After viral leaks of award-winning author Adam Mansbach's new children's book for parents, Go the Fuck to Sleep, created huge hype in recent weeks, the book was finally released today. The book comes with an audiobook version that is narrated by none other than Samuel L. Jackson, and is illustrated with sweet and innocent images by artist Ricardo Cortes. A New Zealand Christian lobby group Family First is already calling for the book to be banned, writing letters to New Zealand's Booksellers Association asking that it not be distributed to retailers. The group is concerned about the effect that the offensive language and negative message could have on aggressive and dysfunctional parents. One verse from the book reads "All the kids from daycare are in dreamland. The froggie has made its last leap. Hell no you can't go to the bathroom, you know where you can go? The fuck to sleep." Most people however, have found the book hilarious, including legendary film director Werner Herzog who also plans to release a recording of the book. Film rights have now also been optioned by Fox and Canongate has already bought the UK title. The book is currently at the top of the Amazon best seller list. You can listen to a sample of the Samuel L. Jackson recording here.
Glen Bagnara knows a thing or two about opening a treasured neighbourhood bar, as one of the minds behind Hemingway's Wine Room and Prahran's Bar Bianco. For this next trick, he's transformed the basement beneath his daytime diner Clementine to create a moodier and altogether more playful bar: Castlerose. The new bar is giving luxury hidden underground European bar energy. After entering via a black spiral staircase found towards the edge of Clementine, you'll find a small dark room filled with a few intimate leather banquettes, timber tables and stools by the black marble-topped bar. Architect Co:Aika has also subtly added in design features from the early to mid 20th century, imparting an elegant old-world feel that's also reflected in the food and drink offerings. Fine champagne is served in vintage-style coupe glasses. Classic European cocktails come in intricate stemware. An old-school cheese cart is wheeled around for anyone who wants to handpick wedges of local and imported cheeses that'll change regularly. But the most playful aspects of the dining experience are those with supper club touches. It's that themed and immersive kind of dining that always puts a smile on diners' dimly lit faces. At Castlerose, the confit duck comes wrapped up like a cigar, served in a wooden cigar box with an ashtray of olive dust. And the duck rillettes come in a sealed tin, ready to be peeled open and enjoyed with fig jam, cornichons and slices of toasted baguette. Head Chef David Yuan is making these fun dishes, but isn't depending too much on theatrics. Beneath it all, he's serving up classic European fare that leans more on the luxury end of the dining spectrum. Think: wagyu steaks, lobster rolls and top-quality charcuterie. With the introduction of Castlerose, Clementine regulars can keep things going beyond its daytime opening hours, sneaking downstairs for a little late-night luxury. Find Castlerose at 67 Palmerston Crescent, South Melbourne, open Wednesday–Saturday from 4pm till late. For more information, head to the venue's website. Images: Alex Squadrito.
Each month, Lune Croissanterie whips up a new batch of limited-time specials, giving you something tasty to look forward to when you flip over your calendar. Lamington cruffins, bolognese and bechamel-filled lasagne pastries, Iced Vovo cruffins, tiramisu pastries, finger bun croissants and cherry blossom cruffins have all been on the list so far this year, just for a month. If that's what Lune cooks up just for a regular portion of the year, just imagine what's on its menu for its tenth birthday. Actually, you don't need to ponder. The time is now, the birthday-focused October menu is here and your stomach will want it. First up, the latest Frankenstein's monster of baked goods: a birthday cake croissant. Yes, it's exactly what it sounds like. Lune has taken a traditional croissant, brushed it with a vanilla milk syrup, then filled it with an almond and sprinkle frangipane. On top: a sprinkle crumble, buttercream icing and then more sprinkles. What's a birthday without sprinkles, after all? A bad one. The birthday cake croissant is available at all stores right through the month until Monday, October 31, and you can order it online from South Brisbane. The rest of the list pops up here and there — but always at at least one spot in Melbourne and Brisbane, where Lune currently operates. That includes cherry ripe pain au chocolats (made with cherry and coconut frangipane, buccaneer tea ganache and sliced maraschino cherries, then dusted with Mork chocolate and freeze-dried cherries) and PBJ cruffins (filled, obviously, with house-made raspberry jam and peanut crème patisserie, then dusted with cinnamon sugar and finished with a button of raspberry jam) — and both are on offer at Fitzroy and South Brisbane. Or, there's the spring pea danish (which features fresh peas and broad beans coated in a herbaceous salsa verde, sat on top of a layer of orange marmalade and seasoned goats' curd, and garnished with snow pea tendrils and edible flowers), also at the same stores — and the return of the cheese and Vegemite escargots (an escargot pastry filled a classic Vegemite bechamel and gruyere cheese, rolled, then baked with extra gruyere melted on top) at all shops. Fitzroy, South Brisbane and the new Brissie CBD spot in Burnett Lane are doing cardamon buns as well – a "kardemummabullar"-inspired croissant piped with a cardamon-spiced butter, then twisted into a knot, sprinkled with sugar and baked. Hungry? Of course you are, and you now have a whole heap of snack options. In Melbourne on weekends in October, Lune is also serving up a selection of past hits — if you need even more choices. Lune's October specials menu runs until Monday, October 31, with different specials on offer at Fitzroy and the CBD in Melbourne, and South Brisbane and Burnett Lane in Brisbane. From the South Brisbane store only, you can also order them online. Images: Pete Dillon.
It’s cold out there. It’s cold out there every day. Though Australia is lucky enough to avoid a Groundhog Day style winter, there is no doubt that the cooler temperatures drive us toward comforting beverages. Before you reach for that bottle of red or heart-warming bourbon, don’t forget that your favourite summer cooler also comes with a serious dark side. When the cold lagers of summer lose their appeal, your favourite brewers turn their craft to an entirely different beast. From nutty to chocolatey and often with a creamy finish, dark beers are the perfect tonic on a wintery night. And while dark brews have been historically underappreciated in Australia’s generally mild climate, you could find yourself becoming the best of friends. Here are some tips to enjoying dark beer this winter, with help from our local brewers. QUALITY OVER QUANTITY Generally heavier and more filling, dark beers must be considered with this golden rule across the spectrum. According to the Shenanigans Brewing Company duo, “When we think winter beers, we think higher-alcohol, malt-driven beers, with a bit more residual sweetness.” The malty porters are undeniably sweet and, like rich desserts, are delicious but best in moderation. Porters and milk stouts are typically nitro beers (made with nitrogen rather than CO2), which adds to the creamy effect and further increases its similarity to a dessert. At the other side of the dark beer profile, the strong imperial stouts are high in alcohol content (many upward of 9 or 10 percent) and will knock you off your rocker if you attempt too many in one sitting. Often brewed in whisky or wine barrels, these stouts contain a more alcoholic flavour, and the barrel ageing process adds depth and complexity to the beer. With bold flavours and lingering sweetness, it's best to stick to a few to get the most enjoyment out of these brews. WINTER WINNERS: DARK BEER VS RED WINE That glass of red isn’t the only thing that will keep you warm on a winter’s night. Rich and smooth with deep fruity notes, dark beers have more in common with red wine than with lager. This is especially true of the barrel-aged stouts, which are often brewed in used sherry casks and take on a wine-like flavour. Many brewers also add spices like cinnamon, vanilla and even chilli, warming you from the inside out. The best advice we’ve received from a bartender on dark beers is to “give your beer a little cuddle” before you drink it. Dark beers should typically be served at room temperature, like a good red, to fully enjoy the taste and flavour. Also like a red, you should never drink dark beer (or any beer, for that matter) from the bottle. But before you go crazy dropping your pay cheque on glassware, many dark beers, including porters and stouts, are best served in a standard pint or oversized wine glass. Similar to its red wine rival, darks beers are something you want to savour. The 750ml bottles are perfect to share with friends. THE IMPORTANCE OF COMFORT FOOD In winter, we crave carbs, carbs, and more carbs. In turn, we need a big beer that can stand up to those heartier foods. The rich, smooth taste makes dark beer the liquid version of a Sunday roast or steamy meat pie. With any great food and drink pairing, it is important to have balance. 3 Ravens Dark Ale made with smoked malts is one of those well-paired with the savoury comfort foods of winter. Instead of going for a port with your dessert, try a porter. The James Squire Jack of Spades Porter, with heavily roasted malts, coffee notes and a sweet finish goes perfectly with dark chocolate, caramel and other rich desserts. BALANCING SUNNY DAYS AND WINTERY NIGHTS While the temperatures may drop, the Aussie east coast is no winter wonderland, so it is worth finding the right beers for day versus night. Think a beer you would want to drink next to an outdoor heater at your favourite beer garden, then one you’d want to drink while curled up on your couch under several blankets. The Batch Brewing Big Kahuna coconut brown ale is a session beer that will remind you of summer while helping you brave the chilly days. For night, try an imperial stout to get your blood flowing. This season, Modus Operandi is releasing Total Eclipse, a Russian imperial stout of 10% ABV aged in Lark Whisky barrels for six months. Once you’ve warmed up with a big brew and have your beer coat on, you won’t need that extra layer when venturing out into the cold. HANG OUT AT YOUR LOCAL BREWERIES The best way to learn more about the beers of winter is to stop by your local brewery, where they are more than happy to guide you through the many profiles of dark beer. There is no better company to keep; your local brewers are like your fairy godmothers of beer, planning months ahead of time on how to keep you warm this winter. Many breweries will also hold winter events, including food pairing dinners. This is the best time to try the full spectrum of dark beers and figure out which best suits your winter drinking needs. Top image: Dollar Photo Club.
Here's a great way to get people to pay attention to almost anything: add Paul Rudd. Movie fans have known that truth since the 90s, when he first grabbed everyone's attention in Clueless. Sure, some of his early big-screen roles — such as Romeo + Juliet as well — tried to convince us that Rudd was the lesser romantic alternative, but we all knew better. Sorry, mid-90s films, you were wrong. At the beginning of the pandemic, New York City even enlisted Rudd to spread the word about COVID-19 safety — that's how deep the "add Paul Rudd to anything" rule goes. So getting the Ant-Man and Ghostbusters: Afterlife star to run around NYC to plug Billy Eichner's new queer rom-com Bros just makes sense, obviously. Eichner is doing the running with him, bringing back his beloved comedy game show Billy on the Street for a brand-new episode to promote his new flick. Rudd has already been on the series before, in a season-three episode called 'Would You Have Sex with Paul Rudd?'. You don't have to pay many people $1 to say yes to that. This time, Eichner and Rudd jog around, stick a microphone in people's faces and ask if folks will see Bros — and tell them that Rudd wants them to. "Paul Rudd demands that you see Bros," Eichner says to one New Yorker. "I'm in" is the response, naturally. Rudd also carries that aforementioned man, upon request. Not everyone is as obliging, however. "I'm sorry I'm not Florence Pugh!" Eichner screams in response to one rejection, as only Eichner can. If this is your first Billy on the Street experience, the show sees comedian Eichner take to the New York City pavement to ask ordinary folks about movies, music and TV shows, often with a celebrity in tow. During its main run from 2011–17, episodes also involved Eichner yelling at his unsuspecting contestants about their questionable pop culture taste or utter lack of entertainment knowledge — yep, right there on NYC's streets, with a camera pointing their way — and the end result was a hilarious dream to watch for audiences, too. As for Bros, it releases in cinemas Down Under on October 27 — and sees the Parks and Recreation and Difficult People treasure becomes the first openly gay man to co-write and star in his own major studio film. He plays a podcaster who has been asked to write exactly this kind of flick, and falls in love himself (with Killjoys' Luke Macfarlane) along the way. Eichner co-wrote the Bros script with director Nicholas Stoller (Bad Neighbours and its sequel), while Judd Apatow (The King of Staten Island, Trainwreck) produces. On-screen, the cast includes Ts Madison (Zola), Monica Raymund (Chicago Fire), Guillermo Díaz (Scandal), Guy Branum (Hacks), Bowen Yang (Fire Island) and Amanda Bearse (Married with Children). Check out the trailer for Bros below: Bros opens in cinemas Down Under on October 27.
Nearly 30 years on from their breakout 1994 record CrazySexyCool, TLC's music continues to radiate a timeless quality. "It's just real-life stuff," Rozonda Thomas, aka Chilli of the group, tells Concrete Playground. "When you have lyrics like that, it can be 100 years later and people can still connect with those lyrics." TLC remain the best-selling American girl group of all time, having sold over 85 million records worldwide while earning four number-one singles on the Billboard Hot 100: 'Creep', 'Waterfalls', 'No Scrubs' and 'Unpretty'. Following the tragic passing of member Lisa 'Left Eye' Lopes in 2002, the group went on hiatus before reuniting in the 2010s to bring their hits back to the stage, and releasing a self-titled comeback album in 2017. Chilli and her TLC partner-in-crime Tionne 'T-Boz' Watkins are currently Down Under as part of the Fridayz Live tour in Australia and Friday Jams in New Zealand, alongside a nostalgia-packed lineup featuring the likes of Akon, Craig David, Macklemore, Shaggy and Ashanti. They're also set to perform in Melbourne on Tuesday, November 8 at the Palais Theatre for a headline show billed as An Exclusive Evening with TLC. On a bill filled with hitmakers of the last 30 years, TLC stands out as a group who have not only stayed relevant, but who've only grown in critical acclaim and industry praise over the years. So, we took the time to chat to Chilli about the band's influence and staying power in the worlds of music and fashion, as well as the best advice that she's ever received. How do you approach a festival show, compared to if you're doing a solo headline show? "I personally kinda like that middle slot. I think that's the best slot. Most artists are like 'oh, I want to headline', but especially when it's a lot of acts, you don't want to do that. People are tired! They're probably drunk off the devil's juice — they don't know what's happening. They're kinda just there. And so, I like the middle because you get all that good energy from everyone." When you're pulling together and performing your hits, are there any songs from your career that have had more staying power than you had ever thought or that still get a bigger reaction from the crowd than you would have expected? "It's funny because people love 'Diggin' On You'. They really, really, really, really, really like that song a lot. I mean, it gets a really big reaction. Because, you know, it's not like a tonne of energy or anything like that. It's just one of those feel-good records. It always makes me smile a bit more, because it's not one of those hype songs where we're doing signature dances or anything like that. So I'd have to say it's 'Diggin' On You'." Another timeless quality of your music is the appreciation from other artists as it's been either sampled, covered, remixed or interpolated so many times — from Pharrell to Avicii, and even Ed Sheeran. How do you feel when an artist reimagines one of your songs? "It's an honour. It really is. It is an honour. It kinda lets you know our body of work is still beloved and respected by so many — and up-and-coming artists. Even artists that are just y'know, been around for a long time. They do covers of our songs when they're in concert and things like that. Like Hanson. They do. Taylor Swift has. And it's amazing to me. I just love it." Is there any artist who hasn't sampled, covered or remixed your songs that you hope will one day? "Well not even necessarily a sample or anything, but we would love to work with Bruno Mars. I just think that Bruno Mars and TLC goes together. This needs to happen at some point in time. So I'm really hoping, because, just the way he performs and all of that. I just love him as an artist, period. So I really hope that we get a chance to grace the stage together." TLC have always been fashion icons — still are to this day — but your style from the 90s is really popular right now. How does that feel to see Gen Z revisiting the fashion trends that you pioneered? "Well, I think everything kind of circles back. Just like with the 70s. I think right now, fashion from even the 70s is in. Everything is kind of in right now and it's been like that for the past decade, maybe. I think that, the time that we first came out, with the bright colours, I haven't seen that so much. Or like, with girls wearing baggy clothes, like for real, I haven't really seen that. And I'm sure it's going to come back around, because I tell you, it's way more comfortable." I feel like it's bubbling, even with pop stars like Billie Eilish who's really into bright baggy clothes at the moment. "Yeah she is! She sure is. So you have artists here and there. And to me, I just think that it's more fun. Very colourful and, again, very comfortable. That's always been our thing. I mean to this day, look at my outfit." Chilli then stands up to reveal her all-white matching Paul Frank tracksuit set. "I'm cute! I'm casually cute." Are there any trends from that era that you don't want to see come back? "When you sag too much. And we did touch on that because we'd run through the airport holding up our pants because they were falling down. So, we need a little happy medium there. You can sag a little bit. I don't want to see your underwear, period." What's the best advice you've ever been given? "To never take anything personal. In this business, it's business, it's not personal. No matter how many times people say 'I love you', because if you have to report something and do your job, it's business, right. It took me a while to get there because I'm such a love bug, and 'we said we love each other, and how could you…'. I could get all in my feels and have my feelings all hurt. So once I was able to get there, then it was like 'ok'." Do you remember who gave you that advice? "Well, you know what, I think it was [MC] Hammer. Hammer has given me so much advice, like in the beginning. He is definitely someone that I looked up to then, and still to this day is an amazing person. Just a great human being, y'know, besides a great artist. He really schooled us on a lot of things." Catch TLC performing at Fridayz Live as it makes its way to Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney in November, or at An Exclusive Evening with TLC at Palais Theatre in Melbourne on Tuesday, November 8. In New Zealand, TLC play Friday Jams at at Western Springs Stadium in Auckland on Sunday, November 13.
Gelato Messina first introduced its cookie pies to the world in 2020, and tastebuds across Australia thanked them. Then, it kept bringing the OTT dessert back when we all needed an extra dose of sweetness across the year. In fact, the dessert fiends have been serving them up for more than 12 months now. Messina celebrated that one-year milestone back in April; however, it isn't done with cookie pies yet. The chain has proven that a few times already over the past couple of months. And, it's committing to the concept in a big way in its stores going forward. Melburnians and Brisbanites, get ready to head into the Fitzroy and South Brisbane venues, then walk out with a single-serve cookie pie. Yes, this cookie pie really is just for one person — and not just because you're not willing to share. The smaller-sized desserts come ready to eat as well. They're also topped with a scoop of gelato, because of course they are. Hang on, cookie pie? Yes, it's a pie, but a pie made of cookie dough. If you're new to the concept, that's all you really need to know. To pick up one of these single-serve desserts, you'll need to head to the Fitzroy and South Brisbane stores from 6pm on Monday and Tuesday evenings. That's the only time they're available, so marking your calendars is perfectly sensible. Don't worry about pre-ordering, though, as that isn't required. Expect to pay $12 with a scoop, or $10 if somehow you don't want gelato on top. And if you're a Sydneysider reading this, the pies were trialled at Rosebery pre-lockdown, but are on hold while the city is under stay-at-home conditions. Gelato Messina's single-serve choc chip cookie pies are available on Monday and Tuesday nights from 6pm at its Fitzroy and South Brisbane stores.
So, you've been eyeing off all the new must-visit venues that opened within the newly revamped Continental Sorrento earlier this year — but you're not actually a Mornington Peninsula local? Well, fret not, because you can now stay right onsite, with the precinct's luxury 108-room InterContinental Hotel opening this week. The latest Aussie offering for IHG Hotels & Resorts, the new seaside hotel occupies both a reimagined section of the existing 147-year-old limestone building and a separate newly-built wing. A collection of penthouses is also to come, to be unveiled later this year. Steered by renowned firm Woods Baggot (W Melbourne, Barlow), sophisticated interiors mirror this old-meets-new energy, with plenty of modernised nods to the art deco and Victorian elements the site has rocked in eras past. There's a refined Mediterranean edge to the aesthetic, with sweeping bay vistas and, in each of the premium options, a complimentary in-room bar heroing local craft brews, vino and spirits. Of course, facilities here lean to the fancy, including the blissful cabana-ringed guest-only pool deck, with palms, water views and a look that's plucked straight from your dream Euro beach holiday. Guests also have the Continental Sorrento's full suite of offerings on their doorstep, from the public bar, to fine diner Audrey's upstairs. Gracing the walls throughout the hotel, expect to see a standout art collection, further fusing the past and the present with a broad-ranging curation of works by Aussie artists. Keep an eye out for the reimagined snaps from vintage Mornington Peninsula beach parties, capturing those cool coastal charms through the decades. There's more luxury to come, too, with the site's Aurora Spa & Bathhouse slated to launch later this year, featuring a thermal bathhouse and wellness centre. Find the InterContinental Sorrento at 23 Constitution Hill Road, Sorrento. Rooms start from $595 per night. You can learn more and book a stay over on the website.
Get excited, festivalgoers: Pitch Music & Arts is returning to Grampian Plains in 2025, complete with a jam-packed roster of talent. Joy Orbison, Honey Dijon, Funk Tribu, 2manydjs: they're all on the just-announced bill. So are Daria Kolosova, SPFDJ, 999999999, Shanti Celeste, FJAAK, Lady Shaka and Job Jobse, with the list going on from there. When Victoria's March long weekend arrives each year, music lovers have two reasons to head out of town — or head to the state from interstate — for a few days of tunes. Both are beloved parts of the cultural calendar. Both are such a hit that you need to enter a ballot to get tickets. And just as Golden Plains has already done, Pitch Music & Arts is locking in its 2025 details. Everyone should make the trip to the Grampians at least once, and here's as ace an excuse to do so as any: the return of the much-loved camping festival, which will host its eighth edition, taking over Moyston again. Next years' festivities are happening from Friday, March 7–Tuesday, March 11. Not only will its three stages play host to a sparkling lineup of local and international musical talent, as always, but the tunes will be backed by a hefty program of interactive art and installations. Basically, no matter who makes it onto the bill, attendees are in for a very big, very busy four days. Joy Orbison's 'flight fm' and 'better' were used in teaser videos for 2025's fest, which was indeed a huge advance lineup hint. You can also look forward to catching Gabber Eleganza, BASHKKA, Funk Assault, Baraka, ISAbella, Ogazón, southstar, Midland, Dax J, Anetha and plenty more, including Osmosis Jones, Moopie, DJ PGZ, Stev Zar, Jennifer Loveless and Mabel. The ticket ballot is currently open until 9am AEDT on Monday, November 25 — and is a necessity after the last three festivals all sold out — and you can get also excited about a bigger Pitch One stage, Pitch Black getting a revamp and the Resident Advisor stage's red orb being part of the fun again. Pitch Music & Arts has revealed its arts lineup as well, unveiling it alongside the music lineup for the first time, and it's also stacked. Think: Adnate, Anatolik Belikov, Ash Keating, Builders Club, Clayton Blake, EJ Son, ENOKi, Georgia Treloar, Henry Howson & Ambrose Zacharakis, Jaqui Munoz, Joan Sandoval, Lukas Rafik Mayer, ØFFËRÎNGŠ (aka Melissa Gilbert), Petra Péterffy, Rachel Lyn & Cameron Trafford, Raquel Villa, Reelize Studio, Sam Hayes, TERRAIN, Tetrik and UnitePlayPerform. In between all of the dance-floor sessions and arty things, festivalgoers will again be able to make themselves at home in the Pitch Pavilion, which is where yoga classes, meditation and sound baths usually help patrons unwind. The local-focused Club Serra will be new in 2025, championing homegrown talent. Pitch Music & Arts 2025 Lineup 2 LUBLY 2manydjs (DJ set) 6 SENSE 999999999 Anetha Audrey Danza BADSISTA Baraka (LIVE) BASHKKA D. Tiffany Daria Kolosova b2b SPFDJ Dax J Diffrent DJ Fuckoff DJ Gigola DJ Paulette DJ PGZ b2b Moopie Ed Kent Ela Minus Elli Acula Fadi Mohem FJAAK (LIVE) Funk Assault Funk Tribu Gabber Eleganza presents the Hakke Show GiGi FM Guy Contact Honey Dijon ISAbella Jennifer Loveless Job Jobse Joy Orbison Kasper Marott Kia Kuzco (LIVE) Lacchesi Lady Shaka Leo Pol Maara Mabel Maruwa Mia Koden Midland Mikalah Watego Miley Serious Naycab Ned Bennett Objekt Ogazón Ollie Lishman Osmosis Jones Pablo Bozzi Pegassi Shanti Celeste southstar Stev Zar Sugar Free Surf 2 Glory Taylah Elaine The Illustrious Blacks Trym VOLVOX Y U QT Pitch Music & Arts returns to Moyston from Friday, March 7–Tuesday, March 11, 2025. Head to the festival's website for further details, or to enter the ballot before 9am AEDT on Monday, November 25, 2024. Tickets in the first ballot tier will go on sale at 6pm AEDT on Monday 25th November, with tickets in the second on sale at 12pm AEDT on Tuesday, November 26 — and any remaining tickets at 6pm on Tuesday, November 26. Images: Duncographic, William Hamilton Coates, Max Roux and Ashlea Caygill.
UPDATE: SEPTEMBER 25, 2019 — Melburnians will need to wait until next year to head back to Docklands' Central Pier for a wine, dine or a dance. The century-old pier will remain closed until at least January 2020, Development Victoria has revealed in a statement, with initial assessments by engineers expected to take 15 weeks. After the assessments are complete, it'll be known how much repair work is required — which means it could be closed far beyond January, too. In a Facebook post, Atlantic Group (which leases and operates several venues and event spaces on the pier, including nightclub Alumbra) said that it was working hard to relocate all functions to other venues. You can read the group's full statement below. This weekend's party plans could be in for a bit of a shake-up, especially if you like wining, dining, or dancing by the water. Docklands' Central Pier — and all the businesses located on it — was yesterday completely evacuated due to safety concerns and reports suggest it'll be off limits and out of action for a good, long while. The 100-year-old pier's landlord, Development Victoria, confirmed the century-old pier and its venues were forced to close immediately on Wednesday, August 28, after engineers advised the structure had suffered significant deterioration and was unsafe for use. Popular residents including gastropub The Woolshed, artisan breadhouse Mill & Bakery and Middle Eastern eatery Mama Rumaan were evacuated on the spot. The pier's numerous events spaces were also declared no-go zones — a bummer especially for organisers of last night's Deakin University commerce ball, which was forced to move location at the last minute. Geoff Ward, spokesperson for Development Victoria, revealed the pier had undergone structural stabilisation in the past two years and had consistently been given the safety tick of approval."Engineers have been inspecting the pier every two months since November 2018 and had previously provided certification that supported the ongoing occupation of the pier," he confirmed. But yesterday's assessment saw immediate closure of the pier. As of this morning, fencing and signage across the front of Central Pier has gone up, preventing any access while Development Victoria waits on further engineering advice about its future. There's no word yet as to how long the precinct will be off limits, though we do know it won't be hosting any of its usual partying this weekend, as confirmed by popular Central Pier nightclub Alumbra. Alumbra posted to the Facebook page for its Saturday club night 9th District, confirming that "9th District and any other business on central pier will not be running this weekend". The venue has "a move in place that will be unveiled in the next few days". https://www.facebook.com/atlanticgroupv/photos/a.209219019106336/2856382844389927/?type=3&theater Images: Giulia Morlando.
The inner north's legendary craft beer scene just scored a major new addition, set in the space right next door to Collingwood's Molly Rose. The formerly tiny brewery has made good on plans to effectively double its Wellington Street footprint, expanding into the two neighbouring buildings to house its new bar, beer garden, lounge and chef's table restaurant. Officially debuting on Wednesday, March 8, with a grand opening celebration on Friday, March 10, the newly expanded venue is out to smash some brewpub stereotypes, while giving its fans a new and improved space for sipping top-notch craft tipples. While the existing brewery bar remains largely unchanged, you'll now find a suite of additional offerings to explore next door, not least of which is the sprawling beer garden and another indoor bar. The latter's showcasing globally influenced core creations like the Lager #3, the Skylight IPA and the lemon farmhouse ale, alongside limited-release Molly Rose brews, plus guest drops from the likes of Black Arts and Two Bays. You can also settle in for a guided tasting of six house beers for $30. Elsewhere on the drinks list sits a solid local-leaning selection of vino and a handful of signature cocktails — ranging from a boulevardier crafted on coconut-washed rye whisky from The Gospel, through to the 281 Spritz infused with sour beer and Anther gin. Molly Rose 2.0 is also taking a deep dive into the art of food and beer pairing, with the help of chef Ittichai Ngamtrairai — aka Biggy. Here, he's drawing on his experience in renowned Melbourne kitchens like Nomad, Matilda 159 and Marameo, as well as time spent at Sydney's LuMi, where he trained in fusing classic Italian flavours with Asian technique. Biggy's menu is an exploration of modern Australian flavours, carefully designed to stand up beautifully against Molly Rose's sips and starring plenty of house ferments. Start your adventure with the likes of pan-seared scallops with finger lime, chilli jam and burnt butter puree, then move onto baccala-stuffed chicken wings or the whipped tofu and cucumber salad. Kangaroo tartare is served with 'nduja and a rice paper crisp; Thai-style jaew and crispy garlic elevate a roast chicken dish; and cured trout is brought to life with a hit of mandarin kosho (a Japanese fermented chilli paste). And don't miss the banana ice cream loaded into a black rice bun with sour beer caramel. Incoming this winter, you'll also find a 20-seat chef's table, where a dedicated menu will be paired with finely tuned beer matches. Molly Rose's official launch festivities start from 4pm on Friday, March 10, complete with a welcome to country and traditional smoking ceremony. Find the new-look Molly Rose at 279 Wellington Street, Collingwood. It's open 4–10pm Wednesday–Thursday, 12pm–1am Friday–Saturday and 12–10pm Sunday. Images: Sarah Anderson.
Australia's east coast is cooling down. Winter has arrived. But Western Australia is just sitting over there, still bathed in sunlight (especially the north). Its coastal waters remain warm, the rolling vineyards are pumping out great vinos and the vast national parks and deserts are ripe for exploring. Now is the time to travel to WA. And we have joined forces with an assortment of local tour operators in Broome, Perth, Ningaloo Reef, the Kimberley and Rottnest Island to help you get the most out of your trip out west. Check out these ten exclusive deals that can only be booked through Concrete Playground Trips. MARGARET RIVER GLAMPING ESCAPE This four-day wellness escape kicks off in Perth, where you get picked up by your guide and driven up to the Margaret River glamping site, stopping off for a swim, morning tea, beachside picnic and chocolate tasting along the way. The rest of your holiday consists of hikes led by holistic healers, meditation workshops, yoga classes and a cheeky wine tour. All your meals are also included. Throughout all of this, you'll stay in Fair Harvest Permaculture Farm's comfy glamping tents and mingle with fellow wellness enthusiasts. If you are in great need of a total mind and body refresh, seriously consider this unique Western Australian glamping holiday deal. BOOK IT NOW. [caption id="attachment_893739" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Western Australia[/caption] THE ULTIMATE PERTH AND ROTTNEST ISLAND GETAWAY To get the most out of a trip to the southern end of Western Australia, we curated this special getaway with the region's top tour operators. First off, we'll put you up in the Duxton Hotel Perth for three nights (where you'll find a complimentary bottle of vino on arrival), located right in the centre of the city. We've then organised a full day of adventuring around Rottnest Island and Perth. You'll go on a Swan River cruise, get return ferry ride tickets to the island and have the option to hire a bike to explore the area at your own pace. We've even added a HALO Rooftop Climbing Tour and zipline experience across Swan River for a little adrenaline rush. BOOK IT NOW. A KICK-ASS KIMBERLEY ADVENTURE This ten-day tour takes you through Australia's Top End. You'll cover a vast distance, travelling from Darwin to Broome, without simply living in a car. So much time is dedicated to swimming within clifftop watering holes, hiking around scenic trails and relaxing at glam accommodation — all the while learning about the millennia-strong First Nations culture that guides any tour through the region. If you've ever wanted to visit this part of Western Australia and the Northern Territory, then check out the full itinerary and nab your spot via the link below. BOOK IT NOW. [caption id="attachment_887073" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ben Careless (Unsplash)[/caption] WEST COAST AND NINGALOO REEF TOUR Road-tripping along Western Australia's long coastline is a bucket list travel experience for so many people. We all want to visit the Pink Lake, snorkel around wild turtles and colourful coral in Ningaloo Reef and feed dolphins in Monkey Mia. Some of Australia's best bits are on show up here. And this six-day tour takes you to a bunch of them. Stay in motels, resorts, cabins and lodges to experience some proper rural Australian culture and be taken to all the above Western Australia travel destinations as well as The Pinnacles and Kalbarri National Park. It's the ultimate coral coaster. BOOK IT NOW. [caption id="attachment_895290" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Western Australia[/caption] EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF BROOME This trip around Broome will have you staying at the four-star resort Seashells in a one-bedroom apartment for three nights. You can easily spend an entire day dipping in and out of the luxe pool, but you really should check out the local sites in your own time. Moreover, for one of your days in Broome, you'll join a Horizontal Falls adventure, which includes a return seaplane flight, a fast boat ride through the falls, a swim and snorkel afternoon and a scenic cruise around the area. We've sorted it all for you — even the return transfers from the airport — making your Broome holiday totally stress-free. BOOK IT NOW. [caption id="attachment_890742" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cape Mentelle Winery by Russell Ord[/caption] MARGARET RIVER BEACHSIDE ESCAPE This is a four-day food- and wine-filled holiday in the lush Margaret River region. Spend your mornings and evenings at Margarets Beach Resort in a studio apartment overlooking the crashing waves of Gas Bay. Then go exploring the region at your own pace. To make that easier, we've also thrown in a five-day car hire. You'll get a suggested itinerary as well as a special one-hour Passel Estate Experience. This includes a special wine tasting that's paired with a series of locally produced craft foods — think chocolates and cheeses. This is great for those who want some things organised ahead of time, but still like the freedom to do their own thing when holidaying. BOOK IT NOW. ESPERANCE WELLNESS AND YOGA RETREAT It's hitting that time of the year when many of us start feeling burnout creeping up. That's when we really need to go on a three-night wellness retreat. For this one, you'll spend a few days at Esperance Island View Apartments enjoying small-group yoga sessions and wellness experiences with sea views. The rest of your time will be spent leisurely exploring this gorgeous part of WA — or simply reading a book on a nearby beach. Throughout this Esperance holiday, all your meals will be included as well as transfers from Perth and extra activities. We've curated this trip so you can just fly in and immediately relax. BOOK IT NOW. [caption id="attachment_891479" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tobias Keller (Unsplash)[/caption] THE PERTH TO MONKEY MIA EXPLORER This Western Australia tour between Perth and Monkey Mia may be short (in distance), but it's big on natural attractions — the kind you expect to see on postcards (or all over Insta). See the limestone pillars of The Pinnacles, the oh-so-blue waters of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shark Bay, the wild dolphins of Monkey Mia and the ancient gorges of Kalbarri National Park all within five days. That gives you plenty of time to also relax at your premium accommodation, spend days swimming at pristine beaches and discover small rural towns full of charm. BOOK IT NOW. [caption id="attachment_895302" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Western Australia[/caption] SWIM WITH WHALE SHARKS ON THIS NINGALOO REEF ADVENTURE Swimming with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef should be at the top of every bucket list when visiting Western Australia's Coral Coast. Exmouth is the gateway to the world's largest fringing reef — the Ningaloo — and that's exactly where you're headed on this exclusive three-day adventure. You'll enjoy a full day diving head-first into this pristine aquatic wonderland, which is home to dolphins, manta rays, turtles, Humpback whales and, of course, the much-loved whale sharks. Spend the rest of your days at your own leisure, but we highly recommend hitting up the iconic Cape Range National Park, home to native wildlife and epic walking trails. BOOK IT NOW. 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. Top image: Scenic Eclipse II
Coveting a piece that you spied on Instagram? Searched high and low for an object with absolutely nothing to show for your efforts? It's a dilemma we often find ourselves in, too. So, following our recent video with interior stylist Steve Cordony, produced in partnership with Samsung, we decided to help you bring some of the goods straight to your shopping carts. From style-heavy couches to smaller, more intricate choices, how you dress up your home should reflect your personal style. Make like Cordony and recreate his clean aesthetics, or pop your own stylist hat on and pick and mix with pieces you already own. THE SERIF, SAMSUNG (FROM $1389) Using Samsung's The Serif as the statement piece, Cordony was challenged to zhoosh up two living rooms in our recent styling video series. The boundary-pushing TV was conceptualised by Paris-based design duo Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec and is a chic-yet-functional choice for any household. With clean lines and exceptional specs, it's the versatile piece you've been looking for. It boasts a sleek 360-degree design with a unique 'I'-shaped profile that acts as a shelf and has removable legs — so it's going to suit any space you're styling. This is all complemented by Samsung's QLED picture quality and powerful sound. HUXLEY TRACK ARM SOFA BED, COCO REPUBLIC (from $5775) If you're after comfort that's equally matched in style, this is the lounge for you. Natural linen is an ideal colour when forming the base palette of a room, leaving your finishings to bring the pops of colour or texture. INDIGO MERINO RUG IN SAND, CADRYS ($3600) If you want to nab this exact rug, you'd better hop to it. It's a one-of-a-kind on offer from Cadrys, the family-run business that's in possession of Australia's largest collection of antique rugs. Enjoy the pared-back colour, luxe material and the perfect base for your styled room? Find something similar here. LARGE FLOW BOWL, DINOSAUR DESIGNS ($450) Adding small, considered pieces to your space is an effortless way to add a personal touch. Splurge on a forever piece like the Flow bowl from resident resin-experts Dinosaur Designs — with a large range of colours and sizes, the hardest part will be choosing your favourite. EMILY BELLE ELLIS VASE, THE DEA STORE ($289) From Sydney-based contemporary ceramicist Emily Belle Ellis comes a vessel that allows you to get experimental with texture and form. Pop by Redfern's The DEA Store to check out this beauty among many other design-centric objects. CLASSICS CUSHION RANGE, LUCY MONTGOMERY ($285) These fringed cushions — courtesy of Lucy Montgomery, the Sydney-based interior architect and designer — allow experimentation with colour, sans commitment. Not quite ready for a bright feature wall? Or a statement lounge? Quell your desire for colour with accessories instead. MOON DISH IN ZEST, DINOSAUR DESIGNS ($80) This delightfully unique dish brings both a pop of colour and a home for trinkets — maybe shells from a morning beach walk or chic and fun marbles for a more playful edge. When it comes to a room that really shines, it's all in the details. CALACATTA NERO QUARTZ PLINTH, EN GOLD ($580) Made of solid stone, this plinth offers the perfect access point to considered style. Adding smaller pieces in differing heights will catch the eye, as well as create a base for your plant-filled pots and vases. JULIETTE BOWL, GARDEN LIFE ($70) A surefire way of making a room a delight to be in? The bright viridescence of plants. Start with your pots — play with colour, shape and size — then grab plants that are happy in the light conditions of your room. Plant your green friends in pots that are only 25 percent larger than their current ones and they'll be given their best chance to thrive. SIMONE KARRAS SPECKLED RAKU VASE, JARDAN ($390) Choosing a uniquely shaped vase will add an element of interest to any room. Sit this one atop a chic quartz plinth or side table to play with heights and finishes. Want to pop a cherry on top? Fill this speckled number with freshly picked florals or some bright citrus fruit. REX COFFEE TABLE, MCM HOUSE ($1950) From the luxury, Australian-designed furniture-heaven that is MCM House comes this circular table (which is available in two sizes and is sure to receive compliments). Designed by Sam Whitman, the table's smooth marble top and powder-coated legs form the perfect addition to any room, regardless of colour palette. VINTAGE CANE ARMCHAIRS, THE VAULT (POA) Sourcing the perfect vintage pair can be a pain, so you're best to leave it to the experts — namely, the curators at The Vault. When picking core pieces of furniture, don't be afraid to mix different styles — vintage cane chairs around a sleek coffee table or vintage books atop sleek marble plinths. MEDIUM ROUND BASKET, ORIENT HOUSE ($80) Storage and style combine in this cane basket from the treasure trove that is Orient House. Tucked under a table or with a pot plant propped up inside, it's the perfect way to add texture to the room. COLLECTION PARTICULIERE MEDIUM BOS VASE and RIPPLE TRAY, ONDENE (POA) Add finishing touches to a room in high-quality materials that are sure to go the distance. Placed on top of a side table, or the landing pad to your Serif's remote, these considered pieces from Collection Particuliere combine function and style seamlessly. To find out more about The Serif TV, visit the Samsung website.
Ever since opening its first bakery in Collingwood back in 2019, To be Frank has been winning over bread and pastry lovers across Melbourne with its 'respectus panis' method of baking. Simply put, the team utilises a long fermentation method with minimal yeast (or natural levain) to bring out the wheat's best flavours — while being great for your gut. Right now, you can nab their bread and pastries (plus top-notch coffee) from their venues in Collingwood and Elsternwick, but there'll soon be a third option — its new venue in East Brunswick Village, which is slated to open in early 2025. The development is already home to knockout venues like Rumi, The Rocket Society, Bridge Road Brewers, Bellboy Cafe, FoMo Cinemas and Siconi Gelato, but a truly good bakery and patisserie is just what the spot needs. The team is working closely with Tahereh Moktarpour and Joey Corso at Corso Designs to design the new venue, which will boast an open patisserie allowing customers to watch its pastry chefs hard at work. [caption id="attachment_983489" align="alignnone" width="1920"] To be Frank Owners Franco Villalva and Lauren Parsons[/caption] All To be Frank's favourites will be up for grabs here, including its extensive range of bread, sweet and savoury pastries, focaccia by the slice, sandwiches and coffee. To be Frank is just about everywhere these days, also setting up a pop-up panettone stall at the EBV Christmas Night Market, plus playing a big role in the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2025. To be Frank's new outpost is slated to open in early 2025, and will be found at East Brunswick Village. For more details, you can check out the venue's website.
Back in 2019, Scottish craft beer giant BrewDog finally made the leap to Australia, setting up its first local brewery by the river in Brisbane. But its reputation had preceded it to our shores, and not just due to its yeasty brews. When you make craft beers for dogs, launch the world's first craft beer airline and open the world's first craft beer hotel, you're bound to garner plenty of global attention. If you're a beer-drinking dog owner who loved the idea BrewDog's boozy, pooch-friendly place to stay — which is fitting called The DogHouse — that's understandable. Still, making the trip to Columbus, Ohio in the US with your four-legged best friend mightn't have topped your to-do list. Thankfully, BrewDog has just announced that it's opening its second craft beer hotel, and on our own shores. Ideally, by the end of 2022, Aussies will be able to bunker down for the night at The DogHouse Brisbane. An exact site hasn't been confirmed as yet, but it's likely that the hotel will make its home right next to BrewDog's existing Brisbane brewery DogTap, which is located in Murarrie. It'll feature up to 30 rooms, which'll each come decked out with shower beer fridges — because why wash without a brew in your hand? — and in-room draft beer taps filled with Aussie-brewed Punk IPA. And, taking your pupper along is 100-percent on the agenda at this eco-friendly place to stay. [caption id="attachment_803135" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] The DogHouse Columbus[/caption] Plans for The DogHouse Brisbane were revealed as part of BrewDog's new blueprint for its operations Down Under over the next two years — and the company has much more in store. As previously announced, it's looking to ramp up its local presence, with a new bar slated for the Brisbane CBD, and new venues on the cards in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. The latter sites will also include their own microbreweries, so they can make their own beer on the premises. While 2021 was previously announced as a launch date, it is now expected they'll be up and running between now and 2023, with further locations on the Gold Coast and in Newcastle also being considered. In Brisbane, BrewDog's beer campus is also undergoing a few more changes — including adding a bigger outdoor seating area with shaded seating to its riverside terrace, and expanding the brewery by installing a pasteuriser. In great news for lovers of hangover-free brews, that new piece of equipment will help the company broaden its alcohol-free beer range, which'll soon include Punk AF, Hazy AF and its raspberry AF sour, Faux Fox. The taproom is also getting an extra 100 square metres of private event space, the walk-in takeaway shop will be expanded and there'll be a larger kitchen. [caption id="attachment_800310" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Brewdog DogTap Brisbane[/caption] Announcing the news, BrewDog's ANZ CEO Ed Bott said: "we are extremely grateful for the outstanding support we have received in Australia since we landed Down Under. It's been a pretty wild ride so far, but we have ambitious plans for Australia and New Zealand, building a fast-paced sustainable business that can be a force for good. We can't wait to bring our relentless obsession with incredible craft beer to the rest of the country and for our Punks to be able to head to their local BrewDog bar and get their paws on our freshly brewed Aussie beers". BrewDog is also keeping its crowdfunding initiative, Equity for Punks, in place in Australia until Wednesday, March 31. Pledging your support can help speed up the company's plans to open a bar in your city, too — with the brewer noting that if more than 500 Equity Punks join from the same city before the current deadline, it will open a BrewDog bar there within the next three years. The DogHouse Brisbane is expected to open sometime in 2022, while new BrewDog sites in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth are on the cards between now and 2023. We'll update you when further information come to hand. For now, you can keep an eye on BrewDog's website for details. Top image: The DogHouse Columbus.
Another week, another Gelato Messina special. That's been the dessert chain's contribution to making lockdown a little more bearable over the past year and a half, and it isn't changing that tactic now. So, if you're under stay-at-home conditions in Sydney and Melbourne, you now have another indulgent sweet treat to look forward to. And for folks in southeast Queensland, you've got an excuse to treat yo'self to a decadent dessert anyway. On the menu this time: the return of the brand's Basque cheesecake gelato, but without the sticky Cinnabon-style scrolls it came paired with when it made its debut back in August. You'll be able to buy a one-litre tub of the stuff, which comes filled with exactly what it says on the label — that'd be Basque cheesecake gelato — and is topped with a slice of toasted Basque cheesecake. The special can only be ordered online on Monday, September 27. It will set you back $35 — and, because Messina's specials always prove popular, the brand is staggering the on-sale times. Accordingly, folks in Queensland and the ACT are able to purchase at 9am, Victorians at 9.30am, and New South Wales customers split across three times depending on the store (with pies from Circular Quay, Surry Hills, Bondi, Randwick and Miranda on sale at 10am; Brighton Le Sands, Tramsheds, Parramatta and Darlinghurst at 10.30am; and Darling Square, Newtown, Rosebery and Penrith at 11am). The catch? You'll have to peel yourself off the couch and head to your local Messina store to pick up your order. They'll be available for collection between Friday, October 1–Sunday, October 3. Sydneysiders, remember to abide by lockdown restrictions when it comes to picking up your bavarian — which means sticking to your Local Government Area, or within five-kilometres from home. Melburnians, under new eased lockdown rules that come into effect in mid-September, you're permitted to travel within a ten-kilometre radius to pick up food. You can preorder a Messina Basque cheesecake gelato tub from Monday, September 27, to pick up from Friday, October 1–Sunday, October 3.
McDonald's has been serving up Big Macs and soft serve cones to Australians for 50 years, and it's been celebrating that fact throughout 2021. That's why the chain gave our tastebuds a Birthday McFlurry earlier this year, among other specials — and now the fast food giant is one-upping that limited-edition treat with a new Caramilk McFlurry. Macca's is no stranger to one-off McFlurry flavours, of course. So, you've probably tried both the good (apple pie) and the bad (bubblegum) varieties before. But Caramilk dessert mashups always take things up a few notches. That's why you've probably already sipped Caramilk cocktails, and eaten the Caramilk dessert jaffles and Caramilk Krispy Kreme doughnuts — and why you've now mentally scheduled in a date with a Caramilk McFlurry (or several). Obviously, this new sweet treat's ingredients are immensely straightforward. We all know what a McFlurry is. We all know what Caramilk is. Combine the two and voila! When it comes to this cult-favourite caramelised white chocolate, there's absolutely no need to overcomplicate things. You'll find the Caramilk McFlurry on the menu at all Australian Macca's outlets from Wednesday, October 13 — and for delivery, too. That said, it really is a limited-edition special, so it's only on offer while stocks last. McDonald's Caramilk McFlurries are available in stores Australia-wide from Wednesday, October 13 while stocks last.
Whether capturing a concert in full or piecing together a career overview, a great music documentary ticks two boxes. If it doesn't leave you with a new appreciation for and understanding of its subject — even if you already adored the band or musician in the spotlight, and thought you knew everything there possibly is to know — then it isn't doing its job. And if it doesn't take care of your music playlist for the hours, days and even weeks afterwards, well, there's something missing as well. We know this because music docos are a stacked genre. Name a group or performer, and odds are they've earned the documentary treatment. They're a popular genre, too — because who doesn't want to watch a movie about bands and musos they like? Alas, while plenty of cameras have been pointed at plenty of talent over the years, not every great music doco is available to stream. Some big hitters, like the Rolling Stones-focused Gimme Shelter, David Bowie concert flick Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars, Beastie Boys' crowd-filmed Awesome, I Fuckin' Shot That and the Chemical Brothers' Don't Think aren't currently accessible, for example. But others are — so we've rounded up ten ace documentaries and concert films that are presently on offer at the click of a button. And yes, dancing in your lounge room is perfectly acceptable. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F4IZBJrNXrY STOP MAKING SENSE When David Byrne walks out onto a Hollywood stage circa 1983 in Stop Making Sense, he brings a tape deck with him. With no one else around him, he presses play, takes hold of the microphone and begins to sing one of Talking Heads' best-known songs: 'Psycho Killer'. That's not how concerts usually kick off — but it's instantly memorable. Everything about this energetic and precisely executed documentary, which records the show from start to finish, earns the same description. Directed by future The Silence of the Lambs Oscar-winner Jonathan Demme, each element of the film is fine-tuned, and every element of the band's performance, too. Expect a lineup of hits, a playful approach, Byrne's famous big suit and even bigger stage presence, and the feeling that you're virtually in the room. Stop Making Sense is available to stream via DocPlay. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fB8qvx0HOlI HOMECOMING: A FILM BY BEYONCE April 14, 2018, will forever go down in history as the day Beyoncé took to the Coachella stage and made it her own. If you were lucky enough to be there, you'll no doubt remember it forever. If you watched the live stream — and it became the most-watched live-streamed performance of all time, so you probably did — then you'll never forget it either. Whichever category you fell into, you likely wished you were closer to the action — to the stage for the 137-minute performance, to the 100-plus dancers, to its powerful homage to America's historically black colleges and universities, and to the backstage antics as well. That's where Homecoming: A Film By Beyoncé comes in, with the engaging and intimate concert documentary not only capturing the huge festival performance (and that Destiny's Child reunion), but weaving in behind-the-scenes footage and candid chats that delve into the preparation process and explain Bey's stunning vision. Homecoming: A Film By Beyoncé is available to stream via Netflix. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCyqR2RXoQU BEASTIE BOYS STORY The idea behind Beastie Boys Story is simple. After Adam 'Ad-Rock' Horovitz and Michael 'Mike D' Diamond wrote a book about their career, called Beastie Boys Book, they then talked audiences through it in a series of Spike Jonze-helmed live shows, called Beastie Boys Show — and the Adaptation and Her director filmed them. As a result, this doco tells the Beasties' tale direct from the source; however the hip hop group's surviving two members are candid, heartfelt and definitely not interested in sugarcoating their ups and downs. Along the way, Jonze weaves in an array of excellent archival footage, as well as plenty of the Beasties' tracks and music videos. Yes, that includes the iconic 'Sabotage' clip, aka one of the best music videos of all time. That's all great, fun, and both smartly and entertainingly structured, but just watching Ad-Rock and Mike D chat is the clear highlight. And when Ad-Rock sits down on stage to talk about the person missing — Adam 'MCA' Yauch, who died in 2012 from cancer — your eyes won't stay dry. Beastie Boys Story is available to stream via Apple TV+. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3N7WthSspQ4&feature=emb_logo AMAZING GRACE Told on screen via text, the story behind concert documentary Amazing Grace is worth its own movie. Over two nights in January 1972, Aretha Franklin recorded her best-selling gospel album of the same name at the New Temple Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles, with the Southern California Community Choir as backing singers, and with filmmaker Sydney Pollack on hand to capture the whole thing. But, due to both technical and legal issues — and Franklin suing to stop the movie's belated release before her death — the end result didn't make it to the big screen until just last year. Nearly half a century is a long time to wait; however, this doco is worth it. Amazing Grace is joyous for many reasons, including witnessing the Queen of Soul's talent, paying tribute in an intimate fashion, and seeing the effect of faith and artistry on the on-screen audience. And when Franklin sings the title track for 11 minutes, it's a moment no one will forget in a hurry. Amazing Grace is available to stream via Google Play, YouTube and iTunes. Read our full review. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R5Pf3MlUo7c A BAND CALLED DEATH In the introduction to this article, we noted that a music doco should do two things. A few achieve something else as well: they open your eyes to a story, and to a musical talent, that you likely wouldn't have known about otherwise. A Band Called Death is one of those documentaries. You mightn't have heard of 70s hard rock outfit Death, the Detroit group widely considered to be the first punk band, otherwise — but once you've made their acquaintance, you'll want to discover more. Directors Mark Christopher Covino and Jeff Howlett are rightfully certain of this, because that's what record collectors started doing when Death's 1975 album ...For the Whole World to See was finally released in 2009. And yes, A Band Called Death covers that part of the story, too. A Band Called Death is available to stream via DocPlay, Google Play, YouTube and iTunes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WeElITdTLE8 SIGN O' THE TIMES As Purple Rain wholeheartedly proved, there are few things as entrancing as watching the late, great Prince on-screen across a hefty chunk of time. If you'd rather see him do what he did best in a whole concert film — or you loved Purple Rain's live performance scenes so much that you want more, which is completely understandable — then Sign o' the Times has you covered. The purple one sings, obviously, largely sticking to tracks from the 1987 album that shares the film's name. He dances like no one other than Prince can. And, he also wears oh-so-many skimpy jumpsuits. Between songs such as 'Little Red Corvette' and 'If I Was Your Girlfriend', the concert doco also weaves in a narrative, should you be keen on a bit of a story with your sultry, slinky, toe-tapping Prince tunes. Sign o' the Times is available to stream via Amazon Prime Video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SluDNQTRDPQ THE PUNK SINGER She helped start the riot grrrl movement, became the voice of 90s punk feminism and, when she spray-painted "Kurt smells like Teen Spirit" across her pal Mr Cobain's wall, inspired the name of a certain grunge anthem. We're talking about Bikini Kill lead singer Kathleen Hanna — who also went on to release her own solo work and front late 90s/early 00s electro-rock group Le Tigre. From crafting art-school fashion shows that comment on sexual assault, to forcing gig crowds let girls to the front so they could mosh without being accosted, Hanna's story is as lengthy as it is fascinating, as The Punk Singer chronicles. This fantastic doco not only steps through its subject's career, explains her impact, explores her quest to share her feminist principles and exposes the many obstacles in her way, but also gets frank and intimate when it comes to her step back from performing due to health reasons in 2005. It also features insights from Hanna's husband, if you didn't get enough of Ad-Rock in Beastie Boys Story. The Punk Singer is available to stream via iTunes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXa3gw3g4C4 GURRUMUL As the insightful film Gurrumul conveys, the late Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu was a musician and a man utterly unlike anyone else. Making his first feature, director Paul Damien Williams charts Yunupingu's days from childhood to his passing, painting a captivating portrait of one of Australia's undisputed icons. Sometimes, the documentary is happy to simply sit and watch as Yunupingu does what he does so sublimely: sing and play, his voice ringing out over the top of his own guitar or even paired with an orchestra. Sometimes, the movie delves deep into Yunupingu's clearly reclusive nature, whether he's keeping mum in interviews, preferring to stay at home, or failing to show up at the airport for what would've been a career-defining trip to America. The end result is a dense, rare and haunting documentary modelled in its subject's image, proving as beautiful, intimate, layered and revelatory as the artist's remarkable songs. Gurrumul is available to stream via Google Play, YouTube and iTunes. Read our full review. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlT7UQm5pfY JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE + THE TENNESSEE KIDS Filmmaker Jonathan Demme strikes again with Justin Timberlake + The Tennessee Kids, giving JT the same lively, entertaining and immaculately choreographed concert doco treatment that he did Talking Heads in the aforementioned Stop Making Sense. Even if you're not much of a fan of the former *NSYNC member when you start watching Demme's documentary, you're unlikely to find your attention levels dropping even for a second, as the movie constantly finds something dazzling to thrust in front of the lens. Usually, that's Timberlake. He's a top-notch live performer, and his efforts and talents are firmly on display here. Also on offer: a set list filled with familiar tracks. And, as the film's name makes plain, JT's band The Tennessee Kids also earns — and deserves — the camera's focus. Justin Timberlake + The Tennessee Kids is available to stream via Netflix. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hEaCDxjmPNg SEARCHING FOR SUGAR MAN Before A Band Called Death stepped through the kind of music story that's so filled with twists and turns that it could only be true, Searching for Sugar Man did the same. The Oscar-winning doco's subject: Sixto Rodriguez, an American musician who was hugely popular in the 70s in South Africa, other African countries, and also Australia and New Zealand. After hearing rumours of Rodriguez's death in the late 90s, two fans tried to work out if it was true — with Swedish documentarian Malik Bendjelloul charting their efforts and revelations. Rodriguez is no stranger to Australia's shores, so part of the movie's discoveries won't come as a surprise to many viewers Down Under; however this film still proves informative and enthralling at every turn. Also, it'll get Rodriguez's track 'Sugar Man' stuck in your head. Searching for Sugar Man is available to stream via Stan and DocPlay.
If you're a fan of Japanese TV series Midnight Diner, you'll be pleased to know One or Two is inspired by the anthology-style serial that traces the story of a different diner customer every episode. Tucked away off an unassuming cobblestoned alleyway, the 24-seater cocktail and whisky bar is firmly in the heart of Chinatown since 2022. One or Two is the first independent offering from Melbourne bartender Andy Chu, who's worked at the likes of the Everleigh, Black Pearl, Byrdi and Above Board. Dark natural wood and monotones abound in the chic space, which has an extensive whisky list of 50 small-batch varieties from around the world — available as flights or highballs — alongside a tightly curated wine, beer, sake and soju menu. Cocktails run the gamut from stalwarts like Margaritas, Martinis and Old Fashioneds to more inventive mixes like a rice-wine-and-gin-infused spin on hwachae (a milky Korean fruit bowl dessert) or a cosy mezcal-forward quince and spiced pear concoction. Every visit is a surprise due to quarterly menu changes, but there's always a guest bar featuring recipes from a slew of bartenders around the world. The bar doesn't accept any reservations and is only suitable for groups of up to six, so be sure to visit solo or in small groups. Images: Kristoffer Paulsen and Griffin Simm.
A little over six months ago, Asahi-owned Matilda Bay made Harry Sexton, Phil Sexton (the original founder of Matilda Bay), Miriam White and Andy Dunn redundant. It was a real kick in the guts, but the team didn't let the huge brand defeat them — deciding instead to open a new brewery within the former Temple site in Brunswick. They named the new venture Keeper Brewing, and have decided to focus on brewing just one beer (something almost unheard of within the craft beer industry). They consider themselves perfectionists, and so are giving all their love into crafting one of the best pilsners in Australia. But this doesn't mean that you can only get one kind of beer when visiting the new bar. The team also has a regularly rotating selection of guest beers from independent brewers, plenty of cocktails and a short but well-curated selection of local wines. Both Harry and Phil have a background in winemaking, so this wine list is in very safe hands. The food here is all made to complement the beers on show, featuring dishes like sweet potato and jalapeno croquettes, crispy polenta with honey and blue cheese, pork and fennel sausage rolls, fried schoolfish with house-made tartare sauce, and a very affordable cheese board. In fact, the entire menu is priced well within reason, highlighting the crew's desire to make the brewery bar an accessible community space. Taking this to the next level, the team is also planning to work with artists on exhibitions and gallery evenings, host live music gigs, and get a steady stream of DJs playing long sets — either inside by the steel brewing equipment or out in the courtyard. It's currently a small operation, but Keeper Brewing is working hard to get itself on the map and fight hard for other independent brewers. Co-owner Harry Sexton shared, "The last real mission of this brewery is to be another voice shouting out to our customers about the current state of the brewing industry in Australia. "We have a duopoly — the same as Coles and Woolies — where two big Japanese-owned breweries are controlling nearly 90% of all beer drunk in our country. They have bought up some of the best craft breweries, and brew these beers all over the country in shared breweries. "It really is hard nowadays to work out where your beer is coming from. With Keeper Pilsner, at least you can be sure it's coming from Brunswick." You'll find Keeper Brewing at 122 Weston Street, Brunswick East, open Thursday–Sunday. For more information, you can check out the brewery's website.
Attenzione! Fitzroy's beloved Italian sandwich bar Rocco's Bologna Discoteca has opened a new upstairs bar. Vince's Bar, named after the father of one of the owners, is a more relaxed and intimate space than downstairs, and boasts a focus on cocktails and snacks. Open since early September, the bar operates from 6pm till late every Friday and Saturday, and has a varied drinks menu featuring a selection of wines and cocktails. The cocktail menu features a mix of classic and modern, heroing Italian ingredients. Some of the highlights include the pandan negroni, made with gin, vermouth and pandan syrup; Vince's martini, which whips together vodka, grapefruit bitters and chamomile oil; and the Spaghetti Western No. 2, which uses mezcal, mango, rose vermouth, bitters and prosecco. The snack menu is also Italian-inspired, with small plates like oysters, mortadella mousse tartlets, and crescetina with Cantabrian anchovies and goat ricotta. As the weather only continues to get nicer (grazie Dio), Vince's Bar, with its cute patio, has timed its opening perfectly. Walk-ins are welcome, so if you find yourself strolling down Gertrude Street on a balmy Friday or Saturday evening, pop in and say ciao. Find Vince's Bar above Rocco's Bologna Discoteca at 15 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy — open from 6pm–late every Friday and Saturday.
Every phrase has to start somewhere, and "you had me at hello" started with Jerry Maguire. When it's uttered by Renée Zellweger to Tom Cruise, it's one of those big on-screen moments that lovers of romantic comedy-dramas will still be talking about decades from now — as they have been for the nearly quarter-century since the Cameron Crowe-directed movie first arrived on screens. Everyone knows that aforementioned piece of dialogue, and the film's other catchy line: "show me the money". You might recall that Cuba Gooding Jr won an Oscar for his supporting performance, too. But you may not always remember how astutely the feature steps through its narrative, spinning a story about a sports agent who has an epiphany about the ruthless business he's in, decides that both him and the entire industry should do better, subsequently gets fired from his high-paying job and then goes out on his own.
As we enter holiday mode, it's time to celebrate with our nearest and dearest. But entertaining can be stressful — and we can't all be master cocktail makers. Luckily, Archie Rose has made it easy for us to enjoy a delicious cocktail without needing to do any heavy lifting, thanks to its range of limited-edition bottled cocktails that bring the bar to you. Whether you want a refreshing beverage on a hot summer's day or a classy nightcap to impress guests at your next dinner party, these pre-made cocktails are a sure thing. And even though the drinks are already taken care of, you can take your serve to the next level with our picks of easy (but effective) garnishes that will make anyone look like a master bartender. THE MOOD: Bright and summery THE SERVE: Salted Mango Spritz with sparkling wine and dehydrated mango For something bright and fresh, grab a bottle of the limited-release Salted Mango Spritz. This cocktail is summer in a bottle, and features Archie Rose Native Botanical vodka, tropical mango, salted caramel and chamomile. This salty sweet beverage is impressive enough when served straight from the fridge neat. However, you can really up your game with a couple of additions. Balance out the sweetness — and add a bit of sparkle — by topping up your glass with a splash of champagne or sparkling wine. Finally, add a slice of dehydrated mango as a garnish for an extra special touch. THE MOOD: Cool and refreshing THE SERVE: Cucumber Collins with elderflower tonic and a ribbon of cucumber If you're after something refreshing and aromatic to enjoy poolside, the Cucumber Collins is a perfect addition to any summer's day. It features juniper notes from Archie Rose's Bone Dry Gin, as well as accents of cucumber and jasmine. This cocktail will impress any guest for your end-of-year entertaining, especially with a couple of simple tweaks. Sure, you could serve it neat, but we recommend you jazz it up with soda or tonic water — try Fever-Tree elderflower for an extra hint of sweetness. Finally, add a cucumber ribbon (simply by taking a peeler to a cucumber) to enhance the flavours in the serve. THE MOOD: Smooth and sexy THE SERVE: Red Centre Negroni with pink grapefruit tonic There's nothing like a negroni on the rocks to kick-start an evening. This bottled version is from the Archie Rose Native Australian range celebrates local ingredients and adds a homegrown twist to the classic. This all-Australian negroni features gin with sweet vermouth by Victorian-based maker Maidenii, and Økar Island Bitter sourced from South Australia's Applewood Distillery. With notes of native riberry and strawberry gum, this cocktail is bursting with flavour. To take it to the next level, top with soda water, sparkling wine or Fentimans pink grapefruit tonic water. Garnish with a twist of grapefruit, a slice of orange, or a sprig of rosemary to compliment those native flavours. THE MOOD: A classy nightcap THE SERVE: Caperberry Martini garnished with a rosemary-speared olive For a classy nightcap to impress your guests, try a Caperberry Martini. This twist on the classic is crafted using Bone Dry Gin, Belsazar dry vermouth, sake and caperberry. Keep your bottle in the freezer and serve neat, or over ice if that's your thing. Or, you could enhance the subtle savoury flavours with a garnish to really bring the bar into your home. A classic Sicilian olive speared in a sprig of rosemary is a great addition for some fragrance. Or keep it simple with a whole-stemmed caperberry. If you really want to impress, then make a lemon twist with a knife or a peeler and wipe around the rim of the glass before serving to add an aroma of citrus. Discover Archie Rose's full range of pre-bottled cocktails at the website.
"We don't lock them down, it will be too late." They're wise words when you're dealing with aliens — and xenomorphs at that — roaming the earth, as the just-dropped new trailer for Alien: Earth teases. That's a particularly pertinent sentiment when, as the last full sneak peek also made clear, there's more than just one type of extra-terrestrial to deal with. On streaming, you'll soon be able to hear humanity's screams in response, with this spinoff from the iconic Alien films promising "five different life forms from the darkest corners of the universe" wreaking havoc. Not once, not twice, but nine times now across 46 years, cinema audiences have stepped into the world of xenomorphs, facehuggers and chestbursters — and of cats onboard spaceships, androids resembling people and shouts not heard in the universe's vast expanse. When Ridley Scott (Gladiator II) directed the initial Alien film, he helped start a sci-fi phenomenon. 2025's Alien: Earth is a first, however, given that it's the franchise's debut TV series. One of the show's twists is right there in its title, with the pale blue dot that humanity calls home giving Alien: Earth its setting. All of those different critters is another fresh element to the series' setup. In the works for a few years now, executive produced by Scott and due to debut via Disney+ on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 Down Under, this is Noah Hawley's addition to the saga — and another of his projects, after Fargo, where he's expanding upon the realm of a beloved film on the small screen. Set in 2120, his Alien entry follows the fallout of deep-space research vessel USCSS Maginot crashing onto earth, then the discoveries made as a result by a crew of soldiers that includes human-robot hybrid Wendy (Sydney Chandler, Sugar). As it peers just under a century into the future, Alien: Earth sees its namesake planet under the control of five companies: Weyland-Yutani, of course, because this is the Alien franchise, plus Prodigy, Lynch, Dynamic and Threshold. It also witnesses a society where hybrids like Wendy — the first of her kind, with human consciousness inside a robot body — live side by side with humans, cyborgs and AI-driven synthetics. Hawley's cast not only includes Chandler, but also Fargo alums Timothy Olyphant (Havoc) and David Rysdahl (The Luckiest Man in America), plus Alex Lawther (Andor), Essie Davis (The Narrow Road to the Deep North), Adrian Edmondson (Kidnapped), Samuel Blenkin (Mickey 17), Babou Ceesay (Killer Heat), Lily Newmark (A Gentleman in Moscow) and more. Alien: Earth expands a saga that began with one of the best sci-fi/horror movies ever back in 1979, and has since spanned 1986's Aliens, 1992's Alien 3, 1997's Alien Resurrection, 2012's Prometheus, 2017's Alien: Covenant and 2024's Alien: Romulus — as well as the 2004 Alien vs Predator and 2007 Aliens vs Predator: Requiem crossover flicks with the Predator franchise. The Predator world is also expanding in 2025 courtesy of the already-released animated Predator: Killer of Killers and upcoming live-action Predator: Badlands, both directed by Dan Trachtenberg, who helmed 2022's excellent Prey. Check out the new trailer for Alien: Earth below: Alien: Earth starts streaming Down Under via Disney+ from Wednesday, August 13, 2025. Images: Patrick Brown/FX.
Fresh off his US headline tour, Kilter has returned to Australia's sandy shores with a studio album in tow. Over the last few years, the artist has outgrown his position on the outskirts of Australia's electronic music scene to become an established EDM up-and-comer. With his new album, Through The Distortion, Kilter delivers seven previously unheard tracks alongside critically acclaimed singles 'They Don't Know Us', 'Count On Me' and 'I Hear You'. Its sound is typically versatile, showcasing Kilter's ability to blend elements of dancehall, garage, breakbeat, hip-hop, big beat, R'n'B, electro and chill. What's more, the album features collaborations with a selection of his favourite Australian musicians, including LANKS, Yaw Faso and Woodes. Along with his new album, Kilter has gifted fans with a massive antipodean tour taking him across Australia and New Zealand in September. And it just so happens that you can go in the running to win a double pass to either his Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane show. We're offering you the chance to win a heap of Kilter-related prizes, including double passes to his Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane shows, a meet and greet and a tonne of merch. TOUR DATES Brisbane — Friday, June 23rd, 2017 at The Triffid Melbourne — Friday, July 7th, 2017 at Prince Sydney — Saturday, July 8th, 2017 at Max Watts Whether you've been a Kilter fan from the beginning, or you've recently joined the bandwagon, enter your details below to go into the draw to win big. [competition]624378[/competition] Image: Maclay Heriot
When one holiday ends, the only thing for it is to start planning the next one. Perhaps in one of those magical places where Slack and email doesn't exist. Where it's not only fine to drink cocktails with lunch — it's encouraged. And entire days are spent by the nearest body of water before you feast on platters of local seafood as the sun sets. If that sounds appealing and you're ready to get booking, spin the fantasy into a reality with one of these luxurious island holiday deals that can be booked now exclusively through Concrete Playground Trips. We teamed up with accommodation and experience providers to curate trips that are truly unforgettable (and significantly discounted), so scroll now to find and book your fave. AFFORDABLE LUXURY STAY IN LOMBOK We are obsessed with Lombok — Bali's less crowded neighbour. It has a high calibre of beaches, food and hospitality but at a significantly lower price point and with fewer tourists. To best take advantage of this stunning island, we teamed up with KU Villas Lombok to create three different travel deals. The first deal is the simplest and includes a two-night stay with daily breakfasts (for two people) in this lavish accommodation for just $105 a night. For an extra $25 per night, you can upgrade to get your own private plunge pool. The second deal includes a three-night stay, private chauffeur, $200 credit for the clifftop SIWA Clubhouse, one-hour massage for each guest and all your breakfasts — and is just $455 total for two people. And the third deal is $655 for all the same inclusions plus extra spa treatments. BOOK NOW THE ULTIMATE KANGAROO ISLAND ADVENTURE This Kangaroo Island deal makes exploring this criminally underrated South Australian travel destination so much easier. It includes a three-day car hire, return ferry tickets from Cape Jervis, a two-night stay at the Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge and an epic ocean safari to get a sea creature's perspective of the spectacular natural beauty. This cruise will take you along the coastline with the chance to see dolphins, seals, eagles and other native birdlife. For more things to do during your stay, check out our weekender's guide to Kangaroo Island and discover why the New York Times recently named it one of the world's best places to visit in 2023. BOOK NOW A FIVE-DAY HOLISTIC BALI RETREAT We love a good wellness escape. That's why we teamed up with Y Retreats to create this exclusive five-day Bali retreat experience. During your stay, you can join any of the wellness experiences — life coaching sessions, stress management activities, yoga and breathwork classes, leadership and resilience training and workshops from keynote speakers. All your meals and transfers are also included. But get in fast. This unique retreat package only has eight spots available. BOOK NOW [caption id="attachment_810409" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Christoph Burgdorfer (Unsplash)[/caption] GLAMPING HOLIDAY ON THE COOK ISLANDS The Cook Islands made our 2022 list of rising bucket list destinations for 2023 and it's easy to see why — you just need to have it on your radar. Immerse yourselves in nature (but in total comfort) on Rarotonga Island with this luxurious glamping holiday. We'll put you up in the Ikurangi Eco Retreat — the Cook Islands' first and only purpose-built eco-accommodation and glamping hotel — where you can choose to stay in a range of beautiful safari tents. You'll spend five nights on this tropical island, venturing to stunning lagoons, remote beaches and scenic nature trails. The trip also includes use of the hotel's bikes and snorkelling equipment, transfers and daily tropical breakfasts delivered to your room. For just $165 per night, this is untouched tropical paradise without the big ticket price tag. BOOK NOW LUXURIOUS MEDITERRANEAN-STYLE ESCAPE IN LOMBOK We teamed up with Royal Avila Boutique Resort to offer an incredible deal to Concrete Playground readers. When you book a three-night or five-night stay, you'll get 47% off the total price. And this special Lombok deal doesn't just include your accommodation. For $755 for a three-night stay for two (around $125 per person per night), each of you will also get a 60-minute massage, lunch and dinner at its restaurant, a welcome cocktail on arrival and daily breakfasts. BOOK NOW THE ULTIMATE WHITSUNDAYS ESCAPE The Whitsundays is one of our top picks for the best Australian destinations to visit in 2023. That was the inspiration behind this exclusive deal which goes above and beyond with unforgettable inclusions to showcase the very best of this beautiful part of the country. Two adults will spend five days at the Mirage Whitsundays resort and take part in a series of guided tours. There's a two-hour sunset sailing cruise, a one-hour scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef and a full-day Whitehaven Beach excursion. Airport transfers and daily breakfasts are also included. (And those who are working with a smaller budget can opt for this shorter travel package.) BOOK NOW FIVE-STAR STAY IN THE HEART OF KUTA If you're visiting Bali and would prefer to be at the centre of the action, then we have the five-star hotel deal for a luxury stay in the heart of Kuta. We've paired up with the opulent Aryaduta Bali to give Concrete Playground Trips users an exclusive offer at a very special rate. A three-night stay (for two people) at the resort is less than half the standard price at just $455. And our package includes perks like a daily cocktail at the rooftop pool bar, dinner at the resort restaurant, an airport transfer and breakfast every day. A no-brainer for realising your island fantasy as soon as possible. BOOK NOW 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. Top image: Lombok by Tom Bixler (Unsplash)
One of the Mornington Peninsula's go-to summer hot spots has had one heck of a makeover, and reopened just in time for the balmy days to come. Famed for its waterfront beer garden and sweeping bay views, the Portsea Hotel is now sporting a dapper new look, helping launch the 142-year-old building into its next phase of life. The $7 million transformation nods to the past, while embracing the contemporary, with plenty of original tiling and artwork making a return appearance. The acclaimed beer garden remains, though now it's joined by a moody whisky haunt dubbed the RIP Bar, a California-style burger bar known as Cliff's, and a stunning second-floor events space, called Bertrand Bar. Walls by the front entrance are set to play host to a rotating curation of local and international art, while in the reimagined dining room Longshore, a big open kitchen is serving up a menu filled with top local produce and healthy touches. Think, whipped cod roe served with pita, Mooloolaba swordfish teamed with panzanella, and a creamy burrata cheese and caprese salad, alongside pub classics and loaded pizzas. A planned series of yoga, pilates and fitness classes will grace the Portsea Hotel's beer garden over summer, as will a hefty program of live music and parties. Kyle Lionhart, The Babe Rainbow and Didirri are just some of the acts that'll help christen the pub in the coming months, with Spacey Space headlining a Christmas Eve Eve fiesta and Tom Tilley leading a dance-worthy NYE ensemble. Find the new-look Portsea Hotel at 3746 Point Nepean Road, Portsea. It's open from 11am–10pm daily.
If you're the type of spirits aficionado who likes their tipples to taste exactly how they always have, then you probably aren't all that fond of creative booze flavours. You mightn't be a fan of bloody shiraz gin, for instance. You likely didn't even give lamington vodka a try. And, well, peanut butter whiskey isn't going to be your thing either. For anyone that's now wondering how to make a peanut butter and jelly cocktail, this latest flavour from Sheep Dog Whiskey is probably already having the exact opposite effect. Yes, peanut butter whiskey is now a real thing that exists, and can be sipped by fans of both peanut butter and caramel-hued spirits. And, after launching in the US, where it's made, it is now available in Australian bottle shops. Taste-wise, you can expect the obvious — so, peanut butter and whiskey — however, this tipple also apparently comes with notes of vanilla and caramel popcorn as well. And if you're wondering how to drink it, the brand suggests going neat — or adding it to your next espresso martini. Other options include combining it with grape liqueur so that you really can have a PB&J-flavoured tipple, or whipping up a peanut butter old fashioned. Naturally, if you're not fond of peanuts, this definitely isn't for you. Sheep Dog Peanut Butter Whiskey is now available in Australia for $55 RRP a bottle — from BWS, Dan Murphy's and First Choice.
In a city like Melbourne, no number of food precincts and dining hubs seems to be too many. Which is a good thing, seeing as we're about to score another. And this one, located in the city's west, is set to be an absolute monster. Taking over a hefty 10,000-square-metre site beside Scienceworks in Spotswood, the well-named Grazeland is on track to open early next year. It'll be home to over 50 sweet and savoury food vendors — along with market stalls slinging locally made wares, three licensed bars and an ongoing entertainment program — and operate as a sort of permanent, returning food festival that's open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the year. We're imagining something in the same vein as popular interstate food offerings like Brisbane's Eat Street, and on a smaller scale, Steam Mill Lane in Sydney's CBD. [caption id="attachment_750746" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Grazeland site.[/caption] Designed by Push Projects along with Phil Bucknell of Milieu Projects, the precinct's set to feature a playful fitout across a series of themed spaces. You'll be able to graze your way through a diverse lineup of food stalls, settle in to enjoy some live tunes, or kick back with a beer in one of the many sunny outdoor spots. A huge shipping container will boast primo views of both the West Gate Bridge and the Melbourne city skyline, and there will be plenty of cover for rainy days. The full lineup of food vendors that'll be calling Grazeland home hasn't been announced yet, though we do know that 48h Pizza & Gnocchi Bar, Cripps Family Fish Farm and Cannoleria by That's Amore Cheese have all been locked in. Grazeland will be family friendly and open from 5–10pm on Fridays, and 12–10pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Grazeland is set to open at 20 Booker Street, Spotswood from early 2020. We'll keep you posted as more details drop.
Seafood is a true treasure of Aotearoa — and there may be no better place to sample some of the freshest than in the South Island. The South doesn't tend to do fine dining, preferring informal eating spots that emphasise ingredients, comfort and making you feel well and truly looked after. The wines are some of the best in the country, and the views? Incredible. Here's your guide to finding the truly unmissable seafood experiences of Te Waipounamu (the South Island). Whether you're eating with a knife and fork or deep-diving to the bottom of a newspaper parcel sitting on a beach, it's all ka pai (great). SHARE A POT OF GREEN-LIPPED MUSSELS AT THE MUSSEL POT Havelock is a little blip on the road between Picton and Nelson in the northeastern Marlborough region — blink, and you'll nearly miss it. But clamber out of the car, stretch your legs and go for a walk around the sleepy little marina where you'll find The Mussel Pot on the main road. Marlborough produces 80 percent of New Zealand's mussel exports. You will not find fresher. The Mussel Pot's menu dedicates the majority of its repertoire to these little green-lipped marvels. Order a kilogram of fresh mussels in cream, white wine, garlic and herbs ($20.50), or coriander, ginger, chilli and coconut cream ($20.50). It also serves battered mussels ($21.50) or grilled on the half shell ($21.50) and whip up a mussel platter ($47.60) if you can't decide which way you like them. 73 Main Road, Havelock, Marlborough. [caption id="attachment_686918" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Boatshed Cafe.[/caption] EAT OYSTERS PERCHED OVER THE SEA AT THE BOAT SHED CAFE IN NELSON The Boat Shed Cafe is a genuinely lovely eating spot in a beautiful old boat shed on the waterfront in Nelson, in the north of the South Island. It will win you over with plates of fresh food, many of which star locally caught seafood — think beautiful Bluff oysters served naturally with just a squeeze of lemon ($5.50 each) and roasted whole sand flounder with paprika and lime ($27). You can also choose the Trust the Chef banquet ($70 per person). This is food to share with people you love, watching the sun set over the sea with a cold glass of chardonnay (Neudorf is the local choice). New Zealand eating doesn't get much better than this. 350 Wakefield Quay, Nelson. [caption id="attachment_687366" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Graeme Murray.[/caption] SHARE A CRAY BESIDE THE OCEAN (OR HAVE ONE TO YOURSELF) AT NIN'S BIN This third-generation roadside eatery has served fresh seafood from its blue and white cray caravan since 1977 and has become an icon on the drive down the east coast. Shuttered for a long time after the Kaikoura earthquake, Nin's is now back up and running. Fishing quotas mean that Nin's opening hours vary, so check its Facebook page for updates, or give 'em a call before you head in for the hot crayfish, mussels and chips in newspaper. On the days you catch it open, your heart will sing as you drive around the corner and see the steam rising from the caravan hatch and the happy patrons tucking into their feast beside the sea. State Highway 1, Half Moon Bay. EAT FISH AND CHIPS ON THE BEACH IN AKAROA A lovely day trip, Akaroa is a sleepy little French colonial town beside the sea, over the hills from Christchurch. Head out in the morning from Christchurch and wander around town, go for a swim, have a long lunch at Rona's and finish the evening eating fish and chips on the beach or on the hill overlooking the harbour. The food is simple. The experience is a classic. There's not much more to say. Every South Islander knows it, and you should partake, too. Just don't forget the rip n dip. 59 Beach Road, Akaroa. [caption id="attachment_687223" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Rodney F.[/caption] SIT DOWN AT FLEUR'S PLACE IN MOERAKI Fleur's Place feels like it has sat at the edge of the jetty in Moeraki, near Dunedin since forever. The elements of the day's menu are literally purchased off the back of the fishing boats and carried a few metres to the kitchen. At the heart of the operation is Fleur Sullivan, a chef who has a firm place in Aotearoa's food heritage. She centres the menu around local, organic produce and seafood like blue cod, John Dory, moki, bluenose, gurnard, sole, flounder, groper and crayfish. Fleur's is also one of the best spots to try local titi, or muttonbird. The wines largely come from central Otago, which is world-renowned for its pinot varieties and fruity white varietals. Take a seat and watch the seals on the foreshore, the fishing boats pottering in and out and parcels of fresh fish being brought into the restaurant or smokehouse. 169 Haven Street, on the jetty at Moeraki. Start planning your trip to New Zealand's south with our guide to the South Island journeys to take here.
Docklands is set to light up once again this winter for Firelight Festival, an annual celebration of flame-filled arts. Running from Friday, June 30–Sunday, July 2, the inner-city precinct is free to enter and will see Docklands come alive with a family-friendly, after-dark program of performance, entertainment, culinary delights and fire-inspired art. This year is set to be Firelight Fest's biggest edition yet, with over 125 talented flame-wielding artists and performers, 40 firepits and drums and 35 flame jets. No, you won't be cold. The lineup promises plenty of reasons to yank yourself off the couch and into the night, headlined by huge light installations including an interactive sound activation that will transform Docklands' Central Park with supersized, luminescent flowers. Other works set to dazzle crowds nightly include a giant, neon mushroom that will sit atop Victoria Promenade, and a five-metre-tall LED, archangel puppet which will roam along Harbour Esplanade. More than 125 performers will descend on the precinct across the three-day festival, ranging from musicians and fire-twirlers to circus acts and flaming trumpeters. And with a collection of fire sculptures, flame jets and fire pits, things are sure to be super toasty as you're exploring the festival's offerings. Of course, appetites are sorted, too, with festival vendors slinging a menu packed with wintry delights. Think, smoked meats, woodfired pizza and roasted marshmallows, washed down with hot chocolate and mulled wine. Firelight Festival will take over Docklands nightly from Friday, June 30–Sunday, July 2. For the full program, head to the festival's website. Images: supplied.
It's been an absolute age since it was first announced back in January 2018, but Chadstone Shopping Centre's much-hyped five-star hotel is finally just weeks away from its big reveal. Dubbed simply Hotel Chadstone Melbourne, it's the work of MGallery by Sofitel and it's gearing up to host its first guests on November 1. The latest drawcard for Australia's biggest shopping centre, the $130 million hotel will have 250 rooms and suites, a sleek rooftop pool and conservatory bar, its own day spa and wellness retreat, an LED-lit yoga studio, a lounge bar and a couple of top-notch restaurants. It's also set to be Melbourne's only five-star hotel located outside the city centre. The suites are all kinds of opulent, too, featuring a clever design by multiple world-leading studios, including Australia's own Bates Smart. Think, contemporary blush pink and teal hues, custom lighting and a range of specially commissioned designer furniture inspired by trunks from luxury European fashion labels. The ritziness continues upstairs on the roof, where you'll spy private cabanas, a pool ringed with loungers and incredible panoramic views to match. At rooftop bar and lounge Altus, you'll be able to sip classic cocktails beneath a custom-made, seven-tier wine glass holder chandelier, while the dining room is set to be a striking vision of mirrored arches and plush velvet banquettes. [caption id="attachment_744795" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Render of a suite[/caption] In a win for foodies, Hotel Chadstone will also house Pastore, the latest venture from acclaimed chef Scott Pickett (Estelle, Matilda, Lupo). Fusing the classic flavours of Italy with a distinct Australian edge, this contemporary all-day diner and bar will have a menu that heroes woodfired dishes and handmade pasta. Expect sophisticated plates like the wood-roasted king prawns with fermented tomato, 'nduja and fennel pollen, and an 800-gram, 35-day dry-aged bistecca alla fiorentina, served against a plush backdrop of dusty pink hues, warm timber and brass. Meanwhile, the wine list will favour Italian varieties from local producers and a cocktail lineup will rework Italian classics with Australian botanicals and spirits. We expect it'll be a popular go-to for post-shopping snacks and drinks. If you're staying in the hotel, you'll also be able to have Pastore favourites delivered to your room, too. Once open in November, Hotel Chadstone Melbourne will mark Sofitel's 11th MGallery hotel in Australia. Hotel Chadstone will open on November 1 at 1341 Dandenong Road, Chadstone. It's now accepting reservations with rooms starting from $254 a night.
Victoria is currently under stay-at-home orders so, while you can't visit these pubs in person, you can still show your support with takeaway and online orders. You can stay up to date with the developing COVID-19 situation in Victoria, as well as current restrictions, at the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services. Rain, hail or shine, Melbourne's excellent pub scene is one that can be enjoyed all year round. And thankfully, many fine Melbourne watering holes are equipped with charming (and, naturally, heated) beer gardens so you can enjoy the outdoor vibes even if the cold winds are rising. We've teamed up with Guinness to put together a list of five excellent beer gardens in Melbourne to hit up at any time of the year. Pub not an option? You could always recreate the mood at home with one of these great winter recipes by star chef Colin Fassnidge. WELCOME TO THORNBURY Welcome to Thornbury is probably the most conspicuous beer garden on High Street. This is probably owing to the fact that it's essentially all beer garden. Complete with loads of high and low seating, lush foliage, adjustable awnings, outdoor heating, and licensed for up to 700 people, it's quickly become a northside favourite for a leisurely day or evening session, especially with their excellent deals (like a jug for the price of a pint during Friday happy hour, for starters). You won't go hungry, either — Welcome to Thornbury is also Melbourne's first dedicated, permanent food truck space. So far, over eighty different food trucks have rolled through the grounds on a daily rotating basis, keeping punters fuelled for regular events like movie and board game nights. Find Welcome to Thornbury at 520 High Street, Northcote. NOTTING HILL HOTEL Sadly, this pub doesn't have a charming 90s-era Hugh Grant manning the taps, but it does have arguably one of the finest beer gardens in town. Its size alone is impressive enough, but it's the long wooden tables beneath leafy boughs that give this local boozer its laidback charm, all year round. Once you're settled in, grab a pizza to share from the dedicated pizza window (open from Wednesday to Saturday), or order something larger from the taproom menu, which offers inventive takes on the usual suspects. Live music, comedy and trivia are also regularly on the bill at The Nott, so there's usually a bit of a buzz around this friendly local. Find the Notting Hill Hotel at 260-262 Ferntree Gully Road, Notting Hill. The Notting Hill Hotel bottle shop is open daily, with cocktails, growlers and snacks available. PRINCE ALFRED HOTEL This renowned Richmond venue houses one of the area's most popular beer gardens — and with very good reason. With its high, leafy trees and dedicated outdoor bar, this spacious beer garden boasts a welcoming atmosphere and plenty of standing heaters, as well as a covered area for those days when the Melbourne weather simply can't make up its mind. Daily specials, share plates and pub classics are all on offer alongside an impressive steak selection, making this Church Street spot a great pick for a reliable after-work feed or leisurely Sunday lunch. Find the Prince Alfred Hotel at 619 Church Street, Richmond. WHITEHART A former car park turns into a smart, two-level shipping container bar serving craft beer and cocktails, in an alleyway off another alleyway — does it get more Melbourne than that? CBD hangout Whitehart epitomises the city's hospo ethos of turning a nondescript industrial space into a venue that effortlessly oozes cool. The expansive beer garden and deck features exposed brick punctuated by the odd bit of greenery. Swing by for well-made cocktails, boutique wines, live tunes and a rotating food menu, which includes hearty fare from pizza (by neighbouring +39 Pizzeria) to smoked barbecue meats. Find Whitehart at 22 Whitehart Lane, Melbourne. HARDIMANS HOTEL Taking up a prime position of Macaulay Road, Hardimans Hotel's claim of being 'the best in the west' may be hard to challenge — this sleek, smartly refurbished art deco hotel not only offers a cracking selection of craft beer on tap, but also houses a great beer garden, some of which is undercover and heated. Low tables and wooden benches wrap around this courtyard bordered by planter boxes filled with lush greenery, making this a great spot to drop into for a catch-up with mates, or maybe even a low-key date. Find Hardimans Hotel at 521 Macaulay Road, Kensington. Thirsty? Find your closest place for a pint over at the Guinness Pub Finder. Top image: Welcome to Thornbury
In Encanto, the Madrigal family might not talk about Bruno, but they sure do sing about him — and, thanks to that earworm of a Lin-Manuel Miranda-composed track, everyone watching soon does, too. Just try to catch the Golden Globe-winning, Oscar nominated animated hit without getting that song stuck in your head for weeks. No matter what you do, it's impossible. In fact, even mentioning the tune in this very paragraph will cause the same result. Yes, we know that everyone reading this now has 'We Don't Talk About Bruno' burrowed into their brains again — and there's absolutely nothing that we can do about it. But when a ditty takes up residence inside your skull and won't leave, you may as well lean in. And, over at Disney+, you can stream a sing-along version of Encanto that'll get you crooning with the movie from your couch. No longer solely the domain of special cinema screenings, Disney's sing-along takes on its famous musicals are heading to its streaming service. It was always bound to happen, and the Mouse House has started with the movie of the moment. As you watch, lyrics will dance across your TV screen when it's time to belt out ballads — so if you don't know all the words yet (or if you're viewing with someone who thinks they do, but inserts their own mistaken lyrics), they'll all be there for you. While Encanto is the first flick to get the sing-along Disney+ treatment among the company's popular musicals — and it hit the service back on Friday, March 18, so it's there to watch and warble along to now — it obviously won't be the last. The Mouse House has plenty of other tune-filled movies to its name, after all, and it's planning to build up a catalogue of them on its streaming service. Accordingly, before 2022 is out, Frozen, Frozen 2, and both the animated and live-action versions of Beauty and the Beast are all set to make their way to the platform. Exact dates haven't yet been revealed, but at least you now know there'll be other chances to get different Disney tunes stuck in your head — or 'We Don't Talk About Bruno' will just have 'Let It Go' and 'Be Our Guest' for company. The sing-along version of Encanto is available to stream via Disney+ now, with Frozen, Frozen 2, and both the animated and live-action versions of Beauty and the Beast set to hit the platform throughout 2022.
If you're looking for another reason to be proud of this wide, brown land that we call Australia, have you considered becoming a huge fan of our indie games scene? Like our musicians who grace festival stages overseas, and movies that go gangbusters at foreign box offices, Aussie-made indies regularly take the internet by storm and garner awards around the world. With increased development funding from state and federal governments, the future is looking bright for Australian games. But there are already a bunch of bangers you can download and play today — like the five below. UNPACKING Who would've thought that one of the most arduous personal tasks that you can undertake would turn out to be such great fodder for a game? Developed by Brisbane-based studio Witch Beam, Unpacking puts you in the shoes of a woman as she opens unmarked boxes and distributes her belongings throughout the various spaces that she moves into over the course of her life, starting with her childhood bedroom and carrying through university dorms, sharehouses and more. It's immensely satisfying gameplay, with enough of a puzzle element to add rewarding "aha!" moments throughout. Despite having no dialogue and very little text, Unpacking is rich with a narrative borne through details, from the items that stay with its character over the course of her life to the limitations you encounter when trying to fit yourself into certain living situations. And, without giving too much away, there is a twist at the end of moving into your boyfriend's apartment that will send your emotions skyrocketing. Available on: PC/Mac, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One/S/X, Playstation 4/5, iOS, Android. UNTITLED GOOSE GAME There's no more succinct way to sum up Untitled Goose Game than the opening line of the description written by Melbourne-based developers House House: "it is a lovely morning in the village, and you are a horrible goose". As you might have guessed, this game sees you controlling a feathered menace whose sole purpose is to sow gentle chaos throughout a quintessential small English town. Each area has a checklist of broad objectives — from stealing a farmer's keys to trapping a small boy in a phone booth — and it's up to you to figure out how they can be achieved by honking, flapping, waddling around and generally being a mischievous little shit. With graphics that could've come straight from a children's book and a soundtrack based on Debussy's Preludes that reacts to what you do in the game, it's an experience both refined and hilarious — and, thanks to a multiplayer update, you and a friend can live out your avian scamp dreams together. Available on: PC/Mac, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One/S/X, Playstation 4/5. HOLLOW KNIGHT Metroidvania is a genre with almost four decades of history behind it — the name springs from Metroid and Castlevania, which both debuted in the 80s — so for a modern iteration to be considered a masterpiece, it has to come correct. Hollow Knight, developed by Adelaide's Team Cherry, satisfies that requirement. Set in an underground insect kingdom decimated by a supernatural plague, you play as the Knight, a little sword-wielding bug who must descend into the gloomy ruins to discover what happened, as well as the part you play in what comes next. With tight, frenetic combat, brutal boss battles, compelling exploration, a stirring soundtrack and gorgeous, moody visuals, it's a game that will command your attention for a long time. Sequel Silksong is tantalisingly just over the horizon, so there's never been a better time to start your descent into Hallownest. Available on: PC/Mac, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One/S/X, Playstation 4/5. THE FROG DETECTIVE TRILOGY The intersection of the Venn diagram of 'crime' and 'wholesome' is razor slim, but sitting dead in the centre is the Frog Detective trilogy, developed by Worm Club out of Melbourne. As the name suggests, you're Frog Detective — the second-best detective around, in fact — and, over the course of three cases, you tackle a potential ghost, an invisible wizard and a hat thief, conducting your investigations in first person with the help of your trust magnifying glass and notebook. The blocky, bright polygonal art is both retro and adorable, and your interactions with the various characters that inhabit each game are relentlessly charming. It's not the most taxing game in terms of puzzles — you'll mostly be finding objects and giving them to the right person — but that makes the Frog Detective series the perfect entry-level games to enjoy with kids. Of course, if you're an adult that loves cute and funny experiences, it's perfect for you too. Available on: PC/Mac. THE ARTFUL ESCAPE We've all had dreams of becoming a rock star. In The Artful Escape by Melbourne's Beethoven & Dinosaur, you can live out this fantasy on a cosmic scale. The game sees you controlling Francis Vendetti, the teenage nephew of a deceased folk music legend who is about to make his debut performing his uncle's songs. The only problem: he doesn't want to simply strum, he wants to wail. A chance encounter sends him out into the universe to overcome his doubts and find his true artistic self, the details of which are in your hands. It features a star-studded voice cast (Rocky's Carl Weathers, Wes Anderson favourite Jason Schwartzman, Kingsman's Mark Strong and Game of Thrones' Lena Headey all lend their talents), plus a story that balances heartfelt and hilarious deftly. On the gameplay front, it tends towards simplicity, with basic platforming and Simon Says-esque button prompts forming the bulk of the experience; however, it more than makes up for this with a eye-wateringly psychedelic visual spectacle and a button dedicated to searing guitar solos. Available on: PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One/S/X, Playstation 4/5.
One week after the Victorian Government revealed the dates it anticipates to start reopening Melbourne's hospitality scene, it has shared details about just what this next phase might look like. At a press conference today, Monday, September 14, Premier Daniel Andrews shed some light on the realities for venues planning to open their doors from Monday, October 26, outlining a strong focus on outdoor dining. The government also announced it's teaming up with the City of Melbourne to deliver a $100-million support package to help venues bring this vision for an al fresco-focused food scene to life. The Melbourne City Recovery Fund will be used to assist around 16,500 City of Melbourne venues to pay for any infrastructure needed to boost their outdoor dining options, including things like perspex screens, new tables and umbrellas. About a third of the funding will go towards supporting COVIDSafe events and activities with the aim of enticing people back to the city, while close to $40 million is being committed to making physical changes to the CBD streetscape, boosting the viability of outdoor dining through measures like activating vacant shopfronts and widening footpaths. Minister for Industry Support and Recovery Martin Pakula also announced an extra $87.5 million in outdoor hospitality support for venues outside of the CBD. A series of $5000 business grants will help venues cover things like advertising and training, as well as purchasing the furniture, screens and other extras needed to elevate their outdoor dining offering. Local councils will also receive some of the funding, enabling them to reduce or waive permit fees, but also to make improvements to streets. The Premier suggested the new focus on al fresco service would mark significant, ongoing changes for Melbourne's hospitality industry, outlining a similar approach to the one currently being employed in New York City. "They have been able to get their hospitality sector back to something approaching normal, faster than what would otherwise have been the case because they have used the footpath, curbside parking and taken public space and turned it into pop-up cafes, restaurants, bars," the Premier said. "That is what we will do. We will change the way the city operates, and the suburbs and regional cities." [caption id="attachment_699186" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kate Shanasy[/caption] As far as how the specifics are set to play out, the Premier explained each venue would be judged on its own merits, but that we'd be seeing changes to many outdoor spaces and lots more tables on footpaths. "Some of that foot traffic may move to the curbside parking area where curbside parking would no longer be allowed. We may see streets closed, some laneways closed, even," he explained. "We may see public space, so parks and gardens that are adjacent to significant numbers of restaurants and pubs, venues like that may well be transformed." The hospitality sector is set to reopen with "predominantly outdoor seated service only" from Monday, October 26, as long as the state hits a 14-day average of less than five new daily coronavirus cases. It must also have clocked less than five cases with an unknown source across the previous two weeks. For more details on the Victorian Government's reopening roadmap, see the website. Top image: Kate Shanasy
Pearl Jam finally returning to Australia and New Zealand for the first time since 2014 was always going to be big news. Tickets to their shows were always going to get snapped up fast, too. So, it comes as no surprise that the Eddie Vedder-led band's Down Under leg of their Dark Matter tour has added new gigs on the day that tix went on sale — because Melbourne, Sydney and Auckland's concerts have proven that popular. In NZ, the group will now hit up Go Media Stadium in Mt Smart on Sunday, November 10 as well as the already-announced Friday, November 8. In Melbourne, Monday, November 18 joins Saturday, November 16 on Pearl Jam's trip to Marvel Stadium. And in Sydney, the band will play Giants Stadium on Saturday, November 23, after their first show there on Thursday, November 21. [caption id="attachment_940860" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Raph_PH via Flickr[/caption] At each of the new gigs, as well as the rest of the tour's stops in Sydney and on the Gold Coast, audiences will be treated to two hefty names in 80s and 90s music thanks to Pixies in support. Vedder and Black Francis taking to the same stage? That'll make you feel alive and ask "where is my mind?". Pearl Jam are the headliners, returning after last hitting our shores on a tour a decade back that included the final-ever Big Day Out. Dark Matter, the band's 12th album, will release in April — which gives fans plenty of time to know it by heart before the group take to local stages. [caption id="attachment_940849" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Wp72 via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] Expect to hear tunes from Dark Matter, plus past hits 'Alive', 'Black', 'Jeremy', 'Better Man', 'Last Kiss' and 'Daughter' from previous albums such as the iconic Ten, Vs and Vitalogy from the early 90s, plus No Code, Yield and more since. Pixies, who were last Down Under in 2022, are responsible for a helluva one-two punch with their first two albums: 1988's Surfer Rosa and 1989's Doolittle. The first gave the world the track that's been linked with Tyler Durden courtesy of David Fincher's Fight Club since 1999, aka 'Where Is My Mind?', as well as 'Gigantic' and 'Cactus'. The second is home to 'Here Comes Your Man', 'Monkey Gone to Heaven', 'Debaser' and 'Wave of Mutilation'. Tickets to the tour required registration first, which has already ended. But, if you have received a code as part of that process, it's now valid for the new gigs. [caption id="attachment_940844" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Danny Cinch[/caption] Pearl Jam Dark Matter World Tour 2024 with with Special Guests Pixies — Australia and New Zealand Dates Friday, November 8 + Sunday, November 10 – Go Media Stadium, Mt Smart, Auckland Wednesday, November 13 — Heritage Bank Stadium, Gold Coast Saturday, November 16 + Monday, November 18 — Marvel Stadium, Melbourne Thursday, November 21 + Saturday, November 23 — Giants Stadium, Sydney Pearl Jam and Pixies are touring Australia and New Zealand in November 2024, with ticket sales from Friday, February 23 — head to the Pearl Jam website for further details. Top image: Raph_PH via Flickr.
The last time that Timothée Chalamet and Luca Guadagnino joined forces, the best film of 2017 was the end result — and what a swooning, moving delight Call Me By Your Name proved to be. The 1980s-set romance nabbed Chalamet a Best Actor Oscar nomination, and Guadagnino a Best Picture nod, too. So, arriving five years later, it's safe to say that pair's second collaboration is among 2022's most eagerly anticipated movies. That film is called Bones and All, and it'll premiere at this year's Venice Film Festival at the end of August/early September — and it boasts another key factor that'll pique viewers interests. Once again, Chalamet and Guadagnino collaborate on a love story, although this one comes with an extra bite. Forget peaches; here, Chalamet plays one half of a cannibal couple. "You don't think I'm a bad person?" he says as Lee, speaking to Taylor Russell's (Waves) Maren, in Bones and All's just-dropped first teaser trailer — which the Dune, The French Dispatch and Don't Look Up actor himself unveiled via Twitter. The response is exactly what you'd expect: "all I think is that I love you," she replies. While Bones and All will follow its cannibal lovers as they road trip across America, at 28 seconds, this first sneak peek is big on mood rather than plot — and the vibe is yearning, swooning again, but also unsettling. When Mark Rylance (The Phantom of the Open) pops up, he has his finger to his lips in a gesture of warning. Bones and All marks Guadagnino's first feature since 2018's Suspiria remake — after a detour to television with HBO series We Are Who We Are — and sees the director bring Camille DeAngelis' novel of the same name to the screen. Also set to feature in the film: Chalamet's Call Me By Your Name co-star Michael Stuhlbarg, We Are Who We Are alums Chloë Sevigny and Francesca Scorsese (yes, the daughter of filmmaker Martin Scorsese), plus André Holland (Passing), Jake Horowitz (The Vast of Night), filmmaker David Gordon Green (Halloween Kills), and Jessica Harper from both the original Suspiria and Guadagnino's version. Bones and All will release in the US on November 23, but doesn't currently have a release date Down Under — fingers crossed that that changes sooner rather than later. Check out the trailer for Bones and All below: Bones and All hits US cinemas on November 23, but doesn't currently have a release date Down Under — we'll update you when one is confirmed.
If you’ve been feeling like a helpless bystander in the global food crisis, you can now take action — simply by, well, doing a wee. Problem is, it’ll only count if you do it in Amsterdam — and in public. A Netherlands’ utilities company by the name of Waternet has set up a bunch of pee-collecting urinals in the Dutch capital. Their plan is to send the fluid to a recovery plant, where the all-important phosphorus will be filtered out and transformed into struvite fertiliser. From there, it’ll be transported to farms and flower gardens. Fertiliser without phosphorous is kind of like coffee without caffeine — lacking the crucial kick. Even though phosphorus is, in and of itself, a renewable resource, modern agricultural access to it depends largely on phosphate rock reserves. Given that they’ve taken millions of years to form, they’re very much finite. But the good news is that, according to several studies, one individual’s urine delivers sufficient nutrients to grow food for themselves, as well as meet 50-100 percent of the dietary needs of another person. In that sense, Waternet is merely tapping into the biological processes that have kept us alive for thousands of years. And we thought our pop-up pissoirs were the hottest tourist attraction since the Opera House. Via Springwise.
Pare back the impressive special effects and constant wisecracking in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 and you soon come to realise...there's not a great deal of story to speak of. After a lifetime of searching, Peter Quill aka Star-Lord (Chris Pratt) finally finds himself face to face with his estranged father, Ego (Kurt Russell), from whom he quickly learns the truth about both the power and importance of his lineage. The question, though, is what's driving Ego's sudden appearance in Quill's life after such a long absence? Beyond that, there's actually very little going on in the film, aside from an entirely superfluous secondary plot involving a genetically-engineered race of conceited aliens (led by a gilded Elizabeth Debicki) who are hell-bent on killing the Guardians over a tiny spat from the opening scene. In the absence of plot, then, what drives this film and keeps it (for the most part) engaging are the relationships. For Quill, that means both a developing closeness with his father and an ongoing attempt to progress what he terms his 'unspoken thing' with the green-skinned warrior Gamora (Zoe Saldana). Gamora, in turn, is preoccupied with the increasingly complex and fractious relationship she has with her vengeful sister Nebula (Karen Gillan) – by far the movie's most compelling and nuanced dynamic. Close behind that comes the foul-mouthed Rocket Raccoon (Bradley Cooper), whose proclivity for sabotaging friendships and avoiding emotional closeness comes under the microscope in a surprisingly tender way. Less moving, but always entertaining, are the two remaining Guardians: Drax, the forever-literal powerhouse (Dave Bautista) and Groot, the tree creature turned sapling (voiced by Vin Diesel). Groot proved a fan favourite in the first Guardians film, so naturally he has a bigger role here. With those enlarged Disney ™ eyes and a propensity for dancing at inopportune moments, Groot represents at once the film's most consistent comedic device and tweaker of heart strings. To say his merchandise will sell well after the film's release might prove the single largest understatement of 2017. Of course, a review of a Guardians movie wouldn't be complete without mentioning its soundtrack. As in the first film, here we find a compilation of '80s tracks that well and truly earns the 'Awesome Mix Tape' tag. 'Mr. Blue Sky' by ELO, 'The Chain' by Fleetwood Mac and 'Surrender' by Cheap Trick are just some of the album's top-to-bottom highlights, used throughout the movie with such design that it's almost a character unto itself. Then there's Cat Stevens' 'Father and Son'. Already one of last century's most moving ballads, its deployment in the final stages of the film hits you in the feels so hard that you stand zero chance of wrenching your tear ducts shut in time. Admittedly, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 feels less innovative than its predecessor, with writer-director James Gunn mostly expanding upon existing plot lines, jokes and action sequences rather than inventing new ones. Still, it's an enjoyable ride, and there's clearly more to come (be sure to stay through to the end of the credits through which you'll catch a full five additional scenes and teasers). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hdv_6gl4gk
If the last couple of years in pop culture are to be believed, it mightn't be a great idea to go away with a character played by Cristin Milioti. In three of the always-excellent actor's most recent high-profile roles, she has decamped to idyllic surroundings, only to find anything but bliss awaiting. Palm Springs threw a Groundhog Day-style time loop her way in its titular setting. Made for Love saw her trapped by sinister futuristic possibilities. In The Resort, which hails from Palm Springs screenwriter Andy Siara, she now has the ten-year itch — and a getaway to Mexico that's meant to soothe it slides swiftly into a wild mystery. In this instantly twisty comedy-thriller — which brings its first three episodes to Stan in Australia on Friday, July 29, and TVNZ On Demand in New Zealand, then drops the remaining five weekly — Miloti plays Emma, spouse to William Jackson Harper's (The Good Place) Noah. After a decade of marriage, they're celebrating at the Bahía del Paraíso in the Yucatán, but they're really trying to reignite their spark. At this stage in their relationship, he recoils at her bad breath, she makes fun of him falling asleep on the couch, and they're rarely in sync; even when they're floating along the resort's lazy river, cocktails in hand, they want different things. And, they each tackle their matrimonial malaise in wildly dissimilar ways. She wants to find herself above all else, while he's desperate to reconnect. What they both find is a missing-persons case from 15 years ago, after Emma goes tumbling off a quad-biking trail, bumps her head and spies an old mobile phone. It belongs to Sam (Skyler Gisondo, Licorice Pizza), a guest at the nearby but now-shuttered Oceana Vista Resort, who was on holidays over Christmas 1997 with his parents (IRL couple Dylan Baker, Hunters, and Becky Ann Baker, Big Little Lies), as well as his girlfriend Hannah (Debby Ryan, Insatiable). As Emma learns via Sam's photos and text messages, all wasn't rosy in his romantic life. After running into fellow guest Violet (Nina Bloomgarden, Good Girl Jane), his SMS history skews in her direction. But the pair promptly disappeared, and any potential clues were lost when a hurricane struck and destroyed their getaway spot. Initially, Emma and Noah could've waltzed right out of The White Lotus, which also saw a sunny and sandy holiday turn sour — and surveyed couples looking to reignite their love, or solidify it, but getting caught up in thorny feelings and a murky death, too. When Emma takes to solving Sam and Violet's disappearance with the kind of enthusiasm she clearly hasn't shown towards Noah for years, she could been on loan from Only Murders in the Building as well. And, the more that the obsessed Emma and the reluctant Noah investigate, the more than The Resort has in common with Palm Springs. No one relives the same day again and again, but showrunner, writer and executive producer Siara displays the same sense of playfulness. Can bonding over a 15-year-old cold case fix a flailing marriage? Did a holiday romance end in tragedy all that time ago? They're The Resort's two key questions. It has more, many uttered by Emma and Noah as they track down every tidbit they can, but they're not the only people interested. In the series' flashback timeline, Oceana Vista Resort's head of security Baltasar (Luis Gerardo Méndez, Narcos: Mexico) tries to get to the bottom of things, while Violet's father Murray (Nick Offerman, Pam & Tommy) is understandably frantic. Also part this layered tale: Gabriela Cartol (Hernán) as knowing concierge Luna, Ben Sinclair (Thor: Love and Thunder) as erratic resort owner Alex, plus Parvesh Cheena (Mythic Quest) and Michael Hitchcock (Barb & Star Go to Vista Del Mar) as two married Teds dissecting their own long-running nuptials. The Resort's three main threads — a marriage in peril, holidays gone wrong and crime-inspired sleuthing — are as familiar as scenarios get on-screen in the past few years. Indeed, picturesque vacations taking turns for the worst have become a pandemic-era staple, as M Night Shyamalan's Old, the Tim Roth-starring Sundown, the aforementioned The White Lotus and fellow TV series Nine Perfect Strangers have all demonstrated. Siara moulds his addition to the landscape knowingly, though. He approaches all three of his well-worn setups with an understanding of why they're popular, and with a roguish eagerness to zig and zag all over the place. One of the show's biggest thrills comes from seeing just where it'll veer off to next, even while working with such recognisable beats. Surprises arise not just for Emma, Noah, Sam, Violet and company, but for The Resort's audience. Something that won't astonish: how quickly bingeable the series becomes, even though it's drip-feeding out its later episodes. Like Emma and Noah, getting drawn deep into the mystery is easy. Like Sam and Violet, too, getting caught up in the excitement comes just as naturally. The need to piece together puzzles kicks into gear while watching — something that Siara also cultivated on the tonally similar, criminally cancelled-too-soon Lodge 49, and rang true of producer Sam Esmail's Mr Robot as well. It helps that The Resort always looks enticing, not just via locations bound to inspire travel yearnings, but in the detail that resonates in its jungles, caves, hotel bars and lavish penthouses alike. The show's four directors, including Sinclair (High Maintenance), Australian filmmaker Ariel Kleiman (Partisan), and Daniel Garcia and Rania Attieh (Two Sentence Horror Stories), ensure that everything seen on-screen is lively, fascinating and probing in tandem. As guides through The Resort's many turns — as audience surrogates as well — Milioti and Harper are supremely well-cast, even if both have played these types of characters before (for the latter, see: season two of Love Life). The series could've focused solely their way and unearthed ample treasures, stirring insights into love and loss among them. That said, the same is true of the reliably engaging Gisondo (who keeps building on a resume that also spans Santa Clarita Diet and The Righteous Gemstones) and Bloomgarden as Sam and Violet find their own riddle to solve. Offerman's determined father adds poignancy, plus another excellent turn to his his name, but it's Méndez who best embodies The Resort. Sometimes he's tasked with teasing out minutiae and intrigue, sometimes he's delightfully goofy, and he's always impossible to look away from. Check out the trailer for The Resort below: The Resort is available to stream in Australia via Stan and in New Zealand via TVNZ On Demand. Images: Marisol Pesquera / Peacock.
What will open with the Australian premiere of one of this year's Sundance hits — an Aussie movie that won one of the prestigious fest's audience awards, no less — and also feature a huge music celebration right at its centre? The 2023 Melbourne International Film Festival. Just under three months out from the Victorian capital's annual cinema showcase, MIFF has revealed its first two titles for this year, both with strong local connections. Launching the festival for 2023 is Noora Niasari's Shayda, which is set and shot in Melbourne, marks the Tehran-born, Australian-raised writer/director's feature debut and tells an autobiographical tale. Seeing Niasari leap from participating in the MIFF Accelerator Lab for short film helmers to opening the fest, the movie follows an Iranian woman and her daughter who seek refuge at a suburban Melbourne women's shelter. Cate Blanchett's Dirty Films executive produces, while 2022 Cannes Best Actress-winner Zar Amir-Ebrahimi (Holy Spider) and Australian great Leah Purcell (The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson) star. Since returning to in-person fests after two pandemic-affected virtual-only years in 2020 and 2021, this is MIFF's second homegrown opener in succession. In 2022, Goran Stolevski's coming-of-age feature Of an Age did the honours. Of course, Shayda will have ample company when it comes to local titles in 2023, including the also just-announced Ego: The Michael Gudinski Story. The documentary will enjoy its world premiere at MIFF, as the festival's first-ever gala screening from its regular Music on Film program. Celebrating the late Australian record executive and promoter, who passed away in 2021, Ego: The Michael Gudinski Story steps through its namesake's life and career. Unsurprisingly, it has plenty of well-known names joining in to pay tribute, with featured interviewees spanning Kylie Minogue, Dave Grohl, Sting, Ed Sheeran, Bruce Springsteen, Billy Joel and Jimmy Barnes. And, when the Paul Goldman (Suburban Mayhem)-directed doco plays MIFF mid-fest, it will score red-carpet events across multiple Melbourne venues. As for what else will screen in the festival's 71st year, the rest of the program will start being revealed in early June, ahead of the full 2023 MIFF lineup drop in July. Whatever ends up on the bill after Shayda and Ego: The Michael Gudinski Story, they'll join a fest that'll continue its 2022 format of playing in cinemas in Melbourne (from Thursday, August 3–Sunday, August 20) and at regional Victorian locations (from Friday, August 11–Sunday, August 13 and Friday, August 18–Sunday, August 20), and also once again expand its audience by bringing back online platform MIFF Play (from Friday, August 18–Sunday, August 27). Shayda's opening-night session will screen on Thursday, August 3, with tickets for MIFF members available from 8am on Tuesday, May 23 and general public sales from 10am on Thursday, May 25. If you're keen to see Ego: The Michael Gudinski Story, it'll premiere on Thursday, August 10, with tickets available at the same times as Shayda. The 2023 Melbourne International Film Festival runs from Thursday, August 3–Sunday, August 20 at a variety of venues around Melbourne; from Friday, August 11–Sunday, August 13 and Friday, August 18–Sunday, August 20 in regional Victoria; and online nationwide with MIFF Play from Friday, August 18–Sunday, August 27. For further details, including the full program from Tuesday, July 11, visit the MIFF website.
Now that the sun is out, loading up your schedule with events will help shake off the winter blues. That's easily done at Gemini — a thriving all-day eatery, food pantry and bottle shop, with the much-loved venue featuring a host of good times on its October agenda, from long lunches to cocktail celebrations. Conceived as a meeting point for the curious and the convivial, Gemini is the ideal spot to revel in the release of The Madrusan Cocktail Companion on Tuesday, October 14. Created by Michael and Zara Madrusan — the former owners of acclaimed cocktail bar, The Everleigh — you're invited to sip on two signature cocktails made in collaboration with The Gospel Whiskey and Melbourne Gin Company, served with a snack inspired by the book's 2800-plus recipes. Gemini also has a pair of wine tastings to savour in October, with Kyneton-based collective POOL Wines offering a free community event jam-packed with low-intervention wines on Saturday, October 11. Then, on Wednesday, October 22, Giant Steps is in the house showcasing the Yarra Valley producer's latest release. Here, you'll sip on some delightful drops and chat to the team responsible for crafting them. This month is also packed with weekly events that are sure to prove alluring to locals. On Thursdays, it's Neighbourhood Night, featuring $35 steak frites with sauce du jour. Meanwhile, round out the week with Sunday Sessions, headlined by a $35 martini and fried chicken combo from 12pm–5pm. Plus, Gemini's Happy Hour is a strong one, offering $3 oysters, $10 wines and $15 cocktails from 5–6pm, Wednesday–Saturday.
Chapel Street is in for a taste of old-world European romance when Matteo Bruno (Hana, The Meatball & Wine Bar) opens the doors to his latest project next week. Named after Bruno's 93-year-old nonna, Ines Wine Bar looks set to become one of the most charming watering holes around, Euro-style street seating and all. Inside, the team at Techne Architecture have pulled together a warm, laidback mix of walnut, Italian marble and aged brass accents, to match a soundtrack of classic tunes from the likes of Frank Sinatra and Ray Charles. In short: it's a space designed for unwinding. Having most recently honed his smarts at Ides and intimate Japanese spot Kappo, sommelier Raffaele Mastrovincenzo has designed a wine list of around 80 Italian, French and local varieties, with a Coravin system allowing for more interesting by-the-glass sessions. That said, Ines' cocktail game is equally strong, with Italian mixology whizz Stefano Cinelli showing off his knack for the classics — you're just as likely to find yourself dropping in for a sazerac or old-fashioned. Plus, buy a bottle of your favourite spirit and they'll even keep it safe behind the bar for your subsequent visits. Meanwhile, in the culinary corner, it's Euro accents all the way. Think a daily-changing selection of crostini, cheese and charcuterie boards, freshly shucked oysters and the croque signore, riffing on a French classic with the addition of aged prosciutto. Find Ines Wine Bar at 150 Chapel St, Windsor from May 15. It'll open for dinners Tuesday through Saturday.
Maybe you look forward to winter for the warmer attire. Perhaps you're all about getting cosy at home. Or, if you're a fan of loading up on sweets and carbs, you could have National Doughnut Day marked in your calendar — circled, of course — for a date with free doughnuts. Each year, Krispy Kreme gives away an extremely excessive number of doughnuts. You're probably now wondering what constitutes an excessive amount of doughnuts — and no, polishing off a packet by yourself doesn't count in this instance. Krispy Kreme's giveaway is going big, with the chain slinging 100,000 original glazed doughnuts for the occasion. Whether or not you're a big fan of food 'days', we're guessing you are quite fond of free doughnuts. To snag yourself a signature glazed freebie, head to your closest Krispy Kreme store in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia on Friday, June 7. That gives you a heap of places to flock to, with Sydneysiders able to hit up 18 stores stretching from Penrith to the CBD, Victorians needing to visit nine locations from Chadstone to Collins Street, and Queenslanders given eight different doughnut shops to pick from (with the most central in Albert Street in the CBD). Residents of Perth can make a date with one of four Krispy Kreme locations, while Adelaide has a raft of stores to visit. The National Doughnut Day deal isn't available anywhere other than Krispy Kreme stores, or via online orders or third-party deliveries. There's also a limit of one freebie per person, and the giveaway only applies to the original glazed variety. The 100,000 doughnuts will be spread across the participating shops, so you'll want to get in relatively early if you want to kick off your Friday with a free sweet and doughy treat. Obviously, whether you nab one or not is subject to availability. Krispy Kreme's free doughnut giveaway is happening in the chain's stores around the country on Friday, June 7, 2024. To find your closest shop and check its opening hours, head to the Krispy Kreme website.
Are you the type of person who comes up with names for the animals you spot on your daily travels? Does the list of monikers you have for your pets outnumber the actual four-legged critters currently scampering around your house? Have you picked out titles for every dog, cat, bird, fish and lizard that could possibly share your home for the next five decades or so? Would you like to put your penchant for naming things to good use to support a worthy cause? Picking monikers for fluffy, feathered and scaly pals isn't a straightforward task, but it is fun — and, if you're particularly skilled at it, you can deploy your talents to help Assistance Dogs Australia. The not-for-profit organisation has teamed up with flea and tick treatment brand Bravecto to launch a 'name the pup' competition. You'll put forward your name for one of its puppies, obviously — and if your name is chosen, you'll win access to one of the organisation's puppy training sessions, a $500 Visa voucher and a one-year supply of Bravecto for your own doggo. Assistance Dogs Australia provides support dogs for people with disability, and trains them before they go out into the world. All of their pups are given names, usually chosen by ADA, before they're placed with a family to look after for around a year. After that, the dogs move on to their advanced training at ADA's national training school in Sydney, then graduate and become helpful four-legged companions. A few caveats apply to ADA's naming competition, unsurprisingly. The name you choose needs to start with the letter B, and have two syllables — so Boaty McBoatface (or Doggy McDogface) is out. You're also required to write a 25-word explanation outlining why your name should be selected, so you'll need to put more than a couple of seconds of effort into your submission. And, you'll need to follow the Bravecto Facebook page, too, and like the entry post. Then, you'll have to enter your suggestion via a comment on the post, and do so before 12pm AEST on Wednesday, May 19. To enter Assistance Dogs Australia's name the pup competition, head to the Bravecto Facebook page before 12pm AEST on Wednesday, May 19.
This time next year, you could well be spending your summer immersed in legendary Japanese artworks. The Art Gallery of New South Wales has announced a blockbuster exhibition, dubbed Japan Supernatural, set to open in November 2019 as part of the tenth Sydney International Art Series. Made up of more than 200 works from all over the planet, it's an exploration of the spirit world in Japanese art. Expect a immersive experience involving paintings, sculpture, prints, film, animation, comics and games. Leading the show is a monumental piece by Tokyo-born Takashi Murakami. He's a bit of an international rockstar, renowned for bringing together high and low art — much like Jeff Koons, Damien Hirst and Andy Warhol. Chances are, you first heard of him in the 1990s, when he launched the inaugural Superflat exhibition. Since then, he's been a prolific creator of paintings, drawings, sculptures and animations, and collaborated extensively with Louis Vuitton. Representing a much earlier era will be Katsushika Hokusai, born in Edo in 1760. His best-known piece is Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji, a series of wood block prints that includes the now iconic Great Wave off Kanagawa. While can't reveal, yet, which of his pieces will be travelling to Sydney, we're hoping we get some of the works that were at the NGV last year. Look out, too, for works by historical artists Utagawa Kuniyoshi, Tsukioka Yoshitoshi and Kawanabe Kyosai, as well as contemporary pop artist Chiho Aoshima and photographer Miwa Yanagi. The artworks are expected to be announced in early 2019, but, in the meantime, you can check out the ninth Sydney International Art Series, which includes paintings by Monet, Matisse and Picasso and a retrospective of South African photographer David Goldblatt's work. Japan Supernatural is slated to open at the Art Gallery of NSW in November 2019, as part the Sydney International Art Series. Image: Takashi Murakami by Claire Dorn.
Victorians are preparing to say goodbye to plastic bags as the State Government today confirmed it will impose a statewide ban from late 2019. The Department of Land, Water and Planning has announced that all bags less than 35 microns thick will be banned — that includes degradable, biodegradable and compostable options. Regular black bin bags, animal waste bags and those little bags you put your fruit and veggies in at the supermarket won't fall under the ban. After conducting a public consultation late last year, the Victorian Government received an "enormous amount of feedback" in favour of delivering the ban. "The Government will continue to work closely with Victorian communities and businesses to design the ban — to ensure it works for all Victorians and our environment," said Environment Minister Lily D'Ambrosio. Premier Daniel Andrews announced the ban on The Project back in October last year in response to a #BanTheBag Change.org petition run by the nightly Ten current affairs program. The move brings the state into line with South Australia, the ACT, the Northern Territory, Tasmania and Queensland, who announced it will next year ditch lightweight single-use plastic bags in September 2017. NSW is now the only state that hasn't committed to banning single-use bags. Woolworths has stopped stocking plastic bags at the checkout, and Coles will do the same from this weekend. Instead, the supermarkets will provide thicker, more durable options that won't be included in this ban — but, even though they're meant to be more reusable, it's hard to say if people will use them any differently to the way they use single-use bags now.
UPDATE, 3 JUNE 2021: Heathcote on Show has been cancelled due to the current COVID-19 restrictions in Victoria. For more information, head to the Heathcote on Show Facebook page. We Melburnians are truly spoiled to have a world-class wine region like Heathcote practically on our doorstep. About a 1.5 hour's drive north of the city, the region is brimming with award-winning chefs, brewers, artists and (most importantly) winemakers. The region is probably best known for shiraz, but it also boasts other excellent red varieties such as sangiovese, tempranillo, petit verdot and cabernet sauvignon, as well as white wine grapes like riesling and viognier. Grapes here are grown mainly in calcium-rich Cambrian soil, and prized for its water retention that leads to rich, concentrated wines. During this Queen's Birthday Long Weekend (Saturday, June 12 to Monday, June 14), the region is coming together for Heathcote on Show. This annual, three-day event will see more than 30 locations throughout the region offering wine tastings, food pairings, live music and masterclasses. There will also be a shuttle bus to take you between venues, so you can get around without having to think too much about it. Here are nine mustn't-miss spots to put on your radar this long weekend. [caption id="attachment_813175" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Allie Claire[/caption] RED EDGE Home to the oldest living vines in Heathcote, Red Edge is one of the Heathcote region's most impressive wineries. What started as a two-hectare block of shiraz and cabernet planted in 1971, the vineyard now boasts 14 hectares and grows other classic European varieties, including mourvedre, tempranillo and touriga nacional. Here, vines are hand-pruned, grapes are hand-picked and the wines are made with minimal intervention. Swing by on the June long weekend for exclusive barrel room tastings of the 2019-20 vintages with winemaker (and estate owner) Peter Dredge; complimentary tastings of current and cellar-release wines; and a sausage sizzle with locally made pork and beef snags, with proceeds going to MND Victoria. Between 12–5pm on Saturday and Sunday, it'll all be set to a live soundtrack of americana and country music. Find Red Edge at 54 Golden Gully Road, Heathcote. CONDIE ESTATE Boasting a postcard-worthy backdrop of Wild Duck Creek, Condie Estate showcases traditional winemaking methods with its small-batch drops. For Heathcote on Show, the estate will open the doors to its barrel room, and offer tastings of its sangiovese, viognier and award-winning shiraz. Pair your glass with a woodfired pizza, followed by a slice of cake and coffee. Entertainment-wise, there'll be live music, a petting zoo and a jumping castle for the kids. Find Condie Estate at 480 Heathcote-Redesdale Road, Heathcote. VINEA MARSON In the early 2000s, Mario Marson planted his first seven hectares of vines in Heathcote — he selected the region specifically for its geography, which he saw fit to fulfil his vision of creating new-world versions of his favourite Italian varieties. It's probably no surprise, then, that all things Italian will be celebrated at the Mount Camel winery over the Heathcote on Show weekend. Swing by for samples of prosecco, pinot bianco and picolit, sangiovese, nebbiolo and more. You'll be able to pair your glass with plates of pasta, polenta, porchetta and formaggio. There will also be coffee and cannoli on offer, as well as traditional Italian music throughout the weekend. Find Vinea Marson at 411 Heathcote-Rochester Road, Mount Camel. MUNARI WINES Just north of Heathcote and situated in the foothills of the Mount Ida Range, Munari Wines is a family-owned vineyard steeped in history. The original homestead dates back to 1871, while the former stables now house a charming cellar door. During Heathcote on Show, you'll have the chance to sit among the vines and sample a range of the estate's premium wines. There'll be a heated marquee on-site as well as hot food and live entertainment, including a ticketed concert on the grounds on the Saturday night. Find Munari Wines at 1129 Northern Highway, Ladys Pass. SILVER SPOON ESTATE Named after an abandoned nearby mine, Silver Spoon Estate dedicates most of its 51 acres of plantings — which date back to 2000 — to shiraz grapes, but also makes room for viognier, grenache, mourvedre and tempranillo vines. The estate is 100 percent off-grid, with solar panels powering everything from the winemaking equipment to the on-site residence. During Heathcote on Show, Silver Spoon Estate will offer daily wine tastings and grazing platters from 11am–5pm, plus live music on Saturday and Sunday, all of which you can enjoy either indoors or outdoors while taking in the scenic views. On Saturday night, Silver Spoon will host a Casablanca-themed dinner and show in the estate's piano lounge (and for which bookings are essential). Find Silver Spoon Estate at 503 Heathcote-Rochester Road, Mount Camel. DOMAINE ASMARA Domaine Asmara is celebrating its tenth anniversary over the Queen's Birthday long weekend, and you're invited to join the party. Head to the Toolleen estate to sample an excellent range of James Halliday-approved wines, including durif, shiraz and cabernet sauvignon, and take advantage of anniversary specials. The grounds also have a perfect picnic spot overlooking Mount Camel, so pack a basket and sit back and enjoy some of the region's finest wines. Find Domaine Asmara at 61 Gibb Road, Toolleen. HEATHCOTE WINE HUB Whether you're pressed for time over the long weekend or looking to brush up your knowledge on the wide range of wines produced in the Heathcote region, a visit to Heathcote Wine Hub is a must. Home to Australia's largest selection of Heathcote wines and set in a former 1870s corner store, complete with an open fireplace and dog-friendly courtyard, the store is located in the centre of town and will be abuzz with activity over the long weekend. Head over to sample a range of local wine, beer, cider and coffee, as well as vegan food options, southern-style barbecue meats and picnic packs. There'll also be live music from 12–7pm on Saturday and Sunday, with four local bands on the lineup. Find Heathcote Wine Hub at 105 High Street, Heathcote. SANGUINE ESTATE There's plenty happening at the award-winning Sanguine Estate for Heathcote on Show. On Saturday and Sunday there will be coffee and treats provided by local legends Con Cariño Mobile Coffee, plus live music from 1pm. Sunday will also see a Goldfield Farmhouse Cheese stall on the grounds all day, should you fancy a spot of cheese and wine. You can also learn more about local produce when winemaker Mark Hunter runs a tasting masterclass of five rare wines on Saturday morning, and Goldfields hosts a full-day cheesemaking class on Monday. Bookings are required for both sessions. Find Sanguine Estate at 77 Shurans Lane, Heathcote. WREN ESTATE Boasting a place in the top ten in the 2021 Halliday Wine Companion's Best New Wineries category, Wren Estate is an unmissable stop on any Heathcote wine tour. Owner and winemaker Michael Wren enjoyed a career that took him all over the world for nearly two decades before establishing his very own vineyard in Heathcote in 2017. Despite Wren Estate being relatively young, its shiraz has already won a number of awards. Over the long weekend, it will be hosting a masterclass ($65) with Michael on Saturday and Sunday, which includes sampling five Single Block drop for the first time ever (bookings are essential). If you're keen to just drop by in the afternoon, you'll be able to graze on a charcuterie board featuring olive oil direct from the on-site grove. From 12–3pm on Saturday and Sunday, you'll also have the option to pair house-made dumplings with vino (make sure you book ahead for this one, too). Find Wren Estate at 389 Heathcote-Rochester Road, Mount Camel. For more about Heathcote on Show and to plan your trip, head to the official website.
Wearing a pair of R.M. Williams says 'I'm ready for anything'. You could be going to the pub, walking into a work meeting or heading out to the farm to milk the cows. Sparkly footwear doesn't quite conjure up the same feelings of practicality. Well, until R.M. Williams released a special run of boots in gold metallic. The Aussie bootmaker released a special run of the boots last year to much fanfare — the shoes sold out quicker than most of us could transfer all our money into one bank account to pay for them. So we're sure more than a few people will be happy to hear that R.M.s will release a second lot of the limited edition Adelaide boots in gold and, for the first time, bronze. As with each R.M. boot, these have been crafted out of a single piece of leather and feature the same elegant stitching and tapered heel cuban heel of the regular Adelaide range. R.M.s are arguably Australia's most iconic shoe. From a modest start in the Adelaide outback servicing the stockmen and women of the heartland, 85 years later, a diverse range of people still wear the boots — from farmers in the outback, to corporate businessmen, to the style set at fashion week. Australian designer Dion Lee has used R.M.s regularly in campaign shoots and runway shows, even creating his own for New York Fashion Week in 2014. This latest addition to the women's range is only available online from tomorrow, Thursday, April 19. At $545 a pair, they're not exactly cheap — but if you're looking for an investment piece, a pair of R.M.s is the very definition of the phrase. Continuing to embrace contemporary styles and adapting to modern fashion without sacrificing their DNA has surely guaranteed the longevity of this historic label. R.M. Williams' gold and bronze Adelaide boots will be available to order online from Thursday, April 19 at rmwilliams.com.au.
