Deadly Ponies is a permanent fixture in the fashion landscape, and it's clear to see why — boundary-pushing designs, carbon-zero certification from Toitū Environcare and a commitment to both creativity and transparency. With over 15 years in the market, the Aotearoan leather accessories label — fronted by designer Liam Bowden — has seen success the world over, regularly held in the crook of a celebrity or fashion-stalwart's arm, including their homegrown talent Lorde. A classic crossbody in a fashion-forward colourway (like 'coconut ice')? Maybe an impossibly soft yet chic shearling tote? If you're looking for luxe mixed with an unwillingness to compromise on sustainability, Deadly Ponies delivers in troves. Now, dear Melburnians, it's time to peruse in person, with the addition of a bricks and mortar standalone on Armadale's High Street, as well as a dedicated Deadly Ponies Concept Space on Little Bourke Street in the CBD. Both stores were conceptualised by long-time collaborator and celebrated interior designer Katie Lockhart. The delivered spaces are natural extensions of the creatives behind the brand, with pared-back tones and textures, and carefully scattered trinkets and treasures. It's a clever pairing of new and vintage, reminiscent of homely, lived-in comfort — though not lacking a lick in design-centric styling, with the flagship's staggering window display and soft metallic accents catching eyes, and the concept space (which is within Myer) delivering yellow and blue hues via a rug hailing from 1940s France. Taking the stance of innovation when faced with the social and environmental cost of its wares is just one of the core practices that makes Deadly Ponies — and its coveted bags — so worthy of the attention and accolades it's afforded. With the annual Recycle collection, crafted completely from offcuts, and an in-store amnesty program for returning your Deadly Ponies once they're all loved out, circularity is never an afterthought. Consciously created high fashion accessories — what's not to love? Head in-store to discover the Deadly Ponies experience for yourself.
With summer finally approaching, it's time to do some serious defrosting. Although you may not exactly jet off overseas to warm up on some European beach, you can spend a few days soaking up the balmy temperatures and idyllic coastline of Queensland's aptly named Sunshine Coast. Just two and a half hours north of Brisbane, the world-famous destination of Noosa and its surrounds are brimming with gorgeous beach houses and coastal retreats for those seeking sun and surf. Beach sessions, rainforest treks and breezy holiday vibes await. We've done the hard work for you and rounded up a list of the most beautiful coastal stays you can book in Noosa right now. Pick a favourite, pack those bathers and get ready to launch into summer with a blissful beach adventure. Recommended reads: The Best Dog-Friendly Stays in Queensland The Best Hotels in Brisbane The Best Glamping Sites in Queensland The Best Island Stays in Queensland Newly Furnished Apartment, Noosa Heads This breezy light-filled apartment sits just minutes from the heart of Noosa, and features a chic white colour palette and downstairs pool. From $300 a night, sleeps six. Kamala Villa, Noosa Heads Rocking a fresh, playful aesthetic and featuring a spacious entertainer's deck, this modern villa is an ideal setting for your next beachside escape. From $450 a night, sleeps six. Lush Noosa Heads Retreat, Noosa Heads Just a quick stroll off the beach, this luxury resort apartment makes for a chic couples' hideaway. Enjoy sundowners on the patio, overlooking lush rainforest. From $500 a night, sleeps two. Chic Coastal Escape, Noosa Heads A retro-inspired beach escape with loads of natural light and a sun-drenched patio for lounging — all just minutes from Hastings Street. From $250 a night, sleeps four. Fairshore Apartment 38, Noosa Heads Want to stay smack bang on Noosa beach? This freshly renovated apartment boasts close-up ocean views and an incredible beachfront pool. From $668 a night, sleeps two. Spectacular Penthouse, Noosa Heads You'll love this luxury holiday villa's sunny pool and deck area; however, nothing beats the rooftop terrace featuring panoramic ocean views. From $904 a night, sleeps six. Noosa Escape, Noosa Heads Soak up sparkling ocean views from this light-filled Noosa Heads apartment, while enjoying a primo balcony and an enviable location just a short walk from the beach. From $693 a night, sleeps four. Little Cove Family Beach House, Noosa Heads Spacious and stylish, this pet-friendly holiday home backs right onto a lush national park — and it's just a quick hop from Little Cove Beach. From $950 a night, sleeps eight. The Beach House, Noosa Heads Featuring a gorgeous pool, private tennis court and crisp coastal aesthetic, this leafy beach retreat was simply made for vacationing. From $1178 a night, sleeps eight. Little Cove Magic, Noosa Heads This light-flooded holiday apartment overlooks the ocean, while being handily located close to all the action — so you can split your days between beach, balcony and pool. From $788 a night, sleeps four. Acacia Villa, Noosa Heads Located just beyond the buzz of Hastings Street, this breezy townhouse makes for a supreme coastal retreat. Expect chic styling and tranquil leafy surrounds. From $580 a night, sleeps six. Poinciana House, Noosa Heads Between the beautifully appointed interiors, covetable location, and sun-drenched pool and deck, this blissful beach retreat is bound to impress. From $1093 a night, sleeps ten. Images: Courtesy of Airbnb 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.
Got a thing for gorgeous gardens? If so, you'll find yourself in horticultural heaven this month as Open Gardens Victoria unveils a fresh series of lush outdoor spaces for you to explore and swoon over. The non-profit organisation is back with the next instalments of its signature events, which see some of Melbourne's most beautiful private gardens temporarily opened to the public. It's your chance to admire some stunning botanical sites and landscaping works, while loading up on inspiration for your own patch of turf. February 19 and 20 is when you can wander the grounds of Cecilia's Garden in Brighton — a tranquil artist-designed space guided by Feng Shui principles — as well as Hampton's aptly titled Sanctuary, which incorporates Indigenous and drought resistant plants to create a sustainable yet sophisticated oasis. On February 25 and 26, Portsea's historic property Delgany opens its gates for you to browse its manicured gardens, limestone castle and sweeping views. And on March 5 and 6, you can pop out to Emerald for a visit to Brookdale Farm, which sports an expansive veggie garden, loads of colourful blooms, and a clever use of recycled and repurposed materials throughout. [caption id="attachment_842230" align="alignnone" width="1920"] 'Sanctuary'[/caption] Top Image: Cecilia's Garden
When it comes to art exhibitions, second chances aren't common. A big-name showcase may display at several places around the world, but it doesn't often hit the same venue twice. French Impressionism is an exception, then, returning to the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne in 2025 after initially gracing the institution's walls in 2021. When it was first announced for that debut Australian run, French Impressionism was set to be a blockbuster exhibition — and with 100-plus works featuring, including by Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, Mary Cassatt and more, it's easy to understand why. But 2021 wasn't an ordinary year, like 2020 before it. Accordingly, when this showcase of masterpieces on loan from Boston's renowned Museum of Fine Arts opened Down Under, it was forced to close shortly afterwards due to the pandemic. Cue another season in this part of the world four years later, thankfully, with French Impressionism back at NGV International from Friday, June 6–Sunday, October 5, 2025. This is one of the largest collections of the eponymous art movement to ever make its way to Australia, complete with works that've never been seen here before. [caption id="attachment_977042" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Claude Monet, French, 1840–1926, Water lilies, 1905, oil on canvas, 89.5 x 100.3 cm, Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Gift of Edward Jackson Holmes Photography © Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. All Rights Reserved.[/caption] Again part of the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces exhibition series, French Impressionism isn't short on gems, especially given the array of artists with pieces on display, which also includes Camille Pissarro and Berthe Morisot. But one certain must-see is the presentation of 16 Monet pieces in one gallery, all in a curved display to close out the showcase — and focusing of his scenes of nature in Argenteuil, the Normandy coast and the Mediterranean coast, as well as his Giverny garden. In total, there's 19 Monet works in French Impressionism from the Museum of Fine Arts' collection (Water Lilies among them), and that still leaves the US gallery almost as many to display in Boston. Another section digs into early works by Monet and his predecessors, such as Eugène Boudin — and Renoir and Pissarro's careers also get the in-depth treatment. As the exhibition charts French impressionism's path across the late-19th century, visitors will enjoy three never-before-seen-in-Australia pieces, with Victorine Meurent's Self-portrait one of them. Ten-plus Degas works, as well as two pieces that were part of the very first exhibition of French Impressionism that took place in 1874, also feature. If you made it along to the showcase's first trip Down Under, you will notice changes, with the exhibition design reimagined for its latest presentation. [caption id="attachment_977038" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Camille Pissarro, French (born in the Danish West Indies), 1830–1903, Spring pasture, 1889, oil on canvas, 60 x 73.7 cm, Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Deposited by the Trustees of the White Fund, Lawrence, Massachusetts, Photography © Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. All Rights Reserved.[/caption] Top image: excerpt of Camille Pissarro, French (born in the Danish West Indies), 1830–1903, Spring pasture, 1889, oil on canvas, 60 x 73.7 cm, Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Deposited by the Trustees of the White Fund, Lawrence, Massachusetts, Photography © Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. All Rights Reserved.
Eating out in Melbourne is arguably a Melburnian's favourite thing to do. Even those on a budget should be able to eat at nice places. And you can! Plan your days correctly and you won't pay more than $15 for a meal again; play the system right and you can still eat like a king (oysters included). With our guide to the best culinary bargains around town, you can eat cheap (but not poorly) seven days of the week. Monday BURGERS AND SLIDERS - THE RAINBOW HOTEL, FITZROY Apparently this 140-year old pub — sitting slightly out of the Brunswick street spotlight — exists in a tiny pocket of Fitzroy that inflation forgot. A fact that, on Monday nights, is reflected in the form of $12 burgers and $7 slider specials. $29 BUFFET - CHINA BAR, CITY China Bar buffet: it's not the height of class, but it's what I imagine heaven might look like. The $29 weekday lunch session (Monday to Thursday from 11.30am - 3pm) might not seem that cheap to the untrained eye, but to the savvy student it's an opportunity to consume one's own body weight in roast meats, seasonal stir-frys and weird Asian desserts — eliminating the need to eat for several days afterwards. $15 BURGER AND A PINT - THE MERRYWELL, SOUTHBANK While it may be a little too close to the Crown Complex for comfort, Merrywell's $15 burger and pint happy hour between 4-6pm provides down-on-luck punters an affordable feed — particularly after an unfortunate turn in the casino arena. $1 PINXTOS - NAKED FOR SATAN, FITZROY Diners pluck their own pinxtos (delicate morsels like jamon, pickled octopus or arancini balls which sit atop slices of crusty bread) from the glass cabinets at the bar, and count the number consumed at the end of the night. Somehow, the serve-yourself honesty system works surprisingly well — but then, who's seriously going to cheat when it's only $1 a serve? FANCY LUNCH BOX - CAFE VUE, CITY The three-piece lunch box ($18) serves up a starter, savoury and sweet, all packed up and ready for you to take back to your desk in lieu of the full Vue de Monde experience. Also available in vegetarian and gluten free lunch packs, expect prettily packaged treats like chow mein salad, broccoli with crispy garlic, chilli and yuzu, pulled pork bun, and chocolate and passionfruit sundae. Tuesday $10 BURGER APOCALYPSE MEAL DEAL - ZOMBIE BURGER, ST KILDA Sure the branding might be a little aggressive, but if the zombie apocalypse ever hits, there will no doubt be time aplenty to down a couple of $10 burgers (served with fries and drink) while you watch the undead slowly converge from down the street. $9 BURGERS - 1000 POUND BEND, CITY People pack in to this loosely assembled warehouse space — which looks suspiciously like the lounge room of a student sharehouse — for $9 burgers and happy hour drinks every Tuesday from 4 - 11pm. Stay for the free wifi and stream a few episodes of House of Cards while you’re at it. $15 BURGER DEAL - MARKOV, CARLTON Burger, chips and a Brunswick Bitter will only set you back $15 on Tuesday nights at Markov. If you tend to buck the brioche trend — favouring something a bit more old school — it's here that you'll reach meaty, savoury nirvana. $3 TACOS - THE REVERENCE, FOOTSCRAY There is not a lot more that needs analysis here. When tacos are offered at such an inoffensive price, one accepts, whether hungry or not. It’s simply the right thing to do. Top up the Myki and make the trip to the Footscray badlands. $5 PIZZAS - WHOLE LOTTA LOVE, EAST BRUNSWICK It's all about the music at Whole Lotta Love. But as luck would have it, they dish up a mean pizza as well — keeping you drinking and enjoying tunes until the early hours. $5 every single day of the week. Wednesday $1 WINGS - TRANSPORT BAR, CITY From 5-9pm, load up on chicken for only $1 a bird-bite. This is the kind of thing that makes hump-day a little more manageable. $17 ALL YOU CAN EAT WINGS - FATHER'S OFFICE, CITY Father's Office has flown under the radar for too long, written off by many as a thinly-guised booze barn. But look past the suits and student specials — this venue is a lot of fun. On Wednesdays, don a bib and tuck into All You Can Eat chicken wings for $17. $29.50 ALL YOU CAN EAT TAPAS - THE LONG ROOM, CITY From Tuesday to Thursday, Longroom turn their al a carte menu into an unlimited tapas feast. Order two dishes at a time, as many times as you like, until you've worked your way through the entire menu — for less than $30. $10 STEAK SANDWICH - GLORIA SWANSTON'S KITCHEN, CITY Lounge is known to get a little loose on the late night shift, but at lunchtime their kitchen knocks out a killer student feed. Specials vary each day;, but on Wednesdays it's the steak sandwich for a tenner. $5 PIZZAS - CUSHION LOUNGE, ST KILDA Partied too hard last night, forgot to eat and now your body is being uncooperative? Rookie mistake. Head to Cushion midweek, where you can down those cheeky beers with a wad of discount pizza to absorb the blow. Thursday $12 PUB LUNCH - CAPTAIN MELVILLE, CITY Pub classics like parmas, fish and chips and burgers are most generously plated between 11.20am and 3pm, Monday to Thursday. For an extra $3 you can add a sneaky lunchbreak beer. $1 OYSTERS - PANAMA DINING ROOM, FITZROY Mother Shucker's Oyster Hour happens every night of the week between 6-7pm, where you can gorge on freshly shucked oysters for $1 per piece, and ultimately leave the restaurant both satisfied and highly aroused. $12.50 LUNCH SPECIAL - BONEY, CITY Between 12-2pm, duck into this revamped dive bar to dine on their daily special. On Thursdays it's a vego-friendly barley risotto with eggplant, tomato and feta. $4 PIZZAS, DOGS AND SALADS - LUCKY COQ, WINDSOR The Coq has been a saviour to Melbourne's financially-struggling students, artists and musicians for many years, but they've now taken things to the next level. Deals are on every day, but on Sunday you can get any pizza, hotdog or salad you fancy for just $4 from open 'til close. $4 PIZZAS & $12 BURGERS - THE PENNY BLACK, BRUNSWICK What better way to relax than with an afternoon sess in the courtyard on the ciders, some live music, and a few rounds of pizza with mates? At $4 a pop with free entry, you may as well skip work and make a day of it. $1 TACOS - THE DAN O'CONNELL HOTEL, CARLTON Making all our taco dreams come true, every Thursday The Dan churns out $1 tacos all night. Charging a super cheap price, probably in line with these little corn tortillas are worth, it's a good excuse to inhale as many tacos as you like without breaking the bank (we're looking at you Mamasita). Friday DIRT CHEAP SPRING ROLLS AND DUMPLINGS - HAPPY PALACE, CITY The staff name badges may be unbelievably politically incorrect (they all say 'Nigel'), but those with a sense of humour will consider this a selling point. For everybody else, at least come for the $2 dumplings (5-6pm) and $5 boxes of spring rolls. $3 HOTDOGS - FERDYDURKE, CITY The happiest hours for hotdogs at this alleyway bar are between 12 and 5pm, where for $3, you can throw back classics such as the Dirty Furke (frank with cheese and chilli beans), or the Charles Bronson (frank with cider, caramelised onions, gherkins and cheese). $7 PIZZAS - POLLY, FITZROY For those decadent, cocktail drenched evenings when a street-corner souvlaki seems inappropriate, a gourmet pizza at Polly (like gorgonzola, fig and pancetta) should fit the bill — and from 5-11pm, that bill will only come to $7. $1 OYSTERS - ALBERT PARK HOTEL, ALBERT PARK Just because a venue is known for finer dining doesn't mean it's above putting on a budget oyster hour. The seafood soiree is available all day Friday, at $1 a shucked treat. $7.50 LUNCH DEAL - YIM YAM, COLLINGWOOD Having set up shop in four locations throughout Melbourne so far, this Thai restaurant group most recently opened up in Collingwood, where they’re offering $7.50 lunch specials every day of the working week. Saturday $5 FRIED CHICKEN PO BOYS - HORSE BAZAAR, CITY Firing up the fryer from 8pm on Saturday nights, Horse Bazaar complements the live music and art projection by pumping out po boys for only $5 a serve. DIRT CHEAP DUMPLINGS - CAMY SHANGHAI, CITY Revel in the charmingly rude service as you devour mountains of steamed pork parcels — best enjoyed with a group of mates and bottle of BYO. No matter how hard to try or how much you order, somehow it never costs more than $15. PAY AS YOU FEEL - LENTIL AS ANYTHING, ABBOTSFORD Often mistaken for a hippy hang-out, this socially-conscious restaurant has been providing visitors with wholesome vegetarian meals for over 13 years on a pay-as-you-feel basis. Now spread across three venues (Abottsford convent, St Kilda and Footscray), as testament to the strengths of the social enterprise industry. $2.99 BREAKFAST - IKEA, RICHMOND There's something terribly sterile about canteen dining, but at Ikea they at least know how to do it with maximum efficiency for the lowest possible price. Until 11am every day you can get a full hot breakfast — including scrambled eggs, bacon, sausages and hash brown — from only $2.99, no home assembly required. $5.50 ALL YOU CAN EAT - CROSSWAYS, CITY An inner-city Hare Krishna temple providing vegetarian lunches for only $5.50 ($7.50 without a concession), where you'll be welcomed with open arms and flowing sarongs. Saturday lunch is Special Subji and rice with pappadum, lassi, date halva and custard. Sunday $10 BREAKFAST CHEESESTEAK - SPARROW'S PHILLY CHEESESTEAKS, FITZROY For the uninitiated, a philly cheesesteak is an American steak sandwich combining thinly sliced beef and melted cheese in a bread roll. Of the various incarnations available, Sparrow's $10 special 'breakfast' cheesesteak — of beef, cheese, egg and hash brown — is a clear market leader. HOURLY PARMA SPECIALS - ROCHESTER CASTLE HOTEL, FITZROY Pay-by-the-hour parma deals ($6 at 6pm, $7 at 7pm and $8 at 8pm) are in dwindling supply in these modern times. Fortunately, the Rochester pays blatant disregard to such progression and does it anyway; in keeping with their penchant for playing 90s indie rock. FREE BBQ - WORKSHOP, CITY Workshop is not just that bar you find yourself in at 1am, gyrating on the dance-floor against a Columbian backpacker. It's also the place of a cheap daytime feed — and few meals are cheaper than a free BBQ (6-7pm Sundays). LOCALS CURRY NIGHT - HORN PLEASE, FITZROY NORTH North Fitzroy locals have been onto it for years; the local curry night buffet ($20) on Sundays allows punters to enjoy favourites from Horn’s menu, served fast and friendly and in an unlimited manner — allowing you to spend your savings on craft beer. $3 FISH AND CHIPS - 29TH APARTMENT, ST KILDA This is not a joke; it only costs $3 to score a fish'n'chip combo at 29th Apartment. It's only available with a drink purchase, but let’s be honest — the best time to immerse yourself in fried goods is after a session on the ciders.
Taylor Swift's Australian Eras tour month is finally here. Nabbed tickets in the frenzy, but want more than the memories to celebrate? Missed out, but still keen for a souvenir to remember the occasion? Here's your mantra for February: look what you made me buy. Concert tours and merchandise always go hand in hand, but Swift's involves an official merch pop-up, plus days of presales prior to her gigs at the MCG in Melbourne and Accor Stadium in Sydney. And in the case of the one-day-only pop-up, you even need to reserve your place. [caption id="attachment_939192" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Paolo Villanueva via Wikimedia Commons.[/caption] If you're in the Victorian capital, mark Tuesday, February 13 in your diary, then make a date with Crown Melbourne. From 9am–6pm, you'll be able to pick up everything from t-shirts and hoodies to totes and water bottles. Yes, bracelets are also on the merch list. Only folks with a reservation, which can be made from midday AEDT on Wednesday, February 7, can attend, however. The other must-know pieces of info for the official merch pop-up: reservations are being allocated on a first-come-first-served basis, are free and can cover two people per booking. Once you've got yours, which come in half-hour lots, it's non-transferrable. [caption id="attachment_939193" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ronald Woan via Wikimedia Commons.[/caption] For Sydneysiders, those heading to the Harbour City for their Eras fix or folks in Melbourne who can't hit up Crown on the day in question, merchandise presales will start on the Wednesdays before Swift's gigs in each location. So, the MCG will be up and running from 10am–6pm between Wednesday, February 14–Thursday, February 15, and also during the concert dates from 12pm on Friday, February 16–Sunday, February 18. Accor Stadium will do the same in advance from 10am–6pm between Wednesday, February 21–Thursday, February 22, then from 12pm during the show dates from Friday, February 23–Monday, February 26. There's no reservations needed to get merch from the MCG and Accor Stadium. [caption id="attachment_939194" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ronald Woan via Wikimedia Commons.[/caption] When Sydney and Melbourne stops for Swift's career-spanning showcase were announced back June 2023, it sparked a rush for seats. Before general sales even started, the 'We Are Never Getting Back Together', 'Shake It Off' and 'Bad Blood' musician had announced an extra gig in both cities. And, the Victorian Government even declared her Melbourne stint a major event so that anti-scalping legislation would apply to tickets. At all gigs, Swift will have Sabrina Carpenter in support before she breaks out a showcase that steps through her entire career so far, playing tracks from each of her studio albums in a three-hour, 44-song, ten-act spectacular. If you saw Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour as a movie, aka a concert film of her latest shows that hit cinemas Down Under last October, you'll know what you're in for. Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour Australian Merchandise Locations and Dates 2024: Tuesday, February 13 — Australia official merchandise pop-up, Crown Melbourne, Melbourne Wednesday, February 14–Thursday, February 15 — merchandise presale, MCG, Melbourne Friday, February 16–Sunday, February 18 — merchandise presale and show merchandise, MCG, Melbourne Wednesday, February 21–Thursday, February 22 — merchandise presale, Accor Stadium, Sydney Friday, February 23–Monday, February 26 — merchandise presale and show merchandise, Accor Stadium, Sydney Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour Australian Dates 2024: Friday, February 16–Sunday, February 18 — Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne Friday, February 23–Monday, February 26 — Accor Stadium, Sydney Taylor Swift is bringing The Eras Tour to Australia in February 2024. Head to the tour website for further details. Crown Melbourne's official Australian merchandise pop-up takes place on Tuesday, February 13 from 9am–6pm, with reservations required — and bookings open from 12pm AEDT on Wednesday, February 7. Head to the booking website for more information. Top image: Paolo Villanueva via Wikimedia Commons.
As its name suggests, Second Home is the kind of place where you can get comfortable and unwind. Housed within a recently renovated mid 1970s building created by architect Alistair Knox, the beauty of the space is all within the details: vast skylight windows, gum trees, lush furnishings and an open fireplace. Second Home is one of the newest additions to Jason M Jones' empire (joining Entrecôte, Bancroft Brewers, The Stables of Como, Porgie and Mr Jones), so it makes sense that this space has been established with comfort in mind. Located down a quiet backstreet in Eltham and surrounded by warehouses, it's somewhat of a sanctuary in an unlikely place. So, in escaping from the everyday, it might be fair to say that locals and visitors flock to the cafe just to observe that lived-in feeling in a home away from home. Humans — we're an odd bunch. Fans of Jones will recognise familiar items off the menu, which is split into Beautiful Brunch and Lovely Luncheon — particularly, his famous golden folded eggs ($15.90), which continue to be a crowd pleaser. A comprehensive list of options extends to also include an on-trend almond milk chia pudding ($14.90) and robust breakfast burger featuring grilled Hopkins River beef ($17.90). The standout remains the hearty Ploughman's Lunch ($18.90), which varies in its selection of terrines, cheeses and pickled vegetables. Come weekends, the libations trolley is also sure to soothe (or aggravate) any headaches, with a Bloody Mary, Bellini or Aperol Spritz ($12.90-13.90) amongst many friends at the ready. A north-facing courtyard has recently opened which is sure to extend the sitting time at Second Home. In addition, a rotating selection of art available for purchase also creates a gallery amongst the gumtrees. With all of this, the Eltham cafe covers every staple needed in creating the living room you never had, but always needed.
These days, Christmas promises a whole lot more than just generic mince pies and plain panettones. Bakeries, chocolate brands, gelaterias and dessert shops across the city are getting more inventive with each passing year, whipping up all sorts of creative treats worthy of hunting down across Melbourne. Here, we've rounded up some of the coolest grown-up goodies to seek out, from gelato-filled Christmas puddings to themed festive high tea experiences. Dig in. Recommended reads: The Best Alternative Things to Do in Melbourne on Christmas Day The Best Things to Do in Melbourne This Weekend The Best Things to Do in Melbourne This December Pidapipo's Pandoro Christmas Cake Pidapipo has reimagined the pandoro — a Christmas tree-shaped sweet bread cake — for their holiday season offering this year, paying tribute to the team's Italian roots. The Pandoro Christmas Cake features a base of Pandoro, and then layers of Pidapipo's favourite festive gelato flavours — including, bacio, hazelnut, Pandoro, coconut, chocolate, sour cherry swirl and chocolate fudge — all encased with a dark chocolate semifreddo and a thin crisp milk chocolate shell. This is a next-level treat — worthy of any Christmas day dessert table. Baker Bleu's Dark Chocolate and Sour Cherry Panettone Baker Bleu is easily one of the very best bakeries in Melbourne, so it is no surprise to see the team create one of the top panettones in town — which is a huge feat seeing as this is the first year they've made these for the public. You can get a classic panettone made with raisins and candied orange or go for the sour cherry and dark chocolate version — depending on how traditional you're feeling. They've absolutely nailed this Christmas treat, and we highly recommend nabbing one for yourself. Le Yeahllow's Christmas Cakes and Cookies Le Yeahllow's sweet treats have got to be some of the most beautiful — without compromising on taste — and its Christmas offerings are no exception. That's especially the case for its two limited-editon cakes which will be served up until January 5. First off, there's the Merry Berry cake, which is inspired by festive fruit baskets. It brings together a fluffy chocolate sponge, vanilla white chocolate cream and a tangy mixed berry compote, all topped off with Valrhona 62% dark chocolate, whipped ganache and seasonal fruits. The team has also created a more summery treat — the lemon pound cake. Baked with Pepe Saya butter, along with the juice and zest of fresh lemons, this cake strikes the perfect balance of buttery richness and vibrant citrus. Piccolina's Gelato-Filled Christmas Pudding Piccolina always goes hard on its holiday specials — especially during Easter and Christmas. And this year is no different, as the team has created a gelato-filled, multi-layered Christmas pudding that comes in a stoneware bowl. Named the Golden Bauble, this creation features peanut butter stracciatella gelato layered with caramelised white chocolate aero and caramelised peanut, dulce de leche gelato layered with chocolate fudge brownie, peanut torrone centre, crispy chocolate base, topped with dark chocolate sauce and a golden peanut popping candy bauble. It's decadent and guaranteed to be an absolute showstopper at Christmas this year. Morning Market's Mince Tarts Mince pies are incredibly divisive Christmas treats. Some poeple love them, many hate them. It's a funny one. But if you are into these traditional British festive bites, you best check out those made by the team over at Andrew McConnell's Morning Market. The buttery pastry shells are packed with a filling made from organic apples, currants, brandy, pastis and warm spices that have been macerated together for months. The result is a rich and fragrant tart that's damn hard to beat. Lune's Gingerbread Croissants, Eggnog Cruffins and Stuffed Turkey Pastries Every year, you can guarantee that Lune will dream up some of Melbourne's best Christmas treats. And this year's efforts are no joke. First, the sweet stuff. Lune's gingerbread special is a twice-baked croissant made with pecan frangipane, baked gingerbread and molasses caramel, then topped with frangipane, gingerbread, white icing and gold-dusted chocolate pearls. It's also got an eggnog cruffin, choc peppermint twice-baked pain au chocolat, and rich Christmas pudding. For a savoury option, enter The Stuffed Turkey. This pastry is filled with a turkey and croissant pastry stuffing, with sage powder, cranberry sauce, crispy chicken skin and fried sage leaves added on top. You best drop by the Melbourne stores a few times this December, sampling each and every one of these creations. Penny for Pound's Christmas Trifle, Choux Pastry Wreath and Cookies Those in the know should be jumping for joy this festive season, knowing that Penny for Pound's incredible trifle has returned. This year, it features layers of cherry jelly, pistachio custard, raspberry cream, vanilla sponge and berry compote, all topped with fresh cherries, pistachio meringue kisses, berries and white chocolate stars. It's a total showstopper. But that's not all the pastry chefs have whipped up this year. There's also a special chocolate, hazelnut, and caramel choux pastry wreath, an extensive holiday cookie collection, and a playful Santa's Belly buche de noel — a red-glazed Christmas cake featuring vanilla sponge, raspberry compote, lemon curd, and vanilla mascarpone mousse. Brunetti Classico's Gingerbread House Build and Sip Workshops Carlton's Brunetti Classico is home to a huge range of festive treats throughout this time of year — including stacks of panettones and biscotti — but we are most pumped about its gingerbread-building experiences. Drop by on Friday and Saturday nights from 7–9pm and spend the two hours building and decorating your own gingerbread house while sipping on booze. These adult workshops cost $70 per person, while the kids' classes — which see the little ones decorate their own gingerbread people — only cost $13.90. Stokehouse's Tropical Christmas Pudding Stokehouse Group Pastry Chef Ash Smith has brought back his much-loved tropical take on the traditional Christmas Pudding for Christmas this year — made to be taken home. The pudding is ready-made and comes complete with at-home instructions to finish the dessert at home, as well as Smith's special brandy custard recipe. Either order the pudding online to pick up by itself, or add it to your booking when dining in — taking it home right after sampling food from one of Melbourne's best restaurants. Mary Eats Cake's Festive High Teas Mary Eats Cake has gone all out for Christmas — slinging a heap of limited-edition festive treats throughout December. There's a special Christmas gateaux and cookies, plus a new a la carte menu featuring gingerbread french toast, turkey toasties and pumpkin spiced lattes. These are fab, but we are most excited about the festive high tea experience. This includes a mulled wine spritzer on arrival, plus three tiers of treats — think festive scones, Christmas cookies and mini pavlovas. Drop by on a weekday to get this for $75 per person or on a weekend for an additional $4.
Melbourne Design Week is back for 2025 — and this year, it's shining brighter, digging deeper, and getting sportier than ever before. For its ninth edition, Australia's largest design festival — which last year welcomed over 100,000 people — will see more than 350 events popping up around the city between Thursday, May 15–Sunday, May 25, from dazzling light exhibitions and neurodivergent-friendly design to design debates, pop-up book fairs and even a designer basketball tournament. The 11-day program is a love letter to creativity in all forms, presenting both high-concept ideas and hands-on experiences across architecture, lighting, furniture, publishing, sport and beyond. The event aims to showcase design thinking to all — whether you're a design die-hard or just keen for something interesting to do on the weekend, Melbourne Design Week is giving Melburnains and visitors alike the opportunity to explore the city in a whole new way. [caption id="attachment_1001834" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Elliat Rich, Tones of Shimmer (Gravel) 2022. Image: Sara Maiorino[/caption] Among the more eye-catching installations is 100 Lights, which takes over North Melbourne's Meat Market Stables with a glowing gallery of contemporary lighting by 100 artists and makers, including Adam Goodrum, Ross Gardam and Tantri Mustika. At this immersive display curated by Friends & Associates, you'll find table lamps, pendants and wall lights that showcase both function and cutting-edge form. Another fascinating highlight is Sibling Architecture's Deep Calm. This exhibition explores how design can support neurodivergent people, with a soothing showcase of weighted sofas and tactile rugs that represent the culmination of a year-long research project by the Curtin House-headquartered practice. [caption id="attachment_1001833" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Sibling Architecture[/caption] Events won't just be taking place in Melbourne, though. Bacchus Marsh will host exhibition A New Normal, which presents a suite of radical ideas by 12 Melbourne architects to make the city self-sufficient by 2030 — including public sculptures that double as water-treatment plants, waste-to-energy sports facilities, and adaptive reuse of abandoned buildings. The exhibition is set in the heritage-listed Boyd Baker House — one of Australia's most important modernist structures that collects its own water and features a design based on perfect geometry. A New Normal has become one of Melbourne Design Week's biggest success stories, with architects Kennedy Nolan and NMBW having both completed projects utilising concepts from the award-winning 2021 exhibition, and the project having gone on to be developed for Sydney, Perth and Guadalajara. Elsewhere, two legends of Australian design will embark on a well-earned victory lap: lighting designer Volker Haug and furniture designer Trent Jansen, who will both mark 20 years in the game with retrospective shows tracing their significant creative legacies. At the NGV, Melbourne Art Book Fair (Thursday, May 15–Saturday, May 17) returns to the Great Hall with over 100 publishers and a special focus on Southeast Asian designers — plus free kids' storytime sessions led by local children's book authors under Yayoi Kusama's towering Dancing Pumpkin sculpture in Federation Court. The program also features exhibitions exploring the sustainable reuse of timber from urban trees, typography shows, memorial-making workshops, curated book pop-ups, and, as part of Open House Melbourne, a two-day symposium called Beyond the Grave that delves into the architecture, places, issues and practices associated with the end of life. And if you've ever wanted to shoot hoops with a furniture designer, you're in luck — this year's program includes a two-on-two basketball tournament for designers and design enthusiasts at a Reko Rennie-painted court in Cremorne. Our city's collective obsession with sport will be further explored at Reimagining the Clubhouse: Melbourne Design Week's 12-hour denouement featuring the works of eight designers that challenge the concept of a traditional sporting clubhouse. It'll also host a trophy-making competition and the official Melbourne Design Week closing party at Collingwood Yards' Runner Up bar. [caption id="attachment_1001839" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Volker Haug, Fire Trees[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1001838" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Melbourne School of Design - Tout le cochon[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1001837" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Made Studio, OffCuts, Garrett In Workshop. Image: Alex Lark[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1001835" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anton Gerner[/caption] Melbourne Design Week 2025 takes place between Thursday, May 15–Sunday, May 25 at various venues throughout Victoria. For more information and the full program, head to the event website. Top image: Peter Bennetts, March Studio x Reko Rennie.
Icy poles and booze — they're the two staples of a long, hot Aussie summer. And now they've come together as one, in the form of Calippo-style Champagne icy poles. They're the genius creation of POPS, a UK brand that has been keeping folks stylishly cool since 2014, when it launched its first frozen Champagne treat — apparently supermodels like Kate Moss and Bella Hadid are on board, if that's something to sway you. The Champagne pop (called The Classic) contains half a glass of Champers (wahee!), and the range has since expanded to include another grown-ups-only creation: the Bellini, which blends hibiscus flowers, blood orange juice, peach Schnapps, and half a glass of Prosecco. Plus, there are a couple of all-ages products too, which see the alcohol swapped out for real fruit. The frozen delights are arriving in our eskies just in time to be eaten in front of the fan (or, y'know, in the sun) this summer. They'll launch in Melbourne first, with a series of pop-up events, and festival appearances aplenty. No word yet if you'll be able to buy a box for the freezer, but let's hope. POPS will launch in Melbourne soon. For more info, visit wearepops.com.
When news dropped that Adnan Syed's murder conviction had been overturned, an obvious announcement followed: Sarah Koenig's grimly addictive podcast Serial, which spent its first season exploring the killing of Baltimore high school student Hae Min Lee and the extremely complex legal matters surrounding her ex-boyfriend Syed, was returning for a new episode. That new instalment, called 'Adnan Is Out', is available to listen to now — and Serial isn't the only recent Syed-focused hit that's making a comeback as a result. Here's another expected but also welcome development: The Case Against Adnan Syed, HBO's four-part documentary series about the case, is also making a new chapter. The US network revealed that a follow-up episode is in the works, with filmmaker Amy Berg (Phoenix Rising, Dogs, West of Memphis) returning behind the lens. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Amy Berg (@amy_berg) "We knew the end of The Case Against Adnan Syed was not the end of this story, and we've been closely following every twist and turn in the case since the series premiered in March 2019," said Berg in a statement. "It's gratifying to see many of the questions and issues probed in the original episodes come to bear on the events of this week," the filmmaker continued. HBO revealed that the new episode will arrive sometime in 2023, but hasn't dropped any further details — including how long it'll run for or the exact release date. Where it'll stream Down Under hasn't been announced yet, either. HBO also advised that Berg has been filming the follow-up episode in Maryland since early 2021, and was in the courthouse when Baltimore City Circuit Judge Melissa Phinn vacated Syed's murder conviction. The Case Against Adnan Syed's new episode will not only chart the lead up to that decision, but will also follow Syed after his release. [caption id="attachment_668625" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Adnan Syed. Via: Syed Family / Courtesy of HBO.[/caption] If you missed the HBO series when it premiered in 2019, it examined 18-year-old Lee's death in 1999 and Syed's conviction in 2000, as well as the latter's ongoing quest to have his conviction reassessed in the years since he was found guilty. Lee and Syed's relationship, tothe original police investigation and trial, the developments up until the show hit the air — they all featured, with the documentary gaining exclusive access to Syed, his family and his lawyers. Yes, it made for gripping viewing, with Berg working on the original four episodes since 2015. It was always bound to be compelling and thorough, given her excellent doco background — helming 2006's Oscar-nominated 2006 Deliver Us from Evil, about molestation in the Catholic Church; examining the West Memphis Three's quest for freedom in 2012's aforementioned West of Memphis; and tackling the sexual abuse of teenagers in the film industry in 2014's An Open Secret. Check out the trailer for The Case Against Adnan Syed's initial run below: HBO's follow-up episode to The Case Against Adnan Syed doesn't currently have a release date, other than arriving in 2023 — we'll update you when it does. In the interim, the original series is available to stream via Fetch in Australia . Images: SBS / HBO
It's a truth that Morticia, Gomez, Wednesday and Pugsley would treasure: nearly a century might've passed since The Addams Family first graced the pages of The New Yorker in the 1930s, but this creepy, kooky, mysterious and ooky brood will never die. America's first macabre family keeps entrancing and enchanting audiences, luring them in with their unflinching embrace of the eerie, the gothic, and the all-round dark and twisted. Forget bumps, jumps, screams and shrieks, however; this off-kilter crew might pal around with a severed limb and adore graveyards, but they also delight in a gloriously eclectic, eccentric, embrace-your-inner-outcast fashion, as the 1960s TV show, 1991's live-action film The Addams Family and its 1993 sequel Addams Family Values, and now new Netflix series Wednesday understands and adores. Dropping all eight season-one episodes on November 23 — a Wednesday, when else? — The Addams Family's latest go-around arrives stitched-together as so much is of late. Netflix's algorithm has accurately gleaned that viewers love cartoonist Charles Addams' horror-influenced creations. It knows that people like mysteries and teen coming-of-age tales, two of the platform's favourite genres. And, the service is well-aware that already-beloved big names are a drawcard. Throw in Tim Burton directing like it's his 80s and 90s heyday, current scream queen Jenna Ortega sporting the trademark plaits, 90s Wednesday Christina Ricci returning in a new part, and a supernatural school for unusual children complete with Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children-meets-Hogwarts vibes, and Wednesday's various pieces are as evident as the sewn-on limbs on Frankenstein's monster. Mary Shelley's famous creature is an icon and a marvel, of course, and more things should want to follow in its footsteps. In the author's game-changing book, it lived, breathed and fascinated despite its seams being oh-so-visible, and Wednesday does the same — and quickly engages and entertains. Seeing why and how Netflix has crafted this series, and which levers it's pulling to electrify its experiment, is as easy as getting a killer glare from Wednesday's teenage protagonist. Enjoying every second because it's astutely, knowingly and lovingly spliced together is just as straightforward, especially with Scream, Studio 666 and X star Ortega leading the show so commandingly and convincingly. This version of the Addams family's eldest child is indeed full of woe, like the nursery rhyme she's named for. She wouldn't have it any other way. Played by Ortega with a knockout stare every bit as gleefully bitter as Ricci's and 60s TV show star Lisa Loring's, Wednesday has been bouncing around public schools, but she's suddenly out of options. After unleashing a pool of piranhas on Pugsley's (Isaac Ordonez, A Wrinkle in Time) tormenters — torturing him is her job, not the water polo team's — she's enrolled in the haunted house-esque Nevermore Academy. Morticia (Catherine Zeta-Jones, Prodigal Son) and Gomez (Luis Guzmán, The Resort) went there. In fact, they met and fell in love there. But the preternaturally morbid Wednesday is even less thrilled than usual, until she discovers there's a spate of grim deaths to solve. Harry Potter and X-Men comparisons spring the moment that Wednesday locks eyes on Nevermore, and only deepen when the series reveals that it caters to vampires, werewolves, sirens, gorgons and other paranormal folks. Wednesday's roommate is pastel-loving lycan Enid Sinclair (Emma Myers, Girl in the Basement), who hasn't yet 'wolfed out', for instance. Her immediate nemesis is queen bee Bianca (Joy Sunday, Dog), who has to wear an amulet to avoid unleashing her siren powers. Smartly, series creators and writers Miles Millar and Alfred Gough — who co-created Smallville together two decades ago, so know the ropes when it comes to mining the high-school angst of well-known figures — stick with Wednesday's namesake's withering attitude, and with a wryly comedic mood. She isn't fussed about the whole magical educational institution setup, and the show she's in recognises that it's a setting and a source of plenty of humour rather than the real focus. That centre of attention instead: Wednesday, always. People in and around Nevermore are disappearing, though. Students and Vermont locals might be getting torn to pieces by a monster, or they might show up again the next day even after Wednesday witnesses their murders. None of the adults — not headmistress Larissa Weems (Gwendoline Christie, Flux Gourmet), new teacher Marilyn Thornhill (Ricci, Yellowjackets), local sherriff Donovan Galpin (Jamie McShane, The Lincoln Lawyer) or Wednesday's court-ordered therapist Valerie Kinbott (Riki Lindhome, Knives Out) — are particularly open to her theories or happy about her investigations. A misanthropic teen black sheep sleuthing around an exclusive school and the insular town it's in, making few friends in the process, and determined to expose deep, dark secrets? Yes, there's more than a touch of Veronica Mars to Wednesday, too. Yes, there's thorny romances as well (enter Your Honor's Hunter Doohan as the sheriff's son Tyler and Pretty Hard Cases' Percy Hynes White as Nevermore pupil Xavier Thorpe), just with a brunette lead, a blacker colour palette and moody woodland surroundings. If you're well-acquainted with the formulas behind most high school-set dramas, or whodunnits and detective tales, then Wednesday has few shocks and surprises. Nonetheless, it remains a twisted and easy to binge from start to finish, all thanks to two key factors. First is that standout lead casting, with Ortega slipping into Wednesday's dead-eyed scowl like she's always worn it, never softening it, ensuring that Wednesday lives up to it and perfecting the part's deadpan humour at the same time. Zeta-Jones and Guzman play the lusty Morticia and Gomez with flair, Fred Armisen (Los Espookys) makes a suitably offbeat Uncle Fester, and Christie relishes her authoritative role, but the intense Ortega is the show's blackly and wittily charming heart. Secondly, although Burton doesn't helm every episode in the series — just the first four — Wednesday is as quirkily mesmerising as the Frankenweenie, Beetlejuice and Edward Scissorhands' greatest work. More than that, it's among his finest output in a couple of decades, in no small part because it looks so bewitchingly attuned to his preferred melancholy aesthetic, complete with wonderfully surprising and seductive design choices. There's Danny Elfman-composed theme music to help perfect the mood, too, continuing a collaboration with Burton that goes all the way back to 1985's Pee-wee's Big Adventure. Wednesday doesn't exceed its 60s or 90s predecessors — it swiftly and thoroughly bests the recent animated flick and its own follow-up, though, which isn't hard — but it's exactly what a Burton-style take on The Addams Family was always bound to be. Whether you're popping a witch's shawl on and grabbing a broomstick you can crawl on, or not, it's worth playing a call on. Check out the trailer for Wednesday below: Wednesday streams via Netflix from Wednesday, November 23. Images: Courtesy of Netflix © 2022.
Get ready to play that funky music, Melburnians, because a 70s-themed karaoke bar has rolled into town. Yep, Funlab — the group responsible for Holey Moley and adults-only arcade bars Archie Brothers and B. Lucky & Sons — has opened yet another kidult wonderland, with Juke's Karaoke Bar its latest themed venue. Located inside the Crown Complex, this one trades pinball machines and golf clubs for a psychedelic colour scheme, plenty of mirrors and mirrorballs, and decor that'll make you want to bust out your flares and big hair. Oh, and plenty of 70s bangers as well. It's time to warm up those vocal chords and prepare to belt out the likes of 'My Sharona', 'Stayin' Alive' and 'Hotel California', plus oh-so-much ABBA. In total, ten private karaoke rooms are available, accommodating between two to 25 people. While each suite boasts a different style and varying hues, they all come with velvet ottomans and couches, a stage and a stand-up mic. There's also a prop box, complete with items like tambourines, maracas and feather boas. Juke's also has a bar — for plenty of liquid courage, naturally — and serves snacks. As is only fitting, all food and booze is appropriately 70s-inspired. Drinks-wise, you can choose from orange crush-flavoured punch bowls served in disco balls, grasshoppers (the minty drink) and fruity cocktails adorned with lolly bracelets. Or, opt for a liquid or jelly shot, including the mini espresso martini and toasted marshmallow kind, as well as others in syringes. To eat, you'll find prawn cocktails, onion ring towers and Chiko Rolls, plus giant pretzels, mini hot dogs, sliders, potato gems, Swedish meatballs, and a platter of chocolate, lamingtons and marshmallows. Also on offer: cabanossi and pineapple porcupines, and this frighteningly fluoro cheese fondue. Juke's Karaoke is now open in the Crown Entertainment Complex at Level 1, 8 Whiteman Street, Southbank, from midday–1am, daily.
Recently, a wave of international hotel chains have been choosing Melbourne as the first spot to drop their luxury accommodations in Australia — Lanson Place and The StandardX. And the latest to join the fold is 1 Hotels, which is preparing to open a luxury hotel at the newly revitalised Northbank Precinct in May 2025. Located right on the Yarra River, the pet-friendly hotel will be home to 277 guest rooms and 114 hotel-branded residences, a slew of drinking and dining destinations, a resident-only rooftop and a lavish day spa. The level-five spa will have a large sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and swimming pool, plus its own gym with in-house trainers. As with 1 Hotels in London, Hollywood and New York, this Melbourne site will include swathes of reclaimed and recycled materials as well as stacks of plants and other natural elements. All in all, you'll find over 2000 plants scattered throughout 1 Hotel Melbourne, plus there'll be direct access to a 3500-square-metre riverside park. This park is part of the new Seafarers Rest precinct, which sits within the broader Northbank Precinct. This oft-forgotten wedge of land between Flinders Street and the river — located opposite Southbank and accessed via the Seafarers Bridge — is preparing for a massive glow-up. And 1 Hotel will be one of its main attractions. 1 Hotel Melbourne is slated to open in May 2025, and will be found at 9 Maritime Place, Melbourne. For more information, you can check out the hotel's website.
Spoiler warning: this interview incudes specifics about Materialists if you haven't watched the film before reading. Honesty. Authenticity. Anyone who has seen, swooned over and fallen head over heels for Past Lives, aka one of 2023's very best movies, already knows that these two traits beat at the heart of Celine Song's films. What's present in the writer/director's sophomore feature Materialists more than her Oscar- and Golden Globe-nominated, Gotham- and Independent Spirit Award-winning debut, however, is frankness — especially about people approaching relationships as an arrangement and a transaction, even, and about coupling not just driven by love, fluttering hearts and racing pulses. As it plunges into the New York City life of Lucy (Dakota Johnson, Madame Web), Materialists is submerged in a matchmaker's existence. That's her job. For those looking for love and willing to pay her high-end employer — so, usually folks with ample cash to splash in the service of meeting their perfect partner — Lucy works her magic. She knows how to woo new clients. She also knows how to seal the deal, with nine marriages springing from her services so far. And, she's well-aware that her gig isn't simply to make sparks fly. With her like with no one else, the Big Apple's bachelors and bachelorettes are unvarnished about their wants and must-haves in a soul mate. They have exact height parameters, and acceptable salary ranges as well. Some sport lengthy lists that go much further. None are particularly willing to budge. Materialists is a direct film, then, about the objectification and commodification of people that can be layered into the search for someone to spend one's life with, plus the materialistic values that can often become part of that process. Yes, that's weighty for a romance. Song's movie is still both deeply affectionate and genuinely comedic, though — smartly, sharply, astutely and wonderfully so. And, even if its characters sometimes might be, Materialists is never cynical about love, its marvels, and the joys of truly finding someone that makes you instantly imagine your older self next to theirs decades into the future. Is Materialists saying the normally quiet part about modern love and dating maths, the motivations and reasons that aren't necessarily normally voiced, out loud? "Oh, interesting that you feel that way," is her first response to the question. "I feel like there are fully people who speak this way about love and dating. You go on TikTok, you know," she tells Concrete Playground. "I think that it is actually so much more common — and not only is it common, it is actually the way that my clients would speak." With Past Lives, Song adapted her own experience. She too had a Korean childhood sweetheart. She has an American husband. The movie in its entirety isn't autobiographical, but it grew from that kind of place. With Materialists, Song instead draws upon her own time endeavouring to assist others with their love lives. She was only a matchmaker for around half a year, but that stint has informed her second film that's centred on the emotional journey of a woman torn between her past and her future. Consequently, when Song says that people tackle the quest for a partner like they're putting in a drinks order (a coke and a beer is Lucy's) or making a deal, it's because she has seen it firsthand. "And also, people will just — like people in my life now, if you ask them what they're looking for, sometimes they will speak that way," Song continues. "And I do think that it is something where it's the quantifying or the turning into numbers, that it is, it gets that literal in that way. As in 'well, even if you're five-two, I still want somebody who's over six-feet tall'. And you're like 'why? Can they be five-ten?'. And they're like 'no'." Lucy faces this situation day in, day out. Chatting with Song about it, it's clear how intricately that her own time in the same day job while she was starting out as a playwright has fed into Materialists. The romantic options of Lucy's clients aren't the film's key concern, of course, but their attitudes have made an imprint on her own. So, when she has two choices — Harry (Pedro Pascal, The Last of Us), the tall, successful, distinguished, handsome and ultra-wealthy brother of someone that she's just married off; and John (Chris Evans, Red One), a struggling actor making a buck as a cater waiter that she has a past with — this proves a picture about how her personal reality and beliefs about love come to collide. Upon exiting her matchmaking days, Song knew that it'd play a part in her work at some point. She felt that compulsion immediately. Why? We also explored that in our chat about this seductive and significant — and masterful and meaningful — interrogation of relationships with its guiding force. Do people appraising romance in economic terms consciously realise that they're treating marriage like a transaction, or do they think that that's just a relic of history? How do you approach casting for chemistry, especially when a luminous Johnson, debonair Pascal and never-better Evans are your stars? They're some of the other directions that our discussion with Song charted. On Song Leaving Her Short Stint as a Matchmaker Knowing That It Would Somehow Inform Her Work — and How Materialists Came About From There "I think that I walked into that job thinking that it was going to be a day job, but I think I learned more about people and what their hearts desire than almost any other six-month period of my life. And I think that I did walk away from that job feeling like I'm going to make something about it. I was like 'I'm going to devise something about it, I just know it'. And I think that it's because I'm dealing with people, encountering people, every day who want to find love. But when you ask them what they're looking for, everything that they say about the person that they intend to love are things like height, weight, salary, lifestyle — things that are quantifiable, things that are concerns of an insurance salesperson or somebody at the morgue. So I think in that way, I was just always so shocked by how different the way everybody's talking about the dating side of the pursuit of love versus what I knew about love. And love is this amazing ancient mystery. It's a complete miracle when it happens. And it's the most beautiful, most dramatic thing that we do in our lives. So it's an amazing thing to just watch such a gap, huge gap, between what is the answer to 'who are you looking for?' and then what it is actually like to be in love and to fall in love. And I think that that gap, and then the tension in that gap, the contradiction of those two things, I think that was what really made me want to make a movie about it. It just felt like such a powerful mystery and a powerful thing to deal with." On Whether People Consciously Realise That They're Approaching Marriage Like a Transaction — or If They Think That That's Just a Relic of History, Such as Victorian Romances "We're not very far from the way that Victorian romances were talking about marriage, because I feel like still this economic pressure, especially as the economic anxieties and financial anxieties are such a fundamental part of our lives, the relief we want from it is, I think, at the heart of our fundamental desires, right? We're starting to be like 'I would like to be relieved of financial troubles. I would like to be relieved of it'. So part of that relief, desire for relief, is, of course, something that was a fundamental part of the Victorian romances. It's so much about that relief. And I think that we have not come that far from feeling like that's a very good reason to marry someone. I think that, of course, it's less of a total choice. And then, of course, women make money. So it's kind of like 'of course it's changed a lot in that way'. But how amazing that women are able to make their own living? And so in that part of this, of course, so far improved — but it still hasn't changed the otherwise very difficult thing, which is that marriage is still seen as a very specific contract. And I think that that is a very reasonable and a normal thing. But as Lucy says in the film 'but love has to be on the table', right? You can't walk away, right? Like you can't actually have a business partner for your spouse. Your spouse is your spouse. You're going to have to change that person's diaper. That person would change your diaper — whatever, one of you is changing the other person's diaper. And the thing is, that's the most romantic thing about marriage, and therefore love has to be on the table." On Song's Approach to Casting for Chemistry — Especially When Casting Dakota Johnson, Pedro Pascal and Chris Evans "I think that when it comes to chemistry, some of it is just purely instinctual. But it's also so much work that's coming from the actors — as in, it is something that we're working on together as part of the performance, the chemistry. I think that sometimes people think chemistry is just flirting on-screen, but it's really not about flirting at all. Chemistry is something that you build by having two characters who want different things from each other, and the two of them trying to find a resolution. So what I mean by that is, for example, that loading dock scene between John, Chris Evans' character, and Lucy, Dakota Johnson's character, is that the chemistry in that scene is being built by me telling Chris 'you're doing your darndest, you're doing your best, to not kiss her'. And when it comes to Dakota, I'm telling her 'I think that she already knows that she probably will kiss him at some point'. So to me, I'm like 'well, you have two contradicting desires, right?'. And in that, that's where the tension is going to be and that's where the chemistry is going to be. So that's how it gets built. And the thing is, it's not just that these two people who are flirting with each other and then somehow there's going to be chemistry — there's not. It's all beautifully make believe. So, much of it I would want to credit the acting, the work that we're doing on it. And this is what I've always believed about chemistry. Chemistry is about erotic desire. And what is erotic desire? Wanting something that you don't have. That's where you can have chemistry. So I think, to be honest, that's the truth of it. And when it comes to those actors, I think building the chemistry, some of that is just about just knowing it — just knowing that they're going to, all three actors, are going to feel something for each other. That they're going to like each other, and even like just actually feel something for each other in such a deep way as humans. So I think it's really that. And of course, if they're the right people for each role, and these roles are romantically entangled and have chemistry with each other, they are going to have chemistry with each other. So to me, that's how I would really describe the way to find chemistry." On the Film Exploring Not Only Lucy's Clashing Romantic Options, But the Conflict Between Her Personal Reality and Her Beliefs About Love "I think the funniest part of it is that she's a matchmaker and she's having trouble finding a match for herself. And that's kind of an amazing dramatic problem — a matchmaker who is looking for love. So I think that in that way, it was always so important that we're meeting Lucy at the peak of her power and the peak of her feeling that she's the expert, that she knows everything. And then throughout the film, to unravel her until she is somebody who was able to not only accept that she doesn't know, but to also say 'I completely surrender. I completely surrender to love'. So I think that because that is her journey throughout this film, it was absolutely, yes, exactly what you're describing is the reason I wanted to make this movie. It was very important for Lucy to start as somebody who is presenting as just the smartest girl ever, and then to end the film making a decision that is with her heart. And it's not going to seem smart to a lot of people — even though the truth is we know that she's making the only smart decision in the whole film, right? Which is to say 'deal' to the one deal that you cannot say 'no' to. That's the only deal that is worth saying 'yes' to. And she does it. And in fact, that's the beautiful thing. It's like by making a decision that I'm sure, to herself in the beginning of the film, may seem like a stupid decision, she's making the wisest decision she can make about her life — which is to go where love is." Materialists opened in cinemas Down Under on Thursday, June 12, 2025. Images: Atsushi Nishijima, A24.
John Malkovich took time off from being John Malkovich to be Everyone Else for a change. Shot by Sandro Miller in Los Angeles, a new series of photographs dubbed Malkovich, Malkovich, Malkovich recreate some of the most iconic portraits in recent history — from John and Yoko to Che Guevara, Dorothea Lange's Migrant Woman to Andres Serrano's Piss Christ. According to the exhibition statement, Miller decided to undertake the project in 2013, wanting to honour the photographers whose work had inspired him and shaped his career. After selecting thirty five images to recreate, Miller got in touch with his ol' mate Malkovich — who apparently immediately agreed. "John is the most brilliant, prolific person I know," says Miller. "His genius is unparalleled. I can suggest a mood or an idea and within moments, he literally morphs into the character right in front of my eyes. He is so trusting of my work and our process… I'm truly blessed to have him as my friend and collaborator." All at once creepy and genius with Malkovich rocking an excellent Marilyn and a spot-on Dali, the series is actually less about Malkovich than it is an homage to the photographers responsible for the portraits themselves: Dianne Arbus, Annie Leibovitz, Art Shay, Dorothea Lange, Alberto Korda. That being said, it's supremely satisfying to see Malkovich in dress-up like this — his Jack Nicholson and Albert Einstein are top notch. Sandro Miller, Albert Watson / Alfred Hitchcock with Goose (1973), 2014 Sandro Miller, Philippe Halsman / Salvador Dalí (1954), 2014 Sandro Miller, Alberto Korda / Che Guevara (1960), 2014 Sandro Miller, Andy Warhol / Green Marilyn (1962), 2014 Sandro Miller, Andy Warhol / Self Portrait (Fright Wig) (1986), 2014 Sandro Miller, Annie Leibovitz / John Lennon and Yoko Ono (1980), 2014 Sandro Miller, Arthur Sasse / Albert Einstein Sticking Out His Tongue (1951), 2014 Sandro Miller, David Bailey / Mick Jagger "Fur Hood" (1964), 2014 Sandro Miller, Herb Ritts / Jack Nicholson, London (1988) (A), 2014 Sandro Miller, Andres Serrano / Piss Christ (1987), 2014
The Botanical Hotel on Domain Road is your one-stop shop for eating and drinking. The venue serves as a brasserie, bar, wine store and has private event spaces. It is equal parts post-run pit stop and a place to watch the footy on a Saturday night. The average South Yarra local can keep fed and watered without even having to venture to Chapel Street. The local joint opens at 7am seven days a week, serving up grab-and-go meals for breakfast. You can choose between bircher muesli, banana bread, bacon, egg and cheese on an English muffin, Penny for Pound croissant, Wonder Pies and more. Come lunch or dinnertime, punters can make their way to the brasserie for a modern Australian bar and grill. Highlights include 28-day aged (in-house) Aussie beef, local seafood platters, substantial sides (like lobster americane mac 'n cheese and beer battered onion rings) and unique desserts like deep fried coconut and passionfruit ice cream, pineapple tarte tatin and lemon bombe Alaska. All are paired with an award-winning wine list, a range of cocktails, craft beer, and local and imported spirits. The main marble bar is in the heart of the venue, serving up a wide selection of drinks — there's also a Happy Hour from 4pm–7pm, Sunday to Thursday. During the warmer months, the leafy courtyard is heaving with punters. During the wintertime, they cosy up with a rum by the fireplace. The cocktails range from the classics to house versions, like the Southside Sunsets with Beefeater gin, Joseph Cartron apple, lime, cranberry and mint. If you can't stay a while, the Botanical Winestore and Grocer offers a selection of pre-batched cocktails, wine, beer, spirits, coffee and even butchered meats. You can also order Grab and Go meals online for pick up, which is ideal for locals' quick lunch runs or post-work quick dinners. Updated October 25, 2023
Fresh from being named the Festival of the Year for the fourth time at the 2025 Queensland Music Awards, The Big Pineapple Festival has announced the news that every fan of dancing in the shadow of a giant piece of tropical fruit wants to hear. Come spring, the beloved event will return. Not only has the fest locked in its date, but organisers have also revealed that this'll be a big tenth-anniversary celebration. Diaries out: Saturday, November 1, 2025 is when you'll be hitting Pineapple Fields in Woombye. There's no lineup details as yet, or an exact timeline outlining when the fest's acts will be announced, but The Big Pineapple Festival crew is promising a "blockbuster event" — and its usual Aussie focus. "When we started this festival years ago, our goal was to put Australian artists front and centre, and create an unforgettable experience for fans," said Mark Pico, The Big Pineapple Festival's Founder and Festival Director. "To be here over a decade later with the festival stronger than ever and even earning industry awards again ... is incredibly humbling. It's a testament to the amazing community of artists, attendees and partners who have believed in The Big Pineapple Festival from the start." On Australia's list of big things, the Big Pineapple is among the most famous. It's big. It's a pineapple. It's heritage-listed Queensland icon. It's surrounded by pineapple fields. Basically, what's not to love? It's not merely a reason to head to Nambour to gawk at over-sized fruit, though. Back in 2013, it also became home to a music festival, which ran annually until taking a break in the early years of the pandemic — as every similar fest did. The Big Pineapple Festival's COVID-19 hiatus came to an end in 2024, with help from The Amity Affliction, Tones And I, Bliss n Eso and Peking Duk. In years prior, everyone from Violent Soho, The Veronicas, Rufus Du Sol, Hayden James, Example, Alison Wonderland, Birds of Tokyo and Grinspoon have taken to the event's stage, as have Vera Blue, Ball Park Music, Illy, Dune Rats, John Butler Trio and Ocean Alley. While waiting for this year's lineup, fans can start getting excited now about one new part of the fest in 2025: a performance by whoever wins the Rising Star award at this year's debut Sunshine Coast Music Awards. The Big Pineapple Festival will return on Saturday, November 1, 2025. We'll update you with more details when they're revealed — keep an eye on the fest's website, Facebook and Instagram in the interim. Select images: Claudia Ciapocha / Charlie Hardy.
If you, like us, spent most of last year ordering take out and binge watching Ted Lasso in your undies, there's a good chance your adrenal glands are in need of a proper work out. And, with the warmer weather slowly fading, there's no better time to line up a holiday in the tropics to stretch out your summer. One place that's filled with truly incredible activities for the thrill-seekers among us is Tropical North Queensland. From hiking through World Heritage-listed rainforest to abseiling down flowing waterfalls and camping on tropical islands, there's something for every type of adventure lover in this spectacular natural playground. So, if you're keen for a holiday that's adventure-filled, and want to support operators who are committed to sustainable tourism practices, hit this list of unmissable things to do in the region to ensure your extended summer is a slam dunk. [caption id="attachment_828484" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland.[/caption] ABSEIL DOWN WATERFALLS WITH CAIRNS CANYONING If Cairns Canyoning existed in 1994, we're convinced that TLC would have actually sung: "do go chasing waterfalls". With the help of expert guides, here you'll have the truly thrilling opportunity to abseil down waterfalls, hurl yourself from towering boulders into crystal-clear water and zipline through World Heritage-listed rainforest all in one trip. You can choose between the half-day adventures through Behana Gorge or Crystal Cascades or, if you're feeling a little more hardcore, sign up for the full-day Spillway Canyon trip. [caption id="attachment_829726" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Raging Thunder[/caption] GET WET AND WILD ON A WHITE WATER RAFTING TRIP Imagine sitting on the edge of an inflatable raft as you float down a river through a spectacular gorge surrounded by World Heritage-listed rainforest. Sounds pretty incredible, right? Now, picture taking that same boat down steep ravines and raging rapids and you've got the wet and wild adventure that is white water rafting. In Tropical North Queensland, you can choose to conquer a number of courses on the region's world-class rafting rivers. For a full day of adventure filled with thrills and spills on 45 rapids, book a trip on the Tully River with eco-certified rafting company Raging Thunder. Or, if you'd prefer to, quite literally, test the waters on a shorter course, try the half-day trip on The Barron River. [caption id="attachment_829728" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] TAKE A LEAP OF FAITH AT AUSTRALIA'S ONLY BUNGEE JUMP If you consider yourself a bit of an adrenaline junkie, then visiting SkyPark is a must on your trip to Tropical North Queensland. Not only is it the one place in Australia where you can bungee, but you'll get to do so while being cradled by lush tropical rainforest. Located 15 kilometres north of Cairns, here you can leap from the 50-metre bungee that teeters over a stunning natural lagoon. Or, strap into the giant swing to reach speeds of up to 120 kilometres per hour in just three seconds with up to two mates side by side. If you're not quite ready to take the bungee plunge, try the 140-metre-high walk-the-plank obstacle instead. Whether you're a seasoned jumper or are ready to take your very first leap, the 16 different styles on the jump menu will accomodate for all levels of thrill seeking and ensure you experience a rush like never before. [caption id="attachment_829729" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] SAIL OVER TREETOPS IN AN OPEN-AIR GONDOLA If you want to get up close and personal with the oldest continually surviving rainforest in the world, make tracks to the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway located 15 minutes north of Cairns. Aboard the cableway, you'll glide over the pristine jungle canopies between Smithfield and Kuranda, soaking in panoramic views of the rainforest and beyond before ending your trip near the banks of the heaving Barron River. You can also opt for the open-air Canopy Glider to sail top-down over the treetops with the expert guidance of a Skyrail Ranger or upgrade to the diamond view to experience a gondola with a glass floor. To maximise your adventure, combine your treetop adventure with the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway to see the sights from a different perspective on your round trip. Plus, if you want to help maintain the tropical rainforest, you can donate to the Skyrail Rainforest Foundation which distributes funds to research and education projects that help protect and conserve this natural wonder. [caption id="attachment_828482" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] PUT YOUR STAND UP PADDLEBOARDING SKILLS TO THE TEST ON THE MOSSMAN RIVER Feel like you're pretty familiar with stand-up paddleboarding by now? Well, if you've managed to tackle the task atop local lakes and seas, it might be time to level up your balancing bravado with a paddleboarding trip on the Mossman River. The team at Wind Swell will take you on a three-hour trip upstream to soak in the sights and sounds of the buzzing tropical rainforest. Along the way, you'll learn about the local habitat, have a chance to try out some paddleboard yoga, taste exotic flavours of local tropical fruit and cool off in the freshwater swimming hole before floating back to base. And, if that's not enough adventure, check out the company's other tours in wing surfing, kite surfing, wakeboarding and more. [caption id="attachment_828487" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] GO KAYAKING WITH TURTLES IN PALM COVE Ever wanted to set off kayaking from balmy tropical beaches lined with palm trees? Well, at picturesque Palm Cove, approximately 25 minutes drive north of Cairns, you can. The Kayak Turtle Tour, run by Pacific Water Sports, is an unmissable half-day ocean adventure in Tropical North Queensland. Departing at 7am, you'll kayak across The Coral Sea to nearby Double Island and Haycock Island to spot green and hawksbill turtles basking in the coral reefs below. Then, you'll paddle further afield to sight rays and shovelnosed guitarfish (sometimes called shovelnose sharks) before making your way back to the shore at Palm Cove. [caption id="attachment_828491" align="alignnone" width="2560"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] FLOAT ABOVE THE HILLS IN A HOT AIR BALLOON To experience a truly exceptional adventure, sometimes you have to sacrifice a little sleep to make it happen. And, after returning from a trip with Hot Air Balloon, you'll be more than glad you got out of bed before the sun to see it rise over the magical Atherton Tablelands. Departing from Cairns's northern beaches and Port Douglas, this tour will take you approximately one hour west to Mareeba for your ballooning take off. Once afloat, you'll experience the soft colours of dawn as you glide high over the Atherton Tablelands, soaking in panoramic views of the region. You'll arrive back in Cairns between 9-9.30am, just in time for breakfast at one of the city's excellent cafes. [caption id="attachment_828494" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] SEE A SMILE FROM A CROCODILE AT HARTLEY'S CROCODILE ADVENTURES If you've ever wondered what it would be like to have a close encounter with a real-life dinosaur, Hartley's Crocodile Adventures is about as close as you can get. Located between Cairns and Port Douglas at Wangetti, this eco-certified tourism operator has plenty of thrilling crocodile action that'll get your heart racing. For $43, your park pass includes a cruise with crocs at the on-site lagoon, access to the daily wildlife presentations such as crocodile feedings, snake shows and the nail-biting crocodile attack show. Plus, if one dinosaur-like creature isn't enough, you can also check out the cassowary feeding. Or, if you want keep things cuddly, make sure you stop by the koala talk. [caption id="attachment_828495" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] GET OFF THE MAINLAND WITH CAMPING AT DUNK ISLAND Camping on a tropical island might seem like it's reserved for films and fantasies. But, in Tropical North Queensland, you can make it your reality at Dunk Island in the Family Islands National Park. Drive two hours south of Cairns to the idyllic coastal town of Mission Beach. Then, take a ten-minute ride across the glittering Coral Sea with Mission Beach Charters to Dunk Island where you can pitch a tent at one of only eight sites on the island. The campground comes with all the essentials — picnic tables, barbecue facilities, hot showers, drinking water and a loo — but, you'll need to take everything else with you. Pack snorkelling gear to catch the marine life in action at Muggy Muggy Beach, a good pair of walking shoes to complete the 11-kilometre Island Circuit hike, and plenty of food to refuel and enjoy on the sands of this tropical paradise. [caption id="attachment_828496" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] HIKE THROUGH RAINFOREST TO THE SPECTACULAR NANDROYA FALLS If you consider yourself a bit of a hiking fanatic, taking the 6.6-kilometre trek through the spectacular Wooroonooran National Park to Nandroya Falls is essential while in Tropical North Queensland. Not only will you get to walk through the incredible Wet Tropics World Heritage-listed rainforest, you'll get to wash off under a thriving waterfall, too. Start from the Henrietta Creek campground where you'll venture 700 metres into the rainforest to the start of the circuit fork. Take the right-hand track to take in smaller waterfalls, rock pools and rapid streams before reaching the immense Nandroya Falls. Cool off with a swim and enjoy a picnic lunch by the falls before completing the circuit and heading back to camp. Ready to book your tropical escape? For more information and to discover more about a holiday in Tropical North Queensland, visit the website. Image: Nandroya Falls, Tourism Tropical North Queensland
A lot of Melbourne's new bars and restaurant makeovers are leaning into Euro-centric flavours, designs and vibes. It's somewhat of a safe bet in Melbourne — a city with deep European roots and a great love for Italian, French and Greek food. But despite the crowded market, Melburnians are regularly filling up each of these new spots. We're into it. Because, after all, who doesn't love easy-drinking European wines paired with pasta, steak and charcuterie boards? It's an easy win. And Wally's in Albert Park is yet another to latch onto the trend, opened in 2024. Owner Baxter Pickard (surprisingly, not named Wally) brings his long history of drinking and selling wine to the site, curating an impressive list of European vinos. He's made sure to cover a lot of price points at Wally's, ranging from affordable bottles starting at $50 to vintage and hard-to-find drops that'll cost you around $200 a pop. Those who opt for the more spenny varieties will be getting wines that Pickard and his team have won at auction. These will change depending on what's available at the time, so be sure to ask the crew to talk you through these extra-special options. But few wine bars in Melbourne can get by with only having great drinks on offer. We are sip-and-snack people now, needing fabulous bites to accompany our drinking sessions. That's why Pickard has brought on Damon McIver (ex-Waxflower and Vex Dining) to run the kitchen pass. He's dreamt up an oft-changing menu of European-inspired dishes that are made to be paired with the evolving wine menu. A few small plates will make an appearance — think cured bonito, barbecued leeks, fresh oysters with house-made hot sauce and skewers — as well as larger plates that'll include pasta and steaks. It's all quite classic and simple food, made to complement rather than outshine the wine. The Melbourne-based studio a.mi has also kept things fairly traditional, using plenty of natural finishes and mirrored ceilings to create a French-leaning bistro vibe. Punters can either sit within the light-filled wine bar or perch out on the street — where pets are more than welcome to join. It seems like a welcome addition to Albert Park — great for local wine lovers who want to have a casual drink with mates or go all out and explore some really special vinos. Images: Pete Dillon
Just days out from taking to the stage together for the first time in more than a decade and a half, Oasis have given fans Down Under a gift: releasing more tickets for their spring 2025 shows in Australia. The Manchester-born band is kicking off their Oasis Live '25 tour in Cardiff, Wales on Friday, July 4, but have dates with Melbourne from the end of October and Sydney in November — and if you haven't already nabbed tix to those Aussie gigs, you've got another chance to get some. On sale now: tickets that were held for the production for Oasis' three Victorian and two New South Wales concerts. The group is playing Marvel Stadium in Melbourne across Friday, October 31–Saturday, November 1, then again on Tuesday, November 4. In Sydney, Liam and Noel Gallagher and company will hit up Accor Stadium on Friday, November 7–Saturday, November 8. [caption id="attachment_975640" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Batiste Safont via Wikimedia Commons.[/caption] Given how popular these gigs were when they were announced in 2024 — so much so that extra concerts were quickly added, and Melbourne's shows were declared a major event, meaning that they'd fall under anti-scalping laws — getting in ASAP is recommended. This year marks 20 years since Oasis last toured Australia. There's comeback tours and then there's Britain's most-famous feuding siblings reuniting to bring one of the country's iconic groups back together live — aka the biggest story in music touring of the past year, since Liam and Noel announced in August 2024 that they were reforming the band, and also burying the hatchet. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Live Nation Australia (@livenationaustralia) Initially, Oasis locked in a run of shows in the UK and Ireland. Then, they expanded their tour dates, also confirming visits to Canada and the US, plus Australia, Japan, South Korea, Argentina, Chile and Brazil. Oasis broke up in 2009, four years after their last Australian tour, and following seven albums from 1994's Definitely Maybe through to 2008's Dig Your Soul — and after drawing massive crowds to their live gigs along the way (see: documentary Oasis Knebworth 1996). If you're feeling supersonic about the group's reunion, you can likely expect to hear that track, plus everything from 'Live Forever', 'Cigarettes & Alcohol', 'Morning Glory' and 'Some Might Say' through to 'Wonderwall', 'Don't Look Back in Anger' and 'Champagne Supernova' when they hit Australia. [caption id="attachment_975202" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Simon Emmett[/caption] Oasis Live '25 Australian Dates Friday, October 31–Saturday, November 1 + Tuesday, November 4 — Marvel Stadium, Melbourne Friday, November 7–Saturday, November 8 — Accor Stadium, Sydney [caption id="attachment_975205" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Oasis Knebworth 1996, Photo by Roberta Parkin/Redferns[/caption] Oasis are touring Australia in October and November 2025, with tickets on sale now. Head to the tour website for more details. Top image: Simon Emmett.
There's no forgetting the opening moments of Scrublands, Australia's latest rural noir entry. For viewers streaming along via Stan, where the four-part series is available in full, there's no chance of not being instantly hooked, either. After an otherwise ordinary Sunday congregation, as his worshippers disperse slowly from his rural church's car park, Riversend priest Byron Swift (Jay Ryan, Muru) starts shooting with a sniper rifle. Five locals — farmers Alf (Fletcher Humphreys, The Stranger) and Tom Newkirk (Scott Major, Heartbreak High), shop owner Craig Landers (Martin Copping, The Dunes), mechanic Hugh Grosvenor (debutant Ben de Pagter) and accountant Gerry Torlini (Adam Morgan, The Royal Hotel) — are killed, with the man of the cloth not living out the fray himself. After that introduction, the bulk of Scrublands picks up a year later as the small, remote and deeply drought-stricken town is still attempting to live with an event that it'll never get over. In drives journalist Martin Scarsden (Luke Arnold, True Colours), who has been dispatched from Sydney to write about the situation 12 months after the unthinkable occurred. Capturing the colour of the situation is his remit, in an article that his Sydney Morning Herald editor wants for weekend supplement reading, and is also meant to be Scarsden's easy way back to the job after a traumatic last assignment. To the shock of no one but the investigative reporter, his welcome is mixed. It also won't astonish viewers that the journo's time interrogating the truth behind the tragedy proves anything but straightforward and uneventful — and neither director Greg McLean (Jungle) nor screenwriters Felicity Packard (Ms Fisher's Modern Murder Mysteries), Kelsey Munro (Bump) and Jock Serong (a scripting debutant) expect that basic framework to come as a surprise. Scrublands remains a mystery; however, it's the why that haunts its frames, not the who. That question lingers over the townsfolk that cross Scarsden's path, although there's already been an official tale since the massacre occurred. In the rubber-stamped version doing the rounds and fuelling news headlines, abuse allegations were levelled at Swift just days before the incident. So, in external law enforcement's minds, that's long been the case closed. But Scarsden is increasingly unconvinced. Far from writing the "torture porn" that he's initially accused of, he begins digging deeper, despite as much hostility about him endeavouring to unearth the facts swirling as surrounds to his presence in Riversend at all. Bookstore and cafe proprietor Mandy Bond (Bella Heathcote, C*A*U*G*H*T), a single mum and the first local that Scarsden meets, swings from cordial to frosty and then more open. Police officers Robbie Haus-Jones (Adam Zwar, Squinters) and Monica Piccini (Freya Stafford, New Gold Mountain) vary in their cooperation. Resident chief landowner Harley Reagan (Robert Taylor, The Newsreader) is blunt but reluctant about imparting anything but his family's generational history in these parts. Among those who lost fathers and husbands — such as teenagers Allen Newkirk (Stacy Clausen, True Spirit) and Jamie Landers (Zane Ciarma, Neighbours), and the latter's mother Fran (Victoria Thaine, Nowhere Boys) — the response is equally as complicated. Recurring among most of Riversend's inhabitants: the certainty that the picture painted of the cleric that changed everything isn't what it seems. The list of Australian films and TV shows that involve a big-city outsider galloping in to run through a regional area's problems, struggles and secrets is considerable, including The Dry, Black Snow, Limbo and Deadloch in recent years. Scrublands happily fits the bill. As those past movies and series have shown, and this page-to-screen effort based on Chris Hammer's novel as well, such a setup can provide the basis for weighty and compelling stories when presented with care, thought and style. McLean isn't in Wolf Creek or Wolf Creek 2 territory. While the eye-catching imagery that the filmmaker and his cinematographer Marden Dean (Clickbait) offer up can lean on familiar visual tropes, relying on standard formula isn't the approach overall. Any narrative scenario, no matter how well-used — including to the point where it feels like a national genre — can feel worth diving into when fleshed out with riveting details. Scrublands is a clear case in point. This isn't a story backdropped by parched red earth as far as the eye can see, but by the dry scrubby landscape as the name suggests. Like picture, like themes, then. Emotional complexities between characters intertwine, spread and hook in like undergrowth, in that remote small-town way. In other series such as The Clearing and The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart as well, and in The Royal Hotel on the big screen, too, Australia's recent screen output has kept making plain the ties, secrets and lies that can bind when everyone knows everyone, or thereabouts — plus the thorns that lurk for outsiders. A sense of stifling often courses through Australia's rural noir efforts, even when filled with vast expanses. When it seems like all there is is space, often there's nowhere to run to. As Scrublands' take on the interloper mining for answers, Arnold adds an arresting and grounded performance to a resume that flits from The Tunnel, Black Sails, Glitch and Home and Away to playing Michael Hutchence in Never Tear Us Apart: The Untold Story of INXS. This genre needs not only a gripping mystery but an involving protagonist, and TV's new addition ticks both boxes. While Ryan's casting as a charismatic and beloved priest, at least until he started gunning down parishioners, gives away that there's a twist to come involving Swift — and that the man of god won't just be seen in the series' introduction — he's still expertly deployed given the role's charming, empathetic and no-nonsense turns, as seen in flashbacks. And as Bond segues between the past and the present sections, Heathcote wears both hope and grief like a second skin. Hammer, a former journalist himself, penned a rich and atmospheric novel that screamed to reach the screen. As well as the non-fiction The River and The Coast, both of which preceded 2018's Scrublands to bookshelves, he's also given Scarsden two more stints on the page so far: Silver in 2019 and Trust in 2020. Expect them both to appeal to streaming powers that be, giving Australia a new Jack Irish- and Mystery Road-like franchise. If Hammer's Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan novels — 2021's Treasure and Dirt, 2022's The Tilt and 2023's The Seven — also get the same treatment, that wouldn't be a surprise, either. Check out the trailer for Scrublands below: Scrublands streams via Stan.
Every year is a good year for movies. Every year delivers must-see highlights, flat-out masterpieces and films so good that they become your instant favourites. The flicks change — the names, stars and plots, too — but there's simply no such thing as a bad year for cinema. Because so many titles get released each year, there's always going to be a big batch of gems brightening up the big screen. There'll be terrible movies as well, but that just comes with the territory. 2021 is only halfway through, and it's already a good year for movies. It's a great, excellent and downright stellar year, in fact. Plenty of the films that've made their way to cinemas across the past six months came out last year overseas, but that doesn't matter — a fantastic movie remains just that no matter when it reaches viewers. Some of this year's cinematic highlights so far have already won shiny trophies for their efforts. Others just might in the future. Either way, here's the 12 overwhelming exceptional films that've proven 2021's best already. If you haven't seen them all, consider this your must-watch list for before the year is out. PROMISING YOUNG WOMAN Promising Young Woman would've made an excellent episode or season of Veronica Mars. That's meant as the highest compliment to both the bubblegum-hued take on the rape-revenge genre and the cult-status private detective series. Writer/director Emerald Fennell clearly isn't blind to the parallels between the two, even casting Veronica Mars stars Max Greenfield (New Girl) and Chris Lowell (GLOW) in her feature debut. Don't go thinking the Killing Eve season two showrunner and The Crown actor is simply following in other footsteps, though. At every moment, the brilliant and blistering Promising Young Woman vibrates with too much anger, energy and insight to merely be a copycat of something else. It's a film made with the savviest of choices, and provocative and downright fearless ones as well, in everything from its soundtrack to its weaponised pastel, peppy and popping Instagram-friendly imagery. You don't include Italian quartet Archimia's orchestral version of Britney Spears' 'Toxic', Paris Hilton's 'Stars Are Blind' and an abundance of vibrant surface sheen in a movie about a woman waging war on the culture of sexual assault without trying to make a statement — and Fennell succeeds again and again. She has also made the smart decision to cast Carey Mulligan, and to draw upon the acclaimed actor's near-peerless ability to express complex internalised turmoil. Mulligan's fierce lead performance scorches, sears and resounds with such burning truth, and so does the feature she's in as a result. When Mulligan's character, Cassie Thomas, is introduced, she's inebriated and alone at a nightclub, her clothing riding up as she slouches in her seat. Three men discuss women over beverages by the bar, and notice Cassie while talking, with one commenting, "they put themselves in danger, girls like that". No woman brings sexual assault upon themselves, with this whole intelligent and astute revenge-thriller rebuffing the bro-ish bar guy's early observation in every way possible, and meting out punishment to those who think similarly. As viewers see in the film's opening sequence, Cassie is offered help by one of the chatting guys, Jerry (The OC's Adam Brody), who is concerned she could be taken advantage of by men who aren't as nice as him — but then takes her home, makes sexual advances, and learns that the medical school dropout-turned-coffee shop employee he's trying to bed has a lesson for him. Colour-coded names and tallies scrawled in a notebook illustrate this isn't a first for Cassie. The script drip-feeds details about its protagonist's motivations for her ritualistic actions; however, the specifics aren't hard to guess. Cassie's central vigilante quest is forced to adapt after she hears news about someone from her past, and the movie takes her to bold places, boasting a relentlessness that mirrors the persistence of grief and pain after trauma. Promising Young Woman never lets its protagonist's rage subside, proving furious from start to finish — and sharing that feeling even in the film's most overt setups and obvious scenes (which are also some of its most entertaining) is a foregone conclusion. Read our full review. FIRST COW Gone are the days when every image that flickered across the screen did so within an almost square-shaped frame. That time has long passed, in fact, with widescreen formats replacing the 1.375:1 Academy aspect ratio that once was standard in cinemas, and its 4:3 television counterpart. So, when a director today fits their visuals into a much tighter space than the now-expansive norm, it's an intentional choice. They're not just nodding to the past, even if their film takes place in times gone by. With First Cow, for instance, Kelly Reichardt unfurls a story set in 19th-century America, but she's also honing her audience's focus. The Meek's Cutoff, Night Moves and Certain Women filmmaker wants those guiding their eyeballs towards this exquisite movie to truly survey everything that it peers at. She wants them to see its central characters — chef Otis 'Cookie' Figowitz (John Magaro, Overlord) and Chinese entrepreneur King-Lu (Orion Lee, Zack Snyder's Justice League) — and to realise that neither are ever afforded such attention by the others in their fictional midst. Thoughtfully exploring the existence of figures on the margins has long been Reichardt's remit, as River of Grass, Old Joy and Wendy and Lucy have shown as well, but she forces First Cow's viewers to be more than just passive observers in this process. There's much to take in throughout this magnificently told tale, which heads to Oregon as most of Reichardt's movies have. In its own quiet, closely observed, deeply affectionate and warm-hearted fashion, First Cow is a heist movie, although the filmmaker's gentle and insightful spin on the usually slick and twist-filled genre bucks every convention there is. Initially, after watching an industrial barge power down a river, First Cow follows a woman (Alia Shawkat, Search Party) and her dog as they discover a couple of skeletons nearby. Then, jumping back two centuries and seeing another boat on the same waterway, it meets Cookie as he's searching for food. Whatever he finds, or doesn't, the fur-trapper team he works with never has a kind word to spare. But then Cookie stumbles across King-Lu one night, helps him evade the Russians on his tail, and the seeds of friendship are sown. When the duo next crosses paths, they spend an alcohol-addled night sharing their respective ideas for the future. Those ambitious visions get a helping hand after the Chief Factor (Toby Jones, Jurassic Park: Fallen Kingdom) ships in the region's highly coveted first cow, with Cookie and King-Lu secretly milking the animal in the dark of night, then using the stolen liquid to make highly sought-after — and highly profitable — oily cakes. Read our full review. EMA Before 2021 comes to an end, Pablo Larraín will have given the world Spencer, a new biopic about Princess Diana featuring Kristen Stewart as the royal figure. Also on his hit list this year: the just-released Lisey's Story, a Julianne Moore-starring TV adaptation of a Stephen King book that has been scripted for the screen by the author himself. But with Ema, he's already gifted viewers something exceptional — and something that'll be hard to beat. A new project by Larraín is always cause for excitement, and this drama about a reggaeton dancer's crumbling marriage, personal and professional curiosities, and determined quest to become a mother rewards that enthusiasm spectacularly. In fact, it's a stunning piece of cinema, and one that stands out even among the Chilean director's already impressive resume. He's the filmmaker behind stirring political drama No, exacting religious interrogation The Club, poetic biopic Neruda and the astonishing, Natalie Portman-starring Jackie — to name just a few of his movies — so that's no minor feat. For the first time in his career, Larraín peers at life in his homeland today, rather than in the past. And, with his now six-time cinematographer Sergio Armstrong (Tony Manero, Post Mortem), he gazes as intently as he can. Faces and bodies fill Ema's frames, a comment that's true of most movies; however, in both the probing patience it directs its protagonist's way and the kinetic fluidity of its dance sequences, this feature equally stares and surveys. Here, Larraín hones in on the dancer (Mariana Di Girólamo, Much Ado About Nothing) who gives the feature its name. After adopting a child with her choreographer partner Gastón (Gael García Bernal, Mozart in the Jungle), something other than domestic bliss has followed. Following a traumatic incident, and the just as stressful decision to relinquish their boy back to the state's custody, Ema is not only trying but struggling to cope in the aftermath. This isn't a situation she's simply willing to accept, though. Ema, the movie, is many things — and, most potently, it's a portrait of a woman who is willing to make whatever move she needs to, both on the dance floor and in life, to rally against an unforgiving world, grasp her idea of freedom and seize exactly what she wants. Di Girólamo is magnetic, whether she's dancing against a vivid backdrop, staring pensively at the camera or being soaked in neon light. Bernal, one of the director's regulars, perfects a thorny role that ties into the film's interrogation of Chile's class and cultural divides. And Larraín's skill as both a visual- and emotion-driven filmmaker is never in doubt. Indeed, this film's imagery isn't easily forgotten, and neither is its mood, ideas, inimitable protagonist, or stirring exploration of trauma, shock and their impact. Read our full review. MINARI Although they can frequently seem straightforward, films about the American dream aren't simply about chasing success. The circumstances and details change, but they're often movies about finding a place to call home as well. Such a quest isn't always as literal as it sounds, of course. While houses can signify achievement, feeling like you truly belong somewhere — and that you're comfortable enough to set your sights on lofty goals and ambitions that require considerable risks and sacrifices — transcends even the flashiest or cosiest combination of bricks and mortar. Partly drawn from writer/director Lee Isaac Chung's (Abigail Harm) own childhood, Minari understands this. It knows that seeking a space to make one's own is crucial, and that it motivates many big moves to and within the US. So, following a Korean American couple who relocate to rural Arkansas in the 80s with hopes of securing a brighter future for their children, this delicately observed and deeply felt feature doesn't separate the Yi family's attempts to set up a farm from their efforts to feel like they're exactly where they should be. The result is a precise, vivid, moving, and beautifully performed and observed film told with honest and tender emotion — so much so that it was always bound to be equally universal and unique. When Jacob Yi (Steven Yeun, Burning) introduces his wife Monica (Yeri Han, My Unfamiliar Family), pre-teen daughter Anne (first-timer Noel Cho) and seven-year-old son David (fellow newcomer Alan S Kim) to their new 50-acre plot, he's beaming with pride. He's bought them "the best dirt in America," he says. It might only span a trailer, a field and a creek, but he's certain that it will revolutionise their lives. Although both Jacob and Monica still spend their days in a chicken sexing factory to pay the bills, Jacob is confident his agrarian dream will reap rewards. The path he's chosen isn't a glossy fantasy, though. From trying to work out where best to build a well to provide water for his crops, to endeavouring to convince stores to buy his wares, Jacob weathers more than his fare share of struggles. Monica's worries about their isolation, and about money, also weigh heavily, as she'd rather live in a larger city as part of the Korean diaspora. Also joining their daily woes in a movie that eschews overt conflicts for everyday dramas: Anne and David's attempts to fit in, the latter's heart murmur and the change that sweeps through the family when Monica's mother Soonja (Youn Yuh-jung, Sense8) comes to live with them. Read our full review. GUNDA Move over Babe, Piglet, Porky and Peppa. Thanks to monochrome-hued documentary Gunda, cinema has a brand new porcine star. Or several, to be exact; however, other than the eponymous sow, none of the attention-grabbing pigs in this movie are given names. If that feels jarring, that's because it breaks from film and television's usual treatment of animals. Typically on-screen, we see and understand the zoological beings we share this planet with as only humans can, filtering them through our own experience, perception and needs. We regard them as companions who become our trustiest and most reliable friends; as creatures who play important roles in our lives emotionally, physically and functionally; as anthropomorphised critters with feelings and traits so much like ours that it seems uncanny; and as worthy targets of deep observation or study. We almost never just let them be, though. Whether they're four-legged, furry, feathered or scaly, animals that grace screens big and small rarely allowed to exist free from our two-legged interference — or from our emotions, expectations or gaze. Gunda isn't like any other movie you've seen about all creatures great and small, but it can't ignore the shadow that humanity casts over its titular figure, her piglets, and the one-legged chicken and paired-off cows it also watches, either. It's shot on working farms, so it really doesn't have that luxury. Still, surveying these critters and their lives without narration or explanation, this quickly involving, supremely moving and deeply haunting feature is happy to let the minutiae of these creatures' existence say everything that it needs to. The delights and devastation alike are in the details, and the entire movie is filled with both. Filmmaker Victor Kossakovsky (Aquarela) looks on as Gunda's namesake gives birth, and as her offspring crawl hungrily towards her before they've even properly realised that they're now breathing. His film keeps peering their way as they squeal, explore and grow, and as they display their inquisitive, curious and sometimes mischievous personalities, too. Sometimes, this little family rolls around in the mud. At other times, they simply sleep, or Gunda takes the opportunity to enjoy some shut-eye while her piglets play. Whatever they're doing, and whenever and where, these pigs just going about their business, which the feature takes in frame by frame. In one of the documentary's interludes away from its porcine points of focus, the aforementioned chook hops about. Whether logs or twigs are involved, it too is just navigating its ordinary days. In the second of the movie's glimpses elsewhere, cattle trot and stand, and their routine couldn't seem more commonplace as well. Read our full review. ANOTHER ROUND Even the most joyous days and nights spent sipping your favourite drink can have their memory tainted by a hangover. Imbibe too much, and there's a kicker just waiting to pulsate through your brain and punish your body when all that alcohol inevitably starts to wear off. For much of Another Round, four Copenhagen school teachers try to avoid this feeling. The film they're in doesn't, though. It lays bare the ups and downs of knocking back boozy beverages, and it also serves up a finale that's a sight to behold. Without sashaying into spoiler territory, the feature's last moments are a thing of sublime beauty. Some movies end in a WTF, "what were they thinking?" kind of way, but this Oscar-winning Danish film comes to a conclusion with a big and bold showstopper that's also a piece of bittersweet perfection. The picture's highest-profile star, Mads Mikkelsen (Arctic), is involved. His pre-acting background as an acrobat and dancer comes in handy, too. Unsurprisingly, the substances that flow freely throughout the feature remain prominent. And, so does the canny and candid awareness that life's highs and lows just keep spilling, plus the just-as-shrewd understanding that the line between self-sabotage and self-release is as thin as a slice of lemon garnishing a cocktail. That's how Another Round wraps up, in one the many masterstrokes poured onto the screen by writer/director Thomas Vinterberg (Kursk) and his co-scribe Tobias Lindholm (A War). The film's unforgettable finale also expertly capitalises upon a minor plot detail that viewers haven't realised had such significance until then, and that couldn't typify this excellent effort's layered approach any better. But, ending with a bang isn't the movie's only achievement. In fact, it's full of them. The picture's savvy choices start with its premise, which sees the quiet and reserved Martin (Mikkelsen) and his fellow educators Tommy (Thomas Bo Larsen, Veni Vidi Vici), Peter (Lars Ranthe, Warrior) and Nikolaj (Magnus Millang, The Commune) all decide to put an out-there theory to the test. Motivated by real-life Norwegian psychiatrist Finn Skårderud, they conduct an experiment that involves being permanently sauced. Skårderud has hypothesised that humans are born with a blood alcohol deficit of 0.05 percent, so, with some cajoling needed on Martin's part, the quartet work that idea into their daily lives. Ground rules are established, and the shots, sneaky sips and all-hours drinking swiftly begins — and so splashes a tragicomic look at coping with mundane lives and the realities of getting older in an extreme fashion that's frank, unflinching, and yet also warm and sometimes humorous. Read our full review. COLLECTIVE We can only hope that one day, likely in a far distant future, documentaries will stop doubling as horror films. That time hasn't arrived yet — and as Collective demonstrates, cinema's factual genre can chill viewers to the bone more effectively than most jump- and bump-based fare. Nominated for Best Documentary Feature and Best International Feature at the 2021 Academy Awards (only the second time that's ever happened, after last year's Honeyland), this gripping and gut-wrenching Romanian doco starts with a terrible tragedy. On October 30, 2015, a fire broke out at a metal gig in Bucharest, at a club called Colectiv. Twenty-seven people died in the blaze, and 180 people were injured as they tried to escape via the site's lone exit; however, that's just the beginning of the movie's tale. In the four months afterwards, as burn victims were treated in the country's public hospitals, 37 more passed away. When journalist Cătălin Tolontan and his team at The Sports Gazette started investigating the fire's aftermath and the mounting casualty list, they uncovered not only widespread failures throughout Romania's health system, but also engrained corruption as well. This truly is nightmare fuel; if people can't trust hospitals to act in their patients' best interest after such a sizeable disaster, one of the fundamental tenets of modern society completely collapses. Early in Collective, director, writer, cinematographer and editor Alexander Nanau (Toto and His Sisters) shows the flames, as seen from inside the club. When the blaze sparks from the show's pyrotechnics, hardcore band Goodbye to Gravity has just finished singing about corruption. "Fuck all your wicked corruption! It's been there since our inception but we couldn't see," the group's singer growls — and no, you can't make this up. It's a difficult moment to watch, but this is a film filled with unflinching sights, and with a viscerally unsettling story that demands attention. Nanau occasionally spends time with the bereaved and angry parents of victims of the fire, even bookending the documentary with one man's distress over the "communication error" that contributed to his son's death. The filmmaker charts a photo shoot with Tedy Ursuleanu, a survivor visibly scarred by her ordeal, too. And yet, taking an observational approach free from narration and interviews, and with only the scantest use of text on-screen, Collective's filmmaker lets much of what's said rustle up the majority of the movie's ghastliest inclusions. Read our full review. THE NEST Before watching The Nest, you mightn't have imagined Jude Law playing Mad Men's Don Draper. He didn't, of course. But this new 80s-set psychological thriller about a corroding marriage brings that idea to mind, because it too follows a man who spends his days selling a dream, thinks he can talk and charm his way into anything, and may have unleashed his biggest spin upon himself. More often than not, Law's character here has used his charisma to get whatever he wants, and to evade whichever sticky personal and professional situations he's plunged himself into. Indeed, stock trader Rory O'Hara slides easily into Law's list of suave on-screen roles, alongside the likes of The Talented Mr Ripley and Alfie. But there's also a tinge of desperation to his arrogance, as the actor showcased well in miniseries The Third Day. A Brit who relocated to New York and married horse trainer Allison (Carrie Coon, Widows), Rory looks the picture of Reagan-era affluence but, when he suddenly wants to return to London to chase new work opportunities, the cracks in his facade start widening. As directed with a heightened sense of dread by Martha Marcy May Marlene filmmaker Sean Durkin, The Nest busts open those fractures, with Allison, her teenage daughter Sam (Oona Roche, Morning Wars) and her son Ben (Charlie Shotwell, The Nightingale) all weathering the repercussions. While it's obvious from the outset that trouble is afoot, Durkin isn't in any rush to unleash The Nest's full nightmare. He wants his viewers to linger in it, because his characters must. Allison is forced to live with the knowledge that little is right, but the way she chain-smokes hurriedly illustrates that she also knows how far her fortunes could fall. Every move Rory makes is driven by his need to paint a gleaming portrait of himself, and he knows that it's a reverse Dorian Gray situation: the shinier and flashier he makes everything seem to anyone who'll listen, the more he rots inside. Durkin doesn't just rely upon an exacting pace and a festering mood of gloom, though. Reuniting with cinematographer Mátyás Erdély (Son of Saul) after 2013 miniseries Southcliffe, he gives every second of The Nest an eerie look — whether staying a few beats longer than normal on its opening shot, lensing vast rooms to emphasise their emptiness, repeatedly peering at the film's characters through glass or breaking out the most gradual of zooms. All that tension and unease conveys not only Rory and Allison's domestic discontent, but also the false promises of chasing capitalism-driven fantasies. And, with Coon as essential as Law and Durkin, it drives an excellent thriller that knows how how gut-wrenching it feels to realise that the life you don't even love is a sham. Read our full review. SYNCHRONIC Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead made a significant splash in genre circles with 2014's horror-romance Spring and 2017's excellent cult thriller The Endless, but they aren't currently household names. If the duo keep writing and directing mind-bending sci-fi like Synchronic, though, they will be sooner rather than later. The pair actually appear destined to become better known via Marvel. They're slated to helm one of the MCU's many upcoming Disney+ TV series, the Oscar Isaac-starring Moon Knight, in fact. But, they've already worked their way up from the US$20,000 budget of their 2012 debut Resolution to making movies with Anthony Mackie and Jamie Dornan. Here, with Marvel's own Falcon and Fifty Shades of Grey's leading man, they play with time, relativity, fate and brain-altering substances. They ponder the shadows that the past leaves on the present, the way that progressing through life can feel far more like a stumble than following a clear path, and how confronting loss and death can reframe your perspective on living, too. Those temporal jumps and existential themes aren't new, of course, and neither is the film's steely look and feel, and its willingness to get dark. That's the thing about Benson and Moorhead, however: few filmmakers can twist familiar parts into such a distinctive, smart and engaging package in the same way, and with each and every one of their movies. Synchronic shares its title with a designer drug. In the film's vision of New Orleans, the hallucinogen can be bought in stores — and plenty of people are doing just that. Shift after shift, paramedics Steve Denube (Mackie) and Dennis Dannelly (Dornan) find themselves cleaning up the aftermath, as users keep overdosing, dying in unusual ways and getting injured in strange mishaps. And, these aren't your usual drug-fuelled incidents. One, involving a snakebite, happens in a hotel without even the slightest sign of slithering reptiles. That's enough to arouse the world-wearied Steve and Dennis' interest, and to give them something to talk about other than the former's attachment-free life and the latter's marriage. Then Dennis' teenage daughter Brianna (Ally Ioannides, Into the Badlands) goes missing, and the two EMTs are instantly keen to investigate any links that the popular pill might have to her disappearance. Cue a film that initially drips with tension, dread and intensity; uses every tool at its disposal to take viewers on a trippy journey; and grounds its surreal imagery and off-kilter atmosphere in genuine emotions. Each of Benson and Moorhead's four films so far are strikingly shot and astutely written, and rank among the best horror and sci-fi efforts of the past decade, but they're also as thoughtful and resonant as they are intelligent and ambitious — and that's an irresistible combination. Read our full review. THE FATHER Forgetting, fixating, flailing, fraying: that's The Father. Anthony's (Anthony Hopkins, Westworld) life is unravelling, with his daughter Anne (Olivia Colman, The Crown) springing the sudden news that she's about to move to Paris, and now insistent that he needs a new carer to replace the last home helper he's just scared off. He also can't find his watch, and time seems to jump suddenly. On some days, he has just trundled out of bed to greet the morning when Anne advises that dinner, not breakfast, is being served. When he brings up her French relocation again, she frostily and dismissively denies any knowledge. Sometimes another man (Mark Gatiss, Dracula) stalks around Anthony's London apartment, calling himself Anne's husband. Sometimes the flat isn't his own at all and, on occasion, both Anne (Olivia Williams, Victoria and Abdul) and her partner (Rufus Sewell, Judy) look completely different. Intermittently, Anthony either charms or spits cruel words at Laura (Imogen Poots, Black Christmas), the latest aide hired to oversee his days. She reminds him of another daughter, one he's sure he had — and preferred — but hasn't heard from for years. When he mentions his other offspring, however, everyone else goes silent. More than once, Anthony suspects that someone has pilfered his beloved timepiece, which just keeps disappearing. Largely, The Father remains housebound. For the bulk of its 97 minutes, it focuses on the cardigan-wearing Anthony as he roams around the space he calls home. But this is a chaotic film, despite its visual polish, and that mess, confusion and upheaval is entirely by design. All the shifting and changing — big and small details alike, and faces and places, too — speak to the reason Anne keeps telling Anthony they need another set of hands around the house. His memory isn't what it used to be. In fact, it's getting much worse than that. Anthony knows that there's something funny going on, which is how he describes it when his sense of what's happening twists and morphs without warning, and The Father's audience are being immersed in that truth. Anthony has dementia, with conveying precisely how that feels for him the main aim of this six-time Oscar-nominated stage-to-screen adaptation. As overwhelming as The Father can be as it wades through Anthony and Anne's lives, its unflinching and unsparing approach is anchored in kindness and compassion, which novelist and playwright turned first-time director Florian Zeller has brought to the screen in a stunning fashion from Le Père, his own play. Read our full review. MARTIN EDEN The last time that one of Jack London's books made the leap to cinema screens — just last year, in fact — it wasn't a pleasant viewing experience. Starring Harrison Ford and a CGI dog, The Call of the Wild forced viewers to watch its flesh-and-blood lead pal around with a needlessly anthropomorphised canine, to groan-inducingly cheesy results. Martin Eden is a much different book, so it could never get the same treatment. With his radiant imagery, masterful casting and bold alterations to the source material, writer/director Pietro Marcello (Lost and Beautiful) makes certain that no one will confuse this new London adaption for the last, however. The Italian filmmaker helms a compelling, complicated, ambitious and unforgettable film, and one that makes smart and even sensuous choices with a novel that first hit shelves 112 years ago. The titular character is still a struggling sailor who falls in love with a woman from a far more comfortable background than his. He still strives to overcome his working-class upbringing by teaching himself to become a writer. And, he still finds both success and scuffles springing from his new profession, with the joy of discovering his calling, reading everything he can and putting his fingers to the typewriter himself soon overshadowed by the trappings of fame, a festering disillusionment with the well-to-do and their snobbery, and a belief that ascribing worth by wealth is at the core of society's many problems. As a book, Martin Eden might've initially reached readers back in 1909, but Marcello sees it as a timeless piece of literature. He bakes that perception into his stylistic choices, weaving in details from various different time periods — so viewers can't help but glean that this tale just keeps proving relevant, no matter the year or the state of the world. Working with cinematographers Alessandro Abate (Born in Casal Di Principe) and Francesco Di Giacomo (Stay Still), he helms an overwhelmingly and inescapably gorgeous-looking film, too. When Martin Eden is at its most heated thematically and ideologically, it almost feels disquieting that such blistering ideas are surrounded by such aesthetic splendour, although that juxtaposition is wholly by design. And, in his best flourish, he enlists the magnetic Luca Marinelli (The Old Guard) as his central character. In a performance that won him the Best Actor award at the 2019 Venice Film Festival, Marinelli shoulders the eponymous figure's hopes, dreams and burdens like he's lived them himself. He lends them his soulful stare as well. That expression bores its way off the screen, and eventually sees right through all of the temptations, treats and treasures that come Eden's way. Any movie would blossom in its presence; Martin Eden positively dazzles, all while sinking daggers into the lifetime of tumult weathered by its titular everyman. IN THE HEIGHTS Lin-Manuel Miranda isn't the first lyricist to pen tunes so catchy that they get stuck in your head for years (yes, years), but his rhythmic tracks and thoughtful lines always stand out. Miranda's songs are melodic and snappy, as anyone who has seen Hamilton onstage or via streaming definitely knows. The multi-talented songwriter's lyrics also pinball around your brain because they resonate with such feeling — and because they're usually about something substantial. The musical that made his name before his date with US history, In the Heights echoes with affection for its eponymous Latinx New York neighbourhood. Now that it's reverberating through cinemas, its sentiments about community, culture, facing change and fighting prejudice all seem stronger, too. To watch the film's characters sing about their daily lives and deepest dreams in Washington Heights is to understand what it's like to feel as if you truly belong in your patch of the city, to navigate your everyday routine with high hopes shining in your heart, and to weather every blow that tries to take that turf and those wishes away. That's what great show tunes do, whisking the audience off on both a narrative and an emotional journey. Miranda sets his words to hip hop beats, but make no mistake: he writes barnstorming songs that are just as rousing and moving, and that've earned their place among the very best stage and screen ditties as a result. Watching In the Heights, it's hard not to think about all those stirring tracks that've graced previous musicals. That isn't a sign of derivation here, though. Directing with dazzling flair and a joyous mood, Crazy Rich Asians filmmaker Jon M Chu nods to cinema's lengthy love affair with musicals in all the right ways. His song-and-dance numbers are clearly influenced by fellow filmic fare, and yet they recall their predecessors only because they slide in so seamlessly alongside them. Take his staging of '96000', for instance. It's about winning the lottery, after word filters around that bodega owner Usnavi (Anthony Ramos, a Hamilton alum) has sold a lucky ticket. Due to the sweltering summer heat, the whole neighbourhood is at the public pool, which is where Chu captures a colourful sea of performers expressing their feelings through exuberantly shot, staged and choreographed music and movement — and it's as touching and glorious as anything that's ever graced celluloid. Of course, $96,000 won't set anyone up for life, but it'd make an enormous difference to Usnavi, In the Heights' protagonist and narrator. It'd also help absolutely everyone he loves. As he explains long before anyone even hears about the winning ticket, or buys it, every Heights local has their own sueñitos — little dreams they're chasing, such as his determination to relocate to the Dominican Republic. And that's what this intoxicating, invigorating, impassioned and infectious captures with vibrant aplomb. Read our full review.
If your ideal kind of getaway is one that's both comfy and minimalist — and doesn't skimp on majestic views — then Tiny Away's latest addition is destined to impress. The accommodation crew has once again expanded its stable of eco-friendly tiny house stays, this time unveiling a 155-square-foot studio nestled amongst the vine-covered hills of Toolleen near Victoria's Bendigo. The newly launched Vineyard Retreat has made its home on the lush grounds of winery and distillery Domaine Asmara, set on a secluded pocket of the property yet still easily accessed. Not only does it boast dreamy views of Mount Camel, plus nearby olive groves and farmland, but it's located right on the doorstep of much-loved regional spots like the O'Keefe Rail Trail, Axedale Tavern, the award-winning Gaffney's Bakery, Palling Bros Brewery and Peregrine Ridge winery. The tiny house itself is primed for switching off and unplugging from the daily grind of city life, without giving up any of those creature comforts. It's kitted out with a queen-size loft bed, fully stocked kitchenette with fridge and stove, additional convertible couch, and split-system air-con and heating. The private balcony is perfect both for stargazing sessions and sunset sips overlooking the vineyard. There's even a proper little ensuite complete with a gas-heated shower and a waterless composting toilet. And of course, if you're after a vino or two during your stay, Domaine Asmara's cellar door is only a quick stroll from your front door, offering spirit and wine tastings daily. You can even take one of the free distillery tours. Tiny Away's other Victorian escapes include an idyllic stay located in a Gippsland olive grove, while the company's first two Tasmanian houses launched in the middle of last year. Find Tiny Away's Vineyard Retreat at Domaine Asmara, 61 Gibb Road, Toolleen. Bookings are now open online, with rates starting from $179 per night. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
A massive, free digital art installation is set to takeover the skies above the Birrarung for five nights this October. Head down from 8pm between Wednesday, October 11–Sunday, October 15 to see the Yarra transformed with a symphonic sound and light installation. Created by audio composer Shaun Rigney together with light and sound experts LASERVISION, Sky Symphony marries Rigney's symphony Portraits of the Air with a unique display of lasers, lighting, water jets and a state-of-the-art projector. Portraits of the Air was recorded with Orchestra Victoria and conducted by Nicholas Buc. "I was thinking about a way of presenting the music and images when I saw LASERVISION's work on the internet. It blew my mind. They were making these astounding shows projecting lasers onto water screens. And I realised: our images are made of light and air and water … and here is a company using the same materials as their medium! I had to find a way to bring them together," says Rigney. Sky Symphony is a 12-minute installation which will play on loop every 20 minutes between 8–10.40pm. The Sky Symphony team reckon the best place to view the artwork is along the eastern end of Yarra Promenade, adjacent to Queens Bridge. Sky Symphony is supported by the Melbourne City Revitalisation Fund, granting funding for after-dark activities to all to give the night-time economy a hefty boost. [caption id="attachment_915903" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Joondalup, 2023[/caption]
The centrepiece of Melbourne's alcohol stocked skyline, Rooftop Bar retains its position as the city's most popular — despite the seven flights of stairs needed to scale before you reach it. Open from 11am it is the ideal place to spend a lazy afternoon shaded by an umbrella and fanned by a sky-high breeze. In the evening, rooftop is the pinnacle of elevated recreation: drinks, dancing, views, burgers, deckchairs and cinema. Its popularity is not without merit. Its reputation, however, can often mean overcrowding and long lines for the bar. Booking a ticket for the season's Rooftop Cinema and having exclusive access after sundown is definitely the way to play it. Check out our full list of the ten best rooftop bars in Melbourne. Images: Giulia Morlando.
It's happening again: Dune, the sci-fi epic with a tumultuous on-screen history, is stuck in another cinematic sandstorm. There's always a feeling of déjà vu around Dune chaos, after David Lynch's 80s version became one of the most unfairly maligned sci-fi films ever crafted, and Alejandro Jodorowsky's take sadly didn't make it to screens (see: excellent documentary Jodorowsky's Dune). For filmmaker Denis Villeneuve's (Blade Runner 2049) two-part vision of Frank Herbert's 1965 book, off-screen events keep stopping it from reaching picture palaces when planned — initially COVID-19, and the latest setback coming during the writers' and actors' strikes. Pop culture's spiciest sci-fi saga went through this before a few years back, with Dune: Part One delayed considerably in the pandemic's early days, jumping from Boxing Day 2020 to early December 2021. Now, as expected since SAG-AFTRA joined the WGA on strike in mid-July, Dune: Part Two is pushing back its release date from November 2023 to March 2024. The film's Twitter account (now X) now states "only in theatres March 15", which is the US date. Because films open on a Thursday Down Under, Dune: Part Two should now release in Australia and New Zealand on March 14. Variety reports that Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire will also move release dates from mid-March to mid-April 2024 — and shifts back are also still being considered for Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom and The Colour Purple. Already, Force of Nature: The Dry 2 has been delayed, with no new date announced as yet; and so have Kraven the Hunter, the sequel to Ghostbusters: Afterlife, tennis flick Challengers, the Ethan Coen (The Ballad of Buster Scruggs) solo-directed Drive-Away Dolls and Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse, all either to 2024 or with no date confirmed so far. Villeneuve's first Dune scored ten Oscar nominations and six wins, but only told part of the novel's story. Cue Dune: Part Two to keep the tale going when it now hits the silver screen next year. As seen in not one but two trailers so far, war has arrived on the franchise's spice-laden planet, and Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet, Bones and All) and the Fremen are ready to fight. The former doesn't just want to face off against the folks who destroyed his family, but for the sandy celestial body, with Zendaya's (Euphoria) Chani at his side. The first film had Paul head to Arrakis because his dad Duke Leto Atreides (Oscar Isaac, Moon Knight) had just been given stewardship of the planet and its abundance of 'the spice' — aka the most valuable substance in the universe — and then get caught up in a bitter battle with malicious forces over the substance. It also saw Paul meet the population of people known as the Fremen, including Chani, plus Javier Bardem's (Lyle, Lyle Crocodile) Stilgar, which is who he and his mother Lady Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson, Silo) are with in Dune: Part Two. Expansive desert landscape, golden and orange hues (again, Villeneuve helmed Blade Runner 2049), sandworms, the director's reliable eye for a spectacle and Hans Zimmer's (The Son) latest likely Oscar-winning score: they've all shown up in the new film's two glimpses so far. So have some of the franchise's new players, with Austin Butler ditching his Elvis locks as Feyd Rautha Harkonnen, the nephew of Stellan Skarsgard's (Andor) Baron Harkonnen. Christopher Walken (Severance) and Florence Pugh (The Wonder) also join the saga as Emperor Shaddam IV and his daughter Princess Irulen. From the first film, Josh Brolin (Outer Range), Dave Bautista (Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3), Stephen McKinley Henderson (Beau Is Afraid) and Charlotte Rampling (Benedetta) return, while Léa Seydoux (Crimes of the Future) is another fresh addition to the cast. Off-screen, Villeneuve has brought back not just Zimmer, but Oscar-winning Australian director of photography Greig Fraser (The Batman), Oscar-winning production designer Patrice Vermett (Vice), Oscar-winning editor Joe Walker (The Unforgivable), Oscar-winning visual effects supervisor Paul Lambert (First Man) and Oscar-nominated costume designer Jacqueline West (Song to Song). Hollywood's actors are on strike to fight against diminishing residual payments for performers, and to establish firm rules about the future use of artificial intelligence in the industry, among other improvements to working conditions. When they took action in mid-July, SAG-AFTRA's members joined their counterparts in the Writers Guild of America, who've been striking since May. Check out the latest Dune: Part Two trailer below: Dune: Part Two will now release in cinemas Down Under on March 14, 2024. Via Variety / The Hollywood Reporter.
Almost every bakery in town is spruiking their limited-time Easter creations, so making the best choice for your long weekend won't be easy. If you're weighing up the (many, many) options, just know that Penny for Pound has years of form in this area, having served up in-demand hot cross buns to huge fanfare for nearly a decade. However, in 2025, the bakery is taking things up a notch, with a full range of limited-time goods on its Easter lineup. Hot cross bun fanatics will be happy to know that Penny for Pound's sought-after versions will be available until April 20. There are a two flavours on offer: a dressed-up take on the classic which sees earl-grey soaked raisins, currants and sultanas elegantly balanced with orange zest and cinnamon and a triple-chocolate bun that packs decadent dark chocolate chunks into every bite. But the fun begins with Penny for Pound's new Easter inventions — the hot cross-ant and the hot cross cinnamon scroll. For the former, co-owners Matilda Smith and Ben Wilson put their clever and creative heads together to create a genius mash-up, where flaky croissant meets classic hot cross bun flavours. Filled with cinnamon, orange-spiced almond frangipane and the traditional fruit, these treats are available fresh in-store or as convenient bake-at-home frozen packs. Plus, they're topped with the classic Easter cross. Meanwhile, the hot cross cinnamon scroll features a light, fluffy scroll dough infused with spiced brown sugar, cinnamon and plump sultanas. Glazed with vanilla sour cream and topped with a cinnamon cross, these special edition baked goods are bound to give your Easter long weekend a sweet lift. Founded in 2018, Smith and Wilson have expanded beyond Penny for Pound's original Richmond location, with bakeries now thriving in Camberwell and Moorabbin. Renowned for its intricate and inventive cakes and handcrafted baked goods, the bakery has become a go-to for pastry fans seeking a sweet, flaky bite to kickstart their weekday morning or weekend ritual. Penny for Pound's limited-time Easter treats are available in-store until April 20 at Richmond, Camberwell and Moorabbin locations. Head to the bakery's website for more information.
You love your mum, and if you're looking for ways to spoil the leading lady in your life, we're here to help. Because let's face it — your favourite underground bar is a bit too dingy, and your go-to ramen joint is a bit of a lazy pick for the woman who gave you, you know, life. This is your chance to deliver something momentous and memorable — and earn some serious brownie points on the side. From luxuriously long lunches to boozy brunches and everything in between, we've rounded up the best places for Mother's Day in Melbourne, and for every weekend after it. Go forth and really make mum's day. Recommended reads: The Best Restaurants in Melbourne The Best Wine Bars in Melbourne The Best Pubs in Melbourne The Most Romantic Bars and Restaurants in Melbourne For Wine Lovers: Fergusson Winery This Mother's Day, Fergusson Winery in the Yarra Valley is hosting a luxury garden party surrounded by rolling vineyards. The team has created a four-course menu just for the occasion ($99) and will set up a bunch of lawn games for the afternoon — just hope for good weather. There will also be a themed cocktail menu, matching wines (obviously) and a special gift for each of the mothers who attend the lunch. For Immersive Art, Dining and Yoga: The Lume Melbourne digital art gallery The Lume's current multi-sensory exhibition is dedicated to Vincent Van Gogh, and this exhibition will be the gallery's final before closing its doors forever on Sunday, June 1. Van Gogh's masterpieces cover all the floors and walls, making for an experience that goes above and beyond your typical art gallery. And for this Mother's Day, there will be a few ways to celebrate at The Lume. For a special meal with a special lady, you can book a spot at Caffè Terrace 1888, the on-site dining destination that blends into the immersive space, for a taste of 19th-century French classics inside the works of Van Gogh himself. If Mum is a wellness lover and doesn't mind an early start, The Lume's wellness program is running a special 8am class on the big day for $35 per person. Move and Connect with Her Run combines gentle yoga and soothing sound baths for a restorative Mother's Day experience you couldn't find anywhere else. If you need early morning energy to support Mum, the class includes complimentary coffee for all participants beforehand. For Classic Mother's Day High Tea: Mary Eats Cake, Royal Exhibition Building and Sofitel on Collins Treating your mum to a luxe Melbourne high tea is a classic Mother's Day experience. It's easy, no matter the size of the group, and it doesn't have to be too expensive. There are also heaps of places in Melbourne that have made one-off afternoon teas for Mother's Day. First, Mary Eats Cake is running its Mother's Day High Tea again (from $75 per person) from Thursday, May 1–Saturday, May 31, as well as a dedicated Ultimate Mother's Day High Tea for $95 per person on the weekend of the occasion. Both include your usual high tea treats of specialty cocktails and mocktails, savoury and sweet treats, and oh-so-many scones. For a touch of historical elegance, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Royal Exhibition Building is hosting a Mother's Day high tea with complimentary bubbles and live classical music for $139 per person, while Sofitel on Collins has put together a Mother's Day high tea in No35 Restaurant with complimentary champagne, degustation bites and live music from $155 per person. For Mums Who Love a Cause: Mother's Day Classic and The Terrace Sure, you could spend your day indulging in all sorts of high teas and treats across Melbourne, but the occasion marks a great opportunity to get moving for a damn good cause. The Mother's Day Classic is an annual Mother's Day marathon (or walkathon) that circumnavigates Royal Botanic Gardens to raise money for breast cancer and ovarian cancer research. Nearby to the course is an ideal recovery spot at one of Melbourne's most scenic cafes: The Terrace. You can recover with an à la carte booking or opt for the Mother's Day high tea package, which includes sweet and savoury treats, a hibiscus spritz and bouquets (available for preorder) across three sessions for $89 per person. For Ceramics Shopping: Three Day Clay Pop-Up Instead of picking a present to get your mum ahead of time and hoping she loves it, why not take her shopping for her own gift instead? You can hit up stores all over the city or opt to visit the Three Day Clay pop-up store on Sydney Road in Brunswick. 13-plus artists will sell their wares during the mornings and afternoons from Friday, May 8–Sunday, May 11. The event is even open in the evening on Friday, when the team will give a glass of complimentary sparkling wine to everyone who stops by. For a Lunchtime Feast: Bottomless Yum Cha at David's If you prefer a more casual, all-you-can-eat feast for Mother's Day in Melbourne, then you've got to check out David's in Prahran. On Saturday, May 10 and Sunday, May 11, the team will serve up their bottomless yum cha ($74 per person), with seatings throughout the day on Saturday and bookings into the evening on Sunday. Given that it's Mother's Day, there will be more than enough tea and spritzes to enjoy throughout your booking. These guys are super quick with their service, so you know the staff won't let your glass lay empty for long. [caption id="attachment_951928" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Petrina Tinslay[/caption] For Total Luxury: Reine and La Rue Reine and La Rue is home to one of the finest dining spaces in Melbourne. It's also hosting one of the most decadent Mother's Day meals in Melbourne. For both lunch and dinner, the team has created a stunning set menu and is giving guests the opportunity to personalise the occasion. When booking, guests can choose between a preordered box of sweet treats or an elegant floral bouquet to adorn their table. The experience isn't the cheapest, clocking in at a hefty $245 per person, but it is great for those looking to go all out this Mother's Day. For Fresh Flavours: Lona Misa If you're not drawn to the temptation of scones, teas or even a hearty pub feed, there are some more adventurous Mother's Day offerings around town. One of those is at Lona Misa, the South Yarra Latin hotspot that specialises in approachable and vegan-friendly fare. The team has put together a long lunch menu for Mother's Day, for $95 per adult. Expect potato bread and grilled shiitake anticuchos skewers, roasted peri-peri chicken, roasted cabbage with salsa macha and Andean papas with black garlic mayo. All that comes with free-flowing coffee and tea, and two hours of bottomless mimosas, spritzes, wine and beer. For a Sweet Treat: Piccolina Not all Mother's Day treats have to include outings to Melbourne restaurants and bars. Sometimes, you just want to hang out at home and have some family time. If that's your plan, but you still want to do something a little special, think about pre-ordering some of Piccolina's limited-edition tiramisu gelato sandwiches. The pastry chefs over at one of Melbourne's best gelaterias have adapted the timeless Italian dessert into an all-new form, with chocolate-dipped and cocoa-dusted sponge wedged around a slab of ganache and marscarpone gelato. You can pick them up on Mother's Day and deliver them yourself for an easy $22. Top image: Mary Eats Cake
For movie lovers, there's no bad time for a new cinema to open in Melbourne and add to the city's lineup of picture palaces. Launching a few days after the Melbourne International Film Festival wraps up for another year is a particularly savvy move, however. For big-screen obsessives looking for a way to fill their now MIFF-free days until 2026's fest, Eclipse Cinema in Collingwood is welcoming in cinephiles from Thursday, August 28, 2025. One of the first features beaming from its projector is even 2024 MIFF Bright Horizons Award-winner Universal Language. Here's another stroke of great timing: Eclipse Cinema is also launching at an address that was previously home to the Sherrin factory just as AFL finals season is about to commence. Aussie rules footballs are no longer manufactured at 32 Wellington Street in Collingwood, but this is a venue with both sporting and cinema history. The name of the Victorian capital's newest boutique and independent movie theatre is taken from a picture palace that once stood on Collingwood's Smith Street from 1913 to around 1917. Eclipse Cinema hails from owner/operator Mark Walker, who boasts 15-plus years working at MIFF, was a projectionist at both Yarraville's Sun Theatre and Carlton's Cinema Nova, and also co-founded Pivotonian Cinema in Geelong, running it for nearly ten years. Walker's latest venture is all about silver-screen delights via a single-screen setup with digital projection and high-definition sound, all behind a 1920s facade — and also about pairing its films with snacks and sips, such as Stomping Ground beers, a range of wines, plus popcorn and homemade choc tops. Program-wise, audiences can settle in for a mix of new releases with retrospective flicks. Alongside dramedy Universal Language, Eclipse's launch lineup also features Friendship, the A24 comedy starring Tim Robinson (I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson) as a man who really wants to be pals with his weatherman neighbour (Paul Rudd, Death of a Unicorn); Grand Tour, which won Portuguese filmmaker Miguel Gomes (The Tsugua Diaries) the Best Director Award at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival; and a 4K restoration of Burden of Dreams, the 1982 documentary about the making of Werner Herzog's Fitzcarraldo. This is the type of venue where Pedro Almódovar (The Room Next Door) pictures will also regularly grace the screen, including each Wednesday evening, starting with 1999's Oscar-winning All About My Mother. Eddington, Good Time, Sorry, Baby, No Other Land, Splitsville and Lesbian Space Princess are also among the cinema's upcoming titles, with the 64-seater spot also keen to showcase indie, queer, First Nations and gender-diverse filmmaking, as well as Melbourne-made fare — and titles that viewers mightn't have caught elsewhere on their limited general-release runs. Eclipse's screenings run from 11am daily, showing five or six sessions per day. You can also head by for a 10pm late flick on weekends. Collingwood's new cinema joins with FoMo in East Brunswick and Palace Penny Lane in Moonee Ponds among the city's other new picture palace openings in the past few years. A new IMAX at Village Cinemas Fountain Gate is also on the way before the end of 2025, as is IMAX at the existing Hoyts at Melbourne Central. "It is so exciting to be launching a new boutique cinema in this culturally rich neighbourhood, and I'm truly confident locals will embrace the independent and cutting-edge cinema that the Eclipse will offer," said Walker back when he was running a crowdfunding campaign to help Eclipse finish its build and open. Find Eclipse Cinema at 32 Wellington Street, Collingwood from Thursday, August 28, 2025 — and head to the venue's website for further details and tickets.
Good news gaming fiends: Melbourne's first hotel games-inspired room is now available for you to live out all your gamer dreams. View Melbourne has created a 35-square-metre room that's custom-made for gaming, providing guests with everything they need for the ultimate game night. It's essentially a fully loaded paradise for gamers and, yes, it's as good as it sounds. The PC corner includes an MSI MEG Trident X2 computer, dual 27-inch 170Hz Esports gaming monitors, a full Elgato streaming setup and a game library that boasts an extensive collection that's continuously updated. The setup also includes an Xbox controller, MSI gaming headset, mouse, keyboard and a Logitech speaker system. Meanwhile, the couch and main television are perfectly set up for all kinds of console gaming, from intense solo sessions to epic four-player parties. The main machine is a Nintendo Switch hooked up to a 55-inch Samsung TV complete with Apple TV, accompanied by four Nintendo Switch pro controllers. On the games front, all the Nintendo faves are available, including the big Mario titles, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Pokémon: Let's Go Pikachu and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. Plus, guests also have access to a huge catalogue of NES, Super NES, Game Boy, Game Boy Colour, Game Boy Advance, Sega Genesis and Nintendo 64 games, all of which are available to play via the Switch. Now, let's talk perks. The room comes with bottomless popcorn, which you'll make in the room yourself; a whole fridge filled with energy drinks, soft drinks, beer and wine; various spirits; and a fully stocked snack bar with an array of gamer faves (yes, even Cheetos). The popcorn is complimentary, but you'll pay for everything else that you eat and drink. The room is full of gamer memorabilia without feeling crowded, and the customisable RGB lighting adds a cool touch (don't worry, you can turn it off if it isn't your thing). Up to five people can stay in the room, so it's the perfect space for epic Mario Party sessions. The setup includes a king bed which can transform into two singles, a sofa bed, and the option to add a portable bed. The room is inclusive for two guests, with each additional adult costing $40 per night. Kids under 12 stay free if they're using existing bedding. For those looking to stream, the high-speed internet and Elgato gear, and even a ring light are there for a seamless experience. And if you're in Melbourne for business, the PC corner doubles as a workspace. In short, the room is a cool blend of nice hotel amenities and a gamer's dream setup, offering a fresh, fun way to stay in Melbourne if you're visiting — or a dream staycation if you just want to live out your 12-year-old kid fantasy. Find View Melbourne at 562 St Kilda Road, Melbourne — and head to the View Melbourne website for bookings.
Melbourne is on a roll when it comes to craft beers and the fine establishments tailor-made for enjoying them. Whether it's bars that specialise in small batch beers or a cosy local breweries serving their own concoctions, craft beers are slowly taking over taps and winning hearts throughout the city. To aid you in your mission to find the perfect brew, here are our picks of the best watering holes catering to craft beer aficionados. Prepare to get crafty. The Alehouse Project Beer geekery is at its finest at this East Brunswick gem. Their 12 taps constantly rotate microbrewery beers, so if you plan on becoming a regular (or are one already), there's always a fresh selection for you to sample. They're currently pouring the likes of Das Unterseeboot Imperial India Pale Lager from Brookes Beer and the Mornington Peninsula Brewery's Brown Ale to name just a few. It's not just the local stuff you'll find here either; The Alehouse Project also seeks out international craft beers and ciders. Bring friends, share some tasty bar snacks and sip on a whole collection. 98-100 Lygon Street, Brunswick East; (03) 9387 1218; www.thealehouseproject.com.au The Terminus Hotel This is a favourite among craft beer experts, and really, who are we to argue? The folks at the beautifully renovated Terminus Hotel love craft beer so much, they even have a craft bar and beer garden, which is perfect for the warmer months. With 16 tap beers and fridges full of bottled varieties, you're spoiled for choice here, including limited release stock and brewery showcases. Grab a pint of Two Birds Brewing's NZ Hopped Pilsner and call us in the morning. On second thought don't call us, we'll meet you there. 492 Queens Parade, Fitzroy North; (03) 9481 3182; www.terminus.com.au Forester's Beer and Music Hall Beer and music: it's a winning combo. From the good folks who run the Terminus and Royston Hotels comes this little beauty, which is located where A Bar Called Barry once stood on Smith Street. If we're talking quantity, it's hard to beat Forester's and their 50 taps — 32 of which contain craft beers. Overwhelmed? Let the friendly bar staff help you make the all-important decision, just tell them what you're into and they're sure to sort you out. Maybe you're looking for something specific or rare? If they don't have it (although they usually do), there's a beer request form on their website so you can get your hands on your favourite imported brew. Now that's service. 64 Smith Street, Collingwood, (03) 8415 1464, www.forestershall.com.au. Matilda Bay Brewery It's known as Australia's original craft brewery, so it would be rude not to include Matilda Bay. While it currently resides in Port Melbourne, Matilda Bay Brewery was first located on the west coast, and they haven't looked back since. Their popular drops — like Beez Neez, Fat Yak and Dirty Granny cider — can all be found here, but the best thing to do is sample their small batch brews. You could be sampling a limited edition run or even try out the next big thing in Australian craft beer, so hops to it. 89 Bertie Street, Port Melbourne; (03) 9673 4545; www.matildabay.com.au The Local Taphouse The Local Taphouse legends go through 400 different beers every year, and 20 of those are on tap at any given time. This European-inspired neighbourhood tavern is equally excited about imported drops as they are about supporting home-grown craft heroes. They recently showcased nine incredible beers from the Modus Operandi Brewing Co from Sydney's northern beaches, which went off like a frog in a sock. The Local Taphouse also delivers on the entertainment front. They have an indoor bocce pitch and comedy nights with rotating lineups for those who like a laugh with their libation. In other excellent news, there's also a Local Taphouse in Sydney, so you're never far from a good brew. 184 Carlisle Street, St Kilda East; (03) 9537 2633; www.thelocal.com.au. Moon Dog Brewery We like our beers the same way we like our Tinder matches: with a good sense of humour. And with how great Moon Dog tastes, we'd consider straight-up dating it. Moon Dog's Love Tap Double Lager and Jukebox Hero IPA in particular are truly great, and they're even popping up at other craft beer establishments around the city. As always, the brewery is the best place to go though. And with beer on tap such as Henry Ford's Girthsome Fjord — self-described as "the ideal post-coitus celebratory (or commiseratory) drink" — there's clearly a lot to love. They also have the likes of Pizza Wagon and Mutter Kraus dropping in to deliver the food goods, so don't forget to snack while sipping. 17 Duke Street, Abbotsford; (03) 9428 2307; www.moondogbrewing.com.au Markov Carlton is no longer only famous for its Italian vino and Aperol spritzes; you can get a darn good beer there too. Markov's rear bar was originally created for fine dining, but boy were we glad when they decided to swap that for ten taps of craft beer and some smashing bar food to boot. Serving the likes of Kooinda, Stone & Wood, 4 Pines, and 2 Brothers, they boast some of he best local craft beer action around. Pair a Coburg Lager with fried school prawns, lime and spiced salt and you're onto a winner. 350-352 Drummond Street, Carlton; (03) 9347 7113; www.markov.com.au Temple Bar and Brewery There's something pretty special about drinking a beer where it was actually made, and Temple Bar and Brewery is certainly a lovely place to drop into. Here they use traditional brewing techniques and their systems are as environmentally friendly as possible, so you can an enjoy a sustainably produced beer. Temple has two beers in particular that are served all year round: the thirst-quenching Bicycle Beer and the Anytime IPA. For something dark and heavier, give the American stout New World Order a go. We know you're here for the beer, but the food is the business — try the Midnight Burger and beer fries. 122 Weston Street, Brunswick East; (03) 9380 8999; www.templebrewing.com.au East of Everything Located above Camberwell's Bar None, East of Everything is unpretentious by nature, but the team there know their craft beer like the back of their hands. They rock out on six taps and their bottled beer list is ever expanding, so keep your eyes on the fridges for the latest updates. Some of the local legends rotating on tap include Red Duck, Mountain Goat, Hargreaves Hill and Holgate Brewery. They also make a concerted effort to pour American craft beer from at least one of their taps. 72 Auburn Parade, Camberwell; (03) 9882 4216; www.eastofeverything.com.au Cookie It's easy to forget that Cookie is a beer hall, considering their stellar range of Asian cuisine and killer cocktails. And though its wine menu is the same size as a large novel, Cookie also stocks over 200 beers, and 24 of those are on tap. While their international selection is impressive to say the least, they do make an effort to feature Australian craft beers, such as Bridge Road Brewers from Beechworth, Brunswick's Thunder Road Brewery and Sydney stalwart James Squire. Their menu is so extensive, it's arranged first by types of beer and then they have an alphabetised beer index at the back. We're not complaining; any assistance is always appreciated. 252 Swanston Street, Melbourne; (03) 9663 7660; www.cookie.net.au Want to brush up on a few craft beer basics before buying? Check out our Bluffer's Guide to Craft Beer. View all Melbourne Bars.
Nothing says summer like a novelty apron, a hot barbecue and a cold beer. If the size of your outdoor space has held you back from being able to make this sunny dream come true, look no further than the Weber Lumin. The Lumin is a compact, multi-functional, fully electric barbecue that can be used in the smallest of spaces, including apartment balconies or patios. All you have to do is plug the barbecue into a power outlet and you're ready to fire up. Whether you're prepping a picnic, wooing a date or hosting family and friends in your summer-ready outdoor space, we've teamed up with Weber to round up five of our top barbecue recipes for summer. Barbecued BLAT Bagels Whether you're fuelling up for a day at the beach or packing a scenic picnic lunch, you can't go wrong with these barbecued bagel sandwiches. The foolproof recipe can be pulled together in a pinch with ingredients you likely already have in your fridge. Prepare your barbecue to cook with direct medium heat and then throw the bacon and bagels on for less than five minutes. While that's going, season the tomato slices with salt and pepper. Once it's all crisp and cooked, just add some cream cheese, tomato slices, lettuce and avocado, and you're ready to pair that with a glass of orange juice or refreshing lemonade. Grilled Prawn and Guacamole Bites With grilled prawns and fresh avocado, these bite-sized appetisers are summer in a mouthful. The Mexican-inspired recipe calls for only three components and can be ready to serve in under half an hour, making it an effortless option for any hosting duties this festive season. Prepare the guacamole and Cajun seasoning while the barbecue preheats. Coat the prawns in the spices and grill them on skewers until cooked through. To serve, simply top a corn chip with a spoonful of guacamole, a prawn and coriander. Barbecued Barramundi with Quick-Pickled Onion and Salsa Verde If you've got an exciting summer evening planned, the last thing you want is to fall into an afternoon slump after a heavy meal. Opt for a hearty and nutritious feed instead with this simple barbecued barramundi. The buttery, mild fish is paired with tangy pickled onions and herbaceous salsa verde for a hit of flavour with every bite. The only advance prep you'll need to tackle are the quick-pickled onions, which should sit for at least 30 minutes. Otherwise, it's as easy as seasoning the fish fillets with olive oil, salt and pepper before cooking until the skin is crispy, and blending the chopped herbs, capers, lemon juice and olive oil for the salsa verde. Greek Lamb Share Plates with Baba Ganoush This heaping plate of lamb and accompanying sides may look daunting, but actually only takes ten minutes of prep and 25 minutes on the barbecue. That said, it's a surefire way to impress a group of guests at a laidback long lunch on your balcony or in the backyard. Be sure to have an apron and icy bev on hand, as the recipe requires a fair bit of work on the barbecue. Along with the lamb rump steaks, you'll be grilling eggplants, cherry tomatoes, olives, lemon and flatbreads. Your efforts will be well worth it in the end though, as the charred eggplant and caramelised lemon will create a smoky and aromatic Baba Ganoush. Grilled Donut S'mores with Chocolate Dipping Sauce Level up your camping game with these decadent s'mores that use donuts instead of graham crackers. Fluffy melted marshmallows and tart strawberries are sandwiched between warm, brûléed donuts and topped with a rich chocolate sauce. Whisk cocoa powder, cream, brown sugar and a sprinkle of salt over low heat to make the chocolate sauce. On the barbecue, halve and grill the donuts to create a caramelisation on the glaze, and melt the marshmallows on half of the donut slices. Lay strawberries on the other half and assemble it together, and you're ready to coat it in as much chocolate as you wish. Find out more about the Lumin at the Weber website.
More than once in Heartstopper, a question drifts from the lips of the Netflix series' British teens, asking something that every adolescent has contemplated. That query: "why are we like this?", pondering why hitting puberty always brings an utter lack of elegance with emotions, identity, relationships and expressing yourself. It can't be answered in any satisfactory way, but in this delightful streaming newcomer — with an eight-part first season that's become a must-see within a week of hitting the platform — what that question isn't referencing is also crucial. The LGBTQIA+-championing show doesn't ever have its gay, trans and bisexual characters pointlessly wonder why they love who they love or feel how they feel, welcomely, refreshingly and heartwarmingly so. That's enough to earn the series its title; for viewers, plenty about this webcomic-to-page-to-screen charmer will cause entranced tickers to miss a beat. Within the story, though, it takes mere minutes for Heartstopper to warrant its name — showing rather than telling, as all great art should. A year ten student at Truham Grammar School for Boys, Charlie Spring (first-timer Joe Locke) finds himself seated in his form class next to year 11 rugby player Nick Nelson (Kit Connor, Little Joe) at the start of a new term. Sparks fly on the former's part, swiftly and overwhelmingly, as a crush and then a life-changing love story is born. It's not the only moment that'll make Charlie pause, his heart all a-flutter and his cheeks a-glow — or any of the show's figures for that matter — but it leaves an imprint that sets Heartstopper's astutely endearing tone. Nodding to the series' graphic-novel origins, Charlie and Nick's first meetings inspire a flurry of hand-drawn animated hearts on-screen, illustrating how we all know that such an experience feels. The cute twinkling imagery is such a small but pivotal touch, used to illuminate small yet essential moments, and couldn't be more perfect. Others that follow, all also flawless: lightning bolts, flowers, stars and rainbows, all whizzing around when the sweetest of emotions run high. Everything isn't all rainbows for Charlie and Nick, narrative-wise, though — although the colour scheme favoured by director Euros Lyn (Dream Horse) goes heavy on pink lighting, blue and yellow school walls, the green grass of sports fields, and violet-hued clothing. In Heartstopper's opening episode, Charlie has a secret boyfriend, Ben Hope (Sebastian Croft, Doom Patrol). Their clandestine rendezvous in empty classrooms aren't his choice, but Ben won't even acknowledge Charlie in public. He's also cruel, rude and demanding without ever caring about Charlie's feelings, and filled with loathing about his sexuality — and fear that he might be found out. Thankfully, Charlie realises that he deserves much, much better, including with Nick's help. Also an issue: Charlie hardly thinks of himself as sporty, even after Nick asks him to join the school rugby team because he's super-fast at running. That train of thought speaks to a lifetime of self-doubt, with Nick telling Charlie to stop apologising for, well, everything — and Charlie's high-drama best friend Tao (fellow debutant William Gao) describing him as having "a tendency to believe him just existing is annoying for other people". Accordingly, while a friendship quickly solidifies between Heartstopper's central duo, Charlie is initially unsure whether anything more can happen. And, after spending a year being bullied by homophobic classmates after coming out — often hiding in the art room at lunch with a kindly teacher (Fisayo Akinade, Atlanta) to escape — he's anxiety-riddled in general. The nervy Charlie and calm-and-collected Nick — a self-described "gay nerd" among "borderline outcasts" and Truham's rugby king — don't simply cycle through an opposites-attract scenario, thankfully. This is an upbeat, soaring and joyful tale, too; yet another take on Romeo and Juliet, it definitely isn't. Heartstopper's focus: all those things that Charlie, Nick, Tao, recently out trans pal Elle (Yasmin Finney), her lesbian school friends Tara (Corinna Brown, Daphne) and Darcy (Kizzy Edgell), and the quietly happy-go-lucky Isaac (Tobie Donovan) navigate as they grapple with their feelings, working out what they want, self-acceptance, and relationships both romantic and platonic. The series isn't afraid of teen tropes or rom-com cliches, such as grand gestures in the pouring rain, blissful montages and the stress of text messages, but it also isn't willing to deliver anything other than a thoughtful and tender account of high schoolers being and finding themselves, even amid unavoidable teen angst and taunting. As well as writing Heartstopper's source material, Alice Oseman pens every episode of this perceptive gem, which bubbles with warmth, care and honey-coated emotions from the outset. Its coming-of-age story and central love story alike prove wholly relatable, aptly awkward but also wonderfully sweet and sensitive; Skins, Euphoria or either version of Gossip Girl it isn't, either. In short, it's a series that plunges so convincingly and inclusively into its characters' experiences that it feels like its heart is constantly bursting with affection for everything they do, want, hope for, dream of, pine over and go through. First crushes, young love, the swirling swell of feelings that comes with both and also figuring out who you are: all of this dances through Heartstopper's frames, and marvellously. Also, when Oscar-winner Olivia Colman (The Lost Daughter) pops up, she's glorious as always — although her teen colleagues are truly the stars of the show. The first season of Heartstopper is available to stream via Netflix. Images: Rob Youngson/Netflix.
Settling into a wellness experience shouldn't be a special reward; it should form part of your routine that keeps you feeling at your best. Now that EQ — South Melbourne's preventative wellbeing sanctuary — has been up and running since May 2024, they're introducing foundation memberships to make its mindful encounters a daily reality. EQ is jam-packed with holistic activities, offering everything from a hammam and saunas to a rain room, ice-cold plunge pools and a light and sound therapy dome. Meanwhile, its best-known experience, Signature Journey, is intended to foster a complete nervous system reset through a guided three-hour transformation. "Anyone can reset and feel rested once, but true transformation happens when you have the tools and structure to reset again and again and again — when you know exactly which tool to lean on, and when," says EQ Co-Founder and Director, Mia Basic. "We've launched memberships to make nervous system care a ritual, not a once-off treat." Alongside the full spectrum of bathhouse experiences, EQ hosts immersive breathwork sessions and movement-based classes like yoga and pilates. Plus, EQ Live offers a steady program of in-person workshops and events that deepen practice and connection. With two tiers of memberships up for grabs, dealing with daily stresses becomes much easier. Priced at $75 per week, the Foundation Silver Membership includes unlimited access to EQ's bathhouse, dome, breathwork and studio classes, while providing 50 percent off EQ Live sessions. Yet relaxation fanatics can upgrade to the Foundation Gold Membership for $105 per week, gaining unlimited access to all EQ experiences. "We believe wellbeing should be designed into people's lives, not left as an afterthought. These memberships are about making that possible at scale. They give our community the chance to integrate critical wellbeing practices into their day-to-day — to feel calm, energised and in control as a baseline, not a nice-to-have," says Basic. EQ is open Tuesday–Sunday from 8am–8pm at 5/22 Kings Pl, South Melbourne. Head to the website for more information.
A lot of the latest Melbourne bar openings and restaurant makeovers are leaning into Euro-centric flavours, designs and vibes. It's somewhat of a safe bet in Melbourne — a city with deep European roots and a great love for Italian, French and Greek food. But despite the crowded market, Melburnians are regularly filling up each of these new spots. We're into it. Because, after all, who doesn't love easy-drinking European wines paired with pasta, steak and charcuterie boards? It's an easy win. And the latest joint to join the club is Wally's in Albert Park. Owner Baxter Pickard (surprisingly, not named Wally) brings his long history of drinking and selling wine to the site, curating an impressive list of European vinos. He's made sure to cover a lot of price points at Wally's, ranging from affordable bottles starting at $50 to vintage and hard-to-find drops that'll cost you around $200 a pop. Those who opt for the more spenny varieties will be getting wines that Pickard and his team have won at auction. These will change depending on what's available at the time, so be sure to ask the crew to talk you through these extra-special options. But few wine bars in Melbourne can get by with only having great drinks on offer. We are sip-and-snack people now, needing fabulous bites to accompany our drinking sessions. That's why Pickard has brought on Damon McIver (ex-Waxflower and Vex Dining) to run the kitchen pass. He's dreamt up an oft-changing menu of European-inspired dishes that are made to be paired with the evolving wine menu. A few small plates will make an appearance — think cured bonito, barbecued leeks, fresh oysters with house-made hot sauce and skewers — as well as larger plates that'll include pasta and steaks. It's all quite classic and simple food, made to complement rather than outshine the wine. The Melbourne-based studio a.mi has also kept things fairly traditional, using plenty of natural finishes and mirrored ceilings to create a French-leaning bistro vibe. Punters can either sit within the light-filled wine bar or perch out on the street — where pets are more than welcome to join. It seems like a welcome addition to Albert Park — great for local wine lovers who want to have a casual drink with mates or go all out and explore some really special vinos. You'll find Wally's at 67 Cardigan Place, Albert Park, operating from 3pm–late Tuesday–Thursday and 12pm–late Friday–Sunday. Check out the venue's website for additional details. Images: Pete Dillon
Bypass Victoria Street's seemingly endless spots for cheap eats and duck down one of the nearby alleyways to find Jinda Thai Restaurant. Since opening in 2013, Jinda has gained a strong following. Sure, there are spots on the strip that cost less money, but the authentic, high-quality food on offer here makes this undoubtedly one of the best-value restaurants in the area. There are all the Thai classics that'll take you back to Patong Beach, but you shouldn't look past the deep-fried barramundi fillet with tamarind sauce, fried shallots and coriander or the traditional yellow curry with grilled chicken. This particular dish showcases Grandma Jinda's recipe, crafted from many years spent serving customers along Bangkok's canals. If it's noodles that get you salivating, then it offers classics like pad thai and pad see ew with your choice of pork, chicken, beef or tofu as well as pad see mao. There are number of fun drinks here to help soothe the spice as well, including a crushed lychee concoction and an iced-lemon and iced-milk tea. The space has an industrial warehouse feel, with exposed brick walls, large windows, lanterns hung throughout and a mish-mash of furniture. Despite its enormous space, Jinda is full of hubbub pretty much every night of the week, with queues flowing out the door, so get down early or book in advance. Images: Visit Victoria Appears in: The Best Thai Restaurants in Melbourne for 2023
When Princess Mononoke marked its 25th anniversary in 2022, the Studio Ghibli gem returned to cinemas. Because Hayao Miyazaki's movies should never be far from a picture palace, one his most-stunning features is making another big-screen comeback three years later. There's no milestone to celebrate this time, just an exceptional flick from a beloved Japanese animation house just because — as well as the fact that Princess Mononoke is getting both the 4K and IMAX treatment. This is also the first time ever that the 1997 film is being released in IMAX. So, no matter how many times you've seen it before, you haven't seen it like this. The date for your diary: Thursday, August 21, 2025. Language-wise, two versions of the movie are playing in both Australia and New Zealand: the original Japanese version, which is the one that every Ghibli fan should be flocking to, and the English-dubbed version as well. If you're a newcomer to this delight by the one and only Miyazaki — a film that only ranks behind Spirited Away and Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind among the director's greats — get ready for a picture that makes a clear ecological statement. The iconic filmmaker has never shied away from doing just that; however, Princess Mononoke might just send his most forceful message about humanity's impact upon the earth. As set in Japan's Muromachi period (from the 14th to 16th centuries), the involving fantasy takes place among humans, animals and gods, all of which have been living in harmony until the movie starts. From there, the film charts the paths of a young prince with a curse and a young woman raised by wolves, as well as the conflict between a modernising town and the forest it's destroying. Every Studio Ghibli film is worth seeing — the animation house hasn't ever made a bad one, even if a few sit below the rest — but Princess Mononoke is a stone-cold classic. The highest-grossing Japanese feature of 1997, it's also the picture that helped bring the company's wonderful flicks to western audiences. If you do catch the English-dubbed version, the voice cast includes Gillian Anderson (The Salt Path), Claire Danes (Full Circle), Billy Crudup (The Morning Show), Minnie Driver (The Assessment), Jada Pinkett Smith (The Equalizer) and Billy Bob Thorton (Landman). Check out the trailer for Princess Mononoke below: Princess Mononoke returns to Australian and New Zealand cinemas from Thursday, August 21, 2025. For more information, head to the Crunchyroll website.
When you're on the hunt for traditional, home-style Italian food, try Carlton's Kaprica. Just off Swanston Street, before you get to the main Melbourne Uni campus, this rustic little eatery keeps the menu short, sweet and handwritten. Take a few friends along and get a couple of pizzas ($24 each for a large), some garlic chilli prawns ($16) and a salad to share. There's also a couple more entrees, plus butternut pumpkin risotto ($22), gnocchi with buffalo mozzarella and basil ($24), and three simple spaghetti dishes. Sip wine from latte glasses and eat like you're on holiday in Italy. Images: Josie Withers/Visit Victoria.
You've probably heard of Melbourne Zoo's long-running Roar 'n Snore sleepovers. However, now there's a new way to meet the animals, with the launch of the first-ever Roar and Pour – a two-day beer and spirits festival set in the lush surrounds of the zoo. Held from Friday, March 21–Saturday, March 22, this evening encounter offers the chance to get up close with quality local and interstate brewers and distillers alongside the full range of animals after hours. With the sun just dipping beneath the horizon, you're invited to roam Melbourne Zoo's winding trails to catch rare glimpses of the animals kicking back at dusk – or bursting into activity. With many creatures only then finding their voice, the landscape comes to life with fascinating sounds. Though gates normally close at 5pm, this behind-the-scenes experience is a special opportunity to admire the animals from a different perspective. Over on the lawns, a dozen or so top-notch drink makers are getting down for this one-of-a-kind experience, including Kaiju Beer, Tallboy and Moose, Grainery Lane, Inner North Brewing Co, Brewmanity Beer Co and Watts River Brewing. For a bite to eat, head to the zoo's Picnic Lawns and Rail Gate Café for tasty snacks. Plus, an exclusive Coffee For Wildlife pop-up will shake up impactful espresso martinis using the zoo's in-house beans. Once you've finished meeting the animals, Roar and Pour also features a host of outdoor games, rides and entertainment primed for all-age fun. On the agenda are carousel rides, classic lawn games, serenity-inducing live acoustic music and even a silent disco. The zookeepers will also deliver a program of fascinating animal talks focused on lemurs, giraffes and lions throughout the night. If this beer and spirit festival seems up your alley, all adult tickets include a special tasting cup, which you can use to access free tastings from all drinks vendors spread across the zoo lawns. With visitors contributing to Zoos Victoria's efforts to save local wildlife from extinction, you can feel pretty good about spending the evening indulging in a choice beer or spirit as you get acquainted with the wildlife. Roar and Pour is happening at Melbourne Zoo across Friday, March 21–Saturday, March 22 from 5.30pm–9.30pm. Head to the website for more information.
There's no shortage of ways to send your love to your nearest and dearest, though sometimes an emoji, a surprise bunch of flowers or even a hardy succulent just doesn't cut it. Similarly, showering those close to you in sweet treats is far from difficult — but Australia's new chocolate company wants to provide another option. Combining taste, style and heartfelt messages, Good Measure Co is offering up the country's newest personalised artisan chocolate delivery service, not only ferrying their cocoa-based delicacies around the nation in attractive packaging, but letting you write your own tender missive to go along with them. You pick what goes inside and on the outside, choosing from gourmet dark and milk chocs in blueberry, milk and honey, dark raspberry, chocolate noir and signature salted caramel flavours — or Champagne truffles — plus four styles of box and whatever nice words you can dream up. Those eager to tailor their choccie selection for their special someone can expect to pay $50 for a box of 12, and $75 for 24. Boxes with a range of pre-written statements are also available for the same price, ranging from "chocolate for my favourite" to "it's time to celebrate". And, the cost includes free delivery, arriving the same day in Sydney for orders placed before 11am, and the next day if ordered afterwards. The company was created by Pete and Hannah Craggs, who "wanted to reimagine the humble chocolate box, and create a new way to share the joy of chocolate with friends and family in a simple and easy way," Pete explains. Continues Hannah, "we've tapped into the same sense of occasion and excitement you'd get from giving and receiving flowers, but with high quality, gourmet chocolate instead." For more information, visit Good Measure Co's website.
The Whitsundays is a stunning holiday destination. Thanks to its gorgeous natural surroundings, vacationing at the Sunshine State spot is rarely solely driven by wanting to dine at a particular restaurant, then; however, on Hamilton Island, that might be the motivation now. If any eatery and bar is worth planning a getaway around, it's the brand-new Catseye Pool Club. First announced in 2024 and open since late April 2025, it's Josh and Julie Niland's latest venture — and their first ever in Queensland. When the pair revealed that they were launching their debut Sunshine State restaurant on Hamilton Island, it was huge news. Indeed, this is one of the big culinary openings of 2025. Catseye Pool Club is part of The Sundays, the also brand-new 59-room hotel at Catseye Beach's northern end that's all about luxury, but also boasts being family friendly as part of its point of difference. This Niland venture stands out from the duo's other restaurants for a few reasons. There's the location, of course — and eating here does indeed mean dining at an oceanfront tropical destination. Then there's the fact that Catseye Pool Club isn't a seafood joint. Whenever Josh and Julie's names come up, it's usually in the same breath as their preferred form of protein. Acclaimed Sydney restaurants, award-winning cookbooks, global kudos, a sustainable seafood restaurant in Singapore: championing a fin-to-tail approach to the ocean's finest, their footprint spans all of the above. Whole-fish cookery remains a feature at Catseye Pool Club, but it's just one part of the menu. This restaurant and bar heroes Australian ingredients and celebrate shared dining, with dishes designed to be tucked into communally. Taking your time in the sun, making the most of the fact that you're on an island and relaxing in general are also key aspects of the vibe — and the pool club part of the restaurant's name says plenty. Yes, the eatery is by the pool, so expect to peer at water from multiple sources. "Whilst 'family-style' or 'share-style' dining is very much a way restaurants have operated for many years, the Catseye Pool Club approaches its menu with each item very much designed to be enjoyed as a whole table, with all the trimmings coming with each dish," explained Josh back in March. The opening food and drink lineup spans 14 pages, starting with rock oysters with pepperberry mignonette, pizza bread, and a selection of wild raw fish and scallops for two. Almost everything edible from there is for at least a pair of diners, whether battered and fried wild fish tacos, Tweed Heads rock lobster, roast pork, Bowen mud crab pie, sirloin on the bone, lamb cutlets or line-caught trout tempt your tastebuds — or raspberry and coconut trifle, chocolate cake or flambé pineapple tart among the desserts. The one exception: the neapolitan sundae is just designed for one. Catseye Pool Club is also serving up breakfast just for hotel guests — and patrons can be enjoy its range of meals if they're hanging out by the pool rather than sitting at a table. At a hotel run by Hamilton Island Enterprises, which is also behind qualia, guests can also make the most of that oceanfront swimming pool surrounded by private cabanas, alongside a pickleball court and tropical gardens. Room options include balcony and terrace, plus interconnecting family rooms, all decked out in calming hues. "The Sundays brings something truly special to Hamilton Island — an elevated boutique escape that welcomes families and reflects the warm, laidback, uniquely Australian style of hospitality Hamilton Island is known for," advises Hamilton Island CEO Nick Dowling. "The Sundays is part of Hamilton Island's ongoing evolution — reimagined for today's traveller on the site of one of the island's original hotels. Over the years, we've evolved our accommodation, dining and experiences to reflect what our guests are looking for. Those who've been returning for decades know that you don't need to travel far to tick off a bucket-list destination — the Great Barrier Reef is right here on our doorstep.' Find Catseye Pool Club at The Sundays, Catseye Beach, Hamilton Island — and head to the hotel's website for more details.
Just in time for the season of balmy temperatures and frozen treats, comes Pidapipo's new Fitzroy flagship and gelato destination. Launched this month on Brunswick Street, Pidapipo Laboratorio marks the gelateria's fourth outpost — a huge site where the brand will be both crafting and selling its much-loved dessert creations. Known for its equal commitment to tradition and innovation, Pidapipo has blossomed exponentially since first launching as a Carlton pop-up in 2013. But this next phase of life marks its biggest leap yet. An onsite production lab is the crown jewel of the new site, nodding to the classic Italian concept of the kitchen being the heart of the home, while also spotlighting the brand's penchant for experimentation. It's here that you'll be able to see co-founder and chef Lisa Valmorbida developing and honing all those new, limited-release concoctions. Out front, Laboratorio's rotating gelato menu will run to just eight exclusive flavours, but with a vast array of add-ons available. The space itself is the work of renowned designer Dion Hall (Music Room, Supernormal, Rare Hare) — a light-filled vision of stainless steel and crisp white with a futuristic industrial edge, where there are minimal barriers between the kitchen's theatrics and the diners or passersby. The brand's first artisanal chocolate range will also make its debut here in Fitzroy, crafted onsite in a special state-of-the-art, temperature-controlled room. You'll find everything from single-origin bars, to truffles and pralines; most of which will feature on the gelato menu, incorporated into current and future flavours. And don't forget about the house-made chocolate sauces, served on tap to drizzle over your scoops or line your gelato cone. Also on offer is a lineup of pasticceria-style goodies — think, bomboloni stuffed with that famed signature gianduja filling and brioche cooked to order — as well as the brand's newly expanded line of gelato cakes. There are grand plans for the site's rooftop, too, including beehives set to produce hyper-local honey for the menu, a micro-garden growing native ingredients, and an alfresco space to host cooking demos and masterclasses. Find Pidapipo Laboratorio at 429–431 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy. It's open daily from 12–11pm. Images: Pete Dillon
Walking from one end of Brunswick to East Brunswick can well and truly take more than an hour — so it's no wonder that a bounty of bars have blossomed to quench the thirst of foot-weary travellers and locals alike. There's practically something for every night of the week: karaoke, sharp-shooting on a round pool table, Afro jazz for sweating out the Sunday blues, or mid-week cheeseboards to impress your date. So leave the car at home, and make sure to hop the best of Sydney Road and Lygon Street's bars.
We could all use a bit of a mood boost and if there's one surefire way to up those dopamine levels, it's a weekend spent lazing by the harbour, soaking up a taste of that luxe waterfront lifestyle. A holiday from reality, featuring sunshine, water vistas and maybe even a private pool. Well, dotted all around Sydney, you'll find chic harbourside retreats and beachfront villas you can call your own for a couple of nights, offering exclusive addresses and hard-to-match views. We've done the hard work for you and rounded up Sydney's most exclusive harbourside stays you can book right now. Choose a favourite, pack those bags and get ready to live your best-ever holiday life. Stylish Apartment, Pyrmont Taste the high life with a stay at this next-level apartment, kitted out with luxury features and boasting sweeping harbour views. From $1410 a night, sleeps six. Cloudbreak, Mosman This sprawling hillside home makes for one luxurious group getaway, complete with smart styling, an infinity pool and absolute water frontage. From $385 a night, sleeps two. The Boathouse, Kurraba Point Set right on the shoreline of Kurraba Point, this roomy retreat features both a sunny waterfront lawn and a boat shed-turned-entertaining space. From $1833 a night, sleeps six. Harbour Hideaway, Clontarf A bright, breezy coastal escape for two, set right on the shores of Clontarf. Enjoy barbecues on the spacious balcony, overlooking the beach. From $499 a night, sleeps two. Camp Cove Tropical Retreat, Watsons Bay Your own tropical oasis, set just metres from Camp Cove Beach, featuring modern styling, a pool and leafy private garden. From $300 a night, sleeps three. Postcard View, Kirribilli A spectacular apartment on the water edge with direct view of the iconic Opera house and Sydney Harbour Bridge. With ideal views and luxe furnishings, this is the perfect stay for immersing yourself in the Harbour city. From $491 a night, sleeps four. Manly Beach Views, Manly Centrally located with a two minute walk from Manly Beach and Corso shopping strip, you'll have easy access to everything Manly has to offer - stunning views included. From $260 a night, sleeps two. Luxury Yacht Overnight Stay, Rose Bay Indulge yourself in a night of romance on board your own private French built Beneteau yacht moored in Rose Bay. On the waterfront with the Harbour Bridge and Opera House in the background, it will be a stay to remember. From $517 a night, sleeps two. Balmoral Beach Beauty, Mosman This stunning absolute beachfront apartment offers magnificent views of Middle Harbour and Balmoral Beach. From $330 a night, sleeps two. Magnificent Waterfront Living, Double Bay Step into your own peaceful harbourside sanctuary complete with it's own private ten metre marina berth, when you stay in this chic Double Bay apartment. From $1008 a night, sleeps five. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy. Images: courtesy of Airbnb
Music fans have a reason to get excited for this year's AFL Grand Final celebrations, and that reason is The Killers. That's right — the US rock legends behind tunes like 'Somebody Told Me' and 'Mr Brightside' have confirmed they'll be making the trip Down Under, tasked with serenading the country from the hallowed turf of the MCG for the pre-game show at this year's Grand Final clash. What's more, you won't even need to battle it out for a ticket to the footy to see them, with the band revealing they'll also be performing at a free post-game gig. They're one of the acts set to light up the stage at the Virgin Australia Premiership Party, a free concert held at the stadium on Grand Final evening, which is Saturday, September 30. Doors to the MCG are set to open at 6pm — you might want start lining up now to secure your spot. Access to the show is via MCG Gates four, five and six, from 6pm.
We all love a bottomless brunch — whether it comes in the classic eggs and mimosa form, or the more contemporary lunch adaptation where you get a whole lineup of endless cocktails paired with a hefty set menu. Ming Dining's new bottomless brunch falls into the latter's definition. From Friday–Sunday, the crew is plating up a seven-course Asian-fusion feed paired with bottomless cocktails, beer and wine for only $69 per person — that's a proper bargain. During the two-hour window, that table will fill up with dumplings, spring onion pancakes, Hiromasa kingfish, Taiwanese calamari, beef short rib bao buns, sweet and sour pork, and a luxe black truffle fried rice. When it comes to cocktails, you can try some of its signature Asian-inspired sips as well as your classic Aperol spritz, espresso martini and spicy margarita. Few bottomless brunch spots have such vast offerings (both when it comes to food and bevs), so be sure to take advantage of this one.
