Jacob Elordi returning to Australia. Snowtown, True History of the Kelly Gang and Nitram director Justin Kurzel and screenwriter Shaun Grant reteaming. Richard Flanagan's Booker Prize-winning novel making the leap to the screen. A cast that also includes Belfast's Ciarán Hinds, Olivia DeJonge (Elvis) and her The Staircase co-star Odessa Young (My First Film), Limbo and Boy Swallows Universe's Simon Baker, Heartbreak High's Thomas Weatherall, Love Me's Heather Mitchell and Tokyo Vice's Show Kasamatsu. Combine all of the above and Prime Video's five-part miniseries The Narrow Road to the Deep North is the end result — and if you hadn't already scheduled it in for a couch date in April, you will after watching its just-dropped trailer. "Are you a gambling man?" Elordi's Dorrigo Evans is asked at the beginning of the series' sneak peek. "Occasionally, yeah" is his response — before wagering on the chances of making it through the year alive. Set to hit your streaming queue on Friday, April 18, 2025, The Narrow Road to the Deep North tells a tale of love and war, and of Evans' journey from a prisoner of war as a Lieutenant in World War II, working on the Thailand-Burma Railway, to becoming an acclaimed surgeon. Elordi shares the show's lead role with Hinds, playing the younger version of the character in a tale that jumps between different time periods — and includes a life-changing stint of falling in love with Amy Mulvaney (Young). DeJonge and Baker feature with Elordi and Young, plus Weatherall and Kasamatsu, in the show's 40s-era timeline, while Hinds hops in when the series gets to the 80s, which is where Mitchell pops up as well. Initially announced a couple of years back, then premiering at this year's Berlinale, The Narrow Road to the Deep North brings its star back to the small screen three years after the second season of Euphoria in 2022 — and a likely a year before the HBO favourite's third season arrives. He's been busy on the big screen since, though, courtesy of Saltburn, Priscilla, Deep Water, The Sweet East, Oh, Canada and On Swift Horses, before what's set to be prime Easter long-weekend viewing drops. Prior to all of the above projects, and also before the three Kissing Booth films helped boost his career first, Elordi scored his first on-screen acting credit beyond short films in Aussie movie Swinging Safari. Since then, however, the Brisbane-born talent has largely focused on working overseas. So The Narrow Road to the Deep North is a rarity of late on his filmography, with the actor heading home to make the drama. Charles An (Last King of the Cross), Essie Davis (One Day), William Lodder (Love Me), Eduard Geyl (Born to Spy) and Christian Byers (Bump) are also among the cast. Check out the trailer for The Narrow Road to the Deep North below: The Narrow Road to the Deep North will stream via Prime Video from Friday, April 18, 2025. Images: Prime Video.
The Meat and Wine Co has three outlets across town — one in the CBD, one in South Yarra, and one in Hawthorn — so you need not miss out when it comes to hump day lunches. If you've beer and meat in your sights, head in for their lunch special: two courses ($39) or three ($49) which includes a glass of wine, beer, or soft drink. Or, just pick an animal and go to town with ribs, steak and chicken breast all available. Images: Giulia Morlando.
Somehow, entirely inexplicably, we're already thinking about Christmas. This year, skip the typical department stores and instead pick out unique gifts for your family and friends at The Big Design Market. Coming to Melbourne for the eight time on the first weekend of summer, the three-day independent designer extravaganza features over 250 stallholders selling furniture, fashion, homewares, textiles, and much more. With such a wide range of products, you're sure to find something for even the pickiest people on your list. The Big Design Market always commissions an impressive installation, and this year illustrator Marc Martin will fill the Exhibition Building with a flock of colourful birds. You can also expect a smorgasbord of food options from local favourites like Gelato Messina, All Day Donuts, Q le Baker and 5 & Dime Bagels, plus cocktails from Sydney gin distillery Archie Rose and bottled negronis from The Everleigh. Each year the market also puts together a showbag of goodies from some of Melbourne and Sydney's best designers, including Erika Harder Jewellery, Kester Black, Danica Studio and Leif. A limited number will be available to purchase for $25 ($120 value). So prepare your bank account, and get ready to have your Christmas shopping done earlier than you ever have before. The market will be open from 10am–9pm on Friday, 10am–7pm on Saturday and 10am–5pm on Sunday.
From a National Trust-recognised Victorian mansion, Linden New Art showcases — as its name suggests — new, contemporary works by mid-career artists. The gallery, located on Acland Street's leafy residential stretch, also supports artists through mentorship programs and residencies, and it retains ties to the local creative community through its regular series of events. In 2019, the gallery launched Linden Arts Space, a separate exhibition space available for hire to create showcase opportunities for local artists and curators.
You might already know that this year marks the 50th anniversary of The Beatles' last tour of Australia. Maybe you attended the recent exhibition in honour of the event, you might have spun a bit of Sgt. Pepper in an act of solidarity, or perhaps you've been copping an earful from older relatives reliving their days as hapless groupies. Either way, any of your tributes pale in comparison to that of the legends who live in Holbrook, New South Wales. In what's being hailed as the country's largest ever yarn bomb, thousands of eager knitters have this week coated a decommissioned Navy submarine in yellow crocheted wool. Organised by Murray Arts, the project has been six months in the making and features a crazy amount of work by the local community. Outside of Holbrook, contributions for the project came from as far across the globe as Scotland, where family members of those that had served on the submarine kindly offered their efforts too. At a whopping 90 metres in length, this yellow submarine now stands as beautiful tribute to the eponymous Beatles' classic (and also uncannily makes the vessel look like a prop from a Wes Anderson film). The yarn bomb will stay in place until July 12, when the blankets will be cut down and donated to an animal shelter. Good vibes all 'round. Via ABC. All images via the Holbrook Submarine Facebook.
Pink hues, beach-themed decor, a roller rink, desserts served in toy convertibles: you'll find them all at the Malibu Barbie Cafe. After popping up across the US — with New York, Chicago, Minneapolis, Miami, Austin and Houston all welcoming the venue — this ode to Barbiecore has made its Australian debut. Come on Aussies, let's go party in Melbourne. Being a Barbie girl in a Barbie world wasn't just a 2023 trend, back when Greta Gerwig's (Little Women) Margot Robbie (Asteroid City)-starring — and Oscar-nominated — film became one of the biggest and pinkest movies to ever hit cinemas. The 2025 way to get your fix Down Under has arrived, and it's hanging around until summer 2026. Hitting up the Malibu Barbie Cafe at The Social Quarter at Chadstone Shopping Centre in the Victorian capital means not only enjoying ice cream floats dished up in a pink Barbie car, but also frequenting the Ken Kabana bar for fairy floss-topped cocktails and putting your skates on. Initially announced in mid-June and open since Friday, June 27, this is the cafe's debut stop beyond America. It's also Melbourne's second temporary big-name pop culture-themed addition this winter, after Melbourne Museum's Star Wars Galactic Cafe opened its doors in early June. Kicking it back to the 1970s, when Malibu Barbie initially debuted, is on the agenda, too. When you're hitting the rink, so is skating surrounded by artwork of palm trees. A life-sized Barbie box? An installation that celebrates how Barbie as a brand has changed over the years? That's all on offer at the Malibu Barbie Cafe as well, alongside merchandise that you won't find anywhere else. Ken's job isn't just beach here, given that his name adorns the cocktail-slinging upstairs bar in the two-storey site. On the drinks menu: that gin and lemonade concoction with spun sugar on top; themed takes on mojitos, margaritas, cosmopolitans, espresso martinis and old fashioneds; and more. If you're keen on a booze-free version, some of the tipples are available as mocktails. There's also a snack range, including fries with pink mayo, prawn cocktails, sushi and baked brie. Downstairs, Malibu Barbie Cafe's menu is an all-ages-friendly affair, with that ice cream float just one option. Sticking with sweets means choosing from doughnuts, pink cookies, cupcakes, ice cream sundaes, fruit and marshmallows. If you can't decide, the dessert sampler dishes up a mix of picks on a Barbie boat for between four and eight people. Savoury dishes span the same small bites as at the Ken Kabana, plus burgers, poke, garlic prawn linguine, beer-battered fish tacos, club sandwiches, grilled cheese, mac 'n' cheese and salads. Or, tuck into avocado toast, açai bowls, bacon and eggs, parfait or pancakes from the all-day brunch selection. Then, to drink, milkshakes, pink lemonade and pink lattes are among the options. If you're thinking "come on Barbie, let's go party", party packages are indeed a feature — including three-hour adults-only private-dining experiences from 6.30pm Thursday–Sunday. Find Mattel's Malibu Barbie Cafe at The Social Quarter at Chadstone Shopping Centre, 1341 Dandenong Road, Malvern East, Melbourne, until summer 2026 — open from 10am–6pm Monday–Wednesday, 10am–10pm Thursday–Friday, 9am–10pm Saturday and 9am–8pm Sunday. Head to the cafe's website for more details.
A piece of history is making history in Australia. Until October 2024, Melbourne Museum has a must-see sight on display for everyone interested in dinosaurs — so, everyone — courtesy of its Victoria the T. rex exhibition. The titular fossil isn't any old Tyrannosaurus rex, not that such a description ever fits the first kind of dino that always comes to mind when anyone thinks about dinos. This one happens to be one of the world's largest and most-complete T. rex skeletons, and also the biggest and most-complete specimen ever to display Down Under. Showing until Sunday, October 20, 2024, Victoria's fossil has made Aussie debut in the state with the absolute best name for the occasion. In the process, it also marks the first time that a real T. rex has ever been on display in Victoria. And it isn't small: found in South Dakota in 2013 but dating back 66 million years, Victoria is comprised of 199 bones, including a skull that weighs 139 kilograms. The fossil reaches 12 metres in length and 3.6 metres in height. And, because the skull is so heavy, it has to be displayed separately as it can't be mounted upon Victoria's body. The Victoria the T. rex exhibition also features interactive elements, such as multi-sensory installations that let you experience how the Tyrannosaurus rex saw and smelled, plus dioramas and a section where you can make your own customised 3D T. rex. Welcome to... the cretaceous period, then. The informative side of the showcase steps through recent palaeontological findings, so that you can get an idea of what Victoria's life was like all that time ago — and also find out what brought about her end. If that's not enough dino action to make you feel like David Attenborough — or his brother Richard in Jurassic Park and The Lost World — Victoria the T. rex is displaying alongside Triceratops: Fate of the Dinosaurs, which has been open at Melbourne Museum since 2022. The latter permanently features Horridus, the world's most complete Triceratops fossil, and entry to both exhibitions is included in one ticket. At IMAX Melbourne, 45-minute documentary T.REX 3D is also be showing, complete with footage of Horridus. "Victoria the T. rex is a monumental addition to our world-class exhibition lineup. Melbourne Museum is the home of dinosaurs in Australia, and currently the only place on earth where visitors can see two of the finest examples of a real T. rex and a real Triceratops under one roof." said CEO and Director of Museums Victoria Lynley Crosswell. As Museums Victoria Research Institute senior curator of vertebrate palaeontology Dr Thomas Rich explains, there's another highlight, too. "Not only can visitors to Melbourne Museum see one of the world's finest examples of a T. rex; they can also see a related and extremely rare fossil cared for in the State Collection: Timimus hermani, one of the state of Victoria's most unique dinosaurs and possibly a great-great-great grandfather of T. rex. This 105-million-year-old fossil is an example of the only undoubted tyrannosauroid from the southern hemisphere and is on public display in the exhibition 600 Million Years." Victoria the T. rex is on display from Friday, June 28–Sunday, October 20, 2024 at Melbourne Museum, 11 Nicholson Street, Carlton. Head to the museum's website for tickets and further information. Images: Eugene Hyland.
Mediterranean-inspired bars and restaurants are opening across the city. They're heroing minimalist design features with plenty of natural finishes. Spritz menus are now a thing. And classic Euro-centric bites — especially simply-prepared seafood — are everywhere. This kind of food is considered a fabulous companion to lighter, juicier wines (plus beloved pét-nats), which are increasingly popular. We're not unhappy about this trend. The Mediterranean style of dining, which can range from light snacking and sipping wine to full-on feasting, is excellent. And Lucia in South Melbourne certainly capitalises on this trend. But it isn't simply jumping on the bandwagon. The owners, Frank Ciorciari and Anthony Silvestre, are already responsible for creating a handful of charming European wine bars and restaurants in Melbourne, including Riserva and Baia Di Vino, and the beautiful bakery Breadcetera in Malvern East. The luxurious menu features numerous seafood specialties. Cold dishes from the bar include oysters with yuzu and lemon-thyme mignonette, a lobster taco with citrus and chive dressing, and snapper crudo with pickled green papaya. Sample warm seafood snacks such as prawns in brick pastry with finger lime mayo or scallops with peas and pancetta. Pasta, risotto, and proteins are also available, such as four cheese agnolotti, lamb rack with polenta and duck with apricot and orange. Head Sommelier Simone Garro oversees the wine program at Lucia and has curated a 400-strong wine list that spans a range of price points, regions, and grape varieties. For those wanting to try rare drops without having to get a super expensive bottle, Garro has even made a few available by the glass using a Coravin. There are also Euro-inspired cocktails and a hefty selection of digestives and aperitifs. In addition to the leisurely dining room, Via Lucia Mercato, a casual takeaway extension of the restaurant, has opened to offer gourmet grab-and-go options for locals and visitors to the area. With its own dedicated access off Eastern Road, the mercato has been designed for morning coffees, healthy takeaway lunches, and a place to pop in and grab a convenient and tasty dinner. Ciorciari says, "With Breadcetera, we saw how much people value being able to pick up good food that feels thoughtful but easy. In South Melbourne, we felt there was room for something similar to Lucia — somewhere you could grab a coffee, build a proper lunch, or take something home for dinner without it feeling formal. Via Lucia Mercato grew from that." Via Lucia serves simple, quality staples, including pastries (from Austro), coffee (from Lavazza), paninis, seasonal vegetables, and fresh salads, with rotating proteins such as chicken schnitzel. "We wanted it to feel useful to the neighbourhood. Good food, made properly, that you can take with you. It's connected to Lucia, but it stands on its own as a more casual, flexible way to eat," says Silvestre. Taking cues from Breadcetera, Via Lucia functions as a neighbourhood pantry offering gourmet staples and an elevated range of everyday items. Find shelves stocked with Tarralinga Estate olive oil, Lello pasta, and wines from both European and Australian producers. Images: Michael Pham.
Finally, the ultimate place to read a book whilst waiting for friends. Sig. Enzo is a sneeze away from the main drag and run by the Mazzone family: a daughter-father duo that make you feel most at home. Small bites mean fried stuffed olives and arancini, while a larger plate of burrata will satiate the beast. Make sure to nab the booth under the 1950s-style lights (not dissimilar to the Pixar lamp for the uninitiated) which offer enough illumination for page-turning affairs that don't detract from the classy bar you've found yourself in. Beers are from WA's Gage Roads and make an easy happy hour choice. Finish off your pre-evening with a grappa. And if you're around on a Sunday arvo, the bar does aperitivo hour from 1.30pm. It's just $20 for a drink (choose a beer, wine or spritz) and permission to graze on the snacks on the bar all afternoon.
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.
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.
One of the quintessential works of ancient Greek theatre is a getting a contemporary update courtesy of the team at Malthouse Theatre. Beginning Friday, August 21, the company will stage Sophocles' Antigone, a devastating portrait of grief, duty and civil disobedience that, like all the best works from the period, retains an emotional and social resonance nearly two-and-a-half thousand years after it was first performed. Rising star Emily Milledge appears as the eponymous character, a young woman caught in a bitter battle with her community leaders over her right to bury her traitor brother. Adapted by writer and actor Jane Montgomery Griffiths and director Adena Jacobs, the Malthouse production will transport the material to a dystopian present day, eschewing Sophocles' questionable representation of gender in favour of a more timely examination of political fear-mongering and social control.
Clear your diary, grab your sneakers and prepare to get busy, boombastic and nostalgic — Shaggy and Sean Paul are heading on a tour of Australia this summer. It was revealed earlier this year that the two reggae stars would be headlining Southeast Queensland's inaugural One Love Festival, and, now, it has just been announced that they'll also be hitting up Sydney, Melbourne and Perth in January and February. Yes, the shows will be taking place in the summertime, but if there is a storm, we're sure Sean Paul will be able to shelter you. Enough of the song puns, though, you know the hits and you probably already have them stuck in your head. If not, we suggest you listen to (and get ready to relive), Shaggy's 'Luv Me, Luv Me' and 'It Wasn't Me', and Sean Paul's 'Get Busy' and 'No Lie'. The two 90s and 00s stars will be supported by US reggae-pop singer Josh Wawa White, too. So get ready for a full evening of reggae come summer. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6W5pq4bIzIw SEAN PAUL AND SHAGGY AUSTRALIAN TOUR 2020 DATES Melbourne — Wednesday, January 29, Sidney Myer Music Bowl Sydney — Friday, January 31, Hordern Pavilion Brisbane — One Love Festival, Saturday, February 1 (Sold Out) Perth — Sunday, February 2, Perth Convention Centre Tickets go on sale at 7pm on Wednesday, October 23 via mjrpresents.com. Top image: Jonathan Mannion
Head north from the city towards Thornbury and, burrowed along High Street, you'll find Joanie's Baretto, an Italian wine bar and restaurant. Start with an Aperol or Campari spritz and then dive right into the Italian-style snacks. We recommend the veal and pork meatballs cooked in a Napoli sauce, perhaps followed by its rich veal ragu or broccoli orecchiette. Gluten-free pasta is available, too. On the first Sunday of each month, the bar does aperitivo afternoon where, for $20, you'll get a drink and a selection of cicchetti. Grab a seat at the bar, a table under the softly-lit yellow lights or in the spacious back courtyard. This place delivers on its food and drink and is all about having a good time in a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for weekend drinks.
What do you get when you cross two current Melbourne obsessions, being chargrilled chicken shops, and lively Greek restaurants? You get, Kokoras. A new no-fuss Greek-inspired chicken shop, from the owner of beloved Tzaki. Alex Xinis (formerly of Hellenic Republic and The Press Club) brought his ode to Athens, Tzaki, all the way to Yarraville last year. The small space (with seating for up to 16 indoors, and 15 outdoors) found big fame. Whether it's Yarraville locals or visitors who have made their first visit to the inner West, just for a taste of Tzaki's charry flatbread, there is always a bum waiting to fill a seat. So Xinis decided Yarraville deserved more, and opened Kokoras on Ballarat Street, next door to Tzaki. Tinged with nostalgia, the takeaway shop tucked behind a plastic fly curtain blends the old-school charm of takeaway chicken joints with modern Greek flavours. "Everyone has a chicken shop memory. We wanted to take that feeling and give it a modern, healthier twist, something you can enjoy a few nights a week, not just as an indulgent treat," says Xinis. Spatchcocked lemon-oregano chicken is taken to the edge of grilled charry goodness and served alongside fresh, vibrant salads such as Greek-style coleslaw (sans mayo), smashed cucumber and dill salad, and cumin roasted carrot grain salad. In terms of carbs, you'll have to double up, because both the wood-roasted lemon potatoes and the blistered flatbread are musts. Images: Supplied.
It's hard to find a soul out there who isn't a fan of the humble sandwich in Melbourne. Invented by the fourth Earl of Sandwich in the 18th century, the convenient 'meat between two slices of bread' has come a very long way in that time. Today, cafes and delis across Melbourne are paying worthy homage to this iconic dish, plating up riffs on global favourites, reinvented classics and everything in between. Whether you've got a penchant for panino, you cherish a good ciabatta, or you're mad for meatball subs — this city's got a standout sandwich joint to suit. We've done the hard work for you and hunted down eight Melbourne sandwich spots that are simply smashing it in the sandwich department. All that's left is to decide which one you'll try first. Recommended reads: The Best Burgers in Melbourne The Best Cafes in Melbourne The Best Restaurants in Melbourne The Best Ramen in Melbourne
If you're keen to treat yourself to a nice glass of wine and a good feed, head to Inverloch Esplanade Hotel (or the Invy Espy as the locals call it). Established in 1896, the seaside pub has been owned and operated by the Cook and Clark families for more than two decades. It's got space aplenty, with an al fresco dining area with ocean views, a family-friendly bistro, a sports bar and a beer garden, plus a drive-thru bottle shop. If you feel like a classic pub feed, the Invy Espy serves up chicken parma ($27), scotch fillet ($38), burgers, fish of the day, a beef and Guinness pie ($26) and, on Sundays, a hearty roast ($26). Want something beyond standard pub fare? Head upstairs to the Captain's Lounge, which is open Thursday through Sunday, for split king prawns with chimichurri, roasted chicken with maple brussels sprouts or pan-seared mackerel. Images: Nicky Cawood, courtesy of the Inverloch Esplanade Hotel.
If there was an image in your head of the perfect winter bar, with dark wood furniture, candle-lit tables, cosy nooks, an open fire and plenty of warming red wines on offer, you'd probably be thinking of The Alderman. It provides all of that wintry magic, and even offers the option to order some authentic and delicious Sicilian food from the ever-popular Bar Idda next door (you won't regret trying the arancino filled with cheese and mushrooms, I promise). The space is incredibly homely — in fact, the room behind the main bar must have been a living room in a former life — and really does feel like you're sitting in a friend's home being offered a glass from their private wine collection before you settle in to a friendly game of Scrabble (or not so friendly, if you're as competitive as this writer). East Brunswick residents lean on this place whenever they need the comfort of an old friend, and it gives them exactly what they need. There is a large courtyard out the back, decorated quaintly with fairy lights, that really comes to the fore in the warmer months, and surprisingly still gets fair attention on the dark, damp days. As for the drinks, there are some craft beers by the bottle, and the standards on tap. The one-page wine list offers enough choice (including many local varieties) without being overwhelming, and the prices on everything are extremely reasonable (glasses of wine start at $7.50). It's a solid offering all around, without trying to be fancy or progressive, and that's kind of perfect. Open since 2006, The Alderman feels like the East Brunswick of old; in a patch that really hasn't changed too much, owing mostly to the staying power of all the great businesses that surround it, including the aforementioned Bar Idda, Atticus Finch on the opposite side of the street, Middle Eastern delight Rumi and local stalwart Sugardough up the road. When the recent flux of new bars and cafes around Melbourne might be feeling a little 'same-same-but-kinda-different', The Alderman shows just what you can achieve when you dispense with pretense and fashion to favour comfort, charm and warmth instead. A local favourite in the truest sense. Image courtesy of essjayspensa via Instagram.
Biannual art and design market The Finders Keepers is returning to the Royal Exhibition Building for its winter iteration, bringing shoppers the latest and greatest from its stellar lineup of Australia's most creative makers. From Friday, July 12–Sunday, July 14, the 270+ stalls, including 50 debut sellers, will be joined by a tasty range of food and beverage offerings as well as DJs playing throughout — all the makings of a prime opportunity to get out, chat with local artisans and support the creative industry. At the core of the conscious shopping space is a focus on helping you discover and connect with the next wave of independent and emerging artisans — specifically, local designers. So, you can expect to find everything from jewellery, fashion and ceramics to leather goods and body products. This seasons's Indigenous Program recipient is Bangerang Country-based Ochre Dough, which will be showcasing its natural playdough made from native bush tucker. Six other First Nations creative small businesses — including Narrm-based social enterprise Clothing The Gaps and contemporary artists Luruk-In and Alejandro Lauren — will also be showcasing their wares. Consider this a reminder that the market is completely cashless, so check (then check again) that you've got your digital (or plastic) payment methods at the ready — it would be a travesty to leave empty-handed.
Renowned Sydney-born gallery Sullivan+Strumpf launched its debut Melbourne outpost last spring, where it continues to do what it does best: championing the best of the contemporary art scene. And next up, that means throwing the spotlight on one of its regular muses, acclaimed Sydney-based Sri Lankan-born artist Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran. GQ Artist of the Year for 2022, Nithiyendran is hitting Sullivan+Strumpf's converted warehouse in Collingwood for his first solo Melbourne show since 2016. Undergod will run from Thursday, March 16–Saturday, April 22, showcasing twenty new sculptures — building on the artist's long-held fascination with multiplicity, plurality and the portrayal of deities. [caption id="attachment_892884" align="alignnone" width="1920"] 'Bi Warrior Figure', 2022, Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran[/caption] It's a broad-ranging collection of new and recent works that embrace various concepts of the mythological being. You'll find moveable figures, a series of large-scale bronze warrior sculptures and unglazed terracotta miniatures, alongside plenty of the boldly-hued ceramic pieces that have become Nithiyendran's signature. The artist guides audiences on a thought-provoking, yet often playful musing of the diverse histories of iconoclasm, with works displayed beneath colourful LEDS on plinths throughout the space. [caption id="attachment_892885" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Works by Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran. Installation view courtesy of the artists and Sullivan+Strumpf.[/caption] Top images: Mark Pokorny
Father's Day is around the corner (Sunday, September 7), and it's time to get a little creative this year. You can do better than another pair of socks and a run-of-the-mill brunch to celebrate your dad, granddad, uncle, brother, or other father figure in your life. We've rounded up the best things to do this Father's Day, whether it's a cooking class with the kids, a barbecue among furry friends, a free haircut accompanied by a cold beer, or an all-you-can-eat yum cha feast. If you're looking for more, check out Melbourne's best set menus under $100, top spots to BYO, or venues that are perfect for group bookings. Whatever you choose, be sure to make Father's Day a memorable one this year. Recommended reads: The Best Restaurants in Melbourne The Best Wine Bars in Melbourne The Best Pubs in Melbourne The Best Yum Cha in Melbourne [caption id="attachment_945738" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David's Prahran[/caption] For a Bottomless Feed: David's Yum Cha Head to David's (in Prahran or the CBD) this Father's Day to treat the family to bottomless yum cha, which includes a selection of more than 16 dim sum dishes. Think san choi bao, peking duck pancakes, spring rolls, shu mai, fried chicken and pork buns. The easy part is not having to choose because you can taste it all. The hard part is trying not to get full too quickly so you can get your money's worth. Hot tip: Always save room for the white chocolate dumplings. [caption id="attachment_801858" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Queen Victoria Market[/caption] For an Interactive Activity with the Kids: a Cooking Class at Queen Victoria Market If you're looking for a way to get the kids to spend some quality time with the father figure in their life this Father's Day, give a hands-on cooking class at the Queen Victoria Market a go. Chef Tobie Puttock and his daughter will guide participants (suitable for kids ages ten and above) through a cooking class that focuses on a zero-waste philosopy. The class will take place in the Moving Feast Kitchen, an initiative led by social enterprise STREAT. This program aims to drastically reduce the amount of produce that goes to waste each year at the market. Over three tonnes of food have been saved since May 2024, and initiatives such as the Father's Day cooking class will contribute to improving this already impressive statistic. For an Italian Party: Marameo If you're looking to kick off your shoes this Father's Day, head to Marameo's one-off Sunday session this September. Doors will open at noon, and bookings are available until 3:45 pm. Marameo prides itself on being Italian-born but Melbourne-bred. It boasts a bold menu with dishes such as Italo disco lamb ribs, wagyu tartare cannoli and pork cotoletta with chilli salsa verde. Special mention must be made of the coveted cacio e pepe pasta with black truffles and the 10-cheese lasagna with mushrooms. Dine à la carte or go for Head Chef Geoff Martin's Father's Day set menu. For a Spot of Shopping: the Makers & Shakers Market If you're looking for something different to do this Father's Day, why not head to the Makers & Shakers Market at the Melbourne Royal Exhibition Building for a spot of retail therapy. The market is proudly made up of all-Australian stallholders, with more than 180 makers, designers and producers showing off their goods. It's a good thing the market is running from 10am to 4pm on Saturday, September 6, and Sunday, September 7, as there is much to see and do. Try the newly crowned winner of Ballarat's Best Pie, head to Awkward Portraits for a family photo, get creative at a collage workshop, drop the littles off at the Kids Zone, join an hour-long guided spirits tasting session and treat yourself to a hot Italian sub from Rocco's Bologna Discoteca. For Gourmet Catering at Home: Ruben's Deli If you plan to stay in this Father's Day but want to take the stress out of entertaining, let Ruben's Deli do the hard work for you with their gourmet catering options. Signature boxes include the pastrami box, toasted Reuben sandwich box, bagel box, roast chicken box, blini box, antipasti box and smoked fish box. There are also a variety of mains, sides and desserts to choose from, such as Ruben's famous cinnamon babkas and chiffon cakes. Catering orders should be confirmed at least 36 hours before pick up, however, if you are more of a last-minute host, the Armadale store is stocked daily with their gourmet goodies. For a Vegan Feast: Lona Misa For the modern dad who has moved beyond meat and three veg, head to Lona Misa this Father's Day for an all-out vegan feast. The Latin-leaning set menu curated for Father's Day includes the likes of watermelon ceviche, chargrilled shiitake mushroom skewers with aji amarillo and fried sweet potato, and Peruvian-style chicken a la brasa. Lona Misa's signature punny cocktails will take your celebrations up a notch. Try the Panic at the Pisco! with vermouth, passionfruit and lime, or the Rye, Rye, Miss American Chai with rye whiskey, chai syrup and Aztec chocolate bitters. The four-course tasting menu is available from 2–6 September. For a Sunday Roast and Free Pint of Guinness: the Ganley Group Pubs You can't go wrong with a Sunday Roast and a pint of Guinness for Father's Day. Especially when said pint is free. This Father's Day, head to the Bay Hotel Mornington, the Fifth Province or the Windsor Castle (all of Ganley Group) for a special King Island Roast Beef Sirloin served with all the trimmings. Liam Ganley, Director of the Ganley Group, says that their "venues are built on creating moments that matter, and Father's Day is the perfect chance to gather around the table, share a great meal, and show appreciation in the most classic way possible." Sounds pretty good to us. The complimentary Guinness is on offer for all pre-booked Father's Day reservations, so go ahead and make your booking now. For Great Beer and Free Haircuts: Pirate Life Brewery The much-loved Father's Day celebration returns to Pirate Life in South Melbourne this September. The crew at Pirate Life are going the extra mile to make the father figure in your life feel like a legend this Father's Day. There will be a pop-up barber shop offering free cuts and trims, a free can cooler given away with Dad's first pint, and complimentary four-packs handed out to tables booked in advance. We don't have to tell you that the beer will be cold and flowing generously, and the food will be hearty and plentiful. For a Wholesome Family Outing: Father's Day Barbecue at Healesville Sanctuary Tickets are on sale now for the fluffiest, most wholesome Father's Day barbecue at the Healesville Sanctuary. You can expect a buffet lunch, live music, face painting, lawn games and other activities designed to make this a memorable family day out. Kids will be enticed with marshmallow roasting stations, and dads will be rewarded with a complimentary beer on arrival. For Sunday Roasts and Steins of Beer: Molly Rose There are stacks of restaurants that cater for big groups, but Molly Rose is gunning for the top spot this year with its pork knuckle lunch special. The Father's Day set menu is packed with hearty roast favourites such as gravy, roast potatoes and cabbage salad. And as this is a brewery, you best expect a few cheeky beer deals. First off, you and your dad can get $22 steins of the team's Lager #3 throughout the day, and they'll even throw in a free Michelada for dad. With a kids' menu and vegetarian and vegan options, the whole family will be well looked after. [caption id="attachment_966939" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Suxzie Q[/caption] For Set Menu Deals: MAMAS Dining Group MAMAS Dining Group (Hochi Mama, Straight Outta Saigon, Kiss and Tell, Windsor Wine Room and Suzie Q) is getting on the Father's Day banquet train this year, offering special set menus at all six of its venues. Head to Hochi Mama for snapper sashimi and massaman curry, Windor Wine Room for chilli crab spaghetti and tiramisu, Straight Outta Saigon for lamb skewers and pork belly, or Suzie Q for barbecue pork buns and black sesame cheesecake. So many options, so little time. For a Special Sweet Treat: Pidapipo Pidapipo welcomes back their viral Papamisu dessert to make Father's Day extra sweet this year. The tub of tiramisu is filled with layers of mascarpone gelato, Savoiardi biscuits, espresso and sweet cherry syrup, gianduja ganache and chocolate shavings. Head in store to grab one before they are all gone, or try your luck on Uber Eats or Doordash. Top image: Ashley Ludkin
Wine tasting just turned fierce with Into The Vines' upcoming event 'Taste of Origin' — a cheeky nod to State of Origin. This Aussie winetasting showdown features six nationwide emerging producers. In the courtyard, spectators sip top-tier exciting (and elusive) small-batch releases while they chat to the people who made them. But the second floor is where things really heat up. Upstairs, grab a front-row seat to the tasting ring. Sommelier and founder of Carlton Wine Room, Jay Bessell, will go up against wine writer and judge, Jane Faulkner. The two will taste, assess, and argue over their pick of the six wines. The audience tastes along while munching on pub snacks from The Rochey, and the winner is decided through a People's Choice vote. Tickets for the masterclass cost slightly more, but you get to see how the experts do it. The list of winemakers includes: Werkstatt Wines (Victoria), a practice run by Young Gun of Wine Best New Act winner Bridget Mac; Knucklehead Wines (QLD), where Young Gun of Wine finalist Kyle Goodwin produces adventurous minimal-intervention wine; Intrepidus Wines (NSW), Chrissie Smith's one-acre vineyard in Canberra, specialising in small-scale production; Forage Supply Co (SA), a socially-conscious vineyard from former AFL player Justin Westhoff and his best mate Scotty Rogasch; YEAH Wines (WA), a family-owned winery in Margaret River that focuses on single-vineyard wines and Tasmania's Peco Wines, specialising in wild-fermented from the Tamar Valley.
If you've ever landed overseas only to be slapped with eye-watering roaming charges, Holafly wants to make your next trip a whole lot easier. The global travel tech company has just launched its unlimited data eSIMs for Australian travellers, offering affordable access across more than 200 destinations. According to Holafly, many Australians still pay up to $10 a day for international roaming. Well, Holafly has done the maths, and that means $70 for a week in Bali or $300 for a month in Europe. Not to mention, this often comes with frustrating data caps and speed restrictions, too. Holafly's digital eSIM helps cut that cost by as much as 60 percent. Travellers can activate a local plan before flying out, connect instantly upon landing and avoid bill shock altogether. No SIM swaps, no surprise charges and unlimited data wherever you go. Founded in 2018, Holafly has already connected more than ten million travellers worldwide. Its eSIMs are delivered instantly by email, with activation taking just a couple of minutes. From there, you've got unlimited data at maximum speeds, plus round-the-clock customer support. Coverage spans more than 200 destinations, including Japan, the United States, Canada, Singapore, South Korea, the UK and much of Europe, with 5G available in select countries. Plans run up to 90 days, making them ideal for long-haul escapes and extended stays. You can grab a plan directly through Holafly's website or mobile app before you fly.
When something on HBO proves a huge hit, the US cable network goes all in. One case in point: all things Game of Thrones, including the just-arrived House of the Dragon, plus the hefty list of other spinoffs also in the works. Another example: Euphoria, with creator Sam Levinson now behind another HBO series that's filled with parties, drugs, attractive actors and plenty of drama — aka The Idol, which keeps dropping teaser trailers. The show itself doesn't have a release date yet, but it has just released its second sneak peek after first giving viewers a glimpse back in July. This time around, the teaser builds on the music industry-set show's suitably wild vibe and spells out the cast list. With both, it isn't holding back. Levinson teams up with Abel 'The Weeknd' Tesfaye on the series, with the latter co-creating The Idol and starring in it. The focus: a self-help guru and leader of a modern-day cult, played by the musician, as well as the up-and-coming pop idol (Lily-Rose Depp, Voyagers that he starts a complicated relationship with. From the two trailers so far, Depp's character clearly gets thrust into a heady new world — and here, as gets mentioned in the latest clip, sex definitely sells. For viewers, a cast that includes Red Rocket's Suzanna Son, Boy Erased's Troye Sivan, Schitt's Creek's Dan Levy, singer-songwriter Moses Sumney, BLACKPINK's Jennie Kim, Only Murders in the Building's Da'Vine Joy Randolph, Hacks' Jane Adams, Bodies Bodies Bodies' Rachel Sennott and Inglourious Basterds' Eli Roth should be a definite selling point, too. Also set to pop up in the series: Hank Azaria (The Simpsons), Hari Nef (The Marvellous Mrs Maisel), Steve Zissis (Happy Death Day 2U), Melanie Liburd (This Is Us), Tunde Adebimpe (Marriage Story), Elizabeth Berkley Lauren (Saved By the Bell) and Nico Hiraga (Booksmart), plus Anne Heche (All Rise) in what'll be one of her last performances. When it was originally announced in November 2021, The Idol was set to span six episodes, all filmed in Los Angeles — with She Dies Tomorrow's Amy Seimetz directing every single one. But back in April this year, it was revealed that Seimetz had left the project and reshoots were underway as a result. How that'll impact the end product is obviously yet to be seen — but the teasers so far should have you intrigued anyway. Check out the latest teaser trailer for The Idol below: The Idol doesn't yet have a release date, including Down Under — we'll update you when one is announced.
Everybody loves condiments, but it's hard to imagine sitting down to a 33-minute documentary about one. Until, perhaps, we reveal that the condiment of choice is Sriracha, the punchy hot sauce that inspires cult-like levels of devotion the globe over. Sriracha is a Kickstarter-funded documentary by Griffin Hammond that follows the rise of the ubiquitous 'rooster sauce' in America after a Vietnamese refugee named David Tran decided to make his own version of the sauce, which originated in Thailand but is also popular in Vietnam as a condiment for pho. Tran founded Huy Fong Foods in 1980, and since then the company's revenues have grown by at least 20 percent every year — amazingly, without advertising. The documentary mainly consists of interviews with Tran, as well as several die-hard Sriracha fans. According to reviews, there's some interesting trivia in there and it does give you an insight into the company and its founder. But it's also been described as "one long Sriracha commercial" due to its lack of non-Sriracha-loving subjects. There's some anxiety among Sriracha lovers following the recent partial shutdown of the main Huy Fong factory in California. Combined with a new 30-day freeze on shipment, it's looking like a short-term shortage may be a reality. Have fortitude, heat fiends. You can watch the trailer for Sriracha below. The full documentary is available on Vimeo for $5. Via the NPR blog.
A soundtrack of wall-to-wall floor-filler classics will echo across Australia this autumn, featuring tunes by Daft Punk, Fatboy Slim, The Chemical Brothers and Groove Armada — but not exactly as you know them. Joining the dance-meets-symphony trend is the just-announced Alive Garden Party, which has enlisted the UK's Club Symphony to head Down Under to give the country another event in the style of Synthony and Ministry of Sound Classical. The setup: having a symphony orchestra play tracks normally known for getting clubs pumping, not concert halls. The concept isn't new; however, it is popular. Australia's latest instance is heading to outdoor venues, including some wineries — taking queues from A Day on the Green and Grapevine Gathering as well. Songs by Faithless, Swedish House Mafia and Eric Prydz will also feature when Alive Garden Party debuts in South Australia at the end of March, then tours to Moss Vale Showgrounds in New South Wales' Southern Highlands, Swan Valley's Oakover Grounds in Western Australia, the Gold Coast in Queensland and Rochford Wines in Yarra Valley in Victoria. The lineup will expand as well, beyond the Steve Anderson-, Dave Seaman- and Cliff Masterson-led Club Symphony, including vocalists. Attendees aren't just in for a treat for the ears, but also for the eyes and tastebuds. With the latter, the focus will be on gourmet local produce that you can enjoy while picnicking the afternoon away — plus drinks, of course — before getting dancing beneath the stars when night hits. Bringing your own blanket to sprawl out on is encouraged, as is relaxing on the grass. If you'd like the VIP experience, it includes express entry, premium viewing and a bar with an expanded range. [caption id="attachment_936463" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Daniel Hildebrand[/caption] "This will be a visual and audible show that leaves audiences elated," said Jaylee Osborne on behalf of Alive Garden Party's organisers. "Alive Garden Party was born because music festivals aren't for everyone and concerts sometimes don't quite hit the spot. So we created a highly bespoke, beautiful and comfortable experience for every concertgoer." [caption id="attachment_936464" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Perry McLaughlan[/caption] [caption id="attachment_936462" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Daniel Hildebrand[/caption] ALIVE GARDEN PARTY 2024 DATES: Saturday, March 30 — TBC, Adelaide, South Australia Sunday, March 31 — Moss Vale Showgrounds, Southern Highlands, New South Wales Saturday, April 6 — Oakover Grounds, Swan Valley, Western Australia Saturday, April 13 — TBC, Gold Coast, Queensland Saturday, April 20 — Rochford Wines, Yarra Valley, Victoria Alive Garden Party will tour Australia in March and April 2024, with tickets on-sale now — head to the event website for further details.
Cheeky, fanciful and adorned with luxury designer touches, W Melbourne knows exactly who she is. While Melbourne has no shortage of hotels whether you are looking for a celebratory staycation or a weekend getaway, none are quite as trendy as W Hotel group's first Victorian outpost. Designed by local architect and interior design firm Hachem, the stay is a study in opulence across 264 guest rooms and 29 suites. Modern comforts include W bathrobes, Davines amenities, smart TVs, deep soaking tubs, free wifi and glowing Marilyn Monroe murals. The crown jewel of the hotel is the indulgent 'Extreme Wow Suite', boasting a jukebox, cocktail bar and private 40-square-metre balcony with river views. Venture beyond your room and you'll find W Melbourne's sky-high, gold-embellished pool, which turns into an adults-only space every evening. A well-equipped gym, 27/4 concierge, in-room dining service and four onsite hospitality venues round out the excellent offering. Plus, every Sunday from 2pm, W Melbourne's weekly indoor pool party WET Sessions kicks off with a poolside bar, panoramic views of the city's skyline and a fresh DJ taking over the decks each month. Tickets will set you back $46.35 (including the booking fee). That gets you entry, a drink on arrival and roving snacks to keep you going throughout the afternoon — whether that's to keep you energised for swimming some laps or just to have a poolside dance, it's up to you. Finally, if you want to live it up and spend a weekday by W Melbourne's glam 14th-floor pool, you can get access via W Melbourne's Swim Club which includes 12-hour access to the luxurious pool zone, including its steam room and gym, without having to book a room. Appears in: The Best Hotels in Melbourne
"Think about how screwed up we would be if we had survived a plane crash, only to end up eating other." That's Yellowjackets in a nutshell, as Christina Ricci (Wednesday) so perfectly describes in the just-dropped full trailer for the show's third season. In store this time around is more then-and-now glimpses of exactly how a New Jersey high school's girls soccer team remained alive — well, some of them — after being stranded in the wilderness following a plane crash, and also what it took to endure and, of course, what the experience did to them. Yellowjackets wants viewers to be its bloody Valentine this year — and more cannibalism, more haunting secrets, more fights to persist and more hunting are set to fill the series' third go-around, as both the first glimpse and initial trailer in 2024, and now a bigger sneak peek, all illustrate. Again, the action is split between two periods, following its characters both in the immediate aftermath of their traumatic accident and also when the past keeps intruding upon their present after decades have gone by. As viewers discovered when it debuted in 2021 and became one of the best new shows of that year, the instantly intriguing (and excellent) series hops between the 90s and 25 years later. Across two seasons until now, life and friendship have proven complex for Yellowjackets' core quartet of Shauna (The Tattooist of Auschwitz's Melanie Lynskey as an adult, and also No Return's Sophie Nélisse as a teenager), Natalie (I'm a Virgo's Juliette Lewis, plus Heretic's Sophie Thatcher), Taissa (Law & Order's Tawny Cypress, and also Scream VI's Jasmin Savoy Brown) and Misty (Ricci, and also Atlas' Samantha Hanratty). The trailers for season three also put it this way: "once upon a time, a bunch of teenage girls got stranded in the wilderness ... and they went completely nuts." The full setup: back in 1996, en route to a big match in Seattle on a private aircraft, Shauna, Natalie, Taissa, Misty and the rest of their teammates entered Lost territory. The accident saw everyone who walked away stuck in the forest — and those who then made it through that ordeal stuck out there for 19 months, living their worst Alive-meets-Lord of the Flies lives. After swiftly getting picked up for a second season because its first was that ace, Yellowjackets was then renewed for a third season before that second group of episodes even aired. In Australia, viewers can watch via Paramount+. In New Zealand, the series streams via Neon. In season three, the returning cast — which includes Simone Kessell (Muru) as the older Lottie and Lauren Ambrose (Servant) as the older Van, characters played in their younger guises by Australian actors Courtney Eaton (Mad Max: Fury Road) and Liv Hewson (Party Down) — will be joined by Hilary Swank (Ordinary Angels) and Joel McHale (The Bear). And from season two, Elijah Wood (Bookworm) is also back. Check out the full trailer for Yellowjackets season three below: Yellowjackets season three will start streaming from Friday, February 14, 2025 via Paramount+ in Australia and Neon in New Zealand. Read our review of season one and review of season two, plus our interview with Melanie Lynskey.
When The Simpsons first found its way into viewers' hearts, it also made its way to the top of the charts. Yes, back in 1991, 'Do the Bartman' hit number one in Australia. Both before and since, the hit animated sitcom hasn't shied away from crooning a tune or two — and if you've now got "Dr Zaius, Dr Zaius, ohhhhh Dr Zaius" or "Who holds back the electric car? Who made Steve Guttenburg a star?" stuck in your head, then you know what we're talking about. The show has sung many a song, and also released many an album — and it's 1997's Songs in The Key of Springfield that's in the spotlight at this Melbourne show of the same name. One night. One huge record. So many catchy songs. That's what's on the agenda from 8pm on Saturday, September 28. Sing along to everything from 'Can I Borrow a Feeling?' to 'See My Vest' to 'We Put The Spring in Springfield' as they're performed live by Boadz. Tickets cost $15 online, with the tunes going down at The Toff in Town.
If you're going to treat yo'self to some high-flying fare like lobster, you might as well go all out, right? Well, Melbourne's luxe seafood restaurant Pinchy's is dialling up the indulgence levels and bringing back one of its most OTT dishes: Australia's biggest lobster roll. This time, though, as Melburnians are limited to visiting restaurants within five kilometres of their homes under the stage four lockdown, the giant crustacean roll is heading on a five-week tour of Melbourne, hitting up a different suburb every Friday and Saturday. Called Made By Sea Tour, it'll land at The Old Garage in Camberwell on August 21–22, then Bentleigh's Wolfe & Molone on August 28–29, followed by Mr Jackson in Mornington and Windsor's Oppen Cafe on September 4–5 and 11–12 respectively. The tour's final hurrah will go down at Johnny's Emporium in Yarraville on September 18–19. You can check out the exact times and locations below. While the super-sized version of Pinchy's signature Maine to Melbourne lobster roll — rocking three times as much crustacean as the original, stuffed into a foot-long bun — will be the menu highlight (and most expensive item at $40), it won't be the only dish heading on tour. You'll also be able to snag a classic lobster roll ($22), crab tacos ($7), truffle fries ($10), mussel chowder ($14) and snapper croquettes ($10). To get your mitts on a big lobster roll — or anything on the menu for that matter — you must pre-order over at the website. And you'll need to move quick as some dates are already starting to sell out. MADE BY SEA TOUR The Old Garage, 2A Glen Iris Road, Camberwell — 4–8pm on Friday, August 21 and 12-8pm on Saturday, August 22 Wolfe & Molone, 282 Centre Road, Bentleigh — 4–8pm on Friday, August 28 and 12–8pm on Saturday, August 29 Mr Jackson, 1/45 Main Street, Mornington — 4–8pm on Friday, September 4 and 12–8pm on Saturday, September 5 Oppen Cafe, 20/2 Maddock Street, Windsor — 4–8pm on Friday, September 11 and 12–8pm on Saturday, September 12 Johnny's Emporium, 18A Anderson Street, Yarraville — 4–8pm on Friday, September 18 and 12–8pm on Saturday, September 19
The Bastille Day French Festival is back, meaning it's time for budding Francophiles to don their best blue, white and red outfit for the occasion. Taking over Queen Victoria Market's C and D sheds once more, this celebratory winter event is happening on Saturday, July 12–Sunday, July 13, featuring a bustling program of top-notch cuisine, live music and masterclasses. French flavours are a natural focus, with a host of local businesses bringing their wares to the market. Renowned baker Quentin Berthonneau from Oji House will serve his incredible sourdough, spanning baguettes, brioche vendéenne, buttery croissants, and jambon-beurre and cheese sandwiches. Meanwhile, iconic French cheese producer Fromager d'Affinois will offer super-smooth double-cream and triple-cream cheeses. You can't have a French market without macarons, so MD Royale Bakes is serving bright, bite-sized treats handcrafted to perfection. Beyond cuisine, the market will also feature a host of France-forward shops, like the Language International Bookshop, with hand-drawn illustrations by artist Susan Kerian depicting the streets of Paris. Forming part of the cultural program, this year's Bastille Festival also includes Les Lumieres Talks – a series of events focused on French history and current events, from the political legacy of street art to the latest tech innovations in sport. There are also fascinating masterclasses to explore, where guests are invited to learn how to pair cheese and wine, create stencil art, and appreciate the ins and outs of the nation's haute fragrance houses.
In great news for anyone who'll be in the vicinity of the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery, Mornington Peninsula Chocolaterie and Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie in May, all three sites are dedicating the month to rocky road, as they usually do at this time of year. In 2022, they're bringing back their rocky road fest in person, too; however, for those can't make it along in the flesh — including folks interstate — the at-home version is still running as well. Get ready for a virtual month-long sugar extravaganza dedicated to sweet, nutty, marshmallowy rocky road — and yes, giant boxes filled with 31 different flavours of rocky road are available to order. As in previous years, you have a few options. If you'd like to get the mammoth Ultimate Rocky Road Box delivered to your door, that'll set you back $110. Flavours this year include Golden Gaytime, espresso martini, mint, licorice, black forest, Biscoff, pineapple, pistachio praline and many, many more. Elsewhere on the shop's delivery menu, you'll find pick-and-mix packs and a create-your-own option — where you can choose your favourite types of chocolate, nuts, extra nuts, marshmallows, jellies, extras and toppings. The boxes can be delivered anywhere within Australia for a flat rate of $15.
These days, Easter promises a whole lot more than generic choccy eggs and traditional hot cross buns. Bakeries, chocolate brands, gelaterias, dessert shops, bars and restaurants across the city are getting more inventive with each passing year, whipping up all sorts of creative treats worthy of a spot on your own personal Easter hunt. Here, we've rounded up some of the coolest grown-up goodies to seek out, from Easter-inspired desserts to spicy cocktails, artisanal chocolate treats to amped-up lattes, curated Easter show bags to tasty tiramisus, so grab your basket and start filling it up with all the goodies you can collect. Recommended reads: The Best High Teas in Melbourne The Best Bakeries in Melbourne Best Ice Cream and Gelato in Melbourne Easter Croissants, Penny for Pound The last few years have seen Penny for Pound become a hub of activity around Easter, as hot cross bun fanatics arrive in droves to stock up on their highly rated goods. Expect the same again this year, as the bakery returns with several scrumptious Easter treats. Alongside the always popular hot cross buns, you can find Penny for Pound's Hot Cross-ant, which is filled with cinnamon and orange-spiced almond frangipane, as well as a choc-caramello and carrot cake version available on weekends only. Textures of Chocolate Dessert, Lollo Lollo is the W Melbourne's signature Italian eatery, where sharing-style dishes such as Bistecca Fiorentina carved tableside, and lobster ravioli take centre stage. This Easter, the kitchen will be putting on a show with a limited-edition Easter dessert. The Textures of Chocolate Easter Egg features fudge brownie, Frangelico ganache, whipped pannacotta, passionfruit marshmallow, popcorn and rice bubbles, all delicately encased in a dark chocolate shell. It's almost too pretty to eat. The Nest, Lune Pastry specialist Lune is putting on a show this Easter with a series of unmissable Easter treats. The Nest pastry is a limited-edition chocolate escargot stuffed with salted caramel crème pâtissière, chocolate chips, and flaky salt, topped with dulcey chocolate ganache, chocolate coconut, and toasted croissant-filled chocolate eggs. If that sounds a bit much for you, go for a hot cross cruffin or the chocolate version. Lune is playing into the nostalgia of the Easter show bags with an exclusive Lune Easter Show Bag on offer. The curated selection of goodies includes Lune Easter Eggs, Chappy's Chips, Hunted + Gathered chocolate, stickers and pastries. One lucky person will also find a golden ticket hidden inside, revealing a whopping $500 Incu voucher. Hot Cross Bun Milk Punch, Curious Head to Curious, one of Melbourne's most playful and enigmatic cocktail bars, for an Easter treat unlike any other this year. The creatives behind the bar have designed a Hot Cross Bun Milk Punch for those who prefer to sip on Easter flavours. The drink features Starward Two-Fold whisky, Rutherglen Muscadelle, cinnamon, lemon and whey. It's only available between March 31st and April 4th, so be sure to mark your calendars so you don't miss out. Gelato-Stuffed Easter Eggs, Piccolina Gelateria This Easter, Piccolina Gelateria is marking the occasion with the return of its limited-edition gelato-stuffed Easter Eggs. Available now until the end of March, you'll find three varieties, each hand-crafted, hand-wrapped and presented in a beautiful Piccolina box. The Brownie Cheesecake Egg features cheesecake gelato, brownie pieces and vanilla crumble; the Triple Cioccolato is a riot of rich chocolate; and the Snickers Supreme showcases peanut butter gelato layered with peanut nougat, chocolate shards and caramel ganache. Limited Edition Easter Dessert, Stokehouse Celebrate Easter in style this year with stunning views, stellar seafood, and a scrumptious, limited-edition dessert at Stokehouse. Set along St Kilda Beach, the Stokehouse will be open across the Easter weekend, serving its full à la carte menu alongside a weekend-only special courtesy of the pastry team. The dessert, inspired by the classic Easter egg, showcases chocolate and caramel and is presented in a nest-like creation, the perfect way to end a special long-weekend meal. Praline-Filled Chocolate Eggs, Pidapipo Most Melbourne eateries that create Easter specials tend to make one show-stopping treat. But the crew at Pidapipo Laboratorio are given the freedom and resources to dream up all kinds of delicious things year-round. Not only is Pidapipo selling its irresistible hot cross doughnut this Easter, but they are also offering a range of handcrafted chocolate eggs. Using single-origin cacao, Pidapipo is creating dark and milk chocolate eggs, as well as praline-filled chocolate tins featuring white chocolate peppermint ganache, matcha ganache and more. Iced Hot Cross Bun Latte, Baker Bleu Renowned Melbourne bakery Baker Bleu is always busy at this time of year, pumping out its crowd-favourite hot cross buns, particularly the beloved sour cherry and dark chocolate variety. This year, they are also offering two limited-edition iced drinks to really celebrate the spirit of Easter. The Iced Hot Cross Bun Latte takes its inspo from the traditional bun, combining batch brew with cold cream infused with raisin, cinnamon and orange. The Iced Cherry Chocolate Drink utilises organic chocolate and cherry coulis. Hot Cross Bun Tiramisu, Pinto Tiramisu specialists, Pinto, are serving a particularly festive treat this Easter. Known for their inventive takes on the classic dessert, Pinto has experimented with flavours ranging from strawberry shortcake to matcha, Earl Grey dulce to mango and coconut. And this year, they have introduced none other than a hot cross bun tiramisu. The creamy dessert features Saviordi soaked in coffee and malt, a jammy layer of sultana, currants and raisins, marscapone cream and a buttery spiced crumble. It's all topped off with a thick dusting of cacao shaped like an HCB cross. Hot Cross Bun Chocolate, Hunted + Gathered Purveyors of the highest quality organic chocolate, Hunted + Gathered, are, of course, getting amongst the Easter goodies. Grab a slab of hot cross bun dark chocolate and savour the sweet taste of warm spices, toasted almond, candied orange and plump raisins folded through 60 per cent Dominican Republic dark chocolate. While you're at it, why not try praline-filled eggs, as well as Hunted + Gathered hand-wrapped dark and milk hollow eggs, which are each carefully crafted in the Cremorne factory. Apfelstrudel Hot Cross Buns, Hofbräuhaus Melbourne Melbourne's beloved Bavarian beer hall, Hofbräuhaus Melbourne, is putting a German twist on an Easter classic this year. For a limited time only, the rowdy restaurant will be serving Apfelstrudel Hot Cross Buns, combining the nostalgic flavours of Apfelstrudel with the classic bun. Savour the tastes of warmly spiced apples, boozy raisins and rum butter, for a fabulously festive treat. Available for a limited time for dine-in and take-away, it's a must-try for those looking to swap tradition for something a little more unexpected this Easter. Like what you see? Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these straight to your inbox.
Grief. Love. The desire to protect one's family. Nothing is sacred in the films of Yorgos Lanthimos, and nor should it be. The ringleader of Greek cinema's so-called weird wave, the writer-director is adept at exposing the pretence and routine at the foundations of our society, and revealing the transactional side of modern-day life. While completely his own distinctive creations, Lanthimos' absurd, audacious movies recall the work of auteurs like Stanley Kubrick, David Lynch and Michael Haneke, as he strikes at the very heart of what it means to be alive. Driven by needs and wants, and self-serving to a truly horrifying degree, his vision of humanity as seen in The Killing of a Sacred Deer is unmistakably bleak. When cardiologist Steven Murphy (Colin Farrell) and teenager Martin (Barry Keoghan) meet for a meal, their conversation is distant but well-meaning. They're not close, though the right sentiments appear to be in place — a kindly adult looking out for a somewhat wayward youth. But before long, Martin's demand for Steven's attention increases, intruding into the doctor's professional and domestic bliss. The boy comes over for dinner, and meets Steven's ophthalmologist wife Anna (Nicole Kidman), and children Bob (Sunny Suljic) and Kim (Raffey Cassidy). Soon after, Steven dines at Martin's house, fending off some obviously orchestrated advances from his mother (Alicia Silverstone). Then Bob mysteriously falls ill — and Martin issues an ominous warning. The awkwardness you feel when someone answers a question a little too brusquely: that is Lanthimos' domain. So too is the sense of unease that lingers when you know, deep down, that you're just going through the motions with your loved ones, friends and colleagues. Like Dogtooth, Alps and The Lobster before it, the filmmaker's latest is filled with examples that show how automatic, insincere responses, designed to help us get what we want with minimal fuss, comprise most of our daily encounters. That said, The Killing of a Sacred Deer also comes with a particularly chilling twist. As conveyed through the twisting narrative as well as Lanthimos' aesthetic trademarks — glossy visuals, an icy mood and purposefully stilted performances — the leap from pleasantries and small talk to making tragic, life-altering decisions is a very short one indeed. Of course, there's more to the movie than the plot laid out above — one which, at the thematic level, smartly and savagely toys with accountability, sacrifice and revenge, and is partially inspired by Greek mythology. But discovering where Lanthimos takes this dark, discomforting tale is part of the unsettling joy of watching. There's not only tension and intrigue in the film's terse exchanges and increasingly brutal stakes, but ample black comedy as well. The Killing of a Sacred Deer presents a moral quandary that turns commonplace interactions into a map of how ludicrous, cruel and calculating our existence can be, while also laying bare the costs and consequences of our actions. Faced with that reality, the audience can do little more than laugh. Thankfully, the cast couldn't be better suited to guiding viewers through this uniquely unnerving, often amusing experience. At times, Lanthimos shoots them from a distance, dwarfed by picture-perfect hospital hallways and suburban houses. In other moments, they're so close that you can almost feel the rapid beating of their pulse. Like their director, Farrell, Kidman and Keoghan all find the sweet spot between detached and invested, as though they're navigating a hazy waking nightmare. Still, as fantastic as the work of the two big-name stars may be, viewers will want to keep their eyes firmly on the young man from Dunkirk. Mixing menace and vulnerability with near-alarming precision, Keoghan is undoubtedly a star in the making — and here, he will chill you to the bone. You won't forget his performance easily, nor the jaw-dropping film in which it's found. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVeYmGliO4Y
On the hunt for a new CBD coffee destinations to add to your rotation? Handily enough, Peddler Espresso has just moved into One Melbourne Quarter. Making its home within the building's striking lobby, the cafe sits beneath the new Collins Street Sky Park, bringing a new double-whammy coffee offering to that oft-forgotten pocket near Southern Cross Station. Rocking an impressive Woods Baggot fit-out, complete with punchy red Levanto Italian marble countertops, Peddler is the latest creation from Abbotsford's designer caffeine haven Kitty Burns. The newcomer has a European lean to both its food and espresso offering, the menu crafted almost entirely on produce from South Melbourne's Emerald Hill Deli. Expect crafty grab-and-go options, such as toasted sandwiches stuffed with bacon, gruyère, blackberry jam and jalapeño, classic baguette combinations, and croissants filled with sopressa and provolone.
There's nothing like watching a film at the planetarium, but it's something most of us don't do all that often. Daytime sessions cater to school groups — and in the years that the Melbourne International Film Festival has hosted a fulldome program, it's only been for a few sessions. Thankfully, Scienceworks' late-night series changes that. Every Friday evening in September and October 2024, once the planetarium's usual working day is done, adults can have some after-hours fun in the venue's impressive space. That means sitting in the reclining chairs, looking up at the 16-metre domed ceiling, listening to the 7.1 surround-sound system and soaking in the best the fulldome video projection system has to offer. In September, the Planetarium's Friday-night program is exploring the relationship between humans and frosty climes during the 7.30pm session, thanks to a fulldome film called Worlds of Ice. Then, at 9pm, it's time to get lost in Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon, which is back by popular demand. October's lineup features Black Holes — Journey into the Unknown in the early slot, and the MC Escher-style XYZZY in the late timing. Making things even better is the fact that the whole thing is boozy, so you can grab a drink from the bar, take it into the auditorium and sip while you watch.
When the Animus team started out, it was waiting for its barrel-aged whisky to mature — but the four lads didn't sit idly around, twiddling thumbs and rolling each other across the plains in Kilmore. Instead, they decided to use their time wisely to create a gin. Or, as currently is the case, five vapour-pressed varieties of the stuff. The Davidsonia Gin is its take on England's traditional sloe gin, but with a distinctly Australian flavour. Using native Davidsonia Pruriens — a tropical sour plum from the temperate regions of northern NSW and Queensland — the distillery has steeped the plums in their award-winning dry gin to create an intense and unique character. The best part is that the distillery's cellar door also operates as a cocktail bar on Kyneton's main drag. It's open every night of the week — and it's only an hour away from the city on the V/Line.
One of my most vivid childhood memories occurred when I was around seven years old. School had just started back from term break and a lot my mates were talking about how great a time they had camping over the holidays. Wondering why I was missing out on all the fun, I asked my mum when she got home from work that evening why we'd never been camping before. Her response? A deadpan, and completely earnest: "But we have been camping, darling – remember that time we stayed at a Best Western?" Not only is this one of my earliest memories — it turned out to be one of my most formative, too. Mine wasn't a particularly outdoorsy family, which is a legacy I have stubbornly (or proudly, depending on the day of the week) kept going. I can't swim — in fact I only started enjoying even getting into a pool just a few years ago. I never managed to master riding a bike. And hiking? I am yet to be convinced that it's anything other than a mind-numbing and utterly pointless endeavour. If I wanted to experience nature, I'd drive through it on paved and well-signed roads in a climate-controlled vehicle, thank you very much. So imagine my surprise when I arrived in Cairns. [caption id="attachment_854603" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jarrad Shaw[/caption] I felt like David Rose. It's safe to say that a trip to regional Queensland had never been on my radar. But, as a guest of Tourism Tropical North Queensland, I was duty-bound to wholeheartedly embrace the itinerary put together by my incredible colleague and Mission Beach local Courtney Ammenhauser. Yes, it was going to put me well beyond my comfort zone, but that was entirely the point — could this part of the world appeal to someone who can count on one hand the amount of times he's voluntarily been in nature? The short answer is yes, it bloody well can. Over a jam-packed three days, I was shown just some of what the region has to offer by Cairns local Katie Purling. At the risk of being hyperbolic, I was lucky enough to see and do things that I never thought I would see or do. Sure, I didn't have to cosplay as Bear Grylls, but it turns out I didn't have to. There are plenty of ways to explore the spectacularly diverse and truly beautiful tropics that would appeal to even the most discerning of travellers, from luxe, carbon-neutral accomodation set among the rainforest canopy to excellent fine-dining venues that showcase the richness of produce available in Australia's tropical north and First Nations-owned and operated tours offering immersive cultural experiences that offer a fascinating look at Indigenous protected land. [caption id="attachment_854604" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jarrad Shaw[/caption] While the videos in this feature do a far better job than my words ever could of illustrating the beauty of the tropics, there were some highlights that will stay with me for a while. Swimming (well, wading, really) in the Great Barrier Reef after a very comfortable yacht trip with Sailaway was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I'll not soon forget. Reef conservation is something that is, understandably, taken quite seriously in the region. Dipping my toes into the Coral Sea's crystal-clear waters dotted with an infinitesimal fraction of its fascinating coral formations was a truly humbling experience that afforded me an almost tangible perspective (beyond my existing but more conceptual one) around just how important it is to keep the Reef thriving. As a regional leader in ecotourism, Sailaway not only gets visitors up close to the Great Barrier Reef in a responsible way with trips that are 100-percent carbon neutral, but is also an active participant in coral planting and monitoring initiatives — trips are also offset with a portion of each ticket price invested back into rainforest reforestation projects. If nature walks aren't your thing, the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, located just 15 minutes north of Cairns, is an incredible way to experience the world's oldest continually surviving rainforest. It's a strange combination of fear and awe as you enter your cable car and ascend up to 90 metres above ground, the ideal spot from which to enjoy sweeping views of the rainforest canopy below and the beautiful blue ocean beyond. I can confirm, though, that the awe quickly consumes the fear as you take in the incredibly diverse sea of green underneath you, especially when the mighty Barron Falls comes into view. A one-way journey on Skyrail is 7.5-kilometres long, with three legs that are broken up with stops featuring stunning lookout points, complimentary ranger-guided boardwalk tours and informative discovery zones. An EarthCheck-certified operator, Skyrail is part of the Wet Tropics Management Authority, which works to protect and conserve this World Heritage area, while its own Skyrail Rainforest Foundation raises and distributes funds to support research and education projects for the tropical wonder. But the biggest takeaway was something I couldn't quite put my finger on until I was discussing my time up north with Courtney upon my return. There's an almost palpable sense of time slowing right down — the days somehow feel longer but you never get the sense that they're dragging on. Whether it's down to the humidity, the warm hospitality of the laidback locals or really more of a general vibe, that, for me, truly felt like the biggest money-can't-buy luxury of all. And even writing this from the far more familiar surrounds of the big smoke, I can't wait to experience that again soon. Nik Addams travelled to Cairns as a guest of Tourism Tropical North Queensland. Top image: Jarrad Shaw
Palm tree-lined beaches and World Heritage-listed rainforests aren't all that Tropical North Queensland has in abundance — there's an array of tasty treats to experience, too. From tropical twists on classics to award-winning cuisine, there is truly something for every culinary craving in this picturesque holiday destination. To help you curate your must-do dining destinations, we've uncovered ten places in the far north that the locals love. So whether you want a First Nations-led cultural experience, to peel piles of prawns on the back of a docked boat or to discover the delicious tropical fruits, bookmark this for all your food and drink needs in Tropical North Queensland. [caption id="attachment_829657" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] LEARN ABOUT NATIVE INGREDIENTS WITH FIRST NATIONS PEOPLES Walkabout Cultural Adventures is a 100-percent First Nations-owned and operated cultural tour company based on Kuku Yalanji Country, also known as Port Douglas and the Daintree. Owner Juan Walker has been working in the region for nearly two decades and prides himself on offering informative and personalised tours to all guests. Under Juan's expert guidance, you'll discover the wonders of Kuku Yalanji Country, including where two World Heritage-listed sites — the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef — meet. The half- or full-day tours will give you the opportunity to learn about food and medicines grown in the region and how Kuku Yalanji people have managed the land and its natural resources for millennia. You'll also get to sample bush foods, collect shellfish and try your luck at catching delicious mud crab. [caption id="attachment_829896" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] TAKE YOUR PALATE TO PALM COVE FOR LUXE BEACHFRONT DINING If you're looking for beachfront dining while in Tropical North Queensland (and why wouldn't you be?), Palm Cove's Nu Nu Restaurant is a must. With stunning views of the Coral Sea and picture-perfect palm trees framing your vista, this beachfront restaurant will satisfy both your visual senses and your tastebuds. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the menu boasts a great selection of dishes that embrace locally grown produce. For brekkie, try the crab omelette with a zingy ginger caramel and white pepper broth or Nu Nu's take on bircher featuring pineapple and coconut cream-soaked muesli topped with mango, tropical fruit and toasted coconut. If you stop by for lunch or dinner we recommend starting with a tropical cocktail like the vanilla ginger mojito with Daintree vanilla sugar and a starter of Pacific oysters with finger lime. Then, follow it up with sake-poached octopus with pickled shiitake and spring onion oil or sugarcane-smoked duck with barbecued cabbage and rhubarb. [caption id="attachment_829658" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland / Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] LOAD UP ON FRESH PRODUCE AT THE LOCAL FARMERS' MARKETS A trip to the tropics isn't complete without a wander through Rusty's Markets in Cairns. Open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, at Rusty's you'll find everything from exotic fruits, tropical tasting plates, freshly baked bread and more. With over 45 years of trade under its belt and more than 180 stalls to visit, there are plenty of reasons locals love to load up on fresh food at this bustling marketplace. The top-tier produce found at Rusty's also attracts many of Tropical North Queensland's finest chefs who can often be spotted roaming the stalls as they source the best locally grown ingredients for their restaurants. Make sure you stock up on fresh fruit for your day exploring the local waterfalls — there's nothing quite like devouring your favourite fruit on a boulder before cooling off at a freshwater swimming hole. [caption id="attachment_829660" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] TASTE TROPICAL TWISTS ON AUSTRALIAN CLASSICS AT OCHRE Native ingredients take centre stage at Ochre, a Cairns institution that has been impressing diners with its creative cuisine for almost 30 years. It's a feast for the eyes, too, as its waterfront location on the Harbour Lights boardwalk offers picturesque views of the adjacent inlet and lush mountains beyond, serving as a reminder of the region's rich and abundant food sources. Take it all in as you tuck into signature dishes like salt and native pepper leaf prawn and crocodile with Vietnamese pickle and lemon aspen sambal; char-grilled kangaroo sirloin with sweet potato fritter, bok choy and a quandong and chilli sauce; and wattleseed pavlova with davidson plum sorbet and macadamia biscotti. The dedication to local is also showcased via the drinks offering, which includes an exclusively Australian wine list with over 30 available by the glass, as well as an impressive selection of Australian spirits. [caption id="attachment_829662" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] PIG OUT ON PRAWNS ON BOARD A PARKED FISHING TRAWLER If a tropical holiday gets you prawny for seafood, then push Prawn Star to the top of your culinary list when visiting Tropical North Queensland this summer. Serving fresh, locally sourced seafood right off the back of a repurposed fishing trawler, this fleet of four floating restaurants is an experience that reflects Cairns' laidback lifestyle. The succinct menu showcases the best seafood that Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef has to offer, and includes platters of prawns, bugs, crayfish and oysters that are best enjoyed with simple condiments or juicy chunks of fresh lime. Head to Prawn Star for lunch or dinner from 11am any day of the week and pair your seafood feast with its very own tap Prawn Beer or Prawn Cider available for $7 all day long. [caption id="attachment_829894" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] DIG INTO DAIRY IN THE ATHERTON TABLELANDS The Mungalli Creek Dairy farm in the Atherton Tablelands is much more than cows and pasture — it's one big living organism. With over 30 years of organic biodynamic farming practices under its belt, this family-run farm has mastered the art of cultivating delicious dairy products for decades. At the heart of the property, you'll find The Farmhouse Cafe, which was once the house that owners and brothers Rob and Danny Watson grew up in. Take a seat on the cafe's verandah overlooking the Johnston River Gorge, World Heritage-listed rainforest and Bartle Frere — Queensland's highest mountain — and enjoy a meal loaded with the farm's biodynamic dairy products and locally sourced organic produce. The cafe is also BYO, so take a bottle of tropical wine to pair with one of its cheese platters. Hot tip: make sure you leave room for the crepes — they're a family recipe and are served with Mungalli's luxurious lactose- and gluten-free Broken Nose vanilla ice cream. TRY TROPICAL TREATS AT CHARLEY'S CHOCOLATE FACTORY Charley's name may invoke a well-known chocolatey tale, but the Mt Edna property is as unique as they come — it's home to Australia's only cocoa tree to chocolate bar experience. The concept of showcasing the full chocolate journey at Charley's is the brainchild of Chris and Lynn Jahnke, the husband and wife team who, a decade after uprooting themselves from Melbourne to farm cattle near Mission Beach, planted their first cocoa seeds in 2012. Since then, the pair have crafted a tour at Charley's that is hands-on, hugely informative and most importantly, includes tasting the delicious chocolatey treats. Charley's core products are single-origin 70 percent dark chocolates and milk chocolates with rare Tropical North Queensland flavour combinations like the davidson plum dark chocolate, lemon myrtle milk chocolate, tropical pineapple milk chocolate and beach coconut dark chocolate. [caption id="attachment_829659" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] SIP COCKTAILS BY THE SEA AT SALT HOUSE Salt House is a popular waterfront watering hole for locals seeking delicious cocktails by the sea. Marrying inspiration from a custom-built Argentinian wood-fired grill with fresh seafood and local fare, Salt House's menu aims to champion local produce and the exciting flavours of Tropical North Queensland. Sip on a refreshing rainforest sour packed with davidson plum jam before ordering a dozen fresh oysters, followed by mains like gnocchi with woodfired vegetables, ratatouille sauce, blistered tomatoes, coconut feta and pine nuts. If a seaside seafood feast is what you're craving, try the generous seafood sharing platter or the yellow curry loaded with mussels, local tiger prawns and wild barramundi. DINE IN DECADENCE AT TAMARIND If you're craving decadence after a day on the water, Tamarind Restaurant will put a fresh wind in your sails. The multi-award-winning restaurant combines Australian cuisine, local produce and exceptional service for dinner between Tuesday–Saturday. Start with the market fish ceviche and follow it up with the slow-braised duck curry loaded with lychee, caramel pumpkin and spiced peanuts or the abalone ravioli with roasted scallop, lemongrass and ginger. If making decisions is something you like to leave behind while on holiday, opt for the five-course tasting menu to take the work out of it. Want to extend your summer with a trip to the tropics? Time to book a holiday to Tropical North Queensland. For more information and to book your autumn getaway, visit the website. Top images: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
Godzilla might loom over a hotel and cinema complex in Tokyo, and Studio Ghibli might be one of the happiest places in the country; however there's more to Japanese filmmaking than giant lizards and heartwarming animation. To demonstrate that fact, every year the Japanese Film Festival rounds up a diverse array of the nation's latest movies, sends them Australia's way and tours the country. Running this November and December in Sydney and Melbourne, this year's festival couldn't make that case with a more eclectic range of offerings, with everything from historical martial arts epics to creepy murder mysteries to cats — always cats — on the lineup. Picking just one flick to see from is always a struggle, so we're here to help. Add these six to your must-see list, pair your movie with a bowl of ramen, and you're in for quite the Japanese feast. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dxKD1bhf4Y SNOW WOMAN Japan might be known for thrilling fare that American filmmakers can't stop remaking, but this interpretation of ghostly folklore isn't your usual J-horror affair. Moody, purposeful and graceful with its deliberate pacing, non-linear narrative and black-and-white imagery, Snow Woman tells of a hunter's altercation with a mysterious spirit, his promise to never breathe a word and the identical-looking beauty who soon arrives in his village. He's entranced, they're entranced — and so will everyone watching director Kiki Sugino's hypnotic film. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jiUFEm55DLg BEFORE WE VANISH From directing Japanese horror effort Pulse, to helming Cannes prize-winning ghostly romance Journey to the Shore, filmmaker Kiyoshi Kurosawa might be drawn to haunting stories — but he never makes the same film twice. After last year's one-two punch of bad neighbour flick Creepy and French-set Gothic tale Daguerrotype, he's tussling with aliens in Before We Vanish. In this invasion-focused movie, no one actually notices the extra-terrestrials gathering information while hiding out among humanity, in a They Live-like concept that speaks to the busy, self-absorbed nature of modern life. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQYrbqO0d48 HER LOVE BOILS BATHWATER Of the plethora of flicks Japan could've chosen to represent the country at next year's Oscars, it went with Her Love Boils Bathwater. Whether it'll progress in the hotly contested best foreign-language film category is yet to be seen, but it's a moving contender — and a fine example of the nation's dramatic chops. At the centre of the movie sits a dying single mother trying to make sure her bullied adolescent daughter will be able to cope without her, and resurrecting her family's bathhouse in the process. Delicately handled, with both keen insights and warm humour oozing through, this isn't mere movie-of-the-week territory. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_lDMdzwMm6c NEKO ATSUME HOUSE How many hours have you spent playing the addictive cat collecting game that is Neko Atsume? There's only two answers: too many to count (for avid fans), or every waking moment from this point forward (for anyone just discovering this time-filler right now). Well, Neko Atsume House turns all that fun into a movie. Enough said, really; however if you want more details, it follows a struggling novelist who gets his groove back after not only encountering a cat, but subsequently transforming his backyard into the kind of space any kitty — plenty of kitties, in fact — would go crazy for. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tNtnTCAK5-w KISEKI - SOBITO OF THAT DAY Dentists by day, pop group by night — it sounds like something straight out of an offbeat, upbeat, larger-than-life movie, doesn't it? While the story of Japanese band GReeeeN has been turned into a flick in Kiseki - Sobito of That Day, it's actually a true story. Yes, really. The chart-toppers formed in dental school a decade ago, sung their way to success and managed to maintain their fame by doing something very dentist-like: not showing their faces in public. They say that truth is stranger than fiction, and this tale definitely proves that statement and then some. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kczb7IJJg0g IN THIS CORNER OF THE WORLD Think Japanese animation, and Studio Ghibli instantly comes to mind thanks to their gorgeous visuals, expert handling of story and emotion, and all-round enchanting vibe. In This Corner of the World isn't a Ghibli film, but saying that it feels like one really is the highest praise we can muster. Indeed, writer/director Sunao Katabuchi was an assistant director on Kiki's Delivery Service, however, his latest effort is all his own. Exploring the life of a teenager wed to a young naval clerk in Hiroshima, the World War II-set movie is as poetic as it is perceptive as it combines a coming-of-age tale with a personal account of times of combat. The 2017 Japanese Film Festival screens at Sydney's Event Cinemas George Street from November 16 to 26, and Melbourne's Hoyts Melbourne Central from November 23 to December 3. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the festival website.
In the initial two episodes of Scenes From a Marriage, Mira (Jessica Chastain, IT: Chapter Two) and Jonathan (Oscar Isaac, Star Wars: Episode IX — The Rise of Skywalker) brush their teeth in front of their ensuite mirror. It's an everyday task in a familiar place, spanning something we all do in a space we all use, but this powerful five-part HBO miniseries turns these two scenes into a complex snapshot of its central couple. It takes not just skill but feeling and understanding to turn such a mundane activity into a must-see; however, that's this weighty show's remit. Scenes From a Marriage gets viewers engrossed in cleaning teeth because it's ordinary, and because everything within its frames fits the same description. Its central relationship careens from happy to heartbroken, comfortable to distraught, and assured to messy, but it also charts a path that countless others have before it. When they first pick up their toothbrushes, Mira and Jonathan attend to their dental hygiene side by side. They chat between foamy mouthfuls. They're relaxed. They've had an unusual day, after talking to a researcher about their nuptials and then hosting a tumultuous dinner with friends, but they're settled in their usual regime. Seconds afterwards, they'll discuss significant news, but they approach that, too, with a sense of unthinking security. But just one episode later, when they brush again, everything has changed. Mira returns from a work trip to share a bombshell revelation, Jonathan doesn't take it well, and he stands back and stares at they each clean. She can't meet his eyes. He won't look away. Their tension, pain and sorrow fills the entire room, as does their uncertainty — and it's a case of two moments, two people, two vastly different pictures of their relationship. Dedicating each episode to a significant day over the course of several years — hairstyles change, and the couple's daughter ages (primarily off-screen) — Scenes From a Marriage is filled with these routine moments. It's a show about patterns, cycles and echoes, how they ripple through relationships and, when broken or changed, how their absence is felt. Much of the series takes place in the same domestic space, too, as the pair rove around the house they've made their home. So, viewers see the duo walk through the same rooms, sit in the same chairs and recline in the same bed. They have variations of the same discussion over and over as well. Every romance is an ongoing conversation that loops, sprawls and repeats, but Scenes From a Marriage pushes this notion to the fore. Mira and Jonathan are always talking, in some way, even when they're not. Their dialogue continues whether it seems like it's just another evening in the bathroom, or it's a terse morning after everything has disintegrated — and as a whirlwind of love, sex, heartbreak and chaos whips through their relationship again and again. It shouldn't be easy, peering into a romance as its bliss fades, and stepping into its ongoing conversation. That idea isn't Scenes From a Marriage's alone, and it wasn't new in 1973, when iconic film director Ingmar Bergman ran with it in his Swedish TV miniseries of the same name. But as penned and helmed here by The Affair's Hagai Levi, HBO's take on the concept turns the familiar and complex into the raw and the riveting. It breaks a relationship down into pivotal moments to strip away the blissful front that couples build for themselves, and the image they project to the world, and it refuses to look away as things turn difficult. Sketching out anything this complicated via just a few scenes is a gimmick, obviously, as the series even nods to in opening scenes that follow Chastain and Isaac getting into character. Still, in the right hands, and with the right tale of a marriage's minutiae, it's also devastating and powerful. Scenes From a Marriage circa 2021 is shot and scored to ramp up that intensity, that simmering uncertainty, that seesawing between two extremes. Cinematographer Andrij Parekh, a veteran of Blue Valentine and its similarly haunting exploration of a romance in decline, prowls carefully and patiently around comfortable spaces adorned in neutral tones — places The White Lotus' characters might've gone home to post-Hawaii — but lets both light and darkness visually clash and compete for attention. Composers Evgueni Galperine and Sacha Galperine craft a score that also rides an emotional rollercoaster, setting the tone as precisely as they previously did with fellow HBO miniseries The Undoing. Each element of Scenes From a Marriage is fine-tuned to amplify the highs, the lows, and the constant to-and-fro between them. That said, this tale of an ambitious tech industry executive, her ex-Orthodox Jewish philosophy professor husband and their fraying nuptials was always going to live and thrive via its two lead performances. Chastain and Isaac, welcome additions to any on-screen project, have played a married couple before. In fact, 2014's A Most Violent Year also saw them navigate a stormy union — and it, like its main duo, was exceptional. The pair certainly know how to project intimacy on the red carpet, as they did at the Venice Film Festival premiere of Scenes From a Marriage. They don't falter in the series itself, even with a concept that could've played like an acting exercise. Again, the conceit is highlighted in those opening seconds of the duo as themselves; however, as Chastain and Isaac walk across the set that swiftly becomes their Mira and Jonathan's home — doing so with masks and distancing, because this was shot during the pandemic — they also help viewers step into their characters with them. When the camera is rolling rather than flashing, Chastain and Isaac are both experts at unpacking someone's entire emotional journey in just their gaze and stance. Accordingly, when the series flickers from the pair as actors to the duo as Mira and Jonathan, it feels seamless even though the artifice is being called out. They take the plunge, the audience does with them, and we all explore what's happened after Scenes From a Marriage's protagonists did just that. On-screen, opposites attracted, then this pair combined their lives and marched forward towards the future, and now everyone weathers the fallout. Chastain and Isaac are also masterful at responding to each other, and at letting those reactions tell as much of the story as the dialogue they're speaking. It's been done before, and will be again — officially and in everything else that's taken cues from the original Swedish series — but here and now, this series works as grippingly and movingly as it does because of its stars. No one can look away as they brush their teeth, share long looks and fling all manner of words at each other. They don't want to themselves, and neither do we. Check out the trailer below: The first two episodes of Scenes From a Marriage are available to stream via Binge, with new instalments dropping weekly. Images: Jojo Whilden/HBO.
Melbourne, if a big juicy steak is your ideal way of kissing goodbye to hump day, you're spoilt for choice. On a Wednesday evening, you can head to Dolly at Le Meridien Melbourne for budget-friendly steak frites; Bonny in Fitzroy for a $30 wagyu; and now, to Three Blue Ducks in Tullamarine for your pick of three cuts. There's a 250-gram rump for $25, a 200-gram Porterhouse for $35 and, for anyone who's ravenous (or willing to share), an 800-gram Tomahawk for $89. All three have this in common: they're sourced from 100% Black Angus, which is grass fed on Josdale Farm in Gippsland. On top of that, they all come with Three Blue Ducks' house-made mustard and a big serving of chips. Plus, for a few extra dollars, you can add sauces, sides and snacks. For any non-steak loving friends, the rest of the à la carte menu is available. Steak night kicks off every Wednesday at 5pm. Bookings can be made online.
Japanese food is one of the most popular cuisines worldwide, and it's no wonder. It's flexible, healthy, often served fresh, presented beautifully and perhaps most importantly, it tastes fantastic. You can get a box of takeaway sushi or a bowl of ramen all over the world, but certain elements and specialties of Japanese cuisine have yet to take off worldwide. Whether it's down to unique ingredients, well-guarded local knowledge or a certain…flair that turns away more conservative palates, these dishes you need to seek out in the land of the rising sun itself. So, should you be planning a Japan jaunt, save this guide for some of its lesser-known treats and where to find them. Goya Chanpuru, Okinawa Prefecture Starting in the summery and tropical south of Japan, we have the regional specialty of goya chanpuru hailing from sunny Okinawa. Chanpuru itself is an Okinawan stir fry of vegetables and fresh tofu, but the most popular variety comes with a helping of a bitter gourd called goya. The summer vegetable is sliced and stir-fried in oil with pork, eggs and, crucially, Okinawan tofu (which is prepared differently from other tofu). The result is a bitter but healthy meal, rich in vitamin C. [caption id="attachment_991975" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Hanasunrise via iStock[/caption] Buri Daikon, Kagoshima Prefecture Moving north to the island of Kyushu and Kagoshima Prefecture, a popular at-home winter dish made with vegetables and fish, takes our eye. Buri daikon is specifically made with yellowtail, commonly fished in Kagoshima Prefecture, and thick slices of daikon, a Japanese radish — especially a sweeter cultivar called Sakurajima daikon. The daikon is chopped and stewed with yellowtail, sake and ginger, then served with shredded ginger — making for a fantastic winter warmer. [caption id="attachment_991976" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Stossi Mammont via iStock[/caption] Horakuyaki, Ehime Prefecture Ehime Prefecture is home to one of Japan's three major tidal flows, the Kurushima Strait. The fresh seafood that's the main ingredient in horakuyaki is almost exclusively caught in this very strait. Popular in Imabari, horakuyaki is a luxurious dish that's innately connected to the rich maritime culture of the region and is fairly simple to prepare. Commonly made with bream, octopus, shrimps and clams caught in the strait — the catch is prepared, lightly salted, then steamed and roasted in a flat pan called a horaku nabe. It's tender, rich in seafood flavour and a common sight at banquets and celebrations year-round. [caption id="attachment_991978" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] ES3N via iStock[/caption] Fuku Sashi, Yamaguchi Prefecture Fuku sashi is Yamaguchi Prefecture's regional spin on the internationally known dish of fugu, sashimi of the highly poisonous pufferfish. It's a dish that can only be prepared by accredited chefs since one wrong cut can make the meat of the fish fatal when consumed. When a chef in Yamaguchi Prefecture is qualified to serve fugu, it's used in this locally popular dish. The fish is sliced so it's translucently thin, then served with ponzu sauce — made with soy sauce and citrus juice. It's also popular with sliced chives or grated radish. While popular, a decline in fugu stock has made the dish reserved for special occasions. [caption id="attachment_991983" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] TokyoViews via Flickr[/caption] Tekonezushi, Mie Prefecture Local meals often have a simple origin, and that's the case with tekonezushi, tracing its origins to being a simple meal that fishermen could prepare while still out on their boats. Not far from Japan's largest cities, the waters of Mie Prefecture are busy with fishing boats, often hunting skipjack tuna. Hence, local fishermen and now restaurants often prepare tekonezushi. All it takes is tuna or bonito sashimi marinated in soy sauce and placed on a bed of vinegared rice with a sprinkle of nori (dried seaweed) and shiso (perilla) on top. [caption id="attachment_991985" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Hideya Hamano via Flickr[/caption] Hotaruika no Sumisoae, Toyama Prefecture In central Japan where the mountains meet the Sea of Japan, Toyama Bay is home to a population of stunning firefly squid, which is the centrepiece of hotaruika no sumisoae. Traditionally residents of deep water, these luminescent cephalopods make quite the sight in the shallows. Often served in early spring, coinciding with the fishing season, this dish is prepared by boiling the squid in salted water and then serving with leeks and a generous pour of vinegared miso (miso, vinegar, hot pepper and sugar). Kiritanpo Nabe, Akita Prefecture Nearby in Akita Prefecture is kiritanpo nabe, a local take on hot pot that dates back to when loggers used to climb the region's mountains in search of timber. The key carbohydrate base is kiritanpo — rice that has been boiled, mashed and grilled on a cedar skewer. Cooked in a cylindrical shape, they're added to a boiling hot pot with chicken bone broth and a mix of ingredients. Typically, you'll see sliced root vegetables, mushrooms, thin noodles and chicken as well as sake, salt and soy sauce. It's often served for celebrations and is the star dish in local festivals in the region. Milk and Dairy Products, Hokkaido Prefecture Japan's northernmost island (and prefecture) of Hokkaido might be most famous for its snow resorts, but the area is also home to Japan's dairy industry. The climate is ideal for dairy production and is where over 50% of Japan's milk originates. Supposedly, the milk has a rich, vanilla-esque flavour. As such, there are all sorts of treats to try. Lavender soft serve ice cream, cheese, butter, bread and milk jam (the Japanese equivalent of dulce de leche) are some of the most popular treats, all served in restaurants and the regions working dairy farms. Discover more and start planning your trip to Japan at the Japan National Tourism Organization website. Header image: Green Planet World via iStock. Body images courtesy of the Japan National Tourism Organization unless specified otherwise.
There's something about spending a long lazy summer day at the beach that just can't be beat. Some of our overseas friends have got this down to a fine art — think beach chairs and shady umbrellas set up ready and waiting on the white sand of a Brazilian beach, with caipirinhas and coconuts served up from the little stalls dotting the shoreline. But fear not! Although we're a little short on beach bars (except this one), back in Australia we've perfected beach luxury, BYO-style. Here are our ten favourite beach chairs to bring along with you to your favourite sandy spot, whether it's on the grassy knoll at North Bondi, on a buzzing Gold Coast main beach, Victoria's quaint Brighton Beach or a tiny secret beach at the mouth of the Hawkesbury. BANANA SUNLOUNGE, SOMMERSAULT We couldn't resist. No list of beach chairs would be complete without the humble banana lounge. They'll take you to the sand, to the park, and all the way back to those memories of the days before water restrictions when you plonked one under the sprinklers in the backyard. You can even pull them out for sleepovers. Inexpensive, functional, iconic... and don't forget they fold flat for easy storage with that familiar 'click-click'. BEACH SEAT HAVANA, SUNNY LIFE Modern comfort, lightweight portability and a retro-inspired colourful print? This chair ticks a lot of boxes for seaside adventuring. As well as that, being from the clever people at Sunny Life, you can even find a beach umbrella or towel to complement your chair. But it's not just about looks — this chair has a handy pocket providing a place to stash your valuables. And see that strap? That makes for easy carrying without bumping aluminium poles all over your shoulder. DANIA FOLDING TEAK BEACH CHAIR, SKAGERAK We know teak is pretty — Danish mid-century furniture sure taught us that. But did you know this tropical hardwood also has a number of special properties that make it an excellent outdoor material? A high oil and rubber content make it naturally weatherproof, it's strong, and with a little love and recent finishing is easily cleaned. This teak beach chair will let you bring all those perks to the beach, in a fetching Danish design. If you're into your eco-credentials and a bit wary of tropical hardwoods, check out this bamboo option, and the recycled number below. TRIOPLINA CHAIR, MUUMUU DESIGN With lush covers to choose from including black and white cowhide, leather, cotton canvas and even kangaroo, Muumuu Design makes each of their stunner folding chairs by hand right in Sydney. Featuring sustainable marine-grade plywood frames and hand-finished with either a stain or clear protective finish, they're designed to last, as well as look good. The Tripolina design was first patented in 1877, and has been popular as a campaign or safari chair ever since. This is a chair with a pretty long history — and it's had a modern update thanks to the folks at Muumuu Design. Check out their full range. RECYCLED DECK CHAIR, ECOCHIC We love a good folding deck chair. Especially when they're locally made and recycled, like this chair from Ecochic. Handmade out of recycled Australian hardwood, these chairs come in natural or white. As well as being made-to-order, they're made to last — right down to the stainless steel screws and bolts. Ecochic are on a bit of a mission to make eco-friendly furniture available to people around Australia, whether or not they have access to a store. That means they keep their shipping fees as low as possible. You can check out their eco credentials here. PANTONE FOLDING CHAIRS, SELETTI Introducing Seletti, the company bringing Pantone to the beach. Their range of folding chairs are available in those familiar colours loved by many a design aficionado. Team up with your friends and see what colour palette works best for your beach times this summer. TREKKER LOUNGE, THERMAREST Next on the lounging front is this cleverly designed number from Thermarest. Known for their top-notch sleeping mats, if you do already have a Thermarest packed away for your outdoor adventures, all you need is the Trekker Lounge chair to convert your mat into a lounge chair fit for the beach. It's pretty clever, and as a bonus it's super lightweight which means it can see you from the beach to the bush, if you're planning some summer hiking too (or both, if you're lucky enough to be hiking to a secret beach somewhere). ORSON DECK CHAIR, RODA Last but not least, check this one for style. Designed by Gordon Guillaumier for RODA, the lovely lines of this chair are perfectly complemented by its matching footstool. The chair features a teak frame, and the little capote (that's the shade sail) means this is another super comfortable, shady chair to kick back in. All that's missing from this picture is some kind of delicious cool drink, and maybe one of Sydney's cracker sunsets after a day at the beach. BUNGALOW BEACH CHAIR, BUNGALOW As part of our search for the ideal beach chair, something came to us. Shade. How nifty is it to have a little awning over your head, protecting your face from the beating rays and your arm muscles, tired from shielding your face all day? So it was with much delight we stumbled across the Bungalow Beach Chair. Not only does it have a comfy towel design that lets you lounge out right on the sand, there's a hammock-shaped back to support you. But what we're eyeing off the most is that shady shade, right above where our heads go. This chair also comes with a zippered pocket for your things. Want the ultimate summer set-up? Check out these seven nifty beach tents.
The Hoodoo Gurus have been one of Australia's most beloved rock bands for the past 40 years, certified as musical royalty on the back of nine ARIA Top 20 Albums and sold-out tours thanks to much-loved tracks like What's My Scene and 1000 Miles Away. Yet one milestone still to tick off involves performing with the full weight of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. Well, the time has come to finally make it happen, as the band joins forces with the MSO for one special show at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl. Taking place on Thursday, January 29, 2026, this landmark event will see the Gurus' most classic tunes reimagined with grand arrangements from perhaps the world's most epic backing band. Joining iconic frontman Dave Faulkerm are OG bassist Rick Grossman and guitarist Brad Shepard, with current member Nik Reith on the drums. Meanwhile, Nicholas Buc will conduct the MSO, bringing new life to the band's biggest hits as well as 20 unique orchestral arrangements composed by Australia's own Alex Turley. "Together with Alex, we've chosen a very diverse set of songs that I think will both surprise and delight listeners. If I had to use one word to describe the results, I think "cinematic" comes closest. The Gurus and the MSO will be taking listeners on quite a journey, and I can't wait. It's going to be a very special night indeed," says Faulkner.
Dust of your black-hued and gothic-looking outfits: what else do you wear to Wednesday Island, a fan festival dedicated to the creepy, kooky, mysterious and spooky Netflix series, that'll have Jenna Ortega (Death of a Unicorn), Emma Myers (A Minecraft Movie) and Tim Burton (Beetlejuice Beetlejuice) in attendance? On Saturday, August 16, 2025, one Australian spot — Cockatoo Island / Wareamah in Sydney Harbour — will embrace the macabre with the Wednesday crew themselves. Netflix has been teasing Wednesday Island for a few weeks now, including officially announcing the event when the platform dropped the full trailer for Wednesday's second season, then opening entries for VIP attendance to feel like you're at Nevermore Academy. Now, the streamer has confirmed that Ortega, Myers and Burton will be there, and also Alfred Gough and Miles Millar, who created the show in the spotlight (and wrote the screenplay to 2024's Burton-helmed, Ortega-starring Beetlejuice Beetlejuice). All five key Wednesday folks will make appearances at Wednesday Island as part of their global Doom tour to promote the series. Peach PRC and ŪLA are also on the lineup at Cockatoo Island's temporary makeover, providing the tunes. Netflix is calling the pop-up takeover a "Nevermore playground" and promising a "most grave surprise", too — and there'll be a walk-in doll's house and a cocktail spot as well. If you've always had a fondness for anything Addams Family-related, this probably sounds like a dream. Whether you first discovered pop culture's eeriest family via the 90s films, through old episodes of the 60s TV show, in various animated guises over the years — including on the big screen — or thanks to Wednesday, that fantasy can now become an IRL reality if you score admission to Wednesday Island. Applications for VIP double passes have closed, but you'll be able to enter for regular passes between Wednesday, July 23–Sunday, August 3 via the pop-up's website. To do so, you'll need to provide your details, and give an original and creative answer to this question: "in 25 words or less, confess your most delightfully deviant Outcast trait — the kind that would make Wednesday smirk with approval". You'll find out if you've scored a ticket on Monday, August 4. Only those aged over 16 can go in the running, and you'll then need to dress in attire to suit the Wednesday celebration. Boat transport to the island, plus one food and one beverage token, will be included if you're selected. As for watching the series when it returns for its second season, you'll be doing that in two batches. Part one arrives on Wednesday, August 6, then part two on Wednesday, September 3. Check out the full trailer for Wednesday season two below: Wednesday Island is taking over Cockatoo Island in Sydney on Saturday, August 16. Head to the pop-up's website to enter for general admission tickets between Wednesday, July 23–Sunday, August 3, 2025 — or just for further information. Wednesday season two arrives in two parts, with part one dropping on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 and part two on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, both via Netflix. Read our full review of Wednesday season one. Images: Bernard Walsh, Helen Sloan and Jonathan Hession/Netflix © 2025.
Subscriptions services have taken off over the last few years and for good reason. Whether it's for craft beers and natty wines, house plants or colourful socks, it's like giving yourself a little gift every month. If you're a caffeine enthusiast and you enjoy brewing your own cuppas at home or you're looking to cut down on your trip to the cafe, Thieves Coffee is the subscription service for you — and it's just introduced a new coffee pod option to its range so all home brewers can get involved. Thieves Coffee drops you off a different bag of coffee beans or set of pods from a new roaster each month. You can expect choice selections from small independent coffee companies like Stella or Criteria Coffee, through to larger beloved brands like Rumble and Industry Beans. If you're the kind of coffee drinker who enjoys branching out and trying different makers and flavours in your morning cup o' joe, your subscription will provide you with a regular rotation of top-quality varieties that the Thieves team has hand selected. Originally focusing on beans, Thieves has now added the option to have selections of pods for your pod-based coffee machine dropped to you each month. Plenty of popular and boundary-pushing brewers have expanded to offering compatible coffee pods recently, including local favourites like Stitch and ST. ALi, as well as the sustainability-minded Tripod. With your daily flat white or oat cap hitting upwards of $5 at cafes right now, Thieves is also a penny-pinching alternative. If you go the bean route, you have the option to order between 250 grams of beans each month, all the way up to three kilograms. If you want just one bag delivered each month, that will set you back $25 including shipping Australia-wide, or you can up your delivery to two bags (500g) for $40 or four bags (1kg) for $60. This means each cup of coffee will cost you as little as $1. These beans can be ordered either for espresso machines or for simpler filter or Aeropress coffee — plus you can choose between whole beans or pre-ground coffee depending on if you have your own grinder. As for the pods, subscriptions start from $15 for 10 pods and go up to $255 for 300 pods which can be ordered on a monthly basis or once every two or three months. Head to the Thieves Coffee website to check out all the options and treat yourself to a monthly coffee surprise. 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.
Bendigo Art Gallery will honour one of the most influential fashion icons of all time when the Balenciaga: Shaping Fashion exhibition opens on August 17. A pioneering 20th century designer hailing from Spain, Cristóbal Balenciaga was considered one of the leaders of haute couture — and hundreds of his designs are making their way to Australia this winter. For this exclusive exhibition, Bendigo Art Gallery has collaborated with the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Expect over 100 garments and hats designed not only by Balenciaga, but also by his 30 contemporaries and apprentices at the design house — who include the likes of Oscar de la Renta and Hubert de Givenchy. Along with the designer pieces — including pieces worn by actress Ava Gardner, mononymous 50s model Dovima and 60s fashion icon Gloria Guinness — visitors will gain access to Balenciaga's house through archival sketches, fabric samples, photographs and fashion show footage. This is the gallery's latest fashion-focused installation, with past exhibitions including Melbourne's own Toni Maticevski in 2016, golden era Hollywood designer Edith Head in 2017 and, most recently, an exhibition on Finnish textile icon Marimekkoin June 2018. The art gallery is located about two hours' drive northwest of Melbourne. Instead of flying into Melbourne, out-of-towners can opt to take a newly operating Qantas direct flight from Sydney to Bendigo — and August would certainly be the time to do it.
The inner north's famed craft beer scene is about to score a major new arrival — and it's all thanks to an old favourite. Small Collingwood brewery Molly Rose is stepping things up a few notches, taking over the two adjoining Wellington Street buildings to create a sprawling new home with a suite of supercharged offerings. Set to open in mid February, the newly expanded venue will be a haven for beer lovers and foodies alike, complete with a new bar and mammoth new beer garden, plus a lounge, a chef's table restaurant and a private dining room. Oh, and plenty of room for additional brewing operations, too. While the new site's central bar is set to hero Molly Rose's own core range — like the Skylight IPA and the lemon farmhouse ale — and its innovative limited-release creations, the fun won't end there. It'll also showcase a curation of brews from across the world, an Australian-led wine list and a lineup of signature cocktails. [caption id="attachment_807467" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Amanda Santamaria[/caption] Driven by another of owner Nic Sandery's passions, Molly Rose 2.0 will also be taking a deep dive into the art of food and beer pairing. This vision will be brought to life with the help of chef Ittichai Ngamtrairai — aka Biggy. He'll draw on his experience in renowned Melbourne kitchens like Nomad, Matilda 159 and Marameo, as well as time spent at Sydney's LuMi, where he trained in fusing classic Italian flavours with Asian technique. To that end, expect a fresh take on modern Australian cuisine across a menu filled with house-made elements and Biggy's own fermented seasonings. You're in for plates like Sri Lankan string hoppers, stuffed chicken wings, and squid elevated with saltbush and mountain pepper. There's more to come, too — slated to join the offering from autumn is the 20-seat chef's table, where Biggy and Sandery will be showcasing a dedicated menu paired with finely-tuned beer matches. Find the new-look Molly Rose at 279 Wellington Street, Collingwood from mid February. Images: Amanda Santamaria.
The enticing aromas of a Middle Eastern market will soon be wafting through the Melbourne CBD. Set to open in one of the city's countless laneways sometime in early March, Souk will serve up mouthwatering mix of Arabic, Anatolian and North African cuisine with a contemporary edge, along with a selection of Middle East-inspired cocktails. The menu at Souk is the brainchild of Mexican-born chef Rogelio Almanza, who has promised to unleash an explosion of flavour. "It's an enjoyable challenge for me because it is gastronomy of the Middle East but I understand the concept very well as it is similar to Mexican gastronomy," he added. With a strong focus on share plates, starters at Souk include prawn falafel served on smoked black tahini, and Kuwaiti fried chicken ribs crumbed with el-hanout spice mix, served with sweet cucumber and garlic sauce. Down the page you'll find heartier dishes, such as charcoal octopus with Muhammara sauce and roasted potato, apricot chicken koftas served with beetroot hummus, and traditional Turkish meatballs because of course. Souk will be split into two levels: a 130-seat upstairs dining room, and a downstairs bar. It's in the latter space that you'll find a mix of local, European and Middle Eastern wines, plus cocktails including Aladdin's Mistress made with Moroccan green iced tea, crush cardamom pods, white rum, dark rum and mint. Souk will open from early March at 13 Bligh Place, Melbourne. For more information check them out on Instagram or visit soukmelbourne.com.au.
