As the director of Flickerfest for the past 15 years, Bronwyn Kidd has programmed thousands of short films — and seen many, many more. She's got such a strong eye, in fact, that one more category in the festival has become Academy® Accredited this year, giving its filmmakers a track to the Oscars. She shared with us her top six films to keep a particularly close eye on at Flickerfest. So no getting distracted by the Bondi stars or ducking out for a drink at the bar when you see these titles flash on the screen. 1. Oh Willy A quirky animation about Willy, who needs to go back to a naturist community after the death of his mother. 2. Zimmer 606 A brilliant blend of live action and animation by Peter Volkart, a master of the craft who has screened many other films at Flickerfest. 3. Life Vest Under Your Seat An hilarious short film about a nightmare passenger you hope you never have to sit next to on any flight from Spain. 4. The Captain A quirky film about a man who winds up in the wreckage of an airline crash having to piece together what happened. Directed by Nash Edgerton and Spencer Susser. 5. A Cautionary Tail A world-class animation with the voices of Cate Blanchett, Barry Otto, and David Wenham. 6. A Story for the Modlins An amazing documentary about the star of the film from Rosemary's Baby. They're all part of the packed Flickerfest 2013 program. Details and screening times are on their website.
The food at Moroccan Soup Bar has long been a staple of many a northsider's diet. Located on St Georges Road, the environmentally conscious eatery serves up great vegetarian food in a communal setting, under the watchful eye of chef Hana Assafiri. Now, after 17 years, Assafiri has expanded her reach, quietly opening up a deli cafe offshoot on Lygon Street a few blocks away. Combine that with a new cookbook which is currently on shelves, and it's safe to say that we'll be enjoying her food for quite a few years to come. Deli-cacy is located at 313 Lygon Street, Brunswick East, in the site previously occupied by Miramar Nut Shack. Those looking to eat in can choose from a selection of healthy wraps and salads, the mixed mezze plate (which changes daily), or snack on macaroons and Moroccan shortbread with their nus nus (a Moroccan take on the latte) or fresh mint tea. The deli counter, meanwhile, is laden with tasty offerings, including olives, cheeses and Moroccan Soup Bar's famous dips. According to The Age, Assafiri will eventually start selling take home dinners, and even has plans to open up a cooking school. In the meantime, those desperate to try Assafiri's food at home can pick up a copy of her book, Moroccan Soup Bar: Recipes of a Spoken Menu and a Little Bit of Spice, which is available in book stores or either one of her restaurants. Cauliflower stew, haloumi salad and almond macaroons are just a few of the delectable recipes you'll find inside. And yes, she also gives away the secret to her beloved chickpea bake. Deli-cacy can be found at 313 Lygon Street, East Brunswick. Its trading hours are 9am – 5pm seven days a week. Via The Age. Image: Moroccan Soup Bar, Fitzroy North.
Tocumwal is the perfect place from which to set off on an outdoor adventure, with Barmah National Park recognised as particularly special for bushwalking and horse riding. Home to the world's largest river red gum forest, the expansive park also boasts stunning wetlands that provide critical habitat for over 200 bird species. Closer to town, you're welcome to admire the alluring Murray River from the shoreline, but it's even better when you hire a boat and drift along the waterway instead. With the area renowned among anglers in search of cod, perch and trout, it's the ideal way to find a quiet place to drop a line and spend a lazy day enjoying the calm waters of the mighty Murray. Image: Visit Victoria
Summer, glorious summer: we spend all year waiting for the perfect weather and a respite from the responsibilities of everyday life but, too often, the holidays pass us by without any noteworthy adventures. No longer. To help you take full advantage of this summer break, we've teamed up with Expedia to select five destinations that are guaranteed to take your holidays from average to exceptional. Each location is less than a nine-hour flight from Sydney — perfect for a cheeky little trip — you'll be soaking up the good life in exotic surroundings before you know it. Because we know that you're all just as into food as we are, we've hunted down somewhere to eat once you get there, from fine dining, to cafe and street food and waterside restaurants. Happy adventuring. AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND FLIGHT TIME: THREE HOURS Overlooked by many tourists who rush onwards to the North Island's more famous landscapes, Auckland is something of a hidden gem. There are waterfront vistas that give Sydney a run for its money, world-class restaurants and a burgeoning art scene all to be explored. Book at room at the colourful boutique Hotel DeBrett and start your visit with a wander around Viaduct Harbour, a glittering precinct with numerous bars and restaurants offering gorgeous views over the harbour. With its acclaimed seafood dishes, Euro is a particular highlight. For your culture fix, head to the Auckland Art Gallery, home to over 15,000 works by Māori, Pacific Island, and international artists. Pop into the gallery cafe for delicious pastries and coffee served in a bright, airy space. Still hungry? If you're in town during a weekend, don't miss French-inspired farmers market La Cigale, where you can gorge yourself silly on a selection of cheeses, pastries, artisanal bread and other delicacies. Next, it's time to get outdoors. No visit to Auckland is complete without a trek up one of the city's 53 volcanic peaks. Mount Eden is a favourite for its jaw-dropping crater and sweeping views over the city. For a unique beach experience, head to the western shore, where black sand beaches are flanked by dramatic cliffs and dunes. More of a classic white sand/emerald waters person? Catch a 40-minute ferry to stunning Waiheke Island. The retreat of choice for Auckland's affluent types, the island is also home to dozens of world-class wineries (try the secluded Te Whau for its delicious blends and award-winning restaurant). EAT: KAZUYA Auckland's legendary Japanese restaurant Kazuya is not something to miss. At this fine dining establishment the waiters wear white gloves. Try the signature dish 'Texture' — 30 different types of vegetables, from tiny shavings of baby beetroot to exquisite mustard greens and perfectly cooked, bright green broccoli. Check out Concrete Playground Auckland for an entire city's worth of more handy eating, drinking and playing tips. [caption id="attachment_580107" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Levi Morsy.[/caption] BALI, INDONESIA FLIGHT TIME: SIX HOURS With its lush landscapes, gorgeous beaches, rich culture, and relative affordability, it's not surprising that Bali is on practically every Aussie's bucket list. Plus, the paradisiacal island offers something for everyone: from the party animal to the surf bum to the yogi. If it's nightlife you're after, skip overdone Kuta and head to still busy but less saturated Seminyak. Hang out at Ku De Ta, an upscale restaurant and bar that morphs into a club in the evenings or catch a live gig at Potato Head bar. If it's gourmet eats you want, Seminyak's buzzing foodie scene offers endless options. Two standouts are Sardine, where oh-so-fresh seafood is served in a bamboo structure overlooking emerald rice paddies, and Barbacoa, a South American joint with stunning decor. More of a beach type? Don't miss Uluwatu, an area famous for its pristine beaches, amazing surf, and awe-inspiring sunsets. Grab your board and spend the day riding world-class surf breaks, or simply grab a book and a cocktail and while the afternoon away on the sand. Keen to create your own version of Eat, Pray, Love (stay with us)? Then Ubud is the place for you. Bali's cultural heart offers yoga and meditation studios aplenty, and has spas on practically every street corner. Our pick is Putri Bali Spa, which offers an insanely affordable five-hour package that will leave you glowing. Book your visit just before you hop on the plane, and you'll return to Sydney entirely blissed out. EAT: DAMAI This poolside restaurant serves award-winning cuisine using local Balinese ingredients, many of which are grown in the restaurant's kitchen garden. Meat and shellfish come from the villa's boutique farm, and eggs and poultry are gathered from locals. Book a room in the accompanying, stunning villa and treat yourself. SUVA, FIJI FLIGHT TIME: SEVEN HOURS With dazzling sand, crystal clear waters, and palm trees at every turn, there's almost no better place than Fiji for a beach-heavy holiday (plus, your Instagram photos are guaranteed to make your mates cry with envy). Composed of 333 islands, choosing where to spend your time in Fiji will be the hardest part of your holiday. We suggest you start with Viti Levu, Fiji's largest island and home to the nation's capital city, Suva. Filled with striking colonial architecture, temples, mosques, and museums, this is the perfect place to get your culture fix before heading to the beach. If you're in town on a Saturday morning, don't miss the municipal market for a heady taste of local life and a great selection of fresh produce, clothing, and souvenirs. Once you've fully explored Suva, it's time to make a beeline for the ocean. For stellar snorkelling and diving, look no further than the impossibly picturesque Mamanucas and Yasawa Islands. For some of the world's best surfing breaks, head to Namatou Island, where you'll be spoiled for choice. In between your water activities, try some yaqona (or kava). This ceremonial drink is ubiquitous in Fiji and should be tried at least once — in fact, if you're invited to join a local kava ceremony, it's considered impolite to say no. Once you've soaked up the idyllic beachside lifestyle for a few days, tear yourself away from the water and venture into some lush island interiors. For gorgeous hikes through a protected rainforest with plenty of waterfalls and deep pools, try the Bouma National Heritage Park on Taveuni Island. For a stunning accomodation option, we reccomend the Tokoriki Island Resort — it has fishing, snorkelling and sailing on site. EAT: TRADITIONAL DELICACIES There are a wealth of restaurants to eat at when you're in Fiji, but the local cuisine trumps it all. Heavily influenced by the water that surrounds it, Fijian food is filled with seafood options — like octopus, sea urchin and fish. Each island in Fiji will have their own version of Kokoda — finely chopped raw fish dressed with a thick coconut cream, onions, spices and lime juice. It's traditionally served in half a coconut shell, or a clamshell. [caption id="attachment_574226" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Image: Kai Lehmann via Flickr[/caption] SINGAPORE FLIGHT TIME: EIGHT HOURS Once just somewhere to kill time during a layover, the Lion City has reinvented itself as a destination in its own right. A melting pot of Asian cultures, the bustling city-state is a foodie's heaven and you could easily spend your entire holiday stuffing your face. In fact, that's exactly what we suggest you do — plan your itinerary around food and fill time between meals with a few of the city's top attractions. Of course, Singapore offers a lot beyond incredible food. For a slice of nature, head to the stunning Botanic Gardens, Singapore's first UNESCO World Heritage site, or spend hours wandering around the Bukit Timah Naturae Reserve. And don't miss the Singapore Zoo — the only place in the world where you can have breakfast with an orangutang family (really). Of course, no trip to Singapore is complete without a little shopping: for the best retail therapy, head straight to Orchard Road, which boasts 22 (!) shopping malls and six department stores. For a good home base, book a room at the stunning Park Royal — it's surrounded by the city's beautiful greenery. EAT: WAKU GHIN Seafood is the focus at Waku Ghin, a Singaporean restaurant by Tetsuya Waduka (of the legendary Sydney Japanese restaurant Tetsuya's). Save up and sit down for a degustation in a stunning, fine dining restaurant within the Marina Bay Sands hotel — which overlooks the Singapore bay. Cocktails and sake options are just as innovative as the food. While Singapore is home to many upscale restaurants, make like the locals and eat at the city's hawker centres, where you can sample the city's iconic dishes without burning a hole in your wallet. For the best Hainanese chicken rice, look no further than Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle in the Chinatown Complex hawker market. Other musts are chilli crab (head to Palm Beach Seafood Restaurant for this) and nasi biryani (Tekka Centre for South Indian cuisine serves up some of the city's best). OAHU, HAWAII FLIGHT TIME: NINE HOURS If you like your beach holidays with a generous helping of non-beach activities, you'll fall head over heels for Oahu. Hawaii's most populous island offers laid-back island living on its eastern and northern shores and the bustle of urban life in the capital Honolulu. What's not to love? Start by checking in and blissing out at The Royal Hawaiian hotel, then spend a few days on iconic Waikiki Beach, where you can snorkel, swim, or learn to surf during the day and relax over a few drinks and nibbles at night. To enjoy Oahu from a different vantage point, hike up Diamond Head crater for epic views over the island. For a more challenging climb, try the Olomana hike: your efforts will be rewarded with striking panoramic vistas. Make time to catch one of the island's legendary sunsets from the aptly-named Sunset Beach. Then, it's time to head to the North Shore. If you're an advanced surfer, you'll know this corner of the island is famous for its giant waves. Once you've worked up an appetite, feast at one (or a few) of the many food trucks or tiny restaurants that dot the area. Make sure to try the iconic poke (Pupukea Grill serves up particularly tasty bowls) or shrimp from Giovanni's Shrimp Truck, which has become something of a local institution. EAT: PEACE CAFE Maybe Honolulu's only vegan restaurant, Peace is located in a tranquil, tropical cottage in Honolulu. They serve up delicious sandwiches, sweets and lunchboxes made with organic vegetables and local ingredients. Pick up a healthy Vietnamese tofu or teriyaki tempeh sandwich for sustenance before heading off on a hike. Become an Expedia+ member and book your summer holiday — you'll have access to prices that others don't see.
As a teenager, owning an actual doughnut shop would surely be the realisation of all your sugar-filled fantasies. So we're betting that 15-year-old Morgan Hipworth is pretty popular at school these days, as he's just opened the doors to a new, permanent space that will showcase his much sought after doughnut creations. The launch of Windsor's Bistro Morgan follows a wildly successful pop-up hosted by the young entrepreneur in September, and appearances in many a café cake cabinet over the past two years. Known for throwing down imaginative, new-school riffs on the classics (re-imagined Golden Gaytime, anyone?), it's not hard to see why this talented teen has been dubbed 'Melbourne's doughnut prince'. Of the new space, Hipworth says he's most pumped about "having the freedom to explore new ideas, as well as getting to interact with the customers". Five different artisan doughnut varieties will be on offer each week, alongside five milkshakes to match the creations. Fans can expect plenty of other tasty surprises to come out of Bistro Morgan too, with word a 'doughnut degustation' may be just around the corner.
By now, it feels like no stone has been unturned by Sydney's big developers. But you know where they haven't developed yet? Underground. So perhaps that's why the NSW Government has set its sights below street level — today it announced its plans to turn the St James tunnels, a large subterranean space that adjoins St James Station, into an underground attraction. The tunnel is, after all, just sitting there. It was built back in the 1920s as part of a plan to connect the CBD with eastern suburbs, but the project was never realised. Since then, it's been used as an air raid shelter during World War II, an operations bunker for the air force and as a location for The Matrix Revolutions. Tours used to run, but now there's no way for the public to access the tunnels. The NSW Government is opening this one up to the floor, and is seeking expressions of interest from both local and international developers. Ideally, it would like something that would turn the tunnel and its platform into a "world-renowned attraction" — perhaps restaurants, bars, shops, or cultural and entertainment spaces. "Spaces like the St James tunnel are rare," said Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance in a statement today. "Around the world, hidden spaces are being converted into unique experiences and we want St James Station to be part of that." Expressions of interest will close November 6 — after they've been received, the process will be managed by Sydney Trains and real estate company CBRE. We'll keep you updated on the next stage of the process.
Most Melbourne spas tend to set up cool spaces full of wellness technologies and then simply leave you to choose your own adventure. You're free to relax and escape however you like. But learning how to best use these wellness tools can be daunting for those of us new to the spa life. It's like visiting a gym for the first time and trying to use all the machines on your own. You're just not going to get the most out of your workout. This is why the team at EQ, a new wellness space in Melbourne's Domain Precinct, is changing things up. Slated to open on Wednesday, May 15, EQ will be home to a hammam, sauna, rain room, ice-cold plunge pools, a social lounge, and a light and sound therapy dome. But the team here hasn't just built a wellness playground for us stressed-out folks to run wild within. Instead, they're curating seasonal semi-guided wellbeing and spa experiences designed to address specific wellness needs. It's like having leg day on the weekend and focusing on cardio during another session. You're not visiting EQ to magically fix all your problems in one session. There will be a different focus every few months. The first is called 'Welcome Chaos' and is said to help you find and create calm within your hectic life. But how does this actually work in practice? Well, guests will get a few hours to explore the facilities in a specific order, working through each of the rooms like a circuit training class. They will move through the light and sound therapy dome (the colours and soundscape will change for each campaign), a series of hot and cold zones and the rain room, plus participate in communal mediative breathwork. There will also be an educational room that's meant to give guests the tools needed to create and sustain healthy wellness habits at home. For the EQ team, the spa acts as a circuit breaker to stress. You're then encouraged to make long-term changes for your physical and mental wellbeing afterwards — by teaching you basic breathwork, meditation and a selection of other practices. Once the next seasonal campaign begins, you'll be invited to return and work through a different mind and body program. And even though there will be a prescribed order to EQ's wellbeing experience, you are free to go rogue and move through the space however you like. If you just want to lay in the hammam and dip in the plunge pool, go for it. But the semi-guided aspect is what makes this site so special. It would be a shame to totally abandon it. EQ is slated to open on Wednesday, May 15, and will be found at 22 Kings Place, South Melbourne. For more information, head to the venue's website.
Locking gazes across the room, staring intently with a deep fascination that feels fated, seeing oneself in the sparkle of another's eyes: when these moments happen in a movie, it's typically to fuel the first flushes of romance. When they occur early in Passing, however, it's because former childhood friends Irene (Tessa Thompson, Westworld) and Clare (Ruth Negga, Ad Astra) have spied each other in a swanky Manhattan hotel. The pair peer back and forth, intrigued and attentive. That said, it isn't until Clare approaches Irene — and calls her Reenie, a nickname she hasn't heard in years — that the latter realises who she's been looking at. It's the immaculately styled blonde bob that fools Irene, as it's meant to fool the world. As becomes clear in a politely toned but horrendously blunt conversation with Clare's racist husband John (Alexander Skarsgård, Godzilla vs Kong) shortly afterwards, Irene's long-lost pal has built an entire life and marriage around being seen as white. Passing's eponymous term comes loaded not just with meaning, but with history; adapted from Nella Larsen's 1929 novel of the same name, it's set in America's Jim Crow era. This introductory scene between Irene and Clare comes layered with multiple sources of tension, too, with Irene only in the hotel because she's decided to flirt with visiting a white establishment. Still, she's shocked by her pal's subterfuge. When she initially spots Clare, the film adopts Irene's perspective — and its frames bristle with a mix of nervousness, uncertainty and familiarity. Irene rediscovers an old friend in a new guise, and also comes face to face with the lengths some are willing to go to in the name of survival and an easier life. Friendships can be rewarding and challenging, fraught and nourishing, and demanding and essential, including all at once, as Passing repeatedly demonstrates from this point onwards. Irene can't completely move past Clare's choices and can't shake her fears about what'd happen if the vile John ever learned Clare's secret; however, she's also quick to defend her to others — to her doctor husband Brian (André Holland, The Eddy), who swiftly warms to Clare anyway; and to acclaimed white novelist Hugh Wentworth (Bill Camp, News of the World), who's her own entry point into an artier realm. Indeed, in household where talk of lynchings is common dinner conversation, Irene recognises far more in Clare's decision than she'll vocally admit. Almost everyone she knows is pretending to be something else as well, after all, including Irene in her own ways. Largely confined to Irene and Brian's well-appointed Harlem home and other parties in the neighbourhood — after that first hotel rendezvous, that is — Passing is an economical yet complicated film. It may seem straightforward in charting Irene and Clare's rekindled acquaintance, but it's exacting and precise as it interrogates both societally enforced and self-inflicted pain. Its Black characters live in a world that pushes them aside and worse merely for existing, with its central pair each internalising that reality. Their every careful move reacts to it, in fact, a bleak truth that actor-turned-filmmaker Rebecca Hall (The Night House) never allows to fade. That's one of the reasons she's chosen to shoot this striking directorial debut in elegant, crisp and devastatingly telling monochrome hues: both everything and nothing here is black and white. Hall doesn't appear on-screen here herself, but she still gifts Passing the same intensity and nuance that's always been part of her performances. In the film's lingering frames, intimate close-ups of Thompson and Negga, and all-round eagerness to see the space that surrounds them — that often separates them, too — she proves as astute a director as she is an actor. It helps that she has enlisted two leads who exude the same traits, and Passing couldn't be more perfectly cast as a result. Thanks to Sylvie's Love and Loving, both of the movie's stars have grappled with race relations in America already in their careers. They've done so to affecting and astonishing effect, too. Here, while never repeating themselves, both Thompson and Negga are just as exceptional as they've ever been. It was always going to take intricate, complex and sensitive portrayals to tell this story, and Passing's talented leads just keep delivering. The whirlwind of emotions that flickers through Irene again and again, as evident in her gaze, posture and tone far more than she's openly trying to convey, is nothing short of masterful on Thompson's part. And the determination and sorrow fighting inside Clare — the yearning to connect with the background she shunned out of what she felt was necessity, and the unwillingness to be judged for her choices as well — echoes through a hypnotic turn by Negga. Showy yet thoughtful, it's the kind of performance might've just stuck to the confident and ostentatious character's Roaring Twenties flapper-style surface notes in other hands. With meticulous assistance from cinematographer Eduard Grau (The Way Back) and editor Sabine Hoffman (Juliet, Naked), Hall also turns Passing into an exercise in looking; this is a feature about perception and authenticity, and it repeatedly pushes those concepts to the fore in every image. It observes quietly and intently, giving Irene and Clare the type of unfettered, unguarded and earnest attention that they're clearly so rarely able to enjoy as they wrestle with racial identity in their daily existence. It truly sees them, including their strengths, struggles, dreams, desires and flaws. And, it refuses to redirect its gaze when the tragedy it has always been building towards makes its presence known — an outcome that shocks and feels inevitable at the same time. The jazzy score might play things gently, but Passing uses its polish, poise and patience, and its superb performances, to pack probing and pain into every delicately rendered moment. Passing screens in select Melbourne cinemas from Friday, October 29, and streams via Netflix from Wednesday, November 10.
If it can happen in a pandemic, it can happen in any year. Yes, we're talking about Brisbane Festival. After 2020's event, which had to adjust to the new realities brought on by COVID-19, the annual celebration of arts and culture returns in 2021 — so mark Friday, September 3–Saturday, September 25 in your diary. Most of the 2021 program will be announced much closer to those September dates, as happens each time the festival rolls around. That said, you can expect everything from art, music and theatre to lights, lasers and interactive installations, plus whatever other weird, wonderful, unique and just brand new ideas and shows the fest's organisers and the talented artists they work with manage to come up with this year. If you'd like to get excited already, a few details have already been revealed — including the long-awaited world premiere of Boy Swallows Universe, which'll hit the Brisbane stage during Brisbane Festival. Also on the bill so far: Queensland's Finest, with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra showcasing top local talent; and Songs That Made Me, with singer-songwriter Jess Hitchcock crooning tunes. [caption id="attachment_793650" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Boy Swallows Universe, David Kelly[/caption] Top image: Brisbane Festival 2020, Atmosphere Photography.
Naming the sequel to The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel probably didn’t cause any headaches or sleepless nights. There’s no unsightly numeral at the end, but the film’s follow-up status is still made clear, The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel saying everything a movie title needs to say. It's the same older folks getting up to the same old tricks. The film opens in the United States, the perpetually cranky Muriel Donnelly (Maggie Smith) and always-eager Sonny Kapoor (Dev Patel) trying to convince an American company to fund their expansion plans; however, that’s just window dressing. Soon they return to Jaipur, to their home away from home for more mature travellers, and to the recognisable faces of their long-term residents. Everyone’s problems may be new, be it a job offer, romantic entanglements, health ailments, impressing a hotel inspector, fending off rivals or preparing for impending nuptials, but there’s nothing different about the dynamic. Indeed, anyone who has seen the first movie — or anything any of the high-profile ensemble cast have ever been in — already knows exactly how everyone behaves, and how everything plays out. As will-they-or-won’t-they couple Evelyn and Douglas, Judi Dench is wise and cautious, and Bill Nighy is equal parts charming and sweet, their relationship never in doubt. Lust drives Celia Imrie’s Madge and Ronald Pickup’s Norman into their own silly side-character subplots steeped in matters of the heart. When Richard Gere arrives as the visitor assumed to hold the fate of the new hotel in his hands, he’s as suave and dreamy as he’s ever been on film, and there’s a woman nearby to fall under his spell. These soap-like, sitcom-style antics, and Sonny’s in coping with the competing demands of running a growing business and getting married, ensure much of The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel plays out like a subcontinent-set episode of Fawlty Towers. Sadly, missing is the wit and satire that made the TV series such a comedy gem. Instead, the laughs here come from familiarity and predictability, rather than any real comic impulses by returning director John Madden and second-time scribe Ol Parker. Part of what endeared The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel to audiences — old more so than young — was the late-stage coming-of-age story mixed with an elderly-but-not-out attitude. Both came dripping with sentimentality and packaged as a glossy travelogue, but the movie struck a chord more often than not, and not just because of its immensely pleasant performers. That’s exactly what The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel attempts, but the feel-good strengths of the first film just don’t stretch that far. Instead, cheesiness and cliches fill in the gaps, including the obligatory dance sequences, lest viewers forget there’s an Indian wedding thrown in as well.
Doughnut fiends, drop everything and run — don't walk — to Windsor. For one week only between September 18 and 25, 190 High Street is playing host to the first-ever Bistro Morgan doughnut pop-up. If you've tried their delectable orbs of pastry, you'll know why we're encouraging you to rush there as quickly as possible. Did we mention that chef Morgan Hipworth makes a Golden Gaytime doughnut? We can hear your stomach grumbling from here. You'll also find Ferrero Rocher, Fairy Floss, Fruit Loops, peanut butter and jelly, and Bounty bar concoctions among his ever-growing range of handmade deliciousness, with each stacked with toppings, brandishing a sauce-filled syringe or both. Of course, it's not just Hipworth's mouth-watering creations that have caused a buzz over the last 18 months, and caused eager doughnut lovers to flock to the cafes that stock them each and every weekend — it's also the chef himself. He's been called Melbourne's doughnut prince, and it's a label that fits. The 15-year-old whips up his tasty treats when he's not at high school, after all. Yes, really. Hipworth taught himself to cook when he was seven, after being inspired by Masterchef (and provided perhaps the best endorsement of reality television he ever could in the process). Cooking up three-course dinners for his parents and grandparents then turned into Bistro Morgan. He still runs things from home around his classes, but he eventually wants to open his own cafes and restaurants. For now, we'll all be more than happy with a week-long pop-up serving his damn fine doughnuts. Find Bistro Morgan's pop-up store at 190 High Street, Windsor from September 18 to 25. Check out their website and Facebook page for more information.
Phone or tablet? If that's a question that you've ever asked yourself, Samsung now has the answer. This week, the company unveiled the prototype for its new foldable smartphone, confirming one of the biggest rumours in the technology game. At the Samsung Developer Conference in San Francisco on November 7–8, the company revealed a device that's clearly still in development, but combines the best of both worlds when it comes to regular-sized touchscreen phones and their larger siblings, aka tablets. The handset boasts a new interface and display that enables it to both function as the former and fold out to become the latter — for those times when you just need a bigger screen, we guess. The interface is called One UI and is designed for one-handed use, anchoring the most relevant information to the bottom of the screen. As for the Infinity Flex Display, as well as being able to fold in the middle, it will also move whatever you're looking at from its smaller size to its larger size as you unfold the phone. In what might be one of the biggest drawcards, it'll support simultaneous app use when the larger display is used, thanks to functionality Samsung has dubbed Multi Active Window. Yes, this means that you can have three things open and active at the same time. Design-wise, the device uses one single screen that is foldable down the centre like a book, instead of flipping from the top like the clamshell handsets that have long defined the way we all think about flip phones. Other details are scarce — this was Samsung's first real teaser that the new foldable format is definitely in the works, rather than an actual product launch. It's not the first time that the company has mentioned the device. Speaking with CNBC earlier in the year, IT and mobile communications division CEO DJ Koh noted that more details would be revealed at SDC — although clearly we'll all have to keep waiting for in-depth specifications, and even information such as a name, release date and price. Contrary to how the device might seem at present, Koh also noted that it won't just be a tablet in a more compact form. Images: Samsung.
This summer has been all about rooftop bars. Bomba this, Loop Roof that — it's as though no one's noticed the apocalyptic heat and general exhaustion of the entire city. On the fifth day of a 40 degree heatwave, a roof is the last place you want to be. Perched at the top of a concrete jungle with some saccharine monstrosity melting in a martini glass? I'll be at my local, under the trees, with a cold pint pressed to my forehead, thanks. So, to save you the trouble, here's our round-up of the best beer gardens — the quiet achievers of a summer wisely spent in the suburbs. The Brunswick Green This large and welcoming watering hole is a mainstay of Sydney Road's already impressive pub circuit. Inside, the place is decked out in a loving and knick-knacky fashion that will make you feel snug and homely during winter, and outside, the expansive paved beergarden provides a relaxed oasis during summer's hotter days. Drop in for a cheeky pint during the day, or catch up with a group of friends under the coloured fairy lights at night. Note: bring your pocket money, it's unfortunately a cash only bar. 313 Sydney Rd, Brunswick, (03) 9381 2413 The Boatbuilders Yard We're not 100 percent sure if this is considered a beergarden, but it sure is pretty. Located right on the harbour at South Wharf, this relatively new bar is the place to go if you like your drinks served with a view. Designed by Six Degrees architects — the same people behind Auction Rooms and De Clieu — the venue operates with a functional simplicity that's refreshing to stumble upon on a summer's day. And, owned by the same people behind Riverland, the venue has some decent bar know-how. Aside from the extensive wine list, punters can look forward to pitchers of summer cocktails including a Spiced Rum Cooler, Aperol Spritz and the classic Pimms No. 1. 23 South Wharf Promenade, South Wharf, (03) 9686 5088, theboatbuildersyard.com The Standard Even Fitzroy locals would be forgiven for not knowing this place exists. Strategically tucked away on a one-way road off Brunswick Street, The Standard seems to punch well above its weight. Outside, an outdated Carlton Draught sign hangs from the awnings coated in flecking old paint, but inside lies a labyrinthine and tree-shrouded beergarden that's up there with the best of 'em. Similar to The Brunswick Green, the bar offers a comforting retro vibe with accumulated clutter covering the walls and faithful old bar staff that seem equal parts dependable and scary. But outside is where you'll be spending most of your time — a breezy little oasis that's well worth the search. (NB: If this were an article about parmas I would rave a little about their offering, but for now just trust me — it's good.) 293 Fitzroy Street, Fitzroy, (03) 9419 4793, thestandardhotel.com.au Village Melbourne Located on the former grounds of the much-loved Belgian Beer Cafe, Village Melbourne is a platinum player in the local beergarden circuit that has already made a huge name for itself anew. Located just off St Kilda Road, this sprawling and versatile venue was the home of last year's extremely popular Trailer Park, and will operate this summer as a stand-alone bar and brasserie with a largely American-inspired menu. Hello chilli dogs! 557 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne, (03) 9529 2899, villagemelbourne.com.au The Great Northern Carlton is known for its poky little places. There are hundreds of small pizza joints with very large men spruiking them, there are great cafes down tight laneways — but people don't talk much about its big sprawling pubs. The Great Northern is a pub for pub-lovers — the ones who like to watch the footy and really know their beers. Boasting 22 taps with a regular rotation of craft beers including Mountain Goat, 2 Brothers, Stone & Wood, and a selection from the ever-present Brooklyn Brewery, this is definitely the place to go for a pint. 644 Rathdowne Street, Carlton North, (03) 9380 9569, gnh.net.au College Lawn Hotel Nestled in the terrace-lined backstreets of Prahran, this southside pub and bistro is a dependable local that no doubt gives its neighbours some grief over the weekend. In addition to a main bar, dining area, public bar, and bottle shop, the large astroturf-lined beergarden can house hundreds on hot summer days, and conveniently has an outside bar to cater for it. While it can be hard to get a table during their infamous Sunday Sessions, during the week this place is a relaxed little hideaway from the hustle and bustle of Chapel Street and offers great specials on pub grub including a $12 locals' night on Mondays. 36 Greville Street, Prahran, (03) 9810 0074, collegelawnhotel.com.au Northcote Social Club As you know, this place is an institution of the Melbourne music scene. But what you may not remember from those groggy head-banging nights, is that it also has a pretty decent beergarden out back. With big timber tables and some of the strangest assortments of people you'll ever see, NSC is not only a great venue to catch a cheap gig (seriously, most things still sit at around the $15 mark), but also the perfect meet-up for parmas and pints. It may not have a degustation menu or a long list of craft beers, but hey, maybe you can sneak into a show for free. 301 High Street, Northcote, (03) 9489 3917, northcotesocialclub.com Windsor Castle The brightest offering of the bunch, Windsor Castle, comes from the same school of thought as the Carlton Club — everything looks better with taxidermy. Sporting a kooky exterior coat of pink and lime-green paint, and a kookier interior of antlers, tusks and peacocks, this southern gem is really trying to make you take notice. That's not a bad thing though — you should. Come summertime, you'll want nothing more than to abscond to its suburban wilderness and bask in the light of its neon pink elephants. 89 Albert Street, Prahran, (03) 9525 0239, windsorcastle.com.au The Retreat This aptly-named Brunswick local is a step back in time — a time where pubs had character, live music was free, and every chair was vinyl. Still standing after 150 years, The Retreat is the first point of call for the Brunswick faithful, and a worthwhile trip for outsiders. The menu is a strange (but totally great) mixture of regular pub grub and mexican food, the drinks flow freely till 1am, and the beergarden, with its beautiful overhanging tree and constant buzz of laughter and conversation, might just be the best in Melbourne. 280 Sydney Road, Brunswick, (03) 9380 4090, retreathotelbrunswick.com.au Disclaimer: the author of this piece is currently employed pulling pints at the College Lawn Hotel. She was not influenced to include the venue by her managers, but rather by how nice it is to spend her breaks in its big beergarden over summer.
Easter in 2020 is going to look a whole lot different. With social distancing and public gathering rules in place across the country, we can't skip town to our favourite holiday spot or even go round to a mate's place for a hot cross bun breakfast. But, joining the Easter Bunny this year to spice up this long weekend is another famous figure: The Colonel. For the first time Down Under, KFC is offering free home delivery on orders over $30 via Menulog. So, round up your housemates for a weekend of eleven secret herbs and spices. The limited-time offer is available nationwide and kicks off on Thursday, April 9. To get your hands on some finger lickin' good chook with no extra cost, head to Menulog's website or use the Menulog app and enter KFCatHOME at checkout. And while you're food is on its way, you can meditate with KFChill, a wellness website that lets you unwind to the sound of chicken frying, gravy simmering or bacon sizzling away in a pan. Yes, it'll make you hungry. While you can't road trip to the world's first drive-thru-only KFC or marry your loved at the famed chicken chain this Easter, free delivery on a Family Feast, Mates Burger Box or Party Starter is sure to lift your spirits. Plus, Popcorn Chicken is a pretty good snack for when you're binging Tiger King or streaming this year's Oscar-winning flick. KFC is offering free delivery across Australia on orders over $30 via Menulog and is available from Thursday, April 9 for a limited time only. To order, head here and enter KFCatHOME at checkout.
The winter chill is starting to set in across Melbourne, which means it's time to bust out your warmest winter woollies once again. If you're a fan of frostier climates, you'll want to celebrate with some mates over a mulled wine — which you can now do thanks to Victoria's new eased restrictions. To celebrate the start of winter (and the reopening of restaurants, bars, cafes and pubs), a heap of private igloos are popping up across Melbourne, so you can get your winter escape without even having to leave the city. Dubbed the Winter Igloo Garden, the pop-up winter wonderlands have taken over The Auburn Hotel's beer garden, The Station Hotel and by the banks of the Yarra at The Wharf Hotel, with one slated to open at Studley Park Boathouse next week. Each igloo can fit up to four people and come with twinkly fairy lights. You can hire out the igloos for a 90-minute or two-hour time slot, which includes a three-course, heartwarming meal and a drink, with a choice of espresso martini, hot toddy, wine and beer. Priced between $49–69, your time in an icy haven is pretty reasonable when you split it with the crew. At The Auburn you'll be chilling out in your wintry bubble for two hours and feasting on the likes of mini lamb pies, cauliflower cheese croquettes and braised beef cheek for $59. Plus, if you're looking to get super-cosy, you can buy a fleece blanket for $5, which you get to take home with you. At the riverside Winter Igloo Garden at The Wharf Hotel, you can hire an igloo out for 1.5 hours, during which you'll be sipping drinks and tucking into a seafood feast for $49. If you're looking for more heartwarming fare, The Station's igloos come with meat-heavy dishes like short rib croquettes, wagyu and bone marrow and a drink, with mulled wine also an option, for $69. Further drinks can also be ordered via an app, so you don't have to leave your wintry lair. Private igloos are are available to hire at The Auburn Hotel, The Wharf Hotel and The Station Hotel. Until at least Wednesday, July 29, stay-at-home orders have been reintroduced in 12 Melbourne postcodes, which means their residents can only leave for one of four reasons: work or school, care or care giving, daily exercise or food and other essentials. For more information, head to the DHHS website.
It's happening again. If you're fond of staring at the heavens with your own two eyes to see a stunning sight, you'll want to spend Thursday, October 17, 2024 looking up. Another supermoon is upon us, with the best time to see it arriving after sunset Down Under — so if you train your peepers upwards this evening, you'll be in for a glowing show. While super full moons aren't particularly rare — several usually happen each year, and one occurred in August 2024 as well as in September — there's still a a good reason to peer upwards this time around. If you're wondering why, we've run through the details below. [caption id="attachment_598533" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Andrew C via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] What Is It? If you're more familiar with The Mighty Boosh's take on the moon than actual lunar terms, here's what you need to know. As we all learned back in November 2016, a supermoon is a new moon or full moon that occurs when the moon reaches the closest point to Earth in its elliptical orbit, making it particularly bright. They're not all that uncommon — and because October 2024's supermoon is a full moon (and not a new moon), it's called a super full moon. It's also a hunter's moon, too, which refers to the time of year in the northern hemisphere. This is the time when hunting was undertaken to store meat for the coming winter in the other half of the world. Of course, that doesn't apply in the southern hemisphere, but the name still sticks. This supermoon is also the closest of 2024 — which makes it the brightest of 2024, too. [caption id="attachment_769713" align="alignnone" width="1920"] NASA/Joel Kowsky[/caption] When Can I See It? As mentioned above, your best time to look at the harvest supermoon is from sunset on Thursday, October 17, 2024, although it'll officially be a full moon at 10.26pm AEDT in Sydney and Melbourne, 9.26pm AEST in Brisbane, 9.56pm ACDT in Adelaide and 7.26pm AWST in Perth. The moon always appears full for a few days, however, so if you already thought that the night sky looked a little brighter this week, that's why. To catch a glimpse, you'll want to peek outside when it gets dark to feast your eyes on a luminous lunar sight. Head over to timeanddate.com for the relevant moonrise and moonset times for your area. Where Can I See It? You can take a gander from your backyard or balcony, but the standard advice regarding looking into the night sky always applies — so city-dwellers will want to get as far away from light pollution as possible to get the absolute best view. Sunset arrives at 7.10pm AEDT in Sydney, 7.39pm AEDT in Melbourne, 5.56pm AEST in Brisbane, 7.31pm ACDT in Adelaide and 6.29pm AWST in Perth Via timeanddate.com. Image: Elekes Andor via Wikimedia Commons.
Chunky Move’s brand of contemporary dance is often just as — if not more — challenging and exciting than the kind of work presented by Melbourne’s independent theatre scene. In recent years, shows like Mortal Engine at the Malthouse have well and truly outshone any other performance in the season. Now, if you’re unfamiliar with the company’s already exceptional work, gentle is the power looks like the perfect introduction. This show, presented as part of Melbourne’s inaugural Summersalt Festival is a free, bite-sized exploration of contained power, running for just ten minutes and choreographed by the company’s Artistic Director, Anouk Van Dijk. This small show comes after the blockbuster success of the company's last show Complexity of Belonging at the Melbourne Festival, but this time Van Dijk works in collaboration with just two dancers, James Vu Anh Pham and Niharika Senapati. Image by Fiona Cullen.
Melbourne's forecast is looking extra radiant to start 2023 — and much of that is thanks to the good vibes set to be served up by iconic LGBTQIA+ arts and cultural celebration Midsumma Festival, which returns for its 34th edition this summer. Hitting your calendars from Saturday, January 21–Sunday, February 12, the fest will once again be one-upping its previous efforts to deliver its biggest program yet, with this year's lineup featuring more than 200 events. Held across eight major festival hubs and many more smaller venues, you can expect a jam-packed offering of live music, performances, exhibitions, theatre, visual arts, cabaret, parties and more — all championing queer arts and culture. It kicks off in all its explosive glory on Sunday, January 22 with the legendary Midsumma Carnival at Alexandra Gardens. Then, on Sunday, February 5, the Midsumma Pride March will descend on Fitzroy Street for its annual roving celebration starring marchers in their thousands. Plus, the full-day Victoria's Pride fiesta will wrap things up on Sunday, February 12, marking more than four decades since the decriminalisation of homosexuality in Victoria. [caption id="attachment_883994" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Midsumma Carnival[/caption] In between, you'll catch a diverse array of events, including the debut of A Safe(R) Space — a program of works unpacking the concept of the 'safe space', and what that means for different artists and creatives. Expect illuminating performances, perception-bending exhibitions and a whole lotta self-love. Meanwhile, Midsumma Presents is back with another specially curated lineup championing the unheard voices of this era's queer intersectional communities. It'll serve up panel chats, theatre works, art exhibitions, a Nocturnal dance party and a whole lot in between. Elsewhere, comedian Joel Creasey and RuPaul's Drag Race Down Under legend Kween Kong will take over the Sidney Myer Music Bowl for the star-studded fiesta that is Midsumma Extravaganza. Head along to catch comedians including Nina Oyama, Rhys Nicholson and Scout Boxall, as well as a sparkling cast of musical talent such as Courtney Act, Tina Del Twist, Kira Puru and Dolly Diamond. Then, there's the swag of happenings hosted at the Victorian Pride Centre, a new festival hub. Along with a free exhibition delving into a century of Victoria's LGBTQIA+ history and the creation of the centre itself, the site will dish up events like a giant gender-diverse clothes swap, drag-led creative workshops, a queer comedy showcase, and a pop-up piano bar complete with song requests and special guests. Highlights across the other hubs include a First Nations drag festival and a star-studded drag bingo party at Pride of Our Footscray; a citywide collection of interactive installations for Midsumma x Ignite Melbourne; rope bondage workshops and cabarets about composting over at Abbotsford Convent; dance-friendly al fresco gigs in the Theatre Works garden; a stacked program of performances at Gasworks Arts Park and the Butterfly Club; and much, much more. [caption id="attachment_883999" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nocturnal x Midsumma[/caption] Midsumma Festival 2023 runs from Saturday, January 21–Sunday, February 12 at hubs and venues across Melbourne. For the full program and to book tickets, see the website.
If it feels like back-to-back lockdowns have completely warped your sense of time, you're not alone. Suddenly, here we are, hurtling towards the end of the year — and towards a bunch of new venue openings that are absolute fire. One such venue is Chris Lucas' (Chin Chin, Hawker Hall, Kisume) new venture, Yakimono — a two-storey Japanese diner with a street food menu that's fuelled by fire. Opening its doors on November 5, the restaurant is the newest addition to the 80 Collins precinct and neighbour to fellow Lucas Group haunt Society. An ode to the late-night izakayas of Tokyo — where Lucas spent three years living and working — Yakimono is set to serve up a fresh riff on Japanese street eats, melding classic flavours with a touch of Melbourne flair. Heading up the kitchen is none other than Daniel Wilson, the OG mind behind Huxtaburger. He's plating up an offering of adventurous dishes here, with bites like spicy beef tartare, curried sweet potato gyoza with miso apple yoghurt, and skewers of wagyu beef intercostal in a smoky soy glaze. Barbecued pork cheek is finished with sesame and fermented chilli; a whole miso-glazed chook comes teamed with smoked chicken fat rice, charcoal salt and a spicy slaw; and a dish of smoked eel udon features shimeji mushrooms and an onsen egg. Oh, and a mochi waffle with hazelnut buttercream and salted macadamia praline beckons from the dessert list. Meanwhile, the bar will be pouring ten beers and four wines on tap, alongside a selection of bottled vino and sake that doesn't take itself too seriously. A range of Japanese-accented cocktails and bubble tea rounds out the liquid fun. The space itself is moody, yet colourful, with digital art and clever lighting lending a futuristic edge. Both the central open kitchen and the bar feature ringside seats for those wanting to be close to the action, while the Corner Room boasts private dining for up to 14 guests. Yakimono opens at 80 Collins Street, Melbourne from November 5. It'll open daily from 12pm–late, with dinner service only for the first week of operation. Venue Images: Tom Blachford. Food Images: Julian Lallo and Adrian Lander
Sometimes, you can fall out of love with your city, get stuck in a monotonous 9-to-5 routine and start to feel a little like you're living in Groundhog Day. The best thing to do is pack your bags and get outta town for a couple of days, maybe more. Sydney is teeming with new places to while away a sunny day, it's the perfect destination if you want to escape the Melbourne weather or hightail it out of Brissie for a long weekend. But you don't want to get stuck visiting the same old tourist traps. To help you out, we've partnered with Qantas and curated sunrise-to-sunset guide for Sydney's hip 'n' happenin' inner-city suburbs, so you won't miss out on a thing. First destination: Coogee. There's more to this chill beachside suburb than a broad sandy beach, our step-by-step itinerary will show you how to pack the most into a day-long Coogee frolic and see all the best sites. From sunrise boxing on the beach to lounging on the rooftop at Coogee Pavilion, outdoor yoga at the Baths to dog-spotting on the foreshore, you can have an active, ocean-drenched, food-filled day all at once down at one of Sydney's most laid-back eastern suburbs beaches. Now, it's time to explore. 6AM: GO BOXING ON THE BEACH Book one of Beachfit and Wellbeing's outdoor boxing classes to kick-start your day with the zest of a lifestyle blogger. Coogee Beach itself gets fairly packed on sunny days, so the best way to enjoy the sand between your toes is to get down there early. Like, sunrise early. Meet at the centre of Coogee Beach, watch the sun come up and smash out a workout before most of Sydney has even registered that it's a new day. Don't forget to snap an Insta pic to make your interstate friends jealous. 7AM: GRAB COFFEE AND BREKKIE AT THE LITTLE KITCHEN Rinse off the sunrise sweat at one of the council's outdoor showers, and walk towards the south end of Coogee to The Little Kitchen. A family-run cafe open from 7am daily, you'll find modern Aussie cafe food in a relaxed, freshly refurbished setting. Pick a seat at one of the long tables inside away from the sun. Double Roasters coffee or cold drip takes care of all your caffeine needs. Keep brekkie simple with a humble order of fruit toast and ricotta, or have the grilled chorizo with roasted peppers, herb salad, hummus and labne for a more substantial feed. Don't forget to bring a book or the paper — anyone who gets up before 8am truly earns the right to savour that morning coffee. 8.30AM: ENJOY SOME PRIME DOG-SPOTTING Scientific fact: dogs are freaking cute. But you can test this hypothesis for yourself if you must. Grab a coffee to go, meander along the boardwalk towards Trenerry Reserve and you'll be in the heartland of peak dog-spotting action. Remember to wear a hat, some sunscreen and sunnies as those Sydney rays can be quite strong if you're not used to them. 9.30AM: PRACTICE YOUR SUN SALUTATION AT OUTDOOR YOGA Keep the active-wear on for a relaxing outdoor yoga session. From the dog park, just wander 100 metres back towards Coogee Beach to the historic Wylie's Baths for a wholesome al fresco Hatha Flow. Run by Wylie's Wellness, classes take place in the shade of a marquee overlooking the sea, so you can enjoy stunning ocean views while you're stretching it out. 12PM: FISH AND CHIPS AT CHISH N FIPS After an active morning, it's time to chill. Lunch from Chish N Fips is a local favourite and must-try for visitors. It's a reasonably priced, no-frills joint reminiscent of grabbing a feed on a camping car trip with the family circa 1998, but, more importantly, it's very tasty. Order calamari and chips to take away and enjoy unparalleled views of Coogee beach, with the sand beneath your toes and salty ocean breeze on your face. 2PM: COOGEE PAVILION Unequivocally the best place to scout a prime view overlooking the whole of Coogee Beach is from the rooftop balcony of Coogee Pavilion. Nab one of their balcony umbrellas, grab a Pavilion Pina Colada ($18) and some grilled haloumi wrapped in vine leaves ($12.50) and wind down overlooking post-card perfect views of the beach. Ah, how's the serenity? 4PM: SNORKELLING AT GORDONS BAY You don't have to travel to the Great Barrier Reef to live out your marine biologist dreams — check out the teeming aquatic life down at Gordons Bay, the coastal inlet just north of Coogee Beach. The word that comes to mind when describing the bay is 'magical'. This might sound like the overzealous puffery of a high-end Maldivian resort guidebook write-up, but when you're floating in the water looking up at the surrounding cliffs, you will second this assessment. Just think, if you were a Sydneysider you could do this every weekend. 6PM: DINNER AT SUGARCANE RESTAURANT Conclude your Coogee adventure with dinner and drinks at Sugarcane. It's a contemporary Asian dining experience with Japanese, Malay, Thai and Chinese cuisines all featuring on the menu. The decor has Balinese Seminyak vibes, but the ocean view from the restaurant's balcony tables is pure Sydney. Now's probably a good time to start planning your next trip back to this magical place. Ready to get away and experience Sydney? Book with Qantas for great fares to Sydney and NSW until 24 September. Terms and conditions apply.
From its awe-inspiring scenery to its hefty brew tours and the 200 sprawling wineries that call it home, the Margaret River region has become one of Australia's top destinations for those looking to escape the city in style. Situated about three hours from Perth, this bustling coastal setting offers surf beaches, lush forests and ancient underground cave systems all in one spot — which is especially exciting if you're looking for a bit of variety on a weekend trip this winter. With a landscape as diverse as this, it shouldn't come as a surprise that Margaret River is also home to incredible outdoor experiences that are ready and waiting for you to enjoy. There's a lot to choose from, but who doesn't love being spoilt for choice? To help, we've put our heads together with Virgin Australia to come up with the very best activities to make your getaway unforgettable. There'll be wine. There'll be beaches. And, of course, there'll be adventures. [caption id="attachment_719648" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Phil Whitehouse via Flickr[/caption] EXPLORE THE LIMESTONE CAVES OF LEEUWIN NATURALISTE RIDGE When you're viewing it from ground level, the Margaret River region is rather spectacular — but heading underground also reveals incredible sights. Formed around a million years ago, there are over 100 limestone caves throughout Margaret River. They're considered some of the most extraordinary in Australia. The Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge is where you'll find many of them, with this expansive system featuring alluring crystal formations aplenty. Across a variety of guided and self-led tours, you can follow staircases and boardwalks that'll take you right into the depths of the earth. And if you only have time to visit a select few caves, don't miss your chance to see Lake Cave's imposing entrance or Jewel Cave, with its collection of stalactites that are over five metres tall. ABSEIL DOWN THE SEASIDE CLIFFS WITH MARGARET RIVER CLIMBING CO Rising 40 metres above the Indian Ocean, the Wilyabrup Sea Cliffs are among the most picturesque in the Margaret River region, stretching along the rugged coastline for a half-kilometre. If you enjoy a bit of death-defying action to go with your holiday, hook yourself into these towering red granite cliffs with the Margaret River Climbing Co — and step off the edge as you abseil your way down the sheer rock face. There's no need to worry if it's your first time. There are plenty of sections that are suitable for beginners, while experienced abseilers will still find a difficult challenge. Hanging from the cliff face presents you with pretty unbeatable ocean views, naturally. Our tip: keep an eye out for the pods of whales and dolphins that are often seen swimming amid these coastal currents. TREK THE CAPE NATURALISTE TO SUGARLOAF ROCK WALK The Cape to Cape Track is one of the most impressive treks you can complete in the Margaret River region. While you'll likely be a little busy indulging in the local food and wine to make the entire 140-kilometre journey, the Cape Naturaliste to Sugarloaf Rock section offers a pleasant introduction to the outstanding landscape. Setting off from the popular Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, this relaxing three-and-a-half-kilometre stretch will have you stepping along a mix of gentle walking paths and timber boardwalks as you soak up the peaceful coastal views. To get the ideal experience, aim to reach Sugarloaf Rock just as the sun begins to set. Sitting just off the coastline in the Indian Ocean, this majestic rock formation is lit up daily by quite the striking colours as the sun dips below the horizon. TAKE A SUNSET CANOE RIDE ALONG THE MARGARET RIVER Sticking with the sunset theme, the Sunset Canoe Tour is your chance to float down Margaret River in complete serenity as the day draws to a close. You'll drift upstream flanked by wildflowers and forest — and it won't be long before you spy soaring limestone cliffs. Next, you'll watch as the late afternoon light sets the rock faces alight with a radiant glow, before continuing onwards in search of a secluded beachfront. Once you hit the sand, listen out for the chorus created by the local wildlife. It'll provide the perfect soundtrack as you rest on the beach with a glass of wine, a delicious canapé and a view of the last light as it disappears over the Indian Ocean. SEE THE REGION FROM ABOVE DURING A SCENIC HELICOPTER FLIGHT Make the most of your time by getting high above the Margaret River with a scenic helicopter ride. This part of the world provides a wealth of amazing natural wonders, so why not encounter the vast ocean and coastal landscape from the air? From farmland to forests to golden brown cliffs, you'll also hover above the boutique wineries and their seemingly endless rows of grapes — the ones that have helped put Margaret River on the map. Among the highlights, you'll also get to see Rivermouth, Surfer's Point, the Ellenbrook House and Cape Mentelle Vineyards, one of the oldest and most attractive wineries in all of Margaret River. If you're now eagerly planning a visit to Margaret River, check out Virgin Australia's holiday packages — which offer everything from chilled-out cottages to massive resorts.
It's safe to say Gami Chicken and Beer has secured its status as one of Australia's go-to fried chicken joints, slinging its signature Korean-style chook from 29 locations across the country. To celebrate the opening of its latest outpost in Windsor, Gami is giving Melburnians a very good reasons to jump on board, handing out a whopping 1000 boxes of fried chicken — for free. These fried chicken morsels — RSPCA-approved and rocking Gami's signature blend of 17 herbs and spices — will be up for grabs from 3.30–4pm and again from 5.30–6pm on Thursday, April 29 at the new location. And, come Friday, April 30, they'll be available from 5.30–6pm and 8.30–9pm, too. There will only be 250 free boxes available at each session — so you should head in early if you want a freebie. Once you're hooked, you're probably going to want to schedule a return visit pretty quick, to try other Gami favourites like the chicken spare ribs or the aptly named Potato Heaven, featuring three layers of cheesy potato goodness, as well as chilled Gun:bae lagers from Brunswick's Thunder Road Brewery. And if you can't make it down for a free piece, the Windsor store is already open for lunch and dinner daily.
If you can find New Gold Mountain it's a reward in itself – if you're beneath the bike on the wall, you're there. The drinks here are identified only by number, which can make things tricky (read: fun surprises) after you've had a few of them, and they're talking points in themselves. We only wish we could remember the number of divine cocktail that came in two glasses, designed to be consumed in alternating sips, but by that point an entire algebra problem had been downed.
Spring Street Grocer is a jack of all trades. Known for its cheeses, gelato, cold pressed juices, takeaway sandwiches and, of course, its impressive food store, this grocer is a one-stop shop for all your Italian inspired recipes. While you're shopping, pop through Australia's first underground cheese maturation cellars downstairs, and afterwards their Gelateria Primavera out front (who doesn't snack while shopping?). We suggest snagging yourself a perfectly aged brie with crackers out back while you ponder what to cook your guests with all the goodies in your basket. Image: Visit Victoria/Paul Philipson.
Short of physically volunteering your time, there aren't many ways you can help those in need over lunch. But Sydney-based social enterprise food company Two Good is looking to change that, with their buy-one, give-one lunch delivery model. Having just expanded from Sydney to Melbourne this week, Two Good are delivering delicious salads through Deliveroo — and for every one sold, a meal is donated to domestic violence shelters in both cities. They're not just any old salads either. The Two Good guys — Rob Caslick and Cathal Flaherty — have worked with the most loveable man in the international food world Yotam Ottolenghi and renowned Melbourne chef Andrew McConnell to create two options that far surpass any soggy salad you were planning on making in your office's kitchenette this afternoon. Ottolenghi's creation is a poached chicken salad with chargrilled zucchini, sorrel, capers and pine nuts, while McConnell looks after the vego option with a cracked wheat and freekeh salad with preserved lemon and berries. The salads — available to order for lunch through Deliveroo — are $14 and $13 respectively, which is a pretty standard price for a salad in this town. And, considering for each salad you order the legends at Two Good will donate a meal to a domestic violence shelter in your city, it's an incredibly low cost way to food yourself and help someone who needs it. Meals are donated to ten shelters around NSW and to The Safe Futures and St Mary's House of Welcome in Victoria. What's more, Two Good also employ women from the shelters they work with in NSW, and are looking to do the same in Victoria in the next three months. If you want to buy a salad, you can place an order through Deliveroo from 11.15am in Melbourne and Sydney. For more information on Two Good, go to twogood.com.au.
This autumn, online vintage treasure trove Hawkeye Vintage will let you into its covetable closet — and everything will be up for grabs. You'll be able to get a feel of a Gucci cashmere coat, try on a Dior evening gown and fight over Chanel bags as a whopping 30,000 (yes, 30,000) items take pride of place in a Fitzroy Warehouse from Wednesday, May 15 until Sunday, May 19. The pieces on offer will run from the affordable right up to the super expensive — but all will be going at a reduced price. There'll be over 10,000 items priced between $10–20, while some of the vintage designer brands — such as Valentina, Gucci, Chanel, Hermes and YSL — will be going for upwards of $250 a pop. As well as the well-known designer labels, there'll be a heap of unworn vintage pieces from the 70s, 80s and 90s , which will range from silk scarves and sunglasses to denim, bum bags and leather belts. Entry to the massive sale is free, but you will need to reserve a spot here. We also suggest getting there early to snag the good stuff. The Hawkeye Vintage Super Sale will run from 9am–5pm.
The music industry often takes itself too seriously. Funny photos of serious musicians are scarce, but hilarious. Take a took at these photos of (usually) serious musicians. We've got everything from Dallas Green (City and Colour, above) in underwear with an umbrella, Elvis Costello in a fedora hanging with Elmo, and the always intimidating post punk band Swans squatting awkwardly in a swimming pool. Even the deepest and darkest of musicians have a soft side (or at least a somewhat funny side). Justin Vernon (Bon Iver) Lou Reed and Laurie Anderson Elvis Costello Ian Anderson John Cage Radiohead Elliott Smith Iron Maiden Jeremiah Greene and Jim Fairchild of Modest Mouse Swans Hans-Joachim Roedelius
They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away. And this autumn, you can keep both your go-to medical practitioner and your tastebuds happy, with a trip out to pick your own crunchy, crisp apples, straight from the tree. Family-run Yarra Valley orchard Sanders Apples is celebrating the start of the new fruiting season by inviting punters to harvest its own red kanzi apples every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from March 12. Bring a reusable bag and you can pick up to two kilos of ripe apples to keep for $12.50. Couples can score entry and two kilos of apples for $15, while groups of up to four will pay $25 for their entry and four kilos of fruit. Tickets are available at the gate. In amongst the picking action, guests can also enjoy a BYO picnic in the orchard (just remember not to bring in any outside fresh fruit or veggies), while tractor rides can be booked in advance here. Kanzi U-Pick is open from 2–6pm on Friday, 10am–6pm on Saturday and 10am–4pm on Sunday.
Getting down to the Winter Night Market is usually a frosty affair, but QVM will look even cooler in July following an expansive transformation. Bringing a snow-dusted makeover to the market for five weeks, its much-loved festivities will take place amid an eclectic 'Winter Wonderland', where ice sculpting, immersive snow globe experiences and sparkling lights bring a new dynamic to the midweek event. Held every Wednesday from Wednesday, July 2–Wednesday, July 30, expect a flurry of new encounters to run alongside the usual fire pits and winter-warming bites. Think expert ice sculptors carving frozen masterpieces, roving snow queen entertainers, and an interactive snow globe installation where visitors surround themselves in swirling faux snow to create a picture-perfect moment. The food truck lineup is also getting a shakeup, with 13 new traders to discover. Head to Braz Oz to relish smoky Brazilian barbecue skewers, or wrap your hands around El Chivi's Uruguayan steak sandwiches. Tacos El Habanero will offer Mexican street food classics, while Churros Ole's Spanish-style treats are dusted to perfection and served with a rich chocolate sauce. A new pop-up bar, tucked into the Winter Wonderland zone, will also make its Winter Night Market debut. Expect toasty tipples and winter mocktails, such as spiced hot Milo. And for markets held during the school holidays, families are welcome to book a table in the Winter Wonderland zone, making their visit even more rewarding.
Break out the Wensleydale! Following in the footsteps of the massively popular Pixar and DreamWorks Animation exhibitions, the latest show at Melbourne's Australian Centre for the Moving Image pays tribute to the studio behind stop motion's most iconic duo. Originally created for the Art Ludique – Le Musée in Paris, Wallace & Gromit and Friends: The Magic of Aardman is ACMI's contribution to this year's Melbourne Winter Masterpieces series. The delightful exhibition features more than 350 objects, including props, models, storyboards, concept art, photos, clips and behind-the-scenes interviews. It's a comprehensive survey of the history and creative process of the beloved animation studio, whose clay creations have charmed audiences for more than 40 years. Naturally, the exploits of Wallace and Gromit take centre stage. You can see the rocket the pair took to the moon in A Grand Day Out, admire the veggies growing in Gromit's carefully tended garden, and shake your fist at early character sketches for the dastardly Feathers McGraw. There's also an entire section dedicated to cracking contraptions that's sure to get your imagination working overtime. But there's much more to Aardman than what goes on at 62 West Wallaby Street, Wigan. From Creature Comforts to Chicken Run to the deeply unsettling Angry Kid, the exhibition leaves no stone unturned. You can even get a glimpse at a number of the studio's more memorable commercials and music videos, including their groundbreaking clip for Peter Gabriel's 'Sledgehammer'. Frankly, we could have spent all day exploring the exhibition. But for those of you who might be short on time, here are five things on offer you absolutely have to see. THE ORIGINS OF WALLACE & GROMIT Early sketches reveal the secret history of Gromit and his eccentric owner, who it turns out was originally a postman named Jerry. Doesn't quite have the same ring to it, does it? Reckon we can all agree creator Nick Park dodged a bullet there. THE CHICKEN RUN FLYING MACHINE A key model from Aardman's first feature-length film, the flying machine is a bizarre contraption born of hard work and a belief in the impossible. In that way, it is the item that best exemplifies the spirit of the studio itself. THE PIRATES! BAND OF MISFITS PIRATE SHIP Admittedly, the flying machine is somewhat overshadowed by what is inarguably the piece-de-resistance of the ACMI exhibition: the five-metre-high ship from The Pirates! Band of Misfits. So impressive is the model that you could be forgiven for thinking it's about to sail off at any moment. MAKE YOUR OWN CLAYMATION Fancy yourself the next Nick Park? Then why not try making a short animation of your own. Visitors will get the chance to mould a colourful clay character, before bringing them to life frame-by-frame. They say it's meant for kids and families, but don't let that stop you. AN EARLY LOOK AT EARLY MAN Round off your visit with a behind-the-scenes look at what Aardman are up to next. Due for release in early 2018, the prehistoric Early Man features the voice talents of Eddie Redmayne, Tom Hiddleston and Maisie Williams, and looks like an absolute blast. Wallace & Gromit and Friends: The Magic of Aardman is showing at at ACMI from June 29 until October 29. Images: Charlie Kinross.
The perfect breakfast dish is a thing of beauty. Before noon a just-right poached egg is like a beacon of light and reassurance, just as biting into a crispy piece of fried brioche becomes an almost religious experience. Alone, these standout dishes gain momentum on food blogs and get a mention in 'Melbourne’s Best Breakfasts' lists, but it's rare for a cafe to have a whole menu of pre-midday dishes each worthy of a return visit. Reading the breakfast menu at Arcadia, each item is as good as the last. It's a can't choose situation. As you make your way down the 15+ menu items, you realise you're going to have to make a choice glazed with uncertainty. Working with Melburnian favourites as the base for dishes before adding a genius component, they've got their customer base catered for. The Middle Eastern poached eggs on rye with red pepper pesto, spinach and hazelnut dukkah ($17.50) is definitely worthy of the shortlist, as is the smashed avocado with feta, slow cooked balsamic tomatoes and preserved lemon salsa ($15). For something sweeter, the 'Goodness Bircher' ($12.50) is packed with seeds and topped with maple pears and the twice-baked brioche French toast is a masterpiece in itself ($16.50). Before you've even ordered you know you'll be coming back. Having been around since before Gertrude Street was even a thing, Arcadia remains a go-to fixture of Fitzroy’s cafescene. Even with bigger, better and more modern venues popping up around them, their dependable breakfasts, fresh lunches and Campos coffee is common knowledge to both locals and those not situated in the inner north and has kept them as a popular weekend destination. The simple layout is supplemented with a food display and small courtyard, as well as a window table looking out onto one of the more interesting streets in the city. As well as their all-day breakfast, as midday approaches the food cabinet is stocked with a culinary rainbow of hunger-inducing offerings. The options change daily (and are posted on their Facebook page each morning) and, as well as salads, can include anything from lasagne, curry, zucchini fritters, a baguette or a burrito. Also made daily are the sweet and savoury muffins that sit smugly next to the coffee machine, as well as cakes, slices and a mammoth brownie that is way too big for even the biggest chocolate fiend to single-handedly devour. At a place like Arcadia, where breakfast reigns supreme, it's hard to do any wrong. With a coffee and a seat at the window, you can have your eggs and eat your cake afterwards too.
RISING 2025 keeps inching closer, with the Melbourne music, art, culture and architecture festival set to take over the Victorian capital across Wednesday, June 4–Sunday, June 15 — and it isn't done adding to its lineup just yet. How do you close out 12 jam-packed winter days, not to mention an event where you could be playing mini-golf in Flinders Street Station Ballroom one moment, then enjoying Pakistani R&B and Punjabi rap the next? With a literally underground five-hour gig that's making Melbourne history. The fest has announced Track Work — Music From the Underground, which will take audiences to a brand-new location. Feel like you've seen live tunes at every venue in the Victorian capital there is? You haven't headed 20-plus metres below St Kilda Road to the yet-to-open Anzac Station for a gig before. First Nations label BAD APPLES MUSIC is behind the event, with Briggs, BARKAA, Birdz and Jayteehazard on the lineup. Headline sets, DJs, MCs: they're all on the bill at this daytime concert, which is running from 11am–4pm on Sunday, June 15. Also huge: the fact that admission is free. Alongside the entertainment, Track Work doubles as a chance to take a self-guided walk-through of the station — and to see Tracks, the new public artwork from Victorian First Nations artist Maree Clarke, which features the fur seal and fairy penguin among other animals that live in Bunurong / Boonwurrung Country's coastal climes. "Track Work is a uniquely Melbourne moment — a chance to experience two of the most important, original and charismatic voices in music in this country. Briggs, BARKAA and their BAD APPLES MUSIC family will reveal one of the city's most significant new spaces with a baptism of bass and beats in a free afternoon of DJs, MCs and celebration," said RISING Co-Artistic Director Hannah Fox, announcing the event. "As a powerful finale for RISING, we're thrilled to partner with Metro Tunnel Creative Program and BAD APPLES MUSIC to create something bold, fun, unexpected and unrepeatable." Also on the RISING lineup, as previously announced: a free installation by a teamLab alum, exclusive Suki Waterhouse gigs, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Yasiin Bey with Talib Kweli, Portishead's Beth Gibbons, Aotearoa favourite Marlon Williams, Olivier-winning hip-hop dance work BLKDOG, Zoë Coombs Marr's new variety show, a film retrospective dedicated to Miranda July, Tropical Fuck Storm playing The Forum, Melbourne Art Trams' latest iteration and much, much more. [caption id="attachment_1005634" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Isaac Turier[/caption] Track Work — Music From the Underground takes place from 11am–4pm on Sunday, June 15, 2025 at Anzac Station, Melbourne, with entry via the Domain Road and Albert Road station entrances. Entry is free but booking is required via the festival's website. RISING 2025 runs from Wednesday, June 4–Sunday, June 15 across Melbourne. Head to the event's website for further information.
Most of the time, when bands take a break, they disappear into the land of never-to-be-heard-of-again. It's a kind of ex-rockers' purgatory, where would-have-, could-have- and should-have-beens sit around listening to early demo tapes, bemoaning the halcyon days when a record deal was forever just around the corner, and growing bitter about the fact that such-and-such became too egotistical or whatshisname retreated to the countryside to clean up his act. Not so The Basics. In their three-year hiatus, they've managed to win three Grammys (via Wally de Backer's transformation into Gotye), write a film score (Tim Heath's contribution to The Rise and Rise of Richard Latt) and catch malaria while checking out Kenya's local music scene (just one chapter in Kris Schroeder's excellent adventures). With all of that out of (or should that be in?) their system, they're ready for a reunion. So they've released new single 'So Hard For You' and will be touring nationally throughout September and October. "It's been a great challenge nutting out how to bring a large band, visuals and studio compositions together for the Gotye live shows over the last two years," Wally says. "But right now I'm looking forward to getting sweaty behind the drums and playing rock 'n' roll in these fab clubs with my brothers Kris and Tim." Two shows at the Northcote Social Club on 27 and 28 September have already sold out. Tickets to the third show at The Corner on 29 September are selling fast. https://youtube.com/watch?v=bnDf9zLiUII
International headline acts are fun and all, but if you like your festivals with a little more adrenaline, this one's for you. The inaugural Seal Rocks Adventure Festival is crashing onto the mid-NSW coast later this month. Descending on Seal Rocks Treachery Camp, about 90 minutes north of Newcastle, it's set to deliver a weekend of hands-on blood-pumping fun over the weekend of May 17–19. The program of this boutique BYO camping festival is jam-packed full of activities, balancing out an after-dark schedule of live tunes and film screenings. By day, you'll have the chance to battle your mates in an interactive game of Archery Attack, learn some new moves in a circus skills workshop, go deep with a free-diving short course, and flit between rock climbing, surfing, slacklining, yoga and zorbing — yep, this one involves crashing around a field in a giant bouncing bubble. There'll be a disco-themed 'doofercise' workout class to kick things off each morning, classes to teach you how to start fire with just a couple of sticks, and an ongoing challenge to see who can fit the most humans on a giant stand-up paddleboard. Booze is BYO, but vendors like The Perfect Paella, Dr Drool and Tim's on Treach will have pop-ups to help fuel your adventures — and a restaurant will pop-up on the Saturday night for a four-course Saturday feast. Or, you can boost your own cooking skills at a pizza making class. By night, there'll be moongazing tours and campfires, while the stage heats up with local acts like Thunder Fox, The Regime, Elaskia and Belle Badi. And if you're after more inspiration, there's the Adventure Film Festival, emceed by Alice King in the Talking Tent each night. Adult camping tickets clock in at $340, which gets you an entry pass, a campsite and access to as many of the weekend's activities as you can handle. Groups of mates and families are welcome, and capacity is capped at 500. There are glamping and cabins options, too, for those who want a little more comfort at the end of a long day of adventuring (and have extra cash to spare). Seal Rocks Adventure Festival will take over Seal Rocks Treachery Camp on May 17–19. Tickets start at $340 and can be bought over here.
Night owls of Melbourne, rejoice — you're about to have a whole heap of new things to do when the sun goes down. As part of its efforts to revitalise the Victorian capital after the past few COVID-impacted years, the City of Melbourne has announced $2 million in grant funding for after-dark activities, all to give the night-time economy a hefty boost. Dubbed the Dusk til' Dawn Activation Grants program and part of the $200-million Melbourne City Revitalisation Fund in partnership with the Victorian Government, this scheme opened for applications on Monday, October 31, and is all about supporting twilight and evening fun. Events covered include pop-up music and theatrical performances that take over Melbourne's outdoor spaces; public exhibitions and installations, including art, lighting and interactive showcases; and outdoor food festivals. So, expect more than a few ace nights out in your future. To fit the bill and qualify to apply for grants of up to $100,000, activations have to "bring energy and vibrancy to city precincts from 6pm to 6am" as per the City of Melbourne. And, they have to get Melburnians heading into the city at night to increase economic activity — yes, to splash some cash at the area's businesses. Also, the funding is for temporary events and activations only, can't alter or permanently change any of Melbourne's existing infrastructure, and isn't open to businesses that primarily focus on fundraising or marketing their own business. Melburnians can look forward to enjoying the funded events between May 1–October 31, 2023, adding to the city's nightlife during its frostiest months. "Melbourne is a 24/7 city which sparkles at night — with an array of world-class restaurants, bars and late-night venues, live entertainment, innovative art and cultural experiences, and unique retail offerings," said Lord Mayor Sally Capp, announcing the D2D funding. "The Dusk till Dawn Activation Grants program will allow us to take our night-time economy to the next level, giving visitors and locals alike yet another reason to enjoy and experience the city after dark." "This program will further build on our work to enhance the city's night-time economy post-COVID – from our Night-Time Economy Advisory Committee to the hugely popular Melbourne Money dining scheme, it's clear our efforts are having a significant impact during Melbourne's sustained bounce back." For more information about the City of Melbourne's Dusk till Dawn (D2D) Activation Grants program, head to the council's website.
If you're a Lorde fan, there's no better news than this: in February 2026, the 'Royals', 'Green Light', 'Solar Power' and 'What Was That' singer-songwriter will hit the stage in Melbourne. The New Zealand star's Ultrasound world tour is bringing its gigs Down Under, heading to four cities in Australia and making dates with arenas at every stop. Ella Yelich-O'Connor last took her Solar Power tour this way in 2023. This time, as part of a run of concerts that begins in September 2025 in the US — and also includes gigs in Canada, the UK and across Europe — she has levelled up venue-wise. In the Victorian capital, Rod Laver Arena is Lorde's destination, playing on Saturday, February 21–Sunday, February 22, 2026. There might be a three-year gap between Yelich-O'Connor's last Down Under shows and her upcoming Ultrasound tour concerts; however, in addition to writing and recording Virgin, she's been busy making a surprise Sydney club appearance back in May 2025 at a Lorde-themed night. The focus of Lorde's 2026 Melbourne gig: 2025 album Virgin, which features the aforementioned 'What Was That' — her first original new track in four years — alongside 'Man of the Year', 'Hammer', 'Favourite Daughter' and 'Shapeshifter', and hit number one in Australia upon debut. Images: Joseph Okpako/WireImage and Thistle Brown.
Ever watched a film, then wanted to spend more time with the characters? Maybe there’s more to their story you’d like to glean, or events you’d like to see fleshed out. Perhaps you’d prefer one person’s point of view over another. In deconstructing a relationship tinged with tragedy, that’s a choose-your-own-adventure experience The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby can offer. That, and getting a certain Beatles’ song stuck in your head, even though it doesn’t feature on the soundtrack. Writer/director Ned Benson’s first feature is actually three features, with fitting subtitles: Them, Him and Her. The individual parts came first, showing love consumed by grief in a he-said, she-said fashion. Combining and condensing them into one movie was an attempt to make the project more mainstream-friendly. Benson has advised that they can be watched in any order, but only Them is screening in Australian cinemas, with Him and Her available on video on demand. The tale the films tell is that of Eleanor (Jessica Chastain) and Conor (James McAvoy), a couple whose happy days seem long gone. To escape their troubles, she disappears from their apartment, moves in with her parents (Isabelle Huppert and William Hurt) and goes back to college. He searches for her then tries to win her back, while struggling to keep his bar open. Though shot and edited like memories of the past rather than living in the present, it’s a simple, emotional story of fading romance and misfortune seen many times before — “all the lonely people, where do they call come from?” and all that. Them works fine as a standard, standalone relationship drama, its mood of melancholy leaving a firm imprint, and its excellent lead performances by Chastain and McAvoy — both close to their career-best — lifting the well-worn material. What’s missing is anything more than broad strokes, in the narrative and about the characters. Them tells us very little, other than the obvious: she’s unhappy, he’s lost without her, they love each other but can’t find a way to move forward together. Supporting players such as Eleanor’s sister (Jess Weixler) and college professor (Viola Davis) and Conor’s best mate (Bill Hader) and father (Ciarán Hinds) also seem flimsy, each just someone to lean on. The merged film sketches an outline of everyone and everything, leaving Him and Her to fill in the gaps. Also absent in the abridged package are differences in perception and perspective. Here, more is more; it is difficult to see Eleanor and Conor’s varying takes on their marriage and its downfall when it’s all smashed together. Not the broad strokes, of course, but the detail. Showing how they each view the same events, exchanges and conversations in distinctive ways isn’t just a gimmick — it’s crucial in understanding the characters and the scenario. In that respect, perhaps Them does exactly what it is designed to do: whet the appetite, spark fascination and inspire viewers to seek out the rest of the story. That’s certainly our recommendation. There’s a familiar tale told well, shot stylishly and acted with aching insight in The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby, as long as you get the whole picture.
When it comes down to it, there are two boxes a good neighbourhood pizzeria needs to tick: it needs to be inviting, like an extension of nonna's kitchen, and the pizza needs to be damn tasty. Set in the heart of leafy Greensborough, Prefisso 3088 ticks these boxes with confidence. Its humble appearance on the corner of a strip of local shops on Hopkins Street belies the fact that Prefisso 3088 is very much a local pizzera in the modern-day format, where pre-bought bases and eerily uniformly shredded pizza ham instead give way to handmade Neopolitan-style bases and ingredients like mozzarella and n'duja. More authentic than Aussie, in other words. On the menu, you'll find a solid range of classic and signature pies — we've got our eyes on the slow-cooked lamb pizza that features mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil pesto and yoghurt — as well as a tight selection of pasta (and no, you won't find cream in this carbonara), shares and sweets. There's also a fortnightly pizza and pasta special, which might take the form of a salami, capsicum, onion and olive pizza, which was recently brought back due to popular demand. Beyond the food, you'll also find a handy one-page list of Italian wines. All bottles are available by the glass, with prices starting at just $9.
A new star is born in Windsor. It's called Normandy Wine & Grill. Spearheaded by the seasoned chef Azem Dzevlan, he brings his deep roots in French cuisine to the new establishment, promising a cool dining experience that marries traditional French cooking with innovative twists. Azem Dzevlan is a name that might ring a bell for those familiar with Bistro Thierry — an institution where Azem spent 13 years honing his craft. His 20-year culinary journey has also taken him through various other kitchens, including stints at Maha and Le Bouchon. And now, Azem's love affair with French cuisine has culminated in the opening of his dream venue. It's not just any French joint; it's a tribute to his enduring passion for French flavours. The setting is minimalist yet warm, creating a classic bistro mood. The window bench perches offer dinner with a show — the hustle and bustle and beautiful chaos of Winsdor's High Street. While the outdoor street tables are perfect with summer creeping up, when winter comes so too will the outdoor heaters. Al fresco all year round. Now for the food. At its heart is steak frites, a testament to Azem's love for beef, featuring premium cuts from Cape Grim. Snacks include chargrilled Skull Island tiger prawns with garlic butter; a refreshing zucchini flower with goat's cheese and heirloom tomato; and anchovy toast that will leave you begging for more. As for the confit duck, it's a work of art. Normandy's wine list is another highlight, crafted under the expertise of manager and sommelier Jeremy Letur. It's a well-thought-out collection featuring French, Australian, New Zealand and Italian wines. Letur aims to cater to all, from budget-conscious choices to lesser-known varieties for the adventurous. Open from 4.30pm, Normandy Wine & Grill is the perfect place to not only have a good meal, but to ditch work early for, and indulge in some classic European escapism — sit on the window-facing bench, order an anchovy toast, sip some wine, take it all in. Normandy Wine & Grill is open Tuesday–Wednesday, 2pm–9pm, and Thursday–Saturday, 5pm–10pm. Find it at 162–164 High St, Windsor.
Despite its sleek exterior, Circl Wine House has a warmth that makes it actually feel like home. It opened last year with the goal of making wines accessible to Melburnians and delivers a range of 150 by-the-glass wines. This August, the kitchen serves nostalgic comfort food from the childhoods of its team every Wednesday. Executive Chef Elias Salomonsson usually steers the menu with a Scandinavian focus, but the team members have been adding diverse flair from their heritages all month long. Past weeks have nodded to a Welsh-style Sunday roast, a Hong Kong staple of steamed barramundi and a wintry Swedish plate of braised cabbage and roast pork. [caption id="attachment_1018835" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Pete Dillon[/caption] This week's special turns to Italy: a risotto alla milanese from section waitress Anna Ludovica Miller's childhood in Milan. Expect a sunny, saffron-infused dish that gets its depth of rich and creamy flavours from bone marrow. It's the last of the series for August, but Circl will be releasing September's dishes soon. [caption id="attachment_1018832" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image supplied[/caption]
If you're a drinker of coffee, it's likely you're already familiar with Joseph Haddad's work. After all, he's the brains behind renowned specialty roaster Code Black, which launched in 2012 and has blossomed to encompass six local outposts. But for his latest project, Haddad's swapped beans for vino, opening the doors to an all-day wine bar and eatery on Flinders Lane. Simply named No. 100, it's drawing on a blend of Euro and Aussie influence, landing somewhere between dining room, deli and drinking destination. Hospitality design studio We Are Humble have worked their magic on the two-part venue, which greets you with a minimalist deli-style space that's primed for perching, then flows through into a chic 20-seat dining area filled with elegant timber panelling and metallic finishes. Drop by the former for a coffee (Code Black, of course), a sweet treat or one of the weekly changing sangas — perhaps starring chicken, stracciatella and rosemary lemon mayo, or porchetta with figs, ricotta and pistachio cream. The adjoining restaurant is plating up an oft-rotating menu celebrating simplicity and seasonality, which works just as well for lunch and dinner as for those in-between grazing sessions. You'll find small plates like baked fig done with honeycomb and mountain pepper ricotta, kingfish pastrami sided with crème fraiche, a chicken paté, and house focaccia served with whipped feta. Duck breast might be paired with pepitas and leek, squid noodles done with silverbeet and a hit of 'nduja, and a Basque cheesecake married with flavours of peach and thyme. There's also a $75 Feed Me option for when you're feeling indecisive. Meanwhile, wine-sippers are in expert hands with a list by Restaurant Manager and Head Sommelier Ellen Reinhardt, who brings experience from her time training at Le Cordon Bleu. Hitting a little differently to your usual wine lineup, this one's championing alternative Aussie varietals as well as spotlighting sustainable producers and a few international gems. A handful of cocktails sits alongside, including the Silver Fox, blending Code Black Coffee Liqueur with rye whisky and hazelnut. Find No. 100 at 100 Flinders Lane, Melbourne. The deli is open from 11am–2pm Tuesday to Saturday, while the restaurant is open 11am–late the same days. Images: Guy Lavoipierre
Melbourne's growing thirst for craft beer has spawned plenty of local microbreweries, though it's clearly not an easy gig. The second incarnation of Brunswick East's Temple Brewing seems to be sailing a whole lot more smoothly than the first, which came to its unfortunate demise in 2012, after only one year of operation. Reopening in late 2013 under new ownership, Temple Take Two has a few solid favourites to its name, including the ever-popular Bicycle Beer and Anytime IPA. While the venue, housed in an industrial stretch off the Brunswick end of Lygon Street, ticks plenty of boxes for craft beer lovers, it holds much broader appeal than other brewery bars you might have frequented. Sure, the decor is concrete-heavy. Sure, the view of shiny steel brewing equipment is used as a design feature. And sure, there's beer — and plenty of it. But don't expect your standard-issue pub grub or basic drinking snacks here. Instead, you'll find a collection of considered, intelligent dishes (including a few beer-infused creations), each with a suggested pairing to one of Temple's own tap brews. Charcuterie and cheese boards are a mix-and-match affair, featuring both local and international produce. Team them with a tasting rack of five beers ($15), and your afternoon is set. If a proper meal is on the cards, start by sharing some of the well-sized starter plates — perhaps the crispy soft-shell crab that's been crumbed, ingeniously, in spent brew grain ($15), or a silky pile of steak tartare, studded with crispy rounds of purple potato ($15). An ancient grain salad features quinoa, faro and pearled barley, laced with shaved veggies and tarragon vinaigrette ($10), and topped with optional dollops of Meredith goats' curd ($4). Larger plates continue in that Modern Australian style, from steaks ($35-70) and Port Arlington mussels ($15), to a ragu of chef-foraged forest mushrooms ($25). The dish on everyone's lips, though, is the signature Midnight burger. As the name hints, the bun is a charcoal brioche, and it's filled with a fat, juicy wagyu beef patty, jack cheddar, bacon, salad, zucchini pickle and house-made tomato relish, served along with chunky hand-cut fries ($19). It's a mouth-watering creation that surely deserves a place on any list of Melbourne's most notable burgers. A selection of generously sized sliders ($7) offers the ideal choice for the indecisive. There's a smaller version of the Midnight, a veggie-friendly mushroom number and one with brisket, but the Colonel's Clone takes the cake. The chicken, soaked in buttermilk, dredged in a winning combination of secret spices and fried until perfectly crispy, is well deserving of the name. There's an upstairs bar and function space for busy evenings and the front car-park area has been recently transformed into an astro-turfed beer garden with sunny Sunday session written all over it. Yes, Temple's a must-visit if you love a local craft brew — but don't forget that there's much more on offer here than just great beer. Image credit: Simon Shiff
Once you've tried a Turkish-style ice cream sandwich, you may never go back to a "regular" one. Using stretchy Maras ice cream (the stuff can be eaten with a knife and fork) Northcote cafe Cuppa Turca serves the icy treat between two slices of crispy hand-rolled baklava. It's then topped with hot pink Persian fairy floss. For those who are after something a little less extra, there's a more tame version served between two thin wafers. Or you can just have a scoop on its own. Whatever you pick, order it with a cup of coffee made on hot sand.
Abbotsford Convent has welcomed a new member to its culinary family. Introducing Julie, a seasonal garden restaurant that seamlessly blends elevated bistro vibes with the rustic charm of its historic surroundings. Run by the minds behind Cam's Kiosk, and led by chef and namesake Julieanne Blum, Julie is well worth adding to your must-try list on vibe alone. With six years as Head Chef at Cam's Kiosk under her belt, Blum brings her passion for quality ingredients and simple yet delicious food to the ever-changing menu. The atmosphere at Julie is a relaxing blend of a dinner party buzz and a cosy country pub. With seating for 50 indoors and an additional 30 outdoors, it's intimate without feeling cramped. Anna Clifford, a familiar face from Cam's Kiosk and Public Wine Shop, takes the lead in front of house, while the kitchen sees new Head Chef Stephannie Liu bringing her international expertise from stints in Copenhagen and Paris. Let's talk wine. Curated by Claudelle Savannah, the list is an ode to the team's favourite producers, both local and international — from easy-drinking options for the wine novice to rare finds for the aficionado. A big part of Julie's charm is its commitment to seasonality and sustainability, showcased by its vegetable garden within the Convent, as well as its relationship with the nearby Collingwood Children's Farm, from which it also sources ingredients. A sip of orange wine, a plate of octopus ragu and the idyllic setting of Abbotsford Convent — it's the simple things. See you at Julie. Julie is open Thursday–Saturday from 12pm–10pm and Sunday from 12pm–6pm. Find it at 1 St Heliers Street, Abbotsford.
Streaming platforms have become one of modern life's certainties, with new instances continuing to pop up all over the place. In fact, this year along will see two huge players giving Netflix, Amazon and the like a run for their money — not only Apple, which will release Apple TV+ in the second half of 2019, but Disney as well. First revealed last year, Disney+ will boast a swathe of high-profile content, including new Star Wars and Marvel TV shows, plus all of your favourite Disney animated movies in one place. Now the service has announced a US launch date of November 12, as well as "plans to be in nearly all major regions of the world within the next two years." Just how long viewers Down Under will have to wait is yet to be seen; however given the array of titles heading to the platform, here's hoping it's sooner rather than later. With Disney recently merging with competitor Fox, Disney+'s US range is hefty — not only spanning Disney, Marvel, Star Wars and Pixar, but National Geographic and the entirety of The Simpsons, too. During its first year of operation, it's due to release more than 25 original series and 10 original films, documentaries and specials. And, to make its catalogue available from US$6.99 per month, in both HD and 4K, and "on a wide range of mobile and connected devices, including gaming consoles, streaming media players and smart TVs". [caption id="attachment_689920" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Marvel Studios[/caption] In the Marvel sphere post-Avengers: Endgame, new series Loki, WandaVision and The Falcon and The Winter Soldier will all focus on their eponymous characters — Tom Hiddleston's trickster Loki, Elizabeth Olsen's Wanda Maximoff and Paul Bettany's Vision, and Anthony Mackie's Falcon and Sebastian Stan's Winter Soldier, with all of the actors retaining their roles. A Hawkeye series with Jeremy Renner is also in the works, as is animated program Marvel's What If…, which'll take inspiration from the comics of the same name, asking the titular question about important Marvel Cinematic Universe moments. Fans of Star Wars can not only look forward to the $100 million live-action series The Mandalorian from The Lion King, The Jungle Book, Iron Man and Iron Man 2 director Jon Favreau (and with Thor: Ragnarok director Taika Waititi helming an episode), but look forward to it soon — it'll launch when the platform does in the US. Also zooming to screens from a galaxy far, far away is a spinoff from Rogue One about Diego Luna's Rebel spy Cassian Andor. Set before the events of the film, it — like all of Disney+'s big-name series — will also feature the star reprising the character. Elsewhere, two new Toy Story-based projects — animated short series Forky Asks a Question and one-off short film Lamp Life — are on their way, well-timed to hit after the release of Toy Story 4. If you just can't let it go, a Frozen 2 making-of special will also feature, about the sequel headed to cinemas later this year. And, because everyone loves Jeff Goldblum, National Geographic's The World According to Jeff Goldblum will involve the actor delving into the fascinating stories, science and facts behind seemingly familiar objects. Going big when it comes to bringing the company's well-known properties to the new streaming platform, a High School Musical TV series, another show based on Monsters, Inc. and a live-action Lady and the Tramp movie will also be on the bill. On the classic front, Fox titles like The Sound of Music, The Princess Bride and Malcolm in the Middle have been named as part of a lineup of more than 7500 television episodes and 500 films — alongside "the entire Disney motion picture library" according to CEO Bob Iger, which should be available "at some point fairly soon after launch". Viewers can also likely expect Disney and Fox's recent flicks to be made available on Disney+, and for subsequent cinema releases due to hit the service within a year of their big-screen release. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrXNtj84owc Disney is also reportedly contemplating buying a bigger stake in existing streamer Hulu according to Variety, which would give it full control over that platform. Like the timing of Disney+'s international rollout, just how the purchase might affect the company's new service hasn't been revealed. In Australia, a big batch of the aforementioned existing Disney content is currently available on Stan, spanning both movies and TV series — but you can reasonably expect that that arrangement will be impacted by Disney+, whenever it does finally hit locally. Top image: Marvel Studios.
After the mild let down of last year's supermoon, you could be forgiven for not engaging in the hype of major celestial movements. But last night's total solar eclipse didn't disappoint astronomers, token stargazers and brazen US presidents alike. The eclipse wasn't visible from our part of the world, instead passing over the the US — starting over Oregon in the west and finishing over South Carolina on the east coast. As the name suggests, a total eclipse is when the sun is completely obscured by the moon. This is a pretty rare event — Time and Date says that, on average, it takes about 375 years for a total solar eclipse to happen again in the same place — so, naturally, everyone turned out to catch a glimpse. NASA live streamed the event, The Weather Channel live tweeted the lead-up to totality, and even Donald Trump stepped out of the White House to look directly at the sun. Yes, he did that. Someone: don't look into the ec- Donald trump: pic.twitter.com/71wpDiwPr1 — sarah (@sarahburhans_) August 21, 2017 So while we wait for a solar eclipse to pass over Australia — the ABC reports that the next one will take place in 2028 and will pass directly over Sydney — here's some of the most epic images from last night's total solar eclipse. Only 11 years to go. A post shared by Getty Images (@gettyimages) on Aug 21, 2017 at 11:51am PDT A post shared by Reuters (@reuters) on Aug 21, 2017 at 1:44pm PDT A post shared by NASA (@nasa) on Aug 21, 2017 at 2:03pm PDT Amazing composite images capture the moon during a previous total solar eclipse, shot by Czech photographer Miloslav Druckmüller #Eclipse pic.twitter.com/LAHenYm2Qi — sobore (@sobore) August 21, 2017 PHOTO: TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE 2017 from Green River Lake, WY. I truly think I had the most beautiful spot in the whole path. More photos soon. pic.twitter.com/jLDBMHJJU4 — Ben Cooper (@LaunchPhoto) August 21, 2017 Timelapse: Total solar eclipse brings darkness to Oregon. https://t.co/q3jBRYgob2 pic.twitter.com/MgESS6odoW — ABC News (@ABC) August 21, 2017 A post shared by NASA (@nasa) on Aug 21, 2017 at 3:57pm PDT Top image: Wikimedia Commons.
Young South Korean artist JeeYoung Lee is generating quite a buzz for herself in the art world these days, and it's not hard to see why. A recent graduate of Seoul's Hongik University, the artist's dreamy, highly imaginative work surpasses our traditional expectations of photography. Plus, it's totally spectacular to look at. It's hard to believe it, but Lee's images aren't Photoshopped. Instead, displaying admirable patience, she spends weeks and often months turning her tiny little studio (only 3 x 6 metres) into an unimaginably intricate, detailed set. Once she's captured the essence of the particular dream, desire, nightmare, hope or conflict she had in mind, she places herself within the image, never facing the camera directly — in fact, often with her back to it. The result is a strangely beautiful kind of reality. JeeYoung Lee is considered an up-and-coming artist in her native South Korea. She won last year's Sovereign Art Prize and has exhibited at Seoul's OCI Museum, the Incheon Foundation for Art and Culture, the Kyoto Photographic Museum in Japan and early next year will open her first European exhibition at France's Opiom Gallery with this ongoing series of self-portraits, entitled Stage of Mind. Broken Heart Black Birds Nightmare The Little Match Girl Maiden Voyage Last Supper Treasure Hunt Top image: Resurrection. Story via Colossal.
