A couple of years ago, Dutch designer Marjan van Aubel posited that every object could be turned into a solar cell. No more dirty coal burning, no more tangled cables, no more electricity bills. Sure, it might sound utopian, but if that sun up there’s been keeping more than 400,000 plant species going for millions of years, then there’s surely no reason it can’t handle whatever the Apple factory can throw at it. Van Aubel started her mission with the creation of a drinking glass that could power a mobile phone. Now, she’s come up with The Current Table — a solar desk that functions as both workspace and electronic gadget charger. The top is made of glass, which has been dyed orange and embedded with tiny particles of titanium dioxide. When sunlight hits, the titanium dioxide releases electrons, creating an electrical current. The process is similar to photosynthesis (plants’ transformation of chlorophyll into energy). What’s particularly impressive about it is that, unlike regular external solar panels, which only respond to direct sun rays, the desk works indoors, because it responds to diffused light. The current is accessible via two built-in USB chargers and any unused electricity is stored in a battery. A light display keeps track of how much power is available. "One cell needs about eight hours to fully charge a battery, and there are four cells for each USB port," Van Aubel explains. "The amount of sunlight the earth receives in one day could power all our electrical appliances for an entire year. The question is how to capture and store it, and how to transport it to where and where it is needed." The Current Table will go on display in Milan in April, as part of the Salone Internazionale del Mobile. Via PSFK.
It's no secret that Melbourne's dumpling game is strong. So if you're going to use the word in your restaurant name, you'd better be bringing the goods. As the latest addition to the buzzing Smith Street stretch south of the Grace Darling, Bowl Bowl Dumpling has made that very call, and passed the test. Inside, the double storefront space has a hipster-friendly, modern zen feel, with earthy tones and verdant foliage interspersed with pops of colour. The exposed brick walls, pendant lights and elegant Japanese clay tableware all show signs of effort. While it doesn't always feel cohesive, it's certainly one of the more comfortable dumpling dining experiences you can expect at this price range, with not a plastic table in sight. Those plump little pillows are, of course, the stars of the menu, but you can kick things off with a few Pan-Asian starters — perhaps some nicely battered salt and pepper calamari ($8.50), or a serve of vegetarian spring rolls ($6.50). With seven dumpling dishes on offer, there's an option to satisfy most, and all but one come with a share-friendly 10 to a serve. Take a few friends and a bit of an appetite and you can walk away having sampled the lot. Dumpling fans will know that xiao long bao are something of a technical yardstick, and Bowl Bowl's version of the soup-filled buns definitely don't disappoint. Touted here as 'Water Bomb' dumplings, they're delicate and juicy, ready to burst with fragrant, gingery pork broth ($14.50 for eight). In terms of technique, the gluten-free, Italian-style chicken dumplings ($13.50 for 10 pieces) don't quite hit the same mark, with skins a little on the thick side, but the fennel filling is tasty and fresh and the combo is a refreshing change from the norm. Then, those really in the mood for some feasting can get stuck into a handful of bigger dishes, like the Chinese broccoli with oyster sauce ($18) or fried rice ($18.50). The drinks list is a step up from the usual dumpling dinner offering — beers are basic, but there's a handful of Australian wines, all hovering around $9 for a glass and $35 for a bottle. Service, too, trumps that at the flourescent-lit set, with attentive, friendly staff showing off some practised moves. This is hardly the dumpling experience you're used to, but a meal at Bowl Bowl is sure to convert you.
Well-known for his visual distinctive style and fondness for symmetry across films such as The Royal Tenenbaums, Moonrise Kingdom, The Grand Budapest Hotel and Isle of Dogs, Wes Anderson is now playing museum curator. Alongside his partner, set designer and illustrator Juman Malouf, he's put together an exhibition for Vienna's Kunsthistorisches Museum: Spitzmaus Mummy in a Coffin and Other Treasures. The creative couple were given a task that plenty would envy: trawling through the Kunsthistorisches Museum's more than four million objects, and selecting their favourites from the incredibly broad collection of in-house artifacts. The end result includes items from all 14 of the museum's collections, which span old master paintings, Greek and Roman antiquities, Imperial coins and more. Think pieces like historical musical instruments, suits of armour, foreign antiques, carriages and sleighs, plus a fully illustrated catalogue. If you're wondering what inspired Anderson, he explains in the exhibition catalogue that, with Malouf, he harbours "the humble aspiration that the unconventional groupings and arrangement of the works on display may influence the study of art and antiquity in minor, even trivial, but nevertheless detectable ways for many future generations to come". And if you're not planning to be in Austria before April 28, 2019 — or in Italy afterwards, with the exhibition set to travel to the Fondazione Prada in Milan at a yet-to-be-announced date — here's a look at what's on offer. [caption id="attachment_703302" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Exhibition view. © KHM-Museumsverband[/caption] Exhibition view. © KHM-Museumsverband [caption id="attachment_703299" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Exhibition view. © KHM-Museumsverband[/caption] Exhibition view. © KHM-Museumsverband Exhibition view. © KHM-Museumsverband Spitzmaus Mummy in a Coffin and Other Treasures exhibits at Vienna's Kunsthistorisches Museum until April 28, 2019. Images: © KHM-Museumsverband.
Operating out of St Kilda for over 30 years, Seagulls has been responsible for more than a few glamorous looks around town. Specialising in women's fashion that's just as suitable for the runway as your weekend drinks, the boutique's selection of high-end pieces is curated entirely by owners Chivy Chan and Chloé Holding. Showcasing brands such as Bianca & Bridgett, Eliya The Label and Elliatt, there's also a thoughtful collection of sparkly accessories to round out your springtime outfit. Images: Tracey Ah-Kee.
If, like most Australian kids, you once dreamed of spending your school holidays at one of the Gold Coast's theme parks, then you probably hoped that you'd be making your way to Sea World. Historically Dreamworld has been home to plenty of rides, while Movie World has its whole 'Hollywood on the Gold Coast' theme going for it — but Sea World is the one with an onsite resort. In the near future, that might change, with slumbering at Dreamworld after a long day spent riding rollercoasters now on the cards. Ardent Leisure, the theme park's parent company, has announced plans to turn part of the land next to the Coomera spot into a new $75 million Dreamworld Resort, which is set to include a hotel and a tourist park. For those keen to bunk down for the night, there'll be options. The resort's four-star hotel is slated to include 250 rooms, and there'll be 40 bungalows as well. Making the trip to the Goldie via caravan? There'll also be 100 powered sites in the adjacent tourist park. Guests will have access to restaurants, swimming pools, a gym and conference facilities, too. Ardent Leisure also plans to include accommodation and theme park package deals, including exclusive offers to access both Dreamworld and White Water World during your stay. Just what that might look like hasn't been revealed — and, before you start making holiday plans, neither has a timeframe for the hotel and resort's opening. [caption id="attachment_810953" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Saberwyn via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] At present, Ardent Leisure has entered into an agreement with accommodation developer Evolution Group to fund and build the resort and tourist park — although it is non-binding, and also subject to a number of preconditions being met. Planning approvals also need to be secured; however, it's hoped that if the resort comes to fruition, it'll help Dreamworld, White Water World and the Coomera region to recover from the economic impact of the pandemic. For more information about Ardent Leisure's plans for Dreamworld Resort, head to the company's website. For further details about Dreamworld, visit the theme park's website.
Here's one way that 2025 is certain to dazzle: with Lightscape and its luminous path through the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne making a comeback this winter. Walking through stunning lights as far as the eye can see, moseying beneath a canopy of glowing multi-coloured trees, wandering between ribbons of flashing beams, taking the most lit-up route through nature that you can imagine — you'll be able to do all of this again, just like in 2022, 2023 and 2024. If you attended in past years, this fourth Lightscape stint does have surprises in store. 2025's event will feature 20-plus stunning new installations. So, no matter whether you're a veteran or a newcomer, you haven't seen this. Exactly what'll be on offer hasn't been revealed as yet, but it'll be on display from Friday, June 20–Sunday, August 10. Lightscape first hit Australia in 2022 after initially taking over gardens across the United Kingdom and the United States. Developed by Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in the UK, it has understandably proven a huge success — and more than two-million people wandered along its glowing trails in a season overseas. 2024's Melbourne event featured the return of the popular Winter Cathedral, which is made out of glowing bulbs — and also the vibrant Laser Garden. Also included last year: Submergence, letting patrons move through suspended — and colour-changing — lights by the thousands, for instance, and Lili with its glowing three-metre-tall flowers. Whatever is on the agenda in 2025, prepare to see the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne illuminated by immersive and large-scale pieces scattered along that lengthy walking route, including sparkling trees, shimmering walkways and bursts of colour that look like fireworks. Prepare to feel like you're being bathed in radiance — and ample neon — as well. Pop-up food and drink stalls are usually a feature, too, as scattered throughout Lightscape — selling, we always hope, mulled wine to keep hands warm in the thick of winter. Lightscape will return to the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne, from Friday, June 20–Sunday, August 10, 2025. For more information or to buy tickets, head to the event's website.
As winter closes in, you might be tempted to take anything that requires leaving your warm and toasty home off of your schedule. We get it. But it's no excuse. Even if it's cold outside, there are plenty of winter-friendly (and delicious) reasons to get out and about this season — especially down south. Tasmania might be known for its chilly weather, but, these days, it's also got quite the reputation as a culinary destination — and for good reason. Top-notch culinary menus make use of the freshest, seasonal and local produce and can be found all over the Apple Isle. That's why we've made it our mission to discover the Tassie restaurants that'll warm both your belly and your cold little hands this winter. Here are five of the best. Hope you're hungry. [caption id="attachment_719307" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Chris Crerar.[/caption] STILLWATER — LAUNCESTON Stillwater is quite possibly the best-known restaurant in Tasmania. Situated on the edge of the Tamar River in Launceston — and set within a restored 1830s flour mill — the space is cosy, with warm lighting and timber furnishings, and boasts stunning views. The seasonal menu is a love letter to the island state, celebrating fresh, local produce and the region's best vineyards, distilleries and brewhouses. Our tip: opt for the Arras sparkling, which some might call Australia's best answer to Champagne, paired with flavour-packed seafood dishes like the fresh Moulting Bay oysters or the Tasmanian blacklip abalone with whipped tofu, brown butter ponzu, enoki and avruga caviar for a particularly indulgent experience. A visit on a clear winter day is something special — not only will you get a great view over the water, but be treated to the spoils of a Tassie winter. Expect a menu that makes the most of the abundant and rich produce available in winter like cauliflower, beetroot and brussels sprouts along with treats like oysters and black truffle. TEMPLO — HOBART Tucked away in the back streets of Hobart, Templo is all about intimacy. Which makes it a dream find on a cold winter night. Eating at this 20-seat restaurant feels as if you're at a friend's dinner party, with the exposed brick walls, low hanging lights and close quarters creating a warm atmosphere and cheerful vibe. Choose from a concise list of unique wines, and look to the large blackboard for the ever-changing, seasonal food offering. But while the dishes rotate often, they have a consistently Italian flair to them that's unmistakable and are all made with the freshest produce. If it's available, the gnocchetti with crunchy fried bread will knock your socks off. While seemingly simple, Templo is about shared food, unique wines and a solid communal vibe, making it a charming neighbourhood stalwart and an absolute must during Tasmanian winters. FRANKLIN — HOBART There's a confidence to Franklin that's reflected in every aspect of the restaurant. The contrast of the raw, exposed concrete interior and the soft kangaroo hides and heated floors (which are a real godsend when you step in from the cold) elevates the large space from a classy wine bar to something unexpectedly elegant. Housed in an old Ford showroom within Hobart's historic Mercury Newspaper Building, Franklin is the epitome of industrial-chic. And it's not just the interior design that's special — the food is distinctive, too. With one of Australia's most talented young chefs, Analiese Gregory, and a ten-ton woodfired scotch oven both in the open kitchen, the restaurant serves a menu featuring a made-from-scratch mentality. Everything occurs on-site — whole beasts are broken down, bread is baked daily, cheeses are made and meats are cured. It's a feast for both the eyes and the tastebuds that truly champions local produce. GERONIMO APERITIVO BAR AND RESTAURANT — LAUNCESTON The second you walk into Launceston's Geronimo Aperitivo Bar and Restaurant, your winter blues will disappear. Packed with old-school charm, the space is adorned with Carrara marble, recycled timber, Greek metals, Italian ceramics and lots of warming Euro food on every table. Each dish is designed to share, so it's best to cosy up with some mates and order up. When it's cold outside you'll want to make a beeline for the confit duck leg — which is spiced with orange and star anise and comes with hazelnuts and cabbage — or maybe the fried polenta dumplings and a serve of winter veg. The bar's cherry-tinted take on the manhattan will send you home warm, full and slightly boozed. DIER MAKR — HOBART Dier Makr is made for winter. Broody and a little bit dark, the eatery sits within a large, nondescript, grey building. It doesn't exactly scream "this is one of the best restaurants in town" — but that's beside the point. Once you've found your way inside, you'll find a sleek, intimate bistro and bar where a playful degustation menu will take you on a journey of the senses. Try the seared mussels with chicken fat and mizuna-spiked golden ale. And opt for the cauliflower cooked so many different ways — you'll never look at the humble vegetable the same. Dier Makr is all about showing off the best Tasmanian produce, with a selection of natural and minimal intervention wines to match. Plus, there's a walk-in cellar if you want to bring back a souvenir. Top image: Stillwater, courtesy Tourism Tasmania and Rob Burnett.
The past 18 months or so haven't been a golden time for much, but the pandemic has been great for watching animal live-streams. Are your pets asleep? Don't have any furry four-legged companions of your own? Just like watching adorable critters all day, everyday, because who doesn't? Thanks to zoos and aquariums around Australia and beyond, there's always something to peer at. And, that applies whether you have minutes, hours or days to lose to cute creatures, or you'd just like to check in on them every now and then. You can even keep them on your screen all day long if that's what'll brighten your mood. Melburnians — or anyone interested in the city's bird life — currently have something special to watch, too. This live-stream isn't actually new, but it's particularly relevant at this time of year. Thanks to a camera on 367 Collins Street in the CBD, you can train your peepers on two peregrine falcons nesting outside the building. You can give them a squiz any time you like, but if you do so from August onwards each year (aka now), you'll see them lay and hatch their chicks. At the moment, the eggs are already there, so you'll spy a whole lot of sitting atop them as the feathered couple waits for them to hatch. To give them, head to the Mirvac building's website. For those visiting the structure itself, the CCTV footage of the falcons is also on display in the foyer. This nest comes with quite the history, too, as peregrine falcons have been making nests at 367 Collins Street since 1991. This is actually the only known peregrine falcon nesting site within the Melbourne CBD, which obviously makes it extra special. Check out the live-stream below: For more information about 367 Collins Street's peregrine falcons and their nest, head to the 367 Collins website and the 367 Collins Falcon Watchers Facebook page.
Fans of Trainspotting will probably want to check out Filth, the new film adaptation of the 1998 Irvine Welsh novel. Jon S. Baird directs James McAvoy as Bruce Robertson, a bipolar, misanthropic junkie detective (role of a lifetime) who, when he's not awash in drugs, alcohol and sex games, spends his time plotting the downfall of his fellow colleagues. In his quest to trump them and secure a coveted promotion, he stops at nothing — stealing their wives, exposing their darkest secrets. Oh, and there's a murder to be solved, too. Things escalate to the point of madness, with plenty of manipulation, hallucination and downright insanity. McAvoy won critical praise for his performance upon the film's UK release and is supported by some stellar UK actors including Jim Broadbent, Jamie Bell and Eddie Marsan (who was so good in Mike Leigh's Happy-Go-Lucky and Paddy Considine's Tyrannosaur). The film will no doubt give a typically Welsh-ian insight into the grim, violent underbelly of Edinburgh — with a few laughs. Filth is in cinemas on November 21, and thanks to Icon 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
It's a longtime favourite among lovers of contemporary Southeast Asian fare, but this month, Rice Paper Scissors is set to switch continents completely. For 10 days, it's taking a flavour-packed detour through Mexico as part of Melbourne Food & Wine Festival. From Friday, March 24–Sunday, April 2, the Fitzroy restaurant is shaking things up with its new limited-edition Rice Paper Taco menu — a five-course shared banquet that'll be available across both lunch and dinner sittings. For $49, you'll enjoy a vibrant spread of fun fusion dishes from chef Noah Crowcroft, incorporating plenty of punchy Mexican and Asian flavours. Think, chipotle chicken empanadas, tacos stuffed with crispy barramundi and reimagined beef taquitos. Meanwhile, the bar will have a hefty range of drinks available to add on, including some special tequila cocktails befitting the festive vibes. Cool off with the watermelon-infused Sandita, or try the feisty-sounding Pomelo Pummeler made with Patron Silver, yuzu soda and Unico's Pomelo Vermouth. Images: Annika Kafcaloudis
Have you ever been half way through the work week and fantasised about living the simple life? Perhaps you've been dreaming about waking up in a timber cottage with nothing but rolling hills as far as the eye can see? Well, luckily for you, there's a small collection of quaint cottages on vineyards and rustic cabins set amongst idyllic gardens in Victoria — perfect for your next serene weekend venture. To help you live out your dungaree-wearing, straw chewing, horse riding dreams, here's a list of the most charming farm stays across Victoria you can book right now. UNDER A PEPPERCORN TREE, CASTLEMAINE A beautifully renovated self contained studio perched under an ancient peppercorn tree. Just four minutes from Castlemaine, a charming country town with a bounty of restaurants, pubs and small shops. From $216 a night, sleeps two. DOG-FRIENDLY HOLLOW LOG ESTATE, MUSK VALE With weatherboard interiors, a stylish yet quaint kitchen and stain glassed windows, this stone cottage looks like its straight out of a fairytale. Bring your pup for a weekend on the 23 acre property featuring gardens, open paddocks and dams. From $225 a night, sleeps two. HALCYON COTTAGE RETREAT, STRZELECKI This stylish cottage is perfect for a group of friends searching for an idyllic weekend away spent cooking and drinking wine in front of jaw-dropping views of the Strzelecki Ranges. There's a veggie garden and an outdoor bath, too. From $290 a night, sleeps six. MOORAKYLE RETREAT AT EASTERN HILL ORGANIC FARM, BLAMPIED This cottage is set on a 300 acre property that is a registered farm animal rescue and grows wildflowers. Perch yourself on its deep verandah that overlooks grows overlooks native forests, a creek, and Mt Kooroocheang. From $255 a night, sleeps two. BUSH HAVEN CHAPEL NEAR CASTLEMAINE, FRYERSTOWN If you want to mix things up for your next country stay, consider booking a weekend at this chapel (originally built in 1861), which has been lovingly restored and styled. Swim nearby at the mineral spring reservoir if you stay during summer. From $210 a night, sleeps two. ORTO TWO STRAW ECO COTTAGE, BLAMPIED Set on a regenerative permaculture farm, and nestled between even more farms with delightful offerings (free-range pork, home cooked sweets, organic wine and berries), this straw eco cottage also has cooking lessons for two to ten people. From $230 a night, sleeps two. A VIEW TO A HILL, BULLAROO Bullaroo has two spacious bedrooms, each of which can be rented separately or all at once if you're with a group. There's a high-end kitchen and a top floor terrace with a barbecue and bar with sweeping views across acres of farmland. From $690 a night, sleeps five. THE JUNE, BIRCHCREEK This two bedroom cottage is tucked into the foot of the Mornington Peninsula Hinterland, close to beaches and nearby towns. Wander the grounds of the working farm you'll be staying on — you'll see goats, cattle, alpacas and beehives. From $275 a night, sleeps four. RED HILL BARN IN IDYLLIC RURAL SETTING, RED HILL A picturesque barn-style house stands amongst vines and olive groves. The timber wrap-around deck is ideal for afternoon drinks, and there's a dam for swimming on those balmy summer days. From $390 a night, sleeps six. RURAL RETREAT, SELF-CONTAINED STUDIO, WOODFORD If you want alpacas, sheep, pigs and chickens as your neighbours for a weekend, this newly built studio set on five acres of farmland is right up your alley. The farm also supplies fresh free range eggs and has a walking track nearby. From $140 a night, sleeps two. ON A PEACEFUL VINEYARD IN THE YARRA VALLEY REGION, ARTHURS CREEK This B&B is on the first floor of a vineyard farmhouse 45 minutes from Melbourne with world renowned Yarra Valley wineries only a 15 minute drive. If you want to stay in, there's a clawfoot bath for soaking, plus a deck overlooking a private garden. From $246 a night, sleeps two. THE ROCKS, PYALONG This off-grid studio is truly unique — it's surrounded by massive granite boulders and just as many sheep. Bask in views across the Great Dividing Range from the deck, or by the fire through floor to ceiling windows. From $210 a night, sleeps two. MACEDON RANGES FELLCROFT FARMSTAY, COBAW Built by the Crozier family who have been farming in the Macedon Ranges since 1862, every detail in this house has been thoughtfully planned for an authentic and relaxing stay away from the hustle and bustle of city life. From $255 a night, sleeps two. HALFMOON CREEK — MOONDANCE COTTAGE, WANDILIGONG If you've been needing to finish that book with a glass of wine, unreachable by your boss, Moondance Cottage has cozy, rustic decor, no television, no phone reception and gets all of its water and power from the nearby creek. From $255 a night, sleeps two. BABENOREK STUDIO, DEANS MARSH Charmingly styled, with a small but dreamy country-style kitchen and handmade furniture, this solar powered studio was hand-built from lime-rendered straw bales twenty years ago by the family that owns the farm. From $175 a night, sleeps four. TORQUAY FARMSTAY BLUE STUDIO TRUCK, FRESHWATER CREEK Close to Great Ocean Road beaches and national parks, this tiny house has been built on a truck using a recycled timber, windows, doors and stain glass. Don't be fooled by the exteriors — three lofts and a fully functioning kitchen await you inside. From $155 a night, sleeps four. COUNTRY PARADISE IN THE GULLY, SMITHS GULLY The twisted staircase leading to a wooden mezzanine along with stain glass windows and a pitched roof give this farm house a magical feel. Enjoy panoramic views of vineyards, nearby farms and the Kinglake Ranges. From $195 a night, sleeps four. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
Of all the ways to get your seafood fix on a chilly winter day, a piping hot fish pie has to be up there with the best. Wrap some buttery golden pastry around a creamy filling of seafood and you've got yourself some serious comfort food. And now, this classic winter dish has just been taken to the next level. Carlton North fish shop The Fishmonger's Son has teamed up with fellow northsiders Maria's Pasta and The Pie Shop's Matt Wilkinson (Pope Joan, Montalto) to create the fish pie of your lockdown dinner dreams. The limited-edition collaboration features a filling of local scallops, salmon, orange roughy and smoked Shetland cod, encased in a hand-made pastry shell you'll be savouring until the very last crumb. The pies are available daily from The Fishmonger's Son throughout this week (July 21–July 25) until sold out. They come in at $34 each, served snap-frozen and ready to finish in the oven. [caption id="attachment_752265" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Fishmonger's Son, by Brook James[/caption] Top Images: Parker Blain
Saving money is hard. It's especially hard when you live in Melbourne, and there are mouth-watering options for breakfast, lunch and dinner on every corner of every street. Good food comes at a price, and that often thwarts any effort you've made to save your pennies. We did some research and found that it doesn't have to be that hard. In collaboration with Bank of Melbourne, we've come up with three handy guides that will help you save some money while living in the world's most liveable (but expensive) city, Melbourne. Here's the first – your guide to getting a cheap, decent meal every night of the week. [caption id="attachment_585112" align="alignnone" width="1279"] The Aviary Hotel[/caption] MONDAY The first day of saving is always the easiest – so don't start your week by blowing $25 on dinner. On Mondays you can pay no more than $12 for a burger, a pizza or a hot dog at these budget friendly pubs, bars and restaurants. The Aviary Hotel – $12 burger and a pot Sparrow's Philly Cheesesteaks – $8 philly cheesesteak The Mill House – 2 for 1 pizza The Collection Bar – $11 hamburger The Cornish Arms – $11 hotdogs [caption id="attachment_585098" align="alignnone" width="1278"] Beach Burrito[/caption] TUESDAY Just because taco Tuesdays are famous, it doesn't mean its your only option for a cheap dinner. Because you live in Melbourne, you can have fried chicken, a parma or a cheeseburger as well. Choose wisely. The Reverence Hotel – $3 tacos, $3 Mexican beer The Mill House – $10 fried chicken bucket Beach Burrito – $3 tacos The Royston Hotel – $17 parmas and trivia The Burger Project – $9.90 American cheeseburger [caption id="attachment_585087" align="alignnone" width="1278"] Howler[/caption] WEDNESDAY Celebrate the end of hump day by spending no more than $15 on dinner. Head to Howler or The Retreat and grab a burger and a pot for $15. Normally we would suggest skipping the drink and saving the cash – tonight you don't have to. The B.EAST – $10 wings, $10 fried chicken The Retreat Hotel – $14 burger and a pot The Precinct Hotel – $1 dumplings Mr. Scruffs – $5 burgers, $5 nachos Howler – $12 burger and beer [caption id="attachment_585093" align="alignnone" width="1279"] Veggie Pack at Wonderbao[/caption] THURSDAY It's almost the weekend, that's enough of a celebration to indulge in a good piece of steak. Take advantage of steak night and save yourself some extra money for the weekend. The Terminus Hotel – $14 steak, $14 parmas The Penny Black – $12 burgers The Swan Hotel – $12 steak, $12 pie Wonderbao – $9.50 veggie pack [caption id="attachment_585198" align="alignnone" width="1279"] Yum Cha at Oriental Teahouse[/caption] FRIDAY It's Friday – time to celebrate. Indulge (cheaply) in an Asian banquet from Oriental Teahouse or China Bar. How often does 'all can you eat' only set you back $30? Oriental Teahouse – $30 all you can eat yum cha Fitzroy Beer Garden – $10 lunches (12pm–3pm) The Penny Black – $4 pizza Bimbo Deluxe – $4 pizza China Bar – $29 buffet [caption id="attachment_585107" align="alignnone" width="1279"] The Cornish Arms[/caption] SATURDAY Saturday is the perfect night to grab a $4 pizza from Lucky Coq before heading out for a drink. If you end up having a big night, you'll probably end up buying late-night food on your way home. May as well save a little money while you can. Goz City – $10 herbed chicken gozleme Malaysian Laksa House – $9.80 combination laksa The Cornish Arms – $13 burgers (12pm–3pm) Lucky Coq – $4 pizza Acland St Cantina – $8 late-night hotdogs [caption id="attachment_585090" align="alignnone" width="1170"] The Cornish Arms[/caption] SUNDAY If you've followed this guide you'll more than likely have a few extra pennies in your wallet at the end of the week. Don't be tempted to blow it on an expensive meal – get a good Sunday roast at The Penny Black for $12 instead. The Collection Bar – $1 buffalo wings The Cornish Arms – $13 parma Changz Canteen – $1 fried chicken ribs Fitzroy Beer Garden – $10 parma, steak or burger The Penny Black – $12 Sunday roast Bank of Melbourne has collaborated with the National Gallery of Victoria to bring ancient art to life via interactive water projections. Watch the Wishing Well experience here.
Not content with screening movies at its regular site in Yarraville, the Sun Theatre has set up shop in Williamstown for a summer of outdoor cinema. And, for an early autumn filled with films under the stars, too — with the new Shore Cinema Williamstown running through until April. On various nights during its debut season (with evening screenings playing on different days each week), movie buffs will find the projector whirring at the Seaworks Marine Precinct, in the Gantry Plaza right by the water. You'll sit under fairy lights, direct your eyes at the big screen, tuck into choc tops and popcorn from the candy bar, and enjoy food and drinks from nearby cafes and eateries. Tickets start at $15 for an adult, which covers a spot on the grass — BYO seat. Beanbags can be hired for $20, you can score a chair for two for $45, or you can add some wine and snacks for you and your date for $90. As for what you'll be watching, the movie lineup includes recent releases such as The Personal History of David Copperfield, Wonder Woman 1984 and The Dry, plus retro titles like Get Out, Isle of Dogs and Mad Max. For Valentine's Day, you can take your special someone to see Romeo + Juliet — or head by the night before for a double of Before Sunrise and Before Sunset.
If spending more time indoors this winter has you craving all things sweet and comforting, that's understandable. As the world keeps reacting to the COVID-19 pandemic more than a year later, pining for sugar and whatever makes your tastebuds happy is a completely natural response. Enter San Churro's new range of winter snack packs, which are all about pairing its eponymous dish with other dessert favourites. Last year, the nationwide chain has launched a retro-influenced range of churro snack packs. This year, it's adapting the concept to include tried-and-tested sweet treats. So, each kit combines churros — aka long, thin, fried-dough pastries — with something else that'll get your mouth watering. Think: apple pies and s'mores. Each pack comes with mini churros, whichever other dessert is in the spotlight, and your choice of drizzled white, dark or milk chocolate. The apple pie version also includes vanilla ice cream, while the s'mores kit has both cookie butter s'mores and toasted marshmallows. There's a third variety, focusing on jam doughnuts, too — but, given their similarity to churros, they come solo, in balls, then topped with strawberry coulis, vanilla custard and strawberries. The new packs are available in-store now, including for takeaway; however, they're just part of the chain's new winter menu. It's also serving up hot chocolate bombs, but you have to consume them onsite — so, for now, Sydneysiders and Melburnians can't enjoy them during lockdown. What's a hot chocolate bomb? It's a ball of chocolate that comes filled with marshmallows, mini Oreos, or cocoa cereal and Milo. Again, you can choose between white, dark or milk chocolate — and then you pour hot milk over the top and get sipping. San Churro operates 13 stores in New South Wales, nine in Victoria and ten in Queensland, as well as 14 in Western Australia and three in South Australia. San Churro's new winter snack packs are available now. For further information, visit the chain's website.
The Melbourne Food & Wine Festival's 2022 edition is 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 the stunning country town to wine and dine with a talented team of chefs. Highlights include Alejandro Saravia's (Farmer's Daughters) trout tartare with Baw Baw wild herbs and gaufrette potatoes, as well as Trevor Perkins' (Hogget) wild venison cooked over charcoal. You can also snack your way through an array of food pop-ups from chefs including Danielle Alvarez (Fred's in Sydney), Tasmania's Analiese Gregory and Richmond's Hector's Deli crew. Elsewhere, the old general store is being reimagined into a pop-up wine bar featuring offerings from William Downie, ARC Wines and more local labels. Thorpdale natives are also adding their own flare to the feast such as fresh goods from the Thorpdale Bakery and Gippsland brewers dominating the taps. Live music, courtesy of Always Live, will be present throughout the weekend. Guests can expect names like Mia Wray, Dorsal Fins, Grace Cummings and other local talents to show up on stage. Find out more about The Village Feast on the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival website where you can also purchase your tickets starting from $32. [caption id="attachment_871091" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ben Clement[/caption] Top image: The Village Feast — supplied
Movie lovers of Sydney, Melbourne and Perth, take note: Moonlight Cinema is in its home stretch for its 2022–23 season, and it's going out with another round of impressive titles. This openair go-to for flicks under the stars drops its lineup monthly, and has just unveiled the films that'll be filtering through its projectors in March. On the bill: a heap of Oscar-nominees, plenty of big blockbuster hits, a few beloved franchises and a handful of retro classics. Picnic baskets at the ready for autumn movie outings with your date, mates or both, including seeing films that are likely to win shiny trophies at Hollywood's annual night of nights. Among the Oscar contenders, Moonlight Cinema will be screening Ruben Östlund's pitch-black satire Triangle of Sadness, Irish gem The Banshees of Inisherin, the multiverse antics of Everything Everywhere All at Once and decadent Hollywood caper Babylon. You can see the title that'll likely win Cate Blanchett her third Academy Award, too, plus the drama that's put Brendan Fraser in the running — aka Tár and The Whale. Avatar: The Way of Water and Top Gun: Maverick, the latter of which will probably never stop playing cinemas, round out the Oscar lineup — and also cross over with the blockbuster part of the program, clearly. When it comes to recent titles, they're joined by Magic Mike's Last Dance, Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre and the just-released Cocaine Bear. Also at the big end of town, Moonlight Cinema will host preview screenings of both Scream VI and Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves. Take note of the former if you like scary movies, of course. And it wouldn't be a month at this outdoor favourite without the chance to get cosy watching older gems such as The Princess Bride, Easy A and The Proposal. Moonlight is also screening the Lindsay Lohan-starring Mean Girls and The Parent Trap, too — and, in Sydney only, Aussie treasure The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. The exact lineup varies per city — and, for folks in Brisbane and Adelaide, Moonlight's current season in those two spots already ended in mid-February. As always, you can BYO movie snacks and drinks, including alcohol; however, each site also boasts a food truck slinging bites to eat, plus a VIP section for an extra-luxe openair movie experience. Also, dogs are welcome at all sites except Perth, complete with special doggo bean beds and a canine-friendly snack menu. MOONLIGHT CINEMA 2022–23 DATES Sydney: Thursday, November 24–Sunday, March 26 in Centennial Park Perth: Friday, November 25–Sunday, March 26 in Kings Park and Botanic Garden Melbourne: Thursday, December 1–Sunday, March 26 in Royal Botanic Gardens (Moonlight Cinema's Brisbane and Adelaide seasons have already come to an end for 2022–23.) Moonlight Cinema runs through until Sunday, March 26 in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the cinema's website.
Haven't heard the news? World Hummus Day is just around the corner, taking over the world of dip on Tuesday, May 13. What better way to ring in the occasion than heading to Maha North for bottomless servings of Shane Delia's famous hummus? The northside sister to the much-loved Maha in the city, Maha North offers a similar kind of modern Middle-Eastern cuisine, presented in a neighbourhood brasserie. On the menu is a Maha-style selection of dips, including a candied pumpkin hummus with spiced chicken, walnuts and roasted garlic; a whipped almond hummus with smoked Ora King salmon, pine nuts and dill; and a cumin-braised Mount Zero chickpea hummus with almonds and parsley. From Tuesday, May 13–Sunday, May 18, drop in from 5pm on weekdays and 12pm on weekends to enjoy bottomless bowls of hummus for just $30, served with plentiful helpings of house-made flatbread, fennel seed lavosh and fried bread. Add a couple of dishes from Maha North's à la carte offering to transform this easygoing snack session into a fully fledged feast.
Valerie Fong and Randy Dhamanhuri from Operator Venues (Operator25, Middletown, Makan, Operator Diner and Operator San) know a thing or two about running cafes and nailing Melbourne breakfasts. And James Cornwall from Tenable Dining (Bonny Fitzroy, Young Hearts and Seville Estate) has the after-dark drinking and dining trade sorted. And now, by joining forces to create Ruby Dining, they've got a single venue that has you covered from breakfast all the way through to late-night cocktails. The whole vibe here is inspired by theatre-district brasseries in London and New York, so you can expect a playful yet still sophisticated venue that's set up for just about anyone to enjoy. For breakfast, you'll find the same contemporary Australian brunch fare that the Operator venues are so loved for, but with more French sensibilities — there's a mean croque madame, a luxe shokupan french toast and brown butter madeleines topped with whipped goat cheese and honey that are baked to order. When lunch and dinner service roll around, Cornwall's cooking takes centre stage. His interpretation of the modern brasserie sees him showcase great technique — as well as top-notch local produce — without being overly ostentatious. Dishes aren't overly complicated, devilishly small or overpriced. Nonetheless, he is still having plenty of fun with the menu. You've got classics like steak frites, onion tart, and ricotta and pistachio ravioli, plus more playful eats like the one-bite caesar salad and potato cannoli with smoked onion dip. The aforementioned freshly baked madeleines also feature on the lunch and dinner menu, so there's no need to worry about missing out if you're there after brekkie. You'll be tucking into all of this within chic surrounds designed by We Are Humble (Kaiju Cantina, No. 100 Flinders Lane, CoConspirators Brewpub, Code Black Brunswick, Good Measure). The designers have kept some of the building's original features, including the bar, the exposed waffle slab above it and the mirror-panelled walls, while adding splashes of ruby red throughout the dining room and bar. Soft curved frames, Thonet bistro chairs and rich brown upholstery complete the brasserie fitout. When spending time at Ruby, you could easily forget you're in Australia, but perhaps somewhere in London, New York or Paris. But these Melbourne hospo legends have made sure to weave plenty of local touches throughout the whole experience — it still has that Melbourne je ne sais quoi. Images: Jana Langhorst
You don't need to go far to find creativity in Melbourne. Each suburb is brimming with street art, independent boutiques and quirky food vendors. But the smaller guys — those with side hustles, passion projects and small businesses in their garage — are a little harder to find. Enter The Melbourne Collective, a design market which brings all of these local creatives together to showcase products. It's a much-needed platform to find new supporters — and you get the opportunity to discover some new pieces to gift to your mates or yourself (you deserve it). The market's spring outing will take place on Sunday, September 16 at Federation Square. Running from 10am to 4pm, the market will offer everything from home decor and ceramics to stationery and fashion. There'll also be food (vegan options, too) for your inevitable realisation that you've been shopping for a whole day without sustenance. Entry is free so you can save your dollars for all those unique and innovative wares you didn't know you needed.
If you thought rooftop bars were only for warm summers of spritzes and sunshine, think again. Melbourne has provided the goods with a bunch of winter-friendly venues for you to frequent over the chilly months. It won't matter if it's blowing a gail outside, because these spots have retractable roofs, in-built heated seating, warming snacks and plenty of booze to keep you warm. With bars home to bottomless waffles and cocktails fit for a wizard, there's no excuse not to soak up that city skyline this winter. Rain, hail or shine, these are the top bars in Melbourne that have got you covered.
If farewelling winter has put you in the mood to skip town and head out to see some beautiful blooms, Victoria is leaving you spoilt for choice this season. You've probably already got the famed Tesselaar Tulip Festival and Cherryhill Orchards' Blossom Festival on your radar. And here's another — Bendigo's Annual Tulip Display is set to bring the regional town alive with a sea of vibrant flowers from Saturday, September 14–Sunday, October 6. [caption id="attachment_843475" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Victoria[/caption] Bendigo's Pall Mall and Conservatory Garden will be blooming bright as they play host to an eye-catching showcase of more than 43,000 tulips, courtesy of the region's Park and Natural Reserves crew. The display's been carefully curated with a mix of flower colours, sizes and blooming schedules, so you're in for something different each time you visit. As always, the tulips will be free to wander through at your leisure, and there'll be a program of curator talks for anyone looking for inspiration to create their own tulip-filled backyard paradise. Plus, from Friday, September 20–Sunday, October 6, there'll be a special Bloom After Dark event that sees the tulip beds illuminated by colourful light projections. Image: Visit Victoria.
As one of 14 butchers in the Bouchier family, Peter Bouchier has earned the title of 'butcher of distinction', and his store is bound to have exactly what you need for your next important dinner or get together. Over the last 30 years, the business has moved to a number of different spots, but today it can be found on a busy stretch of Malvern Road, Toorak (as well as at outposts at Malvern Central and David Jones CBD). Featuring his own signature style of meat, Peter Bouchier has taken a forward-thinking approach to the business, having acquired a dry-aging cabinet that ensures meat matures in the most ideal conditions possible. Do your Sunday roast justice and head down to Peter Bouchier to stock up on premium quality meats, charcuterie, house-made sauces and stocks, wine and more. Images: Parker Blain.
Famous for its 55-minute workouts and worldwide following, Barry's Bootcamp has become a fitness heavyweight since first setting up shop in West Hollywood back in 1998 — and now it has brought its studios to Melbourne. Fans of high-intensity interval training can now put themselves through Barry's sessions in both South Yarra, with the gym setting up shop in the Como Centre on Toorak Road. While it isn't the company's first Aussie studio — it has three already in Sydney — the new site does mark its first in Victoria, after initially announcing its Melbourne plans back in 2019. A second Victorian venue, in Flinders Lane in the CBD, is also slated to open later this year. If you're a gym junkie, celebrity obsessive or just familiar with the term "Barry's body", then you'll have heard of Barry's. Already active in 23 cities around the globe — including in Los Angeles, New York, Milan, London and Dubai — it's claimed that the studio's sessions burn over 4000 kilojoules. That's thanks to a regimented program that incorporates 25 minutes of treadmill work, 25 minutes of strength and conditioning with free weights and resistance bands, and then a five-minute cool-down. The focus of each class changes daily across Barry's weekly schedule, with each session targeting a different muscle group. As extra motivation, Barry's classes are held in high-energy red rooms, complete with mood lighting and the kind of music you're more likely to hear in a nightclub. Adding to the vibe, each location features its own bar serving up shakes and smoothies — and patrons can also buy workout outfits onsite. As expected, the world-renowned bootcamp class comes with hefty price tag — $36 a pop. You could, alternatively, purchase a 50-class pack for $1400, which works out at $28 a class, or pay a $89 weekly fee. Barry's Bootcamp is now open at Level 2, Como Centre, 299 Toorak Road, South Yarra — open 5.30am–8pm Monday–Friday and 6.45am–1pm Saturday–Sunday. Top image: Georgia Mort.
If you thought your pooch was spoiled before, just you wait until they find themselves living it up at Scratch Patch — the activity-filled pop-up dog park of their twitchiest doggy dreams. The brainchild of ethical pet food company Scratch, Scratch Patch has arrived at Edinburgh Gardens from Saturday, March 5–Sunday, March 27. And oh boy, is it a mood. The playground is filled with fun obstacles and activities for the four-legged crowd, from high jump and agility poles to ball pits and totem tennis. There's even a dog-friendly pop-up pool. If your pup is more of a book worm type, we're sure they'll be pretty stoked with a visit to the on-site stick library. Meanwhile, a tuck shop is slinging an array of healthy Scratch pet food and treats for big appetites. And, since no pet parent can call themselves such without a camera roll full of adorable snaps to prove it, there'll be installations offering photo ops galore. Scratch customers and City of Yarra residents can enjoy Scratch Patch for free, with a $10 cover charge for everyone else. Bookings are required — you'd better snap up a play slot for Luna so she doesn't get left out and have to hear about it from all her mates forevermore.
Now that Melbourne is reopening, you're probably keen to make a splash. Yes, watching fish, penguins and plenty of other marine creatures literally splash about definitely counts. And that's exactly what's on offer at Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium — which isn't back in its official capacity just yet, but is hosting luxe underwater lunches and dinners. Available from on Fridays and Saturdays from November 6, Sea Life's private dining packages will be on offer during the day for the first time in the venue's history, running from 12–3pm. If you'd prefer an evening session, they're on from 6–8.45pm. While you're there, you'll escape into an underwater world, feast your way through a spread of food and drinks, and soak in the intimate vibe. You can choose from one of seven locations, too, so prepare to pick between the shark tunnel, the marine life-filled mermaid garden, the shipwreck theatre section of the oceanarium and the new jellyfish exhibit. Or, you could opt for the seahorse pier, watch penguins in the Antarctica zone or sit above a five-metre-long saltwater crocodile. As well as a three-course meal and two hours of beverages — including sparkling, red and white wines, plus beer — you'll also get a 45-minute tour of the place. The whole experience doesn't come cheap, surprisingly, with a minimum spend in place of $2000 for ten people — so $200 a pop. If you're keen on a smaller booking, you can put your name on a waitlist.
The festive season continues, and what better way to celebrate the Year of the Rat than with a five-course banquet and fancy cocktails — with stunning views, of course. Ocean 12 is going all out for Lunar New Year, offering a special menu and cocktails from January 24 until February 11. To make the most of the occasion, you'll want to book a table for Friday, January 24, when Southbank will come alive with dance, music and performances for the festival's official kick off. Plus, at 10pm, lion dancers will move through the restaurant. Start with a specialty Hennessy VSOP cocktail on the terrace. Choose between the Lucky Lychee Fizz, the Hennessy VSOP and Green Tea or the Fortune in the House — a zesty concoction of Hennessy, orange juice and kumquat. Then, tuck into a Chinese feast of dumplings, pork buns, steamed greens and fried chicken with Chinese salad. Or opt for the chef's daily special for $25. If you want to take things up a notch, you can settle in for a VIP banquet menu in one of Ocean 12's private karaoke rooms. You'll be hosted by the chefs and dining on dishes such as scallop and prawn dumplings; steamed grouper with spiced greens; sautéed lobster with egg noodle; and green beans in XO sauce. Oh, and an opulent wagyu steak drizzled with truffle oyster sauce. It costs a cool $250 a head and is available for group sizes of four to ten people, with the option of Hennessy VSOP pairings for an additional $100. Afterwards, pick up the mic and sing your heart out to keep the party going. Bookings are only required for the VIP banquet menu, which can be made via info@ocean12.com.au or Ocean 12's website.
If you've got a thing for hip hop and fancy sussing out the freshest local talent, there's only one place you need to be on Saturday, March 12. That's when not-for-profit arts organisation L2R takes over Footscray Community Arts Centre for a huge all-ages block party. It all kicks off at 12pm with a community barbecue feast on the lawn, before a jam-packed program of tunes and dance fires up the afternoon. You'll catch hip hop showcases, 2-on-2 battles, and performances by L2R crews and a host of emerging talent, spanning a mix of styles including breakin', vogue, house, dance hall and more. It's safe to say you won't be sitting still in your seat once these guys get going. There'll be plenty of special guests on the bill, and a lineup of live acts and DJs to soundtrack the afternoon's festivities. Plus, a stack of local food trucks will be on hand to fuel those moves. Under 18s can score free entry, while adult tickets clock in at an easy $10. [caption id="attachment_844190" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Footscray Community Arts Centre, by Gianna Rizzo[/caption] Top Images: L2R dancers, by Sam Wong
Part of the revamped Hotel Continental, speakeasy and entertainment venue Barlow pulls inspiration from the grand sandstone building's original founder, George Coppin. Coppin also started a local theatre company, acting in many of its productions under the stage name of Billy Barlow. "The name 'Barlow', represents it as a space where you can be whoever you want to be," co-owner Craig Shearer tells Concrete Playground. A luxe nightclub, cocktail bar and live music venue in one, Barlow is a collaborative affair — just like its Continental siblings. It leans on Shearer's (The Terminus Fitzroy North, Brisbane's The Plough) own extensive experience in the pub game, with food by chef Scott Pickett (Estelle, Matilda) and sips from the Speakeasy Group (Eau de Vie, Nick & Nora's, Mjolner). [caption id="attachment_848432" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Gareth Sobey[/caption] Moody, luxurious Woods Bagot interiors lend an old-world feel to the 140-seat space, all plush burgundy banquettes and emerald-hued walls. An impressive booze offering translates to a cocktail aficionado's dream menu, filled with beautifully-executed classics and standout signatures. Seasonal sips might include the likes of the Mornington Margarita made with a salt and pepper pineapple syrup ($25), or the Something for Rosie infused with raspberry- and rose-smoked earl grey tea ($22). That's backed by a global list of vino, offering plenty of options by the glass and including a crop of half bottles to match music- or comedy-filled evenings by the stage. [caption id="attachment_848439" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kristoffer Paulsen[/caption] On that note, Barlow's broad-ranging, ever-evolving live entertainment program is out to wow locals and visitors alike, with help from a custom state-of-the-art sound system. You'll be able to dip into everything from live rock gigs, to jazz, to comedy, to DJ sets, up to five nights a week throughout the year. As for the food, expect a selection of snacks, share plates and dedicated late-night eats, all infused with Pickett's signature flair. Ortiz anchovies ride atop house-made tomato toasts with capers and egg yolk, and spring rolls are stuffed with spanner crab and king prawn, then finished with a peanut lime nam jim. What's more, night owls can keep the groove going until 2am with fried chicken — here, matched with caviar and creme fraiche — and hefty New York-style pizzas by the slice. [caption id="attachment_848435" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kristoffer Paulsen[/caption] Images: Interiors by Gareth Sobey; Food by Kristoffer Paulsen
Back in 2019, the thought of spending August in Melbourne doing anything other than sitting in a darkened room watching movie after movie would've sounded like flat-out cinephile blasphemy. Thankfully, after two pandemic-affected years that put Melbourne International Film Festival's in-person plans on hold not once but twice, that idea won't be a reality in 2022. Yes, the city's major cinema celebration is back in its best guise this year — and it'll have you making grooves in your favourite ACMI, The Capitol, Forum, Hoyts Melbourne Central, IMAX, Kino Cinema and Cinema Nova seats again. You'd better stock up on healthy mid-film snacks now, given you'll soon have a massive 371 features, shorts and extended-reality titles to watch. You'd best start training for all that time spent sitting down, too. Hitting cinemas for the first time in three years after pivoting online in 2020 and 2021 out of lockdown-fuelled necessity, MIFF is returning to Melbourne's picture palaces with a bang between Thursday, August 4–Sunday, August 21. That's already been obvious since back in June, when the fest unveiled its first 33 flicks for this year, its 70th event — and the full 2022 lineup proves that accurate again. Among the highlights, MIFF will boast the Australian premiere of The Stranger, a true-crime thriller starring Joel Edgerton (Obi-Wan Kenobi) and Sean Harris (Spencer), as directed by Acute Misfortune's Thomas M Wright; the local debut of Aftersun, another straight-from-Cannes pick led by Normal People's Paul Mescal; a big session of Three Thousand Years of Longing, the Tilda Swinton (Memoria)- and Idris Elba (The Harder They Fall)-starring latest from Mad Max: Fury Road's George Miller; and also David Cronenberg's Crimes of the Future, the iconic filmmaker's first feature since 2014's Maps to the Stars. Also massive: the Aussie premiere of documentary Moonage Daydream. As the title instantly makes plain to fans of David Bowie, it's all about the music icon, with Cobain: Montage of Heck and Jane filmmaker Brett Morgen creating a collage that steps through the singer's life using restored and never-before-seen footage. Or, there's also Decision to Leave, a noir romance that saw Korean filmmaker Park Chan-wook (Stoker, Oldboy) win Cannes' Best Director gong — and documentaries by Ethan Coen (The Ballad of Buster Scruggs), making his solo directing debut by surveying Jerry Lee Lewis; and Luca Guadagnino (Call Me by Your Name), about shoe designer Salvatore Ferragamo. In 2022, MIFF is debuting a new competition, too, which'll boast a $140,000 Best Film Award. Called Bright Horizons, it'll feature 11 movies vying for the prize — including the aforementioned The Stranger and Aftersun, Mexican drug trade drama Robe of Gems, cyber-musical Neptune Frost, Sundance Special Jury Award-winner Leonor Will Never Die, and Aussie filmmaker Alena Lodkina's (Strange Colours) second feature Petrol. The list of MIFF highlights also covers Palme d'Or winner Triangle of Sadness, which satirises the mega rich, is directed by Force Majeure's Ruben Östlund, and marks his second Palme win after The Square; and Broker, the latest from acclaimed Japanese filmmaker Hirokazu Kore-eda, who won the Palme d'Or back in 2018 with the sublime Shoplifters. This time, the latter has made a movie in Korea — his first Korean-language film, in fact, starring Parasite's Song Kang-ho, who won Cannes' Best Actor Award — with Broker again exploring the ties that bind and the connections of family. MIFF's genre selection is always a treat, and 2022 is no different. That's where you'll find standouts such as Bodies Bodies Bodies, the A24 horror-comedy starring Rachel Sennott, Amandla Stenberg and Pete Davidson; Canberra-shot social media-skewering delight Sissy; and Something in the Dirt, the latest mind-bender directed by and starring Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead (The Endless). The fest is also dedicating its filmmaker retrospectives to Hungarian auteur Márta Mészáros and French-Bosnian writer/director Lucile Hadžihalilović — and, there's also opening night's coming-of-age feature Of an Age, a Hear My Eyes session of Chopper, the Aubrey Plaza (Best Sellers)-starring thriller Emily the Criminal, and horror-comedy Mona Lisa and the Blood Moon from A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night's Ana Lily Amirpour.
Gone are the days when gin was simply a clear spirit that tasted good with tonic. It still is, but it now comes in so many varieties that you could dedicate an entire liquor cabinet just to juniper-based beverages. Shiraz gin, chardonnay barrel-aged gin, spiced Christmas gin, pink gin made from cherries and raspberries, green ant gin and even non-alcoholic gin — they're just some of the recent types tempting your tastebuds. And if most of the above sound great for an Australian summer, then consider Bass and Flinders' truffle-infused gin your new winter go-to. Returning for 2018, the limited-edition truffle gin blends fresh Australian Black Perigord truffles — sourced from Red Hill farms, where possible — with a vapour-infused mix of juniper, angelica root and calamus root. Like all of the distillery's tipples, it also uses Bass and Flinders' grape-based eau de vie spirit, which creates a particularly smooth texture. "It is a standalone gin that's wonderful neat, or alongside creamy sauces and strong cheeses," says head distiller Holly Klintworth — or, you could opt to make your own truffle martini. Whichever way you'd like to drink it, the truffle gin is available from Friday, July 13 from Bass and Flinders' cellar door in Victoria's Red Hill, as well as via the distiller's website. If you happen to be in the vicinity of the former on Saturday, July 14, you can also take part in a truffle hunt, which includes truffle gin tastings plus cocktails with cheese platters.
Like the idea of heading out bush to spend an evening kicking back beneath the night sky, stargazing, feasting and being entertained with live tunes? Well, that's all on the cards if you nab a ticket to A Night Under the Stars in Buchan this month. This star-filled adventure will take place amongst the rolling hills of The Stockmans Camp farm stay on Saturday, April 22, designed to enchant astronomy enthusiasts of all ages. Kicking off from 5.30pm, guests will enjoy a two-course country-style dinner followed by a cosy gathering around a roaring campfire, sipping hot chocolate, toasting marshmallows and soaking up the sweet sounds of Gippsland local Olivia Lay. [caption id="attachment_896484" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Scott Kingman[/caption] But the night's main event will centre on what's happening above, as the Astronomical Society of Victoria guides punters on one of its sky tours, sharing the celestial secrets of the night sky and pointing out all of its major features. The team will even be bringing along a bunch of telescopes so you can get a next-level view of all those nebula, constellations and planets. You can drop by just for the event, with adult tickets priced at $65. Or, if you want to make a getaway of it, The Stockmans Camp has a range of onsite camping and cabin options available, starting from $20. [caption id="attachment_896487" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Stockmans Camp, by We Are Explorers[/caption] Top image: Scott Kingman
Don your rainbow flags, bust out the glitter and pop on some platform boots (or comfy walking shoes) for Melbourne's annual celebration of gender and sexuality solidarity. In 2020, the Midsumma Pride March marks its 25th year of the LGBTQIA+ community coming together, loud and proud. At 11am on Sunday, February 2, the parade will head down Fitzroy Street in St Kilda to declare that marching for pride is as important now as it was 25 years ago, and to celebrate love and community with our friends, family, lovers and allies. The fanfare will make its way to the foreshore of Catani Gardens, where the party will continue on the Summer Pride Stage. All of this is a part of Midsumma Festival 2020's huge program of queer arts and cultural events coming to Melbourne for 22 days this summer. Image: Dean Arcuri.
FOMO — Australia's clash-free, one-day summer festival — is back for a fourth year. This year, it's making its return to Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide, and bringing the full festival to Melbourne for the first time ever. Leading the program is famed American-Trinidadian rapper Nicki Minaj, who released her high-energy, highly acclaimed fourth album Queen just last month — which features everyone from The Weeknd to Ariana Grande, Eminem and Lil Wayne. Hot on her heels is Mississippi's Rae Sremmurd, the hip-hop trio best-known for its chart-topping hit 'Black Beatles' made in collaboration with Gucci Mane. Meanwhile, Florida's Lil Pump is heading Down Under for the first time, bringing hits 'Gucci Gang', 'Esskeetit' and songs from his yet-to-be released album Harvard Dropout, and electro music producer Mura Masa will break up the hip hop and rap with his disco tunes. Also on the schedule is Kali Uchis, making her Australian debut and performing hits off her widely acclaimed album Isolation, along with the mononymous avant-garde Sophie, Australia's own Anna Lunoe, and Dutch experimental artist San Holo, among others. FOMO will take over Flemington Racecourse on Sunday, January 13. $1 from every sale is going to refugee charity Asylum Seeker Resource Centre and, if you can't afford your ticket in one fell swoop, you can opt for a payment plan, which lets you pay it off via monthly instalments. FOMO 2019 LINEUP Nicki Minaj Rae Sremmurd Lil Pump Mura Masa Kali Uchis San Holo Anna Lunoe Sophie Cosha Carmouflage Rose Just A Gent MIMI triple j Unearthed winners Image: Mitch Lowe
All across New South Wales, stages are being swept, setlists are being finalised, speakers are being stress tested, and crowds are gearing up — all for the long-awaited return of Great Southern Nights in 2025. Great Southern Nights sees well over 300 gigs taking place in major cities across the state — stretching from Byron Bay to Broken Hill and beyond. The Central Coast, just north of Sydney, is one of the festival's main regions. If you're planning to head up for a gig or if you happen to be in the area between Friday, March 21 and Sunday, April 6, we've teamed up with Great Southern Nights to tell you when and where the hottest gigs are taking place and where to catch your breath between them. The Lineup So who is actually on the lineup? The highlight acts start with The Rions, hitting the stage at The Sunken Monkey in Erina on Saturday, March 22. The next day, Australian Idol star Marcia Hines takes the spotlight at The Art House in Wyong, a fittingly flashy venue for such a star. Later on, the fun returns to Erina in the form of indie trio Telenova on Thursday, March 27. That's not all — next on the roster is the ARIA-nominated Ngaiire, who will make a memorable appearance across Lake Macquarie in Warner's Bay Theatre on Saturday, March 29. And among the final weekend roster are two examples of what Great Southern Night does best: homegrown talent. The Art House in Wyong will set the scene for Troy Cassar-Daley while 90's Aussie rock icons Baby Animals bring the noise to Doyalson RSL on Friday, April 4, and Melbourne rock trio The Grogans end things with a show at Drifter's Wharf, Gosford on Sunday, April 6. Local Eats and Treats The Central Coast is a big place, so there are plenty of fantastic bars, cafes and restaurants to discover all over. However, allow us to offer some suggestions and hints to get you started. If you're near Erina, seek out the fine flavours of the Tuscan countryside at La Gioia; get a cosy garden meal and a boutique gin cocktail at Bar Botanica; or enjoy drinks by night and coffee by day at the Tame Fox. In Wyong, one of the most popular spots for patrons of all ages is the historic Wyong Milk Factory — it boasts breakfast and lunch menus (the former available from 7.30am and the latter from 10.30am), a kid's play area, the secluded Holy Cow Bar and a range of local dairy-based products for sale. Another favourite is Woodblock Bar & Grill, which dishes out hefty plates of comfort food for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Otherwise, Terrigal boasts one of the highest concentrations of quality restaurants in the area and is definitely worth a visit during your stay. [caption id="attachment_920860" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Terrigal Ocean Tours[/caption] Things to Do and Places to See You'll need breaks between gigs of course, so where can you take some time off? The Central Coast is home to some of Mother Nature's most stunning and accessible sights spanning beaches, bushland and beyond. In addition to excellent dining options, Terrigal also stands out as one of Sydney's top seaside suburbs for visitors. Be it whale watching or a simple swim, this is one heck of a beach trip. Another divine coastal destination is Bouddi National Park, which traces the shoreline from Broken Bay to MacMasters Beach. Here, you can lace up the boots and hit a walking trail, pitch a tent and camp on one of its beaches and keep your eyes peeled for protected marine life, a shipwreck and more. Elsewhere, take a sunny boat tour on a working oyster farm (with tastings included) in Broken Bay, enjoy a close encounter with native wildlife at the free-range, heritage-listed Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary or spend two-and-a-half hours scrambling, climbing and bouncing through the tree canopy at Treetops Adventure Central Coast. [caption id="attachment_947613" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific[/caption] Where to Spend the Night Rest assured there are plenty of ideal overnight stays scattered around the Central Coast. If you're on a budget, the Pacific Highway offers motels aplenty, but if you're willing to splash a bit of cash, we have some suggestions. If you can't bear to part from the always-buzzing and beautiful Terrigal, Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific is your best bet. Just across the road from the water and with sunrise views to boot, it's one of the most luxurious stays in the area. With an onsite luxury restaurant, Meribella, offering breakfast, dinner and luxe set menus and the ground floor eatery Terrigal Beach House serving beers, snacks and seafood platters, you're certainly not going to leave hungry. Further north is another great pick that oozes luxury, Pullman Magenta Shores, resting between The Entrance and Soldier's Beach. This more secluded stay is easily accessed but further from any hustle and bustle, ideal for anyone seeking a bit of serenity. Though it's not far from the beach, Pullman Magenta Shores offers swimming, dining and relaxation en masse within its property. Rooms vary from villas to studios, and you'll have your pick of dining from two on-site venues for maximum convenience. If you want something a touch more rustic, the Central Coast is home to quite a few countryside stays in its western districts. Close to Wyong in the Yarramalong Valley is Lost Ranches Farmstay, a barn situated on 50 acres of historic farmland, perfect for larger groups who want to avoid staying within earshot of the action. Head out west even further, and you could end up glamping in Noonaweena to really get out into the wilderness of the Central Coast. Great Southern Nights is set to take over venues across NSW between Friday, March 21 and Sunday, April 6. Check out our gig guides for Sydney, Wollongong and Newcastle or visit the website for more information.
Whether you've got a full-blown backyard, a balcony or just a sunny window sill, you've got room to cultivate your own nifty herb garden. And this spring, you can learn how to turn that herb garden into a tasty feast, when Bunnings Doncaster hosts its free Patch to Plate masterclass. Book your spot on Saturday, October 1, and join horticulturalist Chloe Thomson and Instagram food whizz Jessica Nguyen for a hands-on class that'll teach you not just how to grow herbs, but how to use them to make culinary magic. [caption id="attachment_869285" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jess Nguyen[/caption] Thomson will guide you through creating your own mini herb garden — to keep — as well as sharing her key tips to have those greens thriving. Then, Nguyen will be serving up the day's cooking inspo, demonstrating how to make her signature pea and herb smash, teamed with burrata and homemade focaccia. There'll be goody bags, tastings, refreshments and giveaways, plus you'll get a chance to ask the experts any burning questions you might have. There are two sessions to choose from — 10–11.30am and 12.30–2pm. Spots are free, though you'll need to book online to secure one.
If you're in the market for new sunnies this season, skip the shops and head to one of Sunglass Hut's Face the Sun sessions instead. Each themed event — dubbed 'The Raver', 'The Indulger', 'The Relaxer' and 'The Explorer' — comes complete with a complimentary pair of shades, plus a whole heap of other perks and good times. Coming up on Sunday, December 1 is a rooftop gig, hosted at Notel Melbourne that kicks off at 3pm till 9pm. You can kick off the festivities with a makeover by professional hair stylists and makeup artists to get you rave ready, then, pick your new pair of party-perfect sunnies — think big retro styles, colourful lenses and razor-sharp 90s shades. Don them as you get down on the dance floor, watching as the sun goes down. Tunes-wise, you can expect an intimate performance by indie songstress GRAACE in the afternoon followed by party maker DJ Tori Levett with a whole lot of bangers. Plus, to keep you going, bar snacks will also be provided throughout the event. This one-off rave will run from 3–9pm and costs $50, which includes complimentary sunnies, a makeover, live tunes and snacks. To see the full event details of this limited-edition series, head here.
If you love a good stinky cheese, then South Melbourne Market's A Fromage Affair best be on your hit list for things to do this October. From Wednesday, October 18–Saturday, October 28, cheese lovers can embark on their own self-guided food tour of the market, tasting their way through 11 different dishes made just for the event. The $85 ticket gets you a stamp card and map to all the traders slinging cheese-filled treats, all included in the ticket price. You can then visit each vendor within your allotted session. Start the day at K-Sein Fromagerie, where you'll nosh on three cheeses and learn about all the different cheeses available at the market. From there, you'll choose the order of your own self-guided tour, trying a special brie and apple croissant at Agathe Patisserie, and a big German pretzel with camembert beer dip at Little Hof. What else is on the menu? Mornay oysters from Aptus Seafood Grill, ten-cheese croquettes from SMITHBURG, gorgonzola arancini from Pieno Do Grazia, raclette from Emerald Deli, lemon cheesecake gelato from Fritz Gelato and a heap of other cheesy treats. You can buy extra goodies to take home from each trader, or upgrade your ticket for an extra $55 to include an exclusive produce bag filled with gourmet cheeses and accompaniments. Think of the whole tour as a moving degustation — where you wander around the market trying 11 small courses, each from a different vendor. [caption id="attachment_922469" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Simon Shiff[/caption]
Don't dawdle — The Exchange Beach Club is only around for four weeks, from Friday, January 24 to Monday, February 24. The month-long pop-up will bring private cabanas, umbrella-covered outdoor seating, refreshments and entertainment right onto the sand of Port Melbourne Beach. You can enjoy an ice-cold cocktail — think boozy iced tea, passionfruit caprioskas and slushies — while playing a spot of beach volleyball or totem tennis. Then you can tuck into fish and chips, a lobster roll or a burger as the sun goes down and a DJ plays summer beats. There'll also be an ice cream cart on site for when those sweet cravings hit, and, on Thursdays, the club will be hosting bottomless cocktail sunset sessions with dinner for $59 per person. Private cabanas will be available for hire across two five-hour sessions for up to four people. Oh, and puppies are welcome, too, with water bowls and free dog treats provided. The beach bar will be open from midday until 10pm each day. To make a booking, head this way.
Grief. Love. The desire to protect one's family. Nothing is sacred in the films of Yorgos Lanthimos, and nor should it be. The ringleader of Greek cinema's so-called weird wave, the writer-director is adept at exposing the pretence and routine at the foundations of our society, and revealing the transactional side of modern-day life. While completely his own distinctive creations, Lanthimos' absurd, audacious movies recall the work of auteurs like Stanley Kubrick, David Lynch and Michael Haneke, as he strikes at the very heart of what it means to be alive. Driven by needs and wants, and self-serving to a truly horrifying degree, his vision of humanity as seen in The Killing of a Sacred Deer is unmistakably bleak. When cardiologist Steven Murphy (Colin Farrell) and teenager Martin (Barry Keoghan) meet for a meal, their conversation is distant but well-meaning. They're not close, though the right sentiments appear to be in place — a kindly adult looking out for a somewhat wayward youth. But before long, Martin's demand for Steven's attention increases, intruding into the doctor's professional and domestic bliss. The boy comes over for dinner, and meets Steven's ophthalmologist wife Anna (Nicole Kidman), and children Bob (Sunny Suljic) and Kim (Raffey Cassidy). Soon after, Steven dines at Martin's house, fending off some obviously orchestrated advances from his mother (Alicia Silverstone). Then Bob mysteriously falls ill — and Martin issues an ominous warning. The awkwardness you feel when someone answers a question a little too brusquely: that is Lanthimos' domain. So too is the sense of unease that lingers when you know, deep down, that you're just going through the motions with your loved ones, friends and colleagues. Like Dogtooth, Alps and The Lobster before it, the filmmaker's latest is filled with examples that show how automatic, insincere responses, designed to help us get what we want with minimal fuss, comprise most of our daily encounters. That said, The Killing of a Sacred Deer also comes with a particularly chilling twist. As conveyed through the twisting narrative as well as Lanthimos' aesthetic trademarks — glossy visuals, an icy mood and purposefully stilted performances — the leap from pleasantries and small talk to making tragic, life-altering decisions is a very short one indeed. Of course, there's more to the movie than the plot laid out above — one which, at the thematic level, smartly and savagely toys with accountability, sacrifice and revenge, and is partially inspired by Greek mythology. But discovering where Lanthimos takes this dark, discomforting tale is part of the unsettling joy of watching. There's not only tension and intrigue in the film's terse exchanges and increasingly brutal stakes, but ample black comedy as well. The Killing of a Sacred Deer presents a moral quandary that turns commonplace interactions into a map of how ludicrous, cruel and calculating our existence can be, while also laying bare the costs and consequences of our actions. Faced with that reality, the audience can do little more than laugh. Thankfully, the cast couldn't be better suited to guiding viewers through this uniquely unnerving, often amusing experience. At times, Lanthimos shoots them from a distance, dwarfed by picture-perfect hospital hallways and suburban houses. In other moments, they're so close that you can almost feel the rapid beating of their pulse. Like their director, Farrell, Kidman and Keoghan all find the sweet spot between detached and invested, as though they're navigating a hazy waking nightmare. Still, as fantastic as the work of the two big-name stars may be, viewers will want to keep their eyes firmly on the young man from Dunkirk. Mixing menace and vulnerability with near-alarming precision, Keoghan is undoubtedly a star in the making — and here, he will chill you to the bone. You won't forget his performance easily, nor the jaw-dropping film in which it's found. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVeYmGliO4Y
In 2018's Skate Kitchen, filmmaker Crystal Moselle let audiences air and ollie through New York, with the entrancing and often dreamlike teenage drama stepping inside an all-female skateboarding crew. Even better: it was based on a real-life group of the same name, and starred its members. Now, because this story just keeps getting better, the director has brought all of the above back for TV spinoff Betty. You don't need to have seen the film to enjoy this slice-of-life look at these girl skaters' lives, however. All you need is a couple of hours to watch these young women hit their boards, navigate the normal adolescent experiences, and cope with all the ups and downs of trying to literally glide through a male-heavy realm. And, to simply enjoy spending time with these friends — because Moselle is particularly skilled at making her viewers feel like they're part of the gang.
The historical city of Ballarat is home to one of the most widely anticipated brewing festivals in Australia. And on Saturday, Janaury 19, it'll return for its fourth instalment, serving up a mind-boggling selection of Aussie craft beers and ciders. The Ballarat Beer Festival is set to showcase 43 makers in the picturesque new location of Ballarat's Northern Gardens. Expect to see offerings from old hands such as Little Creatures, Grand Ridge and Bright Brewery alongside newer ventures like the ever-growing Stomping Ground Brewery, and many others. But it's not just for hopheads — artisanal cideries including Flying Brick and Cheeky Rascal will also be popping up to pour a few, and wine lovers can look to the stalls of Taltarni, Blue Pyrenees Estate and The Mallow Hotel for some top-notch tipple. There'll also be a number of beer education events, beer trivia and beer-fuelled yoga sessions on offer. A food garden, hosted by brewing powerhouse Hawkers Beer, will take care of your appetite with a wide variety of food trucks and stalls available from Benny Burgers, GoGo Icecream, Opa Greek Food, East India Trading Company and more. Plus, live music and DJs will perform throughout the day, with such acts as nine-piece band Butterfunked, crooner Frank Sultana and blues artist PJ O'Brian. Located just 90 minutes from Melbourne CBD, you could easily make Ballarat Beer Festival a day trip — but then there's the awkward conversation of who'll be designated driver. Instead, use it as an excuse for a weekend jaunt, then check out our guide of other things to eat, see and do while you're there. Getting there early will also mean you can get a head start on the beer festivities with a special degustation on Friday, January 18. Held at Housey Housey, this dinner will feature two craft beer specialists taking guests through five beer and food pairings ($125 per person). General admission tickets for Ballarat Beer Festival cost $51.37, with discounts available for group bookings. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the website.
Given the Fast and Furious franchise's title, you'd think that driving speedily and passionately is what this big-budget film series is all about. Chaotic and OTT car antics play a hefty part, as the 2001 original, its seven sequels to-date and its 2019 spin-off have all shown via a constant onslaught of hectic stunts. But if there's one thing that this Vin Diesel-starring and -produced saga loves just as much as vehicular mayhem, it's family. Over the years, Diesel's Dominic Toretto has extended the term 'family' to include not only his girlfriend-turned-wife Letty (Michelle Rodriguez), his sister Mia (Jordana Brewster), her husband Brian (the late Paul Walker) and their various offspring, but their extended motley crew of fast-driving pals as well. Dom talks about family rather often, usually over a few Coronas with said friends and family. The gang has even faced off against a family of adversaries, courtesy of brothers Owen and Deckard Shaw (Luke Evans and Jason Statham), and their mother Magdalene (Helen Mirren). So, when it comes to Fast and Furious 9, it's unsurprising that the franchise is leaning heavily on one of its favourite concepts. Obviously eye-catching, jaw-dropping stunts also feature — complete with a rocket car (yes, really) — but somehow, the saga hasn't expended all family-related options just yet. As both the initial trailer back in early 2020 and the long-awaited, just-dropped second trailer for the delayed flick reveals, the villain this time is John Cena, who joins the series as Dom's younger brother Jakob. When the film hits cinemas in June after being postponed for more than a year due to the pandemic, don't expect a happy sibling reunion. This flick's outlandish set pieces will pit Dom and the crew against Jakob, who has teamed up with returning criminal mastermind Cypher (Charlize Theron). Basically, they could've called this film Fast and Furious: More Stunts and More Family, which is exactly what both trailers so far serve up. Of course, that's what's made this franchise a huge box-office success for two decades now — and those action scenes, while typically defying logic, physics and gravity, are always expertly, astonishingly and entertainingly choreographed. As well as Diesel, Rodriguez, Brewster, Cena, Theron and Mirren, Fast and Furious 9 also stars franchise mainstays Tyrese Gibson and Ludacris, plus Game of Thrones' Nathalie Emmanuel (who joined the series back in 2015's Furious 7 and is now considered part of Dom's family). And, it features the highly anticipated return of Sung Kang as Han, which is quite the narrative development if you've been following every quarter mile this series has ever sped across. After a two-film absence, the movie also marks the return of The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, Fast & Furious, Fast Five and Fast & Furious 6 director Justin Lin. Check out the new trailer for F9 below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xzVw9QTBKJk Fast and Furious 9 releases in Australian cinemas on Thursday, June 17. Image: 2021 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
When you're watching The Room, or reading behind-the-scenes memoir The Disaster Artist, or seeing the star-studded film the latter spawned as well, one big fact is always glaringly apparent. It's inescapable. It's as obvious as Tommy Wiseau's lanky hair and awkward demeanour. It's as plain as the spoons scattered throughout The Room. Yes, Greg Sestero went through one helluva experience. Of course, if it wasn't for The Room, Sestero mightn't have enjoyed his current fame. When you're in a movie that's so bad it's bad but also someone great to watch — but definitely not great itself by any standards — that's a particular kind of success. So, Sestero has made the most of it. He penned The Disaster Artist. He popped up in the flick based on it. He reteamed on-screen with Wiseau for the two-part Best F(r)iends. And he heads to screenings, doing Q&As to chat about all things The Room, too. It's been five years since Sestero last came to Australia to indulge the nation's The Room fixation, but for a week from Sunday, February 12–Saturday, February 18, he's back. His timing is perfect given that Wiseau's disasterpiece notches up 20 years in 2023. Spoons at the ready, clearly. Sestero is heading to Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and Melbourne to do two things: get talking about The Room as part of 20th-anniversary sessions, and also show his new horror film Miracle Valley. This one is a horror movie on purpose, rather than accidentally like The Room, and also marks Sestero's feature directorial debut. "Few other countries have embraced The Room as Aussies have," said Sestero, "so it feels right to celebrate twenty years of a film few expected would be remembered beyond the premiere with the fans Down Under. This will be my fifth visit to Australia, and I can't wait to get back there." For newcomers to The Room — with your pristine minds currently untainted by its wonders, and your vocabulary free from constantly saying "oh hi Mark" — it tells the tale of a banker, his adulterous fiancée, his conflicted best friend, a local teen caught up in a drug deal, a mother with cancer, a particularly tense party, a bunch of guys playing football in tuxedos and the worst apartment decorating scheme you've ever seen. Wondering how all of these things come together? Even the wildest combination you can come up has nothing on The Room. As for Miracle Valley, it's about an obsessive photographer and his girlfriend, who head off on a desert getaway but get threatened by sinister forces. No — disappointingly or welcomely, depending on how you feel about The Room — Wiseau is not among the credited cast. GREG SESTERO AUSTRALIAN TOUR 2023: Sunday, February 12 — Hayden Orpheum, Sydney Tuesday, February 14 — Dendy Coorparoo, Brisbane Wednesday, February 15 — Luna Palace, Perth Friday, February 17 — Palace Nova, Adelaide Saturday, February 18 — Cinema Nova, Melbourne Greg Sestero is touring Australia from Sunday, February 12–Saturday, February 18. Head to the Hayden Orpheum, Dendy Coorparoo, Luna Palace, Palace Nova and Cinema Nova websites for tickets and further details.
Slumbering surrounded by red kangaroos, emus, echidnas and koalas just got cosier, and more targeted to couples keen on an animal-filled getaway without their mates in tow. Up at Australia Zoo, the Queensland tourist attraction has been welcoming overnight guests to Beerwah since 2022, launching The Crocodile Hunter Lodge with two-bedroom cabins. Now, it's expanded its accommodation options to include one-bedroom spaces, adding four new rustic lodges. If you're keeping count, that gives Australia Zoo 12 cabins in total now, all tailored for memorable and unique holidays. Here, patrons can visit the zoo, check out all creatures great and small, then stay the evening. There's even a wild group of eastern grey kangaroos that are seen hopping around the place each day. The four new one-bedroom 'Red Kangaroo' cabins come complete with wraparound decks that peer out over the site's bushland surroundings, as well as the wildlife within it. Expect to spy microbats, owls, kookaburras, possums and parrots, too, with nest boxes placed around the lodges to create homes for each. Also included: king-size beds, kitchens in each cabin, heated floors, smart TVs in the lounge, private carports and stone bathtubs for post-zoo soaks. Plus, guests all get access to The Billabong, the Crocodile Hunter Lodge's 25-metre infinity pool, which also looks out over the native wildlife. "We're delighted to introduce four wonderful one-bedroom cabins for guests, which will help us cater to groups of different sizes," said Terri Irwin. "The Lodge offers a unique and immersive experience that not only reflects on our conservation work, but honours Steve's important dream to connect people with wildlife and encourage them to become true conservationists." Whichever size cabin you stay in, your visit comes with unlimited Australia Zoo entry, where more than 1200 animals await — and a peek inside the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital. Getaways here still don't come cheap, though, with prices starting at around $949 for an overnight visit for two adults. For larger groups planning a visit, three-bedroom cabins will also join the site in 2023, with an exact opening date yet to be revealed. When it first opened its doors, The Crocodile Hunter Lodge launched alongside the zoo's Warrior Restaurant & Bar, if you're looking for somewhere to grab a bite during your trip. Boasting a focus on Aussie cuisine, locally sourced ingredients, and paying homage to Indigenous Australians and the plants that have long been part of First Nations diets, it welcomes in lodge guests and general punters for breakfast, lunch or dinner, and also for group bookings in its private dining room. The Crocodile Hunter Lodge's grounds also spans more than 3000 native trees and shrubs, including greenery that provides food for species such as the endangered glossy black cockatoo, with sustainability and conservation is a big focus. Find The Crocodile Hunter Lodge at 88 Irwin Road, Beerwah, Queensland. For further information, or to make a booking, visit the venue's website.
With nine locations and counting, Aangan in Footscray is a true success story in the Indian culinary scene. With an interior reminiscent of Indian culture, the goal at Aangan is to transport one back to India, not just through the ambience but the skilfully and artfully prepared dishes. Chef's specials include andhra fish, tossed in a wok and flavoured with mustard seeds and curry leaves, garnished with cashews and served on a sizzling platter while vegetarians can enjoy onion rings coated in batter and fried. The rest of the menu is enormous, and highlights dishes from all across India. For some Indo-Chinese flavours, we recommend you try the chilli gobhi — a batter-fried cauliflower tossed in chilli sauce with a side of egg chowmein. There is a long list of curries too, including favourites such as butter chicken and lamb korma. Then there are the numerous fish curries. These range from a hot vindaloo to a cool coconut with ground spices. The dessert menu is not to be missed either, with local favourites amongst the classics. Aangan prides itself on its excellent service and attention to detail, while the ambience of the room itself embraces the elegance of a time-gone-by India. With space for large bookings and an excellent catering service, Aangan is a top fixture in the Footscray culinary scene. Be sure to book for weekends as they regularly pack out.
Hawthorn has welcomed a new wining and dining destination into its fold — though, as you'll quickly see, Ate One Ate is following a very different recipe to most of its Glenferrie Road neighbours. The brainchild of restaurateur Stephen Papagelou, this two-week-old eatery hits that casual-meets-refined formula that inner-city Melburnians go mad for. So, amid a sea of laidback cafés and budget-friendly Asian restaurants, this contemporary 180-seat venue offers a slightly upscale take on all-day dining. Its menus are best described as modern Australian, spliced with a swag of European and Mediterranean flavours. Breakfast here might see you swapping out your usual eggs Benny for glammed-up gear like a carrot hot dog with black kale and vegan cheddar, or organic protein pancakes with activated buckwheat. Meanwhile, the dinner menu can sort you out with freshly shucked oysters, pasta dishes Nonna would be proud of, and elegant seafood plates up until 11pm. Over behind the stylish bar, Ate One Ate's cocktail selection is a mix of classics and signatures, and the wine list takes a brief jaunt through the more familiar regions of Europe and Australia. All the while, Studio Equator's glossy interior of marble and peach-hued banquettes will fool you, like the food, into thinking you're a whole lot closer to the CBD than you actually are. Ate One Ate is now open for breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week at 818 Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn. For more info, visit ateoneate.com.au. Images: Ewen Bell.
On small screens all around the world, The Last of Us is currently showing everyone how video game-to-TV adaptations can and should be done. Can the new Dungeons & Dragons movie do the same for tabletop role-playing games? Cinemagoers are about to find out, when Honour Among Thieves rolls out its campaign on the silver screen with Chris Pine, Regé-Jean Page, Michelle Rodriguez and Hugh Grant among the cast. As seen in both Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves initial sneak peek back in 2022 and its new just-dropped full trailer, the film focuses on a motley crew of characters rolling the dice. "We're thieves," Pine (Don't Worry Darling) explains in both, if the title wasn't already obvious enough. This crew, which spans Page (The Gray Man), Rodriguez (Fast & Furious 9), Justice Smith (Jurassic World Dominion) and Sophie Lillis (IT and IT: Chapter Two), too, "helped the wrong person steal the wrong thing". Cue the greatest evil the world has ever known, unleashed unwittingly, which this band of pilferers now endeavours to stop. In the two sneak peeks so far, dragons pop up, of course. So do dungeons, to the astonishment of no one. Other fantastical animals, fights, flaming swords, fireballs, an army of the undead and quips: they're all included as well, as are Grant (Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre), fellow cast members Chloe Coleman (Avatar: The Way of Water) and Daisy Head (Wrong Turn), and Led Zeppelin's 'Whole Lotta Love'. Behind the camera, Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley (Game Night) are in the directors' chairs, and co-wrote the screenplay with Michael Gilio. The mood they're going for: lighthearted, comic, but also an action-adventure epic. And, like all movies these days, they're seemingly trying to start a new franchise as well. Another Dungeons & Dragons movie has long sat on the list of things that were bound to happen after the success of Stranger Things. The role-playing game has already sparked three movies, with the first dating back to 2000 — but none of them starred this bunch (or were well-received, whether they hit theatres or went straight to home entertainment). Actually, another D&D film has been in the works in some shape or form since before the world saw a bunch of kids in Hawkins, Indiana play the game. Thanks to the success of Game of Thrones, fantasy epics have become a huge Hollywood cash cow (see also: the return of The Lord of the Rings as a streaming series). And yes, films based on Hasbro properties don't have the best record — the Transformers series, the GI Joe flicks, Battleship, Power Rangers — but if you're a D&D devotee, you'll be hoping this one changes that. Check out the new Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves trailer below: Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves opens in cinemas Down Under on March 30.
A global pandemic, lengthy international border closures and postponements galore have left Melbourne's events calendar looking pretty slim these past two years. But as they say, the show must go on — and indeed, finally, there are some very exciting things in the works for our arts and performance scene. Not least of which is the launch of a brand new state-wide contemporary music celebration, dubbed Always Live. Coming in hot this year as the second cultural addition to Victoria's 2022 Major Events programming (the other being arts fest Rising), Always Live is set to deliver a blockbuster offering of music events that'll have people visiting from far and wide. The globally significant celebration will kick off with a bang, too — as a sneak-peek at what's to come, it's hosting a one-off Foo Fighters concert at Geelong's GMHBA Stadium on Friday, March 4. The 12-time Grammy Award-winning US rockers will be joined by local legends Amyl & The Sniffers and The Meanies, in what's set to be the most significant gig regional Victoria has ever seen. You can nab tickets here from February 25. Later in the year, we'll score a look at the full Always Live program, which is set to cement the state's status as an international music destination. Expect a bumper lineup of homegrown talent, Aussie music stars and overseas heavyweights, across a jam-packed offering of intimate gigs, stadium shows and everything in between. Always Live marks the realisation of a long-held dream of late Aussie music icon Michael Gudinski AM, the event chaired by son Matt Gudinski. "Always Live was a passion project for my dad to ensure Victoria continued to be recognised as the music capital of Australia, and Melbourne as one of the leading music cities in the world," he said in a statement. "I'm honoured to be part of now making it a reality at a time when the live music scene needs all the support it can get. I know Dad would be very proud to see the event launched and form a major part of re-establishing a thriving live music scene." The full Always Live program will be revealed mid 2022, but you can check out the website for more info in the meantime. The Always Live Foo Fighters concert will hit GMHBA Stadium on March 4, with tickets on sale from 12pm on February 25.
