Almost every coastal town of a certain size has a pub overlooking the beach. But they're not all like Shoal Bay Country Club. The much-loved local has been around since the 1930s and, after being sold to The Eastern Group in 2016, it received a much-needed $6 million facelift. The refurb was unveiled in early 2018, revealing a light and airy venue that takes full advantage of its epic vantage point of the bay and has an unmistakable Mediterranean feel — think a predominantly white and wood palette with pops of aqua blue and bright yellow. The venue opens bright and early at 6.30am with breakfast served in the downstairs cafe, Mermaids. Start with a coffee or Lean Green smoothie before diving into sweet potato and carrot fritters, buttermilk waffles or smashed avo with feta and lime. Then, from 11.30am, the kitchen and patio swing open their doors for lunch and dinner with an extensive menu of pub classics on offer, including schnitties, beer battered fish and chips and wagyu beef burger. There are plenty of options, too, from charcuterie boards and mac 'n' cheese balls to buckets of prawns and seafood platters. Oh, and there's no getting past the Napoli-style woodfired pizzas, served with kale basil pesto and fior di latte, peri peri chicken or garlic prawns. For drinks, you can enjoy cocktail jugs and a wine list largely populated by Aussie and NZ drops. Expect live music starting from 6.30pm in the courtyard on Friday and Saturday nights before DJs take over to keep the fun going into the wee hours. On Sundays, there's live music in the courtyard all afternoon, plus crab races, poker and $5 drinks from 7pm. If you're keen for all the action but not for the crawl home, Shoal Bay Country Club runs a courtesy bus covering Shoal Bay, Fingal Bay, Nelson Bay and Corlette. Alternatively, the venue is linked with the Ramada Resort, and it also has its own luxe two-level, four-bedroom penthouse.
For the past six years, Porteno owners Ben Milgate and Elvis Abrahanowicz have been grilling up a storm in their iconic home on Cleveland Street, Surry Hills. It's been over half a decade of succulent Argentine-style grilled meats, great tunes and Brussels sprouts, all wrapped up in the stunning décor that feels like the dining room of a mildly hedonistic aristocrat. However, the doors have now closed to a la carte diners at the Cleveland Street restaurant as Porteno starts it new chapter in a new home: 50 Holt Street, Surry Hills. The team that brought us Bodega, Gardel's Bar and a million and one incredible pop-ups have shifted their lauded dining skills to the space that used to house the Sydney branch of Melbourne's tapas king, MoVida. After acquiring the space in June, Milgate and Abrahanowicz, along with co-owner and sommelier Joe Valore, finally opened their doors to diners this week. The new joint looks to continue along the same theme of good food and great vibes that punters have come to love from Porteno. The overall theme of white walls, checkered tiling and exposed timber have made the jump over to the new shop, and there's no reason to assume that the faultless playlists showing off the greatest rock and roll acts you've never heard of will change at all. "On the whole, at Holt Street, it is the same Porteño, in a new space and a few exciting additions," the crew told Concrete Playground. Porteño's menu will see a slight change, opting towards full dishes and a tweaked flavour. It will still be largely fuelled by Argentinian cooking, but with a slightly more of a Mediterranean flavour than the last menu. The new restaurant is a touch smaller, seating about 30 fewer people than the Cleveland Street location. To combat this, bookings for smaller groups are available at Porteño — for the first time. It's not goodbye to the traditional home of Porteño, as the beautiful building on Cleveland Street will stay in the family. Milgate, Abrahanowicz and Valore intend to use the space for weddings and events, now offering the main dining floor, which can handle you and 129 of your mates for a dinner, or 200 people for a cocktail deal. Gardel's Bar, including the Evita Room, can cater for 50 people dining, or a whopping 160 people for a party. These parties will even include the odd live music gig. "We've been fortunate enough in the past to have several opportunities to host some great live music in Gardel's Bar, and will certainly hope to continue to do so," say the lads. So, while it's sad to say goodbye to Porteno at Cleveland Street, it's akin to when your best mate moves from Newtown to Erskineville — your favourite people are still just around the corner. Find Porteño at 50 Holt Street, Surry Hills. Images: Steven Woodburn.
The Grounds of Alexandria-inspired Flower Child Café has been open in Chatswood, inside Westfield, for just over a year and the team has already expanded to a second location at Westfield Warringah. Co-founders Chris Lu (Bondi Hardware, Happy as Larry Pizza Truck) and Adam Choker (ex-manager at The Grounds of Alexandria) are taking their same philosophy and holistic approach to the northern beaches, this time with a venue that doesn't just seem outdoors, but actually is. While Flower Child Chatswood acts as a indoor garden that naturalises an otherwise typical shopping mall, Flower Child Warringah is actually located outdoors. The large windows allow for a flood of sunlight into the restaurant, which sits in the open mall's ground floor courtyard. The space has again been designed by ACME & Co (The Grounds, Archie Rose, Fred's, Charlie Parker's) and features an open plan kitchen, whitewash timber, custom tiles, and a colourful, floral-textured interior, all of which are meant to give the venue a "beachy and tropical" feel that acts as a nod to their northern beaches location. The freestanding circular structure is surrounded by a sprawling water feature that encompasses the venue and is accompanied by planter boxes which will be used to grow a variety of tropical plant species. Like the Chatswood venue, the all-day menu will focus on breakfast, brunch and lunch, including favourite dishes from the original location —like ex-Merivale chef Nik Jovicki's French toast with banana mascarpone, dark chocolate crumb, fresh berries and salted toffee — as well as new dishes like a pumpkin gypsy toast and Japanese pancakes that will be exclusive to Warringah. Flower Child Warringah will also feature more extensive takeaway options and they'll be introducing a venue-specific dinner menu in the coming weeks. As with the first location, The Grounds Roasters will provide single origin and seasonal blend coffees and The Grounds Bakery will deliver fresh bread, cakes and pastries each morning.
If making TV shows and movies bubbles down to a formula, it's simple to see how The Tourist came about. Starring Jamie Dornan as a man caught up in a mystery in Australia's sprawling outback, this six-part series jumps on several popular trends — saddling a famous face with battling the Aussie elements chief among them (see also: the upcoming film Gold, which plonks Zac Efron amid the nation's dusty, yellow-hued expanse). Dornan's trip Down Under also plunges into a familiar thriller setup, with memory loss playing a key role. Memento famously did it. The Flight Attendant did as well. Combine the two, throw in all that striking scenery that constantly defines Australia on-screen, and that's the template beneath this easy-to-binge newcomer. Every thriller that hits a streaming platform and drops all of its episodes in one go wants you to keep watching until you've watched the whole thing at once, of course. That's television 101 in the online age. The Tourist fits the bill perfectly again, but also because it has fun with its premise — and its onslaught of twists. Dornan isn't in goofy, silly territory here, as he was so gloriously in 2021 standout Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar. The Tourist doesn't satirise any of its underlying components, either. Nonetheless, it knows that zigzagging thrillers that work from a clearcut roadmap should make their familiar pieces feel anything but. They should take their audience along for a wild ride and ensure they enjoy the many sights, even if they're largely driving down a recognisable road. Adding another TV role to his resume alongside The Fall, Death and Nightingales, New Worlds and Once Upon a Time — and another part to his eclectic filmography, given that he's been in the vastly dissimilar Synchronic and Wild Mountain Thyme in the past year, and looks set to get an Oscar nomination this year for nostalgic drama Belfast — Dornan plays an Irish traveller in Australia. The character's name doesn't matter at first, when he's using the bathroom at a petrol station in the middle of nowhere. But after he's run off the road by a steamrolling long-haul truck shortly afterwards, he desperately wishes he could remember his own moniker, plus everything else about his past. Local Constable Helen Chalmers (Danielle Macdonald, French Exit) takes a shine to him anyway; however, piecing together his history is far from straightforward. His other immediate questions: why is he in the middle of Australia, why does a bomb go off in his vicinity and why is he getting calls from a man trapped in an underground barrel? A diner waitress called Luci (Shalom Brune-Franklin, Line of Duty), the American-accented Billy (Ólafur Darri Ólafsson, Trapped), city-based Detective Inspector Lachlan Rogers (Damon Herriman, Mindhunter) and the determined Kostas (Alex Dimitriades, Total Control), who flies in from Greece and won't stop sipping from his water bottle: they all factor into The Man's fish-out-of-water, stranger-in-an unforgiving-land tale, too, and they all inspire plenty of questions as well. Why does that aforementioned bomb go off just as The Man and Luci step out of the diner? What does Billy want at the hospital? Why does Rogers take the case when he could easily leave it with junior officers? And what's motivating Kostas' trip to the outback? Written by brothers Harry and Jack Williams (Angela Black), and hailing from the Emmy-winning production company behind The Missing and Fleabag, The Tourist enjoys teasing out those queries — and diving headfirst into its slickly uneasy air. It expectedly draws tension from its setting, but also benefits from a visual palette that bleaches every image of its cooler hues, and from framing that repeatedly dwarfs The Man against his surroundings. They're smart touches in a show that has its protagonist take in his life with fresh eyes, hardly relish what he spots and understandably feel overwhelmed by all the chaos that keeps speeding his way. The Tourist rarely dwells on The Man's inner turmoil — it isn't a character study, and doesn't pretend to be — but it still savvily expresses his emotional state in every shot. Pushing 50 Shades of Grey and its sequels further into the past with every new role, Dornan slips into The Tourist like someone rediscovering their comfort zone — and he's in excellent company. Macdonald has been impressing on-screen since 2017's Patti Cake$, and ensures that The Tourist is as much Helen's story as it is The Man's. It's as much about the ambitious-but-constantly-underestimated rookie cop finding herself as her new pal is doing, too. Fresh from playing Charles Manson not once but twice thanks to Mindhunter and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Herriman also turns what might've been a stock-standard part into something far more complex. The Williams siblings deserve plenty of credit for baking many of their twists into their characters, but there's an almost-comic air to Herriman's determined detective that's all the Aussie talent's own. A well-greased concept, a confident approach, clever plotting, a fabulous cast: they're all on offer here, and they hit their marks. Add the script's smattering of memorable, nearly Coen brothers-esque lines and, whether it's hurtling in a straight line or zipping quickly around unexpected corners, The Tourist couldn't be more watchable — or bingeable. Check out the trailer for The Tourist below: The Tourist is available to stream via Stan in Australia and TVNZ On Demand in New Zealand.
Daylight savings is upon us and the weather's heating up. There's a real spring air to everything at the moment. And hey, we're not complaining because it's giving us an enthused spirit about being productive, entertaining friends and flirting with dates. What better way to celebrate this festive vibe than with some new bona fide cooking skills? Here's Concrete Playground's top ten cooking schools in Sydney. Buon appetito. 1. Sydney Seafood School With over 13,000 people attending the classes every year, it's unquestionable that this is the place to go if you want to get your oyster shucking skills under wraps. Top-notch foodies such as Christine Manfield and Kylie Kwong make guest chef appearances and all types of cuisine and skill levels can be taught at SSS. Kitchens are equipped with first-class appliances and there's even an LCD TV above the demo bench so you can get the perfect view of the sea-snails and pipis that you'll later prepare, cook and eat. And if those words make you squirm, the ‘Seafood Basics’ ($130) is the ideal starting point. Private, corporate and group classes are all available and bookings are made online. Sydney Fish Markets, Bank Street, Pyrmont; 02 9004 1111; www.sydneyfishmarket.com.au/SeafoodSchool/ 2. Fratelli Fresh Fratelli Fresh's focus has always been about fresh produce and simplicity, so there's no doubting that the cooking classes on offer are incredibly popular. Group classes ($90) have a maximum of 18 people and in a matter of two hours, you'll whip up an entrée, main and dessert. Frosting on the cake? It's packed up neatly to take home, as a delicious lunch subsequently awaits you upstairs at Café Sopra. For those of you who aren't so well acquainted with a spatula, individual classes ($75) are offered, sans the bonus lunch. Free classes run throughout the week, but places are limited to 10 people, so change your name to speedy Gonzales and get your friends organised. 7 Danks Street, Waterloo; 02 9699 3161; www.fratellifresh.com.au/cooking_classes 3. The Essential Ingredient Sharpen your knives, make some marshmallows, turn dough into saffron-infused tagliatelle, drizzle over some pesto and then photograph it all with your new found skills in the perfect photo shoot. A team of passionate foodies makes all this possible at The Essential Ingredient in Rozelle. The shop sells all sorts of culinary paraphernalia and stocks food items you can't pronounce, but you don't have to be a hatted chef to partake in the range of tutorials and demonstrations available at the school. Food bloggers should keep an eye out for the next photography class too ($195), for some hot tips on how to make that liver parfait photogenic. 731-735 Darling Street, Rozelle; 02 9555 8300; www.sydneyessential.com.au/school 4. Patisse Want to whip up a croquembouche to take to your next dinner party? A gateaux? Or are you all about the tart? Either way, get your French dessert skills down pat at Patisse. All sorts of pastry delights and sweet treats can be taught at the recently re-located Chippendale lheadquarters. Lead by Executive Chef Vincent Gadan, all classes are hands on and include refreshments, recipes and you can take your creations home too. Classes go for three to four hours and range from $185 for hands-on to $245 for a guest-chef session. Book online or over the phone. And quickly. 67-69 Regent St, Chippendale; 02 9690 0665; www.patisse.com.au 5. Urban Graze Urban Graze just sounds like fun. Witty class names such as “Not as Dim as it sims” and “thai-tanium” are offered here, so it's clear there's no intimidation. The school caters for all types of foodies, from kids right through to budding chefs wanting to go beyond the staple stir-fry. Fancy a culinary adventure for you and your friends? Spend 3 hours cooking a four to five course meal in a private party ($99) or for some serious team-building, the Iron Chef Mystery Challenge is a good way to bring out the competitive streak. 6 Patterson Ave, Kellyville; 02 9862 3042; www.urbangraze.com.au 6. Simon Johnson Simon Johnson has been a leading provider of fine foods in Australia for almost twenty years. Talk, Eat, Drink seminars are held in a first class demonstration kitchen with in-house chef, Fiona Zielinski (from $65, food only). Learn how to make soft pillows of gnocchi, Indian roti or prepare crabs for a finger-licking feast. Guest chef events are held throughout the year (from $110 including food and wine) and previous examples have included an indulgent evening with Simon in “an ode to the truffle”. Indulgent indeed. 24A Ralph Street, Alexandria; 02 8244 8220; www.simonjohnson.com.au 7. The Sydney Chocolate School Cadbury block just not curbing the craving? Then hit up Sydney's best chocolate school. Learn to temper chocolate on marble, then progress to pink champagne truffles, a chocolate jigsaw puzzle and rocky road. Take it all home in a goodie bag after indulging in lunch at the Burnt Orange cafe. Connoisseur evenings ($40) involve tasting a divine variety of chocolates and programs for the kidlets run throughout the holidays too ($80). You'll be everyone's best friend in no time. Building 21, 1110 Middle Head Road, Mosman; 02 9960 6540; www.sydneychocolateschool.com.au 8. Accoutrement Established in Mosman for over 40 years, Accoutrement is a cooking institution. Local and international chefs are frequently involved in more than 100 classes a year and they even do food tours throughout Europe. Demonstration classes run for two and a half hours and include recipes, wine and plenty of food. Up for something a little more intimate? Hands-on classes (max 14 people) work closely with the chef as you learn how to break down a whole pig or make your own ricotta. Corporate bookings are available: get a group together and choose from a list of distinguished chefs (Justin North, Giovanni Pilu and Peter Gilmore to name drop a few). 611 Military Road, Mosman; 02 9969 4911; www.accoutrement.com.au 9. Cucina Italiana It feels like you should've packed your passport when you come to cook at Cucina Italiana. Luciana Sampogna's place is oozing authenticity and the flavours really comet to life. Dance with dough making pizza then eat it hot out of the woodfired oven, making sure you save room for dessert. Did someone say tiramisu? Zabaglione Semifreddo? The Long Italian Lunch is the most popular class for obvious reasons: spend four hours preparing mouth-watering recipes then sit down to share in the celebration of food, Italian style. Specific classes can also be designed by Luciana for corporate team building events and dinner parties. Bring your apron, but not your passport (sorry). 84 Johnston St, Annandale; 02 8021 2699; www.cucinaitaliana.com.au 10. Signorelli Gastronomia Eat. Drink. Shop. Cook. That's the philosophy of Signorelli Gastronomia and you'll sure experience it all at once when you visit the Italian gourmet food store, salumeria, pizzeria and cooking school. Get straight into it the Italian way with antipasto and a glass of prosecco offered at each of the Primavera cooking classes ($95). Then, under the guidance of butcher Tony Sgro of Quattro Stelle, become a successful sausage maker or hand make your own salami, leaving it to hang and cure to collect in six weeks time. Vegetarian? Knead your own pizza dough and turn it into the best margarita outside Italy. Ground Floor of Accenture/Google Building, Trouton Place (opp Metcalfe Park) Pyrmont; 02 8571 061684; www.signorelli.com.au
A new walking track has opened in Sydney Harbour National Park, and in addition to incredible harbour views, it's shining a spotlight on the harbour's military significance. The three-kilometre track, which connects Middle Head–Gubbuh Gubbuh with Georges Head, is dotted with a fascinating array of historical defence artefacts, with some dating as far back as 1801. The opening of the track marks the first time that the two harbourside reserves — located in Mosman — have been formally linked to one another, and is the final piece of the proverbial puzzle on the Bondi-to-Manly walk. The $9.5 million project was implemented over six years, and can also be accessed via Chowder Bay. And while the postcard-perfect harbour views might be the initial drawcard for this new walking track, there's plenty more to see along the way. Walkers will be able to discover over 220 years of Sydney's defence history, with restored structures on the trail dating from 1801 to the Vietnam War. The trail has also been fitted with new signage and digital animations that tell the story of the area's historical significance. WWII military fortifications like the Inner and Outer Defensive Ditches — which were carved around the headland to protect against land-based attacks — and restored twin 6-pounder gun casemates are open to explore. Walkers can also take a look inside The Engine Room and its notorious 'tiger cages' at Middle Head's Outer Fort — this site was re-purposed in the 1950s and used for training soldiers to resist torture during the Malayan Emergency and, later, the Vietnam War. Other highlights include a number of new lookouts, as well as a new bridge across the Outer Defensive Ditch that offers front-row views across the foreshore and inner harbour. The restored 19th-century buildings of the former NSW School of Artillery are also open to visitors, showcasing their original appearance from 150 years ago. "Middle Head and Georges Head have been part of Sydney Harbour National Park since 1984, but until now, they have never been connected via walking tracks to other harbourside reserves," said Chad Weston, Manager of Sydney North Area NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service. "This major new infrastructure project has significantly improved visitor accessibility and safety, and those who appreciate history will be impressed with how some of Sydney's most significant historic fortifications have been conserved." The Middle Head–Gubbuh Gubbuh and Georges Head walking trail is now open in Sydney Harbour National Park. Find out more about the new trail at the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website.
This buzzing social spot on King Street Wharf is perfect for when you want to flee the office and enjoy the last of the day's sunshine — or midday rays and a boozy lunch — as quickly as possible. Bungalow 8 has a bit of a beachside tiki vibe, so you can enjoy a spring cocktail and some freshly shucked oysters, without having to battle peak hour traffic to get out of the city. Keeping the coastal theme rolling, the menu is health-conscious with a nod to both Californian and Mexican flavours. As well as sharing snacks, sides and bigger main meals, there's a selection of tacos and Buddha Bowls — you get avo, slaw, radish, edamame, cucumber, spinach, chickpeas, brown rice and a soft boiled egg, with your choice of protein or charred broccolini, for $19. Hot tip, the bowls are just $15 for lunch between Mondays and Thursdays. The drinks list is made to be enjoyed through the warmer months, with plenty of local and international wines — including six different sparkling wines by the glass — cold beers on tap and a few tropical cocktails by the jug. There are the classic mojito, sangria and Pimm's options, or try the Strawberry Fields (gin, rosé, berries and juice) or the Blue Banana Colda (Malibu, blue curacao, banana, lime and pineapple). Enjoy the view as the sun goes down, before Bungalow 8 becomes a summer dance club into the night, or head upstairs to party at The Loft. Image: Daniele Massacci.
To celebrate the launch of its new retro-style half-frame digital camera, the X half, Fujifilm is hosting a one-day event in Redfern that combines photography, music and creativity. The Moment Club will run from 2pm – 4pm on Saturday, July 12 at Baptist Street Rec Club, offering attendees the chance to try the new Fujifilm X half in person. [caption id="attachment_1008205" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ben Savage[/caption] Across the afternoon, attendees will take part in a range of hands-on guided workshops, including how to shoot the ultimate bathroom selfie, how to style the perfect cocktail shot and how to use the camera's new side-by-side images feature. A live DJ set from Alex Hayes, a bespoke cocktail, and Southeast Asian-inspired snacks are also included in the $25 ticket price. Whether you're a content creator or just looking for a fun creative experience, this is the perfect opportunity to meet new people and test-drive the X half with help from Fujifilm's team of experts. RSVP now for Fujifilm's 'The Moment Club' on Saturday, July 12 at Baptist Street Rec Club in Redfern, Sydney. Find out more and book tickets here. By Jacque Kennedy
The Chau Chak Wing Museum is all about bringing the past and present together. Not only does its collection range from ancient artefacts to contemporary art, but the exhibits themselves use advanced technology to bring historical stories to life. The museum's latest free exhibit is no exception, featuring an array of cultural objects presented alongside a stirring soundscape. On now, Tidal Kin: Stories from the Pacific explores an unfamiliar segment of history. The exhibit shares the stories of eight Pacific Islander visitors who arrived in Sydney during the 18th and 19th centuries against the backdrop of an evolving port city. From the arrival of Tahitian navigator Tupaia and the HMB Endeavour in 1770 to the introduction of the White Australia Policy in 1901, the period was rife with bustling commerce, tumultuous power struggles and changing policies. Learn about their journey through a special visual and auditory experience — explore objects like a ceremonial yam bag, conch trumpet or decorated cloth while immersed in audio recorded by the Pacific Islanders' descendants in their native language. Tidal Kin: Stories from the Pacific is on now. Get more details at the Chau Chak Wing Museum's website. All images: David James
The National Gallery of Victoria's blockbuster Triennial 2020 exhibition is still in full swing, but, already, the gallery has announced the next fresh dose of artistic goodness heading our way. Today, Monday, March 1, it revealed a jam-packed lineup of exhibitions and programs for 2021. Among them, the international exclusive French Impressionism, featuring more than 100 French impressionist masterpieces on loan from Boston's renowned Museum of Fine Arts. Yep, overseas trips might still be on hold, but come June 2021, you'll be able to catch iconic works from the likes of Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, Mary Cassatt and more, when they hit the NGV for this huge showcase, as part of the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces exhibition series. French Impressionism is set to feature 79 works never before shown in Australia, and will wrap up with a groundbreaking presentation of 16 Monet pieces displayed on curved walls — a nod to the oval gallery at Musée de l'Orangerie in Paris that the artist helped design for his famed Water Lilies paintings. [caption id="attachment_801662" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Camille Henrot, The Pale Fox (2014) installation view. Copyright courtesy of the artist and kamel mennour, Paris/London; König Galerie, Berlin; Metro Pictures, New York. Photographer: Anders Sune Berg.[/caption] Turning the lens closer to home, large-scale exhibition She-Oak and Sunlight: Australian Impressionism will feature a huge 270 artworks plucked from major public and private collections across the country. It aims to explore Australia's own position within the impressionist movement, showcasing both recognised and lesser-known works from names like Tom Roberts, Frederick McCubbin, Jane Sutherland, Jane Price, Clara Southern and John Russell. Elsewhere in the program, catch an Aussie-first survey of works by celebrated French-born, New York-based contemporary artist Camille Henrot, showcasing a diverse spread of media created across the last decade. NGV Collection exhibition Big Weather shares a new appreciation for our weather systems, as told through Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, while Bark Ladies features two decades of stunning works on bark by masterful Yolngu women artists from Northeast Arnhem Land. And in groundbreaking show Queer, more than 300 works displayed across five different gallery spaces will mark the most historically expansive thematic presentation of artworks relating to queer stories ever shown in an Australian gallery. For more details about the just-announced NGV 2021 Season, jump over to the website. Image one: Claude Monet, Water Lilies (1905). Courtesy of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Gift of Edward Jackson Holmes. Photography copyright Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Image two: Alfred Sisley, Waterworks at Marly (1876). Courtesy of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Gift of Miss Olive Simes Photography copyright Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Image three: Tom Roberts, Shearing the rams (1890). Courtesy of National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne. Felton Bequest, 1932.
Sydneysiders, if you've ever headed north to Brisbane and cruised the river on a CityCat, you might've noticed that the majority of the city's catamarans share their monikers with Indigenous place names. Back on home turf, Sydney's ferry fleet are named after significant people, including explorer and leader Bungaree, as well as elder and political leader Pemulwuy — but a new vessel floating around the harbour has gone one better with its eye-catching artwork. Launched for the recent Sydney Solstice festival, but keeping its makeover permanently, the NRMA-owned Ocean Dreaming 2 now sports a livery designed by Gomeroi artist Warwick Keen. He's created his own interpretation of the Aboriginal art practice of dendroglyphs — which he says brings together the water and craft — and combined a wave design with the names of Sydney's First Nations' language groups. Gadigal, Bayingawuna, Baramada, Warrane and Wuganmagulya are some of the names now emblazoned on the ferry, atop waves of red ochre, yellow ochre, black and white. The artwork aims to "highlight the theme of reconciliation and [an] awareness of First Nation Peoples' perspectives based in and around the foreshores of Sydney harbour," Keen explained on his website. "I am extremely proud that my work will live to tell its story every day as Ocean Dreaming 2 rides across the waves of our famous harbour," Keen added in a statement — with Ocean Dreaming 2 set to be used for whale watching, stargazing and other tourism experiences now that Sydney Solstice is over. During the festival, the vessel hosted two cruises with Tribal Warrior: an Aboriginal Whale Watching Experience and an Aboriginal Sky Dreaming Cruise. Sydneysiders won't just need to hop onboard to admire Keen's work, of course — just keep an eye out for the ferry cruising the harbour from now on. For more information about Ocean Dreaming 2, head to the My Fast Ferry website.
Christmas isn't the only source of cheer in Sydney this month, especially if you like heartwarmingly endearing baby animals. After introducing the world to its new koala joey and lion cubs earlier this year, Taronga Zoo has just unveiled footage of its pygmy hippo calf, which was born at the zoo on Monday, November 22. The calf doesn't yet have a name; however, Taronga visitors will get to see her in the flesh in the coming weeks — with the adorable critter set to make her public debut just in time for the upcoming school holidays. She was born to parents Kambiri and Fergus, and marks the first calf born at the zoo in more than four years. At the moment, the calf's day involves spending time in an off-exhibit nursery den with Kambiri — suckling, getting energetic in short bursts and napping. And, learning how to navigate the water, because pygmy hippo calves aren't born knowing how to either swim or hold their breath. So, that's something that Kambiri is teaching her offspring. Once the calf masters splashing around, she'll be able to enter the public hippo exhibit, which has had its pond floor raised so it's easier for the calf to access. The new calf will call Sydney home but, in the wild, pygmy hippos are native to West Africa's forests and swamps. Only around 2000–3000 are estimated to remain outside of zoos, which makes the species endangered. And, in the wild, they only tend to come together for breeding. That's enough words about this new cutie, because we all know that you're here to get a glimpse. Check out Taronga Zoo's footage below: [video width="1080" height="1920" mp4="https://cdn.concreteplayground.com/content/uploads/2021/12/HippoAnnouncement.mp4"][/video] [video width="1080" height="1920" mp4="https://cdn.concreteplayground.com/content/uploads/2021/12/Pygmy-hippo-antics.mp4"][/video] Taronga Zoo's new pygmy hippo calf will make its public debut sometime in the coming weeks. For further information, keep an eye on the zoo's website.
Whether it's for a staycation, quick getaway or lengthy vacation, spending a night or several away from your own house isn't just about getting cosy inside any old different four walls. There's an art to providing a memorable stay away from home, including when you're slumbering in someone else's abode. Given that Airbnb is all about folks opening up their spaces to travellers wanting to spend the evening, of course it realises this — and rewards the platform's hosts with the most. For the three years running, Airbnb's Host Awards have recognised the people making booking at their listings something special — and the memorable stays themselves. 2023's winners have just been announced, showing some love across both Australia and New Zealand. Whether you're after a romantic Sunshine Coast retreat, hanging out in a 1920s steam train carriage and or a Hamurana cabin with an outdoor bath, these applauded options have you covered. In Australia, Host of the Year went to Veronica and Colin Eastmure for their Down at The Dale farm stay at Conondale, in the Sunshine Coast hinterland. Among the often-personalised touches that earned them the coveted prize: robes and slippers, handwritten welcome notes, roasting marshmallows on the fire pit, an outdoor spot to bathe and even making a birthday cake for a guest. From the newcomers to the platform, Fremantle's Sarah Abbott won Best New Host for a light-filled loft in the city's West End district, which earned plaudits for its design focus. There's also a Best Design Stay, which went to a restored Victorian terrace called Mister Munro, as hosted by Elise Croker in Crookwell in New South Wales. Rounding out the Aussie awards: that steam carriage in Forrest in Victoria, which got host Fleur Leslie the nod for Most Unique Stay (unsurprisingly); Bec and Angus McDougall's The Cottage at Dunmore Farm, also in Victoria, for Best Nature Stay; and Skye Lanser's boho-style room in NSW's Forest Lodge, which won for Best Room Host. If you're wondering how Airbnb's Host Award winners are chosen, a heap of Airbnb data goes into picking the recipients, plus guest scores and reviews — and then a judging panel oversees the process. In Aotearoa, The Cabin in Rotorua took pride of place — aka Host of the Year — for David and Christina Chemis. Again, personalisation for guests was a hit with the judges (this time including homemade treats), as was an outside bath. Soaking in the air, scenic surroundings and being made to feel like you really are at a home away from home: that's the formula that's resonated at the 2023 awards across both countries Down Under. NZ's Best New Host went to Viv Madsen-Ries for The Loft on Flynn Host, which gives Arrowtown visitors mountain views. Also, Chanel Griffiths' off-the-grid two-person Kawakawa Hut on a Taupō farm won Best Nature Stay. If it's just a room you're after, that's where Joanna Bell's Freemans Bay villa comes in, including a daily homemade breakfast. In the Best Design Stay field, glamping with a hot tub — and four bedrooms — is at the top of the agenda in Waitomo thanks to host Emily Scott. And New Zealand's Most Unique Stay? A house bus on a 35-acre field will do it, with hosts Tara and Guillaume Wrigley Gignoux dubbing it the Raglan LoveBus. For more information about Airbnb's Host Award winners in Australia and New Zealand, had to the platform's website.
What if The Boys took its superhero satirising to college? That's one of the ideas behind Gen V, which helped expand streaming's Vought Cinematic Universe in 2023. When the spinoff series quickly proved a hit, a second season was locked in. What if dealing with having superpowers turned higher learning into utter chaos? Expect to dive into that concept again from September 2025. Just because The Boys loves parodying pop culture's caped-crusader obsession, that doesn't mean that it can't spark its own franchise. After the OG series, first came the animated The Boys Presents: Diabolical. Then, Gen V arrived to take on the 'We Gotta Go Now' storyline. Viewers can enrol in the later's sophomore season on Prime Video from Wednesday, September 17, 2025, with a new Dean setting the agenda for the university's students — and the impacts of Homelander's (Antony Starr, G20) actions in The Boys being felt. That's what the just-dropped first trailer for Gen V season two teases, beginning with its new uni head Cipher (Hamish Linklater, Nickel Boys) letting the blood-bending Marie Moreau (Jaz Sinclair, Please Baby Please) re-enrol. With its controlling necklaces, the Elmira Adult Rehabilitation Centre has been her home since the events of season one — and for some of her friends, too. But going back to class isn't the same as it was the first time around, including in a "Make America Super Again" world. "It is time that humans learn that what runs through our veins is true Vought blue," Cipher tells the amassed students — and a war between humans and supes is indeed part of the storyline. If you missed Gen V 's initial season, Godolkin University is the college for superheroes that's meant to help prepare the best of the best for caped-crusader life — until exploding classmates, creepy secret facilities and untrustworthy professors complicate matters, that is. Season one spent its time with Marie, who knows that attending God U is a pivotal opportunity. After a traumatic experience when her powers kicked in, this is her chance to completely change her life, as well as achieve her dream of becoming the first Black woman in The Seven. Then, nothing turns out as planned. Also, things on campus (and underneath it) get shady, fast. Starring in season one as well: Lizze Broadway (Kinda Pregnant) as Marie's roomate Emma Meyer, who can change her size; Maddie Phillips (Overcompensating) as the persuasive Cate Dunlap; London Thor (Never Have I Ever) and Derek Luh (Shining Vale) as the gender-shifting Jordan Li; Asa Germann (Monsters) as the super-strong Sam Riordan; and Sean Patrick Thomas (High Potential) as superhero Polarity. All six also return for season two. The first look at the new season also dives into how the show is addressing an off-screen tragedy, after season-one talent Chance Perdomo (After Everything), who portrayed the magnetic Andre Anderson, passed away in 2024. Check out the teaser trailer for Gen V season two below: Gen V streams via Prime Video, with season two releasing from Wednesday, September 17, 2025. Read our review of season one.
There's no shortage of highlights along Tassie's eastern shores, with Freycinet National Park's Wineglass Bay an alluring attraction. However, just a short drive up the coast, the charming community of Bicheno awaits, renowned for its scenic natural landmarks and vibrant culinary scene. Returning on Saturday, November 15, the Bicheno Food & Wine Festival is where visitors can experience the community's mouthwatering bites and sips in one spot. Featuring 30 stallholders showcasing Tasmania's finest flavours and makers, expect a coastal celebration of stellar seafood, local wine and live music. The lineup for the 2025 edition is soon to be revealed, but previous instalments have included a who's who of local epicureans. Think award-winning drinks from Bicheno Beer Co., Maclean Bay Wines and Ironhouse Tasmania, alongside non-stop gourmet cuisine from Formosa Bites, Salsa Sol and Fried & Loaded. Set against a picturesque seascape, the Bicheno Food & Wine Festival is also stacked with live music and entertainment. Throughout the day, local bands and singer-songwriters will take to the stage. Meanwhile, roving buskers also provide an easy-breezy soundtrack for visitors dining on the freshest east coast produce.
Travelling overseas ranks right up there on everyone's bucket list, but the actual travelling part is far from fun. No one loves spending more than a couple of hours on a plane, and no one loves taking multiple flights to get to their destination either. But if you could choose between hopping over to your destination in one leg, or getting a break from being cramped and uncomfortable in the air, which would you opt for? Thanks to advances in aircraft development, ensuring that today's planes are more fuel-efficient over hefty distances, airlines are increasingly making non-stop long-range flights a reality. After Qantas introduced its 17-hour-plus Perth-to-London route earlier this year, Singapore Airlines will be unleashing the world's longest non-stop commercial flight later in 2018: from Singapore to New York over 19 hours. First announced by the airline in 2015, the route will be made possible thanks to the new Ultra Long Range version of the Airbus A350 XWB aircraft, which completed its first successful test flight in April. The planes can travel up to 16,000 kilometres (or 8,700 nautical miles) without refuelling — or, for over 20 hours non-stop — which makes the 15,322-kilometre trip between Singapore and New York possible. It's not the first time that the airline has flown direct to the US, with Singapore-to-Newark, New Jersey flights in operation until 2013. The world's current longest route without stopovers runs from Doha to Auckland in around 18 hours, travelling 14,529 kilometres on a Boeing 777-200LR, followed by the Perth-to-London leg. Qantas is keen to beat both the current and the impending record-holders, though, announcing plans last year to fly direct from Australia's east coast to both London and New York by 2022 — once either Airbus and Boeing make a plane that can handle the 20-hour and 20-minute, 16,983-kilometre stint between Sydney and London.
If your ideal holiday involves hitting the sea, sailing to a heap of countries and exploring some of the most famous sites in popular culture over the past decade, then come September 2021, you'll be in luck. With Game of Thrones turning Iceland, Northern Ireland, Spain, Malta and Croatia into must-visit tourist destinations, a new cruise is launching to take fans to all of the above places. Naturally, it's called Cruise of Thrones. While it isn't officially affiliated with Game of Thrones, HBO, author George RR Martin or any of the enormous page-to-screen hit's powers-that-be, Cruise of Thrones will let fans live out their love for their series on a prolonged boat trip through Europe. Two eight-day options will be available, so you can pick one or the other — or sail them back to back. If you choose the northern cruise, you'll head to Iceland and Northern Ireland, where the Fist of the First Men, the Bloody Gate, Jon and Ygritte's cave, The Wall, Castle Black, Hardhome, Winterfell, Pyke and the King's Road all await. Folks on the southern cruise will journey through Spain, Malta, and Croatia, visiting Sunspear and the Water Gardens, the Tower of Joy, the Citadel, the Long Bridge of Volantis, King's Landing and the Red Keep. https://www.facebook.com/CruiseofThrones/posts/2368376046808980?__xts__[0]=68.ARDKtajQ6dIZzuH_8UMZveijqPbNWJ88xfHW_GQ6UnaQKDIySSo9wuynxBaGqzaE5RMgt1kvfbiPP72SkIxqYTDdqXHeRnGBbDFK-S1ZNx11lNElAkoMAz5BV-jxuAQP9mHcE0XZZDPoam__mGLvNX6HDpDg8q9Yfl7Gcry4wRIkfhAie_ASB0hdAcp2jqDh_Cjst8zO-V4-mLh6B1crmVCQWS2-ersCur9OLezRpRJhekaONPIVxPti0say29XxAi5MN150hD4GC29nvksfKnoO8gDgkoO9qS6q_YzRnKTmZhRjx1etMSh__oC9OKhEc04moCBZYECoat6Q2twFitPl4s3w&__tn__=-R Apparently the luxury ship will be fitted out to suit the theme, too; think dining rooms that resemble Winterfell's feasting halls, other decorative touches that recall various places from the show, and plenty of encouragement to dress up and play along. Everything from panels, discussions and lectures to wine tasting, storytelling, a scavenger hunt and game shows is also listed on the cruise's website, should you be in need of some onboard entertainment. A reference to celebrity guests is also made — presumably meaning GoT stars — but no specifics have been provided. If you're keen, you'll need to have a hefty Iron Bank account, with prices starting at US$5130 per person for eight nights. Of course, if you're not overly fond of organised cruises, plenty of fans have been making similar treks themselves — and, from sometime in 2020, you'll also be able to visit a huge new (and official) GoT tour through sets, costumes and props in Northern Ireland. For more information about Cruise of Thrones, which is due to set sail in September 2021, visit its website.
Swedish furniture giant IKEA has been creating stylish storage solutions for our personal possessions for decades. As part of their latest marketing strategy, they've released a digital version of the Expedit shelving range to restore order to computer files. Hungarian advertising agency Laboratory Ideas developed the concept, saying "We prepared a useful, design-conscious and cost-effective way - true to IKEA's values - to organize and store your stuff even in your second home, your computer." One of my pet hates is that PCs don't allow for folder customisation. At least on Mac you can colour-code and highlight, though it's limited to seven shades. With its icon set of boxes, drawers and shelving in a range of colours and designs, IKEA's e-Folder set lets you say goodbye to stock-standard folders and furnish your computer so it feels like home. Download the set from IKEA online stores in Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic, check out the installation instructions in English and get tidy! [Via NotCot]
As suggested by the title, To the Sea, this is an exhibition exuding the belief that the journey is more gratifying than the destination. Artists and partners Narelle Autio and Trent Parke travelled 90,000km around Australia over a period of approximately ten years. The result divulges distant horizons, endless unsealed roads and wild, uncultivated scenery. To the Sea is the by-product of two independently acclaimed series: Parke’s haunting Minutes to Midnight and Autio’s lush Watercolours. It is the quieter underside to their meandering journey, less populated and more intuitive. Weaving together two different perspectives, the exhibition presents a unique meditation on Australia’s stunning desert and semi-desert scenery. In tapping into the dark undergrowth of the outback, Parke produces heavily contrasted black-and-white images. For example, Headlights in the Bush illuminates a tangle of broken branches in the foreground, while a silhouetted hill fringed with shrubbery looms behind. Similarly, his strikingly large untitled (bones) is taken at night, depicting an explosion of skeletal fragments strewn across scraggy bushland. There is a brooding and mysterious quality to these low-level landscapes, a feeling of impending danger balanced by intrigue. Parke’s epic 64-page I. The Road Trip is akin to a storyboard, capturing minute detail and momentary quirks. Subtle scenes that would normally be glossed over are magnified. Aa cluster of turtles swim amid a mass of sparkling reflections; their shadows, the clouds, and the reeds are all printed on the tranquil water. Throughout this montage of memories, there are also blank pages, alluding to a narrative that dips in and out of focus. Autio's attention is also on the country’s sparse interior. Many of her works are reminiscent of travel snapshots taken from a car window. Her creative mastery of this fast-paced style of image-making reveals a striking painterly texture. Like an impressionist painting, there is a horizontal velocity to the deep red of the Simpson Desert. Distant trees appear as short, sharp jabs, whilst trees in the foreground crumble, flicker and duplicate. In depicting landscapes in this way, she infuses the journey with a warmth, energy and imagination that makes it almost tangible, communicating the notion that she is trekking terrain that is both physical and emotional. Some of her other works can be figured as moments of clarity, such as a detailed image of an orphaned and malnourished joey with storm clouds brewing overhead. There is a prevalent feeling of intimacy imbued in To the Sea, as you share a glimpse of Autio and Parke's personal travel experiences and flesh out their contrasts and similarities. At the same time, it encapsulates a sense of continental vastness, literally casting light on a sublime and enigmatic Australian outback.
They're the sticky cinnamon scrolls that come drenched in glaze, and are famous all across the USA. And at the end of last year, they finally became available Down Under, with Seattle-born chain Cinnabon opening its first Australian store in Brisbane — and then following it up with a second venue this year. While Cinnabon's arrival in Queensland has been great news for Brisbanites, that's hardly the case for scroll-loving folks everywhere else in the country. Thankfully, if you're a Sydney resident keen to get your fix, the company is now delivering across New South Wales. That's a handy option in one particular way, as it means that you won't have to queue at a busy store. In Brisbane, Cinnabon's first location still regularly had a lengthy line months after it opened. As for what NSW pastry-lovers can order, you have a choice between several different packs and three types of 'megabon' — the chain's version of a cake. In you're keen to eat your way through four regular-sized scrolls ($19–21) or nine of its smaller 'minibons' ($27–30), you can choose between the classic cream cheese cinnamon roll, the popular chocolate-drizzled Chocobon and very extra Caramel Pecanbon. The same flavours apply to its super-sized sweets ($15–20), too. If you're yet to get acquainted with the decadent dessert creations, prepare yourself for aromatic, cinnamon-spiked dough made to a long-held recipe, which are notoriously tough to replicate. One thing that's different for Sydneysiders, though, is the frosting. While Cinnabon's scrolls usually come decked out with stacks of signature cream cheese icing, its NSW deliveries include the frosting separately in self-frosting packs — complete with instructions — so that you can slather it on top yourself. And, if you particularly love that icing, you can buy extra tubs ($5–9) as well. Cinnabon is now delivering across Sydney and New South Wales. To place an order, visit the brand's website.
Last time Hunx & His Punx were here — back in 2012 — they charmed many an Antipodean heart with their penchant for getting (nearly) naked, offers to autograph genitalia and expletive-rich expressions of self-desire. In short, they delivered nothing less than what you’d expect of San Francisco’s maddest and baddest bubblegum punk band. So it’s only natural that we’ve invited them back. And this time, they’re bringing Shannon and the Clams in their suitcases. On Friday, March 14, tickets go on sale for a five-date April tour that will see the two bands smashing genres in Melbourne, Sydney, Wollongong, Brisbane and Perth. Since their previous visit, Hunx & His Punx have been busy blending ‘80s hardcore and ‘90s grrrl sounds to create nasty yet catchy tunes for their new album Street Punk, which was released in 2013 via Hardly Art. Meanwhile, co-tourers Shannon and the Clams have lately been spending time playing SXSW sideshows and Psych Fest and hitting the road via Burgerama tours. They mash ‘60s girl group sounds with West Coast garage rock, delivering “doo woppers, bomp stompers, punk rippers, country clippers and psych-o trippers”. Trying say that really quickly five times in a row. Here are the dates: THU 17 APR – Copacabana, MELBOURNE. Tickets via Oztix. SAT 19 APR - Oxford Art Factory, SYDNEY. Tickets via OAF. SUN 20 APR – Farmer and the Owl Laneway Party, WOLLONGONG. Tickets via the Farmer and the Owl. TUE 22 APR - The Zoo, BRISBANE. Tickets via the Zoo. THU 24 APR - The Rosemount, PERTH. Tickets via the Rosemount. Tickets go on sale on Friday, 14 March. Tickets via Oztix.
Sydney's Night Noodle Markets finally returned this week, opening at a new home in Prince Alfred Park on Tuesday, October 4. Sadly, the beloved markets have received yet another dose of bad luck in the form of a heavy dose of rain that's struck Sydney over the last couple of days, courtesy of La Niña. After being forced to cancel last night's festivities at the last minute, the organisers' hand has been forced again today (Thursday, October 7) announcing on Instagram this afternoon that they would be called off for the second night in a row. "Due to the ongoing weather conditions, we unfortunately have been advised to cancel again this evening due to safety concerns," the announcement reads. This isn't the first time La Niña has had an impact on the markets this year; the event was originally set to return in March, but had to be postponed due to wet weather. The markets will run until this Sunday, October 9, hosting stalls from the likes of Gelato Messina, Hoy Pinoy, Brendan Pang's Bumplings, Bangkok Street Food, Shallot Thai, Roll Up, Raijin, Calabang and Donut Papi — the best of which you can preview here. The forecast for the next three days isn't looking particularly sunny, with the Bureau of Meteorology predicting anywhere between 73–100mm of rain across the next three days. Make sure you follow the Night Noodle Markets on Instagram for regular updates or any further cancellation news. The 2022 Sydney Night Noodle Markets will run until Sunday, October 9 in Prince Alfred Park, Chalmers Street, Surry Hills. To stay up-to-date with any further cancellations, head to the event's Instagram page.
The elusive bunyip. A mythological figure in Australian outback tales and one that has gone on to scare many an unsuspecting, and completely gullible, tourist. For artists Simon Greiner and Carlo Ritchie, the bunyip is more than just a figure to frighten your friendly visiting backpacker, it's a character all of its own that has been brought to life in an interactive and narrative based exhibition. With a combination of props, set design and anatomical and behavioural studies of the bunyip, you will be able to follow the bunyip's comic-like storyline as it makes its way through the gallery space. But everyone likes a two-for-one don't they? Yes they do. And they will get one when visiting the Paper Mill this month as you also get to see Printed Matter — an exploration of some of Sydney's diverse printing collectives. Each offering is an original and tactile experience of printed greatness. Colours have been picked by eye, and stock has sometimes been hand fed, olde worlde style, through printing machines to create fascinating and beautiful pieces of ink coloured paper. If you have a passion for paper, and what can be done on it, this is your holy ground.
Summer has settled in for the long haul and a sultry season of day-tripping, beach sessions and poolside hangs awaits. It can be hard to keep your cool when the temperatures are soaring. So, we've teamed up with the skin and beauty experts at M.A.C Cosmetics to share our list of summer essentials. Stock up on these must-haves and be ready for anything summer throws your way. FIX+, M.A.C COSMETICS ($39) Sticky, sweaty faces are a classic summer curse, but they needn't be. M.A.C's cult favourite Fix+ facial mist works as both a hydrating setting spray and a cooling skin spritz, so it's a must-have item for when those temperatures start climbing. It's free from alcohol and packed with nourishing ingredients like cucumber and camomile. It's even infused with caffeine to help pep up tired, post-party-season skin. Use it before, during or after makeup application to help stop wayward foundation from slipping down your face in a sweaty mess. Or, simply spritz some on whenever you need to counter the sweats with a little facial refresh. Hot tip: pop it in your fridge or esky so it's nice and cool when you spray away. WATER-RESISTANT SPEAKER, BOSE ($199.95) Beach, backyard, park or pool — any good summer session needs a decent soundtrack. And with a nifty waterside speaker like this one from Bose, you can keep the music kicking on no matter where the party takes you. It's poolside-friendly, so you can have those tunes pumping right alongside you while you swim, soak or sunbake. What's more, a nine-metre bluetooth connectivity range means your whole crew can take turns playing DJ, without any pesky sound dropouts. And with an impressive eight-hour battery life, this little noise machine will keep partying as long as you do. BEACH UMBRELLA, BASIL BANGS ($289) The Aussie sun can be savage, no matter how heavily you slather on the sunscreen. But with an umbrella in tow, you'll always have some sweet, shady relief from its rays, whether you're kicking back in the park or battling scorching hot sand at the beach. Amp up the summer vibes with a lively, feel-good print, like this special edition umbrella, designed by Basil Bangs in collaboration with legendary artist Ken Done. It boasts a hefty 1.8-metre diameter — so, no squishing in like sardines — with UPF50+ sun protection. Plus, it comes with a matching carry case that transforms into a sandbag weight should things get blustery. PICNIC CUTLERY WALLET SET, LAZY DAYZ ($34.95) Long days and balmy temperatures mean picnic season is in full swing, so you'll want to be prepared to make the most of it. Just because you're dining on a rug on the ground doesn't mean you have to slum it. Elevate any al fresco feast with the help of a proper picnic set, like this fun design from Lazy Dayz. Available in two vibrant prints, it has plastic plates, stainless steel forks, knives and spoons for two, all zipped up neatly into one compact carry case. Keep it by the front door and you'll always be picnic-ready in a snap. [caption id="attachment_799130" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Abbas Malek Hosseini[/caption] UNDERWATER CAMERA, KASBAH ($21.56) Here in Australia, summer and water go hand-in-hand, whether it's a backyard pool or your local stretch of beach. And while you might be partial to a splash and a dip, your phone probably isn't. So, for the sake of those summer happy snaps, hook yourself up with a camera that was made to get wet. This lightweight underwater version from Kasbah features a fun, tropical get-up and a detachable waterproof casing, so you can take it just about anywhere. Just stock up on 35-millimetre film and you're all set to capture even the soggiest memories this summer. To learn more about M.A.C Cosmetic's Fix+ facial mist, head this way.
Annie Leibovitz once famously stated that "there are still so many places on our planet that remain unexplored. I'd love to one day peel back the mystery and understand them". It is in this spirit that National Geographic presents its Photo of the Year winners. In an effort to uncover the "unexplored" and clandestine wonders of the world, National Geographic's annual competition provides a fascinating glimpse into the incredible beauty and complexity of the natural world, the places that define it, and the people that inhabit it. In 2012 a whopping 22,000 photographs from over 150 countries were submitted, with an expert panel of judges whittling this number down to a winner in each of the three categories (people, places, and nature) and the $10,000 Grand Prize Winner. Based on its remarkable creativity and visual flair, this year's "nature" winner and overall champion was Ashley Vincent's image of Busaba, the Indochinese tigress from Thailand's Khao Kheow Open Zoo (above). Have a look below to see the rest of the winners along with the National Geographic readers' favourites and some other honorable mentions. Winner - Places The Matterhorn in Zermatt, Switzerland. By Nenad Saljic. Winner - People Workers in Kenya's Dandora Municipal Dump Site, the only dumping site for waste in Nairobi, East Africa's most populous city. By Micah Albert. Viewers Choice - Nature Female cheetah Malaika and her cub in Masai mara National Reserve, Kenya. By Sanjeev Bhor. Viewers Choice - Places An iceberg frozen in place in Pond Inlet, Nunavut, Canada. By Adam Coish. Viewers' Choice - People Explorers follow a race route over 100km of the Hardangervidda Mountainplateu, Norway to cross Greenland. By Kai-Otto Melau. Honorable Mention - Nature Thousands of fish moving in synchrony in Komodo, Indonesia. By Fransisca Harlijanto. Honorable Mention - People The traditional Chinese entertainment Dragon boating is a water sport, in Yanbu Town, Foshan City, Guangdong Province, China. By ? ??. Honorable Mention - Places The Eiffel tower in Paris on a grey day. By Indra Swari Wonowidjojo. Honorable Mention - Nature A red fox goes after a mouse hidden under 2 feet of snow in Squaw Creek, Park Country, Wyoming. By Micheal Eastman. Honorable Mention - People Stilt fishing in Midigama, Sri Lanka. By Ulrich Lambert.
Back in 1999 and 2000, Baz Luhrmann's beloved movie musical Moulin Rouge! was filmed in Sydney. Come May 2022, the Tony-winning stage version of that hit feature will come to the city, too. In spectacular (spectacular) news, it'll mark the show's second Australian stop — following its Aussie-premiere season in Melbourne. Once more, Sydney will stand in for the Montmartre Quarter of Paris — the backdrop for a heady romance between lovestruck young bohemian Christian and performer Satine, star of the legendary titular cabaret. Moulin Rouge! The Musical will spin that story from Saturday, May 28 at the Capitol Theatre, with its season running through until mid-December. As Luhrmann's award-winning, Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor-starring movie — which celebrates its 21st anniversary this year — did before it, the stage musical is heavy not just on star-crossed romance, but with a loaded soundtrack that celebrates iconic tunes from across the past five decades. Indeed, Moulin Rouge! The Musical backs up those favourites with even more hit songs that have been released in the two decades since the movie premiered. Directed by Alex Timbers, the Australian production stars Alinta Chidzey as Satine, Des Flanagan as Christian, Simon Burke as club impresario Harold Zidler and Andrew Cook as The Duke — plus Tim Omaji as Toulouse-Lautrec and Ryan Gonzalez as Santiago, Montmartre's resident artistes; and Samantha Dodemaide as Nini, Olivia Vásquez as Arabia, Ruva Ngwenya as La Chocolat, and Christopher J Scalzo as Babydoll, aka the 'Lady M's'. Moulin Rouge! The Musical image: Matthew Murphy. Updated: October 12.
It's the main reason most of Sydney has made their way to Good Food Month over the last couple of years, and in 2017, the ever-popular Night Noodle Markets are back — and they're bigger than ever. Sure, every event says that these days — but the fact that 40 different stalls will converge on Hyde Park for a whopping 18 nights this October makes the claim seem pretty accurate. Among the spoils will be all manner of noodles, dumplings and other delights from Mr Bao, Din Tai Fung, Hoi Pinoy, Indu and House of Crabs. For dessert, Gelato Messina will predictably be back with a menu of pure wonder (including a deep-fried gelato katsu sandwich) and Black Star Pasty will return for another year. The markets will again take place in Hyde Park, which will also be — for the first time — a festival hub for the month. It's inspired by California's Palm Springs, dubbed 'Hyde Park Palms' and designed by Sydney design studio Caroline Beresford (The Cannery). The hub will host a bunch of talks, parties and feasts, starting on October 5 with an opening night party overseen by The Rockpool Group. The markets will run from Thursday, October 5 until Sunday, October 22. They'll be open Monday and Tuesday 5-9pm, Wednesday and Thursday 5–10pm, Friday 5–11pm, Saturday 4–10pm, and Sunday 4–9pm. Entry is free but the place — if other years are anything to go by — will be packed. Image: Bec Taylor.
Sometimes it takes a crisis to appreciate the little things in life — for example, what feels like to watch an acrobatic fly twizzle a matchstick with perplexing grace and accuracy. In 'normal times' we might have missed this moment of joy, but now, thanks to the Art Gallery of New South Wales' digital portal the three-minute archival film has lifted our spirits giving us an intriguing escape from 2020. "Optimism through art" is the aim of the new Together in Art digital space on the AGNSW website, says Art Gallery of NSW director Dr Michael Brand. It contains bite-sized art experiences that you didn't know you needed, but will capture your attention and give you something beautiful, inspiring, unsettling or unusual to hook onto — even for a short while. You can watch painter Ben Quilty and his daughter Livvy show you how to draw a face, artist Nell has an amusing and hopeful three-minute video on how to solve a problem (below), and there are clips of singers Sarah Belkner and Ngaiire performing in empty exhibition spaces. It's a digital gallery where you can actively learn, or simply tune into something more transportive than the latest Tik Tok track doing the rounds. The Art Gallery itself is closed to the public in line with the government's social distancing advice, and this means even the most regular visitors may have missed current exhibitions such as Shadow catchers or Under the stars, which opened just prior to the lockdown. You can explore the themes of these exhibitions in video interviews and tours. And, especially for Together in Art, there are Pocket Exhibitions put together by the Gallery's curators — such as Working from home: a Dog's perspective, a micro series of dog portraits and photographs compiled in a brief slideshow. Those looking for projects should make a beeline for the series of art-making classes from various artists in their studios. Though some of the videos are geared towards kids, there's a lot of accessible art tips that are just as appealing to adults. Our pick for a weekend project is learning how to turn your old magazine pile into a Dada poem with contemporary artist Tony Albert and his niece. The Gallery plans to add to its Together In Art series every day, and you can follow its program across social media pages, Youtube and on the Gallery's website. Images: 1. Musician Joji Malani performs in the Grand Courts at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. 2–3. Singer Sarah Belkner performs a vocal improvisation with herself in the exhibition 'Shadow catchers'. 4. Ngaiire performs in the Australian Galleries. All photography: Matt McGuigan, Hospital Hill.
Saturday afternoon is the new Saturday night at JŌJI. The CBD rooftop robata and bar has launched Social Saturdays, a weekly bottomless lunch bringing together free-flow drinks, a three-course menu and live music throughout the afternoon. For $130, you'll be treated to 90 minutes of free-flow French rosé and beer, as well as a shared curated menu that includes crowdpleasers like beef tartare with potato hash, nashi pear and bonito cream, miso Murray cod with dashi butter, and a juicy duck katsu sando. For an extra $25, you can level up with prosecco or house cocktails like the Kiku Royale, a velvety smooth mix of cognac, pineapple, umeshu, chrysanthemum and rose. Social Saturdays have been designed for celebrations of all sizes, whether it's a birthday, a milestone or just an excuse to get dressed up for a stylish daytime sip. The setting is sleek, the vibes are high, and the pours are generous. Social Saturdays run every Saturday from midday — but chances are, you'll want to stay long after your 90 minutes are up. Images: Jiwon Kim
Now a decade and a half in — and 28 films, too, plus seven new TV series that've hit queues in the last 18 months — the Marvel Cinematic Universe is an ever-expanding pop-culture behemoth. Sometimes it can be spectacular, as with Black Panther and Thor: Ragnarok. Sometimes it's dispiritingly routine, as seen in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. The MCU keeps shining bright popularity-wise, though, so much so that it's now telling its own tales about how it's so popular. In Ms Marvel, it even focuses on a Marvel superfan, heads to a Marvel fan convention and revels in worshipping at its own altar. Yes, we've reached the point in the biggest current franchise there is where the MCU is overtly and openly celebrating itself within its own on-screen stories — and celebrating the people who celebrate the MCU. Here, Marvel also shows its characters frothing over the very saga they're appearing in, homemade costumes whipped up for cosplay contests and all. That sounds like something out of the supremely non-Marvel superhero satire The Boys, but it's now an IRL status quo. And yet, with new streaming series Ms Marvel — which started its six-episode run on Disney+ on Wednesday, June 8 — all this Marvel self-fandom thankfully doesn't just feel like a massive corporation patting itself on the back in an expensive splash of self-congratulations. One of the reasons that Ms Marvel works: it's a series about a Marvel devotee because it's a coming-of-age series. Today's teens have grown up with the MCU, so a show about a 16-year-old finding her place in the world — with and without powers — can easily acknowledge that fact. The comic-book company isn't being meta or reflective. Rather, as non-Marvel fellow Disney+ release Turning Red was, Ms Marvel is about a teenage girl working out who she is and what she wants to be, and also how that process is shaped by what she loves. Pakistani American Kamala Khan (debutant Iman Vellani) happens to be obsessed with Marvel, and with Captain Marvel (Brie Larson, Just Mercy). Ms Marvel's first two episodes largely set the scene, establishing the MCU's second new-to-screens character in as many Disney+ programs after Moon Knight. Kamala lives in Jersey City with her parents Yusuf (Mohan Kapur, Bullets) and Muneeba (Zenobia Shroff, The Affair) — one friendly, the other strict — plus her elder brother Aamir (Saagar Shaikh, Unfair & Ugly). As well as palling around with her mates Bruno (Matt Lintz, The Walking Dead) and Nakia (Yasmeen Fletcher, Let Us In), often while talking about the Avengers, Kamala makes stop-motion videos fuelled by her Marvel mania. She also wants to do more than her mother allows, such as attending an Avengers convention dressed up as her hero, which Muneeba deems inappropriate. Deepening this tale about a teen desperate to follow her heart — a story that's hardly unique — is how wonderfully culturally specific Ms Marvel proves. The titular character is Marvel's first Muslim superhero, and this TV series embraces Kamala's heritage, as well as the stresses that come with being the American-born child of immigrant parents who want her to take advantage of their adopted home while remaining steadfastly true to their culture. Yes, Bend It Like Beckham did something similar first, just with soccer in Britain rather than superhero devotion in the US. That doesn't make Ms Marvel any less astute and affecting, however, including when it examines Kamala's layered relationship with her family and their expectations, and balancing caped-crusader fandom with tradition, religion and Pakistani pop culture. Of course, if Kamala's on-screen debut was only about a Marvel-loving high schooler with recognisable adolescent woes — even welcomely culturally apt ones — it wouldn't exist. Amid the yearning and rebellion, and just being a Pakistani American teen, arrives superpowers that are a literal dream come true for such a MCU stan. But Kamala doesn't know why she can suddenly create floating energy fields, shooting them a bit like Spider-Man slings webs, or where her abilities stem from. While that setup isn't unique either, creator and head writer Bisha K Ali (Loki, Four Weddings and a Funeral) ties Kamala's tussle with her new skills to everything that makes her who she is. The broader embrace and exploration of her culture doesn't subside; indeed, thanks to family whisperings about the perils of indulging in fantasies, her heritage might be linked to her future path. The MCU has spun coming-of-age tales before, with not one, not two, but three Tom Holland-starring Spider-Man movies within the franchise. There's a touch of the animated Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse to Ms Marvel, though, in its infectiously joyous vibe. If the series wasn't as sincere as it is — and as charming, warm and fun as well — it could've easily felt too calculating. Marvel does like to try other genres on for size, often moulding them to fit the house style, and Ms Marvel might've done the same with teen dreams and high-school hijinks. Indeed, it still may have played out that way if its lead casting wasn't so spot-on. Surprisingly given how much of a natural she is in front of the camera, and in the role, Vellani is an on-screen newcomer — and an utter delight. Just as the unrelated Conversations with Friends benefited from casting a new talent without any past credits, Ms Marvel is all the better for having its lead come to the part without any film and TV baggage. But being a fresh face navigating such a sprawling realm isn't why Vellani is so engaging. She's at home selling the show's comedy and drama alike, and its diehard Marvel devotion and adolescent angst as well, and making it all feel as lived in and genuine as the MCU has ever managed. That this miniseries is a lead up to 2023 big-screen release The Marvels, where Vellani will return as Kamala, is gloriously great news as a result. It'll team her up with Larson as Carol Danvers, plus WandaVision's Teyonah Parris as Monica Rambeau — and, if Ms Marvel is any indication, it's hopefully poised to be much better than the lacklustre Captain Marvel. Check out the trailer for Ms Marvel below: Ms Marvel streams via Disney+ from Wednesday, June 8, with episodes dropping weekly. Images: ©Marvel Studios 2022. All Rights Reserved.
Summer is here, so keeping cool means heading to the beach, hiding under the air-con or knowing a moneyed mate with their own pool. However, you can now create your own backyard bliss — with the food to match — thanks to El Jannah's latest limited-time promo. Available for one weekend only, from Saturday, January 10—Sunday, January 11, the Lebanese-Australian charcoal chicken legends invite customers to score their own chilled-out pool. And all you have to do is order an OG Charcoal Chicken Meal, featuring two whole chickens, large chips, large garlic sauce and Lebanese bread. There are no tricky hoops to jump through, either. Redeemed on a first-come, first-served basis, customers simply need to snap a photo of their receipt and email it to El Jannah's team. If you're fast enough, you'll be lounging in the pool with your pals in no time at all. "Summer in Australia has always felt a little Lebanese at heart, family everywhere, food in the middle, and everyone talking over each other," says El Jannah Chief Marketing Officer, Adam Issa. "So this year, we wanted to make it even easier for Aussies to take those El Jannah moments wherever the day leads."
"No touching" isn't a warning you'll be given at Sydney's newest interactive experience. UNSW Galleries staff won't tell you to keep your mitts to yourself and wall signs won't recommend polite behaviour. Here, getting hands-on isn't just encouraged — it's imperative. So is taking off your shoes and letting your feet get in on the action as well. Welcome to Snoösphere, a two-month-long sensory environment that forms part of The Big Anxiety Festival. There's nothing like running your fingers and toes over all manner of surfaces to help de-stress, after all. Here, you'll roam, touch, see, smell, snooze and sit, with everything within the dark, silent space responding in some way. Want to stroll over things? Sit inside them? Stand in a silver curtain that smells like chocolate? As well as different lighting and textile sensations, they're all on offer. Designed by Lull Studios, created with collaborators that include autistic artists, and arising from research and workshops with autistic young people and adults in Sydney and Singapore, Snoösphere endeavours to engage all of the senses in a playful, smart, inventive and meditative ways. Dubbed a sensory wonderland, it's a simultaneously calming and engaging experience — and one that'll make you think differently about life's perceptual interactions.
In 2013, 300 people danced to Kate Bush's' 'Wuthering Heights' in a field — and in 2018, the idea is back and bigger than ever. Yes, The Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever is happening in Sydney on Saturday, July 14. Yes, everyone should be dressed as Kate Bush, complete with a red dress, red stockings and black belt (men, that means you as well). On the day, a clowder (that's the collective noun for Kate Bushes, just FYI) will descend upon the park and copy Bush's swaying, kicky dance in unison just for the pure joy of it. Support for this weird and wonderful outing has been widespread, and Kate Bush fans from around the world have been inspired to create events in their home cities. So get your gear together (dressmakers are being flooded with orders for the day, check it out here) and ready yourself to roll and fall in green, out on the wily, windy moors of Sydney Park. If you need an incentive — other than the event itself, of course — this year marks Bush's 60th birthday and 40 years since the song was first released.
Bright lights, pristine clean floors and wooden barrels perfectly stacked with fresh produce — Farmers Fresh looks like it belongs on a movie set. Instead, you'll find it on the ground floor of Westfield Burwood. Keep an eye on its Facebook page for epic weekly specials across its Burwood and Figree stores, like cauliflowers for $2 each or watermelon for under a dollar per kilo. Other essentials to complete your at-home feast are available, too, including dairy products, eggs, nuts, fresh bread, canned goods and an extensive range of spices. Don't have much time to cook? Check out the freezer, which has giant spanakopita spirals, pastizzi and fresh pasta.
Attention Sydney foodies, fans of Japanese cuisine and connoisseurs of fine dining. Prepare your tastebuds for an epicurean adventure like no other. Get ready to savour the flavours of omakase dining as Concrete Playground and Haku Vodka offer you the chance to win a $2500 restaurant voucher to omakase restaurant Bay Nine. Located along Campbells Cove in The Rocks, Bay Nine's minimalist yet inviting ambience sets the stage for a truly unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant boasts an intimate setting on the waterfront with a ten-seater counter as well as throughout the cosy venue. For those unfamiliar with the term, omakase is a Japanese dining tradition that loosely translates to "I'll leave it up to you". It means placing your palate entirely in the hands of skilled Head chef Yul Kim and his team, who craft each dish with passion, precision and creativity. There is no fixed menu at Bay Nine — only mouth-watering seasonal dishes that are made with the freshest, most premium ingredients available. In addition to the six-, eight- and 11-course menus, the restaurant offers a 40-strong sake menu with dedicated sake flights, wines and a solid range of Japanese spirits — including Haku Vodka. If you aren't the overall winner of the $2500 restaurant voucher, you need not worry. Ten runner-ups will score a bespoke Haku Vodka Gift Pack (valued at $60 each) with a 200ml bottle of Haku, two martini glasses and two Haku martini pins. To be in with a chance to win this delectable dining experience or score a runner-up gift pack, fill out the form below. [competition]917167[/competition]
With catastrophic weather conditions saturating Queensland and New South Wales over the past week, good news has been in very short supply. Enter the team at Sikh Volunteers Australia, which has put in an enormous effort to help folks affected by flooding in northern New South Wales. Their actions can only be described as heartwarming, feel-good, wholesome and just all-round ace. Any other synonym for great, nice, lovely and generous that you can think, it'd fit as well. The charity, which has a mission to provide people in need with free food, is based in Melbourne. But after seeing that its services could be used further north as the devastating weather hit, its members hit the road. Cue a 34-hour drive to serve free, freshly cooked vegetarian meals to flood-affected communities in Lismore — which has been doing it tough after the wet conditions moved through the regional town earlier in the week. Team is serving free meals to flood affected communities in Lismore NSW pic.twitter.com/BsO1HjEaJw — Sikh Volunteers Australia (@AustraliaSikh) March 3, 2022 Originally, the plan was to head to Queensland — so that drive would've been even longer — but, based on community response, the Sikh Volunteers decided that there was more need for their services in Lismore. They arrived yesterday, Wednesday, March 2, and have been dishing up free meals since. Sikh Volunteers Australia's efforts in Lismore follow the organisation's ongoing work in Melbourne, including delivering meals to COVID-19 cases during the recent Omicron wave — and, before that, via 320 dedicated volunteer drivers who did the same during the city's 2021 lockdown from August onwards. That's a huge effort, and the charity aims to expand its work to other parts of the country in the future, too. In Lismore now, Sikh Volunteers Australia has set up at 60 Ross Street, Goonellabah, and is providing free meals to anyone who needs them. For more information about Sikh Volunteers Australia, or to support their work via a donation, head to the organisation's website.
If you've stepped foot outside recently, you'll probably have noticed Sydney has scored a bevvy of new neon-green arrivals. First appearing in early November, the distinctive vehicles of US-born bike share company Lime has now taken over the city. You might be thinking it's a strange time to be rolling out yet another bike share service in Sydney, and you're not wrong. A swag of international share bike companies like Reddy Go and oBike launched in Australia, but had a rough time gaining traction locally, as councils crack down on dumping and vandalism issues spurred by the new dockless systems. But strict laws and stories of ill-fated predecessors don't appear to have deterred Lime, which has this week launched a fleet of its Lime-E electric-assist bicycles across Sydney. These work much the same as others we've seen — you locate a nearby bike using the Lime app, unlock it by scanning a QR code or entering an ID, cruise to your destination, then park and lock the bike safely out of the way. The difference between other dockless bikes and Lime-E, is its lithium battery, which the company says allows users to ride up to 14.8 mph (23.8kmh) without breaking a sweat — even when venturing uphill. The bikes' batteries (which last for about 80 kilometres) will be supposedly monitored and replaced regularly by the company, and can be checked by tapping the Lime-E icon on the app. Each of the vehicles is also equipped with a sensor, which can tell the operators its location, elevation and even orientation — a feature which may or may not help curb bike dumping. In Sydney, it'll cost you $1 to unlock a Lime-E and 30 cents per minute for your ride. The Californian company's perhaps best known for its dockless electric scooters, which first hit the streets of Auckland and Christchurch last month. A week-long trial of the two-wheeled vehicles is also underway on campus, at Monash University in Clayton, Melbourne. The scooters are gaining popularity across the globe, with even Uber signing up as a strategic partner. Unfortunately, given that NSW road safety laws currently state that "powered foot scooters and skateboards cannot be registered and can only be used on private land", it doesn't look like we'll be seeing a Sydney launch of Lime's e-scooters anytime soon. While we don't have high hopes for the success of this new bike sharing service, we do hope it's better monitored, and the neon green bikes don't end up clogging footpaths, parks and waterways, like the others did. The Lime App is available to download now via the app store.
Score a cheeky night out in the Sydney CBD with your mate or partner and enjoy top spots in the city centre on a Friday or Saturday night with this competition. There's still some life to Sydney's nightlife. Down the alleyways off York, Kent and Clarence Streets, between Wynyard and Town Hall train stations, there are hidden bars and secret eateries that make up YCK Laneways. This network of independent bars and restaurants caters to all sorts and offers a delightfully diverse night out in the city centre. [caption id="attachment_952870" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kuro Dining, credit Matthew Wong[/caption] The prize includes a one-night stay on a Friday or Saturday night for two people at Little National Hotel Sydney in the luxe 'big room'. So you can snuggle up to your beau in style or go top to toe (or implement a pillow wall) with your mate. Dinner for two will be served at Kuro Dining with after-dinner cocktails at The Barber Shop. The next morning, you and your plus one will make your way to Cash Only Diner for a late brekkie at its newly launched brunch sitting. [caption id="attachment_960054" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Barber Shop, Credit Cassandra Hannigan[/caption] To win, you simply have to fill out the form below and tell us in 25 words or less what your perfect night in Sydney city includes. Are you a country music lover who makes their way to Jolene's on the regular? Or maybe you love creative cocktails with a touch of theatricality as they serve at PS40. Let us know, and you could be in the running to win the ultimate staycation in Sydney. With dinner, drinks, a hotel stay, and breakfast included, this could be a stellar romantic staycation or an epic overnight city stay with your mate. [competition]970592[/competition]
You've listened your way through multiple seasons of Serial. You've tuned your ears to plenty of other similar podcasts, too. And, when you've been sat on your couch, you've watched your way through the seemingly non-stop array of shows about real-life cases as well — whether you're more interested in lurid stories such as Tiger King, or shows with a more personal focus like I'll Be Gone in the Dark. If all of the above applies to you, you're clearly a fan of true-crime tales. It's a great time to be interested in the subject, because more and more cases gone by keep getting the podcast or small-screen treatment. Dropping on Stan on Sunday, November 29, After the Night is the latest. And, if you feel like you've already seen and heard every story there is — especially regarding US crimes — this one focuses on an Australian serial killer. Known as 'The Night Caller', Eric Edgar Cooke terrorised Perth in the early 1960s. He's known to have murdered eight people, and he also assaulted and tried to kill many more, but local police took their time in connecting him to his horrendous acts. As created and directed by Perth-born filmmaker Thomas Meadmore (The Spy Who Fell to Earth), After The Night explores the details across a four-part series — spanning Meadmore's own return to Perth and also featuring interviews, including with two men wrongly convicted of Cooke's crimes. Viewers can expect a true-crime investigation with plenty of twists and turns — which is exactly what the genre always promises, of course. Here, though, you'll also watch your way through a series that ponders not only Cooke's heinous deeds, but the quest for justice they inspired and the impact the whole ordeal has left on the local community. Check out the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TqQSfltwvuk&feature=youtu.be After the Night will be available to stream via Stan from Sunday, November 29.
Building grand concert halls and top-notch performance venues is crucial to boosting a city’s arts scene. Equally important is providing creative types with affordable spaces where they can live, work and exchange ideas. Unfortunately, Sydney’s astronomical increases in property prices haven’t been making that too easy. So the City of Sydney Council is straightening up, flying right and doing something about it. The council's brand new cultural policy promises all kinds of gangbusters arts-promoting initiatives, including interest-free loans for art investors, year-round public art smorgasbords and cutting back on red tape for pop-ups. They're not all talk either, as one of the policy's first practical applications has just been announced — the development of a $25 million creative hub smack bang in the CBD. Housed in one slick, bubbling creative centre, artists, dancers, actors, musicians, writers and filmmakers will have access to 36 low-rent work spaces, spread over 2000 square metres and five storeys. They’ll be located within what’s soon to become Sydney’s tallest residential tower — the former Sydney Water site on Bathurst Street, set for redevelopment by Greenland Australia. Creatives will share the 67-storey building with 490 residential apartments, as well as ground-floor retail outlets. The inclusion of the hub has been made possible through a Voluntary Planning Agreement, much to the delight of Sydney's creative community. AN AUSTRALIAN FIRST "While we developed our new cultural policy, Creative Sydney, one issue consistently raised by artists and creative workers was the lack of affordable work space in the inner city," Lord Mayor Clover Moore told us. "The City of Sydney has already had great success with affordable creative spaces in our own properties on William and Oxford Street, but to unlock bigger opportunities we knew that working with commercial developers would be essential." "There’s been a history, albeit limited, of infrastructure — theatres and so on — coming through development agreements," adds Rachel Healy, City of Sydney’s executive manager of culture. "For example, the City Recital Hall came through a voluntary planning agreement with the MLC Centre. But there’s been no attention paid, not to the end result of the artist’s work — which is being on a stage, or being in an exhibition space — but to the spaces that artists need to create their work ... We think this is an Australian first. It’s [Greenland’s] first venture into Australia as well, so they’re really excited to be partnering with us. They were interested in what makes cities interesting and in how they could contribute in a way that wasn’t necessarily orthodox.” SPECIALISED SPACES FOR EVERY ART FORM Bands, bards and ballet dancers have different needs when it comes to creative space. The new hub's 36 unique spaces will cater to the needs of varying art forms — there’ll even be one live-work apartment, enabled through a creative fellowship program. "Workspace is a pretty broad term," Healy explains. "It includes rehearsal studios, offices, meeting rooms and spaces that are set up to accommodate the particular needs of various art forms. If you’re in a metal band, for example, how many spaces exist which are soundproofed — meaning you don’t have to turn yourself inside out trying to rehearse at a time when the neighbours aren’t going to complain? Every art form has particular needs. Dancers need to work on sprung timber floors. Musicians need acoustically treated spaces. Visual artists often need wet-dry spaces." The hub also caters to the technologically inclined, with media editing suites for filmmakers and new media artists. CREATIVE COLLABORATION Creatives need coffee, so a ground floor cafe (planned for the socially advantageous spot right next to the lift) will provide a place for arty types to get together, swap ideas, devise collaborations (and plan creative revolutions). Plus, it’s hoped that the central location will mean exposure to new audiences and helpful commercial forces. "Great cities are places with a great blending of commercial, cultural and residential activity," the Lord Mayor says. "I expect the creative hub to attract more people to the city centre, which is great for business. The Oxford Street and William Street affordable creative spaces have also seen artists develop good relationships with surrounding businesses, and I’m sure the new creative hub will have a similar benefit. I hope that the new residents take advantage of living so close to such great facilities. And I’m sure the wide range of artists working in the creative hub will lead to some interesting collaborations." SO, WHEN CAN WE MOVE IN? Hold on to those flourishing ideas, it’s expected that the facilities will be up and running by mid-2017. Configuring exactly how the spaces will be made available and shared is still a work-in-progress. "One option we’re investigating is to have a cultural organisation based permanently on each floor that would be responsible for running the booking the creative spaces on their floor," says Moore. "We expect to announce details of how artists and creative teams can access the spaces in 2016." To find out more ways the City of Sydney's cultural policy will make Sydney better, head over here for our handy rundown.
When 2019's The Farewell won Awkwafina a Golden Globe for Best Actress — Musical or Comedy, it did so for a nuanced and affecting performance that dwelled in the space between putting on a happy face for the world and confronting what you're truly feeling inside. Following a China-born, New York-raised woman upon her return home to see her dying grandmother, the film used its semi-autobiographical scenario as fuel for an incisive and thoughtful character study. Writer/director Lulu Wang's feature spread further, however, as a broader portrait about the ties and lies that bind families, plus the societal and cultural surroundings that enforce expectations and dictate choices. Adapting Janice YK Lee's 2016 novel The Expatriates, Wang's first major stint behind the lens since The Farewell starts streaming via Prime Video from Friday, January 26. Dubbed Expats as a miniseries, the six-parter marks a shift in location to Hong Kong and a splinter in focus to three protagonists, but its guiding force — with Wang creating the show, executive producing, helming all six episodes and writing two — is still plunging deep into bonds of blood, deceptions amid close relationships, grappling with grief and tragedy, and being caught between how one is meant to carry on and inescapable inner emotions. It too sees not only people but also its chosen place. It's a haunting series and, albeit not literally in the horror sense, a series about women haunted. As Margaret Woo, an American landscape architect who has relocated to Hong Kong for her husband Clarke's (Brian Tee, Chicago Med) job, Nicole Kidman (Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom) is in familiar territory. In Big Little Lies, The Undoing and Nine Perfect Strangers, all fellow small-screen efforts that she also executive produced, she similarly played characters tormented: by a horrific husband, a murder case and loss, respectively. She's well-experienced at stepping into the shoes of women bearing anguish and heartbreak while living privileged existences as well, and at sporting the masks demanded when there's a status quo to uphold. But Kidman isn't one to turn in the same traumatised performance again and again, even if she's repeatedly drawn to such roles. Here, Margaret's seesawing between relentlessly soldiering on and being unable to flee her desperation says everything about someone who is rarely able to admit the truth of her feelings even to herself. The year is 2014, and the Woos aren't new Hong Kong arrivals — but their past 12 months have been under a shadow ever since their youngest son Gus (debutant Connor James) went missing. No one is coping, including elder children Daisy (Tiana Gowen, True Love Blooms) and Philip (Bodhi del Rosario, 9-1-1). But while Margaret refuses to give up hope of finding her three-year-old boy, there are still lives to lead and, to help start Expats, a 50th birthday party for Clarke to host. In the lift at The Peak, the towering symbol of wealth inhabited by plenty who give the show its title, she's also insistent that her friend, downstairs neighbour and fellow American Hilary Starr (Sarayu Blue, A Million Miles Away) attend the shindig. The frostiness that fills the elevator also stems from Gus' disappearance, and accusations made against Hilary's recovering-alcoholic husband David (Jack Huston, Anne Rice's Mayfair Witches). Unpacking Hilary's plight provides the second of Expat's interconnected character studies, as the successful businesswoman treads water in a marriage where going through the motions is among the few shared traits remaining. Despite their quest to start a family, she's started secretly taking birth control again. Hilary and David do still boast something else in common, though: an inability to shake their hurt at each other over secrets, reactions and never believing that they're on the same page. Frequently dressed in tan- and beige-hued jumpsuits, Blue plays her part with no less potency than Kidman, but with softer edges. At her extremes, Hilary is deliberate rather than steely and quietly fragile instead of achingly frenzied. Completing Expats' triangle is Mercy (Ji-young Yoo, The Sky Is Everywhere), a Korean American in her twenties working gig-economy jobs, residing in far-more-ordinary digs and happiest about Hong Kong's distance from her mother. With the friends that she's collected in her time in the city, she flits in and out. On her catering assignments, she weaves around well-to-do crowds. She feels like an outsider in multiple ways, and is also convinced that she's cursed. It's Mercy's narration that kicks off the series, talking about the people who unwittingly spark life-changing tragedies, plus the world's quick-to-forget attitudes towards their guilt and agony — voiceover that not only assists in connecting the narrative's web-like strands, but expresses vulnerability and pain that Yoo's shattering performance is always endeavouring to plaster over with anything that the character can even fleetingly grasp onto. Every city is home to a mourning mother with other kids to try to put on a brave face for, women stuck in fraying marriages and restless young souls keen to discover who they want to be. Every place has an expat community of folks who've relocated for love, employment and fresh chances, some or none of which might've worked out nicely. Every town includes those who can't move away even after they've weathered the worst that their life has thrown at them in their adopted spot. Every locale is inhabited by some who don't feel like they quite belong, but are also certain that they'd feel the same even if they retraced their steps. As probingly and naturalistically lensed by Wang's returning The Farewell cinematographer Anna Franquesa-Solano, and as purposefully set in a year where protests took to the streets against China's role in the special administrative region's elections, Hong Kong isn't just any city to Expats, however. Wang also spends time with two Filipino women who work as live-in helpers away from their own families, the Woos' nanny Essie (Ruby Ruiz, In His Mother's Eyes) and the Starrs' housekeeper Puri (first-timer Amelyn Pardenilla). They're regular presences in Expats' first four episodes, then get pushed to the fore in its movie-length fifth episode, alongside local students (including Sparks' Bonde Sham as Charly) among the Umbrella Movement who are fighting for better futures. The series sees their hopes, wants, dreams and disappointments, too. It stares unflinchingly at the chasm between their Hong Kong and the one navigated by wealthy transplants. Crucially, this drama puts comfortable existences, woes and all, into stark context. A different series could've been made with Essie, Puri, Charly and company firmly at the centre — but in this tale of three Americans adrift with their sorrows, where and the reality that surrounds them is equally as important as how and why. Check out the trailer for Expats below: Expats streams via Prime Video from Friday, January 26.
Small Bar on Erskine St is rumoured to be Sydney's first small bar. It's been aptly named; the room is tiny but brimming with charm. The current battle for the best niche bar in Sydney has begun, and this original is a frontrunner. It is, after all, right in the heart of Sydney's CBD, a block down from The Fox Hole, and within walking distance of Grandma's and The Baxter Inn. Small Bar is the place for after-work drinks. A hand-picked drink selection sets the tone for this bar. Cracking open a bottle of wine is your best bet, although you may prefer a boutique beer or cider. Head upstairs for a quiet dining experience, with vintage posters on the walls. There's an outdoor smoking area and bar on the ground floor and down the narrow staircase the underground bar offers more intimate seating, which is perfect for functions. A candle sits atop each table adding to the dimly-lit yet jovial atmosphere. Small groups sit hunched over tables conspiring and nibbling at delectable hors d'oeuvres. Each small plate is moderately priced, offering gluten free and vegetarian options. They're perfect for sharing and are cooked on the premises, with a selection ranging from lamb kofta ($12.50) to marinated olives ($7.50). For a more hearty appetite, try a small pulled pork burger ($16) or come in at lunchtime for a larger meal. Small Bar oozes warmth. It's quaint, home to good company, good food and tasty mulled wine — the perfect choice for chilly winter nights. Floral arrangements on the bar add a homely touch. And don't be worried if you miss the unassuming red door on Erskine. You can always wander back and take a peek through the window at the smiling patrons gathered inside.
If September weather still isn't hitting compared to a tropical holiday, then maybe it's time to book a short-haul flight with Virgin Australia's happy hour sale. From now until 11pm today (AEST), score international flights for as little as $419 return. But be quick, because you've only got until 11pm tonight to nab these deals. Travel anywhere from Queenstown and Vanuatu to Bali, Samoa and Fiji, to make the most of this limited-time offer. Deals include a Melbourne to Bali flight for as little as $419 return, or Sydney to Fiji from $489 return. Book your economy flights between October 22, 2025 and March 31, 2026, to be eligible for these red-hot deals. If you're a Velocity Frequent Flyer, then these deals are even better, because sale fares still go towards your Velocity Points and Status Credits. Just make sure to pack light, as these fares do not include baggage and seat reservations. For more information about Virgin Australia's Happy Hour Flights Sale, head to the website. Images: iStock
Society has drilled it into our heads that it's unethical to capitalise on the youthful vitality of small, underprivileged children, but Soccket might make you see things differently. A small company called Unchartered Play has developed a soccer ball that doubles as a portable generator, providing both fun and power to those who play with it. The Soccket uses Unchartered Play's patent-pending technology to capture the kinetic energy generated by a game of soccer, storing it in the ball for later use as an off-grid power source. Powering an LED lamp requires 30 minutes of play. The immediate advantages are threefold: Soccer is one of the most popular sports in the world, one in five people around the globe are without power, and most kids think soccer is fun — particularly kids who have never heard of Angry Birds and who are often denied the opportunity to be kids due to more pressing issues such as survival. It is hoped to bring particular relief to developing countries reliant on kerosene lamps, which can lead to severe health problems and are responsible for huge amounts of carbon dioxide emissions. The ball is currently produced very labour intensively in North America, but Unchartered Play have launched a Kickstarter campaign to take things to the next level. $75,000 will help Unchartered Play (a team of just eight people) bring on board more employees, purchase more tools and equipment, automate parts of the assembly process, and up their output of Soccket Balls from a few hundred to thousands per week. They've almost reached half of their goal with 24 days to go. $1 is the minimum, but pledging $89 or more will get you one standard Soccket Ball and lamp if the campaign is successful. You've then got the option of keeping it for a sweet-as camping gadget or, you know, giving it up to a child in need. Via Inhabitat.com.
It's no secret that Sydney is home to some of the best beaches in the world — in fact, it's often a point of pride (and bragging). While just lounging, reading and swimming at these stretches of coastline is usually more than enough fun, a whole summer of it can start to feel — dare we say — tedious. If you're looking ahead at three full months on Sydney sand, it's time to take full advantage of all that our coastline has to offer. For starters, that means investing in some equipment and getting your game on. But not all Sydney beaches are created equal when it comes to sports. To help you narrow it down, we've put together a list of the best beaches for group games this summer. So, grab your mates and your beach cricket set and hit the sand. [caption id="attachment_756229" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] MAROUBRA BEACH This kilometre-long stretch of sand is an ideal spot for group hangs. You won't get the crowds that take over some the other nearby beaches, like Bondi and Coogee. Here, you can really spread out and take on larger-form games like soccer, or even dodgeball, without worrying about disturbing a nearby sunbather. After you've got your heart pumping, take a short stroll to Mahon Pool, which is tucked away on the beach's northern headland, for a secluded dip. Friends who love a surf should bring their boards, too. Not only is this one of Sydney's great surf spots, it's also one of only 21 National Surfing Reserves in the country. [caption id="attachment_663539" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Paros Huckstepp[/caption] MANLY BEACH Another stunning stretch of Sydney sand, Manly Beach is hard to beat in charm — from the ferry ride over from the city to the busy promenade, the tree-lined beach and the clear blue waves. While it may not be as convenient as, say, Bondi if you're a south-of-the-bridge dweller, it certainly is still one of Sydney's most famous beaches — so, give your mates a new excuse to venture over the bridge and take things up a notch with a spot of beach sport in between quick dips and ice cream breaks. The beach's proximity to the shops also means you don't have to travel with a bunch of equipment, either, as you can just grab it on the way. We recommend a few games of Flick 'n' Sticks — all you'll need is a set of poles (or foraged sticks for the frugal), cups and a few frisbees. Or, head to the permanent beach volleyball nets. If your legs start to tire of the sand, take your gaming up to the grass at the Manly Bowling Club, which is just a short walk off the beach. [caption id="attachment_756230" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] COOGEE BEACH The golden curve that is Coogee Beach has long been a go-to for groups. It's got a local feel to it, but still draws its fair share of travellers, making it an ideal spot to make some new mates over a friendly game. Set up several Survivor-style obstacle courses and see who is crowned champion. Or, if the beach isn't bustling with sun-kissed bodies, dive into a game of beach volleyball (as long as an organised competition isn't going on). Afterward, grab a round or two at Coogee Pavilion. BALMORAL BEACH, MOSMAN If you're looking for a more low-key option for your group games, head to Balmoral. This relatively isolated lower north shore beach usually has calm waters and rarely sees people packed on the sand like sardines. You'll find swimmers doing laps, people tanning and families sitting in the shade of umbrellas — it's a laidback spot, so come here for more relaxed games rather than rowdy ones. Try your hand at a few rounds of cornhole or Bulzibucket (you don't even need all the gear, you can simply dig holes in the sand). A lightweight spikeball set is another good option here. Plus, Balmoral has the added benefit of being close to Taronga Zoo, in case hanging out with some adorable animals is also on your group's bucket list. [caption id="attachment_756228" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] DEE WHY BEACH Dee Why is a sporting beach through and through. It's the site of the annual Ocean Thunder Surfboat competition and was once home to major surfing comp Beachley Classic. Essentially, it's a beach set up for those who want to get active. Just next to it is Long Reef Beach, with the two stretches of sand separated by a shallow lagoon, so there's heaps of space. And you'll even find an outdoor table tennis spot, so you don't even need to bring any equipment to get competitive with your crew. There's also a playground for obstacle course-style games as well as barbecues for post-game feasts. [caption id="attachment_756328" align="alignnone" width="1920"] via Virtual Wolf/Flickr[/caption] COLLAROY BEACH Just north and around the headland of Long Reef Beach, you'll come to another top-notch location for some friendly competition: Collaroy. Collaroy has the benefit of being slightly sheltered, so playing games that involve lightweight or excess equipment is often pretty good here, such as spikeball and frisbee. Plus, it stretches into Narrabeen Beach, giving you just over 3.5 kilometres of continuous beach to play on. After you've worked up a sweat, you can head to one of the beach's many barbecuing and picnic areas or head into The Collaroy for a cold beer. And be sure to stick around for sunset, as this beach offers some of the best. [caption id="attachment_750942" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] SHARK BEACH, VAUCLUSE This tiny 220-metre sandy harbour spot is just right for those looking for a bit of variety on their next trip to the beach is just right for ocean games. First up, its waters are surrounded by shark nets, so, unlike the name suggests, you don't have to worry about any unwanted sea creatures interrupting your game. Secondly, it's located at Nielsen Park in Vaucluse and is part of Sydney Harbour National Park, making it a picturesque playing spot. Of course, the small size means it's ideal for smaller-scale games, so we recommend bringing along a couple of friends instead of a big ol' group. But you can always move into the adjoining park if you're looking for more space — or some shade. If you are looking for more places to feel a sense of belonging in New South Wales, head to visitnsw.com. Top image: Raider or Gin/Flickr.
Bring your family, your mates and your dogs — along with your sandy feet — to Mosman this weekend, as the harbourside sports club Mosman Rowers reopens on Friday, March 15. Now managed by Bird & Bear Group (The Sandy Bear, The Flying Bear & Foys), the century-old clubhouse boasts a brand new fit-out and an elevated pub offering across three levels. First up is Archie Bear cafe, a 100-seater slinging coffees, breakfast and long lunches, plus dinner on the weekends. Designed by Studio Etic (Barangaroo House), it has floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook an expansive outdoor deck and the bay views beyond. Inside, there are polished timber floors, brass and gold finishes and a fireplace for the cooler months ahead. Brekkie includes classic bacon and egg rolls alongside green breakfast bowls and maple-baked granola with stewed rhubarb and mint. Meanwhile, the lunch and dinner menus focus on share plates like Sydney rock oysters, baby squid with lemon and aioli and antipasti plates — think prosciutto, burrata, olives and flatbread. There's also a selection of salads and sandwiches, such as the soba noodle salad with poached chicken and soy-lime dressing, and the wagyu pastrami reuben with raclette, sweet and spicy pickles, coleslaw and smoky sauce. [caption id="attachment_711674" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Archie Bear[/caption] One level up is The Rowers Bar, which offers its own bar snacks and mains, as well as another 100 seats. For bar bites, there are wagyu sliders and rice paper rolls with daikon and water chestnuts. Larger dishes include the zucchini pasta with lemon, chilli and basil and grilled barramundi with butter bean puree and bean salad. Compared with the bright digs downstairs, the heritage interior upstairs boasts low-lighting, warm timber tones and nautical vibes. Expect more brass trimming here, too, alongside terrazzo table tops, navy leather banquettes and a marble bar with 11 beers on tap. The wider drinks list will be up for grabs in both venues, including R!ot Wine Co rosé on tap, seasonal cocktails — try the spicy margarita or melon fizz — and an extensive local and global wine list. Plus Pimm's, spritzes and white sangria jugs for sharing. There'll be heaps of weekly specials on too, including $6 beers and house wines during weekday happy hour, $12 spritzes from 3–6pm on Saturdays and $20 beer buckets and cocktail jugs on Sundays. While the venue will remain a registered club — with a private members space on the top level — non-members can access the lower two levels by signing up (free of charge) as a temporary member. The waterside digs will remain a community hub for activities such as rowing, paddling and kayaking, with a reinvigorated member events calendar in the works. Mosman Rowers will reopen on Friday, March 15 at 3 Centenary Drive, Mosman. Opening hours for Archie Bear are Monday through Wednesday from 7.30am–3.30pm and Thursday through Sunday from 7.30am until late. Opening hours for The Rowers Bar are Monday through Friday from 4pm until late and Saturday through Sunday from noon until late.
UPDATE, January 27, 2023: Sissy is available to stream via Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Scroll, swipe, like, subscribe: this is the rhythm of social media. We look, watch and trawl; we try to find a sense of self in the online world; and when something strikes a chord, we smudge our fingers onto our phones to show our appreciation. If wellness influencers are to be believed, we should feel seen by this now-everyday process. We should feel better, too. We're meant to glean helpful tips about how to live our best lives, aspire to be like the immaculately styled folks dispensing the advice and be struck by how relatable it all is. "You saved my life!", we're supposed to comment, and we're meant to be genuine about it. The one catch, and one that we shouldn't think about, though: when it comes to seeking validation via social media, this setup really does go both ways. As savvy new Australian horror film Sissy shows, the beaming faces spruiking easy wisdom and products alike to hundreds, thousands or maybe hundreds of thousands of followers — 200,000-plus for this flick's namesake — are also basking in the glory of all that digital attention, and getting a self-esteem boost back in the process. Sissy starts with @SincerelyCecilia, an Instagram hit, doing what she does best. As played by Gold Coast-born Australian actor Aisha Dee of The Bold Type in an astute and knowing stroke of casting, she's a natural in front of the camera. Indeed, thanks to everything from The Saddle Club and I Hate My Teenage Daughter to Sweet/Vicious and The Nowhere Inn as well, the film's star knows what it's like to live life through screens out of character. She's been acting since she was a teenager, and she's charted the highs of her chosen profession, all in front of a lens. So, it's no wonder that Dee conveys Cecilia's comfort recording her videos with ease. The actor hops into the spotlight not only once but twice here, but she's just as perceptive at showing how the world crumbles, shakes and shrinks whenever there's no ring light glowing, smile stretched a mile wide and Pinterest-board background framing her guru-like guidance. "I am loved. I am special. I am enough," is Cecilia's kind of mantra. Through her carefully poised and curated videos, such words have sparked a soaring follower count, a non-stop flow of likes and adoring comments. But she's so tied to all that virtual worship that her off-camera existence — when she's not plugging an 'Elon mask', for instance — is perhaps even more mundane than everyone else's. It's also isolated, so when she reconnects with her childhood best friend Emma (co-director/co-writer Hannah Barlow) during a chance run-in at a pharmacy, it's a rare IRL link to the tangible world. Cecilia is awkward about it, though, including when Emma invites her to her out-of-town bachelorette party that very weekend. Buoyed by memories of pledging to be BFFs forever, singing Aussie pop track 'Sister' by Sister2Sister and obsessing over movie stars, she still agrees to go. Sissy's first act is a Rorschach test: if you're already cynical about the wellness industry and social media, unsurprisingly so, then you'll know that nothing dreamy is bound to follow; if you're not, perhaps the blood and guts to come will feel like a twist. Either way, there will be blood thanks to Barlow and fellow co-helmer/co-scribe Kane Senes' game efforts, reteaming for their second feature after 2017's For Now. There will be chaos as well, and bad signs aplenty, and a rousing body count. Hitting a kangaroo en route to their remote destination clearly doesn't bode well, and also kicks off casualty tally. Then the old schoolyard dynamics bubble up, especially when Cecilia's playground tormentor Alex (Emily De Margheriti, Ladies in Black) is among the fellow guests. Pre-teen taunts resurface — "Sissy's a sissy" was the juvenile and obvious jeer spat her way back in the day, and repeated now — and the @SincerelyCecilia facade starts to shatter. If Mean Girls was a slasher film set in an off-the-beaten-track home in Australia, it might look something like Sissy, which is a compliment multiple times over. Every horror movie wants to be smart and savage on an array of levels, but Barlow and Senes manage it again and again, and with grisly fun. Their latest feature weaponises everything from influencer culture and pastel, rainbow and glitter colour palettes to toxic friendships and troubling childhood dynamics, all while spinning a clever, cutting and comedic take on the impact of bullying. Their targets are blatant — well, if you only see terrible things in the picture's version of inkblots, as per above, they are — but that doesn't dull or dampen any point that Sissy makes. That it premiered at SXSW 2022 at the same time as Bodies Bodies Bodies feels oh-so-fitting; they both involve remote houses plagued with twentysomething mess, mayhem and mania, share many of the same points, are delightfully entertaining to watch and would be a stellar double. Would Sissy work quite so well with someone other than Dee playing its eponymous figure, though? Thankfully, that's a question we'll never know the answer to. Her portrayal is as shrewd, amusing and engaging as the movie she's in, and as wonderfully layered — which couldn't be more pivotal in a flick that's also about the vast chasm between our Insta selves and our off-social reality, and how any group of people is mere hours from tearing each other to pieces verbally, emotionally and physically in the right/wrong circumstances. She's in fine company, however, including Barlow's on-screen efforts and De Margheriti relishing her antagonistic part. As Emma's fiancée Fran and friends Tracey and Jamie, Lucy Barrett (Halifax: Retribution), Yerin Ha (Halo) and Daniel Monks (Pulse) each also steal more than a few standout moments. One helluva lead performance, as gloriously diverse a cast as Australian cinema has boasted, grim fates awaiting half the coat of arms, schlock and viscera galore, scathing social commentary: that's Sissy. A knowing-but-never-too-winking vibe, neon hues paired with unsettling images, canny framing, needling sound design: that's Sissy, too. If Carrie was set in today's always-online world, amid cancel culture and plentiful praise at the press of a button, it'd look like this as well. That said, this new instant Aussie horror classic takes its own bold stab at plenty of things, and genres — plus tropes and people — and always remains its own film. Cecilia and her followers could learn from it, because appreciating your faves, incorporating them into your existence but never losing yourself in them is a lesson far removed from their Insta-curated world.
When a restaurant is named after a dish, you can be pretty sure that it's going to live up to its name. Set beneath an inviting red brick archway, 1915 Lanzhou Beef Noodles is something of a Burwood institution. And it's no surprise its eponymous signature dish — a rich, hearty, aromatic broth with tender beef slices, delicate egg noodles and plenty of coriander and spice — continues to gain legions of new fans with every bowl. The beef-based broth is rich and spicy, as befits its origins from China's frosty northwest. The option is also available for you to customise the noodle saturation levels, shape and width and the spice level of the broth in order to best suit your cravings.
Four years ago, legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Fleetwood Mac toured Australia with Christine McVie, who'd just rejoined the band after a 16-year absence. This year, when the British-American group tours the country, the lineup will look a little different. Mick Fleetwood, Stevie Nicks, John McVie and Christine McVie will be joined on stage in August by Crowded House frontman Neil Finn and Mike Campbell, from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, with Lindsey Buckingham controversially axed from the band early last year. Despite the switch-up — it's not the band's first personnel change, and probably won't be its last — the band will be performing all its biggest hits, from 'Dreams' to 'The Chain' and 'Go Your Own Way'. The six will head to Australia's west coast first, hitting up Perth on August 9, before flying east to perform shows across the east coast — with one show in Brissie, and two in Sydney and Melbourne. Fleetwood Mac is one of the world's best-selling bands, selling in excess of 100 million albums worldwide, with the album Rumours one of the best-selling of all time. Their Aussie tour follows the band's 50-show tour of the US. FLEETWOOD MAC 2019 TOUR DATES Perth — RAC Arena, August 9 Brisbane — Brisbane Entertainment Centre, August 20 Sydney — Qudos Bank Arena, August 27 and 29 Melbourne — Rod Laver Arena, September 2 and 4 Fleetwood Mac pre-sale tickets are available from midday (local time) on Thursday, January 24, 2019, with general on-sale is at midday (local time) in Sydney and Perth, and 1pm in Melbourne and Brisbane, on Friday, January 25, through Live Nation.
Paying homage to the art of Japanese cuisine, ŌRA blends traditional techniques with contemporary influences. ŌRA is a collection of venues inside one retrofitted industrial warehouse in Waterloo. Three experiences are on offer here. The central bar with chic velvet booths is where guests can enjoy a fusion of Western and Eastern tastes from a sushi menu that draws elements from across the Japanese spectrum — expect classic street food, steamed and braised dishes, charcoal-grilled veggies, seafood and meats. Then there's the So She Me cocktail lounge and event space where guests can enjoy Japanese-inspired beverages. At the heart of every dish is Executive Chef Nobuyuki Ura. Every dish tells his story. "The most important thing is to execute each dish without compromise," he says. Chef Ura has worked in kitchens across Japan and Australia, from cooking for the Japanese royal family to serving dishes to a former Japanese Prime Minister — you can read our full interview with Chef Ura about his journey to ŌRA. Omakase is enjoyed at the Chef's Counter, an intimate setting with only ten seats at the rich marble bar. Omakase translates to 'I'll leave it up to you' — it's a culinary performance where diners can witness the chef's skills as each dish is carefully created and presented to the trusting guests. Each month, a new menu is created by Chef Ura, showcasing the freshness and seasonality of the produce. Highlighting the very best Australian produce, the menu at ŌRA sits alongside a beverage offering that includes seasonal cocktails, artisanal sake from new-generation makers and a wine list with Japanese wines. Images: Yusuke Oba
