Plenty of sun. A little shade. Icy, refreshing beverages. Proximity to a body of water. On a hot summer's day, that's exactly what you want from a bar. Thankfully, Sydney currently has six bars that tick all of those boxes — and, they're only around for a short time. Yep, they've only popped up for the hotter months. You'll find a beach-themed oasis in Darlinghurst, a vodka-fuelled pop-up in Bondi, one hidden in The Rocks serving up $6 espresso martinis and even a bar with a pour-your-own frosé station. Check BOM, round up your mates, head out for an arvo at one of these extremely summery pop-up bars before they disappear
New year, new chance for Hollywood to pat itself on the back. That's how every January starts, even if things are a little different in 2022. After multiple controversies surrounding the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, the organisation behind Golden Globes, the first batch of film and TV awards for the new year weren't given out at a star-studded event — but a long list of worthy movies and shows still won glittering trophies. When the Globes announced its nominees back in December 2021, it went big on plenty of the year's best. The Power of the Dog, Succession, West Side Story, Ted Lasso, Hacks, Squid Game — they all earned nods, and deservedly so. Today, Monday, January 10, they all just scored a spot on the winners' list as well. In fact, most of them nabbed more than one accolade. Highlights include The Power of the Dog's three wins, and particularly Jane Campion taking out the Best Director field. Her directing gong really can't be underestimated — it's just the third time that a female filmmaker has won the award, and the second in a row after Chloé Zhao won last year for Nomadland. Also for The Power of the Dog, Aussie actor Kodi Smit-McPhee nabbed the Best Supporting Actor award, while the exceptional film itself won Best Drama. And, still skewing local, Succession's Sarah Snook scored a Best Supporting Actress award in the TV categories — and Nicole Kidman is a Best Actress winner, in the Motion Picture — Drama camp, for playing Lucille Ball in Being the Ricardos. Obviously, the list goes on, spanning more big-screen and small-screen highlights. If you're wondering what else emerged victorious, the full rundown is below — and you can also check out our picks for the 12 winners you can watch right now. GOLDEN GLOBE NOMINEES AND WINNERS: BEST MOTION PICTURE — DRAMA Belfast CODA Dune King Richard The Power of the Dog — WINNER BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE — DRAMA Jessica Chastain, The Eyes of Tammy Faye Olivia Colman, The Lost Daughter Nicole Kidman, Being the Ricardos — WINNER Lady Gaga, House of Gucci Kristen Stewart, Spencer BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE — DRAMA Mahershala Ali, Swan Song Javier Bardem, Being the Ricardos Benedict Cumberbatch, The Power of the Dog Will Smith, King Richard — WINNER Denzel Washington, The Tragedy of Macbeth BEST MOTION PICTURE — MUSICAL OR COMEDY Cyrano Don't Look Up Licorice Pizza Tick, Tick … Boom! West Side Story — WINNER BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE — MUSICAL OR COMEDY Marion Cotillard, Annette Alana Haim, Licorice Pizza Jennifer Lawrence, Don't Look Up Emma Stone, Cruella Rachel Zegler, West Side Story — WINNER BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE — MUSICAL OR COMEDY Leonardo DiCaprio, Don't Look Up Peter Dinklage, Cyrano Andrew Garfield, Tick, Tick … Boom! — WINNER Cooper Hoffman, Licorice Pizza Anthony Ramos, In the Heights BEST MOTION PICTURE — ANIMATED Encanto — WINNER Flee Luca My Sunny Maad Raya and the Last Dragon BEST MOTION PICTURE — FOREIGN LANGUAGE Compartment No. 6 Drive My Car — WINNER The Hand of God A Hero Parallel Mothers BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN ANY MOTION PICTURE Caitríona Balfe, Belfast Ariana DeBose, West Side Story — WINNER Kirsten Dunst, The Power of the Dog Aunjanue Ellis, King Richard Ruth Negga, Passing BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN ANY MOTION PICTURE Ben Affleck, The Tender Bar Jamie Dornan, Belfast Ciarán Hinds, Belfast Troy Kotsur, CODA Kodi Smit-McPhee, The Power of the Dog — WINNER BEST DIRECTOR — MOTION PICTURE Kenneth Branagh, Belfast Jane Campion, The Power of the Dog — WINNER Maggie Gyllenhaal, The Lost Daughter Steven Spielberg, West Side Story Denis Villeneuve, Dune BEST SCREENPLAY — MOTION PICTURE Paul Thomas Anderson, Licorice Pizza Kenneth Branagh, Belfast — WINNER Jane Campion, The Power of the Dog Adam McKay, Don't Look Up Aaron Sorkin, Being the Ricardos BEST ORIGINAL SCORE — MOTION PICTURE Dune — WINNER Encanto The French Dispatch Parallel Mothers The Power of the Dog BEST ORIGINAL SONG — MOTION PICTURE 'Be Alive', King Richard 'Dos Orugitas', Encanto 'Down to Joy', Belfast 'Here I Am (Singing My Way Home)', Respect 'No Time to Die', No Time to Die — WINNER BEST TELEVISION SERIES — DRAMA Lupin The Morning Show Pose Squid Game Succession — WINNER BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION SERIES — DRAMA Uzo Aduba, In Treatment Jennifer Aniston, The Morning Show Christine Baranski, The Good Fight Elisabeth Moss, The Handmaid's Tale MJ Rodriguez, Pose — WINNER BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES — DRAMA Brian Cox, Succession Lee Jung-jae, Squid Game Billy Porter, Pose Jeremy Strong, Succession — WINNER Omar Sy, Lupin BEST TELEVISION SERIES — MUSICAL OR COMEDY The Great Hacks — WINNER Ted Lasso Reservation Dogs Only Murders in the Building BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION SERIES — MUSICAL OR COMEDY Hannah Einbinder, Hacks Elle Fanning, The Great Issa Rae, Insecure Tracee Ellis Ross, Black-ish Jean Smart, Hacks — WINNER BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES — MUSICAL OR COMEDY Anthony Anderson, Black-ish Nicholas Hoult, The Great Steve Martin, Only Murders in the Building Martin Short, Only Murders in the Building Jason Sudeikis, Ted Lasso — WINNER BEST TELEVISION LIMITED SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION Dopesick Impeachment: American Crime Story Maid Mare of Easttown The Underground Railroad — WINNER BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A LIMITED SERIES OR A MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION Jessica Chastain, Scenes From a Marriage Cynthia Erivo, Genius: Aretha Elizabeth Olsen, WandaVision Margaret Qualley, Maid Kate Winslet, Mare of Easttown — WINNER BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A LIMITED SERIES OR A MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION Paul Bettany, WandaVision Oscar Isaac, Scenes From a Marriage Michael Keaton, Dopesick — WINNER Ewan McGregor, Halston Tahar Rahim, The Serpent BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A SERIES, LIMITED SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION Jennifer Coolidge, The White Lotus Kaitlyn Dever, Dopesick Andie MacDowell, Maid Sarah Snook, Succession — WINNER Hannah Waddingham, Ted Lasso BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A SERIES, LIMITED SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TV Billy Crudup, The Morning Show Kieran Culkin, Succession Mark Duplass, The Morning Show Brett Goldstein, Ted Lasso Oh Yeong-su, Squid Game — WINNER For further details, head to the awards' website. Top image: The Crown, Des Willie/Netflix.
Redfern's hidden retro bar Misfits is adding yet another tasty element to its offering — by throwing its hat into the ever-expanding ring of bottomless brunches and lunches in Sydney. The newly launched Misfits Lunch Club runs on the last Saturday of each month. The lunch is hosted in the upstairs powder pink dining room from noon–4pm each Saturday. Expect shared starters like zucchini and fontina croquettes, haloumi with burnt honey and thyme, and bread with caramelised onion butter. For mains, you can choose from barramundi with broccoli purée and pine nuts, duck breast with beetroot and amaranth or vegetarian ravioli. The mains are also served with shared sides, like fried potato with dill and white anchovies, brussels sprouts with wagyu fat and roasted cauliflower with burnt butter milk. You can nab all that food for $45, but we know you're really after the bottomless bit. That'll cost you an additional $20, a price well worth it for three straight hours of unlimited cocktails. The drinks offering will change each month. While you indulge, the venue's resident DJ will spin beats all arvo, and we reckon there'll be more than a few nineties and noughties bangers thrown in there. You can book your spot via the website. Updated: July 31, 2019.
For the past decade, spy films have been Matthew Vaughn's caper, thanks to Kingsman: The Secret Service, Kingsman: The Golden Circle and The King's Man until now. With Argylle, he's still being playful with a genre that he clearly loves but isn't precious about, and he's also approaching espionage antics from another angle. 80s action-adventure comedy Romancing the Stone, which isn't about secret intelligence operatives, is one of this page-to-screen effort's blatant inspirations. Something that both do have at their centres: writers caught up in scenarios that would usually only happen on paper. 2022's The Lost City took the same route — but Argylle throws in a touch of North by Northwest, and also gets meta about its own origins. And no, Taylor Swift didn't write the source material. For his eighth feature, which hits 20 years after he made his directorial debut with the Daniel Craig (Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery)-starring Layer Cake, Vaughn adapts the novel that gives Argylle its name; however, the specifics aren't quite that simple. The IRL title is only being published as the flick hits cinemas, starting a franchise on the shelf. That said, the film — which is similarly aiming to begin a series — jumps to a later as-yet-unreleased book. Those tomes are credited to Elly Conway, which is the name of the movie version of Argylle's protagonist. In the feature, Elly is also an author who has written a saga about spies. Back in reality, who she really is has sparked a frenzy, hence the theories that she could be one of the world's biggest pop stars amid a massive world tour and a huge concert film. Again, despite Swifties' dreams, that speculation needs to be shaken off. To recap, this is the spiel: Vaughn directs a picture from a book saga that's just reaching shelves, doesn't kick off with the initial tome and works in an iteration of its mystery author. Within the movie, Elly (Bryce Dallas Howard, Jurassic World Dominion) isn't an unknown but she is happiest out of the limelight, as turning down a date for an evening at home writing with her Scottish Fold cat Alfie illustrates early. Her in-film novels are already smashes, with just one problem. As she discovers after penning the draft of her fifth book just after readers get their hands on the fourth, and much to her surprise, her plots bear more than a little resemblance to reality. So informs actual agent Aidan Wilde (Sam Rockwell, See How They Run), who also advises that a villainous espionage outfit called The Division is after her because her texts are so prophetic. To add another layer to the Argylle trifle, Elly sees her fictional agent — the eponymous Argylle (Henry Cavill, The Witcher) — beyond her imagination. He's a Bond-type right down to the bar altercation with a femme fatale (Dua Lipa, Barbie). He's also a Mission: Impossible-style sort thanks to the team around him, including a trusty offsider (John Cena, Freelance) and tech guru (Ariana DeBose, Wish). With towering flat-topped hair, Argylle is a knowing spoof in a self-aware comedy, too. He's the stereotypical dashing vision of the undercover world, as juxtaposed with Aidan, who is introduced all scruffy and beardy on a train, blending in and earning Elly's incredulity when he says that spying is his gambit. The more that she gets pulled into the covert world, Argylle is also a blatant contrast to the writer herself; that there's more than one type of hero thrums within screenwriter Jason Fuchs' (Wonder Woman) script. More twists, more reveals, more zigzagging here and there (and, of course, everywhere) slip into a narrative that's unique in a way that's rare of late, especially when it comes to spies, action and big-budget big-screen fare. Argylle might be reaching screens with that did-Swift sheen and seemingly everyone that Vaughn knows in the cast — Cavill was in Stardust, Howard in the Vaughn-produced Rocketman, and Sofia Boutella (Rebel Moon — Part One: A Child of Fire) and Samuel L Jackson (The Marvels) both have a place in the Kingsman realm — but it isn't an already-known property. That said, there's a game of connect the dots at work for anyone who has seen any action flicks this century, spotting familiar parts. Still, with the visual flair that he's been known for since making the switch from solely producing (including Guy Ritchie's Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and Snatch), Vaughn leans into the fun and spectacle of it all. This strives to be a just-go-with-it affair, putting its audience in the same situation as Elly as she tries to stay alive, outwit The Division, and work out what's going on and why. Howard, Rockwell, Catherine O'Hara (Pain Hustlers) as Elly's mother and Bryan Cranston (Asteroid City) as the head honcho overseeing the quest to capture the author: they all help make Argylle easy to spend time with. Rockwell, though, is the feature's mood ring. He's having a ball with the looseness that made him such a captivating performer long before he had a Best Supporting Actor Oscar for Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, and he nails Argylle's aimed-for vibe. His Confessions of a Dangerous Mind casting two decades back also comes to mind. Yes, he dances as he adores to, multiple times. He's always giddily entertaining. That Argylle doesn't earn the same label consistently is partly down to its running time: it might've more often if there wasn't 139 minutes of it. If the whole film all seems gleefully OTT, with its winks, nods, parodies, nesting-doll setup, more-is-more embrace of extravagant fights and frays — and kinetic chases and confrontations as well — and unconvincing CGI around the cat, Vaughn and his wife Claudia Schiffer's own, that's also been Vaughn's caper for even longer than he's been playing with spooks. In bringing Kick-Ass to the screen from Mark Millar's comic, then the latter's Kingsman afterwards, plus helming X-Men: First Class in the middle, the filmmaker hasn't been one for the grounded approach. It doesn't always pay off for him. The first Kingsman was undone by its ending, the second a subpar carbon copy and the two pictures' prequel thoroughly superfluous. But the energy of the cast, the Romancing the Stone throwback, plus standout setpieces involving skating through oil on knives and pirouetting through a gunfight amid rainbow-hued smoke grenades, prove both a lot and mostly enough to start off Vaughn's latest espionage franchise.
Cherry blossom season in Japan is the stuff of dreams. From late March to early April, the air begins to warm, the cities transform into dreamy pink landscapes, and wherever you look, you'll feel like you've stepped right into a Studio Ghibli film. If you've ever dreamed of strolling under a canopy of cherry blossoms, Japan in cherry blossom season is a must. But with them only lasting a fleeting couple of weeks, making the most of your trip is all about good timing, great spots, and knowing what to do beyond just taking a few pretty photos. We've done the legwork and have found some ideas of how to do it right, from the best viewing locations to the ultimate cherry blossom-themed experiences, plus the perfect stays and special deals to top it all off. [caption id="attachment_997052" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Mauro Repossini via Getty Images[/caption] Hanami Viewing at Ueno Park One of Tokyo's most famous hanami (flower viewing) spots, Ueno Park is the heavyweight champion of cherry blossom season. With over 1,000 trees lining its wide paths, it's where locals and travellers alike gather to lay down their picnic blankets, crack open some sake and soak in the beauty of the season. If you're travelling with the family, it's got plenty of space for the kids to run around, with food stalls and even Ueno Zoo to keep everyone fed and entertained. For an overnight stay close to the action, MIMARU Tokyo Ueno East is just around the corner, offering modern apartment-style accommodation that's ideal for groups and families to unwind after a day of cherry blossom sightseeing. [caption id="attachment_997548" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] MIMARU SUITES Tokyo Asakusa[/caption] Cherry Blossom Scenery on Sumida River Prefer your blossoms with a view in the backdrop? The Sumida River is where you'll want to start exploring. Running right through the heart of Tokyo, it's lined with pink cherry blossom trees that contrast beautifully against the Tokyo skyline. Spend your day taking a leisurely riverside walk, hop on an hourly departing water bus, or take the scenic route back to your hotel to see the trees at night. Just minutes away, MIMARU SUITES Tokyo Asakusa puts you right in the thick of the riverside action, with spacious rooms and a prime location to explore the best of Tokyo's cherry blossoms. [caption id="attachment_997053" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Robert Holmes via Getty Images[/caption] Cherry Blossom Keepsakes From Tokyo Disney If you're travelling with kids (or just love a touch of nostalgia) then Tokyo Disney's cherry blossom experience is an ideal way to experience the serenity, but not compromise on excitement. Each year, Disney also releases a special cherry blossom-themed collection that makes the perfect keepsake for your trip. Think pastel pink plush toys of all your favourite Disney characters, merch, accessories and collectible figurines. [caption id="attachment_997055" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Flavia Morchetti via Getty Images[/caption] Cherry Blossom-Themed Treats at Various Visiting Japan in spring means one thing: cherry blossom everything. Our advice? Lean into it fully. Start your morning with a blossom-infused latte at MOSCA by Ginger Garden, grab some cherry blossom mochi from Muji, and if you're feeling indulgent, treat yourself to the stunning floral dessert collection at Haute Couture Cafe. Sweet, pink, and Instagram gold. Immersive Cherry Blossom Art at TeamLab Planets For something that feels straight out of a dream, check out TeamLab Planets and their popular 'Floating in the Falling Universe of Flowers' exhibit. You'll find yourself completely immersed in a surreal world of cherry blossoms, creating the ultimate immersive hanami experience, one that you can't find anywhere else in the country. [caption id="attachment_997058" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Showkaku Sano via Getty Images[/caption] Explore Cherry Blossom-Coated Landscapes Around Tokyo If you're up for a little adventure beyond Tokyo, Mount Yoshino is the perfect change of pace. Home to over 30,000 cherry trees covering the slopes in every shade of pink, it's one of Japan's most breathtaking destinations year-round, but especially during the blossom season. Pair it with a day trip to Nara Park via a 90-minute express train ride from Mount Yoshino, where you can stroll among freely roaming deer under the trees. After a day of exploring, head back to MIMARU SUITES Kyoto Shijo. Smack bang in central Kyoto, it's a comfy base with easy rail access to both Nara Park (about an hour) and Mount Yoshino (around 90 minutes). Plus, you're within walking distance of Gion's many shopping and dining options. Where to Stay to Support Your Trip Cherry Blossom season is busy, and finding the right place to stay makes all the difference. Designed with families and groups in mind, MIMARU offers apartment-style stays with the space you need to relax after a long day of exploring. Tokyo's cherry trees typically bloom from late March to early April, but if you miss the peak, don't stress. MIMARU staff all speak English and are on hand to recommend alternative sightseeing spots so you can still get your fill of springtime magic no matter the month. Visit the APARTMENT HOTEL MIMARU website for more information and book your stay using the code mimaru_cp for an extra 5% off your stay. *Reservation period: Until May 31, 2025 *For stay period: until December 31, 2025 *Applicable to reservations for 2-6 nights *Pokémon rooms are excluded *Discounts other than the MIMARU Member Program discount will not be applied. By Jacque Kennedy
Essentially a fancy caravan, Whispers Tiny House holds two people and everything you and your travel buddy will need for a weekend in luxurious seclusion (yes, even the kitchen sink). Although teeny tiny, the space is well-designed and highly functional, set with a bed, power, a bathroom and heating as well as outdoor amenities like a barbecue, an outdoor firepit (available upon request) and chairs so you can sit under the night sky. Plus, it's got 360-degree views of the countryside. You can sleep snug, knowing that you really are right in the middle of nowhere. Well, kind of. You'll actually be just on the outskirts of the Blue Mountains in small-town Marrangaroo, among some spectacular New South Wales national parkland.
It's that time again, Sydneysiders: time for movies to compete with Mrs Macquaries Point's stunning view of Sydney Harbour. Every summer, the scenic spot's vista over the water, city, Opera House and Harbour Bridge gets a 350-square-metre screen showing the latest and greatest flicks — all thanks to Westpac OpenAir. There are plenty of outdoor cinema options in Sydney come summertime, but none can hold a candle to the scenery and luxe experience of Westpac OpenAir. Plus, it's a hell of a lot more than just a cinema. Forget popcorn and choc-tops; Westpac OpenAir boasts four equally luxe culinary options for all attendees. Options include The Point with Luke Nguyen, which brings fresh and vibrant Vietnamese flavours to anyone with a general admission ticket. Summer House Dining by acclaimed Sydney chef Danielle Alvarez takes things up a notch with fine Mediterranean feeds for premium ticket holders — and Chandon Garden guests will have exclusive access to a seafood menu and a dedicated oyster bar. No matter the seating and menu, you'll be able to enjoy your feed with live music from top Sydney DJs and one of the best views in Sydney. Then, as dusk settles, the hydraulics whir into action and raise the famous OpenAir screen three stories high for the movie of the evening. But what's on the program? As always, there are choices from every genre. Fancy a full-on big theatre blockbuster? You can grab tickets for F1, Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning, Wicked: For Good, One Battle After Another and Avatar: Fire and Ash. Some of this year's hit indie additions include Marty Supreme, How to Make a Killing, Hamnet, Song Sung Blue, Is This Thing On?, Bugonia and Wuthering Heights. There's also a promise of nostalgic favourites like Dirty Dancing, Mamma Mia, The Devil Wears Prada, How To Lose A Guy in 10 Days and Ten Things I Hate About You. For all that and more, check out the full program here. Westpac OpenAir runs from Friday, January 9 to Tuesday, February 24, 2026. Tickets go on sale from Monday, December 8. For more information or to book tickets, visit the website.
Paddington's Italian eatery Barbetta wears many hats, including daytime cafe, gourmet smallgoods store and workshop space. The venue on Elizabeth Street is the casual sister venue to nearby Cipri Italian and the owners are, not surprisingly, focusing on classic Italian food. Open for breakfast, lunch and afternoon coffee, the all-day cafe is designed by ACME & Co. — that is, the team who brought you a long list of successful Sydney favourites including The Grounds of Alexandria (and The Grounds of the City), Archie Rose, Fred's and Happy as Larry. The contemporary, bright interior adds nostalgic elements that are reminiscent of classic Italian cars and 1950s movies. For breakfast, think deconstructed Sicilian buckwheat pancake with fresh ricotta, figs and crushed cannoli ($16) and Italian sausage with baked free-range eggs, Tuscan cabbage, baked ricotta and toasted sourdough ($20). Lunch will focus on heartier dishes, like house-made lasagne and spinach ricotta ravioli ($22 each), porchetta paninis ($18) and spicy meatball burgers ($21), along with salads and snacks. The cafe's Neapolitan pastry-chef is also turning out a daily selection of Italian desserts, cakes and gelato to accompany your afternoon coffee break. On the drinks side of things, the requisite coffee and juice is paired with milkshakes and Italian soft drinks. The venue doesn't have a liquor licence just yet, so at present there's a sweet no-corkage BYO deal. Plans for an Italian snack bar are also on the horizon. In the smallgoods deli, takeaway meals like lasagne, gnocchi and slow-cooked lamb shanks will be on offer, along with fresh pastas, sauces, cheeses and meats. The store's selection of packed Italian products include coffee, condiments and biscuits, and pre-packed picnic sets are ready for Centennial Park lazing. If you're looking for your next date idea or just want to learn a new skill, Barbetta is also hosting twice weekly pasta making workshops on Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings. Classes include a hands-on cooking demo with antipasti and BYO wine, followed by dinner/lunch and the pasta you made to take home. Images: Nikki To Appears in: The Best Italian Restaurants in Sydney for 2023
Even if it's just for a night, and no matter if you're only travelling as far as the CBD in your own city, spending an evening in a hotel instantly changes your mindset. There's something about walking through the lobby, then getting cosy in fuzzy robes and with a minibar right there, that switches your brain to relaxation mode. That effect is why we all love staycations when we can't head away for a vacation. Of course, the feeling is temporary — but if you took the bed, sheets, TV, towels, bar fridge and more home with you, maybe it wouldn't be? That's the bet that QT Hotels & Resorts is making in February by giving away almost the entire contents of two of its rooms. Sure, you might've taken a hotel notepad and pencil with you after your stay before, or the tiny toiletries and shower cap, but this giveaway goes much, much further. From cushions, the kettle, the Nespresso machine, glasses, crockery and the bathmat through to a Dyson hair dryer, the minibar contents, the in-room safe, the iron and ironing board, and the alarm clock, you'll nab them all — so you'll get a room, then you'll basically be able to recreate that room at your own abode. You'll also receive the tissues, an umbrella, pillows, Kevin Murphy toiletries, a cocktail shaker, coat hangers, a shoe horn, coasters, playing cards, a bin and slippers — and the list from there still goes on. Everything you get will be new, too. The promotion has been dubbed 'Get a Room!', in fact, and does indeed require you to book in at a QT hotel or buy a gift card for at least $100 for a stay via the chain's website. It's also timed around Valentine's Day, so you'll have to slumber at QT between Thursday, February 1–Thursday, February 29, 2024, or purchase that gift card in the same window. Wondering where to check in? The campaign is running across the entire QT Hotels & Resorts chain in Australia and New Zealand for the month of February, which includes in Sydney, Bondi, Canberra, Melbourne, the Gold Coast, Newcastle, Perth, Auckland, Wellington and Queenstown. Regardless of where you pick, you'll be in the draw once you go to the promo's website and submit your booking confirmation or the order number from buying your gift card. Winners will be announced once early March rolls around, and there's two prizes up for grabs: the contents of a whole room in both Australia and Aotearoa. Now, to start planning where you'll put everything — or, if you'll be staying at QT with a date or mate, who gets what. QT Hotels & Resorts' 'Get a Room!' campaign covers stays between and gift cards purchased during Thursday, February 1–Thursday, February 29, 2024 — head to the company's website for further information.
We adore our sport here in Oz, perhaps more than any other nation. Some of the biggest events of the year and we're all in the mood for some good old fashioned sporting excitement, there's really nothing that beats the primal, up close and personal thrill of live competition. Happily, there are a bunch of world-class events making their way to NSW over the next few months that you'll definitely want to attend. From statewide NRL rivalries to monumental city marathons to the all-out automobile action, there's truly something for everyone. Get ready to laugh, cry, lose your voice, and, hopefully, revel in the unparalleled joy of victory.
For the month of March, Sydney will be sprinkled with fun and informative events to bulk up your knowledge of contemporary art. Curated by Glenn Barkley and happening throughout March, Art Month Sydney is now in its sixth year and has been refreshed with the theme 'Where Art Happens'. It’s all about testing the boundaries between public and private, local and global, and emerging and established. While there's nothing too new or revolutionary from previous years' programs, this year does see the return of favourites like Art at Night and ARTcycle, alongside some provocative talks and intriguing exhibitions. To save you trawling through the extensive list of events, we’ve picked out the best ones — many of which won’t cost you a cent.
How did Charlton Kenneth Jeffrey Howard become one of the biggest Australian musicians around the world right now? Attend SXSW Sydney in 2024 and you'll find out. The singer-songwriter better known as The Kid LAROI is the latest addition to the event's constantly growing lineup, in a key spot: the 'Stay', 'Without You', 'Thousand Miles', 'Love Again' and 'Girls' talent has been revealed as the fest's music keynote speaker for this year. In 2023, Chance The Rapper did the honours. SXSW Sydney isn't skimping on big names, clearly. On Saturday, October 19, 2024 at the ICC Sydney Theatre, expect The Kid LAROI to step through his career journey so far, from Redfern to streaming superstardom — and also what his future holds. The Kid LAROI postponing his Australian tour to this spring from February 2024 has worked out well for SXSW Sydney, then. As part of the event, he'll also help develop professional development workshops and performance opportunities for Waterloo and Redfern's First Nations communities. After he's chatted about his career to SXSW Sydney's patrons, The Kid LAROI will embark upon a seven-city Australian tour in support of his debut studio album The First Time. On the itinerary: HOTA, Home of the Arts on the Gold Coast, Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Commbank Stadium in Sydney, Perth's RAC Arena, Adelaide Entertainment Centre, MyState Bank Arena in Hobart and Melbourne's Rod Laver Arena. Migos frontman Quavo and Sydney's own ONEFOUR are also on the bill everywhere except the Gold Coast and Hobart. [caption id="attachment_926206" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Adam Kargenian[/caption] SXSW Sydney's 2024 lineup just keeps expanding, after Lucy Lawless, Grace Tame and Tim Minchin — plus sports stars Nick Kyrgios and Noémie Fox, playwright Suzie Miller, former Bangarra Dance Theatre Artistic Director Stephen Page and more — also joined the program to round out August. Set to take place across Monday, October 14–Sunday, October 20 dates, the event began revealing its program back in May, which was just the beginning. Another announcement arrived in June, then not one, not two, but three more in July — and also another, focusing on the free hub at Tumbalong Park, at the beginning of August. Then came more music acts and speakers, still in August. SXSW Sydney 2024 will run from Monday, October 14–Sunday, October 20 at various Sydney venues. Head to the SXSW Sydney website for further details.
Love the energy of Middle Eastern cuisine and crave the laidback charm of tapas? Paddington newcomer CANESS unites these worlds to create a dining experience with more than a few surprises. Guided by Desert Ship Hospitality Group – the team behind Shaffa, an upbeat Surry Hills spot – this latest venture brings even more ambiance while showcasing the powerful combination of simple but bold flavours. In the kitchen, renowned chef Ido Zarmi explores the boundaries of Mediterranean cuisine with a carefully crafted selection of tapas-style plates. With each dish bringing earthy and aromatic flavours to the fore, these highly shareable plates celebrate quality and simplicity in equal measure. Many dishes have a short ingredient list, but their attractive colours and mouthwatering flavours capture how you often don't need much to produce the most tantalising bite. For instance, the traditional prawns saganaki sees succulent prawns bathed in a rich, homemade tomato and feta sauce, while the grilled octopus delicately balances a herb and capers salsa against smokey, charred undertones. Then, you've got lamb kebab served with yoghurt, harissa oil and chopped salad salsa, beef sirloin with Med-style chimichurri, and desserts like basbousa bel ashta – a classic Egyptian semolina cake made with citrus and saffron. This minimalist approach extends to CANESS' interior design. Here, clean lines and artisanal accents keep the 60-seat restaurant simple but comfortable, as the murmur of activity carries softly from an open kitchen. Conceived by hospitality entrepreneur Erez Nahum and co-owner Juan Colmenares, this approach intends to bring people together in an engaging yet intimate atmosphere. Likewise, the restaurant's drinks list spans 80 wines, with 20 available by the glass or carafe, striking a cosy middle ground between unpretentious and quality. There are also 10 signature cocktails to consider, each featuring varied Spanish and Italian influences. Think the Clear Gazpacho, inspired by Spain's iconic chilled soup, or the Figroni, a Middle Eastern twist on the classic negroni. "Our menu is all about celebrating authentic Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavours with a minimalist approach. It's about stripping things back to the essentials and letting the ingredients speak for themselves," says Zarmi. "Our vision was to create a home-like dining experience. With its casual, communal vibe, CANESS feels less like a restaurant dining room and we hope it's a place where people can connect, enjoy themselves and feel at home – even in shorts and thongs," adds Colmenares. CANESS is open Tuesday–Thursday from 3pm–late, Friday from 12pm–late, Saturday from 11am–late and Sunday from 11am–10pm at 348 Oxford Street, Paddington. Head to the website for more information.
Sydney's Inner West is brimming with breweries. From well-known watering holes like Young Henrys in Newtown to newer brewers like Marrickville's MixTape, there's no shortage of places to sample excellent drinks in this buzzy neighbourhood. Choosing a brewery is one thing, but actually knowing what to order once you get there is a whole other challenge — and that's where we come in. To help make the daunting decision of what to sip a little easier, we've done the thinking (and the drinking) for you. Read on to find out our favourites before you hit the hops on your next DIY brewery crawl.
On Wednesday, August 21, the front page of The Sydney Morning Herald led with an explosive exposé revealing a culture of on-the-clock drug use, sexual abuse and unsafe work environments for female employees across the Swillhouse Group's collection of Sydney venues, including Shady Pines, Restaurant Hubert, Alberto's Lounge, the Caterpillar Club and the now-closed Frankie's Pizza. The bombshell report by Sydney Morning Herald's investigative reporter Eryk Bagshaw and Good Food reporter Bianca Hrovat contained shocking allegations including experiences of sexual assault, sexually inappropriate behaviour from male staff, and staff being pressured into drug and alcohol use. The report, which was compiled from a months-long investigation, also found failures in management with complaints from staff minimised or improperly resolved. Swillhouse Group CEO Anton Forte was aware of this misconduct and made various attempts to curtail certain behaviours amongst his staff, including hiring an HR specialist and introducing specific sexual harassment policies. In 2023, Forte went as far as prohibiting 50 percent discounts and free knock-off drinks for staff in an attempt to "prioritise and promote a culture of safety and wellbeing". The report stressed that Forte himself has never been accused of misconduct by his staff. The backlash against Swillhouse Group in the wake of the report has been searing. Hundreds of comments from customers have appeared on the Swillhouse Group's various Instagram accounts. One comment posted to Restaurant Hubert's feed read: "So disappointed and sickened to read the article in the SMH about sexual abuse. Abusing women like that for your fun has a detrimental affect on them that has lifelong consequences. The worst thing is that you'll say something to the media and that will be it, nothing will change." Another added, "So disappointed. You were my favourite place in Sydney, but I'm so sad for all the women who have had to endure such horrible things - and that's just the stuff we know about from the ones who have been brave enough to speak out!" [caption id="attachment_932655" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Andrea Veltom[/caption] Industry backlash has been just as swift. Swillhouse Group's debut culinary and music festival, Swillfest, which was due to take place on September 21 with tickets already sold out, was cancelled after major sponsors, artists and masterclass chefs pulled out en masse. The respected hospitality magazine Gourmet Traveller also announced that it would be removing Restaurant Hubert from the digital iteration of its prestigious annual Restaurant Guide, although the venue will still appear in the already-produced print edition. Editor Joanna Hunkin said in a statement relating to the removal of Restaurant Hubert: "While these allegations are not isolated, I cannot stress enough, it is not the prevailing norm. We cannot let this tarnish an entire industry, which is full of decent, hard-working and conscientious humans." Revered chef Neil Perry — one of the nation's most respected restaurateurs and the chair of the Australian Restaurant and Cafe Association — confirmed to The Herald that Forte would be stepping down from his position on the board of the Association with immediate effect. On the evening of Thursday, August 22, Swillhouse issued an apology via its social media channels, emphasising that the reports of abuse were historical and also announcing the cancellation of its upcoming Swillfest. "This week, our business has faced scrutiny with distressing claims about how Swillhouse used to operate in the past. We sincerely apologise to anyone who has felt hurt, unsafe, unprotected, triggered, or unheard. We particularly extend this apology to our female staff, guests, friends and family," the statement reads. It continues: "We acknowledge that Swillhouse was not always perfect and that we got things wrong in the past. We sincerely regret that any of our former staff have felt let down or unsafe. Questions about workplace safety and inclusiveness have been an industry-wide issue, and we are committed to being part of the solution, not the problem. Several years ago we began the process of building a better workplace where our people feel protected and where those poor behaviours are not tolerated. No one should feel unsafe in their workplace. That's not OK. "While we cannot right the wrongs of the past, we acknowledge them and apologise for any hurt caused. We assure our people, our customers, our friends and our patrons that we currently have best practice policies and processes in place to ensure our people work in the safest possible environment today and tomorrow. "We understand and respect community expectations and, today, are proud to have a workplace that is inclusive and diverse, where our people have a voice and we listen and support them. We recognise we can always be better and are making our workplace systems and support even stronger. "Our responsibility and focus right now is to our people and their wellbeing and for this reason, we don't feel it's appropriate to go ahead with plans for Swillfest on 21 September." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Swillhouse (@swillhouse.hospitality) A follow-up article published by The Herald and Good Food on Thursday, August 22, written by journalist Dani Valent, alleged systemic failures across Australia's hospitality sector, representing "endemic" levels of widespread gender-based violence and sexual danger in the workplace. If you need to speak to someone about an experience you have had or are seeking information, please contact 1800Respect on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800respect.org.au. Top image: Kristoffer Paulsen
Yabun Festival is held annually on January 26 at Victoria Park in Camperdown, Sydney, on Gadigal Land. Yabun — which means "music to a beat" in the Gadigal language — features a wide range of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander talent. Each year, Yabun consists of Corroboree, performances from First Nations musicians, a marketplace, discussions and speeches. This year, for the festival's 20th anniversary, the festival is running little differently, with three different ways for you to experience all the action — including from anywhere you like. The first is in-person at both Victoria Park and the Seymour Centre. Over at its usual home in Victoria Park, attendees can watch Indigenous cultural performances, wander through the marketplace and grab a bit to eat at the food stalls. Across the road at the Seymour Centre, the Yabun Stage will host musicians including rapper Kobie Dee, indie-pop group Pirra, the Gomeroi Dance Company and the Sounds of Freedom musical group which features survivors of the Stolen Generation and descendants including Vic Simms, Nadeena Dixon & Johnny Huckle. If you want to attend the 500-capacity Seymour Centre event, you'll need to apply for your free tickets online. If you can't make it to the city, don't feel comfortable attending in person or you live in regional NSW or interstate, you can also watch via a live stream on the festival's website or tune into the yearly broadcast of the festival on Koori Radio 93.7fm. It all kicks off at midday and will run until 10pm.
As temperatures soared across Australia this week, one of Sydney's chilliest spots received bad news, with the Macquarie Ice Rink slated for demolition to make way for multimillion-dollar upgrades to the Macquarie Centre. An unhappy turn of events for the generations of Sydneysiders who've flocked to the facility over the past 39 years, the move has been met with community backlash — and now the shopping centre's owner, AMP Capital, is reconsidering its plans. In a statement, the company announced that it "has asked City of Ryde Council to put on hold the centre's development application while there is further community consultation about the proposal". The pause comes as a Change.org petition to save the site has garnered 22,363 signatures. Macquarie Ice Rink has been the training ground for Olympians and a cool escape from the summer heat for many little (and big) Sydneysiders since 1980. As part of AMP Capital's original plans, the facility was set to be torn down in January 2020. According to News Corp, the shopping centre's $195 million redevelopment would include improved links from the shopping centre to the train station and bus interchange as well as a public plaza, which would impact the space where the ice rink is currently located. After first revealing the rink's demolition in a press release earlier this week — which revealed its lease would finish at the end of January next year — the ice rink's owners have welcomed AMP Capital's announcement, but note that the site hasn't been rescued yet. "This is the first step in what could be a very long battle to save Macquarie Ice Rink," said Dr Frank Gregg in a statement. "It shows what people power can do and I would like to thank the community for their overwhelming support. I would urge everyone to now contact AMP and tell them that an Olympic-size ice rink at the Macquarie Centre is a must now and into the future." https://www.facebook.com/macquarieicerink/posts/2513306518686394 The initial news of Macquarie Ice Rink's demolition was a case of particularly bad timing, with the ice rink given a considerable upgrade just last year. "We recently spent millions of dollars refurbishing the ice rink and laying new ice for the athletes and the public," Dr Gregg originally revealed. In his latest statement, he explained that "there is no way I would have spent $3.5 million dollars upgrading the rink if I expected it to close on January 31, 2020". For those eager to provide their thoughts on the potential revamp, Macquarie Centre will display plans on level three of the shopping centre during the development application process — and will make staff available to discuss the proposal from 10am–1pm on Saturday, January 19, 11am–2pm on Monday, January 21 and 5–8pm on Thursday, January 24 as part of AMP Capital's feedback process. While the situation plays out, you still have at least 12 months to visit the Macquarie Ice Rink, which is open to the public at various times throughout the week and all-day on Sunday, as well as for disco sessions on Friday nights. While Macquarie Ice Rink was originally slated for closure on January 31, 2020, we'll keep you updated with changes as the situation progresses.
Each January, as we recover from the chaotic buzz of the holiday season and the temperatures hit record highs, the city comes into its most vibrant, colourful form with the three-week carnival that is Sydney Festival. The country's biggest annual arts fest transforms our city into a creative playground, filling the summer days and nights with a generous helping of culture — from innovative dance shows to mind-blowing circus and thought-provoking theatre. The best bit? Getting your culture on at Sydney Festival doesn't have to put a dent in the old wallet. With a panoply of offerings that are absolutely gratis, there's bound to be a free event that's right up your alley. To help you make the most of what's on offer, we've highlighted ten of the best free events — from talks and workshops to art exhibitions — on the 2018 program. While all of these events are delightfully cost-free, some require online registration, so hurry on over to the festival website to guarantee your spot. If you can only squeeze in a few shows this summer, make sure at least one of these is on your list.
Art exhibitions are fleeting, gracing walls and halls for just days, weeks or months at a time, then moving elsewhere or never being seen again. The Lume, Melbourne's multi-sensory digital art gallery, is also set to be a brief addition to Australia's cultural scene. The venue opened in 2021, and has now announced that it will shut its doors in 2026, after deciding not to extend its lease at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Whether you're an art lover based in the Victorian capital or elsewhere around the country, you've now got just over a year — before January 2026 — to head by. Until early December 2024, Leonardo da Vinci — 500 Years of Genius is filling The Lume with a tribute to the iconic artist. Then, come Boxing Day 2024, the site is bringing back its Vincent van Gogh exhibition, complete with The Starry Night projected large, taking over an entire room; the immersive Sunflower room, where golden petals stretch as far as the eye can see; an immersive cafe inspired by the artist's Café Terrace at Night; and more. "The Lume Melbourne's lease at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre was up for renewal in January 2026, and we have made the decision to not extend the lease beyond that time. This decision, made in alignment with our parent company Grande Experiences, reflects our ambition to explore new directions and technologies that build on our success here in Melbourne," said the team behind the gallery in a statement. "Since opening in November 2021, The Lume Melbourne has become a beloved cultural destination, inviting audiences to experience art in an inclusive, accessible and engaging way. We are incredibly proud of what's been achieved over the past three years." "Looking forward, The Lume is excited to embrace new technologies that deepen connections with our audiences and will transform the way visitors engage with art and culture. This evolution will guide us toward opportunities best suited to support these creative possibilities," the crew continued. "We look forward to an unforgettable final year at MCEC and to sharing this exciting new chapter of The Lume as we continue to push the boundaries of how technology can bring art and culture to life." When it initially opened, The Lume launched with its immersive van Gogh showcase — making the exhibition's return a full-circle moment. Also wowing audiences at the gallery: a celebration of Monet and his contemporaries, a huge showcase dedicated to First Nations artists and, since early 2024, all things da Vinci. The Lume Melbourne is set to close at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, 5 Convention Centre Place, South Wharf, Melbourne, in January 2026. Leonardo da Vinci — 500 Years of Genius displays until Sunday, December 8, 2024. Van Gogh at The Lume opens on Thursday, December 26, 2024. Head to the venue's website for tickets and further information. Images: Morgan Sette / Miles Noel Photography / Grande Experiences.
Behold a rainbow of finely crafted ceramics in a rainbow of colourful finishes at this Mosman store for Mud Australia. Mud's designs are clean and simple with a Scandinavian influence, which results in bowls, cups and carafes that are like trophies for your minimalist interior design dream home. Every item is made in the Sydney studio using porcelain clay sourced directly from France, so careful how you handle that precious porcelain when you're excitedly browsing the collection.
Since late March, Australians haven't been permitted to leave the country. For much of the past few months, we haven't been allowed to travel much further than our own homes, either. But, while one of those situations won't be changing anytime soon — other than the possible implementation of a travel bubble with New Zealand — the other is starting to ease in many Aussie states and territories. Despite the political rhetoric of recent months, opening Australia back up to Australian residents isn't as easy as it sounds. Indeed, with Victoria's COVID-19 case numbers increasing drastically in late June and early July, resulting in the reimplementation of stay-at-home requirements for all of metropolitan Melbourne for at least six weeks, relaxing interstate borders is proving particularly complex. Just where you can travel to depends on where you normally live and where you'd like to head — and if you're wondering what it means for your next road trip or local holiday, we've broken down the current restrictions for you state by state. Details in this article are correct as at Friday, July 17, and will be updated as new information is announced. [caption id="attachment_775040" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Port Stephens by Destination NSW[/caption] NEW SOUTH WALES Throughout Australia's response to the COVID-19 pandemic to-date, New South Wales was one of only two states that didn't impose any border restrictions upon domestic travellers — until now. Due to the rising case numbers in Victoria, NSW has closed the border between the two states for the first time in more than 100 years (the last time was in 1919 during the Spanish Flu). Effective since midnight on Tuesday, July 7, NSW has only closed its border with Victoria. Its borders remain open with all other Australian states and territories. Victorians wishing to enter NSW must apply for a border permit to travel from Victoria to NSW. To obtain a permit — which is valid for 14 days — you need to fall into a number of set categories, such as cross-border residents, students or those employed to provide critical services. Also, permits are not available to Victorian residents who are prevented from travelling due to public health restrictions, which means everyone living in metropolitan Melbourne and Mitchell Shire. Even with a permit, anyone who has been in Victoria in the 14 days before entering NSW will need to self-isolate for 14 days. You can do so at home — and the quarantine requirements apply not only to Victorians, but to NSW residents returning home. [caption id="attachment_751687" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lean Timms for Visit Canberra[/caption] AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY In the Australian Capital Territory, the border has also been closed to anyone travelling to the ACT from Victoria — unless you have an exemption. The closure came into effect at the same time as NSW's similar border restrictions. ACT residents can return home from Victoria, and must quarantine for 14 days; however, for everyone else, exemptions only apply in select circumstances: visiting a immediate family member who is critically ill or in palliative care, undertaking essential services work, attending a funeral of an immediate family member, providing urgent care to an immediate family member, receiving urgent medical care, and if you've left Victoria by air after transiting from another jurisdiction, but you did not leave the airport. The ACT does not have any restrictions in place for travellers from other Australian states and territories. VICTORIA Like NSW, Victorian has not closed its borders throughout Australia's response to the COVID-19 pandemic to-date. And, while other states and territories are closing off from Victoria, the state's borders are actually still open. That said, leaders of Australia's other states and territories have strongly advised that no one should be travelling to Victoria at present — and if you do, you may be required to quarantine on return to your home state. For Victorians looking to venture interstate, you aren't just restricted by the rules of whichever state or territory you'd like to travel to, but — if you live in metropolitan Melbourne and Mitchell Shire — by Victoria's public health restrictions. As part of the reintroduced stay-at-home limits in place from 11.59pm on Wednesday, July 8, Victorians in these areas are only allowed to leave home for one of four reasons: for work or school (if you can't do this from home), for care or care giving, for daily exercise or for food and other essentials. Going on a holiday anywhere — locally, regionally in Victoria or interstate — is definitely not permitted. [caption id="attachment_743607" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Whitehaven Beach by Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] QUEENSLAND From Friday, July 10, after much debate and discussion over the past few months, Queensland officially reopened its borders to interstate visitors from all states and territories — except Victoria, which is considered a COVID-19 hotspot. On Tuesday, July 14, the state added the Campbelltown City and Liverpool City local government areas in New South Wales to its hotspot list, too, which means anyone who has been in Victoria or those two NSW areas in the past 14 days cannot enter Queensland. People visiting from South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania, the Northern Territory, the Australian Capital Territory and other parts of NSW need to complete a border declaration form to obtain a Queensland border declaration pass. On it, you need to certify that you haven't travelled to Victoria or the aforementioned NSW spots in past 14 days — and the government has advised it'll be checking these statements, and that making a false statement will be an offence. And, you will need to agree to get tested for COVID-19 if you develop any symptoms within 14 days of arriving in Queensland. With the Queensland border closing back in March, the state has had a permit in place for some time for those wishing to cross the border; however previous permits issued before noon on Friday, July 3 are now invalid. Instead, everyone wanting to enter the state must apply for the aforementioned Queensland border declaration pass. If you have been in Victoria or the Campbelltown City and Liverpool City local government areas in New South Wales in the past 14 days, the state government advises that you should not come to Queensland. In general, you are not allowed to access or quarantine in the state, and you will be turned away at the border. Whether you live in the above areas or have visited them in the last fortnight, you'll only be allowed into Queensland if you receive an exemption "for essential specialist workers, as well as for health, legal or compassionate grounds", but Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk advises that "very few exemptions will be granted". If you do receive an exemption, you will be required to go into forced quarantine for 14 days, in a hotel, at your own expense. Queenslanders returning from Victoria, or the Campbelltown City and Liverpool City local government areas, will still be able to come home, but will also be required to go into forced quarantine for 14 days, in a hotel, at your own expense. [caption id="attachment_743719" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism WA[/caption] WESTERN AUSTRALIA At the height of Western Australia's COVID-19 restrictions, WA not only implemented a statewide border lockdown with the rest of the country, but internal travel restrictions within the state, barring travel from region to region. The latter have now largely been lifted for WA residents, who can mostly travel freely within the state — other than entering remote Aboriginal regions. Western Australia's statewide border lockdown is still in effect, however, with residents of all other states and territories banned from entering WA unless they fall into an exemption category, apply for a G2G Pass and, if approved, then self-isolate for 14 days. WA's roadmap to ease COVID-19 restrictions is currently in phase four — and, while removing the state's hard border was originally under consideration for phase six, which doesn't yet have a date, that plan was scrapped due to the situation in Victoria. At present, WA advises that "when an indicative date [for ending the border lockdown] is set in the future, it will be contingent on locally acquired infection rates in the eastern states. The WA hard border will only be removed when the WA Chief Health Officer is confident the spread of infection is controlled in the eastern states". [caption id="attachment_679107" align="alignnone" width="1920"] SATC[/caption] SOUTH AUSTRALIA After initially announcing in mid-June that it'd allow travellers from all interstate locations back in from Monday, July 20, South Australia has amended its plans in response to the situation in Victoria. As of midnight on Wednesday, July 8, it implemented a hard border with Victoria — only allowing Victorian residents to enter SA if they fall into the "essential traveller" category and agree to quarantine for 14 days. SA residents returning home from Victoria are still be permitted to enter the state, but also need to self-isolate for 14 days. Travel to SA from four Australian states and territories — Queensland, the Northern Territory, Tasmania and Western Australia — is already unrestricted and doesn't require a period of quarantine, although all visitors must receive pre-approval by completing the online Cross Border Travel Registration form. Travel to SA from New South Wales and the ACT is currently permitted, but only if travellers quarantine for a mandatory 14 days of self-isolation. All visitors must receive pre-approval by completing the online Cross Border Travel Registration form, too. [caption id="attachment_722075" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Thalia Haven for Tourism Tasmania.[/caption] TASMANIA All non-essential visitors to Tasmania are already required to quarantine for 14 days at a Tasmanian government accommodation facility — and, before travel, to complete a Tasmanian Arrivals Form. Exemptions are available on compassionate or medical grounds. Tasmania has not advised when these restrictions will come to an end. New rules also came into effect from 12am, Thursday, July 9, for people travelling from Victoria. A hard border has been implemented, and "any visitors who have spent time in Victoria in the 14 days prior to travel are not permitted to travel to Tasmania. If visitors come from Victoria to Tasmania, they will be turned back". Exemptions apply for essential travellers and for compassionate reasons. Tasmanian residents who have spent time in Victoria in the 14 days prior returning to the state will also be required to quarantine in government-provided accommodation for 14 days, too. [caption id="attachment_769946" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Australia[/caption] NORTHERN TERRITORY In mid-June, the Northern Territory announced that it would end all mandatory quarantine arrangements for travellers from interstate from Friday, July 17; however, as has proven the case in other states, the NT has adapted its plans in response to the situation in Victoria and some areas of NSW. Anyone travelling to the territory from an identified COVID-19 hotspot — if you live in one, or have been to or travelled through one in the past 14 days — must still undertake 14 days mandatory supervised quarantine at your own cost. All Australians from other states, and other areas in NSW, can visit without going into mandatory quarantine for 14 days. All travellers must complete a pre-arrival border crossing application form up to 72 hours before you arrive, regardless of where you're visiting from. 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: Great Barrier Reef by Tourism and Events Queensland
If you're a dweller of the lower north shore, don't mind some Vivid lights in your life but also struggle to bring yourself over the bridge, this year's festival of light, music and ideas has a few spectaculars for you. But really, even if you aren't lower north shore-based, you should listen up, too. For the first time, Luna Park has joined the festival program, expanding the LNS offering. Along with this new light precinct (which includes projecting your face onto the Luna Park face), Chatswood returns with a Brazil-inspired light market and Taronga Zoo's animals are immortalised in glowing larger-than-life installations. Every night of Vivid from 6pm, the waterfront amusement park transforms into an otherworldly kingdom of dazzling images. And entry, as always, is free. To help you get out and explore the new (and returning) Vivid sights, we've created a guide of some top installations and things to do at the autumnal light fest. EXPLORE A NEW VIVID PRECINCT In all of Vivid, there's only one installation you can ride and that's Phantasos. This artwork, which engulfs the Ferris wheel in light, colour and music, gets its name from the Ancient Greek god of surreal dreams. Meanwhile, Coney Island will provide the setting for the Spirit of Fun, a massive projection exploring Luna Park's history and possible future. As you wander around, keep an eye out for street performers, who'll be twirling and whirling about in illuminated costumes. Bus, train or ferry is the easiest way to travel, but, if you need to drive, then parking's available for a $10 flat rate, from 6pm, Sunday to Thursday. DANCE IT OUT AT A SILENT DISCO Add a little boogie to your Vivid adventures with an evening at the Quiet Riot Neon Boombox Truck, which you'll find on the midway at Luna Park. Every night from 6pm, a silent disco will kick off, organised by Playground Sounds and hosted by Luna Park's resident DJs. Prepare your shapes, pop on a set of noise-cancelling headphones and get ready for a deluge of singalong and dancefloor classics. Whatever your tastes, you should find tunes to suit them — there are several channels to choose from. The Silent Disco is free with an Unlimited Rides Pass. SATE YOUR HUNGER WITH EATS AND VIEWS When all the Vivid excitement starts to make you peckish, refuel at Luna Park's various eateries. For old-school carny fast food, head to Helter Skelter to feast on hot dogs, dagwood dog and American-style burgers. Or, for fresh seafood, salads and pizza, take a seat in the Hungry Horse Diner. If you've got cash to splash, then treat yourself to a fancy feed — and dramatic Sydney Harbour views — at The Deck. Up the ante even more, and combine your meal and views with a ride on Phantasos with this Dine 'n' Ride package. [caption id="attachment_671534" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW.[/caption] LIGHT-SEE AWAY FROM THE CROWDS Right next to Luna Park, there's a lovely, roomy stretch of grass known as Bradfield Park. It's an excellent place to park yourself for an evening and spend a few hours gazing across the water at Vivid's installations — rather than racing from one to another, battling crowds. The Harbour Bridge is visible, up-close, from both its eastern and western sides. Further in the distance, you'll see Metamathemagical projected on the Opera House sails and backdropped by some more vibrant Circular Quay lights. Don't forget your picnic blanket, snacks and even your pooch, who's just as welcome to light-see from the park as you are. WANDER A LIGHT MARKET Chatswood Mall has been taken over by the Light Market, a complex of stalls made with recycled materials and inspired by both shanty towns and Star Wars. Over 20 vendors are peddling an array of international foods, including Sydney staples Black Star Pastry and Mary's. Along with the glowing market, Chatswood is host to light installations including Crank Zappa, a jellyfish made entirely of single-use plastic items that electrify when touched, and Future Scape, which has transformed The Concourse into an immersive solar system. Whether you're lower north shore-based or not, head to the area for a different view of Vivid. Check out all that's going on at Luna Park here.
Fulfil your food and cinema cravings in one go with this Moroccan-themed Good Food Month event from Surry Hills favourites Nomad and Golden Age Cinema. The two venues are coming together to offer a night packed with tasty food and a classic film. An Evening in Morocco will involve a next-level multi-course meal from the team behind Nomad and a showing of iconic Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman-starring drama Casablanca. Popping up at Nomad on Thursday, January 20, it will take place across two sessions, each of which will feature dinner and a screening of the movie. Highlights of the night's menu include barbecue prawns, baked chilli and honeycomb feta, lamb neck b'stilla and smoked eggplant. Classic starters like woodfired bread and olive tapenade will be on hand to ease you into the night, and a mille feuille with caramelised milk, dates and orange will round things out for dessert. The cherry on top of the evening will be a themed cocktail created by the Golden Age team for you to sip while you enjoy Casablanca. Top image: Nikki To
These days Twitter is known as two things: a medium on which to stalk Katy Perry and Justin Bieber, and a platform for #QandA Twitterati to descend into madness. With all the white noise out there it's easy to forget its true function — Twitter is a place for discussion. Thankfully this is a notion not lost on those fine folks at The Wheeler Centre. In their most recent project #discuss they're dragging Twitter philosophy into the real world, printing it on our city walls and starting important conversations nationwide. Thankfully it goes a lot deeper than catty #QandA tweets about Christopher Pyne's lizard face. The week-long project — which comes to an end tomorrow — has been launched in an effort to reignite a quality public discussion. From June 2, participants on Twitter were urged to put forward opinions or interesting thoughts on whatever topic they please. Paired with the hashtag #discuss, the initial thought was then open for exploration, disagreement, or extrapolation from the wider Twitter community. The best ten thoughts from each day have been printed on plaques and placed in fitting locations around Melbourne's CBD and inner suburbs. Right now Estelle Tang's culturally-weighted declaration that "Australians don't know how lucky they really are" lies knowingly outside Crown Casino. In what must be another blow for employees at The Age, a bleak assertion from writer Clementine Ford is currently plastered right out front of their city offices: "The old guard can fight as much as they like, but they can't stop the youth from one day taking over." Within a week of opening, Chris Lucas' latest venture Kong has already been hit with some Twitter truth: "Thanks to social media, place-dropping has become worse than name-dropping." It's a powerful concept, and one which gives abstract notions or debates an all-important physical weight. Arguments about boat people are no longer throwaway comments in cyberspace; they're staring you in the face on your way past the Immigration Department. An unsettling philosophical statement gives you some mind fodder on your way into Coles. Once again, this valued cultural institution is proving its intellectual importance. Disagree? Discuss! The project ends Sunday, June 8 so there's still a chance to get your words plastered on a city street. Even if you miss the deadline, don't worry, the discussion never really stops. @waouwwaouw at Crown Casino, Southbank. @clementine_ford at The Age offices on Spencer Street. @mattfitzy at Chris Lucas' new restaurant Kong on Church Street, Richmond. @uptosquat at Hosier Lane. @SophieMcAulay at Hungry Jacks on Russell Street. @MIFFofficial at The Classic Cinema in Elsternwick. @hamlwat at the Immigration Department. @Melbfoodandwine at Cumulus Inc. @tesslawley at Coles Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn. @AsherTreleaven at The Melbourne Club. Lead photo: @elissebaitz at Northside Records. All photos via The Wheeler Centre.
One Australian film festival has been delivering weird, wild and wonderful movies for 16 years now: the Sydney Underground Film Festival. Dedicated to strange and surreal cinema, it screens the kinds of flicks that don't usually turn up at your local multiplex — although, this year, the event itself is making the move to one such venue. 2022 marks a huge milestone for SUFF in two ways. Firstly, it's the fest's return to a physical event for the first time since 2019, thanks to a couple of pandemic-affected years. Secondly, SUFF is shifting to a new location. Accordingly, come Thursday, September 8–Sunday, September 11, Sydneysiders will want to flock to Event Cinemas George Street to watch everything from hilarious Pete Davidson-featuring horror satires through to the latest and greatest genre shorts. I Love My Dad will open SUFF 2022, telling a tale about an estranged father (played by Patton Oswalt, Gaslit) who catfishes his own son in an effort to reconnect. From there, highlights include new releases by a few mighty impressive filmmakers: closing night's Mona Lisa and the Blood Moon, the latest from A Girl Walks Home at Night's Ana Lily Amirpour, and Something in the Dirt, by The Endless and Synchronic's Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead. And, of course, there's the aforementioned Bodies Bodies Bodies — which not only features The King of Staten Island's Davidson, but also Dear Evan Hansen's Amandla Stenberg and Borat Subsequent Moviefilm: Delivery of Prodigious Bribe to American Regime for Make Benefit Once Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan Oscar-nominee Maria Bakalova. They star in a film that turns a party game into a slasher onslaught, and tears into not only its characters, but Gen Z and today's always-online world. Also on the in-cinema bill: Dual, the Aaron Paul (Westworld) and Karen Gillan (Avengers: Endgame)-starring new deadpan comedy by The Art of Self-Defense's Riley Stearns; On the Count of Three, Jerrod Carmichael's (Rothaniel) feature film debut as a director; and documentary I Get Knocked Down, about Chumbawamba singer Dunstan Bruce. Or, you can see the world premiere of horror flick Pig Killer, which is inspired by a true story; catch Norway's Sick of Myself, which also screened at this year's Cannes Film Festival; and check out a charity screening of Rhino by Ukrainian filmmaker Oleg Sentsov. Can't make it along in-person? Keen for SUFF to continue at home? The fest's online program will return from Monday, September 12–Sunday, September 25 as well.
It won't surprise you to learn that Australians love their wine. In fact, the National Wine Show is now celebrating its 50th anniversary, with each edition seeing an esteemed panel hand out trophies to vino deemed the best in the land. However, the same organisation is taking the opportunity to step up its offering, launching the inaugural National Wine Festival of Australia in Canberra. Held from Thursday, June 12–Sunday, June 15, this four-day event will toast Australian viticulture, with a stacked program featuring expert-led wine tastings, masterclasses, themed dinners and special events. Dedicated wine-lovers will relish the chance to sip on more than 900 award-winning wines under one roof, as the festival presents the best bottles from across the Canberra District wine region and the broader local dining scene. Though the name recognition of this wine region might not be as strong as others around the country, it's certainly on the up and up, as it's now home to 140 vineyards and 50 wineries. Set just a 35-minute drive from Canberra CBD, this easy-to-reach expanse of rolling hills specialises in cool-climate varieties, like reisling, pinot noir, shiraz and tempranillo. Some of the recommended spots for a sip include Clonakilla, Helm Wines, Mount Majura and Eden Road. As for the National Wine Festival of Australia, much of the program revolves around fascinating masterclasses held at the Hyatt Hotel Canberra. For example, beginners can join renowned wine educator Jenny Polack to learn the basics of wine styles and tasting techniques. You can also discover the wines of the future alongside expert Mark O'Callaghan, who'll explore the climatic challenges facing the industry, as well as evolving consumer tastes. For those who appreciate the depth of Mediterranean wines, Perth-based wine reviewer Erin Larkin takes visitors on a journey to the continent without leaving town, featuring sun-drenched reds and crisp coastal whites from France, Italy, Spain and Greece. There are also specific masterclasses for chardonnay lovers and Australian sparkling fans, helping you become an expert in blending, texture and aroma. With the festival's headline event remaining the National Wine Show, Thursday night sees trophies handed out at Parliament House. There are strictly limited tickets available, so if you can't snag a spot, you'll have the chance to sip on this year's best drops the following day. National Wine Show of Australia Chair of Judges Matt Harrop will reveal what earned each wine its trophy, while giving guests the chance to sample. The National Wine Festival of Australia runs Thursday, June 12–Sunday, June 15 at the Hyatt Hotel Canberra, 120 Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla. Head to the website for more information.
Coveted New York label Rag & Bone continues its foray into the Aussie fashion scene, opening the doors to its first Sydney store at Westfield Bondi Junction. The much-hyped launch marks the brand's third local outpost, following the Melbourne store openings in the last two years — one in the CBD and the other within Chadstone Shopping Centre. Sydneysiders now have an easy task getting their hands on Rag & Bone's celebrated threads, from ready-to-wear collections and those legendary denim pieces to its sought-after range of footwear, accessories and fragrances. The new store boasts over 130 square metres of space complete with floor-to-ceiling windows, the label's signature minimalist aesthetic is played against Versailles-style parquetry floorboards and a healthy dose of neon signage. The latest of Rag & Bone's film and photography works are displayed on screens throughout the store, art graces the walls and bespoke fixtures nod to the label's strong denim game. See also the customised phone charging stations, for shoppers on the go. First launched in New York in 2002, Rag & Bone now has 42 stores across the world, and is best known for its edgy, yet understated aesthetic and supremely wearable designs. Find Rag & Bone's new store at Shop 4077, Westfield Bondi Junction, 500 Oxford Street, Bondi Junction, Sydney.
The northern beaches has long been associated with sand, surf and sun. After all, this stretch of Sydney coastline is home to some of the country's most picturesque beaches. And, in buzzing Avalon, you can also track down fun-loving bars, boutique shops and ideal date-night spots. Yes, the locals may be known to rarely leave, but with so much on offer, it's easy to see why. You could happily spend a few days — or weeks — in Avalon going for leisurely walks, catching up with friends over coffee and forgetting about your worries by diving into the ocean. With the help of American Express, we've picked some of the top spots to visit around this neck of the woods — from lively Mexican restaurants to go-to florists and small shops stocking unique gifts. Whatever the occasion, Avalon has you sorted.
3D printing technology is a lot to get your head around, especially in regards to the science fiction-esque breakthroughs of the medical world. But in regards to improving your herb garden, 3D printing can lend a hand here as well. Like a family tree for plants, the new 3D Printed Aqueduct Planters have a built in trickle down irrigation system so you only need to soak the top plant in water and the rest will follow. The planter utilizes the connections between each planter as a method of transferring water and saturating the soil from the top planter to the lower plants. This is especially useful for air plants or plants that don’t need a lot of soil. The planter system can be set up in an array of configurations so you can construct your living wall to complement your living space. [via inhabit]
How do you like your crime stories? Podcasts? Audiobooks? Good ol' fashioned paperback novels? Or maybe do you prefer to hear about humanity's evils in person over a drink? That's the premise of Cocktails & Crime Stories, an in-person retelling of Sydney's historic crimes served with drinks and food at Paddo Inn for one night only. Hosted by Sydney Crime Historian Max Burns-McRuvie, who has hosted several crime retellings across Sydney, you'll step into 19th century Sydney with three cocktails inspired by the stories of the evening: the Bloody Berry Spritz, Eye-chee Martini and The Missing Cherry. While you sip, listen as your host tells you all about figures like the Pyrmont Bridge Stalker, the homicidal housewife of Botany Bay and the bigamist butcher of Sussex Street, from their evil deeds to their destination at the hangman's noose. No good story should be heard on an empty stomach, and you'll be able to snack on Italian canapés from Il Baretto, including homemade focaccia al rosmarino, fennel salami with seasonal fruit compote and rigatoni alla norma. It's all taking place on Monday, November 24, with arrivals from 6.30pm for a 7pm start. Tickets are $60 per person and include all food, drinks and ghoulish goosebumps you'll experience throughout the evening. For more information or to book tickets, visit the website.
Fancy infusing your usual Aussie Christmas with a touch of enchantment? Well, you'll find magic aplenty at The Grounds of Alexandria over the coming weeks, as it's transformed into an winter wonderland inspired by the just-released Disney flick, Frozen II. The already gorgeous setting now plays host to an other-worldly oasis, made up of a series of realms referencing those in the film. There's the wintery Crystal Lane, where you'll find dazzling white trees, and the autumnal Enchanted Forest with falling orange leaves. You'll also find plenty of snow, with flurries every day at 9am, 11am, 1pm and 3pm until December 24. Once you've finished exploring, you can head for plenty of sugary edible treats, including limited-edition Ice Queen cakes, snowflake cookies, rhubarb and plum tarts and gelato smoothies. Less sweet, but no less entertaining is the iced tea served in a pot with smoke. These treats will be available until January 29, 2020, when the Frozen II pop-up will disappear. The Grounds of Alexandria will also be functioning as normal during the pop-up, and the Garden Bar, Potting Shed and cafe will all be open.
If you remember UNKLE's debut album Psyence Fiction (1996), then chances are that like me, you could be thinking about hanging up those dancing shoes. It's almost 20 years since the release of the seminal debut and I know my joints are getting a bit creaky. Well fear not, UNKLE are bringing their new live show to the comfortably adult confines of the Sydney Opera House. The full band (in its latest incarnation anyway) replete with string section, will be taking over the Concert Hall with an array of LED screens, video projections and lights. They'll be performing both new and old material, in what will be a truly spectacular sensory and auditory experience. Founding member James Lavelle was a pioneer of the fusion of hip hop with classic breaks back in the mid-90s. As owner of the former Mo'Wax Records, he helped launch the careers of DJ Shadow, DJ Krush and Money Mark. His innovative approach to music has kept the UNKLE sound continually evolving and has led to many artist collaborations with the likes of Richard Ashcroft, Ian Brown, Thom Yorke, Mike D from the Beastie Boys, Badly Drawn Boy, both Mark Lanegan and Josh Homme from Queens of the Stone Age, and 3D from Massive Attack to name but a few, all lending their creative talents over the years. Last year's release of the acclaimed Where Did the Night Fall (2010) marked yet another change in direction for the group and displays influences as diverse as krautrock, psychedelia, techno, afrobeat, alongside their grass roots sample sound.
There's always something going on in Sydney's nightlife labyrinth, YCK Laneways. This September, the buzzing venues around York, Clarence and Kent streets are painting the town negroni red. To mark Negroni Week's 13th global celebration, the CBD precinct is teaming up with Italian aperitif, Campari, to bring Sydneysiders a month-long negroni festival. Across the month, participating venues throughout YCK Laneways will be slinging three creative spins on the world's best-selling classic cocktail, including a signature negroni, a non-alc take, and the bartender's choice. Wondering which bar to head to first? At PS40, they're known for unexpected cocktail concoctions that include their own house-made sodas. Around the corner at Since I Left You, hang out under the fairy lights in the bar's atmospheric courtyard, while soaking up live music on the Garden Stage. Or at Jolene's, you can enjoy a Nashville-style take on a bar, with live country and western gigs throughout the week. While you're exploring the bars and sipping your way through each cocktail variation, you'll also stumble across live jazz music, roving performers, a a chance to win prizes with every negroni purchase. Plus, the laneways will be lit up with Lightstream, a new public lighting artwork that transforms the area into an immersive playgrounds. It all leads up to the official Negroni Week — running Monday, September 22 to Sunday, September 28 — which raises proceeds for Campari's charity partner, the Slow Food Negroni Week Fund. This fund supports a range of scholarships, awards and grants, so you'll know every sip goes towards something greater. We've all seen the Italian aperitif on cocktail menus. But did you know the negroni — made with equal parts gin, sweet vermouth and Campari, stirred over ice and served with an orange slice — dates back to 1919? The cocktail was named after Count Camillo Negroni, who asked a bartender to strengthen his Americano by swapping soda water for gin. Over a century later, the negroni remains a global favourite, loved for its bitter, sweet and botanical flavours. So, if you're going to raise a glass this spring, make sure it's red — because there's no Negroni without Campari. YCK Laneways' Negroni Month runs throughout September 2025 at Burrow Bar, Cash Only Diner, Esteban, Kahii Kissaten, Button Bar, Kuro, Next Door, Papa Gedes, Roast Republic, Since I Left You, Stitch Bar, The Barber Shop, The Duke of Clarence, Vinabar, Jolene's, Little National Hotel, PS40, Uncle Ming's. Head to the website for venue maps and drink menus. Please remember to drinkwise.
Imagine a place where cheese reigns supreme, other than in your own kitchen. Imagine more than 100 different varieties on offer for the tasting. Imagine being able to sample whatever you liked from this dairy feast, too. And, picture just buying one ticket to devour all the cheddar, brie, camembert, raclette and whichever other cheeses take your fancy. Is this the real life? It isn't just a cheesy fantasy at Australian dairy festival Mould, which started making cheese-loving dreams come true in 2017. In 2024, it's not only returning — it's back for its biggest festivals yet, including adding a fifth city to its stops. As well as hitting up Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney and Perth, the event is heading to Adelaide as well. If you're a cheese fiend, then you'll know that there's only one suitable way to tuck into the beloved dairy product: all the time, or at least as much as possible. As presented by Revel — who are also the organisers of Pinot Palooza — that's an idea that Mould not only understands but encourages, celebrating the mild, hard and soft bites made by Australia's best cheese wizards. When it does so again this year, it'll serve up its cheese slices and bites from May–August. Running for either two or three days in each city, Mould will kick off in Brisbane in May as it has in past years, then travel to Melbourne in early June, plus Sydney at the end of July. As for Adelaide and Perth, they're both getting a Mould x Pinot Palooza combo — because cheese and wine are a fine pairing — with the fest arriving in South Australia in June and Western Australia in August. There won't just be a few cheeses on the menu at each stop. More than 100 artisan cheeses from around the country will be ready and waiting, spanning dairy from around 27 producers. In past years, that lineup has included Bruny Island Cheese Co, Grandvewe, Milawa Cheese, Yarra Valley Dairy and Stone & Crow, as well as Section 28, Red Cow Organics, Nimbin Valley Cheese, Dreaming Goat, Long Paddock Cheese and Second Mouse Cheese. Alongside unlimited tastings of Australia's best cheeses — snacking on samples is included in your ticket, but you'll then pay extra to purchase slices and slabs to take home with you — the fest features cooking demonstrations, masterclasses and talks. Courtesy of 2024's The Grate Cheese Commission, a range of cheeses created solely for the fest will also tempt your tastebuds. This year's events will include more of the foodstuffs that pair extremely well with cheese, too, such as olives, crackers and conserves. It wouldn't be a cheese festival without beverages to wash it all down with, so expect a bar serving Aussie wines, whisky, vodka, gin, beer, cider, cocktails and sake, all of which match nicely to a bit of cheese. Archie Rose and Hartshorn will be among the tipples featured. Unsurprisingly, Mould is mighty popular. In 2023, attendees tucked into a one million samples across three cities, and also took home over 8.5-tonnes of Aussie dairy products. So, if this the kind of event that your cheese dreams are made of, you'll want to nab an early-bird ticket ASAP. Mould — A Cheese Festival 2024 Dates: Friday, May 24–Sunday, May 26 — Mould Brisbane, John Reid Pavilion, Brisbane Showgrounds Friday, June 7–Saturday, June 8 — Mould x Pinot Palooza Adelaide, Queens Theatre, Adelaide Friday, June 28–Saturday, June 29 — Mould Melbourne, Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton Friday, July 26–Sunday, July 28 — Mould Sydney, Carriageworks, Eveleigh Friday, August 9–Sunday, August 11 — Mould x Pinot Palooza Perth, Centenary Pavilion, Claremont Showgrounds Mould — A Cheese Festival tours Australia from May 2024. For more information or to buy tickets, head to the event's website.
Last week it was Thom Yorke giving other people’s songs a spin over in the sweaty Danceteria of Goodgod, and now the Australian Chamber Orchestra will be giving some Radiohead a go on the beer-stained stage of The Standard. Tacking “Underground” onto the end of their name as part of their transformation into what Time Out New York has recognised as one “badass classical band”, the ACO will flex their artistic muscles performing a set-list that stretches from Radiohead, David Bowie and REM to Paganini, Bach and Vivaldi. The musical metamorphosis will be overseen by founder, curator and front-woman Satu Vanska, who will be demonstrating her own prowess on the strings of the $2 million Stradivarius violin she was gifted last year. Surf cinematographer and visual artist Jon Frank has assembled an audio-visual installation to be projected onto The Standard’s walls before the gig. It might not imbue this space with the majestic cathedral-like ambience of the Opera House Concert Hall, but should be pretty enthralling in its own right.
It's not only the playing of tennis that works up a healthy appetite — it's also the watching of it. But, when you're at the Australian Open, surrounded by fellow ravenous spectators in 40-degree heat, working out where to get a decent bite can be a challenge. So, we thought we'd save you some trouble by tracking down the best places to eat in and around Rod Laver Arena this year. Whether you want to stick to the village or roam over to the CBD or Richmond, here are some spots to try. And if you're visiting from out of town, you'll also get to tick a few of Melbourne's best places to eat off your list. [caption id="attachment_704328" align="alignnone" width="1920"] 400 Gradi[/caption] GRAND SLAM OVAL, AUSTRALIAN OPEN VILLAGE Grand Slam Oval – located within the Australian Open village – is a gathering place for pop-ups, food trucks and bars. You'll find OTT kebabs by Biggie Smalls, Mexican street food by Collins Street's Mamasita, burgers by Neil Perry's Burger Project, some of the world's best slices from 400 Gradi, and, from Beijing Betty, Chinese fusion snacks created exclusively for the event. There are also bars for drinkers of all kinds, including one dedicated to champagne, one to beer and another to Aperol Spritz. Ideal if you don't have much time before the coin toss or can't be bothered to leave the village between matches. HARLOW, RICHMOND If you're looking for a new adventure, settle in at Harlow, a pub that, in December, took over the space then belonging to the Great Britain. It's on Church Street, Richmond. Whether you hang out in the dining room or head into the beer garden, you'll be starting with creative bites, like mini crab doughnuts and duck and bacon sausage rolls. The mains list is more about decadent takes on classics: there's a steak sandwich loaded with maple bacon and Swiss cheese, a smoked beer hot dog and a behemoth vegan burger. It's open from midday right through until late. ARBORY AFLOAT, SOUTHBANK Cool off by the Yarra at Arbory Afloat, at 69-metre-long floating bar that, since 2015, has set up on the river every spring, ready to get you through long hot days and balmy evenings. Downstairs is a citrus-and-fig grove, inspired by the Cinque Terre, while upstairs is dotted with day beds. Wherever you are, you'll be sipping on blood orange Aperol spritzes, watermelon sangria and piña coladas, and tucking into Neapolitan-style wood-fired pizzas, seafood platters and salads. Arbory Afloat is at 2 Flinders Walk – just a 15-minute walk down the Yarra from the Australian Open. THE CORNER HOTEL, RICHMOND Two years ago, this Melbourne live music stalwart scored a rooftop refurbishment and a tasty new menu. Thankfully, it hasn't lost any of its down-to-earth good vibes. If you haven't caught enough sun at the Open, go straight upstairs to relax in the fresh air; otherwise, stay downstairs where many a band has played into the wee hours. Either way, the food offerings include fried chicken, roast chicken roulade, the Corner parma and the Patti Smith beef burger. Craft beers a-plenty are on-tap. The Corner is a 15-minute walk from the Open. GAZI, CBD Weekend attendees can factor in a little trip to the Greek Islands at Gazi. This Hellenic eatery is hosting yum cha every Sunday, from midday till 3pm. The dishes have their roots in Mediterranean cuisine, but pay homage to Chinese, too. Among them are spanakopita gyoza, feta honey sesame spring rolls and sweet bread filled with lamb. A reasonable $49 buys a ten-course banquet and, for $35, you can add bottomless cocktails. Gazi is at 2 Exhibition Street in the CBD – 15 minutes from the action. FEAST OF MERIT, RICHMOND Fuel up before you hit the court at Feast of Merit, on Swan Street, around a 20-minute walk from the Rod Laver Arena. Among street art, vintage furniture and hanging greenery, you'll be feasting on hearty, Middle Eastern-influenced brekkies, such as börek, a vegetarian dish of corn fritters, poached egg, garlic yoghurt, feta and dukkah, or smoked ocean trout with asparagus, potato rosti and sour cream. For hardcore ticket holders, it's hard to knock back the büyük kahvalti, a big breakfast piled with eggs, sucuk sausage, haloumi, spinach, heirloom cherry tomatoes and flatbread. It's also open for dinner if you're looking for something post-match. [caption id="attachment_636986" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Emily Blake[/caption] CUMULUS INC., CBD Take a rest from the heat, grit and grunts in a low-lit corner at Cumulus Inc., a dreamy escape designed to soothe your every sense. Owned and run by chef Andrew McConnell (Builders Arms Hotel, Cutler & Co. and Supernormal), this all-day eatery celebrated its tenth anniversary last year and has been stocking up on Good Food hats since 2010. Begin with beef tartare, tarragon and anchovy toast, then move onto snapper with mussels, fennel pollen and dill oil. There's also a tasting menu, which changes daily. Cumulus Inc. is at 45 Flinders Lane – 15 minutes' walk from the tennis. Top image: Visit Victoria.
This rooftop is a particularly pleasant surprise. On top of what looks like a very dingy, average city pub is a pretty decent-sized tiled rooftop, high enough that you really feel you're up in the air. Huff your way up the stairs to emerge in the bright sun and reward yourself with a glass of champers.
Boasting programs where anything and everything can and does happen, fringe festivals are an ode to leaping out of your comfort zone, revelling there and never wanting to leave. New South Wales' largest independent arts fest, Sydney Fringe Festival fits that bill perfectly. Each year, it amasses a jam-packed lineup that's never the same twice, and splashes its playful vibe all around the Harbour City — and, based on its just-announced first highlights for 2023, that's firmly in order again this year. The full 2023 program hasn't be revealed as yet, but will arrive in advance of the fest's Friday, September 1–Saturday, September 30 dates. For now, however, it has dropped details about a number of headliners, as well as a brand-new hub. First, the shows. Musical-comedy The Marvellous Elephant Man the Musical is one instant standout, and will make its Sydney debut at Sydney Fringe. It takes the story of Joseph Merrick, which has been seen on-screen and on the stage before, and turns it into an all-singing, all-dancing spectacle — and it's playing the fest before making its way to Broadway and the West End. Also on the bill is GODZ, which heads to Ancient Greece, hangs out with gods such as Cupid and Hercules, and sends them on an odyssey with storytelling, circus and laughs. Or, for audiences of all ages, there's CIRCUS — The Show, which even includes a clown with a six-foot balloon. [caption id="attachment_905021" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mali Cohen[/caption] Sydney Fringe's 2023 lineup spans the return of pop-up musical-theatre club Lola's Piano Bar, Young Henrys' Best Served Loud live music series hitting Parramatta for the first time and free morning concerts courtesy of proven favourite Acoustic Ritual at George Place, too. To kick things off, Fringe Ignite will take over The Rocks with an opening-night shindig, while a closing-night party on Kensington Street will bookend the fest with a celebration of Caribbean culture. And, this year's fest features a big new spot to hang out thanks to the Spiegeltent Festival Garden at the EQ Showring in Moore Park. The Entertainment Quarter will host Sydney Fringe's big top, which is where The Marvellous Elephant Man the Musical will entertain audiences — and 300-seater circus dome The Vault, which'll be home to GODZ. Elsewhere around town, the Sydney Fringe Sideshow will also be back in The Rocks, and Parramatta's Riverside Theatre will turn into a pop-up cabaret club headlined by Big Thick Energy. If that sounds huge already, it is, but that's always the case. The festival also released an impact report about the event, as produced by Hawkridge Entertainment Services, which found that the 2022 festival generated over $36 million in economic impact for the city of Sydney and produced over 400 full time jobs. "Each year Sydney Fringe Festival has gone from strength to strength, hosting big international names and nurturing local talent. Over my ten years as Festival Director and CEO, I've seen Sydney Fringe Festival develop into a world-class event and I'm so proud of what our community has created," said Kerri Glasscock, announcing both the 2023 lineup highlights so far and the impact report. "Globally recognised for our unique festival model, we've established game changing activations and pilot projects that have driven lasting change within the city, and this new report is evidence of the vital role Fringe and our local artists play in Sydney's economy." "This 2023 program is set to be better than ever, kicking off with Fringe Ignite and seeing the return of the fabulous Spiegeltent as part of our exciting precinct takeover at Entertainment Quarter." Sydney Fringe Festival 2023 will take place from Friday, September 1–Saturday, September 30, with the event's full program set to be announced in the coming months. For further information in the interim, head to the fest's website.
Walk into Penny's Cheese Shop, and you'd think you'd died and gone to cheese heaven. With two fridges stocked to the brim with creamy, stinky, funky and hard cheeses this little unassuming fromagerie is one of the best in Sydney. Why, you ask? Because of Penny. While the beauty of the fit-out is only outdone by the cheeses on show, Penny Lawson is the reason you should come to Penny's Cheese Shop. Whatever you're looking for, or even if you're not looking for anything at all, you'll leave with a cheese that is your new favourite. Almost everything, like nearby Whole Beast Butchery, is cut to order. Little tasters are on offer most days, too, which should make it even easier to find a cheese you like. With an emphasis on education and service, Lawson, a self-professed "curd-nerd", will guide you through her selection of local and international cheeses with humour and excitement. Lawson's commitment to local produce doesn't end with cheese, either, the shop also showcases honey from the Blue Mountains, Papanui eggs and bread from Pyrmont's Pioik Bakery to accompany your cheese. Aside from the service and the cheese, Lawson's golden toasties, which quickly achieved cult status, are another reason you'll return to the shop again and again and again. With cheese both on the inside and the outside of the Pioik bread, as well as a rotating range of fillings — from kimchi to smoked wagyu and jalapeños — we think they might just be the best in the city. Images: Kimberley Low.
In the heart of Sydney's centre is a haven of enthralling cuisine: Nel, the passion project of owner and Chef Patron Nelly Robinson. Described as a "culinary odyssey" Nel's constantly evolving 11-course degustation menu is crafted to elevate modern Australian fine dining experiences. Nel's exquisitely formed dishes show a delicacy, imagination and precision of technique that quickly sets the place apart. Each course is plated to precision under the watchful eye of Chef Nelly who started his career as a kitchen hand when only a teenager at the Michelin-starred restaurant Northcote (UK). He has built his vast culinary experience working in restaurants across the UK and abroad — including a stint at the Michelin-starred Lancashire chef Nigel Howarth — before earning his spot as one of Australia's top personalities and opening Nel in March 2015. [caption id="attachment_893950" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Gardens By The Bay. Nel. Supplied[/caption] Located in an underground bunker in an otherwise drab stretch of Wentworth Avenue, Nel is a subdued but stylish space with exposed brickwork and an open kitchen. The set menu ($185PP, wine pairing $165PP, non-alc pairing $85PP) is a prix fixe affair that changes periodically. Each menu concept created by Chef Nelly tells a unique story with engaging and thought-provoking elements. The innovative dishes serve as a masterclass on combining different textures into a harmonious whole. There's a touch of Philippa Sibley in the exquisite presentation and maybe even a bit of Heston's playfulness to Robinson's cooking. Every dish brings at least one touch of left-field inspiration, be it an unexpected crunch or a surprising citrus zing. If you are opting for the wine pairing, drops are carefully calibrated to match the food while building on the profile of the partnering wine. As with everything at Nel, it is clear a lot of thought has gone into these pairings. With exemplary, well-informed service to guide you through a heady menu, Nel is exceptional from start to finish. Originally published in 2015. Updated March, 2023.
The atmosphere of a writer's den, insanely long opening hours, fun and flavorsome food, a drinks menu that will keep even the most inspired drinker guessing, and not even the slightest degree of pretension. In short, Hemingway's must be one of the best spots in town right now. And it's perhaps not where you would expect it to be. A far cry from the back lanes of Darlinghurst or even the fame of King Street, this bar is firmly situated on Manly's main strip, right across from the beach. Despite this, it's about as dissimilar from a tourist trap as you can imagine. For a start, the prices. The house cocktails are $15 and the suggested mixers, almost good enough to be cocktails themselves, are a mere $10. Hemingway's Cup is the ten to one favourite cocktail, spotted in the hands of almost every lady in the place. It's gentle mix of Hendrick's gin, rose and apple tea, sugar, and spice, served in a tea cup and saucer with slices of cucumber alongside. While it's very good, my pick would be the Miffy: house-infused vanilla rum, Falernum, orange, lemon and egg white whisked into a cloud-like dream. On a summer's day, the Creaming Soda might be more your style, with vodka, crème de cassis, home-made lemonade, wild berry foam and a paper cocktail umbrella. As far as mixer ideas go, Aperol and Fanta isn't a bad choice, and neither is Rum, Spicy Bitters and Ginger Beer. Both pack a flavoursome punch. The food, too, picks up on this childhood-made-tastier theme. From the bar menu, the Corn ($6) with lime butter, black salt and finely grated Manchego is reminiscent of one of the Norfolk's best menu items. Of the sliders , we're told that the Beef ($14 for two, $26 for four) is the best pick and it definitely lives up to the hype. With cheese, bacon, barbeque sauce, mayo and pickles, it's the burger you wish fast food joints served. The Chilli Dog ($8), with a smoked frankfurt, chilli con carne, mustard, jalapenos and cheese, rounds the meal off nicely. For two, that is. While dessert might sound like a stretch, these offerings demand to be taken up. We tried a new one, titled simply Milo ($10). It turned out to be a rich chocolate marquise with vanilla ice cream to the side, balanced on a soil of Milo and Coco Pops, alongside a smear of salted caramel, and topped with milk foam. In other words, a stoner's dream. It's worth mentioning that these are only two of the many menus on offer. Hemingway's serves breakfast and lunch and, between Monday and Saturday, offers a full, fancy dinner upstairs. In a place this good, I suspect that I'll be an expert on all of those menus within the month. [nggallery id=117]
Australians do many cuisines very well. Arguably, Mexican isn't one of our strong suits. Whether it's our geographical distance or aversion to spice, Australian-Mexican food can often pale in comparison to the bold flavours the authentic dishes are known for. San Pancho, a taquería in Marrickville, aims to subvert this stereotype. The taquería opened its doors in June 2024 with one premise: cooking food the way it's eaten day-to-day in Mexico. The founders chose Marrickville from a line-up of Sydney suburbs for its authenticity. "It's a neighbourhood where food is part of everyday life, not something overly polished or staged. San Pancho belongs in that kind of setting. Somewhere casual and grounded, where substance matters more than spectacle," says co-owner and chef, Roberto Garcia. View this post on Instagram A post shared by San Pancho Taqueria (@sanpancho_taqueria) The restaurant takes its name from a beach town in western Mexico, adding to the laidback and warm energy of the communal dining setting. "These are the flavours of our childhood, the dishes from our Abuela's table, and the spirit of the taquerías that bring people together every day." Roberto studied Culinary Arts in Puebla, Mexico, and grew up with a principle of Mexican food: to be simple yet bold. "That background shapes everything I cook, with a focus on flavours that feel true to Mexico, without overexplaining or dressing them up for trend. What I do is straightforward: cook real Mexican food, the way it's meant to taste." What are the flavours that define Mexican cuisine? While we may assume that it's all heat and power, Roberto shares that Mexican food is actually about balance. "Acidity, heat, richness, freshness. Each element has its place. Mexican food isn't about overpowering flavours, but about how they work together." San Pancho's enchiladas suizas, Roberto's most recommended menu item, are just this. Comforting, straightforward, and all about balance rather than complexity. If you want to impress your dinner guests with your own Mexican food that tastes straight out of Oaxaca, these are the staples to keep in your pantry, according to Roberto. View this post on Instagram A post shared by San Pancho Taqueria (@sanpancho_taqueria) Fresh herbs Roberto recommends using fresh herbs to garnish your Mexican dishes. While coriander, oregano and salt may come to mind instantly, one spice you may not have in your pantry is epazote. The traditional herb (also named Mexican tea) is used in chilli sauces and Mexican bean dishes. It'll add a strong blend of mint, citrus and anise to your dishes, creating that unmistakable Mexican taste. Dried chillies A range of chillies (not just Sriracha) is a must for authentic Mexican flavour. Morita, guajillo, pasilla, ancho and arbol chillies all add the Mexican heat and smoky flavours you know and love. Each brings its own balance of sweetness, depth and heat, forming the backbone of countless traditional salsas, garnishes and marinades. Handmade tortillas Store-bought tortillas make a good substitute for busy people, but handmade tortillas will elevate your Mexican cuisine. Authentic tortillas are made of flour or corn, salt, and oil (or fat). The simple flavour of the crispy dough will make your flavours and spices stand out even more than pre-packaged tortillas. "With those basics," says Roberto, "you can already cook food that feels genuinely Mexican. It's less about having everything and more about using a few things properly." If you're ready to start cooking more authentic Mexican foods and flavours, Roberto recommends experimenting with a simple salsa roja (a smoky, tomato-based salsa) or salsa verde (a lime-centric green salsa). "It's where Mexican cooking really begins, and it teaches heat control, balance, and restraint." By investing a little more time in cooking and sourcing these pantry staples, your Mexican will taste more elevated than your usual burrito night. If you find yourself stuck, San Pancho's in Marrickville is always there to scratch the itch.
Usually when we all encounter fog, it's hanging there in the sky, misting things up and reducing visibility. But when London-based, world-renowned food artists and multi-sensory design studio Bompas & Parr head Down Under for their first-ever Australian sensory installation, the fog will be considerably different. This mist will be fruit-flavoured, for starters, and it'll be edible. If you're intrigued by weird, wonderful, creative and inventive experiments with food — and with the senses in general — then Bompas & Parr's name should be familiar. Sam Bompas and Harry Parr first garnered attention with their jellies, and then whipped up a 200-course dinner party, unleashed an edible fireworks display, barbecued using real molten lava and served up anatomical whisky tastings. Also on their resume: bespoke cocktails based on your DNA, a feast where diners had to kill their own meal and non-melting icy poles. Yes, tastebud-friendly mist mist fits right in. [caption id="attachment_851679" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ann Charlott Ommedal[/caption] We've all heard of pea soup fog, of course — but no, that won't be what you're tasting at Bunjil Place in Narre Warren in Melbourne. Rather, the consumable mist will form part of a flavoured fruit weather installation, and will swirl around oversized food sculptures laid out in a garden. And, there'll be three different varieties seeping through the air each and every day. The aim: to unleash some 'fruit weather' upon the Victorian capital, and to highlight the City of Casey's food heritage. When you're not thinking about horror movies like The Fog and The Mist, you're bound to be contemplating food while you're wandering around these giant versions of it, all with mist seeping out of the bottom. Well, we expect so at least, given that the flavoured fog is a world-first. Everyone keen to experience this hopefully delicious haze will find it lurking around Bunjil Place thanks to a free event called Casey Cornucopia, which'll run from June 24–July 17. Over that 24-day period, there'll be tours explaining how the garden installation came about, too — because it is really is the kind of thing that'll leave you with questions — plus parties, dinners and art. You'll also be able to hit up a food hub that brings together local farmers, growers, artisans, sustainability gurus and artists for a series of daily talks, demonstrations, samples and workshops. Casey Cornucopia will pop up at Bunjil Place, 2 Patrick NE Dr, Narre Warren, Victoria, from June 24–July 17. Images: supplied by Bunjil Place and Bompas & Parr.
On Tuesday, a landmark decision was made that will affect hundreds of thousands of Australians. The Fair Work Commission (FWC) has announced that discounted junior pay rates will no longer apply to young Aussies, with workers aged 18 to 20 now entitled to salaries reflective of those received by their older coworkers. This means that starting from December 2026, an estimated half a million employees will be entitled to a pay rise. Specifically, the ruling dictates that young employees are required to have at least six months of experience to be eligible for the rates, and employees aged 17 and below will still be paid on junior rates. Said discounts are based on the historical precedent that young employees incur training costs to offset their inexperience, and that businesses have historically been incentivised to hire younger employees because they'd have to pay them less. [caption id="attachment_1088266" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Getty Images[/caption] Typically, young people in Australia get their start in hospitality, fast food, pharmaceutical and retail industries, and responses within those industries have been mixed. According to the Australian Retail Council (ARC), one in eight Australians gets their first job in retail, and in a statement, ARC Ceo Chris Rodwell said that while the ARC welcomes the FWC's decision, it "does add another layer of cost at a time when many retailers are dealing with a cost-of-doing-business crisis." The ruling was set in motion in 2024 by an application from the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association (SDA). Following the ruling, SDA National Secretary Gerard Dwyer said, "It may take longer than we would have liked, but the principle has been established that no longer will 18-year-olds be treated as second class citizens," citing that 18-year-old employees are old enough to vote, enlist in the armed forces and to drive, adding the decision was "up there with the introduction of equal pay for women in the 1970s." View this post on Instagram A post shared by SDA SA/NT (@sda_sa_nt) While the added cost for businesses cannot be overlooked, this decision will go a long way to support young Australians struggling to make a start amidst the cost-of-living crisis. It will take some time to go into full effect, though, with the rates set to increase five percent each year until 2029 until they match adult rates. Upon completion, 18-year-olds will be entitled to 70 percent of the adult pay rate, 19-year-olds to 80 percent and 20-year-olds to 90 percent. Like what you see? Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these straight to your inbox.
Sydney has lit up once again with its annual festival of lights, music and ideas. Even with the sudden cold, Vivid Sydney has got us getting out from under the doona and exploring our city. The CBD's three-kilometre Vivid Light Walk, spanning precincts at Darling Harbour, Barangaroo, Luna Park and Circular Quay (including an interactive playground for kidults), has a total of 50 large-scale projections. Plus, there are additional happenings taking place at Taronga Zoo and Chatswood and 15 light installations within the Royal Botanic Garden, including an immersive field of 500 fireflies. Yep, it's the biggest Vivid yet. And while it's a must-do every year for locals and tourists alike, battling through the crowds, unfortunately, comes as part of the package. If the hubbub is a bit too much, but you still want to enjoy the sights, American Express has got the spot. You can find the American Express rooftop lounge atop the Overseas Passenger Terminal in Circular Quay. Once there, you can lounge about, drink in hand, and take in all the surrounding lights, without elbowing your way through the masses. Located on Cruise Bar's rooftop, the exclusive lounge is aglow with blue lights and starry night projections, immersing you in a neon cosmos. Along with feeling as if you're part of a light installation, with the bright blue wash over the entire space, the lounge has some of the best Vivid views, including spectator-favourite the Sydney Opera House's sails and the glittering harbour beyond. The interior has ceiling-to-floor glass for uninterrupted views, with a selection of barstools, higher tables and lower, cosier seating. Meanwhile, outside, you'll find chairs aligned with Vivid vistas. The bar has drinks galore — bubbly, wine, beer, a couple of cocktails and a range of spirits. So, grab a drink and nab a spot next to a heater on the balcony or get cosy on one of the many comfy chairs inside the luminous lounge — Vivid views don't get much better than this. From here, you'll see LA-based Chinese American artist and filmmaker Andrew Thomas Huang's Austral Flora Ballet dancing across the Opera House sails; the 'symphony of beams that play across the city skyline' that is City Sparkle; the MCA's facade lit up by Claudia Nicholson's Let Me Down; an underwater wonderland at Customs House; and, of course, a neon Sydney Harbour Bridge. Plus, as you ride the escalator up to the lounge, you'll get an up-close look at Celestial Pancake — a fibre-optic suspended light installation simulating the night sky. These exclusive, high-up views are free for American Express cardholders. Plus, you can also get $5 back when you spend $30 or more at the bar — just save the offer to your Amex card in the lounge's 'tap and save kiosk'. But perhaps best of all, you don't even need an American Express card to get in. Non-cardholders can register here to gain complimentary access to the lounge from 8pm onwards — simply show your confirmation email at the door. Whether you're kicking off your night here or dropping in midway through your Vivid tour for some relief from the cold (and crowds), the American Express lounge is your haven in the centre of all things Vivid. Gaze upon uninterrupted, panoramic views while sipping on a glass of vino and snacking on oysters, cheeses and charcuterie, Lebanese chicken wings and flatbreads with dip. Plus, DJs will also be playing on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. The Amex Vivid Lounge will be open every night of Vivid — from Friday, May 24 to Saturday, June 15 — between 5.30–10.30pm. To get your name on the list, head over here. When you need a break from the crowds but not the lights this Vivid season, American Express has your back. Gain access to the American Express Vivid Lounge for free — even if you don't yet have an American Express card. All you have to do is sign-up here. Images: Kimberley Low.
The Art Gallery of NSW has announced the finalists for the 2016 Archibald Prize — and this year's got some good'uns. This is the 95th year for the highly sought-after portraiture award.Considered the "who's who of Australian culture", portraits entered into the prize generally depict notable Australians, from politicians and celebrities to artists and athletes. This year's finalists include Natasha Bieniek's oil painting of Wendy Whiteley (above), Clara Adolphs' portrait of actor Terry Selio, Betina Fauvel-Ogden's painting of MasterChef's George Calombaris (which is also the winner of the Packing Room Prize) and — our personal favourite — Carla Fletcher's portrait of fashion icon Linda Jackson. Seriously, look at those colours. [caption id="attachment_579238" align="alignnone" width="455"] Carla Fletcher, Twin souls, Linda Jackson, mix media on board, 200 x 150.5 cm, © the artist, Photo: AGNSW, Felicity Jenkins.[/caption] The Archibald finalists will be exhibited at AGNSW from July 16 to October 9, along with the finalists for the Wynne Prize (which awards the best landscape painting of Australia or figure sculpture) and the Sulman Prize (for the best subject painting, genre painting or mural project), which were also announced yesterday. After exhibiting in Sydney, the finalists will then tour regionally until August 2017, after which time the winner will be announced by the trustees of AGNSW. The winner will be awarded $100,000 in prize money and some serious bragging rights to boot. The prize was created by Jules Francois Archibald, the founding editor of The Bulletin magazine. He established the prize with the goal to promote both great Australian portraiture and great Australians. The only real stipulation within the contest is that the painting must have been created in the last 12 months and include at least one live sitting with the subject. The award is an open competition, which means that any resident of Australia or New Zealand can enter. Something to keep in mind for next year. Top image: Natasha Bieniek, Wendy Whiteley, oil on wood, 34.5 x 32.5cm, © the artist Photo: AGNSW, Mim Stirling.
UPDATE, MARCH 5: Due to concerns around the coronavirus, Universal Pictures has announced that No Time to Die will no longer release on its initially scheduled date of Thursday, April 8, 2020. It will now release worldwide in November 2020 — including Down Under on November 12, 2020. 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. It's trailer time. James Bond trailer time. That means espionage thrills, world-in-peril action, formidable villains, savvy ladies, plenty of gadgets and — since 2006's Casino Royale — Daniel Craig as 007. All of the above is present and accounted for in the just-released first look at No Time to Die, which'll mark the British spy's 25th official big-screen outing. It's also Craig's final go-around as the martini-loving hero. After the events of 2015's Spectre — and after retiring from active service to soak in Jamaica's splendours — Craig's version of Bond is looking a bit shaken and stirred in the No Time to Die trailer. That's bound to happen when he's told his skills are needed to rescue a kidnapped scientist, only for that mission to bring him face-to-face with an unhinged new adversary (Bohemian Rhapsody Oscar-winner Rami Malek). Throw in a new 00 agent (Captain Marvel's Lashana Lynch) covering Bond's turf, a forced meeting with imprisoned ex-opponent Blofeld (Christoph Waltz) and things not seeming to have ended well with psychiatrist Dr Madeleine Swan (Lea Seydoux), and it's safe to say that the mood is rather tense. The instalment is directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga (True Detective, Maniac) and penned by a team that includes Fukunaga, The Report director Scott Z Burns and Fleabag's Phoebe Waller-Bridge — and all the usual Bond offsiders are on hand, too. Yes, Ralph Fiennes is back as M, alongside Naomie Harris as Eve Moneypenny, Ben Whishaw as Q, Rory Kinnear as MI6 head Bill Tanner and Jeffrey Wright as CIA agent Felix Leiter. Plus, reuniting with Craig after co-starring in the fabulously entertaining Knives Out, Ana de Armas also joins the cast. And, naturally, the first No Time to Die sneak peek delivers plenty of impressive action. It is a Bond film after all. Indeed, if Craig is stepping away from the role after five features (including 2008's Quantum of Solace and 2012's Skyfall), he looks to be going out in suave, stunt-filled, Aston Martin-driving style. Watch the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bo-jtTLBhok&feature=youtu.be No Time to Die was originally due to release in cinemas on April 8, 2020, but will now release in Australia on November 12, 2020.
These days, there's seemingly no end to the list of things you can have delivered to your door. Craving a midweek bottle of wine but can't be stuffed leaving the house? Jimmy Brings has your back. Fancy a fresh addition to your plant collection, dropped at your doorstep monthly? You're in capable hands with Botanic Box. Need a new jigsaw puzzle sent to your house each month, carefully selected based on your tastes? Now, there's even a service for that. Those who love spending hours creating intricate cardboard artworks can now enjoy a personalised puzzle subscription platform, thanks to the recently launched Puzzle Post. From the same minds behind book subscription service Bookabuy, the idea for this new venture spawned after owners Chris and Mel Tantchev noticed something of a jigsaw puzzle resurgence. Look around and you'll notice those little cardboard pieces are making a bit of a comeback. With Puzzle Post, you can opt for a one-off puzzle delivery or organise a three-, six- or twelve-month subscription, which'll set you back between $39–83 each time. You might want to add to your own collection or send one to your puzzle-obsessed mate as a present. The Tantchevs have been busy sourcing puzzles with a whole range of themes from over 25 categories — including cats, nostalgia, flowers, Disney and food — ranging from easy (500 pieces) to 1000-plus piece hard puzzles. By answering a few quick questions at checkout, recipients will end up with a jigsaw haul personalised just for them. And even the fiercest of jigsaw aficionados needn't worry about doubling up — Puzzle Post offers subscribers a replacement if they're sent a puzzle they already own. Puzzle Post is available for delivery across Australia.
