There's money to be made in the business of curing hangovers. At the moment, the bakery around the corner bears the brunt of my need for three-cheese toasties on sorry-for-myself mornings, but others have had a good crack at trying to strategically break into the market. This Nashi pear juice claimed to help prevent hangovers, and late last year Sydney got its first hangover clinic (although it was soon closed after it landed a patient in hospital). The idea of hooking yourself up to a drip not all that appealing? Luckily for you, my poor, fragile hungover friend, a South Korean convenience store chain has created a much more appealing hangover cure — and it comes in ice cream form. Reuters reports that convenience store chain Withme FS has just launched the Gyeondyo-bar, which roughly translates to "hang in there". As well as providing a much appreciated motivational message, the grapefruit-flavoured ice cream bar is meant to soothe the effects of a hard night on the booze. The magic ingredient is raisin tree fruit juice, which is apparently a traditional 17th century Korean hangover remedy. If you need reassurance from more recent medical research, a 2012 article in the Journal of Neuroscience found that it reduced symptoms of intoxication in rats. This isn't South Korea's first foray into the world of miracle hangover cures. Their vast array of hangover drinks, tablets and even soups amounts to about $175 million in sales each year. This is obviously linked to the city's big drinking culture. According to a 2014 report from the World Health Organization, South Koreans drink 12.3 litres of alcohol per capita each year — that's more than any other country in the Asia-Pacific region, including Australia. So if you're a fan of the morning-after Icy Pole, then this hangover cure would be a (literal) treat. Can someone get Messina onto this? Via Reuters. Image: Alex Jones.
Back bigger and better than ever, the Korean Film Festival returns to Australia for the third time, celebrating this vibrant culture on the silver screen. The festival will have something for everyone, with feature films, short films, documentaries and animations covering almost every genre, from war epics and gangster flicks to tales of romance and erotica. The program includes the iconic Old Boy (set to be remade for 2012 by Spike Lee), which you can see back-to-back in a 'Korean Cult Cinema' double with the dark new animation The King of Pigs, returning to screens after screening in competition at the Sydney Film Festival. Away from the big screen, a number of cultural events will further explore Korean cinema and culture. There are also short film competitions, Q&A sessions and special guest appearances. A chat with Kang Hyeong-Cheol, writer and director of the blockbuster comedy Scandal Makers, about a radio DJ who learns in his 30s that he may be a grandfather, and Russell Edwards, a critic from Variety and SBS Film, will inject entertainment into the program of cinematic enlightenment.
For art-loving Sydneysiders, March is one of the busiest times of the year — especially if it's a Biennale year (and it bloody well is). With Art Month already in full swing and the 20th Biennale of Sydney ready and raring to take over the city, our art calendars are chockers already. So we picked out a few of our must-sees for the month, from the larger blockbusters to the smaller, quirkier shows. By the end of this month, you'll be royally gallery-ed out (as if that were ever a problem). By Jasmine Crittenden, Shannon Connellan and Imogen Baker.
After the apocalypse arrived from above in the form of extra-terrestrials that leap upon any and every sound, audiences have already seen what happened on day 89 and day 471–7. We've also caught a glimpse of the day that started it all. But A Quiet Place and A Quiet Place Part II prequel A Quiet Place: Day One is going right back to the beginning properly, and not just via flashbacks. The third effort in the now-franchise is also headed to New York. On the way since 2021, and just dropping its first trailer ahead of its June 2024 release, the latest A Quiet Place film steps into the alien invasion's initial impact in the Big Apple with 12 Years a Slave Oscar-winner Lupita Nyong'o (Black Panther: Wakanda Forever) at its centre. As the initial sneak peek shows, she's walking happily with a cat in her arms when the sky starts falling — and she soon realises that noise is what sets off earth's unwanted new visitors. When A Quiet Place hit cinemas in 2018, did stellar things with its mostly dialogue-free premise and gave films about otherworldly attackers a creative spin, it quickly proved a big box office hit. That's hardly surprising; Emily Blunt (Oppenheimer) added another formidable role to her resume, John Krasinski (Jack Ryan) did great work both in front of and behind the camera, both Millicent Simmonds (Wonderstruck) and Noah Jupe (The Undoing) turned in excellent performances, and the entire movie made the absolute most of its silence-heavy approach and its niche in the horror genre. So, not only was a sequel always likely, but more in the saga after that, with Day One giving viewers more time in the franchise's eerie dystopian world. The trailer for the new film shows snippets of the first two movies' Abbott family for context, but it's Djimon Hounsou (Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story) who returns from A Quiet Place Part II among the cast. In the sneak peek, he pops up late to help stress why surviving requires keeping your lips zipped as tightly as possible. A Quiet Place: Day One also features Stranger Things star Joseph Quinn, who leaves Vecna behind for different monsters. Behind the lens, instead of Krasinski sitting in the director's chair, fellow filmmaker Michael Sarnoski helms — swapping Nicolas Cage on a vengeance mission over his beloved pet in Pig for tackling invading aliens. He wrote the screenplay, too, after coming up with the story with Krasinski. Originally Take Shelter, Mud, Midnight Special and Loving's Jeff Nichols was set to direct, but left due to creative differences. Check out the trailer for A Quiet Place: Day One below: A Quiet Place: Day One releases in cinemas Down Under on Thursday, June 27, 2024. Read our reviews of A Quiet Place and A Quiet Place Part II.
The sixth annual Hola Mexico Film Festival opens on Thursday, October 25, at Event Cinemas on George Street, with nearly 20 films being shown over a one-and-a-half-week period. Showcasing real Mexico and its way of life, the festival invites you to say goodbye to cliches and hola to the land of the Aztecs, as it should be. Here are five that beckon us. 1. Mariachi Gringo Directed by Tom Gustafson and starring Martha Higareda, Mariachi Gringo sees a young man, stifled by his small-town life, run away to Mexico to be a mariachi singer. This feature, the opening night film for this year’s festival, explores the reality of following your dreams across geographical and cultural borders, depicting the beauty of Mexico and its folklore. 2. De Panzazo (Barely Passing) Barely Passing is a harsh look at the gritty truth of the Mexican school system. Directed by Juan Carlos Rulfo and Carlos Loret De Mola, it tells the stories of real students and what the country's future will hold if things don't change. 3. Felix: Autoficciones de un traficante (Felix: Self-Fictions of a Smuggler) Felix is a home-movie actor and human trafficker. In Felix: Self-Fictions of a Smuggler, he exposes the world around him through his own eyes and reveals the cogs of a very real machine. 4. La brujula la lleva el muerto (The Compass Is Carried by the Dead Man) Arturo Pons' The Compass Is Carried by the Dead Man sees Chencho, a 13-year old boy, goes to Chicago, following the death of his mother, to search for his older brother. On his journey he meets a man who dies right after letting him hitch a ride on his wagon. Following north on the compass held in rigor-mortic grip, he begins a surreal passage, with no real direction, and meets peculiar characters on the way. 5. Cristiada (For Greater Glory) With For Greater Glory Dean Wright asks, what price would you pay for glory? Starring Eva Longoria and Andy Garcia, this exhilarating action epic sees a passionate group of men and women risk everything for family, faith, and the future of their country during the 1920s' Cristero war, the daring people's revolt that rocked 20th-century North America. Image from Mariachi Gringo.
UPDATE, Wednesday, June 19, 2024: Dream Scenario is available to stream via Netflix, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Gushing about Paddington movies, channelling Elvis, screaming about being a vampire, swooning over Cher, kidnapping babies, fighting cults, battling demonic animatronics, driving ambulances, flying with convicts, swapping faces, avenging pet pigs and milking alpacas, Nicolas Cage has gotten himself lodged in many a moviegoer's brain before. Dream Scenario takes that idea to the next level, not with the screen's most-inimitable star as himself — this isn't The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent — but in a film that works as well as it does, and as sharply, because he's its irreplaceable lead. Although writer/director Kristoffer Borgli didn't write his third feature (after DRIB and Sick of Myself) with Cage in mind, there's pure magic in matching his tale of pop-culture virality, fame and its costs to the man born Nicolas Kim Coppola. Who else could play someone so ubiquitous in the collective consciousness that everyone knows him, has deep-seated feelings and opinions about him, and can't stop thinking about him? Albeit for different reasons, it as much a stroke of genius as enlisting Being John Malkovich's namesake. Dream Scenario wears its comparisons to Spike Jonze (Beastie Boys Story) and Charlie Kaufman's (I'm Thinking of Ending Things) masterpiece better than anything else between 1999 and now, other than their subsequent collaboration Adaptation — as starring none other than Cage — and the Kaufman-penned, Michel Gondry (Kidding)-helmed Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. David Lynch (Cage's Wild at Heart director) and Ari Aster also come to mind while watching Borgli's film, which blends the surreal and satirical, and also spins a nightmare where dread paints every frame. Aster produces, lending a hand on a movie that pairs well with his own Beau Is Afraid, aka another flick where a schlubby, awkward and unhappy middle-aged man has his life upended in no small part thanks to his own anxiety. Dream Scenario isn't attempting to ape its predecessors, or Borgli's own Sick of Myself, another musing on celebrity, attention and the fact that almost everything about 21st-century existence has become a performance. Rather, the Norwegian filmmaker's latest plays like its title suggests: the product of slumbering while having all of the above swirling, twirling and dancing in your synapses — and with Cage always lurking, of course. The Renfield actor loiters as the bulk of Dream Scenario's characters get some shuteye, too, skulking on the edge of nocturnal reveries conjured up by their sleeping subconscious. But for the folks within Borgli's movie, they're sharing their headspace with an average biology professor that no one outside of his own university has initially heard of. Even then, his students and colleagues barely think twice about him. One former classmate-turned-fellow academic (Paula Boudreau, Take Me Back for Christmas) has ripped off his research for her book without worrying about any repercussions. When Dream Scenario opens inside the napping mind of Paul's teenage daughter Sophie (Lily Bird, The Northman), she's witnessing him sweep up leaves, then do nothing when items fall from the sky and she flies into the air. In a reaction that the feature makes plain would be shared by his other high-schooler daughter Hannah (Jessica Clement, Gen V), plus his wife Janet (Julianne Nicholson, Weird: The Al Yankovic Story), she believes it's strange enough to tell him about — and that it keeps recurring — but isn't losing sleep over why he's so passive. Cage plays Paul Matthews, who far more people than just one of his children is spotting when they close their peepers. Soon, it's harder to find someone who isn't dreaming about him among his pupils, acquaintances, exes, his city, America and globally. A past love (Marnie McPhail Diamond, Orphan Black: Echoes) pens an article about the phenomenon, which thrusts Paul to worldwide attention in everyone's waking hours as well. And there is attention, springing from the internet, the news, a lofty old pal (Dylan Baker, Hunters) who never normally invites him to his exclusive dinner parties, and social-media marketers Trent (Michael Cera, Scott Pilgrim Takes Off) and Mary (Kate Berlant, The Other Two). With their assistant Molly (Dylan Gelula, Loot), the latter duo endeavour to capitalise upon Paul's yearning to get published by pitching Sprite campaigns and dangling Barack Obama's purported interest. The one largely non-plussed party: Janet, who isn't seeing him as she snoozes, but Paul tries to make wish that she was (and in a Stop Making Sense-style oversized suit). That Paul's pilfered work focuses on "antelligence", his term for creatures arranging themselves into communities, is a telling early detail in Dream Scenario. So is how much Janet's apathy about Paul suddenly being everywhere as the planet kips — pottering rather than engaging — differs from the general response. And, obviously, there's the entire gag about someone who stands out so scarcely when they're awake that they're only given any notice for being an overnight bystander who literally does nothing. As it digs into crowd behaviour, group think, herd reactions, psychological contagion and social conformity, Dream Scenario is rarely subtle, nor is Borgli trying to be. Eschewing nuance doesn't make the picture any less shrewd and playful, however, including when it starts embracing the blatant in the heartiest of ways after Paul's luck twists. First, his unwitting A Nightmare on Elm Street experience turns terrifying for those inflicted with the dream epidemic, making him an aggressor in their mind's eye. Then, getting to the detail that sparked the film's screenplay, he becomes the new poster child for cancel culture. In a world rightly obsessed with Cage across his 100-plus on-screen credits, no one has likely thought that overlooking the Leaving Las Vegas Oscar-winner — and Adaptation Oscar-nominee — would, should or could happen. That's another of Dream Scenario's stellar jokes, alongside evidence of why this wouldn't be the movie it is without him. No one can ever ignore Cage, especially in one of his finest comic performances as someone so regularly disregarded, then made an icon and later a pariah. In fact, his portrayal of Paul is so rich because he brings such empathy and complexity to a neurotic man who loses control over reality's sense of who he is and can't do anything about it. It's not hard to expect that the much-memed Cage might relate; naming an actor whose go-for-broke commitment is so feverishly stripped of its context by the online masses, making him famous for being Nic Cage over any one project or his talent, is impossible. Cage is visibly having fun as well, as is the entire movie around him. Borgli isn't skewering wokeness, supporting the cancelled or decrying the validity of society deeming some behaviours unacceptable; instead, he's parodying the irrationality of chasing validation through digital exposure and its spread, the narcissism that fuels that urge and beams just as brightly in internet compliance, and the commodification and performativeness of just about everything in 2020s-era life. As shot by Mandy cinematographer Ben Loeb, edited by the filmmaker himself and featuring Cage as a producer — he's that all-in — Dream Scenario is at its best when it's showing rather than telling, though. When its hallucinatory dream sequences prove eerie and unsettling in their mundanity and horrors alike, it draws its audience into a realm where anything can happen, yet the worst usually does in both routine and wild ways. That's when Dream Scenario is exactly what everyone should want in their heads — with Cage, naturally.
Kraken Rum is giving UK bartenders the chance to mix drinks at the mother of all pop-up bars. The Black Ink Society will be hosting a bar at the Red Sand Sea Forts, a lonely 14km off the coast of Kent, for one day only on October 14. Hopeful bartenders will compete in the Think Ink competition for the chance to strut their stuff in the creepy abandoned pillboxes. The Red Sand Sea Forts were built during World War II as anti-aircraft defences and fell into disuse after the war. They were occupied by various pirate radio stations during the 1960s, but have since been abandoned and fallen into the depths of dilapidation. But Kraken Rum wants to change that. They want to restore the forts to their former glory — then throw a huge party in them. The competition itself carries only one proviso — in order to be considered a cocktail "as dark as the Kraken’s ink", bartenders must use at least 35ml of Kraken Black Spiced Rum. Otherwise, competitors are free to go for broke by mixing their own concoction in order to secure their place at this "unique, if terrifying" shindig. The finals are to be held on October 8. Via www.psfk.com. Picture by Russ Garrett.
It's one of Australia's iconic novels. It has won a swag of awards, sold a heap of copies and been turned into a play. It's a Brisbane-set story that trod those boards in Brissie, and now it's a Netflix series that was shot in the River City, too. Boy Swallows Universe has been on its way to the small screen for some time, complete with behind-the-scenes glimpses of the production to prove it — and you can check out the TV adaptation's just-dropped first teaser trailer. Harper Collins sold the television rights to the novel back in 2019, with Aussie actor and filmmaker Joel Edgerton (The Stranger) set to produce the resulting series since then. Netflix announced its involvement in 2022. After originally stating that the show would arrive in 2023, the streaming platform hasn't attached a date to its debut sneak peek at Boy Swallows Universe — but it's firmly on its way. Written by Trent Dalton, the novel won the Book of the Year, Literary Book of the Year and Audio Book of the Year at the 2019 Australian Book Industry Awards — and was longlisted for Australia's most prestigious literature prize, the Miles Franklin Award when it hit the page — for spinning a story about a young boy, his prophetic brother and his jailbreaking best friend as they navigate the heroin-filled underworld of 80s Queensland. Also included: Eli Bell's (Felix Cameron, Penguin Bloom) attempt to understand how to be a good person, with his plight spanning a lost father, a criminal for a babysitter, a mum recovering from addiction, a mute brother and a stepfather who deals. Netflix's adaptation span eight episodes, running as a self-contained limited series, as it tells a coming-of-age tale caught between childhood's magic and adulthood's reality. Travis Fimmel (Black Snow) also stars as Lyle Orlik, while the cast includes Simon Baker (Limbo) as Robert Bell and Phoebe Tonkin (Babylon) as Frances Bell — plus Lee Tiger Halley (The Heights) as Gus Bell. Also featuring: Bryan Brown (Hungry Ghosts) as Slim Halliday, Anthony LaPaglia (Nitram) as Tytus Broz, and Sophie Wilde (Talk to Me) as Caitlyn Spies, plus Christopher James Baker (Ozark) as Ivan Kroll, HaiHa Le (Spooky Files) as Bich Dang and Deborah Mailman (The New Boy) as Poppy Birkbeck. And, you'll see Ben O'Toole (Barons) as Teddy, Zachary Wan (Never Too Late) as Darren Dang, and Millie Donaldson (Jack Irish) and Eloise Rothfield as Shelley Huffman (aged 17 and 13, respectively). Boy Swallows Universe is directed by Bharat Nalluri (The Man Who Invented Christmas), Jocelyn Moorhouse (The Dressmaker) and Kim Mordaunt (The Rocket), and scripted by screenwriter John Collee (Master and Commander, Happy Feet, Hotel Mumbai). The impressive names involved extend to the show's executive producers, too, which include Troy Lum (The Water Diviner, Saving Mr Banks, Mao's Last Dancer), Andrew Mason (The Matrix, The Water Diviner), Sophie Gardiner (Howard's End, Chimerica), Kerry Roberts (Foe, Boy Erased), and Edgerton. Check out the trailer for Boy Swallows Universe below: Boy Swallows Universe will stream via Netflix, but doesn't yet have a release date — we'll update you when it's announced.
Last last year beach expert (actual title) Brad Farmer released the first edition of his book 101 Best Beaches, in which he and coastal geomorphologist Professor Andy Short visited all 11,761 of Australia's beaches. Together they named Cossies Beach as their top spot of coastline in the country. However, given the fact that it's located on a secluded island in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands and is about a four-hour flight from Perth, it's not exactly an easy (or affordable) trip for the average traveller. But in more accessible beach travel news, TripAdvisor has just released their best Australian beaches to travel to in 2017. At the top of the list is Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island — its seven-kilometres of pure white sand and clear blue waters giving it ten palm trees out of ten on the paradise scale. Others on the list include tourist-heavy spots Surfers Paradise, Noosa and Sydney's Manly Beach. Turquoise Bay in Western Australia also gets a look-in, as does Broome's Cable Beach and Emily Bay on Norfolk Island. The list has been pulled together from traveller reviews and ratings on TripAdvisor over the last year, and takes into consideration the quantity and quality of feedback. Obviously the list is determined by the users of TripAdvisor — but even if you don't use it, millions of people do, so it definitely has some sway. The travel site also ranked the world's best beaches, where Whitehaven was the only Australian beach to get a place at number 17. The number one spot went to Brazil's Baia do Sancho. See the full list of beaches below. TRIPADVISOR'S TRAVELLERS' CHOICE BEST BEACHES IN AUSTRALIA 1. Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Island, QLD 2. Surfers Paradise Beach, Gold Coast, QLD 3. Noosa Main Beach, Sunshine Coast QLD 4. Manly Beach, Sydney, NSW 5. Turquoise Bay, Exmouth, WA 6. Burleigh Heads, Gold Coast, QLD 7. Cable Beach, Broome, WA 8. Mooloolaba Beach, Sunshine Coast, QLD 9. The Strand, Townsville, QLD 10. Emily Bay, Norfolk Island
Master of surreal everything (movies, TV shows, music, coffee), David Lynch has released a new track titled 'Crazy Clown Time' through his Facebook page. The experimental track is as weird as you would expect (see Twin Peaks soundtrack and Lynch's 'Good Day Today') and is part of Lynch's debut album of the same name, due to be released in November. It sounds like anything he'd include in his cooky cinematic or television work - a touch of weird appearing in the non-descript auto-tune vocals provided by Lynch himself. Of the album the song is on, Lynch thinks it's full of accidents and "should be in hospital." Is there anything the man can't do? https://youtube.com/watch?v=2GXGc4EobS8 [via Stereogum]
It's not always easy being green, but for the inner west's coffee lovers, it could soon be a whole lot more convenient, as the local council announces plans to trial a reusable coffee cup scheme. Taking its cues from a similar initiative in Germany's Freiburg, the pilot program would involve a rotating network of reusable cups that could be collected from, returned to and cleaned by any of the participating cafes. The pilot would launch in a not-yet-specified area in the inner west and, if successful, would be rolled out across the whole region. You'd enjoy all the benefits of owning an environmentally friendly cup, without having to buy one, keep it clean, or stress about accidentally leaving at home every day. And you'd be helping to make a dent in the estimated three billion single-use cups Aussies go through each year. As Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne explains, the initiative would also help reduce the amount of taxpayer funds that are currently being poured into dealing with all those non-recyclable cups. "This is a practical way we can reduce waste, save money and help local cafes meet their customers' preferences for environmentally sustainable products and services," Mayor Byrne said in a statement. Having voted to support the scheme, the Inner West Council will now explore ways of best implementing it across the region and getting local businesses on board, looking to international examples in the fight against waste. It has also agreed to become a partner in the Responsible Cafes program — a nationwide not-for-profit scheme encouraging reusable coffee cup use. The program currently helps save more than 36 million cups and lids from going into landfill each year. Image: Frank Green
Don't say that you don't have anything to watch between Friday, March 1–Monday, March 11, or that you've only got the usual couch-viewing options. Queer Screen's Mardi Gras Film Festival is back for 2024, which isn't just wonderful news for Sydney's cinephiles. Thanks to the event's returning online component, it's also ace for folks located outside of the Harbour City. A feast of queer cinema coming to your chosen small screen. As always, the lineup of movies that Sydneysiders can catch at MGFF's in-person sessions is far larger than its online program — but you can still join in from home no matter where in Australia you're located. For cinephiles watching on from the couch, choices include All the Colours of the World Are Between Black and White, the Berlinale Teddy Award-winning love story about two men dealing with Nigeria's anti-gay laws; Mexico's All the Silence, centring on a CODA (child of deaf adults) and her girlfriend who is deaf; F.L.Y., which sees two exes living under the same roof during the pandemic; and Mutt, which won Lio Mehiel a Special Jury Award-winner at Sundance for their performance. Or, opt for drama Old Narcissus about getting older in Japan, with a 74-year-old children's author finding connection with a sex worker. You'll also be able to stream several shorts packages online, including sessions dedicated to Asia Pacific, comedy, gay, non-binary and gender diverse, queer horror, queer documentaries, transgender and sapphic films. The My Queer Career short film fest will hop online as well, featuring seven films competing for $16,000-plus in prizes.
Each year, Smithsonian invites photographers from around the world, professional and otherwise, to submit images that capture great beauty and evoke wonder across five specific categories — The Natural World, People, Travel, Americana and Altered Images. Of the 37,600 submissions, the 50 final images memorialise moments that are both astounding and mundane, but consistently beautiful. A shot of policemen running through the national congress in Brasilia competes with the everyday, yet equally poignant, image of a Texan snow cone stand at dusk. For sharing the best of their photo trail, contestants get the chance to secure some substantial coin, as well as the satisfaction of knowing they've captured a truly Kodak moment. Although the winning submissions are ultimately decided by the Smithsonian’s editor, in an appeal to democratic sensibilities, a Reader's Choice Award will be announced after tallying up online votes, which are open until late March. Naturally, only Concrete Playground has the authority to decide who the real winners are, as selected largely based on their ability to momentarily transport us to a parallel universe in which it is not a Monday morning in front of a humming computer. Scroll down to visually kiss the sky. The Natural World A pair of menacing bald eagles share a meal, as captured by Don Holland of Tennessee, bringing Hitchcock-inspired nightmares to mind. The Natural World David Morrow's Milky Way, as shot in a Washington national park, is even better than the chocolate variety. People Ilain Fain's portrait of three young girls inside a Greek Orthodox church in Nazareth suggests that childhood boredom is a universal phenomenon. People A young baby sleeps protected by the gaze of his watchful mother on a Congolese night in Paolo Patruno's photograph. Americana Ron Henderson's unaltered photograph of the mascot for underwear brand Fruit of the Loom captured on location in the Californian desert proves that sometimes truth really is stranger than fiction. Americana Times Square gets patriotic in Doug Van de Zande's image of technicolour shadows. Travel Afraid of losing the moment, Raul Amaru Linares yielded his camera instinctively when he spotted these musicians arriving pre-performance at a bull ring in Ecuador. Travel Playing with finger paints takes on a new meaning for this little boy in Indranil Sengupta's depiction of India's "tiger dance" festival. Altered Image The wrath of mother nature humbles in Tim Wright's image depicting the aftermath of a tornado in Iowa. Altered Image Pramod Shakya captures a building as it comes to life in Xi'an Jiaotong University. Images and story via Smithsonian.
With plenty of IKEA furniture ending up deep in the Gumtree 'For Sale' ads or left on the side of the road, the Swedish retailer came up with a pretty clever plan to give those unwanted flat-pack ensembles a second lease on life: a buy-back service. In good news for those moving house or faced with an accumulative collection of Malm blond wood pieces, the chain allows Australians to return their retired IKEA pieces to their nearest store, ready to be sold on to a new home — and score a voucher for their efforts. For ten days between Tuesday, November 24–Thursday, December 3, IKEA is going a step further — because Black Friday falls within that period, and because it's keen to make the annual buying frenzy more sustainable. Return an unwanted IKEA piece between those two dates, and the retailer will double your refund. So yes, you'll receive twice as much as you would if you brought in a few bookshelves either now or once the special is over. And, you'll be able to use that refund for a year after its issued. So how does it work? If you've got some furniture you want to get out of your life, you'll need to get an estimated quote online. Between the aforementioned dates, that web calculator will automatically double the value of your returned item, compared to normal. Then, you'll need to take the quote and your furniture — still fully assembled, mind you — to your closest IKEA location. Once there, your furniture will be assessed by an IKEA staff member, and they'll confirm the a value and give you a buy-back refund card to use in-store. The one big caveat: to score double the refund, you'll need to be an IKEA Family member (otherwise, you'll just receive the normal amount). It's free to join, though, and you can sign up online. Even with twice as much credit on offer, the buy-back scheme still works in the same general way. So, it's only for IKEA furniture, and not for other products like lighting, mattresses, textiles, kitchen components or appliances. That's because the bought-back pieces need to be in good enough condition to be sold on to other customers in the As-Is store. It does, however, have separate recycling schemes for mattresses, batteries and light bulbs. The by-back program was rolled out nationally in 2019 after a year-long trial at Sydney's Tempe store, which saw 1600 pieces bought back from customers. Initially, the initiative was spurred by findings from the company's latest People & Planet Positive Report, which suggested Aussies threw away up to 13.5 million pieces of furniture that could have been recycled, reused or repaired. If your Malm bed frame or chest of drawers isn't in quite good enough condition for the As-Is store, you might need to consider donating it to charity or finding another way to recycle it. And if you are buying new furniture, consider buying something secondhand from the As-Is store, or at least investing in something that you plan to keep long-term. As part of the Black Friday promotion, items returned and sold at the As-Is store will be renamed after their previous owners. If your name is already Billy and you're bringing back bookcases of the same name, though, obviously nothing will change. For more information about IKEA's buy-back scheme — and its Black Friday deal — head to the retailer's website. Between Tuesday, November 24–Thursday, December 3, IKEA Family members will get double the refund amount on returned IKEA furniture, as calculated via an online quote, and then confirmed when you take your goods to the brand's stores to collect and redeem the voucher.
Bundaberg Rum might be best known for its polar bear logo and accompanying ad campaign (as well as its combo with coke), but they're no longer the Queensland distillery's only claims to fame. In fact, the Aussie brand can now add the title of World's Best Rum to its credentials, after emerging victorious at the World Drinks Awards in London. Not only was their MDC Blenders Edition 2015 crowned the globe's number one dark rum, but it was named the world's best rum overall too. Given the number of varieties that line bottle shop shelves, that's quite the triumph. It's also the first time ever that an Australian spirit has achieved the feat. Best served neat or over ice — i.e. without mixers, and definitely not as part of a rum and coke combo — it was the Blenders Edition's delicate hints of raisins, spice and tobacco coupled with a long and exceptionally smooth finish that won the judges over. It wasn't the only Bundy beverage to get a gong, with Bundaberg Small Batch anointed the world's top golden rum as well. Yes, it seems Australians aren't just great at knocking back a few drinks — we're great at making them, too. Anyone after a taste of the finest rum on the planet had best get in quick though. The award-winning tipple is so limited that it comes in numbered bottles, and is certain to fly off the shelves now that it has such a prestigious stamp of approval. Via Executive Style. Image: Dollar Photo Club.
When Great Southern Nights is set to take to the stage, you should expect big things to happen. This statewide music festival is all about heroing local musical talent and is doing so with hundreds of gigs in regional hubs of NSW — including the Central Coast — between Friday, March 21 and Sunday, April 6. From Erina to Doyalson and beyond, some of the festival's headline acts will be sprinkled all throughout the area. The main venues joining in on the fun are The Sunken Monkey in Erina, Wyong's The Art House, Warners Bay Theatre, Doyalson RSL and Drifter's Wharf in Gosford. As to the lineup — there are legends of the Aussie music industry like Baby Animals, Troy Cassar-Daley and Marcia Hines, plus plenty of newer faces like The Rions, Ngaiire, Telenova and more. Events range from free entry to ticketed, so you'd best visit the Great Southern Nights website to start planning or check out our guide for tips on how to enjoy your time on the Central Coast.
Dreaming about a different life is a staple of coming-of-age films, with many a movie focusing on uncertain children or unhappy teenagers wishing for an existence far removed from their own. It's also a part of Australian documentary In My Blood It Runs; however, ten-year-old Arrernte/Garrwa boy Dujuan Hoosan and his friends aren't yearning to step into someone else's shoes. Instead, even at their tender age, they can simply see how they're being treated by Australian society at large. In one early scene, Dujuan and a group of other kids stand on a hill outside the Hidden Valley Aboriginal Town Camp, in Alice Springs. "That's where all the rich men come from," one comments, peering down at the city. "How come this mob get clean houses and not us?" asks Dujuan. "I wish I was living on that side," voices another kid. The chatter goes on, especially about the golf course in clear view. As Dujuan and his friends talk, they all note how much nicer the area looks compared to their own. A healer who's skilled in administering bush medicine, hunts proficiently and speaks three languages, Dujuan is deeply tied to his heritage and culture. "I was born a little Aboriginal kid. That means I had a memory, a memory about Aboriginals. I just felt something, a memory, history — in my blood it runs," he explains. He doesn't want to leave that behind, but rather for all Indigenous Australians to be treated fairly and equally. Whether he's sitting through school lessons about the First Fleet or speaking about his great-grandmother's upbringing as part of the stolen generation, he's acutely aware of Australia's historical attitudes towards the country's Indigenous population, as well the enduring effects on First Nations peoples today. With insight, wisdom and determination beyond his years, Dujuan is just as cognisant of what all of the above can mean for himself and other Indigenous children, too. The fact that this bright, charming, passionate, socially engaged kid is considered a poor student, and earns the attention of both welfare services and the police, speaks volumes. In late 2019, after the film initially started screening at festivals both in Australia and worldwide, Dujuan spoke to the United Nations about Australia's approach to youth incarceration, particularly in the Northern Territory — but, before he can get to that point, In My Blood It Runs chronicles his everyday struggles, including balancing western and traditional education, and meeting white society's expectations of a young Indigenous boy. At one point, he's told by his aunt that being sent to juvenile prison means "you're only going to end up in two places: a jail cell or a coffin". As shot over nearly four years — and interwoven with reflections from Dujuan, his mother Megan, grandmothers Carol and Margaret, and father James, as well as informative archival materials — the result is a compellingly candid and expressive window into Dujuan's mindset, desires and experiences, as told by a skilled filmmaker committed to doing his story justice. It has been five years since Maya Newell gave Australia one of its most engaging and diverse slices of childhood life in the form of the applauded Gayby Baby, and this follow-up continues to ponder the country's next generation, their hopes, dreams and everyday existence, as well as the way that today's attitudes and policies may impact their future. Now available to watch via ABC iView, In My Blood It Runs is also an observational documentary not only featuring Dujuan as its subject, but made in collaboration with him, his family and his community. It doesn't just feel empathetic as a result, but intimate and authentic, too. Dujuan himself shoots some of its footage, Newell made films alongside Arrernte Elders and families for a decade before starting this project, and the Arrernte and Garrwa families depicted were all consulted during every stage of production. The end product is a must-see movie dedicated not only to painting an accurate portrait of Dujuan's experiences, but to showing how it epitomises Indigenous childhood in Australia. Check out the trailer below: https://vimeo.com/358942768#at=1 In My Blood It Runs is available to stream via ABC iView until August 4. Top image: Maya Newell.
Some things are just so stunning that they need to be seen multiple times, and getting to walk through Vincent van Gogh's dazzling artworks at multi-sensory experience Van Gogh Alive is clearly one of them. So, the extremely (and unsurprisingly) popular exhibition is heading back to Sydney again, ready to come alive this summer. Finished making your own Lego version of The Starry Night? Now, you can walk through the iconic painting projected large across The Grand Pavilion at Entertainment Quarter. The experience will kick off its return on Thursday, December 8, just in time to pair the sunny days with some sunflowers — and it's bringing plenty more, including both familiar and new parts of the exhibition. The big two will be back, of course — aka two of van Gogh's most popular works transformed into vivid new guises. Again, when you see The Starry Night, you'll actually be walking through it. Love Sunflowers (the painting, as well as the plant)? Then get ready for the immersive Sunflower infinity room. The project is the brainchild of Melbourne-based Grande Exhibitions, which, for more than a decade and a half now, has hosted immersive exhibitions and gallery experiences in over 150 cities across the world. The company also owns and operates Rome's Museo Leonardo da Vinci. A family-friendly experience, Van Gogh Alive creates the sensation of walking right into the Dutch artist's paintings — and you definitely won't feel like you're just standing in an ordinary gallery. Attendees encounter van Gogh's world-famous works in fine detail thanks to Grande Exhibitions' state-of-the-art technology, which uses 40 high-definition projectors. A classical musical score accompanies the vibrant colours, too, as presented in cinema-quality surround sound. This new Sydney season of Van Gogh Alive will pop up in The Grand Pavilion's huge 70 metre by 25 metre bespoke marquee, which also includes a themed bar and cafe space. And if you're wondering how popular the experience has proven so far, more than 8.5 million people have visited it in 80-plus cities worldwide. Van Gogh Alive will run from Thursday, December 8 at The Grand Pavilion, The Entertainment Quarter. Tickets will go on sale from Thursday, August 4 — for further details, head to the event's website. Images: Morgan Sette / Miles Noel Photography / Grande Experiences.
Half-priced airfares have been quite the topic of conversation over the past 24 hours, with the Australian Government announcing a scheme that'll see the country's airlines sell 800,000 flights at the discount rate. That starts in April — but if you're keen on getting away before then, Virgin is doing a flash sale that'll also slash fares by half. Hang on, Virgin? Yes. The same airline that, less than 12 months ago, entered voluntary administration. It has since been sold to US private investment firm Bain Capital, launched a comeback sale in early July and its voluntary administration officially ended on Tuesday, November 17. With so many folks talking about the government's half-price fares, Virgin is capitalising upon the chatter; however, it's only putting this current set of cheap tickets on sale for two hours — from 5–7pm AEDT today, Friday, March 12. These fares don't form part of 800,000, and you'll need to be keen to travel in the next fortnight, with the flights covering trips between Monday, March 15–Sunday, March 28. The discounted economy flights include seat selection and checked baggage. All Virgin-operated routes nationally form part of the sale, with some of the specials on offer including Sydney to Byron Bay for $55, Sydney to the Gold Coast for the same price, Melbourne to Launceston from $64, Brisbane to the Whitsunday Coast from $78 and Melbourne to the Gold Coast from $88 (and vice versa in all cases, naturally). As we are still in the middle of a pandemic, flying is little different to normal. Virgin has introduced a range of safety measures, including hand sanitisation stations, contactless check-in and face masks provided to all passengers. Wearing masks on flights also became mandatory in Australia in January. Virgin's half-price flash sale runs from 5–7pm AEDT today, Friday, March 12 — or until sold out. Find out more about current interstate border restrictions over here.
For some time, Darlinghurst has been leading the charge when it comes to urban living, offering up an eclectic collection of independent galleries, boutique shops and hole-in-the-wall eateries. And when nighttime hits, the suburb truly comes alive. There are options aplenty for eating and drinking before you really turn the volume up with a boogie — or catching a drag show in an Oxford Street bar or a play at one of the independent theatres. To help you explore more of this part of Sydney, we teamed up with City of Sydney to ask Concrete Playground readers what businesses they love to visit and support in and around Darlo. Here are some of your top picks. Read on to discover some of the most popular picks to visit during the day. Then, flick the switch above and we'll dim the lights to show your favourite things to do once the sun goes down.
It's been a couple of big weeks in Sydney with all the Splendour in the Grass sideshows. If you're like me, you're probably reduced to funding your nights out with the spare change down the back of the couch. If that's the case, then a free show will be music to your ears — and Oxford Art Factory have your Saturday nights in August covered thanks to a residency from Sydney band She Rex. She Rex sounds just like their name suggests — big, swaggering rock and roll with some classic riffs and some serious attitude. But there's more to them than just big, dumb fun. Tracks like 'P.O.W.E.R.' demonstrate some distinctly 'Millennial' influences, metal guitars grinding over the top of M.I.A./Santigold-esque genre-blending hop hop. The band describe their music as "the kind of sound that makes rocks roll", and if you're smart you'll go see them for free — I get the feeling you'll need to shell out the big bucks to get in the door before too long. And did I mention they are an all-female ensemble? Riot, grrrrrrls.
Bangarra Dance Theatre's new work Dark Emu is an exploration of the relationship between Australia's Aboriginal people and the land — and their extraordinary knowledge of Australia's plants, animals, landforms and climate. It's also a portrait of the harrowing impact European settlement had on this bond. The show takes inspiration from Bruce Pascoe's nonfiction book of the same name, which covers the complexities of indigenous farming, fishing and landcare techniques. "Before colonisation, Aboriginal people were one with the land and respect for earth, sky and ocean was central to life," says director Stephen Page. "We want to make people aware of the strength and resilience of Aboriginal people and celebrate their profound knowledge of agriculture and aquiculture, which belongs at the epicentre of Australian history." Premiering at Sydney Opera House between June 12 and July 14, Dark Emu is Page's 25th project for Bangarra. In putting together the 70-minute, four-part show, he worked closely with dancers and collaborators Yolande Brown and Daniel Riley, as well as the Bangarra troupe. Image: Daniel Boud.
Going out is great: whether it's a rowdy birthday dinner with mates, a dance party that went until sunrise or a hot date where a few too many drinks were had, we love a big night out as much as the next person. Not so great? That next morning, where pounding headaches and parched throats put a vicious end to all the good vibes of the night before. Thankfully, after a few too many Sundays spent hiding under our doonas in sweatpants, we discovered an infinitely more pleasant way to recover from a big night out. Yep, there's nothing quite like a big brekkie or lazy lunch that's all about comfort food and guilty pleasures. In collaboration with American Express, we've found the best places in Sydney to take your hungover self after a massive night on the town. Each of these spots has a menu featuring tried-and-tested hangover cures (think juicy burgers, massive bowls of pasta or dim sum), and an excellent coffee to perk you right back up, plus they're just casual enough for you to show up looking a little less put-together than usual. And they also all accept Amex (so you can stock up on points). You'll be feeling human again in no time. Got yourself in another dining situation and need some guidance? Whatever it is, we know a place. Visit The Shortlist and we'll sort you out.
'Madchester' pioneers the Happy Mondays have just announced an Australian tour — the first time that the original lineup of one of the most influential bands of their generation have made it all the way Down Under. Alongside bands like New Order and the Stone Roses, Happy Mondays were key to the development of the Madchester sound that defined the early '90s and revitalised English music, rescuing it from the ignominy of Spandau Ballet and Duran Duran. Fusing traditional pop elements with funk, northern soul and acid house, Happy Mondays were the poster band for the explosion of rave culture in the UK and released two iconic albums — Bummed and Pills 'n' Thrills and Bellyaches — that remain essential listening today. Supporting them will be fellow Madchester icons 808 State for a special DJ set. Formed in Manchester in 1988 by Graham Massey, Martin Price and Gerald Simpson, 808 State's first album, Newbuild, is now regarded as a milestone in UK electronica. As the NME observed, "808 State revolutionised a whole genre of music in the late-'80s, inspiring Underworld, Orbital and the Chemical Brothers in the process." Happy Mondays Australian 2013 Tour Dates Wed 5 June – Metropolis, Fremantle - tickets via www.oztix.com.au, www.heatseeker.com.au Thu 6 June – The Palace, Melbourne - tickets via www.ticketek.com.au, www.oztix.com.au Fri 7 June – The Tivoli, Brisbane - tickets via www.ticketek.com.au Mon 10 June - UNSW Roundhouse, Sydney - tickets via www.ticketek.com.au
It's a nightmare on Hunter Street with Halloween at Frankie's. First thing's first (and surely this goes without saying): no costume, no entry. Everyone's favourite late-night dive bar is teaming up with New Zealand-based brewery Garage Project as part of Sydney Beer Week to put on a scarily good time with their un-boo-lievable brews. All taps at Frankie's will be pouring Garage Project goodies the likes of Block Party 9 (single-origin hopped IPA), Hatsukoi (neo-Tokyo lager) and West Coast Ultra (an ultra dry IPA), as well as some new, never-tasted-before beers. As expected, the rock 'n' roll haven will be showcasing some of Sydney's best banger-heavy bands from 8:30pm, with all eyes on the headlining act, riot pop girl group RACKETT. Bow down, witches. All drinks are $3 from 4-6pm and there are some fab prizes up for grabs for the "Worst Dressed" including credit on the Garage Project online store, VIP access to Sydney's Cheers Beer Festival the following weekend and a $50 booze/$50 pizza voucher at Frankie's itself. Yes, it might be mid-week, but go on. Trick or treat yo' self. Image: Katje Ford
Whether you're a yogi wanting to properly celebrate International Yoga Day or just looking for an excuse to escape the fluorescent lights of the office, you can fulfil your namaste needs in North Sydney this Thursday, June 21. The North Sydney Council will host a free lunchtime hip hop yoga class on the Greenwood Plaza rooftop. The 45-minute session will be taught by Nikki Ayers while DJ Sasha Moon soundtracks the class with hits from Drake, Kanye and more. The class will kick off at 12.15pm but get there a bit early as the centre is giving away 100 free mats from noon. It's a nice little (free!) way to get moving on your lunch break. To register, email your contact info commsevents@northsydney.nsw.gov.au before Wednesday, June 20 at 5pm.
Get psychled! It's a new word that means "get excited about bicycles". Because between Clover Moore tirelessly championing her epic bike lane plan and Lance Armstrong inspiring kids all over the world to get "pumped", it's no wonder Sydney is enjoying a bicycle renaissance. We've sussed out seven of Sydney's best bicycle shops and found that whether you just want to get your brakes tightened or you're out to pimp your ride, there's something in store for everyone. 1 & 2. Omafiets and Glow Worm Bicycles 117B Addison Rd, Marrickville (on Agar St); omafiets.com.au 'Omafiets; literally means 'grandma bike' in Dutch, and the shop is run by three dashing young bike enthusiasts named Ollie, Maurice and Chris. They sell exquisite second-hand Dutch bicycles because the Dutch "produce bicycles for people who understand that cycling isn't a sport — it's the best way to get around town", and because they are excellent value. They also run Chain Lynx, a queer-friendly bike club that happens in-store every odd Wednesday at 6pm. Super. Whilst Omafiets only performs repairs on bikes originally from their store, their sister shop Glow Worm Bicycles (just around the corner) is run by Maurice and specialises in electric bikes. General servicing and repairs of non-Omafiets bikes can be done here and both stores boast a team of highly skilled, super-helpful bike experts. Image courtesy of Saskia Howard and CycleChic. 3. Clarence St Cyclery 4 Clarence St, Sydney; www.cyclery.com.au Established in 1975, Clarence St Cyclery is an institution amongst bicycle lovers. Run by a team of veteran mechanics, the store offers over 200 models in store and feels a bit like an art gallery for bicycles. As of June 2010, they have also opened up a store next door exclusively for women — the first of its kind in the country. What's more, a percentage of every bicycle sale purchased form Clarence St Cyclery is donated to the Cycling Promotion Fund to promote cycling and improve cycling facilities around Australia. 4. Wooleys Wheels 82 Oxford St, Paddington; www.woolyswheels.com Located amongst a stretch of boutique retail and fashion stores on Oxford Street, Woolys Wheels is a three-level bicycle haven. They stock the full line of Giant and Specialized bikes and a wide range of gear to suit all riding levels (including kids). It's a little on the pricey side, but a crew of helpful staff and baller mechanics make it their business to see you’re saddled up and ready to roll no matter the query. 5. Hell on Wheels 463 King Street, Newtown; www.hellonwheels.com.au This is the place to go for everything BMX and feels more like your friend's living room than a shop (if your friend is a bit nuts and crams every conceivable space in their living room with bike and skate gear). They stock all your BMX needs, including fixies, frames, accessories and protection gear as well as skate decks, shoes, hoodies, magazines and DVDs. If it's raining and you're not riding, then check out the epic bike videos on their homepage to make you feel invariably uncool and in awe. 6. tokyobike 1 Marys Pl, Surry Hills; www.tokyobike.com.au This store opened in Sydney in 2010 as the first permanent tokyobike outside the old suburb of Yanaka in Japan. Based on an ethos of the simplicity, comfort and enjoyment that comes with cycling, tokyobikes weigh between just 9 and 11 kilos. There are four different urban commuter models to suit both cruisers and speedsters, which you can take for a test ride at their sunny Surry Hills store. They also stock parts imported from Japan and a range of local accessories and provide bike maintenance and mechanics services. 7. Stallion Cycles Shop 2, 115 Lawson St, Redfern; www.stallionbikes.com The store is about the size of a peanut, but it's crammed with a range of beautiful hand-built vintage cycles, which spill out onto the sidewalk. Priding themselves on their craftsmanship, Stallion is the place to head if you're after custom design, made to order, rebuilt bikes and vintage accessories. They boast an extensive restoration and servicing list, and a Stallion Bikes full bicycle restoration comes with a one-year workmanship guarantee and a free first service. Tallyho! Honourable Mentions Cheeky Transport Bondi Bikes Cycle Re-Cycle (aka The Nunnery) Omafiets image courtesy of Saskia Howard and CycleChic. All other images courtesy of the stores.
Looking for a top-notch tipple to sip? Plenty of prizes, nods and gongs have you covered. Looking for a great wine bar to drink them in, when and where it is safe to do so? That's the domain of the Wineslinger Awards, which has just announced its top 50 venues for 2020. As voted on by more than 100 industry experts — think sommeliers, winemakers, hospitality tastemakers and journalists — the Wineslinger Awards were created in 2018 by Rory Kent, who also founded the Young Gun of Wine Awards. Where the latter prize aims to recognise stellar up-and-comers, the former is all about excellent and innovative places where vino lovers can enjoy an ace drop. In this year's list, Wineslinger has shared the love around the country. Fifteen bars are located in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, 12 in Victoria, eight in Western Australia, and five each in South Australia, Tasmania and Queensland. Even better — almost half of the 2020 top 50 have been named for the first time, with 20 venues earning that honour. For folks looking for your next drinking spot, that means you have plenty of places to add to your must-visit list. Some are located in wine regions, others have been plying their trades for decades, and others still have only just opened — yes, during the pandemic. From the top 50, Wineslinger will single out a number of venues for trophies, which'll be awarded at a virtual presentation on Monday, October 19. The top gong is simply called 'Wineslinger', naturally, while other prizes span the self-explanatory 'Best New Haunt', as well as the 'Maverick' award for a venue that pushes the limits. And, for vino aficionados at home, there's also the 'People's Choice' prize — which is open for online votes right now, closing at midday on the day of the ceremony. As part of the public vote, Wineslinger is also supporting hospitality relief fund Tip Jar, via a $1 donation for every vote received. You can win prizes for having your say, too — including a heap of wine, obviously — but knowing that simply nominating your pick will help raise money for the industry is pretty great motivation. [caption id="attachment_781186" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Love, Tilly Devine, Darlinghurst via Nikki To[/caption] WINESLINGER AWARDS 2020 TOP 50 NSW/ACT 10 William Street, Paddington Alberto's Lounge, Sydney Bar Rochford, Canberra Bentley Restaurant & Bar, Sydney Bibo Wine Bar, Double Bay Dear Sainte Eloise, Potts Point Ester, Chippendale Fix Wine, Sydney Fleet, Brunswick Heads Love, Tilly Devine, Darlinghurst Ode Bar, Bondi Poly, Surry Hills Ragazzi, Sydney Where's Nick, Marrickville WyNo x Bodega, Surry Hills QLD Cru Bar + Cellar, Fortitude Valley La Lune Wine Co, South Brisbane La Lupa, West End Maeve Wine Bar, South Brisbane Snack Man, Fortitude Valley SA Hellbound, Adelaide Leigh Street Wine Room, Adelaide Mother Vine, Adelaide The Salopian Inn, McLaren Vale The Summertown Aristologist, Summertown TAS Havilah, Launceston Lucinda, Hobart Sonny, Hobart Stillwater, Launceston Tom McHugo's Hobart Hotel, Hobart VIC Bar Liberty, Fitzroy Carlton Wine Room, Carlton City Wine Shop, Melbourne Embla, Melbourne Etta, Brunswick East France-Soir, South Yarra Geralds Bar, Carlton North Marion, Fitzroy Napier Quarter, Fitzroy Old Palm Liquor, Brunswick East Union Street Wine, Geelong Winespeake, Daylesford WA Lalla Rookh, Perth Le Rebelle, Mount Lawley Liberté, Albany Lulu La Delizia, Subiaco Madalena's Bar, South Fremantle Petition Wine Merchant, Perth Settlers Tavern, Margaret River Wines of While, Perth To vote in Wineslinger's People's Choice Award before midday on Monday, October 19, visit the awards' website. Top images: Snack Man, Fortitude Valley; Ode Bar, Bondi; Marion, Fitzroy; Le Rebelle, Mount Lawley; Hellbound, Adelaide.
Two-year-old Melbourne-based label Búl has brought its sharp tailoring to the Strand Arcade in the form of a pop-up that will be open til September. Greeting you with pine wood panels, tree stumps and white, mottled-marble counters, the space has a feel that's directly on target for those coveting the cleanly organic. The design (by architect Michael Macleod) plays perfect host to the AW13 collection, which is muted and classic in silk, leather and knit, from the gorgeous two-tone Kabli jacket to the Haldjas boot. Designer Virginia Martin cut her teeth at Proenza Schouler, Cynthia Rowley, Heatherette and Trovata before going solo at age 25 and consciously integrates a serene coastal influence into every season of Bul. Want 15 percent off all full-priced items at the Búl pop-up at The Strand? Just mention you're using the Concrete Playground reader discount (valid until Sunday, June 9).
When you've been screening movies under the stars for 25 years, it's worth celebrating that fact. And when you're hosting your newest season of outdoor flicks in a year of significant worldwide change, giving viewers something comfortable and reliable to watch is a mighty sensible approach. Moonlight Cinema is doing both when it returns for the summer of 2020–21, all by packing its program with a heap of film favourites — so get ready to kick back on the grass and watch Moulin Rouge!, Black Panther, When Harry Met Sally, Bohemian Rhapsody and, depending on your city, either Pulp Fiction or Dirty Dancing. Indeed, there's a definite retro air to Moonlight's lineup this year — which arrives after the outdoor cinema first announced that it was definitely returning in this chaotic period, and then revealed its exact dates. Between November 2020 and April 2021, the event will head to Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Melbourne with a heap of old-school flicks. You'll also be able to see some recent releases, in case you haven't had the chance since cinemas started reopening (mid-year in most of the country, and this week in Melbourne). In the classic camp, a week of Christmas films will help you feel merry, with Die Hard, Love Actually, Elf, Home Alone, The Grinch and The Nightmare Before Christmas on the bill. Or, if you'd like to revisit non-festive faves from the past few years, you can check out The Greatest Showman, Frozen II, Thor: Ragnarok, Guardians of the Galaxy and Captain America: Civil War. From this year's releases, there's a little bit of everything. Christopher Nolan's Tenet will screen in the evening air, this year's new version of The Secret Garden will play surrounded by plenty of grass, and Australian comedy Rams — about feuding sheep-farmer brothers — will do the same. There's also Russell Crowe getting angry over the phone and in his car in thriller Unhinged, the cringe-worthy teen romance of After We Collided and the delightful Dickens adaptation that is The Personal History of David Copperfield. The program does vary slightly from city to city, so it's worth checking exactly what's playing on your patch of turf. And, because Melbourne's season doesn't start until January, it hasn't actually announced its lineup as yet. It's also worth remembering that every city is BYO except Brisbane — but, wherever you're settling in for an outdoor cinema session, there'll be food trucks, a bar, snacks and (if you'd like to pay for them) bean bags as well. And, in great news for movie-loving pooches, you can bring them along, too. MOONLIGHT CINEMA 2020–21 DATES Sydney: Thursday, November 26–Sunday, April 4 (Centennial Park) Brisbane: Friday, November 27–Sunday, February 21 (Roma Street Parkland) Adelaide: Friday, December 11–Sunday, February 14 (Botanic Park) Perth: Thursday, December 3–Sunday, April 4 (Kings Park and Botanic Garden) Melbourne: Thursday, January 7–Sunday, April 25 (Royal Botanic Gardens) Moonlight Cinema kicks off in November 2020, running through until April 2021. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the cinema's website.
To ring in the year of the ox, dumpling master Din Tai Fung created cute masked ox buns, continuing its annual tradition of welcoming the Lunar New Year with an adorable addition to its menu (see also: its monkey buns from 2016 and pig bao from 2019). But creative dishes aren't just a once-a-year thing here. Now that Easter is almost upon us, the chain is serving up something else to tempt your tastebuds: hot cross bao. Yes, it's exactly what it sounds like — and the bao is only available for a limited time. On the outside, each one looks like a hot cross bun, but they're made with steamed bread. And, you won't find any raisins inside. Instead, they're filled with molten chocolate. The hot cross bao is available at all Din Tai Fung restaurants and food court outlets in Sydney, so you'll want to hit up its World Square, Westfield Chatswood, Westfield Miranda, Westfield Sydney, Broadway Shopping Centre, Gateway Sydney, The Star, Greenwood Plaza and MLC Centre venues. In Melbourne, you have one spot to head to, with the bao on offer at Emporium Melbourne. If you'd rather have them brought to your door, they're also available for delivery in frozen form. If you'd like to stock your freezer and enjoy them once Easter passes, that's an option as well. The only problem we can foresee with this latest hybrid dish? Wanting to devour as many as possible. They'll cost you $5.80 for two in-store, and $8 for three in frozen packs. Hot cross bun bao are available for $5.80 for two at all Din Tai Fung stores. They're also available for delivery, for $8 — plus a $10–20 delivery fee.
Who knew so many people around the world over the age of five (and their parents) would be singing along to a tune sampling “Baa Baa Black Sheep?” Even if you happened to be living under a rock during the when "Somebody That I Used to Know" first surfaced, you would still most likely know the song, which seems to have been playing through some kind of tree root radio system. Now that it’s safely embedded in our brains, you can see ol’ Wally live. Although it’s unclear whether or not Kimbra and Wally will be getting their birthday suits painted on stage or having five people with grim expressions to strum his guitar, what is clear is that Bertie Blackman and PVT will be the supporting acts. This will be his first and (apparently) only Aussie tour since Gotye hit it big time. He seems pretty excited to be playing for local audiences again, saying "the band is sounding hot and I'm so into some of the new visuals that have been made, it's exciting!" Yes, it’s time to get excited people.
The flash mob has become synonymous with making a statement, a bold one at that. It isn't everyday that a group of people randomly assembles in a public place to perform a silly choreographed dance number, so on the rare occasion a flash mob does take over the streets, passersby pay attention. American Airlines took advantage of this increasingly popular public display to make a statement of their own. The airline broke away from traditional methods of advertising and organised a flash mob at the U.S. Bank Plaza in downtown Los Angeles to promote the launch of their new flight services. The performance began with a single man dancing past a father and his daughter, and he was soon joined by 40 dancers descending the steps of the public plaza. After shocking onlookers with their meticulously choreographed routine, the mob created the American Airlines logo with their travel bags above their heads and then nonchalantly dispersed. Few things grab attention quicker than a flash mob, but this form of marketing has surely been done to death. And what are the new services that this quirky advertisement was meant to showcase? The airline now offers daily non-stop flights from LAX to Shanghai as well additional flights to nine new U.S. destinations. https://youtube.com/watch?v=a_w0lX3NIOk
Earlwolf is the amalgam of Odd Future (or Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All, or OFWGKTA) alumni Tyler, the Creator and Earl Sweatshirt, two of the most talked about hip hop artists of the decade. Whilst that talk is often based around the controversy they create, with Tyler's most recent artistic foray into commercial curation causing heated debate, there is no denying that when it comes to music the two are innovative virtuosos changing the sound of the genre with their subversive aural experiments. Their Australian tour is their first visit to our shores since Tyler's most recent release, Wolf, and with 19-year-old Earl's follow-up to his critically acclaimed debut, Earl, to be released so soon — and with it promising to be very tidy indeed if his new single 'Whoa' is anything to go by — there is no better time to catch the two most prestigious talents of Odd Future. Be aware, though, that whilst the two are excellent at what they do, this is probably not for you if you are offended easily. The hip hop duo are bringing their explosive sound to Sydney on June 6, so get in quick and witness the future of hip hop.
It'll look like an Asian hawker market, smell like one, and definitely be as packed as one. Old favourites will be back with all the dumplings, noodles and barbecue you can think of. You'll see a few new faces among the stalls this year, including Toko, Bang and Ramen Zundo. Black Star Pastry and N2 Gelato will also be making their first appearance at the markets, armed with what we know will be delicious desserts. Be prepared to queue. Times: Mon–Tue 5pm–9pm, Wed–Thur 5pm–10pm, Fri 5pm–11pm, Sat 4pm–10pm, Sun 4pm–9pm. This event is one of our top ten picks of Good Food Month 2015. Check out the other nine.
Wayside Chapel's community service centres have been offering vital support for Sydneysiders in need since 1964. Its mission is to provide unconditional help to locals experiencing homelessness, addiction, mental health issues and social isolation. This work has become more important than ever during the COVID pandemic, with even more people looking to the charity for assistance. But, with both Wayside Chapel Op Shops (in Kings Cross and Bondi) currently closed to the public, getting funding for the community organisation has been especially difficult. So, Wayside launched its Online Op Shop this month. Expect to find pre-loved designer and vintage fashion items at bargain prices here. At the moment, the shop includes finds (for both women and men) from designers like I Am Gia, Assembly, Manning Cartel, Michael Kors, Marimekko, Antipodium London and Religion, all for just $30–4o. https://www.instagram.com/p/CE5htRXDiqL/ Plus entire vintage and accessory sections too. And every single dollar spent goes straight to Wayside's programs and services. Shopping here has a big, big impact. Thanks to community funding, Wayside has provided over 15,000 hot meals and groceries, over 3000 pieces of clothing and blankets and over 1000 warm showers and care packs — and that's just from March to June this year. If you are looking to downsize your wardrobe, Wayside Chapel also accepts quality donations to their Op Shop, and offers other ways to donate too. To shop or donate to Wayside Chapel Online Op Shop, head to thewaysidechapelopshop.com.
If you haven't been to Auckland (Tāmaki Makaurau) — or it's been a while — it's time to get (re)acquainted. Emanating a fresh urban energy, Auckland is buzzing with bar and restaurant openings, thought-provoking exhibitions, and thrilling outdoor adventures — all while honouring its unique cultural legacy. If you play it right, Auckland feels more like a creative playground than a city — you just need to know what mood you're in. Whether you're feeling adventurous, romantic or indulgent, here's how to nail your next Auckland visit. What To Do When You Feel Like… A Hit Of Adrenaline Need a healthy rush? It's not every day you can jump off a country's highest landmark but Auckland's Sky Tower offers you the chance to do just that. Described as base jumping by wire, SkyJump is an 11-second freefall from 192 metres high. Reach speeds of up to 85 kilometres per hour before coming to a smooth landing at the base — so enjoy the view up there. Too fast? Scale the Auckland Harbour Bridge with a two-hour guided tour right to the top. Soak up 360-degree views of the city, embark on a sunset tour, or double down on the adrenaline by bungee jumping off the bridge instead. Auckland's Waiheke Island is home to an array of zip lines guaranteed to get your heart racing. EcoZip Adventures offers a three-hour zipline journey through the treetops, soaring high above lush, native forest, while the Man O' War Forest Flight allows you to comfortably zip at your own pace across three 200-metre ziplines and boardwalks, ending at Man O' War's magnificent winery for a tasting. What To Do When You Feel Like… Indulging In Some 'Me Time' While a holiday is generally considered 'me time', jam-packed itineraries and travelling with others can sometimes leave us craving a solo outing. Luckily, Auckland boasts many indulgent treatments to help you find solace. Treat yourself to spa treatments at Chuan Spa in the city. Offering luxurious experiences that blend traditional Chinese medicine with modern wellness, you can expect a satisfying menu of treatments and facilities, including massages, facials, saunas, herbal steam rooms, and a heated rooftop pool. They also won spa of the year, so you know you're in good hands. Abstract Hotel's in-house award-winning Sa-Ni Spa offers affordable treatments in the city's heart. Devoted to holistic healing and wellness, Sa-Ni Spa incorporates ancient techniques and traditional aromatherapy throughout its offerings. Our top pick? Deep Sleep Therapy. A signature massage that calms your nervous system, inducing the most peaceful sleep you've ever had. While an escape to Auckland can bring a world of calm, a visit to East Day Spa at the Grand by Sky City will deepen your relaxation even further. Promising an oasis of healing with a no-phone policy so you can switch off from the world, East Day Spa boasts 11 treatment rooms — including four double suites, zen heat experiences, and a relaxation atrium. What To Do When You Feel Like… You're Overstimulated and Need To Zen One of the best antidotes to burnout? Immersing yourself in Mother Nature or moving your body — combining the two is even better. And you're certainly spoiled for choice in Auckland. Craving zen? Roll out a yoga mat in one of the coolest settings: Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki. Immerse yourself in the calming, meditative practice of Hatha yoga while surrounded by magnificent, historic artworks and sculptures. Classes run for an hour every Sunday and Tuesday evening. If you'd rather be outdoors, swap the mat for a picnic rug among beautiful plants and lush gardens. Wander through Auckland Domain's impressive Wintergarden—an ever-changing trove of rare plants, including the Amorphophallus titanum (corpse flower) — and follow a trail of captivating outdoor sculptures. Alternatively, hop over to the city's southern side and explore Auckland's Botanic Gardens filled with aromatic flowers and a picturesque lake. It's an idyllic slice of stillness in Auckland. The best part? It's free. Speaking of picturesque, Waiheke Island offers you a hike for every mood, whether after a leisurely stroll or a more challenging trek. If you're eager to take it easy and slow, we recommend the Whakanewha Loop. The two-hour, grade four hike is through Nikau forest and native bush with cascades along the way. But, if you're up for something that's a little more challenging, set out on the Mokemoke Pā headland walk — a two-hour, grade seven walking loop that hugs Waiheke's stunning coastline. What To Do When You Feel Like… A Fancy Snack Auckland's vibrant food scene offers plenty of gourmet bites, share-worthy small plates, and indulgent treats perfect for a snack-filled day of exploring. If you're in the mood for a taste of Italy, head to pocket-sized Pici, where its signature cacio e pepe pasta is a must-try. For a twist on Mediterranean classics, Lebanese favourite Gemmayze Street serves up heavenly homemade hummus, which you can even take home to keep the flavour lingering. For high-brow fancy snacks, look no further than Bar Magda. Here, Filipino-inspired plates like tuna on toast with mayo, anchovy, and flying fish caviar bring a refreshing take on bar snacks. Alternatively, visit local favourite Atelier, where French-style tapas and freshly shucked oysters await, alongside a curated selection of local and international cheeses — or, if you're on the hunt for incredible vegetarian bites, swing by Hatted restaurant Forest in Mount Eden. Think small plates like seaweed-dusted fries with toasted chilli goop and crunchy crudités dunked in creamy garlic pine nut dip. If you're near the CBD, Auckland's snack scene has you covered. Darling On Drake offers a sprawling terrace where you can sample saucy prawn rolls or short rib nuggets with mustard mayo. For something sweet, Giapo is a must-visit. Known for its world-famous hokey pokey ice cream, it isn't your average ice creamery. Its inventive flavours — like velvet cake with cream cheese or pumpkin seed praline are as much of an experience as they are a treat. Craving luxury? Miann Chocolate Factory is a dream dessert boutique. From fairytale-like mousse mushroom cakes to imaginative tiramisu treats, each dessert is meticulously detailed and (almost) too beautiful to eat. What To Do When You Feel Like… Learning Something New Auckland is the perfect destination for those who crave fresh experiences and the thrill of learning something new. Whether you're exploring your creative side or honing a new skill, the city offers plenty of opportunities to expand your horizons. Get your green thumb wagging at Babylon, Auckland's beloved plant store. Learn how to create a Japanese Kokedama or build a vibrant terrarium. Plus, for the most heinous indoor plant killers, Babylon offers courses on how to nurture your own plant babies. If you're in the mood to get your hands dirty, The Clay Centre in Mt Wellington runs creative workshops, including its popular "wheel and wine" class. It's a great way to unwind while learning the art of pottery. For a quieter but equally rewarding experience, try its Saturday morning coffee-and-clay sessions. To refine your artistic skills, Studio One Toi Tū in Grey Lynn offers a variety of classes, from life drawing to knotting macramé bracelets. They even offer specialised workshops like traditional Māori jewellery carving. Don't forget to check out one of the exhibitions at the studio, which showcases local and international talent. If you're looking for something a little more adventurous, why not learn to surf at Muriwai Beach? Set against dramatic dunes and cliffs, the beach is about 40 minutes north-west of Auckland and is an idyllic spot to learn the basics of surfing (or advanced technical skills if you've surfed for years). And don't worry about the cold — winter wetsuits are included, so you can stay warm while soaking up the stunning coastal views. Just a short flight away, Auckland is the perfect long weekend destination for travellers seeking urban energy and unexpected natural gems. Find out more here. By Jacque Kennedy
Invented in the second century by the Romans, mulled wine — which is red vino, heated and infused with spices — didn't take long to become popular across the Roman Empire. These days, recipes vary from country to country. Germans add sugar, lemon, cloves, vanilla and cinnamon; the Bulgarians prefer honey and peppercorns; the Japanese make their own traditional sake version; and Australians often substitute red wine for cider. However you make it, there's no better winter bevvie. With that in mind, bars, pubs and restaurants all over Sydney are serving up piping hot glasses of the stuff to help you through these chilly months. FIREFLY BAR, NEUTRAL BAY In summer, we had bottomless frosé and sorbet cocktails. Now, it's winter, and the last thing we feel like doing is chugging endless alcoholic ice slushies. Thankfully, the team at Neutral Bay bar Firefly knows this, and is serving up bottomless mulled wine — five nights a week, all winter long. You'll be able to warm your belly with 90 minutes of unlimited hot and spicy wine between Sunday and Thursday, for just $28 per person. This year's mulled wine recipe has been taken to the next level with the addition of fresh vanilla pods and a dash of pisco. It's available from when the doors open — so head in anytime after 5pm during the week and from midday on Sunday. The mulled wine is on the menu the rest of the week, too, just not available bottomless. THE FERNERY, MOSMAN To celebrate winter, this greenery-filled rooftop space has launched the Spice Bar, a pop-up dedicated to all things warm. It, of course, includes a mulled wine ($12), which is a blend of wintery reds and spiced with cinnamon, star anise, vanilla and clove, then topped off with Sailor Jerry rum and fresh orange juice. The Spice Bar also serves up the Mary's Revenge ($12) — a controversial hot take on a bloody mary — with the addition of Sichuan peppercorn and house-made tomato soup. It's definitely one for the adventurous type. THE DOSS HOUSE, THE ROCKS Opened in early 2018 in a heritage-listed building, this old-school whiskey bar offers over 150 drops. During winter, one of them is being heated, infused with honey and lemon and served up as a classic hot toddy. Meanwhile, the mulled wine is a steaming blend of red wine, fresh orange, star anise and cloves. And the bar is also slinging irish coffees for the cooler days ahead, with each hot drink priced at $12. You'll be imbibing your drink of choice on a luxurious velvet banquette, surrounded by brass fittings, antique mirrors and low lighting — or outside, in the courtyard, which has been treated with blankets and heaters for the winter months. THE GOLDEN GULLY, LEICHHARDT Leichhardt's resident small bar is prepping for winter with a menu of hearty vego eats and drinks — namely its signature mulled wine. This one is made with heaps of fresh, seasonal fruit, including mandarin, lime and lemon juice and rind. The team has also added native pepperberry to the usual mulled spice mix, and it's available at just $9 a pop. As well as the wine, punters can nab a $15 beer and vegan pie deal every Wednesday, or choose from the bar's other vego winter dishes. Think jerusalem artichoke with smoked portobello mushrooms and porcini jus, or braised leeks with pepper-smoked carrots, cashew cheese and caper dust. TANDEM BAR, NEWTOWN Newtown's resident Scandinavian bar Tandem is doing its mulled wine a little differently by serving traditional gløgg, a Nordic version of the hot drink. The traditional recipe includes a cabernet sauvignon or cabernet merlot base, mulled with cinnamon, cloves, star anise and nutmeg, then combined with orange juice and zest, lemon zest and ginger. The drink is set at $9, or an especially tasty $6 during the Tuesday–Friday happy hour from 5–7pm. Or stop by during trivia on Tuesdays, when free mulled wines are part of the giveaway. GOROS, SURRY HILLS Late-night karaoke favourite Goros is staying true to its roots and turning out traditional Japanese mulled sake for the chilly months ahead. It's a blend of delicate flavours including pear, ginger, vanilla and hints of cinnamon, all of which will leave a warm feeling in your belly for just $12 a glass. Apart from the sake, there are also alcoholic bubble teas up for grabs. The food menu reflects the change in season as well, including authentic Japanese seafood hot pots called nabe and baked sweet potatoes with yuzu butter for sides. It's all part of the Goros Winter Festival, which will run through August 31 and includes regular Saturday parties, DJ lineups and those late-night eats you know and love. ARCADIA LIQUORS, REDFERN This Redfern stalwart is inviting Sydneysiders in from the cold with its golden lighting, covered outdoor beer garden and mulled wine. Arcadia Liquors is serving up $10 glasses of its Gunther's Gluhwein every day throughout winter. Cabernet merlot is steeped with all of your usual mulling spices (cinnamon, cardamon pods, cloves and star anise), then mixed with a few secret ingredients from the owner's family recipe. The beer list will also focus on dark drops for winter, and the simple food menu offers antipasto plates ($25) and four rotating toasties. At the moment, the latter includes a classic ham and cheese with relish ($6); a chicken schnitty topped with swiss and sriracha ($12); and a vego one stuffed with haloumi, roasted peppers, olives, spinach and cheddar ($12). THE BOTANIST, KIRRIBILLI Kirribilli's The Botanist is offering its own take on a winter warmer with a spiced cider. It's made with alcoholic apple cider and juniper berries, along with the classic mulled spices of cinnamon, star anise, black pepper and orange peel. The drink is available all winter long, alongside a menu of ricotta gnocchi with spicy 'nduja butter and pine nuts ($24) and a lamb ragout with buffalo ricotta and herbed bread crumbs ($30). A list of wintertime cocktails, Australian wines and beers are on offer, too. PARSONS BAR, POTTS POINT After successfully luring Potts Point drinkers away from Netflix last year, Parsons Bar's mulled cider is back on the menu. Brewed with fresh orange, cinnamon and cloves, this heart-warming drop can be ordered as it comes (or you can add your favourite spirit). And this year, the bar is also offering mulled wine every Friday and Saturday, too. If you're peckish, choose a dish from the winter menu — it includes beef cheek ragout fettuccine and woodfired lamb shoulder. Pop by on a Tuesday to score free sides with any main. DUKE OF ENMORE, ENMORE The Duke of Enmore is heating up for winter, too, starting with its extremely reasonably priced mulled wine for $8. Its spice mix includes ginger, cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon and star anise, plus orange and sugar to top it off. For hearty eats, there's a lamb shank smothered in gravy and served with mash, a porchetta with white bean puree, as well as fried chicken ribs and a special chicken burger, too. Plus natural wines, plenty of heaters and a blazing fireplace to rug up next to. Top Image: Doss House
Since being formed in 2001, Melbourne nine-piece The Bamboos have released more than five acclaimed albums, placed songs in TV shows like Grey's Anatomy, Ugly Betty and Underbelly and worked on the soundtrack for a multi-platinum Nintendo game. But frontman and periodic electronic producer Lance Ferguson isn't one to let the band rest on its smooth, funk-born laurels. Over the years he's injected new flavours into the band by collaborating with other artists, fusing elements of hip hop and psych, and constantly shaking up the lineup. In 2012 The Bamboos joined up with Tim Rogers of You Am I for the Triple J-championed track 'I Got Burned'. An addictive combo of the band's rhythmic grooves and the singer's distinctive howl, the track featured on The Bamboos latest album Medicine Man — their biggest release to date. This year they're taking the alliance live with The Rock n Soul Medicine Show. We caught up with Lance before the tour to talk about collaborating, staying current and the frustrations of being pidgeonholed. You guys have been pretty busy over 2012 did you manage to get a break over Christmas? I did, I had a week in Lorne in January, which was really good. It feels like a distant memory now though. You did Falls Festival didn't you? That's right. So how did you come to team up with Tim Rogers for 'Burned'? I first met Tim when I was playing guitar in Washington and we were playing the BDO tour. It was a few years back now, and I met him backstage and we hit it off. Just musical nerd talk of old records and stuff. We seemed to connect on that level, and on a personal level as well, and even at that point we talked about collaborating together — way before anything actually happened. https://youtube.com/watch?v=hZEN_l4j6mY Is collaborating with other artists an important thing for you? You've also got Aloe Blacc and Daniel Merriweather on the album too. Yeah it definitely is, and The Bamboos have often had guests involved with different records. Most of the collaborations have stemmed from some kind of friendship and the whole collaboration evolved organically rather than me on the phone to my manager going, "get me this guy." Most of these things have happened in nice natural and sincere progression. I do prefer that, because getting complete strangers in the studio can be weird if you're trying to connect musically. It is such an intimate thing, writing a song with someone, for me, so I do prefer it to stem from some kind of friendship I guess. https://youtube.com/watch?v=_4G96KbQ4SI What about Syl Johnson? Yeah well we toured with him twice, pretty much as his backing band. Both times were incredibly valuable. The last time unfortunately he had a heart attack when we were playing with him in Brisbane, which was just a terrible turn of events. And then he spent some time in hospital, bounced back and did a show in Melbourne after that, which was incredible. So yeah, such a cool guy actually. Going back to the ARIAS and the recent popularity of acts like Saskwatch and Chet Faker, what do you think it is about soul music now that has people taking notice? Do you think the music has changed or are we just becoming more receptive? Well it's been such a battle with this music, from my perspective. I recently put out a compilation called The Soul Of Melbourne with a friend of mine Chris Gill — a compilation of soulful Melbourne acts — so it was great to put that together, and you can see how the scene has crystallised. But I think what's happened is that there's a younger generation of fans and music lovers who are maybe in their late teens or early twenties now, and who came up through their teens hearing Amy Winehouse and Sharon Jones. I think that has created a sort of hotbed of people who know that music through being exposed to it. So now that they're at the age of going to gigs and going to festivals that music just seems sort of natural to them, like "oh it's a soul music band, we know what that is and we like it." So there's definitely the element of generational acceptance. https://youtube.com/watch?v=pxBnzQtdHdM You made the Triple J Hottest 100, which is a pretty big deal for a funk/soul-driven group. Yeah, I mean as much as that's a cool thing I do sort of battle with The Bamboos to not be such a genre-driven band. [Funk and soul] is definitely where we've come from and where we've started, and it's ostensibly what we do in terms of the sounds we create, but for me I just really don't think of The Bamboos as a band of any genre now. I just try to think of it as, "We're The Bamboos and we're just going to make some music." It could have some psych rock elements, it could be a blues tune, it could be anything — it could incorporate a whole bunch of influences now. So I definitely have tried to break the band out of just being like a soul/funk band. I'm not saying that to have a go at you, by the way! Well that's what's so unique about your music is that it incorporates so many unexpected sounds. Your electronic project, Lanu — do you think that influences The Bamboos music at all? I don't know if it influences but it's another avenue for me as a songwriter. I think anything I write separately from The Bamboos though, even if unconsciously, I reckon it must inform it. Whether it's just different forms or different ways of looking at putting a song together... So yeah, I reckon it does influence our music actually. What about other local acts — anyone in particular you been listening to heavily? My vocalist for The Bamboos, Ella Thompson, has a band called Axolotl, who do this sort of dreamy, electronic, indie stuff. I'm really into them, they supported us on our last national tour. There's another band Hiatus Kaiyote that defies genre labels, and is doing some amazing things internationally as well. They just won the Gilles Peterson Worldwide Awards for Break-Though Act, so they're really being flagged internationally. https://youtube.com/watch?v=Iae6LmWTXPw Obviously live performance is a massive part of The Bamboos appeal, and Melbourne has a very healthy live music scene. Do you think about that when making songs? I look at the studio thing and the live thing as two very separate entities, and we started out as a live act before we ever recorded anything. [The live show] has been something I've tried to improve on and tweak and be progressive with. Now we come out and basically play our songs, which sounds really obvious — but I think the lineup we've had the last year and a half is possibly the strongest, best and most solid lineup in the history of the band. For me it's an exciting time to play live. How do you see the band's sound developing over the next year or so? There were some thing in that album that were real bubblegum pop things, and I think with the next recording that things might become a little more muscular again. A bit darker. That's what I'm feeling at the moment. Is there anything else you want to say about the upcoming tour and what we can expect from it? Not really, just that it's The Bamboos and Tim Rogers rather than The Bamboos featuring Tim Rogers, so I'm really working with Tim on some new originals and we're picking out a bunch of whole new covers. There's going to be a whole new music for the band to play, which is always good for keeping us on our toes. Tim Rogers & The Bamboos Rock 'n' Soul Medicine Show: Saturday 23 Feb - Perth Festival, Perth, WA Thursday 28 Feb - QPAC, Brisbane, QLD Friday 1 March - Melbourne Zoo, Melbourne, VIC Saturday 2 March - Leongatha Memorial Hall, VIC Thursday 7 March - The HiFi, Sydney, NSW Friday 8 March - Cambridge Hotel, Newcastle, NSW Saturday 9 March - Uni Bar, Wollongong, NSW Sunday 10 March - Womadelaide, Adelaide, SA
It's been 14 years since Danny Rogers and Jerome Borazio decided to fill a Melbourne alleyway with tunes in 2005. Thankfully, Laneway Festival has just confirmed it will be heading back to its collection of unconventional venues for another year, revealing its jam-packed 2019 lineup. Returning to Sydney next February, Laneway will raise a plastic cup to the middle of summer with one heck of a lineup. This year's eclectic program is headlined by two huge Aussie names: indie rock group Gang of Youths and acclaimed singer-songwriter Courtney Barnett. A few big artists are heading Down Under for the first time, too, including English R&B superstar Jorja Smith, neo-soul singer Rex Orange County and American rapper Denzel Curry. You'll also be able to get down to Camp Cope, Middle Kids and Mitski and sway along to Mansionair, What So Not and Skeggs. If you want to catch Jorja Smith and NYC rapper A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, you'll have to head along to Laneway — they'll both be playing exclusively at the festival, with no sideshows. But, enough chit-chat — here's the full 2019 lineup. LANEWAY 2019 LINEUP Gang of Youths Courtney Barnett A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie (exclusive) Baker Boy Camp Cope Charlie Collins* Clairo Cosmo's Midnight Crooked Colours* Denzel Curry* DJDS G Flip Jon Hopkins Jorja Smith (exclusive) KIAN Mansionair Masego Methyl Ethel Middle Kids Mitski* Parquet Courts Ravyn Lenae Rex Orange County Ruby Fields Skeggs Smino What So Not Yellow Days *East Coast only Laneway Image: Anthony Smith.
With the New South Wales State Budget set to be announced on Tuesday, June 22, some details on where funding will land have begun to trickle through. One such tidbit should see more blockbuster art and cultural exhibitions arrive on Australian shores, with $40 million being invested in the state's cultural institutions to help fund major exhibitions throughout NSW. NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the funding will aim to "establish Sydney as the nation's cultural capital by securing world-class exhibitions that will attract tens of thousands of people through the doors of our iconic museums and galleries." Perrottet also said that he hoped the funding would help attract interstate visitors — and eventually entice international travellers to Sydney when borders reopen. [caption id="attachment_789425" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Installation view of the 'Streeton' exhibition at Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney. Photo: Jenni Carter, AGNSW[/caption] Alongside this $40 million investment, an additional $220 million will be invested in Sydney's cultural institutions so that they can undertake necessary upgrades and other capital works, with total operational funding to cultural institutions set to come in at $361.6 million. Two venues that will receive a significant portion of the funding: the Art Gallery of NSW and Australian Museum. Both are currently undergoing upgrades, and will nab receive government funding to help expand their operations. Thanks in part to the new funding over the next four years, Sydneysiders can look forward to new Egyptian exhibition Ramses The Great and the Gold of the Pharaohs, as well as a huge showcase that'll focus on sharks — both at the Australian Museum. Ramses will premiere in the summer of 2023 with more than 180 rare artefacts, while Sharks will debut at the museum from winter 2022 until summer 2023, before touring across the globe. Minister for the Arts Don Harwin also said we can expect the funding to help "bring Alexander McQueen's designs to NSW and take Catherine Martin's collections around the world". The final element of the government's arts funding is financial support to provide free general admission to galleries and cultural institutions in and around Macquarie Street such as the Australian Museum, Sydney Living Museums and Hyde Park Barracks. That's set to kick in for the next 12 months, although the exact dates haven't yet been revealed. [caption id="attachment_800817" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anna Kucera[/caption] For more information about NSW's newly announced cultural funding, head to the NSW Treasury website. The NSW State Budget will be handed down on Tuesday, June 22. Top images: Jenni Carter, AGNSW; Anna Kucera, MCA; Australian Museum.
Across four seasons and 36 episodes of Rick and Morty to date, Rick Sanchez has taken many forms. That's one of the joys of the animated show's multiverse. New universe, new Rick — and new Morty, Beth, Jerry and Summer as well. But while the labcoat-wearing, booze-guzzling mad scientist has been tiny, sported an afro and even been a wasp, one Rick stands out from the crowd. Regular Rick is great, of course; however, Pickle Rick has been an instant favourite since he was first sighted in a trailer for the series' third season. Now, Pickle Rick is taking a new journey — into doughnuts. This isn't the setup for one of the show's new episodes, but a menu item now on offer at Krispy Kreme. Taking inspiration from all things Rick and Morty, the bakery chain has launched a new R&M-themed lineup, including a Pickle Rick doughnut. It's green, obviously. It's filled with green-hued lemon creme and covered with green-coloured white chocolate. And yes, it features a picture of Pickle Rick on top. Because this is the way the news goes, Krispy Kreme's R&M doughnut range also spans Strawberry Smiggles and Simple Rick's Wafer Cookie varieties. Hope you like strawberry — the former is filled with strawberry filling, then covered with mini marshmallows, meringue pieces and confetti, while the latter is dipped in strawberry truffle and topped with a white chocolate wafer disc. There's a Fleeb Juice shake, too, which combines raspberry and vanilla, and tastes nothing like alien excretion (we hope). If you're keen to eat your Rick and Morty-loving feelings in doughnut form, you can find the new range in Krispy Kreme stores across New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, the ACT, Western Australia and Auckland until March 16 — and available via UberEats as well. You won't find them at 7-Elevens or BPs, though. Clearly, a szechuan sauce doughnut was too difficult to make. Also, let's admit it — it probably would've tasted awful. If you need something to watch while you're gorging on doughnuts, Pickle Rick has that taken care of below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XSqi5s3rfqk Krispy Kreme's Rick and Morty range is available until March 16.
Grammy-nominated New York duo Sofi Tukker have announced they'll be bringing their genre-blurring tunes to Aussie shores, set to take the stage in Sydney and Melbourne next month. Since releasing their debut EP, Soft Animals, early last year, Sophie Hawley-Weld and Tucker Halpern have garnered fans worldwide, snapping up chart spots in more than 20 countries and landing festivals across Europe and North America. The pair's dance-worthy beats draw inspiration from all corners of the globe, resulting in a layering of sound unlike any you've heard before. And the Sofi Tukker live show promises to be every bit as spectacular, starring the duo's own unique instrument, called 'The Book Tree'. Expect a six-foot-tall 'creature', decked out in foliage and hardcover books, each tome engineered to create a different sound when drummed, to compliment that blissful melange of guitar, bass, and bongos. Sofi Tukker plays at Sydney's Oxford Art Factory on February 17 and Melbourne's Howler on February 18. Tickets are available from Moshtix from January 12.
If your partner or mates have been begging you to go on a weekend camping trip but the thought of spending a winter's night in the wilderness sends literal and metaphorical shivers down your spine, we have the perfect compromise. A watering hole inspired by the outdoors is popping up in the CBD, where you can sip on bourbon and snack on delicious treats by a campfire, all within an Uber-ride's distance from home. Wild Turkey is bringing the wilderness to the city with Spirit of the Wild. Set at a secret location, the pop-up bar will feature an overgrown rooftop and enough outdoors-y features for you to forget about the hustle and bustle of big city life (momentarily, at least). The chefs from Continental Deli have designed a nostalgic menu inspired by campfires and Wild Turkey's rich bourbon flavour. The two-course meal will be coupled with cocktails made with Australian native ingredients and presented in camping-chic hip flasks and bamboo cups. Tickets to this hidden sanctuary cost $69 per person and include a Wild Turkey drink on arrival plus the two-course menu with paired cocktails. It's cheaper than a two-man tent — and warmer to boot. Walk-ins are also welcome to come for cocktails and Continental Deli eats on Sundays from 12pm to 10pm. Spirit of the Wild runs Saturday, July 14 to Sunday, August 12. Dinners will be held from 5pm, Tuesday to Saturday. Walk-ins are welcome on Sundays 12–10pm. Bookings are essential for dinner and can be made here.
The buzz of January is over and if you need a little motivation to continue with those NYE resolutions, look no further than this activewear sale. Australian clothing company Active Truth is moving warehouses and, to make the move a little easier, is offering 40 percent off sitewide. Active Truth's swimwear and activewear is accessible to beachgoers and gym junkies of all shapes and sizes, with swimsuits, tights, crops, bike shorts and maternity wear all ranging from XS to 3XL. Check out these summery floral tights or this black one-piece swimsuit. As an added bonus, you'll receive free express shipping, so even though we're already more than a week into February, you'll have your new swimsuit at your doorstep before summer ends. Plus, Active Truth is committed to sustainability, supporting the The Seabin Project and making its swimwear from reconstructed recycled fibres, such as discarded fishing nets. If you're keen to snag some new togs, have a look through the catalogue and order before the sale ends at 11.59pm on Sunday, February 14. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
Master sommelier Madeline Triffon describes Pinot Noir as 'sex in a glass', while winemaker Randy Ullom calls it 'the ultimate nirvana'. One of the most challenging grapes in the world of vinification, it's also one of the most surprising and rewarding. No wonder Bottle Shop Concepts — the good folk who bring Game of Rhones, Malbec World Day and Vin Diemen our way — are coming back to town with Pinot Palooza, an epic travelling wine festival celebrating all things Pinot Noir. For just one day, Brisbane wine connoisseurs will have the chance to sample more than 100 drops, direct from Australia and New Zealand's best producers. Expect drops from Victoria's Curly Flat (Macedon), Tassie's Josef Chromy, and Ata Rangi and Pegasus Bay from NZ — and that's just the first few leaves on the vine. Whether you're a newbie who wants to start with something light and inviting, or a Pinot pro ready for the biggest, most complex mouthful on the menu, there'll be an abundance of selections at either end — and plenty along the spectrum, too. You'll even be able to vote for your favourite. If, at any point, you need to take a pause in your tasting adventures, you'll be catered for. There'll be food from Porteño, beer from Young Henrys and Stone and Wood, frosé and cider. Plus, the epic Burgundy Bar will be back, a kind of Pinot Noir mecca where you'll be able to sample some seriously good (and spenny) bottles at cost price. Expert sommeliers will also be on hand to help you make selections. What's more, those keen to fuel their brains (as well as their tastebuds) can spot $100 for a VIP pass. For that you'll get access to the VIP area, a food voucher, an extra special glass of wine and a one-on-one with one of the event's sommeliers, who will personally curate your Pinot experience for you. Pinot Palooza will hit Carriageworks on Sunday, October 8. Tickets are $60, which includes tastings and a take-home crystal Plumm RedB glass.
Kurt Vile ain't vile in the slightest; his music is mesmerising, with lo-fi sounds that are equal parts psych, folk and garage. April 2013 release Wakin on a Pretty Daze is the ultimate soundtrack to your balmy summer evenings, and thanks to the Sydney Festival he can score your summer evenings in person. Set to play the Circus Ronaldo Tent at Hyde Park's Festival Village, the former War on Drugs musician has stumbled upon a growing cult following. So catch him at midnight on January 23 for his solo show to get seriously blissed out, and wake the next morning in a pretty daze. Image by by Shawn Brackbill.
Every December, the Geminids meteor shower lights up our skies. Considered to be the most spectacular meteor shower of the year, it's caused by a stream of debris, left by an asteroid dubbed the 3200 Phaethon, burning up in Earth's atmosphere. The 2021 shower kicked off on Saturday, December 4, but it really is just getting started. While the Geminids runs through until Monday, December 20 this year, it's expected to be at its peak in Australia overnight between Tuesday, December 14–Wednesday, December 15. Christmas lights aren't the only spectacle worth peering at this month, clearly. If you fancy a stint of stargazing, you'll want to look up on Tuesday, December 14 from around 9pm in Brisbane, 10pm in Perth, 11pm in Sydney, 11.30pm in Adelaide and 12am in Melbourne. The best time to catch an eyeful will be after midnight, when the moon has set and its light will not interfere, but before sunrise. Australia is also expected to get a great vantage on the on the evening of Monday, December 13, if you'd like to double your viewing. Some years, you can catch as many as 150 meteors every 60 minutes, so this definitely isn't just any old meteor shower. [caption id="attachment_699423" align="alignnone" width="1920"] NASA, Marshall Space Flight Center, Jeff Dai.[/caption] For your best chances, it's worth getting as far away from bright lights as possible. This could be a good excuse to head out of the city to a clear-skied camping spot — and pray for no clouds. To see the meteors, you'll need to give your eyes around 15–30 minutes to adapt to the dark (so try to avoid checking your phone) and look to the northeast. The shower's name comes from the constellation from which they appear to come, Gemini. So that's what you'll be looking for in the sky. To locate Gemini, we recommend downloading the Sky Map app — it's the easiest way to navigate the night sky (and is a lot of fun to use even on a non-meteor shower night). If you're more into specifics, Time and Date also has a table that shows the direction and altitude of the Geminids. The Geminids meteor shower runs from Saturday, December 4–Monday, December 20, and will be at its peak during the night on Tuesday, December 14–Wednesday, December 15. For further details, head to Time and Date. Top image: A composite of 163 photos taken over 90 minutes during the Geminids by Jeff Smallwood for Flickr.
One Friday night at a club, two people hook up. The next morning, they want to prolong their stay in each other's company just a little. By the following day, they realise their casual encounter is based on a real connection. This could be something special. They're happy and they're scared. This may be romance as we know it, yet it's rarely the romance we sit down to watch on screen. When a movie does come along that cuts through the usual syrupyness, drama and meet-cutes to tell a relatable story, it's refreshing. In the case of Weekend, the love-struck are Londoners Russell (Tom Cullen) and Glen (Chris New), and an extra hurdle stands in front of their future happiness: Glen is leaving on Sunday night to start a two-year art course in Oregon. His dreams and sense of self are invested in the move, and he's shaken to be reminded that there may be reasons to stay. This is a quaint, intimate, indie love story in the vein of Before Sunrise. In practice, that means there's a lot of inane dialogue of the "Catherine, can I get another plate? Oh, you need one as well? Okay, get two" variety, but when this chatter stumbles into those everyday, non-flowery moments of unpretentious insight, it's touching in a way extraordinary poetry can't be. Writer/director Andrew Haigh might seem to but doesn't quite let the gender of the couple become the whole story. His characters' lives, are, of course, affected by their sexuality — Russell is insecure with his; Glenn's exhibitionism covers up his real dissatisfaction with his life — but their sexuality is not all that shapes their characters or their journey. Weekend has something to say about how love fits into our messy, complicated lives and a Hollywood trope (the last-minute airport declaration of love, ugh) it wants to play off. The one thing that makes Weekend unbelievable is timing: There's no way two people could fit in this many activities in one 48-hour period, even with stimulants and excellent time management skills. https://youtube.com/watch?v=6cdnGHU5gZg
If you're always on the lookout for a reason to escape to Byron Bay, here's the latest: a brand-new festival that'll have you eating, drinking, checking out art, listening to tunes and being merry, all in the seaside New South Wales spot. That's what's on the agenda at Revel Byron Bay Food and Culture Festival, which has just announced the dates for its inaugural event — and given potential attendees a glimpse at what's in store. First, block out the four days between Thursday, November 10–Sunday, November 13 in your calendar, which is when Revel will make its debut. As for what's on the program, the precise details haven't been revealed as yet, but it'll cover cuisine, drinks, music, art and culture. Think: long lunches, twilight soirees and moseying around public art installations, plus hitting up performances, taking health and wellness classes, shopping around a produce market and enjoying tours. The fest will also include panel discussions and workshops, and not only take place in Byron but across the Northern Rivers region. Chef David Moyle, who has been Chief of Food at Harvest Newrybar since 2020, is Revel's Festival Food Curator — and explains that the fest aims to "bring people back together to enjoy the company of friends and family with good food and good vibes in a beautiful setting". That'll come courtesy of the Revel Festival Village, aka a massive food, beverage, music and art precinct that's set to sprawl across the whole North Byron Hotel in the Byron Arts and Industrial Estate, and thanks to events at plenty of other spots around the area. On the list: Harvest, of course, as well as Raes on Wategos, Three Blue Ducks, Belongil Beach Italian Food, Bang Bang Byron Bay, Barrio, Capiche, The Hut, The Roadhouse, Treehouse on Belongil, and Mosey on Inn group's Ciao Mate!, The Eltham and You Beauty. Given the location, there'll be a beachside program within the larger program with views of Byron Bay Main Beach — including the fest's opening event — on the Thursday and Friday, as well as a secret Revel garden precinct operating on the Saturday and Sunday. And, while exactly what the arts and cultural side of the lineup will entail hasn't been unveiled, helping advise on that part of proceedings are Arakwal Bundjalung woman Delta Kay, plus artists Paul McNeil and Karlee Mackie. "As we all know, the hospitality industry was one of the hardest hit by the pandemic along with tourism, arts and music, and these are all industries that Byron Shire support in a large way for a regional place," said Revel Byron Bay Food and Culture Festival Founder and Director Alex Taylor, announcing the fest's dates. "Byron Bay is an incredible hub of creative talent and entrepreneurs, and we wanted to create something that would support all these industries as well as the wider community that has struggled to connect over the last couple of years," added Revel co-Festival Director Jonny Ruddy. Revel Byron Bay Food and Culture Festival will run from Thursday, November 10–Sunday, November 13 at various locations around Byron Bay and the Northern Rivers region. For more information, head to the festival's website. Images: Jess Kearney.
