Horse racing has copped a fair bit of criticism over the last few years, and with the internet bringing to the table new and fun ways to throw money away (Kim Kardashian’s phone game, eBay and this wonderful device) why would a sane adult waste time on fascinators and animal cruelty when you could, you know, go to the pub and bet on where exactly a Shetland pony will lay a turd? This is an elaborate way of saying that The Vic is putting on an anti-Melbourne Cup day event that defies the nation's obsession with watching horses race and gives birth to a new obsession: watching them crap. The ‘Shitting Shetland’ game is, um, exactly what it sounds like. A live Shetland pony will spend the afternoon in its own VIP fenced off area, marked with a grid. Punters can buy a square on the grid and at the end of the day, the square with the most horse poop on it wins the kitty. The rest of the takings will generously go to the NSW Thoroughbred Rehabilitation Trust, a charity that helps rehabilitate former race horses. It’s… it’s… well it’s actually genius and sweet and a little weird in a good way and probably stinky and sounds so much better than paying through the nose for a watery champagne in a plastic glass at the race track. They’ll also be donating to the same charity through drink sales, which is a hope-4-humanity moment if ever we’ve seen one. Here’s hoping this idea catches on in pubs and malls across Australia. The Shetland Shitting contest will take place at The Vic, 2 Addison Rd, Enmore, on November 3 from 1pm.
Consider this brow quizzically raised. The City of Sydney is looking to lift the ban on no less than 62 public alcohol-free zones — including areas of Redfern, Newtown, Surry Hills, Darlinghurst, Waterloo, Alexandria, Erskineville, Rosebery and Darlinghurst, according to The Daily Telegraph. Huh? Wha? Yep, these are the very same suburbs that Mike Baird and Barry O'Farrell's controversial laws have prevented you from buying booze after 10pm. But buy a bottle of wine early? You can drink it on the street. Apparently, rather than being a street party invitation, the move is being put into place for two reasons. Lord Mayor Clover Moore and the City of Sydney council stated yesterday that the decision was made after statistics showed the booze-free zones have only had a minor effect on crime. Alcohol-free zones cover public roads, footpaths, car parks and laneways. The Daily Telegraph is reporting that the lift is to the benefit of Sydney's homeless population — allegedly forced into unmonitored alleyways by the zones. Booze-free areas, Labor councillor Linda Scott told the Tele, have "criminalised those sleeping rough, and often fail to prevent problems they are seeking to address." Obviously, NSW Police aren't psyched. According to Nine News, police think the alcohol-free zones discourage and prevent "crimes such as malicious damage, stealing, offensive behaviour and acts of violence." Police Association of NSW's Scott Webe told Nine, "Removing alcohol-free zones makes the job of local police in these areas more difficult." Of course, a large majority of the public is on board — because drinking in public. City documents snavvelled by the Tele reported that when the City proposed the removal of the alcohol-free zones, they received 146 responses — with 80 percent for the removal. According to the report, "The majority of the objections received related to the view that drinking did not necessarily always lead to anti-social behaviour and that the creation of zones in residential streets and parks is infringing on the ability of citizens to responsibly drink an alcohol beverage in a public place." Via Nine News and The Daily Telegraph. Image: Wiki.
Whether you're heading north to chase the sun or to escape reality at Splendour in the Grass, there's no need to hurry to Byron Bay. In fact, with around 800 kilometres of road to cover — flanked by epic beaches, rivers, national parks, fresh produce, microbreweries and creative places to spend the night — it's your god-given duty to take your time. So, call your boss, nab a few extra days off and start planning your rest stops. Our road tripper's guide to the Legendary Pacific Coast will provide all the excuses you need. [caption id="attachment_576705" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Pete Saw.[/caption] CENTRAL COAST Despite being a 90-minute drive from Sydney, the Central Coast, with its calm water, surf beaches, cute villages and swathes of national park, is surprisingly unspoilt. Light on cash? Claim a patch of grass or caravan at a Central Coast Holiday Park. Alternatively, check into a light and airy two-bedroom apartment at the Patonga Beach Hotel, perched on the banks of the Hawkesbury River. Ten minutes drive east is pretty, pretty, National Trust-listed Pearl Beach. With just 600 dwellings and encircled by trees, it's home to two excellent lunch spots — the hatted Pearls on the Beach, specialising in Middle Eastern-inspired deliciousness, and the more budget-friendly Pearl Beach Cafe and General Store (go the choc chip pancakes with Nutella-maple fudge sauce, sliced banana and candied bacon). Across Broken Bay lies Killcare. Here, you can tuck into tasty, hatted Italian while surrounded by landscaped gardens at Manfredi or grab a $5 bacon and egg roll at The Fat Goose. Afterwards, stretch your legs while soaking in panoramic coastal views in the Bouddi National Park and, on the way out, swing by Distillery Botanica (home of an eponymous, garden-grown gin and Mr Black coffee liqueur), as well as the Six String Brewing Company. For more Central Coast tips, check out our weekender's guide to Patonga, Pearl Beach and Killcare and our day tripper's guide to Copacabana and the Bouddi National Park. [caption id="attachment_576728" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Pete Saw.[/caption] NEWCASTLE Two hours drive will land you in mighty Newcastle, sometime steel capital, now artsy community and one of Lonely Planet's top ten cities of 2011. For a comfy sleepover in a sunny room downtown, stay at The Lucky, which reopened in 2014 after a $6 mill revamp. Not enough time to spend the night? It's still worth detouring for a coffee (and cosy lounges) at Sprocket Roasters, a meticulously prepared cuppa at Tea Project or a locally-brewed beer at Foghorn. For scallop chowder or wild-caught prawns while gazing at the Tasman Sea through floor-to-ceiling windows, book a table at Merewether Surfhouse or, to catch up with Silverchair bassist, Chris Joannou, pop into The Edwards, where he and barista Chris Johnston have turned Joannou's parents' laundry warehouse into a friendly, funky eatery-cafe-bar. Get some exercise wandering among the CBD's many independent artists' spaces and laneways plastered with street art, or take a stroll along the Newcastle Memorial Walk, which spans the clifftops between Strzelecki Lookout and Bar Beach, affording 360-degree views. You'll find loads more Newie ideas over here. [caption id="attachment_576734" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Pete Saw.[/caption] PORT MACQUARIE Port Macquarie, perched on the Hastings River and bordered by eighteen beaches, is another three hours' drive north. On the way, stop overnight at Old Bar to sleep with your favourite rock star (be that David Bowie, Nick Cave, Dave Grohl or Louis Armstrong) in the Boogie Woogie Beach House. Each room in this designer, boutique hotel, located a short scurry from the beach, is dedicated to a music legend and comes with its own vinyl player (LPs supplied). Plus, there's live music on Fridays and Sundays. 30 kilometres inland, in the tiny town of Wingham, farm-fresh produce is turned into scrumptious dishes at Bent on Food. If you happen to be passing by in October, time your visit to coincide with the Wingham Akoostik Festival. For riverside accommodation in Port with a pool, as well as access to vintage bikes and paddle boards, there's Sails Resort By Rydges. Come lunch or dinner, head to the hatted Stunned Mullet for oyster flights, Glacier 51Toothfish or Orange-reared venison, as well as stunning views over Town Beach. Back in town, there's tapas, art and live music at Latin Loafer, and creative, local-produce driven dishes in Drury Lane Eatery's leafy courtyard. The best coffee in town is served among Social Grounds' murals and dark wooden tables and cracking beer is brewed onsite at Black Duck. The nine-kilometre Port Macquarie Coastal Walk is the place to work off your excesses. Start at Town Beach and finish at Tacking Point Lighthouse, taking in three beaches, several breathtaking lookouts and Sea Acres National Park, where the rainforest meets the sea. A shorter adventure is the 1.3-kilometre long, seven-metre high Sea Acres Boardwalk. Our weekender's guide can help with further explorations. [caption id="attachment_581230" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Andrew Sutherland.[/caption] URUNGA AND BELLINGEN Drive another 130 kilometres to get to Urunga, a tiny town where two rivers — the Bellinger and the Kalang — meet the sea. To see both river mouths up close, take a stroll on the one-kilometre long, elevated Urunga Boardwalk. You can expect 360-degree views all the way — inland over the Great Dividing Range, north towards Mylestom Spit and south as far as Nambucca Heads. Next, take a break from the coast and head west to Bellingen, a laidback, artsy 3000-person town on the Bellinger River's banks. There are eco-friendly retreats aplenty, but, even if you don't have an over-nighter in mind, leave some time to wander among the art galleries and jewellery makers of The Old Butter Factory and hang out in local cafes. For rainforest walks and waterfalls, travel another 35 kilometres inland to reach Dorrigo National Park. Get a mid-road trip workout with views on the Blackbutt Walking Track or visit several cascades on the Casuarina Falls circuit. The Dorrigo Rainforest Centre will give you the lowdown on local flora and fauna, as well as a dizzying adventure on the canopy-level Skywalk. [caption id="attachment_576785" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Andrea Schaffer.[/caption] COFFS HARBOUR Another hour of road time and you'll be in Coffs Harbour. Take your mandatory snap with the Big Banana before making tracks to Aanuka Beach Resort or, to escape the crowds, an Arthouse Beachfront Apartment on Emerald Beach, 20 kilometres north. May to July and September to November make up whale watching season, so head to a vantage point with a picnic and keep a lookout — Muttonbird Island's viewing platform and Emerald Beach's Look At Me Now Headland are both prime spots. Alternatively, jump on a local tour boat. [caption id="attachment_576794" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Richard Rydge.[/caption] HINTERLAND WAY For the final stretch — between Ballina and Byron Bay — try substituting the well-trodden Pacific Highway with the Hinterland Way. Starting at Ewingsdale, this idyllic, winding road takes you through the lush, green rolling hills west of Byron Bay. Make your first stop the Macadamia Castle and Animal Park, where you can sample local macadamias and hang out by a frog conservation pond. A ten-minute drive will bring you to teeny-tiny Newrybar, where the the oldest bakery in Australia has been transformed into the Harvest Cafe, Deli and Bakery. Linger over fresh sourdough baked in a 107-year-old woodfired oven, twelve-hour braised lamb shoulder or charcuterie, prepared onsite. Last of all, drop into Bangalow for heritage-listed buildings with shady verandahs, independent art galleries, peaceful parks and a stroll along Byron Creek. The epic Bangalow Market takes over the town on the fourth Sunday of every month, bringing live music, local farmers, artworks, design and loads more. [caption id="attachment_581233" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Jeremy Foster.[/caption] YAMBA If, however, you decide to stick to the coast, then make Yamba, 140 kilometres north of Coffs, your final pre-Byron Bay stop. After all, the CSIRO and Stanford University reckon it has one the best climates in the world, alongside San Diego, California and Bunbury, Western Australia. Even in July, you'll notice locals swimming — a warm current comes through, often pushing water temperatures up to summer levels. If you're keen for a dip, try Brooms Head Main Beach, which is beautifully protected by Yuraygir National Park. Keep an eye out for dolphins and whales while you're at it. Every Wednesday morning, local farmers bring their produce to the Whiting Beach Car Park for the Yamba Farmers Market. Alternatively, you'll find one of the best meals in town at the waterfront Yamba Shores Tavern. Definitely order the prawns — they're some of the freshest and most delicious on the East Coast. Top image: Richard Rydge.
These days, new restaurants love to shout about their ethical practices from the rooftop. A decade ago, this was less common. So, when sustainable seafood restaurant Love Fish popped up on the scene in Rozelle, it made quite the splash. Led by Michelle Grand-Milkovic and Michael Milkovic, Love Fish set about proving that sustainability didn't need to be adopted at the expense of innovation — and, in fact, it could do the opposite. In 2018, the couple brought these values to Barangaroo's waterfront with a second iteration of Love Fish. Here, you can expect the same focus on fresh, locally and sustainably sourced goods prepared with simple techniques that hero the produce. That means dishes like salt and pepper calamari with chorizo powder and wasabi mayo; chargrilled octopus with roasted chickpeas and tahini; and grilled Coral Coast barramundi fillet with butternut pumpkin, basil pearl couscous and marinated goat's feta. The wine list is equally considered with the majority of labels sourced from Australia and New Zealand. It's easy to see why Love Fish has been on of the best seafood restaurants in Sydney for many years. Images: Nikki To
Whether you're lining up to become the next David Attenborough or you're a mad Instagrammer, there's stacks of scope for improving your photography skills in the Blue Mountains. But with dozens of lookouts, scores of waterfalls and hundreds of walking trails to visit, how do you figure out where's best? Well, you could ask a pro. Expert photographer Gary P. Hayes, who's been snapping away since he was 12, spills the beans on several of his secret spots for us. Master the shots here and you'll be well on your way to snap-happiness. MIDDLE PLATFORM, KATOOMBA FALLS For the dream photo, you should get here for sunset. As the sun disappears, the cliffs glow an incredible, fiery red for just a few minutes each day, giving the location's extraordinary perspective its most magical feel. On your left, you have the Katoomba Falls seriously close, while on your right, Jamison Valley stretches out for what looks like forever, made even more dramatic by Mount Solitary. Photographers have been hanging around here angling for the perfect shot since the 1900s. SUBLIME POINT, LEURA Early risers, Leura's Sublime Point is for you. Sleeper-innerers, it's worth struggling out of bed for. Arrive at sunrise and you'll get to see Mount Solitary and the Three Sisters (from the back) in a whole new light. Fortunately, getting there is a cinch – there's no call for any strenuous walking first thing in the morning. GOVETT'S LEAP LOOKOUT, BLACKHEATH Like Sublime Point, Govett's Leap Lookout also puts on its best face at first light. The good news is, that, of all the spots listed here, this one gives away the most impressive shots most easily. Even absolute amateurs are highly likely to produce photos to make their folks proud. Govett's Leap is also one of the all-round most popular lookouts in the Blue Mountains – probably because it comes with 180-metre high waterfalls, ridiculously beautiful views of the Grose Wilderness and, if you keep your eyes out, king parrots and yellow-tailed black cockatoos. VALLEY OF THE WATERS, WENTWORTH FALLS Pack your bags for this one – it's an all-day walk. But you and your Instagram account definitely won't be sorry you made the effort. Expect one stunning waterfall after the other and many an awe-inspiring vista. It's ideal for practising all your photographic techniques – from tiny details to mesmerising natural patterns and mind-blowing views. Images by Gary P. Hayes
Sydney's got a brand new Asian-inspired foodie alley, and chances are you might have walked straight past it. Hidden behind the brand new main facade of the Kensington Street precinct at Central Park, Kopi-Tiam Spice Alley is Chippendale's newest little food court. It's a pretty little corner of the world, decorated with lantern installations, but more importantly, there's a handful of damn fine food outlets in the space: Alex Lee Kitchen, Bang Luck, Old Jim Kee and Hong Kong Diner. Spice Alley is entirely cash-free — you can only pay with card or a special rechargeable Kopi-Tiam card — so let's load up and try the grub. Run by one of Sydney's most celebrated Singaporean chefs, Alex Lee Kitchen is your go-to for authentic Singapore dishes with a unique twist from the ex-head chef at Ginger and Spice in Neutral Bay. Next is Bang Luck, a hub of Thai and Vietnamese street food run by young gun Asian-Australian chef Tiw Rakarin (ex-Mama's Buoi, Surry Hills). Then we've got Old Jim Kee, home of authentic Malaysian dishes by veteran chef Jim Yong aka Uncle Jim, famed for his namesake restaurant in Mosman. Finally, there's Hong Kong Diner, managed by the team at Chef's Gallery and brimming with HK comfort food like dumplings and other yum cha morsels. Night Noodle Markets favourite POKLOL has also joined the party, doing their particularly modern style of Asian fusion alongside the Spice Alley core. Sydney's newest urban development, Kensington Street Precinct, is becoming quite the nosh nucleus of the Chippendale area. Following the opening of the highly-anticipated Old Clare Hotel, its reception bar and restaurants Automata, Silvereye and the upcoming Kensington Street Social to open in November, this shiny new street space is now home to some of Sydney's more creative culinary escapades. Find Kopi-Tiam Spice Alley behind Kensington Street, Chippendale. All stalls are open daily from 11am-10pm. Images: Bodhi Liggett, Lauren Commens.
"Beer and pies are a match made in heaven," says Goat Pie Guy owner and chef Mick Hobson. "The bite and flavour of hops or wheat or barley is perfect to cut through the buttery pastry and rich fillings that I make for my winter pie range." Brisbane-based bakery maestro Hobson is no stranger to mixing beer and baked goods. Rather than enjoying the two separately, Mick uses beer in his pies — there are no less than five pies on the Goat Pie Guy menu made with beer (and they're all Great Aussie Pie Competition gold medal winners). If he's using a brew in a pie recipe, Mick always matches his drinking beer too. "If it's a curry pie, I like to drink a pale ale or if it's one of my seafood pies, I always pair it with an amber ale." Mick actually uses beer in a lot of his recipes, not just pies. "Beer's an awesome base to build lively broths for seafood, rich sauces for grilled meat and lovely sweet and savoury layers in a slow braise." Certain beers with a more crisp edge, like a Little Creatures Original Pilsner, can cut through heavier, more buttery dishes, refreshing and reviving the palate, while more hoppy beers, like a Kosciuszko Pale Ale, can help you soldier on through spicy food. Let's get back to those award-winning beery pies. We're keen to test this secret ingredient for ourselves, so we asked Mick for a cheeky recipe. So what's Mick cooked up for Concrete Playground? One heck of a hearty wagyu beef and porter pie. "This one came about when I was experimenting for a meeting of brewers and meat merchants. It was important that both parties had their produce showcased in the best possible way so I decided to highlight the chocolatey flavours in the porter by caramelising it with the onions and adding the figs for extra sweetness. The beef flavour was intensified with allspice, black pepper and rosemary. Then I tossed them in a pot together, filled it with porter and crossed my fingers for six hours! And man, was it worth the wait." Let's do this. MICK HOBSON'S WAGYU BEEF AND PORTER PIE Ingredients: 2 medium brown onions sliced 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar 50g raw sugar 1kg diced wagyu brisket 3 litres beef stock 60ml olive oil 4 sprigs rosemary chopped 2 bay leaves 10g cracked black pepper 15g allspice 150g dried figs 3.5 bottles James Squire Jack of Spades Porter 150g corn flour 1 egg whisked for brushing 4 sheets of shop bought shortcrust pastry (Borgs is a good brand) 2 sheets of shop bought puff pastry (Borgs is good for puff too) *(If you want to make your own shortcrust my recipe is below) Heat half olive oil in a heavy base pot. Brown onions in oil, add half a 330ml bottle of James Squire Jack of Spades Porter, balsamic vinegar, diced figs and sugar and reduce until sticky, then remove from pot and set aside. Heat remaining oil in the same pot and brown beef in small batches adding more oil as needed. Add all beef back into pot along with black pepper, allspice and chopped rosemary. Stir on low heat to completely coat beef. Add caramelised onion mixture, bay leaves, stock and porter. Bring to the boil then let simmer on low for three to four hours until beef can be cut with a fork. Combine corn flour with enough water to dissolve, and pour in slowly as you stir to thicken. You might like to add more or less corn flour depending on how thick you like your gravy. Grease pie tins with butter and line with shortcrust pastry, leaving a little overhang. Fill with thickened pie mixture and brush pastry edge with egg mixture. Cut puff pastry lids to suit base size and place on top, crimp base and top together with fingertips or a fork. Bake at 200 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool for 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy with a cold James Squire Jack of Spades Porter. *Shortcrust Pastry 1 250g plain flour 125g unsalted butter, chilled, finely chopped 1 egg, chilled Process flour, butter and a pinch of salt in a food processor until mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Whisk egg and one tablespoon chilled water in a bowl until combined, then with food processor motor running, add to flour mixture. Process until mixture begins to form large clumps, stopping machine before mixture forms a ball. Turn pastry out on to a work surface and knead gently to bring together. Form into a disc for a round tart or into a log shape for a rectangular tart. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or for at least 2 hours. Roll out to 3-4mm thickness and cut out required size. If you love discovering more things you can do with beer (and some surprising facts, like beer being 99.9 percent sugar free), visit www.beerthebeautifultruth.com. You'll find information on fusing beer and food, matching different styles of beer with your meals, and how particular foods can enhance the distinct flavours of a well-brewed beer. You can even learn a few nutritional myths around beer, and bust 'em while you're at it.
And now for something completely impractical. Artist Victor Solomon has created our dream basketball hoop, one we're encouraged to miss and be too short to slam dunk. For his newest series Literally Balling (heh), Solomon has crafted three beautiful backboards of stained, Tiffany-style glass. The whole thing's kind of Meret Oppenheim for basketball. Solomon has made unusable the tools of million-dollar paycheck earners — the Le Brons and Durants of the globe's top basketball stars. Fascinated by the obvious link between the players and their affluent lifestyles, Solomon has cheekily rendered their main moneymaker useless — but pretty as hell. The artist spend hundreds of hours cutting and shaping the stained glass backboards, and used gold chains and crystals to replace the net. Pretty sure no one should try a Jordan on one of these. Via Vice.
UPDATE, May 22, 2021: Black Panther is available to stream via Disney+, Google Play, YouTube Movies and iTunes. There is one dull moment in Black Panther. Exactly one. And the fact that it comes courtesy of Stan Lee's now-inevitable cameo speaks volumes about this rich and electrifying instalment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. When the man who ostensibly founded the franchise shows up, it feels like a predictable, obligatory inclusion in a film that runs from those labels every other chance it gets. Lee's presence nods to the usual formula that's been deployed for 17 big-screen chapters — but, coming in at number 18 in a series that shows no signs of slowing down, Black Panther refuses to stick to that template. It's one of the few comic book flicks in living memory that doesn't spend its time setting up the next movie or shoehorning in links to past titles. The film stands on its own merits, and it's absolutely glorious. Although viewers first met Chadwick Boseman's T'Challa, aka Black Panther, back in Captain America: Civil War, his debut solo outing is still something of an origin story. Despite this, in exploring who the newly crowned Wakandan king is, where he's from and the struggles he's facing, the film prowls down its own path. After the death of his father, T'Challa finds himself at a crossroads about the future of his nation — a place that has long chosen to hoard its considerable technological advancements, close its borders and hide its true nature from the world. Some close to him, such as his head of security W'Kabi (Daniel Kaluuya), support the insular status quo. Others, including his ex-girlfriend turned secret special forces operative Nakia (Lupita Nyong'o), advocate for helping those in need. A Marvel movie that weighs up the merits of isolationist policies versus social responsibility, all while grappling with race and class as well? With its eyes firmly on current world affairs, Black Panther certainly isn't afraid of getting topical. Directed and co-written by Ryan Coogler, the film blends the rousing politics of his debut, Fruitvale Station, with the earnest spectacle of his follow-up, the Rocky-spinoff Creed. It's a superhero flick with something to say and no qualms about saying it. At the same time, the ambitious effort nods effectively to Shakespeare in its family dynamics, and offers up smart spy action complete with its own gadget guru (Letitia Wright, a scene-stealer as T'Challa's younger sister Shuri). Packed to the brim (although it never feels overstuffed), the movie also makes a stand for formidable women through General Okoye (Danai Gurira), the king's loyal, lethal and highly memorable bodyguard. Marvel's last title, the wonderfully distinctive Thor: Ragnarok, successfully carved its own niche within the MCU's usual confines. While that film proved an impressive feat, Black Panther goes one step further, effectively smashing the standard mould to pieces. This shines through in two areas in particular. The first is in the film's treatment of its primary antagonist, with unruly weapons dealer Ulysses Klaue (Andy Serkis) a mere distraction on the road to the determined Erik 'Killmonger' Stevens (Michael B. Jordan). Villains aren't typically Marvel's strong suit, but here the fight between opposing forces feels refreshingly astute and even-handed. Casting assists considerably in this regard, with both Boseman and Jordan bringing considerable gravitas to their roles. Coogler also demonstrates an exceptional command of tone, delivering a film that serves up a few well-earned laughs, but takes its overall task seriously. In a picture positively teeming with highlights, however, Black Panther's greatest quality is its all-round embrace of African culture. In every aspect of its look, sound and feel, this chapter is like nothing else in the Marvel universe, and that's clearly by design. Twice during the film, outsiders enter Wakanda and try not to let their jaws drop to the floor — and it's easy to understand their reactions. Frankly, it's the same one we had as the end credits rolled. Coogler has crafted an entertaining, engaging and impassioned movie that is both proud of and confident in its differences, and is also committed to shining the spotlight on the people that blockbuster cinema so often ignores. What could be more awe-inspiring than that? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ph9_oITIefE
Just four kilometres long and three kilometres wide, Hayman Island might be small, but it be fierce. In one day, you can snorkel with swirling schools of tropical fish, play Robinson Crusoe on very own private beach and trek through lush rainforest to Baraka-worthy sunsets. When you're ready to leave shore, there are uninhabited islands to explore, outer reef coral kingdoms to dive among and luxury yachts to climb aboard. Want to enjoy all this without spending a cent? Mastercard is giving away an all-expenses-paid Hayman Island adventure worth $6000 to one lucky, lucky Nemo. Jump over here to go in the running. This highly opulent prize includes flights, accommodation in a luxe suite in Hayman Island's only resort and a VIP dining experience with Neil Perry. In the meantime, start planning your itinerary with these ten tips. SNORKEL THE GREAT BARRIER REEF Hayman Island's busiest aquatic community is on its north-western side, at Blue Pearl Bay. Prepare to meet local resident Priscilla, an enormous Māori wrasse, among rainbow-coloured parrot fish and striped angel fish. For an off-shore escapade, catch a private boat to pocket-sized Langford Island, where you'll come across magical underwater gardens. Afterwards, you can kick back on the long, sandy spit, picnicking, swimming and lazing about. Another option is the outer reef — at the legendary giant Stepping Stones, which drop away to 40 metres. You'll be gliding among magnificent rays and scary-looking-yet-utterly-harmless reef sharks. TAKE A HIKE To get your bearings, start with a short climb to Cook Lookout, Hayman Island's highest point. At 250 metres above sea level, it gives you a bird's perspective on surrounding reef formations and the rugged shores of neighbouring Hook Island. Come late afternoon, set off for Whitsunday Lookout, from where you can see the sun setting over the Whitsunday Passage, or to Dolphin Point, Hayman Island's northernmost tip. Alternatively, for a d0-nothing day on perfect white sand, take a stroll to Blue Pearl Bay. Don't forget your swimmers and snorkelling gear. STAY IN AN ULTRA-LUXE SUITE Hayman Island is privately owned and there's but one accommodation option, appropriately named One&Only Hayman Island Resort. Fortunately for you, it's a bloody masterpiece. An array of room types are available and they're all ultra-luxe. We're talking Royal Family-level linen draped across four-poster beds, massive ensuites with separate showers and baths, dressing rooms fit for Marilyn Monroe and private balconies overlooking the resort's tropical gardens or the ocean — depending on where you are. Facilities include two pools, seven bars and restaurants, a spa and a fitness centre, for those who, inexplicably, can be bothered moving. GET PADDLING To see Hayman Island from the water, at human-powered speed, jump in a kayak or man a paddleboard. If you're a newbie — or not very brave — there's no need to travel far for beautiful views and, thanks to the island's crystalline waters, flashes of aquatic life. Meanwhile, Bear Grylls types can venture further afield, perhaps even attempting a circumnavigation. Along the way, be sure to stop by Coconut Beach, where you can regain your energy by sinking into a sun lounge, and Blue Pearl Bay. SWIM IN A 'LAGOON' SEVEN TIMES THE SIZE OF AN OLYMPIC POOL The likelihood of bumping into another guest in the One&Only Hayman Island Resort's behemoth of a pool is next to nix. It's seven times the size of your average Olympic Pool. So, whether you're lapping, synchronised swimming or simply bobbing about in between cocktails, no one's going to get in your way. There are day beds aplenty and four private cabanas. Super-keen swimmers can book a suite in the Hayman Pool wing, where the rooms open directly onto the water. Should you find yourself working up an appetite, swing by the nearby On The Rocks Restaurant and Bar. EAT DINNER WITH NEIL PERRY Even a multi-hat winning chef's gotta go troppo every now and again. So, why not join him for the ride? In July, Neil Perry AM (of Rockpool and $10 burger fame) will be cooking up a feast on Hayman Island and then hosting you while you munch your way through it. He hasn't given away any of the culinary details yet, but we imagine there'll be no shortage of seafood inspiration, as well a handpicked selection of fancy wines to match. The only catch is, the only way you can experience this hedonistic evening is by entering the comp mentioned above or by laying your card down — it's one of Mastercard's Priceless Dinners and spots are strictly limited. GET A MASSAGE FLOATING IN THE SEA No tropical holiday is complete without a massage. And, on Hayman Island, you can take yours next level by ordering it outdoors. For water babies, there's the 90-minute 'Ocean Dreaming' experience, which involves pretty much what you see in the pic above: lying on a bed, floating on still water and surrounded by clear sky. If you're more Jungle Book, book into a 'Rainforest Massage'. You'll be ushered into a private, canopy-sheltered cabana and given a massage according to your specific bodily needs. Yogis might also be interested in the 'Sun Salutation', inspired by Oriental techniques and involving acupuncture, stretching and rocking motions. LEARN TO SCUBA Yet to scuba? There's no more classic place to learn than the Great Barrier Reef. Except, of course, that it might make dives closer to home seem somewhat anti-climactic. On Hayman Island, you'll kick off with a basic coaching session, before starting your underwater explorations in the safe, shallow waters of Blue Pearl Bay. Next up is a guided tour of nearby The Maze, so named because wandering through it feels a bit like twisting and turning through a coral labyrinth. You'll then be taken to The Fish Bowl, which is absolutely teeming with diverse fish species. RIDE A SEAPLANE Many a traveller has seen the Great Barrier Reef through a snorkelling mask or from the deck of a boat, but, there's no more startling way to get your head around its extraordinary proportions than from the window of sea plane. So, if you can scrape some dosh together, make it happen. You'll soar high above the Great Barrier's 350,000 square kilometres (which is divided into 2800 separate reefs altogether) swoop down for a closer look, and even take a break for a spot of snorkelling in Hardy Lagoon. CLIMB ABOARD A LUXURY YACHT Go James Bond-style and travel to and from Hayman Island via luxury yacht. Or, while you're there, charter one and design your own Great Barrier Reef cruise. You can loll about on the deck doing not much, cruise on the bow pretending to be Kate Winslet or watch the crew in action. Needless to say, fine dining and premium beverages will be at your disposal. You're the boss, after all. Want to enjoy all this without spending a cent? Mastercard is giving away an all-expenses-paid Hayman Island adventure worth $6000 to one lucky, lucky Nemo. Jump over here to go in the running. Images: One&Only Hayman Island/Mastercard.
It's time to dig the gumboots out of the back of your closet — Splendour in the Grass is finally returning to North Byron Parklands for another year after a two-year hiatus that felt like an eternity. In 2022, Splendour celebrates its 20th year with what's set to be a memorable comeback after a string of postponements. The festival was originally announced with a mammoth lineup back in February 2020; however, that didn't come to fruition for obvious reasons. The rescheduled event will now land in across the weekend of Friday, July 22–Sunday, July 24 . At the top of the bill sits Damon Albarn's animated supergroup Gorillaz, chart-topping rapper Tyler, the Creator and New York indie legends The Strokes. And, they have plenty of company. The Avalanches and Liam Gallagher help lead the complete roster of acts for 2022, alongside Glass Animals, Kacey Musgraves, Violent Soho, DMA's, Tim Minchin and The Jungle Giants. As usual, it's a stacked and eclectic list. If you'd already purchased a ticket for SITG 2020 or 2021, you'll be happy to know that they're still valid for the 2022 edition. And if you don't have a ticket yet, you can head to the festival's website to nab a pre-loved ticket now. SPLENDOUR IN THE GRASS 2022 LINEUP Gorillaz The Strokes Tyler, The Creator The Avalanches Glass Animals Liam Gallagher Kacey Musgraves Duke Dumont Live Violent Soho DMA's Yungblud Jack Harlow Dillon Francis Tim Minchin The Jungle Giants Mura Masa Amyl & The Sniffers Aitch G Flip Ruel Oliver Tree Jungle Tom Misch Grinspoon Orville Peck Parquet Courts Tierra Whack Cub Sport Jpegmafia Ruby Fields Sofi Tukker Methyl Ethel Julia Stone Baker Boy Stella Donnelly Genesis Owusu Hooligan Hefs The Chats Confidence Man Biig Piig Holly Humberstone Chillinit Alex The Astronaut Maxo Kream Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever Triple One Still Woozy Bad//Dreems Myd Northeast Party House Joy Crookes Wet Leg Mo'ju Pup Miiesha Mildlife Jarreau Vandal Brame & Hamo Shannon & The Clams Babe Rainbow Tai Verdes The Snuts Sycco Tom Cardy Sly Withers Hinds Dayglow Starcrawler Alice Ivy Budjerah JK-47 Jeff The Brotherhood Fazerdaze King Stingray Renforshort May-A The Lazy Eyes Banoffee Flowerkid The Buoys Moktar Stevan The Soul Movers George Alice 1300 Mickey Kojak Dro Carey & DJ Scorpion Pricie Mylee Grace Andy Golledge Charlie Collins Pink Matter Memphis Lk (DJ) Triple J Unearthed winners Mix-Up DJ's Dena Amy Jordan Brando Shantan Wantan Ichiban Luen Honey Point AK Sports Aywy Carolina Gasolina Munasib Pond Tasman Keith Top image: Dave Kan. Updated July 18, 2022.
The Palisade Hotel was once the highest building in Sydney. It's true, back in 1915 it was built as a pub for port workers and the residents of Millers Point; a feat of modern commercial development. After many long and hearty years as a Millers staple pub, hotel and prized Brian Sudek/Annie Parmentier restaurant, it closed in 2008. But now, the Palisade is finding new life in its 100th year, quietly reopening its ground floor bar. Quite the prime real estate spot, the Palisade has been snapped up for about $20 million by entrepreneur Richard Sapsford, according to Good Food. The pub is aiming to fuse boutique hotel accommodation with a brand new penthouse eatery and bar, under the direction businessman of Greg Walker. With the ground floor bar now open for business — serving hearty pub grub like soup and toasties alongside lighter fare like lentil and beetroot salads — the Palisade's fancier upper levels are tipped for a September opening. Owner of The Society Inc and interior stylist for the likes of Palings, Mr Wong, Palmer & Co, El Loco, 30 Knots, Upstairs at The Beresford, MsG’s and more Sibella Court is steering the revamp — one she 's claiming to have a "Soho House feel", nodding to the New York City Meatpacking District institution. The Palisade's ground floor bar is now open at 35 Bettington Street, Millers Point. Watch this space for more details on the upper levels. Images: Chris Court, The Society Inc.
Cheese isn't just a topping or a charcuterie pairing — it's a whole food group, and should be treated as such. If we had our way, the food pyramid would have a gooey, cheesy base, and probably a bite out of the top because it would also be made out of cheese. If you structure your day correctly, it's possible to have cheese for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert — and, frankly, it would be remiss not to sneak a cheese plate in somewhere between courses. To help you set off on the road toward your personal cheese nirvana, here are ten tried, tested and truly transcendent cheese experiences you can have in Sydney, on any day of the week (plus, an additional fondue special that's just here for winter). [caption id="attachment_721671" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Daniel Boud[/caption] RACLETTE AT LOLUK BISTRO, SURRY HILLS An amazing feature of French cuisine is that pouring melted cheese over your food is considered a meal — and not just one you make at home when your housemates are out of town. The raclette craze in Sydney shows no sign of slowing, with heaps of venues offering their version of this semi-hard cheese, melted under a grill and poured on top of potatoes, meat and pickles. Bourke Street's LoLuk Bistro whips out the raclette every Tuesday and Wednesday night — and for $49 per person, you can eat as much of it as you want. MR CRISPY SANDWICH AT THE STINKING BISHOPS, ENMORE Where else to start but at the inner west's temple of cheese? We're talking about The Stinking Bishops. It's home to one of the greatest vegetarian sandwiches in Sydney, dubbed the Mushroom Mr Crispy ($11). Comprised of field and enoki mushrooms, this toastie oozes taleggio and thyme mayo. If you're a meat lover, there's also a wagyu smoked beef version, topped with horseradish mayo. And there are plenty of other cheese options if you need them. The ploughman's lunch ($27) is a plank of wood covered with incredibly hearty nibbles, while the cauliflower mac 'n' grueyere ($27) is nothing short of an otherworldly experience. [caption id="attachment_622140" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kimberley Low.[/caption] CACIO E PEPE PASTA AT BUFFALO DINING CLUB, DARLINGHURST Pasta tossed in a wheel of cheese has become a Sydney trend that doesn't seem to be slowing. You can find it at markets around town, and, this winter, Handpicked Cellar Door is even doing a flaming truffle version this winter. But a time-honoured version can be had a Darlinghurst's Buffalo Dining Club any day of the year. The restaurant mixes a traditional Roman-style cacio e pepe pasta inside a hollowed-out wheel of pecorino cheese ($24), along with freshly cracked pepper and plenty of olive oil. It all goes down tableside — we know you'll be filming the action to post on your feed later. SEASONAL CHEESECAKE AT LITTLE LORD, CAMPERDOWN Cheese doesn't always have to mean savoury. Camperdown cafe Little Lord gives you good reason to have cheese any time of the day with its seasonal and regularly changing cheesecake of the moment. Co-owner Jax Alexander makes her cheesecake the Italian way with ricotta, natural yoghurt and whichever seasonal fruit is on offer. Recent flavours include passionfruit, raspberry, and lemon and coconut. But no matter what flavour it is, it's invariably fluffy, creamy and impossible to share — the good news is, at $5 a slice, you won't have to. [caption id="attachment_711918" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kimberley Low[/caption] KIMCHI TOASTIE AT PENNY'S CHEESE SHOP, POTTS POINT Walk into Penny's Cheese Shop, and you'd think you'd died and gone to cheese heaven. With two fridges stocked to the brim with creamy, stinky, funky and hard cheeses this little unassuming fromagerie is one of the best in Sydney. Aside from the service and the cheese, Penny Lawson's golden toasties, which quickly achieved cult status, are another reason you'll return to the shop again and again and again. With cheese both on the inside and the outside of the Pioik bread, as well as a rotating range of fillings — from kimchi to smoked wagyu and jalapeños — we think they might just be the best in the city. TRUFFLE MAC AND CHEESE AT THE HENSON, MARRICKVILLE We've got to hand it to them — Americans do a few things really, really well. Free-poured drinks are one, barbecued meats are another. But top of the list for us is their ability to slather carbs with cheese in a variety of pleasing ways. At Marrickville stalwart The Henson, the kitchen has created a fancier version of the classic mac and cheese by melting tasty cheese together with heaps of parmesan and truffle oil, then adding in a 'healthy' twist with cauliflower and silverbeet greens aplenty. It's incredibly rich and cheesy, and will completely fill you up for $16 a serve. CHEESE MAKING COURSE AT CORNERSMITH, MARRICKVILLE You might know Cornersmith for its pickles and preserves — and for its courses that teach Sydneysiders the skills to it themselves. But the Cornersmith Picklery also offers a semi-regular cheesemaking course run by local supplier Kristen Allan. The half-day workshop will teach all you need to know about how to make delectable soft cheeses like ricotta and labne at home — and you'll get plenty to take home, too. The next one is coming up on August 11, and places are still available here for $170. CHEESE PLATE AT THE GPO CHEESE AND WINE ROOM, CBD The GPO Cheese and Wine Room is a fine dining cheese establishment like no other. Open since 1999, it boasts one helluva cheese list, offering over 100 varieties — which you can choose from to create your ultimate cheese board. The seasonal selection ranges from local Australian producers to options from Europe, the States and the UK. We recommend letting the in-house cheese-masters curate a platter of their favourites, which you can pair with one of over 200 wines — or opt for a cheese and wine flight while you're at it. BURRATA AT PAESANELLA, MARRICKVILLE Paesanella should be a go-to for every Sydney cheese lover. This factory has been producing a variety of handmade Italian cheeses since the 1950s, and you can peruse its many varieties at the food emporium, day or night. Of the boundless cheeses available, it's the burrata you're after: a fist-sized pouch of mozzarella filled with rich cream that oozes out when pierced. You can sit down at the downstairs pizza restaurant and enjoy it in the antipasto platter ($35), which also comes with fried dough, mixed grilled veggies and cherry tomatoes. Or take one home and serve it at room temperature. Add a few fat ribbons of prosciutto, maybe a scattering of basil leaves and some fresh bread, and you have a legendary antipasto of your own. BURRATA PIZZA AT DONNY'S PIZZA, ABBOTSFORD If you haven't spotted it already, Abbotsford has a new authentic Italian pizza joint: Donny's Pizza. The rustic 60-seater is offering quality ingredients, alongside a self-professed Big Poppa's-inspired hip-hop backdrop. While so many of the pizzas are worthy of your attention, the burrata pizza ($19) is hard to beat — as burrata atop a pizza tends to be. The dough is heavily layered with a bruschetta-like mix of fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil and olive oil, then finished off with an entire ball of gooey burrata. It'll make you wonder why every pizza isn't made the same way. Top image: Penny's Cheese Shop by Kimberley Low.
They say that every cloud has a silver lining. While that mightn't seem the case when it comes to Sydney's lockout laws and the corresponding liquor licensing, the change in legislation has made way for smaller, neighbourhood focused wine bars You know the type: great spaces tended to by passionate sommeliers, who create exciting and engaging wine lists. For drinkers wanting to learn about natural or minimal intervention wines, take a crash course in vermouth or eagerly drink the length and breadth of Australian plonk, there's something for everyone in this great city of ours. Here's Sydney's top ten wine bars with a specific vinous vision.
March can often arrive with a pang of seasonal realisation — summer's done. But there are some who resist the change, especially those intent on creating an entire beach festival in Coogee. You'll quickly forget any farewells to the sunnier months at the Coogee Foreshore Festival, a seaside celebration transforming Coogee Pavilion into a burgeoning marketplace. It's just one tasty, beachy adventure amongst the annual March into Merivale festival. Head along to the Coogee Pav on March 20 for a day of foreshore frivolity — and you'd be well-advised to leave your self-consciousness behind. Want to get your face painted, tie an animal balloon to your wrist or get your pic taken with a roving entertainer? Do it already. Just in case you're finding it hard to let your hair down, there'll be summery drinks a-plenty, courtesy of Veuve Clicquot, and oodles of food, from not only Coogee Pavilion and Coogee Rooftop, but some of our favourite Merivale restaurants including Papi Chulo, El Loco, Mr. Wong and sushi e.
The more niche the pop-up bar, the more squealing it usually incurs. This one's going to invoke some pretty intolerable decibels, as Sydney's king of macarons brings something sweet and Sicilian to Bondi this May. On Sunday, May 3, Adriano Zumbo is opening a one-afternoon-only pop-up cannoli bar. Yep, cannoli bar. Take a moment to find a good quality jacket to squeal into, you've got coworkers. Setting up shop at Bondi Icebergs in South Bondi, Zumbo's pop-up will serve up sweet, sweet cannoli pastries to nibble on while taking in that ever-postcard perfect, panoramic view. This filled-pastry-shell-extravaganza marks a departure from the usual moneymakers for Zumbo, leaving the macarons, croquemboche and hamburger pies behind for an afternoon of dessert burritos. Let's be honest here, cannolis are messy as fuck — maybe avoid as a date option unless you're ready to break down barriers. The Zumbo pop-up's only open from 3-6pm, so you're going to want to get there early to smoosh a Zumboli (not an official term) in your face. Bondi Icebergs seem to be enjoying quite the series of pop-ups of late; Zumbo's follows temporary food shindigs from the likes of Melbourne favourites like Belle's Hot Chicken and Supernormal.
'Tis the time of year when dropping a shot of Bailey's and Jameson into a pint of Guinness is genuinely applauded, blasting The Corrs on Spotify is forgiven, then promptly forgotten, and every last sticky-floored pub in The Rocks and the CBD is heaving with novelty wigs and slurred singalongs. Sure, this might be your thing. But if you're looking to celebrate St Patrick's Day without battling tinsel mullets, listening to U2's 'Elevation' or going anywhere near Scruffy Murphy's, the lads at The Wild Rover are throwing a St Patrick's Day celebration you can actually get excited about. Held over three days from Sunday, March 15 to Tuesday, March 17, the Rovers are cranking out live music, those Wild Rover Paddy's Day spuds with Guinness gravy, $5 Guinness, $10 Irish whiskey cocktails and $1 freshly shucked oysters until 6pm. On Sunday, the Rover will be open from 12pm, with a street barbecue and live music from Cruisin' Deuces from 5pm. On Monday, it's Irish whiskey tasting from 6.30pm with Jameson's Lexie O'Toole, who'll be sharing her whiskies out of the New Midleton Distillery. Then, on the day of days, Tuesday's St Paddy's celebrations will see 'drunken riddlers' during the day and live music from The Sweet Jelly Rolls from 5pm.
Canadian producer Dan Snaith, aka Caribou, is headed to Australia for one of summer's most anticipated tours. One of the major headliners for St Jerome’s Laneway Festival, Caribou has locked in two extra special sideshows in Sydney and Melbourne. Caribou's latest record, Our Love, features the feelgood lead single 'I Can’t Do Without You', released in August last year and placing a very respectable #55 in this year's Hottest 100. Playing with some very '90s inspired R&B beats and '80s synth, Our Love is a record that's not only danceable but also engrossing to sit back and absorb. Caribou's no spring chicken at the electronic game; Snaith boasts a career spanning ten years with an impressive back catalogue. Fans of Caribou will remember his 2010 album Swim, with tracks like the expansive 'Sun' and the alluring 'Odessa' that won the hearts of many. To see these wonderfully layered, intricate and incredibly beautiful songs played live comes highly recommended — so if you’re not heading along to Laneway, do not miss this. Want to lock in a double header of electronic bliss? Flying Lotus is playing right after Caribou on Tuesday, February 3 at the Opera House. Tickets for both here.
Where the hell did iOTA go? After melting faces in Smoke & Mirrors, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Baz Lurhman's The Great Gatsby and, most recently Mad Max: Fury Road (he was the Doof Warrior), and holding five albums, eleven singles, six ARIA nominations, and a Helpmann, Green Room and Sydney Theatre Award under his belt, the award-winning, gender bending glam rocker just disappeared into the night. We thought we'd said something, we thought he'd never call again. But it seems the performative prince is riding back into town, to break hearts, take names and bring a brand new stage production to the Sydney Opera House: B-Girl. Directed and co-written by iOTA and longtime collaborator Craig Ilott, B-Girl sounds like a whole world of unpindownable, glamorous drama. Part rock 'n' roll, part vaudevillian cabaret, the show follows the plight of B-Girl (played by acclaimed Australian performer and Belvoir/Bell Shakespeare favourite Blazey Best), a troubled lass whose less-than-desirable circumstances lead her to use her imagination to escape into glam rock euphoria and create her own powerful alter ego: Clifford North (played by iOTA). Sounds like Swan Lake meets Sucker Punch. If you're wondering whether this new production will come anywhere near as daring and heartbreaking as the sell-out festival smash Smoke & Mirrors, the entire award-winning S&M team are the ones cranking the gears on B-Girl. Think live onstage band, all-original music, epic production value — all housed inside the Playhouse Theatre. "Smoke & Mirrors was really our first go and the experience has brought us closer together as people," says iOTA. "We trust each other, we’re a better team — B-Girl will reflect that." Tickets on sale to the general public Tuesday, March 3.
Heartbreak kid Ryan Adams and ex-Rilo Kiley lead singer Jenny Lewis are in the country for what is sure to be another excellent Splendour in the Grass. Even better, while they're here they've decided to team up and perform a couple of sideshows — including one at Sydney's very own Enmore Theatre. Lewis and Adams are far from strangers; as well as sharing alt-country backgrounds and impeccable lyrical writing skills, Adams also produced Lewis’ 2014 album The Voyager. Lewis’ standout single 'Just One Of The Guys' cemented itself into our brains last year not only for its wry vocals and catchy jingle, but also for having one of the best music videos of 2014. Adams, meanwhile, hasn't been to our shores since 2012, and will perform an additional solo show at the Opera House on July 21.
This imaginative little gathering brings together two of Concrete Playground's favourite things: food and words. Forming part of the Bondi Feast programme, Eat Our Words will see a bunch of food lovers get together to tell you stories about the tasty morsels that have changed their lives. While they're talking, you'll get to eat samples of their subject matter. The speakers are a mix of chefs, brewers, writers and artists. You'll be hearing from Lucien Alperstein, who brews, pickles and photographs; Nicholas Jordan, who writes, blogs and researches (including for CP about delicious things like jerky and juice pairing); David Matthews, who chefs, writes and edits; and Georgia Hutchison, who creates art from a range of materials, food included. Bondi Feast is a fringe-style festival run by the Rock Surfers Theatre Co, combining local theatre, music, comedy, art and food. Since starting up in 2012, the event has double in size. This year, it runs for 11 nights between July 11 and 25, and features more than 100 artists across more than 50 performances.
When it comes to fashion, staying ahead of the pack can be a mighty tough feat. But if you’re keen to kick monochromic minimalism to the curb, while giving a little back to your global community, we’ve found just the bold West African label to help you do it. YEVU, which means 'foreigner' in the local Ewe language, is a socially responsible clothing line bringing the wild traditional wax prints of Ghana to Aussie shores. Linking local African tailors with style-conscious global customers, founder Anna Robertson is creating serious change for Ghanaian seamstresses living on the poverty line. After launching their sell-out debut range in October 2013, YEVU returns this month with a fresh selection of awesome new threads (we actually can't get enough of these prints). From late November, Sydney and Melbourne will both house YEVU’s latest pop-up stores. Stocked with everything from daring jumpsuits to bold bomber jackets for both ladies and gents, these vibrant designs won’t go unnoticed in your wardrobe. Give back, shop ethically and nab a new look with some of the sweetest prints you’ll see all season. Head along to the launch of YEVU's pop up locations in Sydney (636 Crown Street, Surry Hills) on November 26 and Melbourne (27-29 Johnston Street, Collingwood) on December 3 from 6 to 9pm. YEVU POP-UP OPENING HOURS Sydney — November 27 to January 24 (10am to 7pm daily) Melbourne — December 4 to January 31(10am to 7pm Daily) Both stores closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day. Image: YEVU.
Riding on the back of his last success, Tremors, multitalented Vienna-based singer and producer, SOHN (aka Christopher Taylor) is returning to Australian shores. You've probably heard his raw electronic renditions of traditional R&B before, influenced by the moody vocals of James Blake and How to Dress Well. Recorded entirely at night, Tremors is an immaculately crafted album; drawing together tales of Taylor's relationship-induced emotional melancholy. A London expat now living in Vienna, his music is enamoured with his newfound geographies — with hit tracks like 'Artifice' and 'Lessons' embracing a kind of laidback European pastoralism. If you missed out on last year's sell-out shows, hopefully you'll catch some better luck this time. Grab 'em quick.
As part of their 2017 program Carriageworks are bringing Independent Italian performance group Motus to Australia, to perform MDLSX. MDLSX is a confronting, empowering hymn to androgyny. Punk goddess Silvia Calderoni, who has been performing with Motus for over ten years, will experiment and explore the above themes within a performance art monologue and DJ set. Music will be from The Smiths, Vampire Weekend, R.E.M and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, while a backdrop featuring Calderoni's family home videos blurs fiction with reality. Previously, Motus' performances and shows have yielded great physical and emotional impact, so this is one not to miss — even it it's purely just to see what happens. Image: Diane Ilariascarpa.
Brisbane's Damian Griffiths is doubling down on his mission to put the entire population of Sydney — and indeed, Australia — into a diabetic coma. After giving us our first taste of his insanely popular Doughnut Time creations, the sugar-mad restaurateur is bringing his retro ice cream parlour, Mister Fitz, across the border. The first Mister Fitz opened in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane last December, followed quickly by a second location in South Bank. The Sydney move was first announced in April 2016, and while we're still waiting for a concrete opening date for the permanent store, Griffiths is kicking things off with a pop-up in Sydney's CBD, opening Friday, May 26. You will have to head into a shopping mall to find it though, one half of Myer's winter Alpine Village activation beside a sibling Doughnut Time pop-up. Mister Fitz's pop-up menu is just four ice-cream sandwiches strong including the Gimme Macklemore (chocolate cookie sandwich, s'mores ice-cream and hot chocolate sauce), and the 24 Carat Magic with a slim shady doughnut sandwich, milk and cookies ice-cream and unicorn crumb), and warm offerings like the Sticky AF (sticky date pudding with vanilla ice cream topped with hot caramel sauce and unicorn crumb). The Mister Fitz and Doughnut Time Alpine Village is located on Level 6, Myer Sydney, 436 George Street, Sydney and will be open during Myer trading hours from May 26 to July 16. To celebrate the opening, both brands will be giving away free ice-cream sandwiches and doughnuts from 12-1pm on Friday, May 26.
Mexican chain restaurant Los Vida have been one of this year's big foodie success stories — so much so that, barely more than six months after their CBD debut, they're heading out to Crows Nest for location number three. In truth, it feels a little bit wrong to even refer to them as a chain, in that there’s something warm and authentic about their menu that seems incongruous with the restaurant franchise phenomena. In fact their only resemblance to a chain is the demand from Sydneysiders who are hungry for whatever Los Vida is laying down. Perhaps their success stems from the two co-founders Mexican heritage and upbringings, both hailing from Mexico City and bringing with them a bonafide, electrified slice of their national cuisine. Their Crows Nest location will offer a similar, homey decor, plus a ten metre cocktail bar where you can get friendly with their drinks menu, wile out with a tequila shot and then face off with the mezcal, tequila’s slightly wormier cousin. The food menu will offer the same variety, with no Western substitutions or naming conventions. You won’t be asked if you want fries with your tacos here (but if you do in fact want fries, get the patatas bravas — it’s the Mexican equivalent and you won’t be sorry). Los Vida at Crows Nest is open from July 30 at 419 Pacific Highway, Crows Nest. Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. For further information, email info@losvida.com.au.
Get the bacon and whisky ready, and prepare your ears for some high-pitched laughter. They're the only things you can do — other than start making your own canoe, and generally squealing with glee — upon hearing the news that Nick Offerman is coming to Australia this week. Although initially slated to appear with partner in crime Megan Mullally to perform their Summer of 69: No Apostrophe, an unforeseen scheduling conflict has seen the show replaced with Offerman's solo show Full Bush. Mullally is no longer able to tour early next year as she starts a major film production overlapping directly with her Australian dates — but, luckily, Offerman is still able to make it. Just take a moment to let that sink in. Ron effing Swanson will be in the country. Described as a veritable smorgasbord of cautionary tales, tunes, and tips for prosperity, Full Bush looks set to make all your dreams come true: you'll get to sing a tune with Offerman while taking in his natural beefy musk. He'll be up on stage at the State Theatre on Thursday, January 28, and will do two shows the next night on Friday, January 29 (at 8pm and 10.30pm). NICK OFFERMAN: FULL BUSH DATES January 28-29 — State Theatre, Sydney January 30 — Theatre Royal, Hobart January 31 & February 9 — Hamer Hall, Melbourne February 2-3 — Astor Theatre, Perth February 4 — Festival Theatre, Adelaide February 5-6 — QPAC Concert Hall, Brisbane
Fresh off their epic car park screening of Fight Club featuring Ikea furniture, group therapy sessions and stuntmen beating the crap out of each other, clandestine cinema specialists Curious Cartel are back for their second top-secret event. The location? A mystery. The movie? Who knows. The dress code? High school formal. Curious Cartel's 'Prom Night' is scheduled for Saturday, September 19, and is expected to run from 6pm through to midnight. While the specifics are being kept under wraps, we do know that there'll be music, food and a fully licensed bar as well as interactive activities and performers. Tickets to Prom Night are $60 from the Ticketbooth, but thanks to Curious Cartel, we have two double passes to give away to to the event on September 19. To be in the running, subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter and then email win.sydney@concreteplayground.com.au with your name and address.
One of Queensland's favourite sources of doughy deliciousness has expanded pretty damn rapidly over the last 12 months. Brisbane's Doughnut Time has opened multiple pop-ups and a whopping 11 Australian stores across Brissy, Melbourne, Gold Coast and Sydney, plus they've got a roving van in Brisbane — despite having been in business for just over a year. And now? They're headed for the beach. This Saturday, April 2, Doughnut Time is set to open their next Sydney instalment at Bondi. Located at Shop 1, 82 Gould Street, the store will be pumping out doughnuts seven days a week until 11pm. Of course, the full rotating range of delectable iced, filled bites will be on offer, so prepare to devour the Melon Degeneres with watermelon and sour green glaze, the pretzel-topped George Costanza, the Wake Me Up Before You Vovo (a doughy with a light strawberry glaze, jam and coconut marshmallows), and the Fruit Loop-laden Cereal Killer, among others. Picking something based on its name alone is completely acceptable. Every good store opening needs a celebratory novelty schtick to kick things off right? Doughnut Time will be handing out 1000 free giant inflatable doughnuts to first-in, best-dressed from 11am. You'll use this inflatable to redeem a free doughnut of your choice. And we'd use it on their limited edition Blue Crush doughnut, with honeycomb and blue cream glaze, crushed biscuits, a tiny chocolate surfboard and a candy beach ball. Doughnut Time have expanded incredibly fast in a very short amount of time despite having been in business for just over a year. In Sydney, you'll find them in Glebe, Central Park in Chippendale, Newtown and Topshops across the city. Next stop? Tokyo. Really. Doughnut Time opens at Shop 1, 82 Gould Street, Bondi Beach on Saturday, April 2 at 11am. Find more Doughnut Time locations on the website. By Shannon Connellan with Sarah Ward.
Seems this little Sydney balcony bar just can't stop changing outfits. Taylor Square's Lo-Fi is set to be replaced by a brand new Cuban-style cocktail bar. Sandwiched in between Kinselas on the ground floor and The Standard Bowl up top, the soon-to-open Middlebar will strip away the technicolour trappings of its Romance Was Born-designed predecessor, replacing them with warm, earthy timbers and the flavours of Havana. The Riversdale Group, who own the venue, have tapped bartending gun Lee Potter Cavanagh to design and reside over the drinks list. A multiple award-winner, Potter Cavanagh previously worked as the bar manager at the now defunct Victoria Room. But it was his recent trip to Cuba that inspired the direction of the Middlebar cocktail menu, which is made up primarily of gin-based libations served "without the wank factor of a neo-speakeasy bar." Live entertainment will be handled by venue manager David 'Rizza' Rozario, who like Cavanagh comes to Middlebar after a long stint at another highly respected Sydney venue — in his case, CBD whisky joint The Baxter Inn. Expect a regular contingent of local DJs plus the occasional international sideshow. And if the name Middlebar sounds weirdly familiar? It's probably because The Middle Bar was the name of the bar before it became Lo-Fi back in 2010. Circle of life, right? Located at Level 2, 383 Bourke Street, Taylor Square, Middlebar is due to open on Friday, July 24. Their regular trading hours will be Wednesday – Sunday, 5pm – 3am. For more information, visit their website.
CBD dwellers, your lunch time options have just gone gangbusters. Brand new, straightforwardly-named dining precinct Level One has landed, opening in Chifley in the CBD. With it comes a plethora of healthy eating options designed by some of Australia's favourite chefs. It's a novel idea wherein chefs curated their favourite dishes and, goddamn, do they sound delicious. Designed by design firm SJB, the precinct features 180 tonnes of New York and Nero Marquina marble, with 20,000 handcut Herringbone marble tiles. It's not your average food court. Especially when one of of the culinary offerings comes from the team behind Flying Fish. Entrepreneur Jack Fonteyn and chef Jason Roberts. have designed a concept based on Hawaiian fish salads (so hot right now, Hawaiian fish salads), dubbed Poku by Flying Fish. Furthermore, Chinta Ria's Simon Goh is serving up Malaysian food and jazz at his establishment Ella Blues, inspired by the American blues movement that hit Malaysia in the '60s. Maria Barona and Francisco Rodriguez are launching Encasa, a Spanish/Colombian style tapas bar. George Nahas of Romolo is contributing a New York style deli named Sal, inspired by the Italian-American delis of the big apple. Expect a few more pretty damn big names to grace Level One (announcements to come) but for now the prevailing ethos of the new foodie hub is clean and sustainable eats. Bring it on. Level One is open at 2 Chifley Square, Sydney.
Sydney's reached peak burger obsession. No longer confined to the realms of American chains and RSL bistros, burgers now clock up appearances on the menus of top-tier, hatted chefs, each putting their own contemporary, fine dining spin on the longtime casual favourite. So we reckoned it was about time for a good ol' fashioned burger battle — and so did Merivale. This February, we invited 16 of Merivale's top chefs to Ivy Ballroom to hit the kitchen and cook up their ultimate burger for March Into Merivale's Between Two Buns. Watch it all go down here. From dozens of entries, our enviable panel of burger experts whittled down the shortlist to six. You'll be able to try every single one of these juicy delights at the Between Two Buns event on Wednesday, February 17. After you've tried 'em all comes the most important moment: vote for your favourite. The winner will score a spot on Merivale's pub menus for a year, and bragging rights forevermore. So, who won over the judges? Which Merivale chef makes the best burger? Try these at MiM and vote. BETWEEN TWO BUNS FINALISTS Dan Hong (Mr. Wong) — Lotus Burger Alex Lewis (The Beresford) — The ultimate duck burger Jeremy Strode (The Fish Shop/ Bistrode CBD) — The Fish Dog (chicken and eel) Jordan Toft (Coogee Pavilion) — Aged trim beef, cheese, burger sauce, B&B pickle Paul Donnelley (Ms.G's) — Beef, bacon and cheese burger Patrick Friesen and Chris Hogarth (Papi Chulo/Queen Chow) — Canadian beef and bacon burger Best bit? Thanks to Merivale, we're giving away win a year's worth of burgers for free. A YEAR OF FREE BURGERS. The winner will land themselves one Merivale burger voucher per month (valid to $25 each month, valued at $300), usable from Saturday, February 20, 2016 – Monday, February 20, 2017. To be in the running, subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter and then email win.sydney@concreteplayground.com.au with your name and address and what your ‘Guiltiest Foodie Pleasure’ is. The winner will be drawn on February 19 and notified via email. And it's 18+ only, sorry kids. Here are the comp's terms and conditions FYI.
One of Sydney's more experimental, seasonally-focused openings of the last year, Automata, is getting collaborative. This year, the Old Clare Hotel-dwelling restaurant will launch co.lab, a series of events showcasing some of the best chefs from across the globe — particularly those who celebrate seasonally-changing menus. Kicking off February 20, co.lab will begin the series with one of London's top chefs, Lee Westcott of East London's Typing Room, teaming up with Automata's Clayton Wells (formerly of Momofuku Seiobo). For $100, you'll be treated to two snacks and six courses — one snack and three courses from each chef. For 100 beans, that's actually pretty damn reasonable. For an extra $60 they'll do beverage pairing. "Whilst we always try to utilise the best ingredients with minimal fuss, co.lab will be a fun way of switching things up and experiencing multiple concepts," says Wells. Bookings are now open from Automata's website or by buzzing (02) 8277 8555. Sittings available from 12pm on February 20. Future co.lab guests will be announced soon.
If seasonal change has left you in a dizzy headspin of brand new colours and fabrics and prints and jackets — or if, y'know, you just like some fancy new clothes now and then — you'll be pretty pleased to know that the Big Fashion Sale is coming back to Sydney for four days this March. The name pretty much says it all. This thing is big — it takes over Paddington Town Hall. You'll find lush items from past collections, samples and one-offs from cult Australian and international designers, both well-known and emerging, including Celine, Stella McCartney, Ellery, Alexander Wang, Karla Spetic, Balenciaga, Studio Elke, LANVIN, Christopher Kane, Benah, Marni and macgraw. With discounts of up to 80 percent off and items for as little as $20, this is one way of upping your street cred with designer threads that'll leave your bank balance sitting pretty too. Prices this low tend to inspire a certain level of ruthlessness in all of us, though, so practise that grabbing reflex in advance. This is every man and lady for themselves. The Big Fashion Sale opening hours: March 23 — 9am - 7pm March 24 — 9am - 7pm March 25 — 10am - 6pm March 26 — 10am - 3pm
When you're celebrating Irish cinema in Australia, there's nothing like a movie made in the former with talent from the latter to connect the two together. And, if it involves one of the stars of beloved Aussie comedy Muriel's Wedding, even better. Last year, Toni Collette was in the spotlight at the Irish Film Festival, but this year it's Rachel Griffiths' turn. She's absolutely compelling in intimate drama Mammal, one of the five features on the eight-film program. Screening at Paddington's Chauvel Cinema from March 30 to April 2 — with a one-night-only stint at Penrith Gaels Club in Western Sydney on March 29 as well — this year's festival boasts everything from a comedy based on a true crime tale (The Young Offenders) to a documentary about the troubles of oil and fishing at the sea narrated by actor Brendan Gleeson (Atlantic), plus plenty in between. That includes a relationship drama that tackles unplanned pregnancy with sensitivity (Twice Shy), plus a heartwarming account of two young people with learning disabilities falling in love (Sanctuary). Plus, for those who missed it at the Mardi Gras Film Festival, the festival kicks off with the charming love and friendship-focused A Date for Mad Mary, complete with a breakout performance from Irish talent Seána Kerslake. Throw in docos about Bobby Sands' famous hunger strike (Bobby Sands: 66 Days) and two friends selling mattresses (Mattress Men), and you've got yourself a short but sweet feast of Ireland's finest filmmaking.
So you have good aim, know how to throw and you need a bill paid? Head down to World Square this Thursday, June 22 between 10am and 2pm, and every 15 minutes you could have your rent, water, electricity or phone bills paid for by BPAY. All you have to do is dunk someone (who will also be dressed as a bill for your own entertainment). You only have three chances, so brush up on your hand-eye coordination before then. At the dunk machine you'll be given a raffle ticket, and if randomly selected, you will then get the chance to spin a wheel to determine which bill could get paid. It's like your favorite childhood carnival memories are resurfacing to free you of your adult worries. You could quite literally make a bill disappear — into the dunk tank and off your to-do list — and even if you don't, at least you're not the one getting soaked on a winter day. Didn't get a dunk? Find out how to set up paying your bills through your bank using BPAY. See full terms and conditions here.
This year has seen the term 'nasty women' become possibly the loudest call for solidarity by opponents to the Trump administration. As a feature event of the Sydney Writers' Festival 2017, Advice from Nasty Women will see seven globally-acclaimed female writers share cautionary tales, life lessons, wisdom and advice for an uncertain future. Australia's own Sophie Black (content strategist at the Wheeler Centre) will host the evening, bringing together both local and international writers, including Indigenous Literacy Foundation lifetime ambassador Anita Heiss, US cultural critic Chris Kraus, Eisner Award-nominated author Nadja Spiegelman, New York Times best-seller Brit Bennett, Italy's Premio Campiello Opera Prima award-winner Viola Di Grado and Montreal-born essayist Durga Chew-Bose. This incredibly impressive lineup of opinionated and successful women spans generations and cultures to find a unified voice against sexism and oppression. Despite the derogatory origins of 'nasty women', events like this have helped champion the term into an empowered battle cry. [competition]623066[/competition] Image: Prudence Upton.
Design and culture magazine FLUX Hawaii is headed to Sydney with its first Australian pop-up, The FLUX Hawaii Shop, which will open from Thursday, May 25 through to Sunday, May 28, 11am to 7pm daily. Presented by Hawaii Tourism Oceania, the shop will showcase fashion, accessories, stationery and art from 30 Hawaii-based and Hawaii-inspired brands. The Sydney pop-up will also be home to a new, Australian-exclusive line made in collaboration with Hawaiian vendors — including leather goods by Leather Soul and Reyn Spooner, apparel by Matt Bruening, Salvage Public and HVN Apparel, slip-ons by Island Slipper and accessories by Jana Lam, Beachcake, and Miemiko. The four-day pop-up will also host creative workshops, cultural discussions and live performances by Creative Lab Hawaii's immersive artists Kimié Miner (Best Contemporary Album of the Year 2016) and Izik, who is considered one of Hawaii's emerging pop and R&B artists to watch. The Sydney pop-up follows similar FLUX shops at New York Fashion Week and in Brooklyn, New York City, and Los Angeles. The team felt Sydney was the next obvious choice, considering our city's similar laidback, beachy vibes.
If you've been dreaming of adding some A.P.C. threads to your wardrobe, but haven't quite had the budget to stretch, then you're in luck. The French designer label's will this week fill a shopfront in Paddington with some pretty incredible bargains in a one-off surplus sale. From Thursday, March 1 to Sunday, March 4, you'll be able to get your mitts on covetable, cut-price pieces from both the SS16 and SS17 men's and women's collections. Highlights include designs from two big-name collaborations — A.P.C. x Outdoor Voices and A.P.C. x Jean Touitou — all sporting the brand's signature clean lines and luxuriously minimalist silhouettes. A.P.C.'s surplus concept is usually only available in Paris, New York and Tokyo, so consider this a rare opportunity to bag a discount. The sale will run from 1–7pm on Thursday, 9am–5pm on Friday and Saturday and 10am–4pm on Sunday.
It has been two years since Moya's Juniper Lounge became Redfern's go-to gin haven. That's two years of serving up clear spirits aplenty, two years of making sure the gin-to-tonic ratio is just right and two years of mixing up juniper cocktails. Specifically, it marks two years of whipping up negroni after negroni after negroni — and they're not done yet. To celebrate the occasion, they're not only making more, but they're giving 100 away for free. Mosey on in to the blink-and-you'll-miss-it Regent Street bar at 4pm on March 28, and your first two beverages won't trouble your wallet — as long as they haven't served up more than 100 yet. Now that's how you throw a birthday party, and ensure that everyone has an ace time. Plus, if they can figure out just how to make it, there might also be negroni-flavoured fairy bread on offer. They'll be enforcing the two-drink-per-person limit, because you know free negronis are bound to be popular, but the old-world gin palace's usual menu will still be waiting once you've sipped your free beverages. As always, Moya's bartenders will be slinging their classic drinks, including our favourites, such as the Charlie Chaplin and The Last Word. And The Pocket Trio will be providing some tunes from 8pm.
As if the furore generated by the Vivid Sydney lineup announcement wasn't enough to stir your loins, Fuzzy Events has announced a banging lineup for its 2018 instalment of Curve Ball. Taking over Carriageworks on Saturday, June 16, the live electronic music event will a tight little lineup with a hefty side of visual arts. The lineup is fronted by Sydney's own Alison Wonderland and Vera Blue, whose own Vivid show has already sold out. They'll be joined by Crooked Colours, Haiku Hands, Poloshirt, FlexMami and more. It's basically a who's who of Sydney up-and-coming electronic artists. Carriageworks is bringing the fire with an immersive audio and visual experience to accompany the tunes as well as large scale art installations. Image: Carriageworks.
Like the great poet Beyonce said, "We (that is, girls) run this mother." Get along to the 2016 Curvy Creative Women's Conference to find out how contemporary ladies in charge have got to where they are — and where they'll be heading next. This event, to be held at aMBUSH Gallery, gives you two days in the company of smart, creative, high-achieving women. The first day, dubbed 'The Volcom School of Cool' features talks from eight goalkicking ladies who've cracked cool careers. Among them are ABC foreign correspondent Emma Morris, Sticks and Stones co-founder Ainsley Hutchence, tattoo artist Lauren Winzer and actor Tessa Da Josselin. The second day will be dedicated to 'The Future of Creative Content'. A panel of convention-defiers will be chatting about where creativity's going in the years to come. You'll be hearing from IMG head of fashion Emily Weight, Frankie Press head of editorial Jo Walker, triple j presenter Linda Marigliano and Instagram legend Lauren Bath, among others. Make a weekend of it with a stay at The Old Clare Hotel. As an official partner of CURVY, the heritage-listed hotel is offering a 15 percent discount to conference ticket holders.
The year's best movies from Mexico to Argentina are on their way to Sydney this September. Returning to Dendy Opera Quays, this year's Sydney Latin American Film Festival will stretch across five jam-packed days, combining award winning dramas, joyous family comedies, hard-hitting documentaries and more. The festival begins on Thursday, September 8 with a screening of Jules and Dolores, a Brazilian film about a gambling addict who 'accidentally' steals the World Cup trophy. It will be followed by an opening night fiesta at Cruise Bar complete with musical performances by the Kriola Collective and DJ Don Juan. Further highlights from the festival program include Cuban HIV drama The Companion, Argentinean road movie Road to La Paz and Chilean political documentary Beyond My Grandfather Allende. The festival will conclude with Mexican coming-of-age comedy Jeremy preceded by a performance by legendary Mexican harpist Victor Valdes. For the full Sydney Latin American Film Festival program, visit the website.
Yep, it really has been that long since Heaps Gay rolled the party train into Sydney. And, as you might expect, the good folks will be capping off their third year with an absolutely massive bash, which happily coincides with V MoVement. Expect DJs, burlesque, drag, live performance and a whole lot of surprises. Plus, to fit everyone in, they'll be taking over the entire Imperial Hotel (yep, the now-closed palace itself). Among the epic lineup, you'll find Melbourne's CC Disco!, local rappers Kimchi Princi, futuristic electro producer Donatachi, glamorous burlesque queen Lillian Starr and live band the MAGDA Szubanskis, who do covers in drag. Grab your tickets online before the event for just $15 a pop.
Summer's not the only time of year Sydneysiders can wander through night markets brimming with freshly cooked local nosh. Carriageworks plans to continue this insanely popular Sydney pastime into the colder months, with a brand new winter night market for Vivid. It's (somewhat straightforwardly) called The Night Market, with over 50 stallholders taking over Carriageworks on two winter evenings: June 4 and June 18. Expect to sample goods from NSW's top tier of restaurants, winemakers, spiritmakers, breweries and providores, including Archie Rose, Cornersmith, Porteno, Billy Kwong, Icebergs, Efendy, Thievery, Young Henrys, Cake Wines, Single Origin Roasters, Pepe Saya and more. Curated by Sydney chef (of the just-opened No. 1 Bent Street) and Carriageworks Farmers Market creative director Mike McEnearney, The Night Market is inspired by the theme 'Cooking with Fire' — and the chefs involved will be doing just that, cooking live over open flames. Each stallholder will be able to clue you into the regional source of their produce — a requirement that could only come from the paddock-to-plate-focused McEnearney. The Night Market marks the second Vivid food-focused project for Carriageworks this year, following the sold-out Sydney Table series announcement. Both ride the success of the recent Carriageworks Christmas Twilight Market, which saw a casual 8000 visitors/late present buyers. THE NIGHT MARKET STALLHOLDER LINEUP: A&W Muscat Archie Rose Ashtons Australian Coffee Billy Kwong Blini Bar Brilliant Food Burrawong Gaian Cake Wines Ce Ce Liqueur Chrissy's Cuts Sausages Cornersmith Country Valley Dairy Dessertmakers Ding the Recipe Efendy Freeman Vineyards Gumnut Chocolates and Biscuits Hand N Hoe Organic Macadamias Icebergs Jollie Gourmet Jonima Flowers Juicing by Colours Kemps Creek Farms Kitchen Green Kurrawong Organics La Bastide Linga Longa Farm Melanda Park Pasture Raised Pork Millamolong Australia Moobi Valley Mountain Goat Naturally Falafel Neo Organic Tea Pasta Emilia Pepe Saya Porteno Prickle Hill Produce Pukara Estate Salads Direct Shepherd's Artisan Bakehouse Single Origin Roasters Slow Wine Co. Sweetness the Patisserie The Herb Store The Pines Kiama Thievery Thirlmere Poultry Vale Creek Wines Watkins Family Farm Willowbrae Chevre Cheese Yalla Foods Young Henrys Brewing Company The Night Market is coming to Carriageworks on June 4 and 18. Entry is free. Image: Andrew Quilty.
Should you notice more buskers than usual in Newtown than usual on Saturday, you're not imagining it. They're taking over the inner west suburb for the inaugural Busk For A Cure. Founded by local singer-songwriter Helmut Uhlmann, this event hopes to raise loads of dosh for the Cancer Council NSW, as well as Crohn's and Colitis Australia. "It's a way of combining my love of music and entrepreneurship with a cause that is deeply embedded within my heart," he said. Helmut's mother passed away in August 2015, following a ten-year battle with cancer. But don't expect any guilt-tripping or hard sales. Although Busk For A Cure's basis is in tragedy, the event itself is about celebrating life and having fun. "We want the community to have such a great time that they forget about the causes they are supporting, only to have moments where they remember, 'Oh, this is raising money for cancer research, I feel good about that'," says Helmut. You'll find the buskers performing between 10am and 7pm at Newtown Town Hall Square (opposite Newtown station), 'I Have a Dream' Square, Newtown Mission, Camperdown Park and on the corner of Alice and King Streets. There's more info about the event over here and, to keep up with the group running it, jump on this page.
Twelve of Australia's best young winemakers will be gathering in Sydney on June 25, and you're invited to spend an afternoon in their company. You'll be sampling their latest drops, asking all the questions and, ultimately, deciding who decides to get take home the 10th Young Gun of Wine People's Choice Award. The best bit? You won't have to pay a pretty penny for the pleasure. All you have to do is register online and turn up at 2pm. The event, being held by Nomad Wine Store, will be happening at Cleveland&Co. It'll be your only chance to get inside the building before its imminent transformation into a hospitality and retail hub. Every state and some of Australia's most famous wineries are represented in the Young Gun list of finalists — including Chris Tyrrell of Tyrell's, Hunter Valley, Michael Downer of Murdoch Hill, Adelaide Hills, and Richard Evans of Two Tonne Tasmania. If, on the day, any particular drops takes your fancy, you'll be able to buy bottles at cellar door prices.
Clear your calendars — this massive natural wine party is back to take over the Ace Hotel this month. Hit up Huge Moves on Saturday, May 18 to get your fill of some of Australia's best and funkiest wines. The event will take over two floors of the Surry Hills hotel from 12–3pm, and showcase 35-plus winemakers, distributors and producers, offering over 100 products for you to enjoy. Plus, you'll be able to chat to the people who make it all happen, with winemakers, producers and importers all in attendance. This is your chance to taste your way through a bunch of minimal-intervention wines, spanning producers like Andrew Guard Wine Imports (the country's first importer of natural wines), Worlds Apart, Alpha Box & Dice, Sinking Wines, and many more. You'll be spoilt for choice on the snack front, too, with a thoughtful menu by LOAM — featuring the likes of Yamba prawn rolls, local oysters, LP's mortadella sambos — providing excellent options to pair with your glass. There'll also be a cheese stand by Studd Siblings. For tunes, DJ Levins and friends will provide music throughout the day, complementing the quality vino available. Secure your spot at the event's tickets page — tickets are $60 a pop and extremely limited, so get in quick. Image credit: Nikki To.
