out in the Spider-Man franchise's weirdly consistent tartan skirt and knee-high boots ensemble (seriously, what's up with that?), she's a paper-thin character with almost no reason to be there. An actor of her calibre deserves far better. There's the inevitable teaser of a sequel in the film's closing moments, including the introduction of another terrific performer. It's possible that with the back story and setup out of the way, Hardy and the gang could cast off the origin movie shackles and properly go for it next time round. That's assuming they even get the chance, which is by no means a lock given Venom's disastrous beginning. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9Mv98Gr5pY
The two main reasons people know about Armenia are so starkly different, it's kinda concerning. Either they've studied the Armenian Genocide, or just watch a lot of Keeping Up with the Kardashians. Melbourne itself is a dry zone for Armenian food. This probably has something to do with the miniscule Armenian population here — according to the last Census it was only about 3500 — but Sezar is one restaurant proudly showcasing what Armenia has to give. Nestled in Melbourne Place, the restaurant offers contemporary Armenian food that also pays homage to other Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. The restaurant's interior itself is beautiful. At night it's dark, fit out with leather banquettes and warm lights to make a romantic atmosphere. During the day Sezar is perfect for a business lunch. The menu is quite expansive. Sharing dishes come in the forms of spinach and feta pastry cigars ($12 for three), oysters with compressed apple and anise ($9 for two) and the knockout spanner crab manti — Armenian dumplings served with yoghurt and paprika butter ($16 for four). What takes the food to another level at Sezar is how anchored the spices are in the dishes. Powerhouse flavours such as cumin, paprika, cardamom and chilli sing out from the plates. That goes for the cocktails too, which almost make for a separate dining experience. The cocktail list features concoctions such as the Good Fortune, which is packed with Noy brandy (from Armenia), pomegranate, chilli and lemon ($22). Subtract the alcohol and this drink is almost good for you. Sezar also has a range of wines, beers and mocktails available. But back to the food. When you're ready to move onto something more substantial, consider the dangerously addictive twice-cooked chicken wings with pomegranate glaze ($18) — it comes highly recommended by the waitstaff. For lamb lovers, try the shish kebab with eggplant caponata and some of the smokiest babaghanoush out ($22). But the anoush (that is, sweets) menu is where the tongue trembles. The new-style baklava is a must, made with layers of filo pastry and Ricketts Point's vanilla and walnut praline ice cream ($14 for two pieces). The honey cream is a great choice if you don't feel like something too sweet, topped with saffron poached pear and brik pastry ($14). You can also order a dessert tasting plate if choosing one is all too much ($40). On that note, there's also a banquet option, where the stress of choosing is alleviated. Be prepared for a never-ending mix of dishes to land on your table for $59 — seafood, pastries, dips, meat, dessert, the lot. And the lot is exactly what you want — at Sezar, you're going to want to eat it all.
Spring is synonymous with freshness and vitality. It's the season of weddings and births, spring cleans and fresh starts. The days are longer — thanks, daylight savings — and the temperature that perfect mix between hot and cold. Brisk mornings are followed by warm, sun-plenty afternoons that summon us to get out and explore. And, we don't just mean exploring more of Melbourne. To really make the most of the season, you need to escape the city and go bush. With crisp spring vegetables and juicy fruits ripe for the picking, regional Victoria is in full blossom. And, thanks to the farm-to-table approach taken by many regional restaurants, you can really sink your teeth into spring and treat your tastebuds to some of the best seasonal produce around — expertly prepared by the likes of hatted kitchens, award-winning chefs, as well as family teams that just have the savoir-faire of homegrown produce. To help you navigate to these locally focused culinary champions, we've created a list of restaurants in regional Victoria where you can get a glorious springtime feed thanks to the on-site farms and kitchen gardens putting the freshest fruit, veg and meat directly on your plate. BRAE, BIRREGURRA Set on a hillside farm 30 minutes from Geelong, Dan Hunter's world-class fine diner Brae boasts an ever-changing set menu that's dictated by the produce grown on the on-site organic farm. Each day, Hunter and his team carefully select fresh ingredients from Brae's veggie plots and orchards and formulate the day's menu. Practically everything, from the eggs laid by a flock of free-range chickens to the olive oil produced from a grove of more than 100 trees, comes from the farm and is irrefutably fresh. Crunchy, nutty, tart and sweet — Brae proves time and time again that when you've got a great ingredient, you don't need to fancy it up. This restaurant lets the produce speak for itself, and it says plenty. LAKE HOUSE RESTAURANT, DAYLESFORD Set among six acres of country gardens, the Lake House in Daylesford is a multi-faceted venue that's grown to include hotel accommodation, a day spa, cooking school and an award-winning restaurant. Co-owner and culinary director of the restaurant Alla Wolf-Tasker champions seasonal produce, serving up a cutting-edge modern Australian menu based around ingredients from the on-site orchard and kitchen garden, as well as meats from local farmers. Seasonality is naturally apparent, with spring delivering dishes such as an artichoke tart with burrata, preserved lemon, candied olives and smoked creme fraiche. PROVENANCE, BEECHWORTH Since 2009, chef-owner Michael Ryan has been serving high-quality regional produce with a Japanese flare at his Beechworth restaurant Provenance. And it seems it's provenance by name, provenance by nature — specifically when it comes to ingredients. Dishes are accompanied with an anecdote about how the ingredients came to be on the plate — with personalised and rather cute descriptions like 'weeds picked from under Ryan's daughter's trampoline' — highlighting the hands-on foraging that's practised by the chef. With both a meat and veggie degustation available, Provenance will have your springtime cravings well and truly covered. DOOT DOOT DOOT, MERRICKS NORTH Within Willow Creek's new luxe hotel Jackalope, you'll find hatted fine diner Doot Doot Doot. Executive chef Guy Stanaway and Head Chef Elliott Pinn have crafted a produce-driven menu featuring seasonal ingredients from the hotel's kitchen garden and various Mornington Peninsula producers. At Doot, you eat with the seasons via a five-course tasting menu; think spring lamb with chinese broccoli, white soy and ice plant or spaghettini with broad beans, goat's curd and fresh sorrel. We suggest adding the wine pairing for an additional $90 to sample some fantastic local drops. MONTALTO, MORNINGTON PENINSULA A hatted restaurant, a sprawling vineyard, a celebrated cellar door and an expansive sculpture garden, Montalto has it all. Making the most of its Mornington Peninsula locale, Montalto Restaurant offers a warm and relaxing dining experience, stunning views and top-notch estate-grown produce harvested from the four-acre kitchen garden. Head chef Gerard Phelan reflects the rhythm of the seasons and knows how to make seasonal ingredients sing, bringing a refined rustic feel to each dish. We suggest ordering the confit cabbage with stracciatella, orange and macadamia ($17). Cabbage is in season and incredibly tasty when plucked straight from the farm and put on your fork. MERRIJIG KITCHEN, PORT FAIRY Within the oldest inn in Victoria, you'll find a food-lovers haven boasting all kinds of tasty regional fare. Encompassing a DIY ethos, the Merrijig Kitchen cures its own meat, smokes its own fish and grows its own produce in a thriving kitchen garden ensuring guests are treated to the best ingredients the region has to offer. The seasonal menu, which changes daily according to what's available on the day, includes decadent French-style fare — think duck liver parfait and new season whole artichokes, as well as a throng of local bio-dynamic and organic wine. If you're driving along the Great Ocean Road, be sure to plan a pitstop here. WICKENS AT ROYAL MAIL HOTEL, DUNKELD Accessible only via bush trail, remote fine diner Wickens at Royal Mail Hotel is all about getting back to nature. Taking over a new standalone space on the Dunkeld property, the venue boasts floor-to-ceiling windows that frame striking views of Mount Sturgeon and Mount Abrupt and executive chef Robin Wickens' hyper-local menu changes regularly. Using daily hauls from the on-site olive groves, orchard and 1.2-hectare organic kitchen garden, the kitchen plates up garden-fresh goodies that refect the micro-climate of Dunkeld. In spring, we suggest opting for veggie dishes over meat — the broad beans are particularly delicious. DU FERMIER, TRENTHAM In the tiny town of Trentham amid the breathtaking landscape of the Great Dividing Range sits Du Fermier, an understated French restaurant that immediately feels like home. Channelling farmhouse-style cooking, chef-owner Annie Smithers plates up hearty seasonally driven fare, featuring ingredients she's rustled up from her kitchen garden earlier that day. The menu is comprised of the classics — there are no Blumenthal-esque shenanigans here. It's just honest-to-god cooking that doesn't need to work for your attention. The set menu is $75 per head, available for only two nights each week, so be sure to book for this one. LITTLE GREEN CORNER, GEELONG Geelong's Little Green Corner is all about keeping things both seasonal and sustainable, an ethos established by owner Hugh Whitehead. Both resourceful and inventive, Whitehead applies that old 'waste not, want not' adage, turning excess fruit into cordial and excess milk into ricotta. The menu showcases produce from the venue's farm in Waurn Ponds — run by Whitehead's in-laws — and the kitchen garden just 20 metres from the cafe's front door. While dishes are constantly changing based on what's ripe in the garden, we suggest the made-to-order rolled oats with fresh, seasonal fruit — it's the perfect spring brekkie. FORAGE ON THE FORESHORE, PORT CAMPBELL As its moniker implies, this venue is all about foraging on, well, you get it. The waterfront cafe is located by the popular Port Campbell beach and, unsurprisingly, seafood is the dish of choice here, specifically the pan roasted great ocean wild abalone with garlic butter and raw celeriac salad ($28.50). The cafe is a real family affair, with the husband and wife duo and their four children all fetching produce from the local area. Whatever is in season, they'll collect and transform into something special. Head here to get a little dose of family and a big dose of spring. For more spring places, spaces and events to discover in regional Victoria visit Your Happy Space.
Free to Feed is a not-for-profit social enterprise in the heart of Thornbury that aims to empower people seeking asylum, refugees and new migrants through food-oriented initiatives within an inclusive community. The space offers regular community cooking classes led by asylum seekers, refugees and those seeking protection in Australia. The food you'll discover is as diverse as the people showing you how to prepare it and offers an insight into different cultures through the universal language of food. Free to Feed also works with industry professionals to offer training, mentorship and support to refugees and people seeking asylum, providing employment pathways as well as opportunities to create networks and build communication skills.
Only a week after Sydney hospitality giant Merivale announced its foray into the Melbourne food scene, those expansion plans have been put firmly on hold. With 70 NSW venues in its stable, the group was scheduled to bring its newly launched delivery service Merivale at Home to Melbourne this August. But, after some less-than-enthusiastic responses from some of the city's already struggling hospitality businesses, it's decided to hit pause on a local launch for the time being, with a Merivale spokesperson telling Concrete Playground the move was "an oversight". The platform delivers dishes from some of Merivale's most popular restaurants for diners to enjoy at home. Sydneysiders can order rotating menus from the likes of Italian diner Totti's, renowned Cantonese haunt Mr Wong and farm-to-table favourite Fred's, dropped to their door "nearly ready to eat". And Melburnians were soon to be offered the same choices via a local rollout of the service. But given that COVID-19 restrictions and a second round of Stage 3 lockdowns have left much of Victoria's hospitality scene struggling, the interstate company's decision was called out by many as being tone-deaf. A since deleted launch announcement posted to Merivale's Instagram page drew plenty of ire from local operators. While a few fans showed excitement at the prospect, most gave it a resounding thumbs down, labelling the move "selfish and immoral" and "insensitive". https://www.instagram.com/p/CDF4n_7AXUm/ "It was a wak [sic] move and I'm glad they've pulled the pin on it," 1800-Lasagne's Joey Kellock told Concrete Playground. "Just so tone-deaf and out of touch with what is happening in Melbourne. A very poor reading of the room." Other local hospitality names echoed the sentiment, including chef-owner of Annam and Bia Hoi, Jerry Mai. "When I first heard, I was both angry and surprised," Mai told CP. "I know we are all trying to survive right now, but there is a delicate ecosystem in this industry that was overlooked." Mai also pointed out the potential impacts such a decision might have for local growers, farmers and producers, with Merivale CEO Justin Hemmes suggesting the Melbourne launch would support the group's existing suppliers. "I was saddened by not only Merivale's timing on this but the fact that produce from another state would be getting shipped into Victoria at this time, with our local producers doing it tough," Mai said. What is clear is that Melbourne's hospo industry sure could do without the extra interstate competition right now. Recent data from a City of Melbourne survey showed a worrying 15 percent of inner-city hospitality businesses either won't reopen or aren't sure they'll be able to, highlighting the industry's need for as much local support as possible. Merivale has heeded the response from down south and announced its Melbourne plans have been postponed, with the Merivale spokesperson telling Concrete Playground, "We didn't anticipate the unintended consequences of expanding into Melbourne at this time." "It was an oversight on our behalf and as soon as we heard from some of the local operators, we hit pause and decided to hold off launching Merivale at Home until Melbourne is back on its feet and hospitality venues are open again," the spokesperson said. A new launch date is yet to be determined. In the meantime, you can continue supporting local hospitality businesses by dining with them at home. Here's our latest round-up of takeaway and delivery options here in Melbourne. To find out more about Merivale at Home, head to the website. Top image: Mr Wong
It might seem like Melbourne's inner north has become overrun with breweries in recent years, but the beer-making traditions of Richmond, Abbotsford and Collingwood actually date back to the 1800s. But, it's safe to say, the beers have improved a lot, with innovative beer purveyors setting up shop in various ramshackle warehouses scattered over town. Strap on your walking shoes and plunge into Melbourne's immense beer culture. Visiting these five brewhouses is a beer lover's adventure so good you won't be going back to the standard swill anytime soon. FIRST, A FEW SIMPLE TIPS Start early —It's easy to lose track of time in a house full of beer. To fit all of these in, you'll need to get to the first brewery early. Go with a group — Sharing a beer with friends doesn't just spread the love for local craft brews but will also make the walking in-between go by far faster. Take advantage of tasting paddles — The most bang-for-your-buck option, paddles allow you to taste the brewery's range without going overboard. Schedule a brewery tour — There are few occasions in life when you get to see exactly where the product you're consuming is made. Take advantage of this moment. Pace yourself — Don't be a hero, you have a whole day of drinking ahead of you. This isn't a pub crawl for rowdy uni kids all wearing the same t-shirt. The breweries are community hangouts where friends gather to chill and grab a beer, best to keep that in mind. Eat, eat, eat — Drinking on an empty stomach leads to nothing but inevitable sadness; luckily, some of the breweries have food trucks parked outside or you can grab a bite to eat inside. Now, let's get walking. STARTING POINT: MOUNTAIN GOAT BREWERY & BAR The original brewery. The Mountain Goat Brewery is a fitting place to start this boozy walking tour as these guys have been around since 1997 — right back near the start of Australian craft beer. Emerging from Dave Bonighton and Cam Hines' backyard, it's now one of the industry's largest players and its dedication to the craft has stayed the same over the last 22 years. Featuring many old-favourite drops, the large-scale brick warehouse also has a novel selection on tap that you can only test out here. The North Street IPA is a fine choice with its fruity aroma and earthy hints, while the Fancy Pants Amber Ale makes for an easy-going drink — a good one to kick off the day's festivities. 80 North Street, Richmond. Open 5–10pm Wednesday, 5–11pm Friday, and 12–6pm Sunday. SECOND STOP: MOON DOG CRAFT BREWERY (15 MIN WALK) The casual brewery. Moon Dog may have recently announced some brand spanking new digs to open in Preston later in 2019, but for now its home remains on Duke Street, Abbotsford. Sink into the thrift store couches and get comfortable because there are a lot of great drinks to sample. The brewery might take on a pretty lo-fi appearance, but don't mistake it for a small-time operation. Moon Dog is already pumping out millions of litres of beer each year with more soon to come. There are ten taps on offer, pouring classics like Old Mate and Love Tap plus some seriously flavourful single kegs. Meanwhile, there's always free popcorn and a van serving woodfired pizza out the front. 17 Duke Street, Abbotsford. Open 4–11pm Wednesday to Friday, 12–11pm Saturday, and 12–8pm Sunday. [caption id="attachment_717784" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David Hyde Photography[/caption] THIRD STOP: STOMPING GROUND BREWING & BEER HALL (20 MIN WALK) The next-big-thing brewery. If Mountain Goat is responsible for helping launch craft brewing in Victoria, Stomping Ground is the crew pushing it forward. Having opened its massive Collingwood brewery and bar back in 2016, it's not uncommon to see the sprawling, 30-tap converted warehouse teeming every weekend. If the sun's shining, the beer garden is perfect with its semi-retractable roof, while there's a huge fireplace for those wintery Melbourne days. With so many beers on offer here, now is your chance to give a tasting paddle a try, with the Cicerone Selection ($26) featuring everything from tart goses to the smoky Hanging Rauch — a German-style smoked larger. 100 Gipps Street, Collingwood. Open 11.30am–late Sunday to Thursday and 11.30am–1am Friday and Saturday. FOURTH STOP: THE MILL BREWERY (15 MIN WALK) The relaxed brewery. Leave behind the powerhouse that is Stomping Ground and get yourself to a more intimate space at The Mill Brewery. This formerly dilapidated mechanic's workshop is one of the local residents' favourite haunts thanks to its chilled out atmosphere. Founder Mirek Aldridge is still very much a part of the everyday activities here and is always keen for a chat. Find yourself a spot at the solid red gum tables and sip a Jack D-licious — a golden ale with a slightly floral flavour at a very reasonable 4.8 per cent ABV. If you can still find a way to focus, there's also table tennis to test your hand-eye coordination. 40 Sackville Street, Collingwood. Open 4–10pm Wednesday to Thursday, 4–11pm Friday, 1–11pm Saturday, and 1–9pm Sunday. LAST STOP: FIXATION BREWING CO – THE INCUBATOR (5 MIN WALK) The obsessed brewery. If there's one thing that Fixation Brewing Co knows, it's IPA. That's because the entire brand is dedicated to making this specific type of beer as fresh and flavourful as possible. Fronted by experienced hop-head Tom Delmont, this place is Australia's only brewery bar that's dedicated to IPA so you can be sure that it delivers some serious quality. The namesake brew offers a hazy orange colour that comes loaded with fruity notes, while The Fix takes things up a notch with its punchy double IPA strength. Being the last stop on your potent brewery walking tour, let's hope you don't feel it too much tomorrow. 414 Smith Street, Collingwood. Open 4–10pm Wednesday to Thursday, 3–10pm Friday, 12–10pm Saturday, 1–7pm Sunday. Want more inner north breweries? Pace these six out. Top image: Stomping Ground
Artificial intelligence in video games has come a long way in the last few years. Rare now are the days of mindless drones walking pre-determined paths, completely oblivious to the death and destruction around them. In an industry where a single release can pull half a billion dollars in just one day, developers have adapted to an increasingly sophisticated market and pushed AI to a point capable of rivalling the human one. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for action movies, where nameless henchmen continue to run witlessly into hails of bullets like hapless Civil War foot soldiers or extras in Commando. The latest example of this is John Wick, a 'revenge porn' flick starring Keanu Reeves and directed by his former stuntman, Chad Stahelski. Reeves plays Wick, a retired hit man whose wife has just passed away from a terminal illness. On the day of her funeral he receives a pre-ordered puppy from her to ensure he doesn't mourn alone, but during a home invasion the puppy is killed and his beloved car is stolen. In response, Wick unleashes a vengeance-fuelled rampage on New York's Russian mobsters, ratcheting up a body count to rival ebola. It's basically Taken, but with Liam Neeson's daughter played by a foot-long beagle. Is it a dumb premise? Absolutely, but it's also terrifically fun, and let's face it, there have been far worse reasons given for cinematic rampages ("They're going to take you...again"). Stylistically, the action sequences are impressive and exhilarating. Kitted out in bespoke suits, Reeves combines martial arts with gunplay (or 'gun-fu') to despatch his enemies and secure what has to be the record for the most number of consecutive head shots. Stahelski's background in stunts clearly informs his direction, with a greater degree of physicality to the fight scenes coupled with lingering shots that hold longer in the same moment than your average film. The big problem with John Wick, though, is the HS — or 'Henchman Stupidity'. In each of the action sequences, the goons demonstrate a bewildering lack of survival instinct, immediately forfeiting their Darwinian credentials and robbing the scenes of any credibility. The defence raised here is that John Wick is a classic B-movie, but that's too convenient. Yes, it has a lower budget than many of its counterparts, but with a cast that also includes Willem Dafoe, Michael Nyqvist, Ian McShane, John Leguizamo, Alfie Allen, Dean Winters, Adrianne Palicki and Bridget Moynahan, it's hard not to think the movie pitched for another capital B: 'Blockbuster'. So no, this isn't the thinking person's action film, but an action film it definitely is. As always, Reeves is a delight to watch in full-borne badass mode. He quips and kicks and does it all with an impossible level of cool. https://youtube.com/watch?v=2AUmvWm5ZDQ
While seeing fruit mince pies in your local shopping centre in October feels downright disturbing, there's one Christmas treat that no one ever minds arriving early: Four Pillars' annual Christmas Gin. The latest iteration of the Healesville distillery's seasonal sip is coming in strong, set to hit shelves on Tuesday, October 26. It's the delicious result of a yearly tradition that sees a bunch of Christmas puddings handmade with distiller Cameron Mackenzie's mother's recipe — the 1968 Australian Women's Weekly recipe, in fact — and distilled with various festive botanicals to create a sought-after tipple that pretty much screams December 25. The flavours of an Aussie Christmas are captured in notes of cinnamon, star anise, juniper, coriander and angelica. The Christmas gin is then blended with some earlier gin that's been carefully ageing in 80-year-old muscat barrels. It's all finished with a hit of Rutherglen muscat for a bit of added richness and complexity. Each year, a new unique label is chosen to wrap up this Christmas creation, setting out to evoke that same festive spirit. The 2021's bottle design is the work of Cairns-based artist Andrea Huelin, who has taken inspiration from the immensely Aussie pairing of prawns and pavlova. Known for her fondness for fruit, glassware and everyday household items, Huelin combined all of the above — and a cheeky glass of Australian Christmas Gin — in a photo that now graces the tipple's label. The distillers recommend you sip the limited-edition gin neat; mix it with ginger ale, lime and bitters; or whip up a pavlova punch with the festive gin, passionfruit, muscat, berries and your choice of sparkling. Or you can just splash a bit of it on your own Christmas pudding — or pair it with Four Pillars' own Christmas gin puddings, which'll also be available to buy from Tuesday, October 26. If you want to nab a bottle, have your fingers poised over the 'buy' button when they go on sale online next week. Alternatively, you can stop by the Four Pillars HQ in Healesville, Victoria (if restrictions allow, of course) or the brand's Surry Hills shop. Bottles are $100 a pop and would make stellar Chrissy pressies, if you're already thinking about that. Four Pillars Christmas Gin is available to buy online, from the Healesville distillery and Surry Hills shop from Tuesday, October 26. But you'd best be quick — there's only a limited amount of bottles.
How good at Pictionary would Sky Ferreira be? Would the doodles of Earl Sweatshirt be found in an art gallery? How would London Grammar go in a life drawing class? Sydney's FBi Radio intended to find out, by inviting a list of over 30 musicians to try their hand at a handdrawn masterpiece. Bringing back their wildly successful 'Brush With Fame' art auction, FBi asked a serious banquet of bands, rappers, ARIA-nominees, folksters, singers and beatmakers to create drawings on canvas especially for the station, ready for auction from 9pm Tuesday, November 25. All proceeds raise funds for the independent, not-for-profit, top notch station. Kudos to FBi for one of the best group show lineups around, y'ready? You (YOU) can own a handdrawn work by: Alt J, Ásgeir, Banks, Buck 65, Chali 2NA, Chet Faker, DARKSIDE, Dustin Tebutt, Earl Sweatshirt, Ears, El-P, Glass Animals, Holy Fuck, Ice Age, Four Tet, The Jezabels, Jon Hopkins, Killer Mike, Little Dragon, Little May, London Grammar, Lee Ranaldo, Megan Washington, Midlake, Mount Kimbie, Okkervil River, Phantogram, Phoenix, Sky Ferreira, Sly & Robbie, St Vincent, Veronica Falls, Warpaint. Phew. That's a bloody lineup. All works are on display over here. The online auction launches globally tonight at 9pm (AEDT) via eBay with bids starting at just AUD$50. Each piece comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity from FBi. The auction closes on Monday December 2 at 9pm (AEDT) and works will be shipped the following day — we're talking seriously perfect Christmas gifts right here. Here's a couple of our favourites in the bunch, that you'll have to furiously outbid us on. Again, the FBi 'Brush With Fame' online auction launches globally tonight at 9pm (AEDT) via eBay and closes on Monday December 2 at 9pm. Go! RUN!
After more than a month of cycling in and out of stay-at-home conditions, the bulk of regional Victoria will come out of lockdown at 11.59pm on Thursday, September 9. While nothing will ease in Greater Melbourne until 70 percent of the state has had at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, Premier Daniel Andrews floated last week that changes might be possible in regional parts of the state before that milestone is reached — and now that's exactly what's happening. At Victoria's daily COVID-19 press conference today, Wednesday, September 8, the Premier announced that "the five reasons to leave the home will be removed in regional Victoria, except for Greater Shepparton." Lockdown will remain in place in Greater Shepparton for the time being; however, the Premier said that "we would hope to have Shepparton catch up to the rest of regional Victoria some time next week, and we'll make those announcements as soon as we have tidied up the last bits of the outbreak there." Regional Victoria has been in lockdown again since mid-August, after initially joining the entire state under stay-at-home conditions at the beginning of the month, then being released from lockdown a few days later. So, it has been a seesawing month or so of changing conditions — and now folks in regional parts of the state are getting another early mark. On the advice of the Chief Health Officer, Regional Victoria's lockdown will be lifted. There remains a significant risk of cases seeding, so we all have to continue to work hard to keep regional Victoria, and all of us safe. pic.twitter.com/0vqNEhQfng — Dan Andrews (@DanielAndrewsMP) September 8, 2021 Just like back in your school days, if you live anywhere in regional Victoria other than Greater Shepparton, you'll be allowed out of the house for whatever reason you like from Friday, September 10. As always happens after a lockdown, however, a number of other restrictions will be put in place. These restrictions will largely mirror the rules in effect before this lockdown — so yes, they'll sound familiar. The five-kilometre rule is being scrapped, so you can roam far and wide without worrying about the distance. Of course, the state's border rules, and those of other parts of Australia, may hamper your trip if you're planning on heading interstate. And, if you're planning to head to Melbourne, you can only do so for a permitted reason, and you'll still have to follow Melbourne's lockdown restrictions while you're there. Obviously, that travel rule doesn't work both ways. People in Melbourne still can't venture more than five kilometres from home, and therefore can't leave their house to visit regional parts of the state. Also permitted in regional Victoria when lockdown lifts: catching up with your nearest and dearest, but you'll have to gather outdoors in public, and only in groups of up to ten people. You still won't be able to have anyone come over to your house, so nothing is changing there. Masks will still remain mandatory both indoors and out, too — so the rules there aren't changing there, either. Also, food and hospitality businesses will be able to open for seated service only, with a cap of 20 people outdoors and 10 people inside. Retail stores, gyms, hairdressers and beauty salons can reopen as well, with a density quota of one person per four-square metres. Entertainment venues can welcome in up to 300 people per outdoor space, or 25-percent capacity, whichever is smaller, while indoor spaces can have 20 people. That said, businesses that are permitted to reopen in regional Victoria but must remain closed in Melbourne — so places like restaurants offering dine-in meals, beauty services and venues — will be required to check the IDs of everyone they serve. [caption id="attachment_823288" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Mattinbgn via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] The lockdown changes come as Victoria now has 1920 active COVID-19 cases, including 221 new cases identified in the 24 hours to midnight last night. All of the current stay-at-home rules remain in effect in Melbourne until that 70-percent single jab threshold has been met. So, that means that Melburnians can still only leave home for five reasons: shopping for what you need, when you need it; caregiving and compassionate reasons; essential work or permitted education that can't be done from home; exercise; and getting vaccinated against COVID-19. Lockdown in Regional Victoria, other than in Greater Shepparton, will end at 11.59pm on Thursday, September 9. For more information about the rules that'll be in place from that time, head to the Victorian Department of Health website. Top image: Robert Blackburn via Visit Victoria.
Peppers Marysville has unveiled its transformation just as the Yarra Valley region begins to fill up with wine and nature lovers for summer. Each of the riverside hotel's 100 rooms and suites has received a little update, with the team popping in more contemporary furnishings and changing up the colour palette to reflect the surrounding nature. Think: soft, earthy tones and finishes. The crew has also added a new day spa to the offerings. It's got three treatment rooms for those looking to get on the self-care train when visiting the Yarra Valley — best followed up with a visit to the hotel's sauna, outdoor heated pool and sun-drenched terrace overlooking the surrounding parklands. One of the biggest changes comes in the form of the new Andiamo restaurant. Chef Francesco La Mazza is running the kitchen here, using local and seasonal produce to create an Italian-leaning menu that boasts a selection of house-made pasta and woodfired pizzas. Of course, each dish can also be paired with some vino sourced from wineries across the Yarra Valley. To top it all off, Peppers Marysville has also upgraded its conference facilities and added some sleek new bike facilities for the growing number of cyclists who come to explore the region. Either pop by the refurbed hotel to chill by the pool and get a cheeky massage before hitting up some wineries, or use it as a pit-stop for when you're road-tripping or cycling around the Yarra Valley. Find Peppers Marysville at 32–34 Murchison Street, Marysville, open every day of the week. For more information, check out the hotel's website.
When 2018 comes to a close, the National Gallery of Australia will be home to both a permanent Yayoi Kusama infinity room and a short-term showcase of pre-Raphaelite masterpieces from London's Tate Britain — but 2019 looks set to be even bigger for the Canberra venue. The gallery has revealed its full program for next year and it's filled with huge names from the art world, with exhibitions showcasing the work of Monet, Matisse and Picasso coming to the nation's capital. Hitting the NGA between June and August, Monet: Impression Sunrise, will be focused around the artwork that gives the exhibition its title. Painted back in 1872, Impression, Soleil levant is credited as the source of the term 'impressionism' and rarely travels outside of the Musée Marmottan Monet in Paris. In fact, it has never visited the southern hemisphere before. In collaboration with the French institution, the NGA will display other world-famous paintings by the artist — as well as works by other impressionist talents inspired by Monet, such as JMW Turner. From December 2019 to April 2020, the NGA will then play host to to Matisse / Picasso, which will give art fans to see iconic creations by two major artists in the same space. Drawing pieces from more than 40 collections around the world, the exhibition will highlight the great rivalry between the two figures, and how they responded to each other in their work. The NGA's fondness for Picasso shouldn't come as a surprise — the gallery is already home to a rare set of 100 of the artist's pieces, called The Vollard Suite, which has been touring the country with stops in both Brisbane and Victoria. Among its other highlights for 2019, the NGA will also become home to a new four-metre high wax 'candle' sculpture by Swiss artist Urs Fischer from March, and will unveil a major new work of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art in October. Monet: Impression Sunrise will display at the National Gallery of Australia between June 7 and August 18, 2019, while Matisse / Picasso will display between December 13, 2019 and April 13, 2020. For further details, visit the NGA website. Image: Claude Monet. Impression, Soleil Levant. 1872. Paris, Musée Marmottan Monet.
"Stop punishing me! Get your hands off me!" Egyptian-American reporter Adam (Hany Adel) yells. "Throw him inside," is the Egyptian police's reply, even after he tries to explain who he is and why he's there. The year is 2013, and the country is awash with conflict. Protests ended the 30-year presidency of Hosni Mubarak in 2011, but more began when the Muslim Brotherhood's Mohamed Morsi took power in 2012. Rallies and resistance became commonplace, culminating in millions of people taking to the streets, Morsi's eventual removal, and then more riots. As the days passed, Muslim Brotherhood supporters and opponents alike were rounded up in paddy wagons by the military, just like Adam and his photographer Zein (Mohamed El Sebaey). Getting comfortable within the scratched metal van is impossible — and, for Clash's 97-minute running time, viewers can't escape that fact. Writer-director Mohamed Diab sets his tense drama inside the vehicle, cramped in close quarters with a growing group of detainees. When they're not peering at the chaos outside through barred windows, or listening to the screams from others confined in a truck parked close by, they're forced to deal with each other over differences of ideology. With the camera never leaving the wagon, we're stuck in there with them as arguments arise and calls for help fall on deaf ears. Don't go thinking that the film's single location is a gimmick – even if movies such as Alfred Hitchcock's Lifeboat, the Ryan Reynolds-led thriller Buried, and the tank-set war effort Lebanon have toyed with the same idea before. While documentaries such as The Square have served up unflinching reality through on-the-ground footage, Clash uses it's claustrophobic locale to convey just how trapped its characters feel. Though it's easy to say that the narrative aims to offer a microcosm of a complex situation, it's a description Diab's film well and truly earns. Indeed, after exploring the sexual harassment of women in his debut feature Cairo 678, Diab once again chronicles the struggles of Egyptian society with an astute eye for the problems at its centre. It's not just the film's cramped setting coupled with its barely fictionalised take on actual events that makes Clash so compelling, drawing upon true tales of journalists rounded up in the dying days of the revolution. It's also the sense of balance Diab shows in heightened and horrific circumstances. His feature doesn't judge or pick sides. Instead, it takes a personal approach to looking at the country's tumultuous political troubles, focusing on the folks caught up in the fray. Help and conflict spring from both camps, providing a portrait of a divided nation united only by its anger. The concept and the content combine to capture the audience's attention, though cinematographer Ahmed Gabr deserves almost as much credit as Diab. Unsurprisingly, you won't find many patient, steady shots here. In fact, frenetic and erratic visuals couldn't be more appropriate. When the truck lurches, shudders and shakes, so does the frame. When fire lights up the sky outside, colour and shadows flicker inside the vehicle. As a result, it's impossible not to be immersed in the characters' harrowing ordeal, and to feel every bump, jump, fight and fear-filled moment. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgvHd9ql7R0
The black parade is coming back to Australia — finally. After their last attempt to head to our shores was thwarted due to the pandemic, the reunited My Chemical Romance is set to tour along the country's east coast in 2022. Hopefully the second time will prove the charm for Gerard Way and co, and for music lovers eager to grab their eyeliner, don every black piece of clothing in their wardrobe, relive their angsty emo teenage years and let out three cheers. The new tour will mark ten years since MCR last came to our shores for the 2012 Big Day Out — and comes after the US group went their separate ways in 2013, then reformed in 2019. Fans will be pleased to know that MCR are headlining their own shows on this tour, too, rather than leading a festival bill as they were slated to do in 2020. First, they'll play the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Monday, March 14, before hitting up Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne a few days later on Thursday, March 17. Then, they'll wrap things up on Saturday, March 19 at Sydney's Qudos Bank Arena. Back in late 2019, when MCR announced that they were literally getting the band back together, they sold out their first reunion gig in Los Angeles quick smart — so expect tickets to their Australian gigs to prove mighty popular, especially after last year's cancelled tour. The group has been trying to take its new show on the road ever since that big announcement, but, thanks to the pandemic, that has obviously proven much trickier than anticipated. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RRKJiM9Njr8 MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE 2022 AUSTRALIAN TOUR: Monday, March 14 — Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane Thursday, March 17 — Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Saturday, March 19 — Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney My Chemical Romance will tour Australia's east coast in March 2022. For further information — and for pre-sale tickets from 11am on Wednesday, May 26, and general tickets from 12pm on Thursday, May 27 — head to the tour website. Top image: My Chemical Romance performing by NBSTwo via Flickr.
Sometimes, only dessert will do. There aren't too many bad moods that can't be lifted by a timely sugar rush, an infusion of chocolate or some other form of sweet, gooey goodness, after all. When the world feels a bit off-kilter, it's important to seek out small moments of joy wherever possible — and cake should definitely count for at least a few of those moments. Of course, just because you've already ploughed through your entire reserve stash of chocolate and the back-of-the-freezer ice cream, that doesn't mean you need to settle for some second-rate sugar fix. We've scouted out some of Melbourne's best take-home dessert finds to stock up on, with these beauties available to pick up or even to have dropped straight to your door. From a box filled with doughnut pieces and lashings of chocolate sauce, to layered cakes that are almost too pretty to eat, you can hunt down these sweet treats next time that sugar craving takes hold.
If you prefer to match your morning latte and brunch with some lush, leafy views, then you'll be all about Melbourne's new cafe project from the Darling Group. The owners of Higher Ground, Kettle Black and Sorrento's newly-revamped Stringers have taken over the lakeside venue at the heart of the Royal Botanic Gardens, transforming it into an all-day cafe and event space. Surrounded by greenery, the Terrace Cafe is set to open in October with a menu full of breakfast and lunch classics, plus grab-and-go options for the picnic crowd. There'll also be homemade scones — a nod to a much-loved offering from the site's previous life. [caption id="attachment_870586" align="alignnone" width="1920"] By Julian Lallo[/caption] In the adjacent space, you'll find function venue The Terrace, which will be available to hire out for picturesque private events and weddings overlooking the gardens. Each venue boasts its own indoor and outdoor spaces, with views across the grounds and the city skyline. The project is a special one for The Darling Group's Nick and Chris Seoud. "Having grown up nearby, my brother and I were lucky enough to walk through the Gardens on our way home from school, often picking up scones from The Terrace kiosk," says Nick, the group's director. "To completely transform it and create a place for others to create their own memories is such an exciting opportunity for us." The dual venture marks the site's first new occupancy since 1991 and will be Darling Group's tenth venue. Find The Terrace and The Terrace Cafe in the Royal Botanic Gardens, corner of Alexandra Avenue and Anderson Street, South Yarra, from October.
If you've always dreamed of running away to join the circus, then this might be as close as you're ever going to get. Incredible acrobatics and daring displays are set to fill Melbourne's streets this January, taking over the city's iconic laneways, shopfronts and balconies. A circus show is normally confined to Big Top tents, but the city itself will be the stage this summer in Circus Oz's brand new show Everything But The Circus. Dubbed "a love letter to Melbourne", the newly-announced show promises a mix of gravity-defying acrobatics, live music, flash mobs, tight-wires and aerial stunts. Rather than sitting shoulder-to-shoulder in a cramped tent, audiences will meet at one of six secret locations and walk together to take in the various acts, before converging on one spot for what promises to be a "spectacular" finale. [caption id="attachment_834390" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anne Moffat[/caption] "We're not telling people where we are going, but we will guide them through a rediscovery of their city. This is a show without barriers, a performance without fear and an experience not to be missed," Executive Producer Brian Robertson said in a media statement. The razzle-dazzle is sure to draw Melburnians back into the city after a couple of long years of lengthy lockdowns, reminding us of everything the CBD has to offer. 'Everything But The Circus' runs in Melbourne from Friday, January 14 until Saturday, January 29, with tickets going on sale Wednesday, December 8. For more information and to buy tickets, head to Circus OZ's official website. Top image: Anne Moffat
Already a go-to for animal-free goods, the Vegan Market of Melbourne is doing what it does best on Saturday, May 1, but at an iconic location. From 9am–4pm, it'll be joining forces with the Queen Victoria Market and turning the whole day into a plant-based paradise — with vegan food on the menu, as well as cruelty-free fashion, and arts and crafts. The event first took place in March, and it was a hit. So, now it's back. Look out for Wildwood's vegan breads and baked goods, Love.Eat.Cake by Lisa's biscuits and Nuttea's vegan bubble tea, which should take care of your breakfast, brunch, lunch and afternoon tea tummy rumblings. There'll also be clothing and designer wares from Spliced Eco Fashion, and skin products and tea blends courtesy of Common Garden Health. The aim of the event is twofold: to showcase all the vegan items you could be working into your ordinary routine, and to highlight some of VMM's most popular vegan stalls. Updated April 27.
As we launch into the frostier half of winter, there's no better time to embrace the Danish concept of hygge. This concept — pronounced hoo-gah — doesn't have a direct English translation but is all about creating a feeling of cosiness at home, and taking time to enjoy it. It's a rainy afternoon on the couch with a cup of tea; it's getting the lighting just right and reading under your favourite blanket; hell, it's even having a blissful micro nap in the middle of the day. The Danes are some of the happiest people in the world — even in winter — which is even more reason to take a leaf out of their book. Luckily, Melbourne has plenty of shops that sell all the Scandinavian-inspired homewares and pieces you need to kit your room (or entire home) out like a cosier version of an IKEA showroom. Here's a list of eight of them we've put together with American Express. And, even luckier, you can pay with your American Express Card at all of these shops and reap the sweet rewards of being a Card Member — all while supporting local business. Go forth and shop, and reap the cosy benefits later.
Skeletons, ray guns and creatures from beyond the stars — you'll find them all on cans of Beavertown Beer. The UK brewery has become famous around the world for its comic-book inspired can art, some of the most unique examples of which will be on display at Dr. Morse as part of Good Beer Week 2016. Not only that, but you'll also be able to bid on the art via @beavertown_can_art_auction on Instagram. Best of all, profits from the auction will be donated to a refugee charity to be announced. Bidding closes at 5pm on Sunday, May 22, so get in quick before the virtual hammer comes down.
He played 372 matches for the Sydney Swans, kicked 464 goals, won two premierships, earned the code's highest individual honour (the Brownlow Medal) twice and was even anointed Australian of the Year, and now, Adam Goodes has been immortalised in a three-storey mural on a Surry Hills building. Painted by advertising agency Apparition Media, the towering mural is located on the corner of Foveaux and Crown streets, and diagonally opposite the newly opened Pizza Fritta. It's, fittingly, located in the heartland of Goodes' former footy team and just over a kilometre from its home ground, the SCG. https://twitter.com/sydneyswans/status/1270970147692408834 While, according to The Age, the mural was postponed from February to June because of COVID-19, its appearance now is timely for multiple reasons. Not only does its unveiling coincide with the return of the 2020 AFL season (which kicked off yesterday, June 11), as well as with the end of Reconciliation Week, but it also reflects the current global Black Lives Matter movement. The latter is, in Australia, predominantly focused on ending the systemic mistreatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by police — and Indigenous Australian deaths in custody — but it has also become a bigger conversation about racism in general. At the end of Goodes' highly decorated career, he became the target of merciless booing and was verbally attacked by both spectators and high-profile media figures alike — with the Swans player placed under immense scrutiny for celebrating his Indigenous heritage both on and off the field. He ultimately chose not to play for a period, and then eventually retired, due to the resulting toll of his horrific treatment. It's a topic explored in not one but two documentaries that were released last year: The Final Quarter, which received a standing ovation at last year's Sydney Film Festival, and The Australian Dream, which opened the 2019 Melbourne International Film Festival. The Goodes mural also comes as the racist treatment endured by another high-profile ex-AFL footballer — Collingwood and Melbourne's Héritier Lumumba — has been receiving renewed attention this week. The code's first Brazilian-born player and also a premiership player, Lumumba continues to speak out about prejudice, discrimination and the offensive terms directed his way during his 2005–14 tenure at Collingwood, including about club president Eddie McGuire's comments about Goodes (which are covered in both The Final Quarter and The Australian Dream). Lumumba was also the subject of 2017 documentary, Fair Game, about his experiences. Sydney's no stranger to politically-leaning murals, with both a scathing commentary on Australia's treatment of asylum seekers popping up in Bondi and an Egg Boy mural hitting the city in 2019. The latter was painted by prolific street artist Scott Marsh, who's also known for his satirising of political figures in large-scale murals. His previous hits include Casino Mike and Tony Loves Tony. You'll find the new Adam Goodes mural at the corner of Foveaux and Crown streets, Surry Hills. The Australian Dream is currently available to watch on ABC iView.
With an abundance of islands ripe for exploration, the Philippines is a vacationer's dream. Snorkel alongside giant sea turtles, discover secret lagoons, eat sea urchin fresh from the shell, hike a volcano — these are just a few of the things on offer at this Southeast Asian wonderland. However, picking where to spend your holiday can be quite tricky. And for those looking to branch out from the tourist haunts and discover some lesser-known islands, the research and planning can take its toll. That's a helluva lot of islands to Google, after all. Well, to help you jet setters out, we've teamed up with Cebu Pacific Air and pulled together a list of stunning islands to visit on your next trip. Since the airline is offering budget flights from Sydney and Melbourne and then to 36 locations throughout the country, it's never been easier to get there and island hop around the Philippines. CORON Surrounded by iridescent turquoise waters, Coron Island is home to arguably the most picturesque surrounds in the Philippines. Located at the northernmost point of Palawan, visitors must fly into Francisco B. Reyes Airport in order to access the remote island. From here, there is a range of ways you can immerse yourself in these crystal-clear waters — kayaking among limestone karsts, island hopping in a local banka boat, swimming in volcanic lagoons at Kayangan Lake or shipwreck diving. The latter is centred around the remains of sunken World War II Japanese battleships and is considered the best wreck diving in Southeast Asia. For those not certified to dive, snorkelling around the pristine Apo Reef is also impressive. Smaller islands to visit include Diatoy Island, Dimalanta Island and Malpagalen Island. And after a long day of exploring, relax back on land at the Maquinit hot springs, just a short tricycle ride north of town. Closest airport: Francisco B. Reyes (AKA Coron) SIARGAO Siargao is synonymous with surfing in the Philippines. The island is accessible via a flight from Manila or Cebu and surfers travel the world 'round to catch the famous Cloud 9 wave. If you're not an expert, no problem; Siargao also caters to learners and Lanuza in Surigao del Sur is home to heaps of surf camps for beginners. So, even newbies can hang ten. But the allure of this island goes well beyond surfing. For day trips, check out the Magpupungko rock pools, which are exposed at low tide and allow you to cliff jump into clear waters. Closer to town is the Tayangban Cave pools, in which you can swim through a dark cavern aided only by torchlight, before emerging into a peaceful lagoon. Nearby island hopping destinations include Daku and Guyam islands — the latter of which is home to the white sand 'secret beach', another much-loved surf spot. And the island's nightly parties don't hurt its appeal, either. Closest airport: Sayak (AKA Siargao) El NIDO, PALAWAN The island of Palawan is home to some truly stunning sites, and you can drive from the northern tip to the southern tip in around ten hours. But there's so much to see and do, that you could spend weeks here and still have more to explore. If you're coming for a short visit, we recommenced choosing one region to focus on and El Nido is an ideal place to start. Situated at the northern end of Palawan Island (just south of Coron Island), the region includes a cluster of islands just off the coast that makes it ideal for island hopping. Expect dramatic rock formations, 'secret' lagoons and that breathtaking azure water Palawan is known for. For larger-than-life limestone, head to Secret Beach on Matinloc Island, which is surrounded by limestone cliffs and hidden from the outside. Divers can choose from more than 30 dive sites, including The Dilumacad in Helicopter Island — a 12-metre deep, 40-metre long tunnel that's filled with rare tropical fish and other sea life. And hikers can explore Taraw Peak or the Mantinloc Shrine and find some incredible vistas. Closest airport: Puerto Princesa with Cebu transfer to El Nido SAMAL ISLANDS, DAVAO For the extreme-sport fanatics, Samal offers heaps of options, including windsurfing, jet-skiing, water-skiing and ATV rental. It's also relatively easy to access, with Samal and its smaller sister island Talikud, just a short boat ride from Davao City, which you can easily reach by flight from Cebu. Along with adrenaline-charged activities, Samal is home to many experiences not found on other Filipino islands. Take a deep plunge into the Hagimit Falls or go caving in the intricate Balete, Mangongawong or Baga cave systems. A swim around the Vanishing Island in Barangay Tambo is another must — but plan carefully, the island disappears during high tide. Requisite water experiences like kayaking, boat rides and snorkelling are on offer, too. Plus conservation diving within the 150-hectares of the Coral Garden and Marine Reservation Park offers a chance to see some rare species in a protected habitat. And, if land animals are more your thing, you can hang out with more than two million bats living inside the Monfort Bats Conservation Park. It's Batman's secret lair, we're sure of it. Closest airport: Francisco Bangoy International (AKA Davao International) MASBATE Tourism has yet to truly take off in Masbate, which makes it all the more appealing. It's the kind of place you don't want to share for fear of it changing. The province consists of three major islands, along with Ticao (extreme solitude) and Burias, and their combined beaches redefine the term 'pristine'. Port Vega Beach is considered a rival to Bantaya's Sugar Beach, and its remoteness is definitely a plus. The island has no end to its exotic beaches, perfect for relaxing with a tipple in hand. If you're keen for an adventure, the 18-metre-high Catandayagan Falls and its pools and caves offer hours of fun. Or take a boat ride to Halea National Park, where you'll spend the night at either the island's only resort or camping on the beach. Wake up to entrancing green-blue waters and snorkel among the brightly coloured fish, then wander around the nature preserve to see the breathtaking tropical flora. Closest airport: Moises R. Espinosa (AKA Masbate) CARAMOAN ISLANDS The remote Caramoan Islands are located 3.5 hours northeast from the tiny Naga Airport — accessible from Manila — in the province of Camarines Sur. The island is considered a 'secret paradise' as it's relatively new to tourism — sounds like our kind of place. It's home to a 4000-hectare limestone forest rich in natural diversity and perfect for those who love to get among nature. Land adventures include limestone rock climbing and cave exploration. Meanwhile, water sports like kayaking, snorkelling and scuba diving allow you to explore the lagoons, reefs, waterfalls and smaller islands (including Guinahoan Island and Matukad Island, which, according to locals, are home to an enchanted lagoon). But, honestly, a relaxing day on the beach is just as attractive an option here. Closest airport: Naga BANTAYAN, CEBU Though Cebu City was once considered a beach town, it's now a built-up metropolis that rivals Manila. So, in order to see the true wonders of the Cebuana region, you have to venture outside of the main island and onto the smaller ones that surround. One such island is Bantayan, which is easily accessed from Cebu City. Compared with crowded Cebu, the beaches around Bantayan are secluded and pristine — especially Paradise Beach in Santa Fe, though Sugar Beach, Alice Beach and Maricaban Beach each have their own appeal. Inland, check out Madrilejos' Kota Park — this Spanish fort was built in the 1790s and has since been reclaimed by nature. Once you've finished exploring the site, head to Kota Beach where you can walk along a sandbar deep into the sea. Go farther afoot, and check out the Obo-ob Mangrove forest. To catch all the sites, bicycle rentals are available for around 200 pesos per day (roughly $5). For even more island hopping, Silion Island and Hilantagaan Island are close by, with a half-day tour costing around 700 pesos (about $20). Closest airport: Mactan-Cebu International MALAPASCUA North of Cebu, Malapascua Island is a haven for divers thanks to its marine sanctuary — and well worth the trek to get there, which can involve taxis, buses, boats and your own two feet. Its most famous dive site, known the world over, is Monad Shoal, which allows divers to swim with sharks at sunrise. (Let's hope they're like Bruce from Finding Nemo and not Jaws.) Day or overnight trips to Kalanggaman Island offer more sights for snorkelling and diving, but a trip to Malapascua shouldn't be limited to diving. Motorcycle tours or rentals around the main island cost around 700 pesos per day (about $20) and are a great way to see all that the island has to offer. Rides will take you past Lapus Lapus and Langub white sand beaches, Los Bamboos for cliff jumping and rock formations and the lighthouse for unbeatable sunsets. Afterwards, relax back on Bounty Beach where there are plenty of restaurants, bars and nighttime activities to get stuck into. Closest airport: Mactan-Cebu International BOHOL Bohol offers the ideal combination of jungle and beach holiday for those who love a bit of both. Catch a flight to the new Bohol-Panglao Airport, and head to Panglao Island's main beach, Alona. (It's considered a mini-Boracay, only much cleaner and less crowded.) From here, you are afforded a throng of exploration options, with diving, snorkelling and island hopping easy to organise with your accommodation or with local tour guides along the beach. Make sure to visit Balicasag Island — where you can snorkel with large sea turtles — and eat freshly shucked sea urchin in the Virgin Islands. Inland, trekkers can rent ATVs and explore the Chocolate Hills — mysterious, chocolate-coloured hills. Afterwards, take a cruise through the emerald-green Loboc River or opt for an adrenaline rush with a 200-metre-high, 480-metre-long zipline. You can even do all three activities on one day trip from Alona. You'll be back at your beach-side accommodation just in time to enjoy live music and cocktails as the sun sets. Closest airport: Bohol-Panglao (AKA New Bohol International) Ready for an adventure to the Philippines? Book with Cebu Pacific Air for affordable international flights from Melbourne and Sydney.
Winter isn't just the frosty season, or woolly clothes season, or igloos-popping-up-at-every-bar season. It isn't simply soup season, roast season or mulled wine season, either. It's also prime hot chocolate season, not that there's ever a bad time to sip warm cups of cocoa. Only winter brings Australia's dedicated Hot Chocolate Festival, however. An annual favourite running for the entire month of August — yes, from Tuesday, August 1–Thursday, August 31 — this festival is held across three locations: the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and the Mornington Peninsula Chocolaterie. While that's excellent news for Victorians, the fest also does an at-home component, sending out its flavours nationwide. And there are flavours — 31 of them, in fact, all ranging far beyond just swapping milk chocolate for dark or white chocolate. The festival's concept is 31 hot chocolate flavours over 31 days, with different varieties on offer each week in-person. The trio of chocolate havens only tease parts of the full list in advance, but this year's includes a nod to Barbie via a pink-infused hot chocolate, as well as an Iced Vovo hot chocolate that features chocolate iced doughnuts for dunking. Or, you can sip on a poached pear and hazelnut version, a dulce de leche churros hot chocolate and a Biscoff hedgehog variety. The Happy Vegemite hot chocolate includes handcrafted caramel koalas to dip, then enjoy the melty goodness. And the Harry Potter-inspired hot choc has a chocolate wand for doing the same. Other flavours come topped with waffles or pretzels, and there's even a puppachino carob iteration so that your dog can join in. This fest gets boozy, too. In 2023, that's happening via the salted caramel espresso martini hot chocolate, plus a dark chocolate variety called French Connection that features red, white and blue balls filled with cognac. And yes, the demand for these limited-edition hot chocs is hefty, with more than 6000 usually created across the three chocolateries per year. Each hot chocolate is made with hot couverture chocolate in dark, milk, white, ruby or caramel, then served with a giant handcrafted marshmallow. For those heading along physically, each site also does tasting sessions for $24, which lets you not only sample eight hot chocolates, but pick from 50-plus ingredients to create three hot chocolate spoons to take home. Images: A Myszka.
Tucked between the lively restaurants and bars of Yarraville Village, Lonni is the embodiment of everything owner and local resident Roselyn Moncrieff loves. Stocking a rich variety of Australian brands across fashion and lifestyle, Moncrieff has chosen everything inside herself, as she's gradually curated a selection of wares that she considers the best in the business. Featuring the likes of Rolla's Jeans, Assembly Label, Elka Collective and Zulu & Zephyr, Lonni has a keen focus on supporting local brands who also have a positive ethos. Spend some time between the shelves among the large collection of indoor plants, we're sure you'll find something you love. Image: Immerse Creative.
Situated amid South Melbourne's renowned Coventry Street shopping precinct, Pomegranate by Mr Darcy is one of the most-loved stores on the strip and has been providing visitors with homewares and gifts since 1999. Close by the famous South Melbourne Market and surrounded by restaurants, Pomegranate hosts a wealth of charming products that reflect the store's vibrant sense of travel, excitement and hidden possibilities. Once you've checked out Pomegranate by Mr Darcy, head further along Coventry Street and you'll soon come across the ladies' clothing and accessories of Mr Darcy, while Little Darcy showcases the brand's range for children. Images: Tracey Ahkee.
Everyone has their Christmas viewing rituals, whether you watch your way through every Home Alone movie each year (yes, even the recent one), pop on It's a Wonderful Life with the family after a big lunch or prefer saying yippee ki-yay to Die Hard. Until recently, however, it's likely that watching Australian festive flicks wasn't high on your list, given this country of ours doesn't have all that much seasonal fare to its name. Back in 2020, streaming service Stan aimed to help change that with A Sunburnt Christmas, a festive caper about a criminal, some kids and end-of-year hijinks — aka Australia's answer to Home Alone and Bad Santa, in a way. In 2022, the platform is set to add another homegrown title to its catalogue sometime before Christmas hits, too. Given it stars Miranda Tapsell and Matt Okine, it looks worth a watch based on its cast alone. [caption id="attachment_700158" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Top End Wedding[/caption] Christmas Ransom stars Okine (The Other Guy) as every kid's second-favourite person during festive season: the owner of a toy store. Things aren't too merry for his character, however, when his shop is held up by thieves on Christmas Eve. And yes, as the name makes plain, he's held for ransom. These kinds of Christmas movies usually involve children, whether or not they turn them into Macaulay Culkin-level stars — so obviously a couple of kids get caught up in the heist. To save the day, they enlist the help of Tapsell (Top End Wedding), who plays a pregnant security officer. Announcing the film, Stan notes that it's inspired by Home Alone, Die Hard and Elf. If you've ever seen just one Christmas flick for even just a few minutes, you will have spotted plenty that's predictable about the setup. Alongside Tapsell and Okine, Christmas Ransom stars Ed Oxenbould (Wildlife), Genevieve Lemon (The Tourist), Bridie McKim (Bump), Evan Stanhope (Thor: Love and Thunder), Tahlia Sturzaker (Ascendant) and Chai Hansen (The Newsreader) — and boasts Adele Vuko (Wham Bam Thank You Ma'am) in the director's chair. Add it to your festive viewing alongside this year's other big Aussie Christmas film, if it also surfaces in time: the upcoming movie based on Paul Christmas classic 'How to Make Gravy'. Otherwise, this newcomer will join the likes of A Sunburnt Christmas; Bush Christmas, both the 1947 and 1983 versions; the animated Around the World with Dot; and recent-ish horror movies Red Christmas and Better Watch Out — the latter also featuring Oxenbould. Christmas Ransom will be available to stream via Stan sometime this festive season — we'll update you with an exact date when one is announced.
Often touted as the best Irish pub outside of Ireland, this tiny spot located at the top end of Queen Vic Market is easy to miss. But once you find it, head inside for the live music five nights a week (both traditional and contemporary), genuine Irish charm and the perfectly poured Guinness — important for those who know what a good dry stout should taste like. We also love that The Drunken Poet isn't kitsch or gimmicky like many other Irish pubs you find around the world. What you do get is incredibly warm hospitality, great beers and whiskies and the occasional fiddle playing in the corner. But do note that this pub is mostly a drinking destination. It does serve some toasted sandwiches, packets of chips and pickled eggs, but we see it as more of a spot to head to either before or after a meal in West Melbourne. Images: Anna K Photography Appears in: The Best Pubs in Melbourne for 2023
It's with vibrant detail that Coco bursts onto cinema screens. A tale of following your heart while honouring your family, Pixar's latest effort is both a colourful sight to behold and an exuberant journey; a film exploding with dazzling visual and emotional fireworks. Within frames heaving with intricacy, there's never a dull moment as the movie sashays from modern-day Mexico to the Land of the Dead during the country's Dîa de los Muertos celebrations. Often it's the little things that stand out, from the grain of the many flowers never far from view, to the weathered skeleton bones that literally dance through the streets, to the melancholy look on an old woman's face. That's the animation studio's forte, of course. It's the reason their talking toys filled us with joy, that their rodent chefs charmed us, and their feelings with feelings left us in tears. As Toy Story, Ratatouille and Inside Out all demonstrated, their films might paint with pixels rather than living people, but they vibrate with the texture of reality. Coco fits the mould perfectly, at once a lovingly realised venture into several new worlds and a familiar mosey through Pixar's usual terrain. What if the dead had feelings is just one of the questions it asks. What if we confronted our own feelings about death is another. Helmed by studio veteran Lee Unkrich (Toy Story 3) with writer and first-time co-director Adrian Molina at his side, Coco takes its name from the grandmother of 12-year-old Miguel (Anthony Gonzalez). While she sits quietly through the last phase of her life, still yearning for the father she lost when she was a girl, he dreams of being a musician, but is forbidden by his music-hating family. Their reasons for this stem from personal tragedy, but it's not enough to stop Miguel from strumming his guitar. His desperation to retrace the footsteps of his entertainer hero (Benjamin Bratt) eventually leads him beyond the mortal coil, on a quest to find his great-great-grandfather and win his musical blessing. If Alice in Wonderland had followed a Mexican boy chasing his dreams, or if Marty McFly had taken the DeLorean through the barrier between life and death, Coco might very well have been the end result. The spirit of these youthful adventures seeps through this film, in a manner that proves delightful rather than derivative. Indeed, this is a story about remembering your past even as you step into the future. As well as following Pixar's own tried and true template, the script weaves its influences into a moving escapade bearing the expected touches, but never failing to surprise. That remains true even if you've seen The Book of Life, the outwardly similar 2014 animated effort that also sees its characters frolicking through the Mexican afterlife. It mightn't be the first family-friendly feature to play in this territory, or the first to explore the conflict between ambition and responsibility. Nevertheless, Coco enchants with warmth and authenticity from start to finish. In fact, as bright as its images shine, as high as its heartfelt emotions soar, and as perfectly as its voice cast fill their roles — including Gael García Bernal stealing scenes as a dead prankster — it's the film's embrace of its setting and culture that truly makes it sing. This isn't Pixar playing tourist south of the border, but paying tribute: to people, songs, lives and beliefs. The gorgeous detail that infuses every frame is a testament to seeing what others often don't, and it couldn't encapsulate Coco's beauty better. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DIm1PyBSwc
19 isn't typically a huge year for a birthday bash, but it's a pretty big deal for a laneway bar like Section 8. The legendary outdoor converted container bar isn't doing cakes or candles to celebrate this special occasion — it's reviving its crowd-favourite Beach Party instead. For the seven days between Monday, February 24, and Sunday, March 2, you'll find a slice of coastal paradise on the edge of Chinatown. It's not just sand and beachy decorations by the talents at Saoko Collective that will greet partygoers. Section 8 has a track record of going all out. The event is sponsored by Skrewball Whiskey, Hop Nation and Heaps Normal, so beverages and cocktails of all flavours and ABVs will be on offer. [caption id="attachment_849269" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Leilani Bale[/caption] Plus, an absolutely jam-packed lineup of 30 DJs are taking part in the event, including Mrs Wallace, Sista Sara, Milk Bar, Afrodesia, Soul Sessions and many more. As well as banging live music, every day of the week will bring a different activity: basketball shootouts on Monday, jazz on the sand on Wednesday, soul sessions and free chips on Saturday — you get the idea. That's not even the best part. All of the festivities are free all week long. The music kicks off nightly at 6pm, except on Saturday and Sunday which will see the tunes start spinning from 3pm. The Section 8 Beach Party will run daily from Monday, February 24 to Sunday, March 2. Entry is free, visit the website for more information.
The last of Red Rock Deli's Secret Supper series is just around the corner. Giorgio Distefano, the chef behind Cremorne's celebrated Italian eatery Ms. Frankie, is hosting the next mouth-watering feast and will be cooking up a storm on Thursday, October 17. But what's on the menu? You might have guessed it, but there's an element of secrecy to this whole Secret Supper thing. Not only is the event to take place at an undisclosed Melbourne location, but we have no idea what kind of creative dishes Distefano will be serving up. All we know is the menu will be inspired by Red Rock Deli's new Chilli, Roast Garlic and Lemon Oil Deluxe Crisps. Add to this the event's theme of 'elevation of the senses' and we can probably expect some pretty big flavours. To find out more, we had a chat with the man himself to suss out what his favourite Melbourne restaurants, chefs and dishes are and where he draws inspiration from. "For me, food is all about bringing people together and creating connections," Distefano says, explaining that at the supper he wants to spark curiosity in diners and encourage them to get to know the people around them by sharing a menu of colourful and delicious-smelling foods. [caption id="attachment_608218" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Trattoria Emilia, Brook James[/caption] It's clear all the senses are important to Distefano, as all his favourite restaurants speak to him through more than just the food. He loves the "welcome and homely feeling" of Trattoria Emilia on Little Collins Street, where he enjoys the "earthly and delicate flavours" of dishes like the tuna tartare. Distefano mentions Chinatown's Seamstress for its shared menu (and the combo of fish and fruit in the spanner crab, papaya and mango salad), and Tipo 00 for the way the restaurant centres on shared entrees and homemade pastas. We're betting the chef's "simple yet authentic and flavourful Italian" style of cooking will shine through in some sharing plates during the supper. [caption id="attachment_725693" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tipo 00[/caption] You might also have to get your hands a little dirty, if Distefano's love of interactive food is anything to go by. "I like the idea of people helping themselves to create their own dishes," he says, referencing Supernormal's bao with twice-cooked duck leg, plum sauce and vinegar. Distefano praises the Flinders Lane restaurant for its balance of Asian flavours in modern dishes and the way diners get to be involved with assembling their own food. He heads out of the city to Niddrie for his favourite open souvlaki at local restaurant Nobel Greek Tavern, which he loves for its big, flavourful portions. Praising the restaurant's simple approach to food, Distefano adds, "I enjoy the embedded flavours of herbs in the meat and the exceptional cooking of the meat on the spit." From homely traditional restaurants to the "sophisticated and flavourful cooking" of Neil Perry's Rockpool Bar & Grill ("I always order their aged beef with homemade potatoes"), Distefano draws inspiration from right across the spectrum of Melbourne's colourful culinary community. Taking pity on us in our quest for the hot menu gossip, Distefano reveals we can expect an interactive dining experience and "flavours which many would associate with home-cooking", hoping to get minds whirling and childhood memories back to the surface. To register for tickets to Giorgio Distefano Secret Supper, head over here. And, while you wait for the big night to roll around, you can get cracking on this Distefano-certified recommendation circuit. Top Image: Parker Blain.
Put on your Sunday best and head to the CBD on Sunday, May 9 to treat your mum, or a mother figure in your life, to high tea featuring free-flowing Chandon NV Rosé — and tea, of course — for Mother's Day. For $124 per person — or $49 for children where a special Le Petit Kids High tea menu will be served — you and your mum can indulge in a tower of decadent treats. Think, raspberry, lemon and white chocolate scones cascading from the top tier to meet cream cheese, watermelon, salmon roe and dill bagels in the middle. Then, descend to a blood peach, raspberry and lemon heart mille feuille to finish. All this will be accompanied by plenty of Chandon bubbles and enough tea to satisfy the queen — your mum — while live jazz music soundtracks your dining experience in The Westin's Lobby Lounge. Plus, your mum will leave with a special gift in hand. Bookings are essential as places are limited so make sure to secure your table here. Image: supplied
