This month, galleries and creative spaces across Sydney will throw open their doors for a massive celebration of contemporary art and artists for Art Month Sydney's milestone tenth anniversary. As part of this year's jam-packed lineup, Art Month Sydney is hosting a series of after-work tours of the city's most prolific art precincts. On Thursday, March 21, it's time to check out galleries and art spaces around east Sydney for a sunset art tour. Whether you've wandered past but not ventured in, know the precinct's galleries well, or have never heard of them, tonight is a chance to enjoy what's on offer. Galleries that'll be keeping their doors open for the evening include Stacks Projects, Artspace, Emerson, the Australian Design Centre and Chalk Horse. To take part, simply explore the Art Month Sydney map here, pop on some comfy shoes and start your tour at 6pm. You can hit the pavement in any direction you like, but make sure you end things at Firstdraft. From 8pm, the venue — which is Australia's longest-running artist-run initiative — will be hosting an end-of-night party. There'll be a lineup of performance art and DJs curated by Performance Space's Tulleah Pearce. The lineup includes an installation by Jodie Whalen, video work by Su Yu Hsin and performances by artists JD Reforma, Eugene Choi, Alyx Dennison and Bonnie Stewart. Plus, DJs Marcus Whale and Sovereign Trax will provide the soundtrack to the party. And while you're there, you can also check out Firstdraft's latest exhibitions, featuring solo shows from Roberta Rich, Mojgan Habibi and Cindy Yuen-Zhe Chen. For more information on the Art at Night: East Sydney, or to check out the full Art Month Sydney program, head this way. Image: courtesy of Art Month Sydney.
There are several truths to the Michael Bay Universe: 1. Magic Hour (i.e. the brief period just after sunrise or before sunset) lasts for approximately 22 hours in any given day. 2. Everything is explosive. Even Water. Especially water. 3. All explosions go predominantly 'up' and emit firework-like flares. 4. A shot should never go for more than three seconds, because, what is this, a Steve McQueen film? 5. There's nothing funnier than people who aren't Cool-Arse Playaz from Da Street speaking like they're Cool-Arse Playaz from Da Street (see: grandparents and/or cars). 6. Pretty girls wear heels. Even if they're ice-skating. Even if they're mountaineering. Even if they're spelunking. Even if they're blowing stuff 'up' or being blown up. 7. The higher the heel, the shorter the skirt. 8. The shorter the skirt, the lower the cut of the top. 9. Physics is bullshit, and should apply to neither action sequences nor breasts. 10. Blow something else up. Make sure it goes 'up'. The thing about the Bay Universe, though, is that it's so much fun. Big, dumb and fun. You know what you're going to get when you buy your ticket, and you get total value for money when you do. On that front, Transformers: Age of Extinction doesn't fail to deliver. Just on length alone, you're getting almost three hours of film, which is an hour too long from a critical standpoint, but from a Bay Movie perspective, it's the promise of several hundred more explosions, car chases and outrageous racial stereotypes. As for plot (and yes, there is one…just...), Transformers: Edge of Extinction picks up the story several years down the track from where the initial Shia Labeouf trilogy left off. Our new hero is Cade Yeager (Mark Wahlberg), a Texan inventor whose ranch is in receivership and whose predictably hot teenage daughter (Nicola Peltz) is on the cusp of graduation. Around the world, all the Transformers — Decepticon and Autobot — are being hunted down by the CIA (led by Kelsey Grammer), and a mysterious third-party Transformer/bounty hunter named Lockdown. It's an uncomfortable alliance through which each party furthers its own sinister agenda, and which threatens to end all life on earth. As the inexplicably overweight truck that even more inexplicably smokes cigars would say, "bummer, dude" (refer to Truth No.5). There's nothing especially new here, save for the 3D, which is, admittedly, extensive and impressive, as well as the introduction of Dinobots, which fans of the comics/cartoons will doubtless appreciate. The performances are solid despite a laughably bad script, most notably from Stanley Tucci as the unscrupulous tech billionaire. The film's highlights centre almost exclusively around Lockdown, who makes for an outstanding villain, not in the least because his character actually has one. Now if you'll excuse me, it's time to blow something up. https://youtube.com/watch?v=ubGpDoyJvmI
BTS ARMY unite: you've got a new must-visit getaway spot, and Airbnb wants to make your dreams a reality. Fancy getting a dream glow because you're holidaying in the dynamite South Korean estate where BTS filmed season two of their reality show In the Soop? Of course you do — and, if you nab the overnight stay, you obviously have permission to dance. The series' second season dropped back in 2021, so if you always have 'Butter', 'Heartbeat' or 'Fake Love' on rotation in your head, you've probably been eyeing off a stay in PyeongChang for a while. Your chance now comes via Airbnb, with the accommodation service adding to its lengthy list of pop culture-themed one-off experiences — which also includes the Bluey house, the Moulin Rouge!, the Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine and The Godfather mansion in the past few months. The idea with this listing: letting two BTS fans relax in the South Korean countryside like their idols did. Even if you're not a diehard devotee, it looks like a mighty luxe place to stay. Clearly, you'll get more out of it if you live, breathe and worship the band, given that it's largely decked out as it was during their time there. That includes some of the furniture seen on the show, so you can kick back with a book like RM, float on a unicorn in the pool like Jin and hit the trampoline like Jung Kook. Also included: a karaoke machine, sound system and all of BTS' songs and albums, right up to their latest record Proof; and a specially catered menu, including charcoal grilled Korean beef and tteokbokki. And, because there's seven BTS members, the one-night stay costs just US$7 — which is just over AU$10 / around NZ$11. Sadly, if you score the booking, you'll just miss out on the best spring day ever, with the trip taking place on August 29. If you're keen to make it right all night and stay gold in the scenic estate, you'll need to try to nab the reservation at 12pm AEST on Tuesday, August 2. As with all Airbnb special listings like this, you need to take care of your own travel costs there and back, including airfares — although this one does cover the round trip by car from KTX PyeongChang station to the BTS In the Soop property. For more information about the BTS In the Soop estate listing on Airbnb, or to apply to book at 12pm AEST on Tuesday, August 2, head to the Airbnb website. 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. Images: Time of Blue.
UPDATE, September 17, 2020: Crazy Rich Asians is available to stream via Google Play, YouTube Movies and iTunes. It's a throwaway joke in a film filled with smarter, funnier dialogue. Still, when Crazy Rich Asians compares its own plot to The Bachelor, the line sticks. The movie doesn't involve women competing for a man on television, thankfully. There's no cheesy host talking the audience through proceedings either, and the flick, while fictional, doesn't feel as fake and contrived as reality TV. But the big-screen adaptation of Kevin Kwan's best-selling novel does willingly, gleefully champion a world of indulgence — a world where romance has to shine twice as bright against the glittering trappings of wealth. And, just like The Bachelor, the film remains both fluffy and breezy and over-the-top and melodramatic at the same time. Of course, there's more than a little winking and nodding evident when Crazy Rich Asians connects its opulent, soap opera-like theatrics to a popular televised dating contest. Director John M. Chu (Now You See Me 2) and his screenwriters Peter Chiarelli (The Proposal) and Adele Lim (TV's Dynasty) know exactly what they're doing, and they're not backing away from it. Combining a wealth of elements within its light and luxe confines, Crazy Rich Asians is many things, including extravagant, irreverent and entertaining. It's a rom-com about love and money, a comedy about class and culture clashes, and a modern-day fairytale about an ordinary girl falling for Singapore's equivalent of royalty — and, wholly in the service of its story, it refuses to dial down any of its excess. Indeed, there's a straightforward reason that the movie bathes in ultra-rich glitz and glamour to an almost ostentatious degree: it's giving audiences the same experience as the film's protagonist. One day, Rachel Chu (Constance Wu) is a New York economics professor from a working-class, single-parent household, and simply thinking about finally meeting her boyfriend Nick's (Henry Golding) parents. The next, she's flying first class to Asia, finding out that her beloved is well and truly loaded, and discovering the kind of life such a vast fortune can buy. Like falling down a rabbit hole, she's in unfamiliar, fantastical territory. Expecting to attend a low-key family dinner, she finds herself at a decadent blowout filled with folks wearing evening gowns. Heading to a bachelorette party for one of Nick's pals, she's helicoptered to a private resort. Even when she's just hanging out with her college buddy Peik Lin (Awkwafina), she's sitting in a gold-adorned mansion. What follows is a whirlwind introduction to the filthily, ridiculously rich, and it has consequences within the narrative. Rachel is understandably overwhelmed, Nick's mother Eleanor (Michelle Yeoh) is vocal about her disapproval, and Nick is caught in the middle. Accordingly, as Crazy Rich Asians tracks the chaos that ensues — and the battle between romance, finances and family — the film is devoted to plunging viewers into the lavish lifestyle at its centre in order to align them with its protagonist. Every filmmaking choice ramps up the indulgence, be it in the onslaught of colour, the lingering shots of sumptuous parties and homes, or the upbeat editing. Chu also uses his aesthetics to heighten the story's rampant fantasy, linking the movie not just with The Bachelor, but with fairytales like Cinderella. You can't make a film called Crazy Rich Asians without stressing every part of the title, after all. That doesn't just encompass the mania and the wealth, but also the pictures' dedication to representation. Among its many guises, the movie not only presents a rare and refreshing celebration of Asian culture in general, but puts stellar Asian talent front and centre on the cinema screen. Wu is spot-on as the relatable heroine, Yeoh is at her icy best, Ken Jeong and Awkwafina reliably steal scenes, and even Australian TV favourite Ronnie Chieng makes a brief appearance. The very existence of this cast really can't be downplayed — you have to go back to 1993's The Joy Luck Club and 2001's Memoirs of a Geisha to find other Hollywood films starring so many actors of Asian descent. Blend all of the above, and a few things happen. Much of Crazy Rich Asians glimmers with emotion, exuberance and cultural specificity, engagingly and enjoyably so. That said, some parts — its largely by-the-numbers narrative, and the fact that it presents rather than probes its excess-laden surroundings — also prove a little too neat and easy. The end result is a shiny piece of big-screen jewellery filled with gems, and while not every aspect sparkles as much as the next, the overall package still looks and works a treat. Or, to use a different analogy, the film is like the abundance of delicious-looking food that graces its frames: a huge, elaborate banquet that doesn't quite perfect every dish, but nonetheless satisfies the appetite — not to mention sating cravings for something with a bit more flavour than the usual fare. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=14ZHRBfpeNg
Oh springtime, we missed you. Chase away those winter blues and bring back the sunshine. With sunshine comes warm air and warm smiles, festivities and just a great vibe blooming like a bright flower across the city. The springtime is chockablock for Brisbane, especially if you're in town for some of September's several music festivals, aka the Brisbane Music Trail. This eclectic offering combines the strengths of BIGSOUND, Brisbane Festival, Sweet Relief! and Future Art. Quite the offering, no? It's set to be a hectic few weeks for festivalgoers, and you'll need to take breaks. When it comes to accommodation, you can nab a sweet deal of general entry to Sweet Relief! plus a luxury stay for two at Crystalbrook Vincent. Otherwise, we've done the legwork to pick apart the River City for the finest bars and restaurants to rest your feet and ears in between gigs this September.
Warm weather, beach holidays and kicking back with a few cocktails all go hand in hand. But thanks to ever-changing border restrictions over the past few months — plus life during a pandemic in general — you mightn't have been able to enjoy this summertime routine recently. If you're the kind of person who can enjoy a few beverages and instantly feel like you're vacation, though, then you'll instantly want to add Four Pillars' latest tipple to your must-drink list. In collaboration with Melbourne venue Arbory Afloat, the highly awarded gin distillery is launching a new Beach House Gin. It comes in a cheery pink hue, and heroes citrus and fruit flavours — think lemon myrtle, grapefruit, orange, lemon peel, sweet strawberry gum, pineapple sage and davidson plums. The idea, as the name makes plain, is to make you feel like you're on holiday by the shore every time you take a sip. Melburnians will know that this isn't Four Pillars and Arbory Afloat's first joint venture, with the two pairing up in 2019 on a different – but still pink — limited-edition gin. This time around, however, the tipple won't just be available onboard at Arbory Afloat. It still will be, of course, including on tap in spritzes and mixed into G&Ts — but folks around the country can also order a bottle. If your gin shrine is screaming for a splash of colour, Beach House Gin goes on sale at 8am on Tuesday, February 9 for $90 a bottle — or you can get it with a four-pack of tonic for $100. While Melburnians can try the new gin at Arbory Afloat, bottles are only available to purchase from the venue's website. To complete the summery feel, Beach House Gin features a label from Melbourne design studio 21-19 and Finnish artist and illustrator Antti Kalevi, which uses shapes and textures to create an abstract beachy landscape. And, gin fans in Melbourne can also head to a launch party for the new drop on Thursday, February 4, with tickets costing $145, and gin cocktails, beer, wine, sparkling, oysters and canapes on the menu on Arbory Afloat's pool deck. Four Pillars x Arbory Afloat Beach House Gin is available on tap and in cocktails at Arbory Afloat, and to buy by the bottle via the venue's website from 8am on Tuesday, February 9.
With more than 130 events, 22 world premieres, 24 Australian exclusives and over 50 free events to discover, getting the most out of the 2025 Sydney Festival is hungry work. Fortunately, the fest has partnered with some of Sydney's best restaurants to offer exclusive offers so you can stay fuelled up for the city's annual celebration of art and expression from Saturday, January 4, to Sunday, January 26. Here's where you can enjoy a pre- or post-show bite or sip — without breaking the bank — during this year's fest. Beast&Co Beast&Co combines the elegance of European flavours blended with locally sourced seasonal ingredients. Their menu is a celebration of comfort eats delivered with culinary excellence, showcasing dishes that play with surprising fusions of world cuisines. The offer: Beginning with marinated olives, choose between Beast&Co's famous small plates — either bone marrow or roasted miso cabbage — then move on to the main course, a mouth-watering flank steak or roasted cauliflower, for $55 per person. Location: Shop 15/425 Bourke Street, Surry Hills Cafe Sydney Perched atop Customs House at Circular Quay, with spectacular views across Sydney Harbour, this stalwart of Sydney's dining scene has built a reliable reputation over the past 25 years. Expect an accessible menu of crowd-pleasing dishes, an innovative, award-winning wine list and polished service. The offer: A daily selection of a la carte specials, with a focus on quality cuts of meat, fresh and exotic seafood, including chilled crustaceans, freshly shucked oysters and grilled ocean fish. Location: Customs House, Level 5, 31 Alfred Street, Circular Quay Georgie Wine Bar This New York-inspired neighbourhood food & wine bar offers a relaxed menu of bistro and comfort food hits in an art deco fit-out that balances accessible dining with a luxe vibe. The offer: Kick off your meal with a selection of salumi and cheese. Follow it up with a choice of either arancini balls or calamari fritti and complete your pre- or post-show dining experience with a glass of house wine or a refreshing beer for $55 per person. Location: 2 Bond Street, Corner of George Street and Bond Street, Sydney Jounieh Jounieh is a standout spot on Sydney's waterfront, offering a fresh take on Modern Middle Eastern cuisine. With its stunning views of the harbour, it's the perfect place to unwind and enjoy delicious food in a relaxed setting. Located near the arts precinct, surrounded by theatres, restaurants, and bars, the atmosphere is both peaceful and vibrant. Whether you're here for a casual meal or a special evening out, Jounieh offers a memorable experience in one of the world's most beautiful cities. The offer: At this modern Middle Eastern hotspot, select the vegetarian, meat or seafood special. Showstoppers include golden cauliflower, slow-cooked lamb and Moreton Bay bugs — served with dips, salad and more, plus a house wine or beer for $55 per person when you book for two diners or more. Location: 2/17 Hickson Road, Dawes Point LILYMU This vibrant pan-Asian restaurant in the heart of Parramatta Square champions the flavours and traditions of Southeast Asia come together in exciting new ways. With a fresh, modern twist on classic dishes and drinks inspired by China and the region, LILYMU brings a bold, creative energy to every plate and glass. It's a place where old meets new, offering a unique take on familiar flavours in a relaxed, contemporary setting. The offer: Utilising fresh and ethically sourced ingredients cooked over coals and in searing hot woks, LILYMU's Sydney Festival set menu stars kingfish and coconut ceviche with taro and sea grapes, roasted eggplant with apple ponzu and furikake, and chicken gyoza with plum vinegar for $55 per person when you book for two diners or more. Location: 3 Parramatta Square, 153 Macquarie St, Parramatta Lotus the Galeries This CBD diner offers modern twists on traditional Asian dishes, serving up fresh, handmade dumplings, bao and vibrant small plates. Located in the heart of the city, it blends casual dining with bold flavours and a sleek, contemporary atmosphere. With an innovative menu that draws inspiration from across Asia, Lotus is a go-to spot for anyone craving creative comfort food. The offer: This set menu stars barbecue pork buns, salt and pepper tofu, barramundi with black bean sauce, crispy eggplant and squid ink fried rice for $55 per person when you book for two diners or more. Location: The Galeries, Level 1/500 George Street, Sydney Pearl Dining Pearl Dining offers a refined dining experience with a menu that blends modern Australian flavours with pan-Asian influences. Located in the heart of the city, Pearl Dining's focus on quality ingredients and impressive presentation promises a memorable culinary experience. The offer: Drawing inspiration from the culinary craftsmanship of Hong Kong, enjoy six dishes including prawn dumplings, barbecue pork belly, wok-fried Angus beef flank and Asian greens for $55 when you book for two diners or more. Location: Level 1/50 Bridge Street, Sydney Pier Bar This waterfront bar in the Pier One Hotel is an elegant harbourside destination for casual drinks. On the shore of Sydney harbour, steps from Sydney Festival's hub, The Thirsty Mile, and the theatres of the Walsh Bay Arts Precinct, this bar is perfectly situated for both pre-and post-show drinks and snacks. The offer: For $30 per person when you book for two guests or more, you can enjoy a share platter of artisan cured meats, pickles and cheese, as well as your choice of one house wine, beer or soft drink. Location: 11 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay Planar Bar and Dining With uninterrupted views of Darling Harbour, Planar is an al fresco retreat with a blend of indoor and outdoor areas. The menu celebrates fresh Australian produce and the diverse, eclectic influences of Modern Australian cuisine. The offer: Experience a delightful two-course menu showcasing Modern Australian cuisine. Set against the stunning waterfront views of Darling Harbour, you will be welcomed with wine of your choice before indulging in the iconic dishes crafted from locally fresh ingredients for $55 per person. Location: Shop C08, Ground Floor ICC Sydney, 14 Darling Drive, Darling Harbour The Living Room at Park Hyatt Sydney Indulge in the inviting ambience of The Living Room at Park Hyatt Sydney, where their relaxed harbourside all-day dining experience pairs iconic views with top-of-class hospitality. The offer: Cocktail and sandwich set. La Vie en Rose Cocktail + Chicken Katsu Sandwich or La Vie en Rose Cocktail + Tofu Katsu with Vegan Mayonnaise for $30 per person. Location: 7 Hickson Road, The Rocks Lotus Dumpling Bar Located in Circular Quay, this popular dumpling house offers a vibrant dining experience with a focus on fresh, handmade dumplings and modern Asian dishes. Known for its creative take on traditional flavours, the menu features a variety of dumplings, bao and small plates, alongside a curated selection of cocktails and teas, with a side serving of iconic harbour views. The offer: Diners can enjoy some of the restaurants most popular dishes, including mushroom and vegetable spring rolls, pork xiao long bao, jade prawn dumplings, kung pao chicken with tofu and peanuts, steamed broccolini with sugar snap peas and kale with a side of steamed rice, as well as a glass of Cavedon Adelia prosecco or a non-alcoholic drink on arrival for $55 per person when you book for two diners or more. Location: 50 Bridge Street, Circular Quay For more details about the best places to wine and dine during Sydney Festival 2025, visit the Festival Feasts webpage. Top image: Nikki To
This summer, The Rocks Homegrown Christmas 2024 is set to be the ultimate spot for Christmassy festivities and good ol' catch-ups in the lead-up to the all-important day. Whether you're looking to unwind after work, planning something fun to do with friends, or are simply keen to get your hands on some bespoke gifts, head down to The Rocks for a quintessentially Aussie Christmas. Homegrown Concert Series Grab a picnic rug, head down to Tallawoladah Lawn, sit back and enjoy a celebration of Aussie music with the Homegrown Concert Series. At these intimate summer music events, you can expect some of Australia's best homegrown talent performing their original work, as well as a sprinkling of Christmas with a few covers of popular songs. The lineup includes ROSHANI and Triple J Unearthed's PEPTALK and Betty, as well as seasoned performers at The Rocks Markets, Big Wheels and Jess Beck. The perfect way to relax after a long lunch or to get the vibes started before a night out. When: Saturday, December 14, Sunday, December 15, Saturday, December 21 and Sunday, December 22 from 3.30pm – 6.30pm. Where: Tallawoladah Lawn (in front of the MCA) The Rocks Markets – Christmas Edition Everyone loves The Rocks Markets, and the Christmas edition is (somehow) even better. Perfect for finding last-minute pressies, you can wander around the many stalls and choose unique gifts from local artisan makers, food, jewellery, illustrations and lots more. To avoid crashing mid-shop, get some sustenance from yummy street eats – you will find Spanish paella, fresh juices, handmade chocolates and Italian focaccia, just to name a few. When: Every weekend from Saturday, November 30 – Sunday, December 22, from 10am – 5pm. Where: George St, The Rocks Christmas Connections The festive season is all about community and connecting with people, new or old. The Christmas Connections series by Conscious Connection is your chance to connect with like-minded people at one of three picnics at Dawes Point Park. All you have to do is book your ticket for the small price of $20, which you essentially get back in the form of a $20 gift voucher to spend at The Rocks Markets during your picnic. And for all the dog owners out there, a special 'Paws + Pals' picnic is all about connecting dog owners with new pals who also have dogs, with some hilarious activities for you and your pup. When: Sunday, December 8 from 11am – 1pm, Sunday, December 15 and Sunday, December 22 from 12pm – 3pm. Where: Dawes Point Park Christmas Decorations One of the things we love most about The Rocks is the way it transforms come Christmas time. It's the ultimate place to get in that summery, festive mood. Just walking around the streets you'll not only see the classic Christmas tree, but Australian-style, decorated in native florals and custom decorations by First Nations artists. You will also stumble across mini Christmas Villages, each modelled after historic buildings in The Rocks and hand-painted by local artist Nico Nicoson. Spending a day or even just half an hour here is guaranteed to get you feeling that laid-back holiday vibe that can only mean one thing – an Aussie Christmas. When: Monday, November 18 to Wednesday, December 25 [caption id="attachment_982196" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Anna Kucera[/caption] Laneway Cinema There's nothing better than an outdoor cinema sesh during summer. You get to watch a movie while still making the most of the cracker weather – what could be better? And The Rocks' Laneway Cinema has got to be one of the most unique out there. It's free, and unlike most open-space outdoor cinemas, it's nestled within the beautiful, cobbled streets the locale is known for. Perfect for a midweek hang when you feel like something chill, but you still want to do something. Sit back and enjoy a film with some popcorn. Entry is free, so all you have to do is walk in. But for the best seats in the house, be sure to register for your free ticket or arrive early. When: Wednesday, 4 December (Planes, Trains & Automobiles), Wednesday, 11 December (The Grinch Who Stole Christmas) and Wednesday, 18 December (Home Alone 2: Lost in New York). Doors open at 5.30pm. Where: Atherden St, The Rocks Festive Feasting If there is one time of the year that you have permission to eat out and indulge in food and drink, it's Christmas. And, The Rocks have got a lot of festive feasting options for you and your mates or for a family lunch, perfect for Christmas catchups. We're talking extravagant set menus, classic pub meals or casual cocktails. There's something for everyone. Some top picks include fresh seafood at Harbourfront Seafood Restaurant, wood-fired grill at Pony Dining and contemporary Asian Fusion at Luna Lu. Our tip? Hit up The Argyle for a fun way to round off the night. Where: The Rocks When: Everyday Christmas Gifting This is the place where you'll find those extra special gifts that make everyone say, "Wow! Where did you get that!?" There are so many stores here, each with distinct offerings. Take a look at the Christmas Gift Guide or simply walk through the lanes and you will find goodies from candles, First Nations art, clothing or unique jewellery, among plenty more. The Rocks has also compiled guides on gifts for her, gifts for him and affordable gifts under $50 to help you out. Some of our go-to's include Aesop Gifts and DUX Collection Christmas Gift Packs For the art aficionados – unique gifting at the MCA store, art by Shazia Imran and whimsical gifts by Squidinki. Where: The Rocks When: Everyday Visit The Rocks Homegrown Christmas 2024 from Friday, November 15 2024 to Wednesday, December 25 2024. To learn more about the event and giveaways visit the website. Images: Anna Kucera, Cassandra Hannagan.
The lineup for everyone's favourite New Year's Eve party has just landed, and it's a doozy. Way back in 1993, a tiny one-day concert was held in Lorne, a beautiful coastal town on Victoria's Great Ocean Road. Over 10,000 people showed up, far more than were expected, and a great Australian tradition was borne. In 2003 the festival (now known as Falls) celebrated hitting the big 1-0 by spreading its wings and setting up across the Bass Strait in Marion Bay; and now, to celebrate their 20th instalment, the Falls team are bringing the New Year party to Byron Bay for the first time. And they will be celebrating in style with the greatest house band in the world, The Roots, who haven't played in Australia since the Great Escape festival (RIP) in Sydney in 2007. They always bring the party, and we should thank Jimmy Fallon for lending them to us even if just for the weekend. The other headliners include festival favourites The Wombats, the always-interesting Grizzly Bear, 2013 Album of the Year contenders Vampire Weekend, R&B star Solange and The Violent Femmes. And there's an excellent contingent of local acts, too, including Hermitude, Pond, Chet Faker and Big Scary. Tickets will be allocated via a ballot, which is currently open via the Falls website. Registrations close on midday, August 26. Ballot-winners will be able to purchase up to four tickets from August 29, 9am. There will also be an allocation of tickets set aside for general sales starting on September 4, 9am. Prices will be released soon. Falls Festival first announce line-up: !! (Chk Chk Chk)AstaBig ScaryBombinoBonoboThe Cat EmpireChet FakerCrystal FightersCyril HahnFlight FacilitiesGosslingGrizzly BearHanni El KhatibHermitudeJames Vincent McmorrowLondon GrammarMGMTNeil FinnPondThe Preatures The RootsRüfüsSolangeTom Odell Vampire WeekendViolent FemmesWhite DenimThe Wombats Event dates: Lorne, Victoria (18-plus): December 28–January 1Marion Bay, TAS (all-ages): December 29-January 1Byron Bay, NSW (18-plus): December 31–Jan 3
Sydney Design descends on this city annually to wrap it in a web of style, sweet-talking much of its otherwise design-agnostic population into appreciating the form, fit and function of the useful stuff in their lives. This year, it's focused around the theme of lace, including a central Powerhouse exhibition and events with thread-centric themes, like a bicycle culture tour that makes a crochet workshop pit stop. The Powerhouse will host the annual Young Blood: Designers Market and design awards, and visitors there are invited to add to Shane Waltener's giant lace sculpture, Knitted and Looped. Hamish Ta-mé will put together a huge paste-up on the side of a Surry Hills warehouse, weaving and reweaving the same portraits night after night each evening for Reworking the Paste-Up, while up the hill in Kippax Street, you can check out choice rooftop, design-themed movies at the Design Film Screening. In Chippendale, Allen Jack+Cottier have installed a cafe in their headquarters, wrapping it with an exhibition on the neighbourhood's slow march from brewing icon to caffeine addict. Meanwhile, COFA is running the COFA Design Festival as a Sydney Design mini-festival-within-a-festival. COFA's contribution includes the annual campus-wide, one-day forum Live Futures 2020, a series of design and sustainability-themed talks and two new exhibitions by COFA staff and students. COFA isn't the only artistic institution to huddle under the festival umbrella either, with innumerable shows featuring Bauhaus, the typewriter, sand, hand-made bikes and Italian seating.
If seafood and fries is your idea of a perfect culinary pairing, then drop by Surry Hills' Loluk Bistro on Thursdays to enjoy as many mussels and fries — or, moules frites — you can stomach for $29. The stuff-your-face food event may not be a Harry Potter or Willy Wonka-themed brunch, but hot and fresh mussels is a pretty great way to help cure the midweek blues. The Bourke Street bistro — known for its southern French fare — is piling plates high every Thursday with steamed mussels and pommes frites, of course. Mussels come with your choice of one of three sauces: provençal, with tomatoes, garlic and black olives; mariniere, with shallots and white wine; and bleu, with roquefort cheese and cream. And you can keep ordering (endlessly) until you're full. Well, until the clock hits 10pm. But four hours should be more than enough time for you to get your mollusc fix. If you prefer your all-you-can-eat on the cheesier side, head in between 6–10pm on Tuesday or Wednesday night. The bistro is serving up unlimited raclette (and profiteroles for dessert) for $49.
If you're going to launch a brand new online school encouraging creativity in girls, it doesn't hurt to have Marina Abramovic's backing. Or Yoko Ono's. Or Pussy Riot's. Or Sia's. Or Every Strong Awesome Wonderful Lady Doing Amazing Things Right Now. The School of Doodle did just that. A brand new, free online school geared to infuse a little creativity into girls' educations, the School of Doodle has launched a Kickstarter campaign with the support of some of the world's most high-fiveworthy women. The Portland-based (of course) SOD team (lead by Melbourne-born expat Kate Johnson) see an unacceptable lack of arts education in US schools, one they've particularly seen as detrimental to young girls' learning processes. "The arts are being cut from schools and yet all the research shows that when teens' creativity and imaginations are fortified, they excel and stay in school longer as well as develop the necessary skills for future success," says the SOD Kickstarter page. "After extensive research and interviews with teens, teachers and education reform experts, we believe that a girl’s imagination is a right and not a privilege. And, if we don’t fight to protect it, the next generation (of women and men) will suffer." The team have pooled their savings and started building their free online high school, but found funds wanting to finish the website (the key to the whole shebang). So the team looked to Kickstarter, bringing quite the flurry of famous friends to the party. Rounding up 28 all-round goal-kicking women like Marina Abramovic, Yoko Ono, Pussy Riot, Sia, Kim Gordon, Yayoi Kusama, Sarah Silverman, half the cast of Orange is the New Black and too many more to list without their inspirational faces, SOD had each fearless female submit an original doodle of their own devising. Kickstarter backers can nab an individual doodle or a colouring book with the whole series. Here's the backing team, it's honestly like scrolling through a glorious tunnel of oestrogen-charged high-fives: Right? What. A. Lineup. So once you've sent your Kickstarter backing funds, what can students actually learn at the School of Doodle? The team describe the whole thing as "part classroom and part content platform original programming, created by both teens and professionals, to engage and inspire imagination." The self-directed, free curriculum is made up of lessons called 'Daily Doodles', which end with a 'Doodle Challenge' each session for students to start putting their sweet knowledge into practice. The whole philosophy runs on creative confidence and 'being loud' through the 'three paths to imagination': Dabble, Dig, Do. If you're lurking in the dreaded so-called 'Dabble' stage (we've all been guilty of Dabbling), the team have put together a library of 'How Do' videos to get your creative juices flowing. And who's teaching these 'Daily Doodles'? This is where shit really gets cray. Salman Rushdie, Kim Gordon, John Baldessari, Yinka Shonibare, even Abramovic herself are all crafting lessons. Free lessons. From these guys: Best looking faculty lounge ever. Sure, there are no grades — students earn 'Doodle Dollars' that can be saved up and spent on live online expert chats, field trips (or 'dream trips') and other bits and pieces that 'aid imagination' (not in the Parklife way). But if Abramovic, Sia and Pussy Riot see value in a free online school boosting girls' creativity, we're on board for Doodle. Throw some cashola at the School of Doodle over here and nab one of those famously-penned doodles. Via Artnet.
"What we need is a hot, fresh dead body — preferably right here or very near to here." So declares Oliver Putnam (Martin Short, Schmigadoon!) in the just-unveiled first trailer for Only Murders in the Building season four. Viewers of 2023's season three already know that exactly that is about to greet him, Mabel Mora (Selena Gomez , The Dead Don't Die) and Charles-Haden Savage (Steve Martin, It's Complicated), aka the three New York City-residing podcasters who started teaming up to record audio when murders began occurring in their building. Being aware that there has again been a killing in the Arconia doesn't mean knowing what's in store in the sleuthing comedy's return, though — with season four now locked in to start streaming from Tuesday, August 27, 2024. Indeed, something different is afoot this time around, taking Only Murders in the Building into territory not seen in 2021's season one or 2022's season two, either. Get ready for a trip to Hollywood. Both Oliver, Mabel and Charles' investigation and the cinema business beckon in Los Angeles. A studio wants to turn their podcast — which is also called Only Murders in the Building — into a film. Again, Oliver has the right words for the scenario in the sneak peek: "pack your bags, bitches — we're going to the movies". Cue not only the return of Meryl Streep (Don't Look Up), who joined the cast in season three, but also the arrival of Molly Shannon (The Other Two), Eugene Levy (Schitt's Creek), Eva Longoria (Tell It Like a Woman), Zach Galifianakis (The Beanie Bubble), Melissa McCarthy (Unfrosted), Kumail Nanjiani (Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire) and Richard Kind (Girls5eva) joining the cast. Alongside Short, Gomez and Martin, fellow long-running Only Murders in the Building regulars Michael Cyril Creighton (American Fiction), Da'Vine Joy Randolph (a newly minted Oscar-winner for The Holdovers) and Jane Lynch (Velma) are also back. When it premiered in 2021, the series started with three residents of the same NYC apartment complex crossing paths after a death in their building, then bonding over true-crime podcasts. Next, they did what everyone that's jumped on that bandwagon knows they would if they were ever in the same situation: started their own audio series. Every season has given aspiring artist Mabel, Broadway producer Oliver and actor Charles another case to dive into, smartly and amusingly so. In the show's third batch of episodes, it was the murder of star Ben Glenroy (Paul Rudd, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem) at the opening night of Oliver's latest show that had them turning detective. Check out the first trailer for Only Murders in the Building season four below: Only Murders in the Building streams Down Under via Star on Disney+, and will return for season four on Tuesday, August 27, 2024. Read our reviews of season one, season two and season three.
Half the fun in camping is the fact that you're forced to get grubby, as you and your fellow campmates collectively get back to nature and forgo the modern luxury of a shower. This is all well and good for a few days, until everyone gets a little sweaty, a little dirt-caked and probably a little grumpy. You see, the problem with showers is that they're usually set pretty firmly in one place. They need a water source, drainage, electricity — basically, they're the first thing you forgo when you leave the safety of a modern building. But the geniuses at Tokyo-based startup Hotaru are set to change that, with a portable water-recycling shower that can be set up almost anywhere. So how does it work? The shower holds about 19 litres of water, which is then purified and reused for the next person who hops in. Hotaru claims that a family of three could each take a five-minute shower each day for up to two weeks. That's over 40 showers on less than 20 litres of water. While the possibilities for where the shower can go are pretty endless, it does need to be hooked up to a power source — although, according to Hotaru, a car will do the trick. This new sustainable shower was spotted by TechCrunch at SXSW this week, and is expected to go to market sometime next year. It's not only great news for campers, but the technology could really change how we recycle and make the most of our water. Via TechCrunch.
It has been 11 art-filled years since Brisbane's Gallery of Modern Art first opened its doors, and the creative riverside hub just keeps going from strength to strength. Fresh from hosting a huge Yayoi Kusama exhibition, GOMA is preparing to unveil its illuminating new permanent work: a brand new light installation by artist James Turrell. You might be familiar with the Arizona-based artist's work if you've been to Mona or the National Gallery of Australia (NGA). He's the one behind the sky-centred installations at both galleries — at Mona, the gazebo-like Armana lights up at sunrise and sunset each day, and at the NGA in Canberra, Within without acts as an outdoor viewing chamber to enhance your view of the sky. All up, Turrell has created 80 'skyspaces' like these around the world. Brisbane's Turrell piece isn't a standalone structure like these other two Australian works. Instead, the work will light up GOMA's eastern and southern white façades from within the building with a pattern developed by Turrell especially for the location. It's been described as "an ever-evolving pattern of intensifying and diffusing coloured light" by GOMA director Chris Saines, and when lit, it will make the gallery visible from across the river and around South Bank's cultural precinct. The plan is to light up the gallery from dusk until midnight each evening — and while the tunnel was originally set to be installed by late last year, it'll officially start glowing from 7pm on April 20, with Turrell in attendance. And while it's a new addition to GOMA, it's also a feature that ties into the gallery's history. As Saines explains, "during the development of GOMA, lead architects Kerry Clare, Lindsay Clare and James Jones envisaged an artist-illuminated 'white box' on the gallery's main pedestrian approaches. More than a decade on, Turrell's architectural light installation realises the potential of GOMA's white box façade, and completes a major aspect of the architects' original design intention." By Lauren Vadnjal and Sarah Ward.
Break out the waffles: Amy Poehler is coming to Australia. If you're a Parks and Recreation fan, nothing less than eating breakfast foods non-stop between now and the end of May will do to celebrate. The actor behind Leslie Knope — and Saturday Night Live legend, and voice of Joy in both Inside Out and Inside Out 2 — has a date with Vivid Sydney, heading to the Harbour City for a just-announced in-conversation event that'll see her chat through her career. Inside Out 2 releases in cinemas in mid-June, so it'll receive plenty of focus when Poehler gets talking — so much so that the Sydney Opera House evening that'll be moderated by Zan Rowe will include a 30-minute first-look at the film. But her work spans far and wide beyond the animated Pixar franchise, including to films such as Baby Mama and Sisters, writing the hilarious Yes Please and unforgettable Golden Globe hosting gigs with Tina Fey. [caption id="attachment_793108" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Photo by: Chris Haston/NBC[/caption] "I'm really looking forward to taking part in Vivid Sydney this year, a place that welcomes Joy in every way," said Poehler about her impending session in the Harbour City. "I can't wait to share a little of Inside Out 2: a movie that lets Joy and Sadness, Anxiety and Envy all try to work together in hilarious and touching ways." [caption id="attachment_925839" align="alignnone" width="1920"] © 2023 Disney/Pixar.[/caption] Poehler's session will take place on Monday, May 27, making it one of the early highlights of the festival. It comes after 2023's Vivid Sydney also featured a massive screen-focused in-conversation session, welcoming The White Lotus' Jennifer Coolidge and Mike White. "Amy Poehler is comedy royalty and the perfect person to join us as part of Vivid Ideas for this year's Vivid Sydney. We're so proud to add her to the growing list of guests set to captivate visitors throughout 23 nights of the festival," said Vivid Sydney Festival Director Gill Minervini. "Amy's new film Inside Out 2 ties in perfectly with the theme of this year's festival, humanity, with an accessible take on how the human mind makes decisions and processes emotions. Allowing audiences to have an insight to how one of the world's great writers and performers operates is sure to be a great thrill." Check out the trailer for Inside Out 2 below: In Conversation with Amy Poehler takes place on Monday, May 27, 2024 at the Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House, with tickets on sale now. Vivid Sydney runs from Friday, May 24–Saturday, June 15 at various locations around Sydney. Head to the festival website for further details and tickets.
In news as certain as Han Solo's swagger, C-3P0's disapproval and Leia Organa proving the fiercest princess in the entire galaxy, another round of orchestra-scored Star Wars screenings is making its way across Australia — and this time, Star Wars: Episode VI — Return of the Jedi will be unleashing the force. What was originally the final flick in George Lucas' space saga is headed to Sydney's ICC Sydney Theatre on Saturday, September 7, 2019, and Melbourne's Hamer Hall on Friday, November 8 and Saturday, November 9, 2019. While Brisbane details have yet to be announced, we'd expect them to arrive soon. If you've been hiding out on Tattooine and aren't quite sure what's in store, this climactic instalment features a second Death Star, a tribe of Ewoks on Endor, Han Solo imprisoned by Jabba the Hutt, plenty of family baggage and one heck of a father-and-son battle — so, classic Star Wars thrills. And, it's all set to John Williams' iconic score, which each city's symphony orchestra will recreate right in front of attendees' eager eyes and ears. As always, we've got a good feeling about this mix of movies and music, which should help fill the gap between this year's Solo: A Star Wars Story and next year's Star Wars: Episode IX. Star Wars: Episode VI — Return of the Jedi will screen at Sydney's ICC Sydney Theatre on Saturday, September 7, 2019, with tickets now available — and Melbourne's Hamer Hall on Friday, November 8 and Saturday, November 9, 2019, with tickets on sale from Wednesday, September 26. Details of a Brisbane session have yet to be announced.
Earlier this year, Australia's caffeinated booze expert Mr Black gave fans of alcohol and coffee the premixed beverage they definitely wanted, with the company's bottled coffee negroni marking its first-ever pre-batched cocktail. Now, it's adding another tipple to the range, and it's another big hitter: the cold brew old fashioned, or cold fashioned. Yes, there's a time for coffee and there's a time for cocktails — but, sometimes, there's a time in the day when you want both and you don't want to do any of the mixing yourself. The cold fashioned is made with Mr Black coffee liqueur, rye whiskey and bitters, and you can expect both coffee and chocolate flavours to come through, as well as a bit of spice. Each bottle is going for $49 and can be used to make five cocktails (yes, that's a very reasonably $9.80 a drink). To make said cocktail, you just need to pour 100 millilitres of the sweet stuff into a glass over ice and garnish with a citrus twist — if you want to get a little fancy. It's the third new product that the Mr Black team has released during lockdown, with the company also launching a hand sanitiser in late March. As well as selling thousands (and thousands) of bottles to the public, the team donated hundreds to front-line medical workers, not-for-profits, testing clinics and medical centres. To get your hands on a bottle of cold fashioned, which, knowing Mr Black's track record, will sell out fast, head over to the Mr Black website. It's currently offering free shopping on all orders over $80. Mr Black's cold fashioned is on sale now for $49. Top image: Guy Davies.
Since opening back in 2022, the Southern Hemisphere's first-ever Ace Hotel has been serving up expectedly sleek accommodation and a heap of fun extra-curricular activities — from takeovers of the lobby bar to dinners at Mitch Orr's Kiln. And this year, as Mardi Gras comes to town, there are more exciting additions to the hotel's party program to get in your diary. Alongside the extravagant Dolar Rosa Dines presents Holy Homo Hedon dinner that's popping up on Friday, March 1, there's a more low-key celebration of LGBTQIA+ pride coming to the Ace Hotel's cafe Good Chemistry for a summer afternoon: Melbourne-based record store Queer Records will be up in Sydney on Saturday, February 17, hitting Foy Lane from 12-4pm. While Queer Records doesn't have a physical shopfront quite yet, the team has been celebrating queer musicians through an online store, queer events and BYO record parties. Now, it's bringing the fun to Sydney with a one-day pop-up filled with iconic tunes and deep cuts from LGBTQIA+ artists to dig through. The team has also curated a collection of 46 vinyl records for Ace Hotel guests to borrow and listen to in their rooms, available for anyone staying between Thursday, February 15–Sunday, March 3. You can find out more about Queer Records and the pop-up via Instagram — and, if the aforementioned Holy Homo Hedon tickled your fancy, head to Humantix for more information. Top image: Nikki To
Hip hop used to be associated with overt displays of machismo, but there has been a steady evolution since those days. Arguably, this advancement and modernisation is represented nowhere better than with the rise to prominence of Cakes Da Killa. Originating on New York's queer rap scene, Cakes Da Killa has earned plaudits for his fusion of hip hop, house and dance over the last decade, alongside acts such as Mykki Blanco and Le1f. With the beats from his latest album, Killa Essentials (2021), in tow, the game-changing creative's impending trip to Sydney is sure to bring an unforgettable evening to Oxford Art Factory. Images: Ebru Yildiz
Yellamundie Festival is a biennial celebration of First Nations peoples' storytelling. In the past, it has focused primarily on playwriting, however, for its fifth edition, the festival is expanding to include dance and music for the first time. Presented by Moogahlin Performing Arts in collaboration with Carriageworks and Sydney Festival, this year's program features four cutting-edge First Nations performances as well as two live-panel discussions. Two virtual performances originally set to be part of the lineup will also take place later in the year, as the interstate artists couldn't make it due to current border restrictions. On Friday, January 22, you'll be able to see brand-new works from some of the country's most exciting upcoming talents for just $15. Dalara Williams of Black Comedy will present a play about a man seeking solitude at his favourite lookout and Shana O'Brien will examine the emotional connection to ancestry through choreography in her performance Waterholes. On Saturday, January 23, Troy Russell will explore love and loss as seen through the eyes of a couple, while Mark Ross and Brad Steadman will present a multi-disciplinary work that tells stories from the land and the river using traditional language, music and animation. Two live-panel discussions will take place on Saturday. One showcasing the voices of this year's festival, while the second is the free Yawarra (Dramaturgy) International First Nations Panel featuring renowned voices of First Nations theatre practitioners from Australia, Aotearoa and Turtle Island. All the performances and panels will take place at Carriageworks and are available to live stream from your home via Syd Fest At Home. Images: Yellamundie Festival by Rachel Main and Jamie James
Maybe you've sipped mulled wine at a winter market. Perhaps, when the weather gets colder each year, you make a beeline to whichever bar is serving the coveted concoction. Or, you could have fond memories of vacations spent in Europe downing plenty of glühwein. Whichever fits, drinking warmed-up wine is one of the best parts of the frosty season — including at home. Because everyone should be able to sip this delicious tipple even if they're not leaving the house — because of lockdowns, winter lethargy or any other reason — Jam Shed Wines has started making mulled wine mixes. You add it to a bottle of shiraz, heat it in a saucepan, bring it to simmer and then let it steep. After that, you can add oranges, berries and/or stone fruit as garnishes, pop in some orange liqueur if you'd like, and then you get drinking. It's that straightforward, although there is one catch: you can only pick up the mix with bottles of the brand's shiraz. Consider it a two-for-one kind of deal, given that you need some wine to make use of the mulled wine mix anyway. It's a limited-time-only special, too, with the mix on offer with Jam Shed shiraz at independent retailers while stocks last. You'll also score a jam jar to sip your soul- and stomach-warming homemade tipple out of, with the brand's shiraz retailing at $13 per bottle. And yes, only drinking mulled wine all winter — out of all the different types of booze you could possibly choose from — is completely acceptable. Jam Shed Wines is giving away mulled wine mixes with bottles of its Jam Shed Shiraz at independent retailers for a limited time. For further details about the brand, head to its website.
If you're already panicking at the prospect of winter, don't. Make plans to warm up instead — here's one to get you started. On Saturday, May 18, a stack of ace musicians, who've been charting mega hits and touring around the planet in the last year or so, will be converging on Darwin for BASSINTHEGRASS 2019 festival. Now in its 17th year, the one-day shindig is about to hit the northern coast for the first time. More specifically, you'll find it at Mindil Beach, a dreamy stretch of sand just a 20-minute walk from downtown Darwin. In between catching your favourite artists, you can gaze out at the Timor Sea and forget that winter is waiting for you back home, as you soak up bucketloads of Top End sunshine. Before (or afterwards), there are plenty of Darwinian adventures to add to your musical ones — from cuddling crocodiles at Crocosaurus Cove to checking out local Indigenous art at The MAGNT. Check out the full lineup below. BASSINTHEGRASS 2019 All Day Amy Shark Ball Park Music Broods Caiti Baker DZ Deathrays Hermitude Hilltop Hoods Hot Dub Time Machine Karnivool Mallrat Meg Mac Nick Murphy (formerly known as Chet Faker) PNAU Ruel Six60 Tasman Keith The Lunar Society BASSINTHEGRASS 2019 will take place from 11am–11pm on Saturday, May 18. For the full lineup and to purchase tickets, visit the website.
Takeaway and delivery food are true luxuries of modern living. Unfortunately, for all that time you get back on avoiding cooking or simply enjoying the privilege of watching ten consecutive episodes of Below Deck without interruption, the consequence is an impact on the environment that is less than positive. Excess packaging and un-recyclable waste are both the unavoidable byproducts of the takeaway food system, and have been since the days of styrofoam and plastic straws. Hopefully, that's about to change in Australia. Uber Eats — the service responsible for more food delivery than any other in the country — has just launched a partnership with leading environmental change organisation, Planet Ark, to make a shift toward more sustainable packaging across the industry, from the time it exits the kitchen of restaurants and vendors, to the disposal of waste at the homes of all us Below Deck freaks. So, how will it be done? One of the goals of the program is to get Uber Eats' restaurant partners moving to reusable, recyclable, or compostable packaging options by 2030. The roll out will include education of restaurant partners around these options, supported by a $13m investment from Uber Eats to subsidise the uptake of new environmentally friendly packaging types into venues so that positive changes can be made without throwing a spanner into your favourite Thai joint's ability to run a roaring trade. If you're an Uber Eats user, keep an eye out for tips on the most environmentally friendly way to dispose of your takeaway packaging at home — for example, rip off the non-grease-stained top of the pizza box to go in the paper/cardboard recycling bin and throw the greasy box base in the normal bin. Even seemingly small changes can make significant impacts. According to Bec Nyst, General Manager of Uber Eats ANZ: "since making cutlery opt-in, rather than being included by default, we estimate eaters have helped reduce the equivalent weight of four jumbo jets worth of plastic forks, spoons and the like ending up in Australian landfill." [caption id="attachment_937881" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Planet Ark CEO Rebecca Gilling and Uber Eats General Manager Bec Nyst.[/caption] Images: Caleb Oquendo (top) and Caroline McCredie
Have you been known to look at a doughnut and think "you belong with me"? Do you consider sweet treats your karma? Does happiness to you come in round orbs of pastry? Do you have your eyes open for all things Taylor Swift — or just for free doughnuts? The pop superstar has hit Australia, finally bringing her Eras tour Down Under thanks to three shows in Melbourne and four in Sydney. Her Aussie stint starts today, Friday, February 16. And to celebrate, Krispy Kreme is getting in on the action to give out free doughnuts to Swifties, and also to anyone — as long as you're wearing a friendship bracelet when you head into its Australian or Auckland stores. The chain is known for giving away its round treats, including handing out 100,000 of them each National Doughnut Day. In 2023 for Halloween, it also doled out freebies if you went in in costume. So, it's thoroughly unsurprising that it's linking in with Swiftmania. To snag yourself a signature glazed freebie, make a beeline to your closest Krispy Kreme store in Australia or Auckland on Friday, February 16 while wearing a friendship bracelet. The last part isn't optional. You'll then receive one original glazed doughnut per person, and you don't have to buy anything else to nab the treat without paying a cent. This is a while-stocks-last giveaway, so getting in as quick as someone trying to nab Taylor Swift tickets is obviously recommended. That gives everyone a heap of places to flock to: 38 in Australia and six in New Zealand. Sydneysiders are able to hit up stores stretching from Penrith to the CBD, Victorians can visit locations from Chadstone to Collins Street, and Queenslanders have Albert Street in the Brisbane CBD and Surfers Paradise among the choices. For residents of Perth, Hay Street, Cannington and more await. In Aotearoa, all options are in Auckland — including at Newmarket, Chancery Square and the domestic airport terminal. Krispy Kreme's Taylor Swift giveaway is taking place in-store on Friday, February 16 in Australia and Auckland. To find your closest shop and check its opening hours, head to Krispy Kreme's Australian and New Zealand websites.
After announcing its dates earlier this year, Moonlight Cinema has revealed the first part of its 2018–19 program. In short: pack your picnic basket and get ready to watch a heap of flicks under the summer evening sky. Kicking off on Thursday, November 29 in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and on Saturday, December 1 in Perth, this initial lineup boasts plenty of this year's favourites, a smattering of all-time faves and a few sneak peeks at new movies coming out soon. If you're wondering why it's just the first section of the program, that's because it covers the outdoor cinema's screenings until the end of January. A February and March lineup will be announced in January. Tried-and-tested highlights include A Star Is Born, A Simple Favour and Crazy Rich Asians, plus Halloween, Bad Times at the El Royale and Venom if you're after something darker. And it wouldn't be a movie season under the stars (or a pre-Christmas lineup) without Love Actually, Elf and Dirty Dancing, now would it? You can also catch pre-release sessions of twisted period drama The Favourite, from The Lobster filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos, as well as Transformers spin-off Bumblebee. Or, opt for Viggo Mortensen-starring likely Oscar contender Green Book, or Margot Robbie and Saoirse Ronan battling it out in Mary, Queen of Scots. Heist flick Widows, amusing sleuths Holmes and Watson and the wizarding antics of Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald are all also accounted for — as is Moonlight's usual food truck and licensed bar offering, and its reserved bean beds. You can also BYO booze everywhere except Brisbane. Brisbane's season is actually benefiting from two big changes, with Moonlight Cinema saying goodbye to Brisbane Powerhouse after a more than a decade and settling in at Roma Street Parkland instead. Even better — it'll run all the way through until March 31 for the first time, like its interstate counterparts. MOONLIGHT CINEMA 2018–19 DATES: Sydney: Nov 29–Mar 31 (Belvedere Amphitheatre in Centennial Park) Melbourne: Nov 29–Mar 31 (Central Lawn at the Royal Botanic Gardens) Brisbane: Nov 29–Mar 31 (Roma Street Parkland) Perth: Dec 1–Mar 31 (May Drive Parkland, Kings Park & Botanic Garden) Adelaide: Dec 8–Feb 17 (Botanic Park) Moonlight Cinema kicks off on November 29. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the Moonlight website.
2023 marks five decades since one of the scariest movies ever made first hit screens, with The Exorcist never losing its eerie power since. But whether you first got creeped out by it at home, have caught retro big-screen showings — including the director's-cut version — or somehow have never been spooked by the William Friedkin-helmed flick's unnerving wonders, seeing it in an old jail is set to be a whole new viewing experience. Where's the best venue to host a special session of such a horror-movie giant? To put on a night of cinema that'll make heads spin? That location: Parramatta Gaol, which is turning into a picture palace just for one evening for the occasion, with horror event fiends Haus of Horror behind it all. Clearly, the idea is for the night — which has been dubbed 'The Exorcist in a Haunted Gaol' — is to be as immersive as possible. Parramatta Gaol already hosts ghost tours, and is reportedly haunted by its former inmates if you believe in that kind of thing. It's certainly a site with history; constructed from sandstone and slate, it was built in the 19th century and operated until 2011. It followed Parramatta's first jail in 1796, which was damaged in a fire before the 1800s hit, rebuilt, and then had its prisoners transferred to the new facility in 1842. So, if you dare, that's where you'll be watching The Exorcist — aka the story of a young girl (Linda Blair, Landfill) possessed by a demon, and the efforts of two priests (Rudy's Jason Miller and Game of Thrones' Max von Sydow) to save her at the urging of her mother (Ellen Burstyn, Pieces of a Woman). It scored ten Oscar nominations, something that's still ridiculously rare for horror movies, and emerged victorious in one field: for Best Adapted Screenplay, for author William Peter Blatty's script based on his own book. Held in conjunction with Deerubbin Local Aboriginal Land Council, Haus of Horror's screening takes place at 6pm on Saturday, March 11, and includes two hours for attendees to explore Parramatta Gaol's morgue, cell blocks and showers. Whether or not you'll see someone spiderwalking is yet to be revealed. Also on the agenda: a bar serving beer and wine, vegan and non-vegan bites to eat, a live DJ spinning tunes while the sun sets, and an interactive photo booth that'll be set up like a scene from the film. The movie will play at 8pm on a grassy field inside the site, showing outdoors under the stars — and picnics are welcome. Tickets cost $39, or $59 if you'd like to book a large bean bag to sit on. Check out the trailer for The Exorcist below: The Exorcist in a Haunted Gaol takes place at Parramatta Gaol, corner O'Connell and Dunlop streets, North Parramatta from 6pm on Saturday, March 11 — head to the Haus of Horror website for tickets and further details.
It looks like we can all forget about the promised 2019 completion date for Sydney's new southeast light rail project, as the NSW Government has found itself embroiled in a legal battle with the Spanish subcontractor heading up the build. And it's already slowing down progress considerably. As reported by The Sydney Morning Herald, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has declined to share details about the delays, though said the state would "not be held to ransom" by builder Acciona, which is taking Transport for NSW to court for the tidy sum of $1.2 billion. The company's demanding the extra money because it claims it was misled about the complexity of utility work involved in the project. The two are heading to the NSW Supreme Court this Friday, with Acciona proceeding with a go-slow on work in the meantime, though Transport Minister Andrew Constance told parliament "we are not going to tolerate a go-slow so that we write a cheque to hit the accelerator". Testing on a stretch of the new 12.7-kilometre route from Circular Quay to Randwick and Kingsford began in February, with a view to have trams running on it next year. At this stage, that looks very unlikely. Via The Sydney Morning Herald.
One room. One table. Twenty seats. And an ever-evolving set menu of modern Australian dishes. That's what you can expect from The Farmhouse. But there's much more to this beloved Rushcutters Bay restaurant. With a name like The Farmhouse, there's a risk that the restaurant will lean heavily on the kitsch. You know, lame 'Love lives here' signs and faux-distressed furniture and a real meat-and-three-veg approach to the food. This isn't the case here. The rustic farmhouse theme is certainly evident, but it has the refinement of an inner city fine diner. Co-owners Nick Gurney, Aidan Thomas and Brodie Stewart are responsible for the fit-out, which involves a single room with high wood-beamed ceilings, exposed brick walls and a single communal table. Here, 20 guests per sitting (6.00pm and 8.30pm) enjoy their five-course set menu. Said menu changes constantly — the kitchen changes half every fortnight, which means you could dine there once a month and never eat the same thing twice. As with many high end restaurants, it reads as deceptively simple: whole roasted Bannockburn chicken with cauliflower and cheddar; Spencer Gulf calamari and scallop with parnsip; Cowra lamb rump with mozart potatoes and kombu butter. Notice something else? Yep, there is a drive to sustainably source from local producers. The idea of having a meal while sitting shoulder to shoulder with strangers may not sound enticing to all (introverts), but the cosy vibes, good food and excellent wine (all Australian and French) will quickly change your mind. It's like having a dinner party with a bunch of strangers — but none of you have to lift a finger.
The most expansive exhibition of pop art Australia has ever seen, Pop to Popism is the latest offering in the Sydney International Art Series' wonderful lineup of shows. It's a true blockbuster exhibition. One of the largest shows ever staged by the Art Gallery of NSW, and requiring two years of planning, it takes up an entire floor. Pop art tends to be quite polarising. Kicking off in the '60s, pop artists sought to make art inspired by popular culture and the exploding post-war consumerism of the time. Pop art borrowed slick media techniques to create bright, glamorous, often celebrity-obsessed works. However, not everyone agreed that galleries were appropriate places for Campbell's soup cans and Marilyn Monroe. It was an incredibly radical idea, bringing everyday objects and popular culture into the domain of high art, and pop art forever changed traditional conceptions of high and low culture. Love it or hate it, it was one of the defining art movements of last century. Wayne Tunnicliffe, the exhibition's senior curator, has nabbed a bunch of superstar works for the show, many of which made their way down under accompanied by armed guards. Warhol's Marilyn is there in all her hypercolour glory, Lichtenstein's first ever cartoon work is on show behind glass, and Keith Haring's energetic figures are almost jumping off the walls. Pop to Popism brings together over 200 works by more than 70 of the world’s greatest pop artists. Richard Prince, Robert Indiana, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Claes Oldenburg, David Hockney, Gilbert & George, Jeff Koons, James Rosenquist, Jasper Johns and Robert Rauschenberg are all there, too. Everyone has come to the party. The exhibition is curated from a decidedly Australian point of view and includes works by Peter Powditch, Martin Sharp, Brett Whiteley, Howard Arkley, Imants Tillers and Jenny Watson. It's the most in-depth exploration of the development and influence of Australian pop art ever staged. Pop to Popism does a wonderful job of placing Australian art in the context of what was an internationally significant art movement. Previously left out of most scholarly investigations of the movement, the contribution female artists have made to the trajectory of pop art is put into focus. Several of Cindy Sherman's photographs are on show, along with works by Rosalyn Drexler, Marisol and Bridgid McLean. Perhaps one of the best works of the entire exhibition is Masterpieces (Warhol) by Maria Kozic, which depicts a shattered Campbell’s Soup can rendered in the style of Andy Warhol. Kozic was a member of the younger generation of pop artists working in the late '70s and '80s who reappropriated pop art's vocabulary to suit the ever-evolving consumer culture. Pop to Popism is slick and glossy and a tremendous amount of fun. Just like pop art should be. Image credit: Roy Lichtenstein, In the car 1963, oil and manga on canvas. Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, © Estate of Roy Lichtenstein.
The end of winter means warming temperatures, blooming flowers and summer inching closer. In 2023, it also means looking up. To close out August, a super blue moon will take to the sky — or a blue supermoon, if you prefer. Both terms fit, because the Earth's only natural satellite will serve up both a supermoon and a blue moon. The date to point your eyes to the heavens: Thursday, August 31. Stare upwards with your own two eyes and you'll see a noteworthy sight — but it'll actually be at its peak that morning. Heading outdoors at 11.35 AEST is recommended; however, if you train your peepers towards the sky the evening before or afterwards, you'll still be in for a glowing show. While super full moons aren't particularly rare — several usually happen each year — blue moons only happen every few years. Wondering why else you should check this one out? We've run through the details below. [caption id="attachment_769713" align="alignnone" width="1920"] NASA/Joel Kowsky[/caption] WHAT IS IT? If you're more familiar with The Mighty Boosh's take on the moon than actual lunar terms, here's what you need to know. As we all learned back in November 2016, a supermoon is a new moon or full moon that occurs when the moon reaches the closest point to Earth in its elliptical orbit, making it particularly bright. Again, they're not all that uncommon — and because the supermoon on Thursday, August 31 is a full moon (and not a new moon), it's called a super full moon. A blue moon refers to the second full moon occurring in a calendar month. Despite the name, it isn't blue in colour. Also, despite the saying, they happen more often than you might think, but still only ever few years. The next monthly blue moon after this is set to occur at the end of May in 2026. Normally, the August moon is also a sturgeon moon, too — and while that's the case in 2023 as always, that moon has already been and gone. That's what happens when there's two months in a month, with this year's sturgeon moon happening on Wednesday, August 2. The name, doesn't refer to its shape or any other physical characteristics, but to the time of year. In the northern hemisphere, August is around the time that sturgeon fish start to show up in big numbers in North America's lakes. Of course, that doesn't apply in the southern hemisphere, but the name still sticks. WHEN CAN I SEE IT? As mentioned above, the super blue moon will officially be at its peak at 11.35am AEST on Thursday, August 31, Down Under — but thankfully it will be visible from Wednesday night Australia and New Zealand time. The moon does usually appear full for a few days each month, so you should find the night sky looking a little brighter this week anyway. That 11.35am AEST time applies in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, with folks in Perth needing to look at 9.35am local time and people in Adelaide at 11.05am local time. In New Zealand, get peering at 1.35pm NZST. WHERE CAN I SEE IT? You can take a gander from your backyard or balcony, but the standard advice regarding looking at glowing sights in the sky always applies — so city-dwellers will want to get as far away from light pollution as possible to get the absolute best view. Fancy checking it out online? The Virtual Telescope Project is set to stream the view from Rome at 1.30pm AEST on Thursday, August 31, too. For more information about the super blue moon on Thursday, August 31, head to timeanddate.com.
When a show is named after a space battleship, it's instantly worth paying attention to. And when it tracks a war between humanity and an android race known as the Cylons, it isn't going to be short on intrigue. That's especially true when the flesh-and-blood side of the equation hail from a distant star system, and originally live across a group of planets known as the Twelve Colonies — and their very survival is at stake. That's the tale that Battlestar Galactica tells, and has in multiple shapes and forms since 1978. With no disrespect meant to the original series and its 1980 sequel, the reimagining that first hit screens in 2003 has become the version of record. The latter started as a miniseries, then served up four seasons of sci-fi drama, political battles, space-set adventures and all-round entertaining television until 2009, making stars out Katee Sackhoff and Jamie Bamber in the process.
Sydneysiders will have to wait a little longer before sipping Re's inventive cocktails is on the menu again — and construction delays are the cause. The zero-waste bar was initially slated to open up inside The Norfolk Hotel on Tuesday, May 14, but since announcing that date, the Redfern pub has had to postpone its relaunch. Re's boundary-pushing approach to sustainability has seen the bar earn a spot among Sydney's best bars, and has received acclaim on lists spanning the world's best bars multiple times. Hence, the postponement of its long-awaited reopening is bittersweet news. Now, the standout spot is set to welcome guests from sometime between mid-May to the end of the month. No open date has officially been confirmed as yet, so stand by for further details. The cocktail bar's revitalised menu for its sleek new digs at The Norfolk will feature its familiar game-changing cocktails made from discarded bread or chicken feet, alongside new inventions — including a Ricos Tacos-inspired tortilla-inspired cocktail, a Busby's-centred 'Dirty Bore' with salted focaccia butter vodka, a boozy Derrel's-style mango lassi cocktail and more. As for its upcoming food lineup, each dish will showcase the highest-quality local ingredients that can be consumed whole. You'll spot dishes like the squid ink and calamari duo, as well as yellowfin tuna paired with marigold. When Re reopens, you'll find it at The Norfolk, 305 Cleveland Street, Redfern. Keep an eye on the venue's website for more information. Images: Sam McAdam.
Paris and Abu Dhabi might seem worlds apart in many ways, but come November they'll share a pretty significant cultural bond, as the Louvre Abu Dhabi opens its doors to the public. Set to launch on November 11, the museum will be unlike any other in the United Arab Emirates, pitched as "a universal museum that focuses on shared human stories across civilisations and cultures." It's a stunner, too, designed by acclaimed French architect Lean Nouvel and boasting a 7500-tonne, 180-metre high dome ceiling, set with close to 8000 metal stars. The intergovernmental project is globally significant, pulling together a diverse, 600-strong collection of artworks and artefacts from 13 of France's top cultural institutions, spanning prehistoric times to the present day. In a forward-thinking move, they'll be displayed chronologically, rather than with a focus on place, shining a spotlight on cross-cultural interconnectedness. According to the museum's director, Manuel Rabaté, the goal was to create "a place where visitors can come to understand their own and others' cultures. Its ground-breaking architecture complements a presentation of exceptional treasures that represent a snapshot of humanity's creativity, and paves the way for new discussions." Images: Mohamed Somji.
If you thought your Halloween costume couldn't be beat, then you, my friend, have fallen for a trick — not a treat. Because these dogs will trump you. On Sunday, October 28, The Beresford will host a Halloween-themed dog shot. The Merivale establishment is teaming up with premier pup institution Dogue to put on a day of fun for both human and hound. There will be live entertainment, market stalls and prizes for the best-dressed pups, so start your outfit brainstorming now. Vampire viszlas, ghoulish golden retrievers, alien alsatians, t-rex terriers, Jack the Ripper jack russells — the creepy costume ideas are endless for man's best friend. Even if you don't have a dog to dress, you can head along and have a gander — and maybe donate to the Sydney Cats and Dogs Home, too,
When the end of July hits, the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games will kick off, with the finest athletes from Commonwealth countries competing to take home shiny medals. That's all well and good and interesting; however, we've found a much cuter display of sportsmanship that's also popping up this July. At 1pm on Thursday, July 21, viewers can watch four adorable guide-dogs-to-be participating in their very own Puppy Games. Yep, that's a thing and we're definitely here for it. If it sounds familiar, that's because it has been held for the past two years, too — but clearly this is the kind of adorable event that needs to be held annually. Once again, the folks at Seeing Eye Dogs have teamed up The Petbarn Foundation to host the canine-centric games — and, this year, with pet food brand Royal Canin as well. The results will be streaming on a device near you via the event's website. No matter where you're located in Australia, it sounds like perfect lunchtime viewing. How do the Puppy Games work, you might be asking? The event will see young trainee guide dogs Sandler, Tambo, Rani and Tom tackle a series of skill-testing challenges, with their every move captured on camera. They'll be helped through their tasks by their trainers — Abi, Jack, Lina and Paige, respectively. Accordingly, you can watch the young pups hurtle through a time trial, take on a 'puppy patience' food bowl challenge and battle it out for glory in the 'dogstacle distraction course'. And they are very much just pups — Tambo and Tom are the youngest at 11 weeks old, while Rani is the comparative veteran of the competitors at 15 weeks old. The project aims to support fundraising efforts for the annual Seeing Eye Dogs Appeal, of course, but also promises a much-needed boost of dopamine and general happy feels all round. Viewers can donate to the cause by hitting the link on the event's website. This year, the appeal is shooting for a goal of $1 million to help cover the costs of breeding, training and caring for at least 20 Seeing Eye Dogs. Can't make Thursday's viewing? Fear not, the full event will be up on YouTube to rewatch any time you need a mood boost. The 2022 Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs Puppy Games will stream via the event's website from 1pm on Thursday, July 21.
Are you sick of the inevitable queues, screaming children, and uncomfortable seating options that come part and parcel of the typical weekend brunch experience? Add to that the over-friendly canine companions of your neighbouring diners, and the hazardous plate-stacking eagerness of the wait staff, and what we're sure was originally meant to be a pleasant, relaxing occasion quickly becomes a give-me-my-zucchini-fritters-and-my-strong-flat-white-and-get-me-out-of-here-ASAP kinda sitch. Now, thanks to the infinitely more classy folk at The Roosevelt and their weekly Bottomless Champagne Luncheon, you have the opportunity to take your Saturday brunch up a notch and off the street, and be treated like the fancypants you are. Upon payment of your ninety-nine big ones (trust them, it's worth it) you receive not only, as the name suggests, endless Mumm, but a not-to-be-scoffed-at, sprawling high-tea-style assortment of champagne-inspired canapes. I don't know about you, but dropping a sneaky quarter-500 on a Saturday luncheon, of all things, seems to be on par with the level of indulgence and sophistication we should all aspire to. The Roosevelt's Bottomless Champagne Luncheon is on every Saturday, from 12pm to 4pm, and costs $99 per person. Thanks to the Speakeasy Group, we have one luncheon for two people to give away, valued at $250. To be in the running, subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter (if you haven't already), then email win.sydney@concreteplayground.com.au with your name and address.
Since Australia started easing out of COVID-19 lockdown, the country's internal border restrictions have earned plenty of attention. With tactics to stop the spread of the coronavirus implemented at a state-by-state level, each Aussie state has navigated the situation in its own way when it comes to letting non-residents visit. In Tasmania, that has meant some strict quarantine requirements — which, for non-Tassie residents who weren't classified as essential travellers, entailed spending 14 days in government-designated accommodation. But, for most of the country, quarantine is no more. From Monday, October 26, travellers from Queensland, the ACT, SA, WA, the NT and New Zealand, which are deemed low-risk areas, are allowed to hop on a plane and head across the Strait. After you've filled out a Tas e-Travel form, of course. [caption id="attachment_784489" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Flaming Lips, Mona, Hobart, Mona Foma 2016. Photo Credit: MONA/Rémi Chauvin. Image Courtesy Mona, Museum of Old and New Art, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia.[/caption] Some good new for Sydneysiders: this will be an option for you, too, come Friday, November 6. On this date, Tasmania is set open its borders and airports to NSW travellers, pending further public health advice. In other words, if there's an outbreak before then, it might reverse the decision — but if NSW continues its stretch of relatively low levels of community transmission (there have been just three new cases in the past four days) we'll be good to go. "What we want to see in a jurisdiction that we open up to is less than five cases of unknown transmission in the last 28 days," Premier Peter Gutwein said in a press conference. "New South Wales over the last 28 days has had six only in a population of nearly eight million people, so they are on top of this." If you're in Melbourne, sadly the changes won't apply to you just yet. Premier Gutwein noted that the state still hopes to open up to Victorians from December 1, but that they're pleased to "see them driving their numbers so low" and will "be responsive to the evolving situation there". Kiwis legally must complete at least 14 days of managed isolation or quarantine when returning to New Zealand. Travellers will also be tested for COVID-19 during the two-week stay. The New Zealand Government has raised its travel advice to "do not travel" — the highest level — regardless of destination. Keen to start planning an adventure south? Mona Foma has announced it'll return to Launceston and Hobart in January — and we've pulled together this list of exciting food and drink spots in the state's northeast. Visitors from low-risk areas (currently Queensland, the ACT, SA, WA, the NT and NZ) are allowed to visit Tasmania without quarantining. You must fill out a Tas e-Travel form a maximum of three days before you arrive. The state is set to open to NSW from Friday, November 6. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Tasmania and the state's corresponding restrictions, visit its online COVID-19 hub. Top image: Bay of Fires via Lia Kuilenburg for Tourism Tasmania.
What's huge, oval-shaped, usually confined to the realms of fiction, belongs to a creature that's played a key part in the biggest TV series of the past decade, and currently sitting in Melbourne this very instant? A dragon egg, of course. What can you mosey over to Federation Square to see for the next two days in all of its four-metre-tall glory? What's surrounded by dragon eyes and the flying, fire-breathing critters' silhouettes across buildings around the Victorian capital? That very egg — to the joy of wannabe Targaryens, naturally. Always felt like you belong in the Game of Thrones House with an affinity for scaly beasts? Keen to live out your George RR Martin fandom in any way you can? Need something to do before the Iron Throne visits Melbourne in September? Just so excited about GoT prequel House of the Dragon that you don't know how to cope until it starts airing on Monday, August 22?Here's your answer. If you live elsewhere in the country, though, you'll want to do one of two things: plan an impromptu trip this weekend, or get one of your mates to go along so you can live vicariously through their photos. Either way, the towering egg is only on display at Fed Square from 10am–7pm on Friday, August 19 and 8am–7pm on Saturday, August 20. And, as well as seeing it, taking snaps next to it and peering upwards to spy signs of dragons around Melbourne, you'll want to keep your ears pricked as well — there's a soundscape filled with the calls and noises of dragons echoing around the place, too. The reason for this ovoid pop-up? Promoting House of the Dragon, of course. The series is finally coming after years of speculation, development and announcements about various spinoffs are under consideration (including a Jon Snow-focused sequel) — and this egg is here to prove it. If you've somehow missed all the House of the Dragon news, the show is set 200 years before the events of GoT, and focuses on House Targaryen. Yes, that means that dragons are obviously part of the series — again, hence this giant egg. Also pivotal: a Succession-style battle over who should sit on the Iron Throne, because it wouldn't be a Game of Thrones prequel without it. Anyone in the vicinity of Fed Square can head over to see the egg for free, and get a taste of Australia's latest pop culture-themed installation — after a barber giving out The Gray Man-style goatees and moustaches also did the honours in Melbourne recently, and an Everything Everywhere All At Once-inspired multidimensional laundromat before that. Cinema Nova also decked itself out The French Dispatch-style last summer, while Sydney has seen the giant 'Red Light, Green Light' doll from Squid Game made an appearance by the harbour, and a Stranger Things rift open up on Bondi Beach. This isn't the dragon egg's first local stop, actually. It first arrived at Anglesea, on the beach, on Thursday, August 18 — which clearly would've made quite the sight. Then, it travelled along the Great Ocean Road to Melbourne, ready for two days of GoT devotees in Fed Square. Check out the full House of the Dragon trailer below: Find the House of the Dragon dragon egg at Federation Square, the corner of Swanston and Flinders streets, Melbourne, from 10am–7pm on Friday, August 19 and 8am–7pm on Saturday, August 20. House of the Dragon will start airing on Monday, August 22 Down Under via Foxtel and Binge. Images: Aaron Walker Photography.
As NSW prepares to wind back some restrictions later this week, the state has today, Tuesday, May 12, announced that zero new cases were recorded overnight — the first time it has done so since the pandemic was declared. Since COVID-19 was first reported in Australia at the end of January, 6948 cases have been recorded across the country (as at 9pm on Monday, May 11), bringing with it 97 deaths and a drastic change to life as we know it. As the coronavirus has spread, travel has been banned and restrictions on everyday movement have been implemented, good news has been few and far between of late, which makes the past weeks' significant drop in reported cases across NSW — and Australia — a welcome development indeed. At a press conference this morning, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced that zero new cases had been reported overnight "for the first time since we took records", and 6048 people had been tested in the past 24 hours. Huzzah. While the Premier said it's a positive outcome, she also said it was important to maintain a "high level of testing as the restrictions are eased". [caption id="attachment_770066" align="alignnone" width="1920"] NSW Health[/caption] "We want to see the testing numbers get closer to the target of 8000," the Premier said. "And we're asking everyone to come forward especially as the winter months are approaching and people will be developing flu-like symptoms — please assume you have the coronavirus, don't assume it's just a cold or just the flu." From this Friday, May 15, Sydneysiders can have five visitors in their home; outdoor gatherings of ten people are allowed; and cafes, restaurants and outdoor pools and gym equipment can reopen with some restrictions. You can read more about the relaxed restrictions set to come in place over here. As these relaxed rules come in place, though, Sydneysiders are encouraged to practice social distancing measures and good hygiene, and, as the Premier said, get tested. To show the prevalence of COVID-19 cases in your area — or areas you plan to travel to for exercise or to see friends — the NSW Government has released an interactive heat map that shows confirmed cases and number of tests administered by postcode. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in NSW, head to the NSW Government website. Top image: Julia Sansone
If there's a time warp we still love stepping into, it's a video store like Dr What. A local Sydney institution, the shop with Australia's largest range of rental titles brings back nostalgic memories of return dates, rewinding tapes and carefully curating the perfect combo of new releases and weeklies for $10. That was the '90s. Today, the shelves at Dr What are largely empty. The Crisford family, owners for 30-plus years, will soon be closing the doors of the iconic Bondi shop with its mad doctor mascot painted above the awning. Although the quirky name is thanks to the original owners who opened the store in 1981, it's the Crisfords who made it what is today. "It was in liquidation, there [were only] about two thousand movies and we had to work hard to build it back up," says Neal Crisford. "Very early it was porn and horror, then the action movies came in." Gradually, Neal, his wife, Carol, and later his son, Daniel, expanded the number of genres to include no less than 40,000 videos, all curated into carefully thought-out categories. "Rather than buying fifty copies of the one movie, we would buy a range," says Crisford. "We concentrate on buying odd stuff and in the early days, I … spent my time going around warehouses and finding little gems." You can hear the passion in his voice as he reminisces about finding these lesser-known movies, a testament to the store's support of the independent film industry. For years, filmmakers, university students and cinephiles have come to Dr What to source the rare and obscure, knowing that, as Crisford puts it, "if its available, there's a good chance you can get it at Dr What." At its peak, video rental was a ritual for most Australian families, with VCRs selling faster here than anywhere else in the world. Crisford considers the late '80s and early '90s as the most successful years, "before cable, before people had internet". "Back then you didn't have a lot of movies at home, they were expensive to buy," he says. "Purchases were probably 10 percent of the market, so most people would rent." But Crisford is also the first to admit the industry has been a roller-coaster. Though the store survived the transition from VHS to DVD, the online availability of films today has meant the store simply isn't profitable. "We're a non-profit organisation", Crisford adds with a wry smile. Until the end of the month, all VHS and DVD stock at Dr What is on sale and the loyal following the store has garnered over the years means "they're all going to good homes". "We worried about breaking up the collection, but people who really appreciate films, who love them and who've been our regular customers … can take a little bit of Dr What home with them". Crisford is also positive these regular customers will follow the store's move to an online platform. Though it may be the end of the bricks-and-mortar Dr What, part of the legendary collection will have an online life through Quickflix, which has bought some of the titles. Plus, Dr What will continue to provide film production services through their own website, and since Crisford has previously moonlighted as a film producer, he is keen to spend more time behind the camera. "That's an area we're going to expand … a TV show about films is one of the things we're looking at doing". In the days left, drop in to the shop for a heady dose of nostalgia and some bargain film finds to boot. Find Dr What at 562 Oxford Street, Bondi Junction, open 10am-9pm Mon-Sat and 11am-9pm Sun. The store closes for the final time at the end of August.
Backyard cricket, barbecues and water sports are all Aussie summer clichés for a reason: they're good, wholesome fun. Another one? Outdoor cinemas. And we're here to tell you the very good news that Canberra's version of this al fresco activity is returning for another season. Sponsored by IMB Bank, Sunset Cinema will take over the Eucalypt Lawn at the Australian National Botanic Gardens from November 28—January 12. Whether you're planning a cosy date night or easy family outing under the stars, this year's extensive program has something for everyone. The nostalgic lineup ranges from cult films like The Big Lebowski and Love Actually to the latest Hollywood blockbusters including A Star is Born and Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, plus special advance screenings of Instant Family and Storm Boy. Family-friendly options include Smallfoot, The Nutcracker and the Four Realms and even The Lion King. BYO picnics are encouraged, but if you want to enjoy a sparkling or brew throughout the film, the on-site bar will be serving a range of Grant Burge wine and Young Henrys craft beer and cider. Didn't pack enough snacks? There'll be plenty of the requisite movie treats like popcorn, chips chocolates and lollies, plus an on-site dining menu of bigger bites. Tickets start at $20 for adults, with a premium $40 lawn lounge package on offer, too — it includes entry, a prime-viewing bean bag reserved on the lawn, a beverage of your choice and a box of popcorn. To see the full program and purchase tickets, visit the Sunset Cinema website.
Art Month doesn't just involve looking at art, doing art and dressing yourself in art, it also involves talking about it. Because, let’s face it, as much as art can be good plain fun, it can also be confusing, angering and perplexing. That’s whether you’re a consumer of art who doesn’t always agree with the critics’ picks, an artist who wants to talk about your latest work or a Sydney resident who wonders where the city’s relentless creativity comes from — and what more we can do to foster our artists. So, get yourself along to one of Art Month’s many, many chats. At Who Gets To Call It Art Anyway?, you’ll watch a film about Henry Geldzahler, curator of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and Barry Keldoulis speak. At Ceramics Killed the Video Star, you’ll learn all about how and why ceramics are the hottest thing since Prince’s first music video. And at Starting a Collection 101, you’ll find out what it takes to begin an art collection from scratch. Other talks include Saabia Gallery, What the Kids Think, ACP Beachin, Brock Elbank and Collective Histories: Nostalgia in Contemporary Art.
If you tend to do all your best thinking in the shower, then pay attention. We know it's difficult to keep track of all those deep thoughts as you lather, rinse, repeat; but never fear, AquaNotes are here. Shower-thinkers can now write down their genius ideas on AquaNotes, a waterproof notepad that can be hung in the shower. The paper is made from soy-based ink, so it can absorb water and still be written on when it gets wet. Accompanied by a cedar wood pencil, this revolutionary piece of stationery will never let a good idea be forgotten. Whether you have a revelation about how to stop world hunger or just remember what you meant to buy at the grocery store, AquaNotes will be just a few feet from the soap dish to save the day. Bubble bath thinkers are not excluded, as AquaNotes are durable enough to be used all the way underwater. To boot they're recyclable and environmentally friendly. https://youtube.com/watch?v=p-7zABpEN3E [via Whathecool]
Get ready Sydney, the overwhelmingly grand-titled Dinner of the Decade is about to happen — literally. Talented chefs, sommeliers and waiters from around the country are coming together to celebrate ten years of Appetite for Excellence at Mojo by Luke Mangan. So who's cookin'? The culinary talents taking care of you on the night come from well-established Australian establishments you may already know. Think Melbourne's Supernormal, Sydney's Est., Flying Fish and Ananas and more. You're even encouraged to grill the chefs and waiters for DIY ideas and insider knowledge to impress your foodie friends afterwards. It's a bit of a pricey night out with tickets sitting at $130pp, but if you're due for a 'treat yourself' moment, this is a pretty decadently delicious option. Each table gets their own chef and waiter who will put their own personal spin on your menu. You'll be able to relive their career through each plate and of course, beverage matching. Appetite for Excellence has put the spotlight on many talents in the hospitality industry over the years and this dinner is like a big high school reunion — without a party pie or sausage roll in sight. To book, call (02) 9002 5346 or email mojo@lukemangan.com.
Over the last year, the champagne brunches at Ananas have been pretty next-level — they've served up every ambitious theme from Mad Hatter to Willy Wonka to Halloween. Then, last December, the team took things to a new opulent level with a decadent lobster and champagne brunch. Now, due to popular demand and marking the first Ananas brunch for 2016, they're bringing the lobster brunch back on Sunday, February 21. Think copious amounts of Maine lobster. Yes, those huge, expensive crustaceans you usually only see on TV shows set in The Hamptons. Expect dishes like mini lobster rolls, chilled lobster gazpacho, oven-baked lobster thermidor, lobster hash benedict, lobster risotto and more lobstery treats. It's a steal at $99 per person for the amount of seafood on offer. Guests can upgrade their experience with a two-hour bottomless Marc champagne package for an extra $55 or the Veuve Clicquot Rose champagne package for $75. If the sound of lobster mac and cheese with a flute of bubbly doesn't bring out your inner hedonist, nothing will. It's time to dig out your stretchiest Sunday best; this is the mother of all brunches for Sydney seafood lovers. Bookings are essential, because lobster waits for no one.
Ever since Gigi switched to their plant-based menu and stopped serving bases adorned with dairy delights, inner west cheese fiends have been looking for a new place to get their pizza slice fix. Now that Rosso Antico has opened it's doors, they're in luck. White tiles and exposed brick walls paired with simple low lighting characterise this new Italian eatery, with the only splash of red a mosaic pizza oven at its cosy heart. The simple menu reflects the pared back space — antipasto, pizza and pasta — while the drinks menu is a little more extensive, showcasing a selection of international and locally sourced beers and wines (though it's hard to pass up the trusty Aperol Spritz or the Rosso Antico). On one of the walls, the words "Pe' fa' e cose bone ce vo' tiemp" are scrawled in black, a statement that roughly translates as "All good things take time". It's a cute sentiment when applied to, say, painting a masterpiece, but not when you're hungry. It's a good thing pizza production only takes the chefs three minutes, because there's only so much politely watching other people devour pizza slices that is physically possible. The quality of a good pizza lies predominantly in its base — and the bases at Rosso Antico are super legit. They have that prefect crispy, chewy balance only true Italians seem to be able to produce, and the toppings that amply adorn those base are on point. We particularly enjoyed the Norma ($19), with generous caramelised slivers of roasted eggplant, tangy sauce, islands of salted ricotta and a generous amount of fior di latte. The Zucchini ($20) — with crispy pancetta, roasted zucchini strips and melted fior di latte and scamorza — was equally cheesy. We found the middle of our pizzas were a little wet in the centre, and we were left with no choice but to eat the pizza folded in half to make up for the lack of structural integrity, which wasn't really an issue because it makes you feel like you're in the movies. The pasta dishes left a little to be desired. Although the house-made fettuccine ($19) was cooked perfectly, the ragu was heavy on the tomato sauce, and we counted only five chunks of the melt-in-your-mouth pork and veal scattered on top. It was also served without the required pile of grated parmesan, which was a shame. It's the one part of the menu you can feel free to pass up. If you've got room for dessert, the Nutella calzone ($13) with its molten chocolate and strawberry centre served with a generous scoop of vanilla gelato is enough to satisfy a party of three, while the Pastiera Napoletana ($9), a traditional baked ricotta tart, is more manageable for one. Images by Diana Scalfati. Appears in: Where to Find the Best Pizza in Sydney
Just six months after opening, JŌJI — the sleek Japanese-inspired rooftop bar and diner perched above the Cartier flagship on Pitt and King streets — is entering a new chapter. Its expansive fifth-floor space has launched a sharp new sushi menu, a broader à la carte offering and a stacked calendar of weekly happenings, from DJ-backed bottomless lunches to live music and midweek entertainment. The culinary revamp is headlined by a considered new sushi selection led by Head Chef Kihoon Kim, who has worked at celebrated omakase restaurants across Korea, Japan and Sydney, including Bay Nine, Besuto and Saké. His precise, elegant style is showcased in new signatures, including a delicate king salmon maki with midori salsa, cucumber and avocado. The new sushi selection sits alongside a larger-format à la carte menu by Executive Chef Erik Ortolani (ex-Itō), whose additions include share plates like miso-glazed Murray cod with dashi butter and thick-cut duck katsu sandos. As part of its expanded entertainment offer, JŌJI has launched Social Saturdays. This reimagining of the classic bottomless brunch includes a shared chef's menu and 90 minutes of free-flowing French rosé or beer, soundtracked by a rotating lineup of live DJs and musicians. Tickets are $120, and there's a $30 cocktail upgrade option if that's more your thing. JŌJI won't wait until the weekend to get the party started, though. Live music on Wednesday nights sets the mood for stylish midweek get-togethers. City workers won't be left out, thanks to the new Shibui Lunch: a $65 set menu available Wednesday to Friday, perfect for the power lunch crowd. "Since opening, JŌJI has been filled with an incredible crowd of regulars whose energy gives the space its soul," says Ibrahim Moubadder, co-founder of ESCA Group. "Watching how people moved through the space made me want to build something even more immersive. So six months in, we're evolving the menu, adding elegant, delicious dishes including sushi and more, determined to making JŌJI one of the best Japanese dining experiences in Sydney — a place where you can come for the best drinks, the music, a dance or an unforgettable meal, all in one electric setting." Find JŌJI on Level 5, 388 George Street, Sydney CBD. For more information, head to the venue's website.
This year's stacked Vivid food program boasts some incredible talent from across Sydney — and South Eveleigh's very own Coyoacán Social has joined the ranks for 2024. For the first time, the local favourite will be popping up for a Vivid residency inside the bustling Carriageworks precinct, slinging an array of Mexican street eats that give back to the community. The Mexican fare will not only make a fine addition to your foodie hit list, but will also contribute donations to community kitchens. Coyoacán Social's Vivid pop-up will continue to follow the ethos of its founding social enterprise, Plate It Forward, while offering a fresh addition to the annual festival's food selection. Think: creating unity and shared dignity through the provision of top-quality meals. You can expect its flavour-packed birria tacos to make a special appearance as part of the vibrant fare. And, with each taco purchase, you'll be helping to provide a nutritious meal to families in need. Head to Carriageworks from Friday, May 31 until Saturday, June 15 to sink your teeth into the South Eveleigh joint's famed street food.
Are you tending to your herb gardens, upcycling or actual cycling? That's some good hood. The Good Hood website, which is part of the the City of Sydney's Green Villages program, is about celebrating the little things Sydneysiders are doing to make the city more green. It's pretty simple: just snap a photo of your 'good' and upload it to the website — or if you're on Instagram, just turn on Photo Map and use the hashtag #goodhood. There's some pretty cool rewards, too, including vouchers for Megan Morton's The School and Clarence Street Cyclery and dinner for eight at Urban Food Market's pop-up restaurant in Chippendale. Kylie Boyd, the sustainability marketing campaign officer for the City, says she's really happy with the way people are engaging with the site. "We've got people making birdhouses and people completely decking out their backyards with boxes that they're planning on growing vegies in," she says. "Someone rescued a chair off the street and upholstered it with some really cute fabric." "We're loving seeing them come in but we're going to reserve judgement until the very end!" The prizes are on offer until September 25 for users who upload pictures of cycling, upcycling and sustainable food, with winners being picked by the City and the prize partners for each category. Tim Elwin, the managing director of Urban Food Market, is helping choose the winners in the food category. Tim says he's looking for entries that make an effort to grow and source local produce as much as possible. "What we’re after is for people to experiment and go out and see how they can eat on a sustainable level, things like, what can people grow at home to add into a meal that they’re doing?" he says. "Even going out and making sure that they source locally and source products that haven’t been treated in a bad way." Urban Food Market are mainly wholesalers of ethical, sustainable produce, but they also run cooking classes and a pop-up restaurant in Cafe Giulia on Friday and Saturday nights. "What we’re trying to teach people is that you might be buying a product that yes, is more expensive, but [you] eat less of it," says Tim. "There’s no need for a big massive steak. Add some vegetables so you get a well-balanced meal. It’s about reducing the demand for growing so much produce when so much gets thrown away. "We’re very excited to be helping promote the Good Hood. It’s a wonderful thing to see [the City] getting behind such a great initiative, to ultimately get people to wake up and review how they’re living their lives, and what effects their eating and living can have on the environment." Want to win one of three $100 vouchers to Urban Food Market's online store? Just share the best picture of a sustainable meal — it can be a meal with organic, homegrown, locally grown or ethically farmed ingredients, served at your own home or at your favourite cafe. Share the image on the Good Hood website or via Instagram by hashtagging #thegoodhood and #concreteplayground. Entries close on September 11. Urban Food Market's online store is a treasure trove of classes, free range meat, sustainable seafood, cooking equipment and dry goods such as Farmer Jo's muesli.
