The Australian designer behind some of Hollywood's most iconic costumes is finally getting the attention he deserves. Coinciding with the recent release of Gillian Armstrong's documentary Women He's Undressed, this new exhibition will shine a light on the irrepressible Orry-Kelly, whose clothing helped define the look of many of cinema's biggest stars. Running from August 18 until mid-January next year, Orry-Kelly: Dressing Hollywood marks the first time Kelly has been the subject of an exhibition, and promises to pay tribute to his incredible body of work. In a career that spanned decades, Kelly provided the costuming for films including Casablanca, 42nd Street and The Maltese Falcon, and won Oscar gold three times for Les Girls, An American in Paris and Some Like It Hot. In addition to the various frocks and gowns, the free exhibition will include letters, photographs, design sketches and various other documents, exploring Kelly's career as well as his personal life, including his tempestuous romance with screen great Cary Grant.
Can't afford a trip to Paris this year? Haven't had any luck lining up at Lune? Well, luckily for you, world renowned French baker Gontran Cherrier is set to cut the ribbon on his first Australian boulangerie in Collingwood this weekend. And to mark the occasion, he's giving out free (we repeat: free) croissants from 10-11am on Saturday, June 18 after the Smith Street cafe opens its doors at 7am. While these fresh-out-of-the-oven flaky beacons of heaven are the main attraction, the bakery and cafe will also stock a mouth-watering selection of freshly baked treats, including croissants, tarts, buns, rolls and fluffy white baguettes. A fourth generation baker, dreamboat and host of the popular French reality show La Meilleure Boulangerie de France (The Best Bakery in France), Cherrier currently owns boulangeries in Paris, Tokyo, Singapore and Seoul. His Melbourne shop has been designed by Eades & Bergman, the same team behind Kong BBQ and the Meatball & Wine Bar. The menu will feature a mix of traditional and modern food made with ingredients imported directly from France. Think lemon tarts, almond chocolate croissants, rye and red miso bread, and squid ink rolls. Our idea of a French fantasy #gontranmelb A photo posted by Gontran Cherrier Australia (@gontrancherrierau) on Feb 10, 2016 at 4:21pm PST "I chose Melbourne for my newest international bakery because it is known for its excellence in food," said Cherrier back in February. "I think it also shares a lot of similarities with Paris such as the café culture and laneways. I was in Melbourne in 2010 and was struck by the culture and lifestyle. Ever since then I have wanted to open a store in this city. I'm so excited that it's finally happening." Gontran Cherrier Artisan Boulangerie and Cafe will open at 7am this Saturday, June 18 at 140 Smith Street, Collingwood. For more info, visit gontrancherrier.com.au.
If you’ve got bucket loads of creative talent, are obsessed with digital innovation, and love the idea of collaborating with equally awesome minds, you should probably be at Pause Fest this February. Described as Australia’s answer to SXSW, this four-day event will be packed with workshops, presentations, interactive installations and panel forums. Pause Fest focusses on collaboration; bringing together creatives, artists, entrepreneurs and idea makers from all over digital culture. Appropriately, this year's theme is ‘Connected’ and will feature speakers who are professional practitioners in the worlds of advertising, digital production and post-production, start-up culture, music, design and animation. For those particularly interested in innovation within the music industry, Trevor Rooney from SONOS will discuss how music consumption has changed over time and where it’s heading. Alternatively if you’re interested in listening to the latest in electronic music check out acts such as Lowlakes, Drop Frame, Sons Et Al, Electric Sea Spider during the festival. For a full guide of events check the Pause Fest website.
Over the past 12 months, Melbourne scored its own multi-sensory (and permanent) digital art gallery, Flinders Street Station Ballroom welcomed Patricia Piccinini's latest strange and surreal artworks, and plenty of other dazzling exhibitions have popped up around the city. So yes, while the last year hasn't been great for many reasons, it's still delivered exceptional art — and now a showcase that recreates Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel frescos is coming to Emporium Melbourne, too. On display from Saturday, January 22–Sunday, March 20, Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition is filled with life-sized versions of all the stunning art that has long made the Vatican cathedral a must-visit destination. The showcase's 34 pieces have all been created using a printing technique that emulates the look and feel — and detail, colours and brushstrokes — of the original paintings, so it really is the next best thing to seeing the real thing on the other side of the globe. Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition hits Melbourne after sold-out stops in Chicago, London and San Francisco, and takes between 60–90 minutes to peruse. Of course, you can still view the OG pieces digitally via the Vatican's online tour — but this'll let you take in the immense detail beyond your computer screen. These artworks have glistened for more than five centuries and, as absolutely everyone knows, they comprise quite the sight.
At age 30, Michelle Ryan, one of Australia's most celebrated dancers, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Intimacy is a reflection, of sorts, on Ryan's life since diagnosis. It offers a fictional stage for her experiences and delves into her most private thoughts and feelings. The show is a collaborative work between Torque Show, Michelle Ryan herself and Lavender Vs Rose, who play their original score live. Performers Michelle Ryan, Vincent Crowley, Emma Bathgate and Simon Eszeky explore real-life experiences with a sense of humour, dignity and sensitivity. Fans of Ryan's work as a choreographer, dancer, artistic director and advocate should definitely check this intimate dance piece out, and newcomers should prepare to get intimately acquainted. Intimacy plays as part of the Helium season of independent works, risk-taking stuff that is given a stage and resources through Malthouse. You can also catch the YouTube Comment Orchestra, Applespiel Make a Band and Take on the Recording Industry and META, a multisensory nightmare riffing on Kafka's Metamorphosis. Intimacy plays at the Malthouse Tower Theatre from August 13-23, and tickets are $25 each. Thanks to Torque Show, we have two double passes to give away to the performance on Saturday, August 13, at 7pm. To be in the running, subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter (if you haven't already), then email win.melbourne@concreteplayground.com.au with your name and address.
Melbourne is about to add another independent cinema to its collection, as Thornbury Picture House prepares to open its doors in March. Making its home within a former garage, the art nouveau theatre and adjoining bar are the brainchild of Gus Berger, whose name you might remember as the one behind St Kilda's George Revival Cinema back in 2013 and 2014. For his latest project, Berger has created a moviegoer's dream: a 57-seat cinema rocking a big six-metre screen, a top-notch Krix 5.1 sound system and an expertly curated program of big screen gems. In addition to showcasing an impressive mix of documentaries, cult classics, festival favourites and international titles, Thornbury Picture House will be giving plenty of screen-time to local filmmakers. It's the new home of Berger's long-running Red Hot Shorts event and there are plans for it to host a new northside film festival in the not so distant future. Meanwhile, the site's interiors pay homage to the building's art nouveau origins, sprinkled with historic film gear and classic movie posters. The bar, too, is a nod to the good old days, with the original garage features brought to life alongside recycled wooden furniture and pops of green foliage. Here, you'll be able to chase a film with Aussie spirits, local beers from the likes of Stomping Ground and Hawkers, a tidy selection of independent wines and batch brew coffee by Padre. Of course, there'll be plenty of homemade popcorn to round out the moviegoing experience. Thornbury Picture House is set to open late March or early April at 802 High Street, Thornbury. A full-price ticket will set you back $18.50 — you'll be able to book them at thornburypicturehouse.com.au soon.
Since first jamming in a white goods warehouse in Adelaide, Bad//Dreems aren't playing to an audience of washing machines any more. Their breakthrough singles 'Dumb Ideas' and 'Cuffed and Collared' ensured that their brand of underground guitar rock found its way to Australian airwaves. Before long, they were sharing stages with the likes of The Preatures, Wavves and Cosmic Psychos, and billed for Groovin' The Moo, Laneway Festival and Splendour in the Grass. Now, to mark the release of their debut LP, Dogs At Bay, Bad//Dreems are playing shows all over Australia in September and October. Recorded with renowned producer Mark Opitz (AC/DC, The Angels, INXS, Cold Chisel) and Colin Wynne, the album is mostly about the band's relationship with Adelaide — but anyone who hails from a small town will relate. "At its best [Adelaide] is an idyllic town, with a temperate climate and beautiful surrounds. At its worst it is stiflingly conservative, inward looking and somewhat bereft of culture," says guitarist Alex Cameron. "The record is about growing up and living in Adelaide, as well as leaving and returning there. There's nothing parochial about this though. It's just what we know. I think the experiences are probably common to everyone who has a hometown."
Melbourne's winter weather isn’t typically the most conducive to outdoor activities after dark. But we're willing to make an exception and brave the elements starting August 13, when the Glow Winter Arts Festival comes to town. Now in its second year, the festival taps into the creative communities around Prahran, Malvern, Armadale, Windsor, Toorak and South Yarra for 11 days worth of film, comedy, music, theatre and art. This year's festival hub is located in Prahran, where you'll be able to sip mulled wine and chow down on delicious street food while enjoying light projections, live music and performances. Alternatively, chuck your skates on and head down to their open air ice rink, before catching a movie at Flicks + Feats (eat Japanese food while watching Spirited Away, Italian with The Italian Job, Indian with Bride and Prejudice or American with Blue Hawaii). Other highlights include a lineup of Australian comedians at Chapel on Chapel and a kaleidoscopic light exhibition on Greville Street.
Kicking off the summer festival season at 128 BPM, Stereosonic will take over the Melbourne Shouwground this December for a heated, fist-pumping day of electro, techno and house music. Maybe 'getting shredded' isn’t your cup of tea, but good techno, dance and house music is — you don't have to be a big ol' douche to enjoy a solid drop. This year's lineup should please unquestioning Stereo devotees and curious newcomers alike, with the likes of Armin Van Buuren, Major Lazer, Diplo and Duke Dumont heading up quite the 2015 lineup. Alongside international big guns like Sweden's Axwell & Ingrosso, French house producer Tchami, Swedish bro Miike Snow's new electro duo Galantis, British electronic foursome Clean Bandit and San Franciscan legend Claude Von Stroke, Stereo has placed an emphasis on local artists this year — and there’s no shortage of genuine talent. Canberran festival favourites Peking Duk will be playing live (they covered 'Sandstorm' at Field Day so expect anything), alongside former Flume duo What So Not (now Emoh Instead's flying solo), Sydney house producer Timmy Trumpet, up-and-coming Sydney lads Carmada, and Perth beatsmiths Slumberjack are all locked in. Sydney's immortal Hot Dub Time Machine is bringing his perpetually popular decade-hopping set to the table (one that overwhelmingly crushed it closing this year's Secret Garden Festival). Stereosonic kicks off at the Sydney Olympic Park on November 28 before heading over to Perth’s Claremont Showgrounds on November 29. Then it's on to both Melbourne Showground and Adelaide’s Bonython Park on December 5 as well, and Brisbane Showgrounds on December 6. Keen to get amongst it? Get a 24-hour headstart on buying Stereosonic thanks to MasterCard — making sure you don't have to watch the festival happen on social media. Pre-register here to get access to the exclusive MasterCard 24-hour presale, starting Monday, July 27. STEREOSONIC 2015 LINEUP: STEREO STAGE Armin Van Buuren Axwell & Ingrosso Major lazer (Live) Showtek Peking Duk (Live) Generik Galantis SONIC STAGE Diplo DJ Snake Duke Dumont (Live) Tchami What So Not Clean Bandit (Live) Carmada Shockone Jauz Slumberjack ATLANTIS STAGE Gareth Emery Andrew Rayel MaRlo Andrew Bayer Emma Hewitt (Live) Mark Sherry Jason Ross Headhunterz THE WOODS STAGE MK Claptone Claude Von Stroke Hannah Wants Patrick Topping Shiba San Cut Snake BEATPORT STAGE Carnage Will Sparks Hot Dub Time Machine Timmy Trumpet Snails Jessie Andrews Tigerlily Image: Stereosonic.
If you've been hanging out for an openair clubbing sesh ever since news dropped about the arrival of Melbourne's new floating club ATET, we're happy to tell you the wait is over. The Melbourne-first venue is finally set to open its doors this weekend and you can be one of the first aboard when it throws its huge launch party. From 1pm on Saturday, October 22, the ATET fun officially kicks off with a tune-filled fiesta to remember. And yes — they promised an electronic music haven and it seems they're keeping good on their word right from the get go. Gracing the decks for this all-important opening party will be a lineup of dance-floor favourites, including Walter Juan, Petra, Olivas, Cane Trott and Clare Choveaux, plus Donald's House, PDC and Very Jerry. And it's all set to kick on until 1am. If you're keen to help christen this floating club oasis, you'll have to be ready to jet to Docklands and hope for the best — tickets to the launch party are only available on the door, from 1pm on the day. If you prefer a safer bet, you can jump online to nab $35 tickets to the following day's event — it's being presented in conjunction with the folks from Novel and will be headlined by Late Nite Tuff Guy.
Handpicking some of the globe's best new artists for yet another glorious year (their sixth, to be exact), Sugar Mountain hasone heck of a 2017 lineup, with Dev Hynes/Blood Orange, homegrown duo Big Scary and British boss Little Simz headlining. Returning to Melbourne's Victorian College of the Arts on Saturday, January 21, Sugar Mountain has again balanced international drawcards with local talent this year, from Perth avant-electronic bedroom producer KUČKA to German producer Pantha Du Prince. Other Aussies converging on Mebourne for the fest include Methyl Ethel, Dro Carey and The Belligerents. The Boiler Room stage will also return, live streaming around the world with a yet-to-be-announced lineup. As always though, music isn't the only thing on the menu for Sugar Mountain. There'll also be a load artists on the bill, including Chairlift vocalist Caroline Polacheck, Melbourne-based, Novocastrian sculptor Caleb Shea and New Orleans-based public space artist MOMO. Nosh-wise, don't just expect your regular festival fare — Sugar Mountain's immersive on-site restaurant Sensory will be back. Last year, it was a collaboration between Bomba, Tin & Ed and Cut Copy, so we can't wait to see what they put together this year. Enough chatskies, here's that lineup you're after. SUGAR MOUNTAIN 2017 LINEUP: ALTA Baba Stiltz (Sweden) Beppe Loda (Italy) Big Scary Black Cab Blood Orange (UK) CC:DISCO! Daydreams Dro Carey Jaala Jack River Jessy Lanza (Canada) Kelsey Lu (USA) Kornel Kovacs (Sweden) KUČKA Little Simz (UK) Methyl Ethel Mood II Swing (USA) Moses Sumney (USA) My Disco Palms Trax (UK) Pantha Du Prince (Germany) Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever Slum Sociable Sui Zhen Suzanne Ciani x Kaityn Aurelia Smith (USA) The Belligerents Tornado Wallace Weyes Blood (USA) ARTISTS Caleb Shea Elliot Routledge Karan Singh (Japan) March Studio MOMO (USA) Myriam Bleau (Canada) Robyn Moody x Caroline Polacheck (USA) Supergroup London - Morag Myerscough x Luke Morgan (UK) By Shannon Connellan and Lauren Vadnjal.
Dumplings are great any time of the year. Whether it's a rainy wintry day, a summer scorcher or smack bang in the middle of spring. Corresponding with the latter is World Dumpling Day, a food celebration we're happy to get behind when dumpling degustations are involved. Yes, South Yarra's Oriental Teahouse is celebrating this fun food day, on Thursday, September 26, with a one-off dumpling degustation. Kicking off at 7pm, the dinner features six courses of dumplings — including laksa-filled dumplings, braised duck leg dumplings, prawn shumai and sweet dumplings served with ice cream — all for $65. During the dumplings feast you'll get to try an impressive 15 different types of dumplings. We suggest you pull out and pull on your stretchy pants. If you'd like to pair your buns with six matched beers, wines and umeshu, it'll set you back an extra $20.
Just as uni students across the country start to finish their last exams for the semester and high five each other as they realise they don't have to step foot on campus for the next few months, the team from Shadow Electric have announced plans to throw a huge two-month summer festival — at uni, of all places. And even though it's the holidays, you're definitely going to want to go back to school for it. The organisers — who are known for their summer outdoor cinema at Abbotsford Convent, among other events — will take over the University of Melbourne's impressive Parkville campus for two whole months of music, film and, of course, food and drink. Dubbed Shimmerlands, the festival will run both day and night throughout January and February. Making the most of the ghost town that is a unversity during summer, they'll turn the campus into a veritable feast of cultural delights. There'll be an outdoor cinema, two performance spaces (an indoor concert hall and outdoor music amphitheatre), multiple bars and a pop-up collection of 16 of Melbourne's best restaurants. The full programming details are yet to be released, but we do know Shimmerlands will be hosting Parquet Courts' Falls sideshow on January 5. We'll keep you updated with any new announcements. Shimmerlands will run throughout January and February 2017 at the University of Melbourne in Parkville. For more info, visit shimmerlands.com.
Sick of playing Scrabble in generic sans serif? Lovers of words and type alike can spell their way to satisfying word play with these designer Scrabble sets by Andrew Capener. Capener wanted to "excite people about typography by giving them the ability to choose what font their scrabble set would come in." Beauty and quality are Capener's design priorities, with solid walnut and birch woods used to create the board, pieces and box. The A-1 Scrabble designer sets come in a single font of choice, or you can always mix and match with the assorted font pack. [Via Flavorwire]
After playing more than his fair share of stoners, Seth Rogen co-writes and lends his voice to a film that was probably thought up in a pot-toking, munchies-craving state. What if our food was sentient, aware of everything around it, and had feelings, thoughts, hopes and dreams? What if each edible item interacted with others, and their exchanges mimicked humanity's issues with sex, religion, race and class? That's the world Sausage Party brings to the cinema, from its opening sing-a-long to its climatic display of a very different kind of food porn. As far as Rogen and co-writers Evan Goldberg, Kyle Hunter and Ariel Shaffir are concerned, talking grocery products just want to get laid. Otherwise, they're generally happy conforming to cultural stereotypes and being kept in their place via a placating ideology. Turns out food isn't so different from the people who eat it. In case it's not clear, this film is for adults only, with directors Conrad Vernon and Greg Tiernan — best known for helming Madagascar 3 and episodes of Thomas & Friends, respectively — operating in much ruder, cruder territory than they're used to. A sausage by the name of Frank (Rogen) serves as the film's protagonist, whose primary goal in life is to consummate his relationship with his hot dog bun girlfriend Brenda (Kristen Wiig). As the Fourth of July approaches, they're both eager to leave the Shopwell's store they call home and move into the utopia of The Great Beyond. But things change after a jar of Honey Mustard (Danny McBride) returns from the supposed paradise outside, screaming that everything they thought they knew is a lie. Working his way around a shop also inhabited by a Jewish bagel (Edward Norton), an Arabic flatbread (David Krumholtz), an affectionate taco (Salma Hayek) and more, Frank sets out to discover the truth — all while an obnoxious, juiced-up douche (Nick Kroll) stalks the aisles. In waxing philosophical about the nature of belief systems, Sausage Party's premise proves surprisingly smart and thoughtful, with its characters forced to face the fact that their ultimate fate involves being eaten by the humans they consider gods. Unfortunately, the anti-Pixar flick also feels decidedly over-stuffed, bogged down by everything from endless food puns and hit-and-miss gags propped up by Scorsese-level swearing, to an over-reliance on bodily functions, drug use and pop-culture references to generate a laugh. Thankfully, a stacked cast of Rogen's male regulars, including Jonah Hill, Michael Cera, Paul Rudd and James Franco, helps keep Sausage Party bouncing merrily along. Everyone's clearly having fun spouting their inappropriate dialogue, even if their glee isn't always contagious. In that way, the film quickly becomes the movie equivalent of a tripped-out dinner party, one that boasts plenty of quality ingredients, but can't quite deliver a satisfying meal.
Architecture and design lovers, take note — Melbourne Design Week's inaugural program launches this week. Held at the National Gallery of Victoria and selected venues across Melbourne, the ten-day creative extravaganza runs from March 16–26 and features talks from leading local and international designers, as well as a slew of tours, exhibitions, workshops and industry events. Broadly exploring the theme of 'design values', the 2017 event will investigate the question: What does design value and how do we value design? With dozens of events to choose from, we've picked out ten of the best to help get you out and explore what's on offer at Melbourne Design Week. [caption id="attachment_613273" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Porky Hefer: Fiona Blackfish (2015)[/caption] GAPE AT THIS KILLER WHALE CHAIR While chairs are often overlooked as ordinary objects in our homes, Creating the Contemporary Chair argues the chair is a focal point for the evolution of design vernacular — and that it even symbolises an object's ability to express ideas. Having fixated designers for decades, the exhibition will present 35 provocative designs from 1980 to 2016. The exhibition has been in development for two years and includes several prominent international designers such as Jacopo Foggini, Helen Kontouris, gt2p and Porky Hefer, who designed this killer whale piece. It will be on show at NGV International from Friday, March 17. CREATE YOUR OWN CITY SOUNDSCAPE Global engineering firm Arup work with soundscapes to improve the melodies resonating inside theatres and concert halls, as well as to reduce the noise that emanates from infrastructure such as airports and stadiums. The Design a City Soundscape event for Melbourne Design Week will see the Arup acoustic design team host a soundscaping workshop in their SoundLab, which is a dedicated space in their East Melbourne office for listening to 'auralisations' (that is, sound simulations of real-world places). Participants will be able to use Arup's own library of sounds and recordings to produce soundscapes, which will later form the basis of discussion on the importance of acoustic design. Multiple free sessions will be held on Sunday, March 19. Make a booking for this one. [caption id="attachment_602904" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Haven't You Always Wanted..? 2016 NGV Architecture Commission, shot by Sean Fennessey[/caption] DESIGN YOUR OWN PAVILION WITH VIRTUAL REALITY Redesign the 2016 NGV Architecture Commission by M@STUDIO Architects with the help of virtual reality. Situated in the NGV's Grollo Equiset Garden, the acclaimed pavilion takes the form of a light-hearted reinterpretation of the humble carwash. A collaboration by RMIT's Centre for Game Design Research, M@STUDIO Architects and d__Lab RMIT, If Only… allows you to give the pavilion a fresh coat of paint, while also letting you remodel the surfaces and materials used throughout the original design. The pavilion (which you can visit until April 17) is an exact replica of a 23-metre car wash in the eastern suburb of Blackburn and was designed to highlight the banality of suburban architecture. ATTEND A FREE HIGH FASHION PARTY High Risk Dressing / Critical Fashion explores the latest concepts by RMIT fashion designers with their reimaginations of the evolving industry. Utilising archive material on the former Fashion Design Council (1983–93), an organisation dedicated to promoting experimentation fashion design in Australia, the exhibition will transform RMIT Design Hub with a program of presentations, performances, film screenings and exhibitions. The closing party is when you want to be there though. Taking place on Thursday, March 16 from 6pm, the free party will feature D&K's All Or Nothing — a performance that evolves over several hours — alongside sets by local DJs Andras & Lewis Fidock. [caption id="attachment_613315" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Theodore Treehouse, shot by Peter Bennetts[/caption] LEARN ABOUT QUEER SPACES IN ARCHITECTURE How can workplaces become friendlier for LGBTQIA people? This designer talk sees panellists Simona Castricum, Sophie Drying and Nicole Kalms discuss what represents queer architecture and how it contributes to professional identities and practices. Moderated by academic Naomi Stead, the panel will also discuss what architecture can gain as a profession from valuing the influence of diversity, and how might queerness bring about new design principals and considerations. The event takes place at NGV on Sunday, March 26 from 3pm. [caption id="attachment_613289" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hugh Altschwager: REPLICATE THIS[/caption] SEE A BUNCH OF (VERY GOOD) FAKES How do designed objects become valued? 26 Original Fakes explores issues of authenticity, creative practice and the commercial market as 26 contemporary Australian designers reinterpret and create their own 'fake' of a replica Jasper Morrison HAL Wood Chair. Curated by Friends & Associates (a collaboration between designers Dale Hardiman and Tom Skeehan to bring local designers closer together through partnerships), the exhibition features prominent designers such as Studio Edwards, Adam Goodrum, Jon Goulder and Fiona Lynch. The exhibition takes place at Watchmaker, Melbourne Design Week's off-site venue on Smith Street by Piccolina Gelateria, and is open daily from 1–7pm. TAKE THE OPPORTUNITY TO GUSH ABOUT YOUR FAVOURITE PHOTOGRAPHS Hear from some of the very best photographers as the Centre for Contemporary Photography presents What Makes A Great Photograph? The event's five panellists will each be given five minutes to discuss a chosen favourite photograph and explain why it holds significance with them. As part of the NGV's Melbourne Art Book Fair, audience opinion and discussion is highly encouraged. The speakers include leading architecture photographer and artist John Gollings AM, director of prominent photography organisation M.33 Helen Frajman, and curator of the Centre for Contemporary Photography Pippa Milne. What Makes A Great Photograph? will go down at NGV International on Sunday, March 19 at 2pm. [caption id="attachment_613327" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ian Wong[/caption] LEARN MORE ABOUT AUSTRALIA'S MOST INNOVATIVE DESIGNS Wi-Fi, ultrasound technology, the legendary Hills Hoist — Australians have been responsible for a long list of revolutionary designs, many of which have impacted the entire globe. Innovators: Australian Design and Innovation celebrates this rich history with 16 digital archives of Australian inventions in an immersive exhibition. Featuring designs such as the bionic ear and polymer bank notes, the exhibition also commemorates iconic designers such as Marc Newson, Susan Cohn, Michael Simcoe and Denton Corker Marshall. The exhibition is being held at Monash University's Clayton campus from March 16–24. [caption id="attachment_613335" align="alignnone" width="1920"] RMIT's Ngarara Place, shot by Peter Casamento[/caption] LEARN ABOUT INDIGENOUS ARCHITECTURE With many significant Indigenous landmarks dotted throughout the city, this Melbourne Design Week panel discusses Indigenous-led projects and how designers can move further away from collaborative or consultative models. Exploring several high-profile design practices headed by Indigenous Australians, the diverse panel will consider how Indigenous design can be defined and how it might be promoted within the Australian architecture, interior design, town planning and product design communities. The talk takes place at NGV on Friday, March, 24 at 6.30pm. EXPLORE TOKYO'S ARCHITECTURE OVER COCKTAILS Just as the NGV is putting on the first ever Melbourne Design Week, the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art is presenting Cities of Architecture for the first time this year. The series of talks — which will run monthly until October — will explore the world's most fascinating and beautiful cities. For Melbourne Design Week, director of Fitzroy's NMBW Architecture Studio Marika Neustupny will present a lecture on Tokyo on Monday, March 20. Tickets cost $35 and include a custom-made cocktail to suit the city, designed by the people at the Melbourne Gin Company and Starward Whisky. Melbourne Design Week kicks off on Thursday, March 16 and runs until Sunday, March 26. For the full program, visit their website.
When your working day is spent kicking around in the heart of the concrete jungle, it can feel like nature and green stuff is in pretty short supply. But you're in for a little reprieve, as the CBD's newest watering hole Bourke Street Green opens its doors, showing off a foliage-filled space that's sure to cure some of those inner-city blues. A greenhouse-inspired bar tucked behind floor-to-ceiling glass, this light-drenched newcomer is working a snappy fit-out by Bates Smart and a locally focused offering from both kitchen and bar. Pull up a sunny spot beneath the retractable roof and watch the Bourke Street buzz pass by as you get acquainted with the almost all-Aussie drinks list. Victorian drinks reign supreme, with beers like 3 Ravens pilsner and the IPA from Hawkers, alongside drops from the likes of the Yarra Valley's Rochford Estate. There's big love for local spirits, too, in cocktails like the Misty Forest, a blend of Tiny Bear gin, lime, cucumber, tonic and smoked applewood. A monthly-changing beer takeover features $10 pints each Thursday (Hawkers is kicking things off for September), plus you'll find wine specials on Mondays and a slew of $12 cocktail specials every hump day. As for the food, expect a seasonal celebration of top Victorian ingredients, across a range of arancini, snacks, cheese boards, pizzas and trapizzino (Roman-style pizza pockets), stuffed with combinations like blue swimmer crab and finger lime hollandaise. After-work punters will appreciate the snacking flights of arancini and mini burgers – settle in for a trio of small bites, paired with three curated brews. And if you're citybound on the weekend, Saturday offers all-you-can-eat feasts for $59 per person, starring 90 minutes of bottomless trapizzinos, beers and spritzes and other cocktails. Stay tuned for a program of food and drink events celebrating homegrown heroes, as well as regular gigs from local DJs and artists. Find Bourke Street Green at 501 Bourke Street, Melbourne. It's open Monday to Friday from 11.30am until late, and on Saturdays from 11am.
Sizzling hot pork and ice cold cider: two surefire ingredients for a kickass weekend and the cornerstones of your favourite new festival. Taking over The Nursery at Flemington Racecourse this weekend, the Victorian Cider & Pork Festival will welcome dozens of brewers and chefs who specialise in apple and swine. And yes, there'll be plenty of opportunities for ticketholders to stuff their faces. Indeed, from the moment the gates open at 11am on Saturday, punters will be spoiled for choice. Meatmaiden, Bluebonnet BBQ and Burn City Smokers are but a few of the food vendors who'll be on-site, and you can bet they'll be firing on all cylinders. As for beverages, there'll be 17 different producers on hand, including Apple Thief, Hills Ciders, Colonial Brewing Co. and many, many others.
Need some inspiration to live a life more sustainable? You'll find plenty of it at Fed Square's Zero Waste Festival, happening next month as part of the precinct's Sustainable September program. On Saturday, September 17, this celebration of planet-friendly living is set to feature talks, panel discussions, installations and fun activations, all designed to get you hooked on the idea of a waste-free future. You'll hear passionate zero-waste innovators chat tips, tricks and key topics; from the fight to shift our society's reliance on 'fast fashion', to easy everyday household changes that can help the planet. [caption id="attachment_866711" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Liam Neal[/caption] There'll be a premiere screening of new doco Going Circular, a Mending Circle that'll teach you skills to restore your old things to their former glory, and a hands-on puppet-making workshop using recycled materials. BYO pre-loved threads and hit the Clothes Swap to give your wardrobe a refresh; get old or damaged items fixed for free courtesy of the St Kilda Repair Cafe pop-up; and help keep the city looking fresh by joining clean-up group Beach Patrol for a morning litter collection session along the Yarra. There'll be plenty of food and coffee vendors slinging their wares, so visitors are encouraged to bring their reusable cups and containers. Stalls will also be offering reusable plates, cleaned onsite by the folks from Green My Plate. Entry to the festival and its program is free, though you can reserve your spot at the various talks and activities online. It'll cost you $10 to participate in the Adults Clothes Swap. Top Image: Vicky Rae Ellmore
Mother once said: "If you've nothing nice to say, say nothing at all." On that basis, it's likely The Counselor will receive little to no press coverage whatsoever. To begin with, then, something nice. When production first began, this movie was promise itself. Potential made manifest. One of those films where every ingredient seemed perfect: directed by Ridley Scott, written by Cormac McCarthy and starring everyone you've ever heard of. Then something went wrong. Badly. In fact, in that respect the film closely reflects the story of the film, where a well-conceived drug deal completely falls apart to the ruin of many. To suggest, however, that this was Scott's masterful meta-direction would be far too generous. No, in more realistic terms, The Counselor is simply an incoherent piece of crap. It opens with a sex scene, and a none-too-subtle one at that. But just as it is in real life, sex in film requires at least a modicum of foreplay. With the darkness of the cinema only seconds old and the choc-tops largely intact, the audience was still drier than the days-old popcorn kneaded into the lining of its seats. Why this scene was in there, let alone as the movie's opener, remains entirely unclear. If its goal was to establish Penelope Cruz as a sexy woman, then Scott should probably have taken that 'as read'. If it was to set Michael Fassbender up as someone who likes to talk dirty, please break the emergency glass and retrieve your copy of Shame. Then comes the second scene (don't worry, this won't be a scene by scene account — nobody's that cruel), during which yet another crazy-haired Javier Bardem character sits alongside a cheetah-tattooed, gold-toothed, hombre-haired Cameron Diaz as they watch an actual cheetah hunt its prey. In case you missed it: yes, that's a metaphor. Then Bardem says, "Don't you think that's a bit cold?" to which Diaz replies, "The truth has no temperature." Together they stare off into the distance, as if silently aware that way off in that distance, the audience is already laughing at them. Finally, the third scene. Fassbender now discusses the purity and majesty of diamonds with a diamond expert in Amsterdam. Their attention turns to a particularly beautiful specimen which the expert calls his "cautionary diamond", saying "The flaws are there, but they are not visible." So, as the saying never goes: just like a diamond, getting involved with Mexican drug cartels might seem like perfection, but in the end one should exercise caution, because Mexican drug cartels are actually terrifically hard and can cut things. Ridiculous as it sounds, that is honestly the closest The Counselor gets to having a point: don't get involved with Mexican drug cartels, because it will probably end badly. There really isn't a whole lot more to say about this movie. Almost tragically, Cruz's performance is magnificent, representing one of The Counselor's few redeemable features. Bardem is similarly impressive, but everyone else either phones it in (Brad Pitt) or gets buried under impossibly dense dialogue (Diaz's script is, almost without exception, stupefying). With Scott at its helm, of course it looks fantastic and the action sequences are suitably menacing, but as the credits roll you find yourself shaking your head and wondering: what the hell was that actually about? https://youtube.com/watch?v=6ML50I0mVHY
Following its massively successful inaugural year, Plate Up Ballarat returns in 2019 with another scrumptious lineup. Across May, Ballarat's best growers, producers, restaurants and chefs will offer more than 50 delectable food and drink experiences. The special events, which include dinners, workshops, markets, guided tours and tastings, aim to showcase the region's diverse and high-quality produce and talent. One way that locals are getting involved is through Toast of Ballarat. Throughout the month-long festival, venues across town will be serving up their best take on the humble snack. You can take yourself on a toastie tour, hitting up classics like Drive Cafe's Philly cheesesteak and Electic Tastes' croque monsieur, and braving some more inventive options — like a rhubarb crumble jaffle at The Local Cafe, anchovies, micro radish and pecorino from Olive Grove Delicatessen and a lamb ragu and Meredith goats cheese toastie from The Forge Pizzeria. This year also sees an emphasis on plant-based dishes and menus. Across the first weekend of the festival, May 4–5, restaurants and cafes around Ballarat will be experimenting with plant-based menus, using fresh produce from the region. But there's plenty more to fill your food-loving calendar with. You can get a little bit fancy and join a truffle hunt, or test your taste buds at a dinner in the dark or the chilli fest, featuring chilli beer, ice cream, hot wings and more. There's also baking workshops, free talks on food waste and a foraging-focused degustation dinner. Meanwhile, on Saturday, May 4, The Mining Exchange will host local artisans and producers for the Made of Ballarat Marketplace. Plate Up Ballarat will take place from Wednesday, May 1 to Friday, May 31. For more information on the program and to purchase tickets, head this way.
The idea that good things come to those who wait isn't just a piece of advice everyone's mum have given them at least once; over the past couple of years, it's also been the mantra behind Australia's live gig scene. And, yes, now that music festivals, concerts and shows are back in a big way, great things are indeed coming Down Under — including Fisher's rescheduled Aussie tour. The former pro surfer-turned-DJ will be hitting up Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney and Perth in November, throwing a huge outdoor dance party in each city. He'll be on the decks, of course, but he'll also have company in the form of Booka Shade, Pnau, Loco Dice and HoneyLuv. Also on the bill: Little Fritter, Richard Penny, Tina Says and Loco Dice. International names, local talents — they're all on this lineup. And if you're wondering how excited that Fisher is to finally bring the tour to fruition, it's all there in the name. Originally his first-ever Aussie national tour was called 'Bigger Than a Beach Party', but now it's the 'Australia, It's Fk'n On' tour. [caption id="attachment_860230" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Booka Shade[/caption] A few details have changed, however. Originally, the tour was headed to Wollongong, but Stuart Park can no longer play host to major gigs due to heavy rain earlier this year. So, Fisher will hit up The Domain in Sydney instead — which is obviously ace news for Sydneysiders. It's been a huge few years for the Gold Coast DJ, since the Grammy-nominated 'Losing It' brought him to international fame. He also launched his own boozy seltzer brand FIZZ during the pandemic, which your tastebuds might be aware of. Fisher heads around Australia after headlining the Under Construction festival in the US, and playing shows at Petco Park in Denver. And yes, expect dance floors at Melbourne's Catani Gardens, Brisbane's Riverstage, The Domain in Sydney and Perth's Langley Park to be busy. [caption id="attachment_860229" align="alignnone" width="1920"] HoneyLuv[/caption] FISHER'S 2022 'IT'S FK'N ON AUSTRALIA' TOUR DATES: Saturday, November 5 — Catani Gardens, Melbourne Sunday, November 6 — Riverstage, Brisbane Saturday, November 12 — The Domain, Sydney Sunday, November 13 — Langley Park, Perth Fisher's 'It's Fk'n On Australia tour heads Down Under in November 2022. The waitlist for tickets is open now, with tickets pre-sales from 8am local time on Wednesday, July 13 — and general sales from 8am local time on Thursday, July 14.
Australia's clash-free, one-day summer festival is back for a fifth year at Melbourne Showgrounds. This year, it's bring out flute-playing babe Lizzo ('Truth Hurts' and 'Juice') plus Texas-via-California rap collective Brockhampton. Modern-day boyband Brockhampton headline the bill, bringing their troupe of rappers, directors, photographers, engineers, producers, graphic designers and DJs to Melbourne once again with their catchy pop-led tracks 'Sugar', 'No Halo' and 'Bleach'. Joining Brockhampton and Lizzo is Canadian producer Kaytranada, who's set to drop a new album any day now. Other big names on the lineup include French singer Madeon, UK rapper Octavian and, from the local contingent, hip-hop artist Chillinit and Sydney producer Ninajirachi. Image: Jordan Munns.
By now, you've probably just about recovered from the wining and dining extravaganza that was Melbourne Food & Wine Festival's 2022 edition, which descended on the city for two weeks in autumn. Handy, because it's almost time to start plotting your moves for round two — aka MFWF's regional edition, which is set to serve up a taste of the rest of the state's finest from Friday, November 18–Sunday, November 27. The 10-day festival will trip all over Victoria with a jam-packed program of feasts, parties and tasting experiences showcasing regional Victoria's top chefs, venues and produce. [caption id="attachment_871089" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Village Feast[/caption] It's kicking off with a bang in the form of the Village Feast — a two-day fiesta lighting up the Gippsland town of Thorpdale. Head along to dine at a campfire degustation by Alejandro Saravia (Farmer's Daughters), catch the Embla crew's takeover of winery restaurant Hogget, tuck into classic pub fare at the historic Travellers Rest Hotel, and sip regional goodies at a slew of bars. Across the weekend, you can also snack your way through an array of food pop-ups from chefs including Danielle Alvarez (Fred's in Sydney) and Tasmania's Analiese Gregory and the Hector's Deli crew; and treat your ears to live sounds from the likes of Mia Wray, Grace Cummings and Dorsal Fins. Other festival highlights will see the much-loved Crawl and Bite tour series head to the High Country, with the progressive tasting adventures set to explore culinary gems across spots like Beechworth, Bright and Rutherglen. [caption id="attachment_871088" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ballarat's Mitchell Harris Wines[/caption] Meanwhile, the state's largest inland city will throw open its doors for the Ballarat Unlocked dining series, featuring a feast in an art gallery, a degustation beneath the Ballarat Mechanics Institute and even a dinner that's set to recreate the 1927 opening of Australia's first Parliament House. And for those that want to really sink their teeth in and make a trip of it, there's the Signature Escapes series — a program of curated itineraries offering one-of-a-kind culinary adventures through places like Coldstream, Beechworth and Merricks North. [caption id="attachment_871086" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Lake House, Daylesford[/caption] You could lock in a weekend of wine and fine dining at Dunkeld's Royal Mail Hotel, complete with kitchen garden tours, hiking, cocktails and local cheese; or perhaps a visit to Daylesford's Lake House and its new sibling Dairy Flat Farm, hopping between tours, feasts and aperitivo hour with the legendary Alla Wolf-Tasker. [caption id="attachment_871087" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Gippsland produce[/caption] Melbourne Food & Wine Festival's 2022 regional program runs from November 18–27, in locations across the state. Pre-sale tickets are available online from 10am on September 27, with general tickets on sale from 10am on September 30. Top Image: The Royal Mail Hotel, Dunkeld.
At Boho Luxe Market (their words, not ours), Byron Bay comes to Melbourne. Well, the beachy New South Wales spot's general vibe does at least. Forgoing the trappings of the city for bohemian fashion, jewellery, homewares and the like is on the market's agenda, with its first event taking place back in July and more planned — including a three-day market and glamping festival. Clearly Melburnians responded well to Boho's dreamcatchers and flower crowns. If you were one of them — or, if getting some glamping inspiration sounds like your kind of thing — block February 2 to 4, 2018 out in your diary. The Boho Luxe Market and Glamping Festival will head to the Royal Exhibition Building for a weekend of browsing and buying, food trucks, live music and workshops. There'll be more than 250 stalls featuring all of the essentials: eats and drinks (including vegan options), fashion and jewellery, a kombi display and glamping providers tempting you into booking your next holiday. Entry costs $2, with the 100 first attendees receiving a free tote bag. Drop by and pretend you're somewhere quiet and coastal on Friday from 6pm to 10pm, Saturday from 10am to 8pm, and Sunday from 10am to 3pm.
They say great things take time and, as you can imagine, the State Library Victoria's huge $88.1 million makeover counts as one of those things. Dubbed Vision 2020, the redevelopment project has been almost five years in the making — and you can get your first proper look from today, Thursday, December 5, as the site opens to the public to show off its full suite of changes. Along with its brand-new look, Australia's oldest public library now boasts an extra 40 percent more public space, as well as a 70 percent boost in seating. Which means it'll be a whole lot easier to nab yourself a table and hit the books. And of course, without its scaffolding that has seemingly been up forever, that grand facade is now looking a much better backdrop for hangs on the iconic front lawn. [caption id="attachment_753888" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Swanston St Foyer by Patrick Rodriguez[/caption] The 163-year-old building now comes armed with a suite of new features and services, with the crowning glory a striking new Swanston Street entrance, sporting a modern foyer and plenty of digital upgrades. The library's many spaces have been refurbished and reimagined for public use. The original heritage reading room has been transformed into The Ian Potter Queen's Hall, to be used as a library space by day and an events space by night. Hansen Hall will be a multi-functional space for meetings and projects, and, courtesy of the John and Myriam Wylie Foundation, October saw the launch of a new exhibition space known as the Victoria Gallery. The building has also been divided into newly named quarters. If you're a small business owner, you'll want to make use of StartSpace in the Ideas Quarter, a new service featuring co-working spaces, business-oriented meet-up events and free support for start-ups, born with the support of the Christine Christian Foundation. Meanwhile, the new Conversation Quarter is somewhere you might also find yourself, attending lectures, conferences and workshops. [caption id="attachment_753890" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Conversation Quarter by Patrick Rodriguez[/caption] The other two quarters are aimed at budding young minds — a program of talks and events will take place in the schools-focused Create Quarter, while the Pauline Gandel Children's Quarter is specifically for families and children. Australasian design firm Architectus, along with Scandinavia's Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, have headed up the multi-million dollar build. The massive project has been funded with a mix of donations, public contributions and support from the Victorian Government. The State Library Victoria will reopen to the public today — Thursday, December 5 — at 328 Swanston Street, Melbourne. It's open from 10am–9pm Monday to Thursday, and 10am–6pm Friday to Sunday. Images: Patrick Rodriguez.
UPDATE Tuesday, July 19: Due to popular demand, Mr Miyagi in the Big Smoke has been extended and will now run until Saturday, September 3. To make a booking, jump over to the website. The following article has been updated to reflect the change. After close to a decade of winning hearts and bellies on Chapel Street, Mr Miyagi is spreading its wings for its first-ever CBD pop-up. The modern Japanese spot is teaming up with QT Melbourne and taking over the hotel's Hot Sauce Laneway (Portland Lane) for a two-month stint devoted to smoke, fire and meat. Thursday to Saturday nights, from June 30–September 3, Mr Miyagi in the Big Smoke will be dishing up a new menu of Japanese delights, starring plenty of goodies cooked over binchōtan (white charcoal). Bringing the fire to this winter pop-up are dishes like a togorashi lamb chop teamed with shiso dressing, and an edamame and pea smash; a play on the classic smoked salmon; miso-glazed cornbread; nori tortillas with yuzu yoghurt and rockling; and a dessert they've dubbed the Hickory Smoked Miso Caramel Coal. A supporting drinks list pays equal homage to smoke and char, featuring sips like the Golden Gai — a riff on the Manhattan starring chocolate, whisky and vermouth. Mr Miyagi's usual lineup of signature Cocky T's will also be on offer if you'd prefer to quench your thirst with the likes of the Hello Kitty Sour. You can book your table online — sittings are at 5pm, 5.15pm, 6.45pm, 7pm, 8.30pm and 8.45pm Thursday to Saturday. Images: Pete Dillon
Sydney Dance Company is celebrating its 50th anniversary in style — with a 2019 season premiere that sees three of the country's best choreographers on the bill. Following its run in Sydney, this trio of performances will share the stage at Arts Centre Melbourne for a limited time from Wednesday, May 8 to Saturday, May 11. The show begins with artistic director Rafael Bonachela's world premiere, Cinco. The performance combines the talents of award-winning lighting designer Damien Cooper, fashion designer Bianca Spender and Argentinian composer Alberto Ginastera. Five of the city's best dancers will take the stage for the performance, which is set to Alberto Ginastera's 'String Quartet No.2'. To follow is a premiere of Gabrielle Nankivell's Neon Aether. The immersive experience transports the audience to a celestial world 'beyond the clouds'. Completing the trio is Melanie Lane's WOOF, which first premiered for New Breed 2017 (a Sydney Dance Company and Carriageworks annual initiative showcasing emerging choreographers). It's an eerie performance that combines romantic, classical and pop dance styles with a score composed by renowned British electronic artist Clark. The Sydney Dance Company Triple Bill will run from Wednesday, May 8 to Saturday, May 11. Tickets start at $30 and can be purchased here. We also have double passes to the preview night to give away. Enter your details below for a chance to win. [competition]712166[/competition]
It may be a little bit gimmicky, but something about the combination of wine and 75-year-old steam locomotive is strangely enticing. Oh, the possibilities it represents! Taylors Wines are putting on this wacky little event in the Mornington Peninsula, in an effort to fundraise for Mornington Railway. After you jump aboard the old train, you'll be treated to wine tastings and education, cheese platters and raffles. You know, all the things you would absolutely expect from a vintage train ride. Just so you know, the dress-up theme is steam punk.
When you’re dreaming up the location for your next holiday you might look to your friends, a travel blog or maybe even a travel agent if you're pushing 40. Not Melbourne artist Thomas Jeppe — his most recent sojourn was set in stone after he spied a sardine tin with pictures of a seemingly perfect European fishing village. The result of his trip, Seaside Vernacular, is presented in the ghost of a shipping container, a nod toward the new global influences that have come to shape the village and the artist’s concerns about the reality of life there. As with most things from a can, the packaging didn’t reflect the reality of what was inside and when Jeppe visited the Canary Islands what he found was not the sleepy town that the sardines had promised. Instead he was presented with a low budget tourist village that had been disrupted by recession, with rotting half-finished building ventures and crowds of English, Russian and other European tourists. While Jeppe’s practice has come to be characterised by an exploration of work and labour, Seaside Vernacular departs from this theme slightly by examining the value of research in coming to a conceptual position. Oh, it also features a two metre tall painting of a bare-breasted woman with a bird head.
Great news, dog lovers of Australia: you can now expect to see more pups at more pubs around the country. When 18 venues around the nation start serving pooches their very own version of charcuterie — adorably dubbed 'barkuterie' — there's bound to be one big result: a flurry of humans bringing their four-legged best friends out for a bite. If you spend your life with a canine companion, you'll be able to take your barking buddy to bars in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia and South Australia from Saturday, September 16. On the menu: barkuterie boards created in collaboration with online pet supplies retailer Pet Circle, featuring three dog treats from Nature's Cuts and Zignature paired with seasonal fruit and vegetables. So, while you drink and graze, so can your pupper. Just don't go giving your dog any beer to go with their barkuterie board, of course. The canine snack plate comes in at $12, and arrives to celebrate spring. It's a limited-time special, however, getting tails wagging for four weeks — or until stocks last. Of course BrewDog is getting in on the barkuterie spread, which is great news for folks who can hit up the Scottish beer brand's venues at South Eveleigh in Sydney and Murarrie, at its DogTap Brisbane Australian base, in Brisbane. Harbour City residents can also take their pup to The Winery in Surry Hills, while Sunshine State folks can make a date with the Crown Hotel in Lutwyche and Everton Park Hotel. In Victoria, Richmond's Bridge Hotel is joining in — and folks in WA have Victoria Park Hotel and The Bassendean Hotel to choose from. It's a great time to be a dog devotee in SA, with Brighton Metro Hotel, The Duck Inn, Mick O'Sheas, Waterloo Station, The Hope Inn, Robe Hotel, The Colonist, Parkside Hotel, Naracoorte Hotel and The Victoria Hotel in Strathalbyn all on the list. "More Aussies than ever consider their dog as their fur-child and are looking for experiences to do with them. They are taking them to cafes and pubs, and now dogs have their very own menu. They say the way to a dog's heart is through its stomach so we hope all the dogs really love the barkuterie boards," said Pet Circle Head Vet Teagan Lever. 2023 has already delivered doughnut-shaped biscuits for dogs — now this is your next excuse to treat your pet. Pet Circle's barkuterie boards will be available from Saturday, September 16 at 18 venues around Australia — for four weeks until Friday, October 13, or until stocks last.
When the weather gets chillier than a run-in with your ex, it's time to rug up and find yourself a fire by which to sip delicious vino. South Melbourne gastropub O'Connell's certainly knows a thing or two about this, and it's got a winter event series that delivers both in good measure. The pub is running a Homegrown Heroes Series where, once a month, it teams up with Victorian winemakers to host a dinner celebrating some of the state's best regions. While June's dinner focused on Mornington Peninsula, July's dinner is all about the Pyrenees, the popular wine region just outside Ballarat. On Wednesday, July 25, head chef Tom Brockbank will be dishing up a delicious five-course meal using local produce from the Pyrenees. Each dish will be paired with wine from one of the area's premier vineyards, Sally's Paddock Redbank Winery, with winemaker Sasha Fair on-hand to talk through each drop. The final Wine Dinner on Wednesday, August 29 will celebrate the Yarra Valley region — with the help of grower Giant Steps. O'Connell's Wine Dinners will take place on Wednesday, July 25 and Wednesday, August 29. Tickets are $125 per person and can be purchased via the website.
Multi-sensory art gallery The Lume is currently showcasing the works of Monet and his French impressionist contemporaries via an immersive display of room-sized moving images, aromas and sounds. But head along to one of the new bi-weekly yoga sessions and you'll get to see the venue in a whole new light (and from a few new angles, too). Running Wednesday evenings (7pm) and Sunday mornings (8am) in conjunction with Happy Melon Studios, the 50-minute guided yoga classes will have you getting centred and zen as immersive large-scale visuals wash over you. The experience for each class will be designed around a different theme (such as Space and Underwater) and will feature corresponding imagery and matching soundscapes. The Lume has released a series of class dates for February, March and April, with more to be added. Just note you'll need to bring your own yoga mat and water bottle.
Throwing shapes on the dance floor is one thing, but how about really thrilling that inner tween of yours with a pair of skates, a roller rink and an afternoon of disco? Come October you'll have the chance to do all of that, with the Collingwood Underground Roller Disco returning for its latest instalment. Once again setting up shop in a carpark beneath the suburb's landmark high-rise flats — and kicking off at 3pm on Saturday, October 20 — it's set to be a family-friendly affair, with a lineup of much-loved Melbourne DJs and performers setting the beat for punters of all ages. Expect a mix of boogie, disco, and house beats as you go for a roll for the entry price of $10. You can take your own lucky skates or hire some on the day — for $5 per hour — and there'll be plenty of eats and drinks on offer to help fuel those freestyle moves. Start practicing now and grab tickets at the door.
The second weekend in July is one for truffle hunters and lovers to mark in their diary. Winter is truffle season people, and the good folk at Truffle Melbourne are putting on a festival for the highly-sought after rich delicacy. Did you know that Australia is the 4th largest black truffle producer in the world? Yes, they may be a little bit fancy, but they’re more accessible than what you might think. Melbourne Truffle Festival, held at the Caulfield Racecourse, will feature Melbourne’s greatest truffle chefs as they demonstrate their tantalisingly tasty secret recipes. There'll be plenty of tastings on offer by the festival's executive chef Philippe Mouchel, plus truffle product samples from other artisan food businesses. Even if you have no idea what to do with truffle, experts on the day will offer advice on finding, choosing and preparing truffle dishes at home. Truffle snuffling aside, we're counting down until this little gem of a festival highlight. The festival will a stage a mock truffle hunt — with truffle dogs in tow — for those wanting to go on the tastiest game of hide and seek we've come across yet.
If you've been dreaming about a new set of wheels to help you gracefully glide into the sunny season, the legends at Amsterdam-born bike label Lekker can help you out. For two days this October, the company's North Melbourne store will host another edition of its ever-popular 'garage sale' filled with bikes, bargains, eats and beats. The party starts pedalling at 10am on Saturday, October 26 and Sunday, October 27 at Lekker's cheery Provost Street warehouse. Those in the market for new wheels will be able to test ride a few different designs, and, if all goes well, buy one — bikes, accessories and parts will be discounted, some by up to 50 percent. Backing up the fun and embracing those sweet spring vibes, there'll be a soundtrack of groovy tunes, plus free pancakes and beer. Don't risk a sleep-in, though — Lekker's past sales have seen pretty hefty lines of punters keen for those bicycle bargains and you don't want to miss out. Lekker Bikes Garage Sale will run from 10am–5pm.
Victoria's High Country is one of the first places we think of when planning an escape from the city. When winter hits, these snow-cloaked mountains become a wonderland of cold weather experiences. From dogsledding to wintery cheese adventures to world-class alpine resorts, the snow-based activities are virtually limitless. Since 1973, Macpac has been kitting out adventurers with the latest technical clothing to protect you from whatever harsh conditions you encounter. So, together, we've picked out five of the best experiences you can organise right now for your winter getaway this year. We've also included some packing tips — because when sweeping backcountry trails, you need to make sure you have the right gear. [caption id="attachment_669834" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Visit Victoria[/caption] SNOWSHOE YOUR WAY TO CHEESE FONDUE This isn't quite your average wine and cheese night. The Snowshoe to Cheese Fondue adventure leads you through the snow gums, concluding with some high-quality French cheese and a delightful three-course dinner. After departing at sunset, you'll follow your dedicated guide through a 30-minute snowshoe tour before arriving at a remote eco-village. Find a warm spot inside the central tipi and indulge in a spectacular meal. Up in the ice peaks, you'll also learn the culinary secrets behind making traditional fondue while sipping a glass of Scandinavian-style spiced wine by the outdoor fire. For adventurers who want to take their wintertime journey to the next level, you can also opt to spend the night in a plush alpine dome. Pack this: Macpac Men's & Women's Quest Hoody, $199.99 [caption id="attachment_669851" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Visit Victoria[/caption] LET HUSKIES GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE ALPS Among the unique activities on offer in Australia's winter wonderland, one of the best ways to experience the alpine region is going dogsledding with a pack of huskies. The Howling Huskies is one of Australia's most prominent dogsledding services. Take your pick from seven incredible tours, ranging from rapid 30-minute trips to epic four-hour ventures that include traipsing through the snowy countryside along the nation's longest commercial dogsled trail. This great alpine adventure is possible at both Mount Baw Baw and Mount Hotham, and each offers its own maze of backcountry trails and special panoramic views. The husky squad is made up of 58 dogs altogether, with 47 of those rescued over the last few years. The temperature may be icy, but these doggos will give you all the warm and fuzzy feels. Pack this: Macpac Piste Gloves Unisex, $59.99 SNOWBOARD WITH AN OLYMPIC CHAMPION Falls Creek is quite possibly Victoria's most picturesque snowcapped location, featuring striking rolling hills, towering snow gums and a variety of charming stays. This section of the Alpine National Park boasts 450 hectares of skiable terrain and 90 awesome runs for snowboarders to test out. The Backcountry Tours with Steve Lee will whisk you away with the three-time Winter Olympian and legendary free-rider to visit the mountain's remote open bowls and vertigo-inducing steeps and chutes for an action-packed day. You don't have to be a pro — Falls Creek has some great runs for beginners such as the Wombat's Ramble, which is Australia's longest at just over two kilometres. Pack this: Macpac Powder Ski Jacket Men's & Women's, $349.99 [caption id="attachment_717523" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Victoria[/caption] CROSS-COUNTRY SKI THROUGH SNOWY MEADOWS When it comes to cross-country skiing, Lake Mountain is the third most visited destination in the world for this gut-busting activity. The rugged landscape hosts a sprawling network of ski trails spread across the mountain, which both beginners and expert skiers are more than welcome to come and explore. As the closest snow resort to Melbourne, Lake Mountain is home to 30 kilometres of groomed trails. Meanwhile, a further 7 kilometres of ungroomed tracks present more of a challenge for the well-versed skier. After a morning of activity, warm up and share a relaxing glass of wine at Lake Mountain Resort cafe. Pack this: Macpac Tech Ski Socks, $34.99 [caption id="attachment_628046" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Andrew Railton[/caption] SKI AND SPA AT MOUNT BULLER Mount Buller is undoubtedly one of Victoria's (and Australia's, for that matter) most popular winter destinations. It presents snow lovers with a variety of slopes and terrains that stretch across the enormous mountainside. Whether you're just starting out or have grown up attached to a pair of skis, Mount Buller is bound to have a run that suits your skill level. Particularly popular amongst skiers, Mount Buller features 300 hectares of snowy scenery for you to explore. Once you've had enough action for the day, warm yourself up with dinner and drinks at one of 30 bars or restaurants situated nearby. More than just a snow sports destination, Mount Buller also offers a luxe spa resort, a cinema, a museum and even a sculpture park for when your body needs a break from the slopes. Pack this: Macpac Merino 220 Merino Baselayers, $109.99
When the Godzilla franchise first started rampaging through Japanese cinemas almost 70 years ago, it was in response to World War II and the horrific display of nuclear might that it unleashed. That saga and its prehistoric reptilian monster have notched up 38 movies now, and long may it continue stomping out of its homeland (the American flicks, which are set to return in 2024, have been hit-and-miss). In such creature-feature company, the films of Makoto Shinkai may not seem like they belong. So far, the writer/director behind global hits Your Name and Weathering with You, plus The Place Promised in Our Early Days, 5 Centimetres per Second, Children Who Chase Lost Voices and The Garden of Words before that, sadly hasn't applied his talents to good ol' Zilly, either. But Japan's animators have been musing on and reflecting upon destruction and devastation for decades, too — stunningly and heartbreakingly so. In Studio Ghibli's Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, Grave of the Fireflies and The Wind Rises — in Howl's Moving Castle, Porco Rosso and From Up on Poppy Hill as well — conflict lingers in a variety of ways. In 2016's gorgeous and affecting In this Corner of the World, war is utterly inescapable. And in Shinkai's recent work, it's another catastrophe that casts a shadow: the Great East Japan Earthquake and the resulting Fukushima nuclear disaster. He's made his past three movies, including his latest beautiful and heartfelt effort Suzume, with that incident clearly in mind. Indeed, although it hops all over Japan, acting like a travelogue in magnificently realistic animated form, this new tale about a teenage girl, matters of the heart and the earth, supernatural forces and endeavouring to cancel the apocalypse firmly has its soul in the part of Honshu that forever changed in March 2011. Suzume meets its namesake (Nanoka Hara, Guilty Flag) on Kyushu, Japan's third-largest island, where she has lived with her aunt Tamaki (Eri Fukatsu, Survival Family) for 12 years. More than that, it meets its titular high schooler as she meets Souta (SixTONES singer Hokuto Matsumura), who catches her eye against the gleaming sea and sky as she's cycling to class. He's searching for ruins, and she knows just the local place — an abandoned onsen, which she beats him to. There, Suzume discovers a door standing mysteriously within a pool of water, then opens said entryway to see a shimmering sight on the other side. That's an ordinary act with extraordinary consequences, because Shinkai adores exactly that blend and clash. To him, that's where magic springs, although never while spiriting away life's troubles and sorrows. Every single door everywhere is a portal, of course, but this pivotal one takes the definition literally. Suzume can't walk through the opening; instead, she's left peering at the enticing evening-hued realm lurking within its frame. That said, she does unwittingly unleash a monster that Souta and his family have spent generations trying to contain. The worm lives up to its moniker, sprawling high into and across the sky, and sending its red tendrils far and wide. As his grandfather was, plus a long line of other relatives before that, Souta is a closer, which means he's tasked with shutting the doors that pop up at Japan's abandoned places — including a school and an amusement park — to keep the worm away and humanity safe. Sometimes, he needs a keystone to do so; however, the one in Suzume's hometown turns into a cat when she picks it up. Also transforming, but not by choice: Souta himself, who swiftly takes the form of a three-legged yellow chair that his new pal has owned and loved since she was a pre-schooler. What's a girl, a walking-and-talking seat and a tiny white kitty — Daijin, aka that metamorphosed keystone, which can also speak (as voiced by newcomer Ann Yamane) — to do? The latter cutely but quickly scampers, unsurprisingly attracting ample social-media attention, while Suzume and Souta follow as fast as they can. Most road trips don't involve attempting to save the planet, but Suzume's is as scenic as any cross-country jaunt by ferry, scooter, van, train and car thanks to one of Shinkai's ever-reliable hallmarks: his breathtaking visuals. Whether or not any member of the film's audience has been to Japan themselves, watching this spectacular affair feels like stepping right into Miyazaki, Shikoku, Kobe, Tokyo and more. Once again, as he did with Your Name and Weathering with You as well, Shinkai brings the Japanese capital to the screen with detail so gloriously lifelike that it makes for simply exquisite animation. That gift is shared with everywhere that Suzume, Souta and Daijin visit, mesmerisingly so. It's both a fitting and knowing touch to get Suzume's heroine residing in the city that shares its name with Studio Ghibli great Hayao Miyazaki. By the watching world, Shinkai has been anointed the Spirited Away and My Neighbour Totoro filmmaker's successor frequently since Your Name proved such a delight and smash — and so stirring, melancholy and dazzling — and, while thoroughly earning those comparisons yet another time, he leans in. Whisper of the Heart, which is similarly about a teen chasing a cat, gets a direct (and lovely) shoutout. Nods to Kiki's Delivery Service also ripple, again thanks to the crucial adorable feline. As its characters tumble through episodic adventures sparked by that fateful first door, Suzume adds references elsewhere, starting with Alice in Wonderland. It's easy to see the thematic trilogy it's happily forming with Shinkai's last two movies, too. There's a mythic air and a determination to make something meaningful and with a message that's oh-so Ghibli always, though; like the animation house, Shinkai crafts films as devoted to getting viewers marvelling at the planet, life on it and the relationships forged as they are committed to entrancing the eyes with their radiant sights. Already the fourth-grossing Japanese film of all time globally — Your Name is third, and Weathering with You ninth — Suzume is vivid in every moment. Aided by its music from Shinkai regulars Radwimps and composer Kazuma Jinnouchi (Star Wars: Visions), it's rousing in all the fashions that a feature can be, in fact. Its guiding light makes cosmic romances, fantastical voyages and supernatural disaster flicks as well, plus contemplations of growing up and taking care of nature, and ensures that they swell and swirl with all the emotions that they demand. In a national cinema industry so well-known for confronting the country's past that it turned part of it into a giant stalking lizard, Shinkai keeps finding bewitching and sensitive methods to achieve that feat, and wonderfully. Here, as Suzume battles her own hulking force, she faces life-changing heartache that no one can ever truly get over, still learns how to go on but never lets her history slip away. It's no surprise that Suzume is as sweet and swoonworthy as Shinkai's work comes, and as earnest, intricate, intelligent, involving and enchanting.
Busy scenes at St Kilda Beach and its surrounds over the weekend have led two local councils to unleash strong warnings for those ignoring public health directives. After crowds gathered beachside to take advantage of the warmer weather, with some reportedly ignoring social distancing guidelines, City of Port Phillip has come out swinging, taking to Facebook to warn the rule-breakers. "Unfortunately, if we have large crowds of people doing the wrong thing, then we will have no choice but to close the beach or park as a last resort," Council CEO Peter Smith explained in a post yesterday. "We are extremely disappointed by the number of people who breached the Victorian Chief Health Officer's orders," he said, labelling the crowd's behaviour as "unacceptable" and warning that such actions could delay Melbourne's reopening efforts. The mayor of Bayside Council Clarke Martin echoed this sentiment in a statement to The Sunday Age, saying, "my message to Bayside residents and anyone who wants to come down to the beach is not to. Please, just stay away for another two or three weeks and let this virus eat itself out." https://www.facebook.com/cityofportphillip/posts/3497330073666492 A Victoria Police spokesperson said that while the "vast majority of Victorians" had displayed good behaviour over the weekend, there were still some who'd flouted the rules, "with a number of arrests made and infringement notices issued". The spokesperson reminded Melburnians that police will continue to be out in force patrolling popular public spots and handing out fines. Meanwhile, City of Port Phillip is currently working on finalising its Play It Safe summer management plan, with a few of the key measures also trialled over the busy weekend. They include the installation of social distancing circles — similar to the ones that have popped up in Prahran — at South Beach Reserve. The St Kilda markers range between three and four metres in diameter, with the larger ones designed to cater for group exercise. They're spaced 1.5 metres apart, in keeping with the DHSS's social-distancing guidelines. The Council also says it's bumped up policing of the sites, having put additional Local Laws officers on the ground and "worked closely with the police to ensure an increased police presence". As it implements further measures in the coming months, expect to also see new pedestrian areas and expanded footpath dining precincts. You can check out all of metropolitan Melbourne's current restrictions over at the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services website. Top image: St Kilda Beach by Matteo Artizzu via Flickr.
Asghar Farhadi is not yet so passe, because the latest release to come from the Iranian director, The Past (or original title Le Passé to le snobs) looks as good as his 2012 Academy Award-winning A Separation. Dubbed an engrossing psychological drama about choice and responsibility, the critically acclaimed French film features Bérénice Bejo (The Artist), awarded Best Actress at the Cannes Film Festival for her work in this film. The Past follows Bejo's Marie and her children, who are deserted by husband Ahmad (Ali Mosaffa) when he returns to his home in Iran. But in his absence, Samir (Tahar Rahim from The Prophet) hits the screen and, despite protests by her teenage daughter, Maria requests a divorce and Ahmad finds himself with renewed love for his estranged wife. The Past is in cinemas on February 6, and thanks to Madman Films, we have ten double in-season passes to give away. To be in the running, subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter (if you haven't already), then email us with your name and address. Sydney: win.sydney@concreteplayground.com.au Melbourne: win.melbourne@concreteplayground.com.au Brisbane: win.brisbane@concreteplayground.com.au
Melbourne's Holy Bombolina isn't just dishing up crowd-pleasing, award-winning, Italian-style doughnuts to the masses, it's often doing so for a good cause, using its sweet treats to throw support behind a swag of great community groups and initiatives. It has even launched Holy Bombolina's Sweet Charity event series, which kicks off on Thursday, June 28, with a doughnut-filled charity movie night at Kino Cinemas. It'll feature an exclusive screening of Greta Gerwig's 2017 drama-comedy Lady Bird, with all profits going to WIRE Women's Information — the state's only generalist support, information and referral centre for women. Grab a ticket to enjoy an evening of Holy Bombolina's fluffy bomboloni doughnuts, prosecco, guest speakers and a top flick, all for a great cause. You'll even have the chance to win some excellent raffle prizes, donated by local makers and creators. Tickets are $35 and can be bought here.
While summer is oh-so close, Melbourne is still drizzly and cold enough that it counts as soup season. CBD restaurant Wonder Bowl agrees and is bringing back its five-day noodle soup giveaway just for the occasion. From September 23 to 27, the Little Lonsdale Street eatery is offering the first 50 customers each night a bowl of its Chinese-style noodle soup, on the house. That's 250 bowls of free soup. For the giveaway, you can choose any noodle soup off the menu — except for dishes in the 'royal' or braised series — so, you can dive into hearty bowls of soup with meatballs, spicy soup with chicken and soup with pipis. Wonder Bowl is already en route to becoming a firm CBD favourite, thanks to a menu of signature soups that combine thick rice noodles, rich seafood broth and Chinese rice wine. Current menu hits include a seafood combination noodle soup and a version featuring drunken chicken. Be quick off the mark next week and you can probably try them both for free. The noodle soup giveaway starts at 6pm each day.
Housed in a converted Brunswick warehouse space, Bhang specialises in regional Indian street food, incorporating lighter cooking styles from the southern regions with lots of coconut, red chilli, seafood and pork. As well as serving up delicious meals all round, the restaurant also plays host to a series of super affordable dinners. Called Thali Nights, they kicked off in 2018 and return every four to six weeks. Each dinner is influenced by a different region in India, showcasing the different flavours and varieties on offer throughout the south Asian nation. This month's affordable feast is inspired by Chennai, in the south of the country. Chennai is known for its street food, like dosa, biriyani, uttapam (which are like thick savoury pancakes), deep-fried vada and curries packed with chilli, coconut and tamarind. On Tuesday, September 17, diners will eat their way through generous vegetarian or meat thali platters filled with street snacks and bites, curries, salads, pickles, pappas, raitas, chutneys and Indian sweets, all for only $30. For the uninitiated — and if the above description didn't give it away — thali platters are Indian meals made up of lots of small dishes, so it's basically a dream option for the indecisive. There'll be drinks on offer, though they're not included in the price. Understandably, bookings are essential. We'll update you as more dates are announced. Image two: Kate Shanasy. Updated: July 15, 2019.
Sweet treats and smooth jazz go hand in hand, with the return of Jazz High Tea to The Pavilion at the Arts Centre. On the first Sunday of every month, visitors can indulge in an afternoon of luxury, as sparkling wine, freshly brewed tea and house-made cakes and pastries are paired with some of the finest jazz acts in town. Designed to cater to both jazz fiends and newbies, the lineup features no shortage of local talent. April will welcome drummer and vocalist Rod Gilbert, followed by husband and wife duo Kimba & Ryan, along with their longtime double base collaborator Mark Elton, in May. Other performers include vocalists Chelsea Wilson and Kelsey James in June and July respectively, cabaret chanteuse Tamara Kuldin in August, gypsy swing ensemble Le Grand Soiree in September, and long time performer Vanessa Fernandez in October.
Victoria by Farmer's Daughters has been delighting diners with its crafty exploration of local produce since opening the doors in July. And now, it's time for the restaurant's much-anticipated Terrace Bar to make its own grand debut. With a leafy outlook overlooking the Yarra, the al fresco space is kicking things off with a new weekly series that'll soak up the best of Melbourne's sunny season. Running Sundays from January 15–March 26, Summer Sunday Sessions will be dedicated to wrapping up your week in style — with the help of DJ tunes, produce-driven eats and plenty of gin. Each week, the kitchen will be showcasing a seven-course sharing menu built on top-notch Victorian ingredients — think, O'Connor beef skewers in a black garlic glaze, fried rockling sangas elevated with gribiche and kohlrabi remoulade, and luxe brownies made on Cuvée Chocolate and paired with salted caramel sauce. To match, you've got bottomless gin cocktails crafted on Four Pillars, plus free-flowing Victorian beer and wine, and tunes by DJ pHinioUS. There are two two-hour sittings each Sunday — 11.30am and 2.30pm — with tickets clocking in at $90.
If you often rue the day in your adolescence that chicken nuggets became an unacceptable item to eat for dinner, well, Christmas has come early. This weekend, Welcome to Thornbury will take fried chicken back to junk food basics and throw another Chicken Nugget Festival. First held in November last year, the permanent food truck park will dedicate another weekend to nuggets this July, with a vast selection ranging from traditional nuggets to spicy nuggets all the way through to a nugget burger, specially produced by Mr Burger. Welcome to Thornbury will also be serving up a suitable range of dipping sauces (from sweet chilli to szechuan) and a slew of cocktails and beers. The full bite-sized fried chicken festival will be spread across two days, with lineup starring Belles Hot Chicken, Mr Burger, Hansby's Nuglife, The Real Jerk Food Truck, Jamm'd and Sparrow's Philly Cheesesteaks. Welcome to Thornbury has also announced a dessert nugget from Dip'd Gourmet Mini Donuts to complete your three-course nugget experience. The festival kicks off at midday both days and runs til 10pm — and dogs are welcome.
If you're feeling a little more adventurous this New Years Eve, hop over the Tasman to New Zealand for the Rhythm and Vines festival. Stretching over the last three days of December, Rhythm and Vines helps you welcome the new year with one of the biggest line-ups to grace the festival circuit in 2011, as well as Concrete Playground's own Pool Party. This instalment is headlined by Australia's biggest drum and bass export, Pendulum, whilst Calvin Harris brings his incredibly infectious sound to eager audiences. For the old-school demographic, DJ Grandmaster Flash will provide a great history lesson in hip-hop with his set. Don't miss out on an opportunity to see this undisputed legend working in an element that he was primarily responsible for. More bass will be provided by Skream and Benga, two dubstep pioneers who have developed a distinct, global sound from their modest beginnings in English warehouses. Other festival favourites such as Erick Morillo, Tiga and Architecture in Helsinki will also be in attendance. Accomodation ranges from rental houses to motel rooms to camping spots, so there's plenty of options to help mould your perfect festival bender experience. Courtesy of our friends at Stolen Rum, Concrete Playground has a double-pass three-day Club Stolen VIP Package up for grabs. What does the VIP Package offer? It will include an exclusive area with an uninterrupted view of the main stage, treated to delicious Stolen Rum cocktails throughout the night. Importantly, you'll also get access to toilets with actual flushes, and anybody who has been to a festival will know that this is truly a Godsend. To win this double VIP pass to Rhythm and Vines, make sure you are subscribed to Concrete Playground then email hello@concreteplayground.com.au (for Australia) or auckland@concreteplayground.co.nz (for New Zealand) by 5pm on Thursday 15 December, 2011. The winner will be notified by email soon after, and will be responsible for own transport and accommodation arrangements.
With the recent program launches of the Lido's rooftop cinema, Moonlight Cinema, Rooftop Cinema, Sunset Cinema et al, it's clear Melbourne's furiously enthusiastic love for cinema under the stars isn't waning anytime soon. And now QV Cinema has announced it too will be returning for the 2016-17 season. Usually the realm of hectic shopping sprees, QV Melbourne last year launched its own openair cinema, and it will return with summer screenings running every Thursday to Sunday night from November to February. It's an intimate 80-seat deckchair cinema on the astroturf outside the Queen Victoria Women's Centre, and the whole program is curated by Melbourne filmmaker and film programmer Gus Berger, who runs Red Hot Shorts at ACMI. Expect festive films in December (think Bad Santa, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Elf), an Australian film on Australia Day (The Sapphires), a focus on Melbourne independent films, alongside '80s favourites and selected special event films. There'll also be three dog-friendly Doggie + Deckchair screenings, starting with a doggy red carpet before Lady and the Tramp on December 10. All proceeds from ticket sales going to non-profit animal charity Lort Smith. With tickets at $12 (and $14 for the dog screenings) each, it's a pretty budget-friendly date option for the summer. Opening night is happening on Wednesday, November 30, and it's pretty fittingly fashion-themed with the Sex and the City movie (the first one, of course). Best bit? Opening night is completely free, you just have to register on the QV Cinema website. Then you can spend your pennies on a sea salt soft serve cone from Aqua S. The QV Outdoor Cinema will run from November 30 till February 26, 2017. To view the full program and buy tickets, visit qvcinema.com.au.
Following new financial support programs from the Federal Government announced on Thursday, 15 July, as well as the announcement that the Victorian lockdown has been extended until Tuesday, July 27, the Victorian Government has finally unveiled its own financial support packages for individuals and businesses struggling during this time. The packages include assistance for individuals, small businesses and sole traders who have lost income. While the financial support on offer is quite far-reaching, it can feel a little daunting when you're trying to decipher if (and where) you fit into it all. So, here's an easy-to-read overview of all the support on offer across Victoria if you've been financially impacted by the latest lockdown. EMPLOYEES Individuals can apply for COVID-19 Disaster Payments through the Services Australia website from Friday, July 23. The joint plan between the federal and state government means that individuals who have lost between eight and 20 hours of work due to stay-at-home orders can access recurring payments of $375 a week. Those who have lost more than 20 hours can access payments of up to $600. There are a few eligibility rules; for example, you must be an Australian resident or on an eligible work visa, over the age of 17 and not on an income support payment like JobSeeker or Youth Allowance. Head to Services Australia for more information. [caption id="attachment_737834" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Parker Blain[/caption] SMALL BUSINESSES Any businesses that are registered for GST and have experienced a downturn in revenue due to the lockdown are eligible for assistance through either the Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund or the Business Costs Assistance Program. The Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund assists businesses that operate as a "licensed bar, restaurant, pub, club, hotel, cafe or reception centre" with a current liquor and food service license, and you can read the full eligibility criteria online. The Business Costs Assistance Program covers both employer and non-employer businesses that have "incurred direct cost" from the lockdown. Both programs are offering top ups to previous grants provided during the May/June lockdown, or full grants for businesses that didn't apply for support during the previous lockdown. The Victorian Government suggests microbusinesses not registered for GST apply for the aforementioned COVID-19 Disaster Payment of between $375–600 a week. REGIONAL BUISNESSES Regional businesses are eligible to apply for both the Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund and Business Costs Assistance Program; however, there are two specific relief programs that are designed to assist regional businesses. Hospitality, retail, accommodation and experience-based businesses in alpine regions are now eligible for a new Alpine Support Payment which will grant them access to up to $5000 of funding for off-mountain businesses, and up to $15,000 in funding for those in alpine resorts and the Dinner Plain. Similarly, a regional Business Costs Assistance Program Tourism Supplement will provide accommodation, attractions and tourism operators access to up to $4500 in support. THE ARTS INDUSTRY The Victorian Government is topping up both the Impacted Public Events Support Program and the Live Performance Support programs. Eligible public events suppliers will be invited to apply for the Impacted Public Events program, while the Live Performance Support is available to suppliers and presenters of live performances, with grants of up to $500 per live performance available for suppliers and grants of up to $7000 on offer for presenters. Eligibility information for suppliers is available online, as are details for presenters. For artists and crew workers who have lost work due to the lockdown, not-for-profit Support Act is also offering a helping hand. Support Act is offering one-off grants of $2000, or $2700 to families with dependant children, to musicians and crew members that have been financially impacted by the lockdown in order to help soften the blow of lost gigs and shifts. The organisation also offers financial relief to members of the music and arts community that are unable to work due to injury or illness, and a Mental Health First Aid program to assist those struggling with their mental health. If you're still confused, we recommend heading to the Businesses Victoria website — or you can read more in Premier Dan Andrews's funding announcement on the Victorian Government website. Top image: Armelle Habib
