When winter begins to thaw, with leaves growing back on trees and flowers coming into full bloom, we want to celebrate the warmer weather and the world's annual rebirth. And, come September — which is just around the corner — Australia's biggest festival of spring will once again roll around. Floriade has been drawing crowds for decades — and its 32nd year will be marked with the theme 'World in Bloom'. A celebration of all things floral, the festival will fill Canberra's Commonwealth Park with more than one million blooms. But this month-long flower festival is more than just smelling the tulips. From Saturday, September 14 until Sunday, October 13, Canberra will be filled with music, food, vino, locally crafted brews and spirits, entertainment, markets and cultural happenings galore. Those with green thumbs can also take part in workshops, while live music and markets will be open for art lovers and bargain hunters alike. To top it all off, festival entry is free. For one day only (Sunday, October 13), you'll also be able to take your four legged friend along for Dogs' Day Out. Expect to pat lots of pooches and some pup-themed food, too. Floriade runs from 9.30am until 5.30pm each day. Plus, after the sun goes down between October 3–6 (hello, long weekend in Canberra), you can wander through the gardens at Floriade's after-dark counterpart, NightFest. While you're in town, you may as well take the time to check out Canberra's best microbreweries, cafes and cultural hotspots, too. Start looking at accomodation ASAP. We're also giving you the chance to visit Floriade's NightFest for free. To be in the running, enter your details below. [competition]742011[/competition]
Given how 2020 has turned out, we can all be forgiven for hoping that next year is much, much brighter. In Sydney, that'll happen literally. After cancelling its 2020 festival due to COVID-19, Vivid has announced that it'll make a comeback in 2021, returning with another jam-packed lineup of light installations, live music and interesting discussions. When Vivid re-emerges next year, it'll do so with one big change: a later time slot. Usually, the luminous fest's events and city-wide glow mark the end of autumn and the beginning of winter; however, in 2021, it'll run from August 6–28 instead. Whether you're a Sydneysider in desperate need of a bit more light in your life, or you're located elsewhere and contemplating local 2021 holidays — seeing that Australia's international border is likely to stay closed for some time — you can now look forward to a late-winter feast of projections, tunes and talks. Exactly what the program will hold hasn't yet been announced, with the lineup usually unveiled a few months before the event. [caption id="attachment_761801" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Jordan Munns[/caption] If it had gone ahead in 2020, this year's Vivid was set to be headlined by US neo-soul singer and poet Jill Scott. The festival cancelled before it released its full lineup of gigs, installations, light shows and other cultural events. As well as a change of date, it's sensible to expect that moving around Vivid might look a little different in 2021, too. The event hasn't announced anything along those lines but, in 2019, it attracted more than two million attendees. That's quite the crowd in general, and even more so in these pandemic-afflicted times. In terms of restrictions, New South Wales has been easing them, though — including announcing just this week that outdoor music gigs will be able to host up to 500 people from Friday, October 16, and that outdoor venues can double their capacity to one person per two square metres. Vivid Live 2021 will take place from August 6–28, 2021. For more information, visit the event's website. Top image: Yaya Stempler.
National Reconciliation Week is here for 2022, running from Friday, May 27–Friday, June 3 — and The Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation and Australian clothing label Deus Ex Machina have just the threads for the occasion. Collaborating to raise awareness about the ALNF's efforts to transform and empower First Nations communities around the country via literacy, language and education, the two organisations have teamed up on a new range of 'Literacy Is Freedom' t-shirts. And, as well as adding to your wardrobe, they'll help you support Indigenous Aussies as well. On sale from today, Friday, May 27, the limited-edition shirts come in black and white, both featuring the same 'Literacy Is Freedom' logo on the front. Printed upon 100% cotton, that design emulates the colours and format of the Aboriginal Flag. But, it's the fact that 100% of the profits from the tees are going to the ALNF's work with First Nations communities that's even more exciting. To launch the shirts, the ALNF and Deus Ex Machina have launched a campaign featuring a heap of familiar faces — including ALNF ambassadors — all decked out in the new gear. Doing the honours: everyone from AFL legends Adam Goodes and Lance Franklin through to ex-footballer and ABC News Breakfast sports reporter Tony Armstrong, plus Baker Boy, Casey Donovan, Brooke Blurton, Isaiah Firebrace and Hugo Weaving. The list goes on, with Michala Banas, Isaiah Firebrace, Benjamin Law, and Chloe Zuel and the cast of Hamilton all involved, too. And, so are Miriam Margolyes, Tim Minchin, Asher Keddie, Vincent Fantauzzo, Virginia Gay, Jesinta Franklin, Nathan McGuire, Luke Carroll, Clare Bowditch, Eddie Perfect, Zoe Norton Lodge, Alan Brough, Narelda Jacobs and Zindzi Okenyo. If you're now keen to slip on a tee and help a fantastic cause, you'll find them on sale for $59.99 from David Jones online, in-store at select David Jones locations, and in-store at Deus Ex Machina Camperdown and Good Ways Deli Redfern. "We need collaboration, bravery and commitment if we want to pave the way for a brighter future for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families and communities," said ALNF Co-Founder and Executive Director Kim Kelly, launching the shirts — and the campaign. "We are excited to be partnering with an iconic Australian brand, standing with us and supporting our goal to give every single Australian a voice through literacy, language and education. Reconciliation is everybody's responsibility, and it's an important time for us all to reflect on what we can do to be part of the change. The simple act of buying and wearing this powerful t-shirt contributes to the creation of a fairer and more just Australia," Kelly continued. Deus Ex Machina and The Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation's 'Literacy Is Freedom' shirts cost $59.99, and can be purchased at David Jones online, in-store at select David Jones locations, and in-store at Deus Ex Machina Camperdown and Good Ways Deli Redfern. For more information about the ALNF, head to its website.
Always dreamed of visiting the Mediterranean island of Sicily? Then you might want to bump it to the top of your post-COVID-19 travel plans. If you do, you could score some handy financial help — with the Sicilian government offering to cover some travel expenses once Italy is out of lockdown. As first reported by The Times, the regional government is offering to pay a portion of flight costs and accommodation expenses — covering half the price of airfares to and from the island, and paying for one in every three hotel nights. It'll also stump up the entire cost for tickets to museums and archaeological sites, so that visitors can do plenty of sightseeing. At present, few other details have been revealed, such as when it'll come into effect, when eager tourists will be able to start booking, who the scheme will apply to and where in the world you'll be able to fly in from. That said, when the plan is implemented, it'll be done via vouchers available from the Visit Sicily website — so you might want to bookmark it for future reference. The Sicilian government will spend €50 million (AU$86.4 million) on the scheme to revive its tourism industry — which, with not only the country but most of the world enforcing restrictions to help contain the spread of COVID-19, has understandably taken a battering in recent months. Italy has been in lockdown nationwide since Sunday, March 10, but announced on Sunday, April 26 that it would enter 'phase two' from Monday, May 4. That'll involve the slow easing of current restrictions, including allowing Italians to travel within their regions to visit relatives. Factories, parks and public gardens will also reopen, with museums, galleries, libraries and shops able to open their doors from Monday, May 18, then bars, restaurants and hairdressers from Monday, June 1. For further details about the Sicilian government's tourism scheme, keep an eye on the Visit Sicily website. Via The Times.
Prospects for craft brewers have taken another knock, as much-loved independent operation Molly Rose Brewing has been placed into liquidation. The latest in a long line of struggling breweries to reach this point over the last couple of years — including Burnley Brewing, Deeds Brewing and Rocks Brewing Co — Molly Rose is now working with liquidator DBA Reconstruction & Advisory in an effort to keep the lights on in Collingwood. Following the massive surge in craft breweries over the past decade or so, the market is now experiencing a significant downturn compounded by numerous factors. With consumers faced with surging cost of living, many are turning to cheaper options, leading to a substantial drop in craft beer sales. Many companies have also struggled to overcome COVID-era debts that have placed a heavy burden on their finances. "A combination of rapidly increasing costs of operations and a reduction in consumer sentiment has made our financial situation untenable, and after exploring every possible option, we have decided to appoint DBA Reconstruction & Advisory as liquidator," said Molly Rose Brewing founder Nic Sandery in a statement issued to media. While finding a solution will be challenging, not all hope is lost. In recent times, breweries like Kaiju Beer and Black Hops Brewing have emerged from the liquidation process with new investment and positive prospects. "While there is no guarantee of success, we are hopeful that we can negotiate an agreement that will allow us to reopen and continue serving our community with great beer and food," added Sandery. Regardless of the outcome, Molly Rose Brewing has left a significant impression on the local craft brewing scene. Prior to launching the business, Nic worked at a wealth of forward-thinking breweries in Australia and overseas, such as Little Creatures and Holgate. After returning home, he started selling his small-batch creations, informed by his journeys, directly to consumers online. Then, he 2019, he made the leap to a physical location with the opening of a Collingwood taphouse. Focused on innovation, the brand has captured fans far and wide thanks to its creative brews, from fermented blends to barrel-aged hybrids. The brand has also become known for its frequent collaborations with culinary figures and outfits from across the food and drink world. Just recently, Molly Rose teamed up with Kariton Sorbetes, pairing Asian-inspired artisanal gelato with a frothy beverage to create beer floaters. Molly Rose Brewing is currently closed. Head to the venue's website or Instagram to check for updates.
It's time to hit the galleries, as 22nd Biennale of Sydney is set to return from Saturday, March 14 through Monday, June 8. Sure, three months might sound like a lot of time, but this massive biennial showcase spans over 700 artworks and 101 artists from 65 different countries — as well as several galleries across our city, from Campbelltown to Cockatoo Island. The 2020 edition is entitled Nirin, which means 'edge' in the language of western NSW's Wiradjuri people. It is helmed by a new First Nations artistic director, famed Sydney-born, Melbourne-based interdisciplinary artist Brook Andrew. Andrew has selected an impressive lineup of artists and creatives — many of them First Nations — from around the world to exhibit at the Art Gallery of NSW, Woolloomooloo's Artspace, Campbelltown Arts Centre, Cockatoo Island, MCA and the National Art School for the exhibition's 12 weeks. The showcase brings together artists from all over the globe, with fresh perspectives on Australia that span culture, gender and place. Expect installations, performances, sculptures, videos, paintings and drawings that examine what it means to be First Nations. Here are ten highlights that you can't miss. Due to current concerns surrounding COVID-19, the Biennale has implemented precautionary measures at all its galleries, in line with advice from WHO and the NSW Department of Health. Venues are cleaned more frequently and hand sanitiser is readily available. It's also asking all visitors to practise good general hygiene and stay at home if they're feeling unwell. You can read its full statement and any updates over here. [caption id="attachment_765015" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Teresa Margolles, 'Untitled', 2020, mixed-media installation. Installation view (2020) for the 22nd Biennale of Sydney, National Art School. Courtesy the artist and Galerie Peter Kilchmann, Zurich. Photograph: Zan Wimberley[/caption] UNTITLED BY TERESA MARGOLLES, NATIONAL ART SCHOOL Teresa Margolles' mixed-media installation Untitled is one of the most powerful and heart wrenching works of the entire Biennale. The Mexican artist's work acts as a memorial to murdered women and transgender women across both Mexico and Australia. Over 70 women were murdered in Australia last year alone. Untitled compiles acts of violence and trauma from several sites in each country — with Sydney-specific sites included. Margolles collected particles from these murder scenes through sponging the area with water and collecting any particles or residue that remained. The water collected from each site is used in the actual work, incorporated as droplets (each representing one life) that fall onto an electric copper hot plate in regular intervals. As you hear the water evaporate, it signifies the loss of a life, though every drop leaves a mark. Surrounding the installation is a blood-red butcher curtain, giving the entire scene an eerie edge. Margolles' work is a very visceral and emotive piece, with the viewer acting as witness to forgotten acts of violence. [caption id="attachment_765017" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Barabara McGrady. Installation view (2020) for the 22nd Biennale of Sydney, Campbelltown Arts Centre. Courtesy the artist. Photograph: Zan Wimberley[/caption] NGIYANINGY MARAN YALIWAUNGA NGAARA-LI BY BARBARA MCGRADY WITH JOHN-JANSON MOORE, CAMPBELLTOWN ARTS CENTRE Sydney-based photographer and Gomeroi/Murri/Yinah woman Barbara McGrady brings modern First Nations issues front-and-centre with her collaborative work, Ngiyaningy Maran Yaliwaunga Ngaara-li (Our Ancestors Are Always Watching). This Biennale installation acts as a photographic archive of McGrady's extensive work, which truly represents contemporary Aboriginal history. The artist aims to 'engage audiences with images through a black lens and document the diverse Aboriginal experience' — across themes such as sports, song and dance, community, politics and protest. The blacked-out room screens multi-channel audio-visuals across several large televisions, while R&B, rap and other culturally-specific music plays through the speakers. Black couches invite viewers to hang around and truly immerse themselves in the exhibition. [caption id="attachment_765039" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Colectivo Ayllu artists, Artspace. Courtesy the artists. Photograph: Zan Wimberley[/caption] COLECTIVO AYLLU/MIGRANTES TRANSGRESORXS, ARTSPACE The massive Artspace installation by Collectivo Ayllu is a collection of 11 works, which together form a labyrinth-like exhibition of four 'stations' all up. The political action group, formed in Madrid in 2009, includes five artists from South America: Alex Aguirre Sánchez (Ecuador), Leticia/Kimy Rojas (Ecuador), Francisco Godoy Vega (Chile), Lucrecia Masson (Argentina) and Yos Piña Narváez (Venezuela). The work aims to critique western heteronormative values through the lens of the Spanish colonisation of the 15th and 16th centuries — of which all of the Collective's members identify as descendants. This powerful installation tells the repeated and ongoing story of colonial pain and adds a contemporary lens to it. The floor of the entire winding exhibition is covered in sand, making reference to the images of colonisers landing on the beaches of South America and around the world. The artists have constructed the installation as an Andean huaca – a fundamental Inca sanctuary or sacred place. [caption id="attachment_765020" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Installation view (2020) photographed in the Grand Courts at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney. Photograph: Zan Wimberley[/caption] RETAULE DELS PENJATS AND MÀRTIR BY JOSEP GRAU-GARRIGA, AGNSW At AGNSW, the Biennale has been very appropriately integrated into the galleries on the ground floor, which primarily houses European art. This artistic decision forces the viewers to re-evaluate the history of art in Australia and the Euro-centric lens it often takes. Taking centre stage in the AGNSW Grand Courts is Retaule dels penjats (Altarpiece of the Hanged People) — a prominent 1970s work by Spanish artist Josep Grau-Garriga. His three-storey textile installation truly takes over the space, reaching to the ceiling, and works as a direct dialogue with the architecture of the gallery. His three-dimensional woven characters are a hanging memorial to tormented and suffering victims of war and martyrdom, which the viewer is forced to address — this massive installation literally cannot be missed. [caption id="attachment_765050" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Photo by Emma Joyce.[/caption] WATAMI MANIKAY BY THE MULKA PROJECT, AGNSW A stunning work by the Yolŋu digital artists of The Mulka Project, Watami Manikay (Song of the Winds) will transport viewers to another time and place. The artist collective works with digital technologies and video art. This specific project weaves the kinship of Yolŋu clans through the four winds in the form of a three-walled, floor-to-ceiling video projection that moved from sunrise to sunset — depicting lapping waves and sunny beaches. The focal point of the installation is a painted larrakitj (hollow ceremonial log), which represents the gunḏa rock that grounds each clan to its identity. It changes colour and glows in time with the mesmerising film. The cyclical work aims to express the 'countless generations of evolving Yolŋu art practice'. [caption id="attachment_765024" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Museum of Contemporary Art installation view. Photograph: Zan Wimberley[/caption] WHAT LASTS! (SARCOPHAGUS) BY AHMED UMAR, MCA For artist Ahmed Umar's autobiographical work he created an earthenware tomb, one which is meant for him. The lid of the ancient-looking, ceramic sarcophagus includes a full body cast of Umar. It is part of a sculptural triptych that the artist created after opening up about his sexuality — and being considered 'dead' by close family members. The tomb is both a reminder of the pain of oppression and a celebration of his death. This piece is a protest against his upbringing in Sudan, and Umar (dressed in traditional Sudanese clothing) also physically protests alongside the artwork (he'll appear at various times throughout the festival). He holds a sign that reads 'Sudan executes gay people under its government endorsement'. His form of protest creates a timely and meaningful piece of art that needs to be seen. [caption id="attachment_765051" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Photo by Emma Joyce.[/caption] KUINI HAATI 2 AND TOGO MO BOLATAANE BY KULIMOE'ANGA STONE MAKA, MCA For Biennale 2020, Christchurch-based and Tongan-born artist Kulimoe'anga Stone Maka has created an expansive tapestry which nearly takes up an entire gallery floor at the Museum of Contemporary Art. The two-in-one painting re-enacts the meeting between Queen Salote of Tonga and the UK's Queen Elizabeth II, when the latter visited Tonga in 1953. The tap cloth depicts Maka's actual memory as a ten-year-old boy, with yellow barricades around the piece recalling the crowds on the day. His memory also includes seeing someone with blue eyes for the first time — which you'll notice as blue dots on the tapa cloth. The artist's technique nods to the Tongan art of ngatu 'uli (black-marked bark cloth), which has a 'material connection to his homeland'. Through his work, Maka is simultaneously telling both a personal and global story of connection. THE LAST RESORT BY LATAI TAUMOEPEAU, COCKATOO ISLAND Tongan Australian artist Latai Taumoepeau's The Last Resort depicts an all-too-real dystopia where idyllic island landscapes have literally become garbage dumps. It specifically explores the vulnerability and fragility of the Pacific Island nations' saltwater ecosystems. Performer Taliu Aloua wears brick sandals and holds an 'ike (Tongan mallet), while surrounded by a wall of glass bottle-filled sacks. A sea bed of glass lays at her feet. She repeatedly (and very loudly) smashes the bottles with her feet and mallet, and adorns broken sacks in replace of a lei around her neck. This ongoing endurance performance acts as a response to the physical and emotional (as well as geo-political) labour of Pacific Island people against the agents of climate change. Their connection to the land and the true destruction happening to it is viscerally depicted here. RE(CUL)NAISSANCE BY LÉULI ESHRĀGH, COCKATOO ISLAND Sāmoan artist Léuli Eshrāgh created a peaceful and beautiful ceremonial space for the 22nd Biennale. Re(cul)naissance honours precolonial kinship systems, using natural light to shun western religious beliefs of bringing 'light' to colonised nations; instead, this work fully embraces Indigenous practices that are 'considered deviant by western missionaries'. The work specifically interacts with Sāmoan and other Indigenous concepts, namely 'mālamalama — the process of enlightenment through paying attention to symbiotic pō (the origin of the universe), lagi (multiple heavens) and other kin animals. The space and video performance openly explores multiple genders and sexualities in an engaging way that offers up a future 'free of colonial shame'. Eshrāgh collaborated with artists Tommy Misa, Sereima Adimate and Kiliati Pahulu on this project. [caption id="attachment_765031" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Laure Prouvost installing 'Into All That is Here With The Two Cockatoo Too' (2020), Cockatoo Island. Courtesy the artist; Galerie Nathalie Obadia, Paris/Brussels; carlier | gebauer, Berlin / Madrid; and Lisson Gallery, London / New York / Shanghai. Photograph: Zan Wimberley[/caption] INTO ALL THAT IS HERE WITH THE TWO COCKATOO TOO BY LAURE PROUVOST, COCKATOO ISLAND French artist Laure Prouvost's Biennale artwork is potentially the most unsettling of the bunch. Into All That Is Here With The Two Cockatoo Too is a site-specific work that uses the entirety of the island's Dog Leg Tunnel. Within the dark tunnel, Prouvost provides an immersive experience that touches many senses and mimics the 'daily flow of images and texts that assail us'. Think of it as content overload, while trying to traverse a house of horrors. You'll hear whispers throughout the tunnel, and one of those voices may just be the artist herself — who at times will be lurking in the shadows and encouraging you to sit with her. Further in, the tunnel begins to 'wind' as constructed black curtains make you weave in-and-out, which starts to feel endless. Needless to say, you better not be afraid of the dark for this one. Top image: Hannah Catherine Jones 'Ode to Diaspora'; photograph: Zan Wimberley
Talk about going out on top: Sky Safari, a mainstay of Sydney's Taronga Zoo since 1987, is saying farewell. The sky-high cable car — the Harbour City's only cable car, in fact — has been a beloved part of a trip to the animal-filled tourist attraction for a huge 35 years. But, once February 2023 arrives, it's retiring in its current guise. That means that Sydney locals and visitors alike have until Tuesday, January 31 to go for a last spin, which includes views of the Sydney Harbour, peering down at Taronga's Asian elephants as they play and attempting to see squirrel monkeys. But, hopefully, this is just a goodbye-for-now situation, with an upgrade already planned — pending final approval. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Taronga Zoo (@tarongazoo) "The current Sky Safari is an ageing asset and has reached the end of its workable life with Taronga," explained the zoo's team announcing the news. "Plans are underway for an exciting new experience. While we are in early stages of planning, the revitalised Sky Safari will feature additional larger and accessible gondolas, extend along an expanded route, and provide greater access to the zoo for guests of all ages and abilities," the statement continues. [caption id="attachment_830238" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] Last upgraded in 2000, and even carrying the Olympic Torch for the Sydney Olympics that same year, the Sky Safari has carried more than 20 million passengers over its lifetime, helping ferry zoo-goers around the 28-hectare site. In its absence, there'll be extra buses in holiday and peak periods to move patrons to Taronga's top entrance. When 2025 hits, that's when the new Sky Safari is aiming to start operating, as part of a major investment by the New South Wales Government that'll also help future-proof it as much as possible — and Taronga itself. Announced back in April 2022, Sky Safari 2.0 is set to gain more gondolas than the 21 currently used, and larger and more accessible ones at that. At the moment, it can't accommodate guests in bigger wheelchairs, which is something that's set to be addressed The revamped Sky Safari will also head along an expanded route, complete with new terminals. That'll connect to fellow upgrades that are in the works at the Taronga Zoo Wharf — and, thanks to those extra gondolas, increase Sky Safari's daily capacity. And, Taronga visitors will also gain additional ways to view the venue's inhabitants from a lofty perch. At the time of writing, the makeover proposal is still in the planning stage, and accepting community feedback. Ideally, a development application will be lodged in 2023, with construction starting before the year is out. Taronga Zoo's Sky Safari will take its last ride in its current form on Tuesday, January 31, 2023. Head to the zoo's website for further details, and for bookings before the end of the month.
When Lido Cinemas launched in mid-2015, it do so by offering $5 tickets for a day. Consider the Hawthorn picture palace's ten-year celebrations a blast from the past, then. To mark a decade of screening flicks to film fans, the Glenferrie Road venue is doing discounts, bringing back that $5 deal for a whole week. Catch a movie between Thursday, August 7–Wednesday, August 13, 2025 — other than attending special events — and that price is all that you'll pay. [caption id="attachment_1014610" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Gavin John[/caption] More discounts apply if you're keen for something to eat or drink: there'll be $5 choc tops, plus $10 medium combos featuring popcorn and a drink. That means that you can get your film and snacks covered for less than the cost of a ticket at Lido's regular prices. If you're thinking that it's the cinema's birthday but film lovers are the ones getting the presents, you're right. Here's another: a ten-year anniversary retrospective season across the week that's fittingly playing ten films from the past decade that Lido has been operating, all of which will only cost $5 to see. Starting with Mad Max: Fury Road and ending with Challengers, every one of them is exceptional. [caption id="attachment_1014611" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Gavin John[/caption]
Texan psych-folk favourites Midlake have just announced they'll be heading to Australia to join the already amazing Vivid LIVE lineup. While in the country, they'll also be swinging by Melbourne's Corner Hotel for a show in late May, but it's bad luck if you live anywhere else. This Australian tour — their first since 2010 — is a mere two stops long. The beardy sextet will be touring off the back of their recently released fourth studio album, Antiphon — and for a band who's been around for over a decade, their sound hasn't changed a whole lot. Since their breakthrough 2006 release, The Trials of Van Occupanther, and its standout singles 'Roscoe' and 'Young Bride', Midlake have always sounded a little like a contemplative day in the countryside. The kind of day where you rug up in a flannel shirt and suppress your emotional problems with a bottle of hard cider. The band itself has been facing some hardship recently as lead singer and songwriter Tim Smith left the band during the recording of their recent album to pursue other projects. Midlake will be touring without him in their Australian shows, to the disappointment of some long-term fans. But overall, the band is bouncing back well. Antiphon is a little more on the psych side of their signature psych-folk, but it will definitely complement a Vivid lineup that already includes The Pixies, St Vincent and James Vincent McMorrow. Midlake tour dates: Friday, May 23 — Sydney, Vivid Festival, Sydney Opera House; tickets go on sale 9am, March 31. Saturday, May 24 — Melbourne, Corner Hotel; tickets are available via The Corner website.
Feel so passionate about your Friday night pizza delivery that you want to wear it? Now you can. New Zealand fashion label YOUKNOW has teamed up with Pizza Hut to create a range of clothing dedicated to that controversial call: putting pineapple on pizza. If you're staunchly in the "it belongs" camp, you'll want to take a squiz at this limited-edition capsule collection inspired by the chain's Hawaiian Deluxe pizza. There aren't many (if any) dine-in Pizza Hut restaurants left around Australasia so this range is giving us a heap of nostalgia, thanks to the illustrations of the chain's iconic red roof and Hawaiian palm trees. The colours are all inspired by delicious pizza toppings like streaky bacon, pineapple and aioli. And now we're hungry. Designed and made over the ditch, YOUKNOW'S capsule range includes t-shirts, tote bags, shorts and bucket hats. Buy the items individually or get the whole damn 'fit for your next summer festival — according to the website, the label ships to Australia via DHS. YOUKNOW founder Joe Webb says the collaboration with Pizza Hut marks a "significant milestone" in the brand's journey. "It's a really special moment for us. It's amazing to see how this milestone translates over to the garments that we're super stoked to produce here in Aotearoa." It's not the first time we've seen a clothing line inspired by a classic takeaway feed. Who can forget this Big Mac-inspired 'fit or last year's ugly KFC Christmas jumpers? If you like to choose your clothing based on your weekend drive-thru order, you'll want to add one of these items to the current lineup. YOUKNOW's range is available to buy online now, with prices starting at $25 NZD — not including international shipping costs. Check out the full range here.
Unless you're heading to Higher Ground, Holey Moley or court, you probably don't spend much time in the CBD's bottom-end western pocket. Those four blocks between La Trobe, William, Bourke and Spencer streets have largely been subject to construction and big business and, as a result, have less buzz and character than other areas in the CBD. But now, design-savvy locals have the chance to change all that, thanks to a new competition by the Urban Land Institute (ULI). Having described the area as suffering from "a lack of identity, limited on-street activity outside of business hours, little open public space and community amenity", the international research and education think tank has set out to find someone brimming with ideas for its transformation. [caption id="attachment_684763" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The area up for development, supplied by the Urban Land Institute.[/caption] If you're an architect, urban planner or developer under the age of 35, you're invited to put forward your own thoughts on how to improve these lacklustre four blocks, through the 2018 Urban Innovation Ideas Competition. The hunt is on for proposals that would help boost the area's vibrancy, improve safety and transform it into what ULI calls a "24-hour neighbourhood". The point of the competition is to give young people a forum to discuss and visually express what they would like their city to look like. While the winning design won't be heading into development anytime soon, the winner will get the chance to present their idea at the 2019 ULI Asia Pacific Summit in Shanghai and potentially influence the future development of the City of Melbourne. Now in its third year, Urban Innovation Ideas Competition has previously seen entrants reimagine Sydney's George Street (2015) and put forward ideas for revamping the area linking Brisbane's CBD and Fortitude Valley (2016). The 2018 competition is open to both individuals and groups of four. ULI Melbourne Urban Innovation Ideas Competition opens at 9am on Friday, August 24 and closes on September 18. You can enter here. Image: Google Maps.
Sample the very best the Barossa Valley has to offer at a day-long food and wine event in North Melbourne this July. Billed as a showcase of one of the country's greatest wine regions, Barossa: Be Consumed is being put together by the folks at Bottle Shop Concepts, the same team behind Game of Rhones and Pinot Palooza. More than 40 different wineries are expected to take part, including Sons of Eden, Henschke, and Hentley Farm, showcasing over 140 styles of tipples. In addition to the boozers — which will include beer, gin and cider from the region, too — a number of food producers will take part, slinging everything from pickles to cured meats to ice cream. They'll also participate in a number of free 'conversation sessions', designed to give punters a new found appreciation for what the region has to offer. Barossa: Be Consumed will take place on Saturday July 22 at Meat Market, 5 Blackwood Street, North Melbourne. Early bird tickets are $55 and include a Plumm wine glass.
Blending the work of a modern-day superstar and some of Japan's most renowned historical artists, Japan Supernatural is the Art Gallery of New South Wales' latest blockbuster exhibition. The exhibition features 180 works drawn from collections around the world — an eclectic mix of paintings, traditional woodblock prints, animation work and sculptures — which each delve into the Japanese folktales that continue to influence pop-culture today. The exhibition's headline act is contemporary artist Takashi Murakami, a dazzling spectacle of an artist that shines almost as bright as his massive works of art. Famous for his paintings and sculptures that incorporate motifs from both traditional and popular Japanese culture, at Japan Supernatural, Murakami debuts an enormous ten-metre-wide mural that depicts folk stories, anime characters and a litter of other cultural references. Running until March 8, 2020, the exhibition features work by other modern-day legends, such as the late manga artist Mizuki Shigeru and contemporary artist Taro Yamamoto. Meanwhile, there are also works by seminal artists from a bygone age, including Katsushika Hokusai, Utagawa Kuniyoshi, Tsukioka Yoshitoshi and Kawanabe Kyosai. Presented as part of the 2019–20 Sydney International Art Series, Japan Supernatural also includes an array of public events. Just some of the special happenings on offer include a rare lecture by Murakami, a retrospective of global horror cinema, a festival showcasing beloved Studio Ghibli films and a Japanese summer art school. With so many ways to explore the AGNSW's newest exhibition, don't miss your chance to discover the stories and magical creatures behind Japan Supernatural. [caption id="attachment_749854" align="alignnone" width="1920"] An installation view of the exhibition Japan Supernatural at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Photo: AGNSW/Jenni Carter.[/caption] TAKASHI MURAKAMI: JAPAN SUPERNATURAL The full title of Murakami's mural, Japan Supernatural: Vertiginous After Staring at the Empty World Too Intensely, I Found Myself Trapped in the Realm of Lurking Ghosts and Monsters, is quite the mouthful. But you'll likely find your mouth agape once you set your eyes upon this huge undertaking. Stretching ten-metres wide and three high, the colourful mural features an arrangement of various images drawn from ukiyo-e prints, which were reproduced by Murakami's 350 employees back at his bustling studio in Tokyo. Made from 502 silkscreens, Japan Supernatural is the largest single work to enter the gallery's international collection, which depicts demons from Japanese folklore battling it out with samurai beneath the spirit of a massive cat. KENTARO YOSHIDA: NIGHT PROCESSION OF THE HUNDRED DEMONS The first work you'll encounter as you arrive at Japan Supernatural is that of Sydney-based artist and illustrator, Kentaro Yoshida. Born in a small fishing village in Japan, Yoshida heard many of Japan's popular folk stories as a child, learning about a world of ghosts, spirits and demons. His mural takes inspiration from these tales, specifically the centuries-old legend Night procession of the hundred demons (Hyakki Yagyō). It was created in four sections and positioned at the gallery's entrance court — if you download the Artivive app (via Apple or Google Play), you can experience the stunning creation with an augmented reality twist. [caption id="attachment_749467" align="alignnone" width="1920"] 'Mitsukuni defies the skeleton spectre conjured up by Princess Takiyasha' 1845–46 by Utagawa Kuniyoshi, British Museum, donated by American Friends of the British Museum fromthe collection of Prof Arthur R Miller. Photo: © The Trustees of the British Museum[/caption] UTAGAWA KUNIYOSHI: MITSUKUNI DEFIES THE SKELETON SPECTRE CONJURED UP BY PRINCESS TAKIYASHA Considered one of the last masters of ukiyo-e printing and painting, Utagawa Kuniyoshi was also known for being incredibly prolific. Throughout his expansive career during the 19th-century, Kuniyoshi created some of the style's most popular prints featuring everything from warriors and ghosts to satire and erotica. Loaned from the British Museum, one of Kuniyoshi's celebrated works, Mitsukuni defies the skeleton spectre conjured up by Princess Takiyasha, is a striking triptych woodblock print telling a well-known tale about revenge. Kuniyoshi's art fell from relevance for many years until it was rediscovered in the 1920s, with his work going on to become some of the best known from the Edo period. TSUKIOKA YOSHITOSHI: NEW FORMS OF THIRTY-SIX GHOSTS Published between 1889 and 1892, New forms of thirty-six ghosts is perhaps Tsukioka Yoshitoshi's most acclaimed series. Highlighting numerous characters from ancient Japanese and Chinese folktales, it was also the final major woodblock collection he would ever produce. Having lived through many years of Japanese societal uncertainty, Yoshitoshi's work often focused on violence and conflict. But later in his career, his prints became much more reflective, capturing some of his own personal struggles. With this series drawn from the AGNSW's own collection of Japanese art, Yoshitoshi is often credited as the godfather of contemporary manga and anime. UTAGAWA YOSHITSUYA: SHUTEN-DOJI AT OEYAMA Utagawa Kuniyoshi was responsible for tutoring many of Japan's greatest woodblock artists, but few were as special as Utagawa Yoshitsuya. Emerging in the late Edo period, the political instability of the time led to artists being banned from illustrating performers in their work. Instead, Kuniyoshi focused on creating images of powerful warriors, as well as tattoo designs that he became famous for during the 1840s and 50s. This colour print highlights a well-known story where the popular hero Minamoto Yorimitsu slays the ogre Shuten-doji in his mountain lair at Oeyama, a part of modern-day Kyoto. Japan Supernatural is on display at the Art Gallery of New South Wales until March 8, 2020. Head to the website to grab your tickets. Top images: An installation view of the exhibition Japan Supernatural at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Photo: AGNSW/Jenni Carter.
Say what you will about new technologies, but they don't always make it easy to stay healthy. So far this year, we've reported on services that'll bring you burritos by bike, gelato by Uber and burgers by honest-to-God aerial drone. Still, while we can't say we haven't been sorely tempted, we've managed to (mostly) avoid making total pigs of ourselves. Or at least we have, until now. Launching in Melbourne at some point over summer, Tervey is Australia's first ever bacon subscription service, making it both glorious and terrifying all at once. Good luck maintaining a healthy diet when you can get maple cured bacon, speck ham or pork bloody crackling delivered to your door with the click of a button. On the other hand, why would you even need to diet? The fact that this service even exists means that human achievement has reached its apex, and we can all pretty much die happy. Porkophiles can hit up the website and register now, in order to receive up-to-date info regarding the launch date and to get a discount on their first order. Once the service is officially up and trotting, customers will be able to set up a regular bacon subscription — be it weekly, fortnightly or monthly. They don't mention a daily option, but you can bet we'll be looking into it. Delivery fees will vary based on your location, and you'll also be able to order a selection of condiments, sauces, spices and bastings – thus ensuring you never grow tired of stuffing your face with pork products. As if that were even possible. For the sake of your arteries, we should probably mention that Australia did also just get a new healthy food delivery service. So, y'know, feel free to mix things up. Or you could just eat bacon for literally every meal. There's no wrong option.* *there probably is. For more information, or just to stare at photos of bacon, visit www.tervey.com.
Ever wondered what words taste like as they roll off the tongue? From the delectable to the putrid, James Wannerton has compiled a smorgasbord of the London Underground. For him, winding through the Tube is a visceral, gastronomic experience. For example, Bond Street is the acidic bite of hair spray, Euston Square is the meaty sweetness of caramelised lamb and Willesden Junction is the translucent texture of evaporated milk. The specificity is astounding. However, it's not just when Wannerton is rocketing through the underground that he is plagued by different tastes, but in daily life as well. For example, he reveals on his website, "If you are called Virginia, Denise, Donna, Helen or Christine, my brain unfortunately places you at a disadvantage. Sorry. I can't help it." Wannerton has lexical-gustatory synaesthesia, a condition characterised by the involuntary taste testing of words; it is the conflation of senses that are normally experienced separately. Though his map may come across as fun and eclectic, Wannerton's process of creating it was a meticulous operation that took 38 years. According to him, some stations required revisiting as tastes and textures change with the general ambience of the station. Further, the flavour map can actually have a pragmatic purpose. Researchers can use resources like this to study links between taste synaesthesia and word formation. You have to admire Wannerton’s commitment to accuracy. However, apparently the London underground is just an appetiser; he has now turned his taste buds towards creating similar diagrams of the New York subway and Toronto network. Via Fast Co.Design.
In Stay of the Week, we explore some of the world's best and most unique accommodations, giving you inspiration for your next trip. In this instalment, we take you to beautiful Bali for a special stay at Plataran Canggu Bali Resort and Spa. We love this place so much that we teamed up with the resort to offer an exclusive three-night travel deal — including meals, massages and exclusive access to the iconic Cafe del Mar below. WHAT'S SO SPECIAL? There is so much more to Bali than Bintang beers and boogie boards. In fact, despite a reputation among Aussies for its larger-than-life party scene, traditional Balinese culture embraces patience, peace and placidity. And Plataran Canggu Bali Resort & Spa one is of the best places to lose yourself to this experience ... without completely forgoing access to your favourite beach bars. Cocooned within lush rice fields and tropical green gardens, the tranquility of Plataran will transport you to a bygone Bali. Head back to a time when tourism on the island was practised through rich spa rituals, extraordinary cuisine and truly spiritual traditions. While this secret hideaway will make you feel removed from the chaos and crowds, swept away to the simplicity of village life, the magic of cool Canggu is right at your doorstep. THE ROOMS Designed in the form of a labyrinth (the legacy of the late renowned landscape architect, Made Wijaya), Plataran's landscaped gardens ensure that each of the property's private villas are protected from the outside world — the ultimate in serenity. Featuring traditional alang-alang grass-thatched roofs and antique carved doorways, villas are either one or two bedrooms, most accompanied by private pools, and all featuring modern comforts, luxurious bedding, natural stone bathtubs and private terraces with day beds. For a truly unforgettable stay, consider booking the Founder's Home. Personally designed by Platarn's founders, this options allows you the opportunity to sample the Founder's Menu and take part in the Founder's Activities, a series of experiences curated by the resort. FOOD AND DRINK With three on-site restaurants, you're sure to find a meal to tempt your tastebuds. If you're seeking rustic yet refined al fresco dishes, you'll find them in abundance at Plataran At Canggu. The resort's namesake restaurant is surrounded by lush forestry with seating under the sparkling lights of the evening stars. Or you can secure a table at Teras Canggu, which elevates Balinese street food into a world-class fine dining experience. Guests who book this deal can enjoy a complimentary dinner for two adults at either destination included in their package. Alternatively, settle in for a feast at Tiga Dari Snack Bar, with its flavour-packed fast food perfect for a catch-up with friends. If you're confident in your own culinary abilities (or want to improve them), consider enrolling in a Plataran Canguu cooking class. The experience kicks off with a chef-led excursion to the local markets to collect fresh products and ingredients and culminates in a private lesson in a traditional Balinese kitchen, complete with wood-fired oven. Designed to help you craft a shareable spread, the class offers insight into local cooking practices – with a delicious meal to show for it at the end. THE LOCAL AREA As social as Seminyak (minus the traffic jams) and almost as unadulterated as Ubud (minus the 60+ minute drive to get there), Canguu is primed for new and returning visitors to the Island of the Gods. And at Plataran Canggu Bali Resort and Spa, you have a brilliant base to enjoy the best of the area's offerings. Extend your stay in the zen zone with a sunset stroll along Echo Beach or an afternoon surfing the waves at Berawa. Otherwise, dedicate your day to brunch-stopping and bar-hopping at one of Canggu's many cool beach clubs. If the options feel overwhelming, let us choose for you. Guests who purchase the Concrete Playground Trips Plataran Canggu three-night travel deal receive access for two adults to one of the world's most iconic beach clubs — Cafe del Mar — including day bed and a bucket of beer, absolutely free. THE EXTRAS As well as the previously mentioned complimentary dinner and beach club access, guests who take advantage of this exclusive Concrete Playground Trips promotion can also enjoy a free, 60-minute Balinese massage for two adults at the resort's Padma Spa. With a Sanskrit name that translates to 'sacred lotus', this spa embodies the quintessential qualities of the iconic flower. It's certain to leave you feeling beautifully balanced in body and soul (and budget). Feeling inspired to book a truly unique getaway? Head to Concrete Playground Trips to explore a range of holidays curated by our editorial team. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips in destinations all over the world.
The Swiss are renowed for their time-keeping abilities and reliable public transport systems, but they do not exactly have a reputation for unmitigated creativity and artistic pursuits. Ironically, Ursus Wehrli's work may encourage us to rethink our perceptions of Swiss creativity whilst doing little to challenge the stereotype that the Swiss are all a bunch of neat freaks. Artist and comedian Ursus Wehrli first came to attention with his book Tidying Up Art, a collection of his work where he cleverly reinterpreted classics by Van Gogh, Chagall and Seurat by, well, tidying them up. He is back again and up to his old ordering tricks, except this time he's stopped tidying up the art, and has started tidying up everything else. In his latest book, The Art of Clean Up, Wehril reassembles the chaos of everyday life — children's beach toys are lined up into categories in a sand pit, cars are lined up according to their colours in a parking lot and the stars are lined up in the sky. These images are also accompanied by a series of short films that document the painstaking organisation that took place in order for Wehrli's images to be created, providing clever examples of the asethetic appeal of order (and also a reminder of how lovely a little bit of choas is as well). https://youtube.com/watch?v=l200LN39dv4 [Via PSFK]
A few months ago, Federation Square's Skyline Terrace was a winter wonderland filled with pop-up igloos and an ice-skating rink. But come January 3, the openair space above Flinders Street Station's eastern railway tracks will be whacking on the sunscreen and shades, and transforming into a warm-weather paradise for the debut of Summertime Social. Sticking around until early April 2020, the huge al fresco summer playground will take over the rooftop space with whole swag of sun-soaked fun. For those after a break from their own backyard, Summertime Social's grassy communal lawn is the place to be. It'll host a stack of free lawn games, including giant Jenga, though it's also your go-to for picnics and sunny chill sessions, as you make the most of the pop-up's food and drink offering. On Sundays, punters can duke it out for prizes and glory at the lawn's weekly giant games battle, while Fridays and Saturdays promise a lineup of sunset DJs spinning from 5–10pm. More games, from bocce to shuffleboard, will be going down in the games lane. These ones you'll need to book when you're there and are $10 for a 20-minute session. For a more private summer do, nab your crew one of the comfy huts or converted caravans. The huts can be booked for up to 20 people, while the boho-style caravans have space for 10, customised with your choice of picnic eats, boozy ice cream, beer-filled eskies and board games. Pop-up bars throughout Summertime Social will be serving up tap cocktails, booze-infused slushies (including mango daiquiris and margaritas), beer, wine, spirits and even stocked mini-eskies. Meanwhile, a weekday happy hour means $6 Furphy, cocktails, rosé and prosecco from 4–6pm. As for the food, you'll be able to settle in with woodfired pizzas; Dirty Birdie's fried chicken, salad bowls and burgers; and boozy frozen treats from a pop-up ice cream cart. If you fancy making a day of it, a range of picnic baskets are also up for grabs, including the two-person Classic Basket, loaded with cheeses, party pies, chicken tenders and potato salad. On Saturdays, you can enjoy Summertime Social's bottomless brunch, offering 90 minutes of free-flowing beer, prosecco, mimosas and tap cocktails and your choice of brunch dish for $49. To eat, you can choose from a PBJ ice cream sanga, a BLT, a veggie burger or calzone. Find Summertime Social at Federation Square's Skyline Terrace. It's open from 11am–10pm Monday–Sunday.
Alan Partridge (Steve Coogan) is a man with such a proficient ability to inject even the most banal of situations with toe-curling awkwardness that it borders on being a talent. A much-loved character that fans have followed over a range of TV series, specials, radio plays and his I, Partridge autobiography, this latest instalment (and the first big-screen outing for the character) is an unusually high-concept affair which makes the most of its delicious conceit. Having schemed desperately (but unsuccessfully) for his old TV hosting job, Partridge is still clinging onto his local celebrity status, revelling in the soul-crushingly inane show where he tackle questions such as "What's the worst kind of monger? Fish, Rumour, Iron or War?". When the station is taken over by a corporation intent on rebranding the backwater North Norfolk Digital as a vibrant youth station, he barely survives the cull. The upheaval sees the ageing Pat (Colm Meaney) axed, a decision he responds to by returning to a station party with a gun and taking the staff hostage. By dumb luck, Alan finds himself outside the station as the siege begins, and as the only one Pat trusts, he finds himself pushed into being the go-between between Pat and the police tasked with ending the siege. Simultaneously fearful and puffed up with importance, he soon starts to think that being the face of the siege (or "siege face" in his words) could be just the tonic his forever ailing career needs. Among those trapped at the station are the hapless Sidekick Simon (the hilarious Tim Key) and Angela (Monica Dolan), a co-worker so socially inept and desperate that she seems a plausible love interest for Alan. It also wouldn't be a Partridge show without Alan's long-suffering assistant Lynn (Felicity Montagu), who is on hand to massage Alan's fragile ego and generally be bossed around and underappreciated. It's interesting to see how the character of Partridge has softened over the years. Initially a misanthropic buffoon with the soul of a parking station, Partridge now seems completely eccentric and devoid of self-awareness but an essentially sympathetic figure who you actually cheer for as he finds himself in way over his head. The lighter tone hasn't led to a lack of laughs though — whether singing along to Roachford, back-announcing his soft rock favourites with baffling non-sequiturs, losing his trousers while managing to lock himself out of the under-siege building or completely misjudging every single conversation he enters, the painfully funny Partridge remains exhibit A in the argument for Coogan's status as a comic genius. While the pitch-perfect slice-of-life series Mid-Morning Matters with Alan Partridge remains the high water mark of the now sprawling Partridge oeuvre, Alpha Papa is a beautifully written and performed work, likely to delight both long-term fans and introduce a broader audience to one of British comedy's most inspired creations. https://youtube.com/watch?v=qywG2-FC6x0
This winter, the seaside town of Queenscliff will be anything but sleepy. Playing host to the inaugural Low Light Festival, the Victorian spot will be brought to life across a month-long feast for all of the senses. A celebration of music, food, art and culture delivered by a huge lineup of homegrown and international talent, the event takes place over four weekends, running from June 22 to July 14. And if anything's going to pull you out of hibernation and down to the beach in the heart of a frosty Melbourne winter, it's this. Teaming up with the Icelandic Dance Company, along with local groups the Lighthouse Arts Collective and Bellarine Lighthouse Films, Low Light is set to screen exclusive Aussie premieres of three exciting new films. Catch the hypnotic ÖRÆVI or Life in the Undergrowth, with music by the legendary Sigur Ros, as it's screened under the stars, or immerse yourself in Gabríela Friðriksdóttir's compelling film Des Irae. Or, enjoy the goddess tale Union of the North, a collaboration between Matthew Barney, Valdimar Jóhannsson and Erna Ómarsdóttir, Music lovers will find their festival happy place within the Queenscliff Town Hall, as it hosts a series of one-night performances from the likes of acclaimed singer-songwriter Dan Sultan, folk-pop four-piece All Our Exes Live In Texas, and American alt-country star Justin Townes Earle. A tasty program of one-off food events will also feature throughout the festival, with highlights including a Bastille Day dinner with a French musical twist, and a four-course progressive feast showcasing the region's best produce and chefs. And you'll get even more of a taste for this charming corner of the world with a series of local art exhibitions, creative workshops, gin and whisky tastings, and heritage walks. Queenscliff is located about a 90-minute drive from Melbourne, or you can catch the ferry across from Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula. Low Light events feature Friday through Sunday across each week of the festival — perfect for a day trip or that winter weekend getaway.
Every music festival has its own distinctive traits and drawcards, no matter who happens to be hitting the stage. Held on the banks of the Murray River, Strawberry Fields is no different. Fancy escaping into nature to listen to live and electronic acts, wander through art installations and hit up a bush spa? That's all on this fest's bill. Taking place across the weekend of Friday, November 17–Sunday, November 19 in Tocumwal, New South Wales, this year's Strawberry Fields has just unveiled its lineup, and it's full of impressive names. DJ Seinfeld, Denis Sulta, Todd Terje, Moodymann, Ezra Collective, Booka Shade Moktar and Barkaa are just some of the talents on the list — and yes, it goes on. Fred again's besties and frequent collaborators Joy Anonymous are on the lineup to bring that same brand of euphoric dance music to the regional weekend-long party. Plus, Strawberry Fields' range of extra-curricular activities will be returning. You'll be able to soak away your stresses — not that you should have any at a music fest — at the bush spa. The Moroccan Bedouin lounges and tea ceremonies will be running in the festival's Mirage Motel space, plus the glamping options are back to make your weekend as lavish and as low-maintenance as possible. Also, if you happen to be born on this year's festival dates, you can register to score a free ticket. Happy birthday to you indeed. Strawberry Fields lays claim to being one of the country's most sustainable festivals. It is powered by biodiesel fuel as well as solar power, its rewash revolution system has diverted over 100,000 single-use plastics from landfill, composting toilets are provided and all transport is carbon offset via Treecreds. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Zh_5l4SgXk STRAWBERRY FIELDS 2023 LINEUP: DJ Acid Pauli Adam Pits B2b Lisene Baby G Bini Bria b2b Evie Claire Morgan Darcy Justice Dee Diggs Deepa Denis Sulta DJ Bone DJ Fuckoff DJ Mell G DJ Pgz DJ Seinfeld DJ Vm Doppel Eli & Fur Elli Acula Handsdown Hausm8s In2stellar Jamz Supernova Jazmine Nikitta Kerry Wallace Kia Manami Moktar Montana Moodymann Muska Jen Mzrizk Other Worlds Other Sounds Phil Stroud Pretty Girl Roza Terenzi b2b D Tiffany Sam Shure Stüm Todd Terje Uone Wax'o Paradiso b2b Lauren Hansom Yi Lum Yikes Live Amadou Suso Barkaa Big Wett Booka Shade Bricky B Carissa Nyalu Children Of Zeus Cinta Close Counters Denni Ezra Collective First Beige Flewnt Foshe Jesswar Jitwam Joy (Anonymous)) Just Emma Kerala Dust Kyoshi Mindy Meng Wang 王萌 (Solo) Mindy Meng Wang 王萌 & Tim Shiel Minyerra Oden & Fatzo Quarter Street Radhey Gupta Roy Blues Sleep D Slowmango Snow Bros Squid Nebula Sweely The Lahaar Vv Pete Wulumbarra Showcases Still Here @ The Grove Bricky B Dj Vm Denni Flewnt Wulumbarra Minyerra Carissa Nyalu Strawberry Fields takes place at Tocumwal, New South Wales, from Friday, November 17–Sunday, November 19. The final release of tickets go on sale at 9am on Friday, July 18. Head to the festival website for further details. Images: Duncographic
We adore our sport here in Oz, perhaps more than any other nation. Some of the biggest events of the year and we're all in the mood for some good old fashioned sporting excitement, there's really nothing that beats the primal, up close and personal thrill of live competition. Happily, there are a bunch of world-class events making their way to NSW over the next few months that you'll definitely want to attend. From statewide NRL rivalries to monumental city marathons to the all-out automobile action, there's truly something for everyone. Get ready to laugh, cry, lose your voice, and, hopefully, revel in the unparalleled joy of victory.
Centre Place really is the most ideal Melbourne laneway for people watching, and at Hell's Kitchen you get a birds eye view above the crowds. Plenty of local beers on tap and an intriguing wine list is topped off with house-infused vodka — flavours including chilli, lychee and ginger and honey. We'd recommend popping in here for an afternoon drink and a catch up, and, if you're peckish, they serve food until 10pm. To see more of our top ten laneway bars in Melbourne, look here.
When The Favourite took a chapter of 18th-century history, filtered it through a witty and twisted sense of humour, and brought it all to life with lavish sets, luxurious costuming and a high-profile cast, it instantly attracted attention — and became one of the best films of 2018. Now, The Great is here to roll out the same format on the small screen, this time swapping English royalty for a famed Russian empress. And, sporting savage, satirical humour in spades, it works just as well. The moniker 'the Great' has popped up plenty of times in Russian history; however there's no doubting who it refers to in this instance: Catherine, formerly Princess Sophie Friederike Auguste von Anhalt-Zerbst-Dornburg of Prussia. As played by Elle Fanning (The Neon Demon, Mary Shelley, Galveston), she hasn't yet ascended to greatness when The Great begins. But, by the time the show's first episode finishes, she's firmly plotting her path. Sent to Russia to marry reigning emperor Peter III (The Favourite and True History of the Kelly Gang's Nicholas Hoult) and solve her family's money troubles, the educated and idealistic Catherine arrives in her new homeland with a romantic vision of life, her nuptials, her place in the kingdom and her adopted country in general — especially its treatment of women. Alas, instead of marital bliss and being regarded as an equal, she's soon betrothed to a vain, arrogant, brattish ruler who'd rather binge-drink vodka, shoot bears, throw parties and start wars to prove his manliness than spend any real time with his new wife. He's also the kind of guy who describes himself as possessing "a gentle heart and massive cock", then pauses to make sure his ever-present entourage of ass-kissing noblemen furnish him with praise and laughs. It's no wonder, then, that when Catherine describes her hopes and dreams for a tender and ecstatic wedding night, her caustic but loyal maid Marial (The Aeronauts' Phoebe Fox) only barely manages not to roll her eyes. The reality of the royal couple's first evening together is definitely no one's fantasy, with Peter thrusting away while he chats to his best friend Grigor (Bohemian Rhapsody and Top End Wedding's Gwilym Lee) about shooting ducks. Created and written by The Favourite's Oscar-nominated, BAFTA-winning co-scribe Tony McNamara — and based on the Australian playwright, screenwriter and director's 2008 Sydney Theatre Company stage production of the same name — The Great serves up acerbic laughs from the outset, and doesn't let the mood drop. That means sharp, sly and thoroughly self-aware dialogue, an irreverent and cheeky tone, and having ample fun with real-life details. Indeed, The Great's title card notes upfront that the show tells "an occasionally true story". The broad strokes of Catherine's life remain in place, including her progressive plans for Russia and her quest to topple her husband in a coup; however slavish devotion to history is far, far less important than dark comedy, laugh-out-loud lines, a willingness to get silly and viewing Imperial Russia as a farce. Entertaining, engaging and very easy to binge, The Great also benefits from pitch-perfect casting. In her first comedic role, Fanning is equally luminous, intelligent and calculating, especially when she's scheming her way to the top. But, while the series isn't called Peter III (or "no Peter the Great", as he's dubbed in one episode), Hoult constantly steals the show as the demanding and impetuous frat boy emperor. Also deserving attention: the delightfully sarcastic Fox, Lodge 49's Adam Godley as the manic Archbishop, Hoult's fellow Skins alum Sebastian de Souza as Catherine's approved lover, Iron Fist's Sacha Dhawan as her chief co-conspirator and Australian actress Belinda Bromilow as Peter's offbeat aunt. Check out the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5vLgpdXz0g All ten episodes of The Great's first season are available to stream via Stan in Australia and NeonTV in New Zealand. Top image: Ollie Upton, Hulu
Since setting up in Rotterdam in 1997, Superuse Studios have been leading the way when it comes to sustainable architecture and design - both interior and exterior. Their portfolio includes a children's playground made out of old windmills, a contemporary art space that was once a shipping yard and a residence constructed entirely of recycled materials. Superuse are currently showcasing their latest designs at London's Architecture Foundation, where they'll be hanging about until July 31st. Some of their most recent developments have arisen from collaboration with students at the Royal Academy of Art at the Hague. Founder Jan Jogert has told The Guardian, the aim is to 'identify and connect available flows in the urban ecosystem.' One success story is that of GRO Holland, a project that involves recycling the 98.8% of produce wasted in the coffee-making process. Left-over grounds are gathered from cafes and blended with spores from oyster mushrooms, then cultivated in a dark, warm place. The resulting fungi are sold back to the cafes, while the waste produced goes to local tulip farmers. Superuse are also about to embark on the construction of a visitors' centre, which will again feature mushrooms and coffee grounds, this time as insulation. 'It is only through transparency that things will change,' Jongert says. 'The idea of connecting these disparate flows will become a big part of the economy. It will have to happen – we have no other choice.' [Via PSFK]
The Kook is a short film made on a small budget that's taking the US independent film festivals by storm (and walking away with all the awards too). Already given the Official Selection title at a number of festivals, including Austin, New Orleans, Riverrun and Slamdance, the film is set to screen at several others in the US and Europe too. The film's story follows Fa, a gentle and unassuming member of an eccentric religious sect, as she inadvertently discovers an unsettling truth about the cult's leader. It's a dark comedy that plays with the realisation that everything Fa has ever believed in is fake, but it's not just The Kook's universal themes of truth and deception that has won audiences over. Although the cult's yellow jogging suits and dark bowl-cut hairdos probably make a lasting impression for many of the film's audiences, it's an 18-minute film that feels like nod to '80s soft-focus cinematography and the creation of a kooky world that's, worryingly, not too unlike our own. Actress T. Sahara Meer, who plays the naive Fa, recently received an award for best actress at a comedy festival in LA and, just a few days ago, the film's directors - New Yorkers Gregory Mitnick and Nat Livingston Johnson - took home the Audience Award at LES Film Festival in Manhattan. It looks like it'll be a big year for this little film. Now we just need to convince them to show it off down under. https://youtube.com/watch?v=t8u284szuk4
The Amazing Type-Writer iOS app from Doormouse Manufacturing gives typing on the iPhone a vintage feel by re-creating the look and sound of typing on an antique typewriter. Keeping true to the old-school aesthetic, users can't backspace and some of the more modern symbols, such as the @ sign, won't function. This might be a little frustrating for some, but now you know how your older relatives felt when they had to send out birthday invitations to all their buddies. You'll just have to type over your mistakes and pray that it's legible. This ability to type over existing writing also means you can make tonnes of different patterns and scribbles. According to Doormouse Mfg, the app has "combined the latest in mobile pneumatic tubes technology with the highest-quality digital micro-swingarms available." This means that you'll be able to shift the carrier all over the screen and mark your letter however you like. After you've finished your masterpiece you can save it to your own camera roll, e-mail it, or post it in a public gallery. Perhaps best of all, you can select other people's pieces from this gallery and re-interpret or ruin their works however you like. This gives you the potential to post your own questions or thoughts, and see how many people will respond to it. This app will be perfect for pensioners who miss the good old days, overly-ambitious hipster poets, or people who want to send creepy letters to their ex-girlfriends. Two dollars won't get you much nowadays, but it will buy you the endless joy of having your own nifty little typewriter in your pocket. A limited amount of these are available through iTunes.
Not to be outdone by The Continental's multi-million dollar renovations down the road, Hotel Sorrento has just announced its own expansion plans. And they are ambitious. As in, shoot-for-the-moon ambitious. For nearly 150 years, Hotel Sorrento has sat on the cliffs overlooking Sorrento front beach. The historic sandstone building has been tweaked and renovated dozens of times, but this is by far the biggest overhaul yet. By early 2023, the Pitt family — who have owned Hotel Sorrento for three generations — want to install 50 luxury suites, a new 30-metre pool, a wellness retreat, a pool bar, a new restaurant, a rooftop yoga studio, a gym and two state-of-the-art conference centres. They're also pulling in some serious culinary muscle. While The Continental has thrown its hat in with Scott Pickett, Hotel Sorrento has teamed up with George Calombaris, who will be managing hospo strategy behind the scenes. "I'm really enjoying working with the Hotel Sorrento team," Calombaris says. "The owners have taken a holistic, root and branch approach, and there's no doubt the Hotel will become a beacon for local and visiting lovers of food, all year round." It doesn't look like Calombaris will actually be heading up the new kitchen – that'll be the job of longstanding chefs Matt Henke and Shane Holt – his role will probably be Bigger Picture. But you can already see his fingerprints, with the Hotel recently launching a Summer Souvas pop-up bar, which will be running throughout summer. "Lounging on the lawn with an ice-cold drink, a magnificent view of the water and a delicious 'souva' in hand, is a great way to celebrate summer," says co-owner Robb Pitt. There's also Cellar Bar: a new wine and cocktail bar set to open in late December. This will be the Hotel's 4pm-till-late venue, dishing up fancy bar snacks and top-shelf booze to Sorrento's clientele. As Hotel Sorrento gears up to celebrate its 150th birthday, it'll be exciting to see these new renovations take shape. The build is expected to wrap in early 2023, but it'd take a brave person to predict anything these days. In the meantime, grab yourself a souva and enjoy the views.
Summer at the Mornington Peninsula just got a lot hotter (in a good way). Hotel Sorrento, a mainstay since 1872, is set for a grand unveiling in December — revealing a luxurious transformation that's all about premium leisure and maximum relaxation. The renovation was announced early last year, and the team is ready to show off the new and improved Mornington fave. Let's start with the new digs. Thirteen new Sunset Suites have been constructed, starting from $550 per night. These suites will feature expansive windows with lush views, outdoor marble baths, rooms filled with bespoke Jardan furniture and amenities from Hunter Lab. The love isn't confined to the new suites — the existing rooms have also received a facelift. Meanwhile, the new Marlo Spa, hidden away in a private part of the hotel by a peaceful Japanese-inspired garden, is ready to pamper guests with massages, fire and ice therapies and more. And here's where it gets exciting: a 30-metre lap pool set in a travertine-walled terrace, surrounded by greenery and olive trees, has been installed. It's like swimming in the Mediterranean, without the hassle of a 16-hour flight. Add a nice cocktail while relaxing on the new poolside custom-made sun lounges by Grazia, and you've got a recipe for the perfect sunset relaxation session. Bookings are now open for December 2023. Find Hotel Sorrento at 5/15 Hotham Rd, Sorrento.
2025's Melbourne International Film Festival unveiled its initial titles in early June. A month later, the year's full program arrived with hundreds more movies on its slate, ready to play to the Victorian capital's cinephiles across 18 busy August days. Before July was out — so, well ahead of the Thursday, August 7–Sunday, August 24 fest kicking off — Pasa Faho had already sold out every one of its MIFF sessions, becoming the first film to do so this year. Igbo Australian filmmaker Kalu Oji's debut feature deserves that warm, hearty, enthusiastic embrace; it offers the same to the Adelaide-born writer/director and visual artist's own community, thoughtfully and tenderly so. Pasa Faho shot "over a year and a half ago now, and it feels like it's been quite a long time since we've been in the real thick of the project", Oji tells Concrete Playground; however, Melbourne's response to the world-premiere screenings of the movie, sellouts included, "brings a whole new life to your relationship with the film". He continues: "as soon as it's out in the world and the audience embraces it and becomes part of that process, it's a reinvigoration of all those feelings and all that excitement that was so rich and so present a little while ago". Oji has channelled his own passion into a feature that sprang from him wanting to ask questions — a picture that moulds his queries into a father-son story, an exploration of African Australian life, an unpacking of family structures as well as communities, a musing on what it means to be an Igbo man today, an examination of expectations and clashes around them, an interrogation of straddling two cultures, and more. As it tells of Melbourne shoe salesman Azubuike (Nigerian stand-up comedian Okey Bakassi, Bank Alert) and his 12-year-old son Obinna (Tyson Palmer, Young Rock), Pasa Faho steps into their relationship, and also the existences of those around them, in a heartfelt yet equally clear-eyed manner. The film's title, a play on words stemming from "parts of a whole", is a clue to its emotional journey and tone. Two changes shake up Azubuike's routine: Obinna's move from interstate, which is initially cause for elation more on the former's part than the latter's; and the discovery that the store that Azubuike manages is being sold to developers. Oji's protagonist is caught, then, between trying to provide a solid foundation for his child, including fighting for the job, the paycheque and the proudly hardworking sense of himself that he believes is pivotal to that life, and being able to spend time and be open with Obinna — and between his perspective and ideals, as shaped by his upbringing far from Australia, and the experience of a son whose childhood couldn't be more different. Pasa Faho also spreads its focus to Amaka (first-timer Laureta Idika Uduma), Azubuike's sister and Obinna's aunt, and her tale of sacrifice to do what's expected — and to Yorgos (Kostas Makrygiannakis, The Slap), aka Bogo, the septuagenarian European florist whose own store adjacent to Azubuike's is equally under threat. And, it sees Azubuike's colleague Yrsa (Tardif Hélène, The Industry), a friend impacted by the impending building sale. In its sights as well: Nigerian preacher Edward (fellow newcomer Idika Mba Uduma), too, as he balances his ambitions with his responsibilities as a leader in Melbourne's Igbo community. Oji's filmmaking journey began at the Victorian College of the Arts, with his 2019 graduate film Blackwood making its way to the likes of Palm Springs Shortfest and the BFI London Film Festival, and winning awards at Flickerfest and the Atlanta Film Festival. 2021's The Moon and Me was acquired by San Francisco's Museum of the African Diaspora, while 2023's What's in a Name? picked up another Flickerfest accolade, plus the Craft Award at Sydney Film Festival. Each is "an essential part of series of steps" leading him to Pasa Faho, he explains. "They gave me experience in terms of being on set, and how I like to direct actors and direct, and what I find works when I've got a vision or an idea — and how I get close to that or 'if I do X and I get Y, do I like Y and would I apply that to my practice?'. And there's all those practical tools and practical experiences I think it gave me as a director." "And then mentally and emotionally — I guess energetically — how I like to be on set and the kind of environment I want to make films in, and the kind of space I want to create on the set. It gave me a very firm idea of that that we took into the feature film. And tonally, stylistically, I think if you watch the short films we made from Blackwood, they're all different stories but I think you'll see they're all very, very, very similar-ish tonally. I think that those years of making those shorts helped me find my style, helped me find the things I'm interested in — even though it's ever-changing — and helped me find the tools and the lens that I wanted to approach Pasa Faho through." That Paso Faho is personal, and also intimate — that it brings an insight into the Melbourne's Igbo community, too — was always key. Did that come with a sense of responsibility for Oji? "Many, many hands helped make this film, and many minds went toward what you see on-screen. And I think there is a responsibility for sure, and as a writer, as a director, I lead that in some way and I carry that," he notes. "But working in collaboration, I think, is always the best way to do justice to those ideas." What it means for this Melbourne-set and movie to have world-premiered in Melbourne, the questions that the film arose from, fleshing out the narrative from there, key elements that were always part of the filmmaker's vision for the feature, the consultation and casting processes: we also discussed all of the above and more with Oji. View this post on Instagram A post shared by MIFF (@melbfilmfest) On the Significance of Premiering the Melbourne-Set and -Made Paso Faho in Melbourne "The crew had been working together for quite a long time, and we've built somewhat of a film family over the last nearly a decade now. I think so many of the people that have supported that journey and have made it possible for us to continue that journey are here in this city, and in our families and our communities and all those circles. So I think to be able to launch the film with everyone who's made it possible for us to even be at this point feels like a blessing. It feels really really appropriate." On Pasa Faho Springing From Wanting to Ask Questions "I had started writing the script in 2020, towards the end of 2020. And I've made quite a number of shorts, and been wanting to step into the feature filmmaking space — while being aware and listening to what people were telling me in terms of 'it could take five, ten, 15, 20 years to get a film up'. So when I sat down to start writing, I was looking at 'what are the themes, what is the material that is most present in my mind that I feel like I'm going to be wanting to explore if it takes as long as it takes?'. And so for me, that's the place I started writing from. In terms of the questions and what I was wanting to explore in the film, obviously it's a world that's very, very close to me and characters that are very, very close to me. And I think a lot of the time, I think I've often felt — and this is for Azubuike, Obinna, Amaka, Bogo, for all these people, for all the characters that existed in my mind — I guess it was me wanting to go behind the curtains of these people's minds. I think these are characters, and the problems the characters face in the film are problems, that I've felt like I've seen versions of from the outside. And I think the film was me wanting to understand what's behind all of that, and what does that weight feel like, and what does that joy feel like? It was me wanting to understand these characters." On Fleshing Out the Film's Narrative From Those Initial Queries "I think it started, the way I wrote this film, I wrote a vomit draft and then refined it from there. I think the vomit draft was much more themes and ideas and character-based, and probably less of a plot. I think once I had those pieces, and once I became aware that 'okay, I'm wanting to explore fatherhood; I'm wanting to explore the relationship between a father and a son, and when you have these two people who look at the world through two different lenses; I'm wanting to explore expectation and the pressures, and the familial pressures that a character like Amaka receives whether directly or indirectly; I'm wanting to explore regret and how one comes to terms with decisions that they would have made differently in the past through the character of Bogo'; I'm wanting to explore religion, with the church and the church's relationship with my community, with the Nigerian community, and this relationship between church and land and ownership and all those things — once I had all those ingredients on the page in some way, I think I began to look for a thread and look for a plot that allowed me to speak about them. And, to explore them in the way I want to explore them, while also being very aware — and becoming more aware for our production as well — that I'm wanting to make a piece that is entertaining. And it's got twists and it's got turns, and there's stakes. And for an audience, it's not purely just an observational character piece, but it's a plot that the audience dig their teeth into as well." On Making a Work of Fiction That's Also a Very Personal Film — for Oji and for the Community "It's tricky. I think because you're not writing from a completely blank slate, it takes a very conscious effort to try to shake off any reservations or baggage that comes from these characters being abstractions of things that are really close to you in real life. And I think that work is a lot more active and conscious and tricky than if you're writing characters that are completely distant from you. So I think I probably felt that most in the development phase." On Pasa Faho Being Both Deeply Specific and Also Universally Relatable "In terms of making a film that felt it was very, very specific, while at the same time feeling universal, I think on the surface it's about a father and a son, and a father undergoing this set of trials and this reckoning which pushes him to ask questions about how he relates to his son, and brings them closer or further together — and I think that relationship between parent and child is inherently relatable. Everyone has had or has a parent, and lots of us also have children. So I think that, whether you set this story in the Igbo Nigerian community here in Melbourne, whether you set it in the Polish community in Warsaw, you set it wherever in South Africa, I think there's a relatability that is embedded in the exploration of that relationship." On Whether There Were Specific Elements About Being an Igbo Man in Melbourne Today and Straddling Two Different Cultures That Oji Wanted to Explore and Convey in the Film "Yeah, big, big time. I think a lot it, I wanted to capture this pressure that I feel like is often felt almost universally by people who are in the diaspora, and more specifically people who have been born and raised on the continent and moved abroad, especially moved to 'the west' — but the pressure that comes along with finding yourself in that position. You never exist in isolation. You're never just living for yourself. And that's a beautiful thing. And the fact that community and family and all those values are held so strongly in a culture such as ours, such as Igbo culture, is a beautiful thing. But there's also a lot of pressure that comes along with that, especially financially. And the weight of that pressure, I think, is often not talked about. I think there's an expectation you often just keep your head down and you move forward. I think those sacrifices that people also find themselves in — a character like Amaka, who, in another life, maybe she wanted to be a zookeeper or a painter or a football player or whatever she wanted to do. Someone in her position, you have very limited options in terms of what you're expected to do. And to feel the way that she feels in the film, it's a taboo thing. It's unspoken. So I definitely wanted to explore that. And I also very much wanted to capture the push and pull of being in a country like Australia, with your roots of family in Nigeria, and trying to raise a child in your shadow or in your values — where Nigeria and Australia are very, very different places, and it's hard when you have a child that is raised to look at the world through one certain way, but you've never had that lens or that vision because you were raised to look at a world in a very different kind of way. There can be a lot of tension in that experience, and I want to capture that." On Consulting and Engaging with Melbourne's Igbo Community to Help Shape Pasa Faho "Yeah, yeah, 3000 percent. All throughout the process, it's quite — I've forgotten at what point in development, but quite early on. I live here and these people I've known from before they were involved in the film. But at a certain point in development, we formalised workshops and meetings and sitdowns, and especially getting that perspective — because I don't have Azubuike's perspective, and we're trying to understand him as a character. Meeting with people of that generation of men, with men of that generation with children as well, who've moved here. We wanted to get a richness and authenticity. And also, it's very much I wrote and directed the script and the seed of it came from my heart, for lack of better words, but this character is crafted to be a depiction of that experience in general. And so what came from those meetings, and what came from those sitdowns and workshops, were a lot of the details that make up the film. The tension between Obinna and Oscar, and him taking on a different name, came from an anecdote that someone had told me while just sitting down and chatting. The inner workings of his character and his pride, and I guess where he draws that line, that came from sitting down and speaking to people who have lived more of that experience than I have lived. So yeah, definitely. It was intrinsic. It was essential to making this film." On the Importance of Casting, Especially Finding the Right Azubuike and Obinna "It was massive. It was massive. And I think I'm, as a director and the way I've worked in the past, and the way I worked with this film and the way I want to work in the future even more so, it's so actor-focused. I love, I love — I might say I'm an actor's director. I love getting people involved in the process early. I love bringing a blueprint of a character to an actor and letting them take it with both hands and build them together, and they're bringing their perspective, and their whole set of experience and expertise, to that character — and together we make that person, that character, as rich as possible. So for casting it, because it was language-specific, we started our process quite early for the character of Azubuike and for the character of Amaka. And it was long and it was extensive. And we were aware that this person, especially for Azubuike, he needed to carry the film. The film relied on him and Obinna and their relationship, but especially on Azubuike. So eventually we got to a point of process where we felt it made sense to reach out to Okey, especially as he's got a lot of experience and a lot of charisma as a performer. But it was also this material, I think, was also asking him to step into a space that he frequents less so. And so we thought it was exciting, it was a bit of an exciting opportunity. And then for Tyson, it was less specific — we cast the net more broadly. He didn't need to speak the language. It wasn't language-specific. But as soon as we found Tyson throughout the process, he was great, we knew it from two minutes into the audition." On What Oji Hopes Audiences Will Leave the Cinema Thinking and Feeling About, and Having Discovered From Pasa Faho "I hope they're there for the journey. The film is a domestic film and it's drama, but it's a ride, and we've tried to craft strong characters on-screen who the audience can really settle in next to and beyond that. I hope people laugh. I hope people cry. I hope it offers a broad range of emotions. And I think I also hope it brings up feelings and thoughts for the audience's own relationships with people in their life — whether that's a parent, whether that's a child, whether that's whoever is close to them. I hope that it opens up a door to a certain tenderness that exists and is important in those relationships, but it's not always voiced. I hope that's what it brings." Pasa Faho screens at the 2025 Melbourne International Film Festival. MIFF 2025 runs from Thursday, August 7–Sunday, August 24 at a variety of venues around Melbourne; from Friday, August 15–Sunday, August 17 and Friday, August 22–Sunday, August 24 in regional Victoria; and online nationwide from Friday, August 15–Sunday, August 31. For further details, visit the MIFF website.
Falls Festival might be gearing up to celebrate a quarter-century, but, with the lineup it's just dropped, it feels a bit like we're the ones getting the birthday presents instead. Helping to ring in the art and music festival's 25th year is a pretty buzzworthy gang of musical mates, headlined by Australia's own wunderkind Flume, as he returns to the Falls stage for the first time since wooing the Lorne crowds in 2012. He's joined on the bill by international names like Seattle-based Grammy nominees Fleet Foxes (who were here earlier in the year for Sydney Festival), Oxford four-piece Glass Animals (who were also just here for Laneway), Californian indie-pop darlings Foster The People and The Kooks, who'll be celebrating a milestone of their own, having clocked up ten years since their debut album. If you've had your ear to the ground, you'll already know the part about Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher dropping in for his first-ever Aussie headline shows. True to form, the Falls 2017 local lineup is equally exciting, and every bit as broad. Homegrown acts hitting the stage include the party-ready Peking Duk, Brisbane rockers Dune Rats, Melbourne natives The Smith Street Band and Total Giovanni, and indie duo Angus & Julia Stone, off the back of their soon-to-launch album Snow. And it looks like you can start limbering up those vocal chords for a gutsy rendition of 'The Horses', with the legendary Daryl Braithwaite also slated for an appearance. As always, the tunes are backed by a colourful curation of art events, performances, pop-ups, markets, wellness sessions and gourmet eats. You can, however, say goodbye to the usual drink ticket situation, which has been ditched in favour of paywave and cash-enabled bars. It's all happening over New Years at the usual spots in Tassie's Marion Bay, Lorne in Victoria, and the North Byron Parklands, with WA's 2017 Falls Festival landing itself a new home within the Fremantle Oval precinct. But here's what you're here for — the full lineup. FALLS FESTIVAL 2017 LINEUP Flume (no sideshows) Fleet Foxes Run The Jewels The Kooks Glass Animals (no sideshows) Peking Duk Angus & Julia Stone Foster The People Liam Gallagher Vince Staples Jungle Dune Rats The Smith Street Band D.R.A.M Daryl Braithwaite Everything Everything Allday The Jungle Giants Thundamentals Methyl Ethel Slumberjack D.d Dumbo Anna Lunoe Dz Deathrays Confidence Man Julia Jacklin Bad//dreems Cosmo's Midnight Winston Surfshirt Luca Brasi Alex Lahey Camp Cope Flint Eastwood Ecca Vandal Dave Total Giovanni + More to be announced FALLS FESTIVAL 2017 DATES Lorne, VIC — December 28–31 Marion Bay, TAS — December 29–31 Byron Bay, NSW — December 31 - January 2 Fremantle, WA — January 6–7 Falls Festival 2017 will take place over New Years. Friends of Falls members pre-sale tickets are available from this Thursday, August 24, with General Sales kicking off next Tuesday, August 29. FOr mro einfo and to buy tickets, visit fallsfestival.com.
Do you feel like each week flies past in an uncontrollable blur? Friday afternoon comes and you can't remember what you have achieved but you still somehow feel exhausted? If yes, then it's time for a change. Each day you can elevate your life by aiming for just one easy win — even small tweaks to your routine will help take your week up a notch. To help you out, we've teamed up with our mates at Coopers Dry to bring you a list of 'easy wins' — small things that will enrich your life without you needing to stage a full-scale overhaul. MONDAY: CLEAN OUT YOUR CLOSET Kick off the week with a closet cleanse and rid thyself of unnecessary clutter. If it no longer fits, you don't like it or it's in poor condition — donate or chuck it. Those jeans from when you were 19, yeah, they've got to go. Set aside a couple of hours — grab a beer, crank your favourite tunes, channel your inner Cersei Lannister and be merciless. Clearing out the unworn clothes from your wardrobe frees up physical and mental space that you didn't even know you needed. Take your haul to a charity shop to help out the community, reduce waste and give yourself some good karma. TUESDAY: SIP A SMOOTHIE IN THE SUN Forget eating lunch at your desk, at least for today. Instead, head to your local park, let the sun work its magic and get a nice dose of vitamin D. Catching some rays each day can help to clear up your skin and improve your mood — but do it safely, of course. Boost your nutrient intake and add a smoothie to the mix, you'll be smiling for the rest of the afternoon. WEDNESDAY: DISCUSS SOME LITERATURE WITH A FRIEND Tagging your mates in memes is fun, but why not discuss something a little deeper. The aim of the game is simple: both of you choose an article, read the respective pieces, then discuss over an after-work beer. It's like a two-member book club, minus the effort of getting through an entire novel. For inspiration, check out Alex Tizon's 'My Family's Slave' — which is about a Filipino-American family who kept a slave for 56 years — or Gay Talese's 'The Voyeur's Motel' — a creepy true story about a guy who buys a motel just so he can secretly watch his guests. Both are fascinating and somewhat divisive reads sure to generate conversation. THURSDAY: HIT UP A PUB TRIVIA NIGHT An easy win is bonding with your colleagues over a set activity with a built-in competitive element. The team that plays together stays together, and all that jazz. Just make sure you've got someone to cover each element — geography, film, music, history, current events and sport. Get the beer rounds flowing and test your collective smarts. On Thursdays in Sydney, head to the Botany View Hotel in Newtown for trivia with a cash prize. In Melbourne, make your way to The Penny Black for trivia in the beer garden, and in Brissie, you can catch beer garden trivia at The Wickham. [caption id="attachment_691868" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lentil as Anything, Abbotsford.[/caption] FRIDAY: EAT FOR A GOOD CAUSE Cop a tasty feed and support charitable endeavours in the process — it's an easy win for altruism, and your taste buds. The not-for-profit vegan chain Lentil as Anything has four thriving stores in Melbourne and one in Sydney. The restaurants operate via a unique pay-as-you-feel model, with contributions going towards a number of education programs and social projects, as well as keeping the Lentils running. For those in Brisbane, sink your teeth into a slow-cooked beef shank or baked huevos rancheros at Hope Street Cafe. Hope Street employs people who have difficulty finding work and helps them to acquire new skills and gain hands-on experience. [caption id="attachment_659655" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Maroubra to Malabar, Sydney.[/caption] SATURDAY: GO FOR AN EARLY MORNING WALK Start the weekend in a wholesome manner with a brisk walk by the water's edge. No matter where the day takes you thereafter, you'll feel good. Honestly, it's just science — exercise releases endorphins, endorphins make you happy —the crisp ocean breeze and stunning views also help. Stroll along the river in Brisbane, check out the stunning headlands on the Maroubra to Malabar coastal track in Sydney or wander along the Yarra in Melbourne. While it's a little too early for beer, find your favourite spot along the track and return later for a few sundowners (provided alcohol is permitted, of course). [caption id="attachment_555015" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Fatto, Melbourne.[/caption] SUNDAY: ENJOY A LONG LUNCH WITH FRIENDS The Ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus spent his days pondering what made life worth living, eventually, he concluded that great food shared among even better friends resulted in a good life. We will happily cosign that. Enjoy an Epicurean moment of your own with a Mexican feast at SoCal Neutral Bay (Sydney), riverside modern Italian at Fatto Bar & Cantina (Melbourne) or head to the grassy courtyard of Lokal & Co for an indulgent Norwegian spread in West End (Brisbane). Daytime hangs are perfect for spring and summer when the weather is beautiful. Kick off your 'easy wins' by enjoying a Coopers Dry, or two, with your mates.
In order to empower at-risk children, Spanish organisation Aid to Children and Adolescents at Risk Foundation has launched an anti-abuse advertising campaign embedded with a secret message. When the average adult views the bus stop billboard, they will only perceive a disheartened boy with the words "Sometimes, child abuse is only visible to the child suffering it." However, when viewed from below the height of the average 10-year-old, the boy's face appears bruised and the text now reads, "If somebody hurts you, phone us and we'll help you," alongside the number for their anti-abuse helpline. This feat of eye magic is achieved through a lenticular top layer, which displays different images at varying angles. While it is chilling to ponder that ANAR is targeting children travelling with their abusers, it is also inspiring that such innovation is stemming from the non-profit sector. And, thus, that the campaign aims to empower children, rather than sell them hamburgers or new phones. However, some fear that this will trigger new advertising strategies aiming to sell from the waist down — targeting kids into asking for specific brands upon seeing messages their parents have missed. As Gizmodo's Andrew Liszewski asks, "how long will it be before toy companies start doing to the same thing to hawk their products directly at kids?" (We give them three months.) It's still not as much of a worry as the Minority-Report-esque interactive billboards that IBM are reportedly developing. Apparently they could scream out our kid's name to tell them they could use a Guinness. Eeek.
Like many events, Vivid Live had its 2020 edition axed due to the pandemic. But you'll find a pretty sweet consolation prize among the Sydney Opera House's digital program — a stream of Amon Tobin's audiovisual spectacular ISAM, hitting screens this Friday, August 14. The Brazilian-born producer's immersive show wowed audiences the first time around for Vivid Live 2012 and now it's headed to a device near you, available on demand from this week. Revisit the ever-innovative artist's stand-out performance, featuring a multi-sensory fusion of technology and electronic art. Performing within a 25-foot, three-tonne cubic installation he built himself, Tobin moves in and out of focus behind a constantly shifting multidimensional screen. The artist's high-voltage soundtrack of sonic explosions and rippling waves is backed by striking visuals playing out a mesmerising story of colour and light draped across the whole scene. The streamed performance is just one show featured in the Sydney Opera House's digital season, From Our House to Yours. To check out the rest of the performances, keep an eye on the SOH website. [caption id="attachment_773326" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hamilton Lund[/caption] Top image: Prudence Upton
Last month we found out that Melbourne Music Week was planning to take over Queen Victoria Market, now we know their full plan: they want the whole city. The full MMW program will see 250 artists take part in 110 events over 10 days of festivities in 40 locations. While your usual bars and bandrooms are all accounted for, this year you'll also be seeing music in laneways and trams, at Rooftop Cinema, the NGV, MPavilion, and power stations. It'll even be in elevators. No kidding — elevators. This enormous reach comes in an effort to showcase not only Melbourne's music, but the city itself. "Melbourne is one of the world's greatest music cities," said Councillor Beverley Pinder Mortimer from the City of Melbourne. "[In this festival] the city becomes the stage." Kind of like in that film with Kiera Knightly and Mark Ruffalo... but better. The full program sees local favourites Midnight Juggernauts, Remi and The Harpoons added to a lineup that already included Architecture in Helsinki, Cut Copy, Tangerine Dream, The Church and World's End Press. Further international artists like longstanding Detroit techno collective Underground Resistance, German dance duo Pachanga Boys and Oneohtrix Point Never were also added to the bill. The latter are definitely shows you should jump on quick. Underground Resistance are presenting a night of techno jazz with label founder Mike Banks, and Oneohtrix Point Never is lighting up Queen Vic with the help of local legend Robin Fox. If you don't have the time to comb through the program for gems like that, we suggest heading along to the Live Music Safari on Thursday, November 20. Back for another year, this marathon event will offer you a whole night of amazing free gigs in 14 venues across the city. Or, if you're hesitant about heading out on a school night, there's always the Self-Made series. With impromptu performances popping up on trams and elevators, you might just encounter something great on your way to work. Whether you're having a quiet drink or simply walking around the city at night, music is bound to find you in one way or another. And, with over half the events in this year's program free of charge, there's no reason to not get involved. Even 90 per cent of the ticketed events are under $50. If you'd like to get your hands on some, ticket sales have just opened. Melbourne Music Week runs from November 14-23. Check out the festival website to see the full program.
The ongoing saga that is Daft Punk's new album Random Access Memories continues. Last week, the French duo had us shakin'-in-our boots with excitement over the release of a 1 minute teaser from their newest single "Get Lucky" featuring Pharrell Williams, and now, they've given us the whole thing. While we've become increasingly disenfranchised by the slow drip reveal of pop culture (I mean, do we really need a teaser and three separate trailers for The Great Gatsby?), somehow the Daft Punk fellas are getting it just right. With the leak of each new detail, Daft Punk have managed to get the internet drooling; drawing us in with each juicy new shred of information and leaving us hungering for more. Whether its their unexpectedness (I mean, Wee Waa, who saw that coming?), their enigmatic anonymity (those once annoyingly kitsch helmets have become something of a cultural phenomenon) or just how damn infectious their music and videos are, we're addicted. And what about the song itself? We absolutely love it! "Get Lucky" manages to sound both brand new and yet naggingly familiar all at the same time, immediately hooking the listener in with its funky-as-hell groove. It's kinda like the aural equivalent of meeting an old girlfriend who has got herself a sexy new haircut. It's comfortingly familiar, but somehow intoxicating in a whole new way. On top of this, the whole Earth, Wind and Fire vibe they've got going on means "Get Lucky" looks set to dominate every radio station and dancefloor for the rest of 2013. Keep doing exactly what you're doing you ridiculously talented Frenchmen! Update: On Saturday night, a limited number of tickets to Daft Punk's album launch party in Wee Waa were made available via The Crossing Theatre's website. To book, click here. https://youtube.com/watch?v=vxp0PFoIdmU
Pull up a milk crate and set yourself up in this excellent outdoor bar just on the edge of Chinatown. The bar, which has been constructed out of an old shipping container, serves everything from your spirit of choice to a cheeky long neck. While the space is essentially a converted parking lot, parasols and lanterns pretty up the place, and the street art on the surrounding walls display some of Melbourne's finest talent. Finally, these guys know how to throw a party — Rizky's Block Party is on monthly where they play the best hip hop beats and serve up awesome Caribbean food. To see more of our top ten laneway bars in Melbourne, look here.
Waking up and hearing the rain cascade over your roof, drizzle down your windows and water your plants sounds like heaven to most of us. To the cyclists among us, on the other hand, maybe not so much. Riding in the rain isn't the most desirable (or safe) way of getting to work, but for some it's the only way. So various bike umbrellas have been developed over the years (including this shocker), but here's one that might actually work. LEAFXPRO is a brand new leaf-style umbrella for your bike, looking for funding on Kickstarter. Designed with aerodynamics and ergonomics in mind, the windscreen-shaped umbrella hopes to keep you nice and dry on your way to work.You can even pick the colour from 'storm colours' to 'advanced colours'. Yep, deep breaths. The LEAFXPRO aerodynamics work to pull the water away from your body as you ride, and can be installed on any bike. We're a little worried about the visibility factor with that frontal shield, but we'd have to take it for a test run to make the call. And from the looks of the promo video, you'll need to unclip from the umbrella when you're locking up your bike — so you might get pretty wet anyway. Available for pre-order on Kickstarter, the umbrellas are going for about £99 — about $195AUD, pretty steep stuff when you add shipping. But with the amount you're likely to drop on Uber every time in rains, it might pay for itself. Maybe. Via Cycling Weekly.
James Cornwall was the second guest chef at Young Hearts when it opened in 2023, and it didn't take long for his residency to become a permanent fixture at the Windsor food, music and art space. And he is paying it forward for the next few months, inviting a bunch of Melbourne chefs to take over the Sunday lunch service with their own $65 set menu. Each chef has been given the simple brief: if we come to your place on a Sunday, what would you cook for us? What would we be drinking, and what would we be listening to? Steve Chan (Sleepy's Wine Bar) is kicking the series off on Sunday, July 28, with an epic yum cha spread. He's plating up some of his favoruite dishes that'll include classic sui mai as well as his own version of prawn toast and sticky rice. [caption id="attachment_896988" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Young Hearts, Pete Dillon[/caption] Young Hearts will then host Alex Weymouth on Sunday, August 25; Lucy Whitlow on Sunday, September 8; and Josh Murphy (Harley & Rose) on Sunday, October 6. We don't know what they'll be cooking up, but we're sure you'll find more info closer to their takeovers at Young Heart's Instagram page. "When James suggested staying on a permanent basis, I instantly agreed," said Owner and Manager of Young Hearts, Nic Coulter. "I look forward to building the food side of the business with someone as talented as James. Through his experience and network of chefs, we are in for some good things to come. Sunday Service will continue the philosophy of the business and allow emerging chefs a space to create and gain exposure." Images: Jae Lin Creative.
Underground Cinema – which has transported you to numerous cinematic worlds, from 28 Days Later's zombie apocalypse to The Princess Bride's medieval court – is gearing up to close its magnificent 2018 season. And, to celebrate, you're invited to The Hotel. Like all Underground Cinema events, the affair will immerse you in an alternative reality. This time, it's one of utter opulence, luxury and elegance: the 1930s. In between meeting characters, encountering live performers and discovering worlds within worlds, you'll be treated to a movie screening. We can't tell you which film you'll be seeing or where you'll be meeting, as details will be kept secret until the day. We can tell you, however, to dress up 1930s-style, to expect a steady flow of drinks and, on this occasion, to indulge in a little feasting. Tickets are highly likely to sell out, so grab yours sooner rather than later.
Cyclists in the city could soon find themselves with their heads in the clouds, with Premier Daniel Andrews yesterday announcing that the State Government will build an elevated bicycle highway in Melbourne's inner west. If you're a regular commuter cyclist from Footscray, Yarraville or Werribee, this should be music to your just-beeped-at ears. The proposal — which was floated by the government in June last year — is set to come to life as part of the West Gate Tunnel Project, which will see a four-kilometre tunnel and freeway above Footscray Road be built as an alternative to the always-congested West Gate Bridge. The two-and-a-half-kilometre cycling 'veloway' — starting at Footscray's Shepherd's Bridge and finishing on Dudley Street in Docklands — will sit above Footscray Road, elevated from street-level and underneath the future flyover. As well as allowing cyclists to skip traffic lights and get to the city much faster, the separation of cyclists and motor vehicles will significantly increase the safety of those on their bikes. While Footscray Road does have a bike lane, the new elevated infrastructure will allow cyclists to bypass dodgy intersections (like at Sims Street and Shepherd Bridge) and more fluidly connect with other major bike paths, such as the Capital City Trail. The Footscray Road bike path won't be disused though — in fact, it will be widened. And with the new flyover road and the 24/7 truck ban that is set to be instated on surrounding Francis Street, Somerville Road, Buckley Street and Moore Street, we're guessing it will be a bit less precarious too. The West Gate Tunnel Project now has to be assessed through an Environment Effects Statement (EES), with construction set to start in early 2018. It's very focused on car transport, so we're happy to see that cycling infrastructure is getting a look-in too. The more we can do to encourage people to give up their cars for a healthier, more environmentally-friendly form of transportation, the better. Via The Age. Image: Yarra River Business Association. By Tom Clift and Lauren Vadnjal.
The Mornington Peninsula's luxury hotel complex Jackalope is where you'll find oddly named fine diner, Doot Doot Doot. Up there among Victoria's best, the menu consists of a multi-course degustation for $125, with plenty of luxe optional add-ons ranging from caviar to truffle honey crumpets. On this food journey you'll try the likes of a wallaby bolognese with Daniel's Run tomatoes; dry-aged duck teamed with davidson plum and beetroot; and slow-roasted celeriac finished with a pear, juniper and chestnut crumble. There's also a classical-meets-futuristic cocktail bar on premises, Flaggerdoot (apparently they're all Jackalope themed-names). And prepare to be wowed by the immaculate design — there are 10,000 lights on the ceiling that flash on and off randomly to mimic the bubbling fermentation process.
It sounds like somewhere James Bond might hide away between missions — or, during a job, where he'd hunt down his latest nemesis. But inside the summit of Sölden's Gaislachkogl Mountain in Austria, visitors will soon find a museum dedicated to 007, particularly focusing on the character's most recent movie outing. If you're wondering why — why Sölden and why Spectre, specifically — it's because the latter flick shot scenes at the former location. It seems that's enough reason to bring 007 Elements to town, with the project being called "a new James Bond cinematic installation." From its description, however, it sounds rather like a series of galleries. When the space opens on July 12, it'll walk audiences through the various signature elements that go into making a Bond flick, giving fans a behind-the-scenes look in a new and inventive way. With Casino Royale, Quantum of Solace, Skyfall and Spectre art director Neal Callow acting as the project's creative director, expect the museum to boast some serious insider know-how — all in a bespoke 1300-square-metre building that has been constructed within the mountain, spans two levels and is situated 3050 metres above sea level. "We want to use this incredible location to place our guests into Bond's environment, and bring the stories to life in a unique and unforgettable way," explains Callow. The franchise's other 24 movies to date will also feature, as will spectacular views over the Ötztal Alps.
If, like most people at the moment, you can't get enough of matcha, Piccolina Gelateria has a treat for you. The Melbourne artisanal gelato store is launching a one-off Matcha Gelato Sandwich made with Hikuu ceremonial grade matcha that will satisfy the meanest of matcha cravings. The matcha sandwich combines matcha blondie with strawberry jam and matcha gelato, dipped in matcha white chocolate glaze and finished with a generous coating of matcha white chocolate crumble. And that's not all. The much-loved Hikuu Matcha Sundae will also be making a comeback. If you haven't been lucky enough to try it yourself, this jam-packed treat includes a scoop of matcha gelato with strawberry jam, matcha blondie, matcha snow and whipped cream topped with caramel sauce, matcha rocks and a maraschino cherry. The delicious matcha-infused desserts are made from scratch using only the finest ingredients. Hikuu Matcha is the cream of the crop, sourced directly from Japan and crafted by tea masters. The Matcha Sandwich and Matcha Sundae are available across all eight Melbourne stores, as well as via delivery and on the Piccolina Gelateria website. These limited-edition treats will be available from Monday, July 14, until sold out.
Despite being the only pub in Melbourne to be awarded one chef hat from The Age Good Food Guide eight years running, The Grand Hotel's dining room is still somewhat of a word-of-mouth secret. It might have to do with subtle, unassuming entry that sits off the hotels lounge bar, or perhaps the opulent silk curtains and dark chocolate walls that hide it away from the rest of the world. But really, The Grand's dining room is a discovery that one can only be shown, and not told. Private dining in all of its brilliance, The Grand's dining room reminds you why the classics are what they are. Stained glass windows, bentwood chairs and linen tablecloths bring a sense of occasion, with service as cheeky as it is attentive, knowledgeable and friendly. However, do not mistake this endearing luxury — it is named The Grand for a reason, after all — for out of date tastes; with the raucous, infectious noise of fellow diners, this dining room is a contemporary Melburnian's nirvana. The Grand's elegant Italian fare has earned itself a swathe of accolades over the years, with thanks to a fine dedication to honest, hearty produce. Again, classics are handled with an appreciation and willingness to explore diversity of flavour. The oven-baked hapuka fillet (with Jerusalem artichoke, purple carrot and herb salad; $36) is a stunning mix of high quality ingredients, while the grilled baby chicken (with charred radicchio, artichokes, cherry tomato and black cabbage; $32) is a crowd-pleaser that showcases spatchcock in an innovative light. The Grand's pasta is additionally made in-house and changes daily, with the pumpkin tortellini with pepitas, parmesan, butter and sage ($18) a stand out. A visit here is not complete without experiencing the The Grand's infamous bombolini, which are unlike any you'll experience elsewhere in the city. A dessert that holds the unique ability to remain loved despite endless variation, these Italian doughnuts are filled with ricotta pastry cream and can be finished with anything from pistachio ice cream and orange, to homemade honeycomb and caramel ($16). It'll depend on the timing of your visit, but there will be no disappointment. The Grand Hotel's dining room highlights how well the gastro-pub concept can succeed. Step inside and you'll be hard pressed to remember you're in the middle of suburban Richmond, such is the atmosphere of passion and excitement. Enjoy the finest Italian delicacies and a memorable experience.
After taking two years off, the Chapel Street Precinct Association has decided to bring back its Chapel Champion Awards for 2024, which sees the public vote for their favourite local businesses across a range of categories. But these awards don't just give the winners ultimate bragging rights. The winner of each of the 16 categories also receives a cash and marketing package to the value of a cool $5000. [caption id="attachment_902834" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Leonard's House of Love[/caption] The big hospo gongs — for best cafe, bar and restaurant — will be hotly fought over by big and small names in the game, but we've got our eyes on the brand-new top toastie award, which has seen a bunch of venues creating new eats just for the occasion. They've been tasked with making "out-of-the-box toasties that have the X-factor to make people travel from all over Melbourne and possibly Australia to try them out". And by the looks of it, this going to be a hard-fought fight. Windsor cafe Delilah has created an unbelievably spicy tiger bread toastie stacked with chorizo, chimichurri and chilli sauce featuring Carolina Reaper chillies — the second hottest chilli in the world. You've also got Naughty Nancy's Toasted Yorkie, which is basically a whole chicken roast dinner wrapped in a huge Yorkshire pudding and drizzled in gravy because why not, tbh. [caption id="attachment_963772" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Entrecote[/caption] Entrecote has also joined the race by turning its famous steak frites into a baguette toastie, while Kaneffi has made a dessert toastie which sees a croissant stuffed with kaneffi cheese and topped with pistachio sauce, melted chocolate and gold flakes. Caffe e Cucina, Neptune, Rossi Bar, Norman South Yarra, Acai Brothers Prahran, Lasagna Lab, Reverie Cafe, Rustica, Kookaburra's Canteen, OPPEN Cafe and Abacus have also made their own unique toasties that could see them win that $5000 prize. [caption id="attachment_963773" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Abacus[/caption] If you've got a favourite local business that you'd like to win an award, be sure to vote online during the first round before 12pm on Wednesday, July 10. Public voting for the finalists in each category then opens on Friday, July 12 and closes at 12pm on Friday, July 26. "We're ecstatic to announce the highly anticipated return of the Chapel Champion Awards to crown the best businesses our iconic strip has on offer," said Chapel Street Precinct Association General Manager Matt Lanigan. "Unlike the soulless shopping centres that litter Australia, Chapel Street prides itself on its individuality and unique assortment of businesses, many of which you can't find anywhere else in the country. "This makes crowning a select few as Chapel Champions so challenging, and with more than 100 new businesses launching since the 2022 awards, this year's competition is expected to be the biggest challenge yet." [caption id="attachment_961410" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Windsor Wine Room[/caption] The full list of categories includes: Best Toasted Sandwich Hair and Beauty Stay and Accommodation Cafe Restaurant Business Service Entertainment Venue Bar Retail Art Gyms and Fitness Health and Wellness Fashion Hidden Gems Customer Service Soul of Chapel [caption id="attachment_736968" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Chapel Street Bazaar by Parker Blain.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_945738" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David's Prahran[/caption] [caption id="attachment_920570" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Chapel off Chapel[/caption] You can vote in the 2024 Chapel Champion Awards via the Chapel Street Precinct Association's website. Top image: Lamb on Chapel.
So, I guess it's been a while since Myspace taught us HTML and horrible dancing babies set the standard for viral videos. Today, Facebook turns ten years old, and with this milestone they bring us one of the most sophisticated (and downright pretty) social media apps to date. With a clean, image-based design and multipurpose usability, the recently launched Facebook Paper may well be the future of the gargantuan Zuckerberg empire. The differences between the current Facebook app and Facebook Paper (not to be confused with the existing beautiful notebook app Paper) are enormous. There's no trademark blue colouring, the feed is horizontal and self-refreshing, and through a dynamic design you have access to not only your friends' updates and photos, but separate sections of your choosing. These include subjects like news and current events, the latest in art and design, and a section of trending online comedy tactfully titled 'LOL'. Though this is a welcome change for many lovers of news and design out there, the app is by no means mandatory — a clever move to avoid people kicking up a fuss like the great Timeline debacle of 2011. However, that's not all Facebook is giving us for their birthday. In a showing of enforced sentimentality, they've created a personalised video (A Look Back) for each user. Featuring your oldest photos and most popular status updates, the video plays for just over a minute with a strange and uplifting musical track that makes you feel like you're the female lead of a romantic comedy finding her feet in the Big Apple. For many, this feels a little amiss as no one feels all that nostalgic about their drunk teenage photos or sarcastic status updates about Girls quite yet. All in all, like the platform itself, Facebook's birthday is a mixed bag. They've given us a little to cringe about from the past, and a lot to look forward to in the future. Facebook Paper is available for iOS devices in the Apple App Store. It is currently only available in the US but, as always, there are ways to get in early.
When it comes to a good night out, dinner and cocktails are a pretty good start. To make a perfect pairing even better, Trinket has whipped up a series of monthly dinners that pit the bar team against the kitchen. Step through the secret entrance and experience a Bartender vs Chef Dinner, where the two different domains go head-to-head to turn a single boozy ingredient into three courses of top-notch eats and cocktails. For this month's dinner, on Wednesday, October 23, you can expect bourbon-inspired eats and drinks, kicking off with some seafood — think crawfish po' boy and a crispy crab salad. Paired with the entree is the Spaghetti Western cocktail, featuring Amaro Nonino, lemon and bourbon. Then, sip on the Northern Neighbour, a mix of bacon-infused bourbon, maple syrup and bitters, while you tuck into some smoked wagyu beef ribs and grits. Finally, finish off with pecan pie and a Boston Tea Party, which is a blend of chocolate bitters, dry curacao, bourbon, peppermint syrup and lime. If you can't make it this month, keep Wednesday, November 13 free to try a menu that's even more indulgent. With champagne as the key ingredient, you'll start with oysters and caviar; crumpets topped with spring crab salad; barramundi with malt vinegar chips, champagne butter and smoked caviar; and an Eton mess with strawberries, champagne jelly and sorrel. On the drinks menu, expect the bittersweet Champagne Trinket — a light and fruity spring racing-inspired punch — and the Wimbledon Float made with rosé, champers and ice cream. Each dinner costs $80 a head. To book your spot, head here.
