Break out the sugar honeycombs, grab your bag of marbles, and get ready for a few more games of hopscotch and tug of war. Squid Game is coming back, as Netflix confirmed at the beginning of 2022 — and now the second season has its first teaser trailer. Well, it has an extremely short animated clip of the series' killer Red Light, Green Light doll, with the teaser short on details but big on mood. That said, the new video came with a statement by Squid Game creator Hwang Dong-hyuk, who started chatting about season two in 2021, and confirms a few details. Hwang Dong-Hyuk writer, director, producer, and creator of @squidgame has a message for the fans: pic.twitter.com/DxF0AS5tMM — Netflix (@netflix) June 12, 2022 "It took 12 years to bring the first season of Squid Game to life last year. But it took 12 days for Squid Game to become the most popular Netflix series ever," Hwang shared. "And now, Gi-hun returns. The Front Man returns. Season 2 is coming," he continued. "The man in the suit with ddakji might be back. You'll also be introduced to Young-hee's boyfriend, Cheol-su. Join us once more for a whole new round." So, get ready to spend more time with more Lee Jung-jae (Deliver Us From Evil) as the show's protagonist. And, to learn more about its masked villain (Lee Byung-hun, The Magnificent Seven) as well. How the narrative will play out in season two hasn't yet been revealed, and neither has exactly when it will return. But if you want to live life like you're actually in Squid Game — with the puzzles, not the murders — you can start trying to piece together its clues now. The series was always bound to return for another round. Compulsively watchable from its opening moments, the South Korean show was one of the best new TV programs of 2021, and proved enormously popular for Netflix — becoming its most-watched show ever, in fact. And yes, Hwang also advised last year that lead actor Lee would be coming back, but now that detail is locked in. If you somehow missed all things Squid Game last year, even after it became bigger than everything from Stranger Things to Bridgerton, the Golden Globe-winning series serves up a puzzle-like storyline and unflinching savagery, which unsurprisingly makes quite the combination. It also steps into societal divides within South Korea, a topic that wasn't invented by Parasite, Bong Joon-ho's excellent Oscar-winning 2019 thriller, but has been given a boost after that stellar flick's success. Accordingly, it's easy to see thematic and narrative parallels between Parasite and Squid Game, although Netflix's highly addictive series goes with a Battle Royale and Hunger Games-style setup. Here, 456 competitors are selected to work their way through six seemingly easy children's games. They're all given numbers and green tracksuits, they're competing for 45.6 billion won, and it turns out that they've also all made their way to the contest after being singled out for having enormous debts. Squid Game's first season is available to stream via Netflix. We'll update you with a release date for season two when one is announced. Images: Noh Juhan/Netflix.
New restaurants and takeaway joints open every week in Sydney — so much so that it's hard to keep up, let alone determine which ones to visit. But you know what's a good catalyst for trying somewhere new? Free stuff. That's why we're pleased to tell you that, to celebrate the opening of its new North Sydney store, Zeus Street Greek will be giving out free pitas to anyone who visits the new location this Friday, May 18. All you have to do is walk into the Northpoint store between noon and 2pm on Friday and you'll score yourself a free pita. These are ZSG's version of a souvlaki, which you can get filled with chicken or lamb. Plus, for each pita given away on the day, ZSG will donate $2 to suicide prevention charity R U OK?. Just in case you weren't sure if ZSG was a chain yet — the North Sydney outpost is the 20th store to open in Australia. It currently has 11 stores Sydney and a couple across Canberra, Newcastle, Brisbane, Melbourne and Perth. Zeus Street Greek Northpoint is now open at 100 Miller Street, North Sydney. To celebrate the opening, it will be giving away free pitas on Friday, May 18 from 12–2pm. For more info visit zeusstreetgreek.com.au.
Thought there was room in this town for just one retro-inspired line of Melbourne beer merch? Well, think again. VB has been dropping different collections and items over the past couple of years years, including Christmas sweaters and swimwear — and, after first releasing some sweet new merchandise of its own back in 2018, too, Melbourne Bitter has just announced its latest range. Once again, it's a collaboration with fuss-free menswear label Mr Simple. And once again, it's taking its cues from history. This time around, the collection draws upon Melbourne Bitter's archive, with four different graphics on offer. Melbourne Bitter's reputation as a hipster sip of choice should give you some idea of the vibe of this latest collection — think, vintage-style tees showcasing old-school logos, plus long-sleeved shirts, bucket hats and caps. Basically, now that Melbourne's pubs and bars have reopened, it's the perfect wardrobe choice. Unlike the largely unisex offerings of VB's range, this one's marketed more towards men — as Melbourne Bitter's first collab with Mr Simple was as well. Still, we think it can rocked by all beer lovers. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZfw9lZTojQ For more information about the Melbourne Bitter x Mr Simple Pt II clothing line, head to Mr Simple's website.
Sydney guys and girls now know they better watch out, as Lauryn Hill killed the Opera house softly with her song last night (with another show up tonight for Vivid LIVE). With vocals as strong as ever and a rapping speed that ain't slowing down, Ms. Hill triumphantly took her rightful place at the top of the hip hop class. After a buzzing Opera House excitedly thrusted to red red wiiiiiiine R&B and reggae classics, the crowd was well geared up for the hour-late Ms. Hill. It's been a good four years since Hill has visited Australia. The multi-Grammy award-winning singer disappeared from public life in 2000 after staggering fame, later undergoing a prison stint and three months house arrest after failing to file her tax returns on time. Returning to the Sydney stage with a vocally-charged, raptastic journey through her Fugees years, acoustic ballads, a Bob Marley cover and highlights from her legendary solo albums The Score and The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, the 39-year-old left no stone unturned. Swanning out in a black sequinned onesie, cape-like coat and broad-brimmed hat, Hill opened the set with an epic fifteen minute version of The Fugees' seminal cover 'Killing Me Softly'. One of the best selling hip hop artists of all time, Hill then dove headfirst into her epic repertoire — starting with her harmony-fuelled 1998 Miseducation single 'Everything Is Everything'; her super stylin' backup singers throwing down some seriously baller choreography. Hill still sits at the top of the class as one of the fastest rappers in the game. Slowly but surely speeding up during a funked up version of Miseducation's 'Final Hour', Hill furiously threw down every rhyme without blinking an eye. Ever the crowdpleaser, Hill somewhat cheesily inserted 'Sydney' into every possible lyrical corner — a guaranteed squeal-jerker employed at her Melbourne show just days before. Quite the control freak, the former Fugees frontwoman directed her band, backup singers and crowd like a bossy conductor, knowing every drum beat, vocal harmony and keyboard solo and attempting to make magic happen with furious pointed fingers. During a slightly bungled audience participation attempt of 'In Zion' the crowd slightly feared for the professional lives of the backup singers as Hill tried to lead an unsteady call and response moment, but eventually she busted moves with her band and gave shout-outs all round. Taking time out for a sentimentally-charged acoustic moment or three, Hill showcased her gospel-folk vocal strength with tunes from her 2002 album, MTV Unplugged 2.0 with 'Mr Intentional' and 'Oh Jerusalem'. Hill kept rolling through to a stunning cover of Bob Marley's 'Could You Be Loved' — by her late father-in-law. Finishing up with a revisit to 'Killing Me Softly' and a celebratory rendition of her 1998 Grammy-winning debut solo single 'Doo Wop (That Thing)', Hill triggered clasped hands Concert Hall-wide by bringing out two of her children to join her on (unsurprisingly badass) vocals. One of the most hyped-up moments in the Vivid LIVE lineup, Lauryn Hill made it clear she's still every inch the hip hop superstar she's been since before iPods were born. No throwbacks to Sister Act 2 though. Dayum. Lauryn Hill plays her second show at Sydney Opera House tonight for Vivid LIVE. Details over here. Images by Prudence Upton.
Australian activewear and maternity wear brand Active Truth has just launched its new line of leggings, bike shorts and crop tops with the help of Ngarluma, Kariyarra, Nyulnyul and Yawuru designer Bobbi Lockyer. The hand-painted design featured on the limited edition Brolga line of activewear is currently available via the Active Truth website and shipping is free worldwide. Based in Port Hedland, Western Australia, Lockyer created the clothing line in order to celebrate strong women. "In our Dreaming about Brolga, she was a beautiful girl obsessed with dancing. Dancing was her only love and nothing distracted her," Lockeyer said. "I like to think of Brolga as a headstrong woman, passionate and determined, going for her dreams. This is why I chose to paint brolga feathers for this design, to symbolise women with our strengths, passions and show that we are going for our dreams." Lockyer also photographed the campaign herself, shooting some of the strong women in her life sporting the line out in the red dust and salt flats of her hometown. The activewear line is supportive of women of all shapes and sizes, available in sizes small through to 3XL. The Brolga line is also available in Active Truth's popular maternity wear range. These leggings can be worn through every trimester, as well as post-natal. Stevie Angel and Nadia Tucker, the duo behind Active Truth, have created a compression fabric that provides secure support and is especially designed to help ease some of the pains and strains experienced during pregnancy. The tights will stay in place throughout your workout, too, and the compression fit assists in reducing leg swelling and soreness to boot. All Active Truth orders come with a 30-day return policy and free express shipping and exchanges worldwide. The clothing company also offers customers the option to include their traditional First Nations place name when entering their address during the ordering process. Check out the full range of Brolga activewear and maternity wear here or you can browse the whole range of Active Truth activewear, maternity wear and swimwear online now. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
You've been putting in the hard yards at the office all week. It's been early starts and late nights, and you can't remember the last time you hit the gym. The days just never feel long enough. Winter is traditionally a season of hibernation, a time to say yes to staying in and hiding from the cold with a bowl of carbonara in hand. But one too many nights like this feels good for neither the body nor the mind. To get you moving and recover some of that energy, we've teamed up with M.J. Bale to put some boredom-busting activities at the top of your winter to-do list — and provided some suggestions of what to wear while you're out and about. Read on to stay active this winter and look great doing so. [caption id="attachment_721066" align="alignnone" width="2048"] Visit Melbourne.[/caption] GO FOR A BUSH WALK When the temperature dips below 18 degrees, the couch might feel like the only place to be. But trust us on this one. Hitting the trails for a day of fresh air and lush surrounds is an unbeatable way to get the blood pumping. Plus, the cooler months mean you can throw on tons of layers and still finish your hike with minimal sweat. Genius. Head to your nearest national park or scout out a lush coastal walk and enjoy some well-earned tech-free time in the great outdoors. Where: Strap on your walking shoes and try Sydney's Aboriginal Heritage Walk in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Melbourne's Great Ocean Walk, Brisbane's Buhot Creek Circuit in Daisy Hill Conservation Park and Perth's Bells Rapids Walk Trail in Swan Valley. Wear: The water-resistant and breathable Flannery Gilet ($199.00) layered over natural fibres to crush the cold. [caption id="attachment_721067" align="alignnone" width="1000"] Pasta Emilia.[/caption] TAKE A COOKING CLASS Has the new season of MasterChef sparked your inner gastronomic fire? Then wave goodbye to microwave dinners and say hello to gourmet home-cooked feasts that'll blow your mates' socks off. By joining a cooking class, you can have an expert teach you elusive techniques, like how to fold the perfect ravioli or whip up a bowl of authentic baba ganoush. Plus, on top of learning the tricks of the trade, you'll meet some new faces and enjoy the fruits of your labour over a celebratory glass of vino. Now that's how all school days should end. Where: Get cooking at Pasta Emilia's hands-on pasta making workshop in Sydney, craft heart-warming Middle Eastern dishes at Free to Feed in Melbourne, master Vietnamese soups and noodles at Golden Pig in Brisbane and learn how to make Japanese bar snacks at Salt & Company in Perth. Wear: The Depp Stain Repellent Tee ($59.95), because you don't want to carry your culinary masterpieces home on your clothing. [caption id="attachment_721068" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Handsome & Co.[/caption] GET YOUR HANDS DIRTY AT A SHORT COURSE There's no better detox from sitting at a desk all day than making something with your hands. Combine that with the task of learning a new skill, and you're guaranteed to give your brain a healthy gear-shift. Maybe this is the year you finally give pottery a crack, learn how to make your own jewellery or nail the basics of welding. And you never know where your new skills could take you. Here's your chance to explore a passion project or side hustle that could one day see you ditch your nine-to-five job. Where: Let your creative juices flow at The Pottery Shed's Basic Throwing Class in Sydney, try Handsome & Co's Introduction to Furniture Making in Melbourne, learn to throw clay like a pro at The Ceramic House in Brisbane and make your own gourmet cheeses at The Cheese Maker in Perth. Wear: The Tortuga Denim Shirt ($129.95) puts you in something durable while you hone a new craft. [caption id="attachment_721114" align="alignnone" width="2048"] B. Lucky & Sons.[/caption] PLAN SOME FRIENDLY COMPETITION AMONG FRIENDS A night of booze, banter and tasty nosh is how most of us choose to catch up with our mates. But, who doesn't love some healthy competition? Shake up your social routine and test your skills with an evening of group-friendly novelty games. Plenty of venues across the country host mini golf, arcade games and everything in between. All you need to do is gather your mates, pick your arena and get playing. Where: Bring the crew together at Maniax Axe Throwing in Sydney, try your hand at mini golf and karaoke at Holey Moley in Melbourne, revisit classic arcade games at B. Lucky & Sons in Brisbane and race a mate in your own go-kart Grand Prix at Kart World in Perth. Wear: Keep things casual and warm in the Buchanan Merino V-Neck Knit ($149.95). [caption id="attachment_721113" align="alignnone" width="2016"] SportUp.[/caption] JOIN A SPORTS TEAM No, this won't be anything like your memories of high school gym classes. Signing up to a sports club as an adult means social matches and light-hearted fitness with celebratory drinks at the pub afterwards. Grab a few mates or co-workers, and join as a team or go it solo for a chance to expand your network. The best bit? Regular matches mean you'll be held accountable for turning up to that 6am training session (yes, even when it's dark and pouring outside). But at least you'll have the rest of your team suffering alongside in solidarity. Where: Find your fitness tribe with dodgeball at Urban Rec Sydney, shoot hoops at Social Sport in Melbourne, give indoor netball a crack at Sport Up in Brisbane and go for a spot of social badminton with Badminton Buddies in Perth. Wear: The Sports Bag ($99.95) gives you both handle and shoulder strap options. Discover more action-ready wear for winter on the M.J. Bale website.
No one can know for certain what tomorrow will bring; however, the tales told on screens big and small, and through games and comics as well, have delivered plenty of visions of what might come. Will androids dream of electric sheep? Will a Keanu Reeves (John Wick: Chapter 4)-voiced rock star and terrorist make their presence known? Will Afrofuturist technologies transform life as we know it? These are some of the future possibilities conjured up by beloved pop-culture titles — and they're all part of the Australian Centre for the Moving Image's just-announced world-premiere exhibition The Future & Other Fictions as well. Displaying at the Melbourne screen museum across Thursday, November 28, 2024–Sunday, April 27, 2025, taking pride of place as its big summer showcase, The Future & Other Fictions is a love letter to and deep dive into futuristic storytelling. More than 180 works will be on display, including from Blade Runner 2049, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Cyberpunk 2077 and The Creator. Saltsea Chronicles, comic series NEOMAD and Björk's music video 'The Gate': they're all also featured. Before he was just Ken, Ryan Gosling (The Fall Guy) starred in the 35-years-later sequel to Blade Runner — and before he brought Dune and Dune: Part Two to the screen, Denis Villeneuve directed Blade Runner 2049. The Future & Other Fictions lets attendees follow in their footsteps via miniature sets, which are one of the exhibition's definite must-sees. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever gets the nod thanks to Academy Award-winning costumes by Ruth E Carter, while sketches from NEOMAD also feature — as do concept art from The Creator, Cyberpunk 2077 and Saltsea Chronicles. This showcase isn't just about well-known renderings of the future, though, thanks to work by Olalekan Jeyifous, Osheen Siva and Tāgata Moana art collective Pacific Sisters. Plus, via new commissions, DJ Hannah Brontë has her own take, and so does Liam Young and Natasha Wanganeen (Limbo). [caption id="attachment_974744" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Andrew Thomas Huang[/caption] As it celebrates how screens imagine the years ahead via its array of artwork, sets, props and scripts — alongside clips, costumes and original design materials, too — The Future & Other Fictions also features a film season focusing on Björk, complete with Björk: Biophilia Live on the lineup. "This exhibition reminds us that the way we imagine the future is shaped by popular film, TV shows and videogames. Many alternative visions of the future can and do exist," explains ACMI Director and CEO Seb Chan. "From two-time Academy Award-winning costume designer Ruth E Carter to Italian fashion designer Alessandro Michele; New Zealand's renowned special effects studio Wētā Workshop to the Pilbara's own Love Punks. We hope that visitors leave optimistic about what might be possible — and find hope in designing the futures we need." [caption id="attachment_877485" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Marvel Studios. © 2022 MARVEL.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_974749" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mahia Te Kore[/caption] [caption id="attachment_920309" align="alignnone" width="1920"] 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_974745" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Andrew Thomas Huang[/caption] [caption id="attachment_974750" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mahia Te Kore[/caption] The Future & Other Fictions will display at ACMI, Federation Square, Melbourne, from Thursday, November 28, 2024–Sunday, April 27, 2025. Head to the venue's website for more details.
One of Kings Cross' most iconic venues will be revamped four years after its most beloved iteration shut down. 24 Bayswater Road was home to music institution The World Bar for a huge 18 years before it closed in November 2018. Across its nearly two decades it hosted well over 4000 DJs and 1000 bands, including the likes of Flume, What So Not, DZ Deathrays and Gang of Youths. In the years since it was briefly home to the short-lived Cali Club before being put forward as a potential arts venue by the Sydney Fringe Festival team. Now, new owners are moving in and opening the expansive Kings Cross Pavilion at the hallowed spot. Kings Cross Pavilion comes from the minds behind neighbouring Potts Point venues Maali and Eros, as well as Double Bay's Sinaloa and Meu Jardim in the Sydney CBD. The hospitality group has given the venue a huge revamp in line with the white Mediterranean style of both Maali and Eros. Across the multiple levels, there will be a total of five serviced bars with a capacity of a whopping 900 patrons. Some of the World Bar spirits will be passed onto the new venue. As with the original tenant, dance music will be a big focus of Kings Cross Pavilion, with multiple dance floors, a top-notch sound system, LED lighting, late-night opening hours and weekly club nights. World Bar regulars will also remember the venue's iconic rows of teapots hanging above the bar, ready to be filled with sugary sweet cocktails throughout the night. In a nod to the history of the building, these fan-favourite teapot cocktails will also be making a comeback at the new venue. Kings Cross Pavilion will swing its doors open on Friday, August 5, with its first big event being headed up by Melbourne house DJ Somersault the following day on Saturday, August 6. To keep up-to-date with what's happening at the venue moving forward, make sure to follow it on Instagram. [caption id="attachment_699691" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The site when it was operating as The World Bar.[/caption] Kings Cross Pavilion will open at 24 Bayswater Road, Potts Point on Friday, August 5. It'll be open midday until late Wednesday–Sunday.
Upon first glance, the above macro photograph from John A. Douglas's current exhibition looks quite appetising — delectable, even. Like berry ripple ice-cream or a custardy mess of trifle. However, the title, Renal, is sure to dry up that excess saliva in a heartbeat. Burrowing deep under the skin, The Visceral Garden: Landscape & Specimen is a photographic essay visualising the swirling, psychedelic galaxies of the human body, or more specifically, the diseased body. To kickstart your 2014 in culture, this exhibition at Chalk Horse is a must. They've set up a new space on William Street, giving the Cross a boost of contemporary art. As an artist and chronically ill patient, Douglas has cultivated an interest in morbid anatomy over the past years. During his residency at the Museum of Human Diseases at the University of New South Wales, he studied the aesthetic character of his illnesses and other pathologies, photographing tissue specimens that mirrored his own ailments. Woven with Greco-Roman motifs, the resulting series is a cathartic and visceral narrative, depicting an overwhelmingly vast and complex bodily interior. Throughout the series, the small figure of Douglas, clad in either red or gold, represents the struggle to stave off disease. Whether it be crawling frantically through manhole-sized blood vessels or lying limp in a field of luminous bones jutting up like tombstones, he continually appears dominated by formidable and surreal landscapes. Notably, The Visceral Garden - Styx has the apocalyptic feel of a Greek epic. Unlike the extraterrestrial deserts of other works, this environment is angular and fierce, featuring jagged 'rocks' and 'clouds' burgeoning with grey-green toxicity. The expressive gesture of the miniature red man reaching towards a tangle of indistinct angels has a definite air of classicism, evoking Michelangelo's Creation of Adam. There's also a work portraying the same figure bound up in red web, held captive by the goddess Arachne. The fact that Douglas stitches in these mythologies communicates the idea that he is not only traversing under skin, but through underworlds that are fraught with danger. You're drawn to contemplate the materiality and mortality of your own body. This is again reinforced by the images of isolated organs floating eerily in space, thinly veiled and with intricate, fleshy threads. With their spots, clots and discolourations, it would appear that seemingly minute damage can have big repercussions in this biological universe. The Visceral Garden — Landscape and Specimen is a coalescing of beauty and morbidity. With the veiny textures and arresting colours of his macro photography, Douglas offers a fascinating fusion of anatomy and geology. The whole narrative is pulled together by the four-channel video, reflecting the biological and psychological struggle of blow by blow. One thing's for certain, 'visceral' is the right adjective.
How do you jump back into a superhero saga — a caped-crusader franchise within a sprawling, seemingly never-ending franchise, too — without your star? When Black Panther: Wakanda Forever arrives in cinemas in November, Marvel Cinematic Universe fans will find out. With Chadwick Boseman sadly passing away in 2020, the sequel to 2018's excellent Black Panther obviously isn't the film that returning writer/director Ryan Coogler (Creed) originally intended. Based on the just-dropped first teaser trailer, it's going to be unsurprisingly emotional, however. Marvel released the initial sneak peek at the eagerly awaited movie during this year's San Diego Comic-Con, and it's big on swirling, swelling feelings. "I am queen of the most powerful nation in the world, and my entire family is gone," exclaims Ramonda (Angela Bassett, Gunpowder Milkshake), T'Challa and Shuri's (Letitia Wright, Death on the Nile) mother, in a particularly climactic moment. While the teaser isn't overly concerned with Wakanda Forever's plot, it's firmly sets the mood. And yes, there's a tribute to King T'Challa among its frames. Story-wise, Ramonda, Shuri, M'Baku (Winston Duke, Nine Days), Okoye (Danai Gurira, The Walking Dead) and the Dora Milaje (including Florence Kasumba, Deutschland89) are charged with protecting their nation from world powers after T'Challa's death — and they'll need help from War Dog Nakia (Lupita Nyong'o, The 355) and Everett Ross (Martin Freeman, Breeders). Among the cast, joining the film are Michaela Coel (I May Destroy You) and Tenoch Huerta (Narcos: Mexico) — as well as Dominique Thorne (Judas and the Black Messiah) as Riri Williams, ahead of the character's solo Disney+ series Ironheart. Accordingly, the first glimpse at Wakanda Forever shows faces old and new, the same dazzling look and feel that was so essential to Coogler's initial film, and the Kingdom of Wakanda in a state of change. Dropping the trailer during a wide-ranging panel session that also included the latest look at Disney+ series She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, Marvel revealed that Wakanda Forever will wrap up the MCU's phase four — because this ever-growing on-screen superhero world is broken up into different chapters. Obviously, more caped-crusader stories are still in the works, though, with the Disney-owned entertainment behemoth also plotting out its plans across phase five and phase six, taking it up to 2025. One thing that wasn't mentioned: the previously revealed Black Panther Disney+ series set in Wakanda that was announced in early 2021. Check out the first Black Panther: Wakanda Forever trailer below: Black Panther: Wakanda Forever releases in cinemas Down Under on November 10.
Sedition Gallery is the best barbershop in Sydney. It’s run by a guy called Mick who does a very tidy short back and sides, which is harder to find than you might think. But that’s not what makes it “the bestâ€. It’s the best because it treads that perfect line between “old-school mens barbershop†and “weird gay porn art denâ€. The place is chock-full of bizarre and confronting artworks, many of them Mick's own. Thats because he’s been running Sedition as a gallery and music venue for the last ten years. It’s also a record shop. Everywhere in Sydney should be like this.Last time I went there Mick was curating a show about circles. “When you think about it, man, a circle is just a line with no endâ€, he said, as he tapered my neck with a razor. I took this statement to be either a Zen Koan, a statement so devoid of logic or meaning that it clears the mind to a transcendental state, or else a signpost of mental illness. I muttered something non-committal and after that the conversation turned frosty. When I got home I realized that he was right. A circle IS a line with no end! Plus my hair looked awesome. See, Mick is a genius.This friday the Barbershop/Recordshop/Venue/Gallery is putting on a gig with prog musical acts Flutter Lyon and Kirin J Callinan. I can’t vouch for Flutter Lyon but Callinan is great. A topless Nick Cave type fella who sings like a mix between Brian Ferry and a kicked dog. Plus he plays all his own instruments on loops. I know that might sound terrible, but its actually pretty damn good. Trust me. Trust Mick.
We all lust for revenge every now and then. "They got what they deserved," or "Karma's a bitch," we say. We're only human, and what's the harm in spitting in that rude customer's food every now and then, really? He had it coming. Well, writer and director Meir Zarchi took that concept of revenge to a level that reached far beyond a little spit in a sandwich, and turned it into one of the most controversial and disturbing horror films ever made. Sydneysiders now have the opportunity to relive this terrifying story of revenge that will haunt the nightmares of even the most avid horror fans. A Night of Horror International Film Festival is presenting a special one-time screening of I Spit on Your Grave, the 1978 classic tale of blood-thirst and vengeance, in light of the release of a 2010 remake of the film. This late-night, big-screen event will be followed by a live Q&A session with Zarchi and trivia with DVD giveaways; both versions of the film will be available for purchase after the screening date. 2011's A Night of Horror International Film Festival is bound to be the scariest yet. Cover your eyes, kids. You can view the entire program here.
Martinis are having a moment in Sydney, with two new bars — Bobbie's in Double Bay and Dry Martini in Chippendale — dedicated to the cocktail classic now welcoming punters. Barangaroo House is jumping on the bandwagon this September with a month-long celebration of this beloved beverage spread across all three levels. From September 1, a menu of classic mixes and signature sips featuring Grey Goose and Bombay Sapphire will be shaking things up at Smoke, Rekodo and House Bar, including $10 mini martinis available all day, every day, at all Barangaroo House venues until September 30. Rooftop bar Smoke will be pouring classic martinis tableside including its ever-popular pornstar variety, featuring vodka, vanilla and passionfruit, served with a sidecar of prosecco. Another house highlight is the Highland Goose, a mingle of Grey Goose vodka, mango skin vermouth and salted Lagavulin, combining the briny funk of a dirty martini with a sweet, tropical finish. Downstairs at Rekodo, the first-floor restaurant and vinyl bar, the Grey Goose martini cart will be winding its way between tables, bringing perfectly crafted martinis directly to diners. Some signature riffs to look out for include the Japanese Breakfast martini, combining Bombay Sapphire gin, orange liqueur, and a sweet hit of apricot and It Takes Two to Mango, starring Grey Goose vodka, Aperol, mango, vanilla, yuzu. At House Bar on the ground floor, an incredible ice luge will be bringing a touch of spectacle to the proceedings. Every Friday from 4–8pm, guests can enjoy classic martinis or the Coral martini, combing Grey Goose vodka, strawberry vermouth, house-made rose cordial and raspberry, perfectly chilled as they gush down a frozen sculpture. "Sydney is obsessed with martinis in all its forms," explains Reece Griffiths, group bars manager, Solotel. "We've curated the menu so that each level of Barangaroo House is a different martini experience and we encourage people to try them all — it is a house of martinis after all." Images: Dexter Kim
Whether you've got a gang of six or a crew of 30-plus, Sydney's summer festivals have the capacity to bring everyone together. Get the group going and start planning a chilled afternoon in the park sipping champagne, or something a little more energetic like a boogie to Charli XCX or an inclusive Mardi Gras kick-off party. Summer is festival season and there's no better time to get outside and make the most of it. Unsure where to start? We've partnered with Sunglass Hut to bring you seven big festivals — from one-dayers to weekend adventures — that welcome your sprawling group of mates and plus-ones. Take a read for inspiration.
Following weeks of controversy around Bluesfest's decision to book Sticky Fingers for its 2023 edition, the festival has decided to remove the band from its lineup. The announcement comes after both King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard and Sampa the Great withdrew from this year's event following the band's addition. Five weeks out from the festival, which is scheduled to arrive at North Byron Parklands across the Easter long weekend, Bluesfest has released reluctant a statement announcing that Sticky Fingers will not be performing — while also defending the controversial band. "Bluesfest cannot, sadly, continue to support Sticky Fingers by having them play our 2023 edition, and we apologise to those artists, sponsors and any others we involved in this matter through our mistaken belief that forgiveness and redemption are the rock on which our society is built," the statement reads. "The narrative that they continue to deserve to be cancelled, as well as anyone who publicly supports them, is difficult to accept, wherein a portion of society and media passes eternal judgment toward those, in this case, a diagnosed mentally ill person whom we feel doesn't deserve the continued public scrutiny he's being given." [caption id="attachment_876098" align="alignnone" width="1920"] King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, Jason Galea[/caption] In the two weeks following Bluesfest's sixth artist announcement for 2023, which featured Sticky Fingers, the festival experienced acts dropping out. When King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard cancelled their appearance, it cited Bluesfest's decision to book content that conflicts with their values. "As a band and as human beings, we stand against misogyny, racism, transphobia and violence," King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard's statement reads. "Surprised and saddened to see Bluesfest commit to presenting content that is in complete opposition to these values." The removal of Sticky Fingers is the fourth confirmed lineup change since Monday, February 20, after The Soul Rebels featuring GZA, Talib Kweli and Big Freedia were also removed from the lineup due to a separate disagreement with the festival's founder Peter Noble. Dylan Frost, Sticky Fingers' frontman, has been the subject of serious allegations which include physically threatening First Nations singer Thelma Plum and harassing a transgender woman at a Sydney pub. Frost and bassist Paddy Cornwall were also caught in an alleged brawl with each other in 2019 which saw Cornwall charged with affray. "We will now move on, put this behind us and continue to plan and present our best-ever edition of Bluesfest... proudly," continues the statement from Bluesfest, before linking to a lengthy article from The Weekend Australian about the band. The festival will continue without Sticky Fingers, The Soul Rebels, King Giz and Sampa the Great from Thursday, April 6 until Monday, April 10 with headliners including Gang of Youths, Paolo Nutini, Tash Sultana, Bonnie Raitt, The Doobie Brothers and Beck. [caption id="attachment_867504" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kurt Petersen[/caption] Bluesfest 2023 will run from Thursday, April 6–Monday, April 10 at Byron Events Farm, Tyagarah. For the most up-to-date lineup, head to the Bluesfest website. Top image: Lachlan Douglas.
For many, January is a time to put everything else on pause to avidly embrace the tennis — that's watching, talking about and obsessing over the Australian Open. If you can't be right in the thick of it in Melbourne, the next best thing to do is to round up the crew to watch it on a big screen outdoors, while cracking open a few cold ones. Throw in a couple of pre- and post-game swims and you've got yourself a quintessential Aussie summer. Making all of this possible is Coogee Bay Hotel, as the beachside pub is bringing the Australian Open to Sydney shores. From Monday, January 20 till Sunday, February 2, the garden and sports bars will be screening the tennis live and loud so you don't miss a minute. As you watch, you can sip an Aperol spritz or enjoy a pint of Stella Artois from one of the pop-ups in the garden or inside bars. And should you get hungry, you can nab a burger and schooey special for $25. Between sets, challenge your mates to a spot of ping pong and enter one of the giveaways, with hats, fans and sunnies all up for grabs. To check out match times and to RSVP, head here.
Something delightful has been happening in cinemas in some parts of the country. After numerous periods spent empty during the pandemic, with projectors silent, theatres bare and the smell of popcorn fading, picture palaces in many Australian regions are back in business — including both big chains and smaller independent sites in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. During COVID-19 lockdowns, no one was short on things to watch, of course. In fact, you probably feel like you've streamed every movie ever made, including new releases, Studio Ghibli's animated fare and Nicolas Cage-starring flicks. But, even if you've spent all your time of late glued to your small screen, we're betting you just can't wait to sit in a darkened room and soak up the splendour of the bigger version. Thankfully, plenty of new films are hitting cinemas so that you can do just that — and we've rounded up, watched and reviewed everything on offer this week. THE GRAY MAN It's been four years since Ryan Gosling last graced screens, rocketing to the moon in First Man. No, Barbie set photos pored over on every internet-connected device don't count. Since he played Neil Armstrong, much has happened. There's the obvious off-screen, of course — but then there's Chris Evans farewelling Captain America, and also appearing in Knives Out with the scene-stealing Ana de Armas. After co-starring in Blade Runner 2049 with Gosling back in 2017, she leapt from that Evans-featuring whodunnit to palling around with 007 in No Time to Die. Also during that time, Bridgerton pushed Regé-Jean Page to fame, and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood earmarked Julia Butters as a young talent to watch. This isn't just a history lesson on The Gray Man's cast — well, some of them, given that Billy Bob Thornton (Goliath), Jessica Henwick (The Matrix Resurrections), Dhanush (Maaran), Wagner Moura (Shining Girls) and Alfre Woodard (The Lion King) also pop up, plus Australia's own Callan Mulvey (Firebite) — for the hell of it, though. Back in 2018, before all of the above played out, it's unlikely that this exact film with this exact cast would've eventuated. But plenty of action-thrillers about attempting to snuff out hyper-competent assassins already did flicker across celluloid — both John Wick and Atomic Blonde had already been there and done that, and the Bourne and Bond movies, and countless other predecessors. Still, the combination of this collection of current actors and that familiar setup isn't without its charms in The Gray Man, which makes the leap from the pages of Mark Greaney's 2009 novel to the big and streaming screens. Reportedly Netflix's most expensive movie to date, it lets its two biggest names bounce off of each other with chalk-and-cheese aplomb, and isn't short on globe-hopping action spectacle. The off-the-book spy versus off-the-book spy killer flick is knowing amid all that box-ticking formula, too, although not enough to make its cheesy lines sound smart and savvy. Gosling plays Court Gentry, aka Sierra Six; "007 was taken," he jokes. Before he's given his codename — before he's paid to do the CIA's dirty work as well — he's in prison for murder, then recruited by Donald Fitzroy (Thornton). Fast-forward 18 years and Six is a huge hit at two things: being a ghost, because he no longer officially exists; and covertly wreaking whatever havoc the government tells him to, including knocking off whichever nefarious figure they need gone. But one stint of the latter leaves him in possession of a USB drive that his arrogant new direct superior Carmichael (Page) will ruthlessly kill to destroy. Actually, to be precise, he'll pay Lloyd Hansen (Evans) of Hansen Government Services to do just that, and to do the dirty work that's too dirty for the criminals-turned-government hitmen in the Sierra program, with Six the number-one target. If you've seen one espionage-slash-assassin flick that sends a shadowy life-or-death fight bounding around the planet — here, Hong Kong, the Czech Republic, Croatia, Azerbaijan, Germany and Austria all feature, among other spots — then you've seen The Gray Man's template. Directing duo Joe and Anthony Russo helmed the Marvel Cinematic Universe's versions with Captain America: The Winter Soldier and Captain America: Civil War, so they know the drill. That they've seen a heap of other entries in the genre is never question, either. That feeling radiates from the script, which is credited to Joe Russo with seasoned Marvel scribes Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely (Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: End Game), and clearly styles its one-liners after superhero banter. Having Gosling and Evans sling it, one playing bearded, silent and virtuous and the other moustachioed, jabbering and unhinged, makes a helluva difference, however. Read our full review. THE PHANTOM OF THE OPEN If The Phantom of the Open was part of a game of golf, rather than a movie about the club-flinging, ball-hitting, bunker-avoiding sport, it wouldn't be a hole in one. It couldn't be; perfection doesn't suit the story it's telling, which is as real and as shaggy — as so-strange-it-can-only-be-true, too — as they can possibly come. That other key factor in spiriting dimpled orbs from the tee to the cup in a single stroke, aka luck, is definitely pertinent to this feel-good, crowd-pleasing, happily whimsical British comedy, however. Plenty of it helped Maurice Flitcroft, the man at its centre, as he managed to enter the 1976 British Open despite never having set foot on a course or played a full round of golf before. It isn't quite good fortune that makes this high-spirited movie about him work, of course, but it always feels like a feature that might've ended up in the cinematic long grass if it wasn't so warmly pieced together. When Maurice (Mark Rylance, Don't Look Up) debuts on the green at the high-profile Open Championship, it doesn't take long for gap between his skills and the professionals he's playing with to stand out. In the words of The Dude from The Big Lebowski, obviously he's not a golfer — although what makes a golfer, and whether any sport should be the domain of well-to-do gatekeepers who reserve large swathes of land for the use of the privileged few, falls into The Phantom of the Open's view. So does a breezily formulaic yet drawn-from-fact account of a man who was born in Manchester, later settled in the port town of Barrow-in-Furness in Cumbria and spent much of his life as a shipyard crane operator, providing for his wife Jean (Sally Hawkins, Spencer), her son Michael (Jake Davies, Artemis Fowl), and the pair's twins Gene (Christian Lees, Pistol) and James (Jonah Lees, The Letter for the King). Maurice had never chased his own dreams, until he decided to give golfing glory a swing. For audiences coming to all this anew, director Craig Roberts (Eternal Beauty) clues viewers in from the get-go, via a recreation of an 80s TV interview with Maurice. The film's key figure chats, looking back on his sporting efforts after his attempts at golf have clearly earned him a level of fame, but he'd also rather just sip a tea with six sugars. That's an easy but pivotal character-establishing moment. He's a cuppa-coveting everyman accustomed to finding sweetness in modest places, which aptly sums up his whole approach to his middle-aged pastime. The jovial humour of the situation — in caring more about his beloved tea than talking on the television — is also telling. Using a screenplay by Simon Farnaby (Paddington 2) based on the actor and writer's 2010 biography of Maurice, Roberts laughs along with and never at his protagonist. He affectionately sees the wannabe golfer's eccentricities, and also values the new lease on life he's eagerly seeking. That quest starts while watching late-night TV, after Michael advises that the shipyard where both men work — and Jean as well — will be making layoffs. With Bridge of Spies Oscar-winner Rylance dripping with sincerity and never cartoonish quirkiness, Maurice eyes the game on-screen like a man having a life-altering and surreal epiphany. Befitting anyone who's ever had a sudden realisation, he's instantly convinced. That he has zero know-how, nor the cash for the right attire, equipment and membership to the local club to practice, doesn't put him off. Neither does filling out the Open entry form, where he instructs Jean to tick the 'professional' box because that's what he wants to be. On the ground at Royal Birkdale Golf Club in Southport, he swiftly attracts attention for hitting 121 — the worst score ever recorded — with the press, as well as tournament bigwigs Keith Mackenzie (Rhys Ifans, The King's Man) and Laurent Lambert (Farnaby, Christopher Robin). Read our full review. If you're wondering what else is currently screening in Australian cinemas — or has been lately — check out our rundown of new films released in Australia on April 7, April 14, April 21 and April 28; and May 5, May 12, May 19 and May 26; June 2, June 9, June 16, June 23 and June 30; and July 7. You can also read our full reviews of a heap of recent movies, such as Fantastic Beasts and the Secrets of Dumbledore, Ambulance, Memoria, The Lost City, Everything Everywhere All At Once, Happening, The Good Boss, The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, The Northman, Ithaka, After Yang, Downton Abbey: A New Era, Wheel of Fortune and Fantasy, Petite Maman, The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Firestarter, Operation Mincemeat, To Chiara, This Much I Know to Be True, The Innocents, Top Gun: Maverick, The Bob's Burgers Movie, Ablaze, Hatching, Mothering Sunday, Jurassic World Dominion, A Hero, Benediction, Lightyear, Men, Elvis, Lost Illusions, Nude Tuesday, Ali & Ava, Thor: Love and Thunder, Compartment No. 6 and Sundown.
Black Rebel Motorcycle Club fans can rest easy in the wake of Harvest's cancellation; the trio are officially headed to Aussie shores. Following their USA tour currently underway, the Los Angeles group — made of Peter Hayes, Robert Levon Been and Leah Shapiro — will play Perth, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane shows throughout November. Sigh with me in relief. BRMC most recently travelled Down Under for the 2010 Splendour in the Grass. Three years on, the rock'n'rollers will be promoting their seventh studio album, Specter at the Feast, released earlier this year. Now in their 15th year, the band have established a considerable and devout fanbase, so get in quick for tickets — they go on sale through Oztix at 9am on October 3. Harvest was set to host Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane festivals mid-November for what would have been its third year. But alas: sluggish sales, and a lack of confidence and interest in the festival led to the cancellation of all three events. https://youtube.com/watch?v=QBhpJC0nO7g
No matter what time of year it is, we're big believers in the restorative powers of both coffee and an ocean breeze. And when you pair them together? There's no better way to start the day. All the way along the New South Wales coast there are cosy community cafes ready and waiting to prepare your morning brew, whether you're the type that rises before the sun, or you rarely make it out of bed before noon. These spots are challenging the belief that a quality specialty brew can only be found in trendy inner city cafes. A strong affiliation to the beach is part and parcel of being a Sydneysider, but many citydwellers and businesses have taken that notion further by venturing to communities up and down the NSW coast. Specialty coffee has followed them and, in doing so, has elevated the morning experience for both residents and holidaymakers alike. Together with Bondi-born coffee brand Will & Co, we've rounded up some of our favourite NSW cafes situated mere footsteps from the water — both here in Sydney and out of town — that are worthy of a visit.
"Don't you dare ruin my childhood!" Such is the inevitable complaint from nostalgic movie fans whenever a beloved film from yesteryear is tapped by studios for a remake. Setting aside what kind of fragile childhood you must have had for a movie to be capable of destroying it, the sentiment is at least a sincere one: please be respectful. Like a thoughtless cover song robbing an original of all its heart and meaning (here's looking at you, Madonna's 'American Pie'), the arbitrary remaking, rebooting and reimagining of successful pop-culture properties threatens to expend a great deal of fan goodwill. Paul Feig's Ghostbusters was the last film to attract this level of ire, though that was as much to do with sexism as anything else (and proved doubly misguided since the female cast ended up being the best thing about it). Then came the Jumanji announcement and, again, childhoods were imperilled the world over. The beloved Robin Williams vehicle from 1995 (itself an adaptation from a book) was a critical meh at the time, but made bucketloads of cash. More importantly, however, its status as a cult classic grew with each passing day – so much so that the remake's star, Dwayne Johnson, recognised the risk early on and did his best to allay people's fears. "We wanted to do something that was respectful of the work of Robin Williams as well as creating something fresh," he insisted. So was he true to his word? Well, yes and no. Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle certainly isn't fresh, in that it's largely just an appropriation of Tron coupled up with body-swap stories like Freaky Friday and 3rd Rock from the Sun. Nor does it really address the legacy of Robin Williams, since his character scarcely rates a mention, and the story itself in no way resembles the original. But is it a good film? Absolutely. Updating itself, quite literally, for more modern times, the film sees the original Jumanji board game transform into a mid-90s video game cartridge and promptly suck a hapless teenager into its hidden universe. Fast-forward 20 years and, in a clear nod to The Breakfast Club, the game is discovered in a storeroom by four motley teens during high-school detention. Sure enough they too – the nerd, the jock, the princess and the loner girl – find themselves pulled into Jumanji's perilous jungle. But there's a twist: they're now in the bodies of the game character they chose. So it is that the nerd becomes the muscle-bound Dr Smolder Bravestone (Johnson), the jock becomes pint-sized zoologist Moose Finbar (Kevin Hart), the loner becomes uber-babe and biologist Ruby Roundhouse (Karen Gillan) and – most amusingly – the princess becomes the portly, middle-aged cartographer Shelly Oberon (Jack Black). From there the film becomes a non-stop action-adventure romp, one in which its stars engage in a retro video game quest to return a glowing green jewel to its rightful home. The laughs are frequent, coming mostly from the body-swap setup, but also from the tongue-in-cheek references to 90s point and click games – like having non-playable characters only speak a limited number of lines that repeat themselves if you fail to progress in time. Each of the main cast members plays impressively against type, with Black in particular soaring in his part as the vacuous it-girl. Together they make an entirely likeable crew, lending the narrative a nice emotional undercurrent even as a "be true to yourself" message is jammed clumsily down our throats. Funny, breezy and full of memorable performances, nervous film buffs can rest easy. Your childhood is going to be just fine. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QKg5SZ_35I
UPDATE: MARCH 21, 2020 — The Sydney Opera House has announced an extension to its cancellation of all public performances, with everything now shuttered until at least June 17. "We will re-evaluate this position based on health advice or updated government orders, as required," management announced in a statement. Ticket holders will receive a full refund. SOH has also suspended guided tours during this period; however some of onsite bars and restaurants remain open. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website. The COVID-19 situation in Australia is changing every day, with the federal government first implementing a ban on non-essential events with more than 500 people and then mandating that everyone arriving from overseas self-isolate for 14 days. On Monday, March 16, Melbourne's major art and cultural institutions — including Melbourne Museum, Scienceworks, Arts Centre Melbourne, the NGV and State Library of Victoria — temporarily closed their doors. Now, in a bid to slow the spread of COVID-19, some of Sydney's big cultural venues are following suit. The Sydney Opera House today, Tuesday, March 17, today announced that it has cancelled all public performances until at least March 29, when it will reevaluate the situation. While only the Joan Sutherland, Forecourt and Drama Theatre have capacities larger than 500, it's taking precautionary measures and cancelling performances in all venues, including the smaller Playhouse, Studio and Utzon Room. The Sydney Opera House's largest venue, the Concert Hall, which has a capacity for more than 2000, is currently closed for a two-year renovation, slated to open in late-2021. [caption id="attachment_720214" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sydney Opera House studio party by Tim Da-Rin[/caption] While it has suspended physical performances, Sydney Opera House CEO Louise Herron AM says they 're looking at ways to engage with the community on digital platforms. "In difficult times, people look to the arts for inspiration and strength," Herron said in a statement. "We will be focusing our programming efforts on how we can continue to inspire and uplift our audiences through digital and other means while our physical stages are not in use." The Sydney Opera House's public areas, restaurants, bars and eateries and retail outlets will remain open for now, and tours will continue, too. Which means, you can still visit Peter Gilmore's stunning fine diner Bennelong and popular harbourside spot Opera Bar. Elsewhere in Sydney, Opera Australia has cancelled its Handa Opera season, the Sydney Jewish Museum has closed until the end of March, and the AGNSW has suspended its public program of events. The citywide 22nd Biennale of Sydney, however, is going ahead for now. The Sydney Opera House has suspended all public performances until March 29. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website. Top image: Hamilton Lund
After the success of last year's market at Kurnell, Sydney's Cambridge Markets are returning to the Shire for the holiday season. The Cronulla Christmas Markets will take over the reserve next to Wanda Beach on Saturday, December 7 and Sunday, December 8. The gift bazaar will feature 150 stalls offering everything from clothing, linen, homewares and pet goods to Christmas trees, puddings, wreaths and gingerbread houses. As well as Christmas good, an array of hot food stalls — ranging from vegan snacks to Vietnamese food — will help you fuel up for the shopping frenzy. In more great news, there will be a spritz bar, as well as lots of local beers and chilled wines. Live music is on the docket too, along with rides, henna and face painting booths for little ones. The market will run from 10am till 4pm on both days at Don Lucas Reserve, which is about a half-hour walk from Cronulla Station. It's likely to be hot, so make sure you pack your bathers for a post-shop swim.
It sure is no secret that Sydney's a pretty exxy place to call home. But here's some news to make you really start plotting that move interstate: a recent report on the cost of living has stuck it right up at number 10, above both New York and London. That's right, all your mates battling those killer Hackney rent prices now, apparently, have it better than you. As The Guardian reported this week, the Economist Intelligence Unit's 2018 study pushed our harbour city up four spots higher than in the same list last year, seeing it crack the top ten for the first time ever. This comes after another pice aggregation website Numbeo saw Sydney and Melbourne move up on its list too. The study compared prices across more than 150 products and services, looking at things like food, transport, utilities, clothing and rent in all the major cities. Singapore has again claimed the title of the world's most expensive city, followed by Paris, which jumped five points, and Zurich, which climbed one position. New York swapped last year's number nine ranking for a spot in 13th, while at number 30, London scored its lowest position in two decades — a fall the report's authors say has a lot to do with a little thing called Brexit. Via The Guardian.
Unroll your posters, dust-off that secret diary and get ready to rock your body right: the Backstreet Boys are bringing their latest world tour Down Under. Get ready for another hefty dose of 90s nostalgia, too, given that you can now see the huge boy band at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney on Saturday, March 4–Sunday, March 5. Backstreet's back — alright. Get ready to belt out the lyrics to 'Everybody (Backstreet's Back)', 'As Long As You Love Me', 'I Want It That Way', 'Larger Than Life' and 'Show Me the Meaning of Being Lonely' when the famous five — aka AJ McLean, Brian Littrell, Nick Carter, Howie Dorough and Kevin Richardson — head our way for a very nostalgic arena tour. The Backstreet Boys will also be performing songs off their 2019 album DNA, which debuted at number one on the charts when it was released and features Grammy-nominated single 'Don't Go Breaking My Heart'. Fingers crossed that they also break out tracks from their new festive record A Very Backstreet Christmas, even though it won't quite be the season. Either way, we know you'll most likely be there for the 90s and early 00s goodness — and to break out your 'Everybody' moves.
This article is sponsored by our partners, Rekorderlig. The words 'Full Moon Party' might usually bring to mind sandy, sunburnt backpackers in their tens of thousands lost in a cocktail-bucket-fuelled dance frenzy on some remote Thai island, but Thredbo's reclaiming their wintry potential on Australian soil. On three separate occasions this ski season, the Thredbo Alpine Hotel's Keller Bar is being transformed into a black-lit, werewolf-ridden dance cave, where you're pretty much invisible unless you've donned your white or fluorescent best. Just in case you're the forgetful type, you'll be presented with face paint and glow sticks as you walk through the door — free of charge (as is entry). For a beautifully Swedish start your night, arrive at the firepit-lined courtyard nice and early. The tunes start at 3pm and the Rekorderlig Hot Pool will be steaming (bonus: delicious mulled Winter Cider will be steaming too). The first part in the three-act series took part on July 12, with sets from SOSUEME DJs and Purple Sneakers, but the good news is, you've still two more opportunities to get in on the action. On August 10, you'll catch the Crooked Colour DJs, who were recently shortlisted in the Stoney Roads Producer of the Year Awards, and the I Oh You DJs. Then, on September 9, you'll be hearing from The L D R U, fresh from their crowd-wowing Splendour appearance, and Leah Mencel, 2012 winner of EMI's She Can DJ Comp.
If you attended the Sydney Biennale back in 2010, you’ll remember the most standout artwork: a huge video installation showing an eerie, digitally manipulated vision of a holiday resort, soundtracked by Beethoven. It was The Feast of Trimalchio (2009) masterminded by Russian art collective AES+F, and now they’re back in town with a new offering, Angels-Demons (2012). Active since 1989, this is AES+F’s first solo show in Sydney. The angel-demons are 7 sculptures of colossal babies with bat wings and spined tails, each almost 2 metres tall with a gleaming black mirror finish. While their unnatural scale and demonic appendages are menacing, their postures are innocent: they’re learning to walk, reaching out with tentative hands, and flexing their wings. But what about when they grow up? AES+F describe the work as an “apocalyptic parade,” where the apocalypse heralded is not an end, but the beginning of an era where “evil may look good and vice versa.”
Hands up anyone who’s ever dreamed of touring with the band? The heady mix of hedonism and the seductive lure of sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll? David Porter dreamed such dreams and realised them under the pseudonym Jacques L’Affrique, photographing the rock scene in Melbourne as it was gathering momentum in the 1970s. He has an archive of 3000 negatives, and it is of these that the current exhibition, Unreal Rock, is comprised. Black and white, small and intimate, the images present the archetypes of the provocative '70s rock musician and adoring audience. My only criticism of the exhibition is that, while the display may present a nice walk down memory lane for anyone of that vintage, to a younger crowd, styled in the slick planning of contemporary rock studio photography, the images seem a world away. UV3D is, similarly, a survey of the past. Vernon Treweeke presents his early work from 1966 through to contemporary work created just this year — all of which is made acutely current by the advent of 3D TV. Treweeke’s paintings show a hyperreal world that is very much created in the here and now, citing influences such as Salvador Dali, art therapy, Brett Whitely, Leonardo da Vinci, Sydney’s Gallery A and the Yellow House artists. Treweeke says his aim "is to create an artificial world in each work of art … to challenge the conventional concept of reality", and the result is a truly individual aesthetic and intricate inventories of other worlds, which call to mind Surrealist landscapes. The translation of 2D visual art into a 3D display likewise presents Treweeke and viewers with an ‘other world’ and a unique technique "whereby I paint and sculpt at the same time". A free, curator-guided tour will take place for both exhibitions on Saturday, June 12 at 11am.
This Christmas, all you need is love — plus a festive little cabaret that showcases all of the hit tunes from Love Actually. It's the way to celebrate the season when you're not just leaving the seasonal favourite flick on repeat at home. Yep, that's Christmas Actually. Created by the folks behind Rumour Has It and Lady Beatle, and starring Libby O'Donovan, Christmas Actually features all of the tracks that've become synonymous with this merry time of year — including Mariah Carey's 'All I Want for Christmas Is You', naturally. Songs by Joni Mitchell, Norah Jones, Eva Cassidy, The Beach Boys and The Beatles are all on the bill as well — and, to help belt them out, O'Donovan will be joined by Joshua Robson, Stefanie Caccamo, Mat Verevis, Damian Sim, Scott French and more. There'll even be more than one nativity lobster, plus a jolly mood and a whole room full of festive cheer. That room is The Studio at Sydney Opera House, where Christmas Actually plays from Wednesday, December 14–Saturday, December 17. Get excited by revisiting Love Actually's trailer below. 'Tis the season, after all.
If you weren't able to make it to BABS' Either/Or pop-up in August, we've got good news for you. The Sydney-based restaurant event collective is bringing back another multisensory culinary experience one last time for 2022. The upcoming pop-up will return to Marrickville – following its inaugural experience at Valentina's – but this time, Mud Australia Studio will be the location of choice. 70 guests will be hosted a mouth-watering feast by a team of female professionals in the field such as chef Victoria Rose (Jane, Surry Hills), chef Ellie Hayes O'Brien (BABS), winemaker Sarah Feehan (Parley Wine) and floor manager and wine guru Bec Shave (BABS). [caption id="attachment_862567" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Haydon Fanning[/caption] The 12-course menu will feature goods from Goodwood Bakeshop, The Grifter Brewing Co., Poor Toms and Whole Beast Butchery. A dessert trolley will follow, which will showcase the stunning and sweet creations of Rosie Meehan (Added Sugar), Gabriella Gintowt (Valentina's, Marrickville) and Heather Moon (Ele by Federico & Karl, The Star). Keep in mind that spots are limited, so head on over to the BABS event page to secure your place. Top image: Haydon Fanning
If you know only one thing about Singapore, it's most likely its reputation for fantastic food. And it's not just the cuisine that's earned high esteem with foodies around the world. Alongside the world-class eats, the city's bars are making waves on the global cocktail scene. There's no quicker way to unravel the complexities of Singapore's cultural heritage than by eating your way through the city, from Michelin-starred European fine-dining to humble hawker centres selling affordable but delicious dishes. Then there's the drinking, which ranges from quirky speakeasies to opulent cocktail dens. To showcase the depth of Singapore's drinking and dining, we've partnered with the Singapore Tourism Board to present some of the city's can't-miss experiences. From art deco bars and urbane craft breweries to authentic Peranakan restaurants and French fine dining, these are the places to bookmark for your next visit. ATLAS If you try only one cocktail bar in Singapore, make it Atlas — previously featured on the World's 50 Best Bars list. First, you'll be blown away by the grand art deco space with its vaulted (and frescoed) ceilings. Then you'll be awed by the lofty bronzed gin tower that requires bartenders to scale a ladder to access the more than 1,300 gins (though the extensive menu also includes seriously fine wines, champagnes and whiskies). Going beyond the booze, there's a European-inspired food menu, a lavish afternoon tea service, and the must-try #SundaysAtAtlas which includes free-flowing cocktails, champagne and nibbles. Reservations are essential. [caption id="attachment_864471" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Singapore Tourism Board[/caption] JIGGER & PONY Singapore has speakeasies aplenty but there's no finer example than Jigger & Pony. The proof? It landed on the World's 50 Best Bars list in 2021, 2022 and 2023. The buzzy spot, located at the Amara hotel, is swanky yet relaxed but shakes up a serious cocktail. Jigger & Pony's drinks list — cheekily titled "A Decent Menu" — elevates 24 classic cocktails with clever twists. Think yuzu whisky sours, black pepper sazeracs and sakura martinis. Pair your tipple with a next-level bar snack — we're looking at you, black truffle macaroni and cheese — and go home with some of the bar's bottled cocktail selection to enjoy another day. [caption id="attachment_864481" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mindy Tan (Singapore Tourism Board)[/caption] KENG ENG KEE Zi char is a term derived from the Chinese Hokkien dialect that translates to 'cook and fry' and refers to casual home-cooked Chinese food meant for sharing. Third-generation zi char restaurant Keng Eng Kee has been firing its woks since the 1970s and has truly perfected its craft. The food here is largely of the Hainanese and Cantonese influence, with popular dishes including the chilli and black pepper crabs, coffee pork ribs and Marmite chicken. The late Anthony Bourdain was a fan, as is feted British chef James Martin, and that's good enough for us. [caption id="attachment_864482" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Afur Wong (Singapore Tourism Board)[/caption] LEVEL33 Singapore may be the home of Tiger Beer, but LeVeL33 is the place to go for a brew with a view. Known as the world's highest urban microbrewery, this award-winning concept serves up freshly shucked oysters, lobster bisque, and pasture-fed Australian steaks, while brewmaster Gabriel Garcia whips up everything from lagers and pale ales to stouts and Bavarian-inspired wheats. Order a tasting paddle for the full experience. The beer menu pairs expertly with LeVeL33's views of the Singapore skyline as well as the "contembrewery dining" of elevated pub grub like baby back ribs and Wagyu beef chunks. [caption id="attachment_864485" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Singapore Tourism Board[/caption] NATIONAL KITCHEN BY VIOLET OON France may have Alain Ducasse but Singapore has Violet Oon, the doyenne of authentic Peranakan cuisine. Oon's flagship is an elegant, colonial-inspired space of dark woods and Straits Chinese tiles tucked into the grand National Gallery of Singapore — but it's the authentic plates infused with fine, fresh ingredients that'll thrill. Dig into refined takes on popular local dishes like kueh pie tee, beef rendang and the signature dry laksa, all of which are full of flavour and beautifully presented. There's also a dedicated plant-based menu that features meat-free takes on classics. Round off the experience with a selection of locally inspired cocktails for a sophisticated Singapore meal. [caption id="attachment_864487" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Danny Santos (Singapore Tourism Board)[/caption] MAXWELL FOOD CENTRE Hawker centres are a quintessential Singapore experience. And while the well-known Lau Pa Sat and Newton are on every tourist's hit list, insiders head straight for Maxwell. This go-to destination began life in 1929, but its current iteration opened in 1987. Inside you'll find a smorgasbord of popular food stalls so this is very much a choose-your-own foodie adventure. There's rich laksa at Old Nyonya, Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded chicken rice at Tian Tian and traditional sweets at Heng Heng tapioca cake stall. And that's before you get to the rare culinary finds like the alluring Maxwell Fuzhou Oyster Cake and DIY China Street Fritters. [caption id="attachment_864493" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Singapore Tourism Board[/caption] ODETTE Three Michelin stars? Step into Odette and it's easy to see why this is among Singapore's most lauded restaurants. Named after chef Julien Royer's grandmother, Odette delivers dishes inspired by Royer's French farming heritage and Asian culinary experiences, all laced with high-quality luxury ingredients handled with impeccable technique. Expect plates like the signature organic egg with ibérico chorizo, Normandy brown crab with wasabi oil and nashi pear, and kampot pepper-crusted pigeon. All of this is served in a graceful, elegant dining room and paired with polished service and a curated wine list. [caption id="attachment_864497" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Singapore Tourism Board[/caption] MANHATTAN It might be located at the Conrad Singapore Orchard but Manhattan isn't your average hotel bar. Drawing on old New York glamour for its art deco-esque interiors and artisanal spirits for elevated cocktails, Manhattan is one of the city's best drinking dens. The onsite rickhouse produces exquisite liquid like solera-aged negronis and barrel-aged spirits, while the menu brings together classic and forgotten cocktails that revive Golden Age drinking. There's even a collection of over 150 rare American whiskies and tipples inspired by New York personalities like Whoopi Goldberg and Andy Warhol. Did we mention it's ranked 21st on the World's 50 Best Bars list in 2024? [caption id="attachment_866128" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Supplied[/caption] BURNT ENDS When Aussie chef David Pynt ran his Burnt Enz pop-up in London, he probably didn't know it was going to evolve into Burnt Ends, a modern Australian barbecue restaurant that currently holds one Michelin Star and is on the list of Asia's 50 Best Restaurants. Pynt translates his love of flame cooking (found while working with Victor Arguinzoniz of renowned Spanish restaurant Asador Etxebarri) into a daily menu of grilled delights. You might find items like flatiron steak with burnt onion and bone marrow or grilled leeks with hazelnut and black truffle, all complemented by a convivial, unpretentious atmosphere and boutique wines. For more incredible ways to experience Singapore, head to Singapore Tourism Board's website. Top image: Nauris Pukis (Unsplash)
The new and improved Sydney Fish Market is one step closer to reality, with the site's final designs unveiled today. The ambitious $250 million revamp, which was first announced back in June last year, will see the original market relocated to bigger purpose-built premises, just next to the existing market at the eastern end of Blackwattle Bay. Designed by Danish architects 3XN, the new harbourside building looks mighty impressive. A curved roof will be crafted from timber and aluminium — a design element that's meant to emulate the scales of a fish. The new market will be much more accessible and make use of its waterfront location with a new promenade, ferry stop and public wharves also being incorporated into the project. According to the State Government, moving the market should open up that side of Blackwattle Bay to the public. "Relocating the fish market to the new site will return Blackwattle Bay's foreshore to the public, improve pedestrian and cycling links and connect more of Pyrmont to the water as part of the long-awaited revitalisation of the area," NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said in a statement today. Inside, the popular cooking school will be expanded and an assortment of bars, kiosks and restaurants will be made a focus so you'll ideally have even more options for staying for yum cha, lunch or dinner. Building expected to kick off in mid-2019 and completion slated for sometime in 2023. Because the build is a new structure, the existing market will continue to operate as usual while construction goes on.
New Zealand chocolatier Whittaker's has released a special Easter treat for folks looking for something other than eggs and bunnies to indulge in in 2024. While it might seem a little early to be planning your Easter egg hunt and lining up Australia's best hot cross bun, it's never not the right time to indulge in Whittaker's chocolate. Whittaker's Choc Cross Bun Block fuses two of the best parts of Easter — hot cross buns and chocolate, of course — into one creamy block. Whittaker's classic milk chocolate is flavoured with raisins, spices and orange oil to capture the sweet citrus flavours of a traditional hot cross bun. Crafted in Porirua, like all Whittaker's chocolate, this limited-edition chocolate block is a great alternative for adults who may not be interested in the admin involved in an Easter egg hunt. It also ties into one of the best Easter trends each and every year: seeing how chocolatiers, restaurants and bars can whip up new and inventive treats for the occasion. You'll only find this one at Coles supermarkets. The Whittaker's Choc Cross Bun Block will be available in Coles stores across Australia while stocks last.
Usually, Australia's own Four Pillars is busy filling our gin shrines — or gin shelves, gin sections of the liquor cabinet or wherever else you store your juniper-based spirits. But with its latest release, it wants you to pop a bottle in your freezer. Next time you want a gin martini, you'll be thankful that you did. Forget shaking or stirring — sorry Bond, James Bond — because with Four Pillars' new bottled cocktail, all you need to do is pour. It's made with gin, but it isn't just gin. Instead, it's a ready-to-pour Double Gin Martini. You simply add the olives (well, you'll want a glass to pour it into, too, obviously). This new bottled favourite features two Four Pillars gins: the savoury Olive Leaf Gin and the citrus-heavy Fresh Yuzu Gin. There's no vermouth, however, with the distillery opting for aromatic Lillet Blanc and Toji Daiginjo Saké, as well as yuzu bitters. The serving suggestion? Drink it cold — hence the use of your freezer — and in a glass that's just as frosty. Yes, that's your fuss-free spring and summer cocktails taken care of. If you're now hankering for a beverage, understandably, the new Double Gin Martini is available from the distillery's website for $60 per bottle, and also from Four Pillars' gin shops at its distillery door in Healesville and its Sydney Laboratory in Surry Hills. For more information about Four Pillars' Double Gin Martini, or to buy it from Saturday, October 1, head to the distillery's website.
Positioned in the heart of New Zealand's North Island, Mt Ruapehu is best known for its pristine developed ski fields. On the southwestern Turoa slopes it features natural pipes, steep chutes and a vertical drop of 722 metres, while the Whakapapa village leads to breathtaking snow-capped landscapes and the largest ski area in the nation. And that's only what happens in winter. Many people don't think of the mountain as a summer destination, but in the warmer months it comes to life with the country's largest high-speed gondola, panoramic views across a dual world heritage site and a range of dining options in the clouds. And while it may be summer, there's still a chance you'll spot some of the cold white stuff. [caption id="attachment_757146" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism New Zealand.[/caption] RIDE NEW ZEALAND'S NEWEST, LONGEST AND FASTEST GONDOLA Riding Mt Ruapehu's newly opened Sky Waka will take you on a journey into the clouds. Called New Zealand's largest and most technically advanced gondola, the high-speed Sky Waka travels 1.8 kilometres in just five minutes above the rugged terrain of Whakapapa. From the Top of the Bruce base station you'll traverse over waterfalls and ancient lava flows and catch a glimpse of Ruapehu and its neighbouring volcanoes, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro, through the floor to ceiling windows. Touch down will bring you to the award-winning Knoll Ridge Chalet where a selection of dining options await. DINE AT NEW ZEALAND'S HIGHEST RESTAURANT Sitting pretty at 2020 metres above sea level, Mt Ruapehu's The Pinnacles (Ngā Tohu) restaurant puts the sky-high eateries of Auckland to shame. The highest restaurant in New Zealand allows guests to enjoy their meal alongside breathtaking views of the valley below. The menu offers a rotating selection of locally sourced meats, from Awhi Farms marinated sirloin to Waihi Pukawa roast rolled lamb and venison from the Central Plateau below. Pair that with roasted carrots by way of Ohakune and a cheese and pastry selection sure to rival anything back on earth. The restaurant is open in summer for buffet lunch, afternoon tea, plus dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings. Also on offer in the Knoll Ridge Chalet is classic New Zealand cafe-style cuisine. VISIT A DUAL UNESCO HERITAGE SITE While shredding powder is sure to get your blood pumping, a visit to Mt Ruapehu in the summer is enough to prompt a few jaw-dropping moments. The mountain just happens to sit within Tongariro National Park, New Zealand's oldest national park and a dual UNESCO World Heritage site. The status recognises the park's important Maori cultural as well as geological significance. Visitors to Ruapehu and the surrounding region can expect to see some of the most rugged terrain in the North Island, including panoramic views across the Central Plateau and as far as the perfectly formed stratovolcano, Mt Taranaki. VISIT FAMOUS SCENES FROM THE 'LORD OF THE RINGS' At Mt Ruapehu you can visit the spectacular scenery of J.R.R Tolkien's fictional world of Middle-Earth without tackling the great writhing tangled brambles or bypassing the lair of the giant spider. Several key scenes of the trilogy were filmed in Tongariro National Park, and varied levels of trails will have you positioned in Ithilien where Gollum caught a fish, at the very location Isildur cuts off Sauron's finger and standing in the spot where Frodo and Sam met the Gates of Mordor. New Zealand's Department of Conservation has kindly done all the legwork and put together a list of coordinates for a self-guided Lord of the Rings tour. See where the magic was made while experiencing some of the most beautiful short hikes in the country.
Meet the Makers is soon set to return to NSW for its second iteration, and the event organisers have now released the full program of events that will get you face to face with artisans, foragers, farmers and creatives, and the crafts they dedicate themselves to. Running on weekends from Saturday, September 6–Sunday, September 28, there's a full program of 35 events to pick from. From food and drink to arts and crafts, you're spoiled for choice. Things kick off at Barn on the Ridge, where ten local makers will host a long lunch on the opening Saturday. The menu will include canapes, mains, a decadent dessert bar, wine tastings, live music and an appearance by a resident artist from 12.30–3.30pm. From there, you'll find the likes of a walking tour and wine tasting or a signature wine blending workshop at Cupitt's Estate, morning bushwalks guided by a local forager, local beverage showcases by the pool at Bannisters, and afternoon tea tours of the historic Airlie House. Other unmissable entries include an exhibition launch at Our Gallery Milton, a four-course dinner collaboration between Dangerous Ales and the Milton Hotel, a still life ceramics workshop, candle crafting at Black Wolf Candles, and a croissant masterclass with chef Alex Pautonnier. When the program nears its end, don't miss the fire feast at Milk Haus, with live music and openair fire cooking over a four-course banquet, or the South Coast Craft Beer Festival, pouring refreshing tastes of local brews at the Milton Showground — both on Saturday, September 27. "Meet the Makers is so much more than a food festival. It's an invitation to connect with the people who shape the South Coast's culinary and creative identity. It's about stories, skills, flavours, and the shared joy of creating something beautiful, whether that's a loaf of sourdough, a hand-thrown ceramic mug, or enjoying a perfect countryside long lunch with friends," said Milk Haus co-owner and chef Nat Taylor. Tickets are on sale for the entire program, and some events have already sold out, so don't wait too long to secure yours on the Meet the Makers website.
From 2025, what will Burleigh Heads have in common with Los Angeles, New York, Cannes, Bordeaux, Ibiza, Singapore, Seoul and Hong Kong? As Miami, Doha and Mexico City boast, too, it'll become home to a Mondrian hotel. Alongside fellow upcoming openings in Tulum and Dubai, the LA-born chain is launching its first-ever Australian outpost, heading to a breezy patch of the Gold Coast. For vacationers, the brand's debut Aussie site will feature 208 hotel rooms — some suites, some studios, some two- and three-bedroom beach houses. Also available for travellers: the venue's Sky House at its apex. Mondrian Gold Coast will also include residential apartments, however, if you're cashed up and looking for luxe new digs. Mondrian calls its hotels creative hives — and values its guests not just swanning in and feeling like they could be anywhere in the world, but becoming immersed in their surroundings. The 24-floor Burleigh Heads address will boast views that do plenty of heavy lifting in that regard; if you're not peering at the pine tree-lined beach, you'll have hinterland vistas. "Australia has long been a strategic focus for Mondrian's growth, and the Gold Coast was a focal point thanks to its phenomenal natural setting, rich cultural landscape and vibrant social scene," said Mondrian Hotels & Residences's Brand Chief Operating Officer Chadi Farhat. "Over the last couple of years, we have seen a rising demand for lifestyle brands, where locals and international guests are looking for authentic, creative and immersive experiences — all the hallmarks of the Mondrian brand. It felt a natural choice to bring Mondrian to the Gold Coast and we believe it will resonate strongly with the local market and lend something entirely new to the hospitality space," Farhat continued. Art, architecture, design and culture are also at the forefront of the chain's approach, with Mondrian Gold Coast skewing sleek courtesy of Australian architects Fraser & Partners and Studio Carter — the latter taking cues from the sand and pandanus shrubs for the hotel's textures and tones. Architecture and design practice Alexander &Co joins in with the as-yet-unnamed ground-floor restaurant, which will be just one of the location's spots to eat. Here, think: a space that sprawls both inside and out, complete with a sunny terrace. Up on the third floor, visitors will be able to eat with a vantage over the ocean, or enjoy kicking back at the hotel's pool club. While there's no menu details as yet, local produce will take the spotlight on the menus across the site. And for relaxing, the hotel will also feature a wellness space and sp. For partying, there'll be an events space as well. Find Mondrian Gold Coast at Burleigh Heads, Queensland, from sometime in 2025 — and head to the hotel's website for more information.
Vivid LIVE, the 10-day musical extravaganza that sits under the Vivid Sydney umbrella, is back from from May 25 to June 11 in 2012. Beginning in 2009, each successive instalment of Vivid has seen the sails of the Opera House lit up like a psychadelic rainbow and one super-special person or two curating the festival's musical component. Past curators have included Brian Eno, Lou Reed and Laurie Anderson, and Stephen Pavlovic. This year, however, the idea of musical curator has been done away with, and in 2012 Vivid LIVE will be overseen by Fergus Linehan, head of contemporary music at the Sydney Opera House for the past two years. This year's Vivid LIVE will showcase a specially commissioned new work from Sufjan Stevens (pictured), Bryce Denner of The National and Nico Muhly, a composer who's worked with the likes of Bjork, Grizzly Bear and Anthony & The Johnsons. Karen O of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs will perform her 'psycho opera' Stop the Virgens with Yeah Yeah Yeahs bandmates, while Florence and the Machine, The Temper Trap, Janelle Monae and Amon Tobin also grace the House. There'll be a special night for the pop and progressive Modular people and a screening of the LCD Soundsystem doco, Shut Up and Play the Hits, in conjunction with the Sydney Film Festival. See our picks for Vivid Light and Vivid Ideas. https://youtube.com/watch?v=miCbEZt5-18
Your mates have flocked to the Mediterranean coast. Your boss is sailing around Croatia. Heck, even your parents have jetted off for a week of sun, sand and piña coladas in Hawaii. And here in Sydney, we're sloshing and shivering our way through another winter season But, there's plenty of reason to rug up, get out and explore our sparkling harbourside hometown. Even if it's chilly outside. As the mercury plummets, there's no better time to cosy up, glass of wine in hand, and let someone else do the cooking. Or perhaps you're looking for a dose of arts and culture or even something to get the blood pumping? Whatever you're craving, Sydney has a whole stack of blues-busting events, festivals and activities all winter long. To get you started, we've teamed up with InterContinental Sydney to bring you a staycation itinerary that'll make your winter a little bit warmer. Base yourself at the hotel's CBD location and hop from exhibitions and pop-up events to must-see dining spots. We've done the hard work you; all you have to do is get exploring. INDULGE IN A LAND TO SEA BUFFET A staycation isn't really a staycation unless you treat yourself to the finer things. At InterContinental Sydney's Cafe Opera, you'll find a 'land to sea' buffet packed with fresh seafood, locally sourced meats and a new Asian cuisine station. Enjoy Sydney Rock oysters, prawns, green-lipped mussels and a selection of sushi, then fill up on roast meats sourced from the Southern Highlands like lamb shoulder, pork belly and beef rump. You can choose to go for lunch from Wednesday to Friday or enjoy the 'deluxe experience' over the weekend. Our tip? Stop by from Friday night to Sunday (all day) for a luxe seafood offering of Balmain bugs, blue swimmer crab, salmon sashimi and grilled whole salmon available lunch and dinner. Plus, if you choose to lunch on the weekend, you'll also get free-flowing sparkling wine and soft drinks with your meal. The Land to Sea Buffet is available from Wednesday 12pm to Friday 2.30pm for $69 per person and from Friday 5.30pm to Sunday 10pm for $99 per person. Kids ten and under eat free. InterContinental Sydney is also offering 20% off food till October 13, 2019. WATCH AN OPERATIC MASTERPIECE AT THE OPERA HOUSE It's a Sydney icon that welcomes 8.2 million visitors every year. Some would say it's the most popular house in the country. But, for Sydneysiders, it's often the most overlooked of attractions. Rediscover the striking Sydney Opera House with one of the world's most famous love stories. Madama Butterfly is the bold new production by choreographer Graeme Murphy, bringing new life to Italian composer Giacomo Puccini's original work. This digital production uses 12 huge high-definition LED panels to showcase animations and film content, telling the tragic tale of a young Japanese girl's marriage with an American naval officer. Make sure to bring plenty of tissues for this one. Madama Butterfly runs from Friday, June 28 to Saturday, August 10, 2019, and tickets start at $47. [caption id="attachment_679482" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Madeye Photography[/caption] HAVE A CUPPA AT A FESTIVAL DEDICATED TO TEA Blending and brewing are terms typically associated with craft breweries. But, the specialty tea market is just as complex, and you can learn all about it at the Sydney Tea Festival. This one-day event brings dozens of tea specialists and lovers to Carriageworks for workshops, tastings and a bustling tea market. Sample specialty loose leaf tea, relax in the Brew Lounge and immerse yourself in a world of flavour with educational tastings, demonstrations and hands-on workshops. Once you've worked up an appetite, stop by the on-site food trucks for a sweet or savoury bite to eat. Sydney Tea Festival takes place on August 18, 2019, and tickets start at $16.95. DO YOUR BRAIN SOME GOOD AND LEARN SOMETHING NEW There's much more to science than lab coats and Bunsen burners. And Sydney's annual science festival proves just that. Showcasing some of the globe's leading thinkers, Sydney Science Festival brings researchers, museums, universities and communities together for a week of discovery, discussion and scientific debate. Even if science class was not your thing at school, you'll still find something that intrigues within the festival's lineup of talks, workshops and exhibitions. Picnic beneath the stars (and with reduced light pollution) explore activism in the age of climate change, challenge how you perceive reality at A Night of Illusions and celebrate the female tech visionaries who've played an important role in the history of technology but have been overlooked — until now. Sydney Science Festival runs August 6–18. Find the full lineup here. SEE THE ARCHIBALD AT THE AGNSW You know the year is going by quickly when all of a sudden it's Archibald time. Don't let the annual exhibition pass you by this year. This year, you can expect to see the likes of actor David Wenham, three-time Paralympic gold medallist Dylan Alcott plus Sydney-based author, broadcaster and journalist Benjamin Law. The best bit? For just $20 you'll also get to explore the Wynne and Sulman Prize exhibitions, showcasing the best landscape paintings of Australian scenery as well as the best subject, genre or mural painting. The Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prize 2019 runs till September 8, 2019, and tickets cost $20. And while you're there, opt to catch a double exhibition with tickets to The Essential Duchamp for an additional $16, running till August 11, 2019. Treat yourself to a staycation this winter at InterContinental Sydney. Enjoy up to 30 percent off your stay if you book before August 5, 2019 and check-in before September 30, 2019. To book, visit the website here. Top image: Madeye Photography. Updated: July 22, 2019.
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 in October: from Singapore to New York over 18 hours and 45 minutes. First announced by the airline in 2015 and confirmed a few months back, 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. Singapore Airlines now have the world's first Airbus A350-900ULR in its possession, and it'll take off on October 11, with seven more set to be brought into operation shortly afterwards. 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. They also feature higher ceilings, larger windows, a wider body, as well as quieter cabins and lighting that's designed to reduce jetlag. 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, last year announcing plans to fly direct from Australia's east coast to both London and New York by 2022 — and this year advising that their plans are on track, with the airline comfortable that plane manufacturers will create a vehicle that can handle the 20-hour and 20-minute, 16,983-kilometre stint between Sydney and London.
The Fork Festival is back for its third year, which means you can once again dine out for up to 50 percent off. Think of it as the proverbial carrot luring you out of the house. The online reservation platform's foodie affair kicked off on Monday, February 15 and is running right up till Sunday, March 28. The offer is a blessing for those feeling a little light in pocket after Christmas, NYE and Valentine's Day. To snag a discounted meal, you just need to make a reservation through The Fork website or app for one of the participating eateries for breakfast, lunch or dinner. So, where can you go? There are hundreds of great venues coming to the party, including the likes of CBD fine diner Bentley, Marrickville's Poor Toms Gin Hall, No 1 William in Darlinghurst, Dulwich Hill's Bambino Torino Pizza, Manly's Boteco and Lone Star Rib House in Blacktown. If you're just hankering for a particular cuisine, you can check out participating Italian spots and Euro-style bistros, or where you can track down Modern Australian feasts. [caption id="attachment_612285" align="alignnone" width="1920"] No 1 William[/caption] You might want to revisit an old favourite or you could get a little adventurous and road-test somewhere new. Either way, there's ample time to squeeze in a fair few discount feasts before the festival wraps up. If you're on the other side of the bar — that is, you're a venue owner — you can jump on the booking platform's bandwagon by signing up over here. You can try it out for just the duration of the festival and, thanks to the popularity of the event, you'll hopefully see a bunch of new customers come through the door. Then, if you want, you can stop taking bookings anytime after it wraps up. The Fork Festival runs from Monday, February 15–Sunday, March 28. Check out the full list of participating Sydney restaurants on The Fork's website. If you're a restaurant owner — and keen to jump on the booking platform bandwagon — head over here.
Found on Avenue Road, Heirloom Specialty Coffee stands out among its competitors by serving the best caffeine in the vicinity. The outdoor seating area is often busy and, if you have the time, it's the perfect place to sip slowly while watching the world go by. Peckish? The cafe offers a delicious range of pastries (all baked in-house), and the more substantial brekkie bun, piled high with bacon and house-made tomato relish.
Country and city will collide this September when Pyrmont and Orange join forces for the annual Pyrmont Festival. The collaboration will bring you the culinary powers of not just one, but two, mighty gourmet scenes with Orange on board for the first time this year. As always, the event's centrepiece is a two-day extravaganza of food, wine, music and art on Sydney Harbour, at Pirrama Park. On Saturday, September 15 and Sunday, September 16, head along to sample delightful regional produce, tuck into decadent eats and sip on some of the 120 or so fine wines on offer. Plenty of winemakers, growers and chefs will be on-hand to share their stories, ideas and secrets. In between feasting and carousing, you'll be kicking back to live music and immersing yourself in street theatre. Then there's the Pyrmont Art Prize. Now in its 11th year, this legendary competition sees the exhibition of over 300 paintings with one thing in common: confinement to a twelve-inch square canvas. It's not too late to enter, by the way. Collect a canvas from Tap Gallery, 259 Riley Street, Surry Hills, and return it by Wednesday, September 12. After Pirrama Park's fun and festivities wind up, Pyrmont Festival will live on, in the form of ten days of food and wine happenings. Throughout the neighbourhood, local bars and restaurants will be teaming up with winemakers and producers from Orange to bring you a series of degustations. On Wednesday, September 19, Mister Percy will match its creations with Philip Shaw and Ross Hill wines, while on Saturday, September 22, Bar Zini will pour you drops by Shaw alongside an authentic Italian feast. Read the rest of the degustation program over here.
This French film about atrocities committed by the State during World War II can be best summed up by a German word: Vergangenheitsbewaltigung. There is no French or English equivalent, but essentially it means 'struggling to come to terms with the past,' which goes right to the heart of Sarah's Key (Elle s'appelait Sarah). Lead by a deeply compassionate performance from Kristin Scott Thomas (I've Loved You So Long) as an American journalist in Paris, Sarah's Key brings to light the horrors of the Vel'd'Hiv Roundup in 1942. Though based on Tatiana de Rosnay's bestselling fiction, the film revisions the actual events of the 16th and 17th July 1942, when the French police rounded up over 13,000 Jews and interned them in an inner city velodrome. 67 years later Julia (Scott Thomas) begins researching a story on the event, and discovers a terrible truth that literally extends right into her home. Julia's emotionally charged journey in present day Paris is interlaced with the fate of the eponymous Sarah (Melusine Mayance), a plucky young girl whose family is wrenched apart during the roundup. The scenes are agonisingly realised; director Gilles Paquet-Brenner (UV) achieves a devastatingly visceral experience, which pivots on the impressively honest performance of Mayance. The present day scenes were always going to be tricky by comparison, for doling out a serious lesson in 'Lest We Forget' needs to be extremely careful to stave off any bleeding hearts. Mostly, Sarah's Key succeeds, particularly in communicating the vital importance of bringing such stories to the surface before the war generation disappears completely. Paquet-Brenner was also the first feature film director to shoot at the Paris Holocaust Memorial; a stark scene that he does well not to overplay. But while Scott-Thomas lends her marvellous gravitas and keen empathy to the film, even she stumbles through some overwritten moments, including the film's cloyingly sentimental final scene. Paquet-Brenner had a tough row to hoe in balancing the past and the present. His decision to spend more time in the modern day comes at the cost of really getting to know Sarah, however it does a fair bit to interrogate our contemporary conscience: "What would you have done?" Julia demands of her co-worker. This is a worthy question, and indeed a worthy film. https://youtube.com/watch?v=omvs7F1Pb9o
Vivid Sydney kicks off this week, and while you're planning which talks to see, figuring out where to catch a glimpse of the lights and checking which gigs still have tickets going, you're probably figuring out a strategic drinking and dining plan too. The bulk of the light installations will again be set up around Circular Quay, which, with the addition of the Gateway dining precinct, has a much richer food situation this year with Chat Thai, Popina, Messina and an actually decent food court. And just to ensure you don't go hungry, a market dedicated entirely to desserts will also run for three nights of the festival. Setting up shop in the Overseas Passenger Terminal, the Milk 'n' Sugar market will be on-hand for revellers craving something sweet for the first weekend of Vivid. Running from 6–11pm on May 26, 27 and 28, the market will be hocking Brooklyn Boy Bagels' cinnamon scrolls, deep-fried Oreo bites from Kayter Co, Nutie's gluten-free doughnuts, Nutella s'mores, kurtosh ice cream cones and more. You should probably skip dinner. As well as coinciding with Vivid, the market will also run alongside the Mr Black Espresso Martini Festival, which is also happening in the Overseas Passenger Terminal this weekend. Plan your movements right and you could fit it all in on one day.
If you're a fan of IKEA, but think those huge, daunting warehouses are the stuff of panic attacks, here's some news to make you very happy indeed — the Swedish furniture giant is launching a new kind of retail offering and its size and style is looking a whole lot easier to manage. The brand's Australian arm is set to unveil its first Home Planning Studio, a small-format store that'll make its home at Sydney's Westfield Warringah Mall from next month. A departure from the standard IKEA caper, the new offering's focused only on kitchen and bedroom planning, with a bevvy of staff on hand to coach you through the experience via one-on-one consultations and nifty tablets. Yep, if you're just whipping your loo into shape or sprucing up that kitchen, you can forego the mammoth Tempe or Rhodes adventure and breeze through here instead. [caption id="attachment_715151" align="alignnone" width="1920"] A render of the Home Planning Studio's layout.[/caption] As an added bonus, the space itself reads like a bubble of serenity (supposedly). The bedroom zone is complete with wafting floral scents and a plethora of wardrobe storage solutions. Meanwhile, the kitchen planning section apparently takes the form of a "wellness sanctuary", offering a raft of storage options aimed at the eco-friendly home chef and entertainer. There's no word yet on exactly what products the store will stock — from the renders we're guessing some kitchen appliances, coat hangers, pillows and plants — but we're hoping we'll be able to pick up those essential tealight candles and lint rollers (looking at you, pet owners). The IKEA Home Planning Studio is slated to open in Westfield Warringah Mall, Old Pittwater Road, Brookvale, at the start of May. If it proves a hit, the concept will be rolled out to more locations across the country.
When Seinfeld was the world's biggest sitcom, the show about nothing was also about everything. Its quartet of yada, yada, yada-ing New Yorkers was oh-so-specific, too, but also relatable. It's no wonder that the 90s hit made a star out of Julia Louis-Dreyfus, who ensured that Elaine Benes was a work of comedic genius — with a Best Supporting Actress Emmy and six other nominations to show for it — and someone who could've walked straight in off the street. In razor-sharp political farce Veep, the actor did much the same to ample accolades. Making a Vice President in a gleeful satire feel real is no mean feat. But Louis-Dreyfus is at her best, and a true sensation, whenever she's in leading-lady mode in front of writer/director Nicole Holofcener's lens. That's only happened twice so far; however, both 2013's Enough Said and now 2023's You Hurt My Feelings are as excellent as engaging, lived-in and astute character-led dramedies come. In her finest performances, Louis-Dreyfus inhabits her roles like she's always been in them. There's a lightness to her on-screen presence that never smacks of force, artifice or effort — a naturalism, clearly, even if she's working with comically heightened material. Nothing about Holofcener's two collaborations with Louis-Dreyfus goes big with its laughs, of course. The pair aren't making Seinfeld or Veep together. Instead, their talents combine in sublime and thoughtful works of intimacy and intricacy, wryly funny explorations of small moments, and perceptive slices of life — and You Hurt My Feelings is indeed a gleaming gem. It's also the kind of American feature that rarely gets a silver-screen run in these days of blockbuster franchises, endless sequels and remakes, and ever-sprawling cinematic universes (the filmmaker's last picture The Land of Steady Habits, which starred Ben Mendelsohn and arrived in 2018, was a Netflix affair). The battle to find a home for Holofcener's preferred type of tales earns an in-script parallel in You Hurt My Feelings, with novelist Beth (Louis-Dreyfus, You People) also struggling. Her first book, a memoir about her childhood with an emotionally abusive dad, didn't notch up the sales she would've liked. At lunches between Beth, her sister Sarah (Michaela Watkins, The Dropout) and their mother Georgia (Jeannie Berlin, Hunters), the latter still protests about how it was marketed. And, when she finally submits a draft of her next tome after toiling for years, Beth's editor (LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Grey's Anatomy) isn't as enthused. None of these situations give the movie its name, though, which stems from Beth's therapist husband Don (Tobias Menzies, This Way Up) and his opinion. When she overhears him tell her brother-in-law Mark (Arian Moayed, Succession) that he isn't that fussed about the new text, it's shattering, especially when he's been nothing but her heartiest cheerleader otherwise. Holofcener begins and punctuates You Hurt My Feelings with Don's sessions with clients, including an incessantly bickering and blatantly unhappy couple played by game real-life spouses Amber Tamblyn (Y: The Last Man) and David Cross (Station Eleven). They argue. They complain openly and heatedly about each other. They say awful things, but they're also adamant about staying together. They start expressing their displeasure about paying for Don's services when it evidently isn't making any difference to their domestic disharmony, which feeds his own doubts about whether he's any good — and, while taking time away from the luminous Louis-Dreyfus, these asides also cut to the heart of this supremely well-observed movie. We're all our own worst critics, and we all jump on any chance we can to reinforce our fears, worries and raging cases of imposter syndrome. We all rely upon our partners to be the voice of support, positivity and encouragement. When that falters or rings false, then, it isn't minor. As Holofcener's layered screenplay explains in the film's economical 93-minute running time, Beth and Don have always prided themselves about being close. Their college-aged son Eliot (Owen Teague, To Leslie), who is writing a play and working in a weed store, cringes over his parents' codependence and shared meals. When Beth and Don buy each other anniversary gifts, they even each make the same mistake — but that decades-forged comfort proves fragile the instant that Beth hears what she'd never have guessed that Don would say or think. You Hurt My Feelings unpacks why on both sides, also interrogating self-confidence and insecurity, the need for validation, tiny misunderstandings that feel massive to whoever is on the receiving end, social niceties, and white lies uttered with the best of intentions, with Sarah and Mark's relationship, his up-and-down acting career, her interior-design work, and Eliot's own personal and professional tussles also providing examples. She's been busy with Veep, the unimpressive Downhill and multiple Marvel Cinematic Universe appearances in the decade since she last worked with Holofcener, but here's hoping that it doesn't take as long for Louis-Dreyfus to reteam with the writer/director again. She's that magnetic and, yes, relatable in the filmmaker's fare, and that devastatingly great at both comedy and drama as well. Although You Hurt My Feelings' guiding force has had a packed slate herself, not just with The Land of Steady Habits but also episodes of Enlightened, Parks and Recreation, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, One Mississippi, Mrs Fletcher and Lucky Hank, the same wish applies her way. Her empathetic features about everyday women are that authentic and incisive, as both Enough Said and this demonstrate. Here's a dream: a Holofcener film with both Louis-Dreyfus and the helmer's Walking and Talking, Lovely & Amazing, Friends with Money and Please Give star Catherine Keener. Casting has always been one of the filmmaker's talents; in You Hurt My Feelings, Menzies, Watkins, Berlin, Moayed and Teague are all wonderful as well. Holofcener gets the same honesty out of each, and from Louis-Dreyfus, as she channels into her smart dialogue, earnest insights and pitch-perfect musings about life. Thanks to cinematographer Jeffrey Waldron (A League of Their Own), her movie looks as naturalistic as it always feels — and, while almost everyone watching isn't a NYC-dwelling writer with a shrink husband and wounded pride over a book, the emotions that You Hurt My Feelings trades in are genuine. Also 100-percent sincere: the feature's winning way with finding humour in the need that we all have to be seen and appreciated, the tendency to tell our loved ones what they want to hear and the very real clash between those two behaviours.
For so many of us, France is the dream. The cheese is so good it's practically an out of body experience, it's acceptable to drink wine at any time of the day, local employers only want you to work 35 hours a week (with no sneaky emails thereafter), and now they're paying people to ride their bikes to work. For realsies. This isn't like when people say an internship is paid, but its actual currency of choice is good vibes and stale lamingtons from the break room. This plan is fuelled by real cash money. This governmental effort to boost bike usage comes as an incentive to improve people's health, reduce air pollution and cut fossil fuel consumption. Though currently in a six-month trial period, the initiative is backed by similar efforts in neighbouring European countries too. The Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and Britain also have bike-to-work schemes, but this will be the first of its kind to actually offer direct payment to riders. The system as it stands offers 25 euro cents for every kilometre ridden to work. Live 4km away? You just earned half your morning coffee. Twenty companies employing a total of 10,000 people had reportedly signed up to the program as of Monday, and the government believe the initiative will raise the cyclist population by 50 percent. At the moment just 2.4 percent of French people ride to work, as compared to 8 percent in Belgium and a whopping 25 percent in the Netherlands. Our figures in Australia sit just below France, around 1.5 percent. You can't help but imagine what a world of good such policies would do for us too. Despite traffic being at its worst, and the increasing presence of new bike lanes or bike-share programs, the desire to stay plonked sedentary in your car is stronger than ever. We're not saying we need the government to pay us money to get off our butts, but at this point, it sure couldn't hurt. Via Reuters. Photo credits: Simona K and infomatique via photopin cc.
Tired of doing the same old thing every weekend, going home with a hole in your wallet and the sense of having lost something rather than having gained? If you're searching for something a little more profound to do with your leisure time, then look no further than new exhibition at the Oxford Art Factory, Free-Fall, and ponder the meaning of it all whilst enjoying an alcoholic beverage or two with friends. Free-Fall begins mid April and will be taking place every Friday and Saturday night in the Oxford Art Factory’s Glass Cube. You'll get to experience cutting edge performance art from a diverse selection of Australian artists, including Gregory & Watts, Naomi Oliver, Jodie Whalen, Motel Sisters, John A. Douglas, Greedy Hen, Bridie Connell, Heath Franco, Liam Benson, Leah McPherson and more. The artists will commenting on and confronting everything from the meaning of our physical existence, celebrity worship, notions of masculinity, feminine representation in art and popular culture, to rituals of physical exercise, automatic drawing and a show which makes the audience the object of investigation. Expect to go home with as many questions as answers. Image: Kill Pixie
Australians, your suitcases are about to come in handy again. Your passports, too. Since March 2020, the country has been under an indefinite ban on international travel to control the spread of COVID-19; however, today, Friday, October 1, Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced how and when that restriction will end. Just like COVID-19 rules around the country in general — lockdowns, the restrictions that apply when stay-at-home conditions aren't in effect and the like — the situation will vary in each state and territory. Allowing fully vaxxed Aussies to enjoy overseas travel again falls under the National Plan to transition Australia's National COVID Response that was announced back in July, and has been slated to kick in when 80 percent of Australians over the age of 16 have been double-jabbed since then. That's still the case, but it'll now come into effect in each state and territory as they reach that vax mark. "Within weeks, large parts of the country will be moving to Phase B and then to Phase C of the National Plan to safely reopen Australia and to stay safely open," said the Prime Minister in a statement. "Under Phase C, international travel is on track to reopen safely to fully vaccinated Australian travellers. Many countries around the world have now safely reopened to international travel and it will shortly be time for Australia to take the next step." Accordingly, each state and territory will be able to begin international travel again when they hit that 80-percent fully jabbed threshold, with the Federal Government expecting that to first happen in November. And, when that occurs, there'll be no limits on where you can head — from an Australian perspective, at least. "The current overseas travel restrictions related to COVID-19 will be removed and Australians will be able to travel subject to any other travel advice and limits, as long as they are fully vaccinated and those countries' border settings allow," said the PM. "These changes mean there will be no travel restrictions if you are a vaccinated Australian entering or leaving our shores." There will be a quarantine requirement, though, but the system that's currently in place isn't expected to apply to double-vaxxed Aussie travellers. After undertaking home quarantine pilots in New South Wales and South Australia, that's likely to be the option in each state and territory for fully jabbed Australian citizens and permanent residents — and for seven days. If that doesn't apply to you because you aren't double-dose vaxxed or you've had a vaccine that isn't approved for use in Australia or recognised by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, you'll still need to go into the fortnight-long managed quarantine that's been operating throughout the pandemic. The announcement comes just over a week since Australia's Federal Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Dan Tehan revealed that the country's international border will open back up "at this rate, by Christmas at the latest." Today's news beats that timeframe by more than a month. The PM also revealed that Australia will work towards quarantine-free arrangements once overseas travel restarts, such as the trans-Tasman travel bubble with New Zealand that's presently on hold until at least mid-November. Previously, the Federal Government also floated the possibility of opening a similar arrangement with Singapore — and extending travel bubbles to some countries, such as Singapore and places in the Pacific, is specifically mentioned in the nation's roadmap. As a nation, Australia hit the 50-percent double-vaxxed mark a week ago, on Friday, September 24. At the time of writing, that figure now sits at 54.2 percent of people aged over 16. You can keep an eye on the jab rates at a number of different websites and, if you still need to get vaccinated, these helpful maps show you where in NSW, Victoria and Queensland. Also, if you're wondering which state or territory is likely to hit 80-percent double-jabbed first, it's currently New South Wales. Unsurprising, just when Australia will reopen its international borders has been the subject of much discussion over the 18 months since ban came into effect, only allowing Aussies to leave the country in very limited circumstances. But with Australia's vax campaign gathering speed recently, Qantas and Jetstar have already begun selling tickets for overseas flights for trips scheduled from December, because that's when the two airlines hoped the country's international travel rules could ease. For further information about Australia's plan to restart international travel, head to the Prime Minister's website. More details about the National Plan to transition Australia's National COVID Response can be found on the same site. And, to find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website.
